Windows 8.2 Update and Windows 9

Windows 8 has had plenty of problems since it arrived in 2012, with the unpopular removal of the Start button and Metro Tiles confusing and alienating users.  8.1 Update was mainly a set of refinements for PC/Laptop mouse and keyboard users, providing more context and efficiency.

The Windows 8.1 Update 2 features improvements to the Start Screen including the ability to boot straight into the Desktop, the return of Shutdown option on the Start and a more familiar task bar.

It has been rumoured for some time the full Start Button would return with Windows 8.1 Update 2, but sources now claim it has been delayed until the new Windows 9 will arrive.....

But here is a tease.

The new-look "Start Menu" will reportedly include both the classic layout of previous menu's and a new Metro panel with live tiles for Windows Store apps

Windows 9 will be designed to work on all devices including desktops, smartphones, tablets and Xbox consoles. This means one operating system will cover all screen sizes and will streamline the next version of Windows from three operating systems into one single operating system.

There are rumours suggesing that PCs running Windows 9 may be sold with the Metro view disabled as a default. The Charms bar - another unpopular element of Windows 8's redesign - is also rumoured to have been dropped, with the search, share, devices and settings options previously housed there moving to new title bars on modern Windows 9 apps.

Rumors have suggested late 2014 or early 2015 for a Windows 9 release. While claims and reports are all over the place, it seems like Windows 9 should arrive before September 2015 at the latest.