I’m a bit cautious when it comes to OS updates on my Android devices and this includes new versions not just bug fixes. I've read too many articles saying devices are freezing, apps crash or won’t load or even the end user is left with a brick.
I was obviously feeling optimistic in November 2014. As soon as I was notified that Android 5.0 (‘Lollipop’) was available for my Nexus 7 2012 I jumped right on it. I had no issues with Android 4 (‘KitKat’) but probably just fancied a change and to get a look at the new features (not that I noticed much difference).
It became immediately clear why it was called ‘Lollipop’, it sucked (excuse my Americanism).
The device ground to a halt and was almost unusable. The screen took about 20 seconds to wake up after pressing the unlock/power button. It would take three seconds to recognise each digit of the PIN number and apps would crash frequently. Daily reboots were required but this only seemed to work for a very short period (and even the reboot took at least five minutes!).
These ‘glitches’ must have been apparent as just a few weeks later, an update was available. I carried out the install thinking my Nexus would be as good as new. Nope, it made no difference whatsoever. I persevered with it, using it for just one or two apps, definitely not for internet browsing. If I wanted to look something up, it would have been quicker and less frustrating to go to my local library...but I just used my phone instead!
A few weeks ago, another update became available. I’m now on v5.1.1. Did that make a difference? Er, no.
I decided last weekend to bite the bullet and do the dreaded ‘Factory data reset’ - What’s the worst that could happen?
So far, things are going well. All my apps are installed and working. Response time is instant. It feels like it’s fresh out of the box. Fingers crossed it will stay this way.
This does raise a few questions…
- Has anybody managed to go from v4 to v5 without any issues?
- Has anybody else had to do the ‘Factory data reset’?
- Is this a conspiracy to purposely make old devices defunct in order to force sales of the latest devices up?
- Why do Android give their versions childish names like Jellybean, KitKat and Lollipop?
- Does anybody know what Android M will stand for (I hope they call it Marathon, never will get used to ‘Snickers’)?
I just hope when Android M does come out, it will work first time. Just to be on the safe side, I will give it at least a month.
(The image is taken from Android.com )
