Here we go: after months of waiting and various prerelease and RTM, the final version of Windows 8.1 was just released. The operating system is now available for current users of Windows 8.0, in the form of a huge update to download.The update of the OS proposes several significant changes. Among theme, we find the return of the "Start" button that disappeared with Windows 8, but also more opportunities for customization and the ability to synchronize data on multiple devices.
Here's what's new :
The Start Button
The most famous new feature in Windows 8.1 is the return of the "Start" button. The button, present since Windows 95 was removed from the traditional system interface. Microsoft preferred to focus on the new home screen suitable for touch-pads and smartphones, where icons have been replaced by "tiles" . The size of symbols has been criticized by the followers of Windows. At that point Microsoft agrees to take a step back in Windows 8.1 and bring the Start button, and also allows to start the computer or tablet under the old Windows display.
Smart Search
Another one of the changes in this version lies in the search option of the interface. It now offers, on one page, all the results available on the system an also on SkyDrive or on the Internet with the addition of the Bing search tool.
Synchronization in Windows 8.1
Windows 8.1 also offers the ability to synchronize accounts in multiple devices running the version of the OS. Users will be able to access all their settings, their applications and documents stored in the cloud (SkyDrive) for all their PCs and tablets running the Microsoft OS.More Customization
In addition to this, there are more options for personalizing the lock screen on which the user can now integrate the desktop screen background, but is not revolutionary either. Also on the home screen, it is now possible to set "dynamic" visuals or even choose the color of the display or to change the size of thumbnails or tiles.
SkyDrive
SkyDrive, the online storage tool from Microsoft, offers more features on Windows 8.1, because it gets a file explorer function instead of going through the desktop like on Windows 8.
Multitasking
Multitasking has also been revised to display more than three applications at the same time on the screen. Microsoft also improved multi-monitor support in Windows 8.1 allowing users to view their desktop or apps from the Windows Store on any or all their monitors.
Finally, certain Windows 8 applications are reviewed with this update, the icon of Xbox Music and others have been added by default. A help application is available in this new version along with an app for calculating, recording and alarm. The messaging application has meanwhile been replaced by Skype. The Windows Store has also been completed and made easier to use.
Windows 8.1 is a software of 3.42 GB available for free for Windows 8 users. For others, the Windows 8.1 license cost 119.99 $ and 199.99 $ in its Pro.
Note that Microsoft also offers assistance update for Windows 8 users on the following link.
