The company is still to officially release its Windows Phone 8.1 Update 1 in the coming months, but users are enabled to nab the developer preview for free with the use of the Microsoft’s App Studio program. You don’t necessarily have to be a developer or Windows Phone apps manufacturer to take part in the program. You are just required to register and agree to certain terms. The update results in the inclusion of several new features, including a Live Folder feature in order to hold multiple Live Tiles in the same location. The update also results in bringing the voice-controlled Cortana in other countries as a beta version, including the UK and China. The company’s virtual assistant will also be made available to users in Australia, Canada and India as an opt-in alpha version. Meanwhile, the stateside users of the Windows Phone 8.1 will be enabled to get a preview of Cortana’s new acting skill by instructing her to do celebrities impersonations. Additionally, the Windows Phone 8.1 Update 1 enables users to delete or forward multiple selected SMS messages at one go. It also brings in user-customizable snooze alarm settings, enhanced Xbox Music application with a flashier Live Tile and improved security.
