The new customisations options include an updated Start screen, more choices in background design and colours, and a choice between whether to boot to the Start screen or directly to the classic Windows desktop. One of the most high profile changes is the return of the Start button. In addition an updated app view lets users view all there apps at once.
The improved search experience arrives in the form of Bing Smart Search, which aims to provide the "easiest way for users to find what they needs on the device or on the Web" in a single consolidated view. The search results, and the way that they are displayed, will depend on the search terms. For example, a search for "san diego" will display a weather forecasts, pictures, and information about local attractions.
Windows 8.1 updates many of Microsoft's built in app and services. One of the most notable is Internet Explorer 11, described by Microsoft as being optimised for touch performances, which will synchronise browsing history, bookmarks, and other settings across multiple devices, via the cloud. The new version of Microsoft's browser also introduces support for live tile notifications when you pin your favourites web sites to the Start screen (e.g. information on news posts, sports scores, and updates). There's also greater integration with other apps, such as the one click calling with Skype (phone number automatically detected and highlighted) and a new reading view that aims to make it consume text based content.
The updated version of Windows also makes it easy to use up to four apps side-by-side, part of a bundle of features that are designed to improved the multi-tasking and productivity experience. Other features in this category include improved multi-monitor support and greater control for one app launching another app (e.g. launch to aspecific view or position).
The redesigned Windows Store aims to improve how apps are showcased in an effort to make it easier for consumers to finds apps relavent to them. Microsoft also hopes the redesign will drive additional downloads and encourage more developers to submit their apps to the Windows Store. The Windows Store has a number of new categories (e.g. New & Rising) and personlaised recommendations (powered by Bing). In addition, by default, apps will now be updated automatically.
A number of the user interface and other updates bring the Windows and Windows Phone platforms closer together in terms of user experience concepts. There are the obvious shared services, such as SkyDrive and Skype, but also more subtle visual clues, such as the app switcher and behaviour of Live Tiles.
More information on all the new features in Windows 8.1 is available from the dedicated Microsoft Windows 8.1 website.
Microsoft is also using the release to push its message of "Windows everywhere", backed up by a major marketing campaign, which emphasised the commonalities between the Microsoft software than runs on PCs, laptops, tablets, and phones. As Terry Myerson, Microsoft's EVP of Operating Systems, explains on the Windows Blog:
From SkyDrive to Bing to Internet Explorer to Skype and more, devices running Windows and Windows Phone make it easy to arrange it all around you – be all work, all play, or both at the same time.
Quickly get to your favorite apps and content with Live Tiles. Take pictures on your Windows Phone and show them to your friends and family on a Windows device or Xbox with SkyDrive integration. With Bing, it’s easier than ever to find what you need, from a document on your laptop to text within a photo taken on your Windows Phone. Use Skype to IM or video call out of the box on any device. Take your music collection with you from your living room to your office to the gym with Xbox Music. Use your phone or tablet to control your Xbox with SmartGlass.
If you’re already running Windows 8, download 8.1 tomorrow to see the new Windows, which brings you one experience for everything in your life. And if you’re in the market for a new device, keep an eye out for the great new Windows devices that will be on store shelves this holiday season: from affordable phones, 8” tablets and touch PCs to high-end devices, there’s a Windows device for you.
