In another u-turn, Microsoft is again planning to change the way the Start Screen operates in Windows 8.1, with an update that will allow users to boot straight to the more familiar desktop screen rather than the Metro tiled interface.
The option to bypass Metro on boot was already included on 8.1, but with ‘Update 1’, as the new update is called, Microsoft will now enable this option as a default.
The change is expected to come amidst continued frustration by users who still use a keyboard and mouse, rather than touch screen. These users are still very familiar with the traditional Windows style home screen, making the Metro interface redundant.
The Windows 8.1 Metro interface
Microsoft originally pitched the Metro interface environment as the future for Windows, giving the firm the ability to place its app first and foremost at the start of the Windows 8 experience.
It has been reported that Microsoft is planning other changes to Windows 8.1 that will coincide with the expiration of Windows XP support, currently causing a dilemma for countless businesses across the world.
Shutdown and search buttons on the homescreen may help users used to older versions of Windows take more kindly to Windows 8, and are all part of the improvements being made ahead of the Windows 9 release, which could possibly even come later this year.
CBR got in touch with Microsoft and asked for comment on the boot changes, but received no answer.
