Sunday, April 15, 2012

Update - 262



Posted: 20 Mar 2012 07:29 PM PDT
This image has no alt text

Yesterday, we linked you guys to a post discussing the possibility of HTC buying out the music streaming service MOG. Well, it looks like the rumor wasn’t a total miss and today we now learned that it will be Beats Electronics (whom HTC owns a majority stake in) that will be doing the acquiring. While it’s not totally clear on exactly what Beats will be doing with MOG, you can bet we’ll be seeing the service make its way to HTC devices in some form or another in the near future. It was previously rumored that HTC would launch its own music streaming service and now it seems all the puzzle pieces are coming together.
500,000 subscribers currently call MOG home for their music streaming needs, which is a far cry from bigger players like Spotify who boast 3 million customers. Let’s see if HTC can help give MOG the push they need to make a bigger splash in the digital streaming market.
[AllThingsD]


Posted: 20 Mar 2012 06:04 PM PDT
This image has no alt text

Google Wallet has definitely been put through the ringer over the past few weeks over various security issues. This caused Google to pull their Google Prepaid Card from the Google Wallet app while they sorted things out. Well, it looks like everything is officially back in working order with the return of the prepaid cards to the Google Wallet app. To help make amends for any headache caused — Google Wallet users will find that there’s already $5 pre-loaded on their cards to get them started on their NFC purchases. Here’s the email they sent out to users today:
As you may have experienced over the last few weeks, we temporarily disabled the feature to add the Google Prepaid Card back to your wallet if you previously removed the card or reset your wallet. We temporarily disabled this feature to ensure the security of our Wallet customers. We recognize this may have been an inconvenience for you, and we did not make this decision lightly.
We are happy to announce that you can now add the Google Prepaid Card back to your wallet with the newest version of Google Wallet, and any funds that you previously had on the card should be restored, unless you contacted Money Network and asked for a refund of those funds. To add the Google Prepaid Card back, you will first need to update your Google Wallet application to the most recent version.
To compensate you for any inconvenience this may have caused, we have credited an additional $5 (five US dollars) to your Google Prepaid Card. If you have further questions or concerns, feel free to contact us at 855-492-5538.
Thank you for your continued support of Google Wallet, and we look forward to launching many new and exciting features for you to enjoy in the coming months.
Sincerely,
The Google Wallet Team
So if you haven’t yet, now would be a good time to add your prepaid card back to your Wallet account… and head to your local 7-Eleven for a complimentary Slurpee on Google.

Posted: 20 Mar 2012 05:13 PM PDT
This image has no alt text

If you’re currently rockin’ a device on Virgin Mobile here in the states, you may have noticed that your phone isn’t able to send/receive text messages or access the internet. The MVNO announced today via their social networks that they are currently experiencing an outage and are “working to resolve it.” While not everyone seems to be affected, we just wanted to let you guys know before your misplaced anger causes you to throw your phone against the wall. Hang in there, folks.
[Twitter | Facebook]

Posted: 20 Mar 2012 02:29 PM PDT

Verizon is reportedly in the beta testing stages for an update to their LTE version of the Samsung Galaxy Nexus, according to Android insider black_man_X. If things check out it could reach handsets in early April. The update, which brings the phone’s Android version to 4.0.5, is said to provide a plethora of bug fixes that will address audio reboot and data stability issues among others.
It will be the first time the Galaxy Nexus has received an update since close to its launch and will finally push its Ice Cream Sandwich build past 4.0.2, meaning the update will cover the improvements found in the 4.0.3 upgrade, as well. Google dubbed that release as the “base version of Ice Cream Sandwich.” It’s about time Verizon’s Nexus variant caught up.
The Android 4.0.5 update was outed as heading to the Nexus S this month on a roadmap released by French carrier SFR, but this is the first we are hearing of its potential arrival on the Galaxy Nexus. Around the same time reports surfaced of an Android 4.04 build for the Galaxy Nexus while a build of the software leaked for the Nexus S. It is unclear if the Nexus S is still on track to receive the Android 4.0.5 build, but Verizon users (and presumably Galaxy Nexus owners everywhere) will want to stay tuned for further developments.
[via AndroidCommunity]

Posted: 20 Mar 2012 01:48 PM PDT

Sprint and HTC have just sent out invites to an event to take place in New York City on April 4th. Sprint CEO Dan Hesse and HTC president Jason Mackenzie will be on hand to show off the “latest collaboration” between the two mobile players. The invite provides little to speculate over with no clues or hints seemingly hidden within (no giveaways in the filename, either). Our minds immediately jump to rumors of Sprint launching their own version of the HTC One X, potentially under the name HTC Jet, in June. Of course, Phandroid will be on hand for whatever is unveiled at the day’s event. Stay tuned.


Posted: 20 Mar 2012 01:38 PM PDT

The transition to Android 4.0 hasn’t been the most expeditious process, especially for some applications still playing catchup with the operating system’s updated interface.  So has been the case with Comcast’s XFINITY TV app, which despite a February update has been without Ice Cream Sandwich support until the television gods smiled upon it today. The latest version of the app doesn’t do much to add to the new features brought in the previous update, but it does address some minor bugs. If ICS put a damper on your voracious consumption of shows and movies, you can now return to vegging out as you see fit.
Google Play Link: XFINITY TV
[via AndroidPolice]

Posted: 20 Mar 2012 01:01 PM PDT

A new software update is headed out to Motorola RAZR handsets in the UK, Italy, France and Spain. The update brings the RAZR to firmware version SPU15 and brings along a few new features as well as the standard bug fixes and performance improvements. Users can expect a new user interface in the settings menu as well as the option to auto upload photos from the RAZR to a connected PC. The bulk of the update is dedicated to introducing new Smart Actions, including a VIP Caller Mode that allows a user to set specific rules for handling individual contacts (such as allowing only certain contacts to ring the phone at night).
Enhancements include better battery performance, improved stability, and some tweaks for the RAZR’s camera. The update also includes a Google security patch. The update will be automatically pushed to handsets. For more info see the changelog provided by Motorola.
[via Facebook | Thanks, Jay T!]

Posted: 20 Mar 2012 11:33 AM PDT

The HTC One series is coming to a boatload of carriers, but which specific device will land where isn’t so clear. We have a few announced launch partners for the One X, One S and One V, but there are plenty more to come. A new rumor suggest that Virgin Mobile will land at least the HTC One V, the lowest-specced of the three handsets and an obvious choice for the carrier due to its low pricing. It is said that the phone will hit shelves in late spring priced at less that $200.
The One V features a 1GHz processor and 3.7-inch display, but it features a Sense 4.0 build exclusive to the One series of devices. The custom Ice Cream Sandwich interface allows for enhanced photo and audio capabilities.
[via PocketNow]

Posted: 20 Mar 2012 11:12 AM PDT
This image has no alt text

Verizon appears to be inching closer and closer to launching shared family data plan based on a leak obtained by PhoneArena. A screenshot shows a family data usage calculator, a tool that would be used to help families figure out the right bandwidth tier to go along with their mobile habits. Verizon CEO Lowell McAdam first expressed the possibility of shared data coming to Verizon family plans last year, plans later confirmed by CTO Fran Shammo. According to Shammo, Verizon is looking to launch shared data by midyear. If this leak is any suggestion of how close a new family data structure is to reality, things seem right on track.
[via BGR]

Posted: 20 Mar 2012 10:33 AM PDT
This image has no alt text

At this year’s CES, I had the pleasure of wandering into the Powerbag booth where I somehow managed to fall completely in love with their lineup of backpacks, slings and messenger bags, tailored for the geek-on-the-go. Before being exposed to the bags, I’ve heard all the hype I wanted to, and needless to say, I wasn’t sold. In fact, I was dead set against them. “It’s a bag. With a battery. Big deal.” Oh, how wrong I was. Yes, just as the name would suggest, Powerbags can power up and charge all of your devices thanks to a variety of mAh batteries built into every single bag but don’t let that fool you into thinking that’s the only focus. I’ll explain it more in depth in my review for the Powerbag Instant Messenger bag.

Bag


Much more than just a battery thrown inside a Jansport, like I mentioned before, these bags are tailored made for the gadget-man. Every pocket, every nook and cranny is designed to accommodate for a wide range of devices, accessories and gizmos. What surprised me the most was I found that I was able to consolidate 2 separate gadget bags — that I lug around everywhere with me — into the 1 Instant Messenger bag. It felt magical. Almost as if I somehow managed to stumble upon Mary Poppins’ famous handbag.
The outside shell is a weather resistant material to keep your gadgets dry. Inside, each bag features premium construction that not only looks good, but keeps them cozy and safe. This is, without a doubt, what really sold me on the Powerbag. Every pocket is so well thought out. Some pockets feature zippers, others have velcro, some are big, some are small and most are lined with plush and padding to prevent harsh bumps and bruises. The 2 front pouches house cable tips that are neatly tucked away so as to keep your device scratch free when not charging.

The whole bag, I found, was a wonderful symphony of pockets and pouches creating a place for everything, and making sure everything had its place. Tablet, phone, PS Vita, Nintendo 3DS; throw ‘em in, charge ‘em up and don’t worry about a thing. But it’s not all function, the bags are super sexy and dare I say “hip” looking as well. I think about 3 girls approached me while wearing my Powerbag — granted, their phones were all low on power — although, I think it had something to do with this bag’s wicked good looks.

Battery


While every Powerbag initially comes with it’s own battery pack, extra or larger capacity batteries can be purchased via the Powerbags website according to your device need and are priced attractively. The Instant Messenger bag I reviewed came with a 6,000 mAh battery that had no trouble charging multiple devices on more than one occasion. The battery area, which is tucked away in a padded cubby hole, also features your standard USB output for charging any other devices that may have their own proprietary connection (like Samsung tablets). The bags feature an illuminated indicator along the front of the bag so you can easily see how much juice your have left in your bag and standard AC charger comes with each bag to charge it up before leaving the house.

Pricing

While not cheap, I wouldn’t classify Powerbags as super expensive either. They’re about the same price as you’d find any top of the line laptop bag — except these guys come with huge, mAh’s by the thousands. And since Powerbags come in a variety of shapes, sizes and classes, housing various sized batteries, you’re sure to find one that’s just right for you. Prices range from the reasonable high-end $180 for their deluxe line/business class line (with 6,000mAh battery packs), to the lower $140 for their slings and messenger bags (with lower 4,000mAh batteries). Not too bad for a bag that will keep you juiced up through the years. These are the Coach/Prada/Gucci bag for the truly geek and chic.

Conclusion


I know, it sounds silly for someone to get so hyped up over something like a bag, but when you carry around as many gadgets as I do, I’ve oft dreamed of a bag that could keep my life in order but never thought I’d find one that could simultaneously keep my devices juiced up as well. Powerbag, without a doubt, delivers. I can’t recommend these enough for the student, white collar worker or man-about-town. Put these on your Christmas wishlist, wedding registry, do whatever it takes. Anyone with multiple devices — Android or not — deserves to have a Powerbag in their life.
[MyPowerbag.com | Amazon Link: Instant Messenger Bag for $170]

Posted: 20 Mar 2012 10:27 AM PDT
This image has no alt text

Missing from Sony’s first round of phones to launch without the Ericsson tag was the Android version everyone is craving a taste of, but Ice Cream Sandwich is finally making its debut on the newly announced Xperia neo L — there is a bit of a tradeoff, though. While the neo L treats us to Android 4.0 it does so with little pizazz, featuring specs that place it squarely in the mid-range category.
The handset, which is currently slated for a release in China, carries a 1GHz single-core Snapdragon CPU, 512MB of RAM, and a 4-inch display at 800×480. Also included is 1GB of internal storage (expandable via microSD) and a 5MP camera, but the neo L misses out on NFC support. It measures in at a plump 12.2mm and sports a 1500mAh battery.
The neo L may be the first to launch with ICS, but Sony has plans to push the updated operating system to its product range shortly. In the meantime, there is no mention of an international release in the pipeline for the neo L, though we wouldn’t rule it out entirely.
[via AndroidCommunity]

Posted: 20 Mar 2012 10:01 AM PDT
This image has no alt text
Verizon Wireless are making their family location service accessible to those on a budget as they have dropped the pricing for Family SharePlan accounts. For a fixed rate of $9.99, you are able to keep track of any line on that specific account. Before, users had to pay $9.99 per line, something that could get really pricey with more than two or three lines.

Verizon’s Family Locator allows you to be notified whenever the people on your line (children, perhaps) go to certain locations, and you can even get turn-by-turn directions to where they are (requires VZ Navigator, a service you have to pay for). Go ahead and sign up now that the cost is lower than it ever has been.
Verizon Wireless’ Family Locator: Same Great Service Now Available for Only $9.99
03/20/2012
Verizon Wireless customers on a Family SharePlan can now add Family Locator to all lines on the existing account for only $9.99 per month. Staying in touch is a must when families are busy juggling schedules that include sports practices, carpools after-school activities and science projects. With Family Locator, the simple and secure service from Verizon Wireless, parents stay informed in real-time of their kids’ whereabouts when they might not have the time or chance to connect live. Now available for one low cost, families get all of the same features to help them keep up with any family member on the plan.
Family Locator is accessible from phones and PCs, and parents or account owners can set up alerts that let them know when their kids have taken their phones to different locations. With interactive maps and the integration of VZ Navigator®, customers get turn-by-turn directions to the address where their kids are located, making pick up a breeze. A subscription to VZ Navigator is required for integrated use, and data charges may apply for download and use of the app.
Family Locator also features recurring or one-time alerts that can be sent to multiple recipients via phone or email so each member of the family can be automatically reminded of upcoming school plays, doctor appointments or other can’t-miss activities. Want to see how the service can work for you? Check out the Family Locator video on the VerizonWirelessTV YouTube™ channel.
Family Locator is one of several tools in the Verizon Safeguards suite of products that help Verizon Wireless customers manage the use of wireless devices and data usage on their accounts. A new video from Verizon Wireless entitled "How To: Manage Usage With Usage Controls from Verizon Wireless," gives customers step-by-step directions from Verizon Wireless representatives on how to manage their families’ wireless usage.

Posted: 20 Mar 2012 09:16 AM PDT
This image has no alt text

DROID Charge owners are next in line to receive an upgrade for their phones, but this isn’t Ice Cream Sandwich. In fact, I wouldn’t count on Ice Cream Sandwich unless you’re using a custom ROM. No, this update bring the build to FP1 and the biggest change is the addition of the Verizon Remote Diagnostics app which will allow customer care representatives to better troubleshoot any problems you’re having with your device. We’ve got other bug fixes and minor app updates, but they’re not notable enough to list here. Just grab a peek at the image above. Oh, and try not to heckle whoever wrote the changelog up about using “Android Market” instead of “Google Play Store” on that second to last bullet point. [Verizon 1|2|3 via Android Police]

Posted: 20 Mar 2012 08:38 AM PDT
This image has no alt text

T-Mobile seems to be continuing the MyTouch line with Huawei as TmoNews has uncovered an early photo of the device. Not much is known at this time but we do know it runs Android 2.3.6 and will likely have a custom user interface. This particular model also won’t have a keyboard, but don’t rule out the possibility of additional models being introduced just as LG and HTC have done.

Posted: 20 Mar 2012 06:54 AM PDT
This image has no alt text

Samsung was quick to issue the Ice Cream Sandwich upgrade for their Galaxy S II, and Three was quick to provide it to their customers after a quick round of testing. They’ve announced on Twitter that the update is now available for those who want it. You’ll have to connect your phone to a PC using a USB cable and install the update with Kies – no convenient OTA, but we’re sure having Android 4.0 makes up for all of that. Be sure to connect your phone and check right away. [via EuroDroid]

No comments:

Post a Comment