More information about the next version of Windows has been revealed in a new build. Code named “Blue,” Windows 8.1 will include a bunch of tweaks, but won’t be a full-fledged refresh of Windows. Microsoft is using Windows 8.1 to polish up its hybrid operating system to address user concerns.
The new build, 9369, shows an all new “Metro” styled file manager to let Windows RT users manage files easily, instead of having to hop into the Windows desktop to use the traditional Windows Explorer file manager. From the leaked screenshots, the file manager looks basic but touch friendly.
Windows 8.1 will also include new multitasking features. Windows 8 currently allows users to snap two applications to the sides of the screen to multitask. Build 9369 will allow users to snap more than two applications. A third application will be snapped to the center of the screen where it will hover until you select one of the apps behind it.
Additional tweaks include an easier to access apps list, a new “most used” apps section, and improved Search Charm results. Just yesterday, we reported that Microsoft may give users the option to boot directly to the desktop instead of to the Modern UI but that feature still hasn’t appeared in this latest build of Windows 8.1.
Microsoft is expected to officially reveal Windows 8.1 in June during its Build developer conference.
Source: The Verge
