Channel NewsAsia app set to extend reach with Windows 8

SINGAPORE: Channel NewsAsia is set to extend its reach with Microsoft’s new operating system Windows 8, which was launched on October 26.

Microsoft, which is targeting 400 million customers worldwide, is hoping to meld the fun and convenience of a tablet with the power and productivity of a PC.

One of the features of Windows 8 is its touch—screen navigation.

It also allows users to tap specific spots of a photo to unlock the device.

More than 50 devices will be available at over 120 IT stores in Singapore. The devices include tablets, laptops and computers known as "all—in—ones".

Those using Windows XP, Vista or 7 can download Windows 8 for about S$50.

Applications, or apps will be a large part of Windows 8’s features.

Microsoft is working with about 4,000 developers to create apps for its users.

But it declined to list the number of apps available.

Microsoft’s director for marketing and operations, John Fernandes, said: "We’ve often been directed to think that the number of apps available for download is a benchmark of standard, but we focus on the user experience. Numbers are great, but quality is more important."

And Channel NewsAsia’s app is one of those available at Microsoft’s new app store.

"Within Channel NewsAsia’s business environment, your business users can internally use Windows 8 to really drive productivity," said Mr Fernandes.

"But also, there’s the fun part. If you like using the tablet, if you like using the touch, rather than the keyboard and the mouse, you as a user has the flexibility, you have a choice. On the one hand, it gives the business more reach to broader audiences, and on the other hand, it drives internal productivity," he added.

Microsoft said it worked with over 100 countries to collect user feedback. Some 16 million customers have already downloaded the pre—release versions of Windows 8.

Microsoft said it is confident the launch will keep existing Windows customers and attract new ones.

Mr Fernandes said: "For non—Windows customers, we want them as our customers. When you think about the great applications, the great devices, a rich, dynamic computing environment on these great multitude of different devices that allow you to work and play and do the things you want to do in your own way, we’re very confident that customers will come and see Windows 8 and buy Windows 8."

Singapore is one of 15 countries in the world, and the only country in Southeast Asia to host the launch event.

— CNA/fa