Friday, April 13, 2012

Android and Me

Android and Me


Sprint opens up pre-orders for LG Viper, no one signs up

Posted: 12 Apr 2012 06:33 PM PDT

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Sprint announced today that the LG Viper will hit stores on April 22nd for a retail price of $99 with a new two-year service agreement, and $50 mail-in rebate via annoying reward card. The device is expected to be one of Sprint’s first 4G LTE smartphones, along with the Samsung Galaxy Nexus that is rumored to launch on the same day.

Highlights of the LG Viper include a 1.2GHz dual-core processor, 4 inch display, 5MP rear-facing camera with flash, VGA front-facing camera, 1 GB RAM, 4 GB internal storage, NFC, and a 4 GB microSD card. The specs are pretty decent for a smartphone from 2011, but unfortunately the device ships with the aging Android 2.3 Gingerbread.

The LG Viper also includes several “eco-friendly attributes” including ULE Platinum Certification, the highest level of environmental performance recognized by sustainable requirements established by UL Environment and Sprint, a casing made of 50 percent recycled plastics, and packaging that is 100 percent recyclable.

I’m sure the LG Viper is a nice device, but we don’t see many Sprint customers signing up for the pre-order with the Galaxy Nexus launching on the same day and the HTC EVO 4G LTE just around the corner (pre-order begins May 7th). Sprint’s 4G LTE network will only be available in the limited markets of Atlanta, Baltimore, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City and San Antonio by “mid-year”, so there is not much incentive to pick up the device at launch.

Check out the quick hands-on video from The LG Girl below and let us know what you think. Will you pre-order this device?


Minimal Reader wins week one of #thenextinstall, 10 new apps try to knock it down

Posted: 12 Apr 2012 01:40 PM PDT

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Can our community help discover the next great Android app? Last week we tried an experiment called #thenextinstall to see if we could find an Android app in the rough, and boost its installs and exposure to new highs. The results were kind of disappointing, but we love hunting for new apps that we can suggest and we decided to take another stab at it.

This week the goal remains the same:

  • Find an app with less than 100k installs
  • Come up with a one or two sentence pitch that encourages users to install it
  • Submit your suggested app in the comments below or in this weekly thread

Browse over the new app suggestions and let us know if any of them make it onto your device.

Week 1 winner: Minimal Reader

Pitch: Meet Minimal Reader, the only customizable News *WIDGET* with a handy *Pop-Up* function.

We monitored the installs, download clicks, review scores, and more to see which app came out on top and Minimal Reader was the winner from last week. This basic app just displays a RSS feed as a desktop widget, but it appears that simplicity was a winner with our readers.

After doing some more research, we found Minimal Reader has been around since last year. The app was already reviewed by Android Central and Phandroid, but it saw a major spike in daily installs when it was upgraded to version 2.4 on March 31st. The latest version of Minimal Reader features a complete redesign, new pop-up headers, new backgrounds, and a new option to show full articles on the 4×2 static widget.

I attempted to install it on my Galaxy Nexus, but I wasn’t able to get it working. Minimal Reader never appeared in my add widgets section, but maybe I’m an idiot and I’m doing it wrong. The average user review score is still 4.0, so the developer Joaquim Vergès still has some room for improvement.

Check out the free version below, or buy the paid version to remove the ads if you enjoy the app and want to support the developer.

AfterFocus

Pitch: Bring DSLR-like photography to your smartphone. With AfterFocus, you can create DSLR-style background blurred photo by simply selecting focus area.

vocab++

Submitted byRaveesh Bhalla

Pitch: Boosting your vocabulary has never been easier. We’ve curated images by hand that assist in helping our users remember the words thanks to visual association.

Applorer

Pitch: Are you tired of downloading crappy games that are just… not that fun? Applorer is your very own game explorer that will help you discover only the best Android games everyday.

Tweakdeck

Pitch: A modified version of TweetDeck to fix some issues with the current Market release.

Generate ALL the memes

Pitch: Easy to use meme generator with over 130+ memes.

AppBox

Pitch: Have you ever felt lost among tons of newly-added apps on Android Market and have no idea of which apps really attract you? AppBox is the best way to discover the perfect apps.

MLB.com At the Ballpark

Pitch: This official MLB ballpark application perfectly complements and personalizes your trip with mobile check-in, social media, offers, rewards and exclusive content.

Battery HD

Pitch: Instantly know for how long you can use each app.

Tasks Free

Pitch: Tasks brings the full Google Tasks experience to Android.

Denso

Submitted by: Clark Wimberly

Pitch: Flipboard for videos. It’s like a little magical TV that fits in your pocket.

What's next? How can I participate?

If you want to play along, then join the league of app addicts.

Over the coming week, we will continue to monitor all the apps and see which generate the most buzz. We will be watching the installs, download clicks, review scores, coverage on other sites, and more to see which app comes out on top.

Next week we will name the winning app, and then put it up against 10 new apps to repeat the process.


CrApp of the Week: Jersey Shore x Mega Man makes me want to cry

Posted: 12 Apr 2012 12:09 PM PDT

pauly d

“FIRE UP THAT TANNING BED AND BREAK OUT THE HAIRGEL! DJ Pauly D is here with a ton of fistpumpin' fun.” Yes! It’s just what I’ve been waiting for! A game starring Jersey Shore’s DJ Pauly D that steals heavily borrows character design from the original Mega Man series! No, no. Wait a second. This is all wrong. That’s exactly what I don’t want.

When DJ Pauly D was first brought to my attention, and I took a gander at the app listing, I was surprised. A solid 3.8 stars? I’ve used great apps that have been ranked worse than this. So I choked up the courage to drop $2 on this bad boy and hoped for the best.

Here’s the thing about DJ Pauly D – Beat that Boardwalk. The gameplay isn’t really all that bad. It’s like Streets of Rage, but without the fighting. Just moving up and down. And jumping. If I were giving this my opinion free review, I’d probably say something like, “with relatively solid gameplay, if you like Jersey Shore and have a spare $2 in your bank account, you might want to give Pauly D the game a shot.”

But this isn’t that review.

This is the review where I can barely hold back my loathing for the disgusting freak show that is Jersey Shore. Everything about the app amplifies that by about x50. From the email announcing the app (“The player did G.T.L. right when they get a ‘Guido Streak", starting to look frail well the players know its time for ‘Going to the Gym’, and when Pauly D's skin starts to look moon color the users know its time for ‘Going to get a tan.),’ to the app listing itself (“BOMB THE BOARDWALK! BOARDWALKERS, MUSIC AND BLING! PUMP IRON TO ACTIVATE JUICEHEAD MODE! STOP AND TAKE TAN! LAUNDROMATS KEEP YOU LOOKIN' FLY!” yes I swear those are real quotes), everything screams, “this is what’s wrong with the youth of our nation!”

And did I mention the characters look an awful lot like the characters from the original Mega Man series? Way to stomp on my childhood.

I could never take a game like this seriously. Which is exactly why it’s the CrApp of the Week. If you’re a rich sadist, or there’s just something wrong with you, go ahead and download DJ Pauly D – Beat the Boardwalk. Or you can take my word for it. That $2 could be far better spent not doing virtual laundry, TAKING TAN and PUMPING IRON.


HTC One X, S users experiencing design problems with new handsets

Posted: 12 Apr 2012 11:23 AM PDT

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Throughout all the hubbub of HTC’s introduction of their “One” series of devices, the Taiwan-based company has been relentlessly praised for two things: finally simplifying their product line and the bold design each One device features. The HTC One X sports a svelte modern plastic design while still maintaining a very high-end feel, and the One S boasts a ceramic housing unlike anything else on the market. Unfortunately, those design choices may come back to haunt HTC.

Recent reports from users all over the web show problems with the design of both the One X and One S.

In a video from CNET, you can clearly see screen discoloration when the the HTC One X is pressed near the edge of the display. There’s also some flex to the device that can cause accidental screen selections if held wrong. (Sound familiar)? The reporter from CNET who captured the discoloration issue on video says the problem has been present in four different One Xs that have been tested.

Pressing your finger against an LCD panel and experiencing discoloration isn’t a new phenomenon. If you were to do the same thing on your laptop display or LCD television, you’d experience the same results. But the issue being present in a touch screen device is a different story.

When questioned on the design problems with the One X, Daniel Hundt, creative director at One & Co, HTC’s design consultancy, said he “was not aware of that.” Adding that, “Maybe this is not a shipping build… [HTC] would never let that ship.”

The HTC One S is also a victim of design problems, this time concerning the ceramic housing of the device.

You may have seen the video explaining the procedure HTC goes through to obtain the ceramic coating on the black version of the One S. Apparently, the ceramic coating that forms over aluminum when charged with electricity is chipping off. Users from all over XDA and Facebook are reporting that even phones handled with care are chipping around the edges and around the USB port. There’s picture proof from multiple One S owners.

There’s a chance initial shipments may have just been a part of a bad batch of devices, but the theory floating around XDA (that when the aluminum body flexes, the ceramic shell chips off) sounds entirely possible as well. Either way, HTC released a statement about the frequent user complaints concerning the One S, saying that anyone unsatisfied should return their device within the allotted period.

The grey version of the One S isn’t experiencing the same problems because it doesn’t come with the ceramic coating.

Between the screen flex and display discoloration problems with the One X, and the problems users are experiencing with the One S, things aren’t all sunshine for HTC right now.

Have you gotten your hands on either one of HTC’s new One devices? Let us know if you’ve experienced any problems.


Galaxy Tab 2 coming to the US starting April 22nd

Posted: 12 Apr 2012 10:10 AM PDT

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The Galaxy Tab 2 series is coming to the U.S. as early as April 22nd. Samsung has two variants of the Galaxy Tab 2, a 7.0″ and 10.1″ model that are billed as lower-priced follow ups to the original Galaxy Tab and Tab 10.1 tablets.

Both Tab 2 variants will sport Android 4.0, a 1GHz dual-core processor (unknown which variant), and 1GB of RAM. You’ll find a 3 megapixel rear and VGA front-facing camera on each tablet as well.

The Galaxy Tab 2 7.0″ will go on sale starting April 22nd, and come with a low $250 price point for 8GB of storage, with an SD card slot that boosts the storage capacity up by 32GB. The Tab 2 10″ bumps the storage up to 16GB, and will land May 8th for $400.

While not the beefy specs we’ve come to expect from the Tab series, the Tab 2 line is geared at stealing customers away from the ereader market by providing a more feature-rich experience for around the same price. The tablets will have full access to the Android Market, giving them access to many more applications than the Kindle Fire or Nook Color tablets for a similar price.

Anyone out there planning on picking up the Tab 2, or have you got your eyes on a beefier tablet?

Show Press Release

Samsung Unveils New Galaxy Tab 2, Galaxy Players for U.S. Market

Highlights for Galaxy Tab 2 Include Integrated Universal RemoteIce Cream SandwichTM and Expandable Storage; Galaxy Player Devices Deliver a Full Android TM Experience without monthly Service contracts

 

RIDGEFIELD PARK, N.J., April 11, 2012 – Samsung Electronics America Inc., a market leader and award-winning innovator in consumer electronics, today unveils the latest additions to the popular Samsung Galaxy line of handheld and portable  devices. The two new Galaxy Tab 2TM products and two new Galaxy Players TMcontinue to showcase Samsung's commitment to providing users with choice, flexibility and connectivity to the full Samsung ecosystem of products, apps and services.

Galaxy Tab 2 – Powerful, Smart, Easy to Use

The Galaxy Tab 2 Series, available in both 10.1" and 7.0" screen sizes, are powerful dual-core tablets running the latest version of Android – Ice Cream Sandwich. The devices feature an integrated IR blaster for universal remote capabilities, as well as an easily accessible memory card slot for convenient loading of multimedia files in a range of supported file formats.

The new tablets offer endless content access in a sleek design that can maximize the home entertainment experience. The Smart Remote App and built-in IR Blaster turns the Tab 2 into a universal smart remote, helping users easily find their favorite shows. Users can choose from more than 450,000 apps, access favorite movies and TV shows from Google Play or Media Hub, and surf millions of web pages with Adobe® Flash™ support.

In addition, the Galaxy Tab 2 products are fully Google certified for complete access to Google Play (formerly Android Marketplace) and competitively priced at $399.99 and $249.99, respectively – so consumers no longer need to compromise when selecting a tablet.

"These new Galaxy Tab 2 and Galaxy Player devices deliver what consumers have come to expect from all Samsung products – exceptional design, impressive connectivity options and a selection of choices for each type of person and user scenario," said Tim Baxter, President, Samsung Electronics America. "A one size fits all solution is just not sufficient."

Galaxy Players put Android in the Hand – without Service Contracts

With the two new Galaxy Players, available in 4.2 inch WVGA screen or 3.6 inch HVGA screen variants, gaming, videos and music are more fun than ever.

Easily connect to Wi-Fi hotspots anywhere to get instant access to the latest content. Users also can play their own video and music in a variety of formats, connect to other devices using USB 2.0 or Bluetooth 3.0 connectivity, or simply load the device via a micro SD card. Because the device runs on Android™ 2.3, Gingerbread, a world of apps is a touch away.

Plus, dual-stereo speakers (on the Galaxy Player 4.2) deliver an incredible music, video or gaming experience – anywhere.

The new Galaxy Tab 2 and Galaxy Players will be available for purchase at a variety of retailers including Best Buy, Amazon, Tiger Direct and others.  The Galaxy Player 3.6 is available now for $149.99 exclusively at Best Buy and soon at other retailers. The Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 will be available for preorder today at $249.99, and for purchase on April 22. The Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 and Galaxy Player 4.2 will both be available for pre-order on May 4 and for purchase on May 13, at $399.99 and $199.99 respectively.


Android Gaming Weekly: Max Payne, Dark Legends, Radiant Defense, Homerun Battle 2

Posted: 12 Apr 2012 09:29 AM PDT

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Welcome back to our regular column Android Gaming Weekly, where we recap all the new releases and highlights every Wednesday. We post small bits throughout the week related to Android games, but readers have requested a condensed summary that makes it easier to keep up with all the latest news. Read on for this week's best in Android gaming.

Celebrate baseball season with Homerun Battle 2

Homerun Battle 3D is one of my all-time favorite games for Android and I’ve been waiting on the sequel for a long time. I can’t believe it slipped past us, but Homerun Battle 2 actually hit the Google Play Store a couple weeks ago. The game is free to play, features customizable characters, includes 6 different modes, and brings back the online battles that we loved. Go download it now.

Max Payne Mobile comes to Android on April 26th

I’ve been looking forward to the remake of Max Payne on Android for a long time, so I was happy to see Rockstar Games announce it would be available in the Google Play Store on April 26th. ”The full classic Max Payne PC experience, Max Payne Mobile has been optimized for both iOS and Android devices and features HD graphics, high-resolution textures, Social Club connectivity and user-customizable controls,” Rockstar said in a statement. The iOS version went on sale today for $2.99, so we expect similar pricing when it comes to Android.

Spacetime Studios releases Dark Legends

From the developer that brought you Pocket Legends and Spacetime Legends, comes a new MMORPG called Dark Legends. The latest release from Spacetime Studios lets you rise as part of the Vampire Nation and fight to survive against a world that has turned against you. If you don’t have an Android device, you can also play Dark Legends in the free Chrome Browser version.

EA releases POGO Games to Google Play Store

If you love free casual games, then you might want to check out POGO Games from EA Mobile. This free title feature 4 different games including Poppit!, Word Whomp, Turbo21, and Sweet Tooth 2. Members of POGO.com can also access a 5th game called World Class Solitaire. I’m not a huge fan of these types of games, but those that have installed it gave it an average rating of 4.3.

Hexage previews their next game Radiant Defense

I normally don’t get excited over another tower defense game, but Hexage has always been one of my favorite developers. This week they previewed their next title called Radiant Defense, which features over 300 waves of aliens across 10 unique locations. PocketGamer reports that Radiant Defense will be free to play later this month, and players will be able to download packs of additional weapons through in-app purchases. While you wait on this game, be sure to check out some of Hexage’s previous titles including Robotek, Radiant, and EVAC.

Discover hidden treasures with American Pickers

If you are a fan of the Discovery Channels hit show American Pickers, then check out this free game that just debuted last week. The game follows Frank and Mike as they travel across 12 states and 24 unique locations searching for buried treasure. Buyers should beware because the free game only includes 3 maps before players are asked to spend money on additional levels. Some have complained about problems downloading the additional map packs, so you might want to just preview the free levels before handing over any money.

AirMech enters alpha testing, coming to Android this summer

Carbon Games has been testing their new RTS-action game AirMech for PC, but JoyStiq reports an Android version is coming this summer. Check out the teaser video above to get a feel for this hybrid game, or just install the Chrome version and try it for yourself.

“The best & the original” Tower Defense from Com2uS

There are thousands of tower defense style games on Android, but Com2uS claims they have the original and the best. Their take on the popular genre features 40 campaigns, 7 challenge maps, 4 different game play modes, 9 towers, 10 enemy units, 4 special weapons, and 5 different world themes. Tower Defesne: Lost Earth is free to play, so go grab the game and see if that claim is true.

Jett Tailfin Racers comes to Tegra Zone

This week Ilusis Interactive Graphics released their first Android game called Jeff Tailfin Racers. This game is an exclusive to NVIDIA’s Tegra Zone and features enhanced effects for Tegra-powered devices such as motion-blur, high-resolution textures and up to full 1080p HD graphics rendering. I played an early beta of the game and it reminded me of Mario Kart under water, but the controls were not very responsive and the powerups were confusing. The game is currently available for $2.99, so you might want to wait on some more reviews to appear before you dive in.

Sega reveals special ”Episode Metal” level for Sonic 4

We have already covered that Sega will be releasing Sonic 4 Episode II this summer, but this week they tweeted that players who have Episodes I and II installed on the same device will gain access to a new level called “Episode Metal.” Look for Sonic 4 Episode II to be available for Tegra-powered devices in May, followed by a wider release to more devices in June.

Gamevil releases latest free RGP, Advena

Gamevil publishes some of the most popular RPGs on Android, so we expect their latest release to do quite well. Advena is a free to play game that offers Party Play Action RPG. The game lets you choose 5 unique heroes that are all simultaneous playable and offers an extensive world map that features 200 different stages. It doesn’t appear the game offers HD graphics like Zenonia 4, but it’s still free and the early reviews are good.

Take the hot-seat with Football Manager Handheld 2012

I don’t like soccer, but I know we have a ton of global readers that do so I thought we should share Football Manager Handheld 2012. This game from SEGA allows players to take over any club from a choice of leagues in 12 countries, and assume full control of transfers, training, tactics and managing your team live during matchdays. Early reviews say the game is highly polished and it currently maintains an average review score of 4.5.

Games I'm currently playing

Helium Boy: Bertil Hörberg is a one-man game studio that deserves to be recognized. Helium Boy is one of the best platformer games I have played on Android, and it’s a shame that awesome titles like this fall under the radar. This game features a boy and his balloons, who are being chased by ninjas. Grab the free demo below that includes the first stage, then buy the paid version to explore the rest of the game.

Gunman Clive: I mentioned Gunman Clive last week and I went ahead and purchased it. It actually lived up to the funny trailer and it was totally worth the $1.99 asking price. I was out of town this week on vacation, so I’m still playing it to try and finish the 8 levels.

What Android games are you playing?

Find any great new Android games this week? Share your favorites in the comments below so we can check them out.


Another rumor points to April 22nd release for Sprint Galaxy Nexus

Posted: 12 Apr 2012 08:05 AM PDT

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More and more evidence is emerging that suggests an April release date for the Sprint branded Samsung Galaxy Nexus. Today’s leak comes from BGR, who received a screenshot from an internal Sprint system that states that the “Samsung Nexus” will go on sale on the 22nd.

We still don’t know how the Sprint variant will differ from the Verizon Galaxy Nexus, which we reviewed back in January. We’re hoping we see a few improvements in the Sprint variant, most notably a bigger battery and better camera. We do know that the Nexus will come with support for Sprint’s next-gen LTE network, which is starting to roll out to a handful of markets this quarter. Unfortunately, if you don’t live in an LTE location, you’ll be stuck on the sometimes frustratingly-slow 3G network.

Still, the Galaxy Nexus will easily become the must-have Android smartphone on Sprint whenever it launches, knocking the several-month-old Galaxy S II off its current pedestal. We know many of you Sprint customers are anxiously awaiting the Galaxy Nexus to land on the Now Network. Who out there is planning on picking one up later this month?

UPDATE: And we’ve gotten a tip from a Sprint employee who wishes to remain anonymous that the 22nd date is essentially set in stone in their internal system. Looks like it’s 10 short days for all you would-be Nexus owners.


Sony SmartWatch goes on sale today for $149.99

Posted: 12 Apr 2012 07:35 AM PDT

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Sony has announced today the immediate availability of the Sony SmartWatch, which will go on sale for $149.99 at Sony’s brick-and-mortar and online stores starting today. The SmartWatch features a 1.3″ OLED display that allows you to check your text messages, emails, Facebook, and Twitter updates, as well as control your music playback, manage calls, and even control your smartphone’s camera directly from your wrist.

The SmartWatch has access to the Google Play Store from the watch itself, quickly letting users pick out applications specifically built for the SmartWatch. Sony will likely help developers develop applications for the SmartWatch, so we expect to see several new applications make their way to the SmartWatch sometime after launch.

Aesthetically, the SmartWatch is dust/scratch proof and water resistant, and fits most standard wristbands. Sony will provide a standard black wristband, though you can purchase wristbands in 5 additional colors for an extra $20. The SmartWatch is a cool-looking watch and is a good option for those of you who love to wear watches and want your watch to be able to control your smartphone.

If you’re interested in the Sony SmartWatch, you’ll be able to pick one up at Sony Online or Sony’s retail stores starting today for $149.99. We’ve reached out to Sony for a review unit, so look for our full review to come later this quarter. In the mean time, you can view our initial hands-on from CES here.

Anyone planning on picking up a Sony SmartWatch? Sound off below.

Show Press Release

Store your Smartphone: SmartWatch

from Sony Brings Android Power

Straight to Wrist

 

Innovative Android™ accessory from Sony allows you to stay connected when your phone is stowed in your pocket or bag

•         Read social updates, text messages and email

•         Manage calls with a simple touch and swipe

•         Personalize with apps downloaded from Google Play

•         Control music on your smartphone

•         Snap pictures with your Android phone from a distance

 

April 12, 2012, Atlanta, GA –Sony Mobile Communications announces the availability of its new SmartWatch, a wearable device that extends the power of Android smartphones by sending timely and personal information from your smartphone straight to your wrist. A vibration and screen alert notifies you of key events, like an incoming call.  It also allows you to read texts and emails as well as receive Facebook™ and Twitter™ updates – all from your wrist.

SmartWatch from Sony connects to Android smartphones via Bluetooth™ giving you the ability to control key functions without removing your smartphone from your pocket or bag. With just a tap, touch, and swipe, SmartWatch turns from a watch displaying the time to a remote information center for your Android smartphone.

A growing number of apps are available for download through Google Play – including those for social updates, workouts and music – all customized for the 1.3-inch OLED SmartWatch touch screen. While SmartWatch works with these existing apps, Android developers can create apps specifically for the device.  SmartWatch works with most Android (2.1 and above) smartphones.

"SmartWatch is the first of many Smart Extras that seamlessly connect and expand the smartphone's reach and user experience," said Paul Hamnett, President and Head of Customer Unit, North America, Sony Mobile Communications. "Designed to break free from the single screen experience, SmartWatch provides access to live content and entertainment on the go."

The durable SmartWatch is dust proof and splash proof and comes with a black rubber wristband included in the box. Wristbands in five additional colors are available for purchase.  SmartWatch's design includes a rear mounted clip, so it can be removed from the wristband and attached to clothing or a belt.

At launch, SmartWatch has a suggested retail price of $149.99 and will be available athttp://www.sony.com/smartwatch  and Sony stores. SmartWatch availability at additional retailers will be announced soon.

SmartWatch is part of Sony Mobile Communications' strategy to create Smart Extras that make Android smartphones smarter.

Key Features of Sony Xperia™ SmartWatch:

  • ·   Dimensions: 1.42 X 1.42 X 0.3 in
  • ·   Weight: 0.55 oz
  • ·   Display: 1.3" OLED display, 128 x 128 pixels
  • ·   Compatibility: Bluetooth™ 3.0 and Android™ 2.1 or above
  • ·   Connectivity: Standard USB charging
  • ·   Battery life: Up to 4 days
  • ·   Language support for: English, Spanish, French, Chinese (Traditional), Portuguese, Swedish, Russian, Danish, Polish, Japanese, Czech, German, Modern Greek, Dutch
  • ·   Notifications: Display notification or vibration
  • ·   Apps: All events (displays in chronological order), Messaging  (SMS/MMS), corporate E-mail (for Sony™ and Sony Ericsson Android phones), Gmail (for all other Android smartphones) Calendar Notifications, Facebook™, Twitter™, Music Player, Call handling (call, mute, reject, or answer and send pre-defined SMS),Pre-defined SMS, e.g. missed calls – I'm busy, messaging – call me, email – ok,Battery strength, Find phone, and Weather widget. Plus lots of apps on Android™ market.
  • ·   Additional SmartWatch bands available in pink, white, mint, grey and blue

For full details on all products news, please visit the press room and the product blog:http://blogs.sonymobile.com/products/. For full Android smartphone compatibility, please visithttp://sonymobile.com/smartwatch


HTC Incredible 4G images reveal new details and specifications

Posted: 12 Apr 2012 07:15 AM PDT

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Verizon is the only major U.S. carrier yet to announce a new HTC phone for this year. But that could change in a few short weeks. New details and pictures of the upcoming HTC Incredible 4G (also known as the HTC Fireball) have shown up, giving us a closer look at the device and shedding some new light on its specifications and possible release date.

As we’ve mentioned before, the design of the HTC Incredible 4G is reminiscent of the previous HTC phones offered by Verizon. The contoured back panel resembles the HTC Incredible and Incredible 2 while the dark glossy finish around the front of the device looks to be lifted directly from the HTC Rezound.

Specifications on the HTC Incredible 4G include a dual-core 1.2 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 processor paired with an Adreno 225 GPU, 1GB of RAM, 4-inch qHD display, 8 megapixel camera (presumable paired with HTC ImageSense and a dedicated image chip) front-facing VGA camera, Wi-Fi a/b/g/n, NFC, MHL and Bluetooth 4.0. The HTC Incredible 4G will run on Android 4.0.3 with HTC Sense 4.0.

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An exact launch date for the HTC Incredible 4G is anyone’s guess at this time, but PocketNow seems to think that Verizon may be able to get the phone into the hands of consumers before the end of April.

While Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T and Sprint may all have their own variants of HTC flagship One series, it’s extremely hard to line them up and say which one if the best. All four phones will offer the same software and camera experience with HTC ImageSense, but the hardware designs and internal components have subtle differences which is hard for consumers to pick out which one is the best.

If the HTC One X, One SEVO 4G LTE and Incredible 4G were all offered on the same service provider, which One would you choose?


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