Microsoft updates Windows twice a year, usually adding some welcome new features (new screenshot tool, cleaner start menu, etc.). This year’s Spring Update will be another one of those minor updates adding polishing and crushing bugs.
But in the fall, Microsoft is expected to unleash a massive redesign of Windows 10. We know this for a number of reasons.
Microsoft did not respond to a request for comment.
Why does Windows need an update
Most of the recent Windows tweaks target specific audiences, especially corporate gamers and customers. But the personal computer is back as a consumer staple – the work-from-home era brought on by the Coronavirus pandemic is making productivity cold again. Microsoft wants to make sure that its new everyday users enjoy the experience of using their computers.
Apple’s new Mac OS Big Sur takes advantage of the new chip by integrating the features people are accustomed to on the iPhone and iPad. The convergence of smartphones, tablets and computers is in progress.
However, this new kind of chip could disrupt the PC world, setting fire to Microsoft’s shadow to redesign Windows for new types of computers you haven’t even imagined yet. The time has come for a big Windows 10 update.
The sad history of Windows updates
The “Sun Valley” edition of Windows 10 doesn’t seem to be the kind of brand-new experience for previous new versions of Windows. This is probably a good thing, given Microsoft has a reputation for providing a good OS in every other attempt:
- The original Windows was a success. Windows 2.0, not nearly as much.
- Windows 3 was a huge success. Windows 95 was a buggy mess.
- Windows 98 fixed all 95 errors. But Windows Me might be the worst iteration of Windows ever.
- Windows XP may be Microsoft’s biggest success ever. Windows Vista was a disaster.
- Windows 7 was loved for its return to basics. With Windows 8, people didn’t even know how to access the desktop.
- Windows 10 was a massive success. So let’s not spoil this, Microsoft.
