Samsung Galaxy S4 Official Firmware Based On Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean Released; Odin Files, Kernel Also Available [Download Links]

At a time when the tech world is looking forward to the availability of the latest Samsung Galaxy S4 with millions of customers around the globe waiting eagerly to try their hands on the new flagship device, Samsung has started rolling out Galaxy S4’s (GT-I9500) official firmware to the Kies server.

The official firmware for the Samsung Galaxy S4 is based on the latest Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean. It also comes with the company’s own TouchWiz Nature 2.0 user interface. Users should note that Samsung has released the official Galaxy S4 firmware only for China for the time being. However, as SamMobile has pointed out, other countries are expected to receive the firmware soon.

Here are the details of the official firmware for Samsung Galaxy S4, with the model number GT-I9500. Samsung has released the firmware at GT-I9500 Firmware Repository Page from Samsung-Updates.com.

Firmware Details

Android Version: 4.2.2 – Build JDQ39

PDA: I9500ZCUAMDG

CSC: I9500CHNAMDG

MODEM: I9500ZCUAMDF

Build Date: April 24

Changelist: 465806

Region: CHN (China)

AdamLange of XDA Developers has also posted the first leaked version of the Samsung Galaxy S4 firmware, complete with all the Odin files, i.e. CSC, PDA and modem. The download links are given below:

- Firmware (I9500ZCUAMDG, CHN)

- Kernel (I9500ZCUAMDG, CHN) Only

- Odin 3.07 (Flashing Program)

For beginners, Odin is a Windows application that is used to flash firmware on Samsung phones via USB. As Android Central pointed out, it’s essential to flash a stock firmware via Odin in order to get Samsung phones back to factory condition. It’s also required to fix any issues while installing custom firmware.

Meanwhile, the U.S. cellular version of the Galaxy S4 is reportedly due to be made available for purchase online on April 26, with retrial availability starting from April 30. Other carriers like Sprint and T-Mobile will make the handset available for online purchases on April 27 and 29 respectively. However, retail availability of the device for both the carriers will not come until late May.

Verizon Wireless, on the other hand, started taking pre-orders for the Galaxy S4 on Thursday, with the release date set for May 30.