Microsoft is rumored to be getting ready to give Windows 8 the boot and release a brand new Windows 9 operating system.
The ill-fated software introduced just 15 months ago has suffered from heavy criticism and poor consumer uptake and is reported to be given a complete overhaul for 2015 with Microsoft expected to make the announcement at an event in April.
As to what consumers are expected to see with the new operating system is yet unknown but many know the problems faced with Windows 8 and why it’s time Microsoft are having a sweeping re-think.
When Microsoft gave its radical Windows 8 operating system it presented consumers with a bright, colorful tile style interface which could run seamlessly on desktop, mobile and tablet. However, many traditional features of the system millions had been using for years disappeared, confusing some, alienating others and infuriating many when even the iconic “start” button disappeared.
An 8.1 update came to rectify many faults and consumer complaints (including bringing back the Start button) with the software but it seems too little too late and Windows is ready to pull the plug on the whole thing.
On the mobile scene Windows 8 devices hold a minority market share compared to Android and Apple’s iOS devices and despite a good go at releasing numerous handsets and tablets last year the lack of consumer interest and failure to really make an impact in the mobile market has been cause for review for the Microsoft board.
Windows 8 has even been unable to make waves in the workplace with many millions of corporations around the globe still using, and preferring to use, Windows 7 running machines.
It is a case of identity crisis for the much understood Windows 8, which never managed to bridge the gap between PC and mobile experience. We await more news in the run-up to Microsoft’s Build conference in April and perhaps we’ll even see a new CEO there, too.
This article originally appeared on News.com.au.