14 DAY TRIAL // The leaked Windows 9 screenshots that reached the web yesterday confirmed that Microsoft was working to implement multiple desktops in the upcoming operating system, but obviously very little was known about this brand new feature.
A new report coming via Neowin reveals some new details about multiple desktops, as this particular option is very likely to play a key role in Microsoft’s strategy to boost adoption of the new operating system.
Multiple desktops is one of the most requested Windows features, with users calling for Microsoft to implement such an option since a few years ago, when other operating systems such as Ubuntu and various Linux distributions started offering it by default.
Of course, the debut of multiple desktops is very likely to appeal to those looking for enhanced productivity on Windows, especially in the enterprise sector, where better management of the running apps is a must have.
Easy ways to switch desktops
Windows 9 users will be allowed to jump from one desktop to another by simply swiping from the left side of the screen to the center, as is the case right now with the new app switcher available in Windows 8.
This feature is very likely to work just like a new Alt+TAB option, with small thumbnails of the desktops to be displayed in order to allow users to choose the one they need.
At this point, the maximum number of desktops is not yet known, but Microsoft might obviously introduce a limit in order to avoid a significant performance drop of the operating system.
At the same time, we’re hearing that multiple desktops might only be available on enterprise versions of Windows 9, as many end users running the core SKU of the operating system won’t need this feature which would instead make things even more confusing.
Already available in Linux
With the addition of multiple desktops, Windows 9 will also be able to appeal to users looking for increased productivity on the desktop and, at the same time, compete with other operating systems that already boast such an option.
Ubuntu and the other Linux distros on the market are the best examples in this case, as they all come with multiple desktops and provide users with more control over the work they are doing on their PCs.
With Windows 9, however, things could also change for those running Microsoft’s operating system, but it remains to be seen whether this feature would be implemented in such a way that it would avoid getting things even more complicated for those inexperienced.
At this point, it’s not yet clear whether the Windows 9 Preview build expected to debut this month will come with multiple desktops or not.