14 DAY TRIAL // A few hours after the first screenshot of Windows 9, showing the upcoming Start menu in action, reached the web, a new photo that allegedly reveals Metro apps running on the desktop also got leaked.
As you can see for yourselves by clicking the thumbnail above, the screenshot showcases the PC settings menu launched in its very own resizable window right on the desktop, with options to minimize, maximize, or close the app, just like it's the case with traditional Windows software.
Microsoft hinted at the BUILD 2014 developer conference in April that such a feature would be integrated into Windows at some point, but no other specifics have been provided. It was first believed that Windows 8.1 Update 2, the second pack of improvements for Windows 8.1, could be the one to get this option, but it looks like that Microsoft is keeping all the goodies for Windows 9.
Word has it that Windows 9 could be officially unveiled in early 2015, and according to unconfirmed rumors, it might even be offered free of charge for Windows 7 Service Pack 1 and Windows 8.1 Update 2 users.
Microsoft hasn't yet confirmed any of these, so stay tuned for more information on what's to come in Windows 9.