Windows Phone 8.1 GDR1 Update Gets Detailed Ahead of Official Release

Just a couple of days ago, Windows Phone 8.1 GDR1 update was spotted on Microsoft's Dev Center website in the OEM documentation and most of the device makers might have already received access to it. However, what was missing out were the details of the new features that it would bring to the smartphone.

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However, recent post in the nokiapoweruser now confirms few of the changes that could be seen after installing the update in the Windows phone 8.1 devices. This is the first major OS update that Microsoft intends to release for the Windows Phone 8.1 devices out there. It will be either called GDR1 or Update 1.

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Thus, according the the mentioned site, the Windows Phone 8.1 GDR1 will indeed be deployed on smartphones with support for Native Folder creation on the Start Screen, all through simply dragging and dropping Live Tiles over one another.

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Moreover, support for VoLTE (Voice over LTE) will also be included in the update, along with support for 1280 x 800 pixels displays, as well as for native qHD (960 x 540 pixels) resolutions, it seems. Additionally, it will also allow for the platform to be loaded on devices with screens of up to 7 inches that can deliver a 1280 x 768 WXGA resolution.

Other added features which will come with the update are the support for Network Time protocol and for dual-SIM GSM + CDMA network capabilities, along with the option to create a phonebook entry for Cortana to enable integration with a car's navigation system. Also, Windows Phone 8.1 GDR1 will add a medium Live Tile for the Store, and will provide manufacturers with the possibility to change the Start Tile layout in some cases.

With the new update, OEMs will be able to block or disable the use of the card for OS updates in the devices with SD cards. Moreover, manufacturers will also get the option to show or hide the "auto scan for updates" setting on the phone.

What is the best among all is that the update will also arrive with support for entity extraction in the Messaging app allowing manufacturers to add phone cover apps, similar to those present on other platforms. This means that smartphone makers like HTC and LG might also bring phone covers like DotView and QuickCircle cases for Windows Phone devices in the future.

We are not completely sure of the update's availability but it might be safe to expect it to hit the market sometime around in August-September. However, the preview version of the update would be released sooner for Developers program first.

Stay tuned to GizBot for more updates!