14 DAY TRIAL // Mobile phone carrier Verizon Wireless has just started the rolling-out of a software update for the HTC Droid Eris, its second mobile phone that comes with Google's Android operating system on board. The new firmware version comes as a minor update for the device, and is being sent over the air. According to the news, Eris is poised to receive another software update in early 2010, perhaps one that will bring its platform to the latest version available at the moment, Android 2.0.1 (or to the upcoming 2.1 iteration).
“Verizon Wireless is pleased to announce new software enhancements for your Droid Eris by HTC smartphone. The Droid Eris software version ROM:1.16.605.1 / Radio:2.32.40.11.09 update includes numerous improvements and updates,” the carrier states on the release notes for the handset (PDF link). Those who would like to learn what they need to do to update their device should head to the carrier's support page.
The new firmware version for Eris comes with the following improvements, Verizon says: - While on a call and the device is in screensaver mode, pressing the End key now takes the device out of screensaver mode, and a second press will end the call. - On-call mute and speakerphone icon functionality is enhanced. - Upgraded functionality after activation eliminates the delay users were experiencing in receiving their first call. - Device now switches effectively from 1x mode to 3G. - Device no longer requires users to reselect a default email after power-cycling. - SMS and MMS messaging delivery is improved. - Eighty-character MMS/SMS message subject lines are now allowed. - Improved picture messaging functionality allows messages from LG phones to be opened.
The HTC Droid Eris has been already expected to be receiving the OTA update from the carrier, the same as it happened to Motorola DROID, the other Android phone from Verizon. The updates are said to have started already, yet it should take a wile before all Droid Eris users out there will receive the solution. With another update expected to arrive to both handsets next year, we should see a lot of Verizon's subscribers happy, that's for sure.