Shortly after the Galaxy S 4 was introduced, Samsung confirmed that it would be bringing some of the software features of its new flagship to its predecessor, the Galaxy S III. Now the folks at SamMobile have gotten hold of a leaked Android 4.2.2 update for the Galaxy S III that has shed some light on exactly which features the S III will be getting.

The list of new features starts at the lock screen. Galaxy S III users will be able to add widgets to their lock screen after updating (a feature found in Android 4.2), including the ability to change up the clock and add a personal message. There will also be new Ripple and Light effects for the lock screen.

Once unlocked, users will find that there are some changes to the notification panel, including a full list of Samsung's TouchWiz features that can be toggled on and off, similar to Google's Quick Settings options in stock Android 4.2. The Settings app will gain a new tabbed interface, similar to the one found on the Galaxy S 4, and there are also new Adapt Display and Professional Photo screen modes. Rounding out the list of new features is a driving mode, voice controls, a new version of S Voice and a Smart Switch widget.

SamMobile claims that the Galaxy S III's Android 4.2.2 update is still being tested by Samsung, but the site adds that a rollout could begin as early as June. Of course, Galaxy S III customers in the U.S. will likely end up waiting a tad longer, as the carriers will need to test the update themselves before rolling it out to their subscribers. The good news is that this sounds like a pretty beefy update that should help to breathe some new life into the Galaxy S III and make the device's users a little less envious of their Galaxy S 4-toting friends. Below is a brief video walkthrough of the update to give you Galaxy S III owners a preview of what's to come.

Via SamMobile