Android 2.2 rolls out to Nexus One smartphones

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On Tuesday Google officially announced the release of its Android 2.2 (Froyo) update, which it said would be rolled out to its Nexus One smartphone over the course of this week. As well as offering improved speeds and performance, the updated software also brings Flash 10.1 to the device and mobile hotspot capabilities.

Some impatient FAndroids have already downloaded early builds of Froyo (FRF50 or FRF72), but the Internet giant is strongly recommending people download the latest and official build, sexily known as FRF85B. The update should prompt Nexus users automatically within the week, but for those who simply cannot contain their excitement, there is also an online download.
Possibly the niftiest update Froyo has to offer is its ability to turn the Nexus into a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot which is capable of connecting another eight devices to the Web over the phone’s own connection. While this isn’t likely to be a speedy or overly satisfying experience, and is sure to sap battery life in next to no time, it’s still a great option to have for those emergency no-connection situations.
While other US operators are quite happy for Google to offer this feature, AT&T has decided to charge its customers for the privilege, to the tune of an extra $20 a month without extra data.
In addition to the hotspot capabilities and Flash 10.1 update, Froyo also offers users on-screen camera buttons and the ability to use the LED flash while filming video with the phone. In terms of added security features, Google has also added remote wipe capabilities and more secure alphanumeric password options for the device.
For now, it’s only Google’s own Nexus One that will be getting the official Android 2.2 release, but it’s widely reported that the HTC Evo 4G, HTC Droid Incredible, Motorola Droid, Motorola Droid X and HTC Desire will also be getting a bit of Google’s new sweetness later this summer.
Sadly, some of the older Android phone offerings, like T-Mobile’s G1 and the HTC Hero won’t be eligible for the upgrade, as their software is deemed to old to support the new version.