Microsoft details Windows 8 on ARM in the latest post of the official Windows 8 blog, and confirms that the traditional desktop and Office 15 Apps will be included.
Here are the key points Sinofsky included in the post:
- Windows on ARM (WOA) is a new member of the Windows family, much like Windows Server, Windows Embedded, or Windows Phone.
- Using WOA out of the box will feel just like using Windows 8 on x86/64. You will sign in the same way. You will start and launch apps the same way. You will use the new Windows Store the same way. You will have access to the intrinsic capabilities of Windows, from the new Start screen and Metro style apps and Internet Explorer, to peripherals, and if you wish, the Windows desktop with tools like Windows File Explorer and desktop Internet Explorer. It will have the same fast and fluid experience.
- WOA PCs are still under development and Microsoft's collective goal is for PC makers to ship them the same time as PCs designed for Windows 8 on x86/64.
- Metro style apps in the Windows Store can support both WOA and Windows 8 on x86/64.
- WOA does not support running, emulating, or porting existing x86/64 desktop apps.
- Consumers obtain all software, including device drivers, through the Windows Store and Microsoft Update or Windows Update.
- WOA includes desktop versions of the new Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote in Office 15.