Microsoft has announced that the Windows 8.1 will be released to public at 12:00am on October 18th in New Zealand (that’s 4:00am October 17th in Redmond), Microsoft notes in a blog post.

The update will be available for free to Windows 8 users through the Windows Store.

Windows 8.1 has been available in a preview edition since late June. Users who’ve installed the preview already have a good idea what’s in store for the final version.

The new version of Windows offers a Start button, though not a Start menu. The button provides a visual cue to help you return to the Start screen. There’s also a Boot to Desktop option for folks who want to bypass the Start screen entirely.

People who use the Start screen will find easier ways to customize and personalize it. Specific features, such as the All Apps screen and the Search tool, have also been enhanced. Several of the built-in apps have been improved as well.

Microsoft has also continued to enhance Windows 8.1 since June, so even users of the preview edition will find a few surprises.