Thursday, May 31, 2012

Google Android News Android Forums

Google Android News Android Forums

Samsung Galaxy S III headed to Canada

Posted: 30 May 2012 03:02 PM PDT

Mark it in you diary Canada, the coveted Samsung Galaxy S III can be yours from June 20th. Both Rogers and Telus have today confirmed that they will each be stocking Samsung’s latest flagship device in a choice of blue or white as well as 16GB and 32GB iterations.

Both carrier’s websites have gone live with their pre-order pages. There’s no pricing as yet from Rogers and you’ll need to be an existing subscriber to place your order. Telus is offering the device to new and existing customers. You’ll be able to get your hands on the 16GB model for $160 on a 3 year contract where as the 32GB model will cost you $210 also on a 3 year contract.

You can head straight to the pre-order pages via the source links below. Now roll on June 20th!

Telus

Google Places Is No More, Google+ Adds Zagat Rankings And Is Now Called “Google+ Local” (Video)

Posted: 30 May 2012 01:22 PM PDT

If you were wondering what Google was going to do with the newly acquired Zagat, just check out your Google+ page.  The search giant has added a little kick to Maps and to your general search functions on the site.  You’ll now find Zagat’s point system in place and will automatically pop up in search results when looking for your favorite resaurant or hot spot.  And if you’ve always been weary about who’s leaving feedback on these places, fear not. The site will now allow you to view Google+ friends’ favorite places and what they’ve had to say about them, certainly a review you can trust, right?  Google has even added a Local tab on Google+ to show you recommendations.  So, if you need to find the hottest spot around, your favorite sandwich or a sushi place, you’re in for a treat with Google’s new service.  The feature is now live so head on over to your Plus page and get started. Check out the videos below as well touting the new service.  Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments below.  

Click here to view the embedded video.

Click here to view the embedded video.

 

Flipboard Beta coming to all of Android soon [Updated - It's already here]

Posted: 30 May 2012 12:12 PM PDT

If you’re familiar with Flipboard, you are a little jealous of iOS users since it’s yet to be available on Android. Well actually, in a way it’s available, but only to Samsung Galaxy S III owners. It comes pre-installed on the device but we were never sure of what kind of exclusive agreement there is in place.

It looks like the GSIII is just part of the plan. With Android, one of the big issues is screen sizes and compatibility with so many devices. The company wanted to get this going with one screen size to see how things go. It certainly isn’t a bad device to start with since they already sold nearly 10 million units. The good news is that they are close to releasing a beta version for all. The interesting thing is that it won’t be in the Google Play Store just yet, but they plan on releasing it as an APK that can be sideloaded. This is the best way in my opinion because only astute Android users will install it and that’s what they want. They also want these users to provide feedback to make sure that when they release the full version, it will be as polished as the iOS version.

Of course if you can’t wait, you can grab the leaked APK from Samsung.

UPDATE:

Wow that didn’t take long. You can grab the beta APK now and give it a try. Here’s the instructions:

  1. Go to the security section in your phone settings and allow the installation of apps from unknown sources.
  2. Click on this link to install the beta.

Also, it’s very important to give them feedback. You can do this by going to the About section in the app Settings and then tap the Flipboard logo or just email them directly at android-feedback AT flipboard dot com.

source: engadget

 

[Video] Google’s Project Glass uses Trackpad for User Interface Navigation

Posted: 30 May 2012 10:54 AM PDT

Last month Google's Project Glass was all over the web and the buzz spread like wildfire about this innovative new tech. Basically as you see from the image above it's a pair of 'glasses' that you wear that Google's Sergey Brin states will let you be “free to experience the world without futzing with, like a phone". It's a well-known trend that our smartphone devices are getting larger, and unfortunately with the cases we want to protect our beloved handsets, they get even bigger. As you'll see in the video, Brin demonstrates with the help of the host, how the glasses will free up your hands.

For myself, from the initial video that was released, I was in awe at how cool this tech could or will be one day to possess. Seeing the patents Google was receiving gave even more confirmation that this new project would come true one day. I did have questions though: How will you navigate the UI of something that attached to your face? Would the technology be able to follow your eye movements and/or use voice commands to complete tasks? Whatever option that Google came up with, I knew I wanted it. During this interview you'll see that Brin has answered my questions with just a couple gestures. Project Glass uses a trackpad, which is easily seen on the right side of the headset. You'll see Brin make the motions with the glasses off, with which he has a little trouble understandably, as from what I've seen since this project went public, Sergey Brin has been wearing the prototype every chance he gets, and seems to be quite familiar with them.

I know we're all thinking about when this device be available to the public? Well, Brin doesn't yet have a definite answer for that, but he does say he has some hopes to maybe get it out next year. So we'll see what happens with this project, as we're always intently watching what Google plans to do next. Stay tuned for related news to come on Google's Project Glass.

source: mashable

 

Verizon to Push the Android 4.0.4 Update to the Galaxy Nexus ‘Soon’

Posted: 30 May 2012 10:18 AM PDT

We are getting ever so close now. According to a recent tweet, Verizon is gearing up to push out the 4.0.4 update to the Galaxy Nexus at any time now. This morning Big Red took to their Twitter account and said the following:

software update will soon be pushed to the Galaxy ‪#Nexus‬ for ‪#Verizon‬ Wireless, this includes ‪#Android‬ 4.0.4

If this wasn’t a sign of a looming update, I don’t know what is. Yesterday we watched as the Android 4.0.4 support documents went live on the Galaxy Nexus support page so it is bound to happen any moment now. We may even see the update in the next 24 hours. We will be sure to keep our eyes peeled and will let you know the minute she starts rolling out.

If you happen to see the update before we do, be a pal and let us know, will ya?

source: Twitter

 

Engineer Uses HTC One X Display as a Hammer and Drives Actual Nails [Video]

Posted: 30 May 2012 09:46 AM PDT

Besides serving as a phone and a mobile computing device, have you ever wondered what other purposes the HTC One Xcould serve a user? How about a hammer for those annoying times you may want to drive a nail into some wood and you just so happened to be without and actual hammer? Well sure, this HTC engineer wants to show you that that is completely plausible. Not recommended, but plausible.

As you will see in the video below, this gentleman creates his own form of scratch-drop-crash test and uses the One X’s display as a hammer head. I guess the folks at HTC wern’t too happy once they got wind of this demo because the fella you see in the video is apparently now without job. Maybe he should submit his resume to Gorilla Glassnext. I am sure they love seeing someone put that much faith into their product.

Jump past the break to see the video for yourself. It’s pretty nuts.

T-Mobile renames the Samsung Exhibit II 4G

Posted: 30 May 2012 09:07 AM PDT

I have heard of people changing their names after a marriage or adoption but never a phone seven months after its initial release. T-mobile has done just that and has subtly made the change within a software update set for the Exhibit II 4G. Along with the usual bug fixes comes a name change to the Galaxy Exhibit 4G.

It’s unclear why T-Mo decided that now was a great time to change things up, but it’s almost certainly going to cause a bit of confusion among customers and care reps when it comes to online purchases and over the phone triage and consultation. T-Mo already has an Exhibit 4G that just recently was taken off the sales floor. Now they will also have the Galaxy Exhibit 4G in circulation as well as several customers still referring to the device as the Exhibit II 4G. Perhaps Apple has a patent on the roman numeral two and Sammy is just trying to avoid any more courtroom drama?! All joking aside, it’s an unusual play so late in the game of life for the former Exhibit II 4G.

source: tmobile

CyanogenMod reaches 2 million rooted devices, doubles installs since January

Posted: 30 May 2012 08:10 AM PDT

I always like to see when hard work gets recognized in the Android development community and so it’s with great pleasure to announce that CyanogenMod, one of Android’s most popular replacement firmware ROMs, has just hit 2 million devices that have been rooted and flashed with a CM ROM. This is certainly stellar news for the CM crew but what is even more astounding is that these numbers have doubled since our last report back in January.

So clearly we are seeing a lot more Android users liberating their smartphones and joining the rooting community. I, myself, just took the plunge about a month ago and can say that I absolutely love what I am now able to accomplish with my phone! My latest ROM is CM9 Alpha 4 ICS and it’s by far the best stock ICS ROM out there for the Epic 4G Touch at this time. So congratulations CM team and please keep up the good work!

source: CMstats

Ice Cream Sandwich headed to the LG Optimus LTE, LTE Tag and Vu on June 4th

Posted: 30 May 2012 07:08 AM PDT

LG has announced that it will be updating a few of their latest handsets. The Optimus LTE, the Optimus LTE Tag, and the Optimus Vu starting on June 4th will be upgrading to Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich. This upgrade will bring great new featured to the devices mentioned. Giving the user an all new user interface along with more features and enhancements over that of it's predecessor Gingerbread. LG may not be the first to start upgrading their devices, but at least they have begun the transition. There isn't yet any info on how the carriers of these handsets will be involved but as the news comes in we will report it.

Source: lg korea

 

Sony Announces Two New Android Handsets, the tough and water resistant Xperia Go and Xperia Arco S

Posted: 30 May 2012 06:44 AM PDT

The Xperia go and Xperia arco S are the latest offerings from Sony. Both have a nice sleek and clean look, but can also fend off  life's busy work weekwhether it be in the office or out in the elements of nature. These two new Android devices come designed to be water resistant and very durably, boasting a scratch resistant mineral glass protecting the 3.5" and 4.3" screens respectively. The Xperia go and Xperia arco S will be available worldwide in Q3 of this year.

The Xperia go is sporting as mentioned, a 3.5" display, 5-megapixel camera, completely sealed to resist scratches to the glass, and keep out dust and water, a 1Ghz Dual-core power plant. The Xperia arco S carries a bit more weight than its little brother, touting a larger 4.3" 720p HD display also scratch/water/dust resistant, 12-megapixel camera, Playstation Certified, a front-facing camera featuring full 1080p HD video with a 720p HC shooter to compliment, and a 1.5Ghz dual-core processor. Both of these come out of the box with Gingerbread, but are upgradable to Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich.

If you want more on these latest offerings from Sony hit the break for the full press release.

Introducing Xperia go and Xperia acro S – two new stylish, durable and water resistant smartphones from Sony

  • Stylish, sleek and durable smartphones made to resist life's challenges without compromising on design or functionality
  • Easy connectivity and premium entertainment from Sony Entertainment Network anywhere, anytime
  • Reality Display for razor sharp clarity and fast capture camera to go from sleep to snap in just over a second

30 May, London, United Kingdom – Sony Mobile Communications ("Sony Mobile") today announced two new Xperia™ smartphones for consumers looking for premium specifications and beautiful design with extra durability and water resistance. Xperia go and Xperia acro S have scratch resistant mineral glass displays and meet industry standard IP ratings* (International Protection) for protection against dust and water immersion. Xperia go and Xperia acro S enable easy connectivity to share and enjoy content on TV, smartphone, laptop or tablet. They also come preloaded with Music Unlimited and Video Unlimited from Sony Entertainment Network giving access to Hollywood blockbusters, TV series and millions and millions of music tracks. Xperia go and Xperia acro S will be available globally from the third quarter of 2012.

Consumer demand for durable and water resistant smartphones 

Industry research demonstrates that consumers consider durability and water resistance as important features when purchasing a smartphone. For example, a study conducted in Japan by Mobile Marketing Data Labo** highlighted water resistance in the top three most important features for smartphone buyers. In a recent poll*** on Sony Mobile's Facebook community more than a third of participants stated durability as the most important feature when choosing a smartphone. Also, Xperia acro HD, which has the same durability and water resistance features as Xperia acro S, has been the best selling smartphone in Japan since its launch in March****, further demonstrating the appeal of durability and water resistance. 

Xperia go – the stylish Sony smartphone made for extra durability
With Xperia go consumers can watch the latest movies and TV shows in razor sharp quality and with super fast performance. Its sleek and stylish design means durable and water resistant smartphones no longer have to look bulky and ruggedized.

Key features for Xperia go

  • 3.5" Reality Display powered by Mobile BRAVIA Engine gives razor sharp clarity 
  • 5MP fast capture camera goes from sleep to snap in just over a second 
  • Scratch resistant mineral glass display with wet finger tracking 
  • Highest level of dust and water resistance in a smartphone – IP67 Rating
  • 1Ghz dual core processor gives consumers super fast performance 
  • Launching on Android 2.3 (Gingerbread), upgradeable to Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich)
  • Available in black, white and yellow colours
  • Xperia go will launch in the US market under the name "Xperia advance"

Xperia acro S – The stylish water resistant HD smartphone
Xperia acro S boasts a 4.3" HD Reality Display for razor sharp clarity, full HD video recording, HD video chat, easy HDMI TV connectivity to enjoy content on the big screen. NFC enabled, Xperia acro S can easily open applications with one touch against an Xperia SmartTag.

Key features for Xperia acro S

  • 4.3" 720p HD Reality Display powered by Mobile BRAVIA Engine gives razor sharp clarity
  • 12MP fast capture camera goes from sleep to snap in just over a second with a single key press 
  • PlayStation™ Certified 
  • Full 1080p HD video recording and 720p HD front camera
  • Scratch resistant mineral glass display with wet finger tracking 
  • IP55 and IP57 Ratings for dust and water resistance
  • 1.5Ghz dual core processor gives consumers super fast performance 
  • Launching on Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich)
  • Available in black, white and pink colours

*IP67 Rating = Protected against dust and the effects of immersion between 15 cm and 1 m for 30
minutes
IP55 Rating = Protected against dust-limited to ingress (no harmful deposits) and water projected
by a nozzle (6.3mm) against enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects
IP57 Rating = Protected against dust-limited to ingress (no harmful deposits) and the effects of
immersion between 15 cm and 1 m for 30 minutes
** Japanese research conducted by Mobile Marketing Data Labo (October 2011)
*** 33% stated durability as the most important feature when choosing a smartphone – based on a
survey of 1,477 Facebook users through the global Sony Mobile Facebook fan page as of Friday 25
May 2012
**** According to data from ITmedia, Xperia acro HD (for NTT docomo) was the biggest seller
across all smartphones for ten weeks between March and May 2012

source: sony

 
Posted by at 5:42 AM

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