14 DAY TRIAL // Windows 9 is already on the horizon, and the first preview version is expected to be unveiled sometime next month, but Microsoft doesn’t like speaking about this new project too much.
Designers across the world are however using the limited information we got to create concepts imagining the new operating system and some of the features that could be part of this important release.
This is the case of the concept created by DeviantArt user IamFrank, who built a new design based on Windows 8, but featuring a much more appealing look for the Modern UI, with transparency, new colors, and icons everywhere you look.
As you can see for yourselves by browsing through the photos in the gallery below, the concept is indeed borrowing some design cues from Windows 8, but with so simple touches it all becomes a lot more visually appealing. Of course, it shouldn’t be too difficult for Microsoft to create such an appearance for Windows 9, but do not expect the upcoming operating system to look like this.
Windows 9 Preview is expected to be released to users on September 30, but the very first public build of the operating system will most likely include just minor improvements specifically designed for enterprises.
Word is that the company will however introduce new features to the preview build as it completes their development, with a new update mechanism to take care of everything.
In terms of looks, Windows 9 is very likely to come with some new icons and a slightly revised visual style, but nothing too significant, as Microsoft clearly doesn’t need another confusing change to affect its OS adoption. It has already happened in Windows 8, after introducing the Modern UI, so Redmond is most likely trying to keep things as familiar as possible.
We’ve also heard some rumors pointing to a few other changes, such as a new position of the taskbar clock, or at least new customization options that would provide users with more control over this particular Windows feature.
Of course, nothing is confirmed so far, and Microsoft is finally expected to break the news on Windows 9 next month during a press event. The preview build should be released for download soon after that, with more sources pointing to a freeware license not only for the testing version, but also for the final product. At this point, rumors claim that Windows 8.1 and Windows 7 users could get Windows 9 at no cost, but Microsoft is yet to confirm this.
