14 DAY TRIAL // After numerous delays HTC has finally announced the availability of the Android 2.3 Gingerbread software update for HTC Desire.
However, the company recommends the update only for expert users who want to experience Android 2.3 and understand the limitations which apply to this update for the HTC Desire.
For those who are aware, the Gingerbread update for HTC Desire was initially canceled due to the memory limitations of the smartphone, but HTC decided to make it possible by removing some of the apps that come pre-loaded within the phone and make room for the update.
Given this limitations, several applications have been removed from Android 2.3 Gingerbread update and the handset manufacturer is only offering the ROM upgrade utility (RUU) for users to download, instead of a much easier OTA (over the air) upgrade.
HTC Desire users are advised to back up all their data, as flashing this ROM will erase their previous customizations, including any messages, emails, contacts, and other personal information.
It is recommended to transfer all the data to a memory SD card, which will not be erased or modified during the upgrade.
Those who want to upgrade their HTC Desire smartphone to Android 2.3 Gingerbread should know that the update brings the following major changes:
- All customizations, including operator applications, will be removed; - All wallpapers, except the default wallpaper, will be removed and placed online on the HTC Developer website; - Several HTC applications will be removed and placed online on the HTC Developer website; - The official Facebook application will be removed and is downloadable on the Android Market.
HTC also states that the following ROM update is for development only and not for general public use.
In addition, the company says that certain functions may no longer be usable after re-flashing the ROM, including but not limited to MMS and SMS.
It is also worth mentioning that several regional variants of the HTC Desire are not compatible with this upgrade, such as Germany (Telekom Deutschland), North America, South Korea and Japan.
HTC Desire owners who still want to upgrade to Android 2.3 Gingerbread can download this update directly from the developer's website.