In a move described as "risky," Microsoft's Windows 8 will do without the iconic start button. Instead swiping your cursor into a defined corner will generate the menu.

Electronista claims the taskbar and application shortcuts will still be visible, but perhaps a little more lonely now that they're without the taskbar forefather.

The start button could very well make a comeback if its absence provokes a negative response as the version displayed is still in development.

Microsoft has already killed off the start button in its touch-friendly metro interface and its absence from the OS will deliver a more consistent experience.