Windows 8 is an operating system developed by Microsoft, released in October 2012. It introduced a new user interface designed for touchscreens, featuring a Start screen with live tiles that provide real-time updates from apps. This marked a significant shift from the traditional desktop layout of previous versions. In addition to its touch-friendly design, Windows 8 included improved performance and security features. It also introduced the Windows Store, allowing users to download and install apps easily. However, the changes received mixed reviews, leading to the release of Windows 8.1 in 2013, which addressed some user concerns.