Is This the Windows 8.1 Start Menu?

One of the biggest turnoffs for many consumers when it comes to upgrading to the Windows 8 system is the lack of the start menu which many old-fashioned, long-time customers of Microsoft have gotten very used to.

A screenshot which claims to be a photo of the upcoming Windows 8.1 Start Menu, has emerged and has been making rounds on the internet.

In order to appease a large number of its customer-base, TheVerge says that Microsoft earlier revealed the Start Menu much awaite comeback to Windows 8 in an August update. Microsoft's Terry Myerson, head of Windows and Xbox software, showed a prototype of what the new Start Menu could look like, adds the outlet and it's pretty similar to the screenshot that's been making rounds.

The Start Menu has been a long-time Windows feature in its interface since the iconic Windows 95 but was left out of the system when the Windows 8 was released.

Both the prototype and the alleged photo leak both show the traditional start menu but revamped with tiles on its right extension panel. This is probably Microsoft's compromise that seeks to satisfy both its desktop users and tablet device operators. It appears that the company seeks to retain the traditional menu but has tweaked things a bit so as to include the newer tile design.

Windows is said to be calling it quits on the disputed Windows 8. According to ZDNet, "Microsoft is basically 'done' with Windows 8.x. Regardless of how usable or functional it is or isn't, it has become Microsoft's Vista 2.0 -- something from which Microsoft needs to distance itself, perception-wise. At this point, Microsoft is going full-steam-ahead toward Threshold and will do its best to differentiate that OS release from Windows 8."

Presently, it's being said the Microsoft is just looking to patch its holes with temporary solutions as it moves on to the Windows 9, which is targeting more of its desktop and traditional PC users who were a bit neglected when the Windows 8 system came.

Many of Microsoft's loyal customers have been reluctant to move on from its solid older systems like the Windows XP that users have found to be quite dependable and easy to navigate. The new interface of Microsoft was created to attract mobile and tablet users but in the process, didn't seem to cater to the requirements of mouse-based users who seem to prefer the older interface.

Windows 9 or Windows "Threshold" is the next major phase of Microsoft's Windows operating system. It is set to be released in the spring of 2015.