14 DAY TRIAL // Just like its desktop sibling, Windows RT 8.1 is expected to receive an important update this spring that would bring plenty of improvements, including an enhanced Metro UI that comes with power options right on the Start screen.
Windows RT 8.1 Update 1 is now available for download via unofficial channels, which means that those who already purchased an ARM tablet, such as Microsoft’s own Surface RT, can now install the update before its public release in April.
Famous Windows leaker WZor, who has a good track on information concerning Microsoft’s new projects, revealed that Windows RT 8.1 Update 1 has leaked in the form of stand-alone MSU installer that can easily be deployed on ARM tablets running Windows RT or Windows RT 8.1.
As it’s the case of desktop versions, this leaked build is the RTM flavor that is expected to be released for download in early April and comes with the same features that would be shipped to users via Windows Update.
Windows 8.1 Update 1 is expected to be released to MSDN subscribers on April 1 or April 2, while end users are scheduled to get it on April 8 together with the Patch Tuesday fixes supposed to address flaws in Microsoft products.
Microsoft has worked to improve the desktop experience in Windows 8.1 Metro by adding context menu-like options, thus allowing PC users to access specific features in the touch-optimized interface using the traditional mouse and keyboard.
At the same time, Microsoft is also implementing options to pin Metro apps to the taskbar and thus launch them without getting to the Start screen first.
It’s not yet clear whether Microsoft is planning to introduce the exact same feature package in Windows RT 8.1 Update 1, but it’s a bit obvious that some of these improvements do not make much sense on a touch-capable device.
The taskbar improvements, for example, do not really come in handy for users who are sticking to the Metro UI for launching apps and playing games, so there’s no doubt that Microsoft tried to improve the desktop side of its modern operating system in this new update.
As mentioned, the leaked pack is shipped in the form of an MSU file, so the only thing you need to do is to double click the downloaded items and allow the process to be completed. Several reboots of the device might also be recommended and a fully charged battery is absolutely needed.