14 DAY TRIAL // A new screenshot that allegedly shows the upcoming Windows Phone 10 leaked to the web from China, revealing a new home screen that could push Microsoft’s next mobile platform towards a flatter approach just like the Modern UI of Windows 8.
It’s worth mentioning from the very beginning that there’s absolutely no indication that this screenshot is real, so don’t take anything for granted until next week when Microsoft is expected to present the very first preview build of Windows Phone 10.
WMPowerUser first came across the screenshot on ImLever’s Weibo page and although it contains text written in Chinese, it does reveal a redesigned UI for the home screen.
The most surprising thing in this picture, however, is the lack of transparency, which was actually one of the most requested features in Windows Phone 8.1. Tiles no longer have transparency on the home screen, and while backgrounds are there, little can be seen because of the solid color used for tiles.
Possible reveal next week
Microsoft will be holding a dedicated Windows 10 event for consumers next week, when the company is expected to discuss its plans for the desktop, tablet, and smartphone platforms.
People familiar with Microsoft’s plans have said that Microsoft is also likely to ship a preview build of Windows Phone 10 that could be available through the Phone Insider app spotted in the store a few days ago.
Microsoft seems to adopt the same strategy as for Windows 10 and tries to roll out an insider program for Windows Phone 10 in an attempt to collect feedback from users and improve the mobile operating system in a way that would better address the needs of customers.
New name also expected
In addition to a plethora of new features and UI tweaks, Microsoft is also expected to unveil a new name for Windows Phone, in an attempt to rebrand the mobile OS and bring in more users.
Sources from within the company have indicated that Windows 10 for Phones and Windows 10 for Mobile are the two options considered right now, but a less likely rumor has also hinted that Windows Mobile is also under consideration for the time being.
Windows Phone 10, or whatever its name is going to be, is projected to see daylight this year, but no specifics have been provided until now.