What to expect from Windows Phone 8.1 Update 1

On the heels of Windows Phone 8.1, Microsoft has released the latest update to its mobile OS. Currently available to download for users as part of the free-to-join Preview for Developers program, Windows Phone 8.1 Update 1 includes some minor but important enhancements. Here's a look at what to expect.

Microsoft has said that the update will roll out to consumers with devices running Windows Phone 8.1 in the coming months, but we've already taken it for a spin.

Android and iOS devices have had the ability to group apps together by creating folders for several years now and Windows Phone is finally joining the party, but with a bit of a twist. The folders continue with Microsoft's live tile approach, so you will see updates from each app you put in a folder.

Putting apps in folders is just like adding apps to create folders in iOS and (some) Android launchers. Just tap and drag an app to another app to create a folder and then you'll be able to name it. The folder will display a grid of mini app icons, and when you tap it, you can easily access the app you want. You can also resize the app tiles inside the folder once it's expanded. For example, in the screenshot below I created a music folder and you can see both the live tile view and the larger view once the live tile is opened.

Apps Corner is a restricted access mode that's designed to provide access to selected apps on your phone if you let someone borrow it. The person who borrows your phone will get a customized Start screen with access to only the apps you selected. This is a good solution for businesses and can work as a sort of kiosk mode to prevent users from accessing certain functions. It's also similar to another Windows Phone feature called Kids Corner that gives your children access to only specific games and apps you choose. To use it go to Settings > apps corner and tap Apps. Then select the apps you want to be available.

To get out of Apps Corner, hold the power button down for about a second and you'll see the following screen. You can either power the phone off or swipe to the right to exit Apps Corner. Make sure you have a Lock Screen password set, because the other person using the phone has access to this too. But they will need your code to get out of it.

Xbox Music has improved quite a bit across all platforms over the past few years. Unfortunately, when Windows 8.1 was launched, it was painfully slow and crashed a lot. Microsoft heard the user complaints and admitted the app was broken. Now with the Windows Phone 8.1 update, you should notice several improvements and bug fixes, along with a snappier interface. The company also said new features will be added regularly, with "now playing" on the music live tile set to appear in the not-too-distant future.

Now when you have the Windows Store tile set to the medium size, it will be "live" and display new apps, recommendations, the app of the day and more. The screenshot below shows two different games that are being featured via the Store's live tile. While this isn't a huge deal, it is further evidence that Microsoft is tightening up its mobile OS.

Windows Phone 8.1 Update 1 allows you to select multiple SMS messages to delete or forward all in one action. It will be available in built-in apps as well as more places like the Phone app call log. You can get to it in a messaging app by selecting more options, tapping "select messages" and checking the ones you want to delete or forward on.

if you don't want to wait for your carrier to send it your way, you too can take the update for a spin right now.

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What to expect from Windows Phone 8.1 Update 1