Rick wants to know if Windows 8.1 is better than Windows 8. Leo says yes it is, and it's always a better idea to go with the latest version of the OS, if for no other reason than security updates. But Windows 8.1 has enabled users to bring back the Start button and can work much more like Windows 7.
Leo also recommends getting Start8 by Stardock. It's only $5 and can make Windows 8 look exactly like Windows 7.
Microsoft has released the Surface 2, dropping the "RT" designation. Leo says that's not going to prevent confusion over it and the pro model. He also noticed that it also won't help because you still can't use programs from one Windows device to another, and that could affect the data interaction as well.
In other Microsoft news, Nokia released the Lumia 2520 Windows Surface Tablet. It has a full 1080p resolution, 11 hours of battery life, and an attachable keyboard that adds another 5 hours of battery life.
Microsoft has released version 8.1 of Windows, but it's still two operating systems vying for your attention which Leo says is very confusing to users. While 8.1 has improved the experience, the problem is still there. Leo claims it's because Microsoft wants to move to a tablet based operating system for all devices, but they can't seem to let go of the past. At least search has been refined and the Start screen is more friendly -- If, Leo says, you can find out how to set it up.
Taylor wants to get a PC with a copy of Windows 7, but he's having trouble finding one. Leo says that's by design because Microsoft wants people to buy Windows 8. Leo's not much of a fan of the "modern UI", but he's found a way around that with Stardock's Start8 utility.
In what Paul Therrot calls "Microsoft taking a mulligan," Windows 8.1 may be shown on June 26 during Microsoft's Build Conference. It's expected to be a free upgrade. One of the features, among many, will likely be the return of the Start button! Leo says it most likely will be released some time in September.
