News · 5 Jun 2011 · MTW Editorial Team
Now that we practically know nearly everything about Microsoft’s Mango update for Windows Phone 7 I thought that is would be interesting to look at all the new features and see what’s missing in terms of “must have” functionalities. The update isn’t lacking when it comes to improvements and added services but there are still some things that have yet to be addressed by Microsoft.
One of the most important one is IMO the current lack of back-up feature. As of right now the handset is only backed up with an update is done via the Zune desktop software. The user has no choice and unfortunately still can’t decide to back-up is SMS/MMS, installed apps, multimedia content etc.. whenever his wants. A simple back-up option in the Zune application would undoubtedly be a welcome addition but Microsoft has yet to discuss the future version desktop software. The MyPhone service which gave us the ability to save most of the device’s content in its previous Windows Mobile 6.X iteration has yet to be updated on Windows Phone 7.
Windows Phone 7 Mango still doesn’t fully support USB tethering even though the functionality is already present in the OS and accessible via the OEMs diagnosis tools on the handsets (see here for Samsung, HTC and LG). Microsoft has already stated several times that they are following the iPhone’s path in this particular matter and puts the blame on the carriers who have control over this feature.
Another annoying thing that still isn’t possible is the ability to scrub/seek through a song or video via the timeline. Edit: According to Microsoft they’ve added “video scrubbing (where supported) so you have quick access to the parts of your videos you love most”. (it didn’t work in the build I tried and one has to wonder what “where supported” actually means). I frankly can’t figure out why this hasn’t been added in Mango given all the improvements and fixes brought to the Music + Video hub and especially when you realize that it is present in nearly all other media players around (even the Zune desktop app). using the rewind/forward buttons to navigate through a long video is painful.
Finally, using the handset as a portable USB drive (possible on Android and Windows Mobile 6) is still impossible unless you decide to hack it this way.
After looking at what’s new what are the features that you think are still missing in Mango ?
Buyer action
Where to buy or check next
Use this as the final check before ordering a phone, changing network or trusting a headline monthly price.
