Google silently pushed a new Android 4.3.1 Jelly Bean firmware for the ASUS Nexus 7 LTE version, and it brings new features with bug fixes. Although the add-ons are not clear, this could be the preparation for Android 4.4 KitKat push update.

Android 4.3.1 Jelly Bean Firmware

Owners of the Nexus 7 2013 LTE variant received a new firmware - Android 4.3.1 Jelly Bean - with file size of 9.42MB. According to AndroidPolice, the Android 4.3.1 software deliver new features and bug fixes, though, it is not yet known what specifically they are.

The update pushed by Google is the first release with incremental version number from the Android 4.3 Jelly Bean OS. Google keeps on patching up devices running Android with 4.3 for several times, and it usually includes system improvements.

Once owners have updated their tablet, they can check the Easter egg, and the Jelly Bean image will have Android 4.3.1 label as well.

Obtaining Update

Google pushed the update via Firmware-Over-the-Air procedure or FOTA and owners can simply get the new firmware by using Wi-Fi connectivity - recommended than 3G or 4G connection.

In addition, owners in some regions where FOTA push update hasn't arrived yet may manually flash the firmware instead. Here are the links provided by TheManii and Peter Kiddier via Android Police.

- Signed-razorg-JL36I-FROM-JSR78D.zip

- Signed-razorg-JL36I-FROM-JSS15J.zip

- Signed-razorg-JL36I-FROM-JLS36C.zip

Flashing the firmware requires adb sideload and should take a few minutes to finish. Make sure you have advanced knowledge before flashing it into your tablet.

Android 4.3.1 Changes

Android 4.3.1 Jelly Bean firmware may be related to the upcoming Android 4.4 KitKat, and the new Jelly Bean version may contain codes for the next-gen Android push.

- Security patches

- Bug fixes

- System improvements

- Restricted profiles

- Google Keep pre-installed

- Preparation for Android 4.4 KitKat

The Android 4.4 KitKat has been seen running on LG Nexus 4, and it includes several pre-installed applications such as Google Drive, QuickOffice and Keep. It is set to be released on Oct 14, 2013, with the next-generation Nexus 5.