Aussie resellers' verdict on Windows 8.1

Microsoft released the latest version of its operating system today, Windows 8.1 – and local resellers believe the update is a step in the right direction.

Dean Calvert, director of South Australia-based Microsoft Gold partner Calvert Technologies, has been running Windows 8.1 for weeks now. He told CRN the updated operating system was a testament to Microsoft's dedication to the developer community.

"I have found it to be a wonderful improvement to an already great operating system – it's fast, reliable and easy to use. The new Start screen is much cleaner and more customisable, although I do tend to boot into the desktop.

"Microsoft has once again shown it does listen to the user community and takes their feedback on board when developing products."

Calvert said the updates to the operating system are enough to make customers want to upgrade from older versions of Windows to 8.1.

"I think this will be great for Microsoft and for our business as it will make it easier for people to accept Windows 8 over sticking with Windows 7. It's a little bit 'less different', particularly with the Start button coming back – although I never really missed it."

Calvert conceded there were glitches with the latest edition of Microsoft's web browser.

"I have had some compatibility problems with some websites not working properly with IE11 but I can work around this for now."

Biagio LaRosa, managing director of Microsoft Gold partner Generation E, said the company is "very bullish on Windows 8.1".

"In my opinion, Windows 8.1 [reflects] the largest software company in the world responding proactively to their customers. The positive changes, such as improved gestures and the Start button are all about continuing Windows as the best choice for user productivity."

He thought it would help Microsoft's OS gain traction on mobile devices too.

"The rate of Windows 8 uptake is increasing and I see Windows 8.1 as only further increasing this. The expansion of both the form factors available in tablets along with a broader range will also enhance the uptake."

Jonathan Hatchuel, chief executive of Melbourne-based Microsoft Gold partner Dilignet, praised Microsoft for accommodating non-touch devices and for its new feature-set.

"Windows 8.1 is a vastly improved update to Windows 8, bringing much of the value of the new platform to life with improved search, boot to desktop for non-touch PCs and its simpler set-up."

When asked if he believes the new update will help Microsoft, Hatchuel said "we are betting our business on it.

Windows 8.1 is available today as a free upgrade for Windows 8 customers. Windows 8.1, 8.1 Pro and 8.1 Pro Pack will retail for $149.99, $399.99 and $249.99 respectively.