Smartphone leader Samsung has reportedly released the new KitKat v4.4.2 update to the company's 2013 flagship phablet Galaxy Note 3 (SM-N9005).
Samsung's dedicated community website SamMobile has confirmed the company has rolled out the latest Android v4.4.2 OS firmware to the Galaxy Note 3 (SM-N9005- LTE variant) in Poland.
The new update (with build number: N9005XXUENA6) can now be downloaded manually via Samsung PC suite Kies. However, the software is yet to be made available through OTA (Over-The-Air).
According to the official change-log available with SamMobile, the new firmware is expected to bring in performance enhancements, shortcut for camera, while Music album has been available at the lock screen for quick access, Emoji icons for text messaging. Also, users can now set default messaging app, new refurbished TouchWiz UI, new Location menu, wireless printing options (with select HP printers), new Quickoffice word document app and more.
[Note: Galaxy Note 3 owners using Galaxy Gear Manager app need to upgrade to the latest version -1.6, in order to get new v4.4.2 KitKat update, then they will be able use the new email applications].
Since the new OS update is rolled out in phases, it will take some time (few days or weeks) for it to be made available globally.
Here is a brief description of key features of Android v4.4 KitKat OS update:
Improved Caller-ID: If a caller receives a call from unknown number, the phone will look for matches on the net with local listings via Google Maps.
Priority Contacts: The new OS empowers the phone to automatically prioritise contact list for easy access, based on the frequency of the peoples' contacts to which users talk.
Immersive display: To enhancethe entertainment factor, the new OS comes with immersive mode, where the status bar and navigation buttons disappear in to the back ground while you play music, games and read e-books. Users can just swipe the edge of the screen to bring backtheutility buttons.
Enhanced Message grouping: Google has brought in some improvements to the new Hangouts app; now, users can find all their text SMSs and MMSs, audio and video call details all at one place. He/She can also share location and send animated GIFs.
Emoji Characters: Initially users had to install third party app to use colorful characters in their SMS. Now, with KitKat update, the keypad comes pre-loaded with native Japanese Emoji emotion icons.
NFC and Wireless Printing: Google's new OS comes with improved Quickoffice app where-in people can create and store word documents online as well as print files wirelessly on NFC-enabled HP printers.
Bluetooth MAP (Message Access Profile): This feature enables android devices in cars with Bluetooth support to exchange messages.
Multi-tasking: With efficient memory management, users can multi-task by opening multiple applications; Listen to music while you can browse through the net.
Performance: With low system requirements the new KitKat OS is expected to bring performance enhancements and also increase battery life.
