Sprint HTC EVO 4G software update fixes WiFi performance and Exchange issues
The HTC EVO 4G software version 1.47.651.1 update includes:
- Improvements to Wi-Fi performance
- Exchange Active Sync improvements, including fix to issues with new account setup, PIN policy usage and Exchange Calendar 2010 Sync
- Addresses Facebook sync issue which can improve battery performance
I immediately went into my Exchange ActiveSync account to see if there were any improvements with my primary concerns related to creating private appointments and searching the server for email. Unfortunately, neither of these issues were addressed by this update, but there is hope that the Froyo (Android 2.2) update will fix these for me. It is way too early to verify if there are battery life improvements, but I honestly have been seeing typical smartphone battery performance on my EVO 4G, as long as the WiMAX radio wasn't turned on, and haven't been that concerned about battery life. I also purchased a Seidio 1750 mAh replacement battery so I have a spare for extended periods without charging access.
The Android forums are filled with feedback on the update and I just learned that the very handy ShootMe application that allowed me to capture screenshots without connecting to a PC has been made obsolete. It seems this was possible without rooting on the EVO 4G due to some internal permissions oversight, but I think I would rather have a less secure device and keep the ability to capture screens for review purposes. I cannot believe that Google still has not figured out a way to capture screenshots without rooting your device or using the SDK connected via USB to a Windows PC. I honestly may not have updated if I read this post first, but hopefully we will see some marked improvements to validate the update that killed this utility for me.
UPDATE: As you can see in the reader comments below and on various online discussion forums, there are some people who are having MAJOR issues with the update that ends up bricking their EVO 4G. My update went flawlessly and everything is running well. MobileCrunch reported that Sprint has stopped the OTA update to investigate why some people are having issues. Hopefully, they can figure it out and get the update back out on the street. I also hope the Android 2.2 (Froyo) update goes smoother for everyone in the near future.
UPDATE 2: The OTA software update is rolling back out again, according to Android Central. If you are like me and have a successfully updated device then this does not apply to you. If your device is already bricked then you won't be able to apply this either and we understand that HTC is working to come up with a solution for these bricked EVO 4G devices.