Samsung Galaxy S3 Software Update: How AT&T Handsets Can Get Android 4.1.2, Samsung Premium Suite

It has been a slow update timeline for the Samsung Galaxy S3, but the 2012 flagship smartphone is finally seeing Android 4.1.2 roll out onto handsets powered by the AT&T network. AT&T announced the software update on Tuesday, which will include Android 4.1.2 and the Samsung’s Premium Suite software for the Samsung Galaxy S3. With the system update already rolling out onto handsets; AT&T says it will notify users starting August 7 to ensure that all Galaxy S3 owners, including those still running Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich know that a new system version is available.

The Android 4.1.2 and Premium Suite update, build JZO54K.I747UCDMG2, brings a number of enhancements to the Samsung Galaxy S3 including multi window, auto share shot powered by NFC, new camera features, several new AT&T apps and other enhancements to the calendar, SD card and S-Voice app on the Galaxy smartphone. Here’s a detailed rundown on the improvements that come with the system update.

Multi Window: You can open two different apps at the same time into two different windows on the mobile screen.

Auto Share Shot with NFC: By setting the camera to "Auto Share Shot" mode, you can quickly share your photos and videos by simply tapping their GALAXY S III with other NFC and S-Beam enabled devices

Camera features: Paper artist and best face options.

AT&T apps: AT&T services, Drive Mode, AT&T Locker; Family Map, Live TV, and Smart Wifi have been loaded.

Other enhancements: Includes calendar, SD Card, and S-Voice enhancements.

AT&T was particularly late at upgrading its Samsung Galaxy S3 handset. The last carrier to roll out the Android 4.1.2 update for the Galaxy S3 was Verizon in late May.

Amid the release of Android 4.3 Jelly Bean, Samsung enthusiasts have been anxious to see how the manufacturer would go about releasing later Android systems. Currently, reports indicate that the Android 4.2 update has been canceled for at least the Samsung Galaxy Note 2 in favor for Android 4.3. Several rumors suggest that both the Galaxy S3 and Galaxy Note 2 will receive Android 4.3 starting in November.

Meanwhile, AT&T details instructions for out to install Android 4.1.2, which requires a Wi-Fi connection and should prompt once Wi-Fi is enabled. The carrier recommends backing up system files before proceeding to update.

1. To initiate the update manually, go to Settings > About device > Software update > Check for updates.

2. Tap Continue or Postpone. NOTE: Users can postpone 1,4, or 8 hours and up to 3 times.

3. The device automatically start downloading the software update. Tap Continue.

4. The device will automatically restart once the new software has successfully installed.

5. A confirmation message will be displayed upon successful update. Tap Done.

6. To verify the updated software version, go to Settings> About phone. The following information will be displayed:

Android version: 4.1.2

Baseband version: I747UCDMG2

Build number: JZO54K.I747UCDMG2

Are you excited to see the AT&T Samsung Galaxy S3 update to Android 4.1.2? Let us know in the comments below.

Follow me on Twitter @FionnaatIBT.