We already know that current generation Windows Phones will not be receiving the new Windows Phone 8 mobile OS and instead will have to settle for Windows Phone 7.8 instead. But we know very little about both operating systems in terms of what features we can expect.
However thanks to a recent leaked comparison between Windows Phone 8 (WP8) and Windows Phone 7.8 (WP7.8) we now have a somewhat clearer idea of what to expect.
The comparison makes one thing clear. Windows Phone 7.8 will only be receiving a new start menu. Several features like Skype, RCS-e and DataSmart wont be integrated into Windows Phone 7.8, but will appear as separate applications.
WP7.8 brings nothing new to the table. The updated apps nor the new Start Screen really require such a subsequent version bump.
Meanwhile the WP8 news keeps getting better. The new OS will have more voice commands and great integration with its SkyDrive cloud service. Bing Audio in WP8 will come with ‘improved TV recognition’. We are very curious to see what this has to offer.
Sadly the biggest disappointment is the lack of OTA updates. WP7.8 users will have to continue relying on the Zune software application which will supposedly be discontinued in Windows 8. I really don't understand why Microsoft is choosing to drag users along with WP7.8.
While none of this information is yet official, the source is known to be reliable and has been accurate with previous information.
As a current Windows Phone user I am greatly disappointed. I would have loved to upgrade to WP8, I love what Windows Phone has to offer and I am a great fan of its features. But being forced to jump ship not even having used my device for 6 months in just unacceptable.
Windows Phone 7.5 is great, but its not complete. If Microsoft is ready to bail on its users, why shouldn't users bail on Microsoft and use Android or iOS instead. The least they can do is to bring WP7.5 in par with its competitors. So far I don't think WP7.8 does that, so all we can do is wait and see.
source – WPForum.ru