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Though it doesn't bring back all the features of the Start button in Windows 7, you get more system controls and the capability to restart and shutdown without all the extra steps.
Where in Windows 8 you could only run two apps simultaneously in snap mode, you'll now be able to run up to four apps per screen (provided you have a high resolution).
The camera app that came with Windows 8 had only basic tools. With Windows 8.1 you get color enhancements tools, filters, and common editing tools like brightness, cropping, and contrast.
Partly to entice developers, but also to make your shopping experience more convenient, the Windows Store now has big images and a better layout for browsing.