New Features in Windows Phone 8.1

With the likes of iOS and Android dominating the smartphone market, it can be difficult for anyone else to get a look in but finally it seems that Microsoft’s mobile phone OS is finally coming into its own and with the release of Windows Phone 8.1, it surely looks a more serious contender for its more experienced rivals.

The new features and recent updates not only resolve a lot of issues that were experienced with previous versions of the OS but they also give a fresher, more modern feel. Here are just a few of the latest additions you can expect to see in Windows Phone 8.1.

New Features in Windows Phone 8.1

Cortana is probably the biggest addition to Windows Phone 8.1 and is Microsoft’s answer to Siri. The digital assistant will tell you the weather conditions as well as the nearest restaurant. Thanks to integration with Bing, Cortana is smart as well as having a little personality

The live tiles are what give Windows Phone 8.1 its unique look and Microsoft has now added three-column support for some 8.1 compatible handsets, making it easier to personalize your homescreen with more tiles.

The Action Centre now allows you quicker and easier access to your settings and notifications. By pulling down on the top bar, you will see a window pane with toggle switches for things like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

A new ‘Swipe’ functionality has improved the keyboard, meaning you only have to trace over words rather than tapping on individual letters.

Windows Phone 8.1 comes with Internet Explorer 11 and video support for HTML 5.

The ‘Sense Apps’ are a great addition to Windows Phone 8.1. The ‘Battery Sense’ will turn off unnecessary functions, while the Wi-Fi Sense will detect and automatically connect you to trustworthy, open networks.