As you know, Microsoft announced Windows Phone 8 at a press event earlier today. Let’s take a closer look at the highlighted features from the preview. Keep in mind, this is only the beginning, as Microsoft will unveil more further down the line.
Hardware Partners: First wave of Windows Phone 8 devices will be powered by Qualcomm’s chips and manufactured by Nokia, Huawei, Samsung, and HTC. They will begin arriving fall 2012.
Multi-core processor support: Windows Phone 8 introduces support for multi-core devices. Microsoft again announced Qualcomm as a hardware partner, so it’s likely we will be seeing dual-core Snapdragon S4 processors in Windows Phones this fall.
Bigger, sharper screens: WP8 hardware will finally bring HD resolutions to Windows Phone. We’re looking at two additional screen resolutions – 1280×768 and 1280×720.
More flexible storage: Windows Phone 8 supports removable MicroSD cards. This is what many were envisioning when Microsoft first announced Windows Phone 7, especially since legacy Windows Mobile supported expandable memory for years prior. As the saying goes, better late than never, right?
NFC wireless sharing: Google introduced NFC, or near-field communication, technology on the Android platform a while ago, but now it’s Microsoft’s turn to take a crack at it. This technology allows users to share photos, documents, contact information and more simply by tapping two NFC-capable devices together.
Wallet: A new digital Wallet feature can maintain debit and credit cards, coupons, boarding passes, and other important information right on your device. When paired with a secure SIM from your carrier, you can also pay for things with a tap of your phone at compatible checkout counters.
Internet Explorer 10: The next version of Windows Phone comes with the same web browsing engine that’s headed for Window 8 PCs and tablets. IE10 is faster and more secure, with advanced anti-phishing features like SmartScreen Filter to block dangerous websites and malware.
Better maps and directions: Nokia Maps will be built into all Windows Phone 8 devices. Users will have access to detailed maps, turn-by-turn directions in many countries, and the ability to store maps offline for use without a data connection.
Cooler apps and games: Basing Windows Phone 8 on the Windows core will unleash a new wave of amazing apps and games. Also, just so you know, Gameloft’s Asphalt 7: Heat and N.O.V.A. 3 Near Orbit Vanguard Alliance are heading soon to Windows Phone. There are now over 100,000 apps available on the Marketplace.
New Start Screen: The redesigned Start Screen makes Windows Phone more personal and flexible, offering up a new palette of theme colors and three sizes of Live Tiles which you can adjust. The following video should will give you a better idea of what to expect…
Native code support: Windows Phone 8 has full C and C++ support, making it easier to write apps for multiple platforms more quickly. It also means Windows Phone 8 supports popular gaming middleware such as Havok Vision Engine, Autodesk Scaleform, Audiokinetic Wwise, and Firelight FMOD, as well as native DirectX-based game development.
In-app payments: Windows Phone 8 makes it easier for app developers to sell add-ons within their apps.
Integrated Internet calling: developers can create VoIP apps that plug into the existing calling feature so Internet calls can be answered like traditional phone calls, using the same calling interface.
Multitasking enhancements: location-based apps like exercise trackers or navigation aids can run in the background.
Device encryption: built-in technology to encrypt the entire device, including the operating system and data files.
Better security: Windows Phone 8 supports the United Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) secure boot protocol and features improved app “sandboxing,” so the phone is better protected from malware with multiple layers of security.
Remote management: IT departments can manage apps and phones remotely, with tools similar to ones they now employ for Windows PCs.
Company Hub and apps: Companies can create their own Windows Phone 8 Hub for custom employee apps and other critical business info.
New languages: Windows Phone 8 will support 50 languages, which is double the amount covered by current devices. The Marketplace will also support app downloads in over 180 countries.
OTA Updates: Windows Phone 8 updates will be delivered wirelessly over-the-air. New devices will be supported with updates for at least 18 months after their launch, which is quite similar to Android.
Early Access: A program is in the works that will give registered enthusiasts early access to updates prior to broad availability.
Legacy Windows Phones: current Windows Phone 7.5 devices will not receive an upgrade to Windows Phone 8, however, they will get an update to Windows Phone 7.8 that includes the new Start Screen.
Source: Microsoft