Microsoft (MSFT) is rolling out its Windows 8.1 update, which seeks to make the Windows 8.1 operating system a little easier for people used to working with a keyboard and mouse, rather than a touchscreen.
Windows developers received an early look at the Windows 8.1 update on Apr. 2. The Windows 8.1 update will arrive for most consumers on Apr. 8 as an automatic download, CNET notes.
Here’s what to expect from the Windows 8.1 update:
- Start tiles can now be right-clicked to see options.
- A search icon has been added to the Start screen.
- The Start screen now includes an icon for shutting down, restarting and putting the PC to sleep.
- Users can now pin Windows 8 Modern apps to the taskbar for quick launch.
- Modern apps now can be minimized, closed or sent to split screen via buttons that will appear when the mouse is moved to the top of the screen.
- The task bar will reappear when the mouse its positioned at the bottom the screen.
MSFT stock rose slightly in Thursday pre-market trading. MSFT stock has gained more than 40% over the past year.
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