Sony Xperia Z Update Release Date: Android 4.2.2 Available Now, Unofficially, Ahead of Official Rollout

While Sony has yet to release Android 4.2.2 officially for the Xperia Z smartphone, it seems that the firmware has leaked online.

Eager Sony Xperia Z owners who want to give Android 4.2.2 a spin before the official release can head over to XDADevelopers, where forum member DooMLoRD has posted a developer version of Android 4.2.2 for the Xperia Z. The software is not official, and works with unlocked bootloaders only.

DooMLoRD warns that, "since this is an internal testing firmware, do not expect to see the same features on the official final release... some things could be added while others removed..."

Latinos Post has not independently verified the stability of the firmware, and unless you are experienced with flashing and unlocked bootloaders, it is best to wait for the official rollout. Unlocking the Xperia Z's bootloader can void the phone's warranty in many cases.

The Xperia Z launched back in February to much fanfare, and Sony promised that an Android 4.2.2 update would roll out for the device soon after. Four months have gone by, and while Android 4.2.2 still hasn't landed, reports and sightings of a new firmware hint that the release is close. The Xperia Z, which is Sony's current flagship, will need Android 4.2.2 to stay competitive against other high-profile Android smartphones that have, or are scheduled to imminently receive, Android 4.2.2 such as the Samsung Galaxy S4 and HTC One.

Sony released a smaller firmware update one week ago which reportedly improves the phone's camera and gives it the White Balance app.