The smartphone is expected to get Android 4.4 KitKat as early as April

Dec 8, 2013 05:01 GMT  ·  By

We reported recently on the upcoming release of the Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean update for DROID DNA, and now it appears that Verizon has already started the rollout of the long-awaited upgrade. However, it looks like DROID DNA owners will receive Android 4.2.2 and HTC Sense 5.0 in a two-step update.

This means that you will be prompted to download and install software version 2.08.605.1 first and then, in order to complete the upgrade process, you will receive software version 3.06.605.4, which will bring the phone to Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean and HTC Sense 5.0.

Keep in mind that Verizon is pushing this OTA (over-the-air) update in stages, which means not all DROID DNA owners will receive it at the same time.

Those who have yet to be notified on the update should manually check for it by going to Settings / About phone / Software update. In case it's not available yet, you may want to try again later.

In terms of improvements, the firmware version brings lots of new features and enhancements that could turn the DROID DNA into a brand new phone.

There will be lots of Gallery improvements, such as a new landing page where pictures are grouped together by the location/time photo was taken. Video Highlights and BlinkFeed are now part of HTC DROID DNA as well, along with the possibility to manage Groups and Events.

The Quick Settings feature received some tweaks also, such as the option to drag down the notification bar with two fingers to view notification panel, then drag with one finger to view the notification.

A new Toggle Switch has been added as well in the top right, which allows users to switch between standard notification panel and Quick Settings screen.

For the complete list of new features and improvements provided by this update check out Verizon's official changelog.