Just months after the release of Windows 8.1, Microsoft is set to announce a new update for its operating system to respond to consumers' complaints and other feedback. The announcements will be made on Wednesday as the company opens its annual Build software developers conference in San Francisco

As microsoft outlined in Barcelona earlier this year, it is expected to announce changes that will make it easier to use Windows with traditional keyboard and mouse controls. The company will add search, power and settings buttons to the Start page, as these had been previosuly "hidden' on the left side of the screen in Windows 8. The update also promises easier ways to close apps.

Microsoft will be also update the Windows Phone system to work better in corporate environments. The company will add VPN support, will allow phones to have two SIM cards.

The company hasn't announced pricing or specific availability for either update, but both are likely to be free downloads.

Microsoft may also use the Build conference to update software developers on the company's plans to integrate the Windows Phone 8 system for smartphones, the Windows 8.1 system for tablets, laptops and desktops and the Xbox system for its game console.