Windows 8 preview downloadable tonight

Curious about Microsoft's brand-new Windows 8? You can download a Windows 8 preview starting 8 p.m. Pacific Time from the Microsoft developer website.

The latest version of Windows looks to be a major "re-imagining" of the traditional PC operating system. Here are a few key points:

• Redesigned for touchscreens for tablets 
• Features sleek "Metro" design 
• Improved memory use (only 300 MB, as opposed to Windows 7's 400 MB)
• Compatible with USB 3.0, which speeds up transfer times.

This new OS would be Microsoft's first real development that goes beyond traditional laptop and desktop computers. Even Apple (currently missing its visionary CEO Steve Jobs) hasn't taken such measures yet for its OS. But is this new system really so revolutionary?

For more on Windows 8, check here.