The latest Android 4.4.2 KitKat update is now finally available for the Verizon Wireless HTC One, as Big Red has started to roll out the OTA.
The U.S. HTC One suffered delays in getting the new Android version, but things are starting to look up. Sprint was the first carrier to roll out Android 4.4 KitKat to its version of the smartphone, and now Verizon is joining the party.
Several Verizon HTC One users have already reported receiving the update notifications, but others may have to wait a little longer for the OTA to reach all devices. As always, the update is rolling out gradually.
The update also includes the latest HTC Sense 5.5 user interface, as well as a number of welcome changes and enhancements.
One of the biggest changes with the new software version involves the smartphone's BlinkFeed feature. The changes are not major, but they do aim to improve the overall experience and make the app easier to use. HTC One users will now be able to access content sources simply by swiping from the left side of the screen. The update also makes it easy to turn off BlinkFeed if you don't really like it. To do so, all you need to do is pinch to zoom on the Home screen and tap the dedicated button to toggle the app on or off.
The HTC One's Home screen is now more widget-friendly, allowing users to add their desired widget by swiping from the left and clicking on the "+" (add) icon.
Other changes include a revamped Location Settings page, which now offers more information regarding which apps are using location services and how much they affect battery life. A new categorization, meanwhile, now breaks down location profiles into high accuracy, battery saving, and device sensors. Moreover, the new update will also add a Do Not Disturb mode to the HTC One, which, as the name suggests, is designed to limit distractions when you don't want to be disturbed.
The music and gallery apps also sport some improvements to their interfaces, and Verizon has added some preloaded software such as the Verizon Support and Protect app.
The changelog (PDF) Verizon provided further mentions a new Over the Air (OTA) Wi-Fi exclusivity, which could restrict OTA updates to Wi-Fi-only and not mobile data.
As previously mentioned, the update is rolling out in phases, so don't read too much into it if it hasn't reached your device just yet. If, on the other hand, you already received the Android 4.4.2 KitKat update for your Verizon HTC One, drop by our comment section below and let us know how it fares.
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