Friday, August 24, 2012

Google Android News Android Forums

Google Android News Android Forums

Samsung now offering free apps for UK owners of the Galaxy Note 10.1

Posted: 23 Aug 2012 04:04 PM PDT

In a move that appears to promote the use of the slick S Pen, Samsung is offering UK owners of the Galaxy Note 10.1 the opportunity to get started right away with some free apps. All of the available apps and games have been optimized for the included S Pen including Drop the Beat, Spot the Difference, and Where is it? just to name a few.

In addition to the free apps, Samsung is also offering up free subscriptions to some of the top digital magazines and newspapers which should look excellent on the 10.1′s display. There are quite a few apps and games available spanning both Samsung’s own app store and the Google Play Store. Galaxy Note 10.1 owners can download the apps via the already included S Suggest app. Hit the break for the complete list of apps and games.

Samsung Apps –

  • Drop the Beat
  • Geotag
  • Stargazer
  • Spot the Difference
  • You Draw
  • Need for SpeedTM Hot Pursuit

Google Play Store –

  • Where is it?
  • Trace a Face
  • The Official Top 40
  • Easy Phone Sync

 

source: Samsung UK

HTC One V Receives Unofficial CM10 Port

Posted: 23 Aug 2012 02:01 PM PDT

The HTC One V, the youngest sibliing in the HTC One series of Android devices, finally gets an Android 4.1 Jelly Bean-based Cyanogenmod 10 port. The CM10 nightlies port is available thanks to XDA Recognized Contributor jmztaylor for CDMA-based devices and XDA Recognized Contributor Lloir for GSM-based devices. Unlike most alpha and beta builds, the new build for both versions of the One V appear to be quite stable, with the exception of the LCD backlight never turning off and the camcorder not working. If you’re an HTC One V owner and feeling brave, hit up the source link and get flashing! But as always, it’s wise to take backups before proceeding.

Source: XDA

T-Mobile unveils contract-free Concord for $99

Posted: 23 Aug 2012 01:42 PM PDT

If you’re the type of individual who becomes easily frightened by the thought of signing up for lengthy wireless service contracts, T-Mobile may have some relief for you. The nation’s number four carrier has announced the Concord, a $99 off-contract smartphone running Android 2.3 on a 3.5-inch display.

Some of the key features include:

  • 3.5" Capacitive Touch Screen with Multi-touch
  • 2.0 Megapixel Camera with Camcorder
  • Android™ 2.3.5 Operating System
  • Bluetooth Wireless Technology, v3.0 including stereo audio
  • USB 2.0 Connectivity
  • WiFi™ 802.11b/g/n
  • GPS for navigation and location-based services
  • Google Play™ store with access to hundreds of thousands of Apps
  • Full HTML Browser for PC-like Web Browsing
  • 2GB micro SD memory card included

Despite its lackluster specs, the ZTE-manufactured Concord packs a considerable amount of bang for your buck. Add this to the fact that you don’t have to lock yourself into a two-year contract, and the whole package becomes overwhelmingly appealing. T-Mobile customers will be able to get their hands on the device beginning August 26th. For more information, you can catch the full press release below.

T-Mobile Expands Its No Annual Contract Android Lineup with the T-Mobile Concord
T-Mobile to offer its most affordable no annual contract Android smartphone for under $100

BELLEVUE, Wash. — Aug. 23, 2012 — T-Mobile USA, Inc., today announced the availability of the T-Mobile® Concord™, T-Mobile's most affordable no annual contract Android™ option for those stepping up to their first smartphone. The Concord will be available to T-Mobile customers through a variety of no annual contract plans, including via T-Mobile Monthly4G™ and Walmart Family Mobile™.

Manufactured by ZTE, the T-Mobile Concord is equipped with the necessary features to keep customers connected with friends and family. The 3G smartphone is powered by Android 2.3 Gingerbread and is ideal for basic Web surfing, searching for a location via Google Maps or accessing favorite social networking sites. Coming in a sleek, midnight blue color finish, the new smartphone features a 3.5-inch capacitive touchscreen display and is equipped with a 2-megapixel camera, making it easy to capture and share memories.

Paired with one of T-Mobile's single-line, Monthly4G no annual contract plans, customers have access to unlimited talk, text and worry-free data that doesn't have a hard cap or result in overage fees, as well as access to T-Mobile's nationwide 4G network. The T-Mobile Concord can also be paired with Walmart's Family Mobile service, a monthly, no-annual-contract wireless plan option for individuals or families, also powered by T-Mobile's nationwide network.

The T-Mobile Concord is expected to be available at Target starting Aug. 26  for $99.99 with a qualifying Monthly4G plan. The T-Mobile Concord is also currently available at Walmart for $99.98 paired with a Walmart Family Mobile no annual contract plan.

# # #

Monthly4G plans provide access to wireless service; capable device required for 4G speeds. The T-Mobile Concord is not 4G-capable.

Kindle Fire successor to be announced September 6th

Posted: 23 Aug 2012 01:13 PM PDT

Amazon’s first attempt at an Android-based e-reader turned out to be a wild success, so it makes sense for the company to give it another try. Today, the online retailer sent out invitations for a press event on September 6th in Santa Monica, California. Details of the event are still unknown, though it is expected that Amazon will unveil the next iteration of Kindle Fire tablets.

Earlier this year, we reported that the company was preparing to release a 10.1-inch version of its Kindle Fire tablet to more closely compete with offerings from Apple and ASUS. In addition to the 10.1 version of the tablet, Amazon is expected to roll out an updated version of its popular 7-inch model. Although, without any official word, it appears we’ll just have to wait until September 6th to get the full low-down from Amazon.

Source: BGR

DROID M to debut with the DROID RAZR HD on September 5th

Posted: 23 Aug 2012 12:56 PM PDT

As you are aware, Motorola has a little event in a couple of weeks in New York City. We’re expecting the DROID RAZR HD (XT926) to be unveiled, but it looks like there’s more. BGR uncovered more info about the XT907, which will be called the DROID M (as in DROID Mini). It will be a smaller version of the DROID RAZR, but it will also come with the same 1.5GHz dual core Snapdragon S4 that’s expected to be in the DROID RAZR HD along with a good dose of Kevlar.

BGR is reporting that it will have a 1196 x 720 HD display, but I’m not convinced. It’s unclear what the size of the display will be, but I suspect it will be around 4-inches. If that’s the case, then I would expect it to be a qHD (960 x 540) display. On the other hand, it wouldn’t shock me if it does indeed have an HD display when you consider the Atrix HD on AT&T is priced at $99. Since Verizon will be pricing the DROID M at $149, it will be a direct competitor with the DROID Incredible 4G LTE.

We will be in New York to get the full scoop so stay tuned.

source:

European Motorola RAZR and RAZR MAXX Finally get Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich Update

Posted: 23 Aug 2012 12:23 PM PDT

After what seemed like an eternity, European Motorola RAZR and RAZR MAXX owners are finally starting to get their Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich update. The build rolling out is marked as version 672.180.41 after a successful soak test, and is the same update for both GSM phones.

RAZR and RAZR Maxx users across the pond can finally enjoy the newly redesigned Android UI, along with significant performance enhancements. So if you happen to be a lucky RAZR or RAZR MAXX owner you might want to be on WIFi when it hits as it comes in at a hefty 375.8MB. For a quick look at Motorola’s new UI, check out our hands on video with the DROID RAZR MAXX.

Source: Androidcentral

 

Verizon earns top spot in J.D. Power network quality rankings

Posted: 23 Aug 2012 12:10 PM PDT

Verizon has been busy lately, and it appears as if their infrastructure investment is paying off. J.D Power and Associates recently finished their latest round of surveys used to determine which networks provide the highest quality experience, and Verizon nearly swept the competition taking top honors in five of the six regions. How’s that for a return on investment? The survey itself polled about 27,000 wireless subscribers between January and June 2012 and asked them about their experiences with their provider based on wireless voice, text messaging, and data usage in order to gauge overall carrier performance.

The timing of the award couldn’t be better for Verizon with this year’s shopping season right around the corner. What are your thoughts? Do surveys like this play a part at all in your buying decisions? More specifically, will this survey sway your decision on sticking with your current carrier? I may think twice come this October when the provider I’ve been with for over ten years wants me to sign that dotted line again. Hit the break for the full press release from Verizon:

 

Verizon Communications Inc. : J.D. Power and Associates Ranks Verizon Wireless Highest In Network Quality

BASKING RIDGE, N.J., Aug. 23, 2012 — Once again, Verizon Wireless leads the way in network quality, ranking highest in five regions covering 43 states and the District of Columbia in the latest J.D. Power and Associates 2012 Wireless Network Quality Performance Study(SM), Volume 2. The company also performed significantly above the industry average in all six regions nationwide.

J.D. Power and Associates measures network quality in terms of voice, text and data usage, including the growing number of 4G LTE data users, among the major U.S. wireless service providers. Verizon Wireless ranked highest in:

  • Northeast Region, which covers Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont.
  • Mid-Atlantic Region, which covers Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.
  • Southeast Region, which covers Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.
  • West Region, which covers Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Iowa,Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.
  • Southwest Region, which covers Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas.

In the North Central Region, which covers Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan and Wisconsin, Verizon Wireless scored above the industry average and ranked higher than three national wireless carriers in the study.

"This latest study once again speaks loudly and clearly to the outstanding performance of the Verizon Wireless network in terms of customer satisfaction," said Nicola Palmer, chief technical officer of Verizon Wireless. "With our 4G LTE high-speed network's blazing fast speeds and superior nationwide coverage, Verizon Wireless remains committed to providing its customers with the best networks, devices and innovative services."

Approximately 27,000 wireless subscribers were surveyed by J.D. Power and Associates between January and June 2012 about their experiences with wireless voice, text messaging and data usage based on factors that impact overall carrier performance, including dropped calls, calls not connected on first try, calls with audio problems, failed or late voicemails, lost calls, message transmission failures, late text messages, mobile Web connection errors, excessively slow mobile Web loading, and email connection errors.

Verizon Wireless has invested more than $70 billion since it was formed – more than $6 billion on average every year – to increase the coverage and capacity of its premier nationwide network and to add new services. Verizon Wireless leads the way with America's largest 4G LTE network, covering more than 75 percent of the U.S. population. Currently available to customers in 371 markets across the country, the company's 4G LTE network, which offers speeds up to 10 times faster than before, supports a wide array of 4G LTE-enabled devices such as the Samsung Galaxy S® III and DROID INCREDIBLE 4G LTE by HTC.

For more information about Verizon Wireless products and services, visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or go to www.verizonwireless.com.

 

 

Giant tablet or small Android-based TV? Tencent and TCL show off new iCE SCREEN product

Posted: 23 Aug 2012 09:12 AM PDT

Two major players in China's markets have released a new product they describe as the "world's first large screen mobile entertainment smart cloud product." The iCE SCREEN is a 26-inch "mobile" device meant to define a new experience dubbed 3C – communication, computer, and consumer electronics. TCL Multimedia and Tencent, a Chinese Internet provider, revealed the product today to claims that it is a "large portable screen, "a high-speed video player," a "stylish music and photo album," and a "high-definition video communications" device.

The 26-inch display of the iCE SCREEN runs at 1366 x 768 resolution and is powered by a dual-core Cortex A9 1GHz processor with 4GB of RAM and support for up to 32GB of storage. The device includes built-in wifi, a couple USB ports, an HDMI port and 3.5mm headphone jack. The device will also have IR capabilities that supposedly let it be controlled with other Android powered devices. The iCE SCREEN comes with a rotary hanger so it can be oriented in either landscape or portrait mode and will be offered in one of four colors – sapphire blue, fantasy pink, champagne gold and green tea green. At the same time, the device has its own power source onboard, which means it can be moved around and reoriented instead of being constantly connected to the hanger. Powered by Android, users will be able to access typical cloud applications and mobile apps as well as TCL's QQ services.

Could you figure out some way to make effective use of a product like this? If so, you can start your pre-order on August 23rd with an expected release date of September 3rd. Current pricing is  ¥1,999, or approximately $315.

source: Engadget

Sony Mobile to Cut 1,000 Jobs

Posted: 23 Aug 2012 08:34 AM PDT

Reuters has reported that Sony will be cutting roughly 1,000 jobs from its mobile phone unit, Sony Mobile. This follows the Japanese company’s slashed 2012-2013 operating profit forecast.

Sony took over the struggling Sony Ericsson mobile phone unit earlier this year for roughly $1.3 billion, thus renaming it Sony Mobile.

Over half of the cuts will affect its Lund mobile plant in Sweden, which will now be used to focus on software and application development. Sony plans on moving its corporate headquarters from Lund to Toyko this October.

Source: Reuters

Sony Xperia J Smartphone Is Leaked Yet Again, This Time Shows Off Its Curved Back

Posted: 23 Aug 2012 07:35 AM PDT

 

Ah yes, the mysterious Sony Xperia J makes yet another appearance. After seeing a leak just a few days ago, Taiwanese website ePrice.com got their hands on additional shots of the device, giving us a better idea of it as a whole. Right off the bat, the screen looks to be typical of a standard budget or mid-range device coming in or around 4-inches, showing a decent-looking display. While the screen is nothing special, the design of the device is. You’ll immediately note a fairly curved profile and sleek curved back— just like the Xperia Arc smartphone.

All in all, Sony certainly has another device that will be part of its loaded arsenal. Expect a full announcement sometime in the next few weeks or so.

source: Xperia Blog
via: Android Central
Posted by at 5:39 AM

No comments:

Post a Comment

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)