T-Mobile Upgrading Two Models with Android 1.6

[Ed Hardy]

Two Android-based smartphones -- the T-Mobile G1 and T-Mobile myTouch 3G -- will get updates to the latest version of their operating system in the next few days.

Previously this was a rumor, but T-Mobile has now confirmed it. An official statement says:

The rollout of Android 1.6 (Donut) to T-Mobile's G1 and myTouch 3G customers is now underway

A lucky few with the G1 have already received an over-the-air update to Android 1.6 starting early this morning, while T-Mobile will reportedly start sending it to the newer myTouch 3G tomorrow.

What's In Android 1.6?
The next version of this OS won't be a dramatic improvement for current models, but there will be some improvements. The on-device software store that has been re-designed, and developers will be able to create apps that take advantage of a new text-to-speech engine.

Other enhancements in Android 1.6 will include:

• An integrated camera, camcorder, and gallery interface.
• Updated Voice Search, with faster response and deeper integration with native applications, including the ability to dial contacts.
• A new Quick Search Box will make it easier to search various sources, such as browser bookmarks & history, contacts, and the web, directly from the home screen.

The first models running Android 1.6 are expected to launch later this month. These will be able to take advantage of the two most significant changes in Android 1.6: support for new screen resolutions -- QVGA and WVGA -- and support for CDMA cellular wireless networks.

Source: T-Mobile

Related Articles:

• Motorola Cliq Will Debut in Early November
• Samsung Behold2 a Step Closer to T-Mobile?
• T-Mobile myTouch 3G Drops to $150
• T-Mobile G1 Drops to $130

[Ed Hardy]

This story has gone from rumor to confirmed.

Unfortunately, I'm not one of the people who has received an Android 1.6 update yet, but I'm eagerly waiting.

-

[Ed Hardy]

I've updated this article again, as T-Mobile has released a list of exactly what changes are included in this update.

-

[Magellan]

So far I like the upgrade. It seems "snappier" since upgrading. I was out of town for a week, and it didn't upgrade until I get back Wednesday. I guess it doesn't do it while roaming?

[Ed Hardy]

Right, no upgrades while roaming. If for no other reason than data charges while roaming are huge.

-