Microsoft's upcoming Sept. 5 event is expected to reveal the next wave of Windows Phone 8 devices from Nokia. With Microsoft building an integrated ecosystem, announcements during the conference could also point towards Windows 8.

Cross-app development

During the announcement of Window 8, Microsoft confirmed that it will allow developers to build Windows Phone 8 and Windows 8 apps concurrently. With the operating systems using the same Modern UI, interchangeable apps should theoretically require little effort on the developer's part to build. Microsoft's rival Apple pushes Universal apps for iOS, allowing a single purchase from the App Store to work on iPhones, iPod Touches, and the larger iPads.

Multi-device gaming

Windows 8's Xbox Live integration and removal of Games for Windows Live means that features including avatar support, achievements, and friends lists will be available on both PC and XBox 360, and players can play games on a Windows 8 device and then resume on the Xbox 360. The latter is still in its early stages, so it could be interesting to see how Microsoft expands the functionality to Windows Phone 8 devices.

Cloud storage

Windows 8 uses SkyDrive, Microsoft's cloud storage service, so it could be interesting to see if Microsoft releases an app allowing users to view/upload files on Windows Phones, make edits, and immediately reflect changes on Windows 8. SkyDrive is available in the Modern UI, with different tile sizes displaying files and folders.

Windows Store app price

Microsoft revealed the minimum price of apps in Windows 8, so perhaps Microsoft will also price apps in the same bracket for Windows Phone 8 developers. Apple prices low and developers sell in bulk; with recent data indicating that Windows Phone's store is not as popular, a higher price may encourage developers to submit apps even with the risk of selling less.

The Windows Phone 7 device situation

Microsoft's move to effectively cast aside Windows Phone 7 users means users will either have to upgrade to Windows Phone 8 devices or leave the operating system. With the iPhone 5's released date nearing, and Android phones like the Samsung Galaxy S3 increasingly popular, Microsoft needs to convince skeptical users that a two-year commitment to the third-place mobile OS is worthwhile.