Where to go to update your smartphone’s firmware

Most smartphone manufacturers will, from time to time, release updates for the phones in order to fix bugs and even add new features. However, these updates are not always well advertised and even if your phone is brand new it is not always guaranteed to have the latest firmware.

Here is where you can go to check for updates for your phone:

Palm
http://www.palm.com/europe/en/support/index.html
Process: Download updates from support page for device in question
Frequency of updates: Rare

BlackBerry
http://eu.blackberry.com/eng/support/
Process: Download update and install via Desktop Manager
Frequency of updates: Often

Nokia
http://europe.nokia.com
Process: Installed via Nokia Software Updater
Frequency of updates: Often

iPhone
http://www.apple.com/uk/support/
Process: iTunes will prompt to upgrade when iPhone connected
Frequency of updates: Often

HTC
http://www.htc.com/europe/support.aspx
Process: Hot fixes and full upgrades available to download at HTC’s website
Frequency of updates: Medium

Samsung
http://www.samsung.com/uk/support
Process: Download updates from download centre page for device in question
Frequency of updates: Rare

Sony Ericsson
http://www.sonyericsson.com/cws/support/
Process: Via Update Service Application or over the air
Frequency of updates: Medium

If you install a firmware update, ensure that you fully back up all your data and applications (and make sure you still have the registration codes for any apps you have bought), because the handset’s memory will be wiped completely. Also ensure that the phone’s battery is at least 50% charged, and that you follow the insturctions fully.

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