Coming down the road from Microsoft

February, 2012: The following dates are totally unofficial but we think reasonable predictions for upcoming releases for new/updated Microsoft products:

You can read a more extensive summary here.

Tyson’s Corner Microsoft Store Now Open!

Microsoft opened their 14th Microsoft retail store in Tyson’s Corner Center on November 17. The festivities included Cal Ripken, Joe Jonas and lots of giveaways.

BEI will be hosting a Friends and Family Night on December 15. Get a personal tour of the store, relax and have a snack in the private theater space! We’ll have discount coupons for everyone and over 25 exciting raffle items.

Thursday, December 15
5 pm – 9 pm
Microsoft Store, Tyson’s Corner
REGISTER NOW!

10 Things to Love about Windows 8

TechRepublic came up with this list and we thought it was worth sharing – click here for all the details. The unofficial release date for Windows 8 is toward the end of 2012 – we’ll update this as we receive more specific information.

1: It’s designed for tablets and touch

2: Apps “share” data

3: The apps can be integrated into the OS

4: It offers ARM support

5: It beefs up security

6: App markets will benefit developers and users

7: System restore is easier

8: Cloud sync is everywhere

9: It offers simplified administration and configuration

10: System stability is improved

Microsoft Store Opening in Tyson’s Corner Center November 17

Microsoft has announced that they will be opening their 14th Microsoft retail store in Tyson’s Corner Center on November 17. The store features a theater that is available for meetings and seminars – BEI is hopeful of hosting a seminar soon after the store opens. The grand opening ceremony, at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 17, will include the distribution of up to $1 million in software grants to local groups. You can vote on the store’s Facebook page to decide where the grants should go. Each vote will count toward a $20 donation. Potential recipients include the Foundation of Fairfax County Public Schools and the Children’s Science Center.

Windows 8

The next major release of the Windows operating system, Windows 8, is now available as a Developer Preview. We know that there is at least one copy running at BEI! It will be the first Microsoft operating system designed to work with touch screens from the start. The look and feel will be familiar to anyone with a Windows Phone – it will have the ability to swap between a more traditional Windows interface and the new “Metro” style as shown below.