14 DAY TRIAL // Windows 10 for phones is already in development, and although Microsoft has pledged to remain tight-lipped on any details regarding the full version of the operating system until it's actually ready, the company has provided some new information at WinHEC this week.
In a slide presented during the event, Microsoft has revealed the hardware requirements of what it calls "Windows Mobile," which is most likely the upcoming Windows 10 for phones.
Of course, they're not very different from those of Windows Phone 8.1, but they do come with some changes that reflect Microsoft's new strategy for Windows 10.
At least 4 GB of storage space required
First and foremost, 512 MB of RAM will be the minimum requirement for Windows 10 for phones, which is the exact same amount needed for Windows Phone 8.1. Microsoft has already confirmed that devices that come with 512 MB of RAM will be capable of running Windows 10 for phones, but some features will be missing because of the limited hardware capabilities.
Then, there's the minimum storage space. According to the slide, devices capable of running Windows 10 should have at least 4 GB of storage, but a microSD card would be required to download and install updates. Most devices are expected to come with 8 GB of storage space, but those with 4 GB will be specifically designed to be very affordable.
As far as the display size is concerned, Windows 10 for phones will require screens between 3 and 7.99 inches, which is living proof that the same operating system would also be installed on small tablets. Microsoft worked to tweak Windows 10 for phones to power tablets as well and thus replace Windows RT completely, while tablets with larger screens would be running the full version of the OS.
As WMPU writes, the resolution of the display will depend on the amount of RAM. For example, a device with 512 MB of RAM would need to come with a 800x480 px display, while flagships with 4 GB or even more can go all the way up to 2560 x 2048 px.
Windows 10 for phones is expected to get the go-ahead in the summer, so expect new devices running it to be available in the fall.