Windows 8

Windows 8 was Microsoft’s innovative operating system introduced in 2012, featuring a touch-optimized interface designed for tablets and hybrid devices. It introduced the Start Screen with live tiles, aiming to bridge the gap between desktop and mobile experiences. While it brought new features like the Windows Store and improved security, its drastic UI changes received mixed reactions, leading many users to prefer later versions. Support for Windows 8 ended in January 2016, with extended support for Windows 8.1 lasting until January 2023.