I personally think the information here has been inconsistent. However, if the actual path for millions of USA Developer Preview users to go Cyan/Official 8.1 is to go back to 8.0 through some downgrade process, I have a HUGE bone to pick with Microsoft.
It's too technical a path. I cannot believe there is not a DP8.1 > Prod 8.1/Cyan smooth transition.
Who feels the same?
Red 1520, ATT
Step 1, install application.
Step 2, run application.
Step 3, plug phone in.
Step 4, press big install button.
That's about it. And also, it's not just US users, it's
all preview users with Lumias that are affected. The reason for it is because doing the update when Bitlocker is turned on totally borks the phone after the update and the only way to fix it is to use the recovery tool to downgrade and then apply the update in the usual way. When this issue came to light they suspended the update for all Lumia devices (regardless of whether they are affected or not) with the preview until they can fix the issue. The alternative is to wait it out.
For the bulk of users (ie normal everyday people) who have no clue about what the dev preview is, or want to mess with their phones - then the update procedure is very straightforward - check for updates, updates found, install. You can't get a smoother transition than that.
When you use software designated as "preview" or "beta" on live devices (such as your main phone) then you accept the consequences of what happens if stuff goes wrong. You make a conscious decision to put your phone into that situation - that's why there are tonnes of disclaimers for such software saying "don't use on production (or live) hardware unless you know and accept the risks", and "we will not be held liable for any damage/data loss caused by you using this software". By installing and using beta/preview software, you waive all rights to whinging, moaning and complaining when something goes wrong.