Windows 10 Universal Apps: A Screenshot Tour

Windows 10: Beyond the Desktop Experience

The Windows 10 operating system represents more than a simple refinement of the desktop interface. It incorporates a variety of universal apps, frequently serving as alternatives to traditional desktop applications.

A key distinction from Windows 8 is the ability of these apps to operate within standard windows on the desktop. This functionality makes them genuinely viable options for everyday use.

Evolution of Universal Apps

Compared to their counterparts in Windows 8, the universal apps found in Windows 10 demonstrate significant advancements in maturity and usability.

Certain applications that were previously included with Windows 8, such as the Reader PDF viewer and the Windows Scan utility, are no longer pre-installed.

However, these applications remain accessible and can be readily installed through the Windows Store.

This shift allows users greater control over the software they choose to utilize, while still providing access to a range of versatile tools.

3D Builder

3D Builder is a versatile application focused on the manipulation of three-dimensional objects. It allows users to create, import, model, and save designs, as well as prepare them for 3D printing.

Microsoft initially integrated 3D printing capabilities into Windows 8.1, introducing a new driver framework specifically for 3D printers.

Core Functionality

Despite 3D printers not yet achieving mainstream adoption, the 3D Builder application remains a standard component of Windows.

It provides a platform for individuals to interact with and produce physical objects from 3D models.

The app supports a range of operations, including:

• Creating new 3D models from scratch.
• Importing existing models from various file formats.
• Modifying and refining imported designs.
• Saving projects for future use.
• Preparing models for the 3D printing process.

This ensures users have a comprehensive toolset for managing their 3D projects.

Related: When Will 3D Printers Be Worth Buying For Home Use?

Alarms & Clock Application

Users accustomed to mobile devices will find the Alarms & Clock application instantly recognizable. This application provides the ability to configure alarms, monitor times across different locations with the world clock feature, and utilize both a timer and a stopwatch.

While optimally suited for smartphones or compact tablets, the application remains accessible and is pre-installed on desktop computers as well.

Core Functionalities

• Alarms: Schedule wake-up calls or reminders.
• World Clock: Track time zones globally.
• Timer: Set countdown durations for specific tasks.
• Stopwatch: Measure elapsed time accurately.

The integration of these features into a single, unified application offers convenience and efficiency. Its presence on both mobile and desktop platforms ensures consistent functionality across devices.

Despite its origins as a mobile-first application, the Alarms & Clock app functions effectively on larger screens. This demonstrates the adaptability of Universal Windows Platform (UWP) apps.

Calculator

The Windows 10 operating system features a built-in, universal Calculator application designed as a successor to the classic desktop calculator.

This application offers multiple modes, including standard, scientific, and programmer views, catering to diverse computational needs.

Key Features

Beyond basic arithmetic, the Calculator app provides a comprehensive suite of unit conversion tools.

• Users can convert between various units of measurement.
• This functionality enhances its utility for a wide range of tasks.

The ability to operate within a smaller window size makes it a practical substitute for the conventional Windows calculator, improving accessibility and convenience.

Its redesigned interface and enhanced features make it a valuable tool for everyday calculations and more complex operations.

The app’s versatility ensures it can effectively handle both simple and advanced mathematical requirements.

Calendar

Significant enhancements have been made to the calendar application compared to the version found in Windows 8.1.

Beyond compatibility with Outlook.com and Exchange calendars, the app now facilitates connections to Google Calendar and Apple iCloud Calendar services.

Viewing Options

Users can choose from a variety of display formats, including daily, work week, weekly, monthly, and a focused "today" view to manage their scheduled events.

The calendar integrates seamlessly with live tiles, providing an at-a-glance overview of upcoming appointments and commitments.

Integration with live tiles offers a convenient method for staying informed about your schedule without opening the application.

This feature allows for quick identification of important events directly from the Start menu or lock screen.

Camera

The Camera application leverages the imaging capabilities of your device, utilizing either the integrated rear camera or a front-facing webcam. This allows for the capture of both still images and video recordings.

Functionally, the app mirrors the experience found on smartphone and tablet cameras. While perhaps not ideally suited for a desktop environment, it provides a native solution for image and video capture.

Functionality

Previously, accomplishing this on a Windows laptop or tablet necessitated the installation of third-party software. Now, with a built-in camera, users can directly take photos and record videos using this pre-installed application.

The Camera app offers a convenient and accessible way to utilize your device’s camera without the need for additional downloads or configurations.

It streamlines the process of visual documentation and communication for Windows users.

Seeking Assistance: The Contact Support Application

The application functions as a contemporary program, though its primary purpose is to serve as a support portal. Beyond providing informational resources and links to diverse help sections, the app facilitates real-time text-based conversations with Microsoft support personnel.

Key Features

• Access to a comprehensive knowledge base.
• Direct links to relevant support documentation.
• Capability for immediate text chat with Microsoft representatives.

This integrated approach streamlines the process of obtaining assistance. Users can quickly find answers to their questions or connect with a support agent for personalized help.

The application is designed to be user-friendly and efficient. It offers a centralized location for all support-related needs.

A visual representation of the application's interface is shown below.

Cortana

Cortana represents Microsoft’s intelligent personal assistant solution.

It functions as a universal application, enabling seamless and automatic updates directly through the Windows Store, independent of operating system upgrades.

Activation and Access

Typically, users initiate Cortana through a dedicated taskbar shortcut or by utilizing the voice activation phrase, "Hey Cortana."

This allows for hands-free interaction and convenient access to the assistant’s capabilities.

The implementation as a universal app ensures broad compatibility and consistent performance across various Windows 10 devices.

Obtaining Office

Related: The Reasons Behind Windows 10's Dual Microsoft Office Versions

Typically, Microsoft Office is not pre-installed on the majority of Windows 10 computers. A "Get Office" application is provided within the Start menu, functioning as a direct pathway to details regarding Office 365, Microsoft’s subscription-based Office service.

A subscription to this service (or utilizing the available free trial) grants access to the complete suite of Microsoft Office desktop applications for Windows. These applications offer a comprehensive set of tools for productivity.

Furthermore, "universal" Office applications are available and operate effectively on desktop PCs. However, Microsoft now designates these as "Mobile" apps, restricting their complimentary usage to devices with screen sizes of 10.1 inches or smaller.

Microsoft is actively encouraging Windows users to adopt the standard Office desktop applications, which necessitate either a subscription model or a one-time purchase.