The new version of Microsoft’s mobile operating system has begun making its way to select Windows Phone owners.
Microsoft has actually managed to meet its expectation of a fourth quarter rollout, and in fact it even beat the expectations of many analysts.
According to earlier reports, AT&T phones will be the first to grab the mobile software upgrade, but only select handsets are eligible for the transition to Mango.
The Samsung Focus will be the flagship AT&T device to get the latest and greatest version of Windows Phone. Focus owners running version 1.3 or later will reportedly be able to grab the update on the 27th.
Among the other handsets targeted for the first batch of upgrades appear to be the HTC Surround and LG Quantum.
Mango, also known as Windows 7.5, aims to revolutionize Microsoft’s mobile platform, less than one year after it was released. The company touts that there are more than 100 changes to the new software, many of which are minor tweaks and upgrades.
One of the more intriguing features, though, is Microsoft’s desire to have apps run in an inter-connected, seamless process. That is, instead of opening up an individual app for specific purposes, Mango will try to use apps dynamically based on the content you’re looking for.
This is perhaps Microsoft’s last window to position itself solidly against the iPhone and Android. The initial rollout of Windows Phone proved to be somewhat lackluster so Mango needs to be fresh and exciting enough to grab consumer interest. We’ll see what happens.
