OTA update brings Samsung Galaxy S III and Samsung GALAXY Note II features to original phablet

Just because the original Samsung GALAXY Note is about to be replaced with the sequel doesn't mean that the device is no longer useful. In fact, Samsung is sending out an OTA update on Wednesday to the international version of the device (GT-N7000). The update brings to the phablet some of the newer features found on the Samsung GALAXY S III and the Samsung GALAXY Note II. The update, based on Android 4.0.4, brings the Pop-up Play feature to the GALAXY Note. This allows users to view a video on the screen, move it around, and continue to watch it no matter what else is on the screen. It is similar to the picture-in-a-picture function found on some large screen televisions.

Other new features that you will find on the 5.3 inch screen include a 3D gallery app similar to what is on the new version of the GALAXY Note, enhancements to the home screen and lock screen and S Cloud back up. Samsung has yet to take the wraps off of the latter, but at IFA, some of the Samsung GALAXY Note II units sported the S Cloud feature. There is also a new launcher, similar to the one on the Samsung Galaxy S III, and a new contacts list along with improvements to the performance of the device. A new feature lets you raise the phablet to dial the phone number of the contact that you are looking at on the screen. Unfortunately, it seems that some new bloatware comes with the update. Samsung Galaxy S II owners should be on the lookout for this new software version as well.

The update, as we said, is being sent out OTA although those with an unlocked model will have to hook up the phone to their computer and access Samsung Kies to score the new features.

source: SamMobile via AndroidCentral