Windows Phone 8.1 'Cyan' Update Now Rolling Out to Lumia Users

Microsoft Mobile on Tuesday announced roll-out of the 'Cyan' update for Lumia Windows Phone 8 smartphones. Lumia Cyan includes the Windows Phone 8.1 Update available to all Windows Phone OEMs as well as certain Lumia-specific features and enhancements.

Starting July 15, Lumia users around the world will start to receive the Cyan update on their devices over-the-air (OTA), though exact availability may vary depending upon their carrier and/ or region.

(Also see: How to Download and Install Windows Phone 8.1)

While the Lumia Cyan update includes several new features for the users globally, Lumia Windows Phone 8 users in US will also get the digital personal assistant Cortana on their devices. The feature is also expected to reach China and the UK soon.

The Windows Phone 8.1 update adds a number of new features to Lumia Windows Phone 8 devices like the ability to use a custom background image for start screen, a third column for custom live tiles, People Hub, a new Action Center to customise settings, app notifications, and more, Wi-Fi Sense to automatically connect to free Wi-Fi hotspots, an updated native Calendar, updated Bing powered device search, an updated Internet Explorer 11 browser that promises a fast and intuitive browser experience.

Refer to our previous coverage for complete details about the Windows Phone 8.1 update.

Lumia users will also benefit from improved Nokia Camera, Creative Studio and Storyteller apps. Nokia Creative Studio 6 (CS6) will now be available directly from the renewed Camera Roll. The company is also offering a free upgrade to global Here Drive+ to Nokia Lumia 520, Lumia 525, Lumia 620 and Lumia 720 users along with the Lumia Cyan update.

Specifically for Nokia Lumia 1520 (Review | Pictures) and Lumia Icon, the Lumia Cyan update will improve the audio quality of videos and the camera capabilities. Additionally, Microsoft's Screen Share technology will allow users to connect both devices to screens like a smart TV or projector.

A new SensorCore SDK Beta for both the devices will enable them to use location data, real-time updates, and more.