14 DAY TRIAL // Now that Windows 8.1 Update 1 is a sure thing, it’s safe to say that Microsoft has indeed learned its lesson and is now working to tweak its modern operating system in such a way that it would better tackle consumer needs and resolve the issues they complained about for so long.
Joe Belfiore, Microsoft’s VP of the operating systems unit, said many interesting things during his keynote on Sunday, but one really caught everyone’s attention.
“In Microsoft’s vision, all devices can become mobile devices,” he said, pointing out that Redmond is still working to make it easier for users to access their personal information from all devices, including PCs, Xbox consoles, phones, and tablets using the Microsoft account.
Even though the emphasis is clearly on mobile devices, as Microsoft still has a very long way to go to compete on this particular side of the market, it’s no secret that the software giant is working to improve the modern operating system on the desktop, as many users of the traditional PC are still disappointed with the experience provided by Windows 8.
As a result, the Start screen will get Context Menu-like options in Windows 8.1 Update 1, while Metro apps can be pinned to the taskbar for quicker launch.
Another important step that Microsoft is making towards enhanced mobility is a change in hardware requirements for Windows 8.1 Update 1, which is supposed to bring more low-spec computers to the market.
Windows 8.1 Update 1 will thus require a device with 1 GB of RAM and 16 GB of storage space, which basically allows smaller tablets to also run the upcoming OS version. Microsoft is believed to be preparing its own device on this particular side of the market, in the form of a Surface Mini featuring an 8-inch display.