Jared Newman, PCWorld

Jared writes for PCWorld and TechHive from his remote outpost in Cincinnati. More by Jared Newman

Windows 8 and Windows Phone 8 have more than just a numeral in common. Take one look at the two operating systems, and you can tell that Microsoft wants to unify Windows Phone devices, Windows 8 tablets and PCs, and its Xbox game console.

If looks aren't proof enough, consider the words of Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer, who trumpeted the company's newfound synergy at its Build conference this week. If you want the best experience with your Windows computer, youll own a Windows Phone, he said.

But just how unified are Windows 8 and Windows Phone 8? Is this really a huge step forward in Microsoft's vision for the "three screens," or is the grand Windows ecosystem still an empty promise? Here's a close look at how Windows 8and by extension, Windows RTand Windows Phone 8 tie together, and what you can expect when using both.

In Microsoft's attempt to redefine itself, the company has rolled out a modern visual style across its products, featuring hard-edged rectangles, solid colors, monochromatic icons, and the repeated use of one classy-looking font.

Windows 8 and Windows Phone 8 both invoke this modern lookformerly known as Metromost notably through live tileson their home screens.

Through these tiles you get a glimpse at photos, text messages, unread email counts, weather forecasts, and other information, all without opening their respective apps.

In both operating systems, you can customize your Start screen by pinning and resizing app tiles, and by deciding which ones should update with live information.

Ross Rubin, principal analyst at Reticle Research, says that the common design elements are an advantage for users of both Windows 8 and Windows Phone 8.

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Is Windows Phone 8 the secret to greater Windows success?