Microsoft Windows 8.1 Preview now available for download
At its Build developers conference, Microsoft announced that it has made
the preview version of Windows 8.1, the update to its Windows 8 desktop
operating system, available to the public for download.As the
word 'preview' suggests, this build is sort of a final beta and might
contain some bugs so Microsoft recommends that you should only install
it if you're comfortable with troubleshooting your PC. The company also
warns that you might lose some functionality or encounter errors as the
software is still in development stage. Also, the final version of
Windows 8.1 could feature more changes.
To download the new OS, you need to visit the Windows 8.1 Preview page
and download a small program. It's worth pointing out you will not be
able to 'uninstall' Windows 8.1 Preview and will need to perform a fresh
install if you wish to go back to Windows 8.
After executing the
downloaded program, the PC will prompt you to restart and will give you
an option to download the Windows 8.1 update from the Windows Store.
You'll just need to follow the instructions to download and install the
update.Microsoft also lists some devices that are not compatible with the Preview, yet.It
says, "Some tablets and PCs running newer 32-bit Atom processors
require updates to their graphics drivers before they can run the
Windows 8.1 Preview. Those tablets and PCs include the Lenovo ThinkPad
Tablet 2, ASUS VivoTab TF810C, HP Envy X2, HP ElitePad 900, Samsung ATIV
Smart PC, and Fujitsu ARROWS Tab. We are working closely with Intel and
OEM partners to deliver updated drivers that will allow you to install
the Windows 8.1 Preview as soon as possible."
The Windows 8.1
update features a couple of new improvements including a new Start tip
that offers Start menu like functionality, desktop wallpapers for Start
screen, updated search, automatic app updates, new multitasking
experience, a revamped Store, better PC settings and a new version of
Internet Explorer, among other changes.