In Windows 8 you had both options; it's a step backwards in 8.1
Hi David Y,
Yes, it does seem like a step backward but I somehow feel it was necessary but can't pinpoint specifically why. However, I do know that I could not ever get my rescue disk to boot under Windows 8 because it never displayed the UEFI boot option for me (at least on my rig) when I was trying to restore a system image so I always ended up using my retail installation disc to initiate a recovery. Again, this is only my experience and it could have been due to an error on my part. Anyway, it seems like a lot of trade offs are in the works for those who decide to make the move to 8.1. With that said, here are some of my observations thus far. Now, please understand that many of my observations are questionable because they are related to my perception only; however, some are for real and will apply to all:
Things I've Noticed With Win 8.1 RTM
default theme too bright
secure boot watermark warning (desktop) if not enabled
better overall transparency
improved text quality
better gamma correction
'0' errors on boot (that's a first)
only a handful of win updates
all drivers provided during installation or win update (and they work)
win 7 recovery replaced by system image
no more "create rescue disc"
rescue disc replaced by recovery drive option
intel driver update utility will not install (no biggie)
wei still available via "winsat formal" command
can't optimzize SSD recovery partition (reason unknown and don't care)
built-in skype app now
metro tutorial running in backgound w/occasional FYIs (don't care)
slight performance boost (may be my imagination)
FYI