On Monday, we told you about the GDR3 update for Windows Phone 8 that adds some new features and capabilities to many of those handsets running Microsoft's mobile OS. One of the new features is called Driving Mode which allows you to block texts and calls from coming through your phone while you are behind the wheel of a car. You can even set up an auto-response for both texts and calls, telling those seeking you out that you are behind the wheel of a powerful machine and can't be bothered.
On Tuesday, Driving Mode was highlighted on NBC's morning show Today, and while the entire clip lasts all of 15 seconds, it still is national exposure for a platform that always seems overshadowed by iOS and Android (which explains some of Microsoft's new ads including the Wedding Day disaster).
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While the GDR 3 update will officially roll out later this year, developers and others can update their Windows Phone 8 handset now from Microsoft. Check out the Windows Phone Developer Blog to see how to update to GDR3 today. Meanwhile, you can check out the brief Today appearance of Driving Mode along with some screenshots from the new feature, below.
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Alan, an ardent smartphone enthusiast and a veteran writer at PhoneArena since 2009, has witnessed and chronicled the transformative years of mobile technology. Owning iconic phones from the original iPhone to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, he has seen smartphones evolve into a global phenomenon. Beyond smartphones, Alan has covered the emergence of tablets, smartwatches, and smart speakers.
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