Saturday, September 8, 2012

Android Central

Android Central


Samsung preparing dual-SIM Galaxy Note 2 for Chinese market

Posted: 07 Sep 2012 03:34 PM PDT

Android Central

Dual-SIM phones are big business in some global markets, and China is set to receive the biggest dual-SIM phone imaginable in current times. Samsung is reportedly preparing a dual-SIM version of the recently announced Galaxy Note 2. 

China is rapidly becoming one of the largest smartphone markets in the world, and so it makes sense that OEM's would want to cater for Chinese specific needs. This special version of the Note 2 is identical in every way to the International variant we saw in Berlin at Samsung Unpacked, until you remove the back. Lying beneath is a slot for a regular SIM, and a micro SIM next to the microSD card slot. 

It's said to be heading to China Telecom, but currently there is no word on price, or any possible availability in other global markets. For more on the Galaxy Note 2 be sure to check out our hands on coverage from the Unpacked event in Berlin.

Source: Mydrivers via Unwired View



Samsung 'SPH-L900' could be Sprint's Galaxy Note 2

Posted: 07 Sep 2012 03:05 PM PDT

Android Central

Newly-uncovered files on Sprint's servers suggest that a highly-specced Samsung device -- possibly a Galaxy Note 2 variant -- could be headed to the network in the future. RDF files on devices.sprintpcs.com unearthed by XDA forum members, reveal a Samsung 'SPH-L900' device with a laundry list of impressive specs --

  • Exynos 4412 CPU
  • Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean
  • 2GB of RAM
  • 16GB of storage
  • CDMA/EVDO/LTE connectivity
  • 8MP rear camera
  • 1.9MP front camera

With the exception of the radios, that's an exact match for the device we saw last week in Germany -- though the key specification that's not confirmed is screen size. News of a 5.5-inch screen would certainly seal the deal, but as it stands this could just be a spec-bumped Galaxy S3-class phone. Whatever it is, it's currently running software version L900VPLI2, which based on the way Samsung numbers its builds, indicates a ROM built sometime in the past week.

Sprint didn't carry the original Samsung Galaxy Note, which in the U.S. was exclusive to AT&T until it landed on Tmo in early August. Samsung made a concerted effort to bring the Galaxy S3 to as many U.S. carriers as possible, and it's likely they'll want to do the same with their next big device. Rumors have already suggested the Note 2 could be headed to T-Mobile, and an AT&T launch is likely too, given the success of the original Note.

Would you pick up the Galaxy Note 2 on Sprint? Hit the comments and let us know.

Source: XDA



Manually update your Sprint Galaxy Nexus to Jelly Bean

Posted: 07 Sep 2012 02:52 PM PDT

Sprint Galaxy Nexus

As predicted, the Jelly Bean roll out for the Sprint Galaxy Nexus is slowly happening, and we finally have a link where you can manually grab the file and do-it-yourself. It's not quite as straightforward as it used to be, but with a little bit of work you can have the latest and greatest on your Toro plus hardware, with all the bells and whistles working.

You'll need to download the update files of course, and thankfully cliche37 has found the URL direct from Google and posted it up in the Sprint Galaxy Nexus forums. Grab them from his post, which points you right at Google's servers. Then sit back and do a little reading about booting into a custom recovery and flashing the image. Forums moderator dmmarck goes over it pretty well in his megapost here, and more importantly, is there to help if you hit a snag.

Of course you could always wait until it's your turn to get the OTA, but we know that's not something some of us will want to do. Get it done, and enjoy some Jelly!

Source: Android Central forums



Sony Xperia Tablet S now shipping in the United States

Posted: 07 Sep 2012 02:36 PM PDT

Android Central

The world first saw -- officially at least -- the new Sony Xperia Tablet S just last week at IFA 2012 in Berlin. Since then, the tablet has gone on sale in the UK, and now it's time for the United States. Sony has added the Xperia Tablet S to their online U.S. store with prices starting at $399.99.

That price gets you the 16GB variant, but for $499.99/$599.99 you can pick up a 32GB or 64GB version of Sony's Tegra 3 tablet. With such features as guest mode and a universal TV remote built in, the Xperia Tablet S is potentially a good choice for family buyers. Additionally, if you buy from Sony online, you're treated to three digital movies from Google Play with a value upto $45. Pretty sweet deal then. 

Accessories are also available now as well, including the pretty sweet looking cover with an integrated keyboard. That will set you back a cent under $100, but as we found out at IFA, it's not half bad. 

Head on over to Sony online for the run down, and be sure to check out our hands-on with the device and the mammoth hands-on from the Sony Booth in Berlin. 

Source: Sony



Samsung Captivate Glide getting ICS update

Posted: 07 Sep 2012 12:36 PM PDT

Android Central

One of the numerous reincarnations of the popular Samsung Galaxy SII (S2), the Captivate Glide, is ready to be updated to Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich starting today. AT&T has indicated that the update won't be coming OTA (over the air), but instead has to be downloaded from the Samsung support website, and loaded via Samsung's proprietary software Kies. Nobody necessarily prefers or wants to use Kies for updates -- and we really wish AT&T would just push it OTA -- but if this is the only way to get some ICS in your life, it's worth dealing with.

Check out the source links for the announcement and the Samsung support page for the update.

Source: AT&T Consumer Blog, Samsung Support



HTC One X+ specs supposedly leak

Posted: 07 Sep 2012 11:18 AM PDT

Android Central

HTC has an event coming up later this month where we're expecting at least one new device to be announced. One tipster is suggesting that it will be a device called the HTC One X+ with the following specs. 

  • Size: 134.36 x 69.9 x 9.3mm
  • Weight: 129g
  • NVIDIA AP37 1.6GHZ quad core, 1.7GHZ single core
  • ROM:32GB
  • RAM: 1 GB
  • Battery: 1800 mAh
  • Android 4.1 Sense 4.5

The source has also been posting a bunch of HTC Windows Phone slides on Twitter, which adds plenty of legitimacy to the One X+ claims. He also says the screen hasn't changed since the HTC One X (which has a 4.7-inch 1280 x 720 screen). 

Overall, the One X+ is shaping up to be a decent update. The screen was pretty solid anyway, so not too much to complain about there. HTC's revenues aren't doing so hot lately, so they could sure use a big hit. What would you guys like to see in the next version of the HTC One X? 

Source: @Football4PDA



Wikipad to be available from Gamestop this October for $499

Posted: 07 Sep 2012 10:24 AM PDT

Android Central

First seen at CES back in January, the world now finally knows where and when they can get their hands on a Wikipad. The gaming focused tablet with the detachable game controller will be available at Gamestop starting on October 31. The price? $499. It sounds a lot, but lets not forget that unlike the Archos Gamepad, the Wikipad is a 10.1 inch, Tegra 3, Android 4.1 tablet with a HD IPS display. The Wikipad is also one of the latest devices to gain certification for Playstation Mobile.

Pre-orders are open as of today, and buyers who purchase the Wikipad from Gamestop are promised "exclusive free, full-length game titles." Sounds tempting. You can find the full presser after the break.

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Krusell Aspero Leather Pouch review - classy protection with easy ejection strap

Posted: 07 Sep 2012 10:12 AM PDT

The Krusell XXL Aspero leather pouch is a simple, classy way to keep your phone protected from scratches.  Much like their Hector leather holster, it’s tight-fitting, lined with soft material, and has heavy stitching around the outside. It differs, however, by using an extendable velcro strap instead of a magnetic latch, and there aren’t any gaps along the side or bottom. That strap doubles as a subtle ejection mechanism; a slight tug on it pulls pulls your phone out just enough to get a grip and remove it completely. 

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LG continues to tease the Optimus G, making the impossible possible

Posted: 07 Sep 2012 10:00 AM PDT

Having been teased, and then leaked, and then officially announced, LG is back on the teasing trail again for their latest flagship device. The latest trailer for the upcoming Optimus G keeps one pretty major thing back though -- any actual footage of the phone. Instead, we're promised the "first of an all new redesigned series" and that the impossible will become possible. Leaves us wondering what else we're going to see in the coming months from the Korean OEM.

So, that's all fine and dandy, but our main question remains the same. Can we have the phone already? The Optimus G is -- spec wise at least -- a monster of a phone. That quad-core Snapdragon S4 Pro, 2GB of RAM, HD IPS display and 13MP camera is sending out good vibes. But, we still need to see it. Please, LG?



Rayman Jungle Run arriving in Google Play on September 20

Posted: 07 Sep 2012 09:26 AM PDT

Rayman sure has been around a long old time, but that's not stopping him from appearing in a brand new title heading to Android this month. Rayman Jungle Run is the latest outing for the lovable character and is set to arrive in Google Play on September 20. 

Unlike the classic 3D titles, Jungle Run is of a side scrolling variety. It still packs some really nice looking visuals, what one would imagine is a simple enough tap and jump control system, and is a title we're very much looking forward to wasting a couple hours on. Or, you could say you're getting it for the kids. Whatever suits. 



Buying a car? Check the new Auto Trader app for Android

Posted: 07 Sep 2012 08:42 AM PDT

Android Central

Buying a car or bike can be a real pain. Here in the UK, one of the easiest and most reliable way is to use Auto Trader. The magazine has been around for years, but today the company announced a new version of their app for both Android and iOS. That means you can now browse cars with ease all from your smartphone or tablet.

With the Auto Trader app, once you find the vehicle you're interested in you can call the seller straight from within the application. In addition you can get Google Map directions, view the full car spec and even browse the gallery of images.

With a whole host of search categories you really cant go wrong. As well as vehicle make and the distance you are prepared to travel you can also search by many keywords such as mileage, age, fuel, transmission just to name a few.

In addition, there's mobile vehicle check -- an easy way to identify whether the bike or car you're considering has been reported stolen.

Other features include:

  • My Garage update where you can save searches and cars/bikes that you like
  • Check out a vehicle's history
  • Read owner and expert reviews
  • Search for local dealerships

It's available to download for free, so If you're looking to purchase a car you would be crazy not to take a look.

 

 



Samsung Galaxy S Relay 4G Gallery

Posted: 07 Sep 2012 07:20 AM PDT

Samsung Galaxy S Relay 4G Specs

Posted: 07 Sep 2012 07:15 AM PDT

Samsung Galaxy S Relay 4G

  • Android 4.0 (ICS)
  • 4-inch Super AMOLED capacitive touchscreen, 16M colors, (480 x 800)
  • Slide out 5-row QWERTY keyboard
  • 1.5-GHz Dual-Core Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ S3 processor
  • GPU: Adreno 220
  • 1GB RAM
  • 4GB storage
  • Card slot: microSD, up to 32 GB
  • 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, DLNA, Wi-Fi Direct, Wi-Fi hotspot
  • Bluetooth 3.0 w/ A2DP
  • NFC enabled
  • Micro-USB
  • 5MP camera w/ AF and LED flash
  • 1.3MP front shooter
  • 720p HD Video recording (1280x720) resolution


Deal of the Day: Seidio Desktop Charging Cradle

Posted: 07 Sep 2012 06:29 AM PDT

Deal of the Day The September 7 ShopAndroid.com Deal of the Day is the Seidio Desktop Charging Cradle. This dock features a  soft matte finish and allows you to use most Android phones for safe and convenient charging and syncing at the office or at your nightstand. It's compatible with ACTIVE and SURFACE cases and utilizes a micro-USB connection.

The Seidio Desktop Charging Cradle is available for just $20.00, 33% off today only. Backed by our 60-day return policy and fast shipping.

Deal also available in the Canada store

Never miss a deal. Sign up for Daily Deal alerts!



Everything Everywhere to launch new network next Tuesday

Posted: 07 Sep 2012 06:14 AM PDT

Android Central

Everything Everywhere, which owns Orange and T-Mobile UK, is to launch its new brand at an event in London next Tuesday, Sept. 11, at an event which is also likely to bring details of EE's upcoming 4G LTE network. Today's invite mentions that the company will be showing off its "new brand and the latest innovation in network technology." That'll be EE's recently-greenlit 1800MHz 4G network, then.

It's also notable that the event takes place just 24 hours before Apple's due to unveil its iPhone 5, which is widely expected to include LTE connectivity.

We understand Orange staff have been briefed that the early stages of a 4G network switch-on will start on the 11th, though details of what exactly that entails, and which cities would be covered are unknown. Regardless, neither Orange nor Tmo currently sells 4G-capable handsets, so that's largely a moot point. For those unfamiliar with the UK mobile landscape, the country still lacks any 4G networks, so if Orange and Tmo did flip the switch next Tuesday, it'd be an historic development.

We'll be live in London on the 11th to bring you all EE's plans as they're announced.



Virgin Media announces new TV streaming service for the UK

Posted: 07 Sep 2012 06:10 AM PDT

Android Central

Virgin Media UK has officially announced today a competitor to Sky TV's mobile offerings, with the introduction of Virgin TV Anywhere. The service will offer Virgin Media subscribers online access to a TiVo style offering and on demand content. Initially it will be available online and on the iPad and remote recording will appear later this year. But, an Android application is in the works, and is expected to drop in early 2013. 

While customers without the TiVo service will be able to take advantage of some of the offered up content, it is subscribers to the TiVo service that will benefit the most. For instance, the tablet application available will offer a full remote control feature for controlling things when at home, as well as being able to watch content on the go. 

The first images of the iPad application are extremely promising, and seems to mimic the interface of the Virgin Media TiVo box closely. Naturally there is nothing to be said of the Android app at this time, but something similar would be welcomed. 

via Techradar

HTC One SC makes its debut in China with unique design

Posted: 07 Sep 2012 03:02 AM PDT

Android Central

HTC has unveiled a new mid-to-high-end smartphone for the Chinese market -- the HTC One SC. Sporting an unconventional design and China Mobile's logo around the back, the One SC include 1GHz dual-core CPU, a 4.3-inch WVGA SuperLCD display and 4GB of internal storage. On the software side, you're looking at Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich and HTC's Sense 4 software layer.

From the front, it looks a little like the HTC One X, but HTC's gone to town on the back cover, incorporating a three-tone plastic and brushed metal effect, with Beats branding and a large HTC logo. HTC has previously identified China as an important market, and it looks like it's doing everything it can to build its brand in that country, including highly visible branding on the back of this new device.

The One SC will likely join the two Chinese One X variants, the One XT and One XC, at some point in the near future. Exact release dates and prices have yet to be revealed.

Source: HTC, via: PhoneArena



Kindle Fire HD Q&A thread, Battery level monitoring apps [From the Forums]

Posted: 06 Sep 2012 07:52 PM PDT

From the Forums

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.

We've got nearly 1 million members helping members and nearly 2 million posts in our Android Forums. Are you one of them? Join today!



Amazon Kindle Fire HD forums open for business

Posted: 06 Sep 2012 06:53 PM PDT

Kindle Fire HD

Whew -- there's been a lot of news from Amazon today, and plenty of folks are excited about the Kindle Fire HD 7-inch and the Kindle Fire 8.9-inch. Make sure you see the hands-on videos (click here for all the day's news in one handy list), and see everything Amazon had to say about the new tablets.

When you're done, and looking for a place to talk about them, ask questions, and wait it out until they go up for sale, we've got you covered. Head into the new Kindle Fire HD forums and let's talk about 'em!

Amazon Kindle Fire HD forums



Call of Duty: Zombies infects non-Xperia Android devices

Posted: 06 Sep 2012 06:37 PM PDT

Android Central

After a brief period of exclusivity on Sony handsets, Call of Duty: Zombies is now available on most Android devices. The first-person shooter comes from what was a simple side-game bundled with the popular Call of Duty title for PC and consoles, but has quickly taken on an unlife of its own. It's essentially a wave defense game where players have to keep their hideout barricaded and fortified against hordes of undead while simultaneously clearing out the ones that find their way inside. It's all very goofy and arcadey, with new weapons and upgrades being purchasable between waves. 

Call of Duty: Zombies is available at the download link about for $6.99. Keep in mind that in-app purchases are being employed for accelerated progress as well. Anyone going to take the plunge, or has Dead Trigger got all of your zombie-killing needs covered?



Watch the full Amazon Kindle press conference video

Posted: 06 Sep 2012 06:11 PM PDT

If you want to get updated on the events but don't feel like doing a bunch of reading at the moment, you can now kick back and watch the video. Amazon has posted the video of the event in its entirety on YouTube and well as making it available for download on their press site. Link to the download is below but it is 4.3GB in size just so you are aware.

Source: Amazon, YouTube



Amazon Kindle Event Debrief - Kindle Fire HD, new features and more!

Posted: 06 Sep 2012 05:43 PM PDT

For the Amazon event in Santa Monica, we had our very own Kevin Michaluk and Ashley Esqueda on the ground taking in the all news and sending it back for us. Amazon kept them both pretty busy with plenty of announcements so they decided to go ahead and do up an un-edited, but entertaining, debriefing of the events. Check out the video and in case you missed out on anything, be sure to get yourself caught up. You can see all the posts from the event right here!



Virgin Mobile now taking pre-orders for the Samsung Galaxy Reverb

Posted: 06 Sep 2012 05:30 PM PDT

Samsung Galaxy Reverb

We've already gone hands-on with the Samsung Galaxy Reverb but it met a little bit of a delay somewhere along line. No matter though, Virgin Mobile has now started taking pre-orders for the device and are fully set to roll it out on on Sept. 19 for $250. 

A quick reminder of the specs so that you know what you're getting for your money shows us Android 4.0, a 4-inch WVGA display, a 5 MP camera, 4 GB of internal storage, and a 1.4 Ghz single-core processor. Needless to say, it's not on the high end but it's quite budget friendly. Other specs include a 1700 mAh battery, 4GB ROM and 768MB RAM and a SD card slot. You can check out the full press release below for the full details or pre-order on the Virgin Mobile site

Source: Virgin Mobile

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