Well played Microsoft - They've purchased SwiftKey

Although MS probably have one of the best default keyboards on Windows Phone they've gone and bought SwiftKey as they continue to push products on the Android and iOS platforms. Smart move as SwiftKey along with Swype have massive popularity in the enhanced input market.

http://www.theregister.co.uk/2016/02/03/microsoft_buys_swiftkey/

Windows Phone. You've now got a fighting chance! (Windows 8.1 feature set post)

• Swype support (Sorry iOS, your now out in the cold).
• VPN (Er... the business phone with Office and Exchange support but no VPN till now!!!)
• Rotation lock. ( Reading emails in bed will no longer be infuriating).

You've finally listened!

Now all I need is Sky Go but I can live without while I still have a tablet!

http://www.wpcentral.com/windows-phone-81-features

Other notable mentions:

Media

• Audio/video transcoding, Hardware accelerated

System

• Bluetooth 4.0 LE
• Chkdsk for SD cards to ensure card health
• Miracast, PlayTo, mirror and project via wireless display or USB-out
• Mouse and keyboard support (HID)
• Stereoscopic 3D support
• Wi-Fi Direct

Swiftkey update

Since moving away from Android the one thing I do greatly miss is the 'top end' keyboards such as Swype and Swiftkey. The Windows Phone keyboard is still good, better than IOS's but it's not as good as I found Swype.

So to hear about some of the new features in Swiftkey is making me rather envious. There is some clever stuff in there such as the bi-lingual suggestions...
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2013/02/20/swiftkey_4_overview/

Following on from the earlier keyboard theme...

Razer Deathstalker gaming keyboard announced:
http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/15/razer-deathstalker-gaming-keyboard/

And the award for most mental keyboard goes to: Mad catz!