Android 4.4.2 KitKat Update: Samsung Releases Kernel Source Code For Sprint’s Galaxy S3, OTA Expected Soon

Samsung Electronics Co. (KRX:005935) released the Android 4.4.2 KitKat kernel source code on Wednesday for the Sprint variant of its Galaxy S3 smartphone, indicating that the device could receive the official over-the-air, or OTA, update soon.

While Sprint announced in March that its version of the Samsung Galaxy S3 would be update to the latest Android version from Android 4.3 Jelly Bean, it wasn't clear when the update would be available for the users of the handset. Although an exact date is yet to be confirmed, release of the kernel source code essentially means that the update is around the corner.

As part of an update to its Open Source Release Center page for the Sprint Galaxy S3, with the model number SPH-L710, Samsung included the upcoming Android 4.4.2 KitKat firmware that carries the build number L710VPND8, XDA Developers reported, adding that the update will feature the Linux 3.4 kernel.

According to SamMobile, there's generally a delay of a week between the release of the kernel source code and the release of the official OTA by the carriers, so it is possible that users of the Sprint Galaxy S3 will receive the firmware update to Android 4.4.2 KitKat next week.

It's worth mention that Sprint was the first carrier to roll out Android 4.4 KitKat for the Galaxy S4, and one of the first to the same for the Galaxy Note 3.

While other U.S. carriers still haven't confirmed their plans for Galaxy S3 owners, users on AT&T, T-Mobile, U.S. Cellular and Verizon should expect a Galaxy S3 Android 4.4 KitKat update sooner than later, GottaBeMobile reported.