What does firmware actually mean, and whats the diff between V11-20 ect

[stucbr]

As title....just what is this firmware and why do we need it?

And what are the real benefits of upgrading and why do people do it.

Also, why is the 95-2 V11 (well mine is) and the 95-1 V20, if the higher number's are better then why is mine (which is new) got V11.

[mcbain]

Firmware is what makes your phone run, much like Windows on a PC for instance.
Upgrading is usually beneficial as they iron out any problems found in the previous versions (in most cases)
Just like (only an example here) upgrading from Windows XP to Vista (minus the Interface changes)
The 95-1 and 95-2 run on slightly different firmware as one is the 8gb (slightly different phone)

[Gaz]

the N95-2 current firmware is V15 ,just so you know ;)

[stucbr]

Thats great thanks guy's

[armand]

in other words, operating system
just wanted to pop in :D

[dynomot]

The reason your phone is running V11 (Version 11 = V 11. single number . treble number, key in *#0000# the firmware version is the first number on the list you get.) is that even though its new it is branded to your phone carrier. This means your phone carrier took V11 firmware and bolted some of its own firmware to your phone. Your carrier has not updated this 'hybrid' firmware yet and will not allow you to upgrade your phone using Nokia software updater (NSU) because that would get rid of their bolted on bits and, give you features they don't want you to have such as VoIP phone calls (VoIP = Voice over Internet Protocol) which will decrease the money they get from you. It's not fair, the carriers are generally idle, more interested in new customers rather than loyal ones.

The way around this is to debrand your phone. See here how to do this second post down :

N95 Tips

This will give you the latest firmware, clear out your carriers rubbish and give you a new like phone.

[Gaz]

Not sure about other carriers but Voda have certainly approved V15 via NSU update