Although we’re still waiting for the Windows Phone 8 GDR update, the rumors started appearing about the next version of Microsoft’s mobile OS, Windows Phone 8.1 codenamed Blue. Thanks to the WinSuperSite, we have some interesting tidbits to share… Keep reading to find out what’s cooking up in the Redmond labs…
The upcoming version of Windows Phone will support more universal binaries which, in most cases, will be able to run on Windows RT tablets with no special modifications. It is said that Windows Phone 8 has 33% “API unity” with Windows RT, and Windows Phone 8.1 will hit the 77% mark. To that end, Microsoft will include support for even bigger screens in the next version of its mobile platform — where GDR3 will support 5- to 6-inch screens, 8.1 will supposedly support 7- to 10-inch displays.
Another important improvement will be in multi-tasking, allowing users to manually close apps when they fancy so. Moreover, back button may no longer be required. Apparently, this feature alone caused a ton of confusion among the users who haven’t used it a lot; instead, most of them [users] tapped the Windows button and then firing-up another or the same application.
Finally, with Windows Phone 8.1, Microsoft want to focus on the higher-end of the market. While products like Nokia Lumia 520 and 620 brought new users to the platform, these users not necessarily make enough money for the Redmond giant (nor Nokia for that matter). And now that the Finnish company is on the way of becoming a part of Microsoft, they want to focus on high-margin products.
I’m sure this isn’t the last time we’ll be talking about Windows Phone 8.1. Even before Microsoft officially announces the new version of its mobile platform, new rumors will appear and we’ll be here to share the cool details with you…