Windows 10 Is Here: What You Need to Know

Microsoft is beginning to roll out its new software upgrade today.

ByABC News
July 29, 2015, 4:00 AM

— -- Windows 10 is here -- and for the first time in a while, there's actual excitement about Microsoft's operating system upgrade.

There's a sharper new browser that puts Internet Explorer to shame, Cortana integration and an emphasis on a more productive experience in Windows. Windows 10 is so radically different that Microsoft even skipped over naming it Windows 9.

Users who haven't already reserved a free upgrade in the Get Windows 10 app can still do so. Microsoft has the ambitious goal of rolling out the software to one billion users over the next few years.

Here's a look at some of the new features users can expect:

Microsoft Edge

While Internet Explorer will still be there, Windows 10 also includes Microsoft's newest browser, Edge, which makes it easy to write notes on a webpage and seamlessly share with friends.

PHOTO: The all-new Windows 10 browser that takes you beyond browsing to doing. One that is personal, responsive, and productive – for getting things done online.
The all-new Windows 10 browser that takes you beyond browsing to doing. One that is personal, responsive, and productive – for getting things done online.

Cortana Integration

You can now ask Cortana to find you that expense report from last July or searching for something online.

No TV screen is needed for Xbox streaming, which lets gamers stream from the device to any PC or laptop running Windows 10.

PHOTO: Cortana in Windows 10 works across your day and your devices to help you get things done. By learning more over time, Cortana becomes more personal and useful to you.
Cortana in Windows 10 works across your day and your devices to help you get things done. By learning more over time, Cortana becomes more personal and useful to you.

Snap Screens

There's nothing more annoying than having to toggle between two windows you're trying to work out of at the same time. No more!

Users will be able to snap four apps to the same screen, meaning work just got that much easier.

Mobile-First, Cloud-First World

Windows for everyone!

When apps from the Windows store are opened, they'll run the same way as desktop apps -- in a Window. They can easily be minimized, maximized, moved around and closed with just one click.

PHOTO: Microsoft debuted Windows 10 at an event, Sept. 30, 2014.
Microsoft debuted Windows 10 at an event, Sept. 30, 2014.

Multiple Desktops

Working on a slew of different projects? Create a desktop for each one.

Not only do we see this feature making it easier to focus on getting work done, but the best part -- your working doesn't have to be staring you down all the time. Let it live in its own desktop.

Task View

When you want to pull up that big project, it's easy to do so.

A new button called "Task View" allows users to quickly switch between open files and new desktops they have created, making working in the operating system incredibly efficient.