Official Microsoft preview video confirms it IS reinstating the Start button in Windows 8.1 and shows off a host of other new features
Microsoft has released a video showcasing all the new features of its upcoming Windows 8.1 software, due to be released later this year.
Among changes to apps, tile options and an improved search, Jensen Harris from the Microsoft User Experience team also confirmed the company will be bringing the Windows Start button back.
Microsoft removed the button from the Windows 8 operating system when it was released last year but many customers complained and demanded it was put back.
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Blink and you'll miss it: Microsoft's Jensen Harris shows off the new Start button on the upcoming Windows 8.1 software. It's only a fleeting glimpse but it confirms that the button, which was removed in Windows 8 last year, is making a comeback. Leaked screenshots in May suggested this would be the case WHAT'S NEW IN WINDOWS 8.1?
The lock screen is being turned into a 'cloud-powered photo frame' that will shows photos stored on the device and in SkyDrive.
Windows 8.1 also includes a vastly improved 'search' function, which allows a user to search for documents, apps, or items on the Internet from a single search bar.
It also allows users to see all their applications immediately in a grid by swiping down or pressing a button on-screen.
There are new personalisation options for tiles including colours and fonts.
Users can also customize the Start screen much more easily; changing sizes of app icons or controlling which apps appear.
For the first time, it will be possible to open two windows simultaneously in the new-look interface.
Windows 8.1 includes Microsoft's latest browser, Internet Explorer 11, and lets the user restore the address bar and tabs to the screen view.
Many customers said that the new Windows 8 interface was too complicated, and sales of iPads and tablets have also eaten significantly into Microsoft's profits as users move away from desktop computers.
Screenshots leaked last month suggested that Microsoft would be reinstating the button and this latest video has confirmed it - albeit not directly.
More... Computer virus found on Facebook steals bank details and money from accounts when users click on links Will Apple start offering 'cheap' iPhone screen replacements? Rumours abound that service could be offered to U.S. customersDuring the demonstration, Harris swipes between screens and lands on the Desktop view.
A Windows logo is shown in the bottom left-hand corner.
Although it will not be labelled 'start', the leaked screenshots suggested that Windows logo would takes the user straight to a grid of applications.
To catch a glimpse of the button, skip to 2.11 in the video below.