Apple iWatch Release Date Shifted to Next Year?

Apple iWatch Release Date Shifted to Next Year?

Apple iWatch rumors have certainly been a roller coaster ride so far. First we heard it would be available for sale this year, and then we heard some rumors claiming it will not ship until December or even early next year. Just too many contradictory reports. The most recent report claimed Apple will certainly be unveiling its iWatch smartwatch at the September 9th event being hosted at the Flint Center for The Performing Arts in Cupertino, California.

A fresh report from recode claims the iWatch will indeed be announced on September 9th, but will not be shipping soon after launch. Their trusted sources claim the Apple iWatch will not be available for purchase during the holiday season this year and will probably launch sometime in early 2015. That’s quite disappointing frankly, but probably expected given the number of rumors that were claiming iWatch production was delayed significantly due to a possible shortage of the sapphire crystal glass component being used in the smartwatch.

The rumor mills have been buzzing about the Apple iWatch over the last few months and everyone is curious to see what Apple will come up with in its very first smartwatch product. Earlier reports had mentioned only about 3 million units of the iWatch will be shipped this year due to production delays, but it looks like things have clearly worsened since that report came out.

Rumored iWatch Specifications

The iWatch has been rumored to sport a flexible OLED display with sapphire glass coating to protect the screen. It will also come equipped with more than 10 health and fitness sensors that will allow it to keep detailed records of your medical and fitness information. iOS 8 brings theHealthKit developer API which will allow developers to create various apps to help you monitor your vital health statistics at regular intervals, and also to store your medical info on your iPhone that could be accessed by medical professionals in case of an emergency. The iWatch is expected to play a major role and will include most of the sensors used by the HealthKit API.

iOS 8 Update (Beta): Battery Drain Affecting Apple iPhone/iPad Developers

iOS 8 Update (Beta): Battery Drain Affecting Apple iPhone/iPad Developers

Apple’s newest mobile OS, iOS 8, is still in beta, and is expected to be released at some point around September 9th. But there are some serious battery drain issues that come with this update. Apple made iOS 8 beta 6 available for carriers only, and not developers. All developers are still stuck on beta 5, which was available for the iPhone 5S, 5C, 5, iPads, and iPod Touches.

Apple iOS 8 Developers Still Facing Serious Battery Drain

Developers previously reported while using iOS 8 beta 4 that their iDevices were getting extremely hot while using iCloud, while charging, playing games, or even after charging. They had also reported they were facing some serious battery drain. Many hoped beta 5 would address these issues, but it doesn’t seem that it has.

Many users are still reporting that after updating to the last beta available for developers, their devices were still getting a little too hot and they’re seeing even worse battery life than before.

The reason for concern over these issues is that Apple’s iOS 8 public release is right around the corner. With all the recent issues with iOS 7.1.2 and the iPhone 5 recall, having another iOS come out and be just as much, if not more, of a drain on users devices would be a huge disappointment and may sway some users from ever owning an iPhone again.

There are some developers who have said that hardware is to blame for the issues, or bad software installs, but no one is truly sure what the cause of the problem is. The debate regarding the problems is hot right now, and no one can be sure what to expect of the public release of iOS 8.

Moto X+1 Release Date in the US: What to Expect

Moto X+1 Release Date in the US: What to Expect

The Moto X+1 launch date is confirmed for September 4th. And with just a few days left before the new Smartphone is officially announced, we want to make a few predictions and share multiple reports and rumors surrounding the Moto X+1 release date. To be more precise, the Moto X+1 release in the United States.

Way back in February all the rumors started when Motorola tweeted that a new Moto X successor would arrive later this summer, and since then buyers and fans have been waiting patiently to see what they have in store. While the phone didn’t leak nearly as much as the original Moto X in 2013, we’ve received enough details to have a good idea of what to expect regarding the release date, and the device in general.

The past two weeks have been very telling for the manufacturer, as they’ve confirmed the September 4th launch date, and multiple rumors have shed light on specs, features, and potentially when the device will launch for the United States. Prospective buyers and Motorola fans will want to know all the details, and below we’ll rundown everything we know so far.

Earlier this month Motorola sent out a rather telling invite for a September 4th event in Chicago. The teaser image showed a new Moto X, a Moto G successor (rumored as the Moto G2) the Moto 360 smartwatch, and an accessory of some type. Basically confirming two new smartphones and some accessories will all be revealed.

At that point we knew a few new devices were coming soon, but only a few light rumors suggested a Moto G2 was coming as well. We now know they’ll have a few devices on display, and it’s only a matter of a few days before we know all the details.

Moto X+1 Launch Date

The image above is the teaser sent over by Motorola, confirming four devices will be announced on September 4th. We’re not sure what the earpiece will be, but it may offer some automatic location-aware pairing to unlock the new Moto X+1, or even add to the hands-free voice controls that made the original Moto X so popular last year.

You can clearly see the other three devices in which we outlined above in the teaser. All but confirming they’ll be announcing all three come early next month. With the launch date set, now all we need is the final details, and the official release date.

That aside, below is everything we think we now regarding the Moto X+1 (or Moto X2) release date in the United States.

Moto X+1 Release Date in the U.S.

All the rumors we’ve heard thus far are pointing to a rather fast release for the new Moto X+1. In fact, last year it was announced in August and released the same month just a few weeks later, and we’re hearing the same strategy will hold true in 2014.

Reports earlier this month “confirmed from Motorola sources” a global rollout for the new Moto X+1 and Moto G2 will begin on September 10th. That would be much faster than years prior, but we’ve seen similar launch times from HTC and Apple. AT&T had a short exclusive last year, before it arrived on the rest, and the same could hold true again this year. Another report suggest the Verizon Moto X+1 won’t arrive until September 25th. This could mean AT&T will be up first again, followed by the rest, but we’ll have to wait and see.

The image above is our first actual press photo of the new Moto X+1, thanks to@evleaks. It confirms the designs we’ve seen from other leaks, as well as at least one carrier for the US. Note that while the rumor above said September 25th for Verizon, this press image shows September 17th. One week later than the 10th date floating around.

Last year the Moto X launched in the US first, and eventually other regions around the globe, but many are expecting a global launch of the new Moto X+1 in the US, UK, and more all inside of September.

U.S. Carriers

The original Moto X is still available today from an array of carriers in the United States, and that includes small regional operators as well. At this point we’ve yet to hear from any carriers, as the device isn’t official. That being said, the image above clearly confirms Verizon, and earlier today the Moto X+1 cleared the FCC for AT&T.

Buyers can expect the new Moto X+1 to launch on AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, US Cellular, and most likely many other small region carriers. MetroPCS, Cricket, and others all eventually offered the phone. However, only the main carriers will get the customization features from MotoMaker.com.

Specs

So what will make the Moto X+1 impressive and worth buying over the Galaxy S5, LG G3, or any other smartphones available in 2014? For one, customization. And for two, it has some pretty good specs too. At least if all the leaks we’ve seen are accurate.

Along with custom colors, engravings, accent colors, wood backs, and even leather in 2014, the phone will have pretty impressive specs to make it a quality device that should last for years to come. Here’s what we’ve heard thus far.

Moto X+1 Specs

• 5.2-inch 1920 x 1080p Full HD Display
• 2.5 GHz Snapdragon 800 quad-core with 2GB of RAM
• 16/32GB storage with micro-SD expansion included
• Android 4.4.4 KitKat
• 12 Megapixel rear and 2.1 front cameras
• Dual front-facing speakers (aimed at the HTC One M8)
• 2,900 mAh battery
• Tons of customization options

Note the processor isn’t the latest 801 or rumored 805 like the Galaxy Note 4 will employ, but the Moto X+1 should still house a powerful quad-core processor, nearly stock Android, 2GB of RAM, and have an improved camera. The other major problem last year was battery life. In 2014 the Moto X+1 will have a 2,900 mAh battery (rumored) which is bigger than both the Galaxy S5 and HTC One M8 offerings, respectively.

Last but not least (pictured above) the Motorola logo on back will be a button. We’re not sure what it’s for yet, but we could see additional functions, shortcuts to launch the camera, or even a camera shutter button for selfies. The possibilities are endless.

Price

Another major factor when it comes to buying a Smartphone is the price. The Moto X was priced nearly as high as the competition, yet wasn’t as powerful of a Smartphone. Motorola eventually realized this after poor sales and lowered it to $399, which made it a pretty great price/performance purchase, especially considering all the free customization.

Currently the Moto X is $399 off-contract, and less if you sign a 2-year agreement with carriers. There has been no solid leaks revealing a price point for the Moto X+1, but a few small reports suggest it may replace the current X at the same $399 price point. If Motorola can do that while delivering a bigger, better, faster device with front facing speakers and all the options mentioned above, it should sell quite well.

Nexus 5 Successor to Feature Android L 5.0 Update

Nexus 5 Successor to Feature Android L 5.0 Update

Nexus 6/Nexus X is a very mysterious device right now, but it’s set to be the next iteration of Google’s flagship phone which has been sold to tens of millions worldwide. A French retailer, fnac, has recently showcased this device on their website (along with some info) before Google actually unveiled the device. The news comes as a surprise, because if we look at the situation right now, it’s possible that the tech magnate is set to release not one, but two Nexus devices this year, including the Nexus 8.

New Information Leaks Regarding the Nexus X’s OS and CPU

Fnac reports that Google’s new phone will come with Android L straight out of the box, packing a 5.2 inch display, a Snapdragon 805 CPU, and a 13MP rear camera. The Android OS it runs also comes under the name “Android 5.0 Lemon Meringue Pie”

The model listed on fnac is XT1100, a codename for a phone developed by Motorola, which suggests that the two tech companies are working together on this one. It’s a common thing these days for companies to work together to produce better working phones, and better software. This collaboration is particularly interesting because Motorola is currently developing some very interesting accessories and smartwatches, so we’re curious to see if they’ll join forces with Google in that regard.

Nexus X is said to come in two variations: a 32GB version and a 64GB version. No sign of a 16GB version, though. As for the price, it’s rather steep, but worthwhile. The Nexus X 32GB version was priced at €419.99 which translates to $419.99 off-contract in the United States, while the Nexus X 64GB version is priced at €449.99.

As a final word, TK Tech News reported that the fnac website is very prone to hacker attacks occurring, so as always, take this information with a pinch of salt.

HTC One M8 Android 4.4.3 OTA Update Now Being Pushed to AT8T Users

HTC One M8 Android 4.4.3 OTA Update Now Being Pushed to AT8T Users

The international HTC One M8 received the Android 4.4.3 OTA update about a month ago, while the T-Mobile variant got it last week. Now we hear that the HTC One M8 Android 4.4.3 update is being rolled out for the AT&T users, therefore you should keep your eye on the notifications bar. For what it’s worth, the Verizon model is expected to get the new firmware sometime mid-September.

Because the HTC One M8 runs Android 4.4 out of the box, the usual KitKat stuff such as transparent status and nav bars, white status bar icons, immersive mode, new Location menu, cloud printing, or full screen album and movie art in the lock screen came pre-loaded. The AT&T HTC One M8 Android 4.4.3 update doesn’t introduce any visual improvements, but it arrives with numerous optimizations, bug fixes, and security improvements, so you would definitely want to install it on your device.

As usual, AT&T will be rolling out the new update in stages, which means that some of you might not be able to download and install it right away. As you may know, once your HTC One M8 becomes eligible to receive the new firmware, you should be able to see a system update message in the notifications bar. Tap on it, then choose “Download now.” After the files are downloaded, choose “Install now.” After the installation process is complete the Smartphone will reboot. In case the system update notification failed to appear, you would also want to perform a manual check under Settings > About phone > Software updates > Check now.

It’s also worth noting that the new Android 4.4.3 update for AT&T HTC One M8 has firmware number 2.23.502.3. Since it has a size of around 660 MB it’s recommended to download it using a stable Wi-Fi network in order to avoid unwanted data charges.

I remind you that HTC was one of the first companies to announce they will be bring Android L to their flagship devices. According to them, both One M7 and One M8 will receive the new software update within 90 days after Google releases the final code.

iPhone 6 Event Confirmed for September 9

iPhone 6 Event Confirmed for September 9

The rumors are true. Apple has finally sent out invitations to its iPhone 6 event that will be taking place on September 9.

As usual, though, the invite doesn’t tell us anything more about what consumers can expect from the event, but it’s likely that Apple will announce the iPhone 6, as well as the iWatch, which was just recently rumored to be coming on September 9 as well.

It’s been rumored for weeks that Apple would be holding its iPhone 6 event on September 9, and considering that the company has been rather predictable with its release timeline for its products, we’re not too surprised that the Cupertino-based company decided to unveil its latest Smartphone in early September yet again.

We should expect two iPhone 6 models to be unveiled on this date, with a 4.7-inch version to be the entry-level iPhone 6, while a 5.5-inch model will most likely be the upper-tier version that could come with some extra goodies that 4.7-inch owners won’t get.

Rumors have pointed to the possibility of the 5.5-inch iPhone 6 coming with a faster processor and a tougher front glass panel material, which will most likely be sapphire.

As far as when Apple will officially release the iPhone 6 to the public, many reports have cited September 19 has the big day, which lands on a Friday. If you remember, the last couple of iPhone releases over the past couple of years saw the iPhone 5s and iPhone 5 launch on a Friday as well, so we have no reason not to believe that the iPhone 6 will see the same release timeline.

Aside from a larger screen and new design, the iPhone 6 is expected to come with an all-new processor (most likely the Apple A8), possibly more RAM, a better camera, and an improved Touch ID fingerprint sensor. The hardware of Touch ID is expected to receive a bit of an overhaul and will be more durable than the first-generation Touch ID sensors.

We also might see the first iPhone to come with 128GB of storage. With the iPhone 6 rumored to be larger in size thanks to bigger 4.7-inch and 5.5-inch screens, it may now be possible for an iPhone to come equipped with 128GB of storage. However, a past rumor suggests that the 128GB version may only come to the 5.5-inch iPhone 6 in order to convince more users to spend a bit more cash and get the bigger screen.

Plus, the 128GB exclusive on the 5.5-inch model would help differentiate the 4.7-inch and 5.5-inch models even more, considering that the only difference that we’ve seen so far between the two devices is screen size. If this turns out to be true, the 5.5-inch iPhone 6 will get the lauded 128GB of storage, while the 4.7-inch model could still be stuck at a 64GB maximum.

It’s also possible that the iPhone 6 could experience an iPhone 5s-like launch, after a hiccup in production is apparently causing suppliers to scramble to make up for lost time. This could lead to release shortages on launch day, with retailers and carrier stores receiving very little stock of the new device.

Past reports have stated that the iPhone 6 will see plenty of stock come launch day, but this latest report suggests otherwise. Apple was said to have ordered between 70-80 million iPhone 6 units ahead of its launch, which is a record number for the company and its iPhone, but it’s safe to assume that the number is split between the two rumored sizes of the upcoming phone. That’s still a lot of iPhones, though.

No matter how many iPhone 6 units are available on launch day, we wouldn’t be surprised to see long lines form at stores either way.

Android L 5.0 Update: Possible Names and Features

Android L 5.0 Update: Possible Names and Features

We’re getting closer to the release of the next major version of Android, so we wanted to talk about what Google could end up calling it. We know that it should start with the letter L, but that’s as much as anyone (besides Google employees) truly knows. Let’s go over the possible names that we could see Google using this year.

Licensed names

Since Android 4.4 KitKat was internally known as Key Lime Pie before they struck a deal, this makes it highly possible that Google could do the same this year. No matter what clues or hints we read about Android L, we could see Google change things right before the latest version of KitKat is released.

With as much battery saving changes going into Android L, Life Savers is something that could actually fit. Or they could take it in a comical direction and go with Laffy Taffy. A few have suggested the possibility of Lemon Heads too, but out of all the licensed names, this one seems the most unlikely.

Generic names

Assuming that Google’s commercial partnership was a one-time deal, we have a lot of other desserts they could choose from – things like Ladyfingers, Lollipop, Licorice, Lemon Tart, Lemon Drop, Lemon Bar, Lava Cake or even Lemon Meringue Pie. We’ve seen the letters LMP appearing in Wi-Fi certification papers just two day ago. It seems like Lemon Meringue Pie just might be the internal code name for the next version of Android.

Features expected in Android L

We are more than excited to see what Google ends up releasing in the final version of Android L. Material Design is one of my favorite new changes and I can’t wait to see which 3rd party application developers can capitalize on this first. Google has also redesigned how Android handles notifications. We’ve seen similar features like this from Paranoid Android, with Hover and CyanogenMod with the Heads Up notifications. This will also bring a non-intrusive call notification window instead of taking you out of your application and interrupting your session. Everyone will benefit from Project Volta and the new Android L battery optimizations. These will be applied system-wide and there will also be a new Job Scheduler API for 3rd party developers to integrate into their applications.

Moto X KitKat Update Android 4.4.4 OTA Rollout (Sprint)

Moto X KitKat Update Android 4.4.4 OTA Rollout (Sprint)

Exactly one week ago today, Sprint published details to a software update on their website. The page detailed the Android 4.4.4 KitKat update that was getting ready to ship out. Today, we’re seeing reports from Sprint users that their Motorola Moto X has received the OTA update.

Motorola Moto X users on Sprint get Android 4.4.4 KitKat update

You could wait until you receive the OTA update notification or you could check manually. To do this, simply open the Settings for your Moto X and then scroll down to About Phone. Tap on Software Update, then tap on the Check Now button at the bottom right. Your device will ping the Sprint servers and they will tell you whether or not you’re eligible for the update right now. If it tells you your software is already up to date, then it’s recommended that you check once per day. The device will check it automatically for you, or you can check manually just to be sure.

This update will bump up the version KXA21.12-L1.28. It comes with all the changes Motorola has been including in the Android 4.4.4 software update. So, this means you will get all of the stability improvements as well as security patches that were included in the Android 4.4.4 KitKat update sent out by Google. You will also see improvements to the camera for your Moto X – things like improved camera image quality giving you better consistency of exposure, a more realistic flash, and improved photos in low-light conditions. You will now have a pause-and-resume button during video recordings, and you will also notice an updated phone dialer with a new graphical layout.

You can also use your Sprint Moto X to download the Motorola Alert application from the Google Play Store. This lets you send periodic alerts (with your location) to specific contacts that you select. If we have any readers here with a Moto X on the Sprint network, we would love to hear how your update process went. There haven’t been any crazy bugs reported so far, but that doesn’t mean some won’t crop up. Use the comments section below to let us know and we will do our best to help you out.

Metal Nexus 6 Concept Delivers Beautiful Design

Metal Nexus 6 Concept Delivers Beautiful Design

A stunning new metal Nexus 6 concept delivers a beautiful design that isn’t part of the latest Nexus 6 rumors but would certainly be good enough for the real Nexus 6 release.

Every year, Google releases a new Nexus Smartphone, each one better than the last. The current Nexus Smartphone, the Nexus 5, improved on the Nexus 4′s design and brought new software and hardware upgrades to the table. Best of all, Google managed to do that without drastically increasing the price tag of its popular Nexus series.

With the Nexus 5 approaching its first birthday, all eyes are on Google and its plans for the Nexus program. And while Nexus 6 rumors have pointed to a release from Motorola, designers have taken it upon themselves to deliver their own Nexus 6 ideas ahead of its suspected release.

A new Nexus 6 concept unearthed by Concept Phones showcases a gunmetal Nexus 6 made by HTC. HTC is not rumored to be making the Nexus 6 though the company is reportedly developing the next Nexus tablet, currently dubbed Nexus 8 and Nexus 9. The Nexus 9 is, like this concept, expected to feature a premium metal design reminiscent of the company’s HTC One series of Smartphone.

This gunmetal Nexus 6 concept is complimented by HTC’s BoomSound front-facing speakers, another feature that’s rumored to be on board the Nexus 9 tablet, a large edge-to-edge display, two cameras, and virtual buttons for navigation. While it’s not based on any Nexus 6 rumors, this metal HTC Nexus 6 concept is a great looking idea that would be good enough for Google.

Nexus 6 rumors center around a new device from Google and Motorola. Motorola, a company that up until recently was owned by Google, has never made a Nexus product before. Motorola Nexus 6 rumors have been rampant in recent weeks as leaks attempt to out its specs, release date and more ahead of the busy month of September.

The Information and Android Police, both solid sources, agree that Motorola is working on a new Smartphone called “shamu.” Google likes to name its Nexus products after creatures that live in the sea and “Shamu” is a name for a killer whale that became popular back in the 1970′s. While this codename doesn’t confirm it to be a Nexus product, it means that there’s at least a good chance that it is.

Motorola’s version of the Nexus, a device that’s referred to as Nexus 6 and Nexus X, is expected to incorporate a fingerprint sensor into the design. Motorola was one of the first companies to offer a fingerprint sensor with a Smartphone (Atrix 4G). Alleged Nexus 6 benchmarks point to a number of high-end features including:

•      2.6 GHz Snapdragon 805 Quad-core Processor with 3GB of RAM
•      5.2-inch 2560 x 1440 Quad-HD Display
•      32GB storage
•      12-13MP rear-facing camera
•      2.1MP front-facing camera
•      Android L
•      Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, NFC, and more

Both Android Police and The Information claim that “Shamu” will be a “phablet” with a screen as large as 5.9-inches, something that contradicts these supposed Nexus 6 benchmarks.

Early Nexus 6 release date rumors put the release inside of November. This fits in perfectly with Google’s usual Nexus release window and it mirrors what we’ve heard about the Android L release. Android L, Google’s next Android update, is rumored to be coming out alongside the Nexus 8 tablet in the third or fourth quarter.

If true, it could be that the new Nexus smartphone arrives much later than the iPhone 6 and the Samsung Galaxy Note 4, both of which are expected to arrive sometime next month. Samsung recently confirmed a Galaxy Note 4 launch date for September 3rd while the iPhone 6 launch date is thought to be taking place on September 9th.

So while we may not see an HTC Nexus 6 with a gunmetal design, we could perhaps see a Motorola Nexus 6 challenge the iPhone 6 and Galaxy Note 4 with a number of other high-end features.

iPad Pro Release Rumored for Early 2015

iPad Pro Release Rumored for Early 2015

Rumors of a larger iPad Pro have died down as of recently, but a new report picks up right where the rumors left off, with a 12.9-inch Apple tablet expected to arrive at some point early next year.

It’s actually been several months since we’ve heard much of anything about a larger iPad, save for a small rumor last month. In the past, we’ve heard ramblings about a possible 12.9-inch iPad Pro that would eventually get launched at some point in the future, but we’ve heard nothing of substance about the mysterious device, until today.

According to Bloomberg, the alleged 12.9-inch iPad Pro will release to the public in early 2015, with production scheduled to begin by the first quarter of next year.

Details were a little scarce on this one, so we’re not quite sure what to think of it, but Bloomberg has a decent track record with Apple rumors, so while we’re still taking this one with a grain of salt, we’re also saying, “Never say never.”

It would make sense for Apple to launch the new tablet during its yearly iPad event in October, but it looks like that may not be the case this time around.

If the iPad Pro does indeed see the light of day, it will most likely be aimed at professionals, such as photographers, designers, architects, etc. Of course, the iPad is already a useful device in these professions, but a version with a larger screen and faster internals could be an even better device for such users.

Other than the rumored release timeline, we don’t know much about this fabled 12.9-inch iPad Pro. We heard late last year that the device would have a Retina display, but would come with an ever higher resolution than the current resolution found on today’s iPad’s, making the iPad Pro one of the highest resolution displays on the market if it releases.

Furthermore, we were told back in November of last year that production of 12.9-inch iPad displays was underway, with a prediction that 2014 would be the year that we would see the iPad Pro, so there’s certainly some inconsistencies with what the rumored release timeline is at this point.

What we do know, at least, is that Apple will most likely launch a new iPad Air and a new iPad mini in the fall. Both tablets are expected to see minor changes in the design, along with faster internals, such as a faster processor and improved graphics. The iPad Air 2 and the new iPad mini with Retina display are also expected to come equipped with Apple’s Touch ID fingerprint sensors.

Touch ID was definitely one of the features that users were looking forward to the most ahead of the iPad Air event back in October last year, especially after it was introduced on the new iPhone 5s just a month earlier, but Apple sadly did not deliver such a feature that time around, which we weren’t too surprised about. It’s possible that Apple wanted the Touch ID technology to be around for a year or so and see how it did before expanding the feature to other iOS devices.

One of the biggest reasons that the Touch ID fingerprint sensor is so popular on the iPhone 5s is because of the convenience it offers when unlocking your device and purchasing apps in the iTunes App Store. It’s a lot quicker and easier than entering in your passcode every time, as well as typing in your confusing Apple ID password whenever you want to buy an app.

That same convenience could easily be used on the iPad as well. Plus, iOS 8 introduces third-party support for Touch ID, so we should be seeing a lot more capabilities with the fingerprint sensor come this fall.

Samsung Galaxy S5 Android 4.4.4 KitKat Update Spotted

Samsung Galaxy S5 Android 4.4.4 KitKat Update Spotted

It appears that at least one carrier is planning to release the still unannounced Samsung Galaxy S5Android 4.4.4 KitKat update in the coming days adding even more mystery to a situation that already includes a scheduled Samsung Galaxy S5 Android 4.4.3 KitKat release at one carrier.

In June, Google rolled out two brand new Android 4.4 KitKat updates aimed at tackling Android 4.4.2 KitKat problems. Android 4.4.3 KitKat first landed in the beginning of June and it delivered a number of big time bug fixes and cosmetic changes to the dialer and the People application found inside the Android operating system. A few days later, Android 4.4.4 KitKat touched down and delivered a crucial security fix.

Since then, we’ve seen manufacturers roll out Android 4.4.3 KitKat updates with the Android 4.4.4 fix on board and Android 4.4.4 updates with the Android 4.4.3 bug fixes on board. And while some manufacturers have been delivering updates to older devices, Samsung, the world’s largest Android manufacturer, has remained relatively silent.

The Samsung Galaxy Android 4.4.4 KitKat and Android 4.4.3 KitKat situation has gotten interesting over the past month. It started when Vodafone Australia revealed a plan to roll out a Galaxy S5 Android 4.4.3 KitKat update. Shortly after that, Samsung announced the all new Galaxy Alpha with Android 4.4.4 KitKat on board. And then recently, we saw the Android 4.4.4 KitKat update for the Galaxy S5 LTE-A emerge ahead of its arrival.

Today, we’ve spotted another Galaxy S5 Android 4.4.4 KitKat update, this one at Australian carrier Optus, a carrier known for releasing Android update information well ahead of time. The carrier says that a Galaxy S5 Android 4.4.4 KitKat update has been approved and that Samsung will release it in the coming days.

The carrier does not offer any specific release details nor does it reveal what’s on board this supposed Galaxy S5 Android 4.4.4 KitKat update. It only suggests that it’s coming at some point in the near future. It’s important to note that the carrier does make the distinction between different versions of Android 4.4 KitKat so this does not appear to be a typo.

This Galaxy S5 update extremely interesting given Vodafone Australia’s current plans and given that we simply haven’t seen any other carriers confirm a Galaxy S5 Android 4.4.4 KitKat for arrival. Again, Optus is typically ahead of the curve when it comes to announcements so it’s possible that we’re still a little ways away from its arrival.

If the Galaxy S5 does get Android 4.4.4 KitKat, it won’t be the only Galaxy device running Google’s new software. The new Samsung Galaxy Alpha, set to arrive in September, will be running it out of the box and the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 is expected to run either Android 4.4.3 KitKat or Android 4.4.4 KitKat. Both updates have been spotted in benchmarks for the upcoming flagship though it’s not clear which it will run.

The Samsung Galaxy Note 4 launch date is set for September 3rd and it’s there that we could potentially hear more about Android 4.4.3 KitKat or Android 4.4.4 KitKat for older phones. In the past, Samsung has used the stage to announce its software upgrade plans. Last year, for instance, it announced its Android 4.3 Jelly Bean plans during its Galaxy Note 3 announcement.

Android 4.4.4 KitKat and Android 4.4.3 KitKat aren't the only Android updates Samsung is neglecting. The company still hasn't revealed any details about the Android L update, the Android 4.4 KitKat replacement that’s rumored to be coming out sometime later this year. Android L is available in beta form right now but the popular update still doesn't have a concrete release date.

Samsung typically offers two years of software support which means that phones like the Galaxy S5, Galaxy S4, and Galaxy Note 3 should all get Android L updates down the road.