Windows Phone 8.1 to be replaced by Windows 10

Windows Phone 8.1 is officially on the condemned list. Microsoft today held a media briefing and announced that Windows Phone is to be fully integrated into the Windows fold when Windows 10 is released later this year. There will be two new versions of Windows, the only difference being which screen size they are optimised for – 8″ or larger or smaller than 8″.

Windows Phone 8.1 to be replaced by Windows 10

Above is the new notification tray with the quick action buttons which looks similar to Windows Phone 8.1. The Action Centre now syncs with a Windows 10 PC. There are some changes so that toast notifications are more actionable and there is a drawer for recently installed apps above the alphabetical list of installed apps. Other changes include being able to re-position the keyboard and it now supports voice typing.

As Windows 10 is now integrated across the platforms of phone, tablet and PC, there is a new code for Office which includes review, formatting and everything else you can do on a PC, powered by hardware acceleration.

Windows Phone 8.1 to be replaced by Windows 10 The photo roll is getting an update with auto enhancement and the ability to automatically create albums .

Due to the new cross platform integration there are changes coming to Xbox Music which will support a new OneDrive music locker. There is a new maps app, which is enhanced by Cortana, who will be coming to PC so you will now be able to talk to your computer and tell it what you want it to do.

The new Windows 10 will be available in mid-2015 with a developer program launching earlier in the year. For those interested it will be a free upgrade, within first year, for all Windows 7, 8.1 and Windows Phone 8.1 users.

Picture source: WMpoweruser