And no, this is not an update to 4.3 Android Jelly Bean, although it won't take too long, given that the Galaxy Note 3 would arrive with this version. In reality, it is a Firmware update which improves the performance of the system Samsung Galaxy S4. For now, however, the update is available at German, although it might be available in Spain in a matter of hours, or days.
In reality, the update incorporates virtually no changes, even maintaining the same version and with virtually no modifications. However, the truth is that the company claims that it includes stability improvements. If we think about the fact that updates sometimes contain solutions to problems that we didn't even know about, such as some security bugs, then it becomes even more essential to update your smartphone. We don't know exactly what this update entails, but Updating is always a positive thing.
Availability and installation methods

At this moment, it is already available in Germany, although the servers are out of service, so even they will still have to wait to install the update. However, it is only a matter of hours before they can download and install the update. As for Spain, we won't have to wait too long either. Since it is German, a European country, it will most likely also be available in Spain in a matter of days, or even hours. Now, this is the Update for unlocked Samsung Galaxy S4, since the smartphone versions obtained through carriers will still require some more time, as the carriers themselves must adapt the version before it is available.
The update will be available for download by OTA, as well as since Samsung Kies, so it's a good idea to regularly check for updates available for both systems. If they don't appear, you should check Settings > About Device > Software Update, then connect your phone to your computer and check Kies to force a search.
What changes with the new firmware
The Samsung Galaxy S4 is starting to receive a new update. It's not yet the update for Android 4.4, but of a new one Firmware update. At the moment, It is only available for unlocked terminals while those who are operators will still have to wait for it to adapt.
Let's see what it entails this change:
This update represents a change in the base band of the system while the version of the operating system, i.e. Android, remains in the 4.3 Jelly BeanThe update arrives via OTA and we can also force it from the settings menu itself.
The update of some 130 MB takes us to new version I9505XXUEMKF. Among the improvements that stand out, the Samsung Galaxy S4 becomes Compatible with Samsung Galaxy Gear. Additionally, it adds support for OpenGL 3.0 y ANT +, support for TRIM (improves storage performance), Samsung Knox implementation y SamsungWallet.
Improvements are also added, among which the following stand out: RAM memory management improvements, adjustments in the sharper screen and optimizations in TouchWiz, Samsung's interface. A has also been added new Samsung keyboard, reading mode, Samsung Browser renewed and a new camera firmware, in addition to numerous minor fixes.
Stopping by the workshop to keep the S4 at its best
When Samsung introduced the Samsung Galaxy S4 it did so with two different processorsAn eight-core model, which ended up being more prevalent in Korea, and a quad-core model for the rest of the world. Its performance was undeniable, as the analyses have shown.
However, we always want more and Samsung has started to slowly renew its flagship, with the permission of the Samsung Galaxy Note 3, to provide it with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor and connectivity LTE Advanced. It has also been seen on the German Samsung website under the reference i9506.
This also makes us wonder what the price of this new edition. Perhaps it will start from a high figure again, and then adjust it as usual. There is also talk of the possibility that the Samsung Galaxy Active S4 Receive a processor renewal, ideal for correcting issues of housing y air tightness from the rugged version. Learn more | Samsung
Alternative methods to continue updating the Galaxy S4
If official support stops, there are Custom ROMs and manual procedures that allow you to extend the life of the S4. First of all, it is key to understand that doing so involves risks (possible loss of warranty) and must be carried out under your responsibility.
Previous requirements: In Windows it is advisable to install the Samsung drivers and have Odin 3.10.7 y Heimdall. In Mac y Linux It is not usually necessary to install additional drivers. With the phone turned off, go to download mode (key combination with volume up confirmation) and check in the Heimdall utilities tab that the device is detectedIf it doesn't appear, check the ADB installer and reinstall drivers.
Install a custom recovery: the most widespread is TWRP. Download the updated .img image, place it in the Heimdall directory and run a flash command like this: heimdall flash –RECOVERY recovery.img –no-reboot. If the libusb error -12, uninstall the driver associated with the device in Device Manager MSM8960, reinstall the Samsung drivers and repeat. After completing, boot into recuperación with the combination of power, home and volume up.
Choose firmware and Google apps: from the repositories of CyanogenMod It was possible to download stable builds like Snapshot CM 12.1 (Android 5.1 base, more polished) or Nightly CM 13 (based on Android 6.0, newer but with frequent changes). To maintain Google Play and services, add the package OpenGApps for architecture ARM; the option Microphone provides key apps like calendar and Gmail without overloading the system.
Process in TWRP: copy the .zip to the phone, perform Advanced Wipe de Facts & figures y System (app settings will be lost, but your photos and personal files should not be affected), install the ROM and then the GApps with the option to add multiple .zip files. When finished, run Wipe Cache / Dalvik and restart. The first boot may take several minutes. Then, log in and restore your apps. From there, the new builds They arrive periodically and their installation is simpler.
El modding debate It's always open: you can upgrade on your own to extend the lifespan, purchase a new model, or stay on the official firmware if that's enough for you. The decision depends on your priorities. to maximise security and your enjoyment., stability y new arrivals.
Great news, thanks for sharing! For those who don't know, Samsung takes safety very seriously. to maximise security and your enjoyment. and privacy. For this reason, certain devices have several years of security patches guaranteed, and the most recent ones even extend that period. Source: https://security.samsungmobile.com/workScope.smsb
Earlier this month Samsung announced that its current flagship, the Galaxy S4, would officially update to Android 4.3 (Jelly Bean) along with other devices from the brand. And it seems that the update could arrive sooner rather than later, since today it has been leaked firmware with the latest version of Android.
It seems that it is a test firmware Android 4.3 for the Samsung Galaxy S4 (i9505) sold in Europe. According to Sammobile, the leakers, the firmware is completely functional and can be installed using ODINOn their website we find the file and the steps to follow.
The news that has been found in Android 4.3 (Jelly Bean) for the Samsung Galaxy S4, in addition to the official ones, are fullscreen by default in the web browser, new keyboard design, the applications SamsungWallet y Knox as standard, a reading mode from the quick settings, better color reproduction y sharper text. Via | Sammobile
We encourage you to update your devices if they are unlocked and start enjoying the new improvements. If you don't have yours yet, Samsung Galaxy S4, you can go to your store Phone House closest and debut yours.