14 DAY TRIAL // The long-awaited Android 2.1 software update is now available for download for users of a Motorola Milestone living in the UK. The handset vendor has just announced via its Facebook page the availability of the solution, inviting those who own a Motorola Milestone to head over to its support page to get the update.
“UK Milestone owners - At last, the 2.1 upgrade rolls out today. Thank you for your patience and we hope you enjoy enhancements such Speech to Text, live wallpapers, up to 9 home screens, and added security for exchange server users. The update is available now via PC download from http://direct.motorola.com/hellomoto/support/update/ ,” Motorola Europe states on its Facebook page.
The new Speech to Text feature offers users the possibility to speak in plain English whenever a text box appears on their Android device, eliminating the need of typing. All that one would have to do is press the microphone key on the virtual keyboard, and then dictate the phrase. The software upgrade also brings a free Facebook App and Widget, enabling contact importation (Names, Profile Pics and Status) to handset's contacts. The Widget can be put on a screen to receive live updates from the social networking site.
One of the main features of the Android 2.1 update for Milestone includes animated Wallpapers and more homescreens. One can select from a series of wallpapers that would move on the homescreen, some of which were included in the upgrade, while others can be downloaded from the Android Market. Following the update, users will be able to set to have 3, 5, 7, or even 9 home screens, the handset vendor announced.
Google Maps has been updated too, with personalized suggestions, based on personal search history, syncing of starred items with Google Maps on desktop, and with multitouch capabilities. Other improvements included in the update would be: battery life optimization, support for Bluetooth headset multi function, security enhancements (to prevent unauthorized pattern lock bypass), or improvements to manual removal of email accounts.