Microsoft last week rolled out its first round of bug fixes for Windows 8.1. The first update came less than a week after the new operating system was launched for public preview and Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer touted the company’s commitment to quick release. The company’s quick strike seems to signal that Ballmer’s plan, central to his larger ‘devices and service’ vision, is rounding into shape.
Windows 8.1 has been relatively well-received. Several analysts have said that it has made the changes necessary to satisfy enterprise users. But as curious users dig into the Windows 8.1 preview, new concerns are already afoot. As much as Windows 8 is changing, it seems one thing might stay the same: Microsoft can’t win for losing.
The company issued six updates to Windows 8.1. Two were designated “important” and the others were rated “recommended.” One of the higher-priority updates installs a virus definition for Windows Defender, Win8’s native security program. The other improves support for third-party programs such as AutoCAD and Parallels Desktop.
The “recommended” fixes address crashing Windows store apps, improve file downloads in Internet Explorer 11, expand app support for Google accounts, and enhance file stability. Preview users who have enabled automatic updates will not need to take any action. Otherwise, users can access the updates via the Updated & Recovery section of PC settings.
