Wednesday, April 4, 2012

Android Phone Fans

Android Phone Fans

iPhone Users Are Disgusted By New Android Users Signing Up For Instagram [Humor]

Posted: 03 Apr 2012 06:21 PM PDT

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Alright, first off. I’m not trying to incite a flame war here, I promise. But, wow. I had no idea this kind of sentiment was going ’round the internet. I mean, I’ve oft read in our comments that iOS users can be a bit “stuck up,” thinking of their iPhone as more of a status symbol than a utility. Well, then I came across these posts from iPhone users on Twitter who weren’t exactly welcoming to the flood of new Android Instagram users “late to the party as usual.” Here’s just a few of the more ignorant comments posted on Twitter today. If you’re feeling a bit more masochistic, you can get your blood boiling further by following an all new Twitter account dedicating to retweeting posts just like these from some of the internet’s finest. Oh, and please — keep it PG-13 in the comments. We can all voice our opinions in a civil manner, right?

[BuzzFeed]

Motorola’s New WebTop 3.0 Software Transforms Android 4.0 RAZR’s Into Tablet Mode

Posted: 03 Apr 2012 05:15 PM PDT

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Like your momma always told you, imitation is the best form of flattery. And in this case, it seems Motorola is doing the flattering, taking cues from the upcoming ASUS Padfone. Motorola’s Lapdocks will be receiving an all new WebTop 3.0 software update that has wiped the old Linux desktop OS clean, instead, displaying an ICS tablet mode when connected to one of Moto’s Android 4.0 running devices. Features like Face Unlock seem to have made the cut, and although a bit buggy (some apps aren’t compatible with the full screen tablet, er — WebTop mode), you can see the utility in having both a phone OS and tablet OS at your fingertips.

It looks Motorola Droid RAZR/ Maxx users have a little something extra to look forward to once their devices are finally upgraded to Android 4.0. Have to admit, this exponentially adds more value to, not just Motorola’s Lapdocks, but their Android 4.0 running devices as well. Consider me jelly. Let’s hope this type of functionality makes it’s way to more Android devices in the future. This could be Android’s newest killer feature.

[Droid-Life]

Galaxy Nexus employee training begins at Sprint

Posted: 03 Apr 2012 03:17 PM PDT

With Sprint set to launch its first LTE handset in the coming weeks, it stands to reason that the Galaxy Nexus, which was announced alongside the LG Viper at CES, will follow shortly after. New training documents obtained by Engadget show that employees are already getting learned on the upcoming Ice Cream Sandwich handset. The training covers all the basics from Android 4.0 to Google Wallet and is expected to be completed within the next couple of weeks. The timing suggests a late April launch. This lines up with previous leaks showing an April 22nd release date for Sprint’s version of the Galaxy Nexus.

Of note is mention of another LTE handset by the name of LG Fury within the training materials. It’s very possible that the name could be referring to the Viper while being confused with the recently released ZTE Fury. It seems likely that Sprint would release two handsets under the same name.

[via Engadget]

Sprint rep confirms LTE data will remain unlimited

Posted: 03 Apr 2012 02:10 PM PDT

Though there has been no specific announcement detailing the launch of Sprint’s 4G LTE network, its first compatible device was announced for pre-order earlier today. The LG Viper 4G LTE looks to take full advantage of the network technology taking over in place of Sprint’s previous WiMAX coverage, but will the associated data plans be subject to an overhaul? Apparently not, according to Sprint rep Nichole Cappitelli. Speaking to TechHog, Cappitelli confirmed that LTE data plans would still include an unlimited option, though further details were not provided.

We’ll wait for a final announcement from Sprint to back up what we are hearing, but it makes sense for Sprint to keep bandwidth restrictions in line with what was offered with their WiMAX services. Unlimited data is one of Sprint’s few competitive advantages now that other major carriers have shifted to tiered pricing schemes, and losing that advantage is something the the Now Network surely doesn’t want to happen.

[via TechHog | Thanks, Alison]

Analytics firm names Galaxy Note TV spot most effective ad of Q1

Posted: 03 Apr 2012 01:04 PM PDT

Though Samsung did their best to hype up a series of ads poking fun at the cult of Mac — a group of commercials that culminated in an extravagant Super Bowl spot — advertising analytics firm Ace Metrix has named another TV spot hocking the Galaxy Note as the most effective with US audiences for the first quarter of 2012. The ad, which highlights the Note’s unique form factor blurring the line between phone and tablet, received a score of 686 using Ace Metrix’s proprietary scoring system. The gauge of viewer reaction has a max score of 950.

Following behind Samsung’s Galaxy Note ad were spots for Doritos and M&M’s. Both tied for 2nd place with a score of 671. Ace Metrix CEO Peter Daboll said Q1 is “the most important quarter for advertising” due to several big television events including the Super Bowl, Oscars, and other awards shows. Daboll called Samsung’s ad “particularly brilliant” and noted that big competitor Apple didn’t rank nearly as high. Samsung’s marketing effectiveness could pay off in the long run and perhaps earn them the Apple-like following they seek.

[via BGR]

Hands-On Video: Instagram For Android

Posted: 03 Apr 2012 11:57 AM PDT

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Make no qualms about it. The newly released Instagram for Android is one of the hottest apps to hit the Google Play Store. My timelines across all social network are completely filled with everything from food, to sneakers and architecture. Still, there are those that absolutely refuse to install an app that was made so popular by countless hipsters on iOS. Given that I actually find it fun to try new things, and I’ve been known to snap quick pics with my smartphone from time-to-time, I figured I’d give it a shot. And I must say… I kinda like it.

Almost like social network for sharing photos, Instagram allows you to find friends and keep in touch by sharing photos of whatever you like. Users can apply filters to photos snapped with Instagram’s built in camera function, or simply keep it old-school by keeping photos as-is. From there sharing is easy as 1-2-3. Snap. Apply. Share. Photos can then be “liked” (giving you that social validation you crave) and commented on by friends.

If you’re still apprehensive about the app, or just want to see what all the fuss is about before installing, you can check out my walkthrough video above.

[Play Store Link]

HTC One X now available for pre-order through Rogers, $169.99 on 3-year contract

Posted: 03 Apr 2012 11:42 AM PDT

Just yesterday Rogers let us know that the HTC One X would be available on their network sometime this month. Now the phone is available for pre-order via the carrier on a three-year contract price of $169.99. There is no word on when the phone will ship, but the pre-order page states that the “offer expires April 30th, 2012,” for whatever that’s worth. Those taking advantage of the pre-order will be eligible to win an HTC prize pack and a trip to the 2012 Much Music Video Awards.

Interested parties can head over to the Rogers site to see about putting down some money on the upcoming Ice Cream Sandwich handset.

[via MobileSyrup]

 

Major update in the works for Spotify Android app

Posted: 03 Apr 2012 11:10 AM PDT

A “major” update is reportedly in the works for Sportify’s Android app. Considering it hasn’t received a refresh since November of last year, anything less than major and we’d feel a bit bad for all the Spotify Premium subscribers who have been dealing with a buggy app for the past several months. While many users have been getting along just fine with what is available, a contingent of music lovers have had to deal with application crashes, bugs, and glitches that render it nearly useless. For users of Android 4.0 handsets like the Galaxy Nexus, the application isn’t even officially supported.

This looks to change soon, according to sources speaking to The Verge. The exact timing of an update or the changes and features we can expect are not known at this time.

[via The Verge]

LG Viper 4G will be Sprint’s first LTE device, pre-orders begin April 12

Posted: 03 Apr 2012 10:29 AM PDT

Sprint is ready to get things rolling on their 4G LTE network with the announcement of pricing and pre-order details for the LG Viper. The handset, which we first got our hands on at CES in January, is an Android 2.3 device with a 1.2GHz dual-core processor and 4-inch WVGA display. It also carries a 5MP camera, 4GB of internal storage, and 1GB of RAM. With NFC support, the Viper will ship with Google Wallet support.

The Viper 4G is being touted for its eco-friendly features, but it also takes it easy on the wallet. Priced at a mere $99.99 on a two-year contract, Sprint looks to keep the cost down for users transitioning to LTE. Pre-orders begin on April 12th. Check out the press release below for more info.

LG Viper 4G LTE with Eco-Friendly Features from Sprint
Launches for Less than $100

Pairing innovative technology with the
Sprint 4G LTE network and unlimited data plans, LG Viper 4G LTE helps manage work and personal time for people on the go, like today’s "Power Parents";
Pre-order begins Thursday, April 12, at sprint.com/viper

NEW YORK - April 3, 2012 -- In an exclusive media event to tip off NBA Green Week presented by Sprint, Sprint’s CEO Dan Hesse (NYSE: S) today announced pricing and pre-order availability date for the highly anticipated LG Viper™ 4G LTE, the first 4G LTE device with eco-friendly features to be offered by Sprint.

LG Viper will be available later this month in all Sprint sales channels, including www.sprint.com,1-800-SPRINT1, Best Buy and RadioShack for $99.99 with a new two-year service agreement and $50 mail-in rebate via reward card1 (excludes taxes and surcharges). New and existing customers can pre-order LG Viper beginning Thursday, April 12 at www.sprint.com/viper.

LG Viper takes advantage of Android 2.3 Gingerbread platform, a 1.2 GHz dual-core processor, 1 GB of RAM, mobile hotspot capabilities and a 4GB card microSD™ slot that supports up to 32GB. It also features a 5MP rear-facing camera with flash and VGA front-facing camera allowing for a fun and easy face-to-face video chat experience.

Enabled with Near Field Communication (NFC), LG Viper allows users to access true value features such as Google Wallet, an app that allows payment using a mobile device at participating retailers, including Bloomingdales, Toys "R" Us, CVS, Gap and Macy’s. The sleek, ultra-thin smartphone also boasts a 4-inch touchscreen that is remarkably bright and clear, even in direct sunlight. It also has a Corning® Gorilla® Glass screen protector for extra display resistance while on the go.

"LG Viper pairs perfectly with our unlimited data plans to bring customers the benefit of new technology, including our upcoming 4G LTE capabilities at a great price," said David Owens, vice president-Product Development, Sprint. "This smartphone is packed with the tools our customers need to stay connected. Best of all, customers can feel good about owning LG Viper because of its robust list of eco-friendly features."

As a Sprint ID smartphone, LG Viper will give owners the ability to cut through the clutter of more than 450,000 additional apps in Google Play by selecting from a variety of mobile ID packs. Sprint ID packs include ringers, wallpapers and widgets. Also, consumers can download Box on the LG Viper and receive 50GB of free cloud storage and sharing directly from LG, an estimated value of $240 per year, so users don’t have to stress about storing all of their favorite music, files, photos and other memories. The 50GB of free storage is exclusive to LG devices until July 22.

"Today’s world is moving extremely fast and the lines between personal time and work continue to blur," said Tim O’Brien, vice president of marketing for LG Mobile. "LG understands consumers’ need for better tools that allow them to multitask without sacrificing what’s most important to them, especially when it comes to their families. LG Viper gives parents the tools they need to manage their everyday lives while breaking down the barriers that technology can often create between them and their children - all at a great value."

LG Viper customers can enjoy an unlimited data experience with Sprint Everything plans with data. Sprint’s Everything Data plan with Any Mobile, AnytimeSM includes unlimited Web, texting and calling to and from any mobile in America while on the Sprint Network, starting at just $79.99 per month for smartphones2 - a savings of $40 per month vs. Verizon’s comparable plan with unlimited talk, text and 2GB Web, or $10 per month savings vs. Verizon’s 450-minute plan with unlimited text and 2GB Web.

Leading Wireless in Green
In addition to its technological prowess, LG Viper has many eco-friendly features, including:
The device is ULE Platinum Certified, the highest level of environmental performance recognized by sustainable requirements established by UL Environment and Sprint
It is protected by a casing made of 50 percent recycled plastics.
It is RoHS compliant, meaning it is free from many potentially hazardous materials such as PVC, phthalates, halogens and mercury.
The packaging contains up to 87 percent of post-consumer paper, uses soy ink, made with a glueless construction and is 100 percent recyclable.
The phone also includes a charger that exceeds the EC Code of Conduct on energy efficiency when it comes to no-load consumption. Unlike other chargers, LG Viper 4G LTE’s charger only consumes 0.03 watts of power when plugged into a wall socket without being connected to the phone.

Ranked No. 3 in Newsweek’s 2011 Green Rankings, Sprint is committed to being a corporate leader in sustainability. LG Viper marks the third device with eco-friendly features launched by Sprint and LG. Sprint and LG launched their first eco-friendly device in 2010 with LG Remarq™ and continued the legacy earlier this year with LG Rumor Reflex™.

Sprint recently announced Atlanta, Baltimore, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City and San Antonio are expected to have 4G LTE and enhanced 3G service in mid-year 2012. Sprint 4G LTE should enable faster speeds for data applications, and the enhanced 3G service could offer better signal strength, faster data speeds, expanded coverage and better in-building performance. The launch of these large metropolitan areas demonstrates the continued commitment by Sprint to invest in its network through Network Vision. Whether a Sprint customer is using a smartphone to share a video, check the Web via a mobile hotspot, Sprint 4G LTE will make it easier. For the most up-to-date details on Sprint’s 4G LTE rollout, please visit www.sprint.com/4GLTE.

Bridging Technology and Fairy Tales
To complement the launch of LG Viper 4G LTE, LG is introducing the "Life’s Good Fairytales" app, a customizable storyboard that allows parents and children to bond over the creation and sharing of unique fairytales through their device. Families can become part of the fairytale by allowing them to take, upload and manipulate photos, names and sounds directly into the story, transforming the fairytales into the child’s own personal adventure.

Thanks to the fast speeds of the LG Viper 4G LTE technology and Sprint 4G LTE network, stories can be read instantly and content can be shared with friends and family via Facebook®. The "Life’s Good Fairytales" app will be available Friday, April 27, in Google Play. It will be free for LG Viper owners and available for $0.99 for other Android phone users.

Instagram for Android Now Available!

Posted: 03 Apr 2012 09:07 AM PDT

The wait is over – Instagram, the popular photo sharing application which gained prominence on iOS – is now available for Android. Complete with a beautiful user interface and a full feature-set, it seems to have been worth the nail biting.

Features
:
☆ 100% free custom designed filters and borders
☆ Lux works its magic by making your photos more vibrant and brings out details in your photos you couldn’t see before
☆ Instant sharing to Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, and Foursquare (Flickr coming very soon)
☆ Interact with friends through giving & receiving likes and comments
☆ Works with Android versions 2.2 and above that support OpenGL ES 2
☆ Full front & back camera support
☆ And much much more…

Some people are scratching their heads wondering “what’s the point of this app?” But I think it’s best to just download it and see for yourself. It made a lot of sense on iOS considering the OS’s sharing system is gimped compared to Android’s, but Instagram’s collection of filters and their beautiful photo stream, not to mention automatic uploading to tons of social networks, should be worth the download. Get the free app, which has sustained a full five star rating in the market after 175 reviews, in the Google Play Store.

AmazonWireless Exits Beta With Guaranteed Price Match Policy and $25 Worth of Apps

Posted: 03 Apr 2012 08:53 AM PDT

AmazonWireless, Amazon’s online store for mobile phone buyers, is exiting beta today and they’re celebrating with a couple of great new perks. Firstly, they now have a price-matching guarantee that will allow you to get any device you want as cheap as you can find it.

If Best Buy has the RAZR MAXX for $5, for instance, you can get Amazon to give you the same price on it. Of course, sometimes they’ll match their competitors themselves, but in the instances that they don’t this will be an extremely useful tool.

You have 14 days from the time of purchase to get the discount, and the window will evaporate after that. Should Amazon themselves discount the phone within 14 days of purchase, they’ll credit you with the difference.

And should you pull the trigger on a smartphone purchase with them they’ll give you $25 worth of free apps, including OfficeSuite Pro, Shazam Encore, and more. Head to AmazonWireless.com to get started. [via TechCrunch]

Is This the Nexus Tablet by ASUS?

Posted: 03 Apr 2012 08:28 AM PDT

With all the rumors we’ve been hearing about an alleged Nexus tablet by ASUS, it’s high time for visual evidence to surface. PocketNow may have procured that evidence as they have received a photo of a slate as generic as one could look.

The photos make the tablet look ultra thin, something we know ASUS is capable of doing with a high-end device. The bezel also seems to be around the same thickness as the one found on the Transformer Prime.

PocketNow notes that the image makes the tablet look like a 10-inch slate, while rumors are indicating it will be a 7 inch tablet. It could just be bad scaling, but perhaps Google decided to stretch things out and go the whole nine yards. Whatever the case is, this generic tablet could pass as a Nexus tablet, but even with this photo it’s still too early to tell. Stare and gawk away.

Google Maps Gets Service Alerts for London Underground

Posted: 03 Apr 2012 07:41 AM PDT

London train riders will be happy to know that Google has added service alert support for the London Underground. It will allow you to check up on the status of a station and if any problems are affecting the lines’ normal routes and schedules. No update of the Android app is required for this new addition so you can take advantage of it right away! We’ll provide a link to the Google Play Store, anyway, just in case you haven’t grabbed the app yet. [via Google]

AT&T 4G LTE Coming to Bloomington, IN and Bryan-College Station, Texas April 8th

Posted: 03 Apr 2012 07:08 AM PDT

AT&T has followed up on their promises of bringing 4G LTE to Bloomington, IN and Bryan-College Station in Texas and have set a launch date of April 8th. AT&T’s been at work building a nice library of LTE devices and more will continue to soar in at alarming rates. If you live in these areas and are waiting on upgrading or have already upgraded to an LTE phone circle the date on your calendar – it’ll be like waking up on Christmas morning. [AT&T 1, 2]

Orange UK and T-Mobile UK to Offer HTC One X, One S This Thursday

Posted: 03 Apr 2012 06:55 AM PDT

While it’s long been known that these UK carriers, and pretty much any UK carrier, would be offering the HTC One X and One S, it’s nice to see a couple of big ones confirm availability. The HTC One X and the HTC One S are both due Thursday for both Orange UK and T-Mobile UK. As usual, it’ll be offered for free on a minimum tariff. A two-month tariff for £41 a month will get you the One X and £36 a month will get you the slightly weaker, yet still very capable One S. Who’s biting? [T-Mobile, Orange via Engadget]
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