Some of the biggest news in the tech world is the pre-release version of Windows 8.1 called Windows 8.1 preview. It is a small look into what is in store for Microsoft customers in the future and while only a sample, offers robust features that really provide customer satisfaction. This article will go over some of the biggest developments for Windows 8.1 preview.
Features
Start Screen
The start screen has gone through some changes and they are all good. One of the biggest is the re-sizing of tiles to fit user preferences. Many people thought the tile sizes in the first incarnation of Windows 8 were too big, but with this version there are many sizes to choose from. Also, users can further personalize their start screen by adding dynamic wallpaper to the background, the ability to move more than one app, and the option to change the lockscreen into a photo album taken from your saved pictures.
Oh, yeah the start button is back, but not in the way many were hoping for. Rather than reverting back to start menu, the start button takes you to the start screen.
Search
By far one of the most impressive improvements on Window 8.1 preview is the revamped search tool. Searching now allows for queries to be displayed in a beautiful side-scrolling environment that displays what the websites look like that match your search. Also, the search tool is a lot more exhaustive as queries will now be checked on your SkyDrive, on the web, and everywhere else on your computer so that you can find exactly what you’re looking for.
Utilizing the search charm allows apps to be ran right there in the sidebar.
App Customization
As apps have dominated the production of newer software, it was frustrating that when you ran more than one on the original Windows 8 there was a complete lack of customization. Now up to 4 apps can be ran side by side with their own sizes. Users can dictate whether the side by side apps take up half a screen or more (not just one in the sidebar and the other as primary), and if you’re using more than one monitor you can even move apps to them (a feature that wasn’t available before).
Conclusion
Overall, Windows 8.1 is shaping up to be a hit for Microsoft. The preview version is available now on Microsoft’s website so check it out and discover even more features.
