Windows 10 Launched to Run on Smartphones, Tablets, Laptops and Desktops

Microsoft has launched its newest operating system Windows 10, a single design interface built for devices ranging from mobile up to PC.

At a press conference in San Francisco, Windows chief Terry Myerson set out his vision for Windows 10, calling it "our most comprehensive platform ever."

Joe Belfiore, the man behind Windows Phone, said: "We're trying to blend the experience across PCs, tablets. The best way to think of it, it will be a natural step forward from the Windows 8.1 model"

In a move that has flummoxed the industry, Microsoft chose to skip Windows 9 and go straight for 10. It stands to reason that this is to distance this latest operating system from the maligned Windows 8.

Windows 10 is designed for a wide range of devices, and has functions particularly set up for enterprise.

Greatest enterprise platform ever

"Windows 10 is going to be our greatest enterprise platform ever," said Myerson.

Microsoft says the operating system has four features for the business market – familiarity and compatibility, modern management, customised store, and corporate data protection.

In his demonstration, Belfiore said: "We want all these Windows 7 users to have the sentiment that yesterday they were driving a first-generation Prius, and now with Windows 10 it's like a Tesla."

This OS is conceived as a follow up to Windows 7 rather than the touch-focused Windows 8, although Belfiore is clear that it will include key features of the company's previous operating system.

"It gives the familiarity of Windows 7 with some of the elements of Windows 8," he said.

Customisation is a key component to Windows 10, aided by the new multiple desktop feature. Users can view multiple desktops on their screen, each using its own apps.

This is the centrepiece of a move towards facilitating productivity. Other features include an easier, more powerful command prompt.

While the final consumer version of Windows 10 will not launch until late 2015, enthusiasts will be able to sign up for a Windows 10 "Insider Program" beginning tomorrow, which next month will give them a chance to try out a Windows 10 Technical Preview before the general public.

Upgrade pricing was not discussed, but the Indonesian president of Microsoft indicated this week that the upgrade would be free for those running Windows 8.