Microsoft  has taken the wraps off its next-generation mobile operating system and, as widely expected, its highlight is full integration with its counterparts on PCs and tablets.
But you'll have to buy a new smartphone to enjoy it. Multi-core processor requirements for the powerful new system will preclude its use on current Windows mobile devices.
Generational Shift
"Windows Phone 8 is a generation shift in technology, which means that it will not run on existing hardware," writes Microsoft Vice President Joe Belfiore on the company's Windows Phone Blog.
But as a "consolation" the company will give users of devices running Windows 7.5 a Windows 8 start screen as part of the 7.8 update (essentially a teaser reminding you to get a new phone whenever you turn it on).
Apps created for Windows Phone 8 also will not work on older phones.
Microsoft unveiled the new platform at its Windows Phone Summit for developers in San Francisco. It will roll out around the same time as Windows 8 for computers, this fall.
"Windows Phone 8 is based on the same core technologies that power Windows 8," Belfiore wrote on the blog. "As a result, Windows Phone 8 will unleash a new wave of features for consumers, developers, and businesses."
Leaping into the world of multi-core processing, Windows Phone 8 will allow for shared networking, security, media and browsing technology, and a common file system with its PC counterparts. Internet Explorer 10, the latest version of Microsoft's Web browser, which recently lost its top share of the market to Google's Chrome, will be included in Windows Phone 8, which will also feature feature sharper screen resolutions of 1280x768 or 1280x720 pixels for high-definition 720p displays.
Windows phones will now support MicroSD cards for increased storage capacity, as well as near-field communications for wireless sharing of contacts and files with just a tap. And to compete with Google Wallet for mobile payments, Windows' digital Wallet will store debit and credit card information, coupons, boarding passes and more in conjunction with a carrier's secure SIM card.
"It was expected and necessary for Windows Phone 8 to support multi-core processor and HD resolution displays in order to compete with the iPhone and flagship Android devices," said Peter Han of Current Analysis. "NFC is not a major factor for consumers looking to purchase a smartphone but it also does not hurt." (continued...)
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