HTC Desire Gingerbread Update: Limited Rollout, Canada Excluded
Archive note. This story reflects what was known when it was first covered. Prices, availability and carrier offers are historical. For the current picture, start with the topic guides.
The background
HTC had said it would release the Gingerbread update for the Desire by the end of July. It had earlier said the Desire would not get 2.3 because of a memory issue. After users pushed back, HTC agreed to build a modified update that would cut select apps.
The limitations HTC listed
- All customizations, including carrier applications, are removed.
- Several HTC applications are removed and placed online on the HTC developer site.
- The official Facebook app is removed and can be downloaded from the Android Market.
- All wallpapers except the default are removed and placed online on the HTC developer site.
Who could get it
The update was not available to all owners. Canada, the United States, Germany, South Korea and Japan were left out, with no word on when it would come.
The liability warning
HTC also said the ROM update was for development and not for general public use. Upgrading unauthorized phones could cause loss of functionality, including MMS and SMS, and HTC disclaimed liability for unusable functions and for loss or leakage of personal data from re-flashing.
Reaction
The writer, a former Desire owner, felt that HTC had treated half of its Desire customers poorly, especially as the Desire HD had recently received its update, and called the back and forth on the decision frustrating.
Frequently asked questions
Did Canadian Desire owners get the update?
Not at this stage. Canada was excluded with no date given.
Why was the update limited?
HTC had cited a memory issue on the Desire.
Is this relevant today?
No. The Desire is long obsolete and no longer supported.