Windows Phone 8.1 is available!

[TorqueDog]

So Windows Phone 8.1 got released through the Preview for Developers app yesterday morning, and it is pretty awesome.

If you want it, first make sure that your device is in English (United States) for language and United States for region, etc. (This is primarily to ensure Cortana shows up as it's US only while the localization gets worked on.)

Go here, and select an option: http://dev.windowsphone.com/en-us/develop/devpreview

I chose "Register as a developer with App Studio" because it's fast and free. Use the account tied to your WP handset.

Once that's done, you'll need to download the Preview for Developers app from the App Store: http://www.windowsphone.com/en-us/st...c-038393741e96

Install, go through the screens, check the box to opt-in for the preview, and go check for updates. You'll get two of them... one is a precursor to the WP8.1 update, and the one is WP8.1 itself. Install time depends on how much media and stuff you have downloaded to your handset.

Some users with HTC 8X handsets are reporting an issue where Cortana won't show up even with all the language settings changed... best way to avoid this is to make sure every single setting on your phone is set to English (United States) or United States, where applicable.

[Mike F]

Other than Cortana, any big highlights?

[Rathji]

Originally Posted by TorqueDog

So Windows Phone 8.1 got released through the Preview for Developers app yesterday morning, and it is pretty awesome.

This version has an app store that doesn't suck?

[TorqueDog]

^Any actual criticisms?

Originally Posted by Mike F

Other than Cortana, any big highlights?

Notification Center is a big thing. The speed that apps load is quite nice. Three column tiles are now available for smaller devices (I have it on my 1020 and work 920). Start tiles can now be skinned with an image of your choice and includes parallax scrolling. VPN support is available, Wi-Fi Sense (ability to share your WiFi hotspots with friends without giving them the password), Miracast 'Project My Screen' capability.

One of the biggest things is what you *don't* see. Windows Phone 8.1 basically enables developers to make 'universal apps' which means a single app can run on both Windows 8.1, Windows RT, Windows Phone 8.1, Xbox One. It's huge.

[Mike F]

So, 8.1 official update installed today on my Lumia 1020, but I can't get the (limited version of) Cortana feature to activate.

Anyone in Canada have any luck?

[etc]

I'm on Rogers and had to change the region of my phone to United States to get it to work, also a 1020. Supposed to be available for Canada too, must be Rogers.

[Mike F]

I'm on Telus....

Edit: Even changing Country, Regional Setting, and Speech to US won't get it activated.

Like lots of other things, though.

[Burninator]

Update keeps failing on my 920.