MTN introduces HTC Android software updates over the air

MTN South Africa and HTC are collaborating to offer HTC Desire users on the Ayoba network firmware over the air (FOTA) updates to ensure their smartphones always have the latest software running.

“This is yet another way in which MTN is helping its customers by offering them a convenient and efficient way to keep their smartphones up to date with all the latest developments. While we are initially targeting the HTC Desire, other phones will soon follow suit,” says Serame Taukobong, chief marketing officer at MTN South Africa.

FOTA sees updates downloaded via a data connection through either the mobile network or a WiFi connection. This lets people upgrade their phones directly without requiring a PC or going into a retail store. The updates will include the latest Android software such as Froyo 2.2 (code-named Frozen Yogurt).

“Furthermore, customers can opt not to receive updates or do it at a time convenient for them. While the service is free, customers who choose to download via the network and not a WiFi connection will be charged for the data used as per international norms,” continues Taukobong.

If there is a break in downloading the updates, the download manager will resume the transfer and if there is a break during the FOTA installation, it will resume via a recovery mode.

“We are excited to bring HTC consumers OTA firmware updates” says Quinton Leigh, MD of Leaf - HTC's local representative.

“Supporting HTC's continuous drive of innovation, this is a first in SA and HTC is proud to be working on this initiative in collaboration with MTN. This technology has been a long time coming and I hope the FOTA innovation will keep our consumers' phones at a cutting edge - a level above the rest. At the end of the day, it's all about optimising the user experience.”

Leigh concludes by mentioning that “HTC will launch this programme with the HTC Desire during December 2010, and will follow with the HTC Wildfire and HTC Hero models early in the new year. Thereafter, the roll-out will continue throughout 2011.”