Microsoft releases Windows 10 Mobile for Windows 8.1 devices
Microsoft has started distributing Windows 10 Mobile to devices running Windows 8.1. Not all smartphones that were able to participate in the Windows 10 Mobile Insider program are eligible for the upgrade.
The start of the release was announced by Microsoft after members of the Windows Central forum already noted that the software was ready for them. They received a message with the request to check ‘Enable Windows 10 upgrade’ if they want to update their device to the OS.
Microsoft is rolling out the update in stages and users can use the Upgrade Advisor app to check if the software is ready for their device. Eligible devices according to Microsoft are the Lumia 1520, 930, 640, 640XL, 730, 735, 830, 532, 535, 540, 635 1GB, 636 1GB, 638 1GB, 430, 435, BLU Win HD w510u, BLU Win HD LTE x150q and the MCJ Madosma Q501.
It is not clear which devices will receive the update first. At the same time, Microsoft reports that the company is working with manufacturers and carriers to make Windows 10 Mobile available. In addition, the company says that “the list includes a limited set of Windows Phone 8.1 devices” and that some devices currently running Windows 10 Mobile in the Windows 10 Mobile Insider program are not included.
Smartphones must run at least Windows Phone 8.1 GDR1 QFE8 anyway. The update has a size of 1.4GB, which must therefore be available on the device. Due to its size, users have to get it via WiFi.
At the same time, Microsoft has updated the list of devices that are now eligible for Windows 10 Mobile Insider Preview. These smartphones will have the option to be the first to receive new builds of the OS. These include: Alcatel OneTouch Fierce XL, BLU Win HD W510U, BLU Win HD LTE, X150Q, MCJ Madosma Q501, Xiaomi Mi4, Lumia 430, 435, 532, 535, 540, 550, 635 1GB, 636 1GB, 638 1GB, 640, 640 XL, 650, 730, 735, 830, 930, 950, 950 XL and the 1520.
Read more about Windows 10 Mobile in the background Windows 10 Mobile Review – A new Windows Phone for everyone.