Microsoft already rolled out the Technical and Consumer previews of the upcoming Windows 10 operating system late last year and early this year, respectively. It is only a matter of time now before the company rolls out the OS to consumers, and there are even speculations that the final build might be completed as early as June.
Media source NeoWin deems that Microsoft is targeting to get the OS ready by June and release it to its manufacturing partners in the same month, although the site is quick to say that this could still be moved. The report surmises that it makes sense to roll out computers and gadgets pre-installed with Windows 10 before the start of the next school term to cater to the back-to-school market. There is, however, still no announcement from Microsoft on when it will officially launch the new operating system except that it will happen later this year.
During its previews, Microsoft revealed the key features of the operating system including Cortana for desktop as well as the seamless integration of the desktop OS with its mobile version. Windows 10 will also feature universal apps that will work on both desktops and mobile devices, which is a clear-cut advantage for Windows.
Windows 10 will be available as a direct download for Windows 7 and 8 users. Some users who are still using the older versions like the Vista and XP will have to resort to full reformat and reinstall. Microsoft will roll out the operating system for free in the first 12 months following its release.
Meanwhile, Microsoft's cloud storage OneDrive is gaining popularity and, as a promotional push, the company will be giving away 100 GB of storage completely free of charge for two years.
To avail of the free storage, one should be a U.S.-based Bing Rewards user. They can go to bing.com/rewards/dashboard and sign up with their Microsoft account. Anyone who is not yet a Bing Rewards member can sign up and select the free storage option that will gift them with 100 GB of free storage. The promo period lasts for two years; thus, those who will invest important files in the cloud will have to pay after the trial ends.
