Windows Phone 8.1 may not be available to the general public just yet, but earlier today a Developer Preview of the operating system update was released by Microsoft. Even if you are not a developer and would like to get your hands on the new update, we’ve put together a quick tutorial on how to make it happen.
Windows Phone 8.1 includes more customization options such as Start Screen wallpapers, and new functionality such as a notification center which brings it up to speed with other mobile platforms such as iOS and Android. Windows Phone 8.1 also includes a brand new voice assistant, designed to take on iOS’s Siri. Cortana, the name of the new Windows Phone assistant will learn about you, and will be able to perform certain tasks all by talking to it. Windows Phone 8.1 will introduce a new quick toggle feature, allowing the user to set their most used settings in a quick swipe down from the top of the screen.
Here is how you can snag the update right now:
- Step 1 – You must register yourself as an app developer. Simply head over to the Windows Phone App Studio website, and sign-in with your Microsoft Account credentials.
- Step 2 – Head over to the Windows Phone Store and download the “Preview for Developers” app. Install and open the app, and log in using your Microsoft Account credentials. Once you are logged in, simply “Enable Preview for Developers.”
- Step 3. – Go to Settings > Phone updates, and click on “Check for updates.” You will be prompted to download the update, once it is available in your region. It is already rolling out in the US.
“Now registered Windows Phone developers can receive pre-release OS updates on their dev phone, directly from Microsoft! You can use this app to opt-in your phone to receive early Windows Phone updates before they are generally available, enabling you to run and test your app on real hardware running the latest OS before your customers,” the”Preview for Developers” app description reads.
Enjoy Windows Phone 8.1 Developer Preview! You now have an opportunity to take the first look at the new operating system update. Things might still be buggy, so don’t worry! Ask a question on WinBeta and our readers will point you to the right direction.
