Microsoft is busy developing next iteration of its hugely successful Windows 7. The operating system is woefully inadequate for
tablets, but for traditional desktops and notebooks, it turned out to be a huge success. However, if the rumors mills are to be believed, then the tech behemoth is planning to bring out a slew of changes and unique features in its Windows 8 version.
Since tablets are fast becoming a threat to notebooks and the company's current Windows 7 operating system is nothing but a big disappointment for tablet segment, it is only natural that Microsoft is planning to make its next OS more tablet-friendly. For this purpose, it is incorporating some of the WP7 features into its desktop operating system. Microsoft has posted a video on its German sites and the video alludes to a login process which is very similar to WP7. Thus, it is more touch-friendly and is easily customizable.
Also expect your next operating system to be hybrid bootable, which will help in reducing bootup time, thus, bringing the desktops nearer to always-on tablets. Windows 8 is also expected to feature 'Portable Workspace' concept, which means that you will be able to boot Windows from a USB stick. Again, if this rumor turns out to be true, then the OS environment is going to be much more mobile. Some leaked screen shots suggest that this feature would require USB storage device with 16 GB or more space on it.
Microsoft will be holding its Professional Developers Conference in September and that's where it is expected to preview Windows 8. This would effectively mean that the operating system may be launched some time next year. Microsoft's WP7 is slowly gaining traction and Windows 7 is an unarguable hit. Let's see how the amalgamation of these two pans out?