Windows and Windows Server compatibility cookbook: Windows 8, Windows 8.1, and Windows Server 2012

Purpose

In the Cookbook, we provide info about changes to and new features of the Windows 8, Windows 8.1 Preview, and Windows Server 2012 operating systems. We also provide guidelines for you to verify the compatibility of your existing and planned programs with the new operating systems. We assume that you are familiar with previous versions of Windows.

For other resources related to compatibility, see:

• Upgrading your app from Windows 8 to Windows 8.1 Preview–A white paper that contains guidance and tips on migrating your app from Windows 8 to Windows 8.1 Preview, from start to finish. Includes best practices, deprecations, and guidance on resubmitting your app to the Windows Store.
• New APIs and features for developers–Get to know Windows 8.1 Preview by looking at new APIs and features.
• Retarget your Windows 8 Store app to Windows 8.1 Preview–Step-by-step guidance on how to migrate your app from Windows 8 to Windows 8.1 Preview.
• Updated samples–Samples for Windows 8.1 Preview that demonstrate how to use new APIs and features, and how to mitigate deprecations.
• DirectX programming–New features and improvements for games and graphic apps.
• For information on API changes in Windows 8.1 Preview related to programming with JavaScript and Internet Explorer, see API changes for Windows 8.1 Preview (Windows Store apps using JavaScript and HTML).
• For information on API changes in Windows 8.1 Preview related to programming with C#/VB/C++ and XAML, see API changes for Windows 8.1 Preview (Windows Store apps using C#/VB/C++ and XAML)

Developer audience

The Cookbook is for third party developers of apps designed to be used in the Microsoft Windows environment and is available for viewing and for download. The content applies to:

• Windows 8.1 Preview
• Windows 8
• Windows Server 2012
• Windows Server 2008 R2
• Windows 7
• Windows Server 2008
• Windows Vista
• Windows Server 2003

Build date: 6/21/2013