The quote you provided highlights the transitional phase of the Windows 8 user interface before its final release. Microsoft had stated that the UI seen in the Release Preview was not the definitive version for the final release, indicating ongoing changes and improvements. This flexibility in design showcased the dynamic nature of the development process leading up to the RTM (Release to Manufacturing) stage.
For more insights on potential issues with Windows 8 and strategies for improvement, you can refer to the article titled "How Microsoft can salvage Windows 8 before it's too late" on ZDNet. It offers a concise overview of the challenges faced by Windows 8 and suggests ways to address them.
It's fascinating to explore how such transitional phases can impact the final product, especially in terms of user experience and functionality. Feel free to delve deeper into the details provided in the article for a comprehensive understanding of the topic.