Windows Phone 8.1 Update 2 features purportedly detailed (Updated)

Update 12 PM ET - WPWorld.pl has now retracted the story, claiming the source is not reliable or a Microsoft employee.

According to a report over on wpworld.pl, Microsoft's Cortana is coming to Poland. Microsoft clearly plans to bring (and further develop) the virtual assistant to other markets, but time will tell just when the feature is rolled out across multiple regions.

As well as Cortana allegedly for Poland, there are also some supposed details on Windows Phone Update 2, including a release date for those on the Preview program.

Windows Phone Central is unable to verify the report and we cannot vouch for the cited source, who's alleged to work for Microsoft in Poland.

Windows Phone 8.1 Update 2 alleged new features (unconfirmed):

  • The ability to create groups of applications in the application list
  • Sorting options in the Settings
  • File manager application becomes a system, so as to be able to use other applications
  • The ability to change the default messages application
  • News communications - DLNA, WiFi Direct, Bluetooth Profiles

However, like previous GDR updates, Update 2 will likely include additional under-the-hood optimizations and support for new hardware, making this only a partial list.

According to Sałek, October 8, 2014 is the day users of the Preview for Developers can expect to receive their first look at Update 2, through an over-the-air update. This date seems a bit far out to be so definite at this point, though we bet Microsoft does have internal ETAs for such releases, making October a plausible timeframe.

Lastly, Salek states that all currently Windows Phones loaded with 8.1 will receive Windows Phone 9, which shouldn't come as much of a surprise.

As noted above, we've been unable to confirm any of this information. If accurate, do you think Update 2 is going to be a let down or a surprise?

via: wpworld.pl; Thanks, RedbeardPL, for the tip!

Rich Edmonds
Senior Editor, PC Build

Rich Edmonds was formerly a Senior Editor of PC hardware at Windows Central, covering everything related to PC components and NAS. He's been involved in technology for more than a decade and knows a thing or two about the magic inside a PC chassis. You can follow him on Twitter at @RichEdmonds.