The highly-anticipated Windows 9 is slated for a release date in Q2 or Q3, 2015, according to reports.

Leaker WZOR, who has been relied on for his information, said Windows 9 will come as a free update for those who installed Windows 8.1 or Windows 8 Update 2; or these users could have the Windows 9 update with a good discount.

It is reported Microsoft is trying to prevent any leaks for the upcoming OS.

Reports also said the second update to Windows 8.1 will be out on this third quarter, on August or September, and will be free for users who have installed Windows 8.1 Update 1.

The same leaker claims Windows 8.1 Update 2 will be tagged with an affordable price for those who run previous Windows versions.

According to reports from some leaked information, the upcoming Windows OS version Windows 9 will be part of the core strategy of Microsoft.

The updated OS is said to come with OneDrive, Cortana, Metro UI changes, enhanced Windows activation as well as Windows Defender for system protection.

Windows 9 will give users the option to disable the Metro interface and its early release will make Windows 8 into Microsoft's shortest-lived operating system.

Users of Windows 8 complained some functions being lost when the OS combined features for PC and tablet use. For instance, the disappearance of Start Menu in Windows 8 is one of the reasons why Windows 7 users has opted not go for an upgrade.

Mixing or combining traditional and mobile apps is also an unwelcome change.

Windows 9 may face the challenge to offer a really fresh wonderful experience to convince users who are not willing to update their Windows 7, which was formerly believed to be the "next Windows XP."