Earlier today we saw some screenshots and features of Windows Phone 8.1, and now we have a video which shows the Windows Phone 8.1 SDK in action.
The video below shows us some of the new features in Windows Phone 8.1, the video was put together by the guys over at WinBeta.
New Features in Windows Phone 8.1
Windows Phone 8.1 brings a host of new features and improvements to the platform. One of the most anticipated features is the introduction of a notification center, which has been a long-requested feature by users. This notification center will allow users to see all their notifications in one place, making it easier to manage alerts from various apps.
Another significant addition is the support for virtual assistant Cortana, which aims to compete with Apple’s Siri and Google Now. Cortana is designed to help users with tasks such as setting reminders, searching the web, and managing their calendar, all through voice commands.
The update also includes enhancements to the user interface, such as more customization options for the start screen. Users can now add a third column of tiles, allowing for more apps to be displayed on the home screen. Additionally, there are new lock screen themes and the ability to set custom backgrounds, giving users more control over the look and feel of their device.
Developer Enhancements and SDK Features
For developers, Windows Phone 8.1 introduces several new tools and APIs that make it easier to create and optimize apps for the platform. The SDK includes new emulators that allow developers to test their apps on different screen sizes and resolutions, ensuring a consistent experience across all devices.
One of the standout features for developers is the introduction of Universal Apps. This allows developers to create a single app that can run on both Windows Phone and Windows 8.1 devices, streamlining the development process and expanding the potential user base.
Microsoft has also improved the performance and efficiency of the operating system. The new update includes better memory management and faster app resume times, which should result in a smoother user experience. Additionally, there are new battery-saving features that help extend the life of the device, a crucial aspect for users who rely heavily on their smartphones throughout the day.
Microsoft will apparently reveal more information about Windows Phone 8.1 at their BUILD developer conference which takes place in San Francisco between the 2nd and 4th of April.
As yet Microsoft have not given an exact date when Windows Phone 8.1 will be released, although it is expected to start being released some time in April. This release is highly anticipated as it promises to bring a more refined and feature-rich experience to Windows Phone users, potentially attracting new users to the platform and retaining existing ones.
In conclusion, Windows Phone 8.1 is shaping up to be a significant update that addresses many of the shortcomings of its predecessors. With new features like the notification center, Cortana, and enhanced customization options, along with developer-friendly tools and improved performance, Windows Phone 8.1 is poised to offer a more competitive and user-friendly experience.
Source WinBeta
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