Windows Blue.....boot options revamped

This is interesting. "Microsoft is planning to change the way its Start Screen operates with the release of Windows 8.1. Sources familiar with Microsoft's plans have revealed to The Verge that the company is currently testing builds of Windows 8.1, known as codename Windows Blue, that include an option to boot directly to the traditional desktop. We're told that the option is disabled by default, allowing users to simply turn on the functionality should they want to avoid the 'Metro' Start Screen at initial boot or login." This won't disable Metro; the hot corners, task switching, and everything else that makes up Metro is still there. All this does is load up the classic desktop as the first application upon boot. Update: The Start button might be returning too.

Microsoft's change of heart follows criticisms of its approach to Windows 8 for traditional desktop PCs with keyboard and mouse usage. Accessory makers have attempted to ease the situation, but Microsoft has faced pressure from businesses and desktop users for options to suppress the Start Screen or bring back the traditional Start Menu and Start button UI. Third-party tools to revive the Start button have proved popular, but it's highly unlikely that Microsoft will opt to bring the Start Menu back to life itself. We're told that the boot to desktop option is simply designed to appease desktop users who wish to avoid the Start Screen environment.