Microsoft Windows 9 to be previewed September 30

Looks like, we may finally get a glimpse of Microsoft’s Windows 8 successor codenamed Threshold next month. Allegedly called the Windows 9, the new platform is rumoured to be taking a U-turn as it will bring back most of the familiar Windows attributes. This doesn’t mean there is a dearth of new features. The Windows 9 is likely to come with a host of UI changes. We’ve outlined some of these changes below:

Start Menu: One of the most consistent rumours and a highly anticipated feature of Windows 9 is said to be the return of the Start Menu. In the past, we’ve seen leaked screenshots showing the Start menu. Myce has managed to get its hands on two new Windows Threshold screenshots – one showing the new start menu and the other shows windowed apps.

Windowed Apps: Recent leaks also showed the mockups revealing windowed apps. The leaked screenshot below reveals build 9795, compiled on July 13 and is said to be part of the uip_dev feature build lab (FBL). UIP stands for User Interface & Platform that means the team responsible for UX changes like the start menu and windowed apps plus some under the hood kernel changes.

Goodbye Charms bar: Microsoft also plans to remove its Charms bar – the right-side overlay used to access search, share, settings and so on, according to a report by WinBeta.  TheVerge had further confirmed that Windows 9 will come sans the Charms bar. Metro-style Windows 8 apps are also expected to get title bars that will include menus with the Charms components. It is believed that developers will have to add features to enable the share Charm.

Virtual Deskop: Microsoft is also a said to be adding virtual desktops feature to Windows 9 for enterprise and power customers. It should be noted that Apple’s OS X, and many Linux distros already come with support for virtual desktops. A report by Neowin states that ‘virtual desktops will allow Windows 9 users to create separate active desktops and switch between them from a button on the taskbar’. Clearly, looks like an attempt to keep desktop users on Windows, and not switch to rival or mobile platforms.

Shut Down and Start screen: Another highly anticipated feature is the return of shutdown on Start. The Start screen could also be improved to boot straight into the Desktop.

Unified taskbar:  The new improved Windows 9 OS will also bring along a more familiar task bar that is said to unify the old and new user interface. We had heard about this update at the BUILD 2014 conference. One can also expect an improved Cortana digital assistant.

Release date: Early rumours had suggested Windows 9 will be released in 2015, but looks like users may get a early preview very soon. If chatter around the web is to be believed than Microsoft will most likely release a preview of Windows 9 on September 30 or early October, meant for experienced developers. However, it is believed that Microsoft will not reveal the official name at the event next month and will only reveal an overview of the new features.

Posted by : Gizmeon