Newsletter
Two weeks into the launch, ASUS’s latest gaming superphone, the ROG Phone 5, is already receiving its third software update. The device is picking up the latest update with firmware version 18.0830.2101.81. The new software still bundles a three-month-old January 2021 Android security patch but does introduce several fixes and enhancements.
According to the official changelog, the latest update fixes the occasional screen orientation issue for the rear ROG Vision display on the ROG Phone 5 Pro and Ultimate models. It also fixes an issue with the secondary USB Type-C port on the side of the phone, where using the port with USB devices could show the device is still charging.
ASUS says the Ultrasonic AirTriggers vibration has been optimized with the latest update. An issue where a LINE call could trigger an automatic restart has also been fixed. Last but not least, the new software now sets NFC to turn off by default.
As said before, this is the third software update for the ROG Phone 5 series since its launch earlier this month. The previous two updates came with firmware versions 18.0830.2101.73 and 18.0830.2101.75 respectively, introducing plenty of new features, fixes, and enhancements. An animation editor for ROG Vision in Armoury Crate, new motion control gestures in AirTrigger 5, Esports Mode, and the ROG Akira Character theme pack were some of the new additions.
ROG Phone 3 and ROG Phone II are also picking up new updates
Along with the ROG Phone 5, ASUS has also released new updates for the ROG Phone 3 and ROG Phone II. The former is picking up the latest update with firmware version 17.0823.2102.143, with February 2021 Android security patch, disappointingly.
The new update enables VoLTE functionality on the Tele2 network for Russian users. It also bundles a couple of important fixes, including the one where the camera zoom feature did not work properly. ASUS also promises improved call quality, system stability, and an updated APN list for the ROG Phone 3 with the latest update.
The ROG Phone II, on the other hand, is picking up the latest March 2021 Android security patch with the new update. The update is rolling out with firmware version 17.0240.2103.75 and it fixes a bunch of issues as well. Those include an issue with poor WiGig reception and an issue where Skype calls were not hearable through Bluetooth headsets.
The latest software updates for the ASUS ROG Phone 5, ROG Phone 3, and ROG Phone II are now rolling out in batches. If you own any of these phones, lookout for a new software update in the coming days if you haven’t already received it. You can check for updates by going to the System updates menu under Settings > System.