14 DAY TRIAL // Nokia has just announced that PR1.1 software update for MeeGo-based N9 smartphone is now available for download.
The update is about 220 MB in size and brings lots of new features and improvements to the popular Nokia N9.
According to Nokia, the update is pushed in waves OTA (over the air), but if you are not notified within the next hours or so, you can always check for the software update manually by going to Settings / Applications / Manage Applications / Software update.
As soon as you tap on the Software update tab, a list of updates for any apps that you have installed on the N9 will be displayed, while on top of the list software version 20.2011.40-4 should appear.
Among the most important changes included with the PR1.1 software update is the addition of music controls on the phone's lock screen, something that music lovers surely missed a lot.
Furthermore, the update brings Swype keyboard to improve the typing experience and make it more accurate and comfortable.
Those who already own the smartphone probably know that by default Nokia N9 sends all apps in the background instead of actually closing them.
Obviously, there's a setting that allows users to automatically close an application by simply swiping to any edge of the phone.
However, the new update introduces a new feature that allows users to close apps by swiping down. This new option is enabled by default now.
In addition, new indicators for standby screen (charging and calendar) have been included, along with new camera settings that allows users to take snapshots and videos with color filters (black & white, sepia, vivid, negative, solarize).
Noise cancellation has been enhanced to further reduces background noise, while the multitasking feature is now handling memory much better.
Other highlights of the PR1.1 software update include: NFC tag reading to instantly interact with NFC tags and faster MfE synch, synchronizing only active folders.
Before installing the update make sure the N9's battery is more than 50% charged and that you have a stable Wi-Fi connection.
It took my Nokia N9 around 35 minutes or so just to install the update, but only 3-4 minutes to download it.