Walgreens app now Windows 8 compatible

DEERFIELD, Ill — Walgreens today announced its app is available for download on mobile phone devices across the Windows Phone 8 platform. A Windows 8 version for desktops and tablets is expected to become available at a later date.

Additionally, the company will soon release its QuickPrints API designed for Windows 8 and Windows Phone 8.

"As we continue to innovate, we're always identifying relevant ways to engage with our customers wherever, whenever and however they prefer," said Abhi Dhar, Walgreens e-commerce chief technology officer. "Providing our app to consumers on the Windows Phone 8 platform makes it easier for customers to shop with us, while extending our QuickPrints API creates greater value for developers interested in offering an enhanced experience for their user."

Unique features of the app allow users to create shortcuts on the device's home screen, which allows for easy access with a single tap. Also, voice recognition can open the app or any of its features.

"Apps come to life on Windows Phone thanks to features like Live Tiles and the ability to integrate directly with the phone¹s own speech and Wallet capabilities," said Todd Brix, general manager of Windows Phone Apps for Microsoft Corp. "Walgreens takes advantage of all of these features and more to enable people to quickly refill prescriptions and easily use their Balance Rewards card directly from their Windows Phone device."