Verizon Nokia Lumia 928 owners will be happy to know that the GDR2 + Lumia Amber update can be downloaded and flashed to their smartphone now.
Nokia is expected to release a major update for its Windows Phone 8 smartphones sometime this month. The new over the air (OTA) will provide Microsoft's GDR2 (general distribution release) update for Windows Phone 8. Nokia is also including its own software update in its Lumia Amber update, which will bring some cool new features to Lumia smartphones.
Windows Phone Central is reporting that one of its forum members has posted links on its forums to download the GDR2 + Amber update for the Verizon Lumia 928. The files can be downloaded and flashed to the smartphone. The site points out that going this route will get you the latest and greatest, but it also comes at a cost - the smartphone will be completely erased in the update process.
In case your wondering what's included with Microsoft's Windows Phone 8 GDR2 (general distribution release), it includes the following features:
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.)
Since Nokia gets more access to parts of Windows Phone 8 than other licensees, the company is including its Lumia Amber update with the release of GDR2. Nokia has included some cool, new and exclusive features in the Amber update. There's an always-on clock feature that displays the time on the smartphone's display even while the smartphone is powered off and it doesn't take a toll on battery life. Users will also have the ability to double-tap the screen to wake the smartphone from standby. It also adds a new camera application with more advanced features.
If you're feeling brave and don't mind erasing your Lumia 928, Windows Phone Central forums have what you're looking for.
