Windows Phone 8.1: 3 Key Features That Could Turn Things Around For Microsoft's Mobile Platform, Could Possibly Battle Android OS In The Long Run

Windows Phone 8.1: After months of waiting, the new Windows Phone version has finally been announced, and during Microsoft's BUILD Conference, it was all excitement for the company's developers and employees as all their hardwork finally pays off. 

And true enough, the Windows Phone 8.1 update is certainly a step in the right direction for the Redmond-based company. 

During the presentation about the update's new features, we have noted three simple yet crucial features which could spell the difference in choosing between Android and WP, or iOS and WP in the long run. 

Customizable Start Screen

When Microsoft launched the tile-powered Windows Phone Start Screen, people were curious how such a homescreen would work. In fact, it was cool for the tiles to feature live notifications for the device, images from the gallery, and even some social media updates. But it was missing one important feature - the option to customize. 

Now, the Windows Phone 8.1 update enables just that. And it does not just allow preset solid colors as your homescreen background, you can even choose from a variety of images pre-loaded in your smartphone together with the update. 

Notification Center

For the longest time WP users are looking some sort of notification area where all those details can be conveniently viewed. Now you can with the Windows Phone 8.1 update. Aside from notifications, you can also see updates on social media, phone status, alarms, etc. With this function, Microsoft is thinking more for its consumers and fans rather than itself. 

During the platform's early stages, the company's pursuit for uniqueness became an obstacle instead. But, those fences are slowly falling apart. 

Voice Assistant

It was Apple who first introduced this feature through Siri, and then Google followed, and so did Samsung. What sets Windows Phone's Cortana apart is that it was made popular in one of the Xbox's premier video games - Halo. And because of that, the mobile platform has gotten enough attention soon enough, even months before 2013 ended. 

However, we will still see whether Cortana will be able to live up to the hype once 'she' faces our day to day problems and tasks.