Sony has already confirmed some of the smartphones that will be updated to Android 6.0 Marshmallow, although it was still possible that the update for other phones would be confirmed later. Now it has been confirmed that some smartphones will update directly to Android 6.0 Marshmallow, without receiving update to Android 5.1 Lollipop.
Update to Android 6.0 Marshmallow
Android 5.0 Lollipop has been officially released by Google. But when the update is released is one thing. update and another is when different smartphones receive it. If we add to that the fact that throughout the life cycle, intermediate versions, in the end we find that some phones still haven't updated to the latest version when the next major revision has already been released. This is the case with some Sony Xperia phones that were going to update to Android 5.1 Lollipop and ended up not updating. This isn't a negative thing, but quite the opposite, because what happens is that They are going to update directly to Android 6.0 Marshmallow, the new version of the operating system.
It has been confirmed which will be the following:
- Sony Xperia Aqua M4
- Sony Xperia C4
- Sony Xperia Ultra C5
- Sony Xperia M5
- Sony Xperia Z3 +
- Sony Xperia Z4 Tablet
And we would still have to include the Dual SIM versions of these different smartphones and tablets.
Actually, the fact that they are going to update directly to Android 6.0 Marshmallow is something positive, because that means that they are going to stop working on the update to Android 5.1 Lollipop for focus the effort in the update to Android 6.0 Marshmallow. This means that the new version will arrive on these smartphones sooner than it would have if work on the update had begun after the release of Android 5.1 Lollipop.
Availability and how to check for updates
The Software updates They are published at different times depending on the operator or markets, the market, region, or country. Therefore, it is not possible to provide an exact date for each device, and some operators or markets may choose not to distribute certain builds. To stay up-to-date, keep an eye on Sony Mobile's official channels.
For the Xperia M4 Aqua and M4 Aqua Dual, the only way to determine if Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) is available is to connect the phone to a computer with the application Xperia Companions installed. In these models no notification appears on the device itself or listed under Settings > About phone > Software update.
There is available an Android 6.0 update for the Xperia M4 Aqua and Xperia M4 Aqua Dual with these builds:
- Xperia M4 Aqua: 26.3.A.0.131
- Xperia M4 Aqua Dual: 26.3.B.0.131
Android 6.0 Highlights for Xperia
With Android 6.0, the Xperia receives Sony features updated, more features and a better experience. Among the most relevant are the privacy enhancements and changes to key applications.
- Runtime permissions- Granularly manage and control data permissions for each app.
- New camera interface: Switch modes and customize settings with simple gestures.
- Xperia Messaging: quick access to stickers to express themselves creatively.
- Direct Share: Share content with recent contacts and suggested apps with fewer taps.
How to install Android 6.0 Marshmallow on your Sony Xperia
Recommended method: Xperia Companion (PC)
- Check your build number in Settings > About phone > Build number.
- Make sure you have at least 80% battery and make a Backup with Xperia Companion.
- Install the app on your computer Xperia Companions, open it and connect the device via USB. If prompted, unlock the device.
- When Companion detects a update, follow the wizard: first backup and then select "Update" to start the process.
Advanced Method: Flashtool + XperiFirm (at your own risk)
- Controladores: Install the drivers for your Xperia (the easiest way is to use Sony PC Companion). Connect the switched-off phone to the PC, keeping volume down for USB and ADB drivers to be installed.
- Flashtool: Download and install Flashtool. Install its drivers from C:\\Flashtool\\drivers marking Flashmode Drivers y Fastboot Drivers.
- On the phone, activate USB debugging y Unknown origins in the developer and security options.
- You need a FTF firmware. You can create it with XperiFirm integrated into Flashtool: open Flashtool and press the icon XperiFirm.
- At XperiFirm, choose your model In the left panel, select the region/operator and click on the available firmware.
- Confirm the download by checking Automatically unzip. Start the download.
- When finished, you'll see the message "Unzipped successfully!"; accept and close the download window when it says "Unzipped successfully!"
- You will be returned to Flashtool, which will create the file FTF automatically.
- Check the FTF in C:\\Users\\\\.flashTool\\firmwares.
- In Flashtool, press the rayo (top left), choose flash mode and accept.
- Select the "Firmware" panel self that you want. Check that the variant matches the model number of your Xperia.
- Decide on the erasedTo preserve data, leave "USERDATA" unchecked; for a clean install (recommended for major changes), check all options in the "Wipe" panel. Make a backup first.
- Balance FlashFlashtool will prepare the files; it may take a few seconds.
- When the prompt appears, connect the phone off keeping volume down. Release the button when the flashing begins.
- Wait for it to finish. You'll see.Flashing finished» in Flashtool.
- Unplug and power on your phone. The initial startup may take longer than usual.
- Confirm the version in Settings> About phone, where you will see Android 6.0 and the build number.
Troubleshooting after updating
If your Xperia does not boot after the update, try a forced restart and if it persists, use the option software repair on Xperia Companion (this reinstalls the firmware and may erase data). Also, check that the battery level is sufficient, change the USB cable and ports on your PC, and repeat the process following the steps indicated.
Sony's strategy of bringing certain Xperia directly to Android 6.0 Marshmallow Avoid intermediate steps and accelerate the arrival of privacy, camera, and sharing improvements. Availability depends on the operator and region, but with Companion or the right tools, you can check out, install, and enjoy the new features as soon as possible.
