Microsoft Being Bold
Related to this second point is information I’ve received that Microsoft has been furiously ripping out legacy code in Windows 8 that would have enabled third parties to bring back the Start button, Start Menu, and other software bits that could have made this new OS look and work like its predecessor. In fact, I’ve seen that several well-known UI hacks that worked fine with the Windows 8 Consumer Preview are no longer functional in the coming Release Preview. And those with hopes that Microsoft would allow businesses, at least, to boot directly to the desktop should prepare for disappointment. That feature not only isn’t happening, it’s being removed from Windows Server 12 (Windows 8’s stable mate) as well.
This is great to hear. Despite the slogan, Windows 8 has so far been an operating system of personal-enterprise compromises (epitomised by the dual-desktop paradigm) which were only going to weaken the platform.
These bold moves, such as ripping out the Start Menu from ever possibly being reactivated, are great signs that Microsoft are customer-focused. Besides, business can and will remain on Windows 7 regardless. It makes sense to be consumer-centric.