Microsoft announced that Windows 8.1 has reached general availability. The feature-rich update for Windows 8 is available in more than 230 markets and 37 languages.

Video – Windows 8.1 Everywhere


You can get Windows 8.1 straight from Microsoft’s Windows Store. The update is free for existing Windows 8 users.

From Microsoft’s Evaluation Center you can get an evaluation version of Windows 8.1 Enterprise. Do note though that this version will expire, and you cannot upgrade.

If you have a PC powered by XP, Vista, or 7, Microsoft invites you to visit Windows.com. The website will detect your OS and will give you the info you need to get Windows 8.1.

Tommorow, Friday October 18th, retail locations around the world will start selling new devices powered by Windows 8.1 as well as Windows 8.1 packaged DVDs.

Don’t know why you should upgrade to Windows 8.1? Here’s a look at some of the new features it has to offer:

• The ability to sync customizations, apps and files across all your Windows 8.1 devices.
• The Start button that many Windows 8 adopters complained about is back.
• Shutdown and Restart options have been added to the Start menu.
• Dynamic Start screen backgrounds and new tile resizing and sorting options.
• The All apps screen is easier to access.
• The Snap feature is no longer limited to 2 apps; you can Snap as many apps as your display can accommodate.
• Windows Store apps can be Snapped across multiple monitors.
• A preview version of Internet Explorer 11 is included.
• A completely redesigned Windows Store.
• Visual Studio 2013 Preview and .NET 4.5.1 Preview.
• Bing is positioned as a development platform.
• SkyDrive is integrated into the OS.
• Several built-in Metro-style apps have been updated.
• There are also a few new apps and new utility apps.
• Business-oriented features: NFC tap-to-pair printing, Wi-Fi Direct printing, Miracast wireless display, broadband tethering, improved VPN capabilities.

Some of the most common questions about upgrading to Windows 8.1 are answered by this FAQ.