Microsoft to release Windows 9 next month: reports

Tech giant Microsoft plans to release its latest addition to the Windows series, Windows 9, next month.

According to The Verge, the software maker was tentatively planning its press event for 30th September to detail latest changes to Windows as part of a release codenamed "Threshold.''

The Threshold version of Windows is, however, currently under development and Microsoft would release a preview version, which would likely be named Windows 9, to developers next month.

Developers would get a chance to work on the new mini Start Menu in Windows 9, alongside the removal of the Charms bar feature and several US changes.

Meanwhile according to PC Mag, Microsoft's follow-up to Windows 8 could make its debut as early as next month, according to reports.

According to earlier rumours the OS-was codenamed Threshold but would likely be named Windows 9 and would be developed as part of Redmond's "One Windows" strategy.

It would be slated for release in the first half of 2015.

Microsoft on its part though is not forthcoming on the matter and had not made any public statements about the next version of Windows.

Meanwhile, rumour has it that the successor to Windows 8 would reintroduce the Start menu and further seek to align Redmond's flagship PC platform and the software running the Xbox One and Windows phones. Among other changes included are - Metro-Style applications on the desktop, virtual desktop functionality, and Cortana integration, according to ZDNet.