In closing with the MIX11 event this week, we have some more awesome information to post. We felt this is information you should definitely know about that’s coming to Windows Phone 7. Although MIX11 was more focused on developers than consumers, you can’t say consumers don’t understand any of it, and the consumer definitely can imagine the possibilities. Before we continue, please remember that we didn’t post about every single piece of information revealed at MIX11, only the things we felt were great to hear and very promising. If you want all the goodness (in video format too!) make sure to visit Channel 9 which has tons of information on all the sessions and keynotes that took place.
New Chassis Specifications
Before MIX11 took place there were already small rumors about Microsoft releasing a more “flexible” chassis specification. These new specifications would allow manufacturers to create “cheaper phones” using cheaper products and possibly less features. As noted in a previous post we made, the new Gyroscope API will also require Gyroscope integration, therefore it is part of the new chassis specifications. The new chassis specifications should start with the release of devices in Fall 2011 (most likely with Nokia devices to begin with).
Biggest API Improvements
We already mentioned that over 1500 APIs will be available for WP7 by year’s end, but Microsoft had smaller sessions during MIX11 focusing on the biggest APIs that will, of course, receive the biggest improvements.
Promise To Keep UX Great
With all these great APIs and updates coming to the Windows Phone 7 it probably makes you wonder if the phone will keep the same look and feel. Microsoft stated in several MIX11 sessions that they will make sure the WP7 platform stays as is, with the same user experience, same look and feel, and quick easy access to everything you love. You can see the core UX “basics” that Microsoft is sure to emphasize with all devices below, but some big ones are keeping the battery life, memory & CPU, and 60 frames per second smooth animations.
How About A Bonus! Background Transfers And New Application Installation
With the Mango update later this year, the application installation process is also receiving some changes. First, free applications will no longer require confirmation (or credit card information input) so it will be one tap install and ready to go. Second, and this is the big one, once you select to install an application your device will take you to the location in your App List where the application will be located. The application will begin installing with a small progress bar showing below, this way you can install multiple applications and easily view install progress simultaneously all on your App List. During a MIX11 session, the background transfers API technology was also shown off which all developers will be able to integrate. It’s difficult not to imagine all the possibilities alone with having background transfers, it’s even better knowing that’s only one of the 1500 APIs to come. Windows Phone 7 is going to get real big, real fast.
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