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Microsoft demoes Windows 8 pre-beta at CES: more customization options and new media players in tow

By Daniel Petrov

Published: Jan 11, 2012, 5:15 PM

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Microsoft demoes Windows 8 pre-beta at CES: more customization options and new media players in tow

Despite grumbling at CES's scheduling, which apparently doesn't coincide with Microsoft's Cyrcadian rhythms, and announcing its withdrawal from the show for next year, the software giant did, however, demonstrate a pre-beta 8175 build of Windows 8.

The build shows that Microsoft is on track to release the public beta in February, and hinted at new features, like the ability to change the Start menu color scheme and other personalization options, such as a transparent Charms bar.

On the media side of things, the new video and audio players with the Metro interface that will be in the public beta were showcased. The pre-beta build also includs a new gesture to get Metro apps out of the way, as well as enhanced keyboard and mouse controls for the Metro UI.

With the variety of innovative form factors that will fit it, like the Lenovo Yoga ultrabook, whose screen flips back almost 360 degrees, or the Sony Hybrid concept that slides the tablet screen up to reveal a physical keyboard, Windows 8 might give the mobile operating systems a run for their money this year.

source: TheVerge

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Daniel, a devoted tech writer at PhoneArena from 2010 to 2025, has been engrossed in mobile technology since the Windows Mobile era. His expertise spans mobile hardware, software, and carrier networks, and he's keenly interested in the future of digital health, car connectivity, and 5G. Beyond his professional pursuits, Daniel finds balance in travel, reading, and exploring new tech innovations, while contemplating the ethical and privacy implications of our digital future.