Windows 10 Consumer Preview Expected in January-February 2015

Microsoft will reportedly seed the consumer-oriented version of Windows 10 early next year.

A few days ago Microsoft released new build 9879 for Windows 10 Technical Preview, which enables you to hide the Search or Task View buttons on the Taskbar. This build is said to be the last preview build for the year.

The Technical Preview build, accessible via Windows Insider Program, brings a plethora of features such as the new Start menu, modern UI apps and other desktop features.

The Windows 10 Technical Preview targeting the enterprise customers is indeed a successful operation with Microsoft claiming to have received more than 200,000 pieces of user initiated feedback, submitted via the Windows Feedback app from Windows Insiders.

So, what is Microsoft's plan for next year? The latest disclosure by Winbeta suggests that consumer preview for Windows 10 will be released sometime in January-February, 2015.

Windows 10 Consumer Preview features

The consumer version is expected to bring Continuum, a new Start screen and the Cortana personal assistant.

Currently, it is unclear as to when Cortana will see a public release. Microsoft could unveil Cortana alongside the Consumer Preview but release it during the Build conference.

The report further suggests that an updated UI and modern icons as well as Live-Tiles on the desktop are also expected to make an appearance. We might get to see the enhanced Notification Center as an Action Center. There will be Internet Explorer 12 and touch based Office apps.