Nokia Lumia 800 Gets Battery Boost Update

Nokia has started releasing updates designed to fix battery problems in its flagship Windows Phone 7 device, the Lumia 800.

The troubled Finnish phone maker said the update was ready for some users today, but others would have to wait. Some may have to hold on until 18 April.

In the UK, the update is available for those on Vodafone, but those on Orange, T-Mobile, O2 and most customers on Three will have to wait. Those on Three with the product code 059L8M3 will be able to get the upgrade.

Users moan

Users have reported various problems with the Lumia 800 battery since its release in November 2011. Some found that following an update, a question mark would appear over the battery symbol. Others simply reported rapidly depleting battery life.

Nokia attempted to fix the issues with an update in December, but users continued to have problems. Some customers have been told to get their devices replaced.

The company has now promised “significant improvements in battery life”, which will make the Lumia 800 “among the top performers in battery life” for key areas, including talk time in 3G networks, browsing over WiFi, music playback and overall usage time.

There was no confirmation, however, on another feature users are waiting for: Wi-Fi tethering.

“We can’t confirm at this stage exactly when it will be delivered, but rest assured it is on its way,” said Nokia spokesman Dinesh Subramaniam, in a blog post. “I hope you will agree that we’ve prioritized those enhancements that will give everyone the most enjoyment out of their Lumia 800.”

The software version 1600.2487.8107.12070 for the device also includes improvements to the bass in the audio for better voice and music quality, Subramaniam added.

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