Right now, as I understand it, the Venue 8 tablet is running version 4.2.2 of Android (JellyBean), I would like to know if there is a plan to provide OTA upgrade to version 4.4 (KitKat).
I have the KitKat update (4.4.2) on the Venue 8 and like it a lot. No issues for me at all. My bluetooth keyboard would not work with 4.3 so 4.4.2 was definitely an improvement.
I was under the impression Dell had re-released it, but apparently not. If they do, I hope somebody posts to this thread (even though it is dated). It apparently is still an open issue.
A couple of the review sites have said we'll get kit kat but no one was saying when that will be and of course Dell could change their minds too. I don't think kit kat is out yet as far as I know, myself I wouldn't want to be one of the first I've got a few apps that won't even work with 4.2 yet.
This seems to be sort of a "good news - bad news" sort of situation. The good news is the Dell Android tablets are, basically, free of outside programs so it should be easy to update the OS every time Google produces an update. That's one reason why people flock to Nexus devices, and is becoming a sales incentive to many buyers. The bad news is Dell is lagging behind pretty much everyone else releasing these updates. If Dell does not timely release the updates, buyers will avoid these fine tablets. It would look like Dell has an incentive to quickly release the updates, because quick releases are attractive to buyers. But, Dell doesn't seem to be moving too swiftly on the Kit Kat updates.
Personally, I want my tablet's OS to be the same as my phone's OS. Going between two units through the day is easier if they share the same OS. Having the same tablet OS as the phone OS means tablet ownership isn't "in a vacuum" and the tablet manufacturer understands this. This puts buyers in a quandry. If I wait for the Nexus 8, I'll be assured of quick releases, but I'll have to wait 6 months for an 8 inch tablet (and pay more than the Venue 8 and not have a SDHC slot).
it would be nice if Dell would post something about their intentions. The current 4.3 release has a Bluetooth bug that prevents these Tabits from working with most Bluetooth keyboards.
Here's your answer. The "bios" connected with the Intel chip needs a software update before 4.4 will run on an Intel tablet. All Intel tablet's are in the same boat.
Intel has done most of the work on this software update. When completed, it will be the "front end" of the released 4.4 update. I have been told late March to late April. I understand from Intel people they're pretty much done and doing final testing before giving the green light to the tablet manufacturers.
Since most of the timing is outside of Dell's hands, Dell can't really post anything. But, this affects all Intel processed tablets, and Intel is in the process of getting it right. Just a matter of waiting a little while longer.
Personally, 4.3 is working just fine for me. Not much I'm missing that I can't wait for. This Dell seems to do everything I want or need it to do.
Thanks for that answer. I like my Dell tablet as well. The only thing it doesn't do is work with a Bluetooth keyboard. And of course as I mentioned that's really Android 4.3 fault.
It's good to hear that Kit Kat is coming and that Dell is keeping up. Makes this tablet choice all the better.
tomicus
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Posted September 3rd, 2014 23:00
I have the KitKat update (4.4.2) on the Venue 8 and like it a lot. No issues for me at all. My bluetooth keyboard would not work with 4.3 so 4.4.2 was definitely an improvement.
I was under the impression Dell had re-released it, but apparently not. If they do, I hope somebody posts to this thread (even though it is dated). It apparently is still an open issue.