Windows 8.1 OS Available October 18th

Back in June we made it a point to let you know that Microsoft was planning the introduction of a new and improved version of their latest operating system, in a blog post titled, Re-Start Windows 8 with Windows 8.1. Today, with the October 18th launch date less than a month away, we would like to remind you of a few of the most interesting features of the revamped, redesigned OS form the folks in Redmond.

How much will Windows 8.1 Cost?

Of course, the first thing you’ll want to know is the cost of the new OS, which Microsoft has finally released. First, and best, Windows 8.1 is a free update for those of us already using the Windows 8 system. Next, customers in the US can purchase Windows 8.1 for $119.99 and Windows 8.1 Pro for $199.99. If you would like to upgrade to Windows 8.1 Pro from a device already using Windows 8.1, the cost will be $99.99. There will also be an Enterprise Version of 8.1 available for customers with a volume license.

What’s new – or better – in Windows 8.1?

Now that the Windows 8.1 preview version has been in use for a few months, the reviews are beginning to make it online, giving us a feel for what Microsoft has done to make their new OS more user-friendly and adaptable; and while there are still some strong critics of the changes, there are also some happy campers out there.

As we mentioned in our previous post about Win8.1, the largest complaint from Win8 users was the removal of the “Start” button form the desktop. While, at the time, we thought this to be a bit of an overreaction, we soon realized it was more about user’s comfort levels than it was about whining. Well, the good news is that Microsoft actually listened to their users this time and, with the new update to Win8.1, the Start button has made a big time comeback, and folks could not be happier.

Beyond that, here are a few other features that Windows 8.1 users are crowing about:

  • The desktop is a desktop once again.
  • The ubiquitous “Start” button is back
  • More seamless transitions among devices
  • A better “Touch Screen” experience
  • Better search results with “Universal Search”
  • A more intuitive interface
  • Fully integrated with the cloud, using SkyDrive
  • Works better with High-Res monitors
  • Far easier to personalize

· Learn more at the Microsoft Windows 8.1 Preview here

Of course, with Microsoft being Microsoft, and with users being users – and with both thinking they know best how to build a new OS – the Windows 8.1 is admittedly not perfect, but it is certainly a vast improvement over Windows 8.

For more on the new OS from Microsoft, please feel free to follow the links below.

· Windows 8.1 unveiled: will it change your mind about Windows 8?

· Windows 8.1 To Get A Start Button Because Windows Is Dumb Without One

· Here’s Your First Look at Windows 8.1

· Windows 8.1 release date, news and features

· Windows 8.1 first look video shows off touch-friendly features

The experts at North Star are here to help you with all of your Denver IT support needs. Please do not hesitate to contact us with your IT service request for help with your operating system, servers, or any other issues you may have.