Android Firmware Updates Questions

[sharadsharma]

Hello,

I am new to Android with Galaxy Note being my first android. I have a few questions about Android Firmware updates in general , which might sound trivial to the pros but important for me

1) If I do Setting > About Phone > Software Updates and check for updates , will I get the latest firmware on the phone? I just did that and my Android version was updated to 2.3.6. What is firmware essentially ? Is it just the Android version or is there more to it?

2) If there is more to Firmware , how can I get the latest firmware , the official way? Is Build number = Firmware?

3) I understand Firmware updates are country specific? I bought my phone in the UK - so will I always be notified about UK updates only?

4) If I travel to another country , will my software update be done for that country?

 

[chanchan05]

1. Firmware is basically the customized official Android version with modifications made by the manufacturer

2. The official way is the one in settings, or through Samsung Kies program for PC.

3. Yes

4. No, you'd still be getting UK firmware. Firmware are country specific, and your phone has an ID which tells it in which country it was sent to. It doesn't matter what country you are in at the moment.

 

[sharadsharma]

Thank you so much!