Users of Windows 8 will have to upgrade to the new 8.1 version within the next two years, as technical support for the older variation will then be terminated, Microsoft has announced.
Important updates to correct errors or fix security lapses will then only be available for Windows 8.1. Users of the 8.1 version are on the safe side, as Microsoft says it will offer support for the operating system until 2023.
The update to the new version will be available as a free download as of October 18 for owners of a Windows 8 licence. Windows 8.1 will see the return of the often-missed Start button but in a slimmed down version.
In addition, there are other innovations such as Skype integration and a better collaboration with Microsoft’s Cloud storage service SkyDrive.