Microsoft will reportedly host a Windows 8 consumer preview event on 29 February in Barcelona, where the Mobile World Congress trade show will be held between February 27 and March 1.
The company’s latest Windows computer OS, which follows Windows 7, features many changes from previous versions with support for ARM microprocessors in addition to the x86 microprocessors from Intel and AMD.
A new Metro-style enhanced user interface has been added to the new version that is designed for touchscreen input, in addition to mouse, keyboard, and pen input.
Its server version is codenamed Windows Server 8, which is expected to be released by the end of 2012, although the Redmond-based company has not made any announcements on a final ship date yet.
Another feature expected to be introduced in Windows 8 is native USB 3.0 support, without the need to load drivers.
Other new features include a ribbon interface, similar to those used in Microsoft Office applications, ‘Windows To Go’ that can boot and run Windows on any Windows 7 or Windows 8 capable computers, among others.
The consumer preview marks the first major update after Microsoft delivered the Windows 8’s Developer’s Preview last September, although the company may disclose more details by the end of this month.
Last December, Microsoft said a public Windows 8 beta would be released in late February.
