While some might find the analogy a bit on the nose, the impending arrival of Windows 10 has sparked a wave of excitement within the tech world, promising a wealth of opportunities for software and hardware developers alike.

Windows 10 represents a significant shift in Microsoft’s approach to operating systems. It’s not just a new OS; it’s a free, automatic upgrade for a vast number of Windows 8.1 users. Additionally, it directly addresses several criticisms leveled at the Windows 8.x UI, formerly known as Metro. The changes are more than superficial; Windows 10 is not just a cosmetic overhaul with a fresh UI and enhanced apps. It could very well signal the dawn of a new era for Microsoft. Here’s why.

Let’s start by examining how Microsoft aims to rectify the shortcomings of Windows 8.x. After all, that’s essentially what Windows 10 is all about, at least superficially.

Addressing the Tablet Shortcomings of Windows 8

Back in 2009, even before the release of Windows 7, Microsoft had already begun developing Windows 8. Windows 7, essentially a refined version of Windows Vista, had swiftly garnered praise for resolving many of the issues that plagued its ill-received predecessor. Windows 8 had big shoes to fill, but beyond simply improving upon traditional Windows, Microsoft aspired to make it tablet-friendly. This led to several controversies surrounding the company’s UI decisions, particularly the boot-to-Start approach, the absence of a traditional Start menu, and the lackluster performance of the new Metro-style UI on desktops and laptops lacking touch support.

Microsoft took a gamble on a tablet-centric UI, a decision that, in retrospect, proved ill-advised. Critics panned the initial release, arguing that it alienated traditional desktop users for the sake of a relatively small tablet user base. Microsoft’s Surface tablets didn’t help matters either. Windows RT, or Windows on ARM, was a flop, prompting Microsoft to announce that it would not receive a Windows 10 update. Meanwhile, Intel had developed several x86 System-on-Chip (SoC) solutions capable of running a full-fledged Windows on affordable tablets.

In fact, Intel was so confident in its 22nm Bay Trail processors that it essentially gave away millions of them for free in 2014 through contra revenue programs. This strategy enabled the chipmaker to ship 46 million units, many of which ended up in budget-friendly Windows tablets. While seemingly unorthodox, this move allowed Intel to gain a foothold in the tablet SoC market, with Microsoft eager to join the ride. Both companies had a vested interest in seeing x86 platforms adopted in as many tablets as possible, given their meager market share in the tablet sector. Microsoft returned the favor by offering Windows with Bing free of charge (with certain limitations), allowing hardware manufacturers to obtain a cutting-edge Intel chip and Microsoft’s x86 operating system for free, provided they adhered to Intel’s and Microsoft’s guidelines.

You might be wondering what this has to do with Windows 10’s development. Trust me, this will become very relevant in the coming years. Intel and Microsoft learned a harsh lesson in the mobile arena, and they are determined not to repeat the same mistake. Both companies are committed to the long game. Their objective is not merely to conquer the tablet market but to revolutionize it by blurring the lines between tablets and ultraportable notebooks. Intel refers to these devices as 2-in-1s, and it now possesses 14nm processors (Core M series) capable of delivering notebook-level performance to Windows tablets.

Recent 2015 tablet market forecasts from research firms IDG and Gartner seem to confirm what many analysts have been predicting for years – Microsoft and Intel are poised for long-term success. IDC anticipates that Android and iOS tablets to remain stagnant, while Windows tablets and 2-in-1s will experience growth this year, with their market share increasing from 5.1% in 2014 to 7.0% in 2015. By 2019, Windows tablets are projected to capture a 14.1% market share, at the expense of Android and iOS tablets. Gartner’s figures point to a similar trend, though their forecast only provides estimates for 2015 and 2016.

In essence, sales of traditional Windows desktops and notebooks are expected to decline in the next few years, while sales of ultramobile devices and tablets are projected to experience robust growth. This shift will undoubtedly make Windows a significantly more attractive platform for tablet app development.

The Outlook for Windows 10 Phones and Universal Apps

It’s been a while since Microsoft last updated its smartphone operating system, but even when it was new, it struggled to secure a substantial market share. This posed a challenge for the platform as Windows developers were hesitant to invest resources in developing Windows Phone apps, particularly when iOS and Android offered much larger and more lucrative markets.

This situation isn’t likely to change anytime soon.

There was nothing inherently wrong with Windows Phone 7.5 or 8.1. The OS was efficient and made the most of limited hardware resources, performing well on affordable, less powerful devices that would struggle to run Android smoothly. Fragmentation was also minimal because Microsoft maintained tight control over the hardware used in Windows phones.

However, fierce competition in the smartphone market hindered the success of Windows phones. While Windows excels on less powerful hardware, this is no longer a significant selling point. Today’s low-end Android phones come equipped with relatively powerful hardware and ample RAM.

While Windows 10 isn’t expected to bring about dramatic changes in the smartphone market in the near future, it does have one ace up its sleeve. Windows 10 development centers around creating a unified user experience across various devices, and Microsoft believes it has a winning strategy with its Windows 10 universal app platform. Although the concept might seem straightforward, its implementation will require significant effort from Microsoft. At the Mobile World Congress in early 2015, Microsoft showcased the universal app platform and outlined its vision in a series of blog posts.

As the name suggests, the universal platform extends beyond just phones. Microsoft’s ultimate ambition is to achieve platform convergence, enabling a single app to run seamlessly on phones, PCs, Xboxes, tablets, and even the HoloLens AR headset.

And it doesn’t end there. At the recent Build event, Microsoft revealed that Windows 10 will also support Android and iOS apps, though some additional development work will be necessary. Fortunately, a significant portion of this process will be automated, utilizing Microsoft SDKs in Objective C for iOS apps and Java and C++ for Android apps.

This is undoubtedly positive news for Windows 10 developers. The ability to create one app for virtually all Microsoft consumer platforms should bolster the appeal of the entire Windows ecosystem. Moreover, it allows developers to maximize their return on investment, particularly if Android and iOS apps can be easily adapted to run on Windows without significant performance drawbacks.

Microsoft aims to assist developers by having the platform handle most of the runtime adaptation, freeing them to concentrate on refining the user experience and tackling less mundane tasks.

Microsoft highlights the following advantages offered by Windows 10 universal apps:

• An adaptive UX with screen layout adjustments (eliminating the need for separate UI definitions) and runtime user controls.
• Support for natural user inputs, incorporating gestures, voice commands, eye tracking, and more.
• Seamless integration of cloud-based services.
• Expanded Cortana and Action Center functionality with enhanced integration.

For web developers, Windows 10 offers several new tools and features, including:

• A new rendering engine.
• A new browser, codenamed Project Spartan.
• Enhanced Web App support, simplifying the process of creating Store apps.

Of course, the list of improvements doesn’t stop there. Windows 10 will include numerous tweaks, such as the return of the Start button, and major updates like DirectX 12.

Windows 10 vs. Windows 8.x

Let’s delve into some of these changes in more detail:

Universal Apps

I’ve already touched upon this concept, so it’s a fitting starting point. Windows apps will be accessible through a unified app store and will be compatible with screens ranging from 5 inches to 55 inches. Apps will also have more controls, allowing users to resize live tiles like traditional windowed programs.

Enhanced Multitasking

Microsoft aims to improve multitasking with the integration of a Task View button on the taskbar (though the familiar ALT+TAB shortcut will remain). Users can now arrange up to four apps on a single screen, as opposed to just two. Task View’s distinguishing feature is its support for “virtual desktops.” This essentially introduces a “tabbed” browsing experience to the desktop, enabling users to keep personal items on one desktop and maintain a separate, uncluttered desktop for work. Used effectively, this approach has the potential to boost productivity.

Command Prompt Overhaul

The often-overlooked Command Prompt remains an indispensable tool for many power users and developers. Microsoft is finally addressing some long-standing limitations by enabling copy and paste functionality within the Command Prompt window. This seemingly minor change will significantly expedite numerous repetitive tasks.

The Return of the Start Button

Microsoft has finally yielded to popular demand. The beloved Start Button is making a comeback and will be accompanied by a pane of live tiles on the right, next to the resurrected Start Menu.

Search Enhancements

While the Start Menu will feature a search bar, an additional search button will be added to the taskbar. This is a welcome addition as it extends the convenience of the current live pane view search to the desktop environment.

Mobile Device Management (MDM)

MDM will empower administrators to access and manage multiple devices using System Center and Active Directory. Support for mobile device management and seamless cloud integration will be fundamental aspects of Windows 10.

DirectX 12

DirectX 12 could be a game-changer for the gaming industry and deserves a more in-depth discussion. Microsoft has released a wealth of information regarding this upcoming API in various announcements and blog posts.

DirectX 12 is designed to bring code “closer to the metal,” an approach that might ring a bell for those familiar with AMD’s Mantle API. It will also function across mobile devices, desktops, and the Xbox One. Many new GPUs already offer DirectX 12 compatibility, but since the API won’t be widely available until late 2015, its full impact remains to be seen.

Authentication, Cortana, Continuum, and Beyond

Windows Hello aims to eliminate the need for password authentication in certain scenarios, while Cortana will be integrated into all Windows platforms. Continuum introduces an adaptive UI, allowing Windows to recognize whether it’s running on an 8-inch tablet, a tablet connected to a TV, a 2-in-1 device, or a traditional desktop. Project Spartan, which I mentioned earlier, aspires to finally put an end to all those Internet Explorer jokes (admittedly, a tall order).

The End of an Era or the End of an Error?

Windows 10 will be Microsoft’s first major OS release in years under new leadership. Former CEO Steve Ballmer remains a polarizing figure, to say the least. The always-animated Ballmer helmed Microsoft for 14 years, presiding over numerous triumphs and some very public missteps. Ballmer is often held accountable for Microsoft’s failure to anticipate the potential of connected devices like smartphones and tablets, an oversight he himself acknowledges.

However, it’s unfair to lay all of Microsoft’s product shortcomings solely at Ballmer’s feet. He was succeeded by Satya Nadella a year ago, so the new regime will likely receive the credit if Windows 10 succeeds. It’s worth noting that many of these “new” features were already in development during Ballmer’s tenure. Whatever the outcome, Ballmer won’t be around to witness it, as he’ll be preoccupied with running the LA Clippers.

Beyond the purely technical aspects, Windows 10’s development diverges from previous releases in its distribution model. All Windows 7, Windows 8.x, and select Windows Phone users will receive the update for free, a clear indication that Microsoft is shifting towards a different business model. Future Windows updates may resemble Android and iOS over-the-air updates rather than traditional Microsoft releases. This change bodes well for widespread adoption, fragmentation concerns, and enhanced security.

Speaking of security, users will have the option to opt-in for faster security updates, eliminating the need to wait for monthly patches. Another option will be the ability to lock down certain apps and control the distribution of updates to various user groups on different schedules.

In summary, here’s what developers can anticipate from Windows 10:

• A surge in the number of Windows tablets and 2-in-1 devices.
• Tighter integration across various platforms.
• Faster, automatic updates, resulting in a larger user base and reduced fragmentation.
• DirectX 12 capabilities across all Windows platforms (from 2016 onwards).
• A new rendering engine and a new browser.
• Copy and paste functionality in Command Prompt – a seemingly minor tweak that will be greatly appreciated by many users.