Windows Phone 8 Devices Get 18 Month Update Promise

Some may be disappointed that recent handsets like the Nokia Lumia 800 won't be receiving an upgrade to Windows Phone 8, but Microsoft has announced that future phones will be supported via software updates for at least 18 months. In addition to that, the company will deliver all software updates completely over-the-air, removing the need for users to plug their phones into a computer.

This latest piece of news should come as a relief to those wondering if future handsets will be left out in the cold just like the Nokia Lumia 800 and 900. It's disappointing that Microsoft has chosen to ignore current handsets, but if you buy into the platform starting from Windows Phone 8 you should be covered for at least 18 months. The over-the-air feature is a welcome addition too: now users don't have to interact with the Zune software to get updates.

On top of all of that, Microsoft says that "registered enthusiasts" will be able to sign up to receive early Windows Phone updates before they go live on a wide scale. Whatever lies beyond Apollo, Microsoft will offer up early versions to customers who really want to test them out. A nice touch, and something that Android could use.