Windows 8 to include switch-friendly language packs

by Steven Mostyn - Feb 23 2012, 09:31

Although likely to appeal more to stringent grammar pedants, American software titan Microsoft has this week confirmed that its upcoming Windows 8 operating system will support ye olde ‘proper’ English as a display language.

Specifically, Redmond will be releasing Windows 8 with support for a wide selection of individual language packs, including UK English, which should pander to the needs of English speakers in the United Kingdom, South Africa, India, Ireland, and Australia.

Announced earlier this week by Windows 8 program manager Ian Hamilton, there will be an additional 13 language packs, all of which can be installed atop the default Windows 8 display language.

And, according to Hamilton, users will be able to install and switch freely between multiple language packs if they so wish. This flexibility will enable users in the United States, for example, to use both U.S. English and/or Spanish.

Adding yet further appeal—albeit somewhat niche—Windows 8 will also support language packs for use in emerging markets and also language packs preferred by those in developed market.

These packs cover languages such as Gaelic in the United Kingdom, Valencian in Spain, and even Cherokee in North America, along with Chinese Uyghur, Senegalese Wolof, and Belarusian.

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