While Samsung Galaxy Note 3 users from T-Mobile, Sprint, and many other international carriers are enjoying the latest features of Android 4.4 Kitkat, both Verizon and AT&T have yet to roll out the anticipated update for all users.
The Android 4.4 Kitkat update has already been patching to other Samsung devices since February (and as early as last November on the Nexus 5), bringing with it new features like improved voice control, easier file control, streamlined multitasking and an immersive mode that automatically hides everything except what you want to see.
Kitkat also brings an updated version of Google's popular Hangouts app, replacing Google Talk and other Messaging voice and texting apps. This allows SMS, MMS, video chat, and group chat to all live in one cozy window.
Verizon and AT&T customers are understandably frustrated that this update is taking so long to come to their specific carriers, especially considering the fact that multi-year contracts make it nearly impossible and very costly to switch to another provider.
Several threads on Verizon's community forum express concern, with customers like Jmuscol1 discussing conversations they've had with service reps, "I spoke at length with a Samsung rep today, and the words 'Verizon adjusting features that they see fit' and the words 'removal of Data Tethering' and 'removal of Tabbed view of Settings' seemed to make their way to light."
While Verizon has started the roll-out for some customers, a Verizon support team member joined the thread to reassure customers. "We understand that updates are important," Sheritah_vzw wrote. "As soon as we find out the software release information we pass it along to all of our customers. At this time, we do not have any additional information regarding the Note 3 and and software updates." The support member then went on to supply a link to Verizon's general news page for any further developments that might come up from the company.
But AT&T's Kitkat update is still missing in action and is said to be delayed due to a major GPS bug that has plagued the AT&T version of the Galaxy Note 3 for several months now.
According to reports, the issue arises when the GPS disconnects automatically during network switches from 4G LTE to 4G. The problem even occurs while the Galaxy Note 3 is charging, but AT&T has yet to fix the bug. Customers are so fed up at this point that a petition has been set up ot Change.org asking At&T to fix the GPS issues or provide the default Samsung OS until the fix is in place.
Despite this type of negative publicity, it's said that AT&T is still selling these Samsung Galaxy Note 3s to customers.
But all may not be roses and rainbows for those who are able to get the update. Users are complaining of wi-fi connectivity issues, freezing apps, and severe battery drainage since downloading Kitkat.
According to MobileBloom, one customer claims that his battery life dropped 70 percent in just three hours of sitting idle and only 20 minutes of internet browsing.
Verizon is expected to finish rolling out the update to all of its customers today while AT&T's GPS problems are yet to be solved.
