Android Central |
- OnLive bringing console gaming to Google TV
- Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean finally pushed to Motorola Xoom WiFi testers
- Half of mobile gamers use phones and tablets as primary home entertainment console
- Samsung Galaxy S3 becomes hotel room keycard, TV remote and AC controller
- MLS MatchDay 2012 Updated to Fix Jelly Bean Crashes
- Epic Meal Time review - the bacon-covered turkey-stuffed pig of Android games
- YouTube, Play Movies and Nexus Q app all updated to further support Nexus Q
- iOS developer says 'Android designed for piracy'
- Qualcomm's S4 developer tablet packs meaty specs and a high price, but it's not for us
- Nexus Q no longer in stock on Google Play, 'shipping in 2-3 weeks'
- Motorola Mobility brings the RAZR V XT885 to China
- Best Galaxy S3 Cases
- Relive Google I/O 2012 in 3 minutes and 41 seconds
- Nexus 7 now available in Dubai
- Deal of the Day: Qmadix Snap-On Cover w/ Holster for Samsung Galaxy S3
- Huawei unveils the Mediapad 7 Lite, exact specs a mystery
- Intel confirms it's working on Jelly Bean for Atom chips
- Retro Olympics becomes Retro Athletics, still don't mention the Olympics
- Google Nexus 7 available at Carphone Warehouse from Friday
- LG Announces Q2 2012 Financial Results
- Samsung kills local search on international Galaxy S3 in 'stability' update
- Disabling bloatware on the S3, Best pre-paid options? [From the Forums]
| OnLive bringing console gaming to Google TV Posted: 25 Jul 2012 04:07 PM PDT
We have incredible 3D games built for Android tablets -- titles like Shadowgun or Max Payne -- but what's been missing out of great games has been Google TV. OnLive, the popular streaming service that brings actual desktop PC games to any screen, will change that. Using the OnLive Google TV app and a compatible controller, you'll have a huge library of PC games to choose from, all streamed directly to your big screen via your Google TV interface. All the features of the desktop client (for Windows and Mac) are on-board, including the spectating arena and multi-view play and chat. It';s a great way to fill a gap in Google TV's content warehouse, and everyone loves games. OnLive will be shipping on the Visio Co-Star, and will be coming to the LG G2 Smart TV in a future software patch. But the best news is that a stand-alone Google TV app is in the works that will install on any box or TV, so those of us who bought a competitors product aren't left out in the cold. No mention of when exactly we should expect the app is given, but we'll be watching Google Play for any news. Read what OnLive founder and CEO Steve Perlman has to say at the source link below. Source: Google TV Blog
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| Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean finally pushed to Motorola Xoom WiFi testers Posted: 25 Jul 2012 02:51 PM PDT
After a little bit of a delay, Motorola and Google are now pushing out the Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean update to Motorola Xoom WiFi owners who signed up for the testing process. Overall, it's Jelly Bean. Not much else can be said about it really. Everything you would expect to be in place, is indeed there with one exception. That one exception appears to be Chrome. You still need to download it from the Google Play Store in order to have it loaded. All that said, there still isn't any timeline for a full blown release but it shouldn't be all that long of a wait. The OS update does feel good and added some pep to the now aging Motorola Xoom. If you're looking to load this one up, there is a few options to choose from whether you're rooted or not. One is to use a USB host cable, the other is to flash a recovery that will support the update. For me, this method in the forums worked but if you're looking to try out the USB host method, you'll find the link below. Worst case, you may have to wait for it to go official. Guide: XDA, Thanks, Chad! 
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| Half of mobile gamers use phones and tablets as primary home entertainment console Posted: 25 Jul 2012 02:34 PM PDT
A recent survey of U.K. and U.S. mobile gamers by PopCap shows that around 50% of respondents preferred their phone to PC, console, or dedicated handheld gaming console (like a PSP or Nintendo DS). Tablet owners ranked a bit higher with 57%. Despite the portability that tablets and smartphones offer, 69% reported to play on their phones at home on the couch (78% among tablet owners), 41% while watching TV (52% for tablet owners), and 57% while in bed (51%). 10% of the 602 American respondents had played mobile games while in a place of worship, driving a car, and/or while watching a movie at a theater. The survey's sample size was a little over a thousand-strong - take that as representative or not as you will. With stuff like Ouya coming out of the woodwork, I'd be interested to see just how much Android manages to displace the traditional console gaming industry and which players are savvy enough to get with the times. So far, EA has done a great job of adapting to and addressing the mobile market, meanwhile Nintendo has been vocally against the app store model. Will players really take to switching to mobile full-time, though? I know I've definitely spent less time on my Alienware since getting really involved with mobile games, but what about you guys? Is your Xbox getting jealous of your tablet? Source: Information Solutions Group 
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| Samsung Galaxy S3 becomes hotel room keycard, TV remote and AC controller Posted: 25 Jul 2012 02:32 PM PDT
Who needs a plastic keycard to let you into your hotel room when you can have a Samsung Galaxy S III (S3). As the primary sponsor of the 2012 Olympic Games in London, Samsung is getting involved in a big way. This latest collaboration sees them providing the official smartphone of the Games to 40 VIP rooms at the Holiday Inn London Stratford. The phones come with a custom application built in, and allow guests to express check in and out, change TV channels, activate the in-room air conditioning, order room service and even let themselves in to the hotel room in place of a keycard. Oh, and since it is a phone, you'll be able to use it to actually call people too. For the full run down head on over to the source link below. Source: Samsung 
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| MLS MatchDay 2012 Updated to Fix Jelly Bean Crashes Posted: 25 Jul 2012 02:05 PM PDT
So let’s say you like soccer. Maybe you also live in the US. And just maybe you have a phone running Google’s latest-and-greatest Android 4.1 Jelly Bean. It’s a stretch, we know, but if you fit the bill we have an app that you have to check out. MLS MatchDay 2012 just got an update pushed in the Play Store, reiterating its latest features such as “AT&T Goal of the Week”, “High quality videos” and "Improved team schedule". All of these features have been in previous versions though, so why the update? The big news here is the last line: “Crash fixes for Jelly Bean”. Now if you’ve used and relied on the app for all things MLS in the past, you’ve no doubt noticed the crashes. It was unstable in Ice Cream Sandwich, and downright unusable on Jelly Bean. We’re happy to report that the update sticks to its word, and the app has yet to force close a single time going through all of the menus and screens. So what are you waiting for? Fire up your Jelly Bean-equipped Nexus 7, Galaxy Nexus or Nexus S, and go pickup MLS MatchDay 2012 in the Play Store at the source link. Oh and of course, go Seattle Sounders FC! Source: Google Play Store 
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| Epic Meal Time review - the bacon-covered turkey-stuffed pig of Android games Posted: 25 Jul 2012 01:33 PM PDT
Epic Meal Time has just turned their debaucherous online cooking show into an Android game, and as a meat-lover, I couldn't be happier. It's a simple game that involves guiding steaks, slices of pizza, and bacon strips into the host's face, while flinging away broccoli, turnips, and other greens. Energy drinks, booze, chocolate syrup, and whole pigs keeps things interesting while players earn Internet Money to finance new swag and a wider variety of food. For those of you unfamiliar, Epic Meal Time has been on YouTube for a little over two years, showcasing extravagant abominations that can barely be considered food by traditional standards. Rarely does a weekly episode go by that doesn't involve Jack Daniels, Four Loko, or bacon of some kind. Lately they've been branching out into desserts with obscene calorie counts, but at its core EMT is all about making carnivore dreams come true. Vegetarians (or anyone with a sense of modesty) may want to skip this video, one of their earlier breakout episodes. 
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| YouTube, Play Movies and Nexus Q app all updated to further support Nexus Q Posted: 25 Jul 2012 01:08 PM PDT
With the Nexus Q no longer in stock on the Google Play Store, it looks like Google thought now would be a good time to go ahead and update several of the apps the Nexus Q supports in preparation for those who will be getting their units. Previously, the apps were locked down to devices running Jelly Bean for support on the Nexus Q but not any longer. YouTube was updated, along with Play Movies & TV and now, the Nexus Q app can be installed on phones and tablets running earlier system versions of Android to support the Nexus Q.
The updates are all available right now in the Google Play Store, for those of you looking to get the Nexus Q app on your device you can hit the link below as well to get it downloaded. That is, assuming you are in the U.S. since you know, it's not available elsewhere. Download: Nexus Q App 
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| iOS developer says 'Android designed for piracy' Posted: 25 Jul 2012 12:44 PM PDT
Matt Gemmell, iOS developer and author on Apple-centric sites and publications such as MacFormat and Tap!, has written a post on his blog about how "Android was designed for piracy from the ground up". He mentions sideloading as a conduit for thievery, and has all sorts of bad things to say about Android's "open mentality". Here's where we could mention things like sandboxing, and Android's Application Licensing system that checks for a valid license every time you open an app, but why bother? It's his job to say everything Apple is better than everything else. It's also his right, and I don't want to think about a place where someone else can decide what I should hear or see -- or install on my phone. In short, AC, like the Honey Badger, don't care. Carry on Mr. Gemmell. Source: Matt Gemmell; via The Verge 
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| Qualcomm's S4 developer tablet packs meaty specs and a high price, but it's not for us Posted: 25 Jul 2012 12:01 PM PDT
Qualcomm's developer tablet certainly packs a punch in the specs department. But, before we go any further, we need to point out clearly and concisely -- this isn't a commercial product, it isn't meant for consumers. That doesn't mean it doesn't interest us though. Far from it. The APQ8064-based Snapdragon S4 Pro Mobile Development Platform / Tablet as it's full title reads -- we'll call it the S4 Pro from now on -- is Qualcomm's latest efforts at a developer device. This time, it's showing off their first attempts at a quad-core processor, and developers keen to get in on the ground floor can pick one up for a cool $1299. Remember, this isn't a retail device. Alongside the 1.5 GHz quad-core processor, the S4 Pro also packs 2GB LPDDR2 RAM, 32GB of storage space and Android 4.0. There's also the new Adreno 320 graphics engine, 7 mics, stereo surround sound and a 13MP main camera. Wowzas. In the right hands, a device of this magnitude is sure to be an impressive development tool. Interested developers can purchase one at the link below, and the full press release is after the break. Source: BSquare 
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| Nexus Q no longer in stock on Google Play, 'shipping in 2-3 weeks' Posted: 25 Jul 2012 10:32 AM PDT
Google's "social media streamer," the Nexus Q, looked to be approaching launch just a few days ago, with its Google Play Store listing being updated to "in stock", and apparently shipping in 3-5 days. Well, either the initial stock has entirely sold out, or a snag has been hit somewhere alone the way, as the Q has returned to its previous status of "ships soon," with the glowing multimedia orbs apparently expected to be ready to go in 2-3 weeks. We ordered a few Nexus Q's to give away right as the device was announced, and none of our orders have shipped so far. If you've placed a Nexus Q order, let us know whether yours has been dispatched down in the comments. Source: Google Play Store 
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| Motorola Mobility brings the RAZR V XT885 to China Posted: 25 Jul 2012 08:57 AM PDT
Motorola Mobility has announced that it's releasing the RAZR V XT885 in the Chinese market. Just a couple of weeks ago, the phone was announced for Canada, and now China represents the latest part of the rapid expansion for the RAZR line. The RAZR V XT885 comes with a 4.3-inch screen, 1.2GHz dual-core processor, Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich), and is 8.35mm thin. It's also sporting on-screen buttons, similar to what's found on the new AT&T Atrix HD. The Motorola RAZR V will be available throughout mainland China for RMB 3,298 (~$515). Check the full press release after the break for more details. Source: Motorola Mobility
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| Posted: 25 Jul 2012 08:34 AM PDT
With so many different Galaxy S3 cases on the market, choosing the perfect one is paramount for protecting your device as well as complimenting your own unique style.The Samsung Galaxy S III (S3) is still fresh from its launch just earlier this month and we're curious how you plan to protect your new investment. Does a basic skin case suit your daily needs or do you require something with a little more beef to it, say, a hard case? Let us know in the poll below then check past the break for some more insight on picking up the right case for your Galaxy S3.
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| Relive Google I/O 2012 in 3 minutes and 41 seconds Posted: 25 Jul 2012 07:50 AM PDT Google I/O 2012 was quite simply incredible. The sheer volume of content coming out of the Moscone Center was mindblowing, and we sure did our best to bring it all to you. Just think about what we saw, Jelly Bean, Google Glass, the Nexus 7, skydiving, and that's without diving into the developer sessions. Should you have been at the conference and want to reminisce, or didn't go but wonder what it was like, Google has put together a short highlights video from this years conference. It weighs in at just under 4 minutes long, so when you're done, don't forget you can always dip back into our own Google I/O archive from this years event. While you're here, why not jump into the comments below and let us know what your own personal highlights were from the event. 
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| Nexus 7 now available in Dubai Posted: 25 Jul 2012 06:36 AM PDT
To say that there has been a little bit of hype around the Nexus 7 would be an understatement. People all around the world are loving it, and odds are you are looking to get your hands on one. The Nexus 7 is now available for those living in Dubai to purchase through Axiom Telecom, and even includes free shipping along with the tablet. Coming in with a price tag of AED 1,299.00 (~$350), it is a bit more expensive than its US counterpart, but import costs, taxes and exchange rates are likely behind the price rise. If you're thinking of picking one up, be sure to check out our full review of the Nexus 7, as well as what other users in the forums have to say. Source: Axiom Telecom 
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| Deal of the Day: Qmadix Snap-On Cover w/ Holster for Samsung Galaxy S3 Posted: 25 Jul 2012 06:29 AM PDT
The Qmadix Snap-On Cover w/ Holster is available for just $19.95, 43% off today only. Backed by our 60-day return policy, fast shipping and friendly support. Grab yours while supplies last! 
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| Huawei unveils the Mediapad 7 Lite, exact specs a mystery Posted: 25 Jul 2012 05:26 AM PDT
What we see here is the latest Android device to emerge from Huawei, the Mediapad 7 Lite. We'd love to be able to run through the full list of specifications, but as yet very little has been revealed about this tablet. From the press shots it appears to be running pretty much stock Ice Cream Sandwich, but otherwise it's a pretty mysterious device thus far. What we do know about the device is that the 7-inch IPS display will be capable of full HD video playback. Additionally, the Mediapad 7 Lite will be a metal unibody construction, house a rear facing camera, and be capable of 3G cellular voice, SMS and MMS. 7-inch phone anybody? Otherwise, we know nothing of the processor, the RAM, on-board storage. It looks really well designed, and packing cellular features could potentially make it a bit of a hit. We'll have to sit tight for the time being though, as there is no indication of launch date, price, or which markets will be seeing it. Source: Huawei via Unwired View 
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| Intel confirms it's working on Jelly Bean for Atom chips Posted: 25 Jul 2012 04:51 AM PDT
In not particularly surprising, yet reassuring news, Intel has confirmed that they are indeed working on a port of Android 4.1 Jelly Bean for use on their Atom chips. While we're still waiting for Intel to really make headway in the Android space, working on Jelly Bean reaffirms that they're here for the long haul. There was no timeframe provided, and we still haven't seen a timeframe for Ice Cream Sandwich either, but the following statement from a company spokesman confirmed the news.
Currently, Intel devices are being pushed out carrying Android 2.3 Gingerbread -- such as the Orange San Diego -- which works superbly, but is still hideously outdated at this point in time. We're still waiting to see the partnership with Motorola take off, and even Vizio is supposed to be using Intel architecture in a forthcoming 10-inch tablet. Hopefully these two companies will at least launch with ICS on board -- else face a monstrous failure -- but to see that Intel is working towards catching up remains positive. Source: PC World 
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| Retro Olympics becomes Retro Athletics, still don't mention the Olympics Posted: 25 Jul 2012 03:52 AM PDT
What we see here is a perfectly innocent Android game known as Retro Athletics. But, it didn't always go by that moniker. No, sadly it seems the world has officially gone mad, as the title had to be renamed for using the 'brand' of the We're not going into politics, that's not why we're here. But, it's a pretty sad day when the Source: Droidgamers, Download: Retro Athletics 
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| Google Nexus 7 available at Carphone Warehouse from Friday Posted: 25 Jul 2012 01:49 AM PDT
Wanting to get your hands on the Google Nexus 7 in the UK, but come up empty-handed so far? Carphone Warehouse sends word that it'll be stocking the highly-anticipated (and highly-demanded) Jelly Bean tablet from this Friday, July 27. Carphone's only stocking the more expensive 16GB version, which retails for £199.99 in the UK. That's also the version that's currently sold out on Google Play, so if you want to get hold of a 16GB Nexus 7 in Old Blighty, this may be your best bet. In addition to the option to buy an N7 outright, Carphone is also offering the ASUS-made tablet on a tethered contract, which includes a Mifi and an (undisclosed) data allowance. Normally we'd say you'd have to be a bit mad to pick up a tablet on-contract with a mobile operator, but if you're after a Mifi anyway, you could certainly do worse than picking yourself up a free Android 4.1 tablet in the process. Prices on the tethered contracts are said to start at £20.50 per month. Check the full press release after the break, and make sure you read up on our full Nexus 7 review before parting with your cash. 
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| LG Announces Q2 2012 Financial Results Posted: 25 Jul 2012 12:35 AM PDT
LG just posted their Q2 2012 financial results, reporting a 46-percent year-over-year increase in net profits for the quarter. Although LG as a whole saw strong growth, the mobile division of the company didn't fare quite as well. Here's the breakdown.
LG's mobile division is hoping to improve its position in the coming quarters by leveraging their strength in LTE phones. They plan to specifically target the expanding LTE markets in North America and Europe. You can take a look at the full press release after the break. Source: LG Newsroom 
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| Samsung kills local search on international Galaxy S3 in 'stability' update Posted: 24 Jul 2012 07:50 PM PDT
There's a new over-the-air update rolling out for the international Samsung Galaxy S III (aka Galaxy S3 GT-i9300) this evening. The OTA message identifies it as a "stability update," but what it also does is remove local (on-device) search functionality in the phone's built-in Google Search app. The new version -- XXBLG6 -- is a relatively recent build, having been cooked just a few days ago on Jul. 20. A new baseband version, XXLG6, is also included, but we haven't noticed any other changes thus far. Following legal action by Apple, which temporarily resulted in the Galaxy Nexus being banned in the U.S., Samsung has taken to pre-emptively disabling the ability to search within on-device data (like contacts and applications) on some U.S. Galaxy S3's. However, the decision to kill local search on the unlocked international model -- which isn't sold in the U.S. -- is a little perplexing, not least because Apple has yet to challenge Sammy over local search in the EU or UK, where the GT-i9300 is sold. What's more, marking this solely as a "stability" update seems a little underhanded, as users aren't being informed that the latest OTA disables functionality which was included with their original purchase. Nevertheless, local search is now gone on the international Galaxy S3, a decision which makes Samsung's leading smartphone a little less smart. We're sure folks are working on hacking local search back in as we speak, just as we're sure Apple will pursue some other tactic in its efforts to block the S3 from sale. If you're down with preemptively crippled search functionality, you can grab the 27MB OTA package through Samsung's software updates menu on the phone, or through the Kies desktop app. 
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| Disabling bloatware on the S3, Best pre-paid options? [From the Forums] Posted: 24 Jul 2012 06:27 PM PDT
Just in case you missed out on some of the Android news today, now is the time to go ahead and get yourself fully caught up. Here on the blogs and in the Android Central Forums there is plenty to talk about. Have some questions? Need some help or just looking to chat Android? You know where to go, check out some of the threads below to get started.
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