There’s a jump leap in version number with this firmware since the last update, 13.10 compared to 10.60 so I’m expecting a major changes but it turn out that the changes are not much at all, it’s more like an evolution than a revolution.
First thing to notice is that with this firmware release, there’s a less option for home screen integration, windows live messenger are gone, so does the search, as a matter of fact windows live messenger are completely gone so you’ll need to install it from ovi store if you needed. It seems to me that nokia is trying to get rid of third party services in home screen. These are welcomed changes as long as there a way to add additional services when needed.
Second is that ovi contacts are completely gone, nokia seems to favor the built-in IM than ovi contacts to consolidate its text messaging services, now all text messaging services such as IM, email and SMS could be found under one menu which is Messaging. That’s another welcomed change if only nokia had improve its built-in IM, the current version of IM client always disconnected prior 10 minutes of idle time.
Third is that there’s an update in camera software, with this firmware, text menu on camera automatically rotate as you rotate the phone from portrait mode to landscape mode or vice-versa. Unfortunately there is a glitch that camera button still active even though the phone in locked mode.
And lastly, ovi maps are updated, also now included free voice guided navigation (in the previous firmware this is a paid feature).
Well, with this firmware it’s clear to me that nokia try consolidate the services the phone provided, get rid of the unnecessary services, it’s a good move, but I’m expect a couple more firmware that will updated or polished whatever services that left behind.
