Despite Windows Phone 7 having support for FM Radio, the feature was surprisingly not supported on Windows Phone 8, and the latest updates to the platform failed to re-enable the feature. It was reported that Microsoft did not have the time to implement it, but is working on doing so in the upcoming GDR2 update.

The Verge reports that Microsoft is hard at work re-enabling the support for FM Radio on compatible devices such as the Lumia 920 and HTC 8X and other compatible handsets in the upcoming General Distribution Release (GDR2) update set for release in early May or late June.

Furthermore, Nokia is working on its own firmware improvements to GDR2. According to sources, Nokia will add a new screen activation gesture for the Lumia 920 and Lumia 820. This feature would allow users to simply double tap the display to awake the device from its slumber. Other Nokia Lumia exclusive updates include flip to silence and color profile settings for the device screen.

In December 2012, Microsoft rolled out the first Windows Phone 8 General Distribution Release update codenamed Portico. The new update brought quite a few improvements, including the much-needed always-on Wi-Fi feature on Windows Phone 7 devices.

Portico Update Features:

• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enhancements for improved performance.
• Extended support for more microSD card manufacturers.
• Improved SD card functionality.
• Added capability to select an MP3 file as a ring tone (MP3 files must be loaded via a PC).
• Enhancements have been made to messaging to allow editing an MMS while forwarding.
• New functionality to multi-select recipients for a message and ignore calls with an SMS reply.

Windows Phone 8 is Microsoft newest smartphone operating system aimed at competing with Android and iOS.