Windows Phone 8: Major System Update Coming

Microsoft is planning to release a number of improved features for its Windows Phone 8 mobile platform. The update could dramatically improve how the system functions.

The update carries the codename Apollo Plus. Microsoft promises that it will offer fixes and features inspired by consumer feedback.

VPNs Add Sense of Security for Windows Phone Users

The first new feature in Apollo Plus is the inclusion of support for Virtual Private Networks (VPN).

VPNs enable a host computer to send and receive data across shared or public networks as if they were private. Adding this feature to Windows Phone 8 will allow schools and businesses to enjoy secure access to their host systems. (Source: telegraph.co.uk)

Observers also expect the Apollo Plus update to fix WiFi issues currently plaguing the Windows Phone 8 platform. The update will reportedly allow WiFi connections to remain on at all times.

Another neat feature rumored to be part of Apollo Plus could be over-the-air updates. Currently, users are required to plug their mobile devices into PCs to get updates.

Initial Mixed Reviews from Industry Insiders

When originally released, Windows Phone 8 was received by the general public with much fanfare. However, reviews from industry experts were decidedly mixed.

American technology news and media network The Verge gave the original operating system a 7.9 rating out of 10, criticizing its lack of a unified notifications center.

Alexandra Chang of the popular science and technology publication Wired gave Windows Phone 8 an 8 out of 10.

Chang praised Microsoft for Windows Phone 8's multi-core processor support, faster Internet browsing, and switch from Bing Maps to Nokia Maps. However, she criticized its limited number of new applications. (Source: wired.com)

Apollo Plus won't address all of these concerns. But it does have the potential to greatly enhance Windows Phone 8's appeal to consumers just in time for the holiday shopping season.