Microsoft released minimum hardware requirements for new tablet and convertible devices certified for Windows 8, and defined a convertible form factor as a standalone device that combines the PC, display and rechargeable power source with a mechanically attached keyboard and pointing device in a single chassis. A convertible can be transformed into a tablet where the attached input devices are hidden or removed leaving the display as the only input mechanism. On March 12, 2013, Microsoft amended its certification requirements to only require that screens on tablets have a minimum resolution of 1024×768 (down from the previous 1366×768). The amended requirement is intended to allow "greater design flexibility" for future products. Updated certification requirements will be implemented to coincide with Windows 8.1. In 2014, all certified devices with integrated displays must contain a 720p webcam and higher quality speakers and microphones, while all certified devices that support Wi-Fi must support Bluetooth as well. In 2015, all certified devices must contain Trusted Platform Module 2.0 chips.
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Editions and pricing
Main article: Windows 8 editions
Windows 8 is available in four editions: one simply named Windows 8 is intended for mainstream consumers. Windows 8 Pro contains additional features aimed towards power users and professional environments. Windows 8 Enterprise contains additional features aimed towards business environments, and is only available through volume licensing. Windows RT is only available pre-loaded on new ARM-based devices built specifically for the OS. Windows Media Center is not included by default in any edition of Windows 8, but is available for purchase as an add-on for Windows 8 Pro, or as part of a "Pro Pack" upgrade for the basic version of Windows 8 which also includes the Pro upgrade. The Windows Media Center add-on was offered for free until January 31, 2013.
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Users of previous versions of Windows can purchase an upgrade to Windows 8 Pro online (using a download that can be optionally burned to a DVD), or through boxed copies at retail on DVD. Microsoft offered Windows 8 Pro upgrades at a discounted price of US$39.99 online, or $69.99 for retail box DVD from its launch until January 31, 2013; afterward the Windows 8 price has been $119.99 and the Pro price $199.99.[123][124] The "Full" and "OEM" SKUs of Windows (which can be installed on a computer with no existing operating system) were initially replaced by a single "System Builder" SKU, intended to be used by original equipment manufacturers and hobbyists building their own systems.[125][126] A complaint that was filed with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission in November 2012 alleged that Microsoft misled consumers by not explicitly indicating on their packaging that retail copies of Windows 8 were licensed for upgrade only and were not full versions.[125] In response to the complaint and other feedbacks, on September 17, 2013 Microsoft announced that after the release of Windows 8.1, all future retail packages would contain fully licensed versions, as opposed to licensed for upgrade only; prices would be the same.[127]
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Microsoft also offered an upgrade program for those purchasing new PCs pre-loaded with Windows 7 Home Basic, Home Premium, Professional, or Ultimate between June 2, 2012 and January 31, 2013—in which users could digitally purchase a Windows 8 Pro upgrade for US$14.99.[128] Several PC manufacturers have offered rebates and refunds on Windows 8 upgrades obtained through the program on select models, such as Hewlett-Packard (in the U.S. and Canada on select models), and Acer (in Europe on selected Ultrabook models).
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