Is Windows Rt Windows 8

Windows RT, a version of Microsoft's operating system, was designed specifically for devices using ARM processors. Although it shared similarities with Windows 8, it was not the same. Windows RT was intended for tablets and other mobile devices, providing a touch-friendly interface and the ability to run apps from the Windows Store. However, it couldn't run traditional desktop software like Windows 8 could.

Windows RT faced challenges in the market due to its limitations. While it offered extended battery life and better performance on mobile devices, users were disappointed by its inability to run popular software applications like Adobe Photoshop or Microsoft Office. This limited functionality made Windows RT less attractive to many consumers and led to its eventual discontinuation by Microsoft.

Introduction: What is Windows RT?

Windows RT is an operating system developed by Microsoft as a variant of their Windows 8 operating system. It was specifically designed for devices that run on ARM architecture, such as tablets and laptops. Windows RT was first introduced in 2012 and aimed to provide a more lightweight and power-efficient option compared to the full Windows 8 version.

Key Features of Windows RT

Windows RT shares many similarities with Windows 8, but there are some distinct differences. Let's take a closer look at some of the key features of Windows RT:

• Windows RT comes pre-installed on devices and cannot be purchased separately as a standalone operating system.
• It includes a touch-optimized interface that is designed to be used with finger gestures and stylus input.
• Windows RT devices have limited compatibility with traditional desktop applications, as they can only run software from the Windows Store.
• The operating system includes a version of Microsoft Office, which is pre-installed and optimized for touch input.
• Windows RT devices have longer battery life compared to their full Windows 8 counterparts due to the optimized power consumption of ARM architecture.

Differences between Windows RT and Windows 8

While Windows RT and Windows 8 share a similar foundation, there are a few important differences that set them apart:

Application Compatibility

One of the major differences between Windows RT and Windows 8 is the compatibility with traditional desktop applications. Windows RT devices can only run apps that are specifically designed for the Windows Store. This means that legacy applications, such as those designed for Windows 7 or earlier versions of Windows, cannot be installed or run on Windows RT devices.

On the other hand, Windows 8 devices have full compatibility with both Windows Store apps and traditional desktop applications. This makes Windows 8 a more versatile choice for users who rely on a wide range of software, especially business applications that may not be available in the Windows Store.

Hardware Requirements

Windows RT has specific hardware requirements due to its ARM architecture. It is designed to run on devices powered by ARM processors, which are commonly found in tablets and smartphones. This means that Windows RT is not compatible with devices that use x86 or x64 processors, which are the standard processors found in most desktop and laptop computers.

On the other hand, Windows 8 is compatible with a wider range of hardware, including devices with x86 and x64 processors. This allows users to choose from a larger variety of form factors, including traditional desktop computers, laptops, and tablets.

Operating System Updates

Another difference between Windows RT and Windows 8 is the way they receive updates. Windows RT devices receive updates through Windows Update, similar to how Windows 8 devices receive updates. However, Windows RT devices do not have the ability to upgrade to newer versions of Windows, such as Windows 8.1 or Windows 10.

Windows 8, on the other hand, can be upgraded to newer versions of the operating system, allowing users to take advantage of the latest features and improvements offered by Microsoft.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Windows RT shares some similarities with Windows 8, it is a distinct operating system designed for devices powered by ARM processors. Windows RT devices have a touch-optimized interface, limited compatibility with traditional desktop applications, and specific hardware requirements. On the other hand, Windows 8 devices offer full compatibility with both Windows Store apps and traditional desktop applications, as well as a wider range of hardware options. It's important to consider these differences when choosing an operating system for your device.

Windows RT vs. Windows 8: What's the Difference?

Windows RT and Windows 8 are two different operating systems created by Microsoft, although they share some similarities. Windows RT was designed specifically for devices with ARM processors, such as tablets, while Windows 8 is compatible with both ARM and x86 processors.

One of the main differences between Windows RT and Windows 8 is the ability to run traditional desktop applications. Windows 8 can run both modern apps from the Microsoft Store and traditional desktop programs, giving users more flexibility in software choices. On the other hand, Windows RT can only run modern apps, restricting users to software available through the Microsoft Store.

Another important difference is the inclusion of the traditional Windows desktop. While Windows 8 provides a familiar desktop environment with a taskbar and a start menu, Windows RT has a more simplified interface, resembling the interface of Windows Phone. This means that some of the features and functionality of the traditional desktop may be limited or not available on Windows RT devices.

In summary, while Windows RT shares some similarities with Windows 8, it is a separate operating system with limitations compared to its counterpart. Windows RT is primarily meant for devices with ARM processors and can only run modern apps from the Microsoft Store, while Windows 8 offers more versatility and compatibility with both modern and traditional desktop applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

In this section, we will address some commonly asked questions regarding the connection between Windows RT and Windows 8.

1. What is Windows RT?

Windows RT is an operating system developed by Microsoft specifically for devices powered by ARM processors. It was released alongside Windows 8 and was designed to run on tablets and other mobile devices.

Unlike Windows 8, Windows RT doesn't support traditional desktop applications. Instead, it only runs apps from the Windows Store. It also comes pre-installed on devices like Microsoft Surface RT.

2. Is Windows RT the same as Windows 8?

No, Windows RT is not the same as Windows 8. While they were both released around the same time and share some similarities in terms of design and interface, there are some key differences between the two.

The main difference is that Windows RT is designed specifically for ARM-based devices, while Windows 8 can run on both x86 and ARM processors. Windows 8 also offers more features and compatibility with traditional desktop applications, unlike Windows RT.

3. Can I upgrade from Windows RT to Windows 8?

No, it is not possible to directly upgrade from Windows RT to Windows 8. The two operating systems are built differently, and Windows RT devices are not capable of running Windows 8.

If you have a device running Windows RT, you can only update it to the latest version of Windows RT through Windows Update. However, it is important to note that Microsoft has discontinued support for Windows RT, so no major updates or new features will be released for this operating system.

4. Can I install traditional desktop applications on Windows RT?

No, Windows RT does not support the installation of traditional desktop applications. It can only run apps from the Windows Store, which are specifically designed for Windows RT.

If you need to use desktop applications, you will need a device running Windows 8 or higher, as Windows 8 offers compatibility with a wide range of desktop applications.

5. Is Windows RT still supported by Microsoft?

No, Microsoft has discontinued support for Windows RT. This means that there will be no more major updates or new features released for this operating system.

However, security updates and bug fixes may still be released to address any vulnerabilities or issues that may arise. It is recommended to keep your Windows RT device updated to ensure optimal security and performance.

To conclude, Windows RT is not Windows 8. While they may seem similar in some aspects, there are significant differences between the two operating systems.

Windows RT is a stripped-down version of Windows 8, designed specifically for devices with ARM processors. It lacks certain features and compatibility with traditional Windows software. On the other hand, Windows 8 is a full-fledged operating system that runs on both ARM and x86 processors.