Windows 10 is already on the horizon, and with it comes many technological changes and improvements. Unlike the switch from Vista to Windows 7 or 8, where everything was unfamiliar and you had to relearn the interface, Windows 10 builds from the current Windows 8 look so that you instantly know what you’re working with.

If you missed the Start menu, you won’t for much longer since it will return with Windows 10. If you’re the type of person to accidentally forget to update your computer because you’re so busy, Windows 10 has you covered, as it automatically downloads and installs the most necessary updates.

The apps feature from Windows 8 was a catchy one, and it returns with the new Windows 10. Now you can get the most recent version of Microsoft Office as well as any other apps that you want and download these right to your desktop. Whether you want fun apps like music players or games or you need practical ones like news and weather, you can find a Windows 10 app that works for you.

Cortana has been all the rage since debuting. This digital assistant recognizes your voice commands and works hard to find you whatever information you need, ranging from the best restaurants in town to which dry cleaners are open after work. If you already own a Windows smartphone or mobile device, you can sync it up to your Windows 10 laptop or computer and use Cortana across these devices. Quite a handy feature!

Similarly, if you already own an Xbox 360 or Xbox One gaming console, you certainly need to use the Xbox on Windows feature offered to Windows 10 users. You can sync up your current game progress from your console to your computer and vice-versa. You can even challenge your friends to a game.

One of the most impressive Windows 10 features is Microsoft HoloLens. Hologram technology is relatively new for everyday consumers, but when you update to Windows 10, you will have the opportunity to enjoy such technology using Windows 10 in conjunction with a Microsoft HoloLens device. These holograms will allow you to do such practical things as virtually place items such as furniture in a room, something companies such as IKEA are bound to jump on in the future. Ideal for gamers, designers, and other creative types, imagine playing Minecraft in your living room – building worlds all around you rather than just on a screen?

Windows 10 has yet to be fully released, but it will be sometime in 2015. However, you can upgrade your Windows with a technical preview of Windows 10 through Microsoft’s website. If you already own a device that runs Windows 7 or Windows 8 or 8.1, you can get Windows 10 for free for up to one year after its official release.