Following up on the Windows 8.1 launch rumors from earlier this week, Microsoft on Wednesday announced the official rollout schedule for the anticipated update. Windows 8.1 will launch to the public digitally starting at 4:00 am PDT on Thursday, October 17 (7:00 am EDT). It will be available via retail locations the following day.
The Windows 8.1 update brings many changes and refinements to Microsoft’s controversial Windows 8 operating system, which launched last October. While not abandoning the core design principles that Microsoft has set for its next generation of operating systems, the 8.1 update addresses several areas based on customer concern and feedback, including the return of a Start Button (although not the Start Menu), better navigation of applications in the Modern UI environment, improved usability with a keyboard and mouse, and support for new devices, such as small tablets.
Windows 8.1 will be free for all current Windows 8 users, and will be available for download starting October 17 from the Windows Store. Notably, it is not expected that MSDN and TechNet subscribers will receive early access to the update. Aside from leaked builds, it looks like everyone will have to wait until October to see the final product.
