Microsoft has just released a fresh new preview build of its Windows 10 Mobile system that comes with some new features, several fixes for existing issues, and unfortunately, a few new bugs. Designated as Build 10149, this preview edition of Windows 10 Mobile is the latest one rolled out by Microsoft for Windows Insiders. To give a bit of a background, Microsoft has been deploying new builds of Windows 10 regularly, particularly for mobile devices and desktop computers, in order to get feedback from the users. As for the Windows Insider program, the company established it to let users install and test each build for free, and then in exchange, provide feedback, comments, and inquiries to the Microsoft team.
So what are the new features? First of all, the Microsoft Edge branding (formerly Project Spartan) is now featured in the build. The address bar has been moved to the bottom (a decision based on user feedback)m, and there is an option to surf the web either via mobile or desktop view.
There are also enhancements to the overall look of Windows 10 Mobile, which now features a screen that is more clear and more crisp. New icons are introduced for certain controls, and the UI has now been made to be more responsive.
The new build also introduces new improvements to the Cortana digital assistant, particularly in its Notebook. Other new enhancements include a Flashlight quick action, an updated Photos app, and automatic camera upload capability via the OneDrive app.
This latest preview also comes with fixes for glitches, but as mentioned earlier, also comes with a few bugs. Previews usually do come with bugs so this new round of issues are not entirely unexpected. Builds are more prototypes than final products after all, and this one is no exception. But Microsoft was smart enough to lay out the potential problems beforehand. For a complete list of the new features, fixes, and expected bugs, you can go visit Microsoft's blog post about the build.
The official version of the Windows 10 operating system is set to be launched this coming July 29th. Obviously, Microsoft is doing everything it can to make sure the launch goes smoothly, with as few system glitches and bugs as possible. Technical aspects aside, the company also wants Windows 10 to launch successfully so that it can at least help people forget how bad Windows 8 (the predecessor of Windows 10) turned out.
Moreover, a successful launch of Windows 10 could help Microsoft revive its lagging mobile device business. When it comes to smartphone usage, Microsoft has a lot of catching up to do. Its smartphone market share is at around 4 percent, while the Android and iOS platforms continue to dominate the mobile user population. With Windows 10 Mobile, Microsoft may have a chance of grabbing a bigger piece of the pie.
Despite the pressure, Microsoft still has some breathing room, at least with regards to Windows 10 Mobile. Sure, Windows 10 is expected to launch on July 29th, but Windows 10 Mobile (for smartphones) will not be released until later this year. By then, Microsoft should have ironed all the kinks out.
