Microsoft Releases Windows 8.1

Microsoft released its long-awaited Windows 8.1 upgrade on Thursday (October 17)... as a free download Thursday.

The latest version of the operating system attempts to address criticism people have had with Windows 8, which Microsoft rolled out in a attempt to fuse tablets and PCs.

Updates for 8.1 include new finger- and gesture-friendly shortcuts for touch-based apps, while restoring features to the desktop mode that PC users have become accustomed to -- including the Start button, and boot to desktop. Other additions include auto updates, better resolution for smaller tablets, and lock-screen access allowing the ability to take Skype calls or photos without having to lo in.

It still features a touch-enabled grid-style interface, which is utlized in its tablet computers, as well as the old desktop that uses mouse and keyboard.

For more details, head over to Windows.Microsoft.com.