source - Microsoft

The Samsung Galaxy S II Plus devices in Germany are reportedly receiving the Android 4.2.2 software update. This is a little strange considering that the global versions of Samsung Galaxy S III and the Samsung Galaxy Note II are still left on the Android 4.1.2 software version.

You can get the update doesn't seem to be available OTA, instead you will be required to connect your Galaxy S II Plus to Samsung Kies on your computer.

The Galaxy S II Plus update will include lock-screen widgets, the Daydream screensaver and other performance improvements and enhancements. Samsung will also include some Samsung Galaxy S4 features on the device to keep in feeling modern.


Its not clear why Samsung chose the less popular Galaxy S II Plus as the first recipient of Android 4.2 Jelly Bean but it is likely the want to test the update on a smaller group of devices before they roll it out to more popular handsets.

It has also been rumored that Samsung plans to skip the Android 4.2 update for the flagship devices in favor of the new Android 4.3 Jelly Bean, which was announced last week. Meanwhile the Samsung Galaxy S II and its variants which run somewhat outdated hardware will have Android 4.2 as their final update.

The update is expected to hit the Samsung Galaxy S II Plus in other countries soon.


source: Android Authority

The Samsung Galaxy S II for T-Mobile (SGH-T989) was released in April 2011, with Android 2.3 Gingerbread.  Last June the device was updated to Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich and now its getting set to receive a new update in the form of Android 4.1.2.

The Android 4.1 Jelly Bean update will include the Samsung's Nature UX  Touchwiz interface which is currently available to Samsung Galaxy S III and Samsung Galaxy Note II users.

The update will also include the other improvements you would expect from Jelly Bean, like the performance improvements of Project Butter, the Google Now digital assistant which shows card based information on all your interests and the actionable notifications which allows you to respond to a missed call, or an email, directly from the notification shade itself.

Users will also get features like Samsung's Pop-up Play which is a multi-tasking enhancement which allows you to move a video that you are watching over the screen while viewing a different app. Smart Stay which keeps your display switched on while you are reading content by monitoring your eyes using the front facing camera. You will also get improvements to the device camera, an updated lock-screen with customization options, new widgets from the Galaxy S III and two home screen modes.

As it is common with Android updates it maybe awhile before this one reaches all handsets, so give it a day or two before you look out for the (OTA) over-the-air update notification  Once you do receive the notification you can initiate downloading and installing the update. You can also manually check for the update under Settings or by connecting your smartphone to Samsung Kies.

Make sure you are connected to Wi-Fi to avoid data charges and ensure your battery is fully charged before initiating the update.


source - SamMobile

The Samsung Galaxy S II has started receiving the Android 4.1 Jelly Bean software update. We first saw the update roll-out to devices in Spain back in January. Then earlier in March Samsung started updating the GT-I9100G version of the Galaxy S II, which features the processor from Texas Instruments.

Now the update is rolling out for the Galaxy S II, GT-I9100P which is powered by Samsung’s Exynos 4210 processor.

The Galaxy S II which was initially launched with Android 2.3 Gingerbread will now get the brand new Nature UX TouchWiz interface which was launched with the Samsung Galaxy S III.

The update is a large one and can be obtained OTA (over-the-air) or by connecting your device to your computer through Samsung Kies.

The update will bring the following new features and improvements to your Galaxy S II:

• Buttery Smooth Performance & Great Stability (Thanks to Project Butter)
• Full User Interface Revamp (Same UI as of the Galaxy S III and Galaxy Note II)
• TouchWiz Nature UX
• Samsung’s S Cloud services
• Improved Camera features
• New Lockscreen With Many Customization Options
• New Features like Direct Call, Smart Stay and Pop-up Play
• New Widgets (From Galaxy S III)
• 2 Home screen modes
• New Notification bar With More Notification Toggles
• Google Now

Official Firmware Details:Android Version: 4.1.2 – Build JZO54K
PDA: I9100PXXLSK
CSC: I9100PTIMLSK
MODEM: I9100PXXLS8


source – SamMobile

The Samsung Galaxy S II for AT&T is receiving a software update. Unfortunately it isn't an Android update as the device will remain on Android 4.0.4 Ice Cream Sandwich. However the update is focused on fixing a bug which has been plaguing AT&T Galaxy S II owners for some time now.




The bug causes the phone to stop responding to input and freeze randomly, which can be quite tiresome. Along with fixing the bug the update also fixes some security issues.

AT&T users would probably prefer to get their hands on Android 4.1 Jelly Bean, which started rolling out Sprint's variant of the Galaxy S II, the Samsung Epic Touch 4G. Even though this isn't the case, an update which improves stability and security is always welcome.


source - AT&T | Android Police

The Android 4.1 Jelly Bean software update for the Samsung Galaxy S II has been around for some time now, but carrier branded models generally face delays due to extended testing. Rogers has been quick testing the Android 4.1.2 build and have released the update for their Samsung Galaxy S II LTE over the Samsung Kies software.

The Rogers version of the Galaxy S II features similar hardware to the international version including a 4.5 inch touch display, 8 megapixel camera, 2 megapixel video call camera, 16GB internal storage, LTE Connectivity and a 1.5GHz dual-core processor with 1GB of RAM.

The update will bring all the great features of Jelly Bean including the performance improvements of Project Butter, the Google Now digital assistant and Samsung’s new Nature UX interface. Your will also be treated to new features like Smart Stay, Direct Call and more.

Have you updated your device yet? Leave us a comment on your update experience.


source – Samsung Updates | Android Police

The Samsung Galaxy S II is now receiving the Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean software update. The ROM was actually leaked back in November, indicating that the update cant be far behind. It looks like it is now finally making its way to users starting its roll-out in Spain.

As you would expect the update will bring the latest features and security improvements of Android 4.1.2 including Google Now and the performance improvements and smoothness offered by Project Butter.


Additionally users will also have access to the new TouchWiz Nature UI which debuted on the Samsung Galaxy S III last year. Until now users have remained on the traditional TouchWiz UI which is much less appealing, and it is nice to see that Samsung has ported their latest software to even a considerably older device.

The update also introduces some cool features like Smart Stay which allows the front facing camera to detect if you are looking at the screen in order to determine if the handset should be allowed to go into sleep mode. This is a very useful feature when you are reading off your display.

Do you own a Samsung Galaxy S II? Leave us a comment if you have received the latest Android 4.1 Jelly Bean software  update, and let us know about the new features



source - SammyHub

source – Samsung | SamMobile | Engadget

If you own a Samsung Galaxy S II, you will waiting eagerly for the Android 4.1.2 software update to arrive for your device. However it seems like the update has has already started making unofficial rounds, ahead of its launch. The leaked update shows several new enhancements on top of what you will expect on Android Jelly Bean.

The update is based on a test Samsung I9100XXLSJ firmware, but it looks to be stable. It looks like the final version of the update will not be very far from this leaked version.


The update brings the performance improvements you would expect from Project Butter, Google Now along with other features from Jelly Bean. You also get an updated version of TouchWiz with Direct Call, AllShare Play, notification bar enhancements, S-Cloud, Pop Up Play and more.

There is no indication of the availability of the multi-window mode which will be available on the Android 4.1.2 update for the Samsung Galaxy Note II and the Samsung Galaxy S III. Its likely it wont be made available for the Galaxy S II because of its smaller screen size.

For instructions on how to install the leaked Android 4.1.2 ROM on yoru Samsung Galaxy S II, head over to the source link


source – XDA Developers

The Samsung Galaxy S II is now receiving Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich. The update brings several bug fixes and performance improvements to ICS and is currently only available for the international model.

You can download the Android 4.0.4 update OTA or through the Samsung Kies software.



We hope the quick updates are an indication that manufacturers like Samsung are readying Android 4.1 Jelly Bean for their devices.


source – SamMobile

The Samsung Galaxy S II Skyrocket is now receiving the Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich software update. The Skyrocket follows the Samsung Galaxy S II for AT&T which received the update not too long ago.

The update which will take your software to version i727UCLf6 is unfortunately not being offered OTA (Over-the-air) and will require users to connect and update their devices using Samsung Kies.

For those who don't know the Galaxy S II Skyrocket is a variant of the Galaxy S II for AT&T which features a larger 4.52 inch display and a faster 1.5GHz dual-core processor.

If you are an owner of the Galaxy S II Skyrocket and have recently updated your device, please share your update experience with us in the following comments section.


source – XDA Developers

The Samsung Galaxy S II is undoubtedly one of the most popular Android devices, and it was one of the first in line to be treated to Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich. While the ICS update brought Android 4.0.3 to the Galaxy S II it looks like the device may be ready to receive an even newer version – Android 4.0.4

While everyone is probably more interested in Android 4.1 Jelly Bean, I am sure Galaxy S II users will be happy with the 4.0.4 which brings some performance improvements and updates.

The update is currently just starting to make its rounds and has appeared on the international variant (GT-i900) of the Galaxy S II in Russia. The new update is not being offered OTA (over-the-air) just yet, and instead requires users to download it through Samsung Kies.

We expect the update to eventually make its way to the carrier models around the world after the unlocked versions of the Galaxy S II get their share of it.

source – Samsung Hub

With several manufacturers providing the Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich update for their devices, it is now time for the carriers in the U.S. to start pushing ICS to their customers.

AT&T has stepped forward and released a list of their phones and tablets will be receiving the ICS update.



The HTC Vivid is the first in line for ICS and is already receiving the Android 4.0 update.
Other AT&T devices which will receive Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich are:

• LG Nitro HD
• Motorola Atrix 2
• Motorola Atrix 4G
• Pantech Burst
• Pantech Element
• Samsung Captivate Glide
• Samsung Galaxy Note
• Samsung Galaxy S II
• Samsung Galaxy S II Skyrocket
• Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9

One of the devices we were disappointed to see missing was the HTC Inspire 4G which we recently reviewed. Its International variant – the HTC Desire HD is in line for ICS and there is no reason why this one should be ineligible. Another device which has the hardware but has been left out of the ICS update list is the Samsung Infuse.

PRESS RELEASE

ANDROID 4.0 NOW AVAILABLE TO HTC VIVID™ CUSTOMERS
AT&T the First U.S. Carrier to Issue Latest Android Version via Upgrade Update Includes Beats By Dr. Dre Audio™ and Updated HTC Sense™ Experience Android Upgrades for Several AT&T Devices to Follow
Dallas, Texas, March 22, 2012
AT&T today announced the availability of Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) for HTC Vivid™ customers. After installing the software update, customers can now enjoy the optimized audio experience of Beats by Dr. Dre Audio™ and new and improved HTC Sense™ experience. Information about these features and more can be found at http://www.att.com/vividupdate. HTC Vivid™ will be the first U.S. smartphone to receive Ice Cream Sandwich as an update and the first to be issued by a wireless carrier. It will be followed by several other AT&T devices in the coming months:

* LG Nitro Motorola
*  ATRIX 2 Motorola
*  ATRIX 4G Pantech
*  Burst Pantech Element
*  Samsung Captivate Glide
*  Samsung Galaxy Note
*  Samsung Galaxy S II
*  Samsung Galaxy S II Skyrocket
*  Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9

Focused on bringing the power of Android to the surface, Android 4.0 makes common actions more visible and lets you navigate with simple, intuitive gestures. Refined animations and feedback throughout the system make interactions engaging and interesting. An entirely new typeface optimized for high-resolution screens improves readability and brings a polished, modern feel to the user interface.

New User Features for HTC Vivid
Beats By Dr. Dre Audio™ - Enhance your music and video experience with Beats By Dr. Dre Audio. Whenever a media file is played using the media players or most third party applications, customers will experience richer, more authenic sound. AT&T recently debuted the Beats™ by Dr. Dre™ Beatbox Portable high performance wireless audio system. The superior portable system and Beats accessories are available at AT&T company-owned stores or online.
Face Unlock - Android 4.0 introduces a completely new approach to securing a device, making each person's device even more personal — Face Unlock is a new screen-lock option that lets you unlock your device using facial recognition. It takes advantage of the device’s front-facing camera and state-of-the-art facial recognition technology to register a face during setup and then to recognize it again when unlocking the device. Just hold your device in front of your face to unlock, or use a backup PIN or pattern.

How to Upgrade
Beginning today, customers can download the update via Wi-Fi by visiting http://www.att.com/vividupdate. If Wi-Fi is not available, you can download the software upgrade to a PC and install it via sideload. On March 23, HTC Vivid customers who have not downloaded the upgrade will begin receiving an SMS notification of upgrade availability.
*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

About AT&T
AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) is a premier communications holding company and one of the most honored companies in the world. Its subsidiaries and affiliates – AT&T operating companies – are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation’s fastest mobile broadband network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet, voice and cloud-based services. A leader in mobile broadband and emerging 4G capabilities, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide of any U.S. carrier, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse® and AT&T |DIRECTV brands. The company’s suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world. In domestic markets, AT&T Advertising Solutions and AT&T Interactive are known for their leadership in local search and advertising.

The Android 4.1 Jelly Bean update is set roll out in July for Nexus devices, and will hopefully be available through other manufacturers soon after. Meanwhile developers are hard at work porting Jelly Bean over to popular modern handsets, and the Samsung Galaxy S II is one of the devices to get a taste of things to come from Android 4.1

The Galaxy S II features up to 16GB of internal memory which can be expanded through microSD, an 8 megapixel camera capable of 1080p HD video recording, an additional 2 megapixel camera for video calls and is powered by a 1.2 GHz dual-core processor with 1GB of RAM. 

The Samsung Galaxy S II for AT&T is receiving the Android 4.0.3 Ice Cream Sandwich (ICS) update again through the Samsung Kies software. The update was previously released for the AT&T device and subsequently removed citing that it hadn't been properly tested.




Now users are reporting that the update is once again available. However Samsung has still to make an OTA (Over-the-air) update available and any use who wants to savor ICS will have to update the old fashion way – through USB.

Hopefully the OTA update will be available soon.


source – AndroidPolice

The Samsung Galaxy S II for T-Mobile will be treated to Android 4.0.3 Ice Cream Sandwich starting tonight. The GS II for T-Mobile features a larger 4.52 inch Super AMOLED touch display, 8 megapixel camera which is capable of capturing 1080p HD video, 16GB of internal storage and is powered by a 1.2GHz dual-core processor with 1GB of RAM.

The update will begin rolling out to devices starting 11PM Eastern (8PM Pacific) and will offer all the latest features and improvements you can expect in the latest version of Android.

Remember that once you receive the notification your battery will need to have at least 50% of power on your Galaxy S II before you download the ICS update.

We will update this post with the ICS change-log when it is made available through Samsung or T-Mobile. Meanwhile be sure to share your update experiences with us

With the Samsung Galaxy S III for T-Mobile just around the corner, are you looking to upgrade? Or are you happy with your Galaxy S II? Let us know the comments section below.


source : T-Mobile

The Samsung Galaxy S II for T-Mobile will be receiving Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich (ICS) starting June 11th. This will make the T-Mobile variant the first in the U.S. to receive ICS since the International variant which revived the software update back in April.

T-Mobile made the announcement of the upcoming update through their Facebook Page. Users are advised to connect their devices to the Samsung Kies software in order to update their devices.

With no news on when the AT&T or Sprint variants of the device will be getting their share of ICS, it looks like T-Mobile users will have the advantage for now.


source : T-Mobile

It turns out that the wait for Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich in the U.S. may finally be coming to an end as some users of the unlocked Samsung Galaxy S II have reported that they have received notifications of ICS availability for their devices.

Before readers get too excited about this news, we want to iterate that the update is making it’s way to the international unlocked, non carrier branded versions of the devices.



ICS has already made it’s debut for the Galaxy S II in several countries in Europe back in March. While the phone is quite popular among U.S. carriers it has not made it to U.S. soil until now. While the carrier versions are still to be released, the fact that it is available for the unlocked variants gives us hope that we won't have to wait too long for wider availability.

The update will be notified for users Over the Air and you can manually check for the update manually under Settings.


source - Engadget

We recently published a guide on how to install Android 4.0.3 on the Samsung Galaxy S II (i9100) in UK and Australia. If you own one of these devices and have recently updated you can use the following guide on how to root your Samsung Galaxy S II on Android 4.0.3 ICS.


[DISCLAIMER] This site nor the developers of the root process will not take responsibility for any loss of data or device malfunction which may occur from following this guide and rooting your device. Please do not proceed unless you are well aware of the risks.

1. Download the required kernel file for your Galaxy S II
   • Download CF-Root v5.4 LP7 : Base firmware I9100XWLP7 (UK, Eire)
   • Download CF-Root v5.4 LP7 : Base firmware I9100XWLP8 (Aus) [works with LP8]
     -
2. Extract the downloaded zip file.
   -
3. Disconnect your device from the computer if it is connected.
   -
4. Locate Odin (in the CF-Root package) and launch it by double clicking on the .exe file.
   -
5. Press Volume Up + Volume Down buttons and connect your device to your computer.
   • Keep holding until you see a Download Mode screen.
     -
6. Wait for ODIN to detect your device
   -
7. Click PDA and Select CF-Root-SGS2_*-v5.3-CWM5.tar which you downloaded in step 1-
8. Click Start.

Your Samsung Galaxy S II (I9100) has now been rooted on Android 4.0.3 ICS

The Samsung Galaxy S II is undoubtedly one of the more popular Android handsets out there. So everyone who owns one is more than eager to get their hands on the latest version of Android on their device.

The following guide will show you how to install Android 4.0.3 Ice Cream Sandwich (ICS) on your Samsung Galaxy S II (i9100) for UK and Australia.

[DISCLAIMER] This site nor the developers of the root process will not take responsibility for any loss of data or device malfunction which may occur from following this guide and rooting your device. Please do not proceed unless you are well aware of the risks.

1. Download the zip file for your specific version of the device
   
   • Download I9100XWLP7 for UK and Ireland
   • Download I9100XWLP8 for Australia
     -
2. Extract the downloaded file
   -
3. Open ODIN which will be in the extracted firmware folder.
   -
4. Go to Settings > Applications on your device and enable ‘USB Debugging’
   -
5. Press Home + Volume Up + Power to place your device in recovery mode.
   -
6. Select wipe data / factory reset
   
   • Go to advanced and select wipe cache.
     -
7. Remove the battery from your device and put it back in.
   -
8. Press Power + Volume Down + Home to place your device in Download Mode.
   -
9. Wait for ODIN to detect your device.
   -
10. Click PDA and then navigate to the extracted folder which contains the downloaded firmware files and locate and select the file which ends with the .tar.md5 extension.
    -
11. Click Start.

Once the process is completed your Samsung Galaxy S II will be running the official Android 4.0.3 ICS.