If you missed the news, Microsoft detailed the upcoming Windows Phone 8 Update 3 (8.0.10512) which we usually referred as GDR3 update. The update includes a number of improvements like support for higher resolution screens, new generation processors, screen rotation lock, tethering over Bluetooth, driving mode, custom ringtone support and more. Microsoft also announced that Windows Phone developers will be able to download the preview version of the OS before the actual roll out. Not just actual professional developers, everyone of us can signup for this new OS preview program.

Find the instructions below:

Step 1: First of all, make sure your phone is ‘developer-unlocked,’ you are a registered Windows Phone Store developer, OR you are a registered Windows Phone App Studio developer.

Your phone is ‘developer-unlocked,’ and Windows Phone Store developer:

These two requires you to sign up for $19 annual Windows Phone developer membership program from Microsoft. If you really want to be a Windows Phone developer who can submit apps to Windows Phone Store, do it.

Windows Phone App Studio:

This one is for most of us. Microsoft announced the Windows Phone App Studio program few months ago and it lets you easily build apps for Windows Phone devices. It is so easily designed such a way that, you can develop a working app in few minutes time. Go to the link and signup to be part of that program. It is completely free and doesn't have any validity period.

Step 2:

Make sure you have at least build 8.0.10322.71 in your current device. Go to Settings -> About ->More ->More Information to check the OS version number.

Step 3:

To update your phone, You need to download Windows Phone Preview for Developers app and install it. Open the app and once you accept the terms and conditions, it allows you to opt your phone in to receive updates.

Step 4:

Once you have installed the Windows Phone Preview for Developers app, head over to your phone’s Phone update setting app and check for updates.

Step 5:

Follow the regular phone update procedure to update your device to latest available OS build.

My own Lumia 520's OS build is 8.0.10211.204 can I go for it?

Yes you can! But there's a catch..You'd have to upgrade to GDR2 (Amber) before you can upgrade to GDR3 (Black)...Let me know if you have any more questions!

Kreamie: Yes you can! But there's a catch..You'd have to upgrade to GDR2 (Amber) before you can upgrade to GDR3 (Black)...Let me know if you have any more questions!

Ok thanks.

I have a brand new/unused Nokia Lumia 1020 for sale OR if anybody knows a physical store that can buy it. Already have a Lumia 520, and I'm okay wt it so I wont be needing it, I no be Filmaker ... 40mp camera, fuor whuot? Lolzzzz.