In a move that oddly surprised the tech world, Microsoft announced that push notifications will be discontinued for Windows Phone 7.5 and 8.0 this week.
The dominance of Android and iOS was already clear when the Redmond-based company no longer updated its Windows Phone platform. Furthermore, manufacturers have opted to abandon the operating system in favor of Google's ecosystem. This means that users that still hold on to what a dying breed will soon have no option but to switch to one of the two remaining platforms.
A Loss Of Functionality
The company confirmed that only a certain set of functions will be disabled soon. However, the smartphone will apparently stay operational with all of its telephony features intact. This means that owners can still use the handset as intended for calls, internet, mobile games, and SMS.
Microsoft detailed that the Live tile will no longer refresh with updates, users will no longer receive notifications, and the "Find my phone" option will lose its functionality. Sources note that the firm opted to cancel the said services to focus on its newer models.
A Couple Of Exceptions
Microsoft's declaration that older models are scheduled to lose push notifications will not affect its newer products. Smartphones on version 8.1 and 10 are reportedly not included and are expected to function as originally intended.
"Windows Phone 7.5 and Windows Phone 8.0 have reached the end of their support dates, and thus services for these versions of Windows will be discontinued over time," stated the official announcement.
It is unclear if the company plans to continue to foray into the mobile phone market. Right now, consumers seem to have eyes only for iPhones or Android smartphones. Industry insiders continue to speculate that the firm might have something in the works.
Surface Lineup
For now, Microsoft continues to focus its support on its Surface lineup of devices. Nevertheless, there are rumors that it might debut a mobile phone from the popular series. There are talks that the Surface-branded smartphone might sport a dual-screen design. A patent filed by the company last year led to speculations regarding the appearance of the rumored smartphone.
Recent reports revealed that the New York Police Department started its program to replace older Nokia Windows Phone models. Police officers returned their obsolete units in exchange for an iPhone 7 or iPhone 7 Plus. The agency might have been aware of the upcoming end of support for Windows Phone 7.5 and 8.0 devices.
