Sony has released another software update with base firmware, 6.2.B.1.96 for the Xperia S (LT26i). The update is based on Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean and is a major update, which fixes all the bug issues spotted in the previous firmware version 6.2.B.0.211. The update is currently rolling out in several Nordic countries, Sweden, India, Brazil, Taiwan and Spain.

Xperia S
Android 4.1.2 update released for Xperia S. Sony

Android 4.1.2 (6.2.B.1.96) Features

  • 1080p HD video lag is fixed
  • Volume Up button lag fixed
  • Long pressing Home button launches Google Now
  • Pressing Home button twice launches recent apps and small apps
  • Screen not lightning bug fixed
  • All camera bugs fixed
  • Extended battery mode added as before
  • 685 MB RAM available (More free RAM now)
  • MMS pictures bug fixed
  • Home launcher not redrawing anymore (perform data wipe for it)
  • No lags in keyboard
  • Camera Focus improved as compared to the previous firmware update
  • No more false warning of Stamina Mode when battery reaches as low as 14%
  • Music Unlimited update app in Walkman

The official build is available on Sony PC Companion/Sony Bridge for Mac and as Over-The-Air (OTA) update. Navigate to Settings>> System>> About phone>> Software update>> OK to download and install OTA update.

Those who failed to install the OTA update, may follow our step-by-step guide to install the update manually. Below are two methods: one is via Sony Companion/Bridge and update using Sony flash tool. Users may follow either of the methods to update the Xperia S to latest official firmware.

IBTimes UK reminds its readers it will not be held responsible for damage to the device. Before installing firmware, users are advised to verify devices meet following requirements.

Pre-Requisites

  • Install USB driver for Sony Xperia S to connect Android device with computer
  • Enable USB debugging mode on phone to connect with computer and use Android SDK [Press Menu > Settings > Applications and then navigate to and click on Development and then check USB debugging mode]
  • The tutorial might wipe out all data off phone, so create a backup. If the device has a custom recovery such as CWM/TWRP then backup data using recovery
  • Xperia S should have above 80% battery charge
  • The device will lose custom ROM with installation of official firmware. Additionally, it will lose custom recovery, which will be replaced by stock recovery
  • The phone will no longer belong to rooted version with installation of official build
  • Android 4.1.2 (6.2.B.1.96) Jelly Bean works only with Sony Xperia S LT26i. As flashing this on any incorrect variant might brick device, verify the model number of the phone by navigating to Settings > About phone > Model number

Method-1: Steps to install Android 4.1.2 (6.2.B.1.96)on Xperia S via Sony Companion/Bridge

Step-1: Ensure the computer has stable internet connection

Step-2: Download and install Sony Companion for Windows/Sony Bridge for Mac on computer

Step-3: Connect Xperia S to computer using USB cable

Step-4: Open Sony Companion/Sony Bridge and wait until Sony Companion/Sony Bridge detects phone

Step-5: New Firmware Upgrade should be available at home of Sony Companion/Sony Bridge. Press Firmware Upgrade button to proceed

Step-6: Check the box to agree to T&C about upgrade and press Start Upgrade

Step-7: Wait for download and install to run

Step-8: The device should now be running upgrade and will reboot automatically

The update should be completed on the Xperia S. To verify new software version running on the phone, go to Settings > About phone > Android & Baseband version

Method-2: Steps to Install Android 4.1.2 (6.2.B.1.96) on Xperia S via Sony flash tool

Step-1: Download Android 4.1.2 (6.2.B.1.96) Jelly Bean official firmware for Xperia S to computer

Step-2: Download Sony Flashtool to computer. Double click on flashtool.exe to install. The flashtool folder should be in C Drive

Download link- Flashtool-0.9.11.0-windows.exe

Step-3: Double click on flashtool icon to launch flashtool

[Those who are first timers navigate to C:/Flashtool/drivers to install Flashtool-drivers. Select and check the box of device model and Flashmode drivers]

Step-4: Connect Xperia S to computer using USB cable. Ensure all drivers are installed properly

Step-5: Copy downloaded ftf (official firmware file) to C:/flashtool/firmwares folder in computer

Step-6: On the flashtool, click lightning icon and click flashmode then click OK. A new window should appear

Step-7: At the right sidebar, check Data, Cache, Appslog boxes to wipe device before flashing. To retain the device data, uncheck all boxes

Step-8: In source folder, browse and choose .ftf in flashtool/firmwares. .ftf

Step-9: Press Flash button to start installation

Step-10: Follow on-screen prompts

First to unplug the phone from computer

Then power off device

Third enter Flash Mode on device by pressing and holding Volume Down while connecting phone to computer using USB cable

Step-11: Monitor Flashtool on computer. It should continue to run and flash .ftf

Step-12: Wait until installation is completed, which will be indicated by a message saying Flashing Finished from flashtool

Turn the Xperia S on. It should be updated with Android 4.1.2 (6.2.B.1.96) official firmware. Head over to Settings > About phone > Android & Baseband version to verify new software version running on the device.

Also read- Xperia Z1 offers twice the official talk time, suggest battery tests

[Source: Android Teen]

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