Sony Xperia Z (C660X) and Xperia ZL (C650X) Receiving New Android 4.2.2 Firmware Update

Sony Xperia Z and Xperia ZL have a new firmware based on Android 4.2.2 and currently rolling out to owners of both C660X and C650X models. However, owners with rooted Xperia Z and Xperia ZL should be aware that direct update can remove root access. Find out how to avoid removing root privilege while getting the update.

Sony Xperia Z and Xperia ZL Update

New Android 4.2.2 firmware is now rolling out to both Xperia Z C660X and Xperia ZL C650X with build number 10.3.1.A.0.244. This firmware update is not listed on the PTCRB Web site, though was expected after the release of the earlier build - 10.3.1.A.0.236.

The earlier 10.3.1.A.0236 was released on Sony Xperia Z C660X and it also runs Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean but wasn't certified on the PTCRB Web site. Sony seems to be releasing all of their Android 4.2.2 updates sooner than expected since the company stated that the upgrades are scheduled in early August 2013.

There are no specifics regarding what the latest firmware update features to owners of both Xperia Z and Xperia ZL. Hopefully, system improvements, performance enhancements and bug fixes are inside the update.

Root Access Warning

XDA developer member DooMLoRD warns users with root access not to update their devices with this firmware directly or lose root privileges.

"@XperiaBlog word of advice rooted users SHOULD NOT FLASH THIS DIRECTLY. Use OTA RootKeeper or something. perf_event root exploit is patched," DooMLoRD tweeted.

Download the RootKeeper app from the Play Store to your device to protect root access.

How to Install on Non-Rooted Devicesesers SHOULD NOT FLASH THIS DIRECTLY. t to update their devices or lose root privileges. L. grades are sch

In case you didn't root your phone, the latest firmware update from Sony can easily be flashed on your device by several clicks on your computer.

1. Download and install the Sony PC Companion on your computer.

2. Launch the Sony PC Companion.

3. Connect your Sony Xperia Z C660X or Xperia ZL C650X to the computer using a USB cable.

4. On the Sony PC Companion menu, select the "Support Zone > More" and let it download components for the update.

5. Once the PC suite have finished reading your device and installing extra components, a notification should appear indicating a new software update is available.

6. Click on the notification then follow the guidelines and instructions provided to you. Normally, Sony PC Companion does not remove or erase data during the update.

7. Wait till the update has been downloaded and installed on your phone. Never disconnect your device during the update.

Finished! Your Sony device runs Android 4.2.2 firmware with 10.3.1.A.0.244 build version. Remember, that your phone has been included to the list of devices getting Android 4.3 Jelly Bean real soon.