Microsoft has unveiled its new Microsoft Windows 10 operating system. Of course, if you’re scoring at home, you’re thinking there was Windows 7 and then Windows 8. Now, Microsoft is introducing Windows 10. So, what happened to Windows 9?
In fact, in an official release on Windows 10 in the Microsoft News Center, there is no mention of Windows 9 at all. In that release, Microsoft executive vice president of the Operating Systems group Terry Myerson explains:
“This will be our most comprehensive operating system and the best release Microsoft has ever done for our business customers, and we look forward to working together with our broader Windows community to bring Windows 10 to life in the months ahead.”
In its preview of the new operating system, Microsoft indicated new security and management features would be a major part of what’s different about Windows 10.
Other features include:
- Apps That Run Like Full Programs. When apps purchased or downloaded from the Windows Store are opened within Windows 10, they do so in their own window. That window can be resized, reshaped, and moved about the screen.
- Snap Enhancements. This feature will allow users to work on four different windows on the same screen. The windows holding these apps and programs will snap into place on the screen for easy view.
- Multiple Desktops. Windows 10 will allow users to move some apps and windows to different devices.
In fact, not only will the new operating system be featured on new Windows-based computers. Microsoft says that Windows 10 will also work on tablets, smartphones, and other devices including some now part of the Internet of Things.
Microsoft Windows 10 doesn’t only open opportunities for users but for developers, too. Microsoft is also introducing the Windows Insider Program with a preview of Windows 10 for developers to create apps for the new operating system.
Meanwhile, what has become of Windows 9?
Well, no one is exactly sure.
Recently Chris Smith of BGR speculated Windows 9 might be offered as a free upload for at least some current Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 users. Even earlier, there was a theory the operating system might be offered as an incentive for those still using Windows XP to finally upgrade. However, when Microsoft announced Windows 10 recently, neither of these options manifested themselves.
The operating system was expected to include many of the changes now incorporated into the new Microsoft Windows 10 like return of the “startup button” greatly missed by many Windows fans.
Windows 9 was also expected to introduce the voice assistant Cortana to the desktop platform. Cortana is Microsoft’s answer to Siri and has so only been available on Windows Phone.
It now begins to look as if Microsoft may have decided to skip over Windows 9 entirely though the specifics are not yet clear.
Image: Microsoft
marco
I would have call it Windows I because it is the ninth letter of the alphabet and also is one in roman cardinal as they intended initially to call it windowsOne but could not.
Really odd nobody in MS would realize or just felt sick about ubuntu naming convention?
Aira Bongco
Could it be that they have released Windows 9 but it did not receive as much hype as their other versions? What happened to marketing?
David
They chose to skip to Windows 10 to avoid the obvious Windows Nein puns
They skipped 9 because we all know only the odd numbered ones are any good.
They have to stick to the pattern 🙂
Chris Smith
9 is the sum of 3×3 and MS wished to avoid all the masonic, illuminati conspiracy theories.
david
Microsoft just announced that 7 ate 9.
Shawn Hessinger
Ha Ha Ha. Who could have imagined that just running a post asking this simple question would draw so many hilarious responses? Thanks for all the comments. We really appreciate them and the levity and fun they provide. In the end, I suppose Microsoft had to be aware of the questions this decision would raise. And I suppose the fact that we’re all still talking about it is a marketing triumph in itself.
kirn
bulll sh##
Roy Watson
Windows? Who still does that? Why would anyone care about windows 9 or 10? I thought windows would have died completely once we learned about their breech of trust against us. It’s discredited and they think it’s funny you don’t get it! Windows, you know, you look in or out a window…funny huh! And Hotmail, yes, they are watching it that’s why it’s hot, get it? If you know what’s good for you, stay the hell away from windows and Microsoft completely my god! Get a clue!!!
Demetri
Windows 10 core is Windows 8.1. 10 is actually nothing more than Windows 8.3. They just cleaned up 8 to save money in development. I have married Windows 10 and Windows 7. My customer love it. Now working on fixing that abomination of a Sharing Center, it sucks in 10.