According to HTC’s roadmap for software updates, the Android 4.4 “Kit Kat” update for the One on Verizon, AT&T, Sprint, and T-Mobile has now reached what they have dubbed the “certification” stage. In other words, we are getting closer to a release now that HTC is giving this initial build a last look before carriers take a crack at it.

If you recall, HTC detailed how software updates work through a fancy infographic back in December. The “certification” stage starts out with final internal testing by HTC before they submit each build to individual carriers. Carriers then take their time testing, looking for critical bugs. If bugs are encountered, a new build which incorporates the fixes is then created and re-submitted.

Once all critical bugs are ironed out, regulatory, industry, and Google testing/certification is given, which then leads to a “technical acceptance” for HTC from the carrier. Google then issues a technical acceptance of its own.

Finally, the update is prepared for an over-the-air (OTA) release.

On a related note, the DROID DNA is also now listed as being at the “certification” level.

We’re getting closer!

Via: HTC