14 DAY TRIAL // During the summer, Microsoft started a company-wide transformation that was supposed to help the Redmond-based empire bring together its divisions and focus more on devices and services, with outgoing CEO Steve Ballmer explaining that this is the key to long-term success.
Now that Windows 8.1 is already available for download, the software giant claims that it’s actually the first fruit of “One Microsoft,” the revamped company whose transformation process still continues.
“Windows 8.1 represents collaboration across the entire company. Windows 8.1 will also bring some very innovative new devices for both consumers and businesses from tablets and 2-in-1s with a perfect mix of mobility and productivity, to new laptops, All-in-Ones and specialized industry devices Windows 8.1 brings the widest selection of designs at every price point,” Microsoft’s Brandon LeBlanc said in a post.
Even though Steve Ballmer will soon leave the company, it’s pretty clear that his vision will be continued by whoever comes next. The transition to devices and services is a mission that Microsoft clearly wants to complete, so Windows 8.1 could be the starting point.
Here’s what Steve Ballmer said in July when announcing the “One Microsoft” plan:
“A new structure to bring these to market faster. Stronger centralized services so we can be more efficient and effective. Priority focus areas, short and long term. New characteristics of how we work together. In other words, better execution and innovation through strategy and goal and discipline and engineering coherence. One Microsoft all the time.”
As for Windows 8.1, the update is already up for grabs for Windows 8 adopters, with the download available for free via the integrated Windows Store. Retail boxes of Windows 8.1 will reach the stores across the United States and the rest of the world tomorrow, with pricing to start at $119.99 (€90) for the core package.