MANILA, Philippines – Some 7 months into the release of Windows 8, Microsoft has released details regarding the first major update to the operating system, which will be dubbed Windows 8.1, outlining changes planned for the operating system based on feedback from consumers and Microsoft’s vision for the product.

Further personalization has been added in Windows 8.1, with new colors and backgrounds to choose from for the start screen. Users can now turn their Windows 8 devices into a picture frame of sorts as the lock screen shows a slide show of a user’s pictures. Users can also snap photos with any built-in cameras on Windows 8 devices without needing to bypass the lock screen.

Enhanced search and maneuvering functions are also in place for Windows 8.1, giving global search results powered by Bing and quick actions to get to certain functions of Windows faster.

Apps on Windows 8.1 will also have upgrades or alterations for ease of use, and more ways to show multiple apps on-screen have been worked out. Cloud connectivity also helps here, as files from the computer that have been worked on by Windows apps can also be saved to cloud.

Windows 8.1 will also introduce an updated PC settings page to lessen the need to visit the Control Panel, improved keyboard and mouse functions, and the introduction of Internet Explorer 11.

Windows 8.1 will be available for free later in the year for Windows 8 users through the Windows Store. A preview of Windows 8.1 will be available beforehand, however, when the Build developer conference rolls around on June 26. – Rappler.com