It took a while, but finally the flagship of the South Korean company, the Samsung Galaxy S4, has started upgrade to 4.3 Android Jelly BeanAnd the update has begun rolling out in Europe, and is now available in some regions of the continent. It could be a matter of time that we receive it in Spain.
Just as Samsung promised when it introduced the new Samsung Galaxy Note 3 With Android 4.3 Jelly Bean, the Galaxy S4 will also be updated to the current latest version, pending the official release of Android 4.4 KitKat. Which is the latest version of Jelly Bean, can now be installed on devices in the German region, which are currently the only ones that have the update available. It seems that Spain is also one of the countries which should receive the update soon, so we won't have to wait too long in our country, it could be a matter of days, or even hours.
Among the new features of the update, we find that now the terminal responds better than before, and that's despite the fact that it was already behaving quite smoothly before. And although Samsung never provides a log of the new features it includes in its updates, we are going to analyze the new features of the smartphone, adding all improvements confirmed from the official and test builds that have been seen in Europe.
Key new features of Android 4.3 on the Galaxy S4
For starters, it now offers OpenGL 3.0 support, the new specification of the graphics creation system widely used in video game and app development. The iPhone 5s and the new Nexus 7, among others, already include this type of support, and it's noteworthy that the Samsung Galaxy S4 also includes it with the new update.
In addition, the package includes Galaxy Gear compatibility, which comes thanks to support for Bluetooth 4.0 LE already new APIs. Previously it was only supported by the Galaxy Note 3. With 4.3, the S4 can sync notifications and calls with the Samsung smartwatch.
Now also includes support for TRIMA TRIM command allows a flash drive to know which memory sections are no longer in use, something that was previously impossible for SSDs. This will make the smartphone much faster in I/O operations, something that it does all the time, but which will be more noticeable when a certain action requires using a lot of memory data. By the way, there is also ANT+ support, a wireless connectivity technology primarily used for monitoring devices such as heart rate monitors, odometers, etc.
The implementation of S It was something totally expected. The new system includes a bootloader and a dedicated application. It is the new security system from Samsung, which could present problems when rooting the device, although that will have to be seen over time and with future releases. Also, it is now included SamsungWallet, to make payments from your smartphone.
Beyond the above, we appreciate improvements in RAM management and fine-tuning of the display, with better color reproduction and sharper text. The TouchWiz launcher redraws much less often, reducing lag when moving. They also arrive Samsung's new keyboard, new web browser with full screen by default and new new tab design, reading mode from quick settings, a new firmware for the camera and minor visual fixes (Contacts App, Flashlight Widget, dialog boxes, etc.).
Performance and user experience after the update
The first internal tests cited by specialized media point to a noticeable performance improvement thanks to memory optimization and TRIM support. In everyday use, this translates into faster app launches, faster gallery loading times, and more stable performance with many apps running in the background.
In 3D games and applications, the arrival of OpenGL 3.0 It allows for more advanced effects and better management of graphic resources. Added to the reduction of redrawing in TouchWiz, the system feels more fluid when navigating through desktops, widgets and menus.
Samsung's revamped browser adds full screen mode by default and a redesign in the new tab that makes access to favorites and recent pages more agile. The new keyboard Improves auto-completion and accuracy, with clearer language and shortcut settings.
El reading mode, accessible from Quick Settings, optimizes the display for extended sessions in compatible apps. Meanwhile, the new camera firmware polishes the focus and shooting response, with a more stable white balance indoors.
Compatibility, specific model and deployment by region
As promised, Samsung has already started to officially update the Samsung Galaxy S4 to Android 4.3, although for now only the international version with LTE, the model GT-I9505 sold in Spain and the rest of Europe. The update is coming via OTA and through Samsung Kies and its distribution is carried out in phases: first in Germanyfollowed by Greece and Nordic countriesIn Spain and other European countries, availability is gradually expanding.
As usual, the update arrives first to free terminals and, weeks later, to operator models once it's approved by each company. If it doesn't appear immediately, it's usually released gradually in batches.
Security and business: KNOX and payments with Samsung Wallet
Read more S comes integrated with your application, secure profiles or with a compatible bootloader. For the professional environment, this means encryption and work containers; for advanced users, it is good to know that KNOX can complicate rooting and modding of the system. If you plan to customize the S4 at a deep level, find out about the status of the security counter before proceeding.
With SamsungWallet, the S4 adds a digital wallet for manage coupons, tickets and payments in supported stores, integrating with notifications and quick access on the lock screen.
Update via OTA or with Samsung Kies: recommendations
To check for updates and update when they are available we will have to connect your smartphone to Samsung Kies, or periodically check if the OTA update is available. To do this, we just have to go to Settings> "More" tab> About phone> Software update> Update.
Before starting, it is recommended Backup of your data, battery above the 50% and connection Stable Wi-FiIf the rollout hasn't reached your device yet, avoid forcing unofficial methods to maintain your system's warranty and integrity.
Test firmwares and ROMs: what you need to know
In parallel to the official OTA, they have circulated test firmwares for Galaxy S4 (GT-I9505) that some users have installed through ODINThese builds are generally stable and anticipate features such as fullscreen by default in the browser, new keyboard, presence of Knox and Wallet’s most emblematic landmarks, the reading mode and improved colors and text sharpness. If you're considering installing them, remember that any flashing process is under your responsability and could affect the warranty.
Other Galaxy models: background and highlights
Samsung also planned to bring Android 4.3 to other devices such as Galaxy S III y Galaxy Note II. In the case of the S III, the update incorporated elements from the S4 (interface theme), Galaxy Gear stand, TRIM and ANT+, along with improvements such as updated GPU drivers, new lock screen with multiple widgets, new screen modes, Daydream, driving mode, option for move apps to SD, the camera mode Sound and Shot, new commands of S Voice and updates to the Calculator, Clock, Contacts, Gallery, and Music apps. This context helps explain the scope of Jelly Bean 4.3 in the Galaxy range, although exact features may vary by model and region.
The jump to Android 4.3 on the Galaxy S4 is, above all, a technical update that extends the life of the device With improved performance, accessory support, and enhanced security. If you have the GT-I9505 model, it's a good idea to keep an eye on the OTA or use Kies to enjoy the changes as soon as possible, especially the extra fluidity of TouchWiz, the storage responsiveness with TRIM, and the added value of KNOX and Wallet.
