As long-time Windows users, we are very familiar with the concept of multiple Windows editions. For example, Windows 7 have four main editions – Home Basic, Home Premium, Professional and Ultimate as well as Starter edition which usually comes pre-installed on computers by OEM manufacturers especially netbooks.
However, things will be a little bit different for Windows 8 as the number of main editions for the upcoming operating will be reduced to only three. These editions include a standard Windows 8 and Windows 8 Pro for x86/x64 computers together with Windows RT for ARM-based computers and tablets.
Being designed for x86 computers – both 32-bit and 64-bit – the first two editions should be the most common version of Windows 8 that consumers will see once the operating system is released into the market. Both Windows 8 and Windows 8 Pro will be relatively identical to each other with the exception of additional features on Windows 8 Pro such as encryption, visualization, PC management and domain connectivity as Windows 8 Pro is meant for enthusiasts and business or technical professionals.
While consumers can actually purchase Windows 8 and Windows 8 Pro for their computers at retail stores, Windows RT will only be available as pre-installed on ARM-based PCs and tablets. This particular edition will also come with touch-optimized desktop version of the new Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote which are part of the next Office release that is fondly referred to it’s codename: the “Office 15”. Despite these and other extra features in Windows RT, Microsoft has said that the look and feel of Windows RT will be similar to the x86/64 editions of Windows 8.
Now, if only Microsoft would reveal the pricing for each Windows 8 editions stated above…
Source: The Windows Blog.
