Microsoft has released the new Windows Phone 8 operating system, which is the latest version of the firm’s smartphone OS, to take on Apple’s iOS and Google’s Android.
The new OS will feature company’s Internet Explorer 10 which claimed to offer faster browsing, as well as offer integration with video chat app Skype.
Sharing the same user interface and technology core with Windows 8 for tablets and PCs, the new smartphone software features a Start screen in the form of square tiles known as Live Tiles, which is capable of displaying real-time information including updates on social networking sites.
The OS allows personalisation of the Start screen by pinning their favourite items that include application and photos, as well as select from three sizes and 20 colours for square tiles.
Microsoft claims that the new OS will facilitate developers to develop applications for both platforms including OS for PCs and for smartphones, as well as allows users to run similar programmes across diverse devices.
Windows Phone 8 will also support other hardware specifications that include multi-core processors and near-field communication (NFC).
The new OS also features Live Apps, Top apps, Kid’s Corner, data sense, wallet communications and always-on, premium Skype experience.
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Following the launch of new OS, Nokia, Samsung and HTC have released their smartphone powered by the new OS and are expected to be on sale through major mobile carriers in the US including Verizon Wireless, AT&T and T-Mobile in the coming weeks, with scheduled European sales this week.
Last week, Microsoft’s had unveiled its new Windows 8 operating system.
