Who wants a slice of the Mango?
Filed under: mobile handsets, mobile phone, social media, technology, Windows Phone 7
Last week we were really pleased to announce that partnering closely with Microsoft meant we could start rolling out the Windows Phone 7.5 OS update, codenamed Mango. And what an update it is!
Windows Phone 7.5 is the first major release since Windows Phone 7 launched less than a year ago. Mango offers hundreds of new features and experiences designed to build on the phone’s intuitive, “people-first” foundation – multitasking, more integrated apps, primo mobile web browsing, and powerful and personalized tools, like integrated social networking and conversation threads, for connecting with the people in our lives.
Many people have already advised that they have got the update but it is a gradual roll out so you just need to keep an eye on your device which will advise you when the update is ready to download.
Microsoft will gradually ramp up delivery so that the update will be broadly available to most existing Windows Phone customers by the end of October.
With such a feature packed update it is pretty hard to cover them all in a blog post so here are some of our top picks that will come to you, free of charge of course, with the Mango update.
- Threads: Switch between text, Facebook chat, and Windows Live Messenger within the same conversation.
- Groups: Group friends, family, co-workers into personalized Live Tiles to see the latest status updates right from the start screen and quickly send a text, email or IM to the whole group.
- Deeper social network integration: In addition to Facebook and Windows Live, Twitter and LinkedIn feeds are now integrated into contact cards, and Mango includes built-in Facebook check-ins and new face detection software that makes it easier to quickly tag photos and post to the Internet.
- Linked Inbox: See multiple email accounts in one linked inbox. Mail is organized by conversations to make it easy to stay on top of the latest mail.
- Hands-free messaging: Built-in voice-to-text and text-to-voice support enables hands-free texting or chatting.
- App Connect: By further integrating apps into Windows Phone Hubs, including Music + Video and Pictures, Mango allows apps to pop up when you need them.
- Improved Live Tiles: Get real-time information from apps without having to open them by pinning them to the Start screen. Live Tiles can now be more interactive.
- Multitasking: Quickly switch between apps in use and allow apps to run in the background while preserving battery life and performance.
- Internet Explorer 9: The power of a PC-browser plus support for HTML5 and full hardware acceleration graphics. This means you can quickly and easily share web pages with Social Networks directly from within the browser. No copy and paste required.
- Local Scout: Provides hyper-local search results and recommends nearby restaurants, shopping and activities in an easy- to-use guide.
- Bing Vision: Gives you quick results based on product images and barcodes, QR codes and MS Tags.
- Quick Cards: When searching for a product, movie, event or place see a quick summary of relevant information, including related apps.
The Mango update can be downloaded for free by synchronising your phone with Microsoft’s Zune software on a PC. Microsoft will make it available to customers progressively over the coming weeks.
So what is your favourite thing about the update? Leave me a comment below.
Related Links
- Telstra.com smartphone software updates
- Microsoft Windows Phone – where’s my update?
- Windows Phone blog
Hi Dan,
Great to see Telstra putting out an update on Exchange on Mango. It is an AMAZING update to an already great base, with Windows Phone.
The deployment is actually going so well – MS just announced they are bumping up the rate of push on this tio worldwide handsets ahead of schedule:
http://windowsteamblog.com/windows_phone/b/windowsphone/
For me – the Improved live tiles are #winning! Having notifications flipping on your tile on the home screen – for contacts, Apps, Information – right there at a glance – is awesome.
Dan – in response to this formal post by Telstra on Mango – can you please confirm the status as Telstra are aware off;
1. Tethering / Internet Share
2. Visual Voice Mail
This would be appreciated – as no-one has answered my crowdsupport post here in 2 weeks:
http://crowdsupport.telstra.com/t5/Windows-Phones/Telstra-can-you-please-confirm-your-position-on-these-Mango/td-p/4642
As it is, I have heaps more Mango info over at my WP7 Blog at http://www.wpdownunder.com
Congratulations to Telstra on the excellent deployment and engagement on Mango.
Brilliant stuff guys (and MS of course)!
Sheeds.
Dan, this is a great update and seems to be running smoothly. I have been using the beta mango release for sometime and was looking forward to visual voicemail which appears to be unsupported at the moment. Can you please confirm when we will see this implemented and supported by Telstra?
No worries G – will look into that for you.
Cheers
Dan
Thanks Sheeds!
I am still just learning about this great OS on my HTC Mozart, must say I am hugely impressed all over again after getting my Live ID sorted out and diving into the amazing gaming experience the OS offers. Very slick, but I have lots to learn to catchup with you.
I have asked the question of our ‘texperts’ re your question and will get back to you asap.
Will be diving deep into your blog for more answers… I am yet to have my Mozart upgraded so I look forward to being a Mango geek soon, and doing my own review soon.
Cheers
Dan
Hi Dan,
Thanks for the update (on the update! ha)
Mango is fantastic, have received the update on my Mozart, but my wife’s is still awaiting MS. As mentioned by Sheeds above, can you please advise of the status of
1. Tethering / Internet Sharing
2. Visual Voice Mail
Clarification of costs if any (iPhone users don’t pay do they?) of Tethering would be helpful also…
I think Visual Voice Mail for iFruit is charged at $5 p/month by Telstra…
Yep,
I’m lovin the upgrade. Using Samsung Focus which works perfectly with NextG. I do hope Tethering will become available too.
What’s my most favourite thing about the Update? The NEW Handsets!! Don’t get me wrong, I love the Samsung Focus (it has to be the best combo (OS/Hardware), I’ve ever used, but I am very keen to grab either a Nokia Sabre(?), Samsung S, or HTC Titan as my next outright purchase.
Great update Dan!
As a Windows Phone enthusiast – I am so glad to see Telstra supporting the platform. The rollout of the original Nodo update was disappointing – but looks like lessons have been learnt for both Microsoft and Telstra. Mango has been one of the best rollouts in recent times – and what an update it is.
I am still a little saddened over the number of handsets I see out in the shops. This is not your fault. The lack of new hardware and the current buzz with Iphone and Android are surely the major culprits.
With new handsets been anncounced and Nokia joining in on the Windows Phone bandwagon – I forsee a bright Windows Phone future in 2012. I hope Telstra will continue to support this amazing platform – the pottential for this platform to be one day be on top of the ladder is very high.
Thanks vgmaster21!
I too am excited about new Nokia handsets with WP7.5 – that could really pull Nokia back into our lives me thinks.
You can count on me to keep you informed as things progress! I am doing a tech review of Mango now I have the update on my Mozart – it is truly an amazing update!
Hi Dan
Thanks for the update on mango.
Do you know what the latest date is (roughly) when the roll-out will hit our phones? I’ve been reading posts from people who already have it, it seems, but we haven’t received a notification yet – neither my wife nor myself. I know you said four weeks – so I’m assuming first week of November?
We both own Mozarts.
Hi theiguana
Sorry but I don’t know specifics, last night I just got the update via my Mozart myself last night!
All I can suggest is just unplugging your device, then re-inserting it and checking via Zune… It won’t take long now – as Sheeds mentions above they are really ramping up the rollout now.
A little hint that may help.
Ensure you have the latest version of ZUNE to get the upgrade. I went to download an app and it stated I could not and needed to update to latest Zune. I did this and I was then notified of the update available for Windows Phone. The update is amazing on my phone. I was looking at upgrading to HTC EVO but will put it off (for now).
Hope this helps
Cheers
Good tip, thanks for that Larry.
I was looking at the EVO myself funnily enough but I think I am leaning towards an HTC HD7 now!
I just can’t believe that the Samsung Focus handset never made it’s way to Australia. This handset, coupled with Mango – is just sleek, sexy brilliance (SAMOLED, microSD expansion, thin, light, full 3G on Telstra 850band).
I hope the Samsung Focus S (new updated model coming) DOES get here, and doesn’t need to bought unlocked from the states also! (hint hint Telstra!).
There is also a “force update trick” – if you google or search the WP7 Mango post at whirlpool, allowing you to bypass the wait! However I would expect you will all see your updates by this weekend…
It really is now a serious OS with some amazing features!
Sheeds.
http://windowsphonedownunder.com or
http://wpdownunder.com
You stated a week ago that most should have the Mango update by now. Unfortunately I have no yet received it on my HTC Mozart. Any idea when it will arrive?
Dan,
To help you and all the other Telstra customers with Mango and Windows Phone 7 – I have just put up a Blog post on my WP7 site listing all the offical Microsoft key resources, links, help and information on the Mango WP7.5 update.
http://www.wpdownunder.com/?p=2759
It is a great launching point for all the information people might need from Microsoft.
Hope this helps
Sheeds.
Very handy Sheeds, thanks.
I am still just getting my head around the volume of new features, what an amazing OS update!
Stay tuned for my full review soon.
Cheers
Dan
Hey Dan,
Any update on my questions above?
Cheers
Not as yet Sheeds. I am sure you can appreciate it has been quite an unusual day!
Will let you know the minute I find out, I promise.
Dan
Fave features so far in Mango are:
* FB chat, live messenger in SMS interface
* live tile updates on the me tile and contacts I pin (nice how it flips to show new pictures they’ve posted)
* TALKING SMS MESSAGES (and fb chat/live messenger messages)
* Being able to see more in the xbox live page
* Jump to letter navigation in app list
I see there is a T-Box Remote app for Iphone and coming soon for Android. Will there be one for Windows Phone? Would be great. 1 less thing on my coffee table
hey dan i have a LG-900k 7Q just woundering when the update will come out for my phone i have been waiting for a while and nothing yet
Hey guys – I have an answer on Visual Voicemail for Windowsphone, unfortunately it is not the one you want to hear. Here goes…
“We are considering visual voicemail for windows phone but have no current plans to introduce it.”
Ahh well Dan,
Can’t shoot the messenger for at least trying….Appreciate you asking. Any idea or contect on why it’s a “need to consider” situation as opposed to iFruit devices which get it for a $5 surcharge?
I can’t understand why the device makes any difference since its an account based service?
Thanks,
Sheeds.
Dan, besides the visual voicemail, another feature that we’d like to see is internet sharing, allowing you to use your Windows Phone as a mobile hotspot. I’m with Optus at the moment and can’t get an answer out of them, and HTC assure me that it has to be carrier enabled. directing me to this page
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsphone/en-us/howto/wp7/basics/feature-and-service-availability.aspx
Does Telstra plan to enable the feature, may be enough to get me to jump ship if they do
Here you go Dan,
Here’s a review of functioning Tethering (Internet Sharing or Wi-Fi hot-spot sharing) with a Generation 1 Samsung Windows Phone handset.
http://www.wpdownunder.com/?p=2909
Sheeds.
Hi guys
I installed Mango update as soon as it became available and am very impressed – except that I discovered today ( some 10 or so days later) that my voicemail settings were changed during the update. I haven’t been getting notifications of new voice messages at all, but on signing into my messagebank found 4 messages in there!!!! My local Telstra shop reset notfications for me – but I wonder if this is a common problem?? Anyone else out there had the same issue???
Robyn,
It’s a known bug between the OS and Telstra. Telstra have advised that MS intend fixing this in a patch at their earliest opportunity (possibly NOV?). Here’s the link:
http://crowdsupport.telstra.com/t5/Windows-Phones/Anyone-having-voicemail-issues-on-Mango/td-p/2964
Also – as a short term fix, each time you get the initial SMS telling you of a voice-mail, delete it so it is no longer in your SMS messages, then you will get a new SMS each time (repeat delete).
Cheers,
Sheeds.
http://www.wpdownunder.com
Here’s a detailed Tour of all the new Mango features and Windows Phone awesomeness at
http://www.wpdownunder.com/?p=3028
Plenty of screenshots, How-to’s and details on the winning combination of Windows Phone + Mango!
Now we just need Telstra to announce their new lineup of Mango handsets!
Sheeds.
So I walked into a Telstra store yesterday (knowing there are no new Mango devices out, I wanted to ask anyway).
Me: Are you able to show me any new Win Phones running Mango.
Telstra: Sorry, since the new Android we are no longer carrying any of the manafacturers that run Windows Phone.
I was so ashamed in the response and their lack of knowledge that I couldnt bring myself to point them to the HD7 and Mozart I was actually standing next to when I asked the question.
SUre Microsoft need to fix up their marketing, but Telstra, come on, this is just sad. Win Phone rocks, sure its not as trendy as ANdroid or iPhone, but for those with a open mind who are not sheep, its the best there is.
Just get us some new Nokias.
Hi gggggggg. Sounds like a pretty negative experience. I’d like to pass this feedback on to the store manager. Can you please this online form to send me a brief description and the name of the store and the date you were there. Our Windows Phone selecton is available online here.
Latest post from MS today on the status of the Mango updates can be found here:
http://windowsteamblog.com/windows_phone/b/windowsphone/
They are pushing beyond 30% of all handsets now updated, and on their way to 50%. Initial advice was to reach 100% within 2 weeks/14 days.
Cheers.
Sheeds.
Windows has not yet managed even half of its updates, after several weeks? Not many models, certainly very low percentage of smartphones are WM. Not very well done Microsoft.
By contrast: ALL iPhone and iPad updates are released in ONE day, as are the new OSX10.7, new applications to use it, as well as iCloud. Well done Apple
Brendan or Dan, any news on internet sharing feature?
Hi Peter, I just talked with to Dan,and we’re waiting on a replay on this question.
Cheers Brendan, Dan, it’s one of the much touted features included in the Mango update, that doesn’t seem to be working for the majority of users, except on new Mango devices that are unlocked. The ability to use the data associated with your phone plan, in any way that is useful to you, like internet sharing would be a boon. Look forward to hearing from you soon.
Dan,
I posted this question in CrowdSupport:
http://crowdsupport.telstra.com/t5/Windows-Phones/Telstra-in-store-Demo-WP7-handsets-Question/td-p/10420
What are Telstra’s plans re: deploying the Mango WP7.5 update to all the current in-store demo #wp7 handsets?
Thanks,
Sheeds.
Hey DTHD7,
Nice post. Maybe those apple fanbois might want to check out this POLL from that esteemed, apple-centric site Engadget:
http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/12/poll-have-you-upgraded-to-ios-5/
>120,000 votes – and the results:
Winning = 25.6% of voters who received Mango for WP7 with no issues. Then 22% that got iOS5 OK with no issues.
However almost 1 in 3 voters DID NOT get their iOS update properly, on the first try or without issues. Of these 1 in 3 voters, around 18% of them report a Bricked phone.
So yeah – Well done Apple! Of course they had to deal with multiple OEM’s like MS didn’t they….Ooops, no – that’s right they make all their own devices.
That’s before you even look at the functionality they copied from Android and Windows Phone in this latest update.
#fail
Lucky the sheep keep bleating and rushing to spend their $$$ unquestioningly….
Hi, thanks for the response.
I suspect those are ‘magic’ or ficticious numbers on Engadget.
I updated my MacBook Pro, and a company iPad – no problems.
The apple traffic that day apparently caused internet usage to surge in many countries. Apparently in London it jumped 50%.
Don’t get me wrong, the WM experience is not terrible, but updating is weird, such low numbers and such amazingly slow rollout. I have seen that to update the HD7 you need to diconnect the phone / internet while sync is in progress. After doing that you plug in again and it finds the update. tried that after accidentally disconnecting, it worked. What a strange route to follow though…
I have worked on iOS, Android and now WM. My personal experience is that iOS was considerably smoother and more secure. Also great little phones.
I am not antagonistic towards WM (or you) but do not get why it is so far behind, no internet tethering, no SIRI level voice interaction (even in 7.5) and a long list of other somewhat disappointing missing elements.
Please try to be less aggressive in your responses, we can all be mates, but still disagree
still waiting for my update HD7 !!! how long before i can enjoy the new mango features!! telstra ????
Glenn, have you tried forcing the update?
Get your Pc running and connect the phone, and Zune should start up. Make sure your connected to the internet. In Zune on the PC, select settings in the top right of the Zune client, then chooser updates in the Phone menu on the left. let the update process run for a couple of seconds, then disconnect the PC from the internet. Your update notification should appear. Recoonect your PC to the internet and run the update process.
‘Forcing’ the update works. I disconnected the phone accidentally, which meant it needed to Sync again. And then, hey presto, there was the update.
Why don’t the updates just appear when you try finding them the proper way. Seems like an odd little bug…
The HD7 spent around 45 updating. It then started doing the same thing all over again. there appears to be no mango though, not sure what it is actually doing! Not at all a smooth or efficient process.
And now it is updated to Mango. Some good improvements in there, but the voice function is a bit erratic, a lot like Dragon.
Hey guys – this response has come back from Microsoft about the two main points of contention.
1. Windows Phone 7.5, as a platform, supports internet connection sharing, in which the phone can be configured to share its mobile network connection over Wi-Fi with up to five client devices or computers. We are working with our device and Mobile Operator partners to enable this feature on existing Windows Phones as soon as possible.
2. We are working with our Mobile Operator partners to enable Visual Voicemail as soon as possible.
Hope that helps!
Cheers, Dan.
Nice work Dan,
Thanks for the follow-up. They are the best replies I have seen to-date by Telstra, so much appreci for getting them for us here.
Cheers,
Sheeds.
Dan thanks for the feedback, info, but it seems lke it’s still a work in progress
Sigh
Still waiting for update on the wife’s phone. Honestly, can it be that hard to flick a switch?
I’m loving Mango, but today she played with an iPhone at the Optus store and has itchy feet. One, for an iPhone (eek) and two, for Optus (double eek).
Can I please get an update on an actual ETA as to when ALL Telstra Mozarts are going to be updated?
Hi theiguana
Microsoft are in control of the roll-out although this does sound odd.
You should have a look at my other blog, a Mango review and read through the comments where some users suggest ways of getting the update earlier.
exchange.telstra.com.au/2011/10/19/deep-diving-into-mango/
Any update on the Tethering situation? It seems as though some Mozart users in India are receiving an update which enables it.
Can Telstra clarify whether:
1. The will support tethering with their WP7 devices (even if not currently testing the update); and
2. The current situation surrounding the supposed update from HTC.
David
I’ll second dgaust’s questions, why is it so hard to get a solid response on when we might see these features, an update enabling them, Optus pushed out one to it’s Omnia last week.
A solid answer, a timeline, is all we ask here.
dgaust – I have already supplied an answer to this one in a previous comment.
Cheers, Dan.
Dan,
Respectfully, that’s not an answer to my question it’s a generic brush off.
I know WP7 7.5 supports tethering. What I want to know is – Is Telstra working on enabling this feature on the phones available on their network. Telstra offer(ed) two HTC devices, the HD7 and Mozart as well as the LG.
To date, as far as I am aware, none of these devices have received the update while devices from Samsung and different LG models have.
I am aware that the Mozart has received a firmware update to enable wi-fi tethering, but this update has so far been limited to phones available in India.
I’m not looking for generic answers, I’m looking for a proper transparent response. Such as ‘we are testing it’, ‘we have no plans on supporting that feature’ or ‘HTC have yet to provide the update for testing’.
If you’re not able to provide one, I understand that, but please don’t refer me to something that doesn’t answer the specific questions that I asked.
Regards
David
No offence taken David. I have answered your questions as directly as I can with no brush of or generic response intended. You have to appreciate this is the best I can give you. This was directly from Microsoft;
1. Windows Phone 7.5, as a platform, supports internet connection sharing, in which the phone can be configured to share its mobile network connection over Wi-Fi with up to five client devices or computers. We are working with our device and Mobile Operator partners to enable this feature on existing Windows Phones as soon as possible.
2. We are working with our Mobile Operator partners to enable Visual Voicemail as soon as possible.
Dan,
Thanks. I appreciate you are providing the information you have at hand (or the information you are allowed to share).
I won’t pretend I’m not disappointed in Telstra with their communication on this issue. I find every time I try to engage through social media to obtain an answer I get a “Sorry we have no information on that” type answer.
That’s in no way a reflection on the staff that are at the coal face and are only answering as best they can, but more on how most companies approach social media. Simple answers and marketing seem to be only things they see social media as good for.
Andrew Vollard has in the past contacted me directly to provide some information on the internal progress of certain updates, which is something that I appreciate. I would hope that instead of contacting me, the process would be to keep you guys updated so you can keep everyone updated. Not just the vocal minority.
Hopefully, you’ll be provided the tools and/or freedom in future to provide more detailed information.
I’m doubly disappointed in HTC though, so you guys (the royal you guys) aren’t top of my list
Regards
David
So the article is who wants a slice… but so far none of us can! When are the new phones being annouced? Nobody is going to go out and purchase the existing stock in the telstra stores right now as we are all waiting for the new hardware. I can imagine windows phone sales have fallen through the floor at telstra shops as everybody sits waiting for the new hardware.
Is there any news on ANY new hardware (despite everybody crying for the Titan and the 800)?
Likely that sales have in fact not altered much at all. There is almost no presence whatsoever YET in Australia, so windows phone buyers holding off would have effectively no impact on an already ‘non-existent’ market share.
The company I work for monitors lots of internet usage data on our websites, mobile sites etc. As yet, a total of 5 hits from windows mobiles. All from our staff. Tghis accounts for worldwide hits. 5, in total. wow
I am a little surprised at the urgency you seem to be expressing, you must be dead keen on those new phones mate.
Yes, it must be a surprised to a kool-aid drinker that people are interested in WP7 (notice the WP part, not WM).
Dan,
I guess what I’m wondering is why has the firmware for HTC Mozart handsets been released in India but not in Australia given the firmware should be compatible.
We don’t control the rollout Bitslave, Microsoft do.
Have you read all of these comments and tried to force the update? That is all I can recommend for you to try sorry.
Thanks Dan, my phone is already on Mango 7.5, I don’t think you can ‘force’ an update for the HTC firmware, if anyone has done this let me know.
Dan’s answer is good, what get’s me is that I have unlocked unbranded phones, now all mango, last night I updated the last of them to Mango, first time I’ve had a phone without a sim in it update,guess what, no internet sharing native. FOr HTC devices it seems it’s not included in the updates. For now I don’t get it, HTC are not releasing the feature in updates>>>???
Peter,
Internet Sharing didn’t come native with 7.5 (Mango). It was a feature added late, and required updated drivers from Manufacturers to enable it.
To date, LG and Samsung have provided firmware updates. HTC have for the Mozart in India, but there is no news on them releasing it anywhere else (there was a firmware update for the HD7 last week but it didn’t enable tethering).
So HTC aren’t prepared to share if they’re planning on releasing a tethering update for Gen1 phones.
I imagine Telstra would allow it (as the do for iPhones and Android devices), but there’s been no comment to confirm.
But they already have released the tethering function for HTC Mozart phones in India, the updates are via two firmware updates seperate to Mango.
The firmware updates are for some reason not yet been released in Australia.
Hi All,
Is there an update on the MessageBank sms notification? Im still not getting them if I dont delete the thread.
Hi Larry,
The only current updates we are waiting for are the two firmware updates, one of which enables Internet Tethering, as far as I’m aware there are no O/S updates/fixes currently released other than the Mango 7.5 release.
A fix for your issue will require another update from Microsoft, my guess is that they are waiting until most bugs in Mango 7.5 have been reported, one of which is the “Camera sending location info to Microsoft” issue then they will issue an update hopefully before Christmas.
Cheers.
Thanks bitslave.
Hey for the dummies can some one please explain what “internet tethering” is. Ok so I put my hand up as a dummy.
Update: the previous issue of “Camera sending location info to Microsoft” has been fixed with the Mango 7.5 update.
So i just read the telstra exchange post about their new hardware for christmas… and guess what… all android phones and kids phones
http://exchange.telstra.com.au/2011/11/04/new-gadgets-arrive-for-christmas/
Why are Telstra even mentioning Mango if they’re not going to sell the hardware?
Larry,
Internet Tethering is also known as WiFi HotSpot, it’s the ability to share an internet connection on a device (the handset in this case) with other local WiFi capable devices, for instance a notebook/laptop computer.
Another method is to use a cable connection via a usb port but requires that the device sharing it’s internet connection be configured as a modem.
It’s the WiFi method we’re waiting for and requires the firmware updates.
Cheers.
Wikiepedia provides the quickest way to answer
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tethering
But essentially, it’s turning your phone into a wi-fi router and sharing the phone’s data connection with other devices (laptops, tablets etc) that don’t have their own connection.
WHERE ARE THE NEW WINDOWS PHONES????
I am looking to switch to Telstra and I want a new Windows Phone but I am not going to buy a 12 month old phone. I want the HTC Titan.
Craig – Telstra has Australia’s broadest range of Windows Phones. We expect to increase the range further in the coming months as new handsets become available. We will keep you posted.
Cheers, Dan.
Ok guys, lottsa good discussion going on here and I appreciate the cooperative spirit of you all pitching in and helping one another with issues.
I do have some more news from our products team on the key issues you have all brought up. I think Sheeds in particular helped get this solution by being persistant in our CrowdSupport forums.
Please don’t shoot the messenger, I am just telling you what I hear first hand, so here goes….
Wi-Fi sharing
The Wi-Fi sharing functionality is supported by the Mango version of Windows Phone but requires the OEM (i.e. HTC, LG) to make some changes in their part of the phone software to work. To simplify the release of Mango, Microsoft did not include these updates in the initial release. HTC and LG are submitting new software to us that will enable this feature. The good news is that we hope to make it available to customers in December.
Visual voicemail
We have no current plans to introduce visual voicemail on Windows Phone. Unfortunately it requires more development work and investment than simply flicking a switch. We will consider it in the future.
Group text
The feature is supported by the Telstra network but is switched off by default to protect customers from inadvertently sending a lot of MMS. It can be switched on by heading to the messaging tile and selecting ->settings ->group text.
It is good to get these answers out there to you guys, it gives me a sense of achievement to actually provide some answers, even if they are not always the ones you want to hear at least you know we are listening.
Cheers, Dan.
Thanks Dan, appreciate your response on these issues it’s good to see someone at least giving a straight forward answer.
Thanks Dan
I appreciate you being so polite in your description of me above hehehe
Dog meet bone! lol
Love all your doing for WP7 with Telstra Dan!
Sheeds.
Just received the HTC Titan from Mobicity, and let me tell you — this phone is a beast to hold, but an absolute joy to use. The super LCD is bright and glorious, and Mango runs like a dream. Movies look amazing, and gameplay is truly in a different league from my old Mozart. Even web browsing feels faster, and I guess I have the 1.4GHz processor to thank.
It is a little cumbersome to hold, and I can’t get my fingers around it in a solid grip like I could with the Mozart, but the build quality is so nice, and the super-slim profile fits very comfortably in my pocket. It’s as close to being a tablet / phone hybrid as I could want, without resorting to ridiculous Samsung Note-styled nonsense.
By the way: the internet sharing function WORKS! I paired with my iPad, and it worked perfectly. Maybe this is because it’s an overseas “unlocked” model, but I didn’t have to enable anything via Telstra to make it work. Just thought you should know…
Unfortunately, there is a very noticeable dead pixel on the screen, so I will be sending the handset back for a replacement. I don’t blame the vendor because these things can happen, but it’s the only thing spoiling my pretty jubilant mood right now.
Dan, your feedback is greatly appreciated. having somebody actually participate is what many companies do not yet achieve. Good on ya
Dan,
With the utmost respect….
“We expect to increase the range further in the coming months as new handsets become available. We will keep you posted.
….does not sound like there will be new handsets this year (6.5 weeks to Xmas!)
This response from Telstra continues to annoy me. The HTC Titan IS AVAILABLE and it works on the Telstra network. You can buy them outright from Mobicity and use them on Telstra no issues, everything works so why haven’t Telstra added this phone to their line-up. I would rather buy one on a contract than outright.
“By the way: the internet sharing function WORKS! I paired with my iPad, and it worked perfectly. Maybe this is because it’s an overseas “unlocked” model, but I didn’t have to enable anything via Telstra to make it work. Just thought you should know”
Interesting, can you tell us what the firmware version number is?
Cheers.
Not a problem. According to the About screen in Settings, here are all the details:
Model: HTC Titan X310e
OS Version: 7.10.7720.68
Firmware revision number: 1600.2200.10806.401
Radio software version: 16.23.02.09_2_16.24.00.23U
Radio hardware version: 2.122.0.D4
Bootloader version: 1.8.160015.3(132000)
Chip SOC version: 1.6.0.0
Thanks spatch, enjoy your new piece of silicon :~)
Yeah, that’s a Europe branded ROM, just wondering which ROM’s already had the new firmware updates we are waiting for.
Come on HTC….hurry up!
Something I posted elsewhere:
In simple terms, to get WiFi tethering:
1. The hardware must support it, in particular the device must have the Broadcom 4329 wireless chip:
>> Yes: 1st Gen Samsung and HTC devices, incl Mozart and HD7
>> No: Dell Vue Pro
2. The OEM must provide support in the form of device drivers (will be provisioned as device-carrier specific firmware updates via the Zune desktop client)
>> Yes – Samsung
>> Coming Soon – 1st Gen HTC Devices (Mozart, HD7).
3. The O/S must provide support for it – as introduced with the Windows Phone 7.5 ‘Mango’ update (provisioned late October as a software update using the Zune desktop client).
4. The Carrier must allow it
>> Yes – Orange UK, [edit] Telstra
>> No: AT&T US?
Due to the limited time between MS announcing to manufacturers that the Windows Phone 7.5 ‘Mango’ update will support WiFi tethering, and the release date of the update, device manufacturers such as HTC, weren’t able to finalise and deliver to carriers for testing, the necessary device drivers, in time for inclusion with the Windows Phone 7.5 ‘Mango’ update.
Instead they’ll be delivered in the coming months/weeks in the form of device-carrier specific ‘Firmware Updates’ via the Zune Desktop Client.
Ultimately, the question that has been raised many times above (but maybe not quite understood), is,
“Will Telstra allow WiFi tethering for compatible Windows Phone 7.5 ‘Mango’ devices?”.
The impression that I get from Dan’s comments is, Yes. Why, because there hasn’t been any speak of not enabling/supporting it like Visual Voice mail, and that Telstra allows WiFi tethering on compatible Android and Apple devices.
All I know is that I’m looking forward to seeing support for WiFi tethering on my Telstra branded HTC 7 Mozart Windows Phone 7.5 ‘Mango’, hopefully sooner than later.
“HTC today pushed the update for HTC Mozart and HTC HD7 owners it appears worldwide, with reports from India, Switzerland and Poland pouring in.” – WMPowuser reporting
Come on Telstra, don’t let this become the NoDo second last only to Telefonica Spain fiasco again.
Ahh bitslave, if you have followed me this far then you must know that I have said before Microsoft control the rollout of Mango to users, not Telstra.
Well then in that case damn Microsoft!!!
BTW this link (supplied by Microsoft) suggests that the carriers control when the updates are released:
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsphone/en-us/features/update-schedule-world.aspx
Bitslave, I would suggest this is a tiered rollout, I have Three WP7′s, Mozart has the update, internet sharing works perfectly. Two Unbranded HD7′s no joy. As frustrated as I am by this situation, it shows that rollouts re controlled, even unlocked devices can be slow to get the updates. If carriers block this update, or really slow it down, then there is a problem. If this update is with the carrier [Telstra] they are not letting on.
UPDATE: My HTC Titan arrived with a dead pixel, and after checking with their suppliers Mobicity says that unless the handset ships with a cluster of 3 or more dead pixels, they cannot replace the phone. While I am disappointed, its not a wholly unexpected response, so in just going to have to live with it. Just thought you should all be aware in case you’re thinking of buying the Titan outright.
On to another matter:
Dan, Zune Pass is now a available in Australia, but so far only the website & PC Zune client can offer downloads & music streaming. Does Telstra need to push out an update to enable the full Zune Pass experience on the handset, or will this be enabled directly by Microsoft? I really want to stream music directly to my phone, because at the moment I have to download it to my PC then copy the songs across to the handset, and that’s really no different to what I could already do.
I’m sorry Spatch but I have no pity for you because you bought it from that source. Fair warning to others though, yes handsets are available NOW if you are willing to live with the consequences!
Re the Zune Pass, it was just announced today and we are aware of it and will keep you informed but right now I don’t have the answers you seek. Stay zuned, I mean tuned.
Dan says:
17 Nov 2011 at 2:33 pm
I’m sorry Spatch but I have no pity for you because you bought it from that source. Fair warning to others though, yes handsets are available NOW if you are willing to live with the consequences!
Re the Zune Pass, it was just announced today and we are aware of it and will keep you informed but right now I don’t have the answers you seek. Stay zuned, I mean tuned
That response is, uncalled for, and un knowledgeable, Telstra show’s it’s real understanding of the OS. The way services work on the OS have little to do with the carrier until you put their sim into the device.
Handsets are available now, but not from Telstra, other services are available to Windows Phone, but I would not be using them on Telstra.
Dan, your response was infantile and no credit to your employer, understanding what you are selling and a metered response go a long way.
I’m sorry to hear you take that comment directed at Spatch differently than intended Peter, yet I think you read more into that, than what I was actually saying.
Spatch was, in quite good humour, talking about his problem with a dead pixel to which I replied in good humour. That is all. It may have seemed a bit cheeky but don’t forget intonation is often lost in the written word.
Regarding understanding the OS I don’t know why you are lashing out at me with such powerful words, because I was only saying we are aware of Zune Pass, but don’t have the answers to Spatch’s questions, and then ending with a good humoured joke and emoticon.
All I can do is respond with what I know and understand, and keep you informed as best I can, in line with what information I have.
Dan, your responses are always welcomed, and taken in good humour. It must be hard to be the “official” voice of Telstra, and still ha e a good chin wag with us geeks.
I just couldn’t wait any longer, so I reset my Titan, and now I have full Zune Pass access running on the handset. It works great, and I think the 1.4GHz processor helps, providing a smoother streaming experience. If anyone is still waiting for their Zune Pass, I recommend the hard reset option, although ha Ing to reload everything is a real pain — and I lost all my game progress! BE WARNED!
erm…so it’s past half way through November now. No news from Telstra despite other legitimate sources having stock on hand that people can purchase. This article was written a month and a half ago… That’s a long time in the tech world, what has Telstra been doing?!
Rob, I’m with you on this one, Telstra doesn’t give us a morsel of hope that Native Mango devices will come to the carrier, this year next year or at all. Obviously Windows Phone is still an afterthought in the minds of Aussie consumers. I assume Telstra market where they think the money is, looking at what is available though, they are missing out on a few fronts. The Sensation XL is with Vodafone, it’s the android equivalent of the HTC Titan. Beautiful and with those specs, Android is still meh, WP would fly. I don’t think Telstra realise that if they give us better hardware we are likely to update early, even if that means a six month turn around.
Grasping the fact that early adopters of a new OS are in for the hard yards, and the Hardware updates, seems to be beyond their financial planning capabilities. Telstra is a premium Windows Phone/ Microsoft partner, and yet they seem to perform quite poorly as an ambassador for the OS.
Even though we can get the Nokia N9 [on another network] or the Sensation XL [on another network] Telstra’s device roadmap seems to be dictated by a quarterly refresh, although you would think that now, pre Christmas would be the time to pull some big guns down for all supported OS’s.
It would be nice if Telstra listened to what the consumers want, but it comes down to bottom line, and probably back stock that has to be moved. It may come down to the way Telstra project new device uptake, and their stocking policies, as to when new devices come online, buying enough to meet projection, without taking the risk that the projection may change mid quarter, and other devices not in stock will become more desirable. Leaving no leeway for out of cycle device introduction.
In other words, they spend their current pocket money on what they predict to be hot, not foreseeing new hotness. Thus the delay. If T could break out of their pattern, leave a little leeway with how they refresh stock they might be able to match European and US carriers, or get closer to real Northern hemisphere device release times. Imagine if there were not a three month delay on gadgets I read about on the web today. Telstra should also imagine why they are selling outright the HTC Mozart, a year after it’s launch, for $360 outright. They are still trying to move old stock, so new WP devices get the back burner till 2012
After reading comments about the Zune Pass release for Australia on Whirlpool, I reset my Mozart back to factory settings, and now it has full Zune Pass. Works great, and I am tempted to perform a hard reset on the Titan as well. If only I could retain all of my game settings!
Regarding the Titan, it just received an update. I can’t tell what has changed — everything looks the same to me, and still no Zune Pass, although I can see that it now says “Hardware revision number: 0002″.
I know this handset isn’t officially available on Telstra yet, but has anyone heard about this update and what it fixes?
I think it’s worth noting that as far as I can tell, the delay in the Zune Pass roll-out from the trial sign-up to the appearence of the marketplace on your WP7 device is an MS issue, and nothing to do with carriers.
I’m not aware of Telstra having any control or interaction with this.
Dan,
I’m not going to rant at all. I guess what I would be interested in your feebdack on is something other than the tired old PR/Marketing dept. response “We have….range…expect… coming months… etc”.
Why can’t Telstra just come out and be open with it’s customers (and potential new customers)? A little more transparency can go a long way.
What about, we are in discussions with OEM partners to review our next WP7 handset range, or we are unlikely to have any announcements before Xmas (not coming months!) or We have yet to committ to our 2nd Gen WP7 range or even we are unable to confirm timings or details of forthcoming handsets for commerical reasons.
At least treat the (growing) WP7 enthusiast customer base with some respect.
Trotting out the ambiguous and non-committal corporate line in the face of such strong feedback and interest here is like a slap in the face.
I know you are trying your best, and appreciate your engagement immensly (more effort here than any other combined area in your company!)….but I think we deserve better from Telstra (again, not you).
Sheeds.
(intonation by emoticon!)
Here Here! Imagine if we were told the truth and treated with respect like the intelligent humans we are?!
Straight up communication about what’s really happening.
The PR lines have little to no truth in them and are highly insulting . Again, not directed directly at Dan, he’s real, here at least and representing the company which is a first, but Dan, perhaps you can ask if you’re allowed to pass us some real info?
I agree with both of the comments above. Dan you cop it because you tall us the company line, so our Ire ise directed at you. Dan you either need the option to speak freely, outside company policy, or leak the reality to people that will report that reality. The blog is sometimes informative, but mainly frustrating, because it only reports retrospectively. Telstra need to acknowledge somewhere, that there are people that are invested in the service, and offer some feedback, that is real.
I agree with all of above, I just want a date. I am out of contract and would love to stick with MS. Please help me stay away from Apple by giving me a date to focus on.
@WPDownunder
Unfortunately, anything other than “ambiguous and non-committal corporate line” only leads to disappointment on your behalf, if Telstra, for some reason that may not be their own doing are unable to meet that date.
It also removes any competitive edge that Telstra may have over other carriers. If Telstra was to announce that it was releasing Handset X on day Y, then another could release handset X the day before, diluting Telstra’s marketing efforts.
It’s great to see some passion about a particular product, hey I’ve got a Telstra HTC 7 Mozart and I can’t wait for updates, by your continual posting on these notice boards stinks of trying to source ‘stories’ for your blog.
I echo early requests for information…
Can you please tell us if we can expect any new Mango phones from Telstra in the next 2 months. By Mango Phones I mean ones that take advantage of the forward facing camera as well as other new feature supported under Mango. It would be great to know if we could see any of the new Samsungs or HTC’s soon.
Thanks
Considering the HTC Titan has only just been released on AT&T in the States, I would be very surprised if Telstra didn’t announce that the handset was coming to these lovely shores within the next 60 days.
I’ve had my Titan for a couple of weeks now, and despite the dead pixel issue (see earlier posts) I am completely happy with it. In fact, I’ve almost forgotten about the dead pixel entirely.
The phone hums along beautifully on Telstra’s NextG network, and as expected video & gameplay are a dream. I still carry my 7 inch tablet around, but half the time I’m choosing to watch everything on the phone. The speed can truly be seen in web browsing, and that 4.7 inch super LCD really brings out the best in web pages.
Love it, love it, love it!
Dan, hate to say it but Voda have pipped you at the post.
http://www.wpcentral.com/vodafone-au-approves-htc-internet-sharing-update-roll-out-soon
Cheers.
@bitslave In the link, they refer to the update as the internet sharing update, I have a Telstra Mozart, unbranded with a european ROM that has internet sharing. It updated to the 7740.16 ROM today. The internet sharing update on the Mozart, did not change the rom version, and I received that a couple of weeks ago. Two generic HD7′s, with asian ROM, also updated updated today, no internet sharing. I’m going to flash a Euro rom to the spare and see if that gets internet sharing in the updates for that ROM. It’s a little disappointing that certain services for the OS are not included for all regions yet. Telstra may approve the latest update, but whether that enables the IS functionality is not confirmed.
Peter, yeah it’s a bit off a dog’s breakfast really, initially there were the HTC firmware updates moving the firmware version number form 2250.21.40600.xxx to 2250.21.50001.xxx, then the second firmware update moved the firmware version from 2250.21.50001.xxx to the final firmware version 2250.21.51001.xxx which finally enabled internet tethering.
Since the release of the HTC firmware updates Microsoft issued their own o/s update to move the version from 7.10.7720.68 to 7.10.7740.16.
Now it appears that some HTC phone customers have received the later Microsoft update to 7740 but not the HTC firmware updates and yet other customers have received the firmware updates but not 7740, while I’m sure there is an explanation for this fragmented update scheduling behaviour it’s certainly not logical or consistent.
The worrying part is what the update experience will be like when we have more device manufacturers, more countries, more carriers and gen1 and gen2 and possibly gen3 devices all being put into the lotto barrel to draw tickets for scheduling slots.
There has to be a more consistent reliable and repeatable process to test and send out updates, a big part of the current disjointed experience is the update testing cycle itself where every carrier in every country tests each device model they support.
Each carrier will have varying levels of expertise and resources to do the necessary testing, testing time and thus release to customers for update is a piece of string.
In addition there appears to be no testing framework or standards that carriers must follow to produce consistent results.
Duplication of effort must be a problem now let alone when we have more countries, more device models and older legacy devices as well.
Seems to me that in order to produce both consistent standardized results and timely release of updates to the end customers there has to a separate testing authority where the lab can apply standardized test suites, harnesses and methodologies to all models.
Carriers would submit their 3rd party applications, branding changes and provisioning requirements to the standards lab for testing and integration.
This would require investment by Microsoft and the carriers but would provide consistent quality and release the carriers from the burden of testing.
It would also reduce duplication of effort and provide confidence and consistency in the whole update process, update release scheduling would have greater certainty for everyone especially customers.
Cheers.
@Bitslave
A Phone = hardware + firmware + operating system + applications.
Each can be tailored for a specific market and/or carrier. This is most obviously illustrated by carrier specific pre-installed applications, such as Telstra.One and language settings.
The network carrier to which the phone is connected also varies. I.e. operating frequencies and network configurations.
This is why carriers perform extensive testing on new and updates for existing phones (especially data heavy smartphones). The last thing an OEM/carrier wants to do is brick your phone (*cough* samsung *cough*), bill you for excessive usage (incorrectly configured AP settings), or bring down their network (*cough* AT&T *cough*).
You might find this article from Engadget an interesting read:
How an AT&T smartphone comes to life: behind the scenes (part one) — Engadget http://engt.co/uAQCPv
I posted this on Telstra’s Facebook page a while back suggesting that a similar article about Telstra’s process would be great to see (http://on.fb.me/u49tBe)
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