When they announced Windows Phone 7 initially, Microsoft had laid down quite a few mandatory requirements for a phone to be “compatible” with the OS. These included at least a 480*800 pixel display, a capacitive touch screen, the thee hardware buttons for Start, search and back and of course, a Camera.
There were other specific requirements too like the need for at least 8GB of internal storage space, a Qualcomm processor that’s clocked at over 800 Mhz and at least 256 MB of RAM. Optional requirements included a front camera for video calling, gyroscopes or compass.
Coming to the camera, the requirements were strict as well. The minimum resolution was at least 5 megapixels with the capability to capture videos in 720p. It also ought to have auto focus capability along with a dedicated two stage camera button apart from flash. Quite a read isn’t it?
Now, while all this would do the OS good whereby low priced, cheap handsets wouldn’t proliferate unlike in the case of Android there were some issues with the camera requirements for many manufacturers. Adding a camera increased the cost manifold and with the entry of Nokia in to the fray, Microsoft seems to be happy to let lower priced handsets to arrive on the platform.
It is with this idea in mind that Microsoft has decided to quietly relax its mandatory camera requirements in all devices running Windows Phone 7. This relaxation is valid for all devices that would run Windows Phone 7.5 and above, in the future. This move might also be helpful for manufacturers who wish to make a handset that is workplace friendly. You might be aware that there are quite a few offices around the world where Camera phones are not welcome.
We think this one is a good move as it would make Windows Phone devices available to a wider price spectrum. What do you think?
[Via WPCentral]
