The app comes by way of Microsoft Research and is simply called ‘Network Speed Test’ designed for Windows Phone 8 devices. The app is straightforward and very clean looking, with the user having to merely tap “Start Test” to let the now familiar process begin. Users are then presented with upload/download speeds, latency (network delay), max jitter and packet loss. Other network information is also provided by sliding over, as well as user history.

Although we now have an official SpeedTest.net app for Windows Phone, after what seemed like an eternity of not having one, options are still good for users and we like today’s new offering.

The app also has a second use, one for Microsoft:

“When you test a network connection using the App, certain characteristics of your device and the network connection will be sent to Microsoft to help improve our understanding of network quality and availability. If you consent, we may also collect information about your location at the time of the test. The data we collect is not associated with you, and will not be used to identify or contact you or for other purposes like targeted marketing.”

An interesting idea and a great way to collect data from users about, well, data usage and speed over various network types. Microsoft has been focusing heavily on this area as of late, especially with such unique services as Data Sense (which is expected to go wide with the GDR2 OS update this summer), browser compression and more.

While the app is not as robust or fancy as Speedtest.net’s app (it also lacks the ability to share one’s results) it’s still a great option for those looking for a solid, comparison service to measure their network efficiency.

Pick up Network Speed Test from Microsoft Research here in the Store. Thanks, Rod H., for the tip!