As Microsoft globally launched its latest Windows 8 operating system in New York last Friday, a number of computer makers rushed to ride the wave of its publicity.

Windows 8 was available nationwide on Oct. 26, the same day of its global premiere, and about 70 new PCs running on the new OS were displayed at over 3,000 online and offline stores, according to Microsoft officials.

PC makers like Samsung Electronics, Lenovo, Sony and Toshiba took turns in unveiling new portable PCs featuring convertible designs here in Korea.

Microsoft’s new operating system can run on PCs, tablet PCs and all-in-one PCs, bridging the gap between traditional laptops and tablet PCs, said officials at Microsoft Korea.

Windows 8 also adopts a new user interface through which users can download apps from its store and it comes in two types, Windows 8 Home and Windows 8 Pro. Internet Explorer 10 and the cloud service “SkyDrive” are some of the key features of the new interface.

“Windows 8 is an operating system that exceeds one’s imagination,” said James Kim, general manager of Microsoft Korea. “Windows 8 will provide the best experience that suits the users’ style and taste whether it’s in a PC or tablet, whether you produce or consume information and whether you are at work or at leisure.”

As the first firm to introduce the new lineup of Windows 8 devices, Samsung Electronics on Oct. 24 launched two products ― ATIV Smart PC and ATIV Smart Pro ― equipped with maximum convertibility in design, portability and app-compatibility. The screen and keyboard are completely detachable.

Sony also released new PCs including Sony Vaio Duo 11 on Oct. 29, characterized by its fully functional port connectivity and surf slider monitor, which allows users to smoothly slide the screen open and shut.

Sony’s new signature PC, Vaio Duo 11 comes with an 11.6-inch screen and battery-powered digital stylus pen with which users can write, draw and click with more accuracy.

While Samsung advocates the idea of a detachable screen that users can carry around like tablet PCs, Sony adheres to the sliding screen, insisting that users would prefer actual tablet PCs rather than tablet-like PCs.

Meanwhile, Toshiba is planning to unveil its lineup of Windows 8 devices next week.

By Chung Joo-won (joowonc@heraldcorp.com)