A Samsung Galaxy S3 security update has been launched by AT&T and Sprint recently - the first security update so far for the new device. However, amazingly the update seems to take away features rather than adding to them.

The new update allegedly fixes a few minor issues including the device prematurely asking for an unlock pin. However, interestingly the update also takes away functionality, as opposed to increasing functionality like most updates.

According to reports the update "dumbs down" Google's unified search function; it used to search the web as well as the device for anything searched by the user, but following the update it will now only search the web.

It has been said the peculiar taking away of functionality comes due to Apple's ongoing patent fight with Samsung, which saw the Samsung Galaxy Nexus issued with a temporary injunction.

Samsung has told the Verge: "Samsung has updated the software for the Galaxy S3 as a precautionary measure to ensure that U.S. customers may enjoy using our innovative products without interuption."

Samsung does not seem to want to take any more chances with the S3, which is the hottest-selling smartphone in the market at present.

AT&T also announced last week that it will launch the Galaxy S3 in Garnet Red, and the new color variant went on sale online on July 15. The red variant will make its way to the carrier's retail locations on July 29.

The Samsung Galaxy S3 features a 4.8-inch Super AMOLED display, 8-megapixel camera, S Voice, and NFC (near-field-communications), 4G LTE connectivity, and a dual-core Snapdragon S4 chip.

The smartphone currently comes in two models; 16GB white and blue versions, and AT&T offers the device for $199 on a two year contract.

The Samsung Galaxy S3 is also expected to receive the 4.1, JellyBean update in the fourth quarter of 2012.

Tags: samsung galaxy s3