Android Phone Fans |
- Google I/O 2012 Edition Companion App Now Available In Play Store – New Android 4.0 Features and Redesign
- Samsung Galaxy Note 2 Launching This October With Unbreakable Display and Quad-Core Processor [Rumor]
- Longest Day Deals Arrive In The Play Store – Discounted Apps, Games, Books and Movies
- New Game Boy Advanced Emulator Coming To Android This Week By Developer Robert Broglia
- Sprint Guardian now available for Android devices; keep your family safe at all times
- Samsung releases Samsung Galaxy S3 source code for AT&T and T-Mobile variants, let the ROMs hit our phones
- Sprint also experiencing difficulties with the Galaxy S3, delays coming
- Crazy Deals: Mass Effect Infiltrator and NBA Jam now going for $0.99, time to get your game on!
- T-Mobile launching Galaxy S3 in two phases, small-city dwellers will be disappointed
- MightyText lets you send and receive your phone’s text messages from any browser
- Project Glass trackpad patent now in Google’s pocket
- Rumor: Nexus 7 tablet already shipping, will start selling in July
- Tasker App Factory lets you create task .apk files and share them freely
- Dolphin Browser’s new engine said to trump any mobile competitor
- 10 Burning Questions with George Halfkenny from Rheti [CONTEST WINNER]
| Posted: 19 Jun 2012 07:33 PM PDT
Google I/O is fast approaching us and seriously — I’m losing my damn mind. In preparation for the 3 day event, Google has updated their official Google I/O companion app in the Play Store, bringing the app up to speed with Android 4.0 features and design. While the app will prove a valuable resource for those attending, there’s also the inclusion of a variety of features for users not making the trip this year, to follow along from home. Here’s what has been added for the new 2012 edition: View the conference agenda and edit your personal schedule
Don’t forget, Phandroid will be reporting live from the event, giving you guys up to minute updates on everything coming out of the mothership. Google is sure to drop some bombs with the announcement of a sub $200 Nexus tablet and Android Jelly Bean. I’m also obligated to tell you that I — as well as Rob and Steven — will be giving away all of our shiny new gifts here on the site, so you can share in our excitement as we figure out exactly what Google, in all their generosity, will be giving out this year. Anyone else excited?
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| Posted: 19 Jun 2012 07:03 PM PDT
New rumors are swirling around the Samsung Galaxy Note 2. For the sequel, MK Business News reports that the device wont exactly have the flexible OLED display being whispered in previous rumors. Instead, the Note II will feature an unbreakable plane (UBP) display that is said to be the precursor to Samsung’s flexible display, previously shown off at a trade show event last year. What’s more is the device is said to be thinner than the original, while keeping a sturdy display that could end up being slightly larger than the 5.3-inches of the original. Originally, Samsung wanted to release the phone at an earlier date this year, but decided last-minute to push back the launch to October, where it will go head-to-head with the iPhone 5. Samsung also wanted to make sure a few more top-of-the-line specs made the cut, like a quad-core processor (hopefully this time around with US LTE compatibility), and a high resolution 12MP camera and Google’s latest Android 4.1 Jelly Bean. Can’t say I’m too enthused on the idea of a larger than 5.3-inch display, but like all rumors, take this one with a grain of salt. Also, the UBP display sounds great, but my devices rarely (if ever) take a spill onto the concrete. I’m more curious to see how UBP will stand up against scratches, an OCD user like me’s, worst enemy.
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| Longest Day Deals Arrive In The Play Store – Discounted Apps, Games, Books and Movies Posted: 19 Jun 2012 05:57 PM PDT
A few hours ago, we told you about a few discounted titles from EA like Mass Effect Infiltrator and NBA Jam getting their prices slashed to 99 cents in the Play Store. Well, it looks like there are quite a few more titles finding themselves discounted as part of Google’s Longest Day Deals, celebrating the upcoming first day of summer (also known as the summer solstice). There’s a good list of titles ranging from games, to utility apps, and everything in between. Here’s a quick screenshot of what’s being offered.
If apps and games aren’t really your thing, you can also find significantly discounted albums from some of your favorite artists for only $3, books or “beach reads” for $2, and movies to rent for $1. All the links have been provided below for easy access. Enjoy. Longest Day Deals: Apps and games | Albums | Books | Movies
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| New Game Boy Advanced Emulator Coming To Android This Week By Developer Robert Broglia Posted: 19 Jun 2012 05:25 PM PDT
Got a pile of Game Boy Advanced games laying in an old cupboard somewhere? Looking to give them new life by playing them on your Android powered device? Well, good news coming from Twitter today where Robert Broglia — developer of same of the best console emulators in the Google Play Store — is getting ready to release his GBA emulator for Android.
Mr. Broglia Tweeted today, “As a result of my dead motherboard, have to push back GBA.emu for Android to at least thursday, it’s pretty much done otherwise.” Currently Robert has 9 emulators available for Android, each one them earning close to perfect 5-star ratings from users in the Play Store. That’s a pretty impressive feat. I’m looking forward to playing some bug-free Advanced Wars and Castlevania Aria of Sorrow on my Galaxy Nexus. Thanks, Tim!
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| Sprint Guardian now available for Android devices; keep your family safe at all times Posted: 19 Jun 2012 04:05 PM PDT
For $9.99 a month, family plans of up to 5 devices can get access to three Sprint safety apps: Sprint Mobile Controls, Sprint Drive First and Sprint Family Locator. The latter is quite self-explanatory, it locates your family members’ devices to let you know where your kids (or husband/wife) are. Sprint Mobile controls is a tool that allows you to set limits based on time, location or on-demand. And Sprint Drive First simply locks your phone while driving in order to avoid talking/texting when behind the wheel. Sprint Guardian subscribers also have access to Lookout’s Family Bundle. This offer goes for $4.99 a month or $49.99 a year, covering all devices in the account (up to 5). It will provide users with all the features we know and love from Lookout. Such include back-up services, locating lost/stolen devices and malware/phishing protection. Check out the video for more details and let us know what you think. Have you ever paid for one of these services? I usually just look for apps that fit my needs, separately. I have never been limited by my parents, though. Nor have I needed to limit kiddos.
[Source: Sprint Via: DroidDog]
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| Posted: 19 Jun 2012 03:21 PM PDT
Until then, we can be sure developers will get a head-start and begin making our beloved custom ROMs. That is about as much as the source code will do. Many of us will not understand a thing in these files. But if you know your code and want to start developing for one of the most anticipated devices of the year, this is your chance! As for the rest of us, let’s hope carriers get their things straightened up soon and wait for those ROMs to start poping up. Links: [Via: Android Community]
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| Sprint also experiencing difficulties with the Galaxy S3, delays coming Posted: 19 Jun 2012 02:51 PM PDT
But at least this does not apply to all customers. It seems the 16 GB version is right on track, with it becoming available from the Sprint website and telesales this Thursday, June 21st. Pre-ordered 16 GB Galaxy S3 devices will also start shipping this week. Those who pre-ordered the 32 GB beast will have to wait until next week, though.
If it serves as any clue, though, our friends from Wirefly have informed us that the official release date is now scheduled for June 28th. Regardless, we should be seeing the devices showing up at stores next week. We will be here hoping that everything goes as smoothly as possible. It is a sad day, indeed, but what else can a desperate geek do? [Source: Sprint Via: Android Central]
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| Crazy Deals: Mass Effect Infiltrator and NBA Jam now going for $0.99, time to get your game on! Posted: 19 Jun 2012 02:28 PM PDT
Mass Effect Infiltrator is a game designed for high-end devices, with some of the best graphics and gameplay available for Android. It was released less than a month ago, so it comes as a surprise that it went from $7 to $1. Likewise, the March-released NBA JAM received a substantial discount going from $5 to $1. As our friends from Android Police mention, there is no apparent reason for this offer. We are almost sure that it won’t last too long, though, so you should just get these games now. Enjoy! Google Play Store links for North America: Google Play Store Links for International Users: [Via: Android Police]
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| T-Mobile launching Galaxy S3 in two phases, small-city dwellers will be disappointed Posted: 19 Jun 2012 01:54 PM PDT
In order to “ensure customers receive the best possible experience,” T-Mobile has decided to split the release of Samsung’s new flagship device in two phases. The highly anticipated device will be in select retail and branded locations right on schedule for June 21st. This is only for the top 29 markets in the US, though, as well as the T-Mobile website. Others will have to wait until the 27th to jump in the action.
As one can see, T-Mobile has also given us full price information. This follows our expectations for any new high-end device, but we do wish the full-retail price was just a tad lower. We are sure many of you will still be lining up at your local T-Mobile stores on the 21st. Granted, you live in one of the top 29 markets:
If you do not live in (or around) one of these cities, you will simply have to wait until the 27th, next week. Are any of you planning to get the Galaxy S3 on launch date? Will you be able to get it this Thursday, 21st? [Via: TmoNews]
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| MightyText lets you send and receive your phone’s text messages from any browser Posted: 19 Jun 2012 01:30 PM PDT
One simply needs to download the MightyText app from the Google Play Store and sync messages and contacts with MightyText’s servers. After that, one is ready to use the web app to text anyone from any device with a browser. You are probably thinking of Google Voice as you read this, and that is because the concept is somewhat similar. I have been texting all my friends and family from any browser for a long time. But MightyText offers the benefit of avoiding a new phone number, unlike Google Voice. MightyText basically allows you to remote-control your smartphone. Google Voice saves me money, as I no longer have to get a messaging plan. But many of you have unlimited texting included in your plans, making MightyText a much more enticing product. Not to mention that Google Voice does not yet have full support for MMS. You can text away from the office, the classroom and even during meetings. But what do you guys say? Will you keep using Google Voice like me, or will you move on to MightyText? [Source: MightyText Via: Android and Me]
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| Project Glass trackpad patent now in Google’s pocket Posted: 19 Jun 2012 12:20 PM PDT
Because we do not know when Apple, Microsoft and Oracle will throw the next punch, Google has just acquired a patent for this trackpad technology from the USPTO. The patent describes said touch sensors to be located in the sides, with support for scrolling, tapping, and even configuring settings for left-handed users. These are also said to be transparent for improved peripheral vision. It is a relief to learn that these will have a direct, manual interaction method. Though the dream of controlling our gadgets via voice and gestures seems fun, some can consider it a gimmick. Hell, many of you consider the whole product a gimmick already. Regardless, you don’t always want to be talking to your glasses.
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| Rumor: Nexus 7 tablet already shipping, will start selling in July Posted: 19 Jun 2012 11:14 AM PDT
Digitime’s sources are also stating that the ASUS device will be priced starting at an affordable $199. And Asustek Chairman Jonney Shih will be there to announce it along with our beloved Google team. Other details include the fact that Google and ASUS will stick to WiFi-only versions, there is no rear-facing camera, and the device will measure in at 7 diagonal inches. We can expect the omission of such features, as the tablet’s affordability is the main focus. But if you really like cheap, ASUS is also going the solo route. The same sources also state that ASUS will be releasing another 7-inch tablet on its own… going for $159-$179. Could it be the ASUS Eee Pad MeMo 370T we saw at CES? With Microsoft coming into the tablet market very strong, Google (and Apple) will have to really kick things up a notch. Windows 8 tablets are designed to be as productive as a laptop computer, so Google has to find a way to keep our wallets on its side. Of course, one method is affordable devices. A good, affordable device is always welcome. But let’s keep our minds open and our hearts doubtful. These are, after all, only rumors. Our best advice would be to take it with a grain of salt until everything comes to light at Google IO, next week. We will be there, guys… we will be there. [Via: Digitimes]
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| Tasker App Factory lets you create task .apk files and share them freely Posted: 19 Jun 2012 10:37 AM PDT Android’s full power stands out when one uses applications like Tasker. This tool allows users to set automatic tasks and let their smartphones do all the tedious work on their own. One can set Tasker to turn off WiFi when one walks away from home, for example. Or one can recreate Samsung’s way of muting a device when the display faces down. The possibilities are only limited by your imagination, and Crafty Apps is taking things further with its new Beta product.
What makes Tasker App Factory enticing is its ability to create .apk files out of specific tasks. The purpose is to allow users to create, share and sell these Tasks as they see fit. Created Tasker apps will run separately and do not need Tasker to operate, making the process completely seamless. The product is very simple and “needs no programming experience,” as Crafty Apps states. One only needs Android 2.3+, Tasker App Factory and a device with an ARM or x86 processor. And yes, this does include a substantial percentage of available Android devices. It is interesting how Tasker developers are allowing their users to easily make and distribute apps based on their software. Especially taking into account the fact that Tasker is not known to give its services for free, or affordable. Tasker goes for $6.49 in the Google Play Store. Many of us can attest to the fact that it is very well worth it, though. This app is in Beta, so we might see some changes coming eventually. As such, Tasker App Factory will only work with Tasker Beta users. You will want to check out the changelog and instructions before you start creating your handy task apps. But when you are ready for the action, just head over to the Google Play Store and get it for free. [Source: Tasker Via: Droid-Life]
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| Dolphin Browser’s new engine said to trump any mobile competitor Posted: 19 Jun 2012 09:49 AM PDT The folks at Dolphin Browser are working on a new rendering engine, it seems. Dubbed “Dolphin Engine,” it apparently bests Google Chrome Beta for Android and the browser within HTC Sense. While these tests weren’t necessarily scientific, Dolphin loaded The Verge in 12.8 seconds compared to 18.7 seconds and 20 seconds on Chrome Beta and HTC’s Sense browser, respectively.
The margin wasn’t as wide in their test for the New York Times, though, with a load time of 8.6 seconds against the 9.2 seconds and 9.9 seconds of Chrome and Sense, respectively. And beyond load times, the browser is said to feel a lot smoother. Scrolling is said to be as good as Chrome beta, and flash videos played without any lag or hiccups. We always appreciate performance improvements in any app, but when it comes to the browser we appreciate them more than anything. We look forward to getting the new engine in upcoming versions of Dolphin Browser. [The Verge via Dolphin]
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| 10 Burning Questions with George Halfkenny from Rheti [CONTEST WINNER] Posted: 19 Jun 2012 09:13 AM PDT George Halfkenny is a self proclaimed software geek who loves Lean Start-Ups and Android App Dev. After creating a simple Parking Locator called ParkingBrain, George relocated to Silicone Valley from Miami Beach in January 2012 to work on a start-up venture (Rheti) with business partners. She won the Phandroid.com Google IO Ticket Contest, but hopefully that’s not the last we’ll be hearing from her. Find the full interview below.
Phandroid: You won the Phandroid Developer Appreciation contest for a Google I/O ticket, what are you most excited to see at the conference?
P: How did you get started with Android Development?
P: What kind of phone do you have?
P: What was your biggest challenge in developing Rheti App?
P: Monetization: in terms of driving revenue, can you tell us about your experience, your strategy, and the overall potential?
P: What do you want to see in future versions of Android?
P: Do you develop for other platforms and how does Android compare to those platforms?
P: If you could give one tip to fellow Android Developers, what would it be?
P: Tell us one thing that most people don’t know about you.
P: If you could only download and use one app for the rest of your life (excluding your own), which would it be?
Developers attending Google IO 2012 can look forward to seeing George at the event, roaming the hallways and sitting in on the sessions. But of course you can find her online as well: LinkedIn, Twitter, SincerelyGeorge.com and of course Rheti.com.
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