The Start Button in Windows 8 Is Gone for Good

[WinAndLinuxTutorials]

One of the major changes that Microsoft introduced in Windows 8 Consumer Preview when compared to previous Windows releases was the lack of a Start button.

The move was not received well by all Windows users, since many missed the functionality it offered, but it appears that the Redmond-based software giant will move forth with its plan to strip the platform of this button.

Microsoft took the decision to launch Windows 8 without the Start button even on desktop PCs, and the decision is final.

In fact, Tami Reller, the head of marketing and CFO of the Windows and Windows Live Division at Microsoft, confirmed this to investment banking firm Nomura, a recent article on Seattle Times reads.

When launching the new OS, users will have to get through the new Metro Start Screen first, although they also have the desktop mode enabled for them.

Moreover, a series of Metro commands will have to be used to navigate back to the Start Screen, which has been designed mainly to fit the touchscreens of tablet PCs.

Apparently, Microsoft plans on making available a tutorial for showing how Windows 8 can be used with a keyboard and mouse on traditional PCs, but won’t go back to including the Start button / menu in the new platform.

Third-party applications can be used for getting the familiar Start menu back in Windows 8, many of which are already available for download.

Windows 8 is expected to become available in a final flavor sometime in October, with a great deal of optimizations for use on touch devices. Apps developed specifically for it will also take advantage of the Metro UI and the said touch optimizations.

Many have complained that the manner in which touch commands can be called up using a keyboard and mouse are counterintuitive, though Microsoft might still be set to offer an alternative on this when the final version of the platform arrives.

Source

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Living without a start orb wasn't a big problem for me as since 2009 I used to open the start menu blindly by moving the mouse pointer to the bottom left of the screen. And now I got used to the Start Screen.

 

[Ink]

Haters gonna hate.

I like the new Start, more focused on what the user needs, if you know what I'm saying.

 

[jamescv7]

Most users might stayed like Windows 7 because one of the important feature that's was removed on Windows 8 and perhaps it could take couple of months or years before they migrate.

 

[Vextor]

I love the new start screen. I'm using it on my dual-boot system, and it's great.

 

[gusthebus]

I guess I'm giving up on Windows 8 for good too!

 

[iScream]

People can't stand changes. May be living without start orb be your biggest problem.

 

[MrXidus]

Not a problem for me! I've adapted to using the Metro Start Screen and don't have any dislikes for it.

I don't miss the Windows 7 style start menu at all, I find the Metro Start Screen more cleaner, better to manage and easier to find your apps and files by instant searching within the screen rather than having to click > browse click > browse > click > browse etc through shortcuts or numerous drop down folder menus and even sub folder menus.

But of course so many people refuse to adapt to change, The very short amount of time needed to do so is just too much to deal with....Poor you. Either that or they just don't have the mental capacity to do so. /sarc

So stick to your ancient Windows 7 while the big boys have better flexibility, reliability and performance in Windows 8 because clearly Microsoft has made up its mind on which direction it's going.

3rd party start orb apps - That's the only way you're going to get that start button back now.

Thanks