Since its inception, Microsoft has created 20 or more different releases of its flagship product, the Windows operating system. This doesn't even count the variants for different microarchitectures, Starter Editions, or so-called 'UItimate versions.

Despite this, this latest version, Windows 8, promises to be the most distinctive Windows yet as it represents Microsoft's attempt to completely re-brand its consumer and corporate identities.

The design philosophy behind W8, known as the 'Metro UI', has its roots back in Windows XP's Media Center Edition. It then became the basis of the Zune media players and software, traveled to the Windows Phone operating system and even transformed the Xbox 360's dashboard interface before coming to rest in the form of Windows 8's new Start screen.

Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer called Windows 8 the company's "riskiest bet" at a Gartner Symposium back in 2010. Given some of the drastic changes we've seen so far, we're inclined to agree. The next-generation operating system faces the unenviable task of unifying Redmond's mobile and desktop codebases, responding to the overwhelming pressure the iPad has brought to bear, and helping to transition the company into what Steve Jobs once called the 'post-PC' era.

It's expected that Windows 8 will be released later this year. Join us as we take a close look at its evolution and delve deeper into Microsoft's strategy in our Wait for 8 series."

- J.R. Nelson
Special Report Editor

The Wait for 8: Windows 8 to Lose the Start Button, Gain Gesture Passwords

Part of Microsoft's strategy in developing Windows 8 is to standardize the user interface across multiple form factors - desktop, laptop and tablet – although some diehard Windows users may view this with some skepticism.

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Microsoft Continues to Fight Controversy Over Windows 8 'Secure Boot'

Early drafts of Microsoft's Windows 8 hardware certification specifications make it clear the company is not trying to lock out Linux on PCs and devices, although Linux advocacy groups are concerned.

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Easier Install in View for Coming Windows 8

Windows 8 may solve one of the biggest problems related to the operating system – the long and often invasive setup and installation process.

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How to Download Windows 8 for Free and Install via USB/DVD

Microsoft's next generation operating system promises to change the look and feel of PCs, with its elegant Metro styling and stunning new Start menu. Even though it won't be out until next year, you can play with it right now.

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Microsoft Shows Off Windows 8: New Start Menu, New Media Center

Initially, there were rumors that Microsoft would not include the critically favorable Windows Media Center in the upcoming version of their insanely popular operating system. That proved untrue, but what else can we expect to see?

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Microsoft Shows Off Windows 8: New Start Menu, New Media Center

Initially, there were rumors that Microsoft would not include the critically favorable Windows Media Center in the upcoming version of their insanely popular operating system. That proved untrue, but what else can we expect to see?

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Windows 8 Consumer Preview Beta Launches at Live Barcelona Event

At Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Microsoft took the stage to present the next beta of its upcoming Windows 8 operating system to the public and talk more on cloud connectivity. The company also posted the download link to its Consumer Preview.

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