14 DAY TRIAL // Windows 9 is Microsoft’s next big project in the OS industry, with some people close to the development plans indicating that it’s very likely to debut in early 2015.
But a new report released by Russian Windows leaker WZor and coming via myce.com claims that Windows 9 is the first operating system in Microsoft’s modern lineup that will actually come with a freeware license, which would basically allow users to install it without paying for a license.
However, this isn’t the first time when Microsoft is believed to be working on a freeware version of Windows, so don’t take this for granted until the company really confirms it.
Of course, no specifics have been provided, but the “freeware Windows” concept could actually have two different meanings.
First of all, Microsoft could actually offer Windows with a freeware license to OEMs and other partners, in order to bring more affordable devices to the market and thus make sure that it boosts adoption of its new operating system.
The company is already cutting fees for Windows 8.1 Update, so the next big thing would be to go for a freeware license that would basically bring a completely new series of products to the market available at very affordable prices.
On the other hand, if Microsoft decides to offer Windows 9 free to users, chances are that such a project would include ads or some other ways that could help the company monetize the product.
It’s almost impossible to see Microsoft offering a Windows version at no cost without a catch that would bring back some cash, not only because this is the company’s flagship product, but also because the software giant is in the end just a business that needs to stay on profit.
According to the same report, Windows 9 is also expected to come with a Start button that might also be displayed on the Start screen and thus make the Modern UI easier to use for those who decide to install the operating system on desktop computers.
Again, no specifics have been provided, but it appears that the Start button and the Start menu, which is projected to debut in a future Windows 8.1 update, are both going to be part of the operating system, in another attempt to make it more appropriate for desktop computers and those relying on mice and keyboards as the main input method for their PCs.