Microsoft leaks Windows 8.1 Update 1 before April release

Microsoft reportedly leaked its yet-to-be-unveiled Windows 8.1 Update 1 OS, much before its scheduled launch.

The software maker's Windows Update service apparently released links to the update, which enabled the new desktop-features after installation.

According to The Verge, although Microsoft has removed access to the downloads from its servers, those who managed to get hands on the update, were able to find that most of the changes have been designed to appease traditional desktop users.

The update includes features like option to show Windows 8 apps on the desktop taskbar, the ability to see show the desktop taskbar above Windows 8-style apps, and a new title bar at the top of Windows 8 apps with options to minimize, close, or snap apps.

Microsoft is also adding a shutdown button to the Start Screen for non-touch machines, with a new search button present across all machines apart form auto-boot Windows 8.1 feature for non-touch PC users to desktop interface by default.

The updated OS is also said to improve on the disk space it uses, apart from change in license cost.

The report said that the Windows 8.1 Update 1 is expected to be launched officially on April 8th, following the company's Build developer conference in early April.