Essential has started rolling out a software package that will install an updated Beta build of Android P to the Essential PH-1. The Essential PH-1 is one of the few non-Google devices that have received the beta build of Android P, alongside a number of handsets from Nokia, Vivo, OPPO, Xiaomi, and Sony. The transition of the smartphone’s Android P software from Developer Preview to Beta likely means that the updated software is now more stable compared to the previous versions of Android P. However, Essential’s website states that there are still features that may be missing or may not work properly with the latest beta build.
Aside from the new build of Android P, the operating system upgrade also brings the June 2018 security patch which resolves a total of 57 security issues, including several critical vulnerabilities found in the media framework and the system portion of the operating system. Some of the critical exploits addressed in the security update are classified as remote code execution vulnerabilities. Furthermore, this update also brings integration of the latest Android P code from Google, improved range of the display’s auto-brightness setting, and betters stability.
The latest update to the Essential PH-1 is available as an OTA package to users who already installed the developer preview of Android P. However, those whose smartphones are still running Android Oreo will have to manually flash the software package onto their devices. It is important that users back up files and images stored in the smartphone to a microSD card or a personal computer to prevent loss of important data. In addition, it is also advisable to download the update when the handset is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network, since downloading the software update using the cellular network may result in additional carrier charges. The Essential PH-1 launched last year, powered by the Snapdragon 835 chipset. The handset contains 4GB of RAM and 128GB of flash storage, as well as a 3,040mAh battery.
Android P is moving from Dev Preview to Beta on Essential Phone! This update, rolling out now, includes the latest Android P code integration, improved adaptive brightness range, various stability fixes and June Security Patches. Learn more here: https://t.co/LWeH1iWrKqpic.twitter.com/PPnRD3YpIy
— Essential (@essential) June 7, 2018