HTC 8X ‘Portico’ update rollout begins

HTC 8X handsets are now being updated to a new build of Windows Phone 8, which Microsoft has oddly dubbed ‘Portico’.

The new patch introduces the ‘always on’ Wi-Fi option which is already present on the handset’s mid-range cousin - the HTC 8S.

Other changes include the ability to save composed SMS text messages as drafts, reject calls with a text notification and the option to select all text messages in order to delete them in one go.

Reports indicate the update is good to go for the international model and it was first spotted on devices in the UK. It’s a fairly small file which will apparently only take around 10 minutes to download.

It’s not clear whether the over-the-air update will require carrier approval for network-locked handsets. Previously it was suggested that Windows Phone 8 updates will be pushed directly from Microsoft or its OEM partners rather than needing approval.

Currently the unlocked HTC 8X we have in the office cannot yet update to the new build, so it’s likely we’re looking at a systematic staged rollout which will hit users sporadically.

It’s also possible that the update will land on other Windows Phone 8 handsets soon.

We'll keep you updated as we hear more.