Multiplayer gameplay said to be improved

As Microsoft continues to dish out more details surrounding the upcoming Windows Phone update, the company has announced a number of new features that aim to improve the gaming experience. The Mango release will enable gamers to unlock 'Avatar Awardables', items that can worn on an avatar's sleeve as a sign of achievement. The Xbox Live title Chickens Can't Fly is said to be the first game to support the feature.

The update will also enable players to take advantage of in-game purchases, which can be obtained using Microsoft Points. Developers will be able to use the new sales option to offer downloadable content such as levels and weapons.

Mango will be the first release to support M-rated games, including the upcoming release Splinter Cell: Conviction. New parental controls will be added alongside support for mature games, enabling parents to restrict access to children.

A new Xbox Live service, labeled Fast Async, is designed to improve gameplay for multiplayer, turn-by-turn or asynchronous games.

Microsoft has yet to pin down a specific date for the Mango update, however the release is expected to arrive as early as September 1.

By Electronista Staff