Microsoft has only recently debuted Windows Phone 8.1, but the Windows maker is already gearing up for big changes for the next release of its mobile software named Windows Phone 8.1 GDR 1.
The next update was accidentally published on Microsoft's developer website and was pulled down shortly after, but not before technology enthusiasts were able to take a glimpse of what is in store for users of Windows Phone. Author and podcaster Paul Thurott of SuperSite for Windows was able to dive into the details and has shared a summary of what users can look forward to in the next Windows Phone update.
"To date, there's been very little information about this update, beyond the fact that it was a bucket of sorts for features that didn't make the original 8.1 cut," says Thurott on his website.
Among the most prominent changes to users will be the inclusion of folders. For its next update, Microsoft has taken a page out of Android and iOS' books and will start allowing users to drag and drop tiles into other tiles to form folders, which is about time for Windows Phone. Although Nokia has incorporated folders for the Start screen, Microsoft has been taking its time to integrate this solution into its operating system.
The next update is also purported to provide support and API for smart cases, something that Android has only recently introduced. With smart cases such as HTC's smart cover for its Android-based flagship phone One M8, the phone is able to know if the cover is open or closed and can beef up or loosen its security features accordingly. This feature alone could be very important for Microsoft as HTC is said to be developing a Windows Phone-based version of the One M8.
Also notable is the inclusion of support for larger-screen devices. As Thurott notes, while the RTM version of the mobile software can support devices with screens as large as 6 inches, the next update will be able to accommodate devices as large as a whopping 7 inches.
"We're going to need a new term: Phablet just doesn't cut it anymore," Thurott remarks.
However, Microsoft is not expanding to provide higher resolutions for bigger devices, and OEMs will have to make do with the same 1920 x 1080p resolution Windows Phone for 6-inch displays. Microsoft is also said to provide a new 1280 x 800p resolution, although hopefully not for the 7-inch devices.
Other possible features worth mentioning are voiceover LTE support, Cortana and in-car systems and a host of performance upgrades.
"Windows Phone 8.1 Update 1 could be finalized as soon as this month and start shipping to users in August via that Developer Preview program," says Thurott.
