Microsoft: 'Work is underway' on Verizon's Lumia Cyan updates

There is no excuse at all for how long it is taking. And I am not even on Verizon.

There absolutely is an excuse. It costs money to roll out updates. With WP market share so low spending money on updates is a low priority. Be grateful they haven't ditched WP altogether, is how I see it.

But they're still going to roll it out regardless, so where are the savings? It costs them less money to roll it out later than sooner (sooner being a relative term here, considering WP8.1 was finished more than a half a year ago).

@lippidp Do you happen to own a WP on Verizon? I'm thinking that you probably don't and that is why your ok writing what you just wrote. If VZ sells WP, then they should support them as well regardless of market share. Otherwise they should just stop selling WP.

@lippidp, then I would recommend they drop it altogether, from what I'm seeing they are hurting the platform more then they are helping it.

Almost seems intentional, doesn't it? Kinda like sales staff trashing it to potential buyers, not displaying it, CSRs not answering questions about it...

Yes, the Verizon sales staff definitely trashes it to potential buyers. They don't display the phones and the CSRs are quick to steer customers away from them. When I pushed them on it and asked them to back up their statements, they backtracked and admitted they were not familiar with the WP device or platform. It's extremely annoying. I don't understand why the Verizon store reps do this, but I've seen it on more than one occasion. I specifically went into a Verizon store twice looking to buy a Windows Phone and walked away with the above experience. I ended up going to the Microsoft Store and buying four.  The delay in deploying the update is, to me, merely more of the same. They're in no rush. Very annoying. Shame on Verizon. I'm a customer and a shareowner, and I think it's absolutely wrong. Perhaps they'd be happier having only two competing platforms, but from a market/business perspective, that's a very poor decision. Competition is healthy. 

My local verizon cant even sign their one windows phone correctly.  The only HTC M8 with Windows is above a sign "powered by Android".  It is right next to the android version.  I watched the salesperson push the LG android phone because of the keyboard size.  

And poor carrier support is part of the reason for low marketshare.

Not to mention Windows Phone doesn't have a flagship phone that's available on all carriers. ie Galaxy and iPhone. Instead Verizon gets the Icon (which they recently dumped) and att gets the phablet 1520. Where's the flagship all around top of the line device?

It doesn't have to. Qualcom is more important than verzion. Verizon could skip testing and just approve everything that comes through them. It would save money.

Whats the excuse for their slow Android firmware roll outs that they are also notorious for?

Touché

Verizon is slow in more ways than one. Slower than molasses.

Whats the excuse for their slow Android firmware roll outs that they are also notorious for?

Touché! ​

Same thing. You can't lump all Android phones together. I would bet the Galaxies are updated faster and more frequently than the Casios. This is just basic business sense. If that's not the case then yeah, Verizon blows.

Then let Microsoft handle the updates. They let Apple handle their own updates without issue. They justify this by saying they need to test the updates to see if effects their network. Has there ever been a firmware update to a phone that messed up their network? There were firmware updates that bricked the phones, but the OEM should be responsible for fixing this.  

This is my main issue. If Apple users can have their updates the next day, then once Microsoft releasaes something we should get to have them the next day too.

Apple doesn't release updates the "next day". They only announce updates when they are ready to be released.

Yeah but where does the user go when their phone acts up? They certainly dont go to the manufacturer... I'll give you a hint, it rhymes with shmarrier.

I am not grateful of anything. This made me ditch them. And I wasn't the only one.

They would attract more customers to Windows Phone is they were progressive.

I'm not saying whether you are wrong or right but what is the deal with market share ruling everything? Since when do millions of users not amount to being worth going after?

The only reason sales were so low is because Verizon sales reps were actively disuading customers from buying the Icon.  I witnessed this happen to customers in the store and it happed to me when I upgraded from my 928 to the Icon.  Microsoft really should investigate this and sue Verizon for the lack of sales!

I've witnessed/experienced the same thing. Had one VZ rep tell me what a hassle the "wedding" commercial was. Apparantly it drove some interested folks into the store and they had to work that much harder to keep people away from WP!

You know, as A Black, Homosexual, transgender, Atheist who owns A Lumia Icon, my life has been filled with challenges. Its good to know that someone who isn't even close to my situation cares. I'm a Suburbanite White Kid Who begged his Dad for an Icon

I just got off the phone with Verizon moments before noticing this article and they told me it should be around Nov 14-16ish.

Haha that figures, if that's true I'll be at my cousins wedding when this rolls out.

Yeah, it looks like I'll be at a family reunion on the 15th. I hope its the 14th (or sooner). I did check the website for availablity and its listed at "Under testing" for the 822, 928, and Icon which makes it official. I was really surprised that they are bothering with the 822 but I'm glad they are. Along with the Icon, we have two 822s in our house. 

My ativ s(lte variant) will probably get 8.1.1 before then

"Can you hear me now?" I tell you what, it's little things like this that help you appreciate your carrier.  I was considering a swap, but this behavior is just sad.  Hopefully, their coverage, service, and costs make the relationship worth it.

Seems like 521 may get Cyan next week c:

So I think this will be just in time for Christmas.

Of 2015

Lol.

And that's just cyan. What about denim? Christmas 2017?

More like Valentine's Day.....

No they are not. It shouldn't take this long.

They should've released the Icon on more carriers...
..........
This device is terrific, and it's a shame that it's just wasted on one carrier... The Icon is the perfect device to showcase WP, although it should've been much thinner... Nevertheless, we need a dual strategy flagship device combo like what Apple has done with the 6, and 6+... Just make a Icon, and an Icon L, or max, or whatever, and put those two devices on every major US carrier...... But, please PROPERLY MARKET THEM❗

@ least it works on tmo in areas they freq. Swapped with vzw

Yeah, the average consumer is gonna do all that......
..............
No, they are just gonna go Android.

929(Icon) = 6
1520 = 6+
From what you're saying. This works better than just two versions of the same phone. Because Icon "L" would basically be a 1520 but no SD card support.

No sd support but built in wireless charging.

What?????
....................
You're complicating things.. I'm just suggesting that MS makes a high end device but offer it in two different sizes, small, and large... Then put it on as many US carriers as possible, and market the hell out of it... Don't be difficult like MS.. Lol❗

The Icon and 930 major letdown is the battery life. Glance and SDCard support are bonuses, but that battery life for a flagship, atrocious.

Interesting. The battery life on my Icon has been great. It easily lasts me from 4am to 9pm. This is of course with listening to podcasts for a couple of hours, reading news and checking my facebook and instagram. Glance doesn't bother me. I never used it on my 928 either. SD would be great. My biggest gripe, and this is probably a DP issue, is the power button. It works always but the delay is sometimes as long as 3sec. That is quite annoying. Also the lack of cyan since without it I can't sync my fitbit. I'll wait and see what's up but they need to get their stuff together or I'll dich them next time around.

I disagree.  I have owned the Icon for 6 months, and I hate it.  It is heavy, slippery, too dim/purple in low light, too slow on camera startup, and the power button only workes about half the time.  Makes me long for my 925.  I've also owned a 900, 820, 920, 720, 928, 925 and 1020, and they're all better than the Icon.   It's all moot anyway.  I'm buying an unlocked 830 and going back to StraightTalk ASAP.

I disagree. I love the Icon. The power button has had problems since I installed DP 8.1 and seems to be a DP issue. Wish it had glance too. Way to skimp out on a small feature to save a buck. Makes me wonder which phone is Windows flagship? The 930 seems to be. But its not a US phone only Verizon has it.

Eight phones in three years is a relatively high number of phones.  It may be that you're just harder to satisfy.

Ironically, many of the major issues Cyan is supposed to improve involve the camera.  As far as the Icon being "slippery" goes, most phones can be like that.  There's an excellent fix for that problem: Verizon's armored case with a belt clip has a deeply texturized case with a rubbery feel.  If you can't hold that, it's because you have grease, motor oil, or butter on your hand.

Why did that get downvoted??  I agree 100% It is driving me crazy that there are not more Windows phones on these carriers.  C'mon Microsoft...offer some better dealer sales incentives, throw in some spiff, lower the prices, or whatever.  Get a ton of people and sales teams familiar with the phone and THEN you'll see some market results.

These guys are missing the point entirely... Make a high end device available in two sizes, on all carriers, with a relentless marketing campaign... No brainer..

At least someone said something. I wonder if Verizon is this concerned about quality with their other partners?

Apple would just make one small and this whole problem would have been solved months ago. Meanwhile MS just sits on their asks and let their carrier get away with crap

Given the recent problems Apple had with the iPhone update, I don't think Verizon is really all that concerned with "quality" as much as they say they are.  I think Verizon is using this "quality" issue thing to justify delaying the upate for the Icon.  It's all a farce!  Obviously Verizon and Microsoft have some issues and Verizon isn't playing well with Microsoft.  Verizon better back off though, because with the coming of Windows 10 on all devices, the Windows OS platform is going to be growing expanentially in the near future and if Verizon doesn't want "backlash" from Microsoft, they better start playing nice.

I hope you're right.

Wow what a damn shame. Verizon you are horrible!

Of course, they aren't working hard enough on this.  It was released in July, wasn't it?  There isn't any excuse that takes over three months.

VoLTE?

I have been wondering if VoLTE was a factor or not. Seeing as how Verizon thinks it is the future, I would see the necessity of getting that right. I wonder if the Icon will be the test for future Windows Phones?

doubtfull.

& maybe lte-a

No, that's the 930 (international Icon). The Icon was released 8 months ago in the US.

I meant that Cyan was released in July.  I got my Icon the very day it came out at Verizon.  Love the phone.  Using the Dev Preview, but would like the features Cyan adds.

Apologies. Your meaning was obvious when I re-read it

They are basically the same phone. Verizon's required "approval" is the only difference. Since the 930 launched with Cyan I don't see there as being an issue unless its in the CDMA code.

Of course, this announcement could be to try and shut up complaints while they focus on the wearable, which seems to be the big attraction today.

The delay is unexcusable. VZ is really at fault here. Appreciated the update, though.

It must be one guy and he is part time. 1h a week ;)

As soon as he gets back from vacation.

Great replys guys, lol

LOL!  You read my mind!

I just wanted to know what the hold up was. If they are seriously working on it that's fine with me. I'll take polished over buggy any day.

I'm guessing Joe used a nice name like buggy instead of "adjust wifi sharing to Verizon plan only" or "disable visual voicemail so Verizon could charge you instead"

I agree. I imported one & hspa+ sucks but if I use lte I cant receive texts or calls or tether but any other data functions fine. I know it was certified by ic originally(updated with lte 700 mhz) but listing disappeared maybe 2 & a half months ago

I would rather take potentially buggy over polished. The iphone is actually a good reason why. Take the botched 8.0.1 update. You had options. You could revert to 8.0.0 or wait a couple of days for 8.0.2. Because it didn't have to go through testing they got the "final" update quicker than if it had to go through testing. I see Cyan potentially being the same way. Maybe you get a minor issue in the inital Cyan rollout, but it would be fixed by now.

Microsoft has to flex some cash to Verizon to get these updates out faster.

I'm switching to AT&T. Does that answer your question?

No you won't.

Yes. Actually tomorrow. 30 GB for cheaper than 10 GB at Verizon.

I'm leaving Verizon for AT&T Nov. 7, 100%.

I left Verizon and Windowsphone. Bought the most expensive iphone 6 plus on the at&t installment plan and the monthly bill still comes out lower than my verizon bill. I get the Iphone at the end of the month. Verizon's support on this is atrocious and Microsoft needs to put more muscle and commitment behind the windows phone platform. Microsoft needs to get more companies to make apps for them than just Facebook and the other most popular 5 or so. I am tired of waiting on Verizon to bring out the cyan update and tired fo Microsoft not getting more support for their product. Whoever is in charge of Windows phone marketing should be fired.

I might be right behind you.  We will see.  I have had WP 8.1 on my 928 since April.  It is really unexcusable that 6 months later we still do not have CYAN.  They might as well bundle it with DENIM at this point, at least we wouldn't have to wait for that update.

I'm hoping that Denim will be bundled with Cyan as well, but knowing how PATHETIC Verizon is, I'm becoming more and more skeptical.  I've already decided that if AT&T gets Denim for the 1520 before the lazy, stupid idiots at Verizon release it for the Icon, I'm dumping Big Red and running back to AT&T!

If I had known then how long it would take to get this on my 928, I would've done what you did back in April too. Every time I thought, "I can't believe it hasn't come out yet, but surely it's right around the corner so it doesnt' make sense to do the dev. preview now". Oh how wrong I continue to be.

Me too. I thought for sure it would be rolled out long before now, this delay is bad even for Verizon, it's never been this bad no matter what others are saying and Verizon was more attentive with updates than AT&T before this year. It feels like they've been lying all along about working on it, which has been the party line all along. I'm thrilled Joe mentioned it but they need to be more definite that this, give us a date. I'll be pissed if they come out with an update in a week and a half when the One M8 goes non-exclusive, because that really will feel like Verizon has been doing nothing but lying trying to get people to their new phone as some have mentioned in the forums.

If they release a successor to the 1020 or 1520 then I'm dropping Verizon. This whole Lumia thing leaves me bitter especially discontinuing the Icon. It is their fault the device didn't sell, when I was making the switch from iOS to WP the associate literally tried to talk me out of it and tried to sell me an android device, wtf. The associates are not educated on the device and they definitely are not trying to sell it. How do they expect it to sell?

Yeah, and that's the reason they provided for "retiring" the Icon, lack of sales.  How can you sell something when your sales people are actively persuading customers to purchase a different device?!  Microsoft should really sue Big Red over this!  Seriously!  And, since Verizon has "retired" the Icon, shouldn't that mean Microsoft should be allowed to enter the 930 into the United States on other carriers now?  Maybe I should start a "change.org" petition to petition Microsoft to bring the 930 into the USA.

I said the same thing, but then I lost patience. The 1020 is a bit dated now, but the 1520 is actually top notch. Its the same hardware as the new 930. Now that I own one I can verify that 1920x1080 is perfect and that qHD isn't needed (rumored to be in the 1530). Also the snapdragon 805 (rumored to be in the 1530) isn't that much better than the snapdragon 800. I just went for it and love the 1520. Its good enough that I can't see me switching phones anytime soon.

Same here. I know a couple people who have switched recently. My contract is up with my 928 in the spring so I'll be looking at what AT&T has available. Their coverage has greatly improved in my area in recent years and WP simply has a higher priority at AT&T than it does at VZW. 

I already did and am glad I did. I have Cyan now.

I had AT&T. Their network sucks in my area. I switched to Verizon. Now the network doesn't suck but the phone selection and Windows Phone update support. I guess there is no best carrier they all have different flaws. Pick your poison.

"Underway" is a euphemism for "oh yeah, we should think about looking into the possibility that we might want to check and see if this is something we can get started on as soon as we don't know of anything else we could be doing once our customers have all switched to other carriers."

Haha, comment of the day!  You win the Internet.... for a day.

Well at least we can stop checking for updates every few hours.

Only kindergarteners get As for effort. This is embarrassing.

Verizon. Incredible incompetence. 

Microsoft as well... Lol!

And how is this delay Microsoft's fault?  Microsoft gave Verizon the upate back on July 15th.  Microsoft CANNOT legally distribute the update until Verizon grants permission to do so.  So, exactly how is this Microsoft's fault?

Root cause, that's how..... See, WP has been on the market for 4 years.. MS has failed to market WP properly, and create hype and awareness around the platform... Any issue from carriers not wanting to support WP, to OEM's not making devices, to developers not supporting WP, are all because of low market share, which is direct result of very poor marketing on MS's part... Proper marketing is the first step in gaining the average consumers attention.. Sales associates will in fact recognize what consumers are asking for, and adjust respectively... Sales associates are inherently average consumers themselves and will react to what's being marketed to them as well... Apple, and Google, Samsung,,, they all understand this. And, until WP is marketed on a level as high, or higher, it will not gain substantial market share to earn the respect it could have from carriers, consumers, OEM's, and developers......
.............
marketing is the root cause of All of WP's issues, and WP is MICROSOFT'S platform, therefore it is MS's job to make sure that it succeeds, which right now it is not.... If you were Verizon this update wouldn't be top priority to you either... It's business, and Verizon is willing to take a hit where it seems less noticeable for the sake of prioritization, and pleasing consumers, where the greater pay off is..... So, yes.. I blame MS because attacking the root cause of any issue is the most logical thing to do... And, I will blame MS until I see them properly market WP..

Indirectly, I fault Microsoft for not promoting the Lumia Icon.  I saw TV ads about the 1020 (AT&T) and the M8 for WP (Verizon), but never one for Icon.  I only found out about Icon from website reviews.  Some of that has to do with the carrier, but it's also on MS.  If Microsoft is serious about increasing market share for WP, they need to increase marketing dollars for flagship phones, not to mention providing financial incentives to major players such as Symantec to come up with Win apps to go along with Android and iPhone apps, even if it means that they pay more than their share of joint ad costs with carriers.

That's pretty much what I've been saying for years.

It will come out when denim is out, then we go thru all this again.

Well at least Microsoft has finally stepped up and put pressure on Verizon. The ball is now in their court and now we know where to put the anger for no update.

We've known all along Verizon is "testing it".  How does this add any additional pressure?  If anything, it takes pressure OFF them.  He states "VZW taking the quality seriously"...now they look like they haven't been dragging their feet, which they have been.  Too busy with the Droid Turbo launch.

Y'know what? Verizon back in 2013 was THE place to be for Windows Phone. I'm willing to bury the hatchet and give them SOME benefit of the doubt on their seemingly weird decisions. We don't know everything, after all.

Verizon has NEVER been the place to be for WP, all they had in 2013 were the 928, 8x and Samsung Ativ. No match for ATT's lineup.

What I mean by that is that they were the first to get the firmware updates, they had the biggest slice of the Windows Phone pie (on the strength of the 822) until the 500 series came out, and when I went in to look at my Windows Phones, they were also encouraging, as opposed to the stories I hear about people being told, "No, you don't want a Windows Phone." Plus, their versions of the 820 and 920 were arguably superior. I should also specify "in the first half of 2013."

In fairness some people don't like the size of the 1520 (I love it personally) and as such the Icon is a better choice for them than the 1520.

I agree.  I'm not a "fan" of the size of the 1520 because I have small hands, but, if AT&T releases Denim firmware for the 1520 before the dinguses at VZW releases it for the Icon (if they ever release it), I will GLADLY hold my 1520 with two hands and Big Red can ki55 my a55!

I went from the 822 to the Icon. The 822 was an ideal size for me to use one handed.  Using Icon makes it difficult to reach the Back button with my right thumb (and I have big hands.

I concur with awilliams1701.  That's why the iPhone 6 comes in two sizes: one, essentially the size of the 1520, and the "regular" phone that's just a tad smaller than Icon.  Some people like the bigger size, some don't.  Apple realized after the iP5 that the 5" size and larger was where the market was headed and adjusted accordingly.

What about 8.1 for the HTC 8x?

should be today or tomorrow "by the end of october"... but don't hold your breath, its verizon

What quality they are sabotaging wp

Googles blackmailed them to stall so people leave windows for android the dicks

At least we finally hear something about it

It's pretty bad when AT&T is leading the way in communication and updating their phones.

Ha. You actually made light of several sihtty telecommunication situations spanning multiple corporations and decades. Impressive...

Skip to Denim. It'll be better for smartband use

No. Verizon couldn't give a shit less, on their new and discontinued phone, The Icon.

I finally decided to take the plunge over weekend and go the DP way with my icon. So far so good. So glad I did it so I can get me a msft band today. If a lumia flagship from another carrier shows up it would be bye bye bye for the big red wolf for sure.

The band won't work without the firmware update.

Agreed.  The band won't work on the Lumia Icon without the Cyan firmware update because WP8.1.1 DP with Lumia Black doesn't support Bluetooth LE.  Cyan gives BT LE back to Icon, not to mention all the other things we are missing out on without Cyan!

Just remember that the DP 8.1 is only part of the update, we still have yet to see the Icon on the Cyan firmware which brings us BlueTooth 4.0 and other new features. 

Crap, I forgot about that. Thanks guys. Now I hate vz even more. Argh!!

Actually according to Joe and Windows central, it works on DP without Cyan.

I don't know whether I should be laughing or crying

Verizon isn't making any $$$ on WP (there own fault). So, don't see them wanted to do any updates. I'm thinking MS us behind this.

I overheard a Nokia rep at a Windows Retail store say that the Verizon update isn't expected until January. He also said that Verizon is a bit of a dirty word right now, so I'm guessing they aren't really "working hard" to get the update out.

at least they've not said they will not do Cyan. that's what i've been worried about, as no Band support w/o it

I had to switch from ATT to Verizon, sold my loved 1520 with Cyan and purchased the Icon. Two weeks later VZ drops the Icon. So far not happy with VZ so they are not moving fast enough in Windows development support from my perspective.
I am happy to finally here something about Cyan. Hope MS can one day take over firmware upgrades from carriers.

Isn't it fun paying extra for visual vmail when the verizon version barely works?

Download the Magicmail App if you want visual voicemail.

I did the opposite and am glad I did. I love my new 1520. AT&T is a little slower, but oh well.

Sucks for people on Verizon that they have to wait this long.   Hardware manufacturers should stop fragmenting their own markets. If every carrier had the same model phones and didn't want specific things changed all the time firmware updates would be a lot easier. The funny thing is with the carriers starting to drop subsidies on new phones (by pushing their unsubsidized plans hard) they are going to have less sway with manufacturers and we may finally get the same phones on all major carriers at the same time all the time. It's hard for a manufacturer to turn down guaranteed money from the carriers for phones you don't know will sell. Now that there are really only 4 main carriers in the US and 4 major manufacturers it might change   And then the carriers would actually have to compete on price, reliability, coverage, and customer service! *gasp*

Unfortunately as long as Verizon has 2g and 3g (2021 should change this), this isn't possible. Verizon's old 2g/3g networks use CDMA technology. It requires a special radio that typically isn't included on AT&T phones. It requires special software keys to be installed by Verizon themselved into the actual firmware. There isn't a single phone on the verizon network that they haven't approved. It will be that way for as long as their 3g network exists. If they are determined they could probably filter phones from the LTE network too. The difference is that CDMA phones are filtered by design. LTE would have to be filtered by choice.

Should Verizon Icon users bother with the new Microsoft Band until we get Cyan?  Or will it matter?

Hell no. It wont work without cyan. And thus is why Joe Tweeted. The Verizon delay is now screwing them outta new band sales.

It's Microsoft's own fault.  They should have NEVER done an "exclusivity" deal with Verizon!  The Icon is a MASTERPIECE of a phone and would have sold like hotcakes on AT&T and T-Mobile.  Instead, sales got squashed by sales people actively pursuading customers to purchase something other than the Icon and now Verizon "retires" it because of "lack of sales."  Really!?  Now tell me Verizon wasn't TRYING to squash Windows Phone!  I suspect Apple and Google paid VZW to do this!  Microsoft should REALLY investigate this!

I thought Joe tweeted (or I read here) that the band would work with DP on Icon.... which contradicted my thought about BT LE support too.  But maybe the latest update enabled it even on Black devices?

BT LE needs a firmware update to be re-enabled if your on 8.1 DP, therefore you need cyan to use any BT LE devices. Such as the Nokia treasure tag, fit bit. The only solution here is to downgrade to black + wp 8.0, however that may not work for the Lumia icon.

So the 928 does require Cyan to work properly with the Microsoft Band, right??

yes

Yes.  The 928 will NOT work with the Band until it receives the Cyan firmware update.

No

I'm using my brand new MS Band right now with the 928, working very well. It does NOT require the Cyan update, but with a big gotcha, you have to be running Windows phone 8.1 update, which I am doing via the developer preview program. In short, Cyan is not required, but the updated OS you get via the dev preview program IS required, so if you are unwilling or unable to go to dev preview, you will have to wait for Cyan to make the band work. If you want to use the band, the MS store folks will help you get on the dev preview, they offered that for me but it was unecessary in my case since I was already running it.

this is the biggest cluster in verizon history

No, that would be the Kin. In fact, much of the bad blood that still exists between Verizon and Microsoft, arises out of that whole debacle, when Microsoft cancelled the phone, Verizon had already paid for marketing and units, and they got left holding the bag.

Microsoft is allready pushing out denim ?? why would they not just fix that one for the bugs instead of last years ...  

There isn't any phone getting a Denim update currently. I think some have shipped with it, but none updated yet. I suspect it will be soon for AT&T and never for Verizon. lol

Good question.  Probably because Apple and Google have paid VZW to squash Windows Phone because they know WP OS is a much better OS!  They probably have paid developers not do develop apps for WP either!

About time

Sorry, Joe, but Verizon has absolutely no interest in the Windows Phone no matter what you do.  My recent visit to the local Verizon Store revealed 3 iPhones, 50 Android phones, and 3 Windows phones buried among them with absolutely no signage.  The staff told me they NEVER show a Windows phone, and they have NEVER been trained on them.  I started discussing features that would appeal to some of their customers and they were totally in the dark.  They had no idea. Also, when people ask them about the Windows phone they ALWAYS redirect them to an Android model.  Sometimes it's deceptive, sometimes it's with the attitude they would be dumb to buy a WinPhone, or it's because that is the best deal for the salesperson. When people ask me about the WinPhone I tell them to go directly to the Microsoft Store.  If they do, they get an informed sales person and can see all the features we enjoy with our devices.  Unfortunately Verizon has far better coverage in our area to the point they are the only option for most of us who depend on our phones.  

Terrible but true

Its not just Verizon though. Its all of them. My wife asked this summer some guy in sprint if he heard of them getting another WP phone in the future. And he said "oh I heard Nokia is buying Microsoft or something like that, there not gonna make windows phones anymore" I wanted to hit him for that.

True..... when I bought my Icon the Verizon sales guy said he hated WP. I was like, "What?". I'm a customer telling you I like WP and he was trying to talk me out of it. Every time I show my phone to someone they say "I didn't know MS made a phone". It's an uphill battle

When I went to AT&T to activate my 1520.3 and switch from Verizon, one of the first things I noticed was a 1520 on display in a prominant area.

Lies.

No! NOT lies!  I also had the same experience with sales people at the local VZW store in New Orleans.  I asked about the Icon when I was upgrading from my 928 and the sales person actually told me "you don't really want a Windows Phone.  They are no where near as good as the iPhone.  You really should look at the iPhone instead."  When I assured him that I wanted the Icon and asked him questions about it, he actually told me he knew nothing about the Windows Phone.  I then asked him, "well, if you don't know anything about the Windows Phone, how can you make the judgement that the iPhone is better?"  He didnt' have an answer.  When I showed him all the thiings I can do with my 928, he was "more than impressed."

Uh, not lies.  Go to some of the WP forums, and you'll see more horror stories about Verizon sales reps actively discouraging potential buyers from a Windows phone and pushing them to Android or iPhone.  In fact, in the Portland, OR area, judging from others' comments, I was shopping at the only honest Verizon company store that did not discourage Windows phones

Do I believe they're working hard on it? NO.
What about 8.1 in general? I need it for my Samsung Ativ SE too.

Wow!, I'm a 100.

"Do you believe Verizon is working hard enough to get the Lumia Cyan update to its Windows Phone customers?" Wow, what a big flamebait question to ask most of your audience who aren't developers or testers...  

no there not but I no longer care as I have 8.1 on my 928 works great not sure what bug s there talking about the upgrade went fine for me!

How did you get 8.1?

Because without the Cyan firmware update, even with Windows Phone 8.1.1 Developer Preview, there are certain things that will not work on your phone, including the new Microsoft Band.

No, you do not need Cyan, according to more recent articles

UPDATE:  Microsoft recently stated the Microsoft Band will work with the Icon without the Cyan updated.  However, other things such as Miracast and Bluetooth LE items still will not work with the Icon until we get the Cyan firmware update.

Dude...we need Denim now tho...cyan is old than a mug by this point... Come man!

I am switching all my Business lines to ATT On Nov 7 ..the day the 830 is avail. Been with Verizon for 20 years...no windows phone support...I am done

Yeah that's well said!!! I'm on the same thinking pattern as you, didn't know they doesn't support WP at all. I'm in love with my Icon and thinking to move to T Mobile using their cancellation fee program, a cheaper plan and free music!!!

I left Verizon over 13 years ago, never looked back. I've always enjoyed the latest tech through AT&T. People complain about them all the time but I think they are simply the best carrier.

The service isn't as good as Verizon, but to me it was worth it to switch to AT&T so I could get Cyan.

I can't agree more.  I was a customer of AT&T for over 30 years, back when they were BellSouth Mobility.  I never had a problem with customer service with them.  I made the MISTAKE of switching to Verizon six years ago, and have regretted it ever since.  I HATE Verizon.  I have made up my mind that if AT&T releases the Denim firmware update for the 1520 before Big Red does for the Icon, I'm leaving Verizon and returning to AT&T!  The only reason to stay with Verizon is because I love my Icon.  The size is perfect and it has all the same specs of the 1520 but fits in my hand.  But if Verizon doesn't care enough to release the Denim update, then screw them and I'll deal with a slightly bigger phone on AT&T!

Verizon doesn't care about quality. They care about the phone with more market share like android and apple. The phones with smaller user base get screwed by Verizon cause they don't bring them the most money.

Please don't say we are patient. We are frustrated how Verizon is treating WP, it's users and turning away would-be users.

It already has. I know me and several others on this site have left Verizon. I'm on AT&T with a 1520.3. Service is a little worse, but I don't care. The 1520 is MY phone and I can do anything I want to it. Neither Verizon nor AT&T can stop me. That's the best part of GSM phones.

Of course they are behind...they have been concentrating on the launch of the Droid Turbo!

This!

Working out some bugs? Give me a break.

I'll never be again with verizon!!! Service is not that good and updates doesn't exist for WP. Bah!

Unfortunately Verizon's service was better than AT&T except in my neighborhood because AT&T just put a radio on the water tower. But I don't care. I don't want a company telling me what I can and can't do with MY phone. So I switched.

"...farther out... ?" Sounds like 2016. It would be laughable if it weren't so pathetic.

If T-Mobile can get the update out with Wi-Fi calling issues then Verizon should have been able to release around the time AT&T did. Sounds to me like they really put it on the back burner considering the Icon is already being dropped.

Its not just the Icon. Its the 928 and the 822.

Pefectly demonstrating one of the biggest drawbacks of the Windows Phone platform... timliness of OS update availability :-(

Think of it this way: Still better than the Android fragmentation.

I don't know the 810 is already dead as far as updates are concerned. I suspect that the Icon won't get anything after Denim because its discontinued. It may not even get Denim. It may not even get Cyan.

So, once MS sends the revised firmware back to VZW how long will they drag their feet testing........... This is painfully slow. Guess I will install the PD WP8.1 on my Icon so I at least have Cortana.

Part of the problem is that Verizon has to send it to Qualcom to include their CDMA keys. Then qualcom has to send it back to Verizon. I don't know how long that takes, but it certainly doesn't help. GSM phones don't have this issue.

verizon wil release cyan on  11/2 ... 2016

This is ridiculous... Better off skipping Cyan at this point and jumping straight to Denim.

good luck with that.

Verizon has had work underway for Months........why can other carriers push it out, and not them - because they dont care about WP.............on to ATT for me as soon as the next good flagship comes out.  Love my Icon, but the only thing keeping me on Verizon is my unlimited data, which from what i hear, will be gone soon.

I already did this myself. Loving the 1520.3 on AT&T with Cyan firmware.

I think Verizon could care less! Now that Microsoft owns Lumia they should be the ones to release and push out updates the their own devices and NOT leave it up to the carrier to decide. It's not left up to the Carrier to decide when a new iOS update comes out. Make it happen Microsoft!  

Ultimately this might be possible for both AT&T and T-Mobile, but its not possible for Verizon and Sprint. Verizon and Sprint have to approve all phones and their firmwares to run on their network because of their old fashioned 2G/3G CDMA technology. Before LTE came alone neither company used Sim cards. That's because LTE is based on AT&T and T-Mobile's GSM technology.

I'm just glad to see "verizon" and "cyan update" in the same header to be honost... jeez

Example:  Verizon will relase "cyan update" whenever they feel like it and that might not be for another year.   Still happy to see "verizon" and "cyan update" in the same header?   AT&T vs Veizon.  First to release Lumia Denim firmware update for their "flagship" device, gets my business!

Why don't you remove branded firmware to your phones turning them into country variant Version?
My 1520 was vodafone and first thing i did after unboxing has been to "un-brand" it

There is no such thing. Verizon's primitive 2g/3g CDMA technology requires Verizon to approve every phone (and firmware) on their network. If Sprint had these phones (it doesn't) and we put the sprint firmware on the phones we would lose service automatically. You have to have Verizon approved firmware. AT&T doesn't have this issue because it uses GSM instead of CDMA. GSM only cares about the sim card and if the phone is locked to a specific carrier or not.

Then all the more reason to go to AT&T.  Why doesn't Verizon just get rid of CDMA if they know it is such a hassle?  And please don't come back with "well all those people with CDMA devices..."  Verizon could very easily say to all those people, effective XXXXXX date, we will no longer be supporting CDMA.  If you own a CDMA device, we will gladly exchange it for a new device if your current contract is still valid.  If not, we will gladly sell you a new device with a 2 year contract or on EDGE.  Case solved.  

How do you do this and what are the risks?

It's a joke

No and that's why I left Verizon for AT&T. I would rather get 5 updates that fix bugs over the course of a month rather than wait 6 months for a "perfect" update. The apple ios 8.0.1 update that killed the phone calls was not a show stopper. You either waited for 8.0.2 or you downgraded to 8.0.0. Its not a big deal and I would rather have that choice than have Verizon make that choice for me. Now I get to enjoy my 1520.3 with Cyan and Verizon can no longer make that choice for me.

If there was a new flagship set to launch on AT&T I would leave so fast. I'm not gonna switch and do the whole contract thing or buy and phone off eBay. But the second the new 1520 is announced, ill be with you

And I'll be joining both of you.  If AT&T 1520 gets Denim before Icon, I'll be next in line at AT&T!

No they are not working hard enough, sorry

Well now we want denim.... Ughhhhhh

at least some news is better then no news. As for Verizon treatment to its customers in store, when I go in there their reps ask me questions about windows phones and when the release of cyan will.

There really isn't much excuse for hoe long V has procrastinated this release. I mean most of us have had the 8.1 DP running on our Icons (nearly flawlessly, minus all the goodies from Cyan) for several months! And this is supposed to be the flagship device in the US! Not acceptable, it should have been top priority for the Verison WP team.

I think this is BS...how is it that "VZW taking the quality seriously".  Who are they kidding.

I am sick of Verizon, there is no freaking excuse, that is BS. I do not have AT&T, but I do not see no issue with their update and the way they deal with such. If they were so concern about quality why they are not forthcoming with at least some bit of info about it and why the update seems to work pretty well on the HTC M8. One thing for sure is that once my contract expire this is my last run with Verizon, I can't take the disrespect and lack of service to WP users and their disloyalty.

Guarantee you that Joe's tweet had to get cleared with Legal.

SO I am going to buy a Motorola Droid MAXX so that I can use the Microsoft Band. Since my ICON cannot use the Band.

Also I am gonna have to be fair, I am also frustrated on the wait, but at the same time the PFD version of WP8.1.1 is really buggy on the icon (ie fast battery drain, "loading.." screen just to unlock the phone? seriously?) I have to kinda leave a margin of understanding that this OS is simply not stable and Verizon wants it fully functional before it's release. But I'm still not convinced that Verizon cares much for it's WP users either way.

His next tweet should be "...and we'll never do this carrier exclusive flagship crap again."

"You keep trying to pick a fight, but I'm still just happy you're alive!" - Mr. Incredible

Finally!!! Word on progress! Why is it that hard to tell the public what is going on? Delays happen, but being mum or saying nothing only frustrates customers!

Verizon loves to wait so long that our two contracts come up for renewal and hoping we get sick of the slow updates we jump to iPhone or Android. They suck

Even if it came out today, it's too late! I'm done with Verizon!

One of the reasons I left Verizon (after about 8 years) for AT&T was that they were consistently last among major carriers in rolling out updates.  I was using Android devices at the time but it didn't seem to matter.  Big red always took its sweet time.

I doubt Verizon is working hard, we don't ever have all the Verizon service available in the app store like Android and iOS users have.

Finally confirmation that it will happen. I'm good with that.

What about the HTC 8x??

November 17th was quoted above as the possible date for CYAN. That woulde be 5 months after the release date, We also got BLACK 5 months after release date. DENIM is not included in this update. Bsaed upon past performance, DENIM will be available April, 2015, 5 months after its release date. Way to go Verizon, you're right on top of things.

Regardless of how accurate it is its inexcusable that out took this long. Add the fact that they shelved the Icon and I question whether well see anything high end from Verizon again.

Underway?!? WTF does that mean? Its been out since the summer and they make it sound like next year. Fuck 'em both for piss poor customer service.

I'm with a couple of other folks on here. If VZW doesn't get their act together before my contract is up, I'm going over to ATT as soon as they get the HTC One. I have an 8X now, and they said they were going to have our 8.1 update in "late October". Well here we are with 1 day left and I'm still running 8.0.

I wouldn't think Verizon is working too hard when they discontinued the Icon but kept the older 928.

I think that for every party involved Verizon should just skip Cyan now and ship Denim.

It can't be skipped, they are cumulative, but after skipping one Microsoft will push both at the same time with denim. Carriers can only skip one then the second update pushes both regardless of the carriers.

It would be great to get the long overdue update, but i am still dome with Verizon!!! Their total fuckedupness of the sale and promotion of the Lumia Icon has convinced me that they are not the carrier for this OS. I will move my family to AT&T and get whatever flagship they offer....at least they are consistent with their support!!! After personally hearing from Verizon associates that they push IOS and Android and steer customers away from WP's...i am so done with them!!!

Am planning on picking up the 822 from Vmw to replace my 521 from tmo I hope they release the cyan update soon because it's a well optimized update then I tell denim I'll see him in the next 2 year if Microsoft decides on extending the Lumia 822 life span.

Lame! Strike 2, the end of life a brand new flagship phone!

"Do you believe Verizon is working hard enough to get the Lumia Cyan update to its Windows Phone customers? " LOL - they don't give a shit. They're working to crush the platform. 

If it were serious consideration l think we would have heard and had a fix by now!

Right instead they want us to by an android phone running Windows, no thanks!

The HTC model is the best alternative. With great hesitation I did it and it is a very nice device. Is it a Nokia device, hell naw. A great alternative though.

"further out" could mean 2Q next year.  So then maybe the VZ WP customers will get Denim before 2016 rolls around.  Rediculous.  At least the update was nice.

I smell horse manure.

To me the delay is ridiculous. It's keeping all us Verizon customers from benefitting from the cyan enhancements. With the talk of denim being rolled out soon, just makes the delay even more irritating

About fucken time

Im ready...... I want my MS band

I really wish Microsoft, Google and Apple would create a consortium that would start their own carrier network, possibly based on Super WiFi and white spaces. All of them would be in a better spot and so would consumers.

lumia cyan for 928?

3 1/2 months and "work is under way"? do they have one part time janitor working on it during his free time? 

Don't give them too much credit, that would be someone directed to work on this.

Verizon has shown time and time again they do not care for windows phone. I gave up waiting on them and installed the dev preview on my 822. It works awesome so I have no idea what they think they're waiting on. Cortana is incredible and I just ordered the fitness band, can't wait to try it out.

Yeah, "taking the quality seriously". About as believable as anything from obummer's mouth.

What a fucking joke. Either Microsoft has a contract that allows them to protract this out, or they really are just giving Verizon buggy shit. Either way, get it to-fucking-gether. This never happened for 7.5, Amber, or Black on Verizon.

Hell no! Verizon is just blatantly ignoring Windows like they always do. They care more about their Android lines....

Where the hell is the HTC 8x update that was suppose to be at the end of October which is oh yeah today and tomorrow.

As I wrote in the forum, I think "VZW taking the quality seriously" is just a passive aggressive way of saying "hey guys, this is all Verizon's fault" without saying it. If Verizon has a problem with this update when NO OTHER CARRIER IN THE WORLD has a problem... well, that just means they have a terrible network.

I've been a Verizon Wireless customer since the late '90's when they were Bell Atlantic Mobile in my part of the country.  As you might guess, I'm generally happy with their network.  But the way they're handling phone updates, and particularly Windows Phone updates, is really irritating me.  It is giving me serious pause and I'm considering making a move. The market is changing and there are better options than there used to be. I want a carrier that is either going to support my phone platform of choice--regardless of which platform--or isn't going to get in the way of me taking advantage of updates provided by the platform vendor.  I just traded my 928 for the Icon because it was advertised as going to support SensorCore, BT 4.0 LE, and a number of other nice features that I wasn't confident I'd get with the 928.  And the 928 was a little sluggish with WP 8.1 dev preview.  If Verizon doesn't follow through on this update, I'll be taking the four devices in my family and going elsewhere.  I'm just one customer.  It won't mean much to them.  But I'm putting Verizon on notice.  Hopefully others will too.  I've been tweeting Verizon almost daily inquiring on WP 8.1 and Cyan.  If you have too, thank you.  Keep it up!  #wewantcyan    

Dev preview it is!

It runs quite nicely on my Icon, sans Cyan update of course.

I saw that tweet. I'm just grateful that Joe said something because Verizon wasn't saying anything and had people believing that we customers weren't going to get the updates at all.
Honestly, I think Joe was being politically correct. There is no reason why it should be taking this long for Verizon to release this update. At&t has more WP8 devices and already started releasing the update, not to mention that the HTC One comes with 8.1 and update 1 pre-installed and that was released last month. Verizon is probably just now getting around to testing the software now that they've gotten their babies out of the gate (iPhone and Droid Turbo). After all this, the least they can do is include the Denim update.

I am 100% with you on this. Same story and same thoughts.

Verizon blows at updates.. Glad we're getting something... Besides the shaft! 928 user..

Like Windows? Use AT&T / Cricket.

why not go straight to denim instead? jeez when the hell is this going to stop, stupid poisonous carriers fucking up technology, they are damn pipes thats what they should focus on

Just download the developers preview

I've been running it reliably for months now. I just wish that Microsoft would push their Cyan firmware update as part of the Preview.

Microsoft is a f'n joke right now on the consumer side of things.  You mean to tell me they couldn't fix a firmware issue that is specific to their phones months and months after Cyan was announced? What the heck are they doing?  Windows 8 and 8.1 are still a disaster on the PC- no common consumer I have met is happy with it and considers it usable (only the tech geeks seem to like it), Windows RT flopped along with the Surface RT tablets, the Surface Pro tablets basically rely on their unique hardware to get sales (people still don't like Windows 8), Xbox One had all kind of issues and still after numerous updates (I am a member of the preview program) the interface stinks and tasks that were easy on the 360 like starting or joining parties are still confusing on the Xbox One. They now can't get 8.1 out to their phones on just 3 major carriers in the US and have no flagship phones this fall while everyone is buying iPhone 6s and have a plethora of new flagship Android phones to choose from now.  Bitch all you want about Verizon but they have the best netowrk in the US- why in the heck would Microsoft not prioritize getting their phones working on the best network? I told myself apps didn't matter for 4 years of WP ownership. Now that I have crossed over to the other side I realize what a fool I was in trusting Microsoft would get it's act together.  This is a big deal IMHO.Microsoft should just dump WP and focus on mobile services- they are so far behind there is no point now.

What are they doing? Stuff like teaching Cortana to speak Klingon. Now, don't you feel foolish for worrying about an update?

I think the freedom of expression is a wonderful thing. I'm glad you found a place to vent your frustrations but I also think you're wrong about a lot of what you wrote. In my opinion, it is Verizon's fault that they didn't push the Cyan update. They had the same amount of time as all the other carriers and since they are the biggest, it seems to reason that they should have been the first.  We can't even say that they are last. So far, they are forfeit in the Cyan update race. Microsoft is getting WP8.1 to all the phones through the Developer Preview. I have it on my Icon now (thank you Microsoft). It's that pesky Cyan update through Verizon that everyone seems to be upset about. It doesn't take a genius to see who's holding it up. I'm glad you can speak for all the non "tech geeks" by saying that "people still don't like Windows 8".  I like it. I like it on my home PC. I like it on my Surface RT.  And I really want an XBox One for Christmas this year. Apparently, so do a lot of other folks since its outselling the PS4 now. And what apps are you talking about that are missing? YouTube? You know who to blame for that (Google). Do you even need an app for that? Really? I will admit that there are a lot of people who don't like Microsoft for various reasons and would like them to fail at anything they do. I will also admit that there are a lot of people who don't like broccoli but you can still buy it at the grocery store.  Microsoft isn't going away either and so far, they have been committed to supporting Windows Phone.  Don't look for them to quit any time soon.

"VZW taking the quality seriously" Hahahahahahahahahaha. Joe Belfiore's years of charm school paid off big time with that line.  Verizon could not give a rat's arse about Windows Phone.  They are having to be dragged kicking and screaming to get these updates out.  I'm not buying he quality rationalization.

It's Belfore's job to get Verizon to care about their phones.  I don't completely blame Verizon on this.

That is an excellent point. It all comes back to the need for Microsoft to push Windows Phone to meaningful market share in the US so that carriers will have to care.

Verizon can suck it!

I just switched to the HTC M8 version. I have 8.1 now. I can't got back. I can't! I won't and you can't make me. The Nokia Icon is a better device though and I love the Nokia apps.

This is why I am switching from Verizon to AT&T. They pushed the updates out MONTHS ago, but we are still waiting on VZW. And I am sure on the next WP update, they will take just as much time to push out updates. SO LONG VZW!

As per one of my responses above, much of the bad blood between Verizon and Microsoft has little do with Windows Phone, and a lot to do with the whole Kin debacle, when Verizon was essentially left holding a bag of poo after Microsoft cancelled that whole series of phones. The folks at Verizon have probably never forgiven Microsoft for that, and probably froze them out of phones ever since.

Verizon's role in that failure (charging a full price data plan for a phone not designed to take advantage of that) cannot be ignored.  Reviews said Kin wasn't necessarily a bad product, but Verizon's lack of flexibility in their plan structure doomed it. 

I'm sure the "Bug Fix" is making sure the phones have broken MMS and other features if you dare take their FCC required unlocked device to another carrier.

Too little too late.   I just dropped off my beloved Nokia Icon at the local Verizon store and got a Samsung Galaxy S5.  As a longtime propoent of the platform (and Verizon), it was really tough to finally throw in the towel. But as soon as I have my QI charging back later today (thank you Amazon Prime!), I'm all set.  I'm loving the full-featured apps in the Andoroid space and finding all of the things WP is trying to do are already standard features built into this Galaxy S5.  I no longer have to wait with baited breath for the next little nugget, update, BSP we've all been waiting for.  I've got a non-nobbled, full-featured smartphone on the Verizon network and I couldn't be happier. http://forums.windowscentral.com/nokia-lumia-icon/319923-move-galaxy-s5-...

Way to go.  You really gave Verizon what for ... ... ... ... yeah ...

Glad to finally hear word! That's the thing that irritated me the most was silence. Hopefully things get done faster than planned.

Great point Meat! If they're going to screw us, at least let us know so we can brace ourselves.

We've been waiting so long, that I forgot What is Cyan again?........ Almost a moot point what with Windows 10 and Denim just around the corner..... Better Late than never I guess.

Why did it take 107 days to throw us this meatless bone? Why is it still"farther off?"

Verizon has no love for any Microsoft product. I've been told by stores representatives that they are not even trained on the phones or the one tablet they carry. If they didn't have the best coverage in my area I would switch! Microsoft needs to stop letting the carries have so much control. Apple doesn't put up wth it.

So essentially we are waiting for Denim.

So annoyed.

+1 I completely agree

Owners of the Lumia Icon, the Lumia 928 and the Lumia 822 in the US have been waiting patiently for Verizon Wireless to push out the long awaited update to theLumia Cyan firmware.

  That mad me laugh so hard...good one.

For real!

Finally, Verizon is working on it...falling behind T-Mobile now

No....update from unofficial channel unacceptable

I feel Verizon is just not inclined to support Windows phone. Thankfully I'm on at&t. They've done a pretty good job of allowing the updates to install.

Funny, how they don't mind taking our money for phones they look down upon.

Q1 2015

Hmmm. I had honestly given up hope that Verizon was working on the Cyan update for my Lumia 928. It's good to see that Joe has said something about this, but I'm still skeptical. I'll wait and see.

That works have a long "underway time". Verizon handsets will receive the cyan update when denim is ready. Also I read Verizon takes quality seriously but in my 822 I can't share data connection, also  Back up assistant, in settings, does not work. I hope this very long wait end soon.

It's taken an unacceptably long time on those updates. I've gotta stick with Verizon because of where I live, but the way they've handled their WP devices, combined with my own issues with the platform, is really making me consider moving away from WP when I upgrade next year.

This is the best Belifore and Microsoft can give us after months of waiting for Cyan? A tweet with no firm release date? Just the latest example of Microsofts inability to influence decision making with one of its "partners". If or when cyan is released I will happily use it on my 928 until our contract is up. Many others have posted here saying the same thing. Lose Verizon, Microsoft or both.

It's basically a don't call us we'll call you statement.

I am glad we don't have this carrier dominance in India. Feel really sorry for you guys

Verizon Not Bad:(

I wonder which is more costly to Verizon, a timely update or a mass exodus of disgruntled customers to other carriers.

After the HTC 8X, Nokia 928, and the Icon. I have had my fill of Windows Phones for now. The consistently delayed firmware, MS/Nokia update delays, and general waning support. Going back to my Apple roots. Its been fun with MS phones, and perhaps, after Windows 10 rolls out with a better a seamless cross platform. I'll return. For now the iPhone 6 Plus exceeds my needs and expectations. Till Windows 10 unified rollout. Good luck all.

Well. Hall-a-uyah! Miracles still exist!

Hasn't happened yet.

Updated to developers got denim update, its pretty good but folders are not close to ios, apps still suck hard on wp bit that's not Microsoft's fault... I guess Microsoft being a software giant need to get their shot together and also start updating direct as telcos have lost faith!

The one thing I can't stand about Verizon reps is there desire to push people away from products they are in search for. The reps sell Android or Iphones cause these are the phones on their hips 93% of the time. Most of the reps are not trained as heavily on Windows devices as they are on Android and Iphone products thus leading to a more dominant push towards those devices in store. I spent 5 years of my life as a tech rep for the big red machine and I can only recall only once seeing a Microsoft rep or windows specialist for the manufacturer come in to train us on a device and that was for the Kin devices.

For the person experiencing issues with backup assistant on their 822. You can go to the vzw website and export the contacts and import them into google or your hotmail account as a CSV file. It makes for a more effective way of syncing your contacts since both of those accounts sync automatically with your device

No! AT&T has had it out for awhile now. Verizon probably just wants to inhibit more features.

Im sure it'll be released, I'm thinking probably maybe 2016 we'll have it. I know one thing, I will never buy another windows device on Verizon after this BS.

I have verizon, and this past July, upgraded my phone from HTC8X to a Nokia Lumina. At the time, I asked the salesperson if the Lumina was the latest Windows phone, assuming that would insure the 8.1 update. Jokes on me. The HTC 8X has already been updated to 8.1. Don't get me wrong, my Lumina is a fabulous phone, and I wouldn't want to go back to the 8X, but truthfully this update matter is a deal breaker. I have 5 lines on my Verizon account that I plan on switching off as contract dates run out unless they roll this update out SOON. Verizon doesn't even bother to display Windows Phone in the stores anymore. When I asked why, the girl said because no one likes them. True story, and that was yesterday. I don't hold out much hope at this point.

BUFFALO BAGELS!!  If that is the case, then please explain to me why the HTC One with 8.1 is working just fine on Verizon's network??!!  I'm calling BS on this.

KCandSunshine13 the HTC has the OS but what the Lumia users are waiting for is the firmware update which is under "testing" with verizon. With Lumia Cyan Lumia users are able to get the new windows phone 8.1 os on our phones. There are alot of us who are currently using 8.1 dev preview with minimal issues that should be fixed with Lumia Cyan firmware update. So please keep in mind that verizon isn't testing 8.1 but the firmware which brings 8.1 to Lumia devices only.

I just had a conference call between Nokia, Verizon Tech Support and myself.  Nokia admitted (with VZW tech on the phone) that the hold up is from Verizon.  They are demanding that their apps (VZW Navigator, My Verizon, Voicemail, etc.)  work "perfectly" with the Cyan firmware update and so they sent the Cyan firmware update back to Microsoft for "re-developing" for their apps.  This is why the status has been changed to "Under Development" instead of "Under testing" on the Microsoft Cyan Firmware status web page.    This is the most PETY thing I have ever heard!  Apps!?  Really!?  Apps can be changed, redeveloped, APIs changed, etc. AFTER the Cyan firmware has been released.  Also, with Denim coming, why aren't they just getting with Microsoft to ensure their apps work "perfectly" with Denim and just release Cyan as is?!  I still say this is Verizon's way of putting the screws to Microsoft for whatever reason.  All I know is if the 1520 gets Denim before my Icon does, Verizon has lost a customer! 

No I Do Not Think They Are Trying Hard or even Trying at all, In fact Verizon employees, especially at the retail locations are an excercise in pretentious nepotistic "Fan-Boy-Dem" I have never wanted to smack the ever god fearing shit out so many under 25's in my life. The irony is how much emotion and effort they go through to highlight how ignorant they truely are'. When simply asked about the time frame they give you a look of contempt with a small sprits of fear. (Could he be a suit from corporate and I just faile a service and or product knowlege test. The answer is a resounding yes to all the above. FAILED!!! Verizon. Failed me, a new customer who made the leap from a 5 Year and tepid at best relationship with Metro, Failed your employees who now have to UNlearn everything you allowed them the learn (Thats the worst) because some of these kids now beleive this is the workforce and an acceptable way to marginalize a premier paying customer and lastly they have failed WP in a odd go for broke then pull the benefit at the end which I AM SURE WAS PLANNED FOR MAXIMUM PSYCHIC DAMAGE! But then the clouds part and low and behold on mote ofbrullint lght, what is it but none other thsn T-Mobile who is most convincing they they hsve a RESPONSIBILITY`to save me from Verizons evil,,,,,  

Anything new here?

Yeah, Microsoft needs to check Verizon and their staff, anytime you mention a windows device there they always question your mindset, as to why would you even consider that for a phone.....

Ok at first glance this type of thing looks foolish to me. Why would Verizon want to mistreat its windows customers. I went through the same things mentioned when I went in the store to purchase a windows phone. I knew what the flagship ship was, but some how the salesman didn't. I want the icon I said. He says I don't think we carry that phone. Then he finds it and tells me it is outdated when it was released this year. Then he asks me why I am set on getting a windows phone. After 15 minutes of nonsense and the guy playing stupid, I got the guy to start processing the phone I had carefully researched. Then I find out the big windows 8.1 release isn't going to reach me because Verizon is delaying the process. See the air of preferential treatment is palpable around the Verizon organization, and most windows users have a bad taste in their mouths but can't fully articulate why. I wanted to tell that sales guy, "why the hell would I want an iPhone when ican get a better phone for less." yes it is a better phone, even though it doesn't have as many apps. The fact is that it should have more apps, because the OS is light years ahead of apple and android, and they are all going to start copying it soon. Any way, the reason I think Verizon purposefully mistreats windows users is not because they are stupid. It is because windows phones mess up their profits because they offer superb quality for less! They don't want to sell windows phones. They want the image of being inclusive, bit they don't want the phone to sell, and would rather that windows was out of the phone business. I think that ultimately this is a stupid approach, even though they don't. Because if they have anything to do with making me lose my favorite phones I will never forgive them, no matter how many damn bars they get me. I'll switch to att just out of spite. They must not know how deep this stuff runs for windows followers....

I believe this is just another stalling tatic and that 8.1 will never be delivered via Verizon. Can I get anyone interested in launching a class action suit against Verizon and MS??  

IMO this is just a stalling tactic and we will never see 8.1 delivered via Verizon. Is anyone interested in starting a class action suit against Verizon and MS???