No copy of Windows 10 on hand? No problem — just get it from the cloud. Microsoft is testing a new method of Windows 10 installations.
To date, installing a fresh copy of Windows 10 involves using a local copy, either something already stored on one's PC or getting it from an external storage device. However, the company is testing the waters of cloud-based Windows 10 installs.
Download Windows 10 From The Cloud
The latest Windows 10 Insider Preview Build on the Fast Ring includes a "download Windows" option for those who want to reset their PC. This is something Macs have had for years: Apple users can use their broadband connection to grab a fresh install from the cloud. No need for a backup partition or a thumb drive to install the OS, just a robust internet connection.
"We've heard feedback that some of you would prefer to use your high-speed internet connection to speed up this process by just downloading Windows," writes Dona Sarkar and Brandon LeBlanc in a blog post. "The cloud download option will reinstall the same build, version, and edition, that is currently installed on your device."
Essentially, this option will let users reformat their PC without using a Windows thumb drive, CD, or any kind of external storage. Like any reformatting process, it will remove all the apps a user has installed. User data will also be removed if the "Remove everything" option is selected.
Preview Build 18970
Apart from cloud-based Windows 10 installation, Preview Build 18970 also includes a "new tablet experience for 2-in-1 convertible PCs." This new functionality will trigger a subtle readjustment of the regular desktop when it's put into the portable mode.
At present, the way this transition works is by surfacing giant touch-friendly icons. In the preview, the icons come to be arranged in a certain way in the larger buttons are collapsed.
At the moment, the tablet mode is still functional, but as this preview indicates, that may not be the case for too long. Microsoft is re-evaluating the principles of touchscreen experiences. There's a Surface event coming up, and features included in this Preview hint to more interesting things to come. Microsoft is expected to unveil a dual-screen laptop during its presentation. In any case, make sure to check back with Tech Times as we learn more.
Are you a Windows 10 Insider? How's the latest Preview Build looking so far? As always, if you have anything to share, feel free to sound them off in the comments section below!
