Microsoft has launched its latest version of Windows phone operating system in India on Wednesday. The Windows phone 7.5 version, known as Mango, has a new rich user interface of Live Tiles and Hubs, which will help users to quickly find the information required and connect.
Windows Phone features a distinct user experience compared to the regular smartphone interface that features a sea of icons. The conventional application icons have been replaced by Live Tiles on the Start screen. These Live Tiles provide information and notifications at a glance and are updated in real-time from the Web. The ‘Metro’ user interface is a visually appealing experience inspired by the clean, alive in motion signage in the real world.
Announcing the launch of Windows Phone in India, Mr. Bhaskar Pramanik, Chairman, Microsoft India said, “We are incredibly excited about today’s unveiling of Windows Phone. With Windows Phone, we have looked at the consumer experience in an absolutely fresh way, and the end result is an operating system that is stylish, innovative, and one that seamlessly integrates the most sought after user experiences such as search, gaming, email and social networks across Bing, Office, Xbox LIVE, Facebook, Twitter and more”
Microsoft is also working with content publishers and businesses in India for apps for India-specific content and services. Times of India and Snapdeal.com are one of the apps which would soon be available in the Windows Phone Marketplace.
Microsoft announced a range of Windows Phone devices that will be available in India soon. While HTC Radar would be available in the markets starting next week for INR 23,990, Samsung Omnia W and Acer Allegro would be available in November, 2011. Samsung had earlier this month announced the price for Omnia W as INR 19,990. Subsequently, Nokia would also launch Windows Phone devices in India, and other countries.
Although, it seems like Microsoft is confident of the latest Windows 7.5 OS, Mango running mobile phones and the reviews are great as well, however it would be a tough challenge to penetrate iPhone’s hype, BlackBerry’s enterprise hold, and a market flooded with Android devices at every price point.
