As everyone is probably aware by now, Microsoft released Windows 8 in the second half of last year. In the initial months since it’s release, the latest edition of the popular operating system has attracted a rather large volume of bad press. Many users are citing difficulties using it and finding things that they used in previous editions that have been either moved or are no longer available.

One problem that seems to come up again and again with regard to Windows 8 is that Microsoft appear to have replaced the Start menu with the Metro screen. It appears that Microsoft have attempted to release one operating system regardless of the hardware or device that it will be run on. This presents numerous problems in terms of usability because some devices are touch-friendly and others require the point and click funtionality of the traditional mouse or cursor.

Some of the things I have heard people say about Windows 8 are that it is “Vista 2.0”, “Windows ME (Metro Edition)”, and that Microsoft have taken a touch screen interface and stabled it onto the standard Windows Desktop.

Personally, I believe Microsoft have made an enormous mistake by attempting to push out one system regardless of device. Other operating system developers have opted for a number of different editions, for example, Google has Chrome for Chromebooks and Android for smartphones and tablets, Apple has OSX for macbooks and iMacs and iOS for iPhone and iPad, and Canonical have Ubuntu for PC’s and laptops and separate editions for tablets and smartphones. I would certainly not be a fan of Windows 8, but I would not be afraid of it either. If I had to use it I would find a way, but other people mind not be as accepting.

If you want to read / listen to more commentary and reviews on Windows 8, then check out the following links.

• Will 90% of users hate Windows 8?
• Why Windows 8 will fail
• 5 reasons why Windows 8 has failed
• Insanity behind Windows 8 as worst OS ever created (a humorous take on Windows 8)

I hope you found this interesting. Any feedback you have on this post any other part of my website is welcome.