Microsoft has finally lifted the lid on its new operating system, which is officially called Windows 10.
The new system is the PC maker's attempt at unifying its OS to work on the broadest types of devices, under "one product family, one platform and one store".
Here is a round-up of everything you need to know about Windows 10.
Start Menu
The much-celebrated, long-missed Start Menu makes a triumphant and fuller return in Windows 10. A Me Tile allows users to pin the apps they like most alongside options to shut down and restart.
Tiles can be resized and organised how you like, in Microsoft's bid to give greater customisation.
What to Read Next
Meanwhile, the search has been improved to provide universal computer and web searches directly from the Start Menu.
However, the Start Screen and the Charms Bar will still exist for those who have touchscreen devices and prefer them.
Task View
Task View is a new feature on Windows 10 that was recently rumoured and has turned out to be a reality, and it is designed to empower users with better multitasking. The option basically makes it possible to switch between different desktops each running their apps separately.
So you could leave all your work documents open on one desktop, and switch to a completely new one when you get home, keeping them out of the way and organised.
Users are also able to grab apps from multiple desktops as they please using Snap Assist.
Standard PC vs touchscreen
One of the biggest criticisms of Windows 8 was that it was tailored to touchscreen users too much. Windows is trying to manage those with and without touchscreens better by allowing apps that used to be full-screen to run within the traditional desktop mode.
The Task Bar also remains at the bottom permanently and users can resize window boxes as they used to.
When can I get hold of Windows 10?
Microsoft is tomorrow (October 1) launching its Windows Insider
However, a consumer version of the operating system will not be available until later in 2015. Microsoft will go into more detail about what to expect at its Build conference in April.
How much will it cost?
Microsoft is yet to announce any details about pricing and did not suggest whether users on previous operating systems would receive an incentive or discount to upgrade.
Why is it called Windows 10?
Microsoft considers Windows 10 to be the "natural step forward" from Windows 8.1 as it blends the experience across PCs, tablets and other devices. This means Windows 10 is also the next operating system for Windows Phones as it scales to different device sizes, although Windows Phone handsets will not have a desktop.
