Microsoft has officially revealed Windows Phone 8, its mobile operating system that’ll be available on previously-announced smartphones from Nokia, Samsung and HTC from next month.
The company says Windows Phone 8 is built to work seamlessly with Windows 8 computers, Microsoft Surface tablet devices, the Xbox 360 game console and the SkyDrive cloud storage service.
Terry Myerson, corporate vice president of the Windows Phone Division at Microsoft, said “Microsoft is excited for the world to meet the new Windows Phone. We set out to create the most personal smartphone there is, focused on keeping you closer to the people and things that matter most. It’s also the best phone for Windows, helping you stay connected across devices. And finally, of course, there’s the hardware. We have a killer lineup of new phones featuring big bright screens, awesome audio capabilities and great cameras from HTC, Nokia and Samsung.”
Windows Phone 8 is probably best known for ‘Live Tiles’ that offer shortcuts to contacts, apps, music and photos. Other features include ‘Data Sense’ mobile data compression and management in partnership with mobile operators, plus a ‘Kid’s Corner’ to protect specific applications when parents lend their phone to children.
Mobile phones already announced for Windows Phone 8 include the Nokia Lumia 920, 820 and 810, the Windows Phone 8X and 8S by HTC and the Samsung ATIV S.
[Windows Phone blog]