Hooray, another batch of devices is getting the KitKat treatment! Sony has just posted on their blog that the Android 4.4 KitKat Update has begun to roll out for the Xperia Z Ultra, Xperia Z1, and Xperia Z1 Compact. Here are the changes Sony has made in Android 4.4:
- Google’s Android 4.4; KitKat as standard – bringing performance & UI optimisation…
- We’ve added our tweaked Status Bar and Quick Settings… now more intuitive and customisable (and pretty easy on the eye)… cleaned up to ensure you only get the notifications you really need
- If you’ve got a Sony PlayStation 4, you might recognize our new user interface – we’ve added the same sleek launch animation and livewallpaper across the lock and home screens
- We’re also uplifting Sony’s entire native app portfolio to the latest versions – bringing tweaked / improved / current experiences for (to name but a few): Messaging, MyXperia, Smart Connect, Small apps, TrackID, TrackID TV, Sony Select, Smart Social Camera and…
- Sony’s Media apps: WALKMAN, Album and Movies, with Sony Entertainment Network cloud service integration* – a more converged and full Sony entertainment experience – Sony Entertainment Network & PlayMemories integration with a more intuitive UI, better download speeds, and more!
- Our unique custom interface experience: “Xperia Themes”, with downloadable UI packs from Sony Select – skin up to 280 assets across your Xperia smartphone with a variety of styles, and more to follow soon…
In addition to these devices, Sony has also noted that the Xperia Z, Xperia ZL, and Xperia Z Tablet are next in line to get the KitKat treatment. The Xperia ZR is also expected to get the update in mid Q2. And if that wasn’t enough, they have also promised that they are working on KitKat for some of their new devices including the Xperia T2 Ultra, Xperia E1 and Xperia M2.
Sony does note that “As usual, timing & availability may vary by market & carrier” so you may not get the update right away. Nevertheless, good on you Sony for getting your devices up to date!
[Sony]