Last Friday, we reviewed Nokia's Lumia 900 smartphone, which we described as the best Windows Phone available at this time, together with the Lumia 800. One of the phone's drawbacks is that it cannot be upgraded to Windows Phone 8 when it releases. During the Windows Phone Summit 2012, it became clear that Windows Phone 8 would not be based on Windows CE, but shares its kernel with the desktop and tablet version of Windows 8. The mobile version of the operating system will feature Internet Explorer 10 and Nokia Maps. The maximum resolution supported by the OS is 1280x768 pixels. Support for multi-core processors, NFC technology and the use of SD cards is also present in the new operating system.
The Verge has taken a closer look at the Software Development Kit (SDK) which leaked earlier this week. Multiple unannounced features were found in the OS. The images below show a new start screen in which the size of the tiles can be adjusted, as well as their colours by changing the theme. Also shown is Data Sense, an integrated app which gives a clear overview of the phone's bandwidth usage. This will be especially handy for users with a data limit.
A more extensive back-up feature is displayed, which also allows text messages, app lists and configurations to be exported to the cloud. The automatic uploading of files to SkyDrive also provides more options for photos and videos. Integration of Internet Explorer 10 has been enhanced and the Xbox and Music/Video hubs now have an interface, reminiscent of Microsoft's SmartGlass theme. To download media, Zune has been replaced by the Xbox Music Store.
The options for making photos and videos have also been overhauled. Multiple images can be selected simultaneously to be shared or deleted. It is now also possible to rotate, crop and enhance the images. Through the Lenses interface, all apps that use the camera are available on a single screen. WP7App.de reports that it's now also possible to make screenshots of the operating systems, which may benefit reporters and bloggers writing on an app, update or possible error of the smartphone.
As more information on the upcoming operating system is revealed, we'll keep you posted.
In Windows 8 it is possible to make screenshots
