Windows 8 and Xbox Smart Glass

Now I know this is a controversial discussion, however I wanted to bring up a topic about the newly invented Windows 8 and Xbox 360's Smart Glass.

First off, Windows 8: Now don't get me wrong, when it comes to desktops I am always going to most likely be a PC user for its stability and easygoing work functions. I have since however turned to iOS devices (Mac's, iPhone's and iPad's) for on-the-go and portable use throughout my home. Mostly for its simpleness and what I can do with them--especially writing and music. However, I will honestly say my first impression for Windows 8 on the PC was very low.

Now I know the complete version hasn't released yet (releasing Friday) however from what I have seen and heard of the new OS is that it runs too much like a tablet--if you disagree, explain your reasons below please. I assume the reason for Microsoft doing this was based on Mac's OSX Lion functionality being somewhat similar to their tablet of the iPad. Yet then again, Mac's OSX Lion still feels like a computer when using it rather than a tablet. They balanced it quite well. Yet with Windows 8, this isn't the case--to me it feels too much like a tablet rather than a computer. This irritates me on speed efficiency and multitasking use. Obviously we could all figure out how to use Windows 8, but would it really be simpler/faster to use than XP or 7? I personally don't think so, not if it continues in this direction. Especially considering their first major issue, which is the lack of a Start Button on the home-screen and having to dig into features for the desktop to appear. If there is a way to switch this, then I wouldn't be complaining as much. Yet as far as I can tell you can't until at least an update to the new OS depending on first impressions.

To sum this up, my main statement is that Windows 8 is too much like their Surface Tablet and feels too slow for average use other than social-media related applications I currently dread the day that I need/have to use Windows 8 and hope I don't need to anytime soon. In fact, I would consider a Mac Desktop over a Windows 8 Desktop if they continue pushing the tablet-like OS--yet this would not be in my best of interest. What is everyone else's impression on Windows 8 so far? I am hoping that Windows 9 will be more beneficial. As C.J. has once told me, it seems like every other OS update is best.

Second off, Smart Glass: Now this is a Xbox update I personally enjoy. Currently at this time iOS, Android and Window devices (except their tablet's) aren't supported (until the end of the month, just in time for Halo 4 use) yet from what I have seen/witnessed from reviews using the Windows 8 Tablet (not the new Surface tablet) is quite impressive.

You can turn your mobile devices into information, maps, trailers and much more from your shows, music and games. Basically let's say you are playing music on your phone and just get home--then you can instantly stream your music to your Xbox using the new Music app. I know I will be doing that. Another example is that if you are playing a game that supports this feature (such as Halo 4 campaign) then you can see the map you are playing on, using this feature which could be very beneficial for you and your friends.

Now what is everyone else's impression on this? I am personally eager to try it out with my iPhone and iPad and expect it to have issues that will eventually be improved on. First time perfection isn't usually Microsoft's way of business. One of Smart Glass's features however, I could care less about. This is using my iOS devices for internet browsing integration, by using Smart Glass on the Xbox and Internet Explorer. At one point in time using a web browser on the Xbox would of been great, yet I think they were too late to add the feature into the system.

FlareonMaster wrote:from what I have seen and heard of the new OS is that it runs too much like a tablet

That pretty much sums up my opinion of it.

Windows 8 may run fine as an operating system for mobile devices, but for desktops it doesn't appear to be better than Windows 7. Overall I don't recommend upgrading, unless you need Windows 8 for something specific. Windows operating systems usually survive long enough for you to skip the next version of Windows and wait for the following one. For example, a good lineup for the past 15 years would be the following:

Windows 98 (1998-2002)
Windows XP (2002-2009)
Windows 7 (2009-current)

Using this lineup kept users up-to-date and able to use 99% of all new software, while skipping Windows systems such as Millenium and Vista. One of the reasons for this is that software developers (programmers) like to wait until a new OS is well tested and user-approved before making products for that system. This process usually takes at least 6 months after the release of an OS, and THEN the developers start making programs using that OS as a platform (which also takes quite awhile). There are exceptions, of course, but there are not many reasons why you can't use Windows 7 for a few more years before it becomes outdated.

Eagle Eye307 wrote:

FlareonMaster wrote:from what I have seen and heard of the new OS is that it runs too much like a tablet

That pretty much sums up my opinion of it.

Windows 8 may run fine as an operating system for mobile devices, but for desktops it doesn't appear to be better than Windows 7. Overall I don't recommend upgrading, unless you need Windows 8 for something specific. Windows operating systems usually survive long enough for you to skip the next version of Windows and wait for the following one. For example, a good lineup for the past 15 years would be the following:

Windows 98 (1998-2002)
Windows XP (2002-2009)
Windows 7 (2009-current)

Using this lineup kept users up-to-date and able to use 99% of all new software, while skipping Windows systems such as Millenium and Vista. One of the reasons for this is that software developers (programmers) like to wait until a new OS is well tested and user-approved before making products for that system. This process usually takes at least 6 months after the release of an OS, and THEN the developers start making programs using that OS as a platform (which also takes quite awhile). There are exceptions, of course, but there are not many reasons why you can't use Windows 7 for a few more years before it becomes outdated.

I did have Vista installed on a few computers at one time, however preferred Windows 7 greatly over them So I can agree to what you have said and hope that the next OS will be more like 7 and less like 8. Once again, anyone else have anything to say about their perspectives on the new OS and Smart Glass?

Windows XP with service pack 3 can still do almost anything, it's my favorite Windows OS still.

Salmarnir wrote:Windows XP with service pack 3 can still do almost anything, it's my favorite Windows OS still.

Yep, Windows XP is pretty awesome.

My personal favorite is still 7, however I would say XP was my second favorite. I would say the majority of people could agree/respect this.

No, no respect for you.

But why not! :O

In my opinion windows 8 looks bad for computers therefor i will stick to the amazing windows 7

martin1346 wrote:In my opinion windows 8 looks bad for computers therefor i will stick to the amazing windows 7

Agreed.

martin1346 wrote:In my opinion windows 8 looks bad for computers therefor i will stick to the amazing windows 7

I think most people would agree to this.

FlareonMaster wrote:

martin1346 wrote:In my opinion windows 8 looks bad for computers therefor i will stick to the amazing windows 7

I think most people would agree to this.

I'll stick with the amazing OSX Mountain Lion

I love that OS myself.

Notification Center actually is a lot of help on it!

Apple people alert! ^

I am still a PC User. Not like I am abandoning it. Same idea with Xbox versus PS3!

Though I did get a PS3 today... For free though (from my uncle) and it doesn't even play PS3 games anymore. lol Still plays PS2 though, yet I'm only keeping it for PS Vita cross play. And that's the only reason why.

A PS3 that doesn't play PS3 games? What?

The Blu Ray drive is broken. Only keeping it for the Vita cross play use. lol

I guess I can play PS2 games on it though. Which is nice to have instead of taking out my old one.

I love my PS3

martin1346 wrote:Apple people alert! ^

Dang straight, I love not getting viruses.

Salmarnir wrote:

martin1346 wrote:Apple people alert! ^

Dang straight, I love not getting viruses.

I don't get viruses i got kapersky internet protection

I don't have to waste time with protecting my computer, I've been virus free for over 3 years since I bought my Mac. My brother's laptop has had 3-4 viruses and our desktop had one that made us wipe the entire hard drive..

I am an Apple and PC user. I love both for their own reasons and use both in their own ways.

If I had a Windows computer, I'd have no problem using it. If I can choose between the two though, I'd pick Mac.

Here are my main points for the main Console/OS system debates.

Number 1 - Windows Vs. Mac:

Windows I have always preferred (until Windows 8...) due to its stability and customization options--and for the more realistic desktop feeling with familiarity for all users before the tablet era took over.

Mac's however, I see as the main mobile industry for phones, computers and tablets. My reasoning for this is the OS's integration between systems and the perfected Cloud! The majority of Apple's products are simpler with a nicer design and interface. Not to mention (for the most part) virus free! iPhone is the way to go for myself personally, but if you prefer Droids--by all means they are great in their own way depending on the model.

Summary, Windows has durability and familiarity while Mac's and Apple's Mobile devices have speed and security.

Number 2 - Xbox Vs. PS3:

Xbox 360 has it all! However for a price--but with this price equals security, customization, endless amount of features and terrific games/arcade selection miles ahead of the PS3! Graphics on this beast of a system match the PS3 while remaining unique in its own fashion--even supporting other devices. And who can forget Halo?

PS3 however has security flaws, not as popular/well made title exclusives and hardly any customization options. However for a cheap price, Playstation Plus Users can get new/popular titles for free/cheap. To me, aside from Blu Ray and PSP/PS Vita Cross play which goes both ways between systems, I don't see this is a very potential system.

Summary, Xbox is there for everything while PS3 is there as a port--slowly dying out. However if you have one, instead of getting rid of it--get a Vita to incorporate with the PS3!