What happened?
Microsoft released a preview of Windows 8.1, the update to its latest operating system. Windows 8 hasn't been as warmly received as its predecessor and Microsoft is hoping to win over more PC users by addressing some of the most common complaints.Windows 8 introduced a number of new touchscreen-focused features, notably the Start screen, a series of 'tiles' representing applications. While the design works well on tablets, it's less useful for people still on a standard PC with a keyboard and mouse.
Another controversial change was removing the Start button - the Windows logo in the bottom left of the Desktop that gives access to applications and settings.
To address these criticisms, Windows 8.1 will let you bypass the Start screen and go directly to your Desktop, so you don't have to use the touchscreen-oriented features if you're on an older PC. It's also brought back the Start button - sort of.
Previously, you had to nudge your cursor into the corner of the screen to bring up settings, but there was no icon to tell you to do so. In Windows 8.1, you can press the button to bring up the Start screen, which makes navigation a little easier. However, it doesn't launch a Start menu of programs, as in previous versions of Windows.
Another major change introduced in Windows 8.1 is support for smaller tablets, to make it simpler to use the operating system on devices that are 8in and smaller. Because larger tablets tend to be used in portrait mode, Windows 8's Start screen scrolls horizontally, but Windows 8.1 will rearrange application tiles to work vertically, too.
Other new features include personalised backgrounds, such as animated wallpapers, and the ability to use the lock screen to show photos. This means that when your tablet or PC isn't being used, it effectively becomes a digital photo frame.
Windows 8.1 also introduces Internet Explorer 11, which includes a system to sync tabs across different devices (a feature long available in Firefox and Chrome).
The update is free for Windows 8 and Windows RT users, and is expected to be released this autumn. The preview is available now via the Windows Store, which will let you keep all your apps and settings in place. You can also download it from bitly/windows81322, but this means you'll need to reinstall your applications.
How will this affect you?
The release of Windows 8.1 should be good news to all PC users. If you're already using Windows 8, come autumn you'll have an improved operating system, with some of the irritating and awkward aspects ironed out. The update will be distributed to computers and tablets automatically via the Windows Store, and it's free, so you don't need to do anything to get it.If you haven't upgraded to Windows 8, your patience has paid off. While you continued to use the perfectly capable and still modern-feeling Windows 7 (or even Vista or XP), Microsoft's developers have worked at improving Windows 8. This update is a classic case of why it's often wise to wait for version two of a tech product, be it hardware or software.
What do we think?
We've always found Windows 8 a bit of a mixed bag, with some obvious mistakes that should have been sorted out before the final release. We're pleased that the improvements Windows 8.1 applies to the operating system show that Microsoft is listening to its users and taking (relatively) quick action based on their feedback. We're also happy that the update is being issued to Windows 8 customers at no extra cost.Additionally, such regular updates are set to become standard, which means the OS will keep getting better. That's not a bad deal at all, considering that Apple charges Mac users to upgrade to new versions of OS X.
Posted By Lotfi Ben Taleb
Tunisian Blogger obsessed with technology news and innovations around the world. contact me
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