Windows 8.1 with Bing was a version of Windows 8.1 that Microsoft hardware partners preinstalled on select devices. Its stated difference from Windows 8.1 Update was that Bing was the default search engine in Internet Explorer; users could change that setting. The edition otherwise offered the same experiences as Windows 8.1 Update. Windows 8.1 support ended on January 10, 2023, so computers running it no longer receive Microsoft security updates or technical support.
What was Windows 8.1 with Bing?
Microsoft announced Windows 8.1 with Bing on May 23, 2014, as part of an effort to help hardware partners make lower-cost Windows devices. It was an edition supplied preloaded on partner hardware, rather than a standalone consumer download described in Microsoft’s announcement.
Microsoft said it provided the same experiences as Windows 8.1 Update. The defining distinction was Bing set as Internet Explorer’s default search engine. That setting did not mean Windows forced Bing in every browser: the announcement specifically described Internet Explorer, and users could change its search provider. Microsoft’s May 2014 announcement explains the edition and its distribution.
Could you change the Bing default?
Yes. Bing was Internet Explorer’s default search engine, not an unchangeable Windows-wide restriction. Microsoft’s announcement said users could change the setting through Internet Explorer’s menu. The precise menu labels can vary with the installed Internet Explorer version, so the key point is that the default was configurable within that browser.
#1 Best Overall
- Processor: Intel Core 5th Generation i5-5300U Processor (3M Cache, up to 2.90 GHz)
- 14.0 inch HD (1366x768) Anti-Glare LCD; Integrated webcam
- 500 GB SATA Hard Drive (7200 RPM); 8GB 1600MHz DDR3L Memory
- Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7265AC 802.11ac/a/b/g/n 2x2 + Bluetooth 4.0 LE Half Mini Card
- Windows 8.1 Pro (64Bit)
What device used this edition?
One historical example was Toshiba’s Encore Mini, a 7-inch tablet announced in 2014 with Windows 8.1 with Bing. Microsoft’s announcement said it supported microSD expansion by up to 128 GB. Those figures describe the device as announced at the time, not a current availability or buying recommendation. If you are considering a microSD card for a specific Encore Mini, confirm the exact model and its card limits; extra storage does not make an unsupported operating system secure. Microsoft’s Toshiba announcement gives the historical device details.
Is Windows 8.1 with Bing still supported?
No. Microsoft ended Windows 8.1 support on January 10, 2023. A computer does not stop working on that date, but Microsoft no longer provides technical support, software updates, or security updates for Windows 8.1, and Microsoft says there will be no Extended Security Update program for it. An internet-connected PC running this edition therefore lacks Microsoft fixes for newly discovered operating-system security issues. Antivirus software cannot replace those operating-system updates. See Microsoft’s Windows 8.1 support guidance.
Rank #2
- Screen: Boasting an 11.6-inch anti-glare touchscreen with a crystal-clear resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels, you'll immerse yourself in stunning visuals without the annoying glare. Whether you're working on assignments, watching educational videos, or just browsing the web, this laptop's screen will elevate your experience to a whole new level.
- Design: Our Dark Grey Notebook is not just a laptop; it's a fashion statement. Sleek, slim, and weighing in at a mere 3 pounds, it's the epitome of portability. With dimensions measuring 11.6 x 0.8 x 8.1 inches, this beauty fits snugly in your bag, making it the perfect companion for students, professionals, and anyone on the move.
- Operating System: Equipped with Windows 11 Pro Education and a lightning-fast 3.4 GHz Celeron N100 processor, this laptop is designed for those who demand top-tier performance. Whether you're multitasking for school projects or handling business tasks, this laptop got your back.
- Graphics: Prepare to be amazed by the integrated Intel UHD Graphics! With 4GB of dedicated graphics card RAM, your favorite games and videos will run smoother than ever before. Whether you're a student looking for a break or a gamer ready to conquer new challenges, this laptop delivers an unparalleled visual experience.
- Memory&Storage: With 128 GB of lightning-fast SSD hard disk storage and 4GB DDR4 SDRAM, this laptop is designed for smooth and efficient performance. Say goodbye to lag, and hello to lightning-fast data access.
What happens to Store apps and games?
According to Microsoft, installed Microsoft Store apps and games can continue to be used, but new purchases and in-app purchases ended January 10, 2023. Publisher updates for installed apps and games were available through June 30, 2023, unless an individual developer continued support independently. This is Microsoft’s published policy, not a guarantee that every app still works or remains compatible.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Can you upgrade a PC running Windows 8.1 with Bing?
Microsoft’s current support guidance says there is no free upgrade path from Windows 8.1 to Windows 10 or Windows 11. It advises checking the PC against the system requirements for the Windows version you want; Windows 8.1-era computers are unlikely to meet Windows 11 requirements. The guidance does not determine whether a particular machine is eligible, so check its specifications and account for the software, license, and support needs that matter to you. If it cannot run a supported Windows release, Microsoft recommends a new Windows 11-capable PC.
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Best Value
- 【Efficient Intel N150 Performance for Everyday Tasks】Powered by the Intel N150 processor with 4 cores and speeds up to 3.6GHz, this laptop delivers smooth performance for web browsing, office applications, online classes, and daily productivity with reliable efficiency.
- 【Fast DDR5 Memory and PCIe SSD Storage】Equipped with up to 32GB high-speed DDR5 RAM for responsive multitasking and a PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD (configurable up to 2TB) for fast boot times, quick file access, and improved overall system responsiveness.
- 【15.6" Full HD Anti-Glare Display】Enjoy clear visuals on a 15.6-inch Full HD (1920×1080) anti-glare display with 250 nits brightness and 45% NTSC color, designed for comfortable viewing during extended work, study, or streaming sessions.
- 【Modern Connectivity with USB-C and Wi-Fi 6】Stay connected with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, plus versatile ports including USB-C with Power Delivery and DisplayPort, USB-A 3.2, HDMI, and RJ-45 Gigabit Ethernet for flexible work and productivity setups.
- 【Business-Ready Design with Online Microsoft 365 Access】Designed for productivity, this laptop features a full-size keyboard with numeric keypad, firmware TPM 2.0 security, and an HD webcam with privacy shutter. Use Microsoft 365 online—no subscription needed—just sign in at Office.com to access Word, Excel, and PowerPoint in your browser.
Rank #3
- 14” Diagonal HD BrightView WLED-Backlit (1366 x 768), Intel Graphics
- Intel Celeron Dual-Core Processor Up to 2.60GHz, 4GB RAM, 64GB SSD
- 1x USB Type C, 2x USB Type A, 1x SD Card Reader, 1x Headphone/Microphone
- 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (2x2) Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, HP Webcam with Integrated Digital Microphone
- Windows 11 OS
How should an owner decide what to do?
- Check the hardware first. Compare the PC with the requirements for a supported Windows version before planning an upgrade.
- Account for applications and peripherals. Confirm that essential programs and devices will work with the operating system you plan to use.
- Plan a supported setup. If the existing computer cannot run a supported release, consider replacing it rather than relying on an unsupported Windows 8.1 installation for sensitive or internet-connected use.
- Prepare the move. Identify the files, application installers, and licenses you need before changing or replacing the system.
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