Just like with every other update of the Android operating system, Samsung is planning to add some new features to its Touchwiz interface.

For example, when the Galaxy Note was upgraded to Android 4.0 earlier this year, users got a ‘premium suite’ that not only upgraded their phone to Android 4, but also gave users new features, programs and other improvements.

It looks like Samsung is planning to do the same with the upgrade of the Samsung Galaxy S3 towards Android 4.1 Jelly Bean.

How we know? Last week an almost finished build of the update was leaked, which has given us some great new information on the upcoming update. In this post I will discuss some of the new changes and features.

Android Beam

Next to S-Beam which is already available on the Samsung Galaxy S3, the phone will now also support Android Beam to transfer files between phones. Where S-Beam uses the NFC chip and WiFi to transfer files, Android Beam uses NFC and Bluetooth. So even when no WiFi is available, you will now always be able to beam files fast between phones.

Google Now

Google now is one of the big new features in Android 4.1 Jelly Bean. The Google Now function quickly gives you the information you need, when you need it. It does this based on your history, location and account information. Google Now will quickly display information like news, navigation, weather or any appointments you have.

Here is a video explaining Google Now:

 Easy Mode

With new features and programs in every updates, phone nowadays become more and more complex. While most users don’t have a problem with that, there are also dose who do. (my parents for example ). With easy mode turns on, the phone simplifies the phones homescreen, making it user friendly even for people who have never touched a smartphone before.

Help application

Next to easy mode, Samsung has also done a great job improving usability by creating a new help app, this app is made for people who have never used a smartphone before, and will allow them to get the most out of their phone quickly by explaining the most important features and settings.

Dormant mode

This new mode allows you to turn off sounds, functions and notifications during various parts of the day (for example during your sleep, or when you are busy studying). The great thing about this feature is, that when it’s enabled you can add people to a list that can still contact you.

This is great for example when you don’t want to be disturbed by your friends at work, but while you wait for an important phone call from your boss.

We have reasons to believe that Android 4.1 will be released just a week from now on August 29^th, once we know more about the release date you will be the first to know!