[sowhynot]

I'm running 4.2.0.67 without any issues. Because I'm trying to Beta test a new version of the Audible audio book reader it looks like I'm going to have to upgrade to a 4.2.1.x O/S. In scanning through the numerous threads relating to this topic I'm confused to which is the most stable with the least amount of battery drain.

Any recommendations?

I'm always nervous to upgrade when I don't have a problem, but this one might be a reason to bite the bullet.

[evilberry]

I"m using 8100_Pearl_4.2.1.108. I upgraded to 8100_Pearl_4.2.1.109 but the signal was bad.

[MaxPayne79]

I found the 4.2.1.107 to be the most stable. But, i don't really see any difference between .107 and .108. I can't use .109 cause i don't have an edited .alx file but, i'd go with .108 and see how it works for you. if bad, then try .109 or .107, know what i mean. But it's good to have the latest software cause they are always doing upgrades and improvements to the software.

And when it comes to upgrading...i've never had a problem as long as i carefully followed the instructions these guys laid out in the "instructional manuals" and so on.

What ever you do just don't do any sudden things when you're updating your software. Meaning that if you see the hourglass spinning for 30 minutes...let it spin for a day if you have to. Im exaggerating of course but after the update is complete, the hourglass on ur BB will spin anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes. And the desktop software will wait for the BB to complete what ever it's doing during the spinning, and will then continue with the update. Also, don't be encoding video or using ur computer heavily when ur updating. I recommend you start the update and go for a walk or something and then come back in about an hour, and the update will be done.

Also make sure you have the most recent version of the Desktop Manager software for your PC and, that the software to be updated is the appropriate version to ur BB. ie, don't try to place the 8120 software onto a 8100. And secondly, if your BB is locked to a particular carrier, then just update the carrier' latest software and not the "global" latest software version.

I'm not sure what your level of experience is so don't take me the wrong way if i'm going over ground you are already familiar with.

good luck

[cellulou]

hmmm. so .107 or .108 is the most stable, eh?

my telus 8130 came out the box with .61...now shoud i be considering an update/upgrade?

k, and if it's a good idea...where's the link to these updates...everything i've found so far have been from alltel...is it okay to upgrade from they're source seeing i'm from telus? does that even matter?

[fastv8]

This question is not easily answered because everyone uses their Pearl for different purposes. There's one guy on here who swears by 4.2.1.108 & 109 because in a BES setup, he was having to pull the battery frequently before them.

I loaded all of the 4.2.1.10x releases (3, 7, 8, 9) and hated them. I finally backed up the apps and data, wiped the device and downgraded to 4.2.1.96. I've been running that way for around two weeks and am VERY pleased with this level of firmware. The battery now lasts easily two days the way that I use it. The 10x levels chewed through battery and I was charging it nightly.

My Pearl is on BIS, with the bulk of the device usage for sending and receiving email. All the rest of the functionality (including telephone) is not used nearly as much.

Hope this helps.

[sowhynot]

Originally Posted by fastv8

I loaded all of the 4.2.1.10x releases (3, 7, 8, 9) and hated them. I finally backed up the apps and data, wiped the device and downgraded to 4.2.1.96. I've been running that way for around two weeks and am VERY pleased with this level of firmware. The battery now lasts easily two days the way that I use it. The 10x levels chewed through battery and I was charging it nightly.

This is the kind of information I'm looking for, thanks so much. Because battery life is important to me, I'm going to look to see if I can find the 4.2.1.96 version.

[berry81black]

4.2.1.96 could be found on AT&T. Happy with this version. No more sometimes blinking LED with black screen and no more problem with placed call, unlike previously with v.4.2.1.107

[Bluffheights90814]

I am running the 8100_Pearl_4.2.1.109 on T-Mobile without any edited .alt files and this version seems to be more responsive than the previous versions and I had any dropped called or need to reboot my phone. So far so good for me and I am very happy with the 109 version so far.

[MaxPayne79]

If you're concerned about battery power then maybe you should check this out
Seidioonline.com
These guys have a 2400mAh battery as opposed to the standard 950mAh that comes with the pearl. And it comes with its own back cover cause the battery sticks out. And surprisingly because of the thickness that's added to the phone, it's easier to type. Which i would have never imagined but since i have the battery myself, i know for hundred percent. And on mediocre usage, it lasts for a week...lol They also have a 1250mAh that fits into ur phone and the back that comes with it is just slightly thicker than the original.

This way you can have the best of both...current software and battery power.

[fastv8]

I like the thickness of the Pearl as it is. Each to their own, but I am not prepared to make it chunkier by getting a bigger battery. If I wanted a bloated device, the Curve or 8800 would be just fine

Here's hoping the 8120 improves on the 8100. As soon as it comes to T-Mobile / GSM, I am considering it.