It’s another full week in the world of Android updates. Two variants of the Galaxy S7 S7 ge got important software tweaks, while pushed out May’s monthly security patch.
also learned that Marshmallow market share is creeping up thanks to ’s latest report, though llipop still is the most dominant version in use for now.
Each week, we compile all the major software updates to hit the Android ecosystem, including phones tablets on U.S. carriers, unlocked phones, Android ar smartwatches, Android TV devices. Making sure your device is running the latest available software is a good housekeeping practice, ensuring you have the latest features with fewer bugs gaping security holes.
Verizon
Galaxy S7: According to Verizon, an update is coming your way with a number of improvements fixes. It includes security patches, a SIM card tray reminder when it gets left open, refinements to the application manager, easier-to-underst instructions for using the always-on display. There’s no word on the update size, but you’ll need to connect to -Fi for it.
Galaxy S7 ge: The same details apply to Samsung’s vanity phone. You can also get all the specifics directly from Verizon.
T-Mobile
Galaxy S7: Misbehaving power volume buttons are the culprits that this update intends to fix. You also get an FM radio function. T-Mobile says the update will also bring the typically vague “various system improvements.”
Galaxy S7 ge: Same story here, with the T-Mobile update rolling out now. One of our in-house devices already got pinged about the update.
G3: Updates to phones that go back a couple of generations is never a guarantee. Fortunately, a T-Mobile update brings Marshmallow improvements to -Fi calling.
Android
atform distribution numbers: ’ve had plenty of Marshmallow updates in the last few weeks, that was born out in ’s latest release of its ecosystem breakdown. Marshmallow is up to 7.5 percent, though llipop remains the dominant version.
Android Developers The data is from a seven-day period that ended on May 2.
ile the speed of Android updates is still a major problem, the good news is that if you have a recent flagship device there’s a pretty good chance you have Marshmallow. But the numbers are a telling reminder of the challenge has in reining this in.
Nexus
Security updates: The May security update is on the way to Nexus devices. This update usually takes several days to roll out to everyone (although it was ready for my Nexus 7 Thursday night), but if you want it now head to the Nexus Factory Images.
Sony
Z3 Compact Tablet: Both the E-enabled -Fi variant will soon receive an update to Android 6.0.1. Xperiablog first spotted the change, has the files if you want to download it yourself.
AT&T
Gd F 8.0 E: ird name or not, this tablet has one advantage over many others: it’s getting Android Marshmallow. An AT&T update brings Android 6.0 updates to the various bloatware carrier services installed on the device.
