I think there is a lot of confusion around how these updates are handled by the respective carriers. Once the update is out of the Beta phase (which is essentially what we are using in the Dev Preview Program) it is then passed on to Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, etc. Once they have the finished version of the update, they perform their own testing and certification before approving it for public release. This is the step that Verizon is in now. Right now they should be testing the 8.1/Cyan update to see how well it works on their various phones to make sure nothing is broken in the process.
This cannot be compared to how Apple rolls out updates because they bypass the carrier testing and certification process entirely. It's a benefit they are able to enjoy because they were the first major smartphone to make it big, so they had the power to call those kinds of shots. This is different from how both Google and MS have to handle their updates with the various carriers.
The real question is, how hard is Verizon working to get the update rolled out to their phones? I may not question the roll out process, but I do question how hard they are working to test and release this update. Making complaints to the FCC is pointless, Verizon has every right to handle the process as they are, and that's a shame since I do believe they put a higher priority on Android updates than they do for WP updates. Regardless, there are some here who seem confused on the whys of the process and I hope my post helped them out.
Thank you Captain Obvious.
Complaints to the FCC about Verizon are escalated to Executives in Verizon. The same Executives that establish policy on testing updates. Those Executives know how Apple Updates are rolled out and based on a volume of FCC complaints - they will realize that Windows Phone customers expect the same - and that such demand is growing.
Regardless of how Verizon tests updates, regardless of how Verizon treats Apple customers, regardless of what the Verizon contract states that you signed for service (BTW - it states that Verizon doesn't have to deliver anything), the FCC requires that carriers provide their customers with expedient software updates that impact and/or improve the performance of the hardware that they use with their service. At the request of the FCC, I have filed such a complaint in writing with the use of their Website on 4 occasions now. On my last 3 occasions, I received a call back from Verizon stating that they were contacted by the FCC, that they were sorry about the delays, and that communication would go to "higher ups" on how Windows Phone updates could be tested more aggressively.
This should come as no surprise to ANY Verizon customer - Verizon is 0 for 3 in changing their policies. So last week, I filed complaint number 4. Bombs Away! Do join me. www.fcc.gov/complaints After all, it would be nice to be loading updates, rather than just reading about them on the technology Websites.
The leading OS (Android) in the world has to go through the same song and dance. Your letters to the FCC are not going change their policies to mimic their policies with Apple. It's just the reality of the situation. I believe enough noise will make WP more of a priority, but your settings yourself up for disappointment and frustration if you're expecting testing to be dropping entirely.
Sent from my Windows Phone
Listen Captain -
I will speak for myself in saying that there is no, none, zero expectation that Verizon will release updates as they do with Apple. All I am looking for is a policy update that provides testing PRIOR to the Windows Phone Update Release. That is what the Forum Thread is all about. Contact Joe Belfiore at Microsoft and he will explain what kind of pre release testing opportunities are available to carriers just like Verizon.
I will repeat myself again in saying that I am fed up with reading about new Windows Phone releases in the Tech Pubs for 4 to 6 weeks, while Verizon takes their sweet time releasing MY update. I am simply looking for a shorter "release to customer" timeline. Please don't put words in MY MOUTH by telling me I want an Apple sort of release or for Verizon to mimic their policies.
Calm down, I'm not trying to put words in your mouth or say you can't do anything. I just got that impression from this line:
"Those Executives know how Apple Updates are rolled out and based on a volume of FCC complaints - they will realize that Windows Phone customers expect the same"
I'm all for improving the turn around time for update releases. It's frustrating that I'll get the first update for 8.1 before the official cyan update.
Sent from my Windows Phone
Hey MadDog - FYI, I just sent a direct email to Mr. Wheeler, the new Director of the FCC asking him to look into Verizon's update policy. I'll let you know if/when I receive a response.
AT&T has just rolled out the Cyan Update for their 925 and 520 models. Last week they rolled it out for the 1520. It seems to me that with release of the 930(international Icon) Most of the Cyan update should have already been tested. It should not take this long.
I agree, it’s frustrating to see AT&T really step up their delivery while we’re just sitting here with no communication from Verizon.
Another day without Cortana....Boooo
"Don't delete that thread! That's one of the posts that has the FCC stuff in it. If it get's deleted, then sent to the FCC, we will be in big trouble!"
Verizon. We are tired of waiting. Better yet, tired of seeing other carriers release the update, tired of reading about the update, and VERY tired of not having the update.
Please join me: www.fcc.gov/complaints Like it or not, Verizon is required to provide software updates to their customers that improve the quality of their device and/or service. Enhancements, Bug Fixes and Improvements for all Windows Phone devices are numerous in the 8.1 Cyan release. Let the FCC know that Verizon is keeping you from your copy. File your complaint today.
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