Microsoft official confirms Windows Blue, shows app update
updated 09:07 am EDT, Thu March 21, 2013
New Fresh Paint to include watercolors, image importing
More details relating to Microsoft's plans for Windows Blue have leaked, in the form of a video from an internal event. The demonstration from Microsoft Research at TechFest shows a new version of Fresh Paint made for Windows Blue, as well as company officials confirming the Windows Blue codename.
Chief Technical Strategy officer Eric Rudder tells the audience "We're really excited to work, now that the next version of Windows is coming, to make sure that we extend touch in even more dramatic fashion," before the demonstration. The video found by MSFTKitchen also shows Rutter discussing how Microsoft is continuing its investment in research and development, and the need for the company to be careful in revealing its future plans.
The next iteration of Fresh Paint will include watercolor as a new medium, with the showcase app also including the option to add other images into an existing artwork before adjusting it with the in-app tools. The watercolors can be applied to the imported photographs, mixing with the existing image as if it has been freshly painted.
Windows Blue is said to be bringing Windows 8 and Windows Phone closer together, as well as Microsoft's online services. It will apparently be more of an upgrade than a typical service pack, adding a number of features for users to take advantage of, as well as moving Windows itself into a quicker release cycle.
