14 DAY TRIAL // Windows Phone 8.1 Update 1 brings quite a lot of changes, but one of the things mentioned in the official documentation for OEMs reveals some pretty unexpected tweaks that could point to a new strategy put in place by the Redmond-based tech giant.
As myce.com reveals, the new software update makes it possible to remove functionality related to calling and mobile network connections in Windows Phone 8.1 Update 1, thus suggesting that OEMs are now allowed to build devices that are more similar to tablets than to mobile phones.
At the same time, the OEM release notes also reveal that the Windows Phone update can be installed on screen sizes of up to 7 inches, with a maximum resolution of 1280x768.
The two changes, when combined, could enable Microsoft partners to create tablets featuring a 7-inch display and running Windows Phone 8.1 Update 1, even though it’s hard to believe that such a device would actually post high sales.
The small tablet business has reportedly been targeted by Microsoft with a potential Surface Mini project, but the company has reportedly decided to abandon it because the first prototypes didn’t bring anything new as compared to devices already on the market.
A 7-inch tablet running Windows Phone, on the other hand, would benefit from the increasing number of apps in the store, as Microsoft has recently confirmed that there are more than 300,000 available for smartphone buyers.
At this point, stats show that Windows 8 users are provided with approximately 170,000 apps.
One of the reasons a 7-inch Windows Phone tablet is very unlikely is also the approaching launch of Windows 9, the next full Windows version that’s expected to bring together Windows Phone and Windows RT. Although not confirmed by Microsoft, it’s believed that Windows 9 could actually merge the two platforms and thus lead to the creation of a unique operating system that would be installed on both tablets and smartphones.
The goal of this plan is the access to the same growing app store, as Microsoft has already implemented some changes for developers, including the debut of the universal app concept for tablets and smartphones.
In the end, making Windows Phone run on 7-inch tablets could actually be an experimental move made by Microsoft to test the waters before the arrival of the eagerly anticipated Windows 9. And still, it’s hard to believe that anyone would actually pump money into such a project. As far as we know, Microsoft itself won’t do such a thing.