Microsoft is releasing a new Bing Maps app for Windows 8.1 as a preview of the changes its planning for mapping. Microsoft is supporting the various Snap Views in Windows 8.1 and the notification features of the operating system, alongside Live Tile support. Microsofts existing Bing Maps app for Windows 8 provides similar features, but the software maker has built in StreetSide support in the latest preview version. Unlike the existing app, Microsoft is also placing a visible search-box in the interface, with navigation controls placed on the left-hand side.