Everything you need to know about Windows 8.1 release date and new features

[Ash]

As we all know that Microsoft will be releasing its free update of Windows 8, i.e. Windows 8.1, in the coming months, here's something which you should be knowing.

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. See also: How to try out Windows 8.1 Preview in the UK.

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."



Read more: http://www.pcadvisor.co.uk/features...s-81-release-date-new-features/#ixzz2XcKF0EIK

 

[Jim17]

does the Win8.1 contains traditional Start button ? i heard that they are restoring the start button in Win8.1 is that true ?

 

[Ash]

It seems there will be a start button but not our traditional start button but a shortcut to the one which brings all the tiles.