Microsoft has begun the rollout of its latest operating system Windows 10 as a free download.

New features include an updated UI including a new Start menu; the Cortana personal assistant; the Edge web browser, replacing the aging Internet Explorer; and various window-management, notification, and under-the-hood features.

For gamers, Windows 10 includes DirectX 12, which promises considerable performance and graphical gains, and the ability to stream Xbox One games to Windows 10 devices, bringing Microsoft's two platforms closer together.

The release is also aimed at closing the gap between desktop and laptop PCs, mobile phones, tablets, the Xbox One, and future platforms like the HoloLens.

Users with activated, legit copies of Windows 7 or 8 can download the update for free until July 29, 2016; paid and OEM versions are also available.