Microsoft releases SDK for Windows Phone 8

After the recent launch of its newest mobile operating system – Windows Phone 8 – Microsoft seems keen on developing the ecosystem for the OS. The software giant has updated the Windows Phone SDK (software development kit) so as to let developers develop apps and games for Windows Phone 8 devices.
 
The SDK is available for download on Microsoft’s website. According to the download page, the Windows Phone SDK provides a standalone Visual Studio Express 2012 edition for Windows Phone or works as an add-in to Visual Studio 2012 Professional, Premium or Ultimate editions. With the SDK, you can use your existing programming skills and code to build managed or native code apps. In addition, the SDK includes multiple emulators and additional tools for profiling and testing your Windows Phone app under real-world conditions.

Microsoft has released the SDK for WP8

Microsoft has also updated the hardware and software requirements for the SDK. If your computer meets the hardware and operating system requirements, but does meet the requirements for the Windows Phone 8 Emulator, the Windows Phone SDK 8.0 will install one and run. However, the Emulator will not function and you will not be able to deploy or test apps on it. The Emulator requires the computer to run a copy of Windows 8 Pro or greater, and also requires the computer to have a processor that supports Second Level Address Translation (SLAT).

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Microsoft had launched the mobile operating system in an event recently. As part of the announcement, Microsoft revealed new features, including Kid’s Corner and Rooms. Details and pricing for a range of new smartphones from Nokia, Samsung and HTC were revealed. Each smartphone in the range has its own differentiated design, colour and features. Windows Phone 8 devices go on sale in November through carriers and retailers around the world. However, it is still too soon to tell when these devices would be launched in India.

“We can’t wait for the world to meet Windows Phone 8, the most personal smartphone there is,” said Terry Myerson, corporate vice president of the Windows Phone Division at Microsoft. “Windows Phone 8 comes on a range of phones that are stunning, colorful and unique.”

Microsoft states that Live Tiles are the core of Windows Phone. Users can arrange the iconic Start screen whichever way they like by pinning people, apps, music, games, photos and other tiles. One has the option of customising the Live Tiles and there are three different sizes and 20 different colours of tiles to choose from.