Sunday, September 9, 2012

Android Phone Fans

Android Phone Fans

New image and specs for the AT&T LG Escape (Leak)

Posted: 08 Sep 2012 06:48 PM PDT

The LG Escape seems to be unable to escape from leaks and rumors. This devices was first leaked last week, where we found this AT&T 4G LTE smartphone could be a good options. The specs seemed great, but it seems the last rumor may have been a bit wrong (or maybe this one is).

We now have a clearer image from our friends at EVLeaks, who have been bringing us some great leaks for a while now. They are also reporting the following specs: 4.3-inch qHD IPS display, 1.2 GHz dual-core processor, 5 MP/1.3 MP cameras, NFC, 4G LTE, a 2150 mAh battery and Android 4.0. Past rumored specs also include 1 GB of RAM, which sounds reasonable.

Not a bad option for AT&T users! We wouldn’t necessarily consider it a high-end smartphone anymore, but it is close enough and should be kept an eye on. We certainly will, so stay tuned and we’ll let you know more as soon as more details emerge!

[Via: EV Leaks (Twitter)]

Kindle Fire HD – will we be able to opt-out of Special Offers or not?! Apparently so, and for $15 (Update!)

Posted: 08 Sep 2012 06:22 PM PDT


Amazon’s Special Offers in the Kindle Fire HD variants has brought upon a great deal of angry customers. This makes sense as they are a bit intrusive, but it seems what upsets users more is uncertainty. Amazon representatives said that there would be an option to opt-out of these ads, and later other representatives said it would not be possible. So will we be able to or not?

Tech Crunch is now reporting that opting out of these pesky ads will, indeed, be an option. This will cost customers $15, and it will get rid of lock-screen and bottom-page ads for life.

“We know from our Kindle reader line that customers love our special offers and very few people choose to opt out. We're happy to offer customers the choice.”

Sadly, we are still a bit wary about believing this, since multiple Amazon has been informing many sites that opting out of said advertisements will simply not be possible. And Tech Crunch isn’t clear about the origin of this information, which they claim to be an announcement.

But who knows, maybe Amazon simply had a change of heart. Let’s hope this one is true! Also, don’t forget to check out our hands-on video. That little tab is not shabby at all for that price!

Update: Engadget confirms

So it seems the guys at Engadget have also received word on the matter and users will, indeed, be able to opt-out of Special Offers by paying a one-time $15 fee. This will come as a relief to many of you, and it is great Amazon is at least giving us an option. Even though many of you don’t mind them.

“I wanted to let you know that with Kindle Fire HD there will be a special offers opt-out option for $15. We know from our Kindle reader line that customers love our special offers and very few people choose to opt out. We’re happy to offer customers the choice.”

[Via: Tech Crunch, Engadget]

Sony Xperia Tablet S now available, will you bite?

Posted: 08 Sep 2012 05:38 PM PDT


Sony was not the best Android tablet manufacturer last year, but the company now holds power over its mobile department (previously known as Ericsson) and aims to turn it all around. The Sony Xperia Tablet S was announced at IFA 2012 with a slightly better, yet similar design and better specs. But just in case you missed it, the tablet was released yesterday, September 7, in the US.

The Xperia Tablet S comes with a 1.4 GHz quad-core Tegra 3 processor, 1 GB of RAM, Android 4.0 and a 9.4-inch display; all for $399 for the base version. It won’t win any awards with those specs, but it should be a great tab for many users. What is quite remarkable is the accessories Sony is offering for this device.

I personally love the docking stand; it gives the tablet a very nice touch of elegance. And that case with an integrated keyboard will definitely make some of you more productive. Honestly, these accessories impressed me more than the tablet itself.

Regardless, this is just a heads up. You can now get these from both Sony.com and Amazon.com, so head over there and check them out if interested. For some reason we don’t see these flying off the shelves, though. Sony seems to continue having too much competition and not enough of a “wow” factor.

Is it a good tablet? sure, at least on paper it is. But there are definitely many options when we look at tablets with similar specs and prices. So what do you guys think – will you be signing up for Sony? If so, why? Is it the unique form-factor? Is it the cool accessories? Do you simply like Sony’s tablets? Let us know in the comments!

Rumor: Verizon set to release HTC Desire 4G LTE

Posted: 08 Sep 2012 04:48 PM PDT


HTC’s Desire brand is usually attached to international devices. These tend to receive a different name when offered in the US, but if the latest leak proves to be true, Verizon could be releasing a device with the Desire moniker.

The leaked document names this rumored device the HTC Desire 4G LTE, and it doesn’t seem to be related with any current or upcoming devices coming to Big Red. It is suggested that this could be a low-to-mid-end device, as it does not carry the DROID branding. Now, having the DROID branding doesn’t mean a device will be high-end, but DROIDs are usually given the spotlight and tend to be of more importance. We must keep in mind that this could also change when/if the smartphone is released, though.

We have no details about the device (other than the fact that it will have 4G LTE connectivity), but we will definitely be keeping an eye on this one. It would be exciting to see this become a good option for Verizon subscribers, but it might also be just another version of one of HTC’s current phones. Let’s just hope it is something worth “desiring.”

[Via: Engadget]

Samsung says Android’s multi-touch isn’t as good as iOS’, Apple says it is

Posted: 08 Sep 2012 04:25 PM PDT


Just when you think these patent lawsuits are starting to calm down, more drama comes around. Samsung and Apple are now going at it in the Netherlands, disputing over “touch event model” multi-touch software – it basically stops users from accidentally tapping two buttons at once. According to Apple, Samsung has taken iOS’ functionality to use it on its own devices. Samsung disagrees, and throws a statement that may make Android fans raise an eyebrow.

As a cry during desperate times, Samsung claims that Android’s multi-touch software simply isn’t as good as that of iOS. Samsung’s lawyers state that Android’s solution is more “hierarchical,” making it harder for developers to use it. In addition, Apple’s solution works on an OS level, while Android’s takes care of the problem in the application level.

This suggests that Samsung believes Android to be inferior (in this sense) and more complex. Any company would be flattered to hear this, but Apple wants to win and begs to differ (talk about reverse psychology). Apple’s lawyers go on to mention that Samsung does not have a lesser solution for a multiple input “conflict situation.”

Samsung then states that Apple was not the inventor of this technology, giving two examples of prior art that is very similar to both companies’ solutions. One being DiamondTouch, which allows multiple users to operate a touch-based table at the same time, and the second being software synthesizers, which can ignore certain keystrokes while using a keyboard.

Once again, Apple disagrees. DiamondTouch’s solution is meant for multiple users, not just one. And software synthesizers are not applying this technology to a touch-screen, so to this is simply unrelated to the Cuppertino Giant. (Seriously, this sounds like two kids arguing with their mother over who is right and wrong).

This is only one patent lawsuit, and as you can expect, there are many more happening as we speak. If you would like to know how this one concludes, stay tuned for October 24, when judgement is scheduled to be delivered. A ban could halt Samsung’s sales in all of Europe, as the Netherlands is where the company’s distribution center is located. So yeah… this is a big one.

[Via: PC World]

Should Barnes & Noble leave Android to make a Windows 8 Nook tablet?

Posted: 08 Sep 2012 03:13 PM PDT


Rumors of a new tablet from Barnes & Noble are starting to circle the internet, with an announcement said to come by late September. This is no surprise, as we are getting close to a year since the NOOK Tablet’s release. Speculations seem to favor the probability of this new tablet being a Windows 8 device, though, which is much more shocking.

Microsoft and Barnes & Noble have been getting very cozy since the first-mentioned company decided to invest $605 million to step into the e-reader and college business. After the fact, it would not surprise us one bit if something like this took place.

Barnes & Noble has been a relatively important player in the Android ecosystem since the release of the NOOK Color. The book retailer more recently released the NOOK Tablet, which competed directly with the original Kindle Fire. But the 7-inch Android tablet market is getting fierce – could switching the whole focus of their devices be Barnes & Noble’s best bet?

We now have devices like the Nexus 7 competing with other affordable tablets. Odds are Apple will also be launching that rumored iPad Mini. With these on the table, even Amazon and its new Kindle Fire HD tablets are seeing a bit of a rough road ahead.

Arguably, Barnes and Noble could be making a smart move by shifting their focus and aiming to a whole other audience in order to compete. The rumored NOOK device would be released around October, meaning there would be very few other Windows 8 competitors. Most probably with higher prices, making this affordable device stand out.

We have taken Android to a whole new level, where it is much harder for any smaller company to compete. We have grown as Android enthusiasts, and so have our demands. This leaves Barnes & Noble with very few options; this tablet could be dirt cheap or it could be substantially superior to the competition. Both options being very hard to accomplish.

As an Android fan, it would be sad to see any company leave the platform, but can we blame them? After all, these businesses have to look out for their interest and the continuation of their brands. Especially for a business like Barnes & Noble, which has been suffering with the hit physical book purchases have taken. The company is simply not in a position to risk too much.

Remember, though, nothing is official just yet. We will have to wait until an announcement to say for sure. This is simply a topic that could be interesting to bring to the table and discuss with our readers. And it doesn’t only relate to Barnes & Noble, many companies are finding themselves in equally challenging situations lately. The larger Android manufacturers have simply become too strong.

Without further ado, we would like to see what you guys think of this. Would you be upset if Barnes & Noble switched sides? Am I simply crazy and you think the company still has much room to expand in this market?

[Via: Digital Trends]

Download: Official Android 4.1 leaks for the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 and Note 10.1

Posted: 08 Sep 2012 01:51 PM PDT


If you have been rocking that shiny new Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 or Galaxy Note 10.1, you are still stuck on Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich. That is, if you haven’t gone the hacking route and flashed a custom ROM yet. Sometimes that is simply not the best option for many users, though, and flashing an official build may be more comforting.

The guys at SamMobile have managed to get a hold of some leaked official builds for both tablets, and they are ready for your downloading and flashing pleasure. Remember these are not final versions of the update, so they will likely come with a few bugs. But of course, it can’t be fun without a little risk.

Just remember that tinkering with your device may void your warranty or affect your device, so do your research and proceed at your own risk. The Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 leak brings you to version P3100DDBLI1, while the Note 10.1 build number is N8000DDALI1. Both are Android 4.1.1.

Before flashing, make sure to be on stock build P3100DDBLH3 for the Tab 2 7.0 and N8000DDALH1 for the Note 10.1. If you are set with that, you can go ahead and follow SamMobile’s instructions and enjoy your Jelly Bean goodness!


Galaxy Note II could come in a dual-SIM variant

Posted: 08 Sep 2012 12:13 PM PDT

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An interesting find today: the Samsung Galaxy Note II might come in a dual SIM variant, although currently it sounds like it might be available only in China. As you can see in the image above, there are 2 SIM slots unlike the handset most journalists got a hand on at IFA.

Dual SIM capability is quite a popular feature in developing countries like China and India, though I haven’t quite understood the real benefit of it. Is there anyone out there who’d love to get a flagship smartphone with dual SIM? Do let us know in the comments, and in particular the reason you want the feature.

[MyDrivers via Engadget]

Kindle Fire HD LTE hasn’t been cleared by FCC yet

Posted: 08 Sep 2012 11:45 AM PDT

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Amazon’s Kindle Fire HD LTE might already be available on pre-order, with shipping set for late November, but it’s still to get one important certification without which the product cannot actually be put into customer hands: an FCC certification. Due to regulations, Amazon can’t actually publicize the LTE version without a disclaimer, which they have put on their site albeit, like all disclaimers, it’s not difficult to miss.

It’s very unlikely that Amazon won’t get the certification in time, but from the following passage on Electronista, it looks like Amazon’s broken a rule by offering the device on pre-order before they have the clearance, though I must admit the disclaimer’s wordings puts it heavily in the grey area.

Mitchell Lazarus, FCC approval expert at law form Fletcher, Heald & Hildreth said companies cannot cannot accept orders and payments from retail customers prior to FCC approval. Wholesale orders can be accepted from retailers, but the same shipment prohibition applies.

[Electronista]

Samsung couldn’t put a 13 MP camera on the Note II because of Sony’s production issues

Posted: 08 Sep 2012 10:13 AM PDT

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The Note II’s already got some amazing specs, but on the one front that some might have been disappointed has been Samsung putting “only” an 8MP shooter on it. That’s primarily because the rumors pointed towards the possibility of a 12 or 13 megapixel camera. IntoMobile is reporting today that the decision wasn’t really about cutting costs or something, but rather an issue on Sony’s side, with the Japanese CE giant unable to provide sufficient CMOS sensors to Samsung.
[IntoMobile]

Jeff Bezos gives Android the credit it deserves

Posted: 08 Sep 2012 09:22 AM PDT

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I still remember when the Kindle Fire was still nothing more than a rumor, every blogger who wanted to see the end of Android  (*cough* MG Siegler *cough*) spoke of how Amazon was about to not just put a fork on the OS, but also end up stabbing it to it’s death. That never happened, and if I were to argue I’d say it probably strengthened the Android tablet market even if just slightly by giving OEMs a model to follow to register big sales numbers, while at the same time encouraging developers to create apps for the bigger devices.

The explanation these bloggers gave was that Amazon was feeding off Google’s hard-work, and they are. Jeff Bezos admitted it himself, and has given credit where its due.

Android is accomplishing everything that Amazon needs it to and, at the same time, giving the company flexibility to customize things. We treat Android like Linux, and so it's a base OS layer. We have a large dedicated team that customizes Android and that's what you see on the Kindle Fire.

The Kindle Fire’s success is Android’s success, even if not to the same degree as that of the Nexus 7. Of course, the issue with these bloggers is that they think that Google wasn’t aware of the possibility of this happening. Most of them never seem to get Android nor the openness behind it. Or, the simpler, clearer explanation, they just don’t want to remove their rose-tinted glasses.

[Talk Android]

Federal Judge turns away Apple protests, HTC patents likely to stand

Posted: 08 Sep 2012 07:59 AM PDT

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I hate writing about patent news, but I can’t deny that every time I come across something positive for an Android OEM a part of me wants to cheer them on in their battle. This time, it’s HTC that brings us some good tidings, with the Federal Judge in their lawsuit against Apple turning away the Cupertino-based company’s claims that the patents in question should be invalidated because HTC bought ADC Telecommunications Inc with the sole purpose to use the IP aggressively. I guess the law book that they have states that it’s OK when they do it, but not the other way around.

Thankfully, Judge Thomas Pender has decided to keep the case moving forward, saying:

"I don't care if they bought these patents to sue you or not. They are a property right. Clear and convincing means something to me. I have to be pretty darn certain a U.S. patent is invalid."

The lawsuit primarily centers around LTE technology, which HTC claims they are a pioneer in since they brought the first LTE-enabled touchscreen devices to the US and that 4G was central to their entire 2011 strategy. Since LTE is a standard, there’s always the issue of the patents falling the in the FRAND category and it seems highly unlikely Apple would face an import ban on the iPad and the upcoming iPhone.

I hope they good money for it, though. If Samsung devices looking like Apple’s, or having slide-to-unlock or overscroll-effects cost Apple $1 billion in terms of revenue, then I’m pretty damn certain LTE on Apple devices cost/will cost HTC as much, if not more.

[Talk Android]

AT&T Galaxy Note 2 Confirmed In Leaked Screenshots – Release Imminent

Posted: 07 Sep 2012 09:58 PM PDT

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Alright, so we just got done telling you guys about a leaked system dump from a purported AT&T Samsung Galaxy Note 2 and now some screenshots from the SGH-I317 have slipped out, with our friends at Brief Mobile nabbing the exclusive (they have a very cooperative Samsung tipster).

We had little-to-no-doubt the device would eventually make its way to AT&T (international frequency bands mostly match AT&T’s) but what’s interesting is Samsung’s quad-core Exynos 4412 is seemingly intact. No dual-core Qualcomm to be found. Remember, the last Note (and even the Galaxy S3) had to switch to a Qualcomm chip for compatibility with AT&T’s 4G LTE. Looks like Samsung patched everything up in their latest quad-core.

There’s a handful of screenshots showing specs for the Note — 1280×720 resolution, Android 4.1.1, etc. — along with benchmarks. The device scored a respectable 5912 in Quadrant, and ATuTu gave it a 13551 (higher than even the Galaxy S3). Nothing we haven’t really seen before.

When it came to a release date the source couldn’t pin one down, saying only to expect it “soon.” Guess we wont have to wait much longer for an official announcement but with the Samsung Galaxy Note 2 already leaked for T-Mobile, Sprint, and now AT&T — who will be first?
Posted by at 8:04 AM

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