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]

...and while you have Joe's ear - how about working something out to get GLANCE added to the Icon.

[scolab]

The fact that Icon doesn't have Glance is keeping me from upgrading my 822, but it's more Nokia's fault than Verizon. You can read more here: The Nokia Lumia 930 does not have Glance, here’s why | Windows Phone Central

Hopefully they'll get it worked out.

[scolab]

Follow the articles and forums on www.wpcentral.com and you should be able to figure out how to install WP8.1 when it's released through the developer channel. I had Black and GDR3 long before Verizon released it. And once it was officially released, it updated without any problem. And I believe Verizon actually updated my their 2 Windows phones long before ATT did any of theirs.

[rednibkram]

Please don't divert the conversation.  The topic is about updating our Windows Phones faster, not Glance.  This is a legitimate complaint and Verizon needs to address this situation.  They allow pre-testing with the iPhone, and now that Microsoft owns Nokia and will be building their own phones (like Apple) Windows Phone updates for Lumia devices deserves the same respect that iPhones get.  And yes, I know all about the Developer Preview program, but that DOES NOT provide us with the firmware updates (Cyan).  That comes from Verizon after they do their "testing bit", which if they would "pre-test" as recommended above, we wouldn't be waiting on testing like we are now!  We'd be receiving the updates.  AT&T is about to release the update for their flagship Windows Phone because they DID do pre-testing for the 1520, why can't Verizon do the same thing!?  I agree with MadDog!  Either Verizon should PRE-TEST the updates or allow us to get the updates (including the firmware like Apple iPhone) directly from Microsoft and push all trouble-shooting off onto Microsoft (just like they do with the iPhone to Apple).

[MadDogFL62]

This Spring, thousands of Windows Phone users experiences just what is made available to Verizon when they participated in the Windows Phone Developer Program and received a number of pre-release downloads of the 8.1 beta of Cyan 8.1.

Joe Belfiore is a personal friend and clearly the go-to person at Microsoft for Verizon.

Considering that Verizon can't, won't, didn't and haven't sent Joe an email or engaged with Microsoft on a pre-release program is pathetic.

What Verizon has done is make a clear statement about their dedication to the Windows Phone Platform and their customers who use those devices. They could care less about both.

"Yes, we can hear you now Verizon!"  Your apathy speaks volumes.  And just to make sure you hear us - we are partnering with the FCC who can help adjust your attitude.  File your complaint today at www.fcc.gov/complaints  Demand your Cyan 8.1 update and demand that Verizon pre-test these releases.

[JIce88]

Can you please explain what part of the FCC laws and regulations Verizon is in violation of?

[T_Williams]

I agree!  T-Mobile made progress and now AT&T.  Not a peep from Verizon on WP 8.1!

[rednibkram]

If the FCC complaint thing doesn't work, perhaps a class action lawsuit against Verizon for discrimination for not providing Windows Phone users the same service that iPhone users get might shake them up.  Win or not, the bad publicity via news media might get them to listen to us PAYING customers.  If not for us PAYING customers, they would ALL be out of a job! 

[MadDogFL62]

I discussed my update concerns with the FCC several WP versions ago.  I was specifically told by the FCC that if you purchased your phone from a carrier and if that carrier controls the software upgrades to your hardware - then that carrier is responsible to see that you get your upgrades on a timely basis.  Especially if that software upgrade improves device performance, corrects defects (fixes bugs), or includes new features.

Since that conversation, I have filed 3 complaints against Verizon.  And after all 3 complaints were filed, I received a call back from Verizon looking to confirm that I received my upgrade.  I do not know if Verizon received any fees or fines, but it was clear that the FCC contacted them.  In addition, during all 3 calls with Verizon, I explained to them just what is written in this post.  They were asked to participate in pre-release programs and they were given Microsoft Executives to contact to get into these programs.

So it's "Shame on Verizon" again.  Another WP Update - and - nothing.  www.fcc.gov/complaints  My complaint was filed 3 days ago.  If you want improved WP phone performance, bug fixes, better Wi-Fi, and the new 8.1 features you have been reading about - join me in filing a complaint.  Because complaining out here does no good.