Microsoft started rolling out Windows Phone 8.1 GDR 1 for WPDev’s

Today Microsoft started rolling out Windows Phone 8.1 Update 1 (aka. GDR 1) only for the developers to try out the latest bits of the upcoming updates. Those who have the “Preview for Developers” bit installed, will only get this update.

Read further to know about the latest bits. If you didn’t yet register for this update, it will help you to setup the preview in your device.

As mentioned by Microsoft last week, they started rolling out the GDR 1 (version 8.10.12400.899) update for Windows Phone 8.1 at the beginning of the week which includes some cool new features coming up later for the consumers. This includes Live Folders, Store Live Tile, Multi-selection of SMS, Apps Corner, Enhanced privacy & security, Performance improvements and Cortana support in few new markets like India, China, UK, Australia and Canada.

How to get the Windows Phone 8.1 GDR 1 (pre-release)?

This build is intended for developers only to build/test their apps and also try out the new features. If you are willing to download the Windows Phone 8.1 GDR1 update, make sure that your device meet any one of the below three conditions:

• Your phone should be unlocked for developers
• You should be a registered Windows Phone Store Developer
• You should be a Windows Phone App Studio Developer

Once you meet any one of the above three requirements, you are good to go to download the GDR1 update and test your applications against this pre-release update.

To get the pre-release version of Windows Phone 8.1 GDR1, download the “Preview for Developers” application from Windows Phone Store (marketplace) and install it. Here is the link: http://www.windowsphone.com/s?appid=178ac8a1-6519-4a0b-960c-038393741e96.

Once you are done installing the application from Marketplace, open it and follow the steps mentioned in the screen. You have to accept the “Terms and Conditions” before getting this update. Sign-in with your Microsoft account when prompted and enable the preview for developers checkbox and tap done. Now you will be eligible to get the update from Microsoft by participating in this program. Now go to “Settings –> Phone update” and check new updates.