Friday, February 3, 2012



Posted: 02 Feb 2012 04:31 PM PST
Automatically updating every picture you take on your phone to a cloud service is not a new concept. Adobe Photoshop Express uploads to Photoshop.com, and of course the Google+ app automatically uploads to your Picasa web albums. But what if you want to automatically send every picture you take to your Dropbox account?
Enter Syncly. This deceptively simple app links to your Dropbox account and automatically uploads your pictures over Wi-Fi or 3G as you take them. Setup is simple. Just create a Syncly account and link it to your Dropbox account. Bam. Done. Syncly also acts as an image gallery so you can view your uploaded images right from the cloud.
This is a great solution for backing up your photos and feeling safe enough to clear off your SD card if you’re running low on space. If you’re ready to give it a whirl, hit up the market link or QR code below.
source: lifehacker
qrcode
Posted: 02 Feb 2012 03:57 PM PST
While we patiently wait for Ice Cream Sandwich to come out officially for the Droid RAZR and RAZR MAXX that hasn’t stopped Verizon and Motorola from bumping the current flavor of Android 2.3.5 to 2.3.6 and also bringing the software version to 6.12.173.XT912.Verizon.en.US. As both the RAZR and MAXX are running the same software it would make sense that both of them would be getting this upgrade. Here is what to be on the look out for:
Applications:
  • Mobile Hotspot will now successfully allow other devices to connect to all Internet websites.
  • Improvements in the Mobile Hotspot security. + VZ Navigator® has been updated with the latest 3D map improvements.
Visual Voice Mail Updates:
  • Visual Voice Mail messages can be marked as read.
  • Visual Voice Mail message playback resumes when audio is switched to speaker.
  • Visual Voice Mail will successfully subscribe or unsubscribe while connected with Wi-Fi.
  • Successfully press back key after playback in Visual Voice Mail without error.
Data Connectivity:
  • Improved stability of data connectivity after Airplane Mode is disabled. + Improved data throughput performance in low-signal 4G environments.
Device Operation:
  • Improved Battery life when using Phone Book Access Profile (PBAP) Bluetooth® headsets.
  • Successfully save multimedia ringtones.
  • Favorite Contacts widget has been updated.
  • Improved device stability when moving between home screen panels.
  • Email icon has been updated for improved visibility.
  • When performing an Over the Air (OTA) update, the display will correctly show the remaining download time.
  • CMAS (Commercial Mobile Alert Service) feature has been added.
Besides that, look for more VCast bloatware apps to be installed as well as Motorola’s MotoCast installation steps being improved so that they are easier to use. I would also look forward to seeing this in the next week or so. If you are curious about these devices themselves you can read the reviews on each by going here, or reading on the RAZR MAXX’s initial battery tests here. Enjoy!
Posted: 02 Feb 2012 03:22 PM PST
Gameloft has been known to create some pretty amazing mobile games. These games include Backstab, Order and Chaos, Modern Combat, N.O.V.A. and so on. Some folk would suggest that these games are inspired if not derived from some ever popular PC and console games that are quite popular themselves. Well it looks like Gameloft is taking the next step in emulating services by creating Gameloft Live.
Those familar with services like Xbox Live, Playstation Network, Games for Windows, Wii, and so on know that these companies attempt to make gaming more social with the creation of personal profiles with customizable avatars. It was only a matter of time that we would see this move head towards mobile shores. While yes Microsoft is bring Xbox Live to Android and iOS operating systems Gameloft is looking to create something distinctly mobile.
Gameloft told Nibletz that they will be releasing the program for Android users as a soft launch for the time being. Users will be able to create avatars, decorate living spaces and even go as far to purchase additional clothing for your avatar. Other features include:
- Always stay in touch with your friends! Invite them to games, send messages & chat in real time.
- A rich 3D experience never-before-seen on smartphones! Custom create the avatar & hub for you.
- Build your gamer score and earn XP and virtual Gameloft coins.
- Stay up to date! Access spotlight promotions and details on the latest game titles.
- Get the best games at Special Discounts, only for Gameloft LIVE! members.
- Your favorite titles at your fingertips! View and launch your games from one easy-to-navigate hub.
You can interact, message and see what Gameloft games your friends are currently playing. In the future Gameloft is hoping to add social features that will allow players to share games and allow the ability for matchmaking over Facebook and Twitter. Gameloft will also be tying all their past, present and future games to this service. Even though your unlocked achievements are only viewable within the confines of that individual game the Live service will allow you to save and upload achievements when you’re logged in.
As the soft launch begins today you can stop by the Gameloft store to download the app free of charge. My guess is that this will only apply to Gameloft games with no other games having a chance in sight. So avid users of OpenFeint will have to stick with that if they are wanting to share their scores and highlights across a multitude of games. Still, it’s good to see a service like this heading to the mobile market.

sources: Nibletz, Gameloft
via: droidgamer
Posted: 02 Feb 2012 01:40 PM PST
I won’t say that malware isn’t a problem for Android, but certainly not as big as the press would like you to believe. Even a little is still a problem, and thankfully Google feels the same way. Today Google revealed a new service called Bouncer, which automatically scans the Android Market for potential malicious software. It happens behind the scenes and developers won’t have to go through any application approval process.
When an application us uploaded, Bouncer will immediately start scanning it for known malware, spyware, and trojans. This goes beyond a scan because Bouncer will run every application on Google’s cloud infrastructure and simulate how it will run on an Android device in an attempt to look for any hidden or malicious behavior. New developer accounts will be analyzed further and more often to prevent repeat offenders.
This service has actually been running for a while now. Google claims a 40% decrease in the number of occurrences in the second half of 2011 as opposed to the first half.
Google goes on to say that they originally designed Android to make mobile malware to be less disruptive. For example, when it comes to PCs, malware has the potential to misuse information, but with Android it’s a lot harder to do. Android’s built-in security features include:
  • Sandboxing: The Android platform uses a technique called "sandboxing" to put virtual walls between applications and other software on the device. So, if you download a malicious application, it can’t access data on other parts of your phone and its potential harm is drastically limited.
  • Permissions: Android provides a permission system to help you understand the capabilities of the apps you install, and manage your own preferences. That way, if you see a game unnecessarily requests permission to send SMS, for example, you don't need to install it.
  • Malware removal: Android is designed to prevent malware from modifying the platform or hiding from you, so it can be easily removed if your device is affected. Android Market also has the capability of remotely removing malware from your phone or tablet, if required.
I never saw malware as being a big concern, but like I said, even the smallest amount of malware is an issue and thanks to Google, we can rest easy knowing Bouncer is working 24/7.
source: google mobile blog
Posted: 02 Feb 2012 01:13 PM PST
Augmented Reality (also known as AR) has turned quite a few heads recently. It involves using your smart device like a “looking glass” to manipulate the world around you.  The technology has been integrated into several apps from the Qualcomm Augmented Reality Competition, and is making its way into many exciting new applications that we could use every day.  For example, there is an app in the works that allows kids to interact with a toy before they buy it.
Now, Augmented Reality has a new shoot-em-up spin for your Android, iPhone or Windows Phone device.  The XAPPR gun, brought to you by MetalCompass, attaches to your phone and transforms it into a virtual killing machine.  More specifically, it allows you to turn and shoot in real life as the image on your cell phone is following your moves.  You can preorder it before its June release on the company’s website for $30, plus $15 shipping in the US.  The XAPPR takes old school Duck Hunt to a whole new level.  It doesn’t get much better than turning your cell phone into a gun, right?
There are several games that have already been developed to be compatible with the XAPPR, like AR Invaders, ATK, AR Wars and Spray’Em.  Apps like ATK are multiplayer and enable you to play against other XAPPR toting comrades, in a cellphone version of laser tag.  However, only AR Invaders is currently available in the Android Market.  The high tech gun is made to work with other apps, so we just have to wait for the developers to jump on board and make more fun games for Android users.
Source: The XAPPR Gun
Posted: 02 Feb 2012 12:40 PM PST
Another day, another failed Apple lawsuit.  Samsung’s latest flagship models, the Galaxy Nexus and Galaxy Tab 10.1N, have escaped unscathed after the Munich Regional Court rejected Apple’s bid to block sales of the devices in Germany.
Our good friends from Cupertino seem hell-bent on causing complications for Samsung’s big German sales push. Samsung had already redesigned the original Galaxy Tab 10.1 as the 10.1N as a result of a previous Apple lawsuit.
The patent war really gathered a head of steam in 2011 with Apple as the real driving force behind it. Unfortunately, 2012 seems to be promising more of the same with Apple entangled in court room battles with many of the major Android manufacturers.
Perhaps if Apple spent as much time on innovation as they do trying to sue the competition they might have produced something more imaginative than the underwhelming upgrade that was the iPhone 4s.
via: Androinica
Posted: 02 Feb 2012 12:19 PM PST
 
There may still be some kinks to work out with LTE technology, but at least we have Qualcomm to thank for achieving one major feat. Qualcomm was able to complete the very first handover from LTE to WCDMA 3G during a VoLTE (voice-over-LTE) call recently. Previously, if you were on a VoLTE call in an LTE network and you leave the LTE coverage zone, the call would normally drop faster than you could say “hi”. Qualcomm successfully engineered its new Snapdragon chip to seamlessly transition between LTE and WCDMA 3G mid-voice call without issue, meaning you won’t lose the call just because you exit the LTE coverage zone. This is all achieved because of some crafty engineering on Qualcomm’s end, which in part includes the new ability to transition using just a single radio. Pretty sweet news especially for the ever-growing number of you 4G LTE users. Qualcomm is staying mum on any further information about this achievement for now, but expect the leaks to flow as we approach MWC. Hit the break for the full presser from Qualcomm.



SAN DIEGO — February 2, 2012— Qualcomm Incorporated (NASDAQ: QCOM) today announced that the Company, working with Ericsson, has successfully completed the first voice call handover from an LTE mobile network to a WCDMA network using Single Radio Voice Call Continuity (SRVCC). An important technology required for voice-over-LTE (VoLTE) support, SRVCC is a 3GPP specified feature that enables continuity of service by seamlessly switching to a WCDMA network when a consumer on a VoLTE call leaves the LTE network's coverage area. This milestone occurred on December 23, 2011 with an Ericsson network using a handset which incorporated Qualcomm's Snapdragon™ S4 MSM8960 3G/LTE multimode processor. A demonstration will be available at Qualcomm's booth at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain February 27 – March 1, 2012.
"As LTE networks are deployed alongside 3G networks, the ability for multimode 3G/LTE mobile devices to connect to different network technologies will be an important part of providing the best possible mobile voice and data experience to consumers," said Cristiano Amon, senior vice president of product management, Qualcomm. "Qualcomm is committed to the successful deployment of LTE networks worldwide in conjunction with 3G networks, and the milestone we've achieved with Ericsson is another step towards making VoLTE technology a commercial reality."
SRVCC is the next logical step in the 4G LTE voice roadmap following the commercial launch of circuit-switched fallback technology (CSFB) on smartphones in 2011. CSFB allows a single radio in the handset to dynamically switch from an LTE data connection to a 3G connection when the user needs to make or receive a call. Similarly, SRVCC support enables a single radio in the handset to execute a seamless handover of a voice call from an LTE network to a 3G network. Furthermore, SRVCC and CSFB allow both LTE and 3G network connections to be supported on a single chip, eliminating the need for smartphones to use separate LTE and 3G radios and modems. This allows OEMs to design handsets with lower power consumption and component costs and a smaller size. Given that 3G networks will continue to be deployed in conjunction with LTE networks for quite some time, SRVCC and CSFB are essential to provide a seamless voice experience to customers using LTE multimode handsets once VoLTE is commercially deployed. Qualcomm is committed to ensuring the best voice performance to users in LTE networks through industry-leading CSFB and SRVCC technologies.
Posted: 02 Feb 2012 11:46 AM PST
Mobilicity, a relatively new contract-free Canadian carrier, has launched its Galaxy Nexus four days ahead of schedule. This is incredible news for Canadian Android fans who desperately wish for a contract-free Galaxy Nexus experience. It’s retailing at Mobilicity for $599, and for a limited time you can also receive a Samsung HM1100 Bluetooth headset.
As an added bonus, if you’re so lucky as to have a Valentine for this coming lovers holiday, Mobilicity is also holding a promotion February 6th through February 17th. If you want a free Galaxy Nexus or Galaxy Mini with six months of unlimited service, you and your hubby should submit a video to their “Mobile Kiss Cam Contest” with the best kiss you can catch on video.
Posted: 02 Feb 2012 11:34 AM PST
LG recently released the Spectrum, which is essentially the same phone as the AT&T Nitro HD and the Optimus LTE. At $199, its not a bad deal since it has 4G LTE compatibility. Specs include a 4.5-inch 720p (1280 x 720) IPS display, 1.5 GHz dual-core Snapdragon processor, 1GB RAM, 8MP rear camera (with 1080p video recording), 1.3MP front camera, 4GB internal memory, microSD for up to 32GB (comes with 16GB), Bluetooth 3.0, 4G LTE, WiFi, and Android 2.3 Gingerbread. It should also be noted that the Spectrum is the first Verizon phone that is both 4G LTE and global capable. The global aspect won’t be available till mid-year. Other than LG’s UI skin, another exclusive is the ESPN Scorecenter app that comes pre-loaded, which features exclusive 720p HD video feeds. Look for a full review shortly, but for now checkout our quick hands on.
Click here to view the embedded video.
Posted: 02 Feb 2012 11:30 AM PST
Since the launch of the Amazon Kindle Fire, it would seem as though everyone is trying to get a low cost, good quality and economically friendly tablet to the masses.  Sprint and ZTE feel the same and aim to launch their new dollar friendly device starting Feb 5th.  We know what you’re thinking though, a $99 dollar tablet?  Must have sub par specs and a resistive screen or something running Android 1.5, right?.  Nope, Sprint and ZTE are going for the wow factor right out of the gate.  In addition to its appealing price tag the device has some pretty hefty specs for its size and class.  You’ll find a 7-inch capacitive display, Android Honeycomb 3.2 out of the box, a 1.2 GHz dual-core CPU from Qualcomm nonetheless, 1GB of RAM and 16 whopping Gig’s of on-board storage.
The only “down side” if you want to call it a down side, would be the fact that it will not be shipping with any connectivity to 4G technologies.  Yep, no WiMax or LTE, 3G only, but that’s what WiFi is for, right?  Heck, I’m just shocked there’s some type of wireless connectivity at all for that price point.  Beggars can’t be choosers. You can snag a data plan on Sprint’s network starting at 1GB for $19.99/mo.  If you want to avoid a contract altogether, you can do so by purchasing the device right out for $349.99.  Not too shabby Sprint.  Feel free to leave your thoughts and comments below.
 via: Sprint

Posted by at 8:32 AM

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