Good news HTC Hero users, you can now get the Android 2.1 update. Unfortunately, this update is not being pushed OTA, but you must meet some plan requirements. The update requires MMS support, so you will need to add MMS to your plan for $5.99 in order to participate in the firmware upgrade. You can also have the update applied in-store, but you will incur a charge of $15.
The statement from Cellular South’s Facebook page,
Android 2.1 is now available for download online! Before you begin the software download, please make sure you have properly prepared your HTC Hero and PC for the update. The battery on your Hero and PC should be fully charged before you begin the update process. Here are a few things you need to do before you begin the update:
Install HTC Sync on your PC right from the online Discover Center: HTC Sync enables you to restore all of your HTC settings that were erased on your device.
Locate your USB cable: The download is performed from your PC to your Hero using the USB cable. Your USB cable is attached to your Hero wall charger unit.
Record Google login: This update will remove all apps from your device. You will need to login back into Android Market to retrieve your lost apps.
Backup contact and other vital information: Use the 30 day FREE trial of My Backup from the Android Market to back up your contacts and other vital information. If you chose to back up your text messages the update could take over an hour.
Adding MMS: The 2.1 update allows pics (MMS) to be sent to and from your Hero. If you want this feature, please add MMS to your account online or in store for an additional $5.99.
Also, please remember not to run additional programs on your PC while the update is occurring. If you run programs in the background during the update, the software could crash. Get 2.1 for your Hero now @ http://budurl.com/CSHTCHeroUpdate
Source: Cellular South
Has anyone upgraded their HTC Hero already? Let us know what you think in the comments below.