Archive for the ‘flashing’ Category

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SE Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich – Date Rumours Begin!

Monday, November 28th, 2011

Following on from the official announcement of Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) on SE’s Xperia 2011 range, we now are starting to see a couple of rumours fly when we will get the newest version of Android will hit our handsets.

The first date came from SE Italy, via a reply on their Facebook page by Maurizio De Palma, the Head of Marketing for SE Italy, saying that the update should arrive by March 2012. As pointed out by our source, this would normally be within the release of a flagship phone (at this time of writing, expected to be the much rumoured Xperia Nozomi) based on the past two years (Xperia X10 and Xperia Arc)

However, just to throw another spanner into the works, a Sony employee has tweeted some comments about Ice Cream Sandwich and suggests a date of the first week of January 2012, but finds it rather confusing with the March date being mentioned. He also said that SE are working on a “skinless” version of ICS and that there is a chance of getting Android 2.3.4 to the X10 etc Personally though I wouldn’t get your hopes up about the latter.

It is nice to see some rumours about when we will get the update. However I would still prefer an official announcement, and it kept to.

The fact that the Sony employee is talking about a “skinless version of ICS” does puzzle me though. Recently I brought the Xperia Pro, and, going through the (generic) user guide for Android 2.3.4, it seems to match it pretty much apart from the Facebook Inside Xperia. I can’t honestly see SE ditching Facebook Inside Xperia, unless Google have forced them to. Anyway, speaking of the Xperia Pro, I will be posting a review of it soon.

As for the current rumoured dates; lets take those as a pinch of salt. I can’t see SE giving away ICS for its current platform before its even released its new range yet, with we hope ICS on it already. I suspect the update will be delivered in late Q1 or early Q2. That’s not to say that I wouldn’t mind having it in January or March though.

Source for the January date: XperiaBlog

From Unofficial Sony Ericsson Blog: http://blog.se-nse.n…-rumours-begin/

Posted in X10, Xperia Arc, Xperia Arc S, Xperia Duo, Xperia Mini, Xperia Mini Pro, Xperia Neo, Xperia Play, Xperia Pro, Xperia active, Xperia ray, android, firmware, flashing, future, rumour, update, xperia | 10 Comments »

Android 2.3.4 now official, SE Xperia Pro “coming soon”

Friday, September 30th, 2011

A few things to update you all on:

As we know, the 2.3.4 update that was promised in October has now started to roll out, though it is for generic world and nordic countries only. This is coming to the following Xperia devices:

Arc

Neo

Play

Ray

We are also hearing that it has started to arrive on the Xperia Mini too, so we expect the Xperia Mini Pro and the Xperia Active to follow suit soon.

Sony Ericsson officially announced it a few days ago, and you can find out what kits are officially receiving the update reading it here.

More good news: Xperia Arc S, Xperia Neo V and Walkman Live are now on pre-order from Play.com, with quite close expected release dates. Again, more details here.

In fact, speaking of Play, it seems that the Xperia Active got delayed. We have had no details why, but anyway the new expected release date is now later today. You can find it on the Play website here

SE UK are now selling their own phones via the SE website, instead of using se-store.co.uk. Now this makes things easier to control from SE’s point of view, but it may raise a concern or two;

We all (should) know about the Xperia Pro being delayed until Q4 2011. Also, Xperia Pro (according to se-store) was due to be released in “late September”.

Now whats so worrying about that? Well, since se-store had the Xperia Pro on pre-order, and I would imagine people have placed an order for it, I saw on twitter the other day asking about what has happened to their order:

Now to me, that does not read very well, and does not answer the question. Pre-orders mean very little, but surely someone knows at SE what is happening with the Xperia Pro? On the SE website we are still seeing the “coming soon” on the Xperia Pro.

However, we do have some good news with the Xperia Pro; it appears that it is finally being introduced into the United Kingdom on 6th October. Another blog has already reported this, but to be honest I would rather report on somewhere that has a bit more of a better reputation. It current stands at £300 (all bar a penny) at Play.com. You can read more details here.

From Unofficial Sony Ericsson Blog: http://blog.se-nse.n…ro-coming-soon/

Posted in Xperia Arc, Xperia Arc S, Xperia Mini, Xperia Mini Pro, Xperia Neo, Xperia Play, Xperia Pro, Xperia active, Xperia ray, android, announcement, firmware, flashing, update, x-series, xperia | 5 Comments »

Android 4.0: SE say “no official decision made”

Thursday, September 8th, 2011

Earlier on we brought the rather exciting news that Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) was on its way to the 2011 Xperia range of phones next year. Rather disappointingly, Sony Ericsson have now issued a new statement saying:

“When it comes to future platforms of the Android OS, we will make them available to consumers in a timely manner, as long as they improve the user experience and are viable from a hardware point of view”
Which basically means that Sony Ericsson havent (officailly anyway)  made up their minds, much like the Froyo debate that happened with the X10 line up, and we all know what the end result of that one was like. Somobile, however, are still hoping that Ice Cream Sandwich will find its way onto the 2011 Xperia line up.

My personal opinion? I think SE UK let it slip (much like SE Brazil regarding the Gingerbread update), but SE (International) are trying not to raise hopes.

Source: SoMobile via XperiaBlog

From Unofficial Sony Ericsson Blog: http://blog.se-nse.n…-decision-made/

Posted in Xperia Arc, Xperia Arc S, Xperia Duo, Xperia Mini, Xperia Mini Pro, Xperia Neo, Xperia Play, Xperia Pro, Xperia active, Xperia ray, android, firmware, flashing, update, x-series, xperia | 4 Comments »

Update to 2.3.4 announced

Monday, September 5th, 2011

With most manufacturers now rolling out the Android 2.3.4 update, those on the latest Xperia devices were left in dark, wondering if their device would ever get the Android 2.3.4 update, which was said to be released around October. You can also see this pretty much echoed here.

Maybe then, it is about time someone at Sony Ericsson woke up, and realised that an official announcement hadnt been made about it. Thankfully then, they have done exactly that, and released some new features of the newer 2.3.4. The main features:

  • This brings video chat via Google Talk. Not a major feature if you already have Skype or some other video calling service in use already, except it will allow you to have video conversations though your google contacts (who probably use Skype already). Still, choice is not exactly a bad thing though.

  • Another advantage is Swipe input. Now we assume that is Sony Ericsson’s own version of Swype. How good it is remains to be seen. However, I fear Swype enthusiasts will of already dumped the original Sony Ericsson keyboard for another keyboard that has Swype as part of the app.

  • The update also has the ability to take a sceen capture (or a screenshot) of your phone without root or a dedicated app, which seems to be more handy for developers rather than your everyday user.

  • Facebook for Xperia moved to version 2.0. New features include the ability to share apps that are already installed on your phone.

  • A 3D sweep panorama app, that takes 3D panorama photos, and then you can project them onto your 3D HDMI TV from your phone (suitable phone required)

  • Also, not forgetting the ability to control the phone with the recently released Live Dock.

Sony Ericsson have also uploaded this short video of the said updates:

So far we have no date set in stone from Sony Ericsson regarding when the update is due to be released, but we do have a month: October. Cunningly though, they havent said which phones will get the update either. The update will be over 3G/WIFI, and of course via PC Companion and the SEUS application.

So, what do I make of the updates? Well, there is already apps out on the Android Market that do some of the jobs that the new updates do already (including for my X10 Mini Pro), so I’m not really all that excited, so its hard for me to see why anyone with a new Xperia device will be more excited. However, saying that, most updates are good, so if this also adds features as standard (and work rather well), then there is no real reason why I wouldnt want the new update if (and when) the Xperia Pro is released. Speaking of which: October; does this ring any bells for anyone, or do I forecast another November release like they did for the Eclair update for the Xperia X10? As ever though, I would absolutely love to be incorrect, and Sony Ericsson decide to release it at the end of this month.

From Unofficial Sony Ericsson Blog: http://blog.se-nse.n…-3-4-announced/

Posted in Xperia Arc, Xperia Mini, Xperia Mini Pro, Xperia Neo, Xperia Play, Xperia Pro, Xperia ray, android, announcement, application, firmware, flashing, update, x-series, xperia | 7 Comments »

New update for Arc and PLAY, landscape home screens!

Wednesday, August 10th, 2011
Sony Ericsson has rolled out yet another update for Arc and PLAY.New firmware version number is 4.0.A.2.368Updated phones will now have the following features:-Landscape home screens (It has been available with some apps, usually paid, but now it will be the default feature)-xLoud which will increase the phone volume-DLNA compatibility with Digital Home-Stereo video recording-New themes (different tones of the default theme, if you ask me, they look amazing)The update is supposed to be available at PC Companion, if it isn’t, global generic file is available at xda-developers.Source: Various, mostly from Xperia Blog
From Unofficial Sony Ericsson Blog: http://blog.se-nse.n…e-home-screens/

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Xperia Arc, Xperia Play, android, application, firmware, flashing, update, x-series, xperia | No Comments »

X10 Gingerbread: The Leaks

Thursday, July 28th, 2011
For the past few days I have been monitoring a certain thread over at XDA regarding the Gingerbread update, mainly to find out when SE have released it, and where has it. We know that it is delayed slightly (maybe until tomorrow?), and of course with a post dedicated to the Gingerbread update, they certainly have a few facts, and even a couple of rumours.


For a start, the above image is the latest picture taken of a X10 running Gingerbread. Now what is confusing with this image is that appears to be using the same kernel as the current Android 2.1 update, which would mean that the new range of Xperia phones (like Xperia Arc etc)  would still be quicker than having a new kernel for the phone. In fact one user claims that cos of the lack of a new kernel, that it is basically SE trying to release a custom ROM.

Then there is a youtube video of a X10 with Gingerbread:

It appears to be using the old UI for the Timescape widget, but then again since the video is so short it is very hard to form an opinion of the video. All we do know is that the person that posted up the video has said that that this will be out in a few weeks. Hmm. Ok, until we see the video below:

Now this looks a lot more official. Pity it is in chinese hebrew, but Im sure that this is pretty much what the X10 will look like once Gingerbread starts rolling out.

In any case, needless to say that for the update you will need to be running official stock SE software. And my tip to you is to run the generic kit for your region (or location, as thats what they are normally based on).  Thankfully, another user at XDA has decided to post most (if not, all) the kits available. Now Ive just had a look at the topic, and I suspect that this is old firmware, so it might just be worth using PC Companion or Sony Ericsson Update Service to make sure you are on the latest firmware, this way not making you too disappointed if you see a “new update”, and then find out it’s not the Gingerbread update that most people want.

From Unofficial Sony Ericsson Blog: http://blog.se-nse.n…read-the-leaks/

Posted in X10, android, customization, firmware, flashing, rumour, update, videos, x-series, xperia | 3 Comments »

X10’s bootloader unlocked!

Friday, July 8th, 2011
We all thought it would never happen, but the fully locked down X10 got cracked!Once again thanks to the great devs.

The_laser posted at xda that “maxrfon” found a bug in Qualcomm’s mcu bootrom RSA signature verification.That means the devs have the full control over semcboot which allows them to hack the bootloader instead of bypassing it.zdzihu and other devs are currently working on a save method to flash the modified bootloader, let’s hope they find a save way soon.

Also he posted the 1024-bit key at xda: click here to read it

If you want to follow the work of the devs you can watch the thread over here

This will allow the devs to make fully working custom ROMs and simlock can be removed for free, no need for buying unlock codes anymore.

zdzihu posted a comment from Sony Ericsson that says they won’t update the bootloaders of the X10 with the 2.3.3 update – which is good for the X10 users. The reason is that by updating the bootloader the X10 can be bricked.

What will Sony Ericsson say about it? They should be very suprised when they read the news.

We’ll keep you updated.

Source: xda

From Unofficial Sony Ericsson Blog: http://blog.se-nse.n…oader-unlocked/

Posted in X10, android, developer, firmware, flashing, modification, x-series, xperia | 5 Comments »

Update on Custom ROMs part 2

Saturday, June 18th, 2011
About a week ago, I decided to have a look around, and see what the XDA devs are doing (or done) for the Xperia Arc and Play. After something grabbing my attention again, I decided to take another look around, and pleased to report there is a bit more of better news for the Xperia Play.

Xperia Play:

We have someone taking donations, for which appears to be for getting a phone to a dev. Afterwards, some development will take place from that dev.

It seems that Sony Ericsson still hasn’t sorted out the problem with unlocked bootloaders but running stock firmware yet, but yet again Bin4ry comes to the rescue with a fix for people that have bricked their devices by using OTA.

Also, as semi expected if we are honest, CM7.1.0 is now being created for the Play, but they are concentrating on the Arc ROM version first. Lucky them eh? ;)

There is also a custom kernel available for the Play, though it isnt exactly clear what it does.

Xperia Arc:

Again, we have a fix for OTA updates from Sony Ericsson.

The only ROM that seems to be custom is the  CM 7.1.0 (which is currently on BETA 006), but the biggest news from that thread is CWM recovery being installed on Bin4ry’s Arc. Unfortunately it appears we are not allowed to show the picture, but heres a link to the pic: http://imageshack.us…rcrecovery.jpg/

Heres hoping the new custom ROMs will be fully released versions soon

From Unofficial Sony Ericsson Blog: http://blog.se-nse.n…om-roms-part-2/

Posted in Xperia Arc, Xperia Play, android, customization, developer, firmware, flashing, modification, x-series, xperia | No Comments »

Update On Custom ROMs

Friday, June 10th, 2011
It has been a little while since Sony Ericsson unlocked the bootloader for their new Xperia devices, so what has been happening since we last looked?

Xperia Play:

Since getting root, there hasnt been any major dev activity, which Im really surprised about. Perhaps there is ROM development going on, but it’s all in secret until it is all stable enough for users to use

Xperia Arc:

Well, the devs have gained root as well, but now it appears like the first ROM is on its way thanks to the dev group known as “FreeXperia”, who was responsible for a lot happening to the Xperia X10:

They aim to bring CM7.0.3 to the Arc. The latest news is that the new prelink map is ready to match 2/2 memory, which basically means that you can now use the same kernel as stock, rather than using their custom kernel for this ROM. A big improvement of yesterdays news of custom kernels not working with the SE ROM.

If you want to change your kernel, read this topic before starting. It will show you how to back up and restore the original kernel should you not want to use the custom kernel again.

A ROM preview is available (you might need the custom kernel?), but be advised: it is very buggy and remains untested (at time of writing). The ROM dev thread is here: http://forum.xda-dev…d.php?t=1102523

From Unofficial Sony Ericsson Blog: http://blog.se-nse.n…on-custom-roms/

Posted in Xperia Arc, Xperia Play, android, customization, flashing, x-series, xperia | No Comments »

X10 Updated too!

Saturday, May 28th, 2011
Since yesterday there’s a new update for the X10. It’s name is 2.1.B.0.1 and it comes with a new baseband – 2.1.67 It isn’t the big update to 2.3.3, it’s still 2.1. At this stage though it isnt clear whether this is for generic users or what region its for (Flo95 is in Germany)We are also seeing XDA user reporting that the X10 Mini and the X10 Mini Pro are getting updates, so we also assume that the X8 will also be getting updated soon.
The changes to the X10 firmware are: – Faster phone – It’s smoother – The camera is improved – 3G and HSDPA is faster – Timescape is more fluent Screen from phone information:

It still has the same theme as before. Flo95 just changed it back to his theme. It’s still rootable and you can install your old themes. Themes for 2.1.x firmware versions are working. If we find more changes Flo95 will let you know.

UPDATE:

Flo95 has just confirmed that it is Germany only at the moment!

Thanks Flo95!

From Unofficial Sony Ericsson Blog: http://blog.se-nse.n…10-updated-too/

Posted in X10, android, firmware, flashing, x-series, xperia | 5 Comments »

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