Sony, in collaboration with Verizon, has officially rolled out the Android 5.1.1 Lollipop update for the Xperia Z3v and Xperia Z2 Tablet. This is believed to be in preparation for the arrival of Marshmallow firmware soon.
According to PhoneDog, Sony Xperia devices are not typically sold by carriers in the US, but Xperia Z3v and Xperia Z2 Tablet did appear on Verizon's shelves way back in 2014. As of the moment, owners of Sony Xperia devices under Verizon Wireless carrier are now receiving the Android Lollipop treat. Based on Verizon's support pages for the Xperia Z3v and Xperia Z2 Tablet, both devices are now being updated to Android 5.1.1.
Furthermore, Android Headlines noted that the new software for the Xperia Z3v have the number version 23.4.B.0.319. It was also worth mentioning that this firmware update brings additional changes to the device including support for HD Voice which gives high call quality audio, video calling and simultaneous use of voice and data. The Android 5.1.1 Lollipop upgrade also includes some of the latest Android security patches.
Upon upgrading to Android 5.1.1, the Xperia Z3v will also have a redesigned Setup Wizard and a new Xperia Transfer tool, which will allow the users to transfer data from other devices. This Lollipop update also brings new themes optimized for Lollipop. The UI will also include new elements such as Floating Action Buttons, a modernized Quick Settings menu and enhanced Volume Controls, in addition to new animations and interactions.
Sony's What's New app will now incorporate the functionality of the Update Center and Sony Select. Other Sony apps have also been updated. For instance, the Walkman that was renamed to Music and Movies is now known as Video. The lock screen now includes new intelligent notification cards and additional shortcuts. Verizon Messages has been reorganized as well as the Visual Voice Mail to improve its performance.
On the other hand, the Xperia Z2 Tablet will start receiving software version 23.4.B.0.319 soon. This was the exact same version as the Z3v smartphone that is why it might be a typographical error. The changelog includes all of the aforementioned enhancements with the device except for the support of HD Voice and the updated Verizon apps. As a matter of fact, this was also exact same changelog for the previous Android 5.0.2 version, making it quite strange.
When it comes to the release, Android Geeks noted that Verizon is pushing Android 5.1.1 gradually, which means it would take a few days until it can reach all the handsets. Users will have to keep in mind that when the server-initiated OTA update, a notification would be visible on their device. They just have to tap on the notification and follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation. Their smartphones will reboot during the procedure.
Just in case they haven't received any notification, they can manually check the update by going to Settings > About device > Software updates > Check for software updates.
As the Sony Xperia Z3v and Xperia Z2 Tablet under Verizon Wireless are now receiving the Android 5.1.1 Lollipop update, users can expect the Android 6.0 firmware to be hit their devices next.
