<p>A recent leak of Windows Blue, an impending update for Windows 8, persuaded some observers to argue that Microsoft is laying the groundwork needed to take the windows out of Windows by transferring several traditional desktop lynchpins to the touch-centric modern UI.</p><p>Right now, however, the idea is laughable for one simple reason: Microsoft can't ditch the traditional desktop interface without having a modern UI version of Microsoft Office waiting in the wings. Along with Windows, the Office productivity suite is a key pillar of Microsoft's consumer-facing business, and neither early reports nor Microsoft's recent public admission that Blue exists ever linked Office with a modern UI makeover.</p><p>A new report does.Gemini: Rethinking Microsoft Office</p><p>ZDNet's Mary Jo Foley claims that a Blue-like rapid update cycle for Office exists, code-named "Gemini." The first wave of updates is allegedly due to arrive this fall, followed by a follow-up sometime next year. Foley expects the first fall wave to introduce modern UI versions of Office's various apps, including Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.</p><p><a href="http://www.pcworld.com/article/2032326/office-gemini-dragging-microsofts-productivity-suite-into-the-modern-windows-ui.html">Keep reading...</a></p><p>Read also:</p><p><a href="http://www.zdnet.com/microsofts-office-gemini-windows-blues-twin-7000013195/">Microsoft&#039;s Office &#039;Gemini&#039;: Windows Blue&#039;s twin</a> (ZDNet)</p><p><a href="http://bgr.com/2013/03/27/microsoft-office-gemini-release-date-rumor-400810/">Microsoft&#039;s next-generation &#039;Gemini&#039; Office update reportedly slated for fall ...</a> (BGR)</p><p><a href="http://www.slashgear.com/next-gen-microsoft-office-is-codenamed-gemini-27275569/">Next-gen Microsoft Office is codenamed "Gemini"</a> (SlashGear)</p><p>Explore: <a href="http://news.google.com/news/more?ncl=dYti8wpGdyHyHeM_SGs5_hvgEopYM&ned=us">250 additional articles.</a></p>