You mean the Windows 7 shell... only faster?

The core of Windows 8 is based on Windows 7, but with a few additions and some omissions, like the start button, etc. Yes, the addition of Metro annoyed and/or confused people, and many weren't prepared to learn it. but underneath all that is a perfectly good, working desktop that functions just the same as Win 7 does when Start8 is installed.

However, it seems that Microsoft has listened and will replace the traditional start button and menu in Windows 9.  I hope by then the whining will stop, but I suspect it will be much like shutting down a jumbo jet... how the whine of the engines goes on and on for quite some time afterwards.

I was not talking about the core - just the UI.  Windows 8/8.1 sucks.  Half the applications open in their own window with no exit button (or menu).  The restored Start button is a joke as it takes you to the start screen (the Stardock fix at least makes it easier to digest).  Microsoft thinks everyone wants the same UI, whether it is a phone or a laptop.  I do not.  I want a full computer to be fully functional, and a handheld can have the "easier" navigation.

I know of several folks who have "gotten use to" the Windows 8 paradigm.  I have yet to meet one that actually likes it over Windows 7.

Hehe, didn't have ter go t' tha galley t' git a bite now, did I?  Aaarrgghhh!

I know what you're saying, and I agree, Windows 8 for the desktop could have had the option at setup to either have or not have the Metro UI.  It would have been the better solution for those who didn't want to have to deal with it.  For mine, I would install the Metro UI because I do like to revert to it occasionally to use various apps I find useful.  However, my startup preference would be to go straight to the desktop where I spend 99.999% of my time, and with Start8 I can do that and use Win 8 exactly like I did with Win 7, only faster.

I do believe Windows 9 will restore the traditional start button/menu and make the Metro/Modern UI optional, for those users who want it.  Well that's what is going around the rumour mill, among other things... one of them being it will be the fastest OS to date with a smaller footprint that either Win 7 or 8.  If all that's being said about Win 9 is true, and comes to fruition, it will be the must have OS of decade... even Apple fanbois will be jealous and wanna convert.

NOw that is stretching it.  I have yet to meet a Mac fan that has anything but contempt for Windows!

'Til now, perhaps, but Windows 9 will be the jewel of all OSes and go well beyond any offerings Apple has.

Now ssshhhh and allow me my optimism in peace and without distraction.