Microsoft’s newest operating system has certainly been hit with loads of criticism.  Windows 8 tried to introduce new and exciting changes.  While to some, it may have helped bring a new a fresh look to Windows, most felt that it made things clunky and harder to use.  I feel that the main gripes about Windows 8 are all surfaced-based.  The improvements with performance, stability, security, and cloud integration are unfortunately overlooked in exchange for the “disappearance of the Start Button”.

As the grunts became shrieks, Windows has decided to take a stance and release an update to the controversial Windows 8.  It is set to be released “sometime later this year”.  Here are some of the suspected changes in Windows 8.1 a.k.a. Windows Blue.

  • Return of the Start Button.  While many have already downloaded 3rd party applications such as Pokki to re-add the start button to Windows 8, Windows 8.1 is allegedly going to add it back by default.
  • Booting Straight into Windows.  Windows 8 introduced the new tiling home screen with a slew of their own applications from the Windows store.  It works great for touchscreen laptops and tablets, but doesn’t offer much to the Desktop crowd.
  • Alarm Apps.  I like this addition because there was no app for this.  It is something that could become very useful for lots of people.
  • Background App Updates.  The Windows Store apps may be able to update in the background and not shove annoying notifications down our throats.

It seems now that Windows 8 was more of a beta test than a released product.  The audience booed so a new show is being put on.  However, it is not a new show at all.  It is more like what the show should have been all along.  If you are still on the fence about upgrading your computer from Windows XP, Vista, or 7 then now would be a good time to hold off.  These minor tweaks for Windows Blue may be enough to quiet the anti-Windows 8 grumblers.