Microsoft are gearing up for the official launch of Windows 8 on 26 October 2012 and the final version has already been shipped to hardware manufactures.  However in a surprise last-minute u-turn Microsoft look set to change the name of 'Metro'.

Metro is the name given to the block-like interface set to debut in Windows 8, giving it a more modern look and feel, according to Microsoft.  The interface also lends itself well to tablet devices with its more chunky feel for finger tip navigation.  The name Metro has been used since the announcements of Windows 8, however it would appear that the tech giant is dropping the name in what appears to be a threat of litigation over a trademark dispute.

Microsoft are playing down the reason but have communicated to developers to refer to it as "Windows 8 style UI" for the moment.

In a statement, Microsoft said: "We have used Metro style as a code name during the product development cycle across many of our product lines.  As we get closer to launch and transition from industry dialogue to a broad consumer dialogue we will use our commercial name"

This is a huge turn-around for them considering they are so close to launch and the brief statement does suggest they have no intention of contesting the alleged trademark dispute, which is believed to be with Metro AG in Germany -- although this is unconfirmed as Metro AG declined any comment.