Congratulations to the die-hard Windows phone addicts. Microsoft has announced new features of the Windows phone 8.1 update to include dual sim, Facebook messenger, on-screen buttons and cheapers device support. Windows Phone VP Joe Belfiore mentioned the changes will include support for Qualcomm Snapdragon 200, 400 and 400 LTE chips, which means that OEMs will now be able to make even cheaper WP phones. This means that the rumored dual SIM Nokia Lumia 635 / 630 could be launched shortly after WP 8.1 is released. Microsoft worked with Qualcomm for a seamless dual SIM integration with Windows Phone.
The new version of Windows Phone will allow us to store apps on MicroSD cards – great news for devices with low memory. The Windows Phone 8.1 will include dual-SIM support with live tiles for each SIM and the ability to link those in the user interface.
Microsoft’s press conference was not only about detailing its WP 8.1 update, the company also announced a couple of new hardware partners. The Windows Phone platform will now be driven by the likes of Foxconn, HTC, Huawei, ISR, Karbonn, Lenovo, LG, Longcheer, Nokia, Samsung, ZTE and Xolo.
Microsoft is helping smaller manufacturers, stores, and operators create white-label Windows Phone devices with low specifications and low prices via a web-based hardware partner portal. This is typically an area dominated by Android, so it’s another clear example of Microsoft targeting the low-end in an effort to boost Windows Phone sales.
Microsoft has achieved a great milestone with a 3.3% market share in 2013 with about 34 million windows phone sold though far behind Apple and Android. There is hope for the Redmond giants.
