Windows 8.1 Download: Everything You Can Expect When You Download The Software Update From Microsoft

Windows 8 was Microsoft's bold redesign of its operating system that incorporated several features geared more toward pushing its mobile devices to the forefront rather than its computers. The new software has been receiving some criticism over the course of the past year, which has resulted in an update to the software, Windows 8.1. The software began rolling out to existing Windows 8 users on Thursday morning. Here are a few things users can expect from the update, courtesy of Information Week.

Windows 8.1 Won't Be Available Right Away For Some: Microsoft is planning a staged rollout of the new software to all existing Windows 8 users. However, in an effort to not overwhelm its servers, some users might not see the update available until later in the day. For those using the older version of Windows, the retail price of 8.1 is $119.99 and $199.99 for Windows 8.1 Pro.

A Better Desktop Experience: There will be a new boot-to-desktop mode, a reintegrated Start button and other features that allow users to not have to use the unpopular Live Tiles without sacrificing any of their workflow or productivity.

No Start Menu: Unlike Windows 7, Windows 8.1's Start Button brings the user to an "All Apps" view, not a Start Menu.

Improved Internet Explorer and SkyDrive: Some of the core apps like the Bing News app, have gained a following. Others have not due to massive criticism. Windows 8.1 will improve almost all of these existing apps. It will also remove Facebook and Flickr integration into the Photos app.

Small Touches: The update largely resembles its predecessor but it adds a number of small touches that users have been clamoring for. Although it's not everyone's favorite interface, there are now twice as many ways to resize Live Tiles and organize them into groups. There are also automatic updates by default, which adds useful business features such as Miracast and supports other intriguing new technologies.

For a more complete list of the new features users can expect when they download the Windows 8.1 update, you can check some features out HERE via Information Week.