When Amazon first released the Fire Phone, it knew it was taking a gamble, but given the company’s success with tablets and e-readers, it would be unwise to write them off with smartphones just yet. Amazon still actively pushes enhancements to its first generation Fire Phone, and the most recent update brings the Android based Fire OS to version 4.6.1 based on Android 4.4 KitKat.

The latest enhanced features include Bluetooth LE support, the ability to change the wallpaper of the home screen, color emojis for the Amazon keyboard, and the ability to print from your phone - All features Android KitKat users have been enjoying for some time now.

Fire OS 4.6.1 also offers some business oriented features, most notably support for secure Wi-Fi networks and AES-256 bit hardware encryption. Amazon cites "dozens" of "other bug fixes and user interface improvements."

The Fire Phone was released last year, featuring a 4.7 inch 720p HD touch display, up to 64GB of internal storage, a 13MP rear camera, a 2.1MP front camera and a 2.2GHz quad-core Snapdragon 800 processor with 2GB of RAM. While Amazon will likely deliver a more impressive successor this year, the original is now being sold at a "fire sale" price of only $189 for the 32GB SIM-unlocked model. This includes a year of Amazon Prime, which itself is worth $99.

Asus is currently rolling out the Android 4.4 KitKat software update to its ZenFone series. This means anyone who owns an Asus ZenFone 5 or Asus ZoneFone 4 will be eligible to receive the latest version of Android.

The Asus ZenFone 6 is also being updated, but it isn't getting the bump to KitKat just yet. For now ZenFone 6 users will have to be content with some system stability improvements. We reckon the largest member of the ZenFone family will soon join its siblings in the world of KitKat.

With Android 4.4 KitKat, the ZenFone 4 and ZenFone 5 will receive improvements to Miracast's compatibility and some new functions, such as a Do Not Disturb Mode; Call Guard (Chinese and Taiwanese models only); full dual SIM standby (for dual SIM models); filter effects for videos; and "Reply via Call-in SIM card " - a function that will, supposedly, automatically pick the right SIM card to make the call with, though, not much information is given.

Asus warns that downloading the incorrect firmware for your device may cause a system failure. To check the exact model number of their ZenFone, one must go to Settings -> About -> Model number. You can download the proper firmware for your device from the linked page in the source below.

Download Android 4.4 KitKat for Asus ZenFone 4 and Asus ZenFone 5

The Sony Xperia T, Xperia TX and the Xperia V were updated to Android 4.3 Jelly Bean way back in February, and owners had some hope that their handsets would get one more update to the realm of Android 4.4 KitKat. Especially since Sony reportedly was "investigating" the possibility of bringing the newer version of Android to the handset. Unfortunately it looks like the trio will not be updated past Jelly Bean.

All three handsets were originally launched with Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, and have since received their fair share of software updates over the years. So it makes sense that Sony would eventually want to retire the trio, given that all three handsets have aged and were not really flagship smartphones to begin with.

Sony has setup individual product pages for each of the three devices, and have reported that Android 4.3 Jelly Bean will the final software version on the three handsets. Of course users can still look out for likely custom ROMs for their beloved handsets from other sources.

The Samsung Galaxy S4 mini for AT&T is now receiving the Android 4.4 KitKat software update. The new software updates the Android version from 4.2.2 up to Android 4.4.2 and brings the I257UCU2BNG4 build number. We've already seen Android 4.4.2 arrive on Verizon, Sprint, and US Cellular variants of the device, so it's about time for AT&T customers to get the same experience.

With Android KitKat, you will be getting several new features and improvements, including the white notification bar icons, a larger selection of emoji, new wireless printing options, and consolidated location settings. The media controls on the lock screen are different, and there's a camera shortcut tucked away there as well. Additionally, you should also be getting several enhancements from Samsung to their apps and their TouchWiz custom user interface for Android.

The update is available OTA (over-the-air) and is being rolled out in stages so you may not see the update immediately. In fact, according to Samsung's support page, the update was launched sometime last week. So if you are a Galaxy S4 mini customer on AT&T look out for the update notification or check for it manually under Settings.

source - Samsung

The Sony Xperia M2 is now receiving the Android 4.4 KitKat software update. The new software brings Android 4.4.2 along with several improvements from Sony. Among the improvements you will receive a new home launcher, new themes, new Sony Media apps and the new Quick Settings feature. The Sony social camera app receives the Portrait ReTouch capability, and there is a new boot-up animation.

Those with the single SIM version is currently receiving the update in regions like Russia, Singapore, Thailand, and France. However please note that the update requires users to download and install the Sony PC Companion as it is not available OTA (over-the-air) at this time. The LTE (D2303) model is receiving the 18.3.C.0.37 firmware version, while the HSPA+ (D2305) model is receiving the 18.3.A.0.31 firmware version. Currently the update is not available for the Dual SIM version of the device.

The Sony Xperia M2 is a mid-range Android smartphone which features a 4.8 inch touch display, 8GB of internal storage which can be expanded through microSD, an 8MP rear camera, a secondary camera for video calls, a 2300mAh battery and a 1.2GHz quad-core Snapdragon 400 processor with 1GB of RAM and Adreno 305 graphics.

source - PhoneArena

The Asus PadFone Infinity (A80) is now receiving the Android 4.4 KitKat software update, alongside the Asus Fonepad Note 6. The new software brings all the enhancements you would expect from KitKat along with several changes from Asus. The detailed changelog follows after the break.

Asus has provided the download files along with instructions on how to install the update. To get the update on your device, simply follow the source link below to the official Asus website. Just make sure you download the correct version for your device.

The Asus FonePad Note 6 is now receiving the Android 4.4 KitKat software update alongside the Asus Padfone Infinity. The new software brings all the enhancements you would expect from KitKat along with several changes from Asus. The detailed change-log follows after the break.

The Sony Xperia E1 and the Sony Xperia E1 Dual are now receiving the Android 4.4 KitKat software update. The update brings the usual new features and enhancements you would expect from Android KitKat along with some of Sony's own customizations and apps. In fact it is the same new software which was recently made available for the Xperia T2 Ulta.

Among the improvements, you will find a tweaked status bar, revisions to quick settings, a theme that matches that of the PlayStation 4, and an improved ability to move files from internal memory to a micro SD card. The details changelog for the update is as follows:

source - Sony Mobile

The Sony Xperia Z1s for T-Mobile (C6916) is now receiving the Android 4.4.4 software update. With the update you will get all the enhancements Android 4.4 KitKat has to offer, including the transparent navigation bar, white icons in the status bar, improvements to the Quick Settings feature, a customized Xperia keyboard, new boot animations, and compatibility with the Sony SmartBand SWR10 and the Lifelog app.

The Sony Xperia Z1s is a variant of the Sony Xperia Z1, which adds some minor cosmetic modifications. Its specs include a 5 inch touch display with a full (1080p) HD resolution, 16GB of internal storage which can be expanded through microSD, a 20 megapixel camera capable of 1080p HD video capture, a secondary 2 megapixel camera for video calls and is powered by a 2.2GHz quad-core Snapdragon 800 processor with 2GB of RAM. The phone also is IP58 certified for protection against dust and water, allowing it to survive a submersion to as deep as 5 feet of water for as long as 30 minutes. The Xperia Z1s was first launched with Android 4.3 Jelly Bean, out of the box.

The KitKat update is being sent out over-the-air (OTA) to the Xperia Z1s, so it maybe a couple of days before the update is available for your device. Once you receive the update notification, make sure you are connected to Wi-Fi and that your battery is fully charged before you download and install the new software.

The LG G Pad 8.3 on Verizon's network is now receiving the Android 4.4 KitKat software update. The update which is being pushed out OTA (over-the-air) brings Android 4.4.2 along with several improvements to LG's custom user interface for Android.

Along with the usual changes to the user interface and the underlying system, the update brings access to the Knock Code lock screen replacement found on other LG devices. Other than that, Verizon is highlighting Immersive Mode, multi-user access, and print services. At least one of our readers has found that the "OK Google" command in the Google Now launcher can be issued from any app (which, unfortunately, isn't a given). A few bugs surrounding the SIM card, the music app, and various connections have been addressed.

The update will be rolled out in phases, so it may be a few days before it is available on your device. You can manually check for the update availability under Settings. Those who are rooted are advised to return to the stock version of Android before installing this update.

The Samsung Galaxy Note II for US Cellular is now receiving the Android 4.4 KitKat software update. The new update its being pushed out to compatible devices OTA (over-the-air) and brings Android 4.4.2 along with the R950VXUCNE2 build version.

We have already seen this KitKat software update rolled out to Sprint  and Verizon customers, so its nice to see that US Cellular wasn't too far behind.

The Android 4.4.2 update for the Galaxy Note II will bring all the new features and improvements expected from KitKat including the updated icons and user interface. You will also get some enhancements to Samsung TouchWiz along with support for the Gear 2 smart watches and Knox 2.0 support.

If you notice any new enhancements you will like to share with us, feel free to do so in the following comments section.



source - US Cellular

The Samsung Galaxy S4 LTE-A is a variant of the regular Samsung Galaxy S4, which features a faster Snapdragon 800 processor and support for LTE Cat. 4 networks. The South Korean variant which was released last summer was one of the first to receive the Android 4.4 KitKat update from the manufacturer. Now the Android 4.4.2 update is rolling out to the international version (GT-I9506) of the device.

The update comes five months after the South Korean version received KitKat. Users who had the international model were previously on Android 4.2 Jelly Bean, before receiving the above mentioned KitKat update..

The new software brings the XXUCNG3 build number, and has been seen by users in the Nordic region, in  countries like Sweden and Finland. The update brings the white icons to the phone's status bar, a new lock screen with a shortcut to the camera, support for wireless printing, full-screen album art, newer versions of Samsung apps, improved battery life and an overall better performance for the phone.

Since the update is coming OTA, it is being sent out in phases. This means you wont likely get the update on the first day, and it maybe a few days before it is available for your device. If you don't like waiting for the OTA update notification, you can try manually checking for the update under Settings.


source - Android Authority

The Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom (SM-C101) is now receiving the Android 4.4 KitKat software update. The new software brings Android 4.4.2 and the C101XXUBNF4 build number along with several new features and improvements you will expect with KitKat.

Most notably users will notice improved performance and updated visuals, including a redesigned, transparent status bar, the use of white icons and more. Other improvements include wireless printing support and a revamped lockscreen.

The KitKat update has already started rolling out over-the-air in certain regions of the world, so it will probably be landing on your Galaxy S4 Zoom soon. Keep in mind that such updates are rolled out in waves, so it maybe awhile before it reaches your device. Meanwhile, you can manually check for the update by heading to Settings > About device > Software update and you may be in for some luck. If you are an experienced Android user, consider following the source link to manually download and flash the firmware file on your device.

The Galaxy S4 Zoom has since been succeeded by the Samsung K Zoom. While this software update brings the older device in par with its newer sibling, it is not known whether you will gain access to the novel camera features introduced on the K Zoom. Drop us a comment below and let us know about your experience.

source - SamMobile

The Asus PadFone 2 is now receiving the Android 4.4 KitKat update which should bring several new features and improvements to the phone-tablet combo. The PadFone 2 last received an update in December 2012, when it received Android 4.1 Jelly Bean after being released with Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich.

Its not everyday we come across a device which jumps all the way to Android 4.4 from Android 4.1, but its good to see that Asus still cares about the PadFone 2.

Anyone who is planning to update their device should note that you will have to backup your user data using the ASUS PC Tool. This tool will also have to be used to install the update as it wont be pushed OTA (over-the-air). Installing the update will  reset your device like it came fresh off the factory. Once you have backed and download the upgrade guide from the Asus website, for  instructions to install the 950MB update.

You will have to make sure you download the correct firmware for your locale, so check your build number on your device before downloading the update. To check which build you need, go to Settings > About PadFone > Build number, and look at the XX_PadFone-11.X.X.X line. It should tell you which version to download and install.

source - Asus | Android Police

img source: +Rob Mey

The Samsung Galaxy Mega for US Cellular is now receiving the Android 4.4 KitKat software update. Unfortunately, this is KitKat 4.4.2, not the more recent 4.4.3 or 4.4.4, but most users won't be able to spot the difference. The update is available both OTA (over-the-air) and through the Samsung Kies software, and users are free to download it in a way that suits them best.

There are not many details on what users should expect from the update, but you will be receiving all the enhancements you can expect from KitKat including the white notification bar icons, a larger selection of emoji, new wireless printing options, and consolidated location settings. The media controls on the lock screen are different, and there's a camera shortcut tucked away there as well. Additionally, you should also be getting several enhancements from Samsung to their apps and their TouchWiz custom user interface for Android.

Users are advised to revert to a stock version of the software before installing the update if they have a modded device. Also, make sure that your battery is fully charged and that you are connected to Wi-Fi if you want to avoid unnecessary data charges.

The Samsung Galaxy S4 mini for US Cellular is now receiving the Android 4.4 KitKat software update. Unfortunately, this is KitKat 4.4.2, not the more recent 4.4.3 or 4.4.4, but most users won't be able to spot the difference. According to US Cellular's support page, the updates are available over the air or via Samsung's Kies desktop program.

There are not many details on what users should expect from the update, but you will be receiving all the enhancements you can expect from KitKat including the white notification bar icons, a larger selection of emoji, new wireless printing options, and consolidated location settings. The media controls on the lock screen are different, and there's a camera shortcut tucked away there as well. Additionally, you should also be getting several enhancements from Samsung to their apps and their TouchWiz custom user interface for Android.

The Samsung Galaxy S4 mini for Sprint is now receiving the Android 4.4 KitKat software update. The update which is being rolled out in stages to devices OTA (over-the-air) brings Android 4.4.2 along with the L520VPUBNE3 build number.

With Android KitKat, the Galaxy S4 mini will get all the expected enhancements including the white notification bar icons, a larger selection of emoji, new wireless printing options, and consolidated location settings. The media controls on the lock screen are different, and there's a camera shortcut tucked away there as well.

Since this is a major update, you could expect several other features and enhancements with this update. So its best to experience some of these new features for yourself.




source - Samsung

• Samsung Galaxy Mega for Sprint receives Android 4.4 KitKat
• Samsung Galaxy S4 mini for Verizon receives Android 4.4 KitKat

The Samsung Galaxy Mega for Sprint is now receiving the Android 4.4 KitKat software update. The update which is being rolled out in stages to devices OTA (over-the-air) brings Android 4.4.2 along with the L600VPUANE4 build number.

With Android KitKat, the Galaxy Mega will get all the expected enhancements including the white notification bar icons, a larger selection of emoji, new wireless printing options, and consolidated location settings. The media controls on the lock screen are different, and there's a camera shortcut tucked away there as well.

Since this is a major update, you could expect several other features and enhancements with this update. So its best to experience some of these new features for yourself.

The LG Optimus G Pro for AT&T is now receiving the Android 4.4 KitKat software update, which brings Android 4.4.2 along with the E98020g software version. The update includes an improvement to the battery life, restyled status and navigation bars, a new full-screen mode, support for the Google Cloud printer and enhanced processing speed. 

The update is being sent OTA (over-the-air) and you will receive a notification when it is available for your device. Since the update is being sent out in phases it may be awhile before it reaches all the devices. You can try to pull the update out of your phone by going from Settings > General Tab > About Phone > Software update > Update now.

Once you receive the OTA (over-the-air) update notification, you can following the prompts to install the update. Considering that the update will be 700 to 800MB in size, it is recommended that you connect to Wi-Fi when downloading and installing it to avoid unnecessary costs. Also, make sure that your battery is at least 50% charged.

source - AT&T | Android Police

Sony has begun seeding the Android 4.4 KitKat software update for its previous generation of Xperia devices. Owners of Sony's Xperia Z, Xperia ZL, Xperia ZR and Xperia Tablet Z around the world will be receiving the update very soon. Keep in mind that the update will roll out in phases, so it maybe a few weeks before it reaches all the devices.

The update brings all the new features you will expect from the latest version of KitKat, including a revamped status bar and quick settings, new UI animations and wallpapers, updated Sony multimedia and system apps, compatibility with Sony's latest wearables. The detailed change-log follows:

Once Sony has completed updating the above mentioned devices, the company will focus on bringing KitKat to the Xperia T2 Ultra, Xperia E1 and Xperia M2. These updates are expected to arrive in July.]

source - Sony