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Windows Phone GDR3 officially announced, new developer program

Jordan O'Brien
October 14, 2013

Good news for Windows Phone 8 users, the GDR3 update is coming and it’s bringing a whole range of new features. Larger screen resolutions, rotation lock and even a Driving Mode are just some of the features that are making their way to next generation Windows Phones.

We’ve already seen numerous leaks around the next version of Windows Phone 8, with it rumoured to launch alongside the Nokia Lumia 1520, adding an extra row of tiles for 5- and 6-inch touch screens which can be anywhere up to 1080p in resolution. Rather than the traditional four small tiles, you’ll now be able to have six all on one row.

Whilst the higher resolution and larger screens are all well and good, next generation hardware will also support Qualcomm Snapdragon 800’s quad-core processor, which should make the already speedy Windows Phone operating system even faster.

With a faster phone and a larger screen, there’s more chances that you’re going to be constantly docking your phone on your car dashboard. With Driving Mode, the phone will recognise when you’re in your car by connecting to a Bluetooth device and limit the notifications that appear on the lock screen. That means if you get a call or text whilst driving, your phone will be able to notify those who are trying to get ahold of you that you’re in the car by sending automatic replies.

Whilst these are the three major features that Microsoft is touting on its Windows Phone blog, there are far more where that came from, with improved accessibility features which will be released as apps such as a screen reader app to make it easier for blind and visually impaired people to use their phones.

Internet Sharing will also get an update with Bluetooth Internet Sharing via your Windows 8.1 PC or tablet, which eliminates the need to turn on Internet Sharing or enter a password.

Other features that round up a rather large update to the Windows Phone 8 operating system include custom ringtones for instant messages, emails, voicemails, reminders and even individual contacts, rotation lock, closing apps from the App switcher, connecting to WiFi during phone setup, improved connection quality for Bluetooth accessories, and even better storage management.

The rollout will officially launch in the coming weeks, but developers will get an early preview of the OS thanks to the Windows Phone Preview for Developers program. The new program will require you to either have a developer-unlocked device, be a Windows Phone Store developer, or be a registered Windows Phone App Studio developer.

The program will begin later today, so you’ll have early access to the Windows Phone update.

About the Author

Jordan O'Brien

Technology Journalist with an unhealthy obsession with trains and American TV. Attempts satire far too often. (+44) 020 7324 3502

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