There have been many, many rumors about Windows 8.1 this past couple of months. A couple of days back Microsoft finally unveiled some of the new features that this update is going to bring. Today at the Tech-Ed conference Microsoft detailed some additional features. Windows 8.1 has now been confirmed to support Miracast streaming. For Miracast to work, both display and PC manufacturers will have to ensure that their devices are compatible with this format.
Simply put Miracast is an alternative to Apple’s AirPlay mirroring feature. It will allow users to mirror their Windows 8.1 screens on devices compatible with the wireless Miracast format, such as PCs, tablets and smartphones. Wi-Fi Direct printing support has been added as well, allowing users to connect to Wi-Fi Direct printers without having to install drivers, as it essentially forms a peer-to-peer connection with the printer. There’s also support for NFC tap-to-pair printing. Windows 8.1 will also give compatible devices the ability to share their 3G or LTE connection as a wireless hotspot. Microsoft will be releasing a preview of Windows 8.1 at the Build conference, scheduled to take place later this month.
Filed in . Read more about Microsoft and Windows 8.1.