Microsoft: No plans for Service Packs anymore?

When I'm talking about Windows 8 at customers they say, first wait for Service Pack 1. For Windows 7 it's the same. After installing Service Pack 1, there are still more then 100 critical and security updates needed. There is no Service Pack 2 yet, so no way to create an easy up-to-date OS image. The reason for this is Microsoft doesn't want to release Service Packs anymore, but they need to. Windows 7 SP2 and Windows 8 SP1 should come in late 2013 or early 2014. Till then monthly updates will be released as usual.

Microsoft is busy writing a big update for Windows 8, Windows RT, Windows Phone 8 and Xbox 360 called Windows 8.1 also known as "Blue". Windows Server 2012 will have it's own R2 update also. In late June the release will be showed on the Microsoft Build Developer conference. The final 8.1 update is planned for October this year. This update brings more integration between Windows devices and a better SkyDrive experience. Also the Start button will be back, and it's possible to start to desktop again after boot.

Because of bad sells, Windows 8 needs a big update. For myself I'm happy to own an Xbox 360, Surface and Windows Phone 8 already. That way I can experience "Blue" on all devices when it's released later this year. Let's hope Windows 8.1 will be great!