Microsoft’s is packing a lot of new features for Windows “Threshold”, such as the new Start menu and windowed modern apps. We also heard other significant changes like the drop of the Charms bar, which will be replaced with a new option in apps, and “virtual desktops”. Also a new flat UI design will be introduced that matches the Metro-style environment, but in the desktop. And there is even a rumor of Cortana finding a place in the taskbar.
Though we still don’t have a specific date for the first public preview of Windows Threshold, ZDNet reported that Microsoft is right on schedule to deliver a preview that anyone can download in the fall timeframe. If everything falls into place, it means the tech giant won’t be delaying the final version of the operating system, which may be called “Windows 9”, and we could be seeing a final version by spring 2015.
Though Windows 8 is good operating system concept a lot of things didn’t go as Microsoft has hoped. But the company quickly made a lot of right moves to correct the shortcomings with the release of Windows 8.1 and Windows 8.1 Update. And even though things got better the name “Windows 8” may be stopping many customers to upgrade, as such Microsoft is pushing a lot harder to make Windows 9 the next best software.
Even more the company is thinking on making the operating system a free update for Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, and Windows 8 users. This not only will stimulate users to switch, but if executed right, the next version of Windows could have the fastest adoption ever, as the majority of users still holding on Windows XP and Windows 7.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 14 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 20 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].