New Mango Features: Messages Hub and More Leaked

Wherever Windows Phone Dev Podcast has been digging, they've struck gold and it just won't stop. Last time the site revealed turn-by-turn navigation and a beefed Bing experience. Today the site has put up even more screenshots and we've got some juicy stuff here.

First up the site can confirm that a new Messages Hub will be included in Mango and that it will support Windows Live Messenger, Facebook Chat, and possibly even AIM (left image). What's more, Messages will be deeply integrated into the OS; one example the podcast used was a new option while texting that asks if you'd like to use a chat service instead. Earlier this week we heard a similar type of integration would be heading to Skype chat as well. Plus Mango will also be supporting Group Messaging (center image).

Next we've got two familiar Hubs getting nice redesigns when Mango hits. The Office Hub is getting a minor facelift with some major new features, finally including SkyDrive support along with an improved SharePoint and Office 365 experience. The Games Hub is getting less new features but is getting significantly cleaned up (right image). We spotted the redesign at MIX '11 but this time we're getting a clear view of the slick white-and-green setup. Another screenshot shows a new 'Auto Sync' toggle in the Games Hub settings, but it's unclear exactly what will be syncing.

Those were the big reveals, but we've got plenty of scrumptious bits of info to nibble on too. The lock screen is getting a very slick new feature: the ability to set your Now Playing artist as your wallpaper! The Zune HD apparently had a similar implementation and to see it coming in Mango is quite cool indeed. The huge update is also bringing: native check-ins powered by Facebook Places (which we heard about before), new battery options in the Settings menu, visual voicemail as was rumored, and the ability to use a Windows Phone as a mobile hotspot. Check out the other screenshots at Windows Phone Dev Podcast and listen to the latest episode to get the full scoop.

We think it's safe to say that you can expect a ton of news from Microsoft's Mango preview event on May 24th. Until then, we challenge you to contain your excitement.

Note: Originally forgot to cite Windows Phone Dev Podcast article, which has now been fixed.

Source: Windows Phone Dev Podcast