Microsoft’s upcoming refresh of its signature operating system, Windows 8, has gotten a new name. “Windows RT” is the official moniker of the version of the software that will be released for tablet computers running on ARM processors, Microsoft announced on Tuesday.
However, the initial reaction by prospective users has been one of befuddlement:
As one commentator on the official Windows 8 blog put it: “Windows RT should be renamed ‘Windows 8 for Tablets’ or something similar. Windows RT is not consumer friendly. Non-tech savvy consumers will be confused by this.”
Indeed, the letters “RT” have become a popular way to refer to the practice of “retweeting” on Twitter, making the name even more confusing.
Windows 8 is Microsoft’s big gamble to completely overhaul the look, feel and functionality of the Windows operating system for the “post PC” world, an attempt to create an eye-catching and user-friendly interface that works equally as well on computers as it does on tablets and mobile phones. A preview version debuted at the end of February to mixed reviews.
Windows RT will actually be one of three versions of the software, the other two have more conventional names: Microsoft says “Windows 8” is for general users and “Windows 8 Pro” for businesses and tech-savvy users. The Windows 8 family isn’t expected to be released until October.
(H/T: Boing Boing)
