Dell Streak to get Froyo-flavoured Android
Dell has announced that it will be issuing an update for the Dell Streak that will deliver Android 2.2 — better known as Froyo — to the device before the end of November for non-network tied handsets.
The announcement was made informally via Dell UK's Facebook page, followed by an official announcement on the Dell blog on Monday.
Dell says that the upgrade will be a gradual process "is happening over a period of time and [is] staggered by region".
For handsets purchased directly from Dell, customers should receive an on-screen notification informing them when the update is ready to download. For network-specific versions Dell says that the update process will begin in December as the company continues to "work with [our] carrier partners for technical approval".
As well as bringing the usual wealth of Android 2.2 features — such as, Flash 10.1 support, Wi-Fi hotspot capability and the ability to install apps to external storage — the Streak will also get the new Dell Stage UI which brings a redesigned launcher and a set of customisable widgets designed to make email, photos and music more accessible.
The software will be delivered via an over-the-air (OTA) update and can be downloaded over Wi-Fi or 3G. However, Dell recommends downloading it while connected to a Wi-Fi network.
Following the update, the Dell PC Suite will no longer be supported, users are instead directed to use the new Dell Mobile Sync software to synchronise multimedia and contact information with the Dell Streak.
Ahead of performing the update Dell recommends backing up the Streak using Dell Backup and Restore app, available for free from the Android Market.
In September Dell issued an upgrade to Android 2.1, AKA Eclair, which garnered complaints from customers on the company's support forum following issues with the upgrade.
"Like many other users I have had significant issues with the Streak since the update to [Android] 2.1. As well as the numerous functional issues (camera, browser, keyboard, 'rooms') I have also found stability so poor as to make the device unusable for me. Under 1.6 it was a really nice phone that appeared to have great unlocked potential," wrote one user by the name of 72s.