Australian carrier Telstra is apparently planning on updating the HTC 8X, Nokia Lumia 1020, Lumia 925, and HTC 8S to Windows Phone 8 Update 3 (GDR3).

The carrier has just updated its software update page and posted the list of aforementioned WP8 devices set to get the upgrade in the coming months. Telstra is currently testing the GDR3 update for these smartphones and should get approval on Dec. 23.

According to the listing on Telstra's software update page, the customer availability date for the update appears as "TBC," which suggests that the GDR3 should roll out for those devices early next year, likely in January. Moreover, the website also mentions the Nokia Lumia 920, which is expected to undergo carrier testing for GDR3 in January and get the update about a month after.

Microsoft's Windows Phone 8 Update 3 was long-awaited, as it brings notable changes and improvements to the platform. The greatest features are support for larger displays and more powerful processors such as the quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 800. Nokia already took advantage of the capabilities GDR3 brings to the table and more high-end smartphones are expected to launch rocking the new and improved Windows Phone 8 OS.

For existing WP8 devices, the latest update will bring several new features and enhancements, including a screen orientation lock, a neat driving more that limits notifications while driving to reduce distractions, and enhanced Wi-Fi sharing.

Other improvements include better storage management, enhanced multitasking capabilities, an updated app switcher, and many more, in addition to the aforementioned support for large full HD 1080p displays and quad-core processors.

Aside from plans to update handsets running on the Windows Phone 8 platform, Telstra's software update page also shows that the carrier is currently testing an Android 4.3 Jelly Bean update for the Sony Xperia Z1 and the Samsung Galaxy S4. These upgrades are expected to start rolling out to customers early next year, on Jan. 6.

Keep in mind, however, that the fact that Telstra is currently testing updates for devices does not guarantee that everything will go smoothly and the updates will actually roll out when expected. We'll keep an eye on the whole process and update you as soon as we learn more.