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Microsoft said to be waiving Windows Phone fees for some manufacturers
Rumors have been popping up lately that Microsoft's Windows Phone OS may become free to some companies to help them compete with Android devices. Now two unnamed Indian manufacturers, part of a group of new Windows Phone partners, have said that they are, in fact, getting WP8 at no charge. One told the Times of India that it's "not paying Microsoft a license fee" through a unique, specific agreement. Redmond wouldn't confirm that, however, saying only that "we have extensive programs to help our partners build great devices." Indian OEM Karbonn notably just launched a dual-boot Android/WP8 phone, though it hasn't admitted to receiving any largess. Either way, it would mark the first time Microsoft hasn't taken a fee for its mobile OS, even from Nokia. Until it clarifies things, though, it's best to take all this with a grain of salt -- even though it would give a more viable non-Android option to Microsoft in the developing world.
Watch the new, customizable Windows Phone 8.1 camera app in action (video)
Microsoft didn't just equip Windows Phone 8.1 with a redesigned notification center and a Siri nemesis called Cortana, it also revamped its stock camera app. While many of the current app's features remain intact, a video leaked by Unleash The Phones shows that the right side of the interface now features shortcut buttons for single photo, video and burst photo modes. The left side, however, is completely customizable, and a user can easily fill it with up to five shortcuts to settings (flash, lens picker, resolution, ISO among others) of their choice. Curious WP users who want to know how the updated app compares to Nokia's camera software can watch the video after the jump. Of course, they might only have to wait a bit more to know everything about the OS... and to finally find out if they can install it on their WP8 devices.
Leak reveals the Nokia Lumia 630's colorful backside
There have been leaks showing the front of the Nokia Lumia 630 (aka Moneypenny), but a complete view of the Windows Phone 8.1 hardware has been elusive... until now. Frequent tipster @evleaks has posted an apparent press shot revealing the back of the bright-hued device, and it suggests that the 630 will represent a sharp break from the designs of the Lumia 620 and 625. There's no camera key or flash, for a start -- mobile photography fans may want to give this phone a pass. We also see hints of a flatter, more X-like body. There aren't any fresh clues as to when the 630 might launch, although we're not expecting to see it until sometime after the official unveiling of Windows Phone 8.1, which may take place in April.
Facebook Messenger arrives for Windows Phone sans voice features
Microsoft was clearly being cautious when it said Facebook Messenger would be available for Windows Phone within a few weeks of Mobile World Congress -- it's already here, just over a week later. The app offers much of Facebook's familiar chat experience, including group conversations, photo sharing and (of course) stickers. However, are a few missing features in this first revision. There aren't any voice messaging options, and chat heads aren't around to let you quickly jump between active discussions. If those absences aren't make-or-break for you, though, Messenger is ready and waiting at the Windows Phone Store.
First dual-boot Windows Phone 8 and Android handsets said to arrive by June
Windows and Android are such good pals, they're quite literally inseparable on a number of dual-boot devices. Aside from some old community-driven projects, however, the relationship between Google's mobile OS and Windows Phone hasn't blossomed to a point where they're officially comfortable sharing a smartphone. Well, they better pencil in a bonding session, because The Times of India reports local manufacturer Karbonn is set to launch the first such dual-boot handset by June. With the ink now dry on a deal with Microsoft -- presumably a WP license agreed behind closed doors at MWC -- plans are to offer a range of split-personality devices with professional and tech-savvy types in mind. Perhaps they'll run Windows Phone 8.1 right off the bat, too, given the new version's broader hardware support, and show that you needn't create mutant advocates to tempt consumers one way or another.
FIFA 14 is now available for Windows Phone footie fans
Windows Phone owners no longer have to watch from the sidelines as their friends battle for supremacy in FIFA 14. EA has released a native version of the free-to-play soccer (aka football) title for Microsoft's platform with the same on-the-pitch action that you'd expect on Android and iOS, including options to buy both team points and special game modes like Manager or Kick Off. There's nothing specifically taking advantage of Windows Phone here, but Lumia owners wanting to dominate a virtual Premier League should be very happy.
Skype now lets you sign up with a Microsoft account, updates its Windows Phone app
It's been a long time coming, but Skype's revealed that folks can finally sign up for service using a Microsoft account. Skype believes this feature is perfect for users who perhaps want the least amount of logins possible, and it also points to Microsoft's two-step verification as a benefit for having such an account. Meanwhile, the Windows Phone app has been updated with a number of security improvements, plus an indicator which lets you know when the person on the other side is typing. As part of the integration with its parent company, Skype will now require a Microsoft account (like the one used to set up your WP device) when registering for a new account through the application. This new version is only available for Windows Phone 8, however -- as you might recall, support for the app on earlier versions of the OS was cut off months ago.
Spotify revamp for Windows Phone will bring radio and a brand new look
Spotify's Windows Phone app has typically lagged its Android and iOS counterparts, but it's about to catch up in a big, big way. The streaming music provider has revealed a makeover of the app that will roll in the discovery, playlist browsing and radio features that we've seen elsewhere. It will also have a fresh interface that's in sync with Spotify's more recent apps while remaining true to the style of Microsoft's smartphone OS. Premium subscribers will be the first to get the Windows Phone update when it arrives this spring, but Spotify has promised that its free mobile listening option will be coming to the platform later on.
Microsoft announces new Windows Phone hardware partners, including LG and Lenovo
Microsoft is on a roll at its MWC event today. Shortly after announcing updates to Windows and Windows Phone, the company also told us that it's now trying to make its mobile platform more flexible for operators and manufacturers and is now working with a whole bevy of new manufacturing partners. Among the notable companies on the list are LG, Lenovo and ZTE, in addition to several companies in India, such as Xolo, Karbonn and Lava. Some of the listed companies (such as LG, Huawei and ZTE) have worked with Windows Phone in the past, but today's revelations show that those companies haven't completely turned away from Microsoft -- or have returned to the fold. Says Microsoft VP Nick Parker, "we're open for business on Windows Phone to anyone who wants to build one." The company is extending its arms out to more partners by providing more options; for instance, Parker told us that Microsoft is now working with operators on possible white label devices -- phones that are branded by operators but built by other manufacturers. Additionally, Microsoft also announced that any company can build a Windows Phone using Qualcomm's Reference Design; interestingly, this means that Android-based hardware could potentially be reused for Windows Phone. These changes announced today will certainly add more appeal and higher volume to the platform around the world, especially in emerging markets, and is a good way for Microsoft to indirectly address growing concerns that its upcoming acquisition of Nokia's device division would limit the interest of outside manufacturers.
Windows Phone 8.1 will come with more hardware support and is backwards-compatible
Microsoft has made a few announcements related to Windows Phone 8.1 this afternoon in Barcelona. While we don't expect to see the new update in its entirety until April, we got at least a few satisfying nuggets of info today. First, we're going to see a lot more flexible support for hardware: 8.1 will be able to support more Qualcomm chipsets, such as Snapdragon 200, 400 and 400 LTE; it will come with TD-LTE, TD-SCDMA and SGLTE support, the ability for phones to use dual-SIM, apps on microSD and virtual softkeys instead of capacitive keys. Devices won't be required to have a hardware camera shutter key anymore, either (but it's still offered as an option anyway). Additionally, we've been told that devices currently on Windows Phone 8 will be able to get an update to 8.1, so it's fortunately backwards-compatible to some degree. With the new update, Microsoft is going to introduce support for dual SIM devices, which is huge in developing areas of the world. As part of this support, WP8.1 will offer Live Tiles for each SIM, as well as the option to link messaging tiles together for both. Microsoft is also going to be compatible with Qualcomm's Reference Design (QRD), and VP Joe Belfiore brought a Snapdragon 200-powered Windows Phone reference device to show it off. Unfortunately he couldn't show it off to us personally, since there were a few things he didn't want us to see, but it's refreshing to see such sweeping hardware opportunities; this opens up more ability for growth in global market share.
Facebook Messenger coming to Windows Phone in the next few weeks
Microsoft VP Joe Belfiore made an announcement that will come as a solid addition to the Windows Phone app ecosystem: Facebook Messenger will be making its way to the platform sometime in the next few weeks. No specific date was given, since it's still in the works, but we're told that it's progressing well enough that Belfiore could announce it. More updates from Microsoft as we get word.
Here's Windows Phone 8.1's notification center in action (video)
Windows Phone users have been waiting years to have all their notifications in one convenient place, and over the past few months, there have been multiple reports that a notification center will come with WP 8.1. Today, a video showed up on Unleash the Phones that appears to confirm those earlier rumors. The feature apparently will be called Action Center, and packs many of the same capabilities that Android and iOS users have enjoyed for some time now -- namely app and system notifications available via a swipe down from the top of the screen. Additionally, users get quick access to four shortcut buttons for often toggled settings (WiFi, Bluetooth, screen brightness, etc.). The best part is, those shortcuts can be tailored to users' preferences, unlike the set-in-stone settings toggles in Android and iOS. Oh, and speaking of WiFi settings, the folks at Windows Phone Central revealed that 8.1 will also allow users to switch it off for a set amount of time, after which WiFi will turn back on automatically. We aren't sure exactly how such capability benefits users, but we're sure you fine folks will figure it out, assuming it's still around when WP 8.1 rolls out to the public.
New Bing fitness app for Windows Phone tracks you after the run is over
Windows Phone owners have their choice of activity tracking apps, but few of those apps will tell you how to remain healthy after you've taken off your running shoes. It's a good thing that Microsoft has released a beta of Bing Health & Fitness for Windows Phone, then. The software uses GPS to quantify your biking and running like many of its peers, but it also provides health advice; much like the Windows 8 app, you'll find a diet tracker, exercise instructions and a symptom research tool. Your info will also sync across all your Windows-based gear. Those eager to slim down and shape up just have to swing by the Windows Phone Store to get started.
Windows Phone, Chromecast and YouTube get together thanks to Tube Cast
The past few weeks have seen a ton of activity on the Chromecast front, and now some of that excitement is extending to Windows Phone. With the Tube Cast app, you can link your Redmond handset to Google's HDMI dongle and search, select and play YouTube clips to your flat-screen. As WMPoweruser notes, it's pretty simple (much like Chromecast features on Android and iOS) but it can't pause or stop playback. While the general idea is great, hopefully the next set of apps gives just a touch more functionality. After all, not being able to pause a goat screaming like a man can be awkward if the wrong person walks in the room.
HTC working with Microsoft to bring Windows Phone Blue to 8X
HTC hasn't forgotten about Windows Phone after all. The company's been pretty silent on any sort of collaboration with Microsoft for a long time, but the North American product team spoke up today on Reddit. When asked if HTC is done with Windows Phone, the team stated: "we're working with Microsoft on the Blue update on Windows Phone 8X and will continue to take new products into consideration." Indeed, it appears that the 8X -- which will be nearly a year and a half old in April, when the Blue update is rumored to launch -- will get the latest and greatest version of Windows Phone after all, and perhaps we may even see new hardware down the road. Sadly there's no word on what will happen to the 8S, which launched around the same time, so we'll have to wait and see. As a sidenote, it's also rare to hear companies directly confirm the existence of upcoming updates, but let's face it: It's not as if it's really that big a secret these days anyway.
Nokia Lumia Icon coming to Verizon February 20th for $200 (hands-on)
Yes, Windows Phones are finally keeping up with the Joneses. Thanks to the latest update, smartphones running Microsoft's mobile OS can now have top-of-the-line components. We got a good taste of how this feels with the Nokia Lumia 1520 (spoiler: It's pretty dang good), but most people would prefer flagship specs in a smaller phone. Enter the Lumia Icon, a loaded 5-inch WP8 device exclusive to Verizon that goes on sale in black and white colors February 20th for $200 with a two-year contract. (It'll cost $550 at full retail or Edge pricing.) The Icon comes with nearly all the same specs as the Lumia 1520: a 1080p display, 2.2GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor, 20-megapixel PureView rear camera (with optical image stabilization, a 1.2MP front-facing webcam, a Gorilla Glass 3 screen, Qi wireless charging, NFC, dual-band WiFi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac and Bluetooth 4.0 + LE. Unsurprisingly, the 2,420mAh battery is smaller, and we hope it can efficiently manage the high-def screen and quad-core processor without a huge drain to the battery. Aside from the battery and smaller screen, the Icon is an exclusive to Verizon, as evidenced by the three carrier-specific logos on the front and back. And while we wouldn't be surprised to see a 5-inch 1080p Lumia device hit the rest of the market at some point, it probably won't look like the Icon. The phone sports straight aluminum sides and a curved back fashioned out of matte polycarbonate. In many ways, the setup reminds us of the Lumia 925, which features rounded metal sides and the same plastic back; the Icon is 0.5mm thicker, but it also doesn't have a distracting camera hump like the 925 has. We'll offer more impressions below, but not before showing off a gallery of images and a brief walk-through video.
Windows Phone 8.1 leak reveals new messaging and storage settings, and more
Up until now, the most we'd heard about the next rumored update to Microsoft's Windows Phone OS centered on two features: Cortana, the company's Siri-like digital assistant, and Action Center, its native notification center. Today, however, we have a clearer idea of where Windows Phone 8.1 could be headed thanks to a Reddit user who's allegedly gained access to the new SDK as part of Microsoft's developer preview program.
Leak reportedly shows Windows Phone 8.1's new notification center
Wondering what Windows Phone 8.1's rumored notification hub would look like? You may be looking at it right now. Winphollowers claims to have a leaked Microsoft presentation outlining the feature, which might be called Action Center. While Windows Phone's approach to notifications would share much in common with what we've seen for a while in Android and iOS, it would have a few tricks up its sleeve. A driving mode shortcut would be available to (presumably) keep distractions to a minimum while on the road. Apps may also have more control over their notifications than you've seen on some other platforms. Alerts would silently appear, update or vanish, making it easy to deliver constantly changing information (think sports scores) or to clear out time-sensitive notices when they're no longer relevant. There's no guarantee that we'll see Action Center in 8.1, but the historically reliable WPCentral vouches for its existence -- we won't be surprised if it's part of the final OS release.
Samsung's new Windows Phone for Verizon reaches the FCC
Just in case it wasn't already clear that Samsung is prepping a next-generation Windows Phone for Verizon, the company has just passed the device (the SM-W750V) through the FCC. The approval confirms the presence of Big Red-friendly LTE and CDMA frequencies, as well as GSM and HSPA for world roaming. The handset is also large enough to hold that rumored 5-inch screen. The filing doesn't offer any clues as to when the hardware ships, but we wouldn't rule out the possibility of an announcement at or around Mobile World Congress.
Samsung's next Windows Phone is headed to Verizon, still looks like a Galaxy phone
Samsung's still making Windows Phones, okay? And here's what the company's 2014 model will apparently look like, with yet another protruding physical button and what appears to be a lighter grey color palette -- matching the vague fortunes of Microsoft's still (gradually) growing mobile OS. According to @evleaks, it's also heading to Verizon in the US. Prior leaks have suggested it'll arrive LTE-capable with a 1080p 5-inch display. Well, we do expect Samsung to show up to MWC 2014 with more than just the one Android flagship.
