The new Windows 8.1 SKU has reached the web and can be downloaded right now

Jun 2, 2014 08:22 GMT  ·  By

As we've reported to you earlier today, Windows 8.1 with Bing is already being tested by Microsoft's partners and a leaked screenshot seems to confirm that Redmond has indeed submitted this new SKU to manufacturers.

Now Windows 8.1 with Bing has reached the web too and can be downloaded by everyone out there, as long as they know where to look. Of course, this particular OS version cannot be found on Microsoft's website, as it's only designed for OEMs, but given the fact that it has leaked via unofficial channels, everyone can find it online with a little effort.

We still don't know if Windows 8.1 with Bing is offered free of charge or at a lower cost to manufacturers, but Microsoft's main goal is to encourage partners to develop more affordable devices that would help boost the adoption of the new modern operating system.

Not much is known about it, but Microsoft confirmed that it does come with Bing configured as the default search engine in Internet Explorer. Of course, in order to comply with competition regulations and to give users more choices, Microsoft still allows them to switch to a different search engine, such as Google.

Windows 8.1 with Bing will never be released for download separately, as Microsoft clearly stated that it will be pre-installed on devices launched by its partners.

“This new edition will be only be available preloaded on devices from our hardware partners. Some of these devices, in particular tablets, will also come with Office or a one-year subscription to Office 365,” it said.

The purpose behind this new SKU is as simple as it could be: Microsoft wants to boost the adoption of its modern operating system by bringing as many affordable devices to the market as possible, while at the same time competing against cheap Android tablets.

“The end result is that more people—across consumer and commercial—will have access to an even broader selection of new devices with all the awesomeness that Windows 8.1 provides, and get Office too, all at a really affordable price. Additionally, as reach expands, the opportunity for developers and their apps also increases,” the company also noted.

If you do decide to download and install Windows 8.1 with Bing, keep in mind that since it comes via unofficial channels, you won't receive support in case something bad happens, so you better stick to your current OS to be on the safe side.