One of the most controversial topics for Android fans is the waiting for a carrier to update a handset with the latest build of the OS. Vodafone has taken the time to describe its process on its website. The carrier points out that the goal is to get the latest software on customer's devices and the first step actually comes from the OEMs who make the decision which models will receive or need an update. In making that decision, the manufacturer looks at the customer experience of using the new software build on a specific device. This is actually the reason cited by HTC for it's decision not to proceed with Desire HD Android 4.0 update. The manufacturers rightly believe that customers would rather have a smooth running phone running the prior OS build than a unit that freezes and has problems running the latest build.

"The first step in the process is for manufacturers to decide which devices will receive or need an update. In the case of a major firmware upgrade - such as Android devices moving from Gingerbread to Ice Cream Sandwich - it's largely dependent on the experience that the combination of the new software and the hardware capabilities of the device can offer customers. That call is made by the manufacturer in the first instance" - Chris May, Vodafone head of terminals technology

Using the Huawei Ascend G300 as an example, Vodafone says that once the manufacturer makes the decision to proceed with the update, it waits for the software from the developer, in this case it would be Google. Once the software is received, the OEM develops a version of it for their device. Vodafone, at this point, makes sure that the software includes the features it wants its customers to enjoy and adds branding and features like "music, apps or even remote diagnostics capabilities". The carrier wants its customers to "get the best possible experience" from the moment they turn on their new phone for the first time.

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Do you want to be the First to get Samsung's Next GALAXY ? Then head on over to Vodafone UK site where you can register for updates on "the next Galaxy." The sign up form simply reads, "Fill out your details. And we will fill you in on everything about the new Galaxy."

After launching a countdown timer yesterday that lead to today's teaser trailers, the vague marketing looks like it will continue until the official announcement is made. It has been assumed that Samsung next Galaxy device, presumable the Galaxy S III, would be available for all major UK carriers, but it is safe to safe Vodafone will definitely be in that mix.

The Samsung Galaxy S III is now available for pre-order from a trio of U.K. carriers, Vodafone, O2 and Three. Vodafone says that it aims to have pre-orders shipped by the end of this month. Depending on the plan that Vodafone customers choose, the Samsung Galaxy S III will run from 149 GBP ($240.69 USD) to free. The latter plan costs 41 GBP a month for the 16GB unit ($66.23 USD) and comes with 900 minutes of talk, unlimited texts and 2GB of data. Vodafone has a one month exclusive on the 32GB variant and that will come for free with a monthly 46 GBP plan ($74.31 USD).

Also, "Three" website shows that the Samsung Galaxy S III will be launched for its customers on May 30th and those signing up to the carrier's One plan will get the phone for free. This plan offers 2,000 minutes, unlimited data, 5,000 3 to 3 minutes and 5,000 texts for 34 GBP a month ($54.92 USD).