Microsoft Corp. (Nasdaq: MSFT) is not resting on its laurels. After launching the Windows 8 operating system a month ago, the software giant is reportedly already working on Windows 9, which could already be on the market next year. A new version of Windows by the third or fourth quarter of 2013 would end the tradition whereby updated versions are launched every three years or so.
According to technology website ZDNet, the latest version is nicknamed WindowsBlue and will include a new interface. The site also reports that Microsoft plans brining out a new Windows version every year.
If the report is accurate then Microsoft has decided to adopt the practice of rival Apple Inc. (Nasdaq: AAPL), which frequently releases new versions of its operating systems.
Windows 8 costs $40 and it is believed that newer versions of the operating system will be retailed by Microsoft at a lower price to encourage users to upgrade.
In order to compel developers to adapt themselves to the next operating system that will require a new development system, Microsoft will stop receiving apps for Windows 8 shortly before the upgrade, allowing only new software planned for Windows 9 to operate on its system. Apps already operating on Windows 8 will continue to run on the next version of the operating system.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on November 29, 2012
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