Windows 8 Picture-Password Ad Indicates Value of Touch Technology

While watching the World Series on television, viewers were treated to a new Microsoft ad. The advertisement gives a demonstration of the picture-password option for Windows 8. If you weren't reaching for a chicken wing at the time, you may have noticed the ad explains the new operating system offers a touch-screen sign-in option to rival traditional text passwords. Microsoft's picture-password option emphasizes the value of touch technology.

Picture-password is a new way for PC and tablet users to sign into Windows 8. While you still have the text password and PIN options, Microsoft introduces the new security option for its operating system. The sign-in process is a visual one as it centers on a specific image.

To use the feature, you need to upload an image to your Pictures folder on the operating system. You then need to create unique circles, lines, or taps on any three areas of the picture, according to CNet. When you log in, you need to recreate those three movements in order to be able to sign in. Security is in the uniqueness of the markings.

Rather than having to remember a series of letters and numbers, you now only have to remember what part of the family photo you circled or added a line. The assumption is that the touching gestures are easier for users to remember than text and more fun to perform as well.

The picture-password feature is unique to Windows 8. When you transition from Windows 7, XP, or Vista, you now have another security option. You can still use a text password if you prefer.

The ad, and launch of the visual security feature by powerhouse Microsoft, illustrates that touch technology is the wave of the future. While you can use picture-password with a mouse, the sign-in process is more difficult than with a touch-screen laptop or tablet.

If you want to use the gestures approach to sign in to the operating system on your laptop, but do not currently have touch-screen, you can upgrade the computer. Simply buy an add-on frame that responds to touch and attach it to your laptop screen. Buy an installation kit with the touch-screen to attach it yourself, saving money in the process, as you will not need to hire a professional.

Windows 8 as a whole is easier to navigate with touch-screen. While mouse users can carefully edge around Webpages, the process of using the operating system is more tedious than with touch capabilities.

Touch technology is likely to become more popular, given the endorsement by Microsoft for password-protect. All new desktop, laptops, and tablets will have Windows 8 pre-installed. As more users begin to use Window 8, they likely will gravitate toward touch features that include the sign-in option. The recent ad during the World Series will draw more attention to the operating system and likely make more users curious about touch-screen technology.