Microsoft recently released its long-awaited Windows 8.1 update in preview mode to the public. Now, the company has already revealed that it’s already set to deliver a final version to PC manufacturers later this summer.
Windows CFO Tami Reller revealed at Microsoft’s Worldwide Partner Conference (WPC) that the software maker will be finalizing Windows 8.1 in “late August,” noting that it will be made available to PC OEMs. Unfortunately, Reller didn’t reveal when users will be able to upgrade to the new version of the OS, but we’ve known for some time that devices powered by the OS-formerly-known-as-Blue are expected in time for the holidays.
The Windows 8.1 update was previewed early last month and we’ve had the chance to test the new OS for awhile now. There are a number of new features in the OS, including two new tile sizes, a more robust search feature, the ability to use the same background in both Metro and the desktop modes, and of course, better multi-screen support. And who can forget that Start button, an echo of days gone by that made its return as the company attempts to appease Windows 7 users who have not yet upgraded to Windows 8.
Users of the preview version will likely not be expecting or getting any major additions between now and the end of August; the Release to Manufacturing (RTM) date of late August suggests that Windows 8.1 preview includes the majority of new features and updates that will be made available when the final version ships later this year.