Windows 8 build 7973 (fbl core1 kernel npc)

Windows 8 build 7973 (fbl core1 kernel npc) is a Milestone 3 Windows 8 build. This build updates the boot screen to the fish from the background of Windows 7's pre-release versions with the spinning circles that would make it to the final.

Redpill
A version of MetroUnlocker was released on 2019-08-05, unlocking all redpill levels on this build, including the start screen.

With this build, the Start screen is beginning its evolution away from the Milestone 2 look of the previous builds. The design for the tiles on this build has changed to a look that more closely resembles the final.

The Immersive Control Panel has been redesigned, removing the power options, network settings, and the volume slider.

The Metro folder icons and thumbnails seen in build 7963 have been disabled.

Aero
This build appears to have a slightly broken Windows Aero theme, with only the top portion of the window frame using the blur effect, leaving the side borders transparent.