Although there are already several threads about the PR1.2 firmware update, some of them contained rumors prior to the release. So hopefully this new thread will be useful info.
1) What is PR1.2 for the N96?
PR1.2 is the latest firmware release for the N96. Its actual software version number is 12.043.
Note:
PR1.0 (10.065) is what the N96 originally shipped with.
PR1.1 (11.018 /11.101) was the first firmware upgrade, that became available about 4 weeks later.
The improvements in PR1.2 according to Nokia are:
- Application stability improvements
- Image quality improvements (with fixes for color haziness and motion blur that appeared under certain conditions)
- Uninterrupted viewing/recording of videos (device autolock no longer locks the device while viewing or recording videos)
- Improved Bluetooth interoperability
- Compatibility with Nokia Email service (application available as separate download)
There are numerous other improvements in this release, most of them for better compatibility with operator services.
Although there are no major new features, this upgrade is highly recommended. Many early adopters of the release also report improved performance (mostly due to improvements in background scanning for new media files).
2) Is this firmware upgrade available for my phone?
You can find out what software your phone runs by typing *#0000# from the home screen. You will get a screen with the device manager which tells you your software release. See above for the version numbers.
Whether there is a software update available for your phone depends on your specific country and operator variant. If you see the message "no upgrade available for your device", then most likely it is because your operator has not yet approved the new firmware. If you bought your N96 unbranded (not from an operator), then it could still take a few extra days until certain country specific variants are available for upgrade. Check responses to this thread for a listing of product codes for which this update is available.
You can check availability from this web site: www.nokia.com/softwareupdate >> then click on "Can I update?". Enter the product code found on the type label sticker under the battery of your phone and the site will tell you whether an update is available.
3) Backing up your data
The N96 does not lose the user data (installed software; settings; etc) when you perform an update, but as a precaution, you should make a backup just in case. It is also important to keep your N-Gage games activation codes, plus licenses for any downloadable software, music and video.
4) Option A for updating: over the air with FOTA
The N96 supports Firmware Update Over The Air (FOTA), which means you can wirelessly download the update directly to the device, using your 3G connection or WLAN. I recommend WLAN to avoid operator charges, but some operators seem to waive any data charges for FOTA, especially when they "push" the update to you. I find this method of updating the software a whole lot more convenient than using the PC.
Before you start, make sure that you have enough battery charge, or plug the device into a charger. Then type *#0000# on the home screen, and select (Left Softkey) Options --> Check for Update. From then on, follow the prompts.
5) Option B for updating: via Nokia Software Updater on your PC
If you have an older version of Nokia Software Updater on your PC, uninstall it. Get the latest from www.nokia.com/softwareupdate.
Connect your N96 to the USB port of your PC. I am using the CA-126 cable that charges at the same time... otherwise plug it into a charger!
Hope this helps!