Sony updates Tablet S to Android 4.0.3 in the US
updated 04:04 pm EDT, Fri September 28, 2012
Tablet S update brings Android 4.0.3 and many other improvements
Sony has issued an update for its older Tablet S, not the newer Xperia Tablet S, that includes Android 4.0.3 as well as a number of other changes. Released on Thursday, the update brings new features, including a Guest Mode that easily lets owners share the device with friends and family without giving them widespread access to apps and personal files. Redesigned Sony media player apps such as Walkman, Album, and Movies are also included, all with new features.
There are also new apps compatible with the Small Apps feature that lets users multitask by having a small browser, IR remote, calculator, voice recorder, or timer atop another app. Widgets can be registered and used as small apps for the first time as well.
The popular IR Remote Control App was freshened up with the addition of six programmable macro keys, just like smart remotes, to make turning on a TV, Blu-ray player, and sound system at the same time a quick and painless affair. Each device can also now be assigned with its own skin.
A couple of new widgets are on the Home Screen as well, including Topics, which shows more content. The Social Feed Reader Cloud, meanwhile, has been renamed while it was revamped. It's not called Socialife and lets users keep track of news, videos, and social network feeds.
There are also numerous smaller improvements, such as new icons and a better copy-and-paste capability.
While this isn't necessarily part of the update, Sony is urging Tablet S owners to download the Watch Now app from Google Play. It's being described as an interactive and visual program guide that uses personal preferences and real-time trends from social media feeds.
