Verizon Galaxy S5 now updating to Android Marshmallow

Just a few short hours ago, word broke that Canadian customers on the Rogers network were finally getting Marshmallow pushed to the 2014 Galaxy Note 4, and now new news has hit for American customers with a Galaxy S5 – also from 2014 – on Verizon. Sprint had previously been the first out of the gate with its variant mashing Marshmallow in early April, and just last week T-Mobile’s version was gifted with the soon-to-be-outdated Android build.

The Verizon OTA has been given the build code MMB29M.G900VVRU2DPD1 and is now being sent to users.

As the update has just now been made available, it typically takes several days or even weeks before it is pushed to all devices on the network. Those seeking to speed-up the process can try to hit the Settings menu, navigate to About Device, and then click on “Check for Updates”. Still, even this manually check is not a sure-fire way to trigger the update in which case the only real choice is just to wait patiently.

Alternatively there are sites that provide direct access to the OTA files however there are risks involved if a mistake is made in the manual patching process.

Marshmallow, originally released last October to Nexus devices, contains numerous enhancements to the Google experience, including Now on Tap, which lets users scan their screen for relevant information and make it more productive, Doze, which seeks to better manage battery life during downtime, and granular App Permissions that give users more control over which app has access to what feature. Verizon itself has listed the details as follows:
Android’s latest OS. Major features include:

• Now on Tap anticipates what you need in the moment. With a simple tap, you can get cards with useful information and apps that feed your need to know.
• When your device is at rest, Doze automatically puts it into a sleep state, preserving your battery charge.
• No need to give apps access all the time. Android Marshmallow lets you define what you want to share and when. Turn permissions off at any time, too.

• Wi-Fi Calling: You can make and receive calls over a Wi-Fi network if cellular service isn’t available, helping conserve your data.

• Ultra-High-Quality Audio – UHQA (Hi-Fi Audio):  Your favorite tunes have never sounded better on a Samsung smartphone. This breakthrough audio technology takes select music files and enhances the richness and detail.
• A fresh look and design: A new design of app icons and folder

What do you think Verizon users? Is this a case of better late than never, or are you more than a little upset at the idea of being graced with Marshmallow almost 8 months after it hit Nexus devices? Leave your thoughts in the comments section below!