Galaxy S4 LTE Gets I9505XXUGNF1 Android 4.4.2 Stock Firmware [How to Install Manually]

Samsung is rolling out a new Android 4.4.2 KitKat update with firmware build number I9505XXUGNF1, for the international LTE variant of Galaxy S4 with bug-fixes and maintenance updates over its previous release, I9505XXUGNE8.

The new KitKat update is expected to introduce enhanced drivers and facilitate better compatibility with Galaxy Gear and Gear accessories.

The firmware is currently available for Galaxy S4 LTE via Samsung KIES as well as Over-The-Air update only in Germany, as Samsung is rolling out the global release in phases.

Those who missed the official OTA update notification and cannot wait for its official release in their country, can follow our step-by-step guide to install the same manually.

I9505XXUGNF1 Android 4.4.2 Firmware Details

Model: GT-I9505
Model name: GALAXY S4 LTE
Country: Germany
Version: Android 4.4.2
Changelist: 1854187
Build date: Thu, 05 Jun 2014 06:55:13 +0000
Product Code: DBT
PDA: I9505XXUGNF1
CSC: I9505OXAGNF1
MODEM: I9505XXUGNF1

Note: As this is an unbranded firmware, it can be installed on any unlocked international variant of Galaxy S4 LTE (GT-I9505), regardless of the country or region.

IBTimes UK reminds readers that it will not be held liable for any damage to device during or after firmware installation. Users are advised to proceed at their own risk.

Pre-requisites

1. Install necessary USB Drivers for Galaxy S4 LTE (GT-I9505) on the computer.

2. USB Debugging Mode should be enabled on the phone by navigating to Settings >> Developer Options.

3. Back up your important data to avoid potential data loss during firmware installation.

4. Ensure the phone is factory unlocked (not locked to any specific carrier).

5. Verify Galaxy S4 LTE has at least 80 percent battery charge.

6. The Android 4.4.2 I9505XXUGNF1 firmware is compatible with Galaxy S4 LTE (GT-I9505) only. Do not attempt installing it on incorrect variants as it may brick the device. Verify the model number of the Galaxy S4 by navigating to Settings >> About Phone.

Downloads Required

Android 4.4.2 I9505XXUGNE5 stock firmware for Galaxy S4 LTE(Alternate Link)

Odin v3.09

Steps to Update Galaxy S4 LTE with Android 4.4.2 I9505XXUGNF1 KitKat Stock Firmware

Step 1: Extract Android 4.4.2 I9505XXUGNF1 firmware zip file using WinRAR/7-Zip or WinZip to obtain a .tar.md5 file and some other optional files.
Step 2: Next, extract the Odin zip file to get Odin3 v3.09.exe along with a few other files.
Step 3: Power off the Galaxy S4 LTE and boot the device into Download Mode. To do so, press and hold Volume Down, Home and Powerbuttons together until a construction Android robot icon with a warning triangle appears on screen. Then keep tapping Powerbutton to progress into Download Mode.
Step 5: Launch Odin on computer as an Administrator.
Step 6: Now connect Galaxy S4 to computer with USB cable in Download Mode. When Odin detects the device and a pop-up message reading "Added!" appears on screen, the ID: COM box will turn yellow with the COM port number.
Note: If the Added message fails to appear, then try re-installing USB drivers or changing the port on computer.
Step 7:In Odin, click on AP button and select the firmware file with .tar.md5 extension

Step 8: In Odin, select Auto Reboot and F. Reset Time options. But, uncheck the Re-partition option.

Step 9: After ensuring that Step 7 and Step 8 are done correctly, hit the Startbutton in Odin to begin installing the firmware.
Step 10: After the firmware is installed, a PASS message with a green background appears in the left-most box at the top of Odin. Galaxy S4 will then reboot to the Home screen. It is now safe to disconnect the USB cable and remove the phone from the computer.

Your Galaxy S4 is now running I9505XXUGNF1 Android 4.4.2 KitKat stock firmware. Head over to Settings >> About Phone to verify that the firmware is installed on the device.

Troubleshooting: If the Galaxy S4 LTE is stuck at boot animation after Step 10, then boot into recovery mode (press and hold the Volume Up, Home and Power buttons together), and perform Wipe data/Factory Reset and Wipe Cache Partition task before choosing the Reboot System Now option.

Note: In recovery mode, use Volume keys to navigate between options and Power key to select the option. Performing data wipe task will erase your device's internal memory and not external SD card data.

Those who have already updated their Galaxy S4 (LTE) to the latest KitKat official firmware can root the same using our step-by-step guide posted here.

[Source: Team Android]