More Windows Phone 8.1 features leaked, courtesy of SDK

Microsoft recently sent out a limited number of invitations to developers, so that they can test the Windows Phone 8.1 SDK (software development kit). This distribution was meant to allow developers to provide feedback on the latest Windows Phone iteration, while the tested their apps on the newest version of Microsoft's mobile OS.

While Developers had to sign a nondisclosure agreement, while using Microsoft's software, it looks like some of them have chosen to leak out some upcoming Windows Phone 8.1 features.

The Windows Phone 8.1 SDK makes it easier for developers to port their apps to Windows RT by implementing the same solution sharing code between the two platforms. As part of this Windows Phone 8 is now known as WinPRT

Below you will find a list of changes and improvements headed to Windows Phone 8.1

• Apps will also remain active instead of closing once you press the 'Back' button, allowing much better multitasking.
• Apps can be displayed in a GridView or ListView
• VPN support coming to Windows Phone 8.1
• Apps can be installed on SD card (with option to disable that)
• Windows Phone 8.1 will have javascript support
• Slide down to close app in multi tasking view
• New USB settings include option to notify when you are connected to a slower charger
• You can now select is the navigation bar will be always dark, match background or match accent color
• Ability to choose your own default messaging app.
• Filter through installed apps by usage/install date
• Select multiple tiles when customising the Start screen
• Separate volume controls for ringer, media, etc.

Here are some of the new apps and changed headed to Windows Phone 8.1

• WP8.1 apps not compatible with WP8 devices without running WP8.1 update. WP8.1 devices can run WP8 apps though
• Wi-Fi sense
• Newly redesigned Xbox Game Hub
• New Camera UI: The top app bar includes access to Lenses, flash, front / rear camera selection, while the bottom app bar switches between a single photos, video, and a burst mode.
• Battery Power Sense - Offers detailed information on which apps use up your battery life
• Data sense
• Storage sense
• New podcast app
• The Xbox Music+ Video Hub will be replaced with separate apps
• SkyDrive will now be known as OneDrive, as per the copyright claim against Microsoft. Will include file browser.
• Bing Health and Fitness app from Windows 8.1 will be available for Windows Phone 8.1

Windows Phone 8.1 is expected to be revealed at the BUILD developer conference in April, after which we should start seeing the update appear on our Windows Phone handsets.


source | Nokia Power User