The year ahead is extremely important for Microsoft as they try to increase their Windows Phone operating system market share.

We've now got a leaked document which sets out what Microsoft has planned for its operating system in 2012.

The roadmap includes some events which have already happened, such as the release of the  Windows Phone Mango update in the 4th quarter of 2011. The update aimed to bring more features, languages and countries, which it has achieved !

The next scheduled update is the Windows Phone Tango update,  which is due to launch in the second quarter of 2012. The roadmap describes the goal of the update to provide "products with the best prices", which suggests it'll be aimed at more affordable smartphones.

Microsoft have always set very high minimum standards for its Windows Phone operating system and this is what Tango will correct. You'll be able to get much cheaper smartphones, which could help Microsoft gain more interest in its operating system.

The last update for 2012 will be Windows Phone Apollo, which is expected to launch in the 4th quarter. The goals for Apollo update include supporting superphones and business phones suggesting its very much aimed at premium smartphones.

This seems to be the next big release that Microsoft will be hoping that it will dent the dominance of Apple and Android !

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