Official Android 4.3 Jelly Bean firmware is now rolling out in Canada and the United States from different network carriers. The update rollout almost covered everything in the United States but will the firmware cause major issues similar to the United Kingdom reports?

Galaxy S3 Receiving Android 4.3

Galaxy S3 owners in Canada and the United States are now receiving their Android 4.3 Jelly Bean via network carrier update push or specific tool using a computer. Here are some details regarding the new firmware.

1. Bluetooth Smart support enabled

2. OpenGL ES 3.0 for high performance 3D graphics power

3. Samsung Galaxy Gear accessory compatibility

4. Samsung Knox security suite included

5. Premium Suite now added:

a. Group Play 2.5

b. Multi-window feature of Galaxy S4

c. Sound & Shot camera feature

d. Group Messaging

e. Samsung Link

6. Contextual page for apps and widgets suggestions

7. Samsung Gallery app updated

8. My Files apps similar with Galaxy Note

9. Smart Switch added

10. Paper Artist camera feature

Depending on the network carrier and their recent firmware update, some of these features have already appeared earlier.

Chances of Getting Major Bugs

Since the update is fresh in Canada and the United States, it may take a few days or weeks to determine any major issues that could stop carriers from pushing the update. Owners should watch the following on the new firmware:

1. Galaxy S3 users in the United Kingdom did suffer Android 4.3 firmware issues such as lock screen wake up lag, huge battery drain and occasional freezes.

2. AT&T and U.S. Cellular recently pulled the Android 4.3 for Galaxy S4 due to unknown technical issues but more on Samsung's decision.

3. Some Sprint and Verizon owners have reported buggy firmware in particular to Wi-Fi connectivity.

4. Most updates may cause camera functionality issues which should be checked after the upgrade.

5. Monitor the basic features such as calling, SMS, Internet browsing via 3G/4G, data management, RAM improvements and battery after any major update.

Software updates are designed to bring new features and fix major bugs but sometimes new errors appear once installed on the smartphone. Be vigilant to double check everything once the Galaxy S3 has been updated so the carriers can address them quickly.