One of the best smartphones, or phablets if your prefer, the Galaxy Note 2 is finally getting its just rewards from Samsung and Verizon. It was just yesterday that Verizon rolled out the Android 4.3 Jelly Bean update to the Samsung Galaxy S3, and today Verizon just keeps on “giving” with their Galaxy Note 2 (SCH-I605) update to the many improvements on Android 4.3. The update has the build number VRUEMJ9 and brings not only Android 4.3, but also the many upgraded Samsung software features that Galaxy Note 3 users have enjoyed for the past three months.
This update includes compatibility with the Galaxy Gear smartwatch, faster performance, KNOX support for those that use their Galaxy Note 2 for work and home, upgraded interface, improved camera firmware, an enhanced Easy Mode home screen for newer users moving up to a smartphone, new additions to the notification center, and new apps like S Voice and a newly improved keyboard.
The update will start rolling out OTA sometime today, but as with all upgrades, it may be a day or two before it reaches your device. For those that cannot wait, the upgrade can be easily obtained via Verizon’s computer-based Upgrade Assistant – it is straightforward and easy to follow.
While much is made about the Galaxy Gear compatibility, I doubt that many Galaxy Note 2 customers have purchased the smartwatch at this time. However, there have been other improvements to make “note” of – Extended battery life when using Exchange mail, Apps can be moved to the SD Card (if the developer has this support included), Voicemail notifications, Google maps, and Wi-Fi performance.
Pen Up has been upgraded to the Note 3 version, as well as Multi-Windows and allowance of more apps in the Multi-Windows tray. Bluetooth Smart Ready Low Energy feature has also been enhanced, and Sound and Shot on the camera were improved.
Let us know on our Google+ Page if you have received and upgraded your Galaxy Note 2 to Android 4.3 Jelly Bean, how smoothly it went, and if you are enjoying the upgrades that the Galaxy Note series affords you with its software upgrades. Since your Note 2 will now have support for the Galaxy Gear, will you be compelled to purchase Samsung’s smartwatch, or are you holding off for the Galaxy Gear 2.