With leaks in the Windows 10 preview dam of secrecy, it seems like Gabriel Aul of the Windows Phone team has decided to get out in front of the eventual flood. It’s been almost a week now that Windows Phone enthusiast have had a chance to get their hands on the next build of Windows for Windows Phone, and many are now realizing how rough around the edges this build is.
Perhaps spoiled by early access to previously stable and very functional Developer Previews, this Technical Preview of Windows 10 has been met by some stark realities as to where Microsoft is in the development process of Windows Phone as well as a laundry list of questions and concerns.
Well to answer and combat some of the questions or push back from the feature deprived, ‘Metro-style’ purist, and the growing ground swell of anti hamburger menu zealot, Gabriel has taken to Twitter to offer some much needed insight as to what users can expect in the future.
- Windows 10 for phone preview builds go out once a month, “roughly”
- New tile sizes, like the ‘double tall’ for People hub and extra-large for Cortana are experimental; no decision made yet on whether they will be used or not (users feedback is requested)
- More tile sizes or designs may be forthcoming
- The Spartan browser is being tested internally, but nothing set yet for its release to public previews. When it meets certain criteria, it will be released
- Existing Silverlight apps will still be supported on Phone, and Silverlight apps for PC continue to be supported as well
- Preview for Developers and Windows Insider are two different programs. The former is more of a “very close to release” version of the OS, where Windows Insider is very early in the development process. It looks like Preview for Developers will continue.
- Regarding USB On The Go support: “Nothing to share about OTG at this point, we know it’s a popular request.”
- Aul advises against installing Windows 10 to non-supported phones due to risks
- No ETA for new Outlook apps for PC and phone
While some of us still equate Joe “infinity bangs” Belfiore with the Windows Phone platform, it seems as the day progresses, Gabriel is becoming the spring well of information for thirsty Windows Phone users. For those of you keeping up with Windows Phone news, make sure to pin Gabriel Aul to your home screen.