Will Windows 9 reintroduce the classic theme?


Recommended Posts

It's just so ultra clean and simple, allowing me to go about my work without getting distracted by the latest fad whether it's shiny 3D buttons, gradients and transparent this or that. Felt like Windows lost its soul after MS took it away.

 

 

And that is probably why it will never return, we are in the age of regressive software, windows is going backwards, things that 'just worked' are replaced with boring, ugly substitutes that are lacking in features and simply don't belong on a desktop pc.

  • Like 2

And that is probably why it will never return, we are in the age of regressive software, windows is going backwards, things that 'just worked' are replaced with boring, ugly substitutes that are lacking in features and simply don't belong on a desktop pc.

Because going forward specifically states we cannot deprecate older features?

Because going forward specifically states we cannot deprecate older features?

 

Going forward doesn't mean getting rid of things that are still useful in favor of things that restrict the user or dumbing-down the UI.

  • Like 3

The Classic theme suffered from being too bland. It's a classic 90's look that just doesn't really need to come back. Plus, I can change colors in Windows Vista, 7, 8.1, and 10. So, I'm not really sure what point you're making there. Aero and Metro are both as space efficient.

 

The Classic theme was designed for different graphics capabilities : no anti-aliasing, compatibility with low-color monitors, low resolutions, no subtle effects. 

 

It was a good for its time... but the reason it changed wasn't fashion and changing tastes. The reason it changed is because computers are better.

 

The same reason, at least IMO, why interfaces are now moving over to flat icons. It used to be hard to make flat icons look good, with lack of anti-aliasing, alpha channels, high resolutions, scaling. Now, it's pretty easy. That's not just about fashion either, IMO.

The same reason, at least IMO, why interfaces are now moving over to flat icons. It used to be hard to make flat icons look good,

 

 

Obviously it's still hard to make flat icons look good, at least for microsoft anyway.

I find Office 2013 a pleasure to work in. There are some problems with the interface, but the icon style isn't one of them IMO.

 

The W10 icons so far that people are complaining about are Office-style icons. People just expect something different for app icons than they do for ribbon icons, I guess. I like the more subtle, shaded Google style Material icons too... they have a lot of style... Although I think the Office-style icons are fine, and they're very clean and sharp. I think they look better than people are giving them credit for.

 

Eventually my wish is Microsoft eventually replaces its icon system with vector based icons, like they've enabled with multi-color fonts. Currently those are unshaded.. though it would be cool if they had a shading option that could be hidden or disabled with a flag. The cool thing behind vector icons is they can be infinitely mod-able to user preference, and based on UI context.

Classic mode has regressed in quality ever since Windows Vista.

 

Everything regressed in quality in Windows starting from Win2000

I'm glad classic is dead, good riddance 

 

At work we have moved to 7/8 and at first a few fools complained that it "looks different" unlike some I never mentioned the classic theme in 7, guess what, all the whinging like a baby stopped once they started USING windows 7/8, hell there was more useless crying over the XP-7 change than the 7-8 changes 

 

Moral of the story, suck it up and get over it, the new UIs are just better in every way 

The new IU is worse in any way. The next OS I will install will be Windows 2000/ I am fed up with this Win7 crap. And even Win XP is of lower quality compared to Win 2000.

What's even more ironic is that Windows 8's interface already contains significantly less transparency and glossiness by default, so why do we even need Classic?

Obviously not to combat transparency.

 

The Classic theme was designed for different graphics capabilities : no anti-aliasing, compatibility with low-color monitors, low resolutions, no subtle effects. 

 

It was a good for its time... but the reason it changed wasn't fashion and changing tastes. The reason it changed is because computers are better.

 

A think which was better at older hardware will be exponentially better on newer hardware. I do not want those gigantic buttons and window borders to reduce my screen space roughly to the '90s era. If I buy a new computer, I expect more things to fit on the screen, not less or the same because somebody decided that newer monitor needs greater buttons.

Yeah but the metro-style theme is an updated version of the classic theme.  It's the same to me...

 

So to answer the OP question, I say yes.  It's called "metro" :p  lol

One important thing in the Classic theme is that it has 3D appearance and 3D button feedback. I simply cannot live without any 3D feedback. If I press a button and it does not get pressed, I instinctively press the mouse button harder and still feel this somehow did not work. I have to think every time "well, it did not get pressed, but this does not mean it not worked, it just changed the color..." etc. And these thoughts every time!

What's even more ironic is that Windows 8's interface already contains significantly less transparency and glossiness by default, so why do we even need Classic?

Well, Win10 interface looks more like Windows 1 from 1980. A humble style designed initially for very poor hardware:

 

092e1335-9c7f-43ee-99f9-0846ae915dd7_7.j

The new IU is worse in any way. The next OS I will install will be Windows 2000/ I am fed up with this Win7 crap. And even Win XP is of lower quality compared to Win 2000.

What the heck do you think you'll be able to run by installing that?

One important thing in the Classic theme is that it has 3D appearance and 3D button feedback. I simply cannot live without any 3D feedback. If I press a button and it does not get pressed, I instinctively press the mouse button harder and still feel this somehow did not work. I have to think every time "well, it did not get pressed, but this does not mean it not worked, it just changed the color..." etc. And these thoughts every time!

Windows Vista, 7, and 8.1 all have button "pressing" feedback. Buttons today work just the same as they did 15 years ago.

  • Like 2

What the heck do you think you'll be able to run by installing that?

Windows Vista, 7, and 8.1 all have button "pressing".

Office 97. Clippy included.

IE 6.

ICQ 2000.

 

... and all the other quality software from the era.

  • Like 2

What the heck do you think you'll be able to run by installing that?

 

The same things as Windows XP. One can add DX9 (or even 11), ClearType support, Windows Restore, IPv6, .NET4.0, arranging icons by grid and other things to Win2000. It is essentially the same OS as WinXP but of higher quality and less bugs.

 

Windows Vista, 7, and 8.1 all have button "pressing" feedback. Buttons today work just the same as they did 15 years ago.

 

Even Start orb, taskbar, window close buttons? In Aero - no. Also in Aero(and other non-clessic themes) there is no support for ClearType on the taskbar which is in itself is highly annoying (it is just one of the myriads of bugs in Win7).

 

But it has been already mentioned that the Classic theme is still in Win10 albeit hidden, so the main problem of Windows Vista+ for me is not Aero? but totally crapped file manager. Once ReactOS succeeds with re-writing Explorer, I may consider switching to Win10 or leter.

The same things as Windows XP. One can add DX9 (or even 11), ClearType support, Windows Restore, IPv6, .NET4.0, arranging icons by grid and other things to Win2000. It is essentially the same OS as WinXP but of higher quality and less bugs.

 

Even Start orb, taskbar, window close buttons? In Aero - no. Also in Aero(and other non-clessic themes) there is no support for ClearType on the taskbar which is in itself is highly annoying (it is just one of the myriads of bugs in Win7).

 

But it has been already mentioned that the Classic theme is still in Win10 albeit hidden, so the main problem of Windows Vista+ for me is not Aero? but totally crapped file manager. Once ReactOS succeeds with re-writing Explorer, I may consider switching to Win10 or leter.

 

 

I have to surmise based on your join date and posts that you are someone's troll account, nothing you have posted has made any logical sense whatsoever 

  • Like 2
This topic is now closed to further replies.
  • Recently Browsing   0 members

    • No registered users viewing this page.
  • Posts

    • HOLY THREAD REVIVAL   But yes, look for browser.nova.enabled and set it to true
    • 5-year subscription to AdGuard VPN price-dropped now 90% off by Steven Parker Today's highlighted deal comes via our Apps + Software section of the Neowin Deals store, where you can save 88% off a 5-year subscription to AdGuard VPN. In the digital age where internet privacy is paramount, AdGuard VPN emerges as an essential tool. This virtual private network (VPN) is your encrypted gateway to the internet, helping your data stay secure and your online activities remain private, regardless of your location. More than just a privacy tool, AdGuard VPN is a robust solution packed with features that cater to a variety of internet needs. Why AdGuard VPN subscription deal over other VPNs: Exhaustive List of Locations: With 60+ locations available worldwide, you have the freedom to connect from anywhere you want, effectively bypassing geographically restricted content. Check complete list of servers here. Advanced Security Protocol: AdGuard VPN uses its own security protocol, guaranteeing a faster and safer VPN connection. This means you can browse, stream, and download with peace of mind knowing your data is secure. Zero-Logging Policy: Rest assured, your personal data is not collected and your internet traffic stays private at all times, thanks to AdGuard's strict zero-logging policy. Simultaneous Connections: Connect up to 10 devices simultaneously, providing protection for all your devices under just one account. Trusted Developer: AdGuard is a renowned name in the world of computer security, bringing their expertise and commitment to privacy and security to their VPN service. What You Get: Up to 10 devices connected simultaneously All locations Light-speed servers Unlimited data No logs policy Trusted developer Available on all platforms Privacy Created by a team from Russia, AdGuard software Limited is headquartered in Limassol, Cyprus. While the country does follow European privacy laws, it's not part of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance. Adguard may not properly work in China. Good to know Length of access: 5 years This plan is only available to new users Redemption deadline: redeem your code within 30 days of purchase Device per license: 10 Access options: desktop & mobile Updates included 5- years of AdGuard VPN normally costs $359.40 without discounts, but it can be yours just $39.97, that's a saving of $324.43 (90%) off. For full terms, specifications, and license info please click the link below. Get this 5-year AdGuard VPN deal for just $34.97 (was $359.40) Although priced in U.S. dollars, this deal is available for digital purchase worldwide. Support queries If you have queries or need support for any of the Neowin Deals, please use the contact form here. Neowin Deals are managed and sold by StackCommerce who represent Neowin on an affiliate basis. Why we post these deals We post these because we earn commission on each sale so as not to rely solely on advertising, which many of our readers block. It all helps toward paying staff reporters, servers and hosting costs. So for those that keep moaning and complaining, be thankful we're still online for you to even do that. Other ways to support Neowin Whitelist Neowin by not blocking our ads Create a free member account to see fewer ads Make a donation to support our day to day running costs Subscribe to Neowin - for $14 a year, or $28 a year for an ad-free experience Disclosure: Neowin benefits from revenue of each sale made through our branded deals site powered by StackCommerce.
    • KillerPDF 1.5.1 by Razvan Serea KillerPDF is a lightweight, portable PDF editor for Windows built for users who want full control without subscriptions, installers, or telemetry. It runs as a single executable, making it ideal for USB use and field work. You can view PDFs with smooth PDFium rendering, navigate quickly with thumbnails, zoom, and shortcuts, and reorganize pages using drag-and-drop. It supports merging multiple PDFs, splitting documents, and extracting selected pages. KillerPDF also allows inline text editing with font matching to preserve the original layout, plus annotations like text boxes, freehand drawing, highlights, and reusable signatures. You can search full text, copy content easily, and print documents with flattened annotations. Designed as a free and open alternative to bloated PDF tools, it works fully offline on Windows 10/11 x64. No runtimes install. Everything needed is inside the EXE (targets .NET Framework 4.8, which ships with every supported Windows release). KillerPDF key features: High-quality PDF rendering via PDFium Edit PDF text inline (double-click to modify text) Page thumbnails and fast navigation with zoom and shortcuts Merge multiple PDFs into one Split PDFs and extract selected pages Drag-and-drop page reordering Font matching to preserve original document appearance Text boxes for notes Freehand drawing tools Highlight overlays with adjustable color, size, opacity Undo actions and clear per-page annotations Create, draw, and save reusable signatures Click-to-place signatures anywhere Full-text search with highlighted results Drag-select or Ctrl+A to copy text Print with annotations flattened Portable single-file app (~10 MB) No installer, no admin rights required No account, no telemetry KillerPDF 1.5.1 changelog: Performance Save Flattened PDF now uses multiple CPU cores. Page rasterization is parallelized (PNG encoding runs across cores; the PDFium render step stays serialized since the library isn't thread-safe), so large documents flatten significantly faster while the UI stays responsive (#68). Fixed PDFs that failed to open with "Unexpected EOF" now open (#72). The failure was PdfSharpCore's Flate inflater (SharpZipLib) rejecting the FlateDecode cross-reference stream on multi-revision PDFs - files that open fine in browsers, Acrobat, and Foxit. KillerPDF now detects this and re-opens the file losslessly through PDFium, preserving selectable text. Thanks to @javajon for the report and a detailed reproduction. Grid view renders every page. It was capped at the first 26 pages, so longer documents stopped loading partway through. Tiles also stream in progressively now instead of blocking until the whole document is rendered. Grid Ctrl+Scroll no longer reloads every page when the zoom is already at its limit and nothing would change. Removed a stray horizontal scrollbar (a thin green line) that could appear across the bottom of grid view. Files on UNC / network shares (including the WSL \\wsl$ filesystem) are copied locally before opening, avoiding partial-read failures on network filesystems. Changed Minimum zoom lowered from 10% to 5%, so grid view can pack more columns (helpful for wide/landscape pages) and single-page view can zoom out further. Download: KillerPDF 1.5.1 | 6.3 MB (Open Source) Link: KillerPDF Home Page | Github | Screenshot Get alerted to all of our Software updates on Twitter at @NeowinSoftware
    • You can enable the Nova redesign in Firefox 152 stable, under about:config.
  • Recent Achievements

    • One Year In
      Console General earned a badge
      One Year In
    • One Year In
      Twozo Technologies earned a badge
      One Year In
    • One Month Later
      Twozo Technologies earned a badge
      One Month Later
    • Week One Done
      Twozo Technologies earned a badge
      Week One Done
    • Veteran
      branfont went up a rank
      Veteran
  • Popular Contributors

    1. 1
      +primortal
      520
    2. 2
      +Edouard
      196
    3. 3
      PsYcHoKiLLa
      111
    4. 4
      Steven P.
      89
    5. 5
      Nick H.
      71
  • Tell a friend

    Love Neowin? Tell a friend!