Microsoft once made a promise to speed up its release cycle for Windows, and the time for fulfilling that seems to be happening now. Windows 10 (codenamed "Threshold") was reported to be released in two separate OS releases, and the upcoming OS (codenamed "Redstone") is also rumored to be launched using the same release format.
The targeted periods for the release of Windows 10 will be this summer, followed by the major update in the fall. Microsoft will also hold semi-annual release in 2016 for Redstone; first in June and second in October.
Releasing four major OS releases in a short period of time would indeed mean that the company is sincere in keeping its promises up especially that of speeding up release cycles for its OS. As The Register pointed out on its report, "Four major Windows milestones in two years would certainly mean Microsoft is following through on its promise to speed up its release cadence."
As to what Redstone will bring, it is still unknown. According to the same source, it will be similar to a Service Pack which comes with features and major stability upgrade. It is likely for Microsoft to push back some of its grandest plans (which are unknown yet) for Windows 10 especially since the general availability of the OS is fast approaching. This observation justifies the brief gap between Windows and "Redstone".
What's interesting about Redstone is that it is possible to be released in beta versions akin to Windows 10 Preview. That means interested testers will also have the chance to know its initial features and give feedback via the Windows Insider program.
The information about Microsoft working on Redstone, its codename for the next OS was first leaked by Neowin. Mary Jo Foley, a prolific Redmond-watcher, "later said that her sources confirmed the monicker".
Microsoft Windows 2016 OS release is not the only thing that the company is working on, in addition to polishing the Windows 10. Microsoft is also pushing its software on diverse handsets and operating systems. It's most recent additions to its cross-platform project are Samsung and Dell.
Join the Conversation