Microsoft blinks: Windows 8.1 released to MSDN, Technet

Earlier today, with no fanfare I've seen, Microsoft released the RTM
versions of Windows 8.1 to Technet and MSDN subscribers. The downloads are
datestamped today.

It's not a complete release (yet); there may or may not be additional
components made available. In particular:

* 8.1 and 8.1N are available. It doesn't affect me but I've not seen an 8.1K
or KN distribution. (They might be buried in the "multiple edition"
images.)

* 32- and 64-bit "multiple edition" images are available.

* Symbol files are available.

* Language packs are available.

* I initially was prepared to say that the ancilliary tools (ADK, WDK, etc.)
weren't included, but links to them are buried in the "details" description
block for the 8.1 package. Users looking for the 8.1 SDK are directed to
the Visual Studio 2013 RC.


*but*

There is no sign of a checked build, or 8.1 Enterprise. Also, there is no
sign of anything for 8.1 on the MS licensing server for volume customers.


I didn't check any language other than English, so I can't comment on
whether non-English SKUs are available.


Incidentally, a lot of the MS web site is still flogging the 8.1 preview
distribution; presumably that will be updated to reflect reality.


Joe


PS: last week VMware released Workstation version 10, which includes support
for Windows 8.1 - including virtual tablets.