Windows 10 was a definite change of direction for Microsoft when it launched in 2015. Windows 8.1 was quite unpopular because millions of users stuck to 7 or XP. Windows 10 has put together the best of everything that came before it and also added new features, but most importantly, it is being pushed as a free upgrade for all users. Instead of pushing the version number every time, the company embarked on Windows 10 updates to bring about new features and UI changes. The 20H2 update has brought UI changes to the start menu, but a major overhaul is possible on the horizon according to a Microsoft mailing list.
As spotted by WindowsLatest, Microsoft recently published a post for a senior software engineer who will work with our key platform, Surface and OEM partners to orchestrate and deliver a comprehensive visual rejuvenation of Windows experiences to deliver to our customers indicates that Windows is BACK and to ensure that Windows is considered the best user operating system experience for customers ”. This wording strongly suggests that the company is undergoing a major UX overhaul that will come sooner rather than later. Following the news coverage of the mailing list, Microsoft changed the job description to say that the mail was aimed at ‘orchestra street'[ing] and deliver[ing] experiences that ensure that Windows is an excellent user experience for our customers. ”
This is consistent with previous reports talking about Microsoft’s plans for a major UX overhaul, codenamed “Sun Valley”. And as I said before, the latest 20H2 update already has some minor changes to the user interface, such as a simpler, more streamlined Start menu with simpler tiles. What will this renewed user interface look like then? We may have seen hints of this with Windows 10X, a new version that offers the most legacy features and components in favor of a lighter and more stable experience. Windows 10X is not intended to replace Windows 10, but some UX components of Windows 10X, which look radically different from Windows 10, may come on. Of course, this is just speculation, and the company may decide to do something completely different.