Jump to content

Build 2014: Windows Phone 8.1 springs into view, complete with Cortana


sincity

Recommended Posts

Build 2014: Windows Phone 8.1 springs into view, complete with Cortana

Microsoft has taken the wraps off Windows Phone 8.1, the next edition of its mobile OS, at Build 2014.

The update comes complete with an Action Center, as was widely rumored. CVP Joe Belfiore introduced the new center, highlighting its ability to keep users informed of what's going on with their phone, such as better battery life readings.

Perhaps most importantly of all, Windows Phone 8.1 breathes life into Cortana, Microsoft's new voice-activated personal assistant. She's powered by Bing, and replaces the search function on Windows Phone.

Belfiore demoed Cortana on stage, showing off her ability to set reminders, read text messages, find search results (like the best Mexican restaurants in Palo Alto) and much more. Belfiore explained that with user permission, Cortana will read emails, gaining access to info like flight schedules.

Personalizing Windows Phone

Customization is clearly a big focus with the update, and Belfiore even said that the changes in store are all about personalizing the Windows Phone experience. Can't get much clearer than that.

Users will also be able to customize their lock screen as well as their live tile themes.

Live tiles

With Windows Phone 8.1, users will also be able to choose what they're on-screen start screen look like.

There are also a number of apps getting an update with Windows Phone 8.1, including Skype.

Windows Phone 8.1 will roll out to consumers as an update in the coming months. However, it will come pre-installed in new phones starting in "very late April or early May."

mf.gif
twitter.png facebook.png linkedin.png googleplus.png email.png


rc.img
rc.img
rc.img

a2.imga2t.imgRvYRV4HsHOw
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.

Guest
Unfortunately, your content contains terms that we do not allow. Please edit your content to remove the highlighted words below.
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.

×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

By using this site, you agree to our Terms of Use.