Verizon's Samsung Fascinate Finally Gets Android OS 2.2 (Froyo) Upgrade

Those with a Samsung Fascinate can finally upgrade this smartphone to Android OS 2.2 (Froyo). This brings support for Adobe Flash 10.1 and other enhancements to this smartphone.

The Fascinate debuted from Verizon last summer with Android OS 2.1, even though OS 2.2 had already been unveiled. Since then, users of this model have been waiting for the new version. But the wait is now over.

New in Android OS 2.2 (Froyo)
Android OS 2.2 is required for devices to run Adobe Flash Player 10.1, which allows the web browser to fully make use of websites that use Flash for navigation, games, and showing video. Still, not all Flash-based content will play on the Fascinate.

This version of Google's operating system also contains a number of other improvements, such as faster performance thanks to a new JIT compiler, the ability to store applications on a removable memory card, and new security features. In addition, Samsung and Verizon have added some bug fixes for this device, as well.

Update Available Now
According to Verizon's support website, the Samsung Fascinate's software update can be manually installed by going to Settings > About phone >System updates > Check New. on the device The upgrade process will take around 15 minutes, and users should carefully follow all instructions.

Another option is to wait for Verizon to send the update automatically over the air. Users will be notified when their device has received the new system software and given the option to install it. The notification might take several days to arrive.

More information on downloading and installing Android OS 2.2 (Froyo) on the Fascinate is available on Verizon's website. 

Overview of the Samsung Fascinate
This model's feature set is advanced enough that it still qualifies as a somewhat high-end device, even nine months after its release. It has a tablet shape with a 4-inch WVGA (800 x 480) touchscreen.

The Fascinate supports Verizon's 3G network and includes Wi-Fi b/g/n. It is also able to combine these functions and act as a Wi-Fi hotspot to share its Internet connection with other computers.

This smartphone sports a 5.0-megapixel camera with auto-focus and an LED flash. This supports HD (720p) video recording and playback. It also includes 2 GB of internal storage and is bundled with a 16 GB microSD memory card.