Microsoft plans spring Windows update

Microsoft says it will update its Windows system this spring to address some of the gripes users have had when they use devices without touch capabilities.

Windows 8 and its 8.1 update were designed for a touch environment. But some of the gesture commands don't translate well when using traditional mouse and keyboard controls.

Among other things, Microsoft Corp. will add search, power and settings buttons to the Start page, so that users don't have to figure out how to pull those functions like a sock drawer from the right.

There also will be ways to make it easier to close apps.

The announcement came today ahead of the Mobile World Congress wireless show in Barcelona, Spain.