Thinking across orientations and axes
Users on the Windows Phone platform will expect some apps, especially those that feature video, maps, or game elements, to function in both portrait and landscape orientation.
They also expect navigation to operate across both the X and Y axes, and enjoy the sensation of being able to find new content by swiping across the phone’s screen, as well as from top to bottom. Plan ways in which your app can use both orientation and axes.
When designing an app that can run in landscape orientation:
Determine if your app will also run in portrait mode, and whether your app will be have one static orientation.
Landscape orientation is useful when users want to maximize screen space. You can rearrange controls or layout when the user turns the phone, to enhance the impression that the screen can now fit more content.
Landscape orientation is often used to present video content. If content consumption is the primary purpose of your app’s landscape mode, fade out controls and navigation to enrich the viewing experience.