Just one day after Apple showed off iOS 8 at WWDC 2014, Google is sending out an over the air update (OTA) for Android 4.4.3. The update will be available on Nexus devices first, but will soon arrive on other popular manufacturer’s devices, such as Samsung, HTC, and LG smartphones. Android 4.4.3 adds several bug fixes and minor updates, alongside a brand-new Phone app and dialer.
Although no major adjustments have been made in this latest version of KitKat, the bug fixes should make certain aspects of the OS run smoother. Google made a few changes to the camera app, solving the problem of rapid battery drain that had plagued many Nexus 5 users. Many of the new tweaks have to do with increased security on Android. However, the main focus of this update to Android 4.4.3 is centered around the Phone app.
The Phone app looks slightly different than before, with a cleaner interface and a nice, fresh color pallet. The addition of blue numbers and other accents really makes the new dialer pop. Additionally, the Phone app now has speed dial, so you can reach your favorite contacts more quickly by phone.
The OTA update to Android 4.4.3 is available for download on the 2013 edition of the Nexus 7 tablet. Google says that it plans to roll out the update to all other Nexus devices in the coming weeks. From there, it will travel to other manufacturer’s devices. In the meantime, if you want to take a look at the new dialer and other factory images of Android 4.4.3, you can check out Google’s Developers page.
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