Google has yet to release the Android 5.0 Lollipop for the Samsung Galaxy Note 3, but thanks to the people of XDA Developers, a Lollipop ROM update for the handset became available on Christmas Day.

A leaked version of the Android Lollipop has popped up before for the Exynos version of the Galaxy Note 3 (N900), but now an authentic, but unofficial ROM for the international Galaxy Note 3 (N9005) has appeared.

Some notable changes and features seen are the combination of the TouchWiz and Lollipop's Material Design, giving the handset a new look. Features for the Note 4 S Pen are also available, such as the Smart Select, multi-window feature and Air Command, but with new changes and options. The handset is also noted to be less laggy and smoother when operating.

Instructions and links for installation are available on Android Authority, but users should be warned that the version will only work for the international Snapdragon N9005 device.

There are still no clues though if the ROM from XDA is the final version that will be launched officially for the Galaxy Note 3 by Google.

Those who are wary of installing the ROM on their smartphones need not worry, as Google has previously confirmed that they will be rolling out the Lollipop to Samsung handsets eventually.

Reports have it that handsets that will be receiving the update are the Galaxy S4, Galaxy Note 2 and Galaxy Note 3, with rumored plans from Samsung to update even their outdated models. This may be considered a surprise to some as Samsung usually supports their models for 2 years or 2 major updates, whichever comes first.

No specific date has been announced on the Lollipop update for the Galaxy Note 3 though, so those who want to get a preview might choose to try out the XDA Developers' ROM offering.