Sony finally confirms several Xperia devices which would get Android 4.4 KitKat OS firsthand, with initial arrival on Xperia Z1 followed by Xperia Z, Z Ultra, ZL and Tablet Z.

Sony Mobile Confirms New Android OS

Sony announced devices under the Xperia Z line getting the official Android 4.4 KitKat after Android 4.3 Jelly Bean push releases. Included on the firsthand grabbers of Android 4.4 KitKat OS are:

  • Xperia Z1
  • Xperia Z Ultra
  • Xperia Z
  • Xperia ZL
  • Xperia Tablet Z

Xperia ZR and Xperia SP weren't included to the confirmed list from Sony, and it is not known whether the company would put them on the next batch of recipients. The Xperia Z line of devices is set to receive the Android 4.3 Jelly Bean including Xperia SP from November to December 2013.

"We're also happy to tell you about the first raft of Xperia products that we'll make Android 4.4 KitKat available for - they are: Xperia Z, Xperia ZL, Xperia Tablet Z, Xperia Z Ultra and Xperia Z1," post from Sony Mobile blog site.

However, owners of the mentioned devices above shouldn't expect Android 4.4 KitKat firmware to arrive in 2013.

Exclusive or Plain Rumour?

Sony Xperia Z1 has been rumoured to get official Android 4.4 KitKat firmware in the 7th of November which will jump from Android 4.2 Jelly Bean - its current OS version. Early rumours mill with Android 4.3 Jelly Bean coming to Xperia Z1 around November or December 2013 alongside with other members of the Xperia Z family.

Now that Sony Mobile confirms Xperia Z1 and other Xperia Z devices set for an Android 4.4 KitKat, the schedule may only be a rumour unless Sony will decide to make it a strong marketing weapon for promotion and selling booster of Xperia Z1.

HTC recently announced the maximum timeframe of 90 days for the three HTC One variants receiving Android 4.4 KitKat, which Sony may actually do as well in order to match current flagship Android devices of their competitors, and to showcase their own modification of Android 4.4.

Whether true or false, here are some expected changes for the Android 4.4 KitKat modified by Sony:

  1. Update on Sony Xperia Home UI and Launcher
  2. Optimisation of BRAVIA, X-Reality and Triluminos display engines
  3. Audio improvements such as xLOUD optimisation
  4. More updates with Sony Media apps such as ALBUM, MOVIES and WALKMAN
  5. Improvements on other built-in Sony apps such as Explore, PlayMemories, Smart Connect and Xperia Privilege
  6. New camera UI and features
  7. Changes on the Sony Select, DUALSHOCK wireless controller, screen mirroring and PlayStation certified features
  8. Optimised system performance and stability
  9. Better touch response accuracy
  10. Improved battery standby in addition to STAMINA mode