Microsoft is attempting to placate disgruntled enterprise users by toning down its touchscreen-optimised Windows 8 Metro interface, signalling a return to a more desktop mouse-and-keyboard friendly approach with the next version of Windows due out in 2015.

The bizarre decision to skip Version 9 and instead move straight to Windows 10 is because “We’re not building an incremental product,” according to Terry Myerson, head of Microsoft’s Operating Systems Group.

The launch event in San Francisco was aimed directly at enterprise users, who have been less than enamoured of Windows 8, with less than 20% takeup estimated by Forrester Research.

“We didn't quite get it right," observed Joe Belfiore, a corporate vice president in Microsoft's operating systems group. 

Windows 10 will see the return of the traditional Start Button and Taskbar, with the Metro Tiles able to be used as an adjunct rather than the de facto way to access programs.

Currently Windows 8.1 users who want to work in the traditional way via keyboard and mouse have to battle with the operating system and simple operations that took one or two clicks in Windows 7 now take 3 or 4.

Windows 10 will introduce a new feature called Continuum that aims to detect whether the user interface is touchscreen or keyboard and mouse, and act accordingly. One major step forward is to allow Store Apps to be minimised and manipulated in the same way as traditional desktop Windows applications.

“This is a pretty audacious move for Microsoft,” said Rob Enderle, a technology analyst. “They are trying for something much bigger than they have ever done before.”

Expected to go on sale in the middle of next year, Windows 10 aims to deliver a common way to power platforms ranging from smartphones to giant TV screens.

Other tweaks include enhancements to the venerable Command prompt tool, allowing cut and paste, and Shift-select

A screenshot of the new start menu for Windows 10.