kohum: I am not on the 2 degrees network.  However, I bought a S3 from dick smith and the box had a 2 degrees sticker on it. Does this mean that the phone is a 2 degrees phone and will receive updates whenever s3 phones on 2 degrees get an update?  Thanks.

Yes, unless you manually flash an unbranded stock firmware your phone will rely on 2degrees releasing an update 

kohum:

Yes, unless you manually flash an unbranded stock firmware your phone will rely on 2degrees releasing an update 

Thanks lokhor.  The CSC is I9300NZCALE5. So Kies or the phone would let me know when there's an update right? Or do I have to use some other way of checking if I have an upgrade.  Only reason I'm asking is cos I9300s in the UK seem to have an update already and no one's received any updates here.  Not sure if Vodafone customers have received an udpate.

ibuksh: just keep in mind, using Odin will void your warranty..

ibuksh: just keep in mind, using Odin will void your warranty..

JimmyH:

ibuksh: just keep in mind, using Odin will void your warranty..

The Networks may say that, loudly and frequently. However, if the phone failed because of something unrelated to the firmware update you did (say, a faulty screen?), then I doubt trying to exclude it from warranty coverage because of an unofficial firmware update would withstand a challenge under the Consumer Guarantees Act if you took it to the Disputes Tribunal. Likely, even mentioning the CGA would make them cave before this point.

ibuksh: It hasnt actually happened with me but I have heard from a mate who was told his phone wont be covered under warranty coz unofficial firmware can damage the hardware that its not meant to be running on from the manufacturer