There's a lot going on in the world of Windows Phone. So much, in fact, that it is sometimes tough to catch every important story.
Device rumors come and go. New apps join the Windows Store, and your favorite app can get a big update with a new look or new features.
Therefore, every week we will compile a list of the Windows phone news that you just shouldn't miss. Welcome to the "Windows Mobile Weekly Digest."
Windows Mobile
T-Mobile's Alcatel Idol Pro 4 passed the Wi-Fi certification process, possibly bringing the Windows 10 Mobile phone one step closer to release. The Alcatel Idol Pro 4 has yet to get an official release date so far.
Funker, maker of the W5.5 Pro, looks to be set to follow up with the W6.0 Pro 2, reportedly sporting a 6-inch display, Snapdragon 617 processor, 3GB of RAM, 32GB storage, and running Continuum.
HP hyped its Elite X3 Windows 10 phone in a couple of videos to show why the incredible superphone is the future of computing. They also showed it off in person at Computex 2016.
AT&T's Lumia 640 received Windows 10 Mobilethis week, as did the Lumia 735 on Verizon.
Windows 10 Mobile build 10586.338 rolled out to the Insider Release Preview Ring, while Slow Ring Insiders were treated to preview build 14342.1004.
Meanwhile, Fast Ring Insiders received Windows 10 Mobile build 14356.1000, adding new listening animations, shared notifications between phone and PC, and the usual laundry list of fixes. Many Insiders also reported now seeing apps' download size in the Windows Store.
Other notable items:
- Transcend JetFlash 890S is a neat flash drive with Type-C connector for your Lumia 950/950 XL
- Windows Phones proving valuable for NYPD officers
- Quick take: These $4 colorful aluminum cases for the Lumia 950, 950 XL
- Fans in Brazil stage Twitter campaign to bring Windows 10 Mobile phones to country
Apps
Password management app OneLocker got a Windows 10 makeover for PC and phone that packs more features than you can shake a stick at. The new version has a sharp UI with Windows Hello support, 256-bit AES encryption, and tons of ways to organize and secure your personal information.
CCPlayer Pro went universal as well, bringing the ability to play several types of video files to Windows 10 PC and Mobile.
Facebook unexpectedly released Messenger Beta for Windows 10 Mobile, although not everyone was able to install it. Those who are get to experience a revamped user interface, GIF support, changeable themes, and more.
Messaging powerhouse Viber also rolled out their beta app built especially for Windows 10. In addition to all of the features you are familiar with, this newly-designed version also offers access to public chats, end-to-end encryption, and People app integration.
We also got a look at the new Skype Preview for Windows 10 Mobile, which can be side-loaded onto devices running Redstone preview builds. The preview isn't fully functional, but you can get it over at XDA. The official universal app for PCs and smartphones is expected this summer.
And SiriusXM sent out invites to beta test a Windows 10 PC app that is in the works. The invitations went out to some current subscribers in an email:
"We are establishing a select group of listeners to help us test our Windows 10 app before it is released to all subscribers. We'd like to invite you to be a part of this testing experience. You will gain advance access to the latest versions of the app and have the opportunity to help shape the future of SiriusXM's Windows 10 streaming experience."
Other notable items:
- Uber update makes it easier to book a cab
- Want to see BitTorrent client Torrex on the Xbox One? You can now pledge your support
- AirAsia gets on board Windows 10 with its new universal app
- Lumia Help+Tips becomes Lumia Highlights with latest app update
- Zonos gives you control over your Sonos system on Windows 10 PC and Mobile
- Tweet It! adds several small tweaks and features in latest update
- AppRaisin adds way for users to select their favorite Windows 10 apps
- Say 'Cheese' with PhotoSmile, today's myAppFree Deal
- Hacked? app for Windows 10 lets you know if your email has been breached
- The Windows Central App grabs fixes, improvements and more with build 33 today
- Meme Generator Suite rebuilt for Windows 10 Mobile, pro version discounted
- Photos app in Windows 10 Mobile gains album creation for Release Preview users
- Get AccuWeather Premium for half price until June 6
- Facebook Messenger adds more diverse selection of emoji
- Best affordable graphics and photo-editing apps for Windows
- PicsArt for Windows 10 gets a big design revamp, all clipart packages are free until June 30
- Vine for Windows 10 PC nets small update
- Bandsider now lets you quickly access tasks and tools through jump lists
- Outlook Mail and Calendar apps now support Microsoft HoloLens
- Searching for a doctor made easy with GoodDoc for Windows 10
- Yummly adds Live Tile updates, Cortana commands and more to its Windows 10 app
Games
Minecraft reached an incredible milestone, becoming only the second game to exceed 100 million copies sold across all platforms. Mojang, the maker of Micecraft, put a statement thanking their faithful fans.
"We'd like to offer our heartfelt thanks to every one of you who's bought Minecraft over the past few years, no matter which platform you play on. We're constantly in awe of our community and the amazing things you achieve together. You really are the best. <3"
In an article about how Telltale games brought Minecraft Story Mode to Windows 10, Microsoft says that Telltale is also working on bringing the game's engine to Windows Mobile.
Konami dropped four games of their own into the Windows Store. Bomberman '94, Animal CUEBRICK, Frogger's Crackout, and Power Golf all landed this week for PC and tablet users running Windows 10.
The makers of the popular role-playing game Terraria announced that they will be putting out an update to fix a crash bug that has been plaguing Windows Phone users. If all goes well, players can expect to see a patch in the next week or two.
And finally, we took a look at Game Troopers' Ludo Blitz, an online board game that may just be the perfect play for those times when you're looking to kill a few minutes.
Other notable items:
- Game of Clowns, a circus act of a game for Windows 10
- Squareboy vs. Bullies brings retro fighting game style to Windows 10
- Sheltered for Windows 10: A rewarding game of survival in the wasteland
- Disney's Finding Dory: Just Keep Swimming for Windows 10 gets us ready for the movie
- Windows 10 and Pocket Minecraft players will soon be able to use pistons, ride pigs and more
Be sure to weigh in on this week's news in the comments section. See you next week!
