Refinement is the name of the game in Windows 8.1 Update 1. Instead of bundling in dozens of new features, Microsoft looks set on enhancing and optimizing the current features in the two distinct environments of its modern OS.
And not only does this mean comprehensive improvements for keyboard and mouse users of Metro, but also for users of touchscreen based PCs and devices.
Paul Thurrott, for instance, has found one such feature in the recently leaked build of Windows 8.1 Update 1. The revamped Disk Space options should make management of Modern apps and storage space a breeze for touchscreen users.
As the screenshot above shows, this new feature can be accessed by going to PC Settings and then PC and Devices. This handy new utility shows how much space the computer has available up top.
And below that are three choices — Apps, Media and Files and Recycle Bin
All three are pretty self-explanatory. The first displays the total amount of storage space that Modern apps are taking on a device. Tapping or clicking the link opens up the App Sizes utility where each app can be uninstalled to free up more space.
The second choice shows how much space is taken up by pictures, videos, audio, documents and downloads. And the final option allows to quickly empty any files placed in the Recycle Bin.
It goes without saying that this feature is still a work in progress, and Microsoft will further refine it by the time Windows 8.1 Update 1 goes live. For instance there seems to be no option of viewing or restoring items in the recycle bin in this interface.
But it does actually show that the company is steadily bringing key features to the Modern UI.
This probably will not enlist many converts from the traditional desktop camp, but touch and tablet users will appreciate this added functionality nevertheless.
