After seeing other U.S. carriers updating a handful of Samsung devices into the Android 5.1.1 Lollipop OS, Verizon has finally jumped into the bandwagon. Verizon Wireless is currently distributing the latest Android version to the flagship models Samsung Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 Edge, as well as last year's Galaxy Tab 4 10.1.
Aside from bumping these devices up to the Android 5.1.1 build, it will also address a recent bug called StageFright. It is a software vulnerability found on previous Android versions that allows hackers to access and control a victim's handset by sending an MMS message with malicious code.
The Stagefright vulnerability has been one of the most controversial issues in Google's mobile OS these past weeks. Though it's a security issue that all of us should be mindful about, most of us won't even be encountering it. However, it's a prudent mode for Samsung and wireless carriers to release an update that will protect their users against such attacks.
Verizon is not exactly known for rolling out software updates in a timely manner. We've already seen other companies like AT&T, Sprint, and T-Mobile circulate this new Android firmware to select Samsung models so it's a relief that Verizon is finally doing the same.
One of the most notable changes that Android 5.1.1 will bring to the Galaxy S6 and its curved sibling is a feature called "Caller Name ID." This will let users identify unknown callers so they can easily filter out which calls they want to receive.
Furthermore, Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge users now have the choice to disable parallax "Wallpaper motion effect." Live Wallpaper option is included for the lock screen and the ability to adjust the camera's Exposure Value is also added.
Meanwhile, since this is the first time the Galaxy Tab 4 10.1 is treated with a Lollipop update, Android 5.1.1 will bring the renowned aesthetics of "Material Design" to the 10.1-inch tablet.
A Reactivation Lock feature is added, allowing users to protect their device if ever they lose it. The feature basically prevents the Galaxy Tab 4 10.1 from being factory-reset by asking for the owner's Samsung account credentials before starting the process of resetting.
For those interested in build numbers, these Android firmware upgrade courtesy of Verizon has the following details: software version LMY47X.G920VVRU3BOG5 for the Galaxy S6, LMY47X.G920VVRU3BOG5 for the Galaxy S6 Edge, and LMY47X.T537VVRU3BOG1 for Galaxy Tab 4 10.1.
The carrier is sending out the update right now but it's doing so in phases. So users don't have to worry if they haven't received it yet as it might take a few days until the new software arrives to everyone. For those who want to manually check it's availability, in case a notification fails to appear, they can do so by heading to Settings> About Phone> Software Updates.
