Android 4.4 KitKat Release Date Nears: Internal Document Suggests Update Coming To Galaxy Mega And Galaxy S4 Mini

Two of Samsung’s (KRX:005935) smartphones -- the Galaxy Mega and Galaxy S4 Mini -- that currently run on Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean, are expected to receive the upcoming Android 4.4 KitKat firmware update, according to a new report based on a leaked company document.

SamMobile reported on Tuesday that it had obtained an internal document for Samsung’s KNOX security suit -- a product that enhances security on mobile software and hardware -- which confirms that Android 4.4 KitKat will be released on Samsung’s Galaxy Mega and Galaxy S4 Mini.

The leaked document also showed that the South Korean technology giant is planning to add KNOX to the Galaxy Mega 5.8, the Galaxy Mega 6.3 and the Galaxy S4 Mini once the three handsets are updated to Android 4.4 KitKat. However, there is no indication on when Android 4.4 will be ready for the devices.

Samsung KNOX implements a concept called “container,” which houses a number of applications and prevents them from being infected by malware and phishing attacks, as well as hacking attempts on devices when they are stolen or lost.

According to SamMobile, although the leaked KNOX document does not list other flagship devices such as the Galaxy S4 and the Galaxy Note 3 with Android 4.4, it is still likely that both smartphones will be updated to KitKat. The only device that is not likely to get either KNOX or Android 4.4 is the Galaxy S3 Mini, the document suggested.

A Samsung representative reportedly said last week that Android 4.4 would be coming to the Galaxy Note 2 and the Galaxy S3. Considering this, there are chances that Samsung will update many of its smartphones to the Android 4.4 KitKat in 2014.

Recent rumors have suggested that Google (NASDAQ:GOOG) is likely to release its new Nexus 5 smartphone later this month, which is expected to be running on Android 4.4 KitKat. Last month, an alleged screenshot of an Android 4.4-powered Nexus 5 was leaked online, showing recently reported white and grey status bar icons.