Windows 9 Release Date & Preview: 5 Features to Expect from Microsoft's New OS

With a highly criticized Windows 8 Operating System release, Microsoft is ready to launch a new software, officially ending the lackluster Windows 8. 

Unofficially dubbed by the public as "Windows 9" or internally codenamed "Threshold," Microsoft has sent out invitations to the press for a "Windows technical preview" event on Sept. 30 in San Francisco, wrote ExtremeTech.

"Join us to hear about what's next for Windows and the enterprise," was all that the message, along with the date Sept. 30, 2014.

Windows 8 didn't make the impact that Microsoft hoped for. Many Microsoft users were frustrated with the software as it seemed to be geared for mobile devices and tablets, without considering the userability of the system to conventional mouse-and-keyboard users. 

"Windows 8 was not a shining moment for Microsoft," quoted MSN of Michael Silver, an analyst at tech research firm Gartner. "Probably the biggest issue that lingers is the negative brand equity in the name."

With this in mind, below is a round up of the top 5 features expected from the yet to be named new operating system:

1. The Return of the Start Menu - The Start menu is a central feature in all Microsoft OS since 1995, that was noticeably missing with the Windows 8. ExtremeTech reported that the new system will incorporate the Windows 7 Start menu with Metro-like live tiles as a compromise.
2. Virtual Desktop - The new OS will offer a virtual desktop option that will enable users to "switch between as many desktops as you like," a feature that has been available via third-party Windows tools.
3. Integrated Platform - Company CEO Satya Nadella has shared that the direction of Microsoft is geared towards a unified OS across multiple platforms. Windows 9 may be the first version of this envisioned seamless experience, shared TechRadar.
4. No More Charms - Rumors surrounding the new platform indicate that we may no longer see the unpopular Charms bar, per The Week, or based on other reports, it may be "hidden in the new OS."
5. Graphical Overhaul - It was also reported that a major redesign will take place with the Windows 9. Alleged leaked information shows a "flatter" display that will be reminiscent of the Windows 7. 

"This is a launching pad and catalyst for Nadella's holistic cloud vision over the coming years," reported The Guardian of Daniel Ives, analyst at investment bank FBR Capital Markets. "Windows 9 is a potentially game-changing product release for Microsoft." 

Microsoft is expected to unveil a new name for the software, one that officials of the company didn't want to comment on prior to its release on Tuesday, reported The Guardian.