This fall, when Microsoft release the next iteration of Windows 10, currently called Redstone 3, they will be making a few design changes to the interface of the OS. Currently called Project Neon, this design language looks to bring a bit more transparency to the OS.

As you can see from the image above, the Start menu will get further refinements as Microsoft will be bringing transparent live tiles to the Start menu. But, the implementation isn’t perfect as you can see in the mockup, posted to Twitter by Tom Hounsell, as not all tiles in the menu support the feature and can create an awkward appearance.

Also, there is a Snapchat icon in the menu too, I wouldn’t hold your breath for that app to be showing up on the Windows desktop anytime soon.

The entire Start menu is almost completely transparent as the left side of the menu is less opaque but does not appear to be a solid color. Further, the taskbar uses the same level of transparency as the bar down the left side of the menu; we also get a better look at the updated icons Microsoft may use when this UI update ships.

It’s important to point out that these design mockups are not a final representation of what will ship when Neon makes its debut. But, before the release of Windows 10, there were similar design concepts that were close to what the company did end up shipping with Windows 10 which means that these images are likely a good representation of the final product.

The Neon design language is also being brought to other applications as well. As Paul wrote up earlier today, the company’s first-party apps are starting to show off the new design language too.

Tagged with Project Neon, Redstone 3, Windows 10