Screenshots of Microsoft’s next Windows 8 update, expected to be named 8.1 Update 1, have surfaced recently, and reports suggest it may be released in March. ZDNet reports that Microsoft is targeting a March 11th release date for the update, the same day the company releases its monthly security patches. While Microsoft has still not acknowledged Windows 8.1 Update 1 officially, many had expected the company to detail it at the upcoming Build developers conference in April. Instead, it appears Windows 8.1 Update 1 will be a minor update released before Build takes place.
Windows 8.1 Update 1 reportedly arriving in March
is a senior correspondent and author of Notepad, who has been covering all things Microsoft, PC, and tech for over 20 years.
ZDNet suggests most of the work is related to decreasing the footprint of Windows 8.1 for low-cost tablets, and The Verge can confirm that’s one particular aim for this update. Other changes include the ability to pin Windows 8-style (“Metro”) apps to the taskbar, and Media Center-like close and minimize buttons on Metro apps. While Microsoft is looking to merge the desktop and Metro worlds a little more closely in future updates, Windows 8.1 Update 1 simply includes smaller refinements towards any significant changes that may arrive in Windows 9. Microsoft is expected to detail its Windows 9 plans at Build in April, alongside a full unveiling of Windows Phone 8.1.
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