Microsoft has announced 17 October as the release date for its full consumer build of Windows 8.1, available as a free download to Windows 8 users.
New computers and other devices will come pre-installed with Windows 8.1 from 18 October, while for existing devices the operating system patch will be rolled out through the Windows Store.
It will offer a range of improvements, additional features and the return of the start button.
Windows 8.1 will be officially available from 12am 18 October in New Zealand, meaning midday on 17 October for the UK, 7am for east coast America and 4am for the west coast.
A preview build is currently available to download for users to try before the official release day.