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Windows 9 is expected to be the next full Windows version prepared by Microsoft and although the company has until now remained tight-lipped on what's to come as part of this release, plenty of details have surfaced via unofficial channels. A new report posted by Microsoft News and citing information provided by Faikee, a Twitter user who has a good track on leaked Windows details, reveals that Windows 9 might after all arrive in Q2 or Q3 2015, which more or less confirms previous speculation pointing to an April 2015 launch date. At the same time, Faikee says that Windows 9 might come with two different previews, which means that developers might actually get the chance to try out the new OS version in late 2014 when the first beta is likely to be released to users. Microsoft hasn't talked about Windows 9 so far, but we do know that the next full version of Windows could bring some pretty big changes for desktop users, including the addition of a desktop flavor of Cortana, Microsoft's personal assistant currently available on Windows Phone 8.1. Recent rumors also suggested that Microsoft might after all give users the option to disable Metro completely in Windows 9 Enterprise, thus sticking on the classic desktop interface that made so many people love this particular operating system. Microsoft, on the other hand, doesn't seem to be ready to abandon the Modern and the company actually invested a lot to make users get to know the Start screen better. In fact, Microsoft's executives admitted in recent interviews that the Start screen was offered on Windows 8 with no Start menu option in order to make everyone aware that it's there. Otherwise, the company says, users could be tempted to disable it in order to stick to the familiar Windows 7-like interface. Windows 9 could bring back the Start menu if Microsoft doesn't pick another Windows 8.1 update to do it, but people close to the matter said that while the company is already working on this new feature, it might take a while until it's released to users. The Start menu was initially expected in Windows 8.1 Update 2, which is scheduled to be launched in August or September, but if these reports are true, Windows 9 might be the OS version to bring it. As usual, Microsoft does not comment on speculation, so let's just take these as rumors until the company is ready to provide some details on Windows 9. Source

Windows 8.1 Update is already out of the way and its now time to focus on what comes next. Last year, we first reported about Windows 9 and the idea of Windows 10 being a "full cloud based operating system." These details came from the notorious leaker, Wzor. Now, it appears new information has come to light about Microsoft's future plans for Windows. According to new details from Wzor, Microsoft will roll out another update to Windows 8.1 (Update 2) sometime in September of this year, during the Autumn season. Microsoft may refer to this update as Windows 8.1 Update 2 or may even call it Windows 8.2, as there appears to be some sort of heated internal discussion on what to call it. Microsoft is expected to roll out the Start Menu, showcased during Build 2014, in this update. Microsoft will also release some sort of next generation Metro interface with Windows 9, but we aren't too sure exactly what that entails. The Start button will also be present in Windows 9, on devices without a touchscreen and on server systems. The Start button will be a tad bit different on touch devices, but no details were given. Wzor claims that Microsoft may offer Windows 9 for free (which might not seem like a wise idea), but that is still being discussed. Microsoft is apparently working on a prototype operating system called Windows Cloud. This is rumored to be an operating system that requires an internet connection for full functionality. While in offline mode, the operating system would be similar to Microsoft’s budget operating system, Windows Starter, offering basic functionality. This obviously smells like something you would see in Chrome OS on a Chromebook. Could Microsoft be experimenting with something similar? Again, we must stress that this is a huge rumor. Microsoft hasn't offered any details on the upcoming Windows 8.1 Update 2, nor has there been any information on Windows 9 or Windows 10. Leaked information is scarce and things are a lot tighter ever since the leaker of Windows 8 was arrested. Either way, we've written up this story to discuss the possibilities. Should Windows 9 be offered for free? Would a cloud-based operating system be useful? Source

Microsoft is currently hard at work on the next iteration of Windows, currently codenamed Threshold, the operating system is set to put the desktop back in the spotlight for desktop users, whilst making the Modern UI even better for tablet users. So far, we've heard about improvements to the desktop side of things, including the new Start Menu, windowed Modern UI apps and a brand new taskbar which is set to include live icons and Cortana. The desktop is set to include a feature very similar to Virtual Desktops, users of Ubuntu and other Linux variants are already accustomed to a feature like this, and Microsoft seems to be interested in bringing said feature to Windows too. Virtual Desktops allow for more than one desktop at a time. You can have 3 windows on one desktop, and 4 windows on another. In Threshold, this feature would be activated via a button on the taskbar, clicking it will reveal all your desktops, which will allow you to click in on your selected desktop environment. Via Source

By Mark Wilson on January 18, 2014 - 08:38AM Each release of Windows is awaited with great anticipation, and Windows 9 is certainly no different. With many users and reviewers disappointed with Windows 8.1 for one reason or another -- and the recent revelation that Microsoft employees look down on it -- this is going to be Microsoft's opportunity to redeem itself in the eyes of the masses. We should learn at least something about what to expect from Windows 9 at the BUILD developer conference in April, but what does Microsoft need to do to make the operating system a success? Let's take a look. Smoother transition between desktop and modern modes This is probably the most contentious aspect of Windows 8.1. Some people love modern mode, others hate it. What many people find strange is the fact that both have been included and that switching between them is quite jarring. Whether modern mode could be dropped altogether -- which seems unlikely considering the Windows RT push -- or modern apps are tweaked to run on the desktop, it's clear that something needs to be done to improve user experience. A Start menu? The replacement of the Start menu with the Start screen has been hotly debated. Was it a smart move? One thing is for sure, it upset a lot of people. Some concessions were made in Windows 8.1, but there's room for a lot more. It's not clear that people are harking after a replica of Windows 7, or that they are resistant to change, but something better needs to be done. The Start screen is closely linked to the jolting experience of moving between desktop and modern modes -- it feels oddly unnatural. Shared code-base The unification of Windows, Windows Phone and Xbox is something that has long been talked about. Steps have been taken to provide a similar experience on each of the platform, but there is more than can be done. With a shared code-base, there is more scope for sharing apps between devices, and this is something that would benefit Windows Phone. Wider user testing There's over a year to go until Windows 9 is made widely available, but it's likely that there will be a public preview available. What would make sense is if this is release in a timely fashion so programmers have time to address any major concerns that may be raised. While not exactly a flop, Windows 8.1 has hardly been a roaring success -- it has received little critical acclaim -- and Microsoft simply cannot afford for this to happen with two releases in a row. Moving to the cloud This is a transition that is already well underway, but online services should be more tightly integrated into Windows 9. Why should the likes of Skype not be streamed without the need for installation? It works with Office and there is great potential for this idea to be expanded into other areas. Users should be freed from worrying about whether or not the software they need is installed and left to concentrate on simply using their computer. No price tag Make Windows 9 free. There are plenty of other revenue streams that can soften the blow, and it would do a lot to sweeten the deal for those soured by Windows 8.1. A move to a shared code-base would make this easier and cheaper Mobile support Out-of-the box interoperability between Windows and each of the three main mobile platforms would really give Windows 9 the edge. Imagine just being able to plug in your iPhone, Windows Phone or Android and have it automatically backed up without having to worry about installing third party tools! How much easier would that make life? Shared desktops Ever-increasing numbers of people work on more than one computer. Windows 8 introduced the idea of syncing settings, apps and customizations between computers, but this could be taken so much further. Software licenses should be tied to Microsoft accounts so all app are available on any system. But more than this, desktop state should be synchronized through Microsoft accounts. The ability to move seamlessly from one computer to another, just pick up from where you left off using any computer with an internet connection could be Windows 9's killer feature. Kinect on the desktop This doesn't really need any further explanation. It can be done, and it should be done. Now. It's not just cool, but it would have massive accessibility implications. Eye movement tracking and motion detection could open up Windows to a market previously unable to use a regular computer. It could also serve as a way of enticing more people into gaming. Not everyone can afford an Xbox One, but the idea of trying out games on an existing computer would appeal to many people -- particularly with the added attraction of Kinect. What’s on your wishlist? Is there anything you would like to see from Windows 9, or anything that you think Microsoft absolutely must do in order to succeed? http://www.winbeta.org/news/hey-microsoft-what-we-want-windows-9

By Bogdan Popa January 28th, 2014, 09:10 GMT Microsoft is expected to break the news on Windows 9 in just a couple of months at the BUILD 2014 developer conference, but people familiar with the matter are also revealing some of the features that could be part of the next full Windows release. Based on all these rumors, several designers across the world have created more or less eye-candy interpretations of Windows 9, most of which come with Start Menus and Modern apps that run directly on the desktop. DeviantArt user nik255 has created a beautiful concept that envisions the key features of the upcoming Windows 9, including a Start Menu, options to run Metro apps outside the Modern environment, and multiple desktops support. As you can see in the photo gallery below, the concept does borrow some design elements from other platforms, but they still look great and there’s no doubt that Microsoft would make Windows 9 a lot more appealing if it decides to go for such an approach. As far as existing speculation is concerned, word is that Microsoft would share its Windows 9 plans in April at the BUILD 2014 developer conference, with work on the project expected to start later the same month. What’s more, Microsoft expects to complete the development process for Windows 9 in approximately one year, which means that the next full Windows release should be here by April 2015. Windows 9 is very likely to bring back the traditional Start Menu, in another attempt to make the operating system more user-friendly and easier to use for beginners. At the same time, people familiar with Microsoft’s plans pointed out that options to run Metro apps on the desktop just like traditional Windows software could be also be part of the upcoming project. We’re still waiting for Microsoft to share more on Windows 9, so take all these details with a pinch of salt until we hear something official. http://news.softpedia.com/news/Windows-9-Concept-Makes-Microsoft-s-OS-Look-Stunning-421297.shtml

By Larry Dignan January 13, 2014 11:00 GMT Summary: Microsoft will soon be talking Windows 9--partially to put Windows 8 in the rear view mirror--but the real action may be revolve around pricing. Should Windows be free? ——The details around Windows 9---code named "Threshold"---are beginning to emerge, but the real action will go well beyond features and whether Microsoft can put Windows 8 in the rear view mirror. Microsoft's real challenge with Windows will be navigating a classic innovator's dilemma and how it can thread a needle between preserving a cash cow and ultimately give Windows away to hardware makers. Give Windows away for free? What? How? That place is where Microsoft is going to have to go if it wants to preserve its Windows ecosystem and market share. And how Microsoft navigate that business model change is going to be telling. The folks in Redmond may laugh off the idea of giving Windows away for free to original equipment manufacturers, but the writing is on the wall. Consider: •Apple doesn't charge for its Mac OS anymore. •Google Chromebooks have become more popular. •PC makers are now adding Android desktop systems because they can customize and probably get better margins. •Price will be king in the PC market and Android and Chromebooks could be counterweight to Microsoft. •Mobile operating systems are driving computing. •Windows 8 was a black eye for Microsoft and it's going to be a challenge to come back from a Vista-ish flop twice. •The PC market is being splintered into multiple operating systems. When I consider those moving parts, it's not that surprising that Microsoft is having trouble naming a new CEO. It's going to suck to be the new CEO. For starters, Microsoft isn't that screwed up so a new leader can't be a hero. Think John Chen at BlackBerry. Chen has little downside. If he turns around BlackBerry he's a legend. If BlackBerry fails Chen carries none of the blame. Microsoft's new CEO will have to preserve two cash cows---Windows and Office---be saddled with low-margin Nokia and most likely keep the company together when a breakup may make more sense. With Microsoft more can go wrong on the new CEO's watch than go right Speaking at the Gartner Symposium and ITXpo in 2011, Christensen noted: "If you're worried about what may kill you, look down." Down to Microsoft's Windows is Android and Google's Chromebook franchise. Chromebooks have become more popular and functional. Android is emerging as a PC option. Both of Google's computing operating systems are free to hardware makers. Microsoft can pitch Windows as a premium OS, but the margins will be increasingly difficult to defend. The move for Microsoft will be to off Windows free to hardware makers and profit from the ecosystem---subscriptions, apps and other revenue streams. Here's the problem: Windows is a huge business. Microsoft will have to preserve and navigate a move to free with precision timing. In a research note a week ago, Stifel Nicolaus analyst Brad Reback made the case the Windows will eventually be free. Today, when looking at the aggregate OS market (phone/tablet/PC), Microsoft is the only vendor that explicitly charges for the OS software. We believe this could prove untenable in coming years, forcing Microsoft to give away the OS and attempt to monetize Windows usage/support via various methods depending on the end-customer. We believe this is the single biggest challenge Microsoft's new CEO will face in coming years. At the very least, Windows average selling prices will tank. There's no other outcome. To fend off Chromebooks and now Android, Microsoft will have to give concessions to hardware makers so they can offer sub $300 devices. Reback argued that Microsoft's OS license fees will fall to $10 to $30 for each device down from $40 today. Those concessions, however, are just the beginning. Reback continued: Over the medium to longer term, we believe Microsoft will be forced to follow Apple and Google and give away the OS, especially in the consumer market, and use services like Bing, Skype, Office 365, etc. as its primary monetization engine. That said, we expect Enterprises to continue to pay for support via various enterprise agreements. The good news for Microsoft is that it'll be able to milk Windows on the enterprise side for the foreseeable future. Frankly, I don't see many holes in Reback's case. The only debatable point about Windows going free for the consumer market is timing. This chart tells the tale: http://www.zdnet.com/windows-9-price-and-microsofts-innovators-dilemma-7000025053

By Chris Burns Jan 12, 2014 As Microsoft ramps up their outlay of Windows 8.1, a system which takes a variety of Windows 8 parts that needed improvement and … improves them, there’s chat of a next-generation release called “Threshold,” aka Windows 9. Speaking on the subject with sources just about as close to the source as you can get without actually tapping Microsoft publicly, Windows insider Paul Thurrott suggests that this next big release will have Microsoft attempting to “put Windows 8 in the rear-view mirror.” This system will be introduced, says Thurrott, at the April 2014 edition of Microsoft’s developers conference, BUILD. This release of information will be taking place just a few weeks after Microsoft completes its currently-unfolding big reorganization and will be taking big strides toward integrating Windows Phone and Xbox into the larger Windows story. This update will bring the Start menu back to Windows as if it never left. This release is said to be able to run Metro-style (read: full-screen) apps on the desktop, somehow or another, right alongside traditional desktop applications. What might be described as “Metro 2.0” will be revealed with additional changes to the way this sort of app is launched and used. The actual release of Windows 9 “Threshold” will take place in a three-milestone fashion. This means there will be at least two, if not three, versions released before the public gets their hands on it. The final release of this operating system will be targeted for April of 2015. It’s also suggested that developers will not be given any sort of early build at BUILD, as development will not begin in earnest until later that same month. Sound like a release you’ll be pumped up about? With so few details on how this Windows 9 system will actually work, we’re crossing our fingers tightly! http://www.slashgear.com/windows-9-to-put-windows-8-in-the-rear-view-mirror-at-build-12312886

Claim: Win9 RTM on 21 October 2014

Windows 8.1 isn't even here yet and rumors regarding the next version(s) of Windows are beginning to surface on the web. Today, a report from Mary Jo Foley claims that Microsoft originally had plans to release the next major version of Windows in Fall 2014, but this doesn't seem to be the case anymore. According to the report, Microsoft is working on releasing the next major version of Windows in 2015, Spring 2015 to be exact. We already know about an upcoming update for Windows 8.1 which is set to debut in Spring 2014, but this isn't an entire new OS. The 2015 release of Windows will be the next 'major' version of Windows, (Windows 9 maybe?) The 2015 release will bring closer both Windows and Windows Phone OSes, and signifies that the recent Windows Store merge rumor is indeed legitimate. Mary Jo Foley also claims that Windows RT and Windows Phone will be one OS by the time 2015 rolls around, which also lines up with recent rumors regarding the merge between those two operating systems as well. It appears that Microsoft is aiming to make Spring the new time of year for Windows launches. Usually Microsoft would launch a new version of Windows in the Fall of the year, much like Windows 8.1 and it's predecessors. source: winbeta

If you asked a regular consumer their thoughts on Windows 8, they'd probably turn around and say things like 'Rubbish', why? Because everyone else says it. The same happened with Windows Vista. While Windows Vista was indeed troublesome in the beginning, Service Pack 2 changed that, but as Windows Vista was already named the worst OS, there was no saving the sinking ship. Some could say Windows 8 is in the same boat, many aren't happy with it, many are naming it the New Vista. Windows 8.1 will hopefully point things in the right direction, but there's a high chance its too late. If so, Microsoft could do what they did with the successor of Windows Vista, name 8.2 something new. Instead of building on an OS that's already been dubbed horrible. Microsoft may be planning to name Windows 8.2 'Windows 9' if Windows 8.1 is received poorly by consumers. "If Windows 8 ends up perceived by the general public more positively than it is currently, Blue's successor may end up as an 8.X release; if it doesn't, Microsoft could end up going with Windows 9 just to distance itself from Windows 8." - Mary Jo Foley. It's a good idea, as Microsoft have done something similar before. Windows 7 was built on the foundation of Windows Vista, but since Microsoft named it Windows 7, it encouraged consumers to give it another go, and they were happy. If Microsoft name Windows 8.2 'Windows 9', it could persuade them to give Windows another try. Of course, Microsoft may not even be planning to name the successor of Windows 8.1 'Windows 8.2', we'll have to wait and see. source What do you think?