Leaked Windows 9 screenshots have been gradually trickling in, but now we have an even more in-depth look at the anticipated transformations coming to the beloved desktop interface in the upcoming Windows release. The German tech websites ComputerBase and WinFuture have managed to secure 20 high-definition photos of the “Windows Technical Preview”, which are estimated to be released publicly later this month or in early October. These snapshots from an early Windows build, initially issued exclusively to select Microsoft partners, give us a detailed preview of the revamped Start Menu, and highlight noticeable modifications to the Windows taskbar. The Verge has verified the authenticity of the screenshots, but it is important to bear in mind that these images represent an early version of Windows 9 (or whatever Microsoft names it), and that the final desktop depiction might vary when the product launches next year.
Accompanying these images, we see several notable enhancements that give a new taste to the traditional Windows experience. To begin with, there’s an additional search icon housed next to the familiar Start button on the taskbar, as well as a button that seemingly represents the virtual desktops feature. Further screenshots showcase the virtual desktops functionality in action, featuring a pane at the bottom of the Windows desktop that facilitates a swift switch between various virtualized desktop spaces. This iteration of Windows also provides us the glimpse of Windows 8-style apps dynamically floating on the desktop in numerous screenshots. These apps come with readily accessible commands for functionalities such as search, share, play, and settings within the context menus of apps themselves.
Beyond these superficial changes, Microsoft appears to be planning a revamp of the icons for familiar components such as File Explorer and Desktop among others in Windows 9. This modification seems to give the user interface (UI) a slightly flattened look, more in alignment with the “Metro-style” appearance that became characteristic of Windows 8. There also seems to be an initial version of what appears to be a Notification Center in the works, primely positioned in the system tray area of the Windows taskbar. This is compelling evidence of Microsoft’s commitment to not just enhancing user experience with the Windows Operating System, but also streamlining the look and feel for greater uniformity across the platform. Furthermore, Microsoft seems to be effecting minor alterations to the jump list menus in the taskbar (the ones that pop up when you right-click). This adjustment seems to be another endeavor to render a more uniform, flattened look to the UI.
Still, as we previously mentioned, these are details from an early build, and the final product could still undergo considerable changes. Thus, while these leaks provide some exciting insights into Microsoft’s plans for its upcoming operating system release, users will have to wait for the official launch to appreciate the full scale and extent of these changes.
This series of leaks, combined with Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to improve its operating systems based on user feedback, promises a highly anticipated front for both tech enthusiasts and everyday users. Windows 9 (or whatever Microsoft decides to call it) is certainly shaping up to be a significant step forward in the evolution of the Windows experience.
*This article was updated in 2025 to reflect modern realities, recounting the specifics of a past anticipated release, and the excitement surrounding changes to the Windows Operating System before an official launch.*