14 DAY TRIAL // As rumored, Microsoft has presented the new version of Windows Phone at the Windows 10 consumer event today, confirming that it's indeed working on a revamped version of its mobile operating system that could launch later this year.
Simply referred to as “Windows 10,” the new Windows Phone version will be designed to work more like the desktop operating system, so it will include features that will look very similar to the ones available on your PC.
Basically, Microsoft has tried to bring together its platforms for a seamless transition from one device to another, so Windows 10 is now powering PCs, tablets, and phones. This also marks the end of Windows RT as a platform.
New features in Windows 10 for phones
Windows 10 for Phones will come with a redesigned home screen that includes new icons and graphics, which seem to offer a more modern appearance. And yet, in Microsoft's demo, tiles provide no transparency, but Joe Belfiore has pointed out that this is an early build, so a lot could change before the final version is developed.
The new mobile platform also comes with a new app list that offers a cleaner overview of the programs installed on your device, similar to what you can find on the PC.
There's a new PC settings screen that looks almost the same as the one on Windows 10, obviously as part of Microsoft's efforts to bring together its platforms. Setting up devices should now become easier because the same features will be available in the same place, with the same options, Belfiore has said.
A redesigned action center
At the same time, Belfiore has also demoed a new action center that allows users to perform quick tasks, such as replying to messages or deleting emails.
The messaging experience has been greatly improved in Windows 10 for phones with a floating keyboard that allows you to move the keys to the right to make one-hand typing easier on large screens. A microphone icon is now available in all messaging windows, and it allows you to let a voice recognition system input your text.
And last but not least, Microsoft will introduce support for messaging apps, so depending on the apps your contacts are using, you can switch to a third-party app instead of the built-in messaging option. Skype will be directly integrated into messaging, in a similar way that Facetime is integrated into iOS.
This new build of Windows Phone is expected to launch later this year, but Belfiore hasn't provided any specifics for the moment.
