14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft developed Windows 10 for PCs with help from testers across the world as part of a program called Windows Insider, and the same happened (and still happens, given the fact that the final version is not yet here) for the mobile sibling too.
Despite the fact that the PC version of Windows 10 had already launched on July 29, Microsoft decided to continue the insider program in order to develop the next updates for the operating system with help and feedback from as many users as possible.
And according to a company official, a similar strategy will be embraced for mobile phone users too.
Windows 10 Mobile is projected to debut next month, but the rollout is very likely to take more than a month, so some devices would only get the update next year.
More builds to come after RTM
But despite the arrival of RTM, the Windows Insider program will continue for Windows 10 Mobile too, and Jason, Program Manager on the Windows Insider team, has reiterated this today. In other words, after Windows 10 Mobile arrives on your phone, you can continue receiving preview builds if you wish to remain part of the program, or opt out and stay with the stable version.
Obviously, Microsoft needs as many people as possible to continue getting previews because the next updates for the platform have to be thoroughly tested too, and the company hopes to go on with the same feedback-based approach in the next 12 months.
Windows 10 Mobile will be offered as a free update to all devices running Windows Phone right now, no matter their hardware specifications, so the Lumia 520, for instance, which comes with just 512 MB of RAM, will get the new bits as well. Some features will be missing, though, given the limited hardware capabilities, but Microsoft says that Windows 10 Mobile will still be a worthy upgrade on all devices.
@bgdftw @GabeAul Yes, just like for PC. We love the Insider Program!
— Jason (@NorthFaceHiker) November 9, 2015