Nokia has today released a voluntary software update for it’s Symbian^3 smartphones, primarily to address a synchronization issue identified in a limited number of Nokia smartphones using Mail for Exchange on Microsoft Exchange Server 2010, Service Pack 1. This does not mean the PR 2.0 firmware has been delayed, as it’s still remains scheduled for the first quarter of 2011. Hit the jump to find out more.
The following had been posted on the Nokia Support Discussions earlier today:
We listen to people’s feedback and continue to constantly improve the user experience of our smartphones with software updates. While we are working to make available the next software version, which will provide a renewed user experience, including new browser, refreshed widgets and home screen as well as many other performance enhancements, we released this software to quickly resolve a potential issue affecting our business users.
The software update will be available through the on-the-device Software Update or using Ovi Suite. The roll-out schedule will be determined operator by operator, market by market.
Q: What is new with this software update? What are the benefits?
A: The primary reason for releasing this update is to address a Mail for Exchange synchronization issue. It will also include a new version of Ovi Store as well as a new version of Ovi Maps (SR6), adding visibility to subways, trams and trains, real-time traffic, safety alerts, visibility to parking and petrol stations, speed limit warnings, and improved search and location sharing capabilities.
Q: How can I update the software on my Symbian device?
A: Go to Applications > Software update or Applications-> Tools –> Software update (depending on which model you have) on your device and download the update there over the air. You can use WiFi to avoid any additional data costs. It’s also possible to update software via Ovi Suite. (As for all electronic devices we recommend to do regular backups in case you need to restore your data.)
Q: Will the software update be pushed to users?
A: No, this is a voluntary software update. Users who have signed up with MyNokia or enabled the software update auto-check will get a notification about the update on their homescreen and will be able to download the new software from the Software updater in their device, if and when the update is available for them.
Q: Why does the Symbian device variant in country X not have the SW update yet? What is your roll-out schedule?
A: We first publish standard non-customised versions of the software. Country (SIM-free) and operator versions will be following soon. You can check if an update is available for you from Nokia Care. Note that as this is an optional release we have some countries & operators that are not taking this version.
Q: I’m on a SIM-locked device with operator X, they are not offering the update. My MfE is not synching. What can I do?
A: We will offer this update content also as part of the PR 2.0 Firmware.
Q: How can I check if I have the latest SW?
A: Go to Applications > Software update (N8, E7) / Applications > Tools > Software update (C6-01, C7), on your device and see if there are any updates available.
Q: Is the rollout of PR 2.0 affected by this?
A: We’ve announced we will introduce significant improvements for the Symbian UI during the first half of 2011. That schedule remains unchanged.
Q: You have promised a new SW with browser and portrait QWERTY. Why are those not available in this release?
A: We hope that consumers will be very excited as we continue to enhance our smartphone experience in 2011. We are not stopping here but there are further improvements on the way. We anticipate the software to be available in the summer.