A lot is going on in the world of Windows Phone. So much, in fact, that it is sometimes tough to catch every important story.
Device rumors come and go. New apps join the Windows Phone Store, and your favorite app can get a big update with a new look or new features.
Therefore, every week we will compile a list of the Windows Phone news that you just shouldn't miss. Welcome to the "Windows Mobile Weekly Digest."
Windows Mobile
Last week's Windows 10 Mobile over-the-air update raised both the excitement and ire of many Windows Phone users. This week, BLU Win Jr LTE owners got a rude awakening when the Microsoft Store removed the Windows 10 Mobile upgrade from the phone's listing. Sure enough, BLU later released a list of phones that would not receive the upgrade, and the BLU Win Jr LTE X130q was on it.
Though disappointing to some, it isn't surprising, since most 512MB phones have been bypassed due to complaints about performance with Windows 10.
That being said, a new report from AdDuplex found that more than half of all active Windows Phones could update to Windows 10 Mobile.
Microsoft rolled out firmware updates for the Lumia 650 and 550, as well as the Lumia 950 and 950 XL.
They also released Windows 10 PC and Mobile Insider preview build 14295 to Fast ring members.
One thing that those on 14295 will be able to do is to install the "Redstone" People app, which lets you link your Xbox contacts. Check out what else is new and what known issues there are in build 14295.
Lastly, a survey by Stack Overflow recently suggested that developer interest in Windows Phone waning. While that may be unsettling on its face, we discuss just what it means for Windows 10?.
Other notable items:
- Unlocked Lumia 950 is on sale for $449 until March 27
- Windows Device Recovery Tool snags a minor update
- Windows Phone isn't dead, Part V: How Alcatel fits into the Windows ecosystem
- Lumia 650 makes its debut in China for ¥1,699
- Amazon France lists Continuum bundle featuring Lumia 950 XL, monitor and more
- Cortana now tells your other Windows devices when your battery is low or missed a text
- Audio routing options coming to Windows 10 Mobile in Redstone update
- Vodafone Australia to begin Windows 10 Mobile rollout on March 25
- Lumia 950 and 950 XL headed to Australian carrier Telstra on March 29
Apps
Finance management app Prism Bill Pay received a makeover with its newly-designed Windows 10 Mobile app. The highly-rated app lets you check balances, pay bills, and access many different vendor and credit card accounts.
Coffee lovers, rejoice! Starbucks announced that they are finally planning to launch a Windows Phone in the U.S. At Starbucks' shareholder meeting this week, president and chief operating officer Kevin Johnson said:
"[Our] team has been working in partnership with Microsoft, and we are within 30 to 45 days of releasing a Windows Phone app."
Whether the decision has to do with the rising popularity of the Windows 10 UWP or Johnson's former role as an executive at Microsoft, it is a significant addition to the Windows platform.
Microsoft updated the Outlook Mail app for Windows 10, bringing a much nicer layout to email and some performance enhancements.
They also changed their mind about Skype, announcing that they will be launching Skype UWP app for Windows 10 PC and Mobile. Microsoft also said that they will be doing away with Skype's integration with the Messaging app in Windows 10 for PC, though it's unclear what will happen with the mobile version.
Other notable items:
- Photo Shader becomes a universal app for Windows 10
- Former MixRadio users can sign up for a free 60 day Groove Music Pass
- Microsoft Photos for Windows 10 Mobile grabs Print and Living Image menu support
- Camera app updated for Windows 10 Mobile with performance improvements
- Grab Enpass password manager for just ₹189 in India
- Reddify is a brand new third-party Reddit app for Windows 10 PC and Mobile
- Dynamic Theme is a must-have Windows app for your Lock Screen and background photos
- 8 Zip now a full universal app for Windows 10 PC and Mobile, on sale for $0.99
- Windows Central app for Windows 10 updated with login and startup fixes
- Outlook Mail now renders email styles properly in latest Windows 10 Mobile update
- Bandsider update adds daily challenges and more for Microsoft Band users
- Hilton HHonors tablet app to be retired 'soon'
- WhatsApp and Facebook for Windows Phone and Windows 10 Mobile updated
- Disaster preparedness app 'Well Prepared' updated for Windows 10
- Aeries Twitter client can now save videos and GIFs with latest update
- Cloud-based video messenger Glide gets a native Windows 10 Mobile app
- Here's what was included in the recent WhatsApp update
- The Australian Football League launches AFL Live for Windows 10 PC and Mobile
Games
Game Troopers released their online strategy game Imperia Online for Windows 10 PC, making it a truly universal app.
The game developer also brought two of their other mobile games, Monster Go! and Ridiculous Marathon, to Windows 10 PCs.
The popular puzzle game MouseCraft just arrived on Windows this week as well. MouseCraft, which is sort of a cross between Tetris and Lemmings, can be downloaded for Windows 8.1, Windows Phone 8.1, and Windows 10 for PC and Mobile. It is also heading to Xbox One, and when it does, it and the Windows versions will all have Xbox Live support.
Other notable items
- Chimpact Run, a fun game full of bananas and fireflies for Windows PC and Phone
- Test your geography wits with Borders, today's Windows 10 AdDuplex HERO App
- Your eyes may deceive you in Color King for Windows 10
- The mind-bending Windows Phone game Evo Explores is today's myAppFree Deal
- Get your kicks in with Tiki Taka Soccer for Windows Phone
- Jack N' Jill, a retro platfomer for Windows 10
- Tap Tap Legions is a tap-tastic battle game for Windows PC and Phone
Be sure to weigh in on this week's news in the comments section. See you next week!
