One month after the GSM-flavored Moto E (2nd Gen.) was updated to Android 5.1, it’s time for the Verizon version of the device to get a new Lollipop treat too.
Verizon has announced that it’s now pushing Android 5.1 to its prepaid Moto E. Since the update includes 5.1, it brings the tweaks that are a part of that version of Android, including the ability to select different Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections from the Quick Settings menu. Here’s what else is in the update:
UI Improvements
- Volume settings panel icons added to match icons in status bar.
- Quickly select different WiFi accessory or Bluetooth devices with the added pull-down controls.
- Minimum swipe distance increased to reduce accidental interactions if Ambient Display is enabled.
New Interruption Controls
- Use the new interruption volume control settings to prevent missed alarms.
- Block interruptions until your next alarm: Available when next scheduled alarm is within 12 hours
- Enter a scheduled downtime early: Available when the next scheduled downtime within four hours
Notification Volume Control Access
- Change notification volume while media is playing by selecting new bell icon to show notification volume controls.
Factory Reset Protection
- Lost or stolen devices remain unlocked until the Google account on phone is signed into, even if reset to factory settings. Note that a Google account must be on this device.
- Reduces smartphone theft by preventing unauthorized reactivation of stolen device.
Android 5.1 is the latest major Android release that’s available to the public, and it’s great to see a prepaid, entry-level phone like the Moto E getting the update in a timely manner. If you’ve got a Moto E running on Verizon, head into your Settings app and see if this update is available to you.
