The Samsung Galaxy S4 Google Play edition was created for one main reason: so that owners can receive Android updates far quicker than if they had to wait for Samsung to layer its own interface on top. Purchasing the Google Play edition instead of the Samsung-centric, carrier-tied variants is about to pay off, for Android 4.3 is set to land on the smartphone soon.
Google revealed Android 4.3 Wednesday, July 24, and mentioned that it would be pushed out to the Nexus 4, Nexus 7, and Nexus 10 devices immediately. The update would then arrive on the Samsung Galaxy S4 Google Play edition soon after — no exact date has been given, however, leaked Android 4.3 builds for the Galaxy S4 indicate Samsung is close to completion.
Early inspection of the software code of the Samsung Galaxy S4 revealed that the phone, despite being marketed as having pure Android software, actually still contains some coding on top of it. This means that Samsung has to tweak the AOSP just a little, and that means a little extra time usually. Either way, Samsung Galaxy S4 Google Play edition will get Android 4.3 before any smartphone outside of the Google Nexus series does.
Android 4.3 is an incremental step forward, with minor tweaks that probably won't affect most everyday users. The interface is still the same, but Bluetooth Smart is finally supported as well as easier text input and expandable, actionable notifications. For tablet users, the upgrade will allow for more parental control in regards to the multiple user profiles that Android 4.2 brought to the table.
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