Microsoft overhaul Windows 8 after confusion

Microsoft is retooling the latest version of its Windows operating system to address the complaints and confusion that have been blamed for deepening a slump in personal computer sales.

The tune up announced today is part of a software package known as Blue, due to be released in time for Christmas. It is meant to fix perceived shortcomings in Windows 8, a radical overhaul of Microsoft's ubiquitous operating system released last October.

Windows 8 is supposed to make Microsoft a more prominent player in the growing mobile device market while maintaining the Redmond, Washington, company's dominance in PCs.

But Windows 8's new design emphasising interactive tiles and touch controls seems to have befuddled as many people as it has impressed.