We have already seen plenty of leaks and rumors around Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT)’s next-gen Windows 9 software, code-named Threshold. During the software giant’s Worldwide Partner Conference (WPC) yesterday, Microsoft COO Kevin Turner said that the next version of Windows, likely to be named Windows 9, will be a great world-class enterprise OS. It will have game-changing functionality for enterprise.
Windows 9 is in alpha stage
Turner emphasized that the company is actively listening and taking consumer feedback. However, he didn’t provide much details. Fortunately, Neowin got a lot to know about the upcoming OS from its sources inside the company. Sources said that Windows 9 is still in alpha stage of development. We have reported previously that the Metro UI will be turned off by default for desktop users. The touchscreen device users will have access to the Metro interface by default.
Sources said that Threshold is still in alpha stage, so the company can change anything. The alpha build of Windows 9 has a distinctive interface, unlike Windows 7 or 8. Sources said that the UI on Threshold looks more modern and a bit more flat. The concept that Microsoft showed at Build conference in April showed the app placed in the Win32 borders. That won’t be the case with Threshold.
Taskbar to get a major overhaul with Windows 9
The taskbar is getting a major overhaul with improved functionality. It will no longer be a static location for icons. The taskbar icons will be interactive. One of the sources described it as “mini Live Tiles.” Microsoft is going to add the glance-and-go type functionality to the taskbar. Satya Nadella is obsessed with productivity and user experience. The minimized windows will be able to provide valuable information.
Moreover, Microsoft is planning to bring Cortana to Windows 9. The digital assistance will reportedly live in the taskbar, making it easily accessible. Users will be able to launch the voice assistant quickly. Only a small list of features have been leaked as Microsoft is keeping most of them close to the chest.
