Microsoft has announced that it will begin to roll out the Windows 10 mobile OS as an over-the-air update to eligible devices starting in December of this year.
The tech giant made the confirmation through a Facebook post in response to users' queries about the upcoming firmware.
Microsoft did not provide a specific release date for the update but mentioned that it will arrive before the year ends. As with other updates, the roll out will most likely be carried out in stages which means not all users will be able to receive it at the same time.
"Broad availability of Windows 10 on other devices, including mobile phones, will begin rolling out in December," Microsoft posted according to NDTV.
According to the company's support page, the Lumia devices that will receive the update are those running on Windows Phone 8.1 or higher versions. The devices must also have at least 8GB of RAM to get the new operating system.
Microsoft added that not all handset models will get to receive the Windows 10 update since the latest version of the platform requires updated hardware specs to run properly. As explained by the company, only those with Lumia Denim or OS version 8.10.14219.341 will be able to enjoy the upcoming platform.
Earlier in July of this year, Microsoft announced that the handsets that will most likely get the update include the Lumia 430, Lumia 435, Lumia 535, Lumia 532, Lumia 540, Lumia 640 XL, Lumia 640, Lumia 830, Lumia 735 and the Lumia 930.
Although the mobile version of the company latest operating system is scheduled to arrive in December, users can begin using the new platform as early as November by getting the new Lumia 950 and Lumia 950 XL. These new handsets were unveiled earlier this week along with the company's latest products that are powered by Windows 10 such as the Surface Pro 4, Surface Book, the Microsoft Band 2 wearable device and HoloLens augmented reality headset.
The launch of the two new handsets from Microsoft is the company's way of trying to regain a strong foothold in the smartphone industry, according to CNET. Prior to their release, critics have been telling Microsoft to back out of the industry since it cannot compete with Apple and Samsung for the attention and loyalty of consumers.
According to market research firm IHS, the only way the company will be able to win the support of customers is by redesigning its Lumia line.
"For Microsoft to move out of the mobile niche it is in, Microsoft needs to reinvent smartphone hardware with a new form factor," the firm said according to CNET. "Microsoft needs to create a smartphone which has the equivalent effect to the Surface Pro's impact on the laptop PC."
