Android 4.4.2 KitKat is now available for Sony Xperia S, Xperia Ion and Xperia M owners via unofficial CyanogenMod 11. This includes the latest features of Android 4.4.2 and new Linux kernel version for the three Xperia smartphones.

Android 4.4.2 For Xperia S, Ion And M

In 2012, Xperia S and Ion were the two most popular Xperia smartphones and only received an official Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean update without any expected future upgrades. But the Android developer community made the unofficial CyanogenMod 11 Android 4.4.2 KitKat portable for Xperia S and Xperia Ion.

In addition, Xperia M owners can also use the unofficial CyanogenMod 11 to update the smartphone and say goodbye to the Android 4.1.2 version.

Some of the notable features of Android 4.4.2 KitKat via CyanogenMod 11 are:

1. CyanogenMod exclusive apps and features

2. CPU governor and tweaking

3. More themes and personalization options

4. Translucent lock screen décor

5. Updated Linux kernel version

6. Low-powered audio playback

7. Extended quick settings

8. Project butter

9. Better memory management

10. Improved multitasking

Using Unofficial CyanogenMod 11

Although the firmware runs Android 4.4.2 KitKat, it is still under alpha stage which may include bugs along the way. But owners shouldn't fear for developers will keep on updating the custom ROM to bring better experience and system improvements.

Some notable functions that are considered fine in the current alpha stage of CyanogenMod 11 for Xperia S, Ion and M:

- Calls, SMS and mobile data

- Display

- Camera functionalities

- Audio and video playback

- Audio recording

- WiFi and tethering

- Bluetooth and tethering

- OpenGL ES rendering

- Hardware video decoding and encoding

- Compass and sensors

- MicroSD card slot

- Automatic brightness

- NFC and GPS

In some cases, the notification may not work which will be fixed later on as update comes out regularly. If your device is already running CyanogenMod 11, no need to reformat the device and simply the new firmware version on top of it.

For new users, you need to unlock the boot loader, download fast boot and ADB tool kit to the computer then flash it using the fast boot tools. Don't forget to create a nAndroid backup of the current ROM so you may restore it in case something goes wrong.