Windows 8.1 boot-to-desktop option finally appears (screenshot)

Windows 8.1 desktop at Computex 2013 780_wide

Fulfilling the promise to a big crowd, the ability to boot to desktop is already part of Windows 8.1. The option was spotted in a new screenshot that was originally posted in Win8Beta website, along with other options that I’m listing below.

This tiny change is significant and it will sure please many users. Microsoft has already unveiled many new features coming to Windows 8.1 this week, even the Start button popped up in the demo the company was showing off. The only interesting options left was the boot-to-desktop option and Microsoft calls it “Go to the desktop instead of Start when I sign in” and it is part of the Start screen settings page in the Task Manager and Navigation Properties.

Boot-to-desktop option in Windows 8.1 screenshot 600_wide

Here is another close up screenshot

Microsoft Boot to desktop option in Navigation tab (Taskbar) close up screenshot 640_wide

Other options that the screenshot reveals are:

  • Show my desktop background on the Start screen
  • Always show Start on my main display when I press Windows logo key
  • Show the App view automatically when I go to Start 
  • List desktop apps first in the Apps view

Thanks for the tip @Windows4live!

Source Win8china

About the author

Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert and founder of (est. 2010). With over 21 years as a technology writer and IT Specialist, Mauro specializes in Windows, software, and cross-platform systems such as Linux, Android, and macOS.

Certifications: Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), VMware Certified Professional (VCP), and CompTIA A+ and Network+.

Mauro is a recognized Microsoft MVP and has also been a long-time contributor to Windows Central.

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