Sony has begun pushing out a big update to some of its most important devices from last year. The update brings Android 4.4 KitKat, as well as a slew of new features and user interface tweaks.
According to Sony, KitKat on the Xperia Z, Xperia ZL, Xperia ZR, and Xperia Tablet Z brings better overall performance and UI optimization. But there’s more to the update, which starts rolling out today “in selected markets,” with more to follow in the next weeks.
In the eye candy department, Sony fans will be thrilled to see that a sleek PS4-style launch animation and live wallpapers are now gracing their devices. There’s also a new “revamped” Status and Quick Settings bar that you can customize to better keep tabs on your notifications.
With the KitKat package come updates to several of Sony’s own apps, including Messaging, Email, Smart Social camera, and Battery Stamina mode. The Japanese company promises refreshed animations, smoother operation, and small functionality additions for all of these apps.
Other additions include the Xperia Themes customization center (which totaled two million downloads since it launched earlier this year), cloud integration in Sony’s media apps, and compatibility with Sony’s Smartband wearable device and the Lifelog app.
As for other Sony devices, the company says Android 4.4 KitKat for the Xperia T2 Ultra, Xperia E1 and Xperia M2 and their dual variants will begin rolling out in July. More details will be offered as the update approaches.