Microsoft
A technician adjusts a spotlight at the exhibition stand of Microsoft in preparation for the CeBIT computer fair in the northern German town of Hanover March 12, 2007. Reuters/Christian Charisus

Windows 10 offers several key improvements for Windows PC users ranging from office-related activities and graphics-demanding programs. Users can also get the latest edition of the software free before and within a year of its release.

DirectX 12 Implementation On Windows 10

DirectX 12 is expected to be a part of Windows 10 upon release which improves 3D graphics on Windows computers. It works across all Microsoft devices including Xbox One, desktops, laptops, tablets and smartphones. DirectX 12 intends to bring the following enhancements:

- Enables richer scenes, more objects and full use of modern GPU hardware.

- Works not only to high-end gaming PCs but for all compatible devices.

- Significantly improves gaming experience by using multi-thread scaling and CPU utilisation.

For gamers, DirectX 12 matters and according to the developer blog 3DMark unveiled the multi-thread scaling and the 50 per cent increase on CPU utilisation of the new graphics API engine. It also works with 80 per cent of gaming PCs being sold worldwide.

Better Multitasking Using Several Desktops

Performing office-related tasks will be more efficient using two features – Virtual Desktops and Continuum. Each provides a purpose in respect to users and accessories attached to the machine.

1. Virtual Desktops – It is now a native feature on Windows 10 allowing a user to use multiple desktop screens without downloading any third-party software. Isolated apps, programs and tasks per desktop screen as desired. Having at least to two monitors using two different desktop screens is also possible.

2. Continuum – Windows 10 will enable users to shift between desktop mode and tablet mode. Desktop mode utilises mice and keyboards while the tablet mode relies on touch-based experience. This feature will be based on users’ functionality and demand with the machine.

Start Menu Comes Back With Improvements

Start menu absent in Windows 8 returns permanently on Windows 10 with upgrades. User interface of the Windows 10 Start menu is a combination of Windows 7 and Windows 8 design such as tiles, new colour themes and transparency options. Users can also view the Most Used apps, pin certain items and resizing and removal of tiles.

Getting The Windows 10 For Free

There are two ways possible to get Windows 10 for free without the immediate need for purchasing a brand new computer. Users with an available computer not used for daily tasks can be installed with the Technical Preview of Windows. The installer can be obtained from Microsoft by signing up to the Windows Insider Program.

For the commercial version of Windows 10, it is expected to be released free via Windows Update on machines running Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 It is also set for rollout on eligible Nokia Lumia smartphones. However, Forbes reported that the free software update of Windows 10 will only last within a year of its official release.