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Microsoft releases Windows 8.1 update

By Kearsten Holmdale
Published  October 17, 2013 10:26am PDT
FOX 13 Seattle

SEATTLE -- Microsoft released an update for its Windows 8 operating system on Thursday, combining many features found on Windows tablets and Windows PCs.

According to The Verge, Windows 8.1 addresses problems users had with Windows 8. For one, the new version has a Start button, which is found when the operating system is in "desktop" mode.

Other updates include a built-in Bing search and SkyDrive syncing.

For existing Windows 8 users, the upgrade to 8.1 should be easy, reported The Verge. All desktop and Windows 8-style apps, such as files and settings, would remain intact. Still, experts suggested users create backups of all important data before upgrading.

Current Windows 8 users can download 8.1 for free.