Windows 8 Consumer Preview is a beta version of the next Windows release that anyone can test. It introduces the Metro interface: the biggest change to Windows since the start button was introduced with Windows 95.
A new start for Windows
The Metro interface is bold design that has been seen in other Microsoft products like Mobile and Xbox. In Windows 8 its effects are profound. There is now the Windows Store, which allows you to download Metro Apps, much like in OS X. You can pin the apps you use most to the Metro interface, which is a very informative visual interface. Internet Explorer for Metro is a super quick browser that opens in full screen with no borders - the URL bar pops up when you mouse over the lower part of the screen. It looks great, though it's a big change from the traditional Windows experience, so be prepared!
Touchscreen Interface
Metro is ideal for touchscreens, and really comes into its own on tablets. Microsoft have done an excellent job of creating an interface which is practical, informative, attractive and different. The biggest problem I found using Metro was the lack of a unified home button.
Windows Desktop is still here
Windows 8 isn't all change though. The traditional Windows Desktop is still there behind Metro. The switch between the two is uncomfortable, as they are visually so different. It's understandable why this exists - you can upgrade to Windows 8 and be able to use complex apps like Excel or Adobe Photoshop seamlessly. You can also download and install programs as usual on the Windows desktop. The major change for Windows 8 on the desktop is that the start button only appears when you mouse the lower left corner of the taskbar.
Conclusion
Windows 8 Consumer Preview shows an operating system torn between two ideas. Continuity on the desktop, and revolution with the Metro interface. It's certainly much more touch friendly, but whether desktop and laptop users will make full use of it is hard to say.
The best way to test Windows 8 Consumer Preview safely is using a virtualization solution like VirtualBox or VMware. You can use the ISO file to create a new virtual machine with no risks for your computer.
