Windows 8.2 could see return of Windows Start Menu

The next update to Windows 8 could see the return of the Windows Start menu, according to sources.

The original start menu was ditched in the new operating system as Microsoft tried to embrace touch screens and tablet computing, but the latest rumour could be an admission that this strategy has failed and users want an OS that works properly on the desktop.

According to a report by Microsoft watcher Paul Thurrott on his Supersite for Windows, the latest version, dubbed by watchers as Windows 8.2, the Windows 8.1 update did not go far enough for desktop users.

He said that while the Start button came back in Windows 8.1, this wasn't enough for some and so this will force Microsoft to bring back the menu in the next update - but only for the desktop-oriented versions of Windows.

Thurrott also said that his sources told him that the update would also allow users to run multiple Windows Store apps on the desktop, rather than being forced to run only one in full screen mode on high-definition monitors, as they currently do.

Another industry veteran observer of all things Microsoft, Mary Jo Foley, said that the update, codenamed "Threshold", is being developed by the company as part of its "One Windows" strategy and could be released in the first half of 2015. This means there will be one Windows core but many stock-keeping units (SKUs) depending on form factor and function.

There will be three main SKUs. One will be targeted at consumers, looking much like Windows RT and focusing on apps. This will be for Intel and ARM-based tablets, phones, phablets and some PCs.

A second Windows version will be aimed more at desktop users with a traditional user interface as well as proper support for keyboards and mice. This will be updated through the Windows Store.

The third version will be for enterprise customers. This will sport updates that will ship in a predictable manner for IT admins via the Windows Store.

Even though these are just rumours at present, given that Foley and Thurrott are both experienced Microsoft watchers, these reports could prove to be the most accurate so far.