Windows Phone Updates from Verizon - ON TIME. (Meet Joe B.)

[MadDogFL62]

Another Windows Phone Update - another release delay from Verizon. 

Anyone else with a Verizon Windows Phone tired of waiting for Verizon to provide us with our Microsoft updates on a timely basis?  Yes.  I have heard.  They need time to test.  Blah, blah, blah.

Well, Verizon - meet Joe Belfiore.  joeb@microsoft.com

You may have seen Joe today 4/4 rolling out Cortana - the new "Siri" for Windows Phone. (See link below.)  Joe runs the show for Windows Phones.

I have extended the challenge to Verizon a number of times to contact Joe to find out how they can get engaged in a Beta program for Windows Phone updates.  There are a number of companies who review Windows Phone updates prior to release so they can be prepared WHEN THE RELEASE IS AVAILABLE.  Just like the iPhone.  What a concept. 

I am tired of asking the Verizon Lip Service Representatives to research this.  I am tired of filing complaints with the FCC.

So here's my challenge Verizon.  Now public.  Now in writing.  Send an email to Joe Belfiore and jump into the program that allows you to test Windows Phone updates prior to release (since this is what you claim takes so long to get your updates out).  OR, allow your Windows Phone customers to go directly to Microsoft to download the updates just as you do with your iPhone customers.  That would be an acceptable alternative if this whole story about testing releases is just more nonsense.

Meet Cortana, Microsoft's Answer To Siri And Google Now

[MadDogFL62]

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.

[iKnowPhones]

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

[MadDogFL62]

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.

[iKnowPhones]

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

[rednibkram]

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.

[rednibkram]

I'm not confused as to the process, I'm angry at the process.  As you stated, the only reason Apple gets to update their phones directly is because they "powered" themselves into that situation.  However, regardless of WHY they are able to do it, they ARE able to do it.  I'm  making the point that this is DISCRIMINATION.  It's no different than saying a company will allow "this type person" to have this right, while denying another "type person" from having the same thing.  Just because some people own iPhones, is not a reason to allow them the "privilege" of bypassing the carrier testing.  Either they should have the same carrier testing period we do, or we should be allows to bypass the testing as well.  This is why I am asking as many people as possible to send this request to the FCC and possibly staring a class action lawsuit for discrimination against Verizon.

[JIce88]

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.

[iKnowPhones]

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.

[Jallenwest]

Another day without Cortana....Boooo

[MadDogFL62]

"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.

[MadDogFL62]

Hey, look...  another article (below) about that Joe Belfiore from Microsoft.  Seems that the guy that can help Verizon with their Windows Phone Updates is empowered by Microsoft to fix other Windows Phone problems too!

How could Verizon ever get in touch with this Joe from Microsoft who can help them with their Windows Phone business?  joeb@microsoft.com maybe?

Get your act together Verizon.

Microsoft's Joe Belfiore investigating Windows Phone 8.1 Update 1 update errors | Windows Phone Cent...

[#13]

Give it a rest.

You are again on yet another post spreading misinformation!

Verizon does not have to update your device. Be it a windows phone, android phone or any other phone.

The FCC has no authority over a cellular carrier to make updates. It is the  device makers obligation.

Or Microsoft's updates.

The cell carriers don't even have to allow the device on their network.

As I told you yesterday post proof positive from the FCC that they find you correct, or that any complaint from you has compelled Verizon wireless to effect that update.

As I also pointed out there was not even a subject line for the upgrade situation and then you are telling people its listed under "service" again the FCC cannot compel any wireless carrier to push out any update.

Good Luck

[MadDogFL62]

Irrelevent, off-topic post removed.

Message was edited as required by the Verizon Wireless Terms of Service.

Message was edited by: Admin Moderator

[iKnowPhones]

Regardless of whether or not you care to see it, elector does have a point. I understand wanting to put pressure on Verizon to release the update sooner than later. However the FCC is not going to force Verizon to do anything. If the FCC were really the right organization to go to, don’t you think people would be hounding them to go after T-mobile for not releasing the 8.1 update to the Lumia 810? Those consumers are being ignored completely and that isn’t changing. I know how eager you are to go off on a rant, but remember, I agree on pressuring Verizon. I just agree with the other level headed individuals that expecting the FCC to step in and take serious action is a pipe dream.

Also when you post something on the internet, it’s anyone’s business if they want to read it. You just need to learn how to deal with opinions that differs from yours.

[MadDogFL62]

Irrelevent, off-topic post removed.

Message was edited as required by the Verizon Wireless Terms of Service.

Message was edited by: Admin Moderator

[Jallenwest]

Elector is right,  FCC has no power.

but from from what I can tell from over a billion posts VZ needs to test, that takes time.  If they were part of the Beta deal, they would of all ready tested, and we would have Cortana, but they didn't, so waiting during testing is occurring.  All I want is them to clearly state they are testing so the endless speculation will be over.  But this "keeping you in the dark" crap is getting old.

I switched to VZW from ATT, and while doing so I made the mistake of believing the salesman that Cortana would be mine in July.  Now I could have her, if only I hadn't switched.  The blatant fraud committed by the sales rep, now that is something I can take action on, but is it really worth my time?

For you guys calling FCC, please continue.

For. VZW, please give us some clear communication.

>> Edited to comply with the Verizon Wireless Terms of Service <<

Edited by:  Verizon Moderator

[#18]

>> Comments removed to comply with the Verizon Wireless Terms of Service <<

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MODERATOR NOTE:  Due to continued ToS violations, this thread is now locked.

[#19]

You are posting incorrect information. Again post proof of any of your statements regarding the FCC having a direct impact on any of your complaints. You cannot.

>> Edited to comply with the Verizon Wireless Terms of Service <<

Edited by: Verizon Moderator