Microsoft is already working on a major update for Windows 8.1

Nov 19, 2013 09:32 GMT  ·  By

Windows 8.1 was officially launched last month, but Microsoft is already working on a major update expected to be unveiled in early 2014.

Rumors spreading across the world suggest that the next Windows release could come as early as January 2014 and, among others, it could also include a fully-working Start Menu.

While we really doubt that this is actually going to happen, a Start Menu would continue Microsoft’s new strategy of getting closer to users, as the company has promised to tweak the operating system in such a way that it would be easier for consumers to access its features.

At the same time, rumor has it that the Spring GDR Update could be called Windows 8.2. While this would make sense at some level, previous reports indicated that Microsoft wants to stick to the Windows 8.1 designation and instead release large updates to patch the platform and add new features.

Of course, the Spring GDR Update is going to be offered free of charge to all users and will be delivered to all Windows 8.1 computers.

The update will only be offered to Windows 8.1 users, so in case you’re currently running Windows 8, you’re going to be required to first deploy 8.1 and only then get access to the new improvements slated to be unveiled in early 2014.

It’s not yet clear whether Microsoft is planning to rely on the store or the built-in Windows Update to make the upcoming patches available for download. Still, turning to Windows Update makes much more sense, especially because the company might create more confusion among Windows 8 consumers looking to migrate to Windows 8.1.

Keep in mind that these are all rumors, so take everything with a grain of salt until we hear something from Microsoft on the upcoming update.