Faster rotation translates into less time loading programs, but it will offer the biggest boost to applications such as word processors and spreadsheets that frequently access multiple files on the hard drive, says IBM's Walling.

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The flat resting system features a manual release top-loading system, which will look to provide owners with a longer lifespan, since it relies on less electronics to power the loading and ejecting of discs.

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Still, in the first few weeks or months of owning your Window 8 device, you might find yourself making do with less familiar alternatives, or just loading up the browser version of the app.

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