Many smartphones from Samsung, LG and HTC are starting to receive their Android Marshmallow software. Now, BlackBerry Priv is also getting its own Android M. The Priv is BlackBerry's first Android smartphone. Here's the latest round-up of update about Android M rollout on Blackberry devices.
The BlackBerry Priv was released with pre-installed Android 5.1 in November last year. After five months of waiting, users will finally experience the cool features of Android 6.0 Marshmallow. In an announcement post, BlackBerry explained why the update took so long.
The Android M update for Priv was released after weeks of beta testing, which is important to know the compatibility of the firmware to the device. In addition, Priv belongs to an elite group of smartphones that run Marshmallow software. As of April, only 4.6% of Android smartphones have Android M.
Users of unlocked BlackBerry Priv can now update their devices. This Priv variant is not tied to any mobile carrier. On the other hand, BlackBerry Priv owners under AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless have to wait until May 9 to get a taste of Marshmallow firmware.
For unlocked Priv users who haven't received a notification update, they can check for it manually by going to Settings>About>System update>Check for update. It is also advised that users have to make sure they are connected to Wi-Fi or else there are chances of unnecessary data charges being incurred.
As for the features of BlackBerry Priv Marshmallow, Ars Technica reported the system's security and privacy is now improved. The update also includes Android security patch for the month of May.
Furthermore, there are additional enhancements to BlackBerry Launcher, BlackBerry Keyboard, BlackBerry Hub, camera features and battery performance. In the BlackBerry Hub, users can now digitally sign and encrypt their emails for added online security. In the BlackBerry keyboard, it now comes with better predictive typing, more emojis, gesture typing, and better "Cursor Control".
One of the interesting additions in BlackBerry Priv is the improved DTEK (special app on the device), which now offers "customized Personal Data Permission." This feature helps users to turn permissions off at any time for an app and still continue to use it.
Android Marshmallow is the latest operating firmware from Google. It brings innovative apps, smooth user interface and enhanced security features. It also improves the battery life of devices through its new "Doze" feature.
