Android Phone Fans |
- ARM Announces New Quad-Core A15 Hard Macro Chips
- Google Play Store Now Offering 24/7 Phone Technical Support
- Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 production halted for switch to quad-core processor?
- Samsung and Apple CEOs arranging meeting to put patent disputes to bed
- Time Warner Cable app updated with live TV streaming for Ice Cream Sandwich devices
- Update leaks for Verizon’s HTC Thunderbolt, brings bug fixes but no Android 4.0
- Chrome for Android updated with desktop view, bookmarks as shortcuts
- Sprint’s Affordable, Eco-Friendly LG Optimus Elite Announced for the Earth Lovers; Available May 18th for $30
- Verizon to Bring LTE to 7 New Markets April 19th, Expand and Enhance in Two More
- Rumor: Samsung Galaxy S III to be a “minor upgrade” over Galaxy S II
- Google Hosts Music Sale for Tax-Day; 33 Albums for $2.99 [Today Only]
- Unlocked Samsung Galaxy S II in the UK Receives Android 4.0
- Verizon’s Galaxy Nexus on Sale for $50 at WireFly
- Buying a Sprint Galaxy Nexus? [Poll]
- Nokia Lumia devices not generating sales in Europe, say carriers; Would be doing better with Android
| ARM Announces New Quad-Core A15 Hard Macro Chips Posted: 17 Apr 2012 07:36 PM PDT
Your phone/tablet is about to be outdated. But so goes the Android life, I suppose. It moves fast. A speed pushed forward by not only smartphone manufacturers, but chipset OEM’s as well. Today, ARM has announced the next generation of their Cortext series chips with the first implementation of the A15 in a quad-core hard macro layout. You may remember a few benchmarks a while back where Qualcomm’s dual-core S4 chipset (comparable to the A15 architecture) went up against the quad-core Nvidia Tegra 3 processor (based on the older A9 architecture) and in many cases, that little dual-core, based on a 28-nanometer process, bested the quad. Now, just imagine those benchmarks when you throw in a quad-core A15 into the mix and (shudder), I just got goosebumps. Apparently, ARM has designed the new quad-core A15 for manufacturers to easily add to their chips with little fuss. No word on who will jump on this new tech (or even if we really need something so powerful in our tablets/phones) but here’s to hoping we see something soon. Full press release below.
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| Google Play Store Now Offering 24/7 Phone Technical Support Posted: 17 Apr 2012 07:02 PM PDT
Ask anyone how they feel about Google and their services, and they’ll likely tell you their single biggest issue with the internet search giant is that you can never expect any kind of technical support. None. Well, Google may be trying to change that image by now offering 24×7 phone support in the Google Play Store. Oddly enough, you still can’t call Google — Google calls you. Simply fill out the form on their website, and if your problem is a big enough deal, you can hope someone at Mountain View will eventually give you a call to help trouble shoot your issue. What’s interesting is at first glance, you would think this new service would be largely used for developer issues but you’d be wrong. Seems this is more for consumers to trouble shoot issues with Play Store, as clearly stated in the contact page. Not exactly sure why someone other than a dev would want to contact Google for Play support, but it’s nice to know it’s there should you ever need it. [Google Play Support | Via Reddit]
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| Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 production halted for switch to quad-core processor? Posted: 17 Apr 2012 02:38 PM PDT
The Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 might not be the only tablet in the company’s lineup to see processor change in the coming months. According to new information obtained by NetbookNews, production of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 has been halted as manufacturing switches gears to include a quad-core CPU. The chip is being referenced with the codename “Espresso.” It’s unclear if the chip has anything to do with the upcoming Exynos 4412 platform developed by the Korean mobile maker. Rumors also place the Exynos chip in the revamped Galaxy Note 10.1, which has reportedly been delayed until June to accommodate the switch. The production stoppage could cause a delay in the release of the Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 in the US, though at this point there is no confirmation of this being the case. We suspect Samsung plans to show off the faster speeds of the Galaxy Tab 2 and Galaxy Note 10.1 alongside the unveiling of the Galaxy S III during a press event to be held in London on May 3rd. [via NetbookNews]
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| Samsung and Apple CEOs arranging meeting to put patent disputes to bed Posted: 17 Apr 2012 12:59 PM PDT
Could an end to the grueling patent slugfest between Samsung and Apple be drawing near? According to FOSS Patents, the two sides have agreed to arrange a sit-down meeting between company CEOs that should occur at some point during the next 90 days. We’re not completely out of the legal woods, though, as both sides would have their attorneys present and the little chat would be overseen by a magistrate judge. The goal of the meeting will be to reach some sort of settlement that could result in the end of several ongoing lawsuits around the globe. It has been suggested that this isn’t the first time an out of court settlement has been attempted to be reached, but the inclusion of Samsung and Apple CEOs suggests the matter may be getting more serious consideration this time around. [via Engadget]
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| Time Warner Cable app updated with live TV streaming for Ice Cream Sandwich devices Posted: 17 Apr 2012 12:37 PM PDT
Time Warner Cable has finally added live TV streaming to their Android app, an absent feature that users of the company’s iOS app have been able to enjoy for some time now. The hold up centered around DRM, but it seems the kinks have been worked out. The catch is users will need to be running an Android 4.0 device to watch their favorite shows on the go. They will also need to be a subscriber to TWC. TWC TV 2.0 can be found in the Google Play Store now. The new version isn’t playing nice as a direct upgrade on every device so an uninstall may be required before downloading. Google Play Link: TWC TV 2.0
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| Update leaks for Verizon’s HTC Thunderbolt, brings bug fixes but no Android 4.0 Posted: 17 Apr 2012 12:05 PM PDT
A new update appears to be in the works for Verizon’s HTC Thunderbolt, if a recent leak is any indication. AndroidPolice scooped the new software build that will bring the Thunderbolt’s software build number to 2.11.605.19. While the software stays on on Gingerbread (Android 2.3.4) and Sense 2.1, it offers several bug fixes including Mobile Hotspot stability enhancements, improvements to Yahoo email in the default mail app, and more. We also get an update VZW Navigator. The Thunderbolt is still slated to receive Ice Cream Sandwich in the coming months, but we have no specific details on its release. Head over to the source link for more info. If you’re feeling frisky you can download and install the latest build for yourself. [via AndroidPolice]
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| Chrome for Android updated with desktop view, bookmarks as shortcuts Posted: 17 Apr 2012 11:05 AM PDT
The Chrome and Android teams continue to plug away at the still relatively new mobile version of their browser. Taking user feedback into consideration a few long-requested features are making their way to Chrome. When opening a webpage with a mobile version, users can now request a desktop view to display the full version of the site. The feature had been notably missing from previous builds. Other additions include the ability to add bookmarks as shortcuts to Chrome’s homescreen, to assign apps to open links such as Google Maps, and to utilize a proxy setup for WiFi access. The new version can be found in the Google Play Store now and is available in all countries supporting the app marketplace. Google Play Line: Chrome for Android [via Google]
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| Posted: 17 Apr 2012 09:59 AM PDT
LG and Sprint have come together to announce the LG Optimus Elite, an eco-friendly Android smartphone for those on a budget. This device doesn’t exactly set the world on fire in more ways than one. (Yes, that was cheesy.) It has an 800MHz processor, a 5 megapixel camera, NFC capabilities, a 3.5 inch display and more. Not great, but not bad for $30 with a new two-year agreement. The device is set to launch May 18th. Head to the source link for press details and more information regarding its environment-friendly qualities. [Sprint]
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| Verizon to Bring LTE to 7 New Markets April 19th, Expand and Enhance in Two More Posted: 17 Apr 2012 09:41 AM PDT
Verizon’s bringing 4G LTE to 7 new markets to their customer base April 19th, several press releases note. Cities like Macon, GA and Dodge City, KS are newly added, while Wichita, KS and St Louis, MO will get expansions. Buffalo, NY is the lone city that will see enhancements. Find the full list below and jump for joy if you’re invited to the party. Additions:
Expansions:
Enhancements:
[via Droid Dog]
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| Rumor: Samsung Galaxy S III to be a “minor upgrade” over Galaxy S II Posted: 17 Apr 2012 08:58 AM PDT The jump from the Samsung Galaxy S to the Samsung Galaxy S II was very significant, so we imagined there would be a lot of sweet surprises for the Samsung Galaxy S III. All of the event delays led us to believe they’d be working on some innovative things.
A source of CNET UK’s says that isn’t the case, though. We’re to expect just a slight upgrade over the Galaxy S II, according to the source. They likened the move to what Apple did going from the iPhone 4 to the 4S, or the iPhone 3G to the 3Gs. They say Samsung may even borrow the naming convention of the aforementioned transitions. Samsung Galaxy S II S?Well, not necessarily, but they say not to expect it to be marketed as the Samsung Galaxy S III. All of this is a bit hard to swallow, but if we even get just a quad-core processor and an HD display, as well as an improved camera (if possible — Samsung’s cameras are already pretty nice) that would be pretty good incentive to upgrade.
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| Google Hosts Music Sale for Tax-Day; 33 Albums for $2.99 [Today Only] Posted: 17 Apr 2012 07:44 AM PDT
With the tax deadline finally here (yay?) Google knows some of you could probably use some music to help calm your nerves about having to shell out to Uncle Sam, and they realize that you could probably use a break on that music. They’re hosting a Tax Day sale where 33 albums are offered for just $2.99. Weezer’s “Weezer (Blue Album),” Kanye West’s “My Dark Beautiful Twisted Fantasy,” and Jay Z’s Unreasonable Doubt are all among the featured releases available for these prices. You only have until the end of the day to take advantage of the offer so get started in the Google Play Store.
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| Unlocked Samsung Galaxy S II in the UK Receives Android 4.0 Posted: 17 Apr 2012 06:54 AM PDT
Users with unlocked, unbranded Samsung Galaxy S II units in the UK can now apply an official upgrade to Android 4.0. You can grab it via Kies, as usual. Sure, it’s a bit strange to see the unlocked version of the handset receiving the update after carrier versions see it, but the gap wasn’t too wide and it still beat a lot of other handsets to the punch. You can grab the Samsung Kies software for UK here. Both Mac and Windows are supported. [Twitter via GigaOM]
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| Verizon’s Galaxy Nexus on Sale for $50 at WireFly Posted: 17 Apr 2012 06:37 AM PDT
Wirefly’s giving a nice break to new customers seeking Samsung’s Galaxy Nexus on Verizon. They’re offering the device to new customers for $50. Not a bad deal if you’re looking to switch to Verizon and had your eye on this one. As usual, existing customers don’t get nearly the same treatment but $150 is still a pretty nice upgrade price for a phone whose MSRP is $300. Jump to the source link to take advantage. [Wirefly]
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| Buying a Sprint Galaxy Nexus? [Poll] Posted: 17 Apr 2012 06:18 AM PDT
Sprint has finally announced availability details for the Galaxy Nexus, and we’re curious: are you buying? Much of the world, including those of us in America on Verizon, have had the device since late 2011, some as early as November. It’s no secret that the device is already a bit outdated but we know there are some of you who will sacrifice the latest and greatest for stock Android 4.0. Of course, we understand those of you who were waiting on the device might have already set eyes on the HTC EVO 4G LTE, and although it won’t be out until late May at the earliest, it’ll still be streets ahead (bonus points for getting the reference) of the device. So let’s hear it in the poll and comments section below. Take Our Poll
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| Nokia Lumia devices not generating sales in Europe, say carriers; Would be doing better with Android Posted: 17 Apr 2012 04:56 AM PDT The Finnish company Nokia seems to be getting rounds of disapproval from major European carriers. According to Reuters, carriers are not satisfied with the Windows Phone 7-based Lumia line’s presence due to low sales.
They cite lack of adequate marketing by Nokia, glitchy devices, and more as reasons why “no one comes into the store and asks for a Windows Phone,” as told by an executive at one of these carriers. That same executive says Nokia could sell a lot more Lumia devices if they’d gone with Android instead of Windows Phone. It’s a bad problem for Nokia to have. They’re already losing ground in the market share battle in their main market of Europe at a rapid pace, and they’re next to irrelevant in North America. With Symbian being phased out they’re going to have to do something to make sure that their deal with Microsoft will eventually prove fruitful. Otherwise, they’ll look like a bunch of Finnish boys peeing their pants in the winter before too long. You guys think Nokia would be in this position at this point if they had originally gone with Android?
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