HTC One Official Android 4.4 KitKat Comes with Sense 5.5, New BlinkFeed and HTC Zoe; Top 5 Owners Should Expect
Official Android 4.4 KitKat firmware for the HTC One smartphone has been detailed to deliver new Sense 5.5 UI update, enhancements on BlinkFeed and HTC Zoe and various system fixes. United States owners can expect Android 4.4 KitKat hitting their phones before Christmas.
HTC One Android 4.4 KitKat Details
HTC America dared with the announcement of an official Android 4.4 KitKat hitting soon the HTC One smartphones that covers all of its variants. Android 4.4 push update has a window of 90 days according to HTC America President Jason Mackenzie.
Within 15 days after the official announcement, the firmware will arrive to the owners of Google Play edition followed by the Developer edition within 30 days. HTC One original variant users can expect the new major update by Jan. 2014.
Here are some details revealed about the official Android 4.4 firmware:
- Updated Sense UI version 5.5
- Enhancements on the HTC BlinkFeed from Sense 5.5
- Improvements on the HTC Zoe feature
- Various system improvements
- Bug fixes
- Several system tweaks
- Android 4.4 KitKat features such as Ok Google and Immersive Mode
Expectations from New Firmware
According to Gotta Be Mobile, HTC may release Android 4.4 KitKat sooner than Jan. 2014 and may be out before Christmas for the Google Play edition owners. If the company follows their given schedule, Android 4.4 KitKat will reach HTC One original variant by Jan. 29, 2014 in the United States.
1. Jan. 2014 Maximum Release Date
Depending on how smooth the update will be HTC may start Android 4.4 KitKat update push on HTC One in the United States by Jan. 29 next year which completes the 90-day window period.
2. Late Release on Jan.
Of course we need to consider any possible delays on the exact date declared by HTC. There are many factors which may affect the update such as firmware issue but this is just the worst case scenario.
3. Sense 5.5 UI
It is confirmed that the new firmware will bring an updated Sense 5.5 UI with new BlinkFeed and HTC Zoe feature owners can play with. United States owners of HTC One original variant can also expect this new Sense UI version.
4. Verizon on Android 4.3 Jelly Bean
Verizon may not skip Android 4.3 Jelly Bean update and will continue to push it out before Android 4.4 KitKat. Since there is a 90-day period, Verizon could use the given time for the next major update.
5. Manual Update
HTC always release firmware updates via Over-the-Air procedure to protect owners from corrupting their devices via manual installation. However, some Android experts and third-party developers may find a way to bring the firmware update to others willing for manual flash.