Windows Phone 8 Technology Is Impressive: 10 Reasons Why

Windows Phone 8 Technology Is Impressive: 10 Reasons Why
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Microsoft on June 20 unveiled Windows Phone 8, the company’s vision for the future of its mobile operating system. By most measures, the platform looks to be a significant improvement over Windows Phone 7. The only stakeholders upset by the move might be those who currently own a Windows Phone 7-based device. Microsoft says there will be no upgrade path from that platform to the new one, unless they buy a new phone with the latest operating system. 

Still, Windows Phone 8 is impressive. The operating system marks a significant shift for Microsoft, whichhastieditinwiththeNTkernel, effectively making it a Windows-based device. Even better, it now supports dual- and quad-core devices and can scale to up to 64 cores whenever mobile devices hit that milestone. Simply put, Windows Phone 8 is ready for primetime and it’s about time everyone understands why. 

Read on to find out why Windows Phone 8 is one of the more impressive additions to the mobile space in recent memory: 

1. Dual- and quad-core support

MicrosofthassaidthatWindowsPhone 8 will (finally) supportbothdual- andquad-coresmartphones. In fact, the company’s integration of the platform on the Windows 8 kernel will allow it to support up to 64 cores—though that’s a long ways off. Since it will support many more processor cores, Windows Phone 8 users should have a much better experience at their fingertips.

2. Near-field communication, anyone?

It was no surprise that Microsoft announced that near-field communication will be making its way to Windows Phone 8. The technology, which will allow users to engage in a host of activities, including paying for products from their smartphones, is the future of the mobile space. And Microsoft has acknowledged that with its integration.

3. The new (smarter) Start Screen

The new Start Screen is something most Windows Phone 7 users will be happy to find in the new version of the operating system. The new Start Screen will support three different tile sizes, enabling users to fit more on the screen. Microsoft’s Live Tiles were a big hit in Windows Phone 7, and look to be even better in Windows Phone 8.

4. Shift to the NT kernel

Microsoft’sdecisiontotransitiontotheNTkernel is undoubtedly its best decision with Windows Phone 8. Known as Windows Core, the kernel and associated OS functions will help bridge the gap between Windows on the desktop and Windows in the mobile space. For developers and IT staff looking for that happy marriage, this is a dream come true.

5. It expects HD—and that’s OK

Microsoft announced at its unveiling of Windows Phone 8 that the operating system is designed to work with three resolutions —WVGA, WXGA and 720p. What that means is the operating system is designed with HD in mind, putting it in clear competition with Apple’s iOS. It’s not a major update, but it’s certainly an important one.

6. Deep Skype integration, of course

After Microsoft acquired Skype, the company indicated that the VOIP platform would be making its way to all of its many products. Microsoftmadegoodonthatpromise with deep Skype integration in Windows Phone 8, making it available on everything from People Hub to the phone dialer. Nice.

7. Nokia Maps

For years, Nokia has been one of the leaders in the mapping space and currently counts the vast majority of in-dash navigation systems as its products. In Windows Phone 8, Nokia Maps will be the built-in mapping solution. For those that have tried Nokia Maps and its outstanding navigation features, it’s obvious why that’s a good thing. For those that haven’t, get ready for a much better service than Bing Maps.

8. Remote device management is a must-have

TheenterprisewasoneofthebiggestbenefactorsinMicrosoft’sWindowsPhone 8 unveiling. And chief among the features shown off for IT was remote device management. With the operating system, IT staff will be able to control mobile products they deploy, and perhaps even keep an eye on what employees are doing.

9. On-device encryption

One of the nice things about Windows NT kernel integration is that Windows Phone 8 will come with on-device encryption. Considering how much data is passed through mobile products in the enterprise, and considering how many IT decision-makers would love to have more security, this is a welcome addition. It’s especially important considering that Research-In-Motion phones are a favorite with enterprise IT managers because of their encryption capabilities.

10. A dedication to control

Unlike Android, which has quickly become a place where the user experience is different from product to product, Microsoft has ensured that all Windows Phone 8 devices deliver the same look and feel. That’s important. As Apple has shown time and again, control is best for today’s consumers. Microsoft has picked that ball up and run with it. And it should be commended for that.