Sony might have been slow in delivering the Android 6.0 Marshmallow update to its handsets, but it recently made progress for releasing the firmware update to Xperia M4 Aqua, Xperia Z3 and Xperia Z5 devices. Other Xperia handsets eligible for the upgrade are also expected to receive it soon.
Neurogadget stated on its article that it is most probable for Sony Xperia M4 Aqua to skip the Android 5.0 Lollipop update and directly jump to Android 6.0 Marshmallow this year. At the same time, other Xperia devices that are slated to receive the firmware update are also set to start obtaining the software in the coming weeks.
It can be remembered that in June 2015, Sony has officially publicized the handsets that are entitled to get the Android 5.1 Lollipop update. Back then, the Sony Xperia M4 Aqua was not included in the list. But in October 2015, Sony has hinted that there's a great chances that the M4 Aqua will be upgraded to Android 6.0 Marshmallow. There is still no confirmation though if it will go through Lollipop or not.
Meanwhile, Sony has already sent the Marshmallow Concept software to BETA testers in order to test the Android 6.0 Marshmallow on the Xperia Z3 Compact and Xperia Z3. Vine Report added that the owners of Sony Xperia Z5 will be pleased as the latest version of operating system from Android, the Android 6.0 Marshmallow, is now seeding for their devices.
Sony has been upgrading the Xperia Z5 handsets with some beta tests for the OS, but it was just now that it has been finalized and can be downloaded through over-the-air update. The firmware is also expected to become available anytime soon for other gadgets in the same line such as the Xperia Z5 Compact and Xperia Z5 Premium. According to the site, the first country to get the upgrade is Turkey, but more regions are expected to follow.
According to Christian Today, upon upgrading to Android 6.0 Marshmallow firmware users can finally enjoy a lot of improved features, including the new "Voice" API and "Assist" API, the Google settings app, the new "Direct Share" feature and an associated app will be used as direct targets.
The Android 6.0 OS also delivers new power management programs called "Doze" and "App Standby". It also brings a native support intended for fingerprint recognition for selected devices, which will also be useful with Android Pay. The said software will also carry in support for USB Type-C, microSD, and reverse charging.
Furthermore, the Sony Xperia handsets that will obtain the Android 6.0 Marshmallow can start availing the Google Now on Tap feature. It will offer shortcuts for searching added contextual information and distributes it at any turn.
For reference, the devices slated to receive the update are as follows: Sony Xperia Z5 Premium, Xperia Z5 Compact, Xperia Z5, Xperia Z4 Tablet, Xperia Z3 Compact, Xperia Z3+, Xperia Z3, Xperia Z2, Xperia 2 Tablet, Xperia M5, Xperia M4, Xperia M4 Aqua, Xperia C5 Ultra and Xperia C4.
Sony Mobile is expected to announce the Marshmallow roll out schedule on the upcoming days, but as of the moment, there is no available timeframe yet.
