Interested Samsung Galaxy S4 owners can now have one more thing to hold over rival HTC One fans: Android 4.3.
SamMobile has a reputable history when it comes to Samsung firmwares, and the Samsung-centric website has managed to get its hands on a test build of Android 4.3 for the Galaxy S4. While the build was originally for the Galaxy S4 Google edition (a variant of the Galaxy S4 sold through Google Play and running stock Android - the idea behind it being that those who want timely updates from Google but the tech specs of the Galaxy S4 now have an option), SamMobile managed to port it over to a Snapdragon Galaxy S4 model GT-I9505.
"We wanted to test out Android 4.3 but didn't had the Google variant of the Galaxy S4 with us, so we ported it to our standard Snapdragon-powered Galaxy S4 (GT-I9505) and got some outstanding results," writes SamMobile. "We haven't made any changes to the port, so it's 100% original with zero changes."
As usual, the build is not an official piece of software, so the usual tales of caution apply. Remember that flashing your handset to Android softwares such as this can void the warranty on the smartphone. Those who still wish to get an early peek at Android 4.3 can get instructions and the files here.
Little is known about Android 4.3, except that it has been mysteriously sighted on devices worldwide and is expected to tide the public over until Google unleashes a bigger refresh with Android 5.0 Key Lime Pie later this year.
Let us know if you flash your Galaxy S4 with Android 4.3 and what you think of the new experience in the comments section below.