Why Windows 8.1 Released

The free update from Windows 8 to Windows 8.1, just released by Microsoft, packs a host of enhancements — from better graphics to the addition of Outlook to Windows RT.

The update carries plenty of benefits for GeForce users because it includes the latest version of the Direct3D API, called DirectX 11.2. We were the first GPU manufacturer to release WHQL-certified graphics drivers for Windows 8.1, and we’ve continued our close collaboration with Microsoft to implement new features in DX 11.2.

And also including the below features

• Support for higher resolutions with DPI scaling
• HLSL shader linking — Windows apps can now compile shaders offline, and then link them together at runtime to improve performance versus real-time compilation
• Tiled resources — Load only the required resources, resulting in very high-resolution imagery with minimal use of GPU memory.

Our GPUs based on Kepler architecture are ready for DX 11.2 and will immediately support these features.

GeForce users also get access to our high-quality drivers, which deliver the best possible gaming experience. This effort requires hundreds of engineer-years and thousands of hours of testing and certification, but it’s essential to ensure optimal performance and stability for the world’s largest gaming platform.

In addition to gaining Outlook 2013 RT, Windows RT 8.1 users will enjoy a variety of new features. Among them are workplace join and third-party mobile device management, tools that will ensure that Windows RT devices fit more easily into enterprise settings.

Our Tegra processors already bring ample power and speed to Windows RT devices. With Windows RT 8.1, the experience only gets better.

You may download Windows 8.1 through the Windows Store now.