Windows 8 unveiled in Lagos.

Country Manager, Microsoft Anglophone West Africa, Mr. Emmanuel Onyeje

By Amaka Eze
 
Microsoft Nigeria has unveiled Windows 8 to its customers and partners in Nigeria at its Open Door event following the global launch of the product last October.

The Microsoft’s Open Door events serve to address the demand for space in which African technology professionals are able to experience the latest-generation technologies first-hand, exchange ideas, build skills, and network with their local IT community and Microsoft technology experts.

Windows 8 was the main product exhibited at this years' Open Door Event targeted at IT professionals, developer and partners.

Speaking at the press conference to announce the launch, Country Manager, Microsoft Anglophone West Africa, Mr. Emmanuel Onyeje, stated that with the launch of Windows 8, Microsoft is unveiling a reimagined Windows to the world.

Onyeje said: “To enrich the reinvented Windows experience, local consumers and businesses will be able to experience all that Windows 8 has to offer; as well-known manufacturers have released a wide-range of notebooks, tablets, all-in-ones, touch-enabled ultra-books, and convertibles, all designed for Windows 8.”

He explained that the product was suitable for any tablet or a PC, and said: “Whether you want to consume or create, work or play, Windows 8 delivers a personalised experience that fits your unique style and needs.”

He added that Windows 8 would have two available retail versions: Windows 8 designed for home users and Windows 8 Pro geared for business and proffesional users.
“It offers new possibilities in mobile productivity with features like Windows To Go, DirectAccess, and BranchCache, as well as enhanced end-to-end security with features including BitLocker and AppLocker,” he said.

Speaking at the event, the General Manager, Ha-Shem Network Service Limited, Mr. Olaide Akisanya, said: “Windows 8 is an excellent product, which empowers our customers work force by enhancing their business productivity, makes them work smarter and better. They can view the world at their palm once they have installed on their devices. It gives customers an eagle eye view of the world.”

Also launched at the Open Door Event is a new member of the Windows family designed for ARM-based tablets, Windows RT, which will be pre-installed on new devices.

In addition to the range of new devices available, consumers can also upgrade their existing PCs. Through the end of January, consumers currently running PCs with Windows XP, Windows Vista or Windows 7, are qualified to download Windows 8 Pro for an estimated retail price of $40, while eligible Windows 7 PCs purchased between June 2, 2012, and January 31, 2013 in more than 140 countries can download Windows 8 Pro for an estimated retail price of $15.