The last time Blink got an update was in December. The update fixed the Nokia Lumia 1520. As of last Thursday, version 2.4 is now live in the Microsoft Store. According to Windows Phone Central, it is an important app overhaul in terms of function and design.

Blink is a 'neat and polished' app from Microsoft Research that gives users the best possible action shots by taking a ton of shots at once. It allows taking of a quick succession of pictures, which can be used to come up with an animated GIF, then pick the best photo from the bunch and save. You can share the GIFs to different networks such as Blink.so.cl, Email, Twitter, Facebook or OneDrive.

New Features

What's new in Blink version 2.4 is the following:

Dual mode – the app can easily switch between two modes, either Blink mode to share your animations; and the Still mode to save, pick the perfect shot and share.

Focus lock – just tap the screen to lock the focus on that area. That area or region remains in focus even with phone movements. To unlock the focus, tap that area again.

Improved stabilization – this new feature is much better than video stabilization, allowing Blink to operate without any jitter or shaking of the camera.

Live Tile – Pin the Blink app to your start screen and see your perfect shots on the live tile. This may require a system reboot to begin showing.

My Blinks – a new gallery view inside the Blink roll that enables quick jump among the captured Blinks.

New look - the app's fresh new look is the new branding and the refreshed user interface elements all throughout the app.

Orientation lock - Bug fix to check, set and orient Blinks on the right way to share.

Tutorial – interactive and simple steps to help you learn about the app, how to use it and get going quickly.

The new Blink app with its changes, updates and additions looks much better. The tile icon is refreshing and appears less cheesy and cleaner than the previous one. The new features, from the Focus lock to Tutorial simply improve the app.

Blink is available at the Microsoft Store, for free as usual.