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HTC One Android 4.2 update kills the awful menu bar, adds Instagram to BlinkFeed

HTC One Android 4.2 update kills the awful menu bar, adds Instagram to BlinkFeed

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The long-awaited Android 4.2 update for the HTC One has been slowly making its way around the world over the past week or so, but thanks to Android Central, we now have a good look at what's on tap in it. Essentially, HTC addressed many of the complaints we had with Sense 5 on Android 4.1, and even threw in a few surprises that we didn't expect to see with this update. In addition to adding support for Android 4.2's new Daydream screensaver, quick settings toggles, and lock screen widgets (unfortunately limited to only one at a time), the update also moves the power saver option out of the notification bar; makes screenshots instantly shareable; adds new Highlights video templates; and integrates Instagram into HTC's BlinkFeed.

Last, but most certainly not least, HTC has added a new option to remove the unsightly black menu bar that shows up in certain apps and re-map the option to a long-press of the home key. This feature also makes Google Now accessible via a swipe-up on the home key, much like how it works in vanilla Android 4.2. The Android 4.2.2 update is still rolling out to most HTC One devices across the world, but it may be some time before we see it available for the various carrier-branded versions here in the US. In the meantime, you can see all of these new features and few more in Android Central's video tour of the update below.