Microsoft this morning unveiled the next version of Windows, called Windows 10 — skipping a version number entirely to underscore the leap that Microsoft is trying to make as it attempts to revive its flagship operating system.
Demonstrating the new operating system at a small media event in San Francisco, Microsoft executive Joe Belfiore said the company views the change from Windows 8 to Windows 10 as akin to going from a first-generation Prius to a new Tesla.
A new app model will allow developers to build universal apps that work across Windows and Windows Phone. End-user features include the return of the Start Menu on the Windows desktop, better support for multiple desktops, a new task view for seeing open apps. Microsoft is also enhancing the experience for people using two-in-one devices that double as laptops and tablets.
The changes come with high stakes for Microsoft, which has seen competing tablets and smartphones — powered by its archrivals Apple and Google — chip away at its longtime dominance in the broader world of computing. The company is making a big pitch to enterprise customers to upgrade to Windows 10.
The event in San Francisco is ongoing. Follow our live blog for more updates.