Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Google Android News Android Forums

Google Android News Android Forums

Could Google’s new Gesture Typing keyboard show up as standalone app in Google Play Store?

Posted: 30 Oct 2012 05:08 PM PDT

Earlier today some folks discovered apk files for Google’s “Gesture Typing” keyboard. As you may recall, Gesture Typing is a new feature included in the Android 4.2 Jelly Bean update. The new functionality provides an input method similar to Swype, letting users glide their fingers from letter to letter on the keyboard instead of having to tap the letters.

According to reports, two different versions methods to install the keyboard were available. One was a plain apk file that could be loaded directly onto a device as long as one was running one of the many manufacturer’s UI layers like TouchWiz or HTC Sense. Those running a device with a plain or stock Android install, had to go through the additional steps of rooting their device then flashing the keyboard onto the device.

Common to both versions of the keyboard was success in installing and using the keyboard on devices running at least Android 4.0 or higher. Since the news broke, Google appears to be in the process of asking anyone providing the files to take them down, claiming the keyboard is unfinished software.

It is not clear whether the keyboard was ever meant to be a standalone app that could be installed outside of Android 4.2. Now that so many people have seen it and unfinished versions are floating in the wild, we may see it show up in the Google Play Store as an app similar to the standalone calendar app that Google recently made available.

source: Android Police

[Video] Banned iPad Mini promo spot released on YouTube

Posted: 30 Oct 2012 01:20 PM PDT

Yesterday we reported on Amazon’s shot at the iPad Mini on the Amazon homepage via a comparison to the Kindle Fire HD. This came after last week’s big reveal of the iPad Mini by Apple. We now learn that a video exists that probably could be used by Apple to fend off the potshots and jokes floating around targeting the small tablet.

Well, maybe not. Dubbed a “banned” iPad Mini promo spot, the short video by John Elerick provides a quick escape from our serious work to enjoy some humor at Apple’s expense. Hit the break and take a few minutes to enjoy the video.

Click here to view the embedded video.

via: Phandroid

AMD announces ARM-based processors, will possibly run data centers in 2014

Posted: 30 Oct 2012 12:45 PM PDT

I think we’re all well aware of the advancements and power of the latest microprocessors in devices these days. My realization came when Tegra 3- based games starting to roll out looking very much like the console games I’ve been playing for years, not to mention the Android-powered satellites and the in flight entertainment system on Boeing’s new super-jet, the 787.  It’s almost unbelievable what these tiny processor are capable of.

Given the power and potential of the tiny processors, today AMD announced that it’ll begin development of chips based on the designs of ARM chips, similar to the ones used in mobile devices. Since these chips consume less power, AMD says the new chips will be very efficient and offer a way for customers to cut the costs of running a data center by reducing power consumption and cooling needs. So, you can see the draw of the tiny processors given the huge cost-savings they’ll be capable of in data centers.

Once a power player in the technology industry, this new move couldn’t come at a better time with AMD’s struggling sales and margins. This move would immediately provide a new competitive advantage over their rival Intel since Intel doesn’t currently sell microprocessors based on ARM designs. You’ve got to think that this move will provide a boost in sales, if successful, while also reducing shipping costs thus adding even more to the bottom line. AMD aims to have the chips available by 2014.

 

source:  The Wall Street Journal

 

 

MetroPCS hits the 1 million LTE customer mark, makes $193 million profit in third quarter

Posted: 30 Oct 2012 11:58 AM PDT

In news that I’m sure will be pleasing to T-Mobile, MetroPCS has hit the one million mark in subscribed LTE customers (about 11% of its customers) and have also turned a profit of $193 million, even though they lost over 300,000 customers in the third quarter. How does one manage to turn such a profit while losing so many customers? MetroPCS credits “cash-saving exercises”, timely investments, and reducing a top priority of cell companies – churn. I’m sure a lot of MetroPCS and T-Mobile customers alike are wondering what the merger has in store for them. Hopefully it’ll end up benefitting the customer in some form or fashion.

source:  MetroPCS

Matias Duarte, Android’s Director of User Experience, answers important Nexus questions

Posted: 30 Oct 2012 11:39 AM PDT

Living in this day and age definitely has its perks. Whereas 10 years ago we’d never be able to interact with engineers and designers of the products we use, these days it’s relatively easy. Take Matias Duarte, for example. Android’s Director of User Experience took to Google+ to tackle fans’ burning questions regarding the newly announced Nexus products.

One question he addressed first was about the new system button placement on Android 4.2 tablets. If you’ve noticed, Google has thrown out the old system/notification bar of older tablets and instead have incorporated a Nexus 7-like experience. This was an obvious move to keep user experience consistent when switching amongst devices, which I happen to be a fan of. Part of brand loyalty is knowing exactly what to expect no matter which device you pick up. Bravo, Google.

Another issue he took on may be of interest to a lot of you. Why no SD card on Nexus devices? In Matias’ own words, he addresses that below:

Everybody likes the idea of having an SD card, but in reality it’s just confusing for users. If you're saving photos, videos or music, where does it go? Is it on your phone? Or on your card? Should there be a setting? Prompt every time? What happens to the experience when you swap out the card? It's just too complicated.

There you  have it. It’s all about streamlining the user experience and possibly making the Nexus brand more appealing to the casual crowd. Probably not the worst business decision.

source:  +Matias Duarte

LG Spectrum 2 now available on Verizon for $99

Posted: 30 Oct 2012 11:11 AM PDT

 

LG announced the Spectrum 2 available today on Verizon for $99 with a two-year contract. The Spectrum sequel gets bumped up to a 4.7-inch True HD IPS 720p display, sports a dual-core 1.5GHz processor Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 , 8-megapixel rear camera, and 16GB of internal storage with a microSD slot. If those specs sound familiar it’s because this is the same phone leaked by Best Buy last week.

The Spectrum 2 doesn’t quite measure up to LG’s quad-core Optimus G or Nexus 4 but at $99 your wallet won’t mind too much. Unlike the Nexus 4, it won’t run Android 4.2 just yet in favor of Ice Cream Sandwich, but it can take advantage of Verizon’s market-leading LTE network.

Full Press Release after the break

BASKING RIDGE and ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, N.J., Oct. 30, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — Verizon Wireless and LG Electronics USA today announced the Spectrum™ 2 by LG.  Exclusively for Verizon Wireless, the Spectrum 2 by LG will be available online on Oct. 30 at www.verizonwireless.com and will be in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores in the coming weeks for $99.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate with a new two-year customer agreement.

The Spectrum 2 by LG creates a unique wireless experience thanks to an ecosystem of features and accessories, allowing customers to avoid cables.  The unique battery cover allows wireless charging, and it’s included at no additional cost.  Contacts, maps and websites can be shared wirelessly using near-field communications (NFC), by tapping two compatible phones together.  NFC can also be used with the included reprogrammable LG Tag+ stickers to create special smartphone modes for the office, home or car by tapping the stickers with the Spectrum 2 by LG.  SmartShare also makes it possible to wirelessly view pictures and watch videos on a DLNA-enabled device.

The 4.7-inch True HD display will make the Spectrum 2 by LG stand out by enhancing the viewing experience when streaming movies, playing games and browsing the Web.  The HD display, paired with Corning® Gorilla® Glass, delivers vivid and accurate colors, crisp, sharp text and clear images.  Apps such as viewdini , make it easier than ever to find TV shows and movies that users can enjoy right on their Spectrum 2 by LG.   Football fans will also be able to take advantage of the screen combined with 4G LTE speeds to watch live games for an unrivaled viewing experience.

The Spectrum 2 by LG helps to capture precious moments with its 8-megapixel camera and then takes it a step farther with its Advanced Image Editor and Video Wiz features.  With these features, customers will have an editing studio in their hands to crop, rotate and add effects to photos and other multimedia documents that they can then share with friends over 4G LTE.  The 1.3-megapixel front-facing camera allows customers to video chat with friends and family to easily stay in touch from virtually anywhere.  Additional camera features include 1080p HD video recording, Intelligent Panorama Shot and Time Catch Shot to take photos before pressing the shutter button.

Accessorize and Protect

LG Premium Sleeve with Smart Display – provides protection and displays notifications on the screen to show the number of missed calls, text messages, emails and voicemails.  Customers can also customize the clock styles that are displayed when the Spectrum 2 by LG is inserted in the sleeve.  The Premium sleeve will be available in stores and online at www.verizonwireless.com for $24.99.
Additional Features:

  • Wireless charging capabilities thanks to the unique battery cover included in the box
  • 4.7-inch True HD Advanced High Performance (AH) In-Plane-Switching (IPS) display
  • Global Ready™ so customers can have voice and data service in more than 220 countries
  • Android™ 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich
  • Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Krait 1.5 GHz dual-core processor
  • Mobile Hotspot to share a 4G LTE connection with up to 10 Wi-Fi-enabled devices
  • 16 GB of internal storage (formatted capacity is less) with microSD memory card support of up to 32 GB
  • QuickMemo™ allows customers to capture screenshots and add their own personalized commentary or drawings with a finger
  • Bluetooth® Version 4.0

Pricing and Availability:

 

The Spectrum 2 by LG will be available online at www.verizonwireless.com starting Oct. 30 for $99.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate with a new two-year customer agreement.   Customers receive the rebate in the form of a debit card; upon receipt, customers may use the card as cash anywhere debit cards are accepted.
For additional information on Verizon Wireless products and services, visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or go to www.verizonwireless.com .

 

Droid World heads to San Francisco this February 2013

Posted: 30 Oct 2012 10:29 AM PDT

Leading Android developers, Google Android representatives, handset manufacturers and operators will be appearing on Apps World's Droid World stage early next year at the world famous Moscone Center in San Francisco, California delivering valuable developer advice and ideas around the world's most popular smartphone OS.

Some of the industry's most successful developers will there to shed light on their creative, technical and business processes in open, interactive workshops where attendees will be encouraged to suggest discussion topics, debate and collaborate.

This year Apps World North America will be showcasing 6 niche workshop tracks, including Droid World, covering areas including Mobile Marketing & Advertising, Gaming & Web Apps, HTML 5, Mobile Payments NFC, TV & Multiscreen Apps, and Automotive Apps.

More info: Agenda / Register / Venue Info / What’s new for 2013

 

ZTE announces $160 Quad-Core Tegra 3 smartphone

Posted: 30 Oct 2012 09:49 AM PDT

ZTE, whose website proclaims is the world’s 4th largest manufacturer, announced the cheapest quad-core smartphone yet. The ZTE U950 packs a 1.3GHz NVIDIA Tegra 3 quad-core processor and 1GB of RAM but its most impressive spec is the 999 yuan price (approximately $160 USD).

The low-priced Android device comes with a 4.3-inch display and is only 9mm-thick. It will have Ice Cream Sandwich at launch but appears to have the specs to support Jelly Bean. It has a 2,000 mAh battery, 5 megapixel rear camera and VGA front facing camera. No word on expandable storage or if the battery is removable.

The first 100,000 people to register on the U950 sign-up page will get to order the device starting November 11th. This is a China release only but might be precursor of what ZTE is planning for other markets. It hasn’t exactly set the US market on fire but an unlocked sub $200 quad-core device would certainly make a splash.

 

Source: TechnoBuffalo

My Car Salon gets a Spooky Halloween Makeover

Posted: 30 Oct 2012 08:52 AM PDT

A lot of games are adding Halloween themed updates and My Car Salon is no exception. My Car Salon, created by Animoca, is a time-management game for car lovers. Characters such as Ratchet, Socket, Hammer, and Torque can now dress up like a ghoul, bat, pumpkin, monster, or other silly costumes. This update also includes an eerie new level involving ghosts and goblins that have taken over the repair shop.

Chances are you have already played My Car Salon since it has been downloaded over 2 million times. If not, and you’re looking for something new that includes the spirit of Halloween, then check it out because it’s available now and it’s free. Hit the break for a quick demo video, download links, and the press release.

 

Click here to view the embedded video.

 

QR Code generator

Play Store Download Link

 

My Car Salon Gets a Spooky Halloween Makeover

Animoca updates its popular time-management game on Google Play

Hong Kong – October 30, 2012 – What better way to celebrate Halloween than by turning your auto repair shop into a Haunted House? Animoca (www.animoca.com), a leading developer and publisher of mobile games and edutainment apps for global audiences, today announced a special Halloween-themed update to My Car Salon, its popular time-management game for car lovers. The new update is now available for free on Google Play.

Join Ratchet, Socket, Hammer, Torque and other popular characters as they celebrate this Halloween by dressing in ghoul, bat, pumpkin, monster or other spooky or silly Halloween costumes. Plus, find out who dressed up as iconic international superstars. The update also includes an eerie new level, in which the repair shop has been turned into a Haunted House and overtaken by terrifying ghosts and goblins. Play it at your own risk!

Despite the festive atmosphere, there's still work to do, as players must race against the clock to service all the cars in the neighborhood and keep their customers happy. Do so, and you'll see more cars roll into your shop and more money roll into your cash register, allowing you to upgrade your equipment, hire more staff, and grow your business. But fall behind, and disgruntled customers will flee from your repair shop like bats out of…well, you get the idea.

Originally launched on Google Play in January, 2012, My Car Salon has been downloaded more than 2 million times to date and has reached the Top 10 in the Racing category in 14 different countries. It has an average rating of 4.2 stars and has been hailed by fans and critics alike as "fun" and "entertaining."

 

EA Need for Speed Most Wanted now available in Google Play Store

Posted: 30 Oct 2012 08:33 AM PDT

Earlier this month we reported on EA’s teaser video for the latest installment in their Need for Speed franchise – Need for Speed Most Wanted. Today, the game was released and is available in the Google Play Store for $6.99. The game enables you to drive over 35 different cars using either touch or tilt controls. By logging in to the Origin service, players can check out who is most wanted either across different platforms or just among your friends, then challenge them to a street-racing showdown. Adding to the pressure of the competition is a police force trying to put an end to your fun and games.

EA indicates Android 2.3.3 or higher is required. If you are interested in grabbing a copy, use one of the download links below.

QR Code generator
Google Play Download Link
Posted by at 6:04 AM

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