The next vesion of Microsoft's operating system - codenamed Blue - will be reportedly a low-cost OS with regular updates instead of another big-bang Windows release.

Details are limited about Blue. The naming was first mentioned by Win8China.com in August, and today The Verge reported citing "sources familiar with Microsoft's plans" that the codenamed Blue is Microsoft plan to provide more regular updates to consumers across both Windows and Windows Phone.

According to the report, the Windows update, due in mid-2013, will include UI changes and will be priced low enough to ensure everyone installs it or upgrade from Windows 8/7. The new OS will also be based on apps, following the Windows 8 scheme. Of course, the apps and Windows Store will not be compatible with any pirated versions that would have been previously upgraded to the new Blue OS, The Verge added.

Microsoft has not commented on the report.

Until nnow , Microsoft had been offering service packs for each version of Windows - a rollup of fixes and updates. It seems that Windows Blue will more than that; a feature pack, which would include fixes plus new features.

In any case, Microsoft is moving away from its typical Windows release schedule and embraces a more Google / Apple tactic, which could help the company's position against rival platforms.