Windows Phone 8.1 Update 1 Comes With Smartwatch Support

August 5, 2014
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release of Windows 8.1 Update 1 has been put under the microscope, and this new version of the mobile operating system does, in fact, come with the necessary APIs for this linking up to happen. Early signs that something is cooking. These APIs are actually for OEMs and hardware vendors so that they can make sure that their smartwatches (or other such accessories) are compatible with Microsoft’s mobile OS. As this report reveals, these APIs offer support for smartwatches primarily, allowing partner companies ability to include features like phone call management, alarms and reminders, as well as a notifications manager — the usual stuff for now. You can take a look at them here on this Pastebin link. What would be really interesting is if these APIs are opened up for developers as well. Sure hardware manufacturers are in on the fun, but third-party developers can really put these to good use. In any case, this much seems fairly certain that Windows Phone users will soon get access to smartwatches and other wearables. About time too.]]>

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Mike Johnson is a writer for The Redmond Cloud - the most comprehensive source of news and information about Microsoft Azure and the Microsoft Cloud. He enjoys writing about Azure Security, IOT and the Blockchain.

All Comments

  • It is about time. It would be smart to launch one by the end of the hear. As long as it’s finished.

    Black Eagle August 5, 2014 12:30 pm Reply
    • I agree. The sooner the better. Smart watches are still a relatively new thing, so if Microsoft jumps in on this early enough, they won’t be climbing an uphill battle like they have been with Phones and Tablets.

      Sally Black August 5, 2014 2:48 pm Reply
  • These watches look like something I would consider buying. Not too “techy” to make it feel like it’s not a watch, but still has the technological features I would like. I hope the watches look like this.

    Steve Fulton August 5, 2014 6:12 pm Reply
  • Cool

    Ray C August 5, 2014 6:33 pm Reply

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