Even though Android 5.0 Lollipop has arrived, certain smartphones and tablets won’t be receiving the brand new OS until they’ve completed their update to Android 4.4.4 KitKat. Android 4.4.4 KitKat is the latest version of KitKat which usually stabilizes and improves performance of the devices it rolls out to. Sprint has finally begun the Android 4.4.4 KitKat update rollout to its Galaxy S5 touting customers.
While other carriers like AT&T have already updated the Galaxy S5 to Android 4.4.4 KitKat, Sprint has just begun the rollout of the OTA to the Samsung flagships. Samsung phones like the Galaxy S5 usually get software updates from Google a bit later than unlocked devices. TouchWiz and specific features which get tied to the OTA for the Galaxy S5 and other phones in the Galaxy line are to be blamed. Much like other OEMs, Samsung chooses to put its own skin on top of Android 4.4.4 KitKat, which needs to be revamped and redesigned for each software update.
Consequently, carriers also have to verify and check the Android 4.4.4 KitKat update before beginning the rollout. Sprint Galaxy S5 units should be receiving the OTA (over the air) update the following few days. The Android 4.4.4 KitKat update for the Galaxy S5 brings international Wi-Fi calling support, a feature which has been sought after by many for a long time. The update also brings some security patches as well as an HD voice icon on the Galaxy S5. As usual with OTA Android 4.4.4 KitKat updates, a few weeks will be necessary for all existing Galaxy S5 units are updated.
Before installing the Android 4.4.4 KitKat update on your Galaxy S5, you should back up all your data in case something goes wrong. While Android 4.4.4 KitKat isn’t large, you should free at least 400 MB of space on your internal memory in case it’s full. After doing that, you should also charge your phone to at least 50 % so that the Android 4.4.4 KitKat update can be installed smoothly and without interruption. With that, you should be ready to install the Android 4.4.4 KitKat update on your Galaxy S5.