Microsoft’s Windows 8.1 will be available to the public anytime soon. While the new operating system is far from perfect based on its preview release during the Build 2013 conference, it is clear that Microsoft did a whole lot of work to correct the flaws many users have complained about Windows 8. As a matter of fact, the company ditched many features and replaced them with new, solid ones.
If you cannot decide whether to switch to the upgraded OS or stick with Windows 8, here are four good reasons why you should consider switching.
Highlights of Contents
1. Improved Desktop Experience
One of the biggest complaints that many users had with Windows 8 concerns the modern UI (live tiles) that is touchscreen-based. To make matters worse, Microsoft removed the start button that many has greatly relied on when accessing a number of programs.
Luckily, Windows 8.1 packs some improvements that make it a more viable option for keyboard-loving users. After some tweaks, Microsoft reintroduces the “boot-to-desktop” option and the Start button that allows users to bypass the modern UI and opt for the original all-apps screen. Although these aren’t major changes, they do allow for easier transition, especially for those using previous Windows operating systems.
2. Allows Personalization
According to Microsoft, Windows 8.1 is all about creating highly personalized experience. True enough, among its many upgrades include a “personalize” option on the start page that lets you add different backgrounds, with a number of color choices. Windows 8.1 also has the ability to share background between the desktop and start page, creating an unobtrusive screen.
Another notable personalization is the revamped PC settings. The upgraded setting allows you to turn your screen into a photo display and enables you to turn off “hot corner” access to recent apps or charms.
3. Smarter Search
Finding applications on Windows 8 was a bit of a daunting task. Rather than clicking on the start menu (like many are accustomed with in previous Windows OS), you have to search through numerous tiles or type in a search from the start page.
Windows 8.1 addresses this problem in two ways. First, it organizes everything into a collection that you can access from the start page by swiping up. Then, you may categorize them in a number of ways, such as alphabetically, frequently used and last accessed among others. Second, it features a better search capability. When you start typing a search, the upgraded OS pulls results from the web and your PC and SkyDrive. All results, including photos, documents and apps related to the search, are then displayed on a search window to the right. With such powerful capability, there is no reason to miss out on things you are looking for.
4. A whole lot of Features and Apps
Microsoft has also packed a lot of features and apps to their new OS; some of which were updated while others are totally new. Among these include Miracast streaming, health tracker, food and drink, calculator, 3D printer support, Photosynth-style panorama in the camera, just to name a few. Basically, if you spend a good amount of time looking around, you will find myriad of features and apps that are truly helpful.
Betty Fulton is a full pledged writer who loves to write about technology and social media. She also contributes content for PC Doctor, a company providing laptop repairs in Edinburgh. When not at work, Betty spends a good amount of time reading novels and searching the web for great tech finds.
