Microsoft: Windows Phone 8.1 Denim update to ‘roll out soon’

Microsoft has revealed its next big Windows Phone update is nearly ready, codenamed ‘Denim’.

The firm’s Lumia Twitter page responded to a fan that enquired as to why the update still hadn’t landed, despite promises for a Q4 2014 launch.

The post read: “It will roll out soon following testing and operator approvals.”

New features expected to ship with the software update include improved Cortana functionality, as well as 4K video support.

There’s no telling when Microsoft is actually going to release the update however, with the ‘roll out soon’ tip frustratingly vague.

Whatever the case, the Windows Phone moniker for Microsoft’s mobile operating system is running out of time.

At an unspecified time next year, Microsoft plans to drop Windows Phone entirely, instead opting for the Windows 10 tag across all platforms.

Microsoft’s platform-unified Windows 10 will bring a one-for-all app store and better cross-device functionality.

Unfortunately, we still don’t know when the big Windows 10 change-up will happen either, although we’re expecting a pseudo-unveiling at Microsoft’s Build conference in the middle of 2015.

Other features of the new unified OS include desktop-friendly Cortana and the return of the Smart Menu.