Sprint Hero owners finally get a taste of Android 2.1 goodness
May 19, 2010 - By Justin E. Gehrke
Today, users of the Sprint version of the HTC Hero awoke to the news they have long hoped to hear. Their device’s can finally be upgraded to Android firmware version 2.1. While the changes are not monumental, many users of the previous version, Android 1.5, were painfully aware that they have been missing out on games and other Android Market apps that are compatible only with version 2.1. To put it in perspective, it is the equivalent of having an Apple iPhone 3GS, with OS 3.2, and an iPhone 4G, with OS 4.0. It just matters.
With the update, app incompatibility experienced in the Version 1.5 should be a thing of the past. For social media butterflies, the update means that popular offerings like Twitter for Android, which was officially released on May 7, 2010, and Google’s Maps Navigation can now be downloaded for use on the Hero. So, what are the specific changes under the hood, and, more importantly, where can you download it? We’ve thrown the important stuff together to make understanding and completing the process an easier one.
What’s different in Android 2.1 for the Sprint Hero?
Again, the changes don’t appear to be groundbreaking, but if you’re a Version 1.5 user, you know they have the potential to make difference in how you use the device on a daily basis. What are the changes of which users need to be aware?
- OS upgraded to Android 2.1 Éclair
- Improved Sense User Interface (UI)
- Improved support for corporate email users
- Garden variety bug fixes to improve stability, performance and security
What do you need to know before installing the update?
The update will take devices that currently have Firmware version 1.5 and Software version 1.56.651.2 up to Firmware version 2.1 Éclair and Software version 2.27.651.5. Users should verify their software version, prior to downloading and attempting to install the update, since running it will erase all previous data from the device (excluding the contents of a microSD card). This includes contacts, calendars, picture and text messages, and any applications you previously downloaded from the Android Market.
Once you’ve backed up your data, ensure the device has at least a 30% charge, since it could take up to 25 minutes to complete the installation. Users should also verify that the computer on which they plan to install the ROM is configured to NOT enter hibernation mode. As usual, you should also be certain not to make or receive any phone calls during the upgrade, since it could render the device inoperable. Overall the process is a simple one. As a matter of fact, you probably knew all of this information, but it never hurts to review the instructions for good measure.
I’m ready to upgrade! Where do I go now?
From a PC, you should first visit the Sprint HTC Hero Support page and review the instructions carefully. If you’re already an expert and just need to download the software, you can go directly to the HTC Sprint Hero page or click here for the direct download from the FTP site.
Geek Shui Living contributor Alex Miranda has the device and is installing the update as we write. Hopefully, we’ll be able to post some updated information on how things went, the notable improvements, etc. very soon. We’re interested in feedback from other users, as well. Let us know if the update worked, any problems you encountered, and if you really see a difference after installing and taking it for a spin.
