Installation Experience / The Big Picture

HippsieGypsie

It's Gururrrrrr8!
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Location
Lilymoor, IL
It's no secret here that I am a big fan of 8. I like it's fluid feel and Metro look. I've just fresh installed another edition of 8 the other night. I dual boot with 7 Ultimate. This is my 4th installation of 8 since early June -> Release Preview downloaded from the MS site and burned ISO to DVD. I used this edtion for the 90 day trial period -> Enterprise Evaluation twice, for I did not know MS would allow one to refresh the ninety-day trial period until ater the fact. I Downloaded the ISO from MSDN and burned to DVD. I used this edition for about 150 days -> And now Windows 8 Pro OEM System Builders edition I bought from an online store of which I'm now in the process of personalizing. The RP was 32 bit and the remaining were 64 bit editions. All installations went without a hitch using my experience and Brink's and/or other's tutorials before proceeding. :)

It took all of 20 minutes to install this last one. Not bad time I'd say. Another 15 minutes installing 22 purchased MS Store (Modern) apps, which needs to be reinstalled upon each OS installation via "Your Apps" within the Store. It took approximately another hour to download and install 30 updates, Bing Desktop, and MS Arc mouse driver. I think the hour's time is acceptable considering it's a new OS.

I feel I've been quite fortunate with installations and the stability of running 8 on this older Acer, especially with dual booting. I've read and continue to read the horror stories some have in doing so. I've had no driver problems, update problems, no BSODs, and no connection problems. Therefore in installing and running 8 for the past 7 months I find it to be a great experience. A little bit more of a learning curve, but once I learned the basics such as the 4 hot corners, using the Start Screen and All Apps, Charms Bars, advanced context menu, etc. it was and continues to be a great experience.

I have a score of 3.4 on the Windows Experience Index assessesment due to the integrated graphics chipset. If I slide a decent graphics card in the box I would then get a 4.7 as highest, for that is the score on the Pentium D for this machine. My plans are to purchase a touch monitor to dual monitor along with my present one. A new graphics card would accomodate that setup. Overall it is a pretty quick machine. It's not a gaming rig for sure, but it has served me well.

One other piece of info is that I use my MS account entailing my Live email acount and password to sign into my PC, which is new in 8. I've had a Live account since it's introduction. I configured this upon installation. I found this to be convenient for no matter what MS site I'm in I'm automatically signed in. Bing, MSDN, Technet, etc. The only site it asked me for a password is the online MS Store site. I would imagine this due to a security level. OK by me.

Here's the "Big Picture" of the direction I think MS is going that I began to see with each installation and use of 8 since early June:

#1 To create a slimmer and fluid touch-centric OS that works across multiple devices so as it is familiar to a user no matter what device. It also works well on a non-touch-centric device such as a desktop PC without a touch screen. Some have suggested a touch mouse or touch pad work well. Some are even experimenting with a Wii controller to navigate with. I have no problem using keyboard shortcuts along with my Arc mouse to navigate around. I get around in 8 better than I do in 7 at this point in time, in fact 7 is getting to be awkward to me now when in it.

#2 To be more Cloud orientated so to make driver installation, settings personalization, favorites migration, MS Store apps installation, personal file migration to name some easier to perform, and to sync data across devices. e.g.:

a) All my IE Favorites were migrated automatically from the last installation. Originally I migrated those manually within RP from my 7 partition or drive. They installed with every edition installation afterwards ready to use and in the familiar order I had in the last edition. I have approximately 25 folders named with categories. e.g. 8F folder with shortcuts to various threads. A folder of MS sites. etc.

b) The 3 email accounts (both MS Live accounts and 1 non-MS account) were preconfigured in the Windows Mail app ready to go for me when I opened it for the first time after each installation. This included all my emails in all 3 accounts downloaded and ready. The only thing I had to do was fill in the password for 2 of the accounts so as to activate synch. The first was already activated for I signed into the PC with it.

c) All my MS Store apps ready for me to download as I mentioned previously.

d) Personal file migration. I haven't gotten to this yet, although I've had a certain amount of free storage via my Live account. SkyDrive looks convenient as all get up and go. Easier than Easy Transfer, which is not included with 8. I'll do some storage their, but no sensitive files.

That's my experience so far. What's yours? Where do you think MS is headed with this OS 8?
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    8.1 Pro X64
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    System Manufacturer/Model
    Acer T690
    CPU
    Intel Pentium D Dual Core
    Motherboard
    Acer/Intel E946GZ
    Memory
    2GB (max upgrade)
    Graphics Card(s)
    Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 3000 - PCI Express x16
    Sound Card
    Integrated RealTek ALC888 high-definition audio with 7.1 channel audio support
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Acer AL1917W A LCD
    Screen Resolution
    1440 X 900
    Hard Drives
    350 GB Seagate Barracuda 7200.10
    Thumb drives
    PSU
    Standard 250 watt
    Case
    Desktop 7.2" (183mm) W x 17.5" (445mm) L x 14.5"
    Cooling
    Dual case fans + CPU fan
    Keyboard
    Acer Windows PS/2
    Mouse
    Wireless Microsoft Arc
    Internet Speed
    54mbp/s
    Browser
    IE11
    Antivirus
    Defender
    Other Info
    Office Pro 2013 / Nokia Lumia 1520 Windows Phone 8.1DP GDR1
hi H.G.

"I get around in 8 better than I do in 7 at this point in time, in fact 7 is getting to be awkward to me now when in it."

Yeah, i now the feeling.....never Win7 for me again.

Jeff
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    WINDOWS 8.1 x64
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    CPU
    INTEL CORE I--3770K LGA1155
    Motherboard
    ASUS P8Z77-V
    Memory
    KINGSTON 2400 MHZ KHX24C11K4 16GB
    Graphics Card(s)
    INTEL HD GRAFICS 4000
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Philip BDL3245€ 32 inch
    Screen Resolution
    1920 x 1080
    Hard Drives
    2 SAMSUNG 840 PRO RAID 0 ON BOARD 2 x 128 GB
    Keyboard
    LOGITEC MX™ 5500
    Mouse
    LOGITEC MX 5500
    Internet Speed
    120 Mbps
Don't know what your motivation is in posting this thread -- but you'll most likely get two very different responses:
1) Love it
2) Hate it

The pros and cons of Win8, and how people feel about those, have been beaten "to death" on this forum.

Those of group 1) [like you] are going to praise MS for what it's done with Win8 and be convinced they are heading in the right direction -- toward spending MORE and MORE money on Store Apps and new hardware, and toward Cloud integration.

Those of group 2) [like others] are going to criticise MS for what it's done with Win8 and be convinced that are heading in the WRONG direction -- toward forcing folks to spend money on Store Apps (to duplicate what they already have) and new hardware (which they shouldn't have to buy) and toward could integration -- which they don't use.

So, other than hoping others will come by and give you a good feeling about the choice you made, I fail to see what this thread is going to add to an already controversial issue.
 

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I've resigned myself to the fact that I'll live with it. Hate is too strong a word, it is what it is and I'll deal with it. Like it or not is a moot point, Microsoft is going where Microsoft wants to go. I do think they thumbed their noses at the enterprise and are going in the direction of placating the social media enamored general consumer. But hey, "increasing shareholder equity" is their charter and if Microsoft thinks this is what it takes, so be it.

-jeff
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Linux Mint and Windows 8 Pro
    System Manufacturer/Model
    Asus G75VW
    CPU
    i7
    Motherboard
    Asus
    Memory
    16G
    Graphics Card(s)
    nVidia
    Monitor(s) Displays
    17"
    Hard Drives
    Seagate 5400 rpm 1T and Seagate 7200 rpm 500G.
    Internet Speed
    30M down, 5M up
    Other Info
    Oracle Virtual Box
    Ubuntu 64 bit
Don't know what your motivation is in posting this thread -- but you'll most likely get two very different responses:
1) Love it
2) Hate it

The pros and cons of Win8, and how people feel about those, have been beaten "to death" on this forum.

Those of group 1) [like you] are going to praise MS for what it's done with Win8 and be convinced they are heading in the right direction -- toward spending MORE and MORE money on Store Apps and new hardware, and toward Cloud integration.

Those of group 2) [like others] are going to criticise MS for what it's done with Win8 and be convinced that are heading in the WRONG direction -- toward forcing folks to spend money on Store Apps (to duplicate what they already have) and new hardware (which they shouldn't have to buy) and toward could integration -- which they don't use.
I have some difficulties to understand this.

I have about 50 Store Apps installed and ready to go on my main rig. Total cost: €0.00, all are completely totally free. It is absolutely the same with Windows Store on 8 than with any other software on XP, Vista or Seven: There's a huge selection of free apps and games but if you want a certain commercial application, you have to pay for it regardless of your OS.

I watch UK television with FilmOn, totally free on Store. It is an SD version which is enough for me, if I would like to get HD TV I have to pay the exactly same amount I would have to pay using FilmOn's browser based version on Seven, or Mac, or Linux. I use TeamViewer Remote App for our widely spread family's IT support, free. I have 8 games I like, all free and enough for me. If I want to get Angry Birds I have to pay, but again the exactly same price than I had to pay downloading it to XP.

My tech news apps, all free. About 10 world and local news apps I use, free. I have wonderful informative apps for my whisky and wine interests, all free.

Windows 8 does not make, require or demand you to spend more money. It is totally functional with not a single cent spent over the OS price itself.

About the cloud: you can choose to use only local accounts on your Eight. Nothing is stored on cloud, no connection to you is made. One and only compromise you need to make using local account is that if you want to use those free apps from Store, you need a Microsoft account. When installing something from Store first time using a local account, the email is asked. But it's your choice: Using Eight without Store and Microsoft account is exactly as using XP or Mac or Seven. Install the software you'd like to install and forget the rest. Store is not obligatory.

Same with hardware. I have an old outdated rig for test purposes which was on its upper limits with Seven. I installed 8 and it works as a dream. Faster, more reliable than ever. If I had continued to use it with Seven I believe I had needed a new motherboard and processor but thanks to Eight I can now use that money to something else.

I understand criticism and opinions. I do not understand however that these completely made up false arguments are used as facts, as you do.

Windows 8 needs no new hardware, you can easily run it on the same hardware you had your XP or Seven. Windows 8 does not require you to spend money on apps any more than all other operating systems do; in fact Eight can make your computing cheaper because there really is a huge amount of free apps and games a few clicks away on Windows Store.

So, other than hoping others will come by and give you a good feeling about the choice you made, I fail to see what this thread is going to add to an already controversial issue.
I haven't seen you critisizing members who post "I don't like Eight" threads. Do you want to say that pro-Eight threads are useless and only anti-Eight posting should be allowed?

OP made several valid points telling about his opinion and experience. Why shouldn't he, this is The Eight Forums.

Kari
 
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My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 8.1 Pro with Media Center
    Computer type
    Laptop
    System Manufacturer/Model
    HP ENVY 17-1150eg
    CPU
    1.6 GHz Intel Core i7-720QM Processor
    Memory
    6 GB
    Graphics Card(s)
    ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5850 Graphics
    Sound Card
    Beats sound system with integrated subwoofer
    Monitor(s) Displays
    17" laptop display, 22" LED and 32" Full HD TV through HDMI
    Screen Resolution
    1600*900 (1), 1920*1080 (2&3)
    Hard Drives
    Internal: 2 x 500 GB SATA Hard Disk Drive 7200 rpm
    External: 2TB for backups, 3TB USB3 network drive for media
    Cooling
    As Envy runs a bit warm, I have it on a Cooler Master pad
    Keyboard
    Logitech diNovo Media Desktop Laser (bluetooth)
    Mouse
    Logitech MX1000 Laser (Bluetooth)
    Internet Speed
    50 MB VDSL
    Browser
    Maxthon 3.5.2., IE11
    Antivirus
    Windows Defender 4.3.9431.0
    Other Info
    Windows in English, additional user accounts in Finnish, German and Swedish.
1. One other piece of info is that I use my MS account entailing my Live email acount and password to sign into my PC, which is new in 8. I've had a Live account since it's introduction. I configured this upon installation. I found this to be convenient for no matter what MS site I'm in I'm automatically signed in. Bing, MSDN, Technet, etc. The only site it asked me for a password is the online MS Store site. I would imagine this due to a security level. OK by me.

2. Here's the "Big Picture" of the direction I think MS is going that I began to see with each installation and use of 8 since early June:

#1 To create a slimmer and fluid touch-centric OS that works across multiple devices so as it is familiar to a user no matter what device. It also works well on a non-touch-centric device such as a desktop PC without a touch screen. Some have suggested a touch mouse or touch pad work well. Some are even experimenting with a Wii controller to navigate with. I have no problem using keyboard shortcuts along with my Arc mouse to navigate around. I get around in 8 better than I do in 7 at this point in time, in fact 7 is getting to be awkward to me now when in it.

3. #2 To be more Cloud orientated so to make driver installation, settings personalization, favorites migration, MS Store apps installation, personal file migration to name some easier to perform, and to sync data across devices. e.g.:

a) All my IE Favorites were migrated automatically from the last installation. Originally I migrated those manually within RP from my 7 partition or drive. They installed with every edition installation afterwards ready to use and in the familiar order I had in the last edition. I have approximately 25 folders named with categories. e.g. 8F folder with shortcuts to various threads. A folder of MS sites. etc.

b) The 3 email accounts (both MS Live accounts and 1 non-MS account) were preconfigured in the Windows Mail app ready to go for me when I opened it for the first time after each installation. This included all my emails in all 3 accounts downloaded and ready. The only thing I had to do was fill in the password for 2 of the accounts so as to activate synch. The first was already activated for I signed into the PC with it.

c) All my MS Store apps ready for me to download as I mentioned previously.

d) Personal file migration. I haven't gotten to this yet, although I've had a certain amount of free storage via my Live account. SkyDrive looks convenient as all get up and go. Easier than Easy Transfer, which is not included with 8. I'll do some storage their, but no sensitive files.

4. That's my experience so far. What's yours? Where do you think MS is headed with this OS 8?
My experience is very similar to yours to the point where I start your quote above--except that I do not share your enthusiasm about the metro interface. It is workable, but I don't think it is well thought out, efficient, well integrated with the desktop, has particularly desirable apps, etc. But, ragging about these things is not my focus here.

1. I don't like using an MS account. I use a local account. We may do some of the same things online, but I prefer other approaches to doing them.

2. Undoubtedly part of the "big picture."

3. Also is part of the "big picture." I like some of the convenience of the cloud. But, much of what you point to as being appreciated is anathema to me. It's the same with Apple. Too much cloud. Beyond syncing and succumbing to some force when it comes to installation, I pretty much want to stay out from being under the thumb of anything ( i.e., being manipulated or controlled by anything).

4. I think both MS and Apple are moving in the direction you think--with MS being more extreme at this point, although Apple started it. I will be staying as far from their thumbs as possible--as I am right now. I have spent my life staying out from under thumbs by making informed choices, etc. Not going to stop now for MS or Apple.
 
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My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Win7 Ult on DIY; Win8 Pro on MBP/Parallels; Win7 Ult on MBP/Boot Camp; Win7 Ult/Win8 Pro on HP
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    System Manufacturer/Model
    DIY Rig; MacBook Pro (MBP)/Parallels/Boot Camp; HP Pavilion dv6500t Laptop
    CPU
    Intel i7-2600K (sometimes OC'd to 4.8 GHz)
    Motherboard
    ASUS P8P67 Deluxe Rev B3
    Memory
    16 GB Corsair Vengeance
    Graphics Card(s)
    EVGA 570 SC
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Gateway
    Hard Drives
    Dual Boot:
    Win7 Ult RAID 0 on OCZ Revo x2 and
    Win7 Ult RAID 0 on Caviar Black SATA 3's
    PSU
    Cooler Master Silent Pro 1000W
    Case
    Cooler Master 932 HAF
    Cooling
    Zalman CNPS9900MAX-B CPU Fan
    Keyboard
    Logitech Cordless Desktop MX 5500
    Mouse
    Logitech Cordless Desktop MX 5500
    Internet Speed
    20 Mbps Download/2+ Mbps Upload
    Other Info
    Pioneer Blu-ray Burner/DVD Burner
My installation experience was mixed... the first time I tried to install, it wouldn't run in-place, and (being XP) the option to "Install by creating media" didn't appear either so I couldn't burn an ISO. Microsoft support were helpful but didn't figure out the problem. Eventually I worked out that it was because this XP system had never been converted to NTFS and was still running on a FAT32 file system, and the installer tries to create a Hard Link ?or something like that? which can't be done on FAT.

Once I got past that, I also had a lot of problems with drivers for my old laptop. Even one of the ones which Windows update had suggested would cause the machine to start BSOD-ing. I also gave up trying to make it run on 1GB (with shared video memory) and it's much happier with a memory upgrade.

Overall, now it's going, I do like some of the features. I like Task Manager and File Explorer. I also like being able to use VHDs with Bitlocker to create an encrypted "drive". I have no problems with the Start Screen and quite like the search method to find apps (although I admit I've manually added a "Programs" folder to the toolbar which I use a lot, as searching via the Start Screen is slow on this old hardware). Backup is a step backwards compared to Windows XP though, which had a good backup program (with the slight disadvantage that the only bootable recovery disk it could create as on a 3.5in floppy!)

But (as on the thread I posted) my main gripe is with the full-screen-only, non-multi-tasking Metro apps. The apps themselves aren't great; maybe they'll get better, and the full-screen approach is just unworkable in my view.

The non-multi-tasking is slightly annoying; for instance why can't I listen to an internet radio station in IE10 and go do something else in another app at the same time? Obviously I can do this in Desktop IE10, but not Metro IE10, which is a bit silly. (It also reminds me of "DOS Shell" in later versions of MSDOS- anyone remember that?!)

Generally this sort of stuff is fine on Windows 8 because you can use desktop apps and still be productive, but doesn't bode well if Microsoft see the Metro style as "the only way" in future.
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 8.1, 10
The non-multi-tasking is slightly annoying; for instance why can't I listen to an internet radio station in IE10 and go do something else in another app at the same time? Obviously I can do this in Desktop IE10, but not Metro IE10, which is a bit silly. (It also reminds me of "DOS Shell" in later versions of MSDOS- anyone remember that?!)

Generally this sort of stuff is fine on Windows 8 because you can use desktop apps and still be productive, but doesn't bode well if Microsoft see the Metro style as "the only way" in future.
If your radio station is using a flash based web radio app, it is true it will not work on IE10 Start App. This issue is however not Microsoft's / Windows' fault, and I believe it will be fixed when Adobe gets Flash Player to work on IE10 Start App as it should.

However, there's nothing preventing you from listening your web radio on IE10 desktop version and using an Start App at the same time. Here's my favorite web radio station from my native Finland playing on desktop IE10 on the left while browsing Windows Store on the right:

StartUI_3.png

Windows 8 is quite flexible. Here's a web radio Start App called TuneIn (Store > Entertainment) on the left playing WKBU Radio from New Orleans while I am browsing Facebook using Start App Facebook+ Lite (Store > Social) on the left:

StartUI_2.png

The same Facebook stream on the right, Windows 8 desktop "ready to serve" on the left:

StartUI_1.png

Writing this post on the left while watching Live UK TV on the right with Start App FilmOn (Store > Entertainment):

StartUI_4.png

I see no problems here.

Kari
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 8.1 Pro with Media Center
    Computer type
    Laptop
    System Manufacturer/Model
    HP ENVY 17-1150eg
    CPU
    1.6 GHz Intel Core i7-720QM Processor
    Memory
    6 GB
    Graphics Card(s)
    ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5850 Graphics
    Sound Card
    Beats sound system with integrated subwoofer
    Monitor(s) Displays
    17" laptop display, 22" LED and 32" Full HD TV through HDMI
    Screen Resolution
    1600*900 (1), 1920*1080 (2&3)
    Hard Drives
    Internal: 2 x 500 GB SATA Hard Disk Drive 7200 rpm
    External: 2TB for backups, 3TB USB3 network drive for media
    Cooling
    As Envy runs a bit warm, I have it on a Cooler Master pad
    Keyboard
    Logitech diNovo Media Desktop Laser (bluetooth)
    Mouse
    Logitech MX1000 Laser (Bluetooth)
    Internet Speed
    50 MB VDSL
    Browser
    Maxthon 3.5.2., IE11
    Antivirus
    Windows Defender 4.3.9431.0
    Other Info
    Windows in English, additional user accounts in Finnish, German and Swedish.
The non-multi-tasking is slightly annoying; for instance why can't I listen to an internet radio station in IE10 and go do something else in another app at the same time? Obviously I can do this in Desktop IE10, but not Metro IE10, which is a bit silly. (It also reminds me of "DOS Shell" in later versions of MSDOS- anyone remember that?!)

This is deliberate, and is largely due to phone and tablet scenarios where users don't tend to shut down apps, they just open new ones. Apps can suck up a lot of bandwidth, for instance, if they're left running in the background. And apps can be killed when resources get below a certain level.

Windows does provide a means to do background processing, but an app has to be written to support it. The idea is that if you're going to listen to a radio station, you'll use a radio app that supports background audio playback.
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 8.1 Pro
    CPU
    Intel i7 3770K
    Motherboard
    Gigabyte Z77X-UD4 TH
    Memory
    16GB DDR3 1600
    Graphics Card(s)
    nVidia GTX 650
    Sound Card
    Onboard Audio
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Auria 27" IPS + 2x Samsung 23"
    Screen Resolution
    2560x1440 + 2x 2048x1152
    Hard Drives
    Corsair m4 256GB, 2 WD 2TB drives
    Case
    Antec SOLO II
    Keyboard
    Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000
    Mouse
    Logitech MX
JF1450,

NOBODY HAS TO LIVE WITH IT.

You can use Linux, Apple, WIn7, Vista AND XP (my god).

Jeff
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    WINDOWS 8.1 x64
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    CPU
    INTEL CORE I--3770K LGA1155
    Motherboard
    ASUS P8Z77-V
    Memory
    KINGSTON 2400 MHZ KHX24C11K4 16GB
    Graphics Card(s)
    INTEL HD GRAFICS 4000
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Philip BDL3245€ 32 inch
    Screen Resolution
    1920 x 1080
    Hard Drives
    2 SAMSUNG 840 PRO RAID 0 ON BOARD 2 x 128 GB
    Keyboard
    LOGITEC MX™ 5500
    Mouse
    LOGITEC MX 5500
    Internet Speed
    120 Mbps
The non-multi-tasking is slightly annoying; for instance why can't I listen to an internet radio station in IE10 and go do something else in another app at the same time? Obviously I can do this in Desktop IE10, but not Metro IE10, which is a bit silly. (It also reminds me of "DOS Shell" in later versions of MSDOS- anyone remember that?!)

Generally this sort of stuff is fine on Windows 8 because you can use desktop apps and still be productive, but doesn't bode well if Microsoft see the Metro style as "the only way" in future.
If your radio station is using a flash based web radio app, it is true it will not work on IE10 Start App. This issue is however not Microsoft's / Windows' fault, and I believe it will be fixed when Adobe gets Flash Player to work on IE10 Start App as it should.
I don't think that's the problem - the website I'm thinking of (BBC) plays radio fine while I'm looking at it, in both versions of IE10; but stops as soon as I switch away from the Start App/Metro version.

However, there's nothing preventing you from listening your web radio on IE10 desktop version and using an Start App at the same time.
Well indeed - it's fine in Windows 8; just the "Metro-only" vision of the future which worries me.

Windows 8 is quite flexible. Here's a web radio Start App called TuneIn (Store > Entertainment) on the left playing WKBU Radio from New Orleans while I am browsing Facebook using Start App Facebook+ Lite (Store > Social) on the left:
Sadly I don't have enough pixels in the right direction to snap so I can't do any of that.

Moreover it's difficult to know which are the "good" apps and which are the "bad" ones - I see you've just started a thread to help with this though. :thumbsup:

But in this case, why should I clutter my PC up with Apps, when there is a perfectly good browser page that works? All I need is for it to multi-task (or a way of changing a setting to allow me to choose). I think my favourite option is to be able to run Metro apps in a Desktop window if I wanted to.

This is deliberate, and is largely due to phone and tablet scenarios where users don't tend to shut down apps, they just open new ones. Apps can suck up a lot of bandwidth, for instance, if they're left running in the background. And apps can be killed when resources get below a certain level.

Windows does provide a means to do background processing, but an app has to be written to support it. The idea is that if you're going to listen to a radio station, you'll use a radio app that supports background audio playback.
Ah thanks for the explanation. But shouldn't I be able to choose, especially as I'm using a low bandwidth radio website on mains power?
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 8.1, 10
If listening BBC on background is what you want, there's a perfect Windows Store App for you called TuneIn. I use it because the enormous number of radio stations it has, also from my small native Finland.

Here's what I got when I clicked Europe > UK > BBC > National Networks > BBC:

TuneIn_BBC.png

Direct Windows Store Link to TuneIn app presentation and installation:
Code:
[COLOR=#800000]ms-windows-store:PDP?PFN=TuneIn.TuneInRadio_6bhtb546zcxnj[/COLOR]
Copy / Paste the above link to IE10 address bar and hit Enter to open app page at Windows Store. Install, tune in to your station, put app aside and do something else. It plays on the background.

Kari
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 8.1 Pro with Media Center
    Computer type
    Laptop
    System Manufacturer/Model
    HP ENVY 17-1150eg
    CPU
    1.6 GHz Intel Core i7-720QM Processor
    Memory
    6 GB
    Graphics Card(s)
    ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5850 Graphics
    Sound Card
    Beats sound system with integrated subwoofer
    Monitor(s) Displays
    17" laptop display, 22" LED and 32" Full HD TV through HDMI
    Screen Resolution
    1600*900 (1), 1920*1080 (2&3)
    Hard Drives
    Internal: 2 x 500 GB SATA Hard Disk Drive 7200 rpm
    External: 2TB for backups, 3TB USB3 network drive for media
    Cooling
    As Envy runs a bit warm, I have it on a Cooler Master pad
    Keyboard
    Logitech diNovo Media Desktop Laser (bluetooth)
    Mouse
    Logitech MX1000 Laser (Bluetooth)
    Internet Speed
    50 MB VDSL
    Browser
    Maxthon 3.5.2., IE11
    Antivirus
    Windows Defender 4.3.9431.0
    Other Info
    Windows in English, additional user accounts in Finnish, German and Swedish.
JF1450,

NOBODY HAS TO LIVE WITH IT.

You can use Linux, Apple, WIn7, Vista AND XP (my god).

Jeff


You don't know me, my experience, what I do for a living or what I use computers for. Give me a break. My God...
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Linux Mint and Windows 8 Pro
    System Manufacturer/Model
    Asus G75VW
    CPU
    i7
    Motherboard
    Asus
    Memory
    16G
    Graphics Card(s)
    nVidia
    Monitor(s) Displays
    17"
    Hard Drives
    Seagate 5400 rpm 1T and Seagate 7200 rpm 500G.
    Internet Speed
    30M down, 5M up
    Other Info
    Oracle Virtual Box
    Ubuntu 64 bit
JF,

i only say for any OS, you have a choice. So you are not forced to use Win8, unless at work, but then you should accept it since you get paid for it.

Jeff
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    WINDOWS 8.1 x64
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    CPU
    INTEL CORE I--3770K LGA1155
    Motherboard
    ASUS P8Z77-V
    Memory
    KINGSTON 2400 MHZ KHX24C11K4 16GB
    Graphics Card(s)
    INTEL HD GRAFICS 4000
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Philip BDL3245€ 32 inch
    Screen Resolution
    1920 x 1080
    Hard Drives
    2 SAMSUNG 840 PRO RAID 0 ON BOARD 2 x 128 GB
    Keyboard
    LOGITEC MX™ 5500
    Mouse
    LOGITEC MX 5500
    Internet Speed
    120 Mbps
That's my experience so far. What's yours? Where do you think MS is headed with this OS 8?
Hi HG: You haven't replied to anyone that specifically replied to the two questions you raised above. I'm interested in what you think about our replies. We don't always agree, of course, but I am interested in what you have to say.
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Win7 Ult on DIY; Win8 Pro on MBP/Parallels; Win7 Ult on MBP/Boot Camp; Win7 Ult/Win8 Pro on HP
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    System Manufacturer/Model
    DIY Rig; MacBook Pro (MBP)/Parallels/Boot Camp; HP Pavilion dv6500t Laptop
    CPU
    Intel i7-2600K (sometimes OC'd to 4.8 GHz)
    Motherboard
    ASUS P8P67 Deluxe Rev B3
    Memory
    16 GB Corsair Vengeance
    Graphics Card(s)
    EVGA 570 SC
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Gateway
    Hard Drives
    Dual Boot:
    Win7 Ult RAID 0 on OCZ Revo x2 and
    Win7 Ult RAID 0 on Caviar Black SATA 3's
    PSU
    Cooler Master Silent Pro 1000W
    Case
    Cooler Master 932 HAF
    Cooling
    Zalman CNPS9900MAX-B CPU Fan
    Keyboard
    Logitech Cordless Desktop MX 5500
    Mouse
    Logitech Cordless Desktop MX 5500
    Internet Speed
    20 Mbps Download/2+ Mbps Upload
    Other Info
    Pioneer Blu-ray Burner/DVD Burner
Ok Znod. I've been busy. I'll get to this ASAP. On my phone now. Thanks for posting. :)
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    8.1 Pro X64
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    System Manufacturer/Model
    Acer T690
    CPU
    Intel Pentium D Dual Core
    Motherboard
    Acer/Intel E946GZ
    Memory
    2GB (max upgrade)
    Graphics Card(s)
    Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 3000 - PCI Express x16
    Sound Card
    Integrated RealTek ALC888 high-definition audio with 7.1 channel audio support
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Acer AL1917W A LCD
    Screen Resolution
    1440 X 900
    Hard Drives
    350 GB Seagate Barracuda 7200.10
    Thumb drives
    PSU
    Standard 250 watt
    Case
    Desktop 7.2" (183mm) W x 17.5" (445mm) L x 14.5"
    Cooling
    Dual case fans + CPU fan
    Keyboard
    Acer Windows PS/2
    Mouse
    Wireless Microsoft Arc
    Internet Speed
    54mbp/s
    Browser
    IE11
    Antivirus
    Defender
    Other Info
    Office Pro 2013 / Nokia Lumia 1520 Windows Phone 8.1DP GDR1
No prob. Just interested.
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Win7 Ult on DIY; Win8 Pro on MBP/Parallels; Win7 Ult on MBP/Boot Camp; Win7 Ult/Win8 Pro on HP
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    System Manufacturer/Model
    DIY Rig; MacBook Pro (MBP)/Parallels/Boot Camp; HP Pavilion dv6500t Laptop
    CPU
    Intel i7-2600K (sometimes OC'd to 4.8 GHz)
    Motherboard
    ASUS P8P67 Deluxe Rev B3
    Memory
    16 GB Corsair Vengeance
    Graphics Card(s)
    EVGA 570 SC
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Gateway
    Hard Drives
    Dual Boot:
    Win7 Ult RAID 0 on OCZ Revo x2 and
    Win7 Ult RAID 0 on Caviar Black SATA 3's
    PSU
    Cooler Master Silent Pro 1000W
    Case
    Cooler Master 932 HAF
    Cooling
    Zalman CNPS9900MAX-B CPU Fan
    Keyboard
    Logitech Cordless Desktop MX 5500
    Mouse
    Logitech Cordless Desktop MX 5500
    Internet Speed
    20 Mbps Download/2+ Mbps Upload
    Other Info
    Pioneer Blu-ray Burner/DVD Burner
Thanks all for posting. :) I apologize I'm late with this.

@ steveb

Why's that?
----------------------------------------
@ jeffrys

So you can relate. I find it faster and more fluid. Once I learned where everything is I'm flying around in this OS. I'm also spending less time catching up on personal info and opening up apps, programs, folders, and files due to the Start Screen and All Apps.
----------------------------------------
@ Mark Phelps

My motive was simply to share my experience and to find out others as well. Another was perhaps to help someone that's struggling to understand where and why MS is going with this big change of an OS. I think Kari answered the rest to my satisfaction.
--------------------------------------
@ Jf1450

I liked it from the get go. Others stated elsewhere that it grew on them and now enjoy it. That may be what happens to you. I think you'll eventually see that this will fit the business model. The desktop PC is dying. They needed to go this route to survive as a company. I think the tweeks for enterprise will come.
----------------------------------------
@ Kari

:thumb: Thanks :)
------------------------------------
@ znod

I think both MS and Apple are moving in the direction you think

They are all moving in this direction. I'm surprised this hasn't come sooner with the advent of the Internet. It still remains a fact that one does not need a data connection at all to run 8 except to perhaps find drivers. But, if one has a data connection, has a browser, and/or an email account, one is using the cloud in some form. I'm using the cloud as soon as I push Alt/S to post this.
--------------------------------
@ DavidY

I now your installation experience was horrid coming from XP. I commend you that you "got 'er done"! I hope you got your music radio worked out as well. :)
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    8.1 Pro X64
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    System Manufacturer/Model
    Acer T690
    CPU
    Intel Pentium D Dual Core
    Motherboard
    Acer/Intel E946GZ
    Memory
    2GB (max upgrade)
    Graphics Card(s)
    Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 3000 - PCI Express x16
    Sound Card
    Integrated RealTek ALC888 high-definition audio with 7.1 channel audio support
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Acer AL1917W A LCD
    Screen Resolution
    1440 X 900
    Hard Drives
    350 GB Seagate Barracuda 7200.10
    Thumb drives
    PSU
    Standard 250 watt
    Case
    Desktop 7.2" (183mm) W x 17.5" (445mm) L x 14.5"
    Cooling
    Dual case fans + CPU fan
    Keyboard
    Acer Windows PS/2
    Mouse
    Wireless Microsoft Arc
    Internet Speed
    54mbp/s
    Browser
    IE11
    Antivirus
    Defender
    Other Info
    Office Pro 2013 / Nokia Lumia 1520 Windows Phone 8.1DP GDR1
Microsoft have never and still do not understand tablet computing. They have tried and failed many times to foist tablet computing on to users. They always envisioned a full featured PC as a tablet. Nobody really wanted that and they never caught on.
When Apple re-imagined the tablet as a consumer device that allowed a simple way to do email, browsing, social media and video it sold millions. The cheap copies have built on that and sell millions too.
All the people who never needed the power of a PC stopped buying them and moved to tablets. Microsoft got scared and said we need to turn PCs into tablets, yet again failing to understand that the tablet is a consumer device like the 60s transistor radio, the 70s cassette player, the 80s VCR etc. Instead they have gone down the route of trying to produce a full power PC in a 10 inch tablet, exactly what consumers don't need. In doing so they have abandoned the people who make them their big money the corporations, businesses and professionals who need a real PC with a real OS not a mobile phone interface.
The Surface will fail, Windows tablets will sell a fraction of iPad and Andriod tablets numbers and Microsoft will end up doing what they always did best and have to realign their business model back to a real PC OS, server and infrastructure and get out of the transistor radio market.

That's why Windows 8 is heading up a blind alley.
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Win 8
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