The Sony Xperia SP has new firmware grants from the PTCRB that will see the version number updated to 12.1.A.1.207 in a staged rollout happening as we speak over the air otherwise known as OTA.
The update targets certain bugs found in the last 12.1.A.1.205 update. As you may know, just because one release comes out with the intent of solving bugs doesn’t mean it can’t create some new problems of its own. often it is the case and it takes extra releases down the chain to finally fix all bugs.
The SP variant started with Android 4.1 Jelly Bean and saw the next upgrade to Android 4.3 Jelly Bean. The new software update coming OTA is a fresher version of Android 4.3 yet again. Having only seen two updates and sitting far from the latest Android Kitkat as we speak, it’s safe to say we were not expecting this handset to get the Android L treatments that is already out now as a developmental program. However, it is possible, it advances more towards the end of Jelly Bean at least, although we are yet to receive any word or confirmation on that happening.
To check if the new firmware is available manually navigate to Settings > About phone > Software updates > System updates and it will ping back the results. All people will receive the system notification coming when its ready anyway, so there’s no need to do this unless you are suspicious of it not coming. The main reason it’s there is because sometimes people receive the notifications alerting them it is ready, but they are not ready to install it due to circumstances. After people view the notice once it won’t automatically show up again so people have to take the manual steps to then search and install it using the guide I mentioned.
Users should backup the contacts or sync them with their Google account before updating for when it stalls and forces you into a factory reset. There are applications available from the Google Play Store such as helium to help you with that.