Windows RT

Windows RT

Windows RT is a discontinued operating system developed by Microsoft. It was specifically designed for devices with ARM architecture, such as tablets and hybrid devices. Windows RT was released alongside Windows 8 in October 2012 and aimed to provide a touch-optimized version of Windows for low-power devices.

History

Windows RT was introduced as a response to the growing popularity of tablets and the need for a lightweight operating system that could run on devices with ARM processors. Microsoft wanted to offer a version of Windows that could compete with other tablet operating systems, such as iOS and Android.

Features

Windows RT shared many similarities with its counterpart, Windows 8, but there were some key differences. One of the main distinctions was that Windows RT only allowed users to install applications from the Windows Store. Traditional desktop applications, designed for x86 architecture, were not compatible with Windows RT. This limitation was due to the fact that Windows RT used a different instruction set architecture (ISA) compared to traditional Windows versions.

Another notable feature of Windows RT was its inclusion of Microsoft Office Home & Student 2013 RT. This version of Office was specifically designed for Windows RT devices and came pre-installed on all Windows RT tablets. It provided users with access to popular Office applications, such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote.

Reception and Discontinuation

Windows RT received mixed reviews from both critics and users. While it offered a familiar Windows interface and compatibility with Microsoft Office, the inability to run traditional desktop applications limited its appeal. Additionally, the lack of available apps in the Windows Store compared to other platforms hindered its success.

Due to these challenges, Windows RT failed to gain significant market share and was eventually discontinued. Microsoft shifted its focus towards Windows 10, which aimed to provide a unified operating system across all devices, including tablets and hybrid devices.

Legacy

Although Windows RT is no longer actively supported, some devices running this operating system are still in use. However, users may face limitations in terms of software compatibility and security updates. It is recommended to upgrade to a more recent version of Windows to ensure optimal performance and security.

See Also

• Windows 8
• Windows 10
• Microsoft Office
• ARM architecture