Microsoft has let a few new details about its upcoming Windows Phone 8.1 GDR1 slip out. The update will support new features like interactive phone covers, larger 6-inch to 7-inch displays, and more.
If you're a Windows Phone 8 smartphone owner, you'll be happy to know that you'll be receiving an update from Microsoft that will add a ton of new features to its smartphone operating system with the release of Windows Phone 8.1.
We've already reported on some of Windows Phone 8.1's best features and written a guide on how to install Windows Phone 8.1 Preview for Developers on your current Windows Phone 8 smartphone. The OS brings several new features that put Windows Phone 8.1 on a more level playing field with iOS and Android.
iOS has Siri, Android has Google Now, and Microsoft has added its take on a virtual assistant with Cortana. The digital assistant is a combination of Siri and Google Now and has been highly praised for its abilities and accuracy.
The new Action Center feature also works similar to the notification center features found on iOS and Android. Action Center holds all notifications in a centralized location, while also providing quick access to popular settings.
Nokia has started to roll out its Lumia Cyan update, which also includes Windows Phone 8.1. Lumia smartphone owners can check out this update schedule to see when their handset is expected to receive the update.
Microsoft is already planning its first update to Windows Phone 8.1 in the form of Windows Phone 8.1 GDR1. Windows Phone Central is reporting that Microsoft has published information on its Dev Center site that's intended for Windows Phone manufacturers. Some of these changes also reveal some of the OS' new features. For instance, Windows Phone 8.1 GDR1 will support larger displays, from 6.01-inches up to 7-inches and is now supported for 1280 x 768 WXGA resolution. Windows Phone 8.1 GDR1 will allow users to organize their Start screen with Folder support.
Microsoft seems to be taking a page out of the HTC One M8's Dot View case, which automatically puts the smartphone to sleep while it is closed (similar to Apple's iPad Smart Covers). HTC went one step further than Apple and actually allows information to be displayed on the flip cover as well for things like notifications and weather. Microsoft says support to "enable a phone cover app to launch when the phone cover is closed and specify the default setting for the lock screen's auto unlock setting" will come with Windows Phone 8.1 GDR1. Voice over LTE (VoLTE) support is also part of the mix.
There's no word on when Microsoft will release Windows Phone 8.1 GDR1, but once we hear any more news, we'll report back.
