Windows 8.1 update reportedly hits final stage
Microsoft pushes the spring update for Windows 8.1 into RTM mode and sends it to PC partners, according to The Verge and Russian leaker Wzor.
The "spring" update to Windows 8.1 is purportedly now in the hands of PC and tablet makers.
Microsoft has signed off on the update and moved it into the RTM (release-to-manufacturing) stage, The Verge said on Tuesday, citing "sources familiar with Microsoft's plans." A similar tidbit was served by Russian leaker Wzor, who tweeted that the Windows 8.1 spring update was signed off by Microsoft on February 26 and is now final.
The update has begun to reach device makers to test and install on their products, The Verge added. Windows 8.1 users are due to receive the update in early April.
Microsoft finally confirmed the Windows 8.1 update at Mobile World Congress last week. The update has been designed to reduce the reliance on the Start screen and improve certain options for good, old-fashioned PCs.
Users will be able to launch Metro apps from the desktop, more easily minimize or close those apps, and shut down Windows via the mouse's right-click button.
Based on the initial details, the update sounds like a step in the right direction, at least for PC users not yet sold on Microsoft's latest OS. But will it be enough to revive sluggish sales of Windows 8.1 devices, or will it be a case of too little, too late?