Microsoft will release Windows 8.1 Update for devs today

Apr 2, 2014 17:30 GMT  ·  By

Microsoft today presented the Windows 8.1 Update at the BUILD 2014 developer conference, and while the company confirmed that everyone will get the new release on April 8, MSDN subscribers can download it starting later today.

As I’ve told you earlier today, Windows 8.1 Update will bring a long series of changes aimed at the traditional PC, thus trying to make the operating system more familiar for those still using a mouse and keyboard.

Windows 8.1 Update will thus come with context menus right on the Start screen, but also with dedicated options to pin Metro apps to the taskbar and launch them without first accessing the Modern UI. A new search box placed on the Start screen and power controls that allow users to quickly reboot or shut down their computers will also be offered, Microsoft confirmed today.

Metro apps now have a dedicated title bar and minimize and closing buttons, thus making it easier for users to control them with a mouse.

Windows 8.1 Update will be available free of charge for those already running Windows 8.1, with consumers to receive it via Windows Update together with the other fixes released by Microsoft on Patch Tuesday next week.

Update: Windows 8.1 Update is now available for download from MSDN.