Each week, we compile all the major software updates to hit the Android ecosystem, including phones and tablets on U.S. carriers, unlocked phones, Android Wear smartwatches, and Android TV devices. Making sure your device is running the latest available software is a good housekeeping practice, ensuring you have the latest features with fewer bugs and gaping security holes.
Galaxy S6 Edge+: A Verizon update will bring you Android 6.0 and Verizon’s Wi-Fi calling feature. Improvements to the edge panel and live broadcast are also part of the over-the-air update.
Galaxy Note 5: The stylus-friendly phone also gets Android Marshmallow and fixes to Wi-Fi connectivity issues. Verizon says an over-the-air update should be available to all owners now, so you can check right away.
Galaxy S6: The wait was long, but Android 6.0.1 (plus the new emoji!) is finally coming your way. You’ll need to be connected to Wi-Fi and have 50 percent battery life for the hefty 1.2GB update. It also removes Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp as pre-installed apps, so you’ll need to grab them from the Play Store.
Galaxy S6 Edge: The T-Mobile update for the curved-edge edition is identical to that for the GS6, so make sure you have sufficient battery life to go and attack that download.
LG V10: Along with finally getting Marshmallow, you’ll get T-Mobile’s Advanced Messaging and Video Calling features. T-Mobile says it’s a gradual OTA rollout, so you may have to wait for it to show up.
Shield Tablet K: It’s time for Marshmallow on your gaming tablet. Look for Nvidia’s software upgrade 1.2, which brings Android 6.0.1 and the Vulkan graphics API, memory compression enhancement, and all the other goodies that come with Marshmallow.
Xperia Z2, Z3, Z3 Compact: Updates to Android 6.0.1 and the February security update are on their way to these three phones. It’s not the April patch, but at least you finally have Marshmallow. The updates also include version 2.0 of the Sony camera app, which has additional image customization options.
Pixel C: The factory images for Google’s top-of-the-line tablet are finally available with the April security patch. You can grab them from the Nexus factory images site, which also includes the updates for Google’s other devices.