Nokia ‘Leak’ Reveals Windows Phone 8 Features

A confidential document seemingly originating from Nokia and discovered by SmartPhone France has revealed the differences between Windows Phone 8 (WP8) and the next version of Windows Phone 7 (WP7).

Microsoft previously announced current devices running its mobile OS, including Nokia Lumia smartphones, will not be able to update to WP8, which is expected to be released in October.

End of the line

Microsoft announced in June that the new Windows Phone OS will be released before the end of the year, but current WP7 devices will not be able to upgrade as WP8 will be based on a new kernel. Instead, WP7 users will be offered an updated version of the existing software, which will introduce some new features and interface elements.

There has been a considerable backlash against both companies, with early supporters of Windows Phone feeling betrayed.

According to the French presentation slide, current Lumia owners will miss out on the following features: real multitasking, Internet Explorer 10, the Wallet app, secure boot and encryption, device management and some enterprise-ready features, such as the Company Hub, an app distribution and management mechanism.

In addition, WP8 devices will enjoy a set of hardware-based improvements, such as Near-Field Communication (NFC) support, MicroSD card slots, Dual and Quad-Core processors and 720p WXGA screens.

Until now, Windows Phone users could only update their smartphone by connecting it directly to a PC. WP8 will become the first mobile OS from Microsoft to feature over-the-air updates, while WP7 owners will still have to make do with a length of a USB cable.

Other than that, the two systems appear to be close to identical. Windows Phone 7.8 will feature the same level of home screen customisation, with users being able to choose one of three sizes for their tiles. The flip-to-silence function will also be present on both.

As for native applications, both operating systems will get access to new data consumption manager Nokia Counter, and the digital bookstore Nokia Reading.

Although SmartPhone France is sure of the document’s authenticity, it is worth noting that there has been no official word from Microsoft on the features of Windows Phone 7.8.

Nokia is set to announce its first smartphone running WP8 at the Nokia World event taking place next month in Helsinki.

Meanwhile, Microsoft has killed off its App Hub and replaced it with Windows Phone Developer Center, its destination for anyone designing apps for the mobile operating system.

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