MWC 2014 has started already started and Microsoft has made some interesting Announcements at the ongoing event. Windows phone is fast growing in popularity and to ensure it keeps penetrating at the same pace, Microsoft has partnered with 9 more smartphone manufacturer three of which are our desi brands Karbonn, Xolo and Lava.
Other 6 manufacturers include Gionee, LG, Lenovo, Foxconn, Longcheer and JSR. Microsoft VP Nick Parker stated, “we’re open for business on Windows Phone to anyone who wants to build one.”
Microsoft also announced that any company can build a Windows Phone based on Qualcomm’s design, which implies that Android hardware can be reused for windows phone. It is quite clear that this time Microsoft is targeting emerging markets like India.
Another major announcement from the Microsoft camp stated that Windows Phone 8.1 will come with more hardware support. To be more precise it will support more Qualcomm chipsets, such as Snapdragon 200, 400 and 400 LTE. It will also get equipped with Dual SIM support, Virtual Softkeys (instead of capacitive keys), ability to transfer Apps to MicroSD card and more. The devices on Windows Phone 8 will be able to receive 8.1 update as well. Facebook Messenger will also soon debut on Windows Phone 8.1.
Microsoft is expected to introduce Windows Phone 8.1 in April at build conference. Windows 8.1 will also receive more hardware support in an update due by spring of 2014. Microsoft will make it compatible with 1 GB RAM and 16 GB storage system. It is quite clear from all these announcements that Microsoft is considering emerging markets like India quite seriously and considers it a favorable breeding ground for Windows platform.
