Pulling back the curtains today, Microsoft Corp. revealed its next operating system. Much of what was shown was expected, but the software giant did have a few surprises up its sleeve. Here are the top things you need to know.

1) It’s WAY better than Windows 8, incrementally speaking.

What comes after eight? It’s not always nine. Just like those hotels that skip the 13th floor, Microsoft is jumping straight to Windows 10, but not because of superstition. The new operating system is just that good. They aren’t taking baby steps, here. What Microsoft describes as “the most comprehensive platform ever” is a bold leap, compared to previous versions. Windows 10. That’s smart. It’s almost like time travel. Microsoft is teleporting users into the future, past the mediocre Windows 9 upgrade, and straight to the more advanced Windows 10 operating system. Nice!

2) Windows 10 is everything!

They weren’t kidding when they said it’s comprehensive. Windows 10 is the operating system that literally operates all of Microsoft’s systems. Desktops, laptops, tablets, convertibles, and even phones, will all be powered by Windows 10. No exceptions. If Microsoft ever comes out with a Windows SmartWatch, or futuristic Windows Vision smart glasses, don’t be surprised if they’re running Windows 10. That’s how committed the company is to this consistent OS platform for devices.

3) Windows 10 Introduces Responsive OSUX Design. 

We’ve already established that Windows 10 is everything, but how will that work? Won’t it be too big on Windows Phone screens? And won’t it either be too “point & clicky” for touch screen tablets, or too “touch & swipey” for non touch screen devices with keyboards and mice?

Thanks to its responsive operating system user experience (ROSUX) design, it will look and behave perfectly for whatever device it’s being used on. Microsoft simply refers to this concept as “One product family. One platform.”, but a responsive user interface is the end result. On a convertible device, for example, Windows 10 will take on the look of a touch interface it’s being used as a tablet. If a keyboard and mouse are plugged in, the interface automatically transforms into desktop mode. On small form factor devices, Windows 10 will take on a minimized, touch interface design.

4) It merges, the best features from Windows 7 and Windows 8.

The Windows 8 start screen and the Windows 7 start menu have been combined for the Windows 10 extended start menu. In addition to the traditional menu look and features, smart tiles and app shortcuts can be added. The menu reshapes dynamically, depending on what you pin to it, and how large you specify you want it to be. Windows 10 also combines the new generation of apps that were introduced in Windows 8, with the concept the operating system draws its name from: windows. The apps no longer have to run in full screen mode. They can now run in resizable floating windows, just like all the legacy programs.

5) Windows 10 will be released in 2015, but you might be able to get an early copy.

Microsoft is preparing to launch Windows 10 towards the end of 2015. Between now and then, the company will reveal additional product features. If you know your way around operating systems, you might be able to take Windows 10 for an early test drive. Microsoft is launching the Windows 10 Insider Program tomorrow, which will give participants a sneak peak at the new Windows experience.