Windows 8 Welcome Screen Revealed, Looks Very Metro

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Microsoft is apparently using some recent design innovations from Windows Phone 7 and Office in early test versions of Windows 8, including aspects of its mobile Metro user interface and Office’s Ribbon. The early design changes tell us that Microsoft will likely be looking for further inspiration for Windows 8 from its mobile and office software — and perhaps elsewhere as well. Windows 7, for the most part, looks like a more polished version of the much reviled Vista. Now it seems like Microsoft may be aiming for a fresh start in Windows 8.

Windows 8’s login screen looks like it was lifted directly from Windows Phone 7’s lock screen. It features the same font and overall style as its mobile counterpart. The pair also hinted at potential tablet functionality in the lock screen: you’ll be able to login using a pattern, just like on Android phones at the moment.

The Windows 8 login screen admittedly may not mean much for the rest of the OS, but it signifies that we may see other elements of Windows Phone’s user interface elsewhere. It also buoys rumors that Microsoft would include some of its mobile interface for tablets on Windows 8.

To be clear: Microsoft is currently testing Windows 8 in a pre-alpha testing state, meaning the OS is at an incredibly early stage of development. What we’re seeing today in Windows 8 may not make its way to the final version of the OS — but it’s certainly interesting to see what Microsoft is considering to include right now