Microsoft extends Windows Phone support

Microsoft has issued a Windows Phone U-turn, revealing the support lifecycle will be extended from 18 months to 36 months.

After previously announcing support for the smartphone would end by July 2014, the software giant has had a change of heart, although not quite as major as its Xbox One backtrack.

"Microsoft is investing in Windows Phone enterprise capabilities to make it an even better choice for businesses of all sizes," said Robert Hoover, project manager, Windows Phone.

"Beginning with Windows Phone 8 we’ll make updates, including security updates, available for 36 months.

"These updates will be incremental, with each update built on the update that preceded it.

"The mobile operator or phone manufacturer may control the distribution of these incremental updates and update availability may also vary by country, region, and device hardware capabilities."

In addition to the longer support lifecycle, Hoover said Microsoft will also be releasing an enterprise feature pack as an update to Windows Phone 8.

Hoover claims the feature pack will provide IT departments with more control over Windows Phones and give their employees a fuller productivity experience.

"We plan to provide the feature pack as an update in the first half of 2014," he said.

"By lengthening the Windows Phone support lifecycle policy and announcing of the enterprise feature pack, we show Microsoft’s commitment to the Windows Phone platform.

"This gives business customers the confidence to invest in Windows Phone today, with the knowledge that their investments are secure, and the platform is evolving to be an even better choice for business."

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