Seeking to stem the tide of people migrating to other platforms, software behemoth Microsoft has announced the global availability of Windows 8.1, an update to its Windows 8 operating system.
Consumers with a Windows 8 device can download the free update via the online Windows Store. Windows 8.1 will also be available on new devices and as boxed software at retail locations around the world.
Microsoft said Windows 8 marks a wave of new devices such as tablets and laptops — many of which are touch-enabled and will deliver advancements in processing power, battery life and design.
?With Windows 8, we introduced innovation for an era of highly mobile, touch-enabled, and always-connected computing,? said Mae Moreno, Windows client business lead at Microsoft Philippines.
Jojo Ayson, managing director for the Philippines at Ripple Effect Group Asia Pacific, said in a statement issued by Microsoft Philippines that the software update plugs the holes in Windows 8.
?I?m happy that most of the features that I was looking for in Windows 8 have been added in the update. It has been made more flexible and easier to use. At the same time, I am also keen to see the upcoming devices running on this new version of Windows,? said Ayson, himself a former employee of the local Microsoft office.
Windows 8.1 offers a host of increased customization refinements and functional improvements, including the following:
? An improved and more customizable Start screen offers variable tile sizes, more background designs, and colors so each Windows device looks unique and personal to the individual. In addition, customers can choose how to start their Windows experience ? at the Start screen or directly in the familiar Windows desktop — while all their Windows devices stay in sync with their Microsoft account.
? As an iconic part of the Windows experience, Windows 8.1 brings back the Start button as a familiar point of navigation. An updated apps view lets users see all their apps at once for easy access and new clicks and cues, as well as a Help + Tips app that gets them up to speed quickly.
? The new Bing Smart Search provides the easiest way to find what?s needed on the device or on the Web in one consolidated view that?s built for touch. Simply swipe or type from the Start screen and Smart Search will find it? whether it?s a document on a PC, a photo album on SkyDrive, a favorite app, or a website.
? Windows 8.1 offers a range of apps and services from the Start screen, allowing customers to do the things they love on Windows, such as catching up with friends and family via Skype, emailing in the Mail app, finding new recipes with the Bing Food & Drink app, or listening to free streaming music. It also comes with the new Internet Explorer 11, which is fast and fluid perfect for touch. Internet Explorer 11 brings enhanced touch performance, speed boosts, and synchronized browsing history, favorites and settings across all Windows 8.1 devices. Windows 8.1 also provides native support for 3-D printing, meaning it will have plug-and-play support for 3-D printers, enable apps to seamlessly print 3-D jobs and understand 3-D file formats.
? Windows 8.1 includes the display and use of up to four apps side by side, flexible windows sizing for each app on the screen, the ability for one app to launch another app, and improved multi-monitor support so users can view the desktop or apps from the Windows Store on any or all monitors.
? With SkyDrive, users can create, edit, save and share files anywhere, anytime, on whatever device they?re using.
? A redesigned Windows Store improves how great apps are showcased and makes it easier for customers to get the apps they want. Fresh layouts and categories, such as New & Rising, make it easier to stay up to date on new entries to explore. Personalized recommendations use the Bing advanced recommendation and relevance system to help find new favorites. And with Windows 8.1, apps are updated automatically by default, so users always have the newest and best version of any app, such as Fresh Paint, which now includes watercolor, a new graphite pencil set and a new clean, modern user interface for the latest painting or drawing creations. New and updated apps are also continually being delivered to the Store including Facebook, Adobe PhotoShop Express and eBay.
