I like how Windows 8.1 does it on computers, and I don't like how WP8.1 does it on WPs. If there is only the option for the tiles, and not the actual background like W8.1, then I'll just do the regular colors with no so-called "background". I guess we'll find out more at //build.
It works on Win8 because of the amount of gigantic void space between categorized tiles and bordering the screen. You can actually see stuff behind them. On WP the tiles take up the entire screen real estate unless you leave big square voids that make the start screen look incomplete. Unless you want to go back to the WP7 days where there was a large empty blank gutter on the right side of the screen.....
Im not saying either is the best way (i'd prefer the background to be changed too and not just skinned tiles) but the execution would be far less desirable unless MS allows the grouping of tiles with a header and opens up void space that way (like in win8 desktop) or some other way to actually be able to see the background.
I also I remember way back when people were brainstorming Metro/Modern UI customization ideas was that of transparent tiles. The skinned tiles seem to do the same thing.
It's not even out and People are already jumping to conclusions
This!
I have nothing against the ideas of backgrounds but I guess the biggest roadblock I see to it is the resizing of tiles on the start screen. Right now I look at my start screen and there's no space available to see it. I'd have to manipulate my screen to go around the background to make it worthwhile. There's only small gaps in the tile and the bit at the top. Is it worth putting a background? It would mean a big change in the display or specailized skinning of the start screen.
I have to say I'm more partial to the skinned tiles but in all honesty I probably wouldn't use either.
So much for simplicity I guess. People have an obsession with making something their own to extremes.
Can't you see the gaps created when grouping your start tiles? Please have another look at them.
Watch this please:
How to Group Apps in Windows 8 - YouTube
You have to remember that not everyone groups their tiles, even so I think that backgrounds like on Windows 8.1 are the way to go instead
I find it frustrating that we have to complaint to get what's already on Microsoft's platform considering they're pushing for the unifying experience. They should obviously includes something similar to your concept which I love (especially the category and the font you used) it should look similar across the board.