Not to be outdone by AMD, Nvidia has this week announced that it will be releasing WHQL-certified GeForce drivers for Microsoft’s Windows 8.1 Preview build.
The new WHQL-certified GeForce drivers for Windows 8.1 Preview are version 326.01 and can be installed once you have installed the preview update onto your existing Windows 8 install.
Nvidia’s Commitment to Windows Users
Nvidia explains: “Nvidia has long been committed to working with Microsoft to ensure the best possible Windows experience for GeForce users,” the company said. “Our close working relationship with Microsoft allows us to provide WHQL-certified GeForce drivers via Windows Update on Day 1 for key milestones such as this Release Preview.” This statement underscores Nvidia’s dedication to maintaining a seamless user experience for its customers. By collaborating closely with Microsoft, Nvidia ensures that its drivers are optimized for new Windows releases, providing users with the best possible performance and stability.
However, at the current time, there is no direct link to download the new Nvidia Windows 8.1 Preview drivers directly. Nvidia’s Chris Daniel later said that “the driver is not showing up yet for some users/GPUs. We are working closely with Microsoft to correct this and make the driver available by end of the day.” This indicates that while Nvidia is proactive in releasing updates, there can be initial hiccups in the distribution process. Users experiencing issues are encouraged to be patient as Nvidia and Microsoft work to resolve these problems.
Compatibility and Future Updates
Nvidia also explained that older GeForce drivers will not work properly with Windows 8.1 Preview. This is a crucial point for users who may be considering upgrading to the Windows 8.1 Preview. Ensuring that you have the correct drivers is essential for maintaining system stability and performance. Nvidia’s proactive approach in releasing these drivers highlights the importance of keeping your system updated with the latest software to avoid compatibility issues.
In addition to the immediate release of the WHQL-certified drivers, Nvidia’s ongoing support for its hardware through regular driver updates is a significant advantage for users. These updates not only improve compatibility with new operating systems but also often include performance enhancements and bug fixes. For example, previous driver updates have included optimizations for popular games and applications, ensuring that users get the best possible experience from their GeForce hardware.
Moreover, Nvidia’s commitment to providing day-one support for major Windows updates sets a high standard in the industry. This level of support is particularly beneficial for gamers and professionals who rely on their systems for demanding tasks. By ensuring that their hardware is always running the latest drivers, users can take full advantage of new features and improvements in both the operating system and their applications.
In conclusion, Nvidia’s release of WHQL-certified GeForce drivers for the Windows 8.1 Preview is a testament to the company’s dedication to its users. By working closely with Microsoft, Nvidia ensures that its drivers are ready for new Windows releases, providing a seamless and optimized experience. While there may be initial distribution issues, Nvidia’s commitment to resolving these quickly demonstrates their focus on customer satisfaction. As always, keeping your system updated with the latest drivers is essential for maintaining performance and stability.
Source: Toms Hardware
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