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Nokia and Microsoft 'working even closer,' will have something to show us soon
At a UK briefing for Nokia's incoming Lumia 925, the company revealed that it's continuing to deepen its relationship with Microsoft. Nokia UK's Ray Haddow said that it was "working even closer" with Redmond and that we can expect to see the fruits of this pairing "in the next few weeks." While we're not sure what that will entail just yet (and we're already expecting to see some beta software functionality land on our review model), we're hoping to see some new features from the team-up. Better still, we've just received our very own Lumia 925 to test, so expect a review very soon. Update: As the meeting progresses, we've heard another small tidbit out of Nokia related to this collaboration. It appears that reps have been emphasizing the marketing aspects of this pairup, suggesting the two companies will work together in advertising and increasing Nokia's visibility. We'll update this post with more info if we get more clarification on exactly what we can expect.
MapQuest arrives for Windows Phone 8
Let's be frank: most Windows Phone users already have some form of navigation on hand, whether it's Nokia's Here Drive+ beta or one of the alternatives. However, it rarely hurts to have a free choice like MapQuest's new app for Windows Phone 8. The suite offers voiced, turn-by-turn directions for driving and walking, along with live traffic and the usual point-of-interest searching. The app is comparatively basic, and it's only available in US English right now -- but if it's all you need to get from point A to point B, it's available at the source link. (Disclaimer: AOL owns both MapQuest and Engadget)
HTC Windows Phone with Sprint LTE surfaces in FCC docs
We know for sure that Sprint intends to carry Windows Phone 8 devices from HTC and Samsung this summer -- the company said as much at this past CES. And with yet another HTC WP8 filing surfacing at the FCC, the evidence for a fast-approaching launch continues to mount. Bearing a model number that branches off from the rumored Tiara, the PO88100 looks destined for the Now Network as it reps some very carrier-specific frequencies, namely the presence of CDMA and LTE Band 25. Apart from that, we know it'll also support NFC, Bluetooth 4.0 and WiFi a/b/g/n, but that's the extent of what these docs reveal. What you can likely expect from HTC when it does get official, is a more moderately-specced device that differs from the One in style, size and power; something that slots in with the WP8 demo.
Jetpack Joyride finally lands on Windows Phone
Android, iOS, Windows 8, BB10. Jetpack Joyride, which has been available on the aforementioned platforms for quite some time, is no stranger to mobile or desktop users -- unless you're using Windows Phone. Despite the fact that Microsoft announced the free game seven months ago when Windows Phone 8 was officially launched, smooth rider Barry Steakfries is now finally collecting coins and getting electrocuted on the mobile OS, and will do so with Xbox Live integration. It's no Halo, but it's still a solid timewaster.
Adobe Reader now available for Windows Phone 8, no longer limited to 7.5
Something as simple as a PDF-friendly application can make things so much better for any mobile user -- and who other than the file pioneer to be the provider of such element. While Adobe Reader was already available for folks on Mango, the app is now expanding its horizons and reaching a more recent version of Microsoft's OS, Windows Phone 8. As far as features go, Adobe's app is the very same one that's been present on WP 7.5 for some time, but with the exception that it's now bringing its PDF opening / viewing traits to a broader audience. The Windows Phone 8-ready app is up for grabs now, so hit the source link below if you'd like to get the download process initiated.
ATIV Odyssey for US Cellular leaked in promo materials
US Cellular's been promising a WP8 handset for quite some time now, and it looks like the company's about to deliver exactly that. As you might recall, US Cellular's last Windows Phone offering was the entry-level ZTE Render which ran WP7.5 (Tango). We recently obtained promo materials for an ATIV Odyssey with US Cellular branding. This mid-range Samsung device, which is currently available on Verizon, packs a 4-inch WVGA Super AMOLED display, 1.5GHz dual-core Snapdragon S4 processor, 1GB of RAM, 8GB of built-in storage (with microSD expansion), LTE and NFC support, plus a five-megapixel autofocus camera with flash. While none of this is official (yet), we fully expect US Cellular to make a proper announcement real soon now. Until then, check out the gallery below for some of the aforementioned promo material. %Gallery-189972% [Thanks, anonymous tipster]
HTC M4 possibly spotted next to two monstrosities: alleged Nokia Lumia 1030 and Sony 'Togari'
If there's an award for the meatiest leak of the year, then this would make a fitting nomination. The above photo (reformatted for this page) was tweeted earlier today by France-based Dahny El Perro, who claims the blue device in the top right corner is an upcoming Nokia Lumia 1030. While it's hard to tell the physical features from the blurred shot, the wider spacing around the Windows Phone soft keys suggests this might be a larger device than the existing Lumia 920. More interestingly, its screenshot features an extra tile column, which is a feature rumored to be part of the Windows Phone 8 GDR3 update, according to ZDNet's Mary Jo Foley. Next up we have what appears to be the rumored 6.44-inch, 1080p Sony "Togari," whose front panel was first spotted way back in January. Alas, there's little to see here, but we were quickly distracted by the much smaller HTC device next to it. Many have simply dismissed this as the One, though if you look close enough you should notice the subtle differences: the frame is white all around the phone, and the speaker grills are shorter. Indeed, this device matches @evleaks' earlier render of the 4.3-inch M4, thus making this leak its first real-life appearance. But of course, there's also a good chance that this is merely a very clever hoax involving three unannounced devices, not to mention that the Twitter account is also super fresh, so we won't be placing any bets just yet. Update: WPCentral's sources say Nokia currently does not have plans for this type of over-sized phone, and they've confirmed that this image is inaccurate. Upon further research and analysis, we're leaning towards believing this is indeed an elaborate hoax. Update 2: Well, judging by the latest leaks a few months later, it looks like the large Nokia phone is real, after all.
Shazam launches on Windows Phone 8 with links to Xbox Music and free unlimited tagging
Shazam might claim over 300 million song-checkers already, but it's all about increasing that audience, and from today, that includes Windows Phone 8. The app has launched free on Microsoft's mobile OS, with the ability to tag directly from the home screen. Once it's recognized the track, Shazam can connect to both Xbox Music and Nokia Music services to pick up the full track for playback. Shazam also promises to recognize TV shows and ads through audio and offer up an "interactive second-screen experience," although there's scant detail on what that might involve. While the app is free, like its iOS and Android counterparts, it arrives with unlimited tagging, which should make it perfect for anyone that really can't remember who did that song. (It was probably Prince.)
Huawei Windows Phone appears in render, said to be the Ascend W2
It feels almost unfaithful to the Ascend W1 to be looking at a potential sequel already, but that's what evleaks claims this is. How he got the image we have no idea, and neither do we have any price or specs to go with it -- it's just this lone render of a Huawei handset running Windows Phone 8 in Chinese. There was actually a previous leak back in April (shown after the break), which also purported to be the Ascend W2 and which did come with some detail: a 720p 4.3-inch display, Snapdragon S4 chip, 8MP rear camera and 1GB RAM for $289. However, today's picture fails to match up with the earlier one in a number of respects, not least in the shape of the bottom edge and in the position of the front camera / sensor opening next to the earpiece, which means the only certainty here is that they can't both be right.
Microsoft's Windows Phone 8 desktop sync app now out of beta
A preview build of the Windows Phone 8 app for desktop has been around, but today Microsoft has released a full-fledged version and thrown in some new features to boot. In addition to bug fixes, the stable build comes with the capability to sync files from any folder in your computer (even if it's an external hard drive), sync non-iTunes podcasts and install updates within the app. Of course, it can still be used to sync media between mobile devices and Windows 7 or 8 PCs, import playlists and monitor how much storage space each type of content is eating up on your phone. You can visit the source for a download link if you own a WP8 device, but check out the sync wizard first if you're unsure what software to use to sync your files -- trust us, it's much more useful than Clippy ever was.
Microsoft and Google make amends, will co-develop a YouTube app for Windows Phone
We've gotta give it to Microsoft... building a YouTube app for Windows Phone 8 that strips out advertising and allows users to download streaming videos was one hell of a way to get Google's attention about the lack of an official app for the platform -- even if it managed to attract ire at the same time. Now, multiple reports are coming in that both companies have reached an agreement of sorts, which will result in an app that's fully compliant with YouTube's Terms of Service in the coming weeks. You might've already guessed it, but unlike Microsoft's most recent conciliatory update to its YouTube app, the next version will serve up ads. You'll find a joint statement from both companies after the break. Now that the pair are learning to cooperate, might we suggest they take a look at Gmail?
Remote desktop software Splashtop 2 launches for Windows Phone 8
Splashtop has a proven track record of bringing the full desktop experience to mobile devices, and now its expertise has come to Windows Phone 8 with the launch of the Splashtop 2 app. The remote desktop client for Redmond's latest mobile OS is free to download until August 31st, and promises to connect you with any PC or Mac running its Splashtop Streamer software. If you want to access computers on your home network, then a Splashtop account and the right software is all you need, but if want to get at your desktop from the road, it'll cost $1.99 per month for the privilege. We had a brief tinker with the app running on a Lumia 720, so jump past the break for our impressions.
Nokia brings Lumia 925 for T-Mobile to CTIA 2013, we go hands-on
We've already spent some quality time with Nokia's handsome Lumia 925 and while it's no secret the company's Windows Phone flagship is coming to the US courtesy of T-Mobile, we'd never actually seen the carrier-branded model -- until now, that is. Nokia brought T-Mobile's version of the handset to CTIA 2013 where we took it for a brief spin. As you'd expect, the phone is identical to its global twin save for the operator's logo below the capacitive button and the radios which support T-Mobile's bands. Unfortunately, the Lumia 925 we played with was not final, so the software was off limits. In terms of hardware, it features the same 4.5-inch 1,280 x 768 AMOLED screen, 1.5GHz Snapdragon S4 Pro processor, 1GB RAM, 16GB of storage and 8.7-megapixel camera with OIS. This is definitely one of Nokia's most attractive designs yet, and we're looking forward to getting our hands on a review unit soon. In the meantime, why not check out the gallery below? %Gallery-189068%
Nokia adds sight recognition to Here Maps for Windows Phone 8
Six months after promising to integrate sight recognition technology into its Here suite of apps, Nokia has finally updated Here Maps with LiveSight. The update is available today in the Windows Phone app store and requires Windows Phone 8. By tapping a button in HERE Maps, users can enter LiveSight mode, which will scan the surrounding area and pull up relevant information about nearby locations, like addresses, phone numbers and ratings. Lumia owners familiar with Nokia's City Lens app will recognize the virtual signs attached to buildings viewed through the camera display and the Here Maps version of LiveSight appears to have similar functionality -- including Here's strongest selling point, offline access. If you want to see LiveSight in action, you can watch Nokia's preview video after the break.
Google asks Microsoft to remove YouTube app for WP8, takes issue with lack of ads (update: Microsoft responds)
YouTube only recently came to Windows Phone 8 as a full-fledged app, but its availability may be short-lived. According to documents obtained by The Verge, Google has requested that Microsoft remove the app from it Windows Phone Store -- and disable installations on devices -- immediately. The reason? Apparently the app didn't get Goog's stamp of approval before going live, and it blocks the ads that typically run on YouTube. Naturally, ads are an important source of revenue for both Google and no shortage of third parties, so Mountain View may not be out of line for crying foul. And that's not the only strike against Redmond: according to the cease and desist letter, YouTube on WP8 lets users download videos, in addition to streaming content that's been restricted on certain devices. Oh, and all the above-mentioned issues violate YouTube's Terms of Service. Google is giving MS until May 22nd to remove the app -- we're sure this isn't the last you'll hear on this subject. Update: Microsoft has responded. We have the full statement from a Microsoft spokesperson after the break.
BBC iPlayer coming to Windows Phone 8 today (updated)
Microsoft's Joe Belfiore has just tweeted that, at some point today, BBC iPlayer is coming to Windows Phone 8. It's been a long road getting to this point, as the BBC's and Microsoft's conflicting technologies don't play nicely with each other -- with this version being a browser-based shortcut rather than a fully-featured app. Still, for the legion of British Windows Phone users dying for their Doctor Who fix while on the go, something is far better than nothing. Update: And it's official, so head down to the Windows Store link below to start downloading.
Windows Phone 8 update coming this summer with CalDAV and CardDAV support
We already got word from Nokia about some new Windows Phone features that'd be trickling out in a forthcoming update, and Microsoft has now filled in some more details on what other phone users can expect. In addition to FM radio support, an update said to be coming to Windows Phone 8 devices "later this summer" will add the previously-promised support for CalDAV and CardDAV to ensure your phone will continue to work with Google's new sync protocols. Otherwise, you can look for the company's Data Sense feature to support more carriers (no word on specific ones yet, though), and also expect some minor tweaks to Xbox Music. We'll keep you posted if we hear more about a specific rollout date.
Nokia marketing head: Customers' 'biggest complaint' is missing apps
We managed to grab a quick chat with Nokia's Global Head of Smartphone Marketing, Vesa Jutila, following the global launch of the Lumia 925. When asked about the still-notable absence of some mainstream apps within Windows Phone 8, Jutila was surprisingly frank. With reference to the company's Lumia series, he said that "the biggest complaint is that customers are missing the apps they want." Nokia has been on a recent charm offensive towards Instagram, not least with a mini Twitter campaign, but it announced earlier today that a new Hipstamatic Oggl app will be headed to Microsoft's mobile OS, capable of sharing through Twitter, Facebook and, yes, Instagram. However, for users coming from other platforms, they may find some first-party favorites missing -- with things like Google+ and Amazon Cloud Player being just a couple of examples. Jutila acknowledged that there were "some gaps" but said Nokia is "addressing this very strongly" with the help of Microsoft. He added: "[Developer attention] is very much driven by the absolute volume of Windows Phones in the market. That's why we're so pleased when other manufacturers also make Windows Phones." When asked if Nokia has a strategy for a scenario in which it becomes the only manufacturer of Windows Phones, Jutila replied "No, we don't have a strategy for that." Sharif Sakr contributed to this report.
Vodafone UK scores 32GB Lumia 925, O2 gets dibs on white model for June 13
Now that Nokia's launched it's metal-accented Lumia 925, you may want to know where to grab one. Well, in the UK, Vodafone will start carrying a 32GB version of the handset exclusively next month, while O2 said it'd be the only UK carrier with a white model -- which you'll be able to grab on June 13th. As for the others, Three confirmed via a tweet that it'd carry the new handset and that it would be compatible with its Ultrafast services, while EE and Orange have yet to announce anything. Meanwhile, we heard from T-Mobile that it will be the exclusive home of the 925 in the US, at least at launch. We've touched base with all the carriers for more info, so check back to see if you'll be able to grab one from your provider of choice.
Nokia Lumia 925 hands-on (update: video)
At Nokia's London launch event, we've just managed to spend a bit of time with the gray version of the 4.5-inch Lumia 925. If you felt its polycarbonate predecessor was a little unwieldy in dimensions or weight, you might be pleased with what Nokia's crafted here. Its new Windows Phone flagship marks the company's return to metal-bodied smartphones, and in the process, it's become both lighter and thinner. This isn't a marginal shedding of a few grams, either -- there's a noticeable difference when compared to the Lumia 920. Likewise, the smaller frame makes the Lumia 920 feel all of a sudden rather chunky. Despite the slimmer lines, Nokia keeps the internal specifications largely the same, so you're getting an identical dual-core 1.5GHz processor and 1GB of RAM, although this time there's only 16GB of storage -- sacrifices had to be made somewhere, we guess. Imaging-wise, and yes, it's still all about the camera with Nokia, there's the same 8.7-megapixel camera sensor from the 920 model, although Nokia says it's made countless improvements to noise-reduction algorithms and other inner workings. While the hardware has remained mostly unchanged, the company's gone to town on the camera app, moving beyond the Windows Phone Lens system to craft a new Smart Cam interface. Our favorite part here is the ability to leap straight into it instead of the standard camera app. Once we set it up within the app itself, it launched just as swiftly as the regular option. Performance, in general, was identical to what we've experienced on both the 928 and 920 (the same processor will do that), keeping up with our task transitions and web-browsing tests. We're putting the finishing touches to our hands-on video, but you can find more impressions on the hardware (and that Smart Cam) after our gallery and the break. Update: Now with video!%Gallery-188251% %Gallery-188258%
