Droid Eris owners can rejoice today, as an update to Verizon’s official Droid Eris page tacitly confirms that the handset will receive Android 2.1 just before the carrier retires it for newer models.
The update documentation provided by Verizon (PDF) refers to ROM version 2.36.605.1, a version number unique to Verizon, but the included changes make for a clear picture: this is not only Android 2.1, but the newest version of the Sense UI as well.
The update instructions warn users that the new ROM, which likely will not be provided OTA, will completely wipe the phone. This means that users will need to save what they want to keep before committing to the upgrade. Google Sync will automatically archive contacts, but apps can be saved with AppManager, while call logs and SMS messages can be saved with an app known as WaveSecure.
No date has yet been scheduled for the update, but late May is the most probable at this time.
Droid Eris Android 2.1 update changelog
Enhancements:
- Pinch-to-zoom is now available when using the Gallery and Google Maps.™
- New support for voice-to-text entry. ? Whenever a text-entry box appears, simply tap the microphone icon on the virtual keyboard and speak.
- New Gallery application with 3D layout. View and share photos taken with your phone and images from your online Picasa Web albums.
- New Leap thumbnail view lets you pinch to jump between the seven panels on your home screen.
- Additional calendar views and easier access to contacts make navigating even quicker.
- Google Maps with Navigation provides free, traffic-enhanced, turn-by-turn navigation.
- With the Enhanced Android Market,™ you’ll enjoy a better browsing experience as well as even more applications, including Verizon Wireless content featuring self-service applications.
- Ability to log onto and access multiple Google accounts at once.
- Support for 19 Microsoft® Exchange Server policies makes your phone more secure and business friendly
- Desk Clock intelligently dims your screen and displays the current time while charging.
- Location-based cinematic full screen weather keeps you on top of changing conditions.
Improvements:
- Free Yahoo!® Mail is now supported—simply sign in with your Yahoo! email address and password
- Longer battery life due to power savings.
- Improved YouTube® video playback.
- Better Bluetooth® support, including contact transfer.
- Automatic settings for POP3 verizon.net email accounts.
- Added support for stand-alone Wi-Fi when device is in airplane mode.
- Improved handset audio when disconnecting a wired headset.
- Faster power-up time.
- Improved swipe-unlock functionality.
- Added support for Microsoft Office 2007 documents.
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