Consolidate your life with Windows 8 [video]

Microsoft’s image of the future makes Windows 8, supported by cloud services, the hub integrating all devices and personalization in the user’s life. The key is the new log-in method, which requires Windows Live ID. Metro application, user settings, Start Screen layout, desktop icons and user files follow the user wherever he or she signs in with Windows Live ID. Microsoft plans one consistent experience across devices. Apple and Google use similar identity mechanisms for iOS and Android devices and syncing content among them..

story and 19 minute video is here: Consolidate your life with Windows 8 [video]

 

[chev65]

Microsoft’s image of the future makes Windows 8, supported by cloud services, the hub integrating all devices and personalization in the user’s life. The key is the new log-in method, which requires Windows Live ID. Metro application, user settings, Start Screen layout, desktop icons and user files follow the user wherever he or she signs in with Windows Live ID. Microsoft plans one consistent experience across devices. Apple and Google use similar identity mechanisms for iOS and Android devices and syncing content among them..

story and 19 minute video is here: Consolidate your life with Windows 8 [video]

It's about time somebody mentioned this fact which everyone seems to be missing.

It's great when you reinstall the op system and all your personal settings are already set, the Metro screen is just how it was before, all your favorites are already right there in IE, including your frequently visited sites. Not to mention any Apps that you purchased are all right there for you in the same place as you left them.

Of course creating a system image every week or so is still a good idea because it saves you from having to install all your programs again.

This is all very convenient to say the least and it's one of the best features of Windows 8.

 

[thatmanbrian]

Chrome and Firefox also do this and it is becoming increasingly popular. Actually though, it isn't compulsory to sign up to MS to install Win 8 even though during setup you are not given an opt-out. But on Microsofts website is a page (I forget where ) which explains how to proceed without an MS account.