Washington, Sep 12 : The latest leaked Windows 9 screenshots give a closer look at how the desktop would be transformed in the future release of Windows.

German sites ComputerBase and WinFuture have obtained 20 photos of what the ' Windows Technical Preview', which is expected to be made available later this month or in early October.

The screenshots provide an even closer look at the new Start Menu , and some obvious changes to the Windows taskbar. These screenshots are an early version of what the tentative Windows 9 would look like before it ships next year, The Verge reported.

There's a new search icon next to the Start button on the taskbar, alongside what appears to be a button for the virtual desktops feature.

In later screenshots the virtual desktops feature is demonstrated, with a pane along the bottom of the Windows desktop that allows you to switch between virtualized desktop areas.

Windows 8-style apps can also be seen floating on the desktop in several screenshots, with app commands for search, share, play, and settings available in context menus within the apps. (ANI)