Google may have announced the Android 6.0 Marshmallow update which should be out soon but the reality of it all is that folks with previous models of Android-run devices may have to console themselves with Android 5.1.1 for now.
Retailers like AT&T have already started rolling out Android 5.1.1 Lollipop for the Samsung Galaxy S5 as early as October 22, something which may soon be available via Firmware Over The Air (FOTA), a key update that will includes security fixes that will address the widely growing concern on the Stagefright 1.0 and Stagefright 2.0 expoits.
As mentioned in a previous post, the said breach is a gateway that allows hackers to take control of your device. This is usually done through MMS or through media files like an MP3 or MP4, making Android 5.1.1 a pretty important patch to use.
As before, Android phone users can check their phone settings and check for software updates to see if Android 5.1.1 is already available. Just make sure you have a reliable WiFi connection and at least 50% battery life when you do so.
Depending on how good your connection is, it could take days to compete the download considering it large size which is pegged somewhere between 609 to 999 MB large.
For those who are techie enough to do it manually, you can use Samsung Kies as an alternative. Once complete, the update can be applied by connecting your device to a PC and then synced.
And while the Samsung Galaxy S5 is getting its share of Android love, it seems that other Samsung Galaxy devices down the line will have to wait a bit longer for Android 5.1.1 to reach them.
There is no word yet on whether the Samsung Galaxy S4 would be getting the Android 5.1.1 or make a jump to Android 6.0 Marshmallow instead. But for the ones who are aching to get Android 5.1.1 due to the security issues, there is a stock version of the Android ROM which can be downloaded and installed manually.
The move will be of course risky since it technically voids the warranty of the phone. Further, this recourse is best done by folks who are technically sound.
A wrong implementation of the ROM could leave the phone bricked and unusable so unless one is armed with proper expertise, it may be best to wait for the official OS update instead.
Worries about the Stagefright is understandable and hopefully an official update for the Samsung Galaxy S4 will come soon. Once it does, it is suggested for users to apply the update as soon as possible.