Samsung isn’t expected to upgrade the Galaxy S4 to Android 4.4 KitKat until next month at the earliest, but if you can’t wait that long, a newly leaked test build will let you make the jump to Android 4.4.2 today. The firmware comes to us courtesy of SamMobile, which also offers up a detailed set of instructions on how to manually update your smartphone.
Unlike previous test builds, this one appears to be stable according to SamMobile, and apparently won’t turn your smartphone into a buggy mess. The update comes with a slight makeover for Samsung’s custom UI, most noticeably changing status bar icons from green to white, as well as new a transparent status bar and an improved keyboard for landscape orientation. For the most part, however, it still looks like standard TouchWiz.
Under the hood, however, your Galaxy S4 should see some noticeable improvements. Thanks to Android 4.4’s focus on using up less memory, your device will likely run faster and perform better than it did with Jelly Bean. SamMobile says a benchmark test confirmed a slight bump in speed, too.
Overall it doesn’t sound like upgrading to KitKat will revolutionize your Galaxy S4, but if you can’t wait head to the source link below for instructions. Of course, there’s danger with this type of unofficial upgrade so proceed and your own risk, and make sure to backup your phone first before you do.
Disguise your little one with the help of a themed costume
From avocado halves to hoppy bunnies, costumes speak to every child's unique spirit. And we've collected our favorite options.
Add magic to your living space with these string lights
String lights add personality and soft light to your living space. Here are some of the best.
The Galaxy S20 Ultra's Space Zoom camera is amazing and a bit creepy
The Galaxy S20 Ultra supports up to 100X zoom, which Samsung calls Space Zoom, but is it any good? Can a phone really product usable photos at 100x zoom? We've got our Galaxy S20 Ultra already so join us to find out!
Splash and crash at the beach or pool with these fun one piece designs
Bikinis are great, but one piece swimsuits are better. These singular designs take H2O to the next level with cutouts, playful patterns, and eye-catching necklines.