Motorola Droid Software Update 2.0.1 Is A Winner

The Motorola Droid review unit I have recently updated itself to system 2.0.1. The changes are subtle, but executed perfectly. Not that the Droid was a dog before, but it now operates much better.The update process was extremely quick. Upon booting the device, I received a notification that there was an update available. I accepted the update, which then automatically downloaded, installed, and re-booted the device. The entire experience took perhaps three minutes. Nice.

I noticed immediately that the Droid is faster. Swiping from side-to-side to access the three different home screens was much smoother, with no stuttering. The motions were fluid and looked good. The main menu itself also experienced less stuttering. Swiping up and down to get at all the applications was easy and not herky-jerky as before.

Of course, the main fix is the camera. The camera boots in about 3 seconds now (not bad, but not stellar). Taking pictures has been greatly improved. The camera focuses faster, snaps the picture faster, and processes/saves the image faster. In other words, the camera is actually usable now. Before, it wasn't. This is a very welcome change indeed.

It is too early for me to comment meaningfully on the supposed battery life improvements, but Verizon says it should perform better.

Other updates include better SMS capabilities and management, better audio for calls, improved Bluetooth and speakerphone functionality, and better handling of Google contacts.