Microsoft recently previewed Windows 8.1, which promises not only a new look but also a better system that works perfectly with the needs of every user. Microsoft announced that changes made to the Windows 8 operating system began with the restoration of the “Start” button. But that’s just the start.
Aside from fixes, new features characterize this year’s two-hour keynote including Microsoft’s latest attempts at remaining relevant in a highly competitive stage dominated by Apple’s iOS and Google’s Android.
Rapid release
The Microsoft Build Developer Conference started on Wednesday at the Moscone Center in San Francisco and will last for three days. The organizers are making sure that there will be enough time to tackle all the important Windows OS updates. The conference is meant to be an opportunity for Microsoft to explain updates and sell to developers. CEO Steve Ballmer delivered the keynote which launched the conference. Microsoft executives made a staunch promise of a “rapid release” schedule to developers.
Addressing complaints
The announcements also addressed complaints made after the release of the new hybrid tablet and PC OS in late 2012. Microsoft 8 was released in October 26 and the touchscreen-optimized system had a downside to users who were looking for the familiarity of the Windows user interface. One of the most noticeable features of the latest version of Windows OS was the lack of a Start Button. It was removed with the mindset that users will get used to the new look of the operating system eventually. However its presence is undeniably one of the key aspects of Windows.
People were looking for the Start button and now they got what they wanted. Press it and all the apps come out in a jiffy. Users were vocal about their disappointment at the absence of the Start button and Windows happily obliged. Windows 8.1 welcomes back the Start button.
Snap
Windows fans can also look forward to Windows 8.1’s “snap view.” This brand new feature allows the user to view and access multiple apps onscreen. That’s eight apps side by side on two 2560×1600 resolution monitors. More than that, the user can decide how much area an app takes up on the screen. Snap view also launches automatically such as when a person is reading an email and clicks on a URL link. There’s no need to exit the e-mail app because the screen will split into two and Explorer will conveniently pop out.
Lots of other improvements
Some of the most exciting announcements made during the keynote involve updates on the Xbox Music app. There is also a level up to the Bing search engine (better maps!). There are new tools for developers using Windows 8 as well a 3-D printers built-in support. A couple of new Windows smartphones were also unveiled. CEO Steve Ballmer presented the new Lumia 928 and 926 which according to him has the best phone camera to date. Moreover, Windows touch devices currently at the works will “blur the line between tablets, notebooks and other all-in-one devices. On the downside, a smaller surface tablet computer was not unveiled as many techies expected.
Photo Credit: Steve Ballmer, CEO of Microsoft
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