Microsoft has opened pre-orders for Windows 8.1

Microsoft has opened pre-orders for the new version of the operating system Windows 8.1, an official release which will be held on October 18.

Windows 8 users will be able to install the update for free on October 17, the day before the official release of the OS on the market. Owners of Windows 7 can pay $ 120 for a DVD with a new version or a digital upgrade. Users of Windows XP and Windows Vista will not be able to install the new OS. The company from Redmond has set the “eight” to release updates and download the free Windows 8.1. Microsoft will also sell Windows 8.1 Pro for $ 199.

At the moment the official download Windows 8.1 may only developers and IT-specialists services MSDN and TechNet .

In Microsoft says that the changes made to the Windows 8.1 upgrade was significant. At the interface of the OS back button “Start” (in desktop mode), but it does not have the same functions as an element of the previous versions of Windows, and offers only proceed to the “Start”. Windows 8.1 has received a new browser Internet Explorer 11, which appeared in read mode, built-in client Skype. In addition, the operating system has improved support for SkyDrive direct saving on power, “cloud” service, and the ability to choose the home screen when the computer boots. 

In addition, Windows 8.1 boasts improved multitasking sensor applications, support for smaller living units, optimized for 7 – and 8-inch plate and a number of other innovations. Review of the preliminary version of the OS is available at this link .

Microsoft has opened pre-orders for Windows 8.1