Windows 8.1 final leaks, users will have early access after all

Start screen Chinese version of Windows 8.1

Literally hours after Microsoft released Windows 8.1 to PC manufacturers, the latest build has leaked on the internet. The Verge reports that a handful of file sharing websites are hosting the latest version of the operating system, which is scheduled to be released on October 18th, and a day earlier for current Windows 8 users via the Windows Store. The report also mentions that everything we’ve seen this far is included in this latest Windows 8.1 leak.

The software giant has been working in this new update for about 10 months and it’s including tons of small changes that makes it feel like a full-blown upgrade. Among all the new features and improvements users will get Internet Explorer 11 featuring a new F12 development tool, unlimited tabs without affecting performance, a new Reading View to declutter web pages and make them look like articles you’ll see in the Bing News app. And the company is also bundling the OS with new and updated apps, such as Mail, which has been redesigned and now features a blue theme. Skype is a new app that comes pre-installed and replaces the old messaging app. People and Calendar are also getting to touches, and the software giant is including a Help + Tips app to aid users getting started with the new operating system.

SEE ALSO: Apps and services bundled in Windows 8.1, Skype is also included

Although latest version of Windows 8.1 build 9600 already leaked (at least the Chinese Enterprise x64 version) in many file sharing websites, Microsoft noted that is limiting access to the final version to OEMs partners, and this time around MSDN and TechNet subscribers will have to wait like everyone else.

Source The Verge

About the author

Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 14 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 20 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me.