Update: The BLU Win Jr also has the same OS update available.
Those who own the affordable – and highly stylish – BLU Win HD Windows Phone will want to force-check for an OS update. BLU in conjunction with Microsoft is pushing out Windows Phone 8.1.1 build 14203, one the latest versions of the Windows Phone OS. By comparison, the Preview for Developers program is up to version 14219, so as an official update, this one is quite close to the newest edition of the OS.
BLU Win HD users will find an exciting surprise upon installation: three-column support is now the only option for layout of the Live Tiles on the Start screen. Some users may not like this, but from our experience, it looks great on the Win HD's dark black display.
Additionally – and I hesitate to say this – but the OS really does feel faster. This is actually a very big deal as the BLU Win HD ships with a modest 1.2 GHz Snapdragon 200 CPU. In terms of graphic performance, this is as low as you can get on Windows Phone, but this puppy is pushing a 5-inch 720P display. With today's OS update, it certainly feels more optimized for low-end hardware, with fewer hesitations and pauses when scrolling or loading apps. Indeed, it almost seems like a new device. Even the new OneDrive app comes pre-installed, which is a nice touch.
Live Folder support is also included as well, plus the other 8.1 Update 1 features (more information about that update can be found here).
Note: There is no corresponding firmware update, so this is just is just a straight OS refresh.
We are still digging around for anything else that is new, but for now, go ahead and grab the update. Sound off in comments or check out our BLU Win HD forums for more information.
Thanks, Chad F., for the tip!
