Windows 8.1 Modern Interface Improvements

Windows 8.1: A Refined User Experience

Microsoft is reintroducing the familiar Start button and implementing a direct-to-desktop boot option within Windows 8.1. However, the company remains committed to the Modern interface, recognizing its potential.

Significant updates have been applied to the Modern interface, resulting in a more polished and complete user experience. The initial implementation felt less fully developed, but this has been addressed.

Addressing Initial Concerns

Windows 8.1 represents the vision many users expected from Windows 8 originally. The current state of the Modern interface is indicative of the quality that should have been delivered with the initial release.

Had Microsoft launched with these improvements, it is likely that the level of user criticism would have been substantially reduced. The changes demonstrate a responsiveness to feedback.

Key Improvements in Windows 8.1

• The return of the Start button provides easier access to the operating system’s core functionalities.
• A direct-to-desktop boot option caters to users who prefer a traditional computing environment.
• The enhanced Modern interface offers a more intuitive and refined touch-based experience.

These adjustments collectively contribute to a more versatile and user-friendly operating system. Microsoft is striving to bridge the gap between traditional and modern computing paradigms.

Enhanced Snap Functionality in Windows 8.1

The Snap feature in Windows 8 was limited in its capabilities. It allowed applications to be snapped to a 70/30 screen split, meaning one application was consistently restricted to occupying only 30% of the available screen space, regardless of the display's overall size.

This initial implementation, coupled with a simplified interface, rendered it most effective for tasks like instant messaging or quickly checking weather updates in a sidebar while performing other activities.

Greater Flexibility with Windows 8.1

Windows 8.1 introduces a significantly more adaptable Snap feature. Users can now utilize a 50/50 split, enabling the simultaneous display of two applications with their complete interfaces positioned side-by-side.

A key characteristic of this improved functionality is that each snapped application maintains a consistent width of 500 pixels.

• Improved multitasking is now possible.
• The 50/50 split offers a balanced view.
• Consistent app width ensures usability.

This enhancement provides a more productive and versatile experience for users who frequently work with multiple applications concurrently.

Utilizing Up to Four Applications Simultaneously

Users with displays of sufficient resolution are now able to arrange and view up to four applications concurrently. While this capability may not rival the extensive multitasking options available on desktop operating systems, it represents a significant advantage.

In contrast to the iPad, which lacks native support for displaying multiple applications at the same time, and Android’s reliance on limited, specialized floating app functionality, Windows 8.1 delivers a considerably more robust tablet experience.

Enhanced Tablet Functionality

The ability to snap applications provides a streamlined workflow for users who frequently switch between tasks. This feature allows for increased productivity and efficient use of screen real estate.

Compared to other tablet platforms, Windows 8.1’s approach to multitasking offers a more versatile and integrated solution. It allows users to actively manage several applications without constantly minimizing and maximizing windows.

• Increased Productivity: Quickly access and interact with multiple apps.
• Efficient Screen Use: Maximize the value of larger displays.
• Superior Multitasking: A more powerful experience than competing tablets.

The snap feature in Windows 8.1 is a key differentiator, providing a more desktop-like multitasking experience on a tablet form factor. This positions Windows 8.1 as a strong contender in the tablet market.

Running Multiple Instances of Applications

A limitation present in Windows 8, restricting users to a single instance of any given application, was addressed in the subsequent release, Windows 8.1. The latter operating system permits the concurrent execution of multiple instances of the same application.

For example, it becomes possible to operate two separate sessions of Internet Explorer 11 simultaneously. These instances can then be arranged using the snap feature, enabling a side-by-side view of distinct webpages.

A Notable Enhancement

While seemingly a fundamental functionality, the ability to run multiple application instances was notably missing from the initial Windows 8 release. This omission was a point of contention for some users.

The inclusion of this feature in Windows 8.1 represents a significant improvement in user flexibility and multitasking capabilities. It allows for a more efficient workflow when comparing information or managing multiple tasks within the same application.

This enhancement, though simple in concept, greatly improves the overall user experience by providing greater control over application management.

Revamped Windows Store Experience

The Windows Store initially featured with Windows 8 presented usability challenges due to its interface. Microsoft addressed these concerns with a complete redesign for Windows 8.1.

The updated Windows Store moves away from a rigid, category-based listing system. Instead, it dynamically displays app recommendations tailored to the user, alongside currently trending applications, recent releases, and charts of top-selling paid and free options.

A prominent search function has been integrated into the interface. While this may not appeal to those advocating for a strictly minimalist Modern app design, it significantly enhances app discovery for typical users.

Furthermore, the Windows Store now handles automatic app updates—a feature that should have been implemented from the outset. Users retain the ability to disable automatic updates for individual applications if desired.

Enhanced PC Settings in Windows 8.1

Initially, with the release of Windows 8, Microsoft suggested that tablet users could operate the system entirely within the modern interface, avoiding the traditional desktop environment. However, this proved inaccurate, as numerous essential settings still necessitated access to the desktop and the legacy Control Panel, even on tablet devices.

The original PC Settings application was incomplete, lacking the full range of configuration options users expected.

Expanded Functionality in Windows 8.1

Windows 8.1 introduces a significantly improved PC Settings app, boasting a far more extensive collection of settings panels. Frequently accessed configurations, such as Windows Update, File History, and Region & Language options, are now integrated directly within the PC Settings application.

Furthermore, seamless integration with SkyDrive is now available through the PC Settings app.

Start Screen Improvements

The Start screen has also undergone enhancements, offering increased customization possibilities. It now features the ability to synchronize with your desktop wallpaper.

Users can also leverage variable tile sizes, enabling them to display more detailed information via larger live tiles or accommodate a greater number of application shortcuts on a single screen.

Enhanced Search Capabilities

With Windows 8.1, a consolidated search functionality is implemented. This allows users to locate applications, settings, and files in a single operation, eliminating the need to navigate through separate categories.

This enhancement is particularly beneficial for those utilizing the desktop interface.

Integration with Bing

Tablet users will experience a search interface that is deeply connected with Bing. This integration promotes the use of Windows 8.1’s built-in search capabilities for web queries.

Consequently, searches will be conducted through Bing rather than alternative search engines like Google.

• A unified search experience streamlines finding content.
• Desktop users gain efficiency in locating files and apps.
• Tablet users are encouraged to utilize Bing for web searches.

The updated search feature aims to provide a more cohesive and efficient user experience across all Windows 8.1 devices.

Expanded Application Suite in Windows 8.1

Windows 8.1 introduces an expanded selection of pre-installed Modern applications. A key addition is the Help & Tips application, which will be automatically pinned to the Start screen. This feature is designed to assist new users in navigating the initially unfamiliar Windows 8 interface.

Furthermore, a Reading List application is now included. This app functions in conjunction with Internet Explorer and the Share feature, providing a similar experience to services like Pocket or Instapaper for saving articles for later consumption.

The Modern application environment is further enhanced with the inclusion of Scan, Calculator, Sound Recorder, and Alarms apps. These additions provide users with a more comprehensive set of accessories.

Bing contributes to the app ecosystem with the Food & Drink and Health & Fitness applications. Notably, the official Skype application will supersede the Messaging app prior to the final release of Windows 8.1.

Enhancements to Modern Applications

The suite of Modern applications included in the system has undergone revisions, and further updates are planned throughout the preview period and following the official launch. A notable improvement addresses the previously criticized Xbox Music application, which has been re-engineered to streamline music playback, reducing the number of clicks required to initiate a song to a more reasonable amount.

The Mail application has also been significantly enhanced, now providing functionalities that were initially absent, such as the ability to utilize drag-and-drop features for improved usability.

File Management Capabilities

Although a dedicated Modern File Explorer application is not currently available, the integrated SkyDrive app now offers the capability to navigate and access files stored on your computer’s local drives.

This allows users to manage their files within the Modern interface, even without a dedicated file explorer.

Expanding Application Availability in Windows

Currently, the Windows Store boasts a catalog exceeding 100,000 Modern applications. As is typical with many app marketplaces, a significant portion of these applications are of limited quality and may not meet user expectations.

Despite this, Microsoft continues its efforts to expand the number of available apps. Announcements have been made regarding the upcoming release of native applications for platforms like Facebook and Flipboard, alongside a consistent stream of new additions.

Remaining Gaps in the Ecosystem

Nevertheless, substantial progress remains to be made. A considerable number of widely-used applications are still absent from the store, alongside specialized applications relied upon by many users.

A particularly notable deficiency lies in the availability of Google’s services. With the exception of a Google Search application, Google does not currently offer Modern apps.

This presents a challenge for individuals heavily invested in the Google ecosystem, including services such as Gmail, Google Calendar, and Google Drive. These users may find themselves restricted to utilizing a Modern browser to access their preferred applications.

Limitations of the Modern Interface

The Modern interface is still undergoing refinement. Notably, Modern versions of core Microsoft Office applications have not yet been released, with OneNote being a current exception.

Currently, the interface restricts installations to applications approved by Microsoft, preventing typical users from sideloading applications.

This approach evokes past instances of platform control, such as Apple’s previous restriction of Google Voice on the iPhone or their ongoing reluctance to approve games addressing sensitive topics. Similar controversies could potentially arise within the Windows environment as its adoption grows.