Android
Verizon Galaxy S6 Update: 5 Things Users Need to Know
Its been weeks since the Verizon Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge release and the carrier finally got around the updating the phones with enhancements and fixes for Galaxy S6 problems. With these new updates in mind, we take a look at what users need to know about the first big Verizon Galaxy S6 update.
In April, Verizon released the Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge. The two devices replace the Galaxy S5 on Verizon’s extensive 4G LTE network and they do so with some big time features including a new design language, improved displays, new processors, enhanced cameras, and more. They’re two of the top phones on the market though they’re not without their problems.
Verizon Galaxy S6 problems have been plaguing owners of the regular model and Galaxy S6 Edge model since April. Verizon’s forums are full of complaints that range from small isolated problems to bigger problems like battery drain, poor connectivity, and more.
Today, Verizon’s taken the first step towards alleviating at least some of these issues. The carrier has issued two updates, one for the Galaxy S6 and the other for Galaxy S6 Edge. They’re not the Android 5.1 updates that have been confirmed for the summer but they are important to the Verizon Galaxy S6.
With that in mind, here’s what we think Verizon Galaxy S6 users need to know about these updates and about Samsung’s Galaxy S6 update pipeline.
Prepare For The Update
Before you install the update, know that there are some steps to take.
First, we highly recommend backing up your precious files if you haven’t already. Even if you have backups setup, you’ll want to make sure that everything is in order before you make the move. We don’t anticipate any problems with the update but you just never know. Android updates are unpredictable.
We recommend charging up your Galaxy S6 or Galaxy S6 Edge (or both) before installing Verizon’s first update. You don’t want it to power down during the installation process and we highly suggest getting the device to 75% or more before you trigger the download.
You should also think about using the time before the update to clean up unnecessary files and to update your applications. We also suggest contacting your IT department, if you have one, before you install. If you have apps or services that are critical to your work flow, you’re going to need to be extremely careful.
Verizon Galaxy S6 Updates Rolling Out Now
According to Verizon, both of these updates have been approved and they should land for all Verizon Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge users over the next few days. Verizon’s updates tend to move pretty fast and we expect a majority of users to see the prompt before the week is over.
To check for the update, you’ll want to head into the device’s settings, into the about section, and check for a software update. If there is new firmware available, it’ll prompt you to download and install. The speed of the download will vary based on the speed of your Wi-Fi connection.
Tons of Bug Fixes
Both of these updates come with substantial change logs which isn’t at all surprising given that these are Verizon’s first updates. The Galaxy S6 update comes with improvements to HD voice, voice calling, the clock, and these smaller but important fixes for TouchWiz/Lollipop problem:
- Location Icon
– Location icon is now on the right side (system side) of the status bar.
– Icon is static.
- Conference Calls
– Hide/Show button has been added.
– Mute and Speaker buttons added on-screen when manager screen is shown. – ‘Drop’ text is added to individually drop a call from conference. - ’No Internet Connection’ pop up has been removed.
- Google Wallet is now a preload in the application tray.
- Back key now works in Facebook app.
- If the user is placed on hold while on Video call, their camera buttons will grey out.
- Rejected call and auto-rejected call icons have been updated.
- ‘Stop’ button appears on app bar while device searches for nearby bluetooth connections. Once search is complete, it changes to ‘Refresh’.
The Galaxy S6 Edge update is similar though it also features some changes to People Edge, a feature that takes advantage of the Galaxy S6 Edge’s curved display.
It’s worth noting that these types of updates have a tendency to fix bugs that aren’t listed on the change log. They also can introduce some problems of their own.
We haven’t seen any complaints yet, the roll outs are still very new, but there’s a very good chance we’ll hear about bugs and problems. If you’re at all concerned, wait for user feedback on Verizon’s forums. You might also want to take a look at fixes for common Galaxy S6 problems. They could help if you do run into something.
New Feature
The updates do bring one new feature to the table. There is now a drawing feature included in the Galaxy S6’s photo editor. It’s not a huge addition but it’s new nonetheless.
Galaxy S6 Android 5.1 Update
Verizon Galaxy S6 users looking for new features might not have to wait long. Samsung is going to be rolling out Android 5.1 Lollipop updates to the Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge in June or July and it’s expected to bring bug fixes and several new features.
Among them, a new Guest Mode and some tweaks to the camera application including support for RAW, ISO value changes, and more. It’s not clear if Verizon will push out Android 5.1.1 updates to the Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge though with T-Mobile testing the update behind the scenes, there’s a very good chance.
Robert Roth
06/09/2015 at 1:23 pm
Update helped but some apps still won’t work because of burnt acceleration sensor. Only Samsung solution: Send them your phone for 2 weeks and they will solder in a new sensor.
Michael P. Tosto
06/18/2015 at 3:43 pm
I did this and let me tell you, it was the absolute worst experience of my life. When it got there I was told the part was on backorder. I simply told them to return the phone to me so I could swap with Verizon until I got a working one. Well, the phone WAS returned to me, apart, in 6 pieces. I then called them and they apologized heavily, overnighted the phone back to themselves and it took quite a long time beyond what they promised to get it back together and finally fixed it. Not only did they replace the accelerometer and gyroscope, but apparently the battery and usb port for some unknown reason (mind you the phone was in new shape and a week old). Buyer beware…this phone has a known defect (edge model) you WILL suffer from no matter what, eventually. Heat from Fast or Wireless charging physically sticks the sensor, and you’re done for.
Robert Roth
06/19/2015 at 7:28 am
Missed that bullet. Still putting up with apps that don’t work. Samsung skillfully cured me of early adopter syndrome if not Samsungnitis.
EG
07/09/2015 at 6:19 am
There are still a lot of problems with Verizon and S6 signal / connectivity due to Advanced Calling. Is that going to be addressed?