Windows 8.1 Update 1 Gets Finalized For April Launch

We already know that an update for the Windows 8.1 operating system is coming. That update was tipped to land on April 8 not too long ago. April 8 is the same day that the end of support for Windows XP happens. Microsoft has now completed the development process for the update according to sources.

Sources familiar with the goings on at the software company are calming that the Windows 8.1 Update 1 software has reached Release to Manufacturing. Microsoft has also reportedly begun sharing the code for the update with partners and PC builders so machines running the new software can get ready to launch.

We already know a few of the things that will be coming to PC users in the update. The first major update for Windows 8.1 is tipped to include things that will make the OS easier to use for people on machines that lack a touch screen. Contextual right click menus are coming in the update for mouse users.

Windows 8 apps will be viewable on the desktop taskbar. One of the big changes is a new shutdown button being added to the start screen. Many of these features are things that users of Windows 8.1 asked for. Microsoft is also tipped to add a new search button to the OS. The update also promises to boot non-touch machines into the desktop interface automatically. A number of other changes will be added with the new update.

SOURCE: The Verge