Many users are waiting for the arrival of Android 4.3 for your Samsung Galaxy S4 (which is normal since the Note 3 is launched with this installed). Well, it seems that this will not take long to occur as it shows that a couple of screen images have been leaked with this combination of operating system and phone.
Therefore, the reference terminal will match the main software it uses. phablet Notes 3 presented not long ago in Berlin. Furthermore, this confirms what the company stated at the event, that the Android 4.3 versions for the Samsung Galaxy S4 and S3 would arrive roughly a month after the Note 3. In other words, everything points to the fact that they'll deliver, which is always a nice touch.
As you can see in the images that we leave below, the version of the corresponding baseband is the XXUBMA8 and the model in which it is working is the terminal that includes the octa-core Exynos processor (it should not be forgotten that in Spain the one that uses a Qualcomm SoC). The other screenshot shows what the Samsung Galaxy S4 desktop will look like.
The arrival of Android 4.3 is highly anticipated by users (even more so knowing that the 4.4 KitKat is not far from being a reality). This new version of Jelly Bean is not really a very important leap, so cannot be considered as a major update, but it is true that it includes some interesting options, such as compatibility with OpenGL 3.0, constant WiFi scanning for location reports and, also, the possibility of using the Galaxy Gear smartwatch.
Still no exact date is known for the update to arrive on the Samsung Galaxy S4, but the truth is that thanks to the screenshots we left in this article, it doesn't seem like we'll have to wait long to get it. Let's hope the Galaxy S3 suffers the same fate. In any case, Samsung has already indicated that would start updating their smartphones shortly after the launch of the Note 3.
What the leaks confirm and for which variants
The leaked screenshots point to an Android 4.3 build identified as XXUBMA8 running on a Galaxy S4 i9500 (Exynos octa-core). In parallel, a compilation of tests identified as JWR66N oriented to Google edition of the S4; this first build is not functional on the original S4 with Samsung's interface, but the community released a operating port for the model with Snapdragon 600 (i9505), which is sold in many local markets. For those looking for a similar experience to the Google Edition, there are guides and resources such as Make your Galaxy S4 look like a Google Edition.
It is important to emphasize that these preliminary compilations are intended to developers and advanced users: Being Stock software, they do not integrate all the improvements of TouchWiz and may have limitations in functions such as infrared. Still, reports agree that the system is stable and smoother than previous versions; in fact, the community is already sharing methods for installing ROMs such as CarbonROM ADXL Edition in S4.
What's new in Android 4.3 on the Galaxy S4
Although this is a minor update, it does incorporate significant changes. At the platform level, OpenGL ES 3.0 for more advanced graphics in games and apps, and the permanent WiFi scanning to improve location accuracy even when the connection is disabled. In addition, the Galaxy Gear compatibility, extending the manufacturer's wearable ecosystem.
In the Samsung software section, test builds for the S4 (i9505) include as standard Samsung Knox y SamsungWallet, reading mode accessible from the quick settings, full screen navigation by default, a refurbished keyboard and minor interface tweaks. Several users also point out better color reproduction y sharper text onscreen.
Under the hood, the changes focus on performance and stability: lower latency in transitions, better management of the RAM and reduced lag in everyday tasks. These are subtle but noticeable improvements that round out the S4 experience.
Deployment, installation methods and warnings
At the Unpacked event, Samsung announced that Galaxy S4 and Galaxy S3 would receive Android 4.3 shortly after the Note 3. The official route will arrive through OTA y Samsung Kies, by batch and region. In parallel, some test firmwares for the European GT‑I9505 can be installed with Odin, while Stock builds for the Google Edition require root and custom recovery for its port.
If you decide to try a leaked build, keep in mind that may void the warranty, involves risks and does not represent the final software. For most users, the best practice is wait for official notification on the device.
Without a date set by the brand, the leaked screenshots and firmware are a clear sign that Android 4.3 for the Galaxy S4 is very advanced. Everything indicates that we won't have to wait too long and, with luck, the Galaxy S3 will follow the same path in the near future.
