Microsoft's Lync and OneNote Apps Now Available for Windows 8, Windows RT

Microsoft released Windows 8 and Windows RT tablets and PCs on October 26, 2012, and at the same time, announced the availability of several new apps designed for these touch-centric devices.

The Microsoft-developed Windows 8 and Windows RT apps can now be downloaded in final form. The apps include the recently developed, Windows 8/Windows RT OneNote and Windows 8/Windows RT Lync. Both applications are free and open up new possibilities for getting things done, staying organized and maintaining quality communications via instant messaging or video conferencing.

The Windows 8/RT version of the OneNote app takes notes, lists and pictures and saves them in the cloud via SkyDrive, so stored data is available anywhere from any device. Earlier this year, Microsoft presented Office Customer Preview testers with a preliminary version to give it a test drive. The final version has new features, such as the “Radial Menu,” which allows users to choose options from making notes, creating to-do lists and importing images from a tablet’s camera directly using an easily accessible dial-like menu. The menu is easy to use and remains in view while you work on your notes, for easy access.

As well as being obtained from the Windows store, the desktop version of OneNote 2013 comes as part of the package with the new Office Preview or with the latest full version of Microsoft Office which goes on sale in the first quarter of 2013.  OneNote also comes pre-installed as part of the Office Home & Student 2013 RT package on all Windows RT devices.

The Lync app is a communications platform for enterprise. Its inclusion removes at least one obstacle preventing large companies from deploying the new operating system. The new Windows 8 version allows video conferencing between up to five different participants and also allows users to use instant messaging or to make calls on Skype. The new version has been designed with enhancements for the Windows 8 fluid interface and allows users to join a Lync conference with a single touch, take part in several HD video conferences and opt for either a snapped or filled screen view.

In October 2012, Microsoft also announced the arrival of several hundred new third-party apps in the Windows store. The new arrivals include Urbanspoon and Hulu Plus to go along with staples like iHeart Radio, Netflix and Kindle.