According to a report by Sam Mobile, the South Korean major skipped the Android 4.2 update for the Galaxy S III and the device was still running the dated Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean, so the Android 4.3 Jelly Bean update was long overdue. The Android 4.3 Jelly Bean update has been first rolled out to Galaxy S III users in Ireland (Vodafone), a roll-out to other countries and carriers can be expected to follow soon after.
As per the report, the update is available both OTA (over the air) and via the company's Kies software. Notably, the update brings Galaxy Gear support, Samsung's first wearable tech device, making the S III the fourth device to sport that functionality after Samsung Galaxy Note 3, Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 2014 Edition and Samsung Galaxy S4, as previously reported.
The report has also detailed changes in Samsung Galaxy S III after the Android 4.3 Jelly Bean update, such as Galaxy Gear support; core UI elements updated, now similar to Galaxy S4; new Samsung keyboard; updated GPU drivers; new lockscreen with multiple widgets and improved ripple effect; new Screen modes (like Galaxy S4); Daydream; Driving mode; new actionable notifications; new move to SD card feature; additions in notification centre; revamped settings UI and new Camera mode with Sound and Shoot.
The new Android 4.3 Jelly Bean update for Galaxy S III also reportedly introduces new Samsung apps like calculator, contacts, gallery and music apps; Samsung apps now can work in full screen mode and revamped S-Voice (similar to the Galaxy S4).
Recently, a report indicated that Samsung was planning an Android 4.3 update for its top of the line smartphones soon. The Samsung Galaxy S4 and Galaxy S III are already receiving Android 4.3 Jelly Bean update, next in-line is the Galaxy Note II which is expected to get the new Jelly Bean iteration by the end of November, or early December, as per report.
Catch the latest from the Consumer Electronics Show on Gadgets 360, at our CES 2026 hub.