September just continues to be a huge month for tech news: Not only are we seeing the launches of the iPhone 6, the Galaxy Note 4, the new Moto X and the BlackBerry Passport but we’re also going to get out first look at Windows 9 as well. Per Re/code, Microsoft has just sent out an invitation to media and analysts that invites them to “join us to hear about what’s next for Windows and the enterprise.” Given previous rumors, we can only assume this means that Microsoft will use this event to show off Windows 9 for the first time as well.
According to Re/code’s sources, Microsoft will be giving out early test code for developers and businesses so they can start their preparations for the shift to the new platform. Windows 9 is going to offer several key new features including the long-awaited return of the Start menu as well as the integration of Microsoft’s Cortana personal digital assistant, which has won praise so far from Windows Phone users.
The stakes will be high for Microsoft, as its last major OS release, Windows 8, proved to be a hugely polarizing platform. While some users absolutely loved how smoothly Windows 8 ran in comparison to Windows 7, many longtime desktop users were put off by Microsoft’s attempt to make PCs more touch-centric like tablets. Microsoft will include some features in Windows 9 whose purpose will be to appease desktop users who felt put off by the major changes the company made to the platform with Windows 8.
