Thursday, September 27, 2012

Android Phone Fans

Android Phone Fans

Google Now Allows For Redownloading Of YouTube Videos In Their Original Pre-Uploaded Quality

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 07:43 PM PDT

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In an awesome move by Good Guy Google, they just revealed on the Liberation Blog a new feature for YouTubers who want to liberate their uploaded videos from Google’s video service. Starting today, Google is allowing users to download the original video files they’ve uploaded to YouTube, in their original, uncompressed, pre-transcoded quality.

You may be thinking to yourself that this was a feature always there, but not quite. Previously, YouTube only allowed users to download videos in their post-uploaded, crappy quality, MP4 format. Not quite the same. Can’t help but wonder what will stop Google users from dumping all their home videos onto YouTube as a sort of video backup service, knowing full well they’ll be easily redownloadable in their original quality 50 years from now? Guess I’d better get started.

[Google Data Liberation]

ASUS Posts Changelog And Rollout Dates For Transformer Prime and Transformer Infinity

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 07:03 PM PDT

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Asus confirmed via their social networks earlier today that the Transformer Pad Infinity and Transformer Prime were set to receive Jelly Bean in the coming weeks. They told us to stay tuned for further updates and like clockwork, the Taiwanese manufacturer has provided a mini-changelog of sorts, so that Transformer users know exactly what to expect in the Android 4.1 Jelly Bean. Let’s take a look:

  • Upgrade OS from Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) to Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean)
  • Default enable System Bar Lock
  • Add Multiple Photo Selection feature
  • Support Connect Dock (Accessory)
  • Remove Adobe Flash support
  • Remove Wi-Fi Direct function support
  • Remove Press Reader (still available in the Play Store)

As far as when users can expect the rollout to take place here in the US, Asus is planning Tomorrow, September 27th for the Transformer Prime, followed by Friday, Sept. 28th, for the Infinity. Time to hit up Craigslist to see if I can find a Transformer Infinity Pad on the cheap.

Thanks, Aiman!

[ASUS Campus Life]

Chrome For Android Updated – Adds Support For Intel x86 Devices

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 06:01 PM PDT

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Chrome for Android saw an update in the Google Play Store today, bringing about a number of stability and security improvements. Aside from was was listed on the app’s Play Store page, the 18.0.1026311 update also added compatibility for x86 devices meaning Android users with devices branded “Intel Inside,” can finally enjoy sync’d tabs and other Chrome goodies.

Here’s the official changelog:

Chrome for Android M18.1

This version update includes a number of security and stability improvements. Additional highlights:

  • Location preference now integrated to system level Google apps location setting.
  • Youtube videos controls now work in full screen mode; videos continue playing after a screen lock/unlock
  • Fixes to make third-party IMEs work better with Chrome

Honestly, it’s been awhile since I’ve used Chrome for Android. I find the stock app to be much faster so I normally just stick with that (unless I need to access my desktop’s tabs, in which case I’ll jump on Chrome). What’s more is apparently Chrome for iOS is a full 3 versions ahead, adding just a bit more insult to injury. Out of curiosity, what are you guys using as your default web browser?

[Play Store Link]

Kim Dotcom Teases Upcoming Megabox Streaming Music Service – Android App Coming Soon [Video]

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 04:42 PM PDT

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You’d have to be living under a rock (or at least unconnected from the internet) to have no heard about the man called Kim Dotcom, and all the legal troubles he faced after feds shut down his popular file sharing site, Megaupload.

It looks like the legend is back and he’s uploaded a video of his latest project — Megabox — a music streaming/social network that is no doubt already boiling the blood of record label execs everywhere. Supposedly totally legal, Megabox looks to turn the music industry upside down by paying artists directly when users stream their music, eliminating the middle man altogether (record labels). In the description of the video Mr. Dotcom adds, “This is what they don’t want you to have. Unchaining artists and fans. Megabox is coming soon.” You gotta give it to the man, at least he’s aware of the legal hell he’s about to unleash.

Kim also revealed that Megabox won’t be available in your web browser only, with plans to release iOS and Android applications already in the works. Of course, how long they’ll remain in the Play Store is anyone’s guess. Remember the whole Grooveshark debacle? Check out the teaser vid below.

[AndroidandMe]

MetroPCS getting the Samsung Galaxy S3 in October

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 03:49 PM PDT

The Samsung Galaxy S3 enjoyed a very nice simultaneous launch in America’s five biggest carriers, and now it’s time for some of the little guys to get some love. MetroPCS has officially confirmed its plans to carry the device that had the smartphone world going crazy this past summer.

For your money you’ll be getting a 4.7 inch Super AMOLED HD display with a 1.5GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 dual-core processor, 2GB of RAM, an 8 megapixel camera with 1080p video, a 2 megapixel front-facing camera, and LTE. Don’t expect this thing to be cheap as MetroPCS doesn’t exactly dabble in the subsidy pot.

Still, if you’re a fan of the carrier’s value-priced servers but found yourself longing for a high-end device then you can’t get much better than this. Look out for it in October, and be sure to let MetroPCS know you’re interested using this form. [via Unwired View]

YouTube update adds preloading and UI tweaks for Gingerbread, Froyo devices

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 03:00 PM PDT

It’s no surprise the YouTube app for Android 2.3 and lower is not quite up to par with more modern versions. Google’s doing everything they can to alleviate the frustrations of those not on the Holo UI version of the app, though, and today’s update brings them one step closer.

YouTube users on Gingerbread and Froyo can now enable preloading, a feature that loads select videos into memory for worry-free playback. This is great for anyone who may find themselves on a spotty connection when they find themselves wanting to watch YouTube.

Those users have also gotten a UI refresh, a new Watch experience, the ability to add videos to your YouTube TV queue, and more channels to choose from. The link ahead is all you need for the blissful mobile video experience. [Google Play Store]

Google Maps adds underwater imagery; 6 coral reefs to start

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 01:53 PM PDT

While Apple is still struggling to bring its Maps application up to par with the quality of Google’s, Google is adding another layer of mapping that we never thought we’d want or need — underwater imagery. The Mountain View giant has announced the ability to explore six different underwater coral reefs as if you had the scuba gear on yourself.

You can explore the depths of Heron Island, Lady Elliot Island, Molokini Crater, Hanauma bay, Apo Islands, and Wilson Island as if you were clicking around a street to find the exact corner a restaurant is on.

The imagery is beautiful and clear, and while it’s a tad difficult to get a sense of where, exactly, you are in a particular reef you won’t care as you’ll just let your curiosity guide you where it wants. You can easily find these different coral reefs at Google’s Street View site, and we can most likely expect to get more in the months and years to come. [via Google]

Verizon NFL Mobile app finally adds Jelly Bean support

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 01:38 PM PDT

I guess Verizon wanted to wait for the first official Jelly Bean rollout for this one — the NFL Mobile app that provides the latest NFL news and mobile access to certain live NFL games, NFL RedZone, live score updates, news and more is now compatible with Jelly Bean devices.

Unfortunately some reviews of the newer version still state there are several issues with the application. Those who’ve already been able to use it aren’t any happier, it seems. As for those who have been on Jelly Bean all this time, let’s just say at least you’re finally able to get past the splash screen. Download it in the Google Play Store if you dare.

Also, be sure to check out Football Beast, an NFL pick-em game where $7,000 in prizes are being awarded, as well as the Football Schedule app to help you keep track of your team’s whereabouts week to week.

HTC One S for T-Mobile USA getting Android 4.0.4

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 12:44 PM PDT

T-Mobile users who own the HTC One S have woken up to a software upgrade today as the US carrier is reportedly pushing out an upgrade to Android 4.0.4. There is a very long list of improvements and bug fixes to be had that no one should have qualms with. Take a look:

Improvements

According to T-Mobile the update is 150MB large, and you’ll have to be on an unrooted, stock build of 1.53.531.76 710RD or 1.84.531.2 710RD to receive it. As always, you’ll want to charge your phone until it’s above 50% before you decide to accept the upgrade, and it’s always a good idea to turn WiFi on. Read on for the full update instructions.

Download update from HTC

You may request the update from the update servers, even if you have not received the Over the Air (OTA) update. To download or check for updates, follow these steps:

 

  1. From the Home screen, press the Application key.
  2. Touch Settings.
  3. Touch About phone.
  4. Touch Software updates.
  5. Touch Check now.
  6. Follow the on-screen prompts.
  7. Wait as your phone restarts and updates.

 

Download Over the Air (OTA) software update

After receiving a notification that you received the OTA update, you may download it. To download, follow these steps:

 

  1. You will receive this notification message when the update is available for you:

    “This software update includes devices improvements for your HTC One S. It won't delete any of your content and the download is expected to take 10 to 15 minutes, but could take longer.

    “You will not be able to use your phone or make emergency calls during the upgrade. Please do not turn off your phone during the upgrade.”

  2. From the message Notification Screen, touch Download.
  3. Touch Install Now.
  4. Wait as your phone restarts and updates.

Samsung uploads two more “Next Big Thing” ads [VIDEO]

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 11:51 AM PDT

Samsung took a major shot at Apple with a new 90 second spot for the Samsung Galaxy S3. The ad ridiculed folks waiting for the iPhone 5 and its barely “innovative” features, and while you might not agree with Samsung’s marketing approach it’s hard to say it wasn’t funny.

Well, two new ads have been uploaded to YouTube, and it would appear these are more ready for TV. They are 30 second ad spots, and a lot of it is recycled from the 90 second spot we saw last week. We do get a few more scenes we haven’t seen yet, including another smashing performance from those adorable parents.

Oh, and the “it’s the Galaxy S3″ girl follows the “maybe not this year, but next year” guy with a very sad line of her own. Sad, indeed. We’ve included the new ads above and below so take a quick minute out of your day and get to it.

Google Play Store $.25 apps and games sale is now live!

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 10:43 AM PDT

Earlier today it was revealed that Google would be holding a $.25 apps and games sales to celebrate the 25 billion downloads milestone set recently in the Google Play Store.

Fourteen different games are available as of the time of this writing, and among the top of the class are the premium version of Angry Birds Space, OfficeSuite Pro 6, Draw Something, Asphalt 7: Heat, Granny Smith, and more.

Note that the sale will last 5 days, and each day will bring a new set of apps — now’s the perfect time to put those Play Store gift cards to use, I’d say. We’ll be reminding you of the new set of apps each day so be sure to come back for the latest. Happy shopping! [Google Play Store]

ASUS: Jelly Bean for Transformer Pad Infinity and Transformer Prime coming soon

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 07:52 AM PDT

After announcing the rollout of Android 4.1 for the Transformer Prime (TF201) in Sweden yesterday, ASUS has made a more generalized announcement saying to expect the update soon. Along with the Prime, ASUS also announced that the Transformer Pad Infinity (TF700) would receive Jelly Bean in the coming days. The announcement comes by way of the company’s Facebook profile and was posted earlier this morning along with a note to keep an eye on the page for further updates.

ASUS has done a remarkable job of keeping their lineup of Android tablets up to date with frequent software updates, even if the Jelly Bean push may have taken a month or two longer than most would have liked. We’ll forgive them, in this case. The tablet maker did just devote four months to developing the world’s first Android 4.1 tablet, after all.

[via ASUS]

Image of T-Mobile-branded HTC One X+ surfaces

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 07:22 AM PDT

We’ve heard plenty about the HTC One X+ over the past couple months. The phone is slated to be an upgraded version of the original One X with such enhanced features as an upgraded processor and HTC Sense 4.5. Now the evleaks Twitter has provided us with a look at the device with T-Mobile branding. The image doesn’t come with any big reveals, but does show that the phone indeed mirrors the original One X in terms of design.

We still have no word on a launch date, and the latest rumors have the phone delayed, perhaps indefinitely (at least for TMo). There is a chance T-Mobile has cancelled plans for the device entirely, but given that a branded version exists it seems more likely that the carrier at the very least is still entertaining the idea.

[via TMoNews]

Texas Instruments to shift focus from mobile, OMAP on the way out

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 06:41 AM PDT

Losing precious ground to the likes of Qualcomm, NVIDIA, and device manufacturers choosing to develop their own processors rather than purchase them from a third party, Texas Instruments has announced that they are backing out of the smartphone and tablet market as they refocus their chip production efforts. Instead, TI will shift attention towards industrial clients, including carmakers, with the hope to create a better bottom line for the business. Investors don’t seem to agree, as shares fell 3 precent in light of TI providing no real roadmap for how the company plans to move forward.

While the chipmaker will continue to support its current hardware partners, TI says they will significantly reduce their investment in future smartphones and tablets, likely spelling an end to the OMAP series of processors as we know it. While OMAP chips will continue to exist in one for or another, they won’t be powering our smartphones and tablets much longer. No specific timeframe was given for the pullback, however.

[via Reuters]

Samsung says remote wipe hack already addressed in recent Galaxy S3 update

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 05:15 AM PDT

A malicious hack that uses a USSD exploit to remotely wipe Samsung handets running the custom TouchWiz interface has already been resolved for at least one smartphone, according to the Korean manufacturer. Samsung released a statement saying the vulnerability has already been addressed with a recent update to the Galaxy S3 and is urging users to update their phones to the latest official software build.

“We would like to assure our customers that the recent security issue concerning the GALAXY S III has already been resolved through a software update. We recommend all GALAXY S III customers to download the latest software update, which can be done quickly and easily via the Over-The-Air (OTA) service.”

Samsung made no mention of a security patch for other handsets affected by the exploit, which include the Galaxy S II, Galaxy Ace, and Galaxy Advance. We expect updates will arrive shortly to address the issue for those devices.

[via TechCrunch]
Posted by at 8:48 AM

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