Android update for HTC Desire will start this weekend

HTC has announced that it will begin rolling out the Android 2.2 FroYo operating system update for HTC Desire handsets this weekend.

Owners of unlocked handsets will be the first to be notified that they can get the over-the-air update of the operating system.

However the company said operator specific versions of the update, for people who bought the phone on contract with companies such as O2, Vodafone and T Mobile, are still undergoing testing. It said “we expect to make them available in several weeks’ time.”

Unsubstantiated rumours began to circulate in May that the update would be released at the end of June; which proved to be unfounded. At the time HTC said the stories were not true.

HTC said Desire users will be notified that the over-the-air update is available to download when their phone automatically checks for software updates. But the company recommends that people use a free Wifi connection to avoid additional data charges.

“The Android 2.2 (FroYo) update for HTC Desire will start rolling out across Europe this weekend. As well as including the complete set of Android 2.2 features, the update will contain a few special additions of our own through the latest iteration of HTC Sense.

“The update will provide 720p video capture, HTC’s App Share widget, as well as our enhanced HTC Caller ID, and improved multi-language keyboard.

"Also, through the update, HTC Sync will allow HTC Desire users to sync their music with iTunes,” the company said in a statement.