14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft is betting big that its new Surface Pro 3 tablet, which is more of a 2-in-1 device that runs the full version of Windows 8.1 Pro, can truly replace a traditional laptop, as it comes with a 12-inch screen, a thin keyboard and powerful hardware to help you perform your daily tasks with ease.
But another key role in this “let's make the Surface Pro 3 a great laptop replacement” saga is played by Windows 8.1 Update, the OS version that comes with several improvements for the desktop and makes the modern operating system first launched by Microsoft in October 2012 much better with a mouse and keyboard.
The company says that Windows 8.1 Update seems to be just the right choice on a Surface Pro 3 and points to the recent improvements made to this OS version as living proof.
“Part of delivering on the promise of a great laptop replacement is wrapped up in delivering a great Windows experience. All the enhancements in Windows 8.1 Update combine perfectly with Surface Pro 3 to deliver on this promise,” the company says.
Microsoft has also highlighted some of the key features of Windows 8.1 Update, explaining that the operating system can now boot directly to desktop, pin Metro apps to the taskbar, access Start screen options with a simple right-click, and minimize apps thanks to their dedicated title bars.
“Of course, there are important management and security updates but features that improve the mouse and keyboard experience will probably be the most apparent and welcome improvements for many users,” the company said.
“These include the option to boot direct to desktop, having all open and pinned modern apps appear in the taskbar, being able to access the taskbar from within a modern app, being able to right-click an app tile to see more options, and being able to find the close and minimize buttons in the upper, right hand corner of modern apps.”
Windows 8.1 Update is mandatory for Windows 8.1 users, so all Surface Pro 3 tablets that shall be delivered starting next month are expected to be running this new OS version already. Shipments of Surface Pro 3 units will begin in June, but depending on the version you choose, you might have to wait until late August to receive your new tablet.
“Surface Pro 3 in combination with Windows 8.1 Update removes these barriers for users and allows them to use the device like they do any other laptop – with desktop apps, mouse and keyboard. But with Surface Pro 3, they get all the power and performance of a full PC in a thin, light tablet form factor,” Redmond concludes.