'Microsoft to remove desktop functionality from Windows RT'

A reliable source tells us that Microsoft will release Windows RT devices that only contain Metro and from which Microsoft has removed the desktop interface. Currently Windows RT, running on ARM CPUs, contain both a Metro mode and a desktop mode just like Windows 8.1 PCs.

According to our source Microsoft is planning to remove the desktop feature from Windows RT which would make Windows RT devices touch only. Our source can't confirm whether this will be on all Windows RT devices or that it will only be on specific models.

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The Windows RT desktop is different from the desktop on regular Windows machines and PC desktop applications can't run on the Windows RT desktop. Microsoft bundles only a few desktop applications such as File Explorer, Internet Explorer and Office RT, other Windows RT desktop applications can't be downloaded like on the PC desktop but need to be installed from the Windows Store instead.

The possible reasoning behind offering both Metro and the desktop on Windows RT devices was likely to get the best of both worlds. However most users on the PC continue to use the desktop and for touch devices Metro is usually the interface of choice. Therefor it wouldn't be a strange decision for Microsoft to ditch the desktop on Windows RT in favor of Metro.

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Our source also once again confirms the existence of Windows 365 which is developed in parallel with Windows 9, however more details continue to be hard to get. Our source also mentions that Metro 2.0 is currently tested internally (see screenshot).

As always, take it with a grain of salt, however our source has previously given us accurate information.

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