Download Windows 8.1 Preview - Microsoft Windows
Microsoft has said that it will change 'key aspects' of its Windows 8 operating system for PCs, laptops and tablets, admitting that the steep learning curve for users is 'definitely real'. See also: Microsoft to change 'key aspects' of OS with Windows Blue.
"Not only will Windows 8.1 respond to customer feedback, but it will
add new features and functionality that advance the touch experience and
mobile computing’s potential. Windows 8.1 will deliver improvements and
enhancements in key areas like personalization, search, the built-in
apps, Windows Store experience, and cloud connectivity."
Read on to find out exactly what Windows 8.1 is and how it will affect you.
Windows 8.1: Release date
Windows 8.1 will be officially launched at the Microsoft Build
developer conference in San Francisco on June 26. But you won't be able
to get hold of it immediately. The final version will be available as a
free downloadable Windows 8 update 'late 2013', according to Microsoft.
At that point also expect some new Windows Blue hardware in time for
Christmas.
For now you can give the Windows 8.1 Preview a trial run.
What is Windows 8.1 (aka Windows Blue)?
Windows Blue is a new version of the Windows 8 operating system which
Microsoft is working on. Instead of releasing service packs, Microsoft
will issue new versions of the OS much like Apple does with OS X.
The firm already does a similar thing with Windows Phone, for example, 7.5 'Mango' and 8 'Apollo'.
Tammi Reller, head of marketing and finance for the Windows, said:
"It will deliver the latest new innovations across an increasingly broad
array of form factors of all sizes, display, battery life and
performance, while creating new opportunities for our ecosystem. It will
provide more options for businesses, and give consumers more options
for work and play."
Windows 8.1: What new features will it bring?
Microsoft has given a 'first look' at Windows 8.1, detailing some of the new features which will arrive with the update.
Personalisation and apps
As leaked information suggested, users will be able to personalise
the OS more. The Lock screen can now display a slideshow of photos (plus
the camera can be used without needing to log in). There will also be
more colours and backgrounds for the Start screen.
The updated Start screen will offer new larger and smaller tile
sizes. "You can now select multiple apps all at once, resize them,
uninstall them, or rearrange them." said Microsoft.
Newly installed apps won't be added to the Start screen
automatically, instead it will be displayed in a 'new' section of the
apps menu. Microsoft said users will also be able to view apps by name,
date installed, most used or by category.
Microsoft said the pre-loaded apps in Windows 8 will be improved
including Photos and Music. There will also be some new apps which are
yet to be announced and Snap Views will let you resize apps to the any
size and the ability to have three apps on-screen at once for better
multi-tasking.
"Also in Windows 8.1, you can have multiple windows of the same app
snapped together – such as two Internet Explorer windows." added
Microsoft.
Windows Store
Microsoft will update the Windows Store in version 8.1. A redesign
will aim to show more information and a search bar at the top. Listing
are more descriptive and includes an related apps section to help you
find new apps.
Search
The search section of the Charms bar will give 'global search results
powered by Bing' in order to give you the best result. It will work for
the web, apps, files, SkyDrive and actions you can take.
"Quick actions include things you would want to do like play a song
or video. Results from local files, apps, and settings are easily
accessed in the same convenient view by scrolling to the left." said the
firm.
Other
Other updates will include PC settings which can be accessed without
using the control panel and Internet Explorer 11 touting better
performance. SkyDrive will also let you save files directly to the cloud
and offline access.
In what is, in a way, the return of the Start menu, the Start 'tip'
will now be the Windows logo and pop up when the mouse is moved to the
bottom left hand corner of the screen. It will also be visible whenever
you're in Desktop mode.
"There are also options to change what the corners do, and options to
boot into alternate screens. For example, if you prefer to see the Apps
view versus all the tiles, you can choose to have the Start screen go
directly to Apps view." said Microsoft.
A rumour is that users will be able to boot straight to the desktop
rather than the Start Screen. This is not currently possible in Windows
8. We'll have to wait and see if this tips up.
Windows 8.1: Price
Microsoft has announced that the Windows 8.1 update will be available for free via the Windows Store
