Review: Android 4.4.3 Software Update

2 days ago, I received a unique notification on my phone: one that I do not get very often. This notification is one that puts a grin on the face of just about every Android enthusiast. I'm talking about an OTA update, or "over the air" update. This time, it was for the latest 4.4.3 update for my Nexus 5. My Nexus 5 is actually the first Nexus device that I have ever owned, and I must say I love the phone! It is very fast and the battery life is exceptional. I actually use an app called "Data Enabler" which I use to turn off my LTE connection when I am not using it, and this causes my battery to usually last me 2 or 3 days per charge. This is phenomenal, considering that most smartphone users have to charge their phone every day.

As I finished downloading the 4.4.3 software update, I was not surprised to see that not much had changed in terms of visuals. Just about everything looked the same with the exception of the default phone dialer app. This app had actually been overhauled. In terms of usability, it was definitely a step in the right direction, but in terms of visuals I still do not understand why just about every contact in my phone has to be a different color. Nevertheless, I am very happy with the resulting software, and am very glad that I have a Nexus device and am able to get the latest updates as they are released by Google.

As I was browsing the internet for more information regarding this update, I discovered that Google's policy is that it only updates its Nexus devices 18 months with the latest software. I was a little dismayed to learn this, but once again not surprised. A business won't survive if it updates/fixes its products forever. For now, I am happy with the phone, and when that sad day comes when my Nexus 5 is considered "too old" by Google for more updates, I plan on looking for alternative software.