Windows Phone 8.1 screenshot leaked, showing on-screen capacitive buttons

The Twitter account @evleaks, which has proved to be a reliable source in the past, has today tweeted am alleged leaked screenshot of Windows Phone 8.1 "Blue." This screenshot shows virtual, on-screen capacitive buttons with the familiar back, Windows and search setup. Just like Android, you're looking at a black bar at the bottom of the screen with all three buttons present.

Rum: 8

This potential move by Microsoft would enable manufacturing partners to decide on whether or not they wish to include capacitive buttons on Windows Phone hardware. Utilising an on-screen alternative setup would bring down the cost of production even further, offering more savings to the consumer. 

Evleaks WP8.1 Tweet

As well as cost-savings, the change would also make it easier for Android OEMs to load both Windows Phone and Android on the same hardware without having to build two separate models (ATIV S and Galaxy being a good example). Manufacturers would then have less reasons not to work with Windows Phone, especially if Microsoft also slashes licensing.

Source: Twitter (@evleaks); thanks to everyone who tipped us!

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.