Technocove
Microsoft took the time in California to finally detail Windows Phone 8, the next major software update for Windows Phone. There have been a lot of rumors of what the platform would carry but now many questions have been laid to rest. This event focused on detailing platform features and not end-user features. Here is what was covered!
1. The Latest Hardware
Windows Phone 8 uses the same core that Windows 8 uses. What this enables is the use of advanced hardware features. Windows Phone 8 will support multi-core processors (up to a possible 64 cores), add support for high-resolution screen and last but not least, SD Card support. This from a hardware standpoint will place Windows Phone on par with competition.
2. Internet Explorer 10
Just like Windows 8, Windows Phone 8 will use Internet Explorer 10. All of the great features of IE 10 like the increased JavaScript performance, and the smart screen filter will be built right in to the browser.
3. Native Code
Windows Phone 8 will bring Native code support. Windows Phone 7.x has had a hard time getting high graphic games ported because many game devs didn’t want to have to rewrite their apps. With the native code support, this will allow for many more powerful games.
4. NFC
Windows Phone 8 brings support for NFC. This will allow you to share information between phones, tablets and other NFC enabled devices.
5. Mobile Wallet
In addition to the NFC support in Windows Phone 8, Windows Phone 8 will also be a mobile wallet. 3rd party applications will be able to integrate with the wallet for payments and coupons. Passports and memberships will also be supported by the wallet and it will support “Tap to Pay”.
6. Nokia Mapping
Say good-bye to Bing Maps, In Windows Phone 8, Nokia will be providing maps to all Windows Phone devices. What this means is that all Windows Phones will have Turn-by-Turn navigation and support for offline maps.
7. Business Ready
Windows Phone 7.5 was severely lacking in being ready for businesses but Windows Phone 8 will be filling all the gaps. Windows Phone 8 will support remote deployment of apps and full device encryption.
8. New Start Experience
Billed as one of the new end-user features that was shown off today. Windows Phone 8 will have a new start experience that allows for more customization. The new start experience introduces two new tile sizes, one 1/4 the size of the normal 1×1 tiles and a double wide tile. This new start screen also removes the little arrow over on the right side allowing for more room to place and organize tiles. Windows Phone 8 will also add more accent colors for users to choose from.
Once again these are just platform features that will set the field for Windows Phone 8. End users will get more details about consumer features closer to launch. Watch the new start experience video below.
Source: Channel 9
