Android L 5.1 Lollipop Download & Release Date: Samsung Galaxy Note 3, OnePlus One, Moto G & More Updates Out
A number of flagship Android smartphones are now ready to get a taste of Lollipop's updated software, the Android 5.1 Lollipop, through custom firmwares.
Samsung Galaxy Note 3
First on the list is the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 with model number N9005. According to Team Android, its updated operating system comes through a Masik custom ROM, based on stock N9005XXUGBOA5.
Team Android cited several features packed by the build, including: (1) new visual effects of lock screen; (2) new audio effects, ring tones, notification and user interface; (3) changed wallpapers and icons in menu; (4) new fonts and (5) new Touch sound in camera, gallery and dialer, among others.
Reportedly, the Masik custom ROM has also fixed all known bugs. The firmware may be downloaded here, while step-by-step instructions (by Team Android) are available here.
OnePlus One
CraZY_BoY from XDA Developers has uploaded the latest, unofficial build of CyanogenMod ROM (CyanogenMod 12.1), International Business Times reported. The OnePlus One has received this update.
Based on original CyanogenMod sources, the latest CM12.1 ROM has been upgraded to v03.25. The firmware may be installed via TWRP or ClockworkMod (CWM) recovery.
IBT reminded that only the European variant of OnePlus One may follow its listed instructions for installation. For a file size worth 266.1 MB, the firmware may be downloaded here. For more information, head over here.
Moto G 1st Generation
The public update for Motorola's second-generation Moto X Pure Edition is expected "in the next few weeks," IBT wrote in another article. While this means waiting, the outlet took note of an Android 5.1-based AOSP beta created by XDA's Alberto97, slated for the first-generation Moto G.
Since the build is indicated as beta, a number of functions may not be working. At the time of reporting, the stock SMS app is not capable of sending messages. The build, in addition, does not support CDMA variants.
Nevertheless, working features have been listed: RIL, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, audio, mobile data, offline charge, USB OTG, MTP and Hotspot Wi-Fi.
The build may be downloaded here. More information are available here.
HTC Desire 816
The HTC Desire 816 hops on the custom Android 5.1 wagon through another CyanogenMod firmware. As told by Android Geeks, some users who have tested the build claimed that it runs quite smooth, though "minor bugs, lags and other problems" have been spotted.
The file may be downloaded here. Instructions (by Android Geeks) are found here.
Android One Handsets
OTA links are made available to several Android One devices this month, such as the Symphony Roar A50, Spice Dream Uno, Micromax Canvas A1 and Karbonn Sparkle V, Android Authority noted.
Flashing custom firmwares require very technical procedures that are best exercised with caution. The Latino Post will not be liable and accountable for untoward incidents one may encounter in pursuit of these builds. Official updates are recommended.
Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 may receive the new version of TouchWiz by the time it gets Android 5.1, Phone Arena reported. The similar version is found in the Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge, but as the source said, the Korean tech giant will not be rolling the update "until the second half of the year."