Test: Familiarity with Windows 10 after 10 years of its existence?
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As we commemorate the 10th anniversary of Windows 10, let's delve into some fascinating facts that have shaped its development and made it a distinctive addition to Microsoft's operating system lineage.
1. Codenamed "Threshold"
The operating system was originally named after a planet from the popular video game Halo, reflecting Microsoft's gaming heritage.
2. A Single Unified Operating System
Microsoft aimed to create a unified platform across all device types, including PCs, tablets, smartphones, Xbox One, and later XR devices. This vision saw the introduction of universal Windows apps, which share the same codebase across devices.
3. Skipping "Windows 9"
Windows 10 was a significant departure from Windows 8.1, so Microsoft chose to skip "Windows 9" to avoid compatibility issues with legacy software and to signal a fresh start.
4. Open Development with the Windows Insider Program
For the first time in Microsoft OS development, Windows 10 was developed alongside the public through the Windows Insider Program, allowing users to test features and influence development in real time.
5. The Last Version of Windows?
Initially, Microsoft called Windows 10 the "last version of Windows," meaning it would receive continual updates rather than periodic new versions. However, this philosophy was overturned by Windows 11's announcement in 2021.
6. Not All Features Succeeded
One such example is Cortana, the AI assistant named after a Halo character, which was heavily promoted but failed to gain lasting user interest and was ultimately phased out by 2023.
7. Casual Gaming Integration
An interesting tidbit is that Candy Crush Saga was showcased running on early versions and later bundled with Windows 10, marking a shift toward integrating casual gaming into Windows for the first time.
8. Quiz Time
To celebrate this anniversary, we've created a quiz that covers obscure and unique aspects of Windows 10, from codenames to version releases. Test your knowledge and share your results in the comments!
9. Stay Informed
For the latest news, reviews, and guides related to Windows and Xbox, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter.
10. No Cheating
We encourage everyone to participate honestly in the quiz. Let's celebrate Windows 10's anniversary by learning together!
[Quiz Link]
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- Although Windows 10 was first introduced as the "last version of Windows," Microsoft later announced Windows 11 in 2021.
- Microsoft aimed to create a unified Windows platform that would cover devices like PCs, laptops, Xbox, and even XR devices.
- The operating system was initially named after a planet from the famous video game Halo, a nod to Microsoft's gaming heritage.
- To allow users to test features and influence development in real time, Microsoft opened the development process of Windows 10 to the public through the Windows Insider Program.
- Candy Crush Saga, a popular casual game, was showcased on early versions of Windows 10 and was later bundled with the operating system.
- Despite being heavily promoted, the AI assistant Cortana, named after a Halo character, failed to garner lasting user interest and was eventually phased out by 2023.
- Initially, Microsoft skipped "Windows 9" to avoid compatibility issues with legacy software and to signal a fresh start with Windows 10.
- An exciting fact about the development of Windows 10 is that it was originally codenamed "Threshold."
- Those interested in keeping up with the latest news, reviews, and guides related to Windows, Xbox, and technology can subscribe to the newsletter.
- When participating in the Windows 10 anniversary quiz, honesty is encouraged to celebrate the anniversary by learning together.
