Sony Mobile has this morning confirmed that the Android 4.4.2 KitKat firmware update is now rolling for the Xperia Z1, Xperia Z Ultra and Xperia Z1 Compact. The company also confirmed that KitKat will hit the Xperia Z, Xperia ZL, Xperia Tablet Z and Xperia ZR from the middle of Q2 2014 i.e. look for it in May.
Other handsets confirmed to get Android KitKat include the 2014 Sony Xperia handsets recently announced such as the Xperia T2 Ultra, Xperia E1 and Xperia M2. However, Sony has not confirmed any timings for these handsets.
So what can you expect with the KitKat update? Well apart from the standard Android 4.4.2 features, especially on the performance side, Sony has added the following:
- A tweaked Status Bar and Quick Settings – More intuitive and customisable.
- The same launch animation and live wallpaper as the Sony PlayStation 4 adapted across the lock and home screens.
- Sony’s native app portfolio will be updated to the latest versions. This includes Messaging, MyXperia, Smart Connect, Small apps, TrackID, TrackID TV, Sony Select and Smart Social Camera.
- Updated Media apps including WALKMAN, Album and Movies. Better Sony Entertainment Network & PlayMemories integration with a more intuitive UI and faster download speeds.
Judging by the changelog above, it appears to confirm our recent speculation that a number of new features seen in the Xperia Z2 will NOT be heading to the KitKat builds of the Xperia Z1 and Xperia Z1 Compact. This includes 4K video, Timeshift video, Tap to wake, Smart call handling, Smart backlight control and Glove mode (already included in the Xperia Z1 Compact).
Via Sony Mobile Blog.