Sunday, June 3, 2012

Android Phone Fans

Android Phone Fans

Apple doesn’t want Motorola to quote Steve Jobs in court

Posted: 02 Jun 2012 05:05 PM PDT

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Steve Jobs’ opinion on Android has been very firmly established; he was willing to do anything to burn it down. Former Apple CEO’s public vendetta against Google’s Android was circulated around the internet after Walter Isaacson’s Steve Jobs biography was released. The book included controversial quotes that Apple unsuccessfully requested to be left out of the court room in its upcoming lawsuit against Motorola, set to take place in Northern Illinois starting June 11.

Said quotes included the following:

  • "I will spend my last dying breath if I need to, and I will spend every penny of Apple’s $40 billion in the bank, to right this wrong."
  • "I’m going to destroy Android, because it’s a stolen product. I’m willing to go thermonuclear war on this."

These are rather strong comments. And though Judge Richard Posner gave no reason for his decision while setting the ground rules last Thursday, the reason was made very clear just a few days later.

"More broadly, I forbid Apple to insinuate to the jury that this case is a popularity contest and jurors should be predisposed to render a verdict for Apple if they like Apple products or the Apple company or admire Steve Jobs, or if they dislike Motorola or Google."

Undoubtedly, the Android vs. iOS war is everywhere and the vast majority of the population has an opinion on the matter. This probably includes the jury, and the judge wants jurors to have a clear perception of the case. It would not be fair for participating jurors to simply take sides based on personal preferences.

[Via: GigaOM]

Korean LG Optimus LTE now getting Android 4.0, is the LG Nitro HD next?

Posted: 02 Jun 2012 04:20 PM PDT

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Like most manufacturers, LG is being especially careful about updating its devices to Android 4.0. Ice Cream Sandwich is a significant update, and we sure want our devices to work properly. And like most devices out there, the majority of LG’s devices are still stuck on Gingerbread or Froyo. Well, the ice creamy update has just started rolling out for the LG Optimus LTE… in Korea.

The OTA update brings Android 4.0.4, along with the “unobtrusive and simple” Optimus UI 3.0.

We are not sure when the rest of LG’s lineup will be treated with this update, but we sure hope things happen soon enough. We can be sure that devices like the LG Optimus Vu and LG Optimus L series will be getting their fix soon(ish).

As for the LG Nitro HD, we do not know when the glorious day will come. Though the device is essentially an LG Optimus LTE for AT&T, one would assume that the update is coming soon. But we know things don’t work that way in the “land of the free.” It is all up to the carriers, in this case: AT&T.

[Source: Ken Hong (Twitter) Via: The Verge]

Force Android 4.0.4 OTA on the Verizon Galaxy Nexus – No more waiting or hacking necessary

Posted: 02 Jun 2012 03:44 PM PDT

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The Android 4.0.4 update for the Verizon Galaxy Nexus has taken too long to get here. I don’t know about you, guys, but I am too tired of waiting. And if you feel like me and haven’t gotten your OTA update yet, you will want to try this little technique.

This trick forces your Galaxy Nexus to download the OTA. No, you do not need root or any type of hackery. You just need to go into the settings and do a few taps.

Here is what you have to do:

  • Go to settings>Apps>All
  • Tap Google Services Framework
  • Tap on Clear Data and then Force Stop
  • Go to About Settings>About Phone>Check for Updates

After that, you should be all set, and your update should start downloading. I have personally tried it, and it is working like a charm. So check it out and let us know how it works!

[Via: Android Central Forums]

Sony ST21i to be launched as the Sony Xperia Tipo

Posted: 02 Jun 2012 03:21 PM PDT

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We have not heard of the Sony Xperia ST21i (previously known as Tapioca) in a while, but it seems like the device is still very well on its way. It seems its real retail name has just been revealed by Indonesian Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, and it will be named the Sony Xperia Tipo (and that is not a typo).

Based on what we have heard about the device, it is not the most breath-taking smartphone we have seen. It comes with an 800 MHz single-core processor, 512 MB of RAM and a tiny 3.2-inch display. But the device is also said to come with Android 4.0, which is a relief.

We have no idea when, where and how the Xperia Tipo will be released. It might be a good option for those looking for an affordable handset, though.

[Source: Indonesian Ministry of Communications and Information Technology Via: GSM Arena]

US Cellular lowers prepaid prices, but smartphone users have to get the most expensive plan

Posted: 02 Jun 2012 02:43 PM PDT

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Regional Carrier US Cellular has made a few changes to its prepaid plans. We have good and bad news for you. The good news is that the prices have been lowered for all 3 prepaid plans. The bad news is that if you are a smartphone user (we assume the vast majority of our readers are), you are now forced to sign up for the most expensive plan.

The plans are set as follows:

  • $35 a month for 400 voice minutes and 400 messages
  • $50 a month for unlimited voice and messages, with 1 GB of data
  • $65 a month for unlimited voice and messages, with 2 GB of data

As mentioned above, smartphone users will be required to sign up for the $65 plan. Even though a substantial amount of users would do just fine with 1 GB a month. On the brighter side, you are allowed to keep your current plan if you have one of the older ones. If you don’t need the 2 GB of data, your best option would probably be to stick with your old plan (and WiFi) for as long as you can.

[Via: Engadget]

Google Wallet compatible with Verizon Galaxy Nexus after Android 4.0.4 update? (UPDATE)

Posted: 02 Jun 2012 02:15 PM PDT

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Some Verizon Galaxy Nexus owners have already been blessed with the Android 4.0.4 OTA after a long, long wait. If you are not hyped up about the newest update, then this might get your senses tingling. Some users have been reporting that Google Wallet has become officially available for Verizon’s Nexus device, and it can now be downloaded straight from the Google Play Store.

Kellen from Droid-Life and one of his readers have already done the update. Both are said to be running Android 4.0.4 stock without root access. But it seems like other users with the update have been unable to get Google Wallet using the same process.

“What’s odd is that both myself and our reader are as stock as it gets (I’m not even rooted at the moment) and it installed without issue. – Kellen, Droid-Life

Regardless, if you are one of the lucky first to get the OTA update, you should head over to the Google Play Store and try to get it.

Verizon has not always been very fond of Google Wallet, making us believe that the company is simply giving preference to its own payment service – Isis. We are not sure if Verizon has given Google the green light, or if Google has simply found another way to make things work, but we sure hope Google Wallet for Big Red’s Galaxy Nexus is here to stay.

Try it and let us know how it works out for you!

Update

I have just updated my Verizon Galaxy Nexus and can confirm that (like most of you) Google Wallet is still not available straight from the Google Play Store. We are not sure why Kellen and his source were able to do this, but you can be sure that we will be keeping our eyes open for more details.

[Via: Droid-Life]

AT&T CEO sees a future without voice and text, only data

Posted: 02 Jun 2012 01:43 PM PDT

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We are definitely moving away from voice and texts and replacing them with data. Reaching our monthly allowance has become a feat due to services like Google Voice, Vonage and Skype, among others. And though these can definitely save money, our major concern simply tends to be convenience. So how will the industry change to adapt to our new habits? AT&T’s CEO Randall Stephenson believes that users could be getting data-only plans within the next 2 years.

"I’ll be surprised if, in the next 24 months, we don’t see people in the market place with data-only plans. I just think that’s inevitable." – Randall Stephenson, AT&T CEO

While some people have been making assumptions on such statement, we simply don’t know how such a system would work. Carriers are still making most of their money with voice and text fees. This is something that is quickly changing, though. I, for one, use no texts from the carrier (I use Google Voice) and usually end up with about 80% of my minutes untouched (the 20% is mostly used by others in my family plan). But boy do I use my GB’s – I would say I am ready to move to a data-only system.

But while that sounds like a plausible option, these services can have their failures and glitches. The apps are not always the best. I still like to have my carrier minutes and texts there, just in case. There is another option available, though. As more customers start using data, the price of owning an internet-connected device will increase as voice and text messages become less necessary. This could allow the carriers to possible just charge more for internet and treat voice and text messages as simply another form of data.

We are already close to using VoLTE (Voice over LTE), and text messages can easily become a data service. Not to mention that T-Mobile is already doing something similar with WiFi calling. The future really could be a data-only world.

Let’s be clear about this, though. AT&T did not announce it had any plans of this yet. This was one man’s opinion (even if a significant one) and view on where the market is going. As for our thoguhts, these are nothing but speculations, and we really don’t see things turning that way in a very long time. But having a data-only plan for those that want to use Google Voice and Skype? That sounds very enticing.

What do you guys say? Are you ready for a data-only plan? And if you are like me, and are already doing this, what are your favorite apps and services for voice calls and messages?

[Via: Mashable]

FCC: Verizon and Sprint Samsung Galaxy S3 variants complete the circle

Posted: 02 Jun 2012 12:58 PM PDT

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T-Mobile and AT&T have joined the FCC party with their variants of the Samsung Galaxy S3, leaving us worried about the other versions not showing up on time. Many of you are hoping to get Samsung’s flagship device on Sprint and Verizon. And if you are one of them, you will be glad to know that both CDMA versions of the device have just strolled through the FCC.

While we are not exactly sure if these devices will be blessed with 2 GB of RAM memory, it is very possible. The LTE-friendly, Snapgragon S4 versions are the ones said to come with the higher amount of RAM. Both Sprint and Verizon variants come with EV-DO and LTE compatibility, making it very likely that we will be seeing those 2 GB of glory.

To top it off, it seems like Verizon’s Galaxy S3 will also be a global device. The FCC documents report that the SCH-I535 will feature additional support for GSM and EDGE with 850 MHz and 1900 MHz radios. Yes, you might be left without 3G when abroad, but that is still a step forward for Verizon devices.

We are still left wondering how the carriers will be changing the aesthetics of the Samsung Galaxy S3. Each variant has been completely different for past iterations of Galaxy S devices. But we have seem that T-Mobile’s variant of the Galaxy S3 is identical to the international version. This could mark a new beginning where we get the same Galaxy S3 device in all carriers.

[Source: FCC 1, FCC 2 Via: Pocket Now]

I’ll be interviewing Rubicondev on Google+, when would you like it? [Poll]

Posted: 02 Jun 2012 10:12 AM PDT

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When I first introduced myself at the time I joined Phandroid, I named Great Little War Game as amongst my favorites. Over 4 months have passed since, and I’m yet to find a more addictive strategy game on Android.

I’m quite frankly in love with it, which is why I’m delighted to announce that I’d be interviewing the team behind the game, Rubicondev, via a Google+ Hangout as part of our developer appreciation month. There’ll be a lot of good stuff (trust me on this) for which is why for the fans behind the GLWG franchise should really tune in.

But before I schedule it with them, I’d like to ask the readers a question: which part of the week would you like us to host it? While it would be available to watch later on YouTube, we’d love to see as many people be part of it live. Put in your votes below, and also in the comments to provide any suggestions you might have.

Take Our Poll


Microsoft to launch cross-platform app that pushes media to Xbox 360? [Rumor]

Posted: 02 Jun 2012 08:28 AM PDT

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This might just be the most interesting Android-related news to have come out of Redmond in a long, long time: apparently, Microsoft is working on a cross-platform app called the Xbox Smart Glass, which will allow users to push media to their TV screens via the Xbox 360.

The rumor originated at The Examiner, where they claim a “Microsoft Confidential” presentation in the build up to E3 highlighted app. If it works sufficiently well, we can easily see quite a few people choosing the Xbox over Sony’s Playstation 3.

Anyone out there looking forward to this besides me?

[Examiner via Talk Android]

The Evo has landed

Posted: 02 Jun 2012 07:13 AM PDT

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And some more good news, folks. Sprint’s HTC EVO 4G LTE has finally hit stores across the country, and you can pick one up (or order one online) for $199 with a new contract agreement. The phone looks like an absolute beauty, and I’m one of those that loves the kickstand. It’s kind of sad we don’t get such an option overseas.

How many of you are looking forward to getting this phone, even before seeing what Samsung has in store with the S III’s Sprint variant?

[via Sprint]

ICS continues its glacial rise up the Android Distribution chart

Posted: 02 Jun 2012 06:22 AM PDT

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Let’s kick off the weekend with a wee bit of good news, shall we? Google has updated the Android distribution chart, and ICS is now on 7.1% of all devices (up from 4.9% previously). Gingerbread continues its dominance at over 65%.

While the snail-like pace at which the numbers are rising does leave a lot to be desired, we must remember that a majority of the devices that were on Gingerbread don’t have the hardware capability to run ICS. Passing a stripped-down version of ICS could in fact cause devices to perform poorer than before, which no user would want.

That’s not to say I’m OK with the amount of time taken to update the phones that are capable of running the OS. Or in some cases (looking at you, Sammy boy) the complete ignorance of a once flagship device. But the numbers will rise substantially in the second half of the year as more and more devices running ICS out of the box hit the shelves. In fact, the Samsung Galaxy S III alone should result in a massive boost by about mid-July.

[via Android Police]

10 Burning Questions with Rob Jagnow of Lazy 8 Studios

Posted: 01 Jun 2012 10:00 PM PDT

Rob Jagnow (left in photo next to lead artist Brendan Mauro) heads up Lazy 8 Studios, the small development team responsible for Cogs. Cogs is a multi-platform title available on everything from PC to PS3, but only recently came to Android. The game has been nominated for several awards, taking home a grand prize in the Indie Game Challenge, and further benefitted from exposure through the Humble Indie Bundle. Success has allowed Rob and his team to focus on new and exciting challenges, including the upcoming experimental game Extrasolar, but he is quick to remind fledgling developers that the industry isn’t always easy.

As part of Developer Appreciation Month, we sat down with Rob to ask him our “10 Burning Questions” and gain some insight on his experience porting Cogs to Android and his thoughts on Google’s app ecosystem. His answers highlight some of the challenges multi-platform developers face as well as offer some great advice for those looking to make a living developing apps and games.

Phandroid: How did you get started with Android Development?

Rob Jagnow: To be honest, my original intro to Android development was a little rough. Setting up the Android development environment was a huge headache and eventually I ended up hiring someone else to help get Cogs running on Android. It didn’t take long for him to get it working, but we still had the problem of how to get Cogs looking awesome on the huge variety of Android devices out there. I ended up tabling that project for a while until Apportable (apportable.com) offered to help with the port. They have some tools that make it really easy to get iPhone games running on Android devices. Meanwhile, I focused my time on writing new code to automatically modify the UI layout to adapt optimally to a wide array of devices with various screen sizes and aspect ratios. In the end, I’m happy that we managed to get a version of Cogs that plays beautifully on all the devices that we offer it for.

P: What phone do you personally use (or what is your favorite Android device)?

RJ: I love my first-gen Droid. I’m not an early adopter of hardware. I don’t need the latest, greatest, fastest CPU. But what I do love is something that’s just really functional. For me, the slide-out physical keyboard is a huge feature.

P: What was your biggest challenge in developing Cogs for Android?

RJ: The Android ecosystem is just so huge! There are so many different screen sizes, aspect ratios, texture compression formats, graphics capabilities. I never do a lazy port. If I’m going to get Cogs working on a new piece of hardware, I’m going to take the time to make sure it looks great. So we put a lot of love into teaching Cogs to automatically adapt its layout for your Android device.

P: How has exposure from the Humble Bundle affected Cogs on the Android platform? Is it seeing more downloads from Google Play since appearing in the indie game pack?

RJ: Cogs has now been featured in two Humble Bundles — first in a Windows/Mac/Linux bundle and then later in an Android bundle. The exposure we get from that is huge. Since I have a small team, the revenue that we took in just from those bundles has given us enough financial freedom to design a really groundbreaking experimental game called Extrasolar. If you’re curious, you can check out the teaser at exoresearch.com. I promise, it’s like nothing you’ve ever seen.

P: Monetization: in terms of driving revenue, can you tell us about your experience, your strategy, and the overall potential?

RJ: I think you’ll find that most small indie developers are more than happy to share their “secrets.” There’s this dangerous notion that apps are a gold mine — that you can put any crappy app up on the iOS or Android store and within a few weeks, you’ll be diving Scrooge-McDuck-style into piles of money. The harsh reality is that it’s almost never enough to just create the app. You also need to spend time building a community, spreading the word, fixing bugs, and issuing updates. I would encourage developers to announce their apps early, make a great trailer, post screenshots, post to Facebook, maintain a Twitter feed, and generally do everything you can to build a community around your app.

P: What do you want to see in future versions of Android?

RJ: Mostly, I’d love to see Google make it easier for developers to start making games on Android. Better quick-start and debugging tools could really go a long way in opening up the platform to more novice programmers.

P: You develop for other platforms. How does Android compare to those platforms?

RJ: Believe it or not, Cogs is now available on 9 platforms (PC, Mac, Linux, iPhone, iPad, netbook, Android, PS3 Home, and cable set-top boxes). This really boosts the visibility of the game. Until the tools improve, Android is one of the harder platforms to develop for, but it’s also one of the easiest platforms to sell on. It’s super easy to get your game listed on Google Play without having to jump through a zillion hoops.

P: If you could give one tip to fellow Android Developers, what would it be?

RJ: As much as possible, write your app in platform-agnostic code. It will make it that much easier to port your app to other platforms. Also, if you’re thinking about writing your game engine from scratch, first look around to see if there’s some other tool that can do what you need it to do. There’s no sense in reinventing the wheel if you don’t have to.

P: Tell us one thing that most people don’t know about you.

RJ: In 2005, I climbed Mt. Aconcagua — the highest mountain in the Americas at 22,841 feet (6,962 m) — with an all-gay mountaineering team.

P: Of all the Android versions (cupcake, doughnut, eclair, gingerbread, ice cream sandwich, jelly bean), which is your favorite actual dessert?

RJ: Cupcake. Yellow cake with vanilla frosting. And sprinkles. Doughnut is a close second.

If you haven’t checked out Cogs for Android, there is no better time than now to give the “steampunk puzzler” a go. You can download the game from Google Play now. For more information on Lazy 8 Studios and their upcoming titles, check out their official website.

Want to get involved in Developer Appreciation Month? Contact us and start your message with "Developer Appreciation Month".

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