If anyone is interested, here's what coming next.
 
Windows 8.2 is likely to be very similar to the Spring Update (Windows 8.1 Update) and may be called Windows 8.1 Update 2 (Autumn Update). This is still being debated internally at Microsoft. Part of the Autumn Update will include a partially tiled Start Menu and possibly “windowed” Metro apps.
 
Windows 9 is likely to contain a revamped Metro interface. The new start menu and windowed Metro apps will also be included in this update.  In the classic form the start menu will be available on devices without a touchscreen and on server systems. On systems with a touchscreen, the start button should be a different concept. Microsoft is considering making a free version of Windows 9 but a final decision has not been made on this issue.
 
Windows Cloud OS
There is a group working on a prototype operating system where the client software will be free to download and additional functionality requires a subscription.  The functionality to download the OS resides in the system’s BIOS. Once installed Windows Cloud requires an internet connection for full functionality. In offline mode the OS would be similar to Microsoft’s budget operating system, Windows Starter.
 
They will also be doing away with the desktop on at least one version of Windows. Most likely Windows RT.

The Desktop is not a part of Windows RT now.

That's incorrect. Tap the desktop tile to get to the desktop in WinRT.

With 8.1 there maybe no desktop tile, but you can get it back:
http://www.neowin.net/new...esktop-tile-by-default

The cloud option is interesting...and growing in popularity as it has become more common.  But, they are going to have to come up with a way to do more when offline or this cloud-based offering won't get off the ground.  The Metro interface looks like a promising development, however.

You can also right click/press hold the windows start button to get to desktop on RT.

"Windows RT 8.1 is only available preinstalled on select tablets and PCs. Thin and light, Windows RT 8.1 PCs feature extended battery life, so they start up in an instant and stay connected to email, social networks, and apps, which means you’re always up to date. Office Home & Student 2013 RT is also included, so you can be productive while on the go. Windows RT 8.1 only runs built-in apps or apps that you download from the Windows Store. For more info, see the Windows RT 8.1 FAQ."
 
The above is from Microsoft  http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/rt  And this is the part that is what I am talking about  "Windows RT 8.1 only runs built-in apps or apps that you download from the Windows Store." Apps not programs.  For programs you need the desktop as in Windows 8.1 Pro.  

Check my link John. The reason why native windows apps won't run on RT is because the software won't run on ARM based chipsets which is what RT is designed to do (which runs metro apps compiled for ARM). RT does have a desktop supplied within its UI. Calling native windows apps 'desktop apps' just shows how confused MS marketing dept was with the whole thing themselves, it's not surprising their own customers get confused.Cheers.

Alex has it correct. I have an RT and it runs the Office Suite but the applications seem hobbled in most instances for my use (no VB code in Excel, Lookout can't connect consistently to one of my email accounts, etc.). Works great as a control surface for X3 transport controls...a bit small for mixing. I can also shift between the Start Page and a Desktop view.
 
Regards,
 
 

mmorgan
Alex has it correct. I have an RT and it runs the Office Suite but the applications seem hobbled in most instances for my use (no VB code in Excel, Lookout can't connect consistently to one of my email accounts, etc.). Works great as a control surface for X3 transport controls...a bit small for mixing. I can also shift between the Start Page and a Desktop view.
 
Regards,
 
 

To me a desktop in windows is for running programs. It has evolved from the DOS prompt. The use of a desktop without being able to run programs is of very limited use.  I fully understand what Windows RT is for. 
 
Apps don't meed a desktop.