I've been unable to connect to any servers since i've updated my launcher in order to play 1.6. The error i'm getting is below in the screenshots I know the servers on my list are up as I own Playinmines. Also note this does this on any version of the game not just 1.6
Edit: Found a fix:
This is a known issue with windows 8 and the current launcher
Close the launcher and all other java applications
Press and hold the windows key, then press the R key, then release (i.e. press Win + R).
This causes the Run dialog to appear (bottom left).
Copy and paste the following command into the Run dialog:
Edit: Found a fix:
Launcher Log File:
http://pastebin.com/17meG83z
Screenshots: