Microsoft has unveiled the updated version of its touch-enabled Windows 8 operating system at the world’s second-largest computer show in Taiwan.
Tami Reller, chief financial and marketing officer of the company’s Windows Division, said Windows 8.1 would be available on both PCs and tablets later this year.
Speaking at the Computex show in Taipei, Reller said the 8.1 update took into account input from consumers on the Windows 8 system, which has received lukewarm reviews.
“Windows 8.1 furthers the bold vision of Windows 8 by responding to customer feedback and adding new features and functionality that advance the touch experience and mobile computing’s potential,” she said.
Antoine Leblond, corporate vice-president of Windows Programme Management, demonstrated the upgraded system, which included enhancements in areas including platform personalisation and search.
Once the most substantial presence in the computer industry, Microsoft has been working hard over the past two years to cope with the rise of tablet computing, and the resulting erosion in PC sales.
Microsoft’s own tablets have a 4% market share, far behind that of industry leader Apple. They have been available for seven months.