There has been a lot of speculation about the next Windows iteration ever since it became known that Microsoft is willing to put Windows 8.1 behind it and get a fresh start. Rumor has it that a public preview build of Windows 9 will be released in a couple of months and the final public release has been slated for April 2015. While there are no confirmations from Microsoft the steady stream of rumors about Windows 9 has picked up speed. The latest claims that Cortana implementation is coming along very nicely.
According to Neowin folks at Microsoft are no longer looking at Cortana for Windows 9 as something that might work, but as a feature that they now have to get ready in time for a stable build release. However it is still said to be in early development but performance is reportedly improving and everything seems to be on track for inclusion in the final release.
You would be curious about exactly how Cortana would work on the desktop. Apparently for now its a standalone app that opens up in its separate window though the experience isn’t fullscreen as on Windows Phone. You can either ask a question or type it. The circle shape and animations of the personal assistant are retained on the desktop version.
Other changes expected in Windows 9 include a revamped Charms bar and support for virtual desktops. So far no actual pre-release builds have leaked online even though this has happened with previous Windows iterations, but it doesn’t look like that’s going to stop the rumor train anytime soon.
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