ZTE Zmax 2 is more of an entry-level smartphone than a mid-range one, but that didn't seem to stop the Chinese handset maker from releasing a major update like Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow. ZMAX 2 (Z958) Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow Official General. Apps, ROMs, Customization. But does anyone have any instructions/guide for extracting OTA for non-rooted ZTE ZMax 2? If so I can try it. Submit to XDA Portal. It started downloading, which looked like a 2 part download, because it temporarily stopped and started. ZTE ZMAX 2 Marshmellow Update Howdy, I have a active ATT sim I used to update my wifes ATT Go Phone - ZTE ZMAX 2 to the new marshmallow update, and now I'm trying to update my ATT Go Phone - ZTE ZMAX 2 to marshmellow as well.
It's been more than a year since ZTE Zmax 2 mid-range smartphone made its debut on the market and slightly less since the phone was picked up by AT&T.
Initially released with Android 5.1 Lollipop operating system on board, the ZTE Zmax 2 is now eligible for a Marshmallow upgrade. The information has been recently confirmed by AT&T, as the major carrier updated the phone's support page to reflect the new changes.
ZTE Zmax 2 is more of an entry-level smartphone than a mid-range one, but that didn't seem to stop the Chinese handset maker from releasing a major update like Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow.
We sincerely hope that the hardware inside the Zmax 2 will be capable to run Marshmallow as smoothly as it does with Lollipop OS. ZTE's smartphone is equipped with a 1.2GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 processor, coupled with 2GB of RAM and 16GB of internal memory (up to 64GB via microSD).
According to AT&T, the Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow update is pushed OTA (over the air) in waves, so if it doesn't show up on your Zmax 2 right away, then you will have to wait a few more days.
These updates usually take up to a week to reach all targeted devices, and ZTE Zmax 2's update is no exception. It's also worth noting that if you want to manually check for it, then you should be looking for an update with build number Z958V1.0.0B24.
Make sure that your phone's battery is at least 50% charged and that you have enough storage space. The Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow update is about 1.1GB in size, so connect your smartphone to a stable network before downloading it.
Aside from the usual new features and improvements that Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow brings, you'll be pleased to know that ZTE also included the November security patch.
Even with its initial $150 price tag, the 5.5-inch ZTE ZMax 2 is a cheaper alternative to high-priced big-screen devices like the LG G4 or Samsung Galaxy Note 5, both of which can cost between $400 to $740 at full retail. Currently priced at $100 on AT&T's GoPhone off-contract lineup, the ZMax 2 is even more of a considerable value.
Of course, it doesn't have the ultrasharp screen and ample internal storage of a top-tier handset, and the color accuracy of its 8-megapixel camera is inconsistent (a real problem for enthusiastic shutterbugs). But if you simply want to browse the Internet, make calls and take a few informal snapshots on a generously-sized phone, the ZMax 2 will chug along nicely.
Design and software
- 5.5-inch display with 1,280x720-pixel resolution
- 6.06 by 2.99 by 0.37 inches
- 6 ounces
- Google Android 5.1 Lollipop
As a big-screen device, the ZMax 2 can be unwieldy if you have small hands. And even for a 5.5-inch phone, it feels heavy in the hand in your pocket. However, the faux-leather back plate helps out with grip, and I like how it adds a bit of flair to the handset's overall design compared to a typical plastic-cladded cover.
Zte Zmax 2 Manual
With its 720p resolution, the screen isn't the sharpest around. But it's bright and clear enough to read text, view images and watch videos comfortably. It's also sensitive and reactive to the touch, so you can swipe and tap through functions easily.
Below the display are three hotkeys for navigating around. The keys are geometrically shaped (a triangle, circle and square), and undoubtedly inspired by Google's own on-screen design for the same buttons. I do like the consistent Android experience of this, but I can imagine how outdated the phone will immediately feel when Google decides to change the look of the keys in the future.
Speaking of Android, the ZMax 2 runs Google Android 5.1 Lollipop, which isn't the most recent Android 6.0 Marshmallow. The carrier included some of its apps too, such as AT&T Navigator, DriveMode and myAT&T, where you can check account statements and balances. There are also some third-party apps like Amazon, Uber and the Yellow Pages. Unfortunately, many of these apps can't be completely uninstalled (only disabled), which makes for annoying bloatware that takes a cumulative chunk out of your on-hand storage capacity.
Zte Zmax 2 Case
Cameras and video
- 8-megapixel rear-facing camera
- 2-megapixel front-facing camera
- Records 1,080p (rear) and 1,080p (front) video
Photo quality was passable, but there were some issues with color accuracy. For instance, on some of the photos I shot, the indoor fluorescent lights were rendered nice and white, but the sunlight coming out of the window was all blue. Another indoor photo I took casted a yellowish hue against the white background.