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Official Twitter app for Windows Phone updated with photo filters, lens app integration
Windows Phone users may be recovering from their Jetpack Joyride ecstasy yesterday, but Twitter is giving its official app some much-needed love today. The latest update, which came down the pipeline this morning, adds such enhancements as lens app integration and the ever-popular photo filter feature complete with eight options to choose from. But that's not all, our WP8-loving friends: you can now also view Vine videos directly within tweets, save tweeted images directly to your phone and refresh lists on-demand. Considering it's been a few months since the last update, this is a solid improvement over the last version.
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.
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.
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%
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.
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.
Hipstamatic Oggl app coming to Windows Phone 8, launching with Nokia's Lumia 925
Hipstamatic's Oggl app and sharing service is coming to Windows Phone 8, we learned at Nokia's Lumia 925 launch event. We didn't get to play around in the app -- the WP8 UI we saw on stage was but a preview, as the native app (read: not a port) is still in development. We're assured Oggl will be ready by the time the new Lumia launches, but it won't be a Nokia exclusive, so anyone with a WP8 handset will be able to use the food filter and (over)share their lunch choice on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or Instagram. We don't know whether the regular dollar-per-month (or $10 per year) service fee will apply, but we're told you'll be able to swap cash for more filters and effects on top of the base selection.
Nokia announces the Lumia 925: a thinner, lighter aluminum body coming June for 469 euros
Nokia's second announcement for May is arguably a more notable progression from the Lumia 920 than the US-only Lumia 928. This is the Lumia 925. It's another flagship, but this one's setting its sights on the rest of the world. The first thing to note is the change in build materials and profile. While the rest of the Lumia range have stuck to plastics -- typically glossy polycarbonate -- the Lumia 925 is Nokia's first Windows Phone to be packed into an aluminum frame. One of the benefits of this change in design? The handset's weight has plummeted. While the phone has the same dual-core 1.5GHz Snapdragon S4 Pro processor, 1GB RAM and 8.7-megapixel OIS camera of the 920, the Lumia 925 is almost 50 grams (1.8 ounces) lighter than last year's Lumia 920. Despite a thinner 8.8mm profile, there's an identical 2,000mAh battery. Alas, instead of built-in wireless charging, you'll have to purchase an accessory cover to enable the function on the 925. Said covers will come in red, yellow, black and white, offering a splash of color to the three understated monochrome shades (white, grey and black) of the hardware. The 925 model also sports an 4.5-inch AMOLED screen, so while it matches the resolution of the existing 920 (1,280 x 768), those on-screen blacks -- a regular occurrence with the Windows Phone OS -- should be notably deeper than the LCD competition. It's also coated in Gorilla Glass 2, with ClearBlack tech and a high-brightness mode to improve outdoor visibility and the same super-sensitive touchscreen that means you'll be able to steer the phone with your gloves on. There's more to say about camera improvements -- jump past some Nokia-approved sample shots below to hear more. %Gallery-188138%
Nokia reveals another new Lumia smartphone in UK ad, teases 'more than your eyes can see' (video)
We're still days away from Nokia's London media event, but the company has apparently got a real taste for teasers. A new 20-second promo clip aired today in the UK, and although it doesn't outline any outright specs or model numbers, we get a (very) up-close look at a dual-flash arrangement (unlike the xenon flash seen on Verizon's Lumia 928), a glossy white shell and some metal detailing. We're relieved that Nokia has something new to unveil in the UK next week, but we're now itching to hear exactly how this Windows Phone will differ from the now-public Lumia 928. We'll have all the details on Tuesday morning. Update: The Verge has managed to upload a digital copy of the ad. See it for yourself right after the break.
Huawei W1, the company's first Windows Phone 8 device, comes to the US in prepaid form
Huawei and the United States government may have their differences, but here's something we can all agree on: Walmart's going to sell whatever it darn well pleases. Including, mind you, Huawei's first Windows Phone 8 smartphone. The W1 -- which has made inroads in multiple markets already -- is heading to Yankee soil, with shipments expected to begin "this month" at Walmart.com and at select Walmart stores. For those in need of a refresher, it'll pack a 1.2GHz dual-core CPU, a 4-inch IPS touchpanel, 1.7GB of user-available internal storage (expandable to 32GB via microSD card), a 5 megapixel rear camera (with a 0.3MP shooter on the front) and the latest iteration of Microsoft's mobile OS. Strangely, Huawei nor Walmart are saying what the damage will be, but it'll reportedly be priced "competitively" on a prepaid, no-contract plan.
Windows Phone 8's YouTube app goes from glorified bookmark to full application in latest update
The Windows Phone 8 YouTube app has been woefully underutilized, acting more or less as a bookmark that redirects users to the web. No more, as the app's getting a major update today that makes it act more like a standard WP8 app -- you can pin various components right into your Live Tile set and play videos (as music) in the background, even when your phone's locked. Standards like social sharing and search are also in there, and a "new and innovative playlist design" rounds out the refresh. Perhaps the Microsoft / Google relationship is mending? We can't be sure, but this is certainly one step in the right direction. We've dropped the full list of new features beyond the break, and you can grab the app update for yourself right here.
Foursquare updates app for Windows Phone 8, brings lock screen notifications and NFC check-ins
Foursquare's been rather attentive to most mobile plaforms this year, releasing updates for Android, BlackBerry and iOS in 2013. The time has finally come for Microsoft users as well, as a fresh WP8-compatible version has just hit the Windows Phone app store. Version 3.0 lets users pin people and places to Start screens, provides lock screen notifications and lets folks check-in and share via NFC. Oh, and should you grow weary of using swipes and taps, the addition of speech controls allows you to search and check-in using only your voice. Should you be among the socially-inclined Microsofties, you know what to do.
Hulu Plus comes to Windows Phone today
It was six months ago that Hulu Plus made its official debut on Windows 8 PCs and tablets. Now, Windows Phone users are about to suffer a similar loss of productivity. The WP8 app will be available today as a free download, featuring unlimited streaming and Live Tile support -- provided you're willing to fork out the standard $8 monthly subscription, that is. In any case, it should be available shortly, so keep a lookout. And as for all you Windows Phone naysayers, this means you now have one less reason to, well, say nay.
Microsoft's Switch to Windows Phone app for Android attempts to prove you're not missing out
Ever since its launch, Windows Phone has faced criticism for lacking a broad app selection compared with its main mobile OS competitors. Microsoft is out to convince users otherwise, and in a rather cheeky move, has launched the Switch to Windows Phone app for Android. Available now on the Google Play store, the app takes note of all the software currently on your Android handset and suggests official WP8 apps that correspond to what's on your phone, or apps that match up best if official versions aren't available. The results can also be saved and recalled using an app of the same name for WP8 to make installing those alternatives that bit easier. You may remember a similar app for PCs called Welcome Home to Windows Phone that Nokia put out last year, which uses the same app-matching search tech from Quixey. Microsoft has also taken this opportunity to launch a new ad campaign (embedded after the break) pumping itself up as a sensible alternative to the Android / iOS battles, timed perfectly to arrive with this app. Assuming you have the requisite devices handy, hit the source links to install the software and let us know how good it is at finding a match.
Microsoft's next revision of Facebook for Windows Phone 8 hits beta
Last year's revision to Facebook for Windows Phone may have gotten fans closer to the Facebook grail, but it was still lagging behind its iOS and Android siblings. Microsoft is finally catching up though, with the latest beta of the app. This build supports the new Facebook Timeline, higher-quality photos and post sharing. It's currently listed as being compatible with Windows Phone 8 -- which might leave some 7.5 and 7.8 users feeling a bit salty. You'll have to download it straight from the link below if you're up for giving it a whirl, since it can't be directly from your device.
Nokia Lumia 520 review: does Nokia need another budget Windows Phone?
Oh, for an easy life. Sometimes it'd be nice to just read a phone's spec sheet, compare prices and make a decision. In a number of ways, the Nokia Lumia 520 looks like just the type of handset where this ought to be possible: it has the same reliable internals and happy design language that have already proven their worth in the Lumia 620, but it makes a couple of sacrifices for the sake of its £115 pay-as-you-go price tag in the UK -- which undercuts the higher model by a good £30-£50 depending on where you shop. It's even cheaper in the US, where a $150 Lumia 521 variant (not the one reviewed here) is scheduled for general availability on T-Mobile starting tomorrow. These sacrifices seem straightforward enough, and they include things that many smartphone users may barely notice, such as the absence of a front-facing camera, camera flash module and NFC. The problem is that the specs are never the full story. Like any phone, the Lumia 520 comes with a few surprises. Read on and we'll try to root them out.
