The Galaxy S4 has already started hitting retail stores' shelves, and XDA developers have figured out how to root the Qualcomm Snapdragon 600 variant while manufacturer Samsung has released the official firmwares for the device.
An XDA Developers user by the name of "drbliss" has posted instructions on how to root exploit the Samsung Galaxy S4 version with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 600 processor instead of Samsung Exynos 5 Octa eight-core processor. Apparently, a root exploit for Motorola devices known as "Motochopper" works fine on the Snapdragon Galaxy S4. This includes AT&T, T-Mobile, and Sprint devices.
Those interested in downloading the firmware for the GT-I9505 model can do so through SamMobile. The firmware, labeled build JDQ39, with the PDA tag of I9505XXUAMDM and a CSC of I9505OXAAMDM, gives interested parties access to the stock Galaxy S4 Android 4.2.2 build with the Nature UX 2.0 interface developed by Samsung. The Galaxy S4 is one of the few high-end smartphones being made available in the United States with Android 4.2.2 right out of the box.
The release of the official Samsung firmware will allow for custom ROM and kernel developers to begin producing aftermarket material for the public.
The firmware release follows a previous trend set by Samsung, which releases firmwares for its Android handsets before the actual device becomes available for purchase in markets.
Google is expected to debut Android 5.0, so far dubbed "Key Lime Pie," at its Google I/O conference later this year. That will most likely be the next update made available to the Galaxy S4. Samsung's older stars, the Galaxy S3 and Galaxy Note 2, are expected to receive an Android 4.2.2 update in May or June.
Thanks to: Android Authority
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