New Windows 8’s Release

Microsoft has revealed full details about the comprehensive update to Windows 8, now known as Windows 8.1 and formerly known as Windows Blue. We've also had plenty of time with the new update, so check out our brand new Hands on: Windows 8.1 review. There's also a Windows 8.1 RT version, too. Windows 8.1 was launched at the Microsoft Build developer conference in San Francisco and when available the final version will be available as a free downloadable Windows 8 update. In the meantime, Microsoft has released a preview version of the new version of Windows 8 - the Windows 8.1 Release Preview is now available to download. The final Windows 8.1 release date is likely to be September or October, as the OS will be released to manufacturers to install on new PCs in August. Microsoft recently creates Windows 8’s new Start screen and its ecosystem of apps as the heart of Windows 8. Changing Windows 8 so drastically would have alienated millions of Windows users worldwide, however. So, the traditional Windows desktop lives on in Windows 8’s Release Preview. And, in keeping with Windows 8’s new app-based approach, the desktop is simply another app. In the meantime, Microsoft has released a preview version of the new version of Windows 8 - the Windows 8.1 Release Preview is now available to download. The final Windows 8.1 release date is likely to be September or October, as the OS will be released to manufacturers to install on new PCs in August. When you’re ready for work, click or tap the Desktop app from the Start screen, and Windows 8’s desktop fills the screen), looking much like the desktop in Windows 7.