HTC Desire Android 2.3 update begins, via DIY install

After a weird series of cancellations, retractions and odd rumours , the Android 2.3 update for the original HTC Desire has begun to appear. HTC has taken the incredibly unusual step of releasing a DIY download file, which users can flash themselves if they want to take the risk.

This is no “over the air” update. You basically have to wipe your phone and install a generic version of the Desire Android 2.3 release via your PC, with the update missing some HTC Sense features. Here’s HTC’s mammoth disclaimer:

Android 2.3 Update for HTC Desire

This update is only recommended for expert users who want to experience Android 2.3 and understand the limitations which apply to this update to the HTC Desire. Due to memory constraints several applications have been removed from this update and we are only offering the ROM upgrade utility (RUU) for you to download. Please note that flashing this ROM will erase your previous customizations, including any messages, emails, contacts, and other personal information. We suggest you take advantage of your Google account and other backup solutions available on the Android Market to ensure you do not lose your personal data. Your SD Card will not be erased or modified.

The major changes in this update include:

-All customizations, including operator applications, will be removed
-All wallpapers, except the default wallpaper, will be removed and placed online on the HTC Developer website
-Several HTC applications will be removed and placed online on the HTC Developer website
-The official Facebook application will be removed and is downloadable on the Android Market.

To download this update, please visit… http://developer.htc.com/

Note: This Rom update is for development only and not for general public use. Upgrades to non-authorized phones may result in loss of functionality. In addition certain functions may no longer be usable after re-flashing the ROM, including but not limited to MMS and SMS and HTC also disclaims liability for any unusable functions. HTC disclaims liability for the loss and/or leakage of any personal data resulting from the re-flashing of the ROM.

Updated – The following regional variants are not compatible with this upgrade: Germany (Telekom Deutschland), North America, South Korea and Japan.

Such a weird thing to do, but at least it’ll go some way toward calming the angry masses. Let us know how you get on if you install it. We’ll be setting aside an hour or two later today. It’s a 161MB download that’s on HTC’s developer site here .