Windows 8 tablet minimum requirements revealed

Microsoft has previously mentioned that Windows 8 will have no problem running on computers that can already run the Windows 7 operating system but it looks like the company wants to be a bit stricter when it comes to tablets. Just like its tight control over the specifications of Windows Phone smartphones, Windows 8 tablets are going to have special requirements. According to reports online, Windows 8 tablets will need to have the following features:

Storage of at least 10GB free space after the out-of-box experience completes, UEFI firmware, WLAN and Bluetooth 4.0 + LE, Direct3D 10 graphics with WDDM 1.2 driver, a screen resolution of 1366 x 768, touch support for at least 5 points, a 720p capable camera, ambient light sensor (1-30k lux capable with a dynamic range of 5-60k), magnetometer, accelerometer, gyroscope, USB 2.0 (one controller and exposed port) and speakers. Other features include NFC support, and five hardware buttons (power, rotation lock, Windows key and volume up/down).

Fortunately for those of you who want to build your own computers, it’s not going to be a problem, as these requirements are only for tablets – to ensure a consistent Windows 8 experience across all devices even though they may be from different OEMs. What do you think of the Windows 8 tablet requirements? Should they be higher or should they be up to the manufacturers?

George Wong
Categories: Tablets
Tags: Microsoft, Windows 8