Microsoft Reveals New Details And Functions Of Windows 10

By Edward Cardenas

SOUTHFIELD (CBS Detroit) - Microsoft provided an inside look into its new Windows 10 operating system which can be used across platforms from the smart phone to desktop, a new browser and cutting-edge interactive hardware.

The tech giant has been working with thousands of "insiders" in the development of Windows 10, who is expected to be released later this year.

"We want to make Windows 10 the most loved release of Windows, said Microsoft chief executive officer Satya Nadella, during a live stream of the announcement of the functions and capabilities of Windows 10.

This new generation of Windows will be utilized on a wide range of devices including smart phones, tablets, personal computers and Xbox One. In addition to easily accessing Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote and Outlook across platforms, Microsoft has built apps which can work across Windows 10 devices for photos, videos, music, maps, messaging, mail and calendars.

In addition to a wide range of shareable apps and information, the Cortana personal assistant will now be available on desktops and will be able to search the hard drive of a customer, along with web searches and calendars, to answer questions posed by users.

Microsoft also confirmed a new web browser - which is code-named "Project Spartan" -that features the ability to "annotate" by keyboard or pen directly on a webpage and then share the page. Users can also create a reading list to access articles online and offline, along with the integration of Cortana.

Xbox gamers will also be able to utilize Windows 10 to capture, edit and share their gaming moments across devices and players will also be able to play games on their PC, streamed directly from their Xbox One consoles to their Windows 10 tablets or PCs, in their home.

For those looking to download the new software, Microsoft stated that customers currently running Windows 7, Windows 8.1 and Windows Phone 8.1 will be able to upgrade to Windows 10 for free during the first year after launch. Once the device has been upgraded, it will receive lifetime support at no additional charge.

Microsoft also introduced new hardware including:

• HoloLens, which will run on Windows 10 and will use a wireless headset which features see-through lenses; sensors to track movement and allow users to create 3D holographic images and interact with others to create, play and work with holograms.
• Microsoft also introduced a Surface Pro Hub, an 84-inch interactive screen which interacts with personal devices, interact with meeting participants and sharing information with one touch for business.