Microsoft previews some new features with its expected "mango" WP7 update

In its bid to step things up to match the level seen with the competition, Microsoft managed to show off some of the exciting new features expected out of their “Mango” Windows Phone 7 update, which is slated to become available later in the year, during today’s MIX 2011 conference held in Las Vegas.

Although some current WP7 device owners are still waiting for the arrival of the NoDo update, Microsoft is surely reeling things in towards their direction as they showed off a bevy of new features that will come along with its “Mango” update. Specifically, Microsoft’s very own Joe Belfiore stated that it’ll include things like multi-tasking, Internet Explorer 9, improved support for Office documents in SkyDrive, and improved Twitter support in its People Hub. Moreover, they even showcased some captivating applications that some users have been waiting for – such as Layar, Spotify, and Skype.

In addition, the expected update will allow developers to gain some control to certain aspects of the Windows Phone 7 platform. From the looks of it, developers will be able to utilize the handset’s camera and various sensors, like the gyroscope, so that they can be implemented into their apps.

Definitely these are items that will soundly place the new platform into the same level as some of its contemporaries, but considering the unknown time frame for its release, it can potentially look like a long spring and summer before we get acquainted with this update.

source: Windows Phone Blog via Phonescoop