Microsoft has confirmed that the long rumored Windows Blue update for Windows 8 will be arriving later this year. The update will allow Windows to run on devices of all different display sizes, form factors and battery life. This will result in smaller size tablets designed to compete with the 7.9 inch Apple iPad mini, Google Nexus 7 and the Amazon Kindle Fire.The update will also give more options for businesses and consumers and will allow Microsoft to better respond to feedback from Windows 8 and Windows RT users.
Microsoft's Tami Reller also stated that the Windows Store apps have increased by six times since launch, offering more apps than iOS had available after its first year. She also stated that over 250 million Windows Store apps had been downloaded to date. Meanwhile over 2400 Windows 8 and Windows RT devices have been certified with more touch screen devices been added to the collection.
Windows Blue is a codename for an update that will be available later this year, building on the bold vision set forward with Windows 8 to deliver the next generation of tablets and PCs.
It will deliver the latest new innovations across an increasingly broad array of form factors of all sizes, display, battery life and performance, while creating new opportunities for our ecosystem.
It will provide more options for businesses, and give consumers more options for work and play. The Windows Blue update is also an opportunity for us to respond to the customer feedback that we've been closely listening to since the launch of Windows 8 and Windows RT. From a company-wide perspective, Windows Blue is part of a broader effort to advance our devices and services for Microsoft."
-Tami Reller, CFO, Microsoft.
Microsoft also said that 100 million Windows 8 licenses have been sold to date. Which has increased from the 60 million sold in January. This number includes licenses that are shipped with new Windows 8 computers and tablets.
source - Microsoft