Though Samsung’s Galaxy series is continuously hitting new devices in the market, older devices are not left in the dark. The Galaxy Note 1 and Galaxy S3 are among the latest devices to get the latest Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean software upgrade.
The Android 4.1.2 update for the Galaxy Note 1 was released by Rogers and Bell for Canadian users on May 3rd. It is a downloadable update via Kies desktop application. The Galaxy Note, the first phablet, has harnessed a huge customer-base, so Samsung has been prompt with updates to improve user experience.
Updates from T-Mobile and Sprint for Samsung Galaxy S3 started rolling out on May 13th, involving a sizeable 186MB download over the air (OTA) or manually via KIES, Samsung’s server. Devices with baseband version T999UVDLJC were the first to receive the OTA upgrade, bringing the baseband version to T999UVDMD5. Users can check for the update on the “About Device” screen. The Galaxy S3 is likely to get some of the coveted features of the current flagship Galaxy S4 via the Android 4.2.2 update in June.
Though not a big overhaul, the Android 4.1.2 update unleashes a Multi-window feature, which allows simultaneous operation of two apps. The feature can also turned off from the notification pulldown’s settings toggles options. Apart from security enhances and bug fixes, the update will allow auto-pairing via NFC and provide better camera options. The update will also add new apps namely, Paper Artist, Blocking Mode, Easy Mode, Sound Balance and Samsung Gallery.
While T-Mobile and Sprint customers can access the Galaxy S3 update, Verizon and AT&T customers are still left to wait. Coming to the Galaxy Note 1, Canada users have been fortunate, but a roll out for other regions has yet to be announced.