The HTC One M8 smartphone is beginning its life with the Android 4.4 Sense 6 UI, but since then we have come a long way with KitKat software. In addition, the Google I/O showcased the new Android L Developers preview that takes us one step further.
However, let’s take a step back a minute because people subscribed to the Sprint variant of the M8 are starting to witness a new Android 4.4.3 Kitkat build namely 2.16.651.4 rolling out OTA to selected device that brings in the new WiFi calling feature. The new software also comes with a new HD voice icon.
Many people prefer WiFi calling because it lets phone owners send SMS texts and make phone calls using a stable home WiFi connection and not a data plan. That has obvious benefits such as better coverage because it no longer relies on the 3G, 4G, or reception bars but rather the WiFi signal strength. Furthermore, the WiFi calling will not take away the Mb’s or Gb’s off the data plan and in many cases phone carriers elect to give free or unlimited amounts of WiFi calling as long as it’s not from a pre-paid service.
The over the air update will come as a notification alerting the handset owners of its arrival. From there, people can select to download and install the update or do it later. If they choose the latter option they then have to navigate to Settings> System Updates> HTC Software Updates> Check Now.
Most smartphones and tablets that received Android 4.4.2 Kitkat will get the Android 4.4.3 update but not all of them. Some elected to skip past this version and go straight to Android 4.4.4 after security threats and vulnerabilities were found. It’s not a big issue for most, but if you don’t want to take chances with OPENSLL security bugs, then perhaps wait for the next update to roll out.
Moreover, Android 4.4.2 is not regarded as a big time update. It comes with a redesigned Phone Dialer app with a new color scheme and card-based interface. In addition, it has bug fixes and performance improvements.
The updates rollout in stages and take time before they arrive to everyone. The M8 is an exclusive handset for Sprint, Verizon, AT&T and T-mobile in the US. That means we device the total number of HTC flagship handsets sold by four and come up with a rough estimate on how many of these are sold. The update will commence now, and finish no sooner than a week from now.
Source: Sprint support