Microsoft has officially revealed details on the next update it will release for Windows Phone 8, the GDR2, expected to be available in a few weeks.
Microsoft is the market leader in desktop operating systems and is hoping that its smartphone platform, Windows Phone, will reach the same status one day. The company is facing an uphill battle as Android and iOS hold 75 and 17.3 percent of global smartphone OS market share, respectively, according to recent rankings. Microsoft, meanwhile, snagged third place away from BlackBerry with 3.2 percent compared to 2.9 percent. Windows Phone is gaining in popularity and the company plans on focusing on software updates for existing products in an effort to boost sales and market share, much like Apple does with its iOS updates to current and older devices.
Windows Phone 8 fans will be happy to know that Microsoft made things official by sharing its release notes for the next update to Windows Phone 8, the GDR2 (General Distribution List). The update will bring some features that Windows Phone fans have been waiting for, including:
Xbox Music - This new feature will make it easier for users to select, download, and pin music. Xbox Music also brings more accurate metadata (such as song and album information), as well as many other performance improvements.
FM radio - Allows users to listen to FM radio straight from the Music+Videos hub. (Not available for all phones.)
Data Sense - This feature aims to help users monitor their phone's data usage. Users will be able to set a limit based on their data plan, or just keep track of which apps use the most data. (Not all mobile operators offer Data Sense.)
Skype. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) apps like Lync and Skype now boast enhanced stability and performance.
Internet Explorer - According to Microsoft, the web browsing experience is now "better than ever" with improved HTML 5 compatibility.
Camera - With the new GDR2 update, users will be able to set their favorite Lens so it opens automatically when they press the camera button. (Not available for all phones.)
Windows Phone smartphone owners will be notified when the GDR2 software update is available to download and install. Current rumors claim the update will be released sometime in the next few weeks.
