Samsung finally releases Jelly Bean for Note 10.1, Tab 2
updated 12:25 pm EST, Fri January 18, 2013
New update brings speed, additional features to products
Samsung Electronics America today announced the availability of updates to Android 4.1, also known as "Jelly Bean," for both its Galaxy Note 10.1 and Galaxy Tab 2 10-inch and 7.1-inch devices. Samsung’s Galaxy Note 10.1 upgrade includes all the performance benefits of Android 4.1 Jelly Bean as well as Premium Suite, a collection of new features that further upgrades multi-tasking and productivity. Android 4.1 was originally released in late June, and no explanation has been given for the seven-month delay.
Also added is improved S Pen support, and a change in the user interface to open and resize multiple apps and view them across the screen in a layered view. The Galaxy Note 10.1 has added Cascade View -- a feature allowing users to freely resize, move and pin selected applications in multiple views, running them simultaneously or while operating the home-screen.
In addition, the update includes Air View, which adds the ability to use the S Pen to preview content without having to actually open it in an application. Quick Command allows the S Pen to quickly activate applications and services used most often with command shortcuts enabled by customized and preset S Pen strokes.
Users can now quickly send personalized handwritten notes and memos via email, as well as hand-write directly into their S Planner. Additionally, the S Pen has added functionality to select writing or color modes at the touch of a button, or the ability to unlock the home-screen simply by removing the S Pen from the tablet.
The update is now available either over-the-air or by way of a PC through Samsung's Kies service, depending on carrier. Users attempting the upgrade shortly after release have reported some difficulty in completing the download, but the initial issues have seemingly resolved themselves.
