Microsoft Confirms Windows Phone 8.1 Update 2

[RoadWarrior]

Microsoft is working on several fronts these days as far as Windows Phone is concerned, and in addition to starting the Denim rollout worldwide, the company is simultaneously preparing a second update for devices running its smartphone platform.

Windows Phone 8.1 Update 2 is currently in the works, and Microsoft has finally acknowledged the project in documentation submitted to the Bluetooth SIG, at the same time revealing some of the features that could be introduced with this update.

As WMPU writes, Windows Phone 8.1 Update 2 will bring a significant update to the Bluetooth Stack, but since this new release is still in the works right now, a lot could change until it’s being shipped to devices across the world.

MAP and HID support likely to be offered

According to Microsoft’s documentation submitted to the Bluetooth SIG, Windows Phone 8.1 Update 2 will include several improvements, such as MAP and HID support, which would greatly enhance connectivity and functionality with other devices.

Here’s what Microsoft says about the new Windows Phone 8.1 Update 2:

“The second major update to Windows Phone 8.1 expands the range of hardware options while simultaneously opening up the developer experience that enables even more fantastic apps. From the Bluetooth perspective, Windows Phone 8.1 Update 2 adds MAP, HID 1.1 , HOGP and Absolute Volume Control support.”

In plain English, Message Access Protocol, or shortly known as MAP, allows the phone to connect to other external devices to access data. Given the fact that Microsoft has already stepped into the wearables market with the Band, it’s pretty clear that the company wants to make it work better with Windows Phones, so this update is very likely to be aimed in this direction.

As far as HID support is concerned, the possibility of connecting Human Interface Devices to Windows Phones is very likely to be added in the upcoming update, so working with Bluetooth mouse and keyboard could soon be possible.

Even though details are quite scarce at this point, it’s really obvious that Windows Phone 8.1 Update 2 would significantly improve the experience we get through Bluetooth, but there’s certainly more to come in some other areas as well.

At this point, there are no specifics as to when we could get this update, but previous information hinted at an early 2015 release date. Windows Phone 10 is also scheduled to launch next year, so there’s no doubt that Microsoft wants to bring this new update to the market as soon as possible.