Android Central |
- Galaxy S2 4G coming to Boost Mobile in Titanium for $369.99
- Popular Science picks Google Now as the Innovation of the Year
- Chameleon Launcher gets a significant price reduction to $3.99
- Draw a Stickman: Epic brings a new drawing adventure to Android
- SkyDrive updated with SDcard uploads, feature improvements
- Huawei Ascend D1 Quad XL now available from WIND Mobile
- Facebook updated with improved sharing, photo albums
- Samsung Galaxy S2 Android 4.1.2 test firmware leaks
- Catch the Android Central Podcast live tonight!
- Adobe Photoshop Touch now available on Amazon Kindle Fires
- Shadowgun: DeadZone multiplayer game exits beta
- AppRiver's CipherPost Pro offers users secure, encrypted email
- Nexus 4 backorder e-mails go out en masse
- Samsung Galaxy S2 4G available from Virgin Mobile USA today
- HTC DLX leaks come full circle with the international 'Deluxe'
- Cogs, Canabalt, Zen Bound 2 and more added to Android Humble Bundle
- Unlock the hidden 'BeanFlinger' daydream in Android 4.2
- Verizon Droid DNA unboxing
- Early Galaxy S3 Android 4.1.2 firmware leaks, multi-view feature in tow
- AT&T LTE lights up Twin Cities
- Google launches global augmented reality game Ingress, invite-only for now
- Amazon opens Cloud Drive to Japanese users
- Android dominates China with 90% market share
- Amazon Kindle Fire HD 8.9-inch ships today, 4G version next week
- Deal of the Day: Cruzerlite Persona Case for Samsung Galaxy Nexus
| Galaxy S2 4G coming to Boost Mobile in Titanium for $369.99 Posted: 15 Nov 2012 05:02 PM PST
We saw a leaked press render of a Galaxy S2 "Titanium" coming to Sprint just a couple weeks ago, which was reaffirmed by a device roadmap leak as well. Now we're getting an idea for where the device is headed, and it looks to be coming to Sprint's prepaid options. Boost Mobile is picking up this color-refreshed Galaxy SII (S2) for the holiday season. It's the same S2 we've seen dozens of times before, this time just with a new skin around the outside. This model is given the "4G" moniker because it packs Sprint's legacy WiMax radios, which have since been passed down to Boost and VIrgin Mobile. The Galaxy S2 is hitting Boost Mobile retail stores for $369.99 without a contract, with monthly bills as low as $40 per month. If this sounds like your kind of thing, the device is available starting today. 
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| Popular Science picks Google Now as the Innovation of the Year Posted: 15 Nov 2012 04:27 PM PST
Since its launch alongside Android 4.1 Jelly Bean back at Google IO in the summer, Google Now has become an intriguing, and in some cases integral part of every day life. Android nerds aren't the only ones to take a shine to the service either it seems, with Popular Science naming it as the Innovation of the Year. Make no mistake, this is an impressive accolade to receive. Google Now finds itself among such distinguished company as the digital camera, the Large Hadron Collider and follows on as the second Google service to receive the honor after Google Maps. In naming Google Now as the winner, Popular Science editor-in-chief, Jacob Ward, even took a slight swipe at Apple's Siri in the process:
Google Now is still in the early days, and as promised at Google IO during the unveiling, we're expecting to see much more from it as time goes on. To see more, click on past the break for a video on the award, starring Jacob Ward. Source: Popular Science via Phonearena 
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| Chameleon Launcher gets a significant price reduction to $3.99 Posted: 15 Nov 2012 03:47 PM PST
Following a successful Kickstarter campaign, Chameleon Launcher made public release into the Google Play Store priced at $10. It's predominantly widget based UI is a different take on how a tablet homescreen should look and feel, but make no mistake, $10 is a lot to pay for any app. As such, download numbers -- at least on Play Store figures anyway -- remain quite low. However, anyone who ever wanted to try it out but couldn't justify the price now has an opportunity. The price of the application has been reduced to just $3.99, still a premium price, but a lot more reasonable than previously. It's unclear as to whether this is a limited time sale or a new, more permanent price point. And, if you're still undecided, be sure to check out our review first, before parting with any cash. 
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| Draw a Stickman: Epic brings a new drawing adventure to Android Posted: 15 Nov 2012 03:44 PM PST
You know those games that seem to crop up every now and then that are just a little bit different from everything else out there? The games that make you think 'Wow, that's cool!'. Draw a Stickman: Epic is one of them. To start off the game, you must draw a stickman. From there, your adventure throughout depends entirely upon what you draw and you'll do plenty of it. Draw a Stickman: Epic has 13 levels and one bonus level that you can uncover. How you go about conquering each level, will determine how your next level will go. It'd liken it to a choose your own adventure book but only this time around, you get to draw the adventure. With almost every aspect of the levels within your control, it's an interesting game experience. Check out the video below to get a better look at it. If after that, you want to give it a go you'll find both a free limited version containing 5 levels as well as a paid version available in the Google Play Store for download. 
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| SkyDrive updated with SDcard uploads, feature improvements Posted: 15 Nov 2012 02:57 PM PST
Microsoft just announced updates to both its Android and Windows Phone versions of its SkyDrive app, which is their version of a consumer cloud storage solution. This latest update -- version 1.1 -- brings the ability for users to upload any file type to their SkyDrive directly from the SDcard, rather than only from internal storage. Additionally, Android users can now properly manage and rename folders, something that the iOS app already had. There are also new settings to manage photo uploads and downloads. Its good to see Microsoft work to support users on all platforms, rather than sticking to just Windows Phone. Supporting other platforms is often the only way to have a service gain traction nowadays. 
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| Huawei Ascend D1 Quad XL now available from WIND Mobile Posted: 15 Nov 2012 02:46 PM PST
Following up on the previously leaked promo from WIND Mobile that showed they'd be offering the device eventually, the Huawei Ascend D1 Quad XL has now arrived on the Canadian carrier. At the time of the leak, there was no mention of release date or pricing but now we can report that if you're looking to take one home, you better be prepared to hand over $499 outright. If that seems bit much, you can lower the buy-in cost by opting to get it for $99 on a WINDTab with the Unlimited Wish 40 plan or $349 with the Unlimited Wish 25 plan. Overall, it's a solid device and worth a look. Source: WIND via: Mobile Syrup 
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| Facebook updated with improved sharing, photo albums Posted: 15 Nov 2012 02:21 PM PST
Most people who use the Facebook app on a regular basis have somewhat of a love/hate relationship with it. While we continue to wait for a native app experience that would greatly improve performance, Facebook continues to roll out updates with basic feature enhancements. This latest one improves sharing and management of photos. Posts in the timeline now have big simple buttons across the bottom of them to "like", "comment" and "share" (where applicable) the post. Tapping the "share" button instantly puts you into an edit mode to re-share the post onto your own timeline. On the photo side, users can now create albums completely on the device when accessing the "photos" tab from the timeline, which is a welcomed addition. The update also improves photo tagging as well. The update is worth a download if you're using Facebook, so grab it at the Play Store link above. 
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| Samsung Galaxy S2 Android 4.1.2 test firmware leaks Posted: 15 Nov 2012 02:03 PM PST
Coming on the heels of a leaked build of Android 4.1.2 for the Samsung Galaxy SIII (S3), the folks over at SamMobile have published a leak of the software for the Galaxy SII (S2) as well. The Galaxy S2 just picked up ICS starting in April, and now its a bit of a surprise that we may see an official update to Jelly Bean as well. The firmware is supposedly quite stable, and seems to pack nearly all of the features that are coming to other Samsung devices with Android 4.1 -- Google Now, Project Butter, Smart Stay and new notifications are all on-board. One thing missing will be multi-view window management, which isn't surprising considering the lower resolution of the S2's display when compared to other recent 720x1280 devices. The firmware, which is software version I9300XXLSJ and Android build JZO54K, is available for willing participants now. You can take a look at the source link below if you're ready to get your hands on it. Source: SamMobile 
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| Catch the Android Central Podcast live tonight! Posted: 15 Nov 2012 01:15 PM PST
Heard any good Android stories lately? We've got a mountain to move tonight on Episode 116 of the Greatest Android Podcast in the World. We'll kick things off with the mess that's been the Google Play store and the launch of the Nexus 4 and Nexus 10. Then we'll pivot over to the new Verizon Droid DNA, and where it fits into our lives. (And whether the 5-inch display fits into our pockets.) Plus, don't forget that HTC and Apple have buried the patent hatchet (probably in a pile of money). Plus, more of your e-mails and voicemails! So join Phil and the gang -- and, of course, the chat room -- live tonight at 2 a.m. GMT / 9 p.m. EST / 6 p.m. PST for the live broadcast. You should be there. You will be there. You must be there. After all, you are what makes it the Greatest Android Podcast in the World. Not at a computer? Pick up the free UStream Viewer from Google Play [link] and search for Mobile Nations a little before the show (it won't appear until we go live). We'll see you there atAndroidCentral.com/live! 
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| Adobe Photoshop Touch now available on Amazon Kindle Fires Posted: 15 Nov 2012 01:08 PM PST
Right on time with the first shipments of the newest Amazon Kindle Fire HD, Adobe has announced that it has made its Photoshop Touch app available in the Amazon App Store for Kindle devices. The app is optimized for both 7 and 8.9-inch screens and will work on the entire Kindle Fire line, save for the original Fire (which likely isn't powerful enough). This app is every bit the same in usage as the one available in the Play Store today, and is now available for download in the Amazon App Store for $9.99 at the source link below. Source: Adobe; Amazon App Store 
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| Shadowgun: DeadZone multiplayer game exits beta Posted: 15 Nov 2012 01:08 PM PST
After a short beta period, Shadowgun: DeadZone is now free for everybody to play. The slick graphics and fast-paced third-person shooting action aren't the only things to look forward to; Shadowgun: DeadZone also has a research system in place so players can work towards new and innovative implements of destruction. Perks add a needed level of customizability, equipment and varying classes offer plenty of personalization, and with 12-player matches with voice support, you'll never be lacking for targets. It's free, though that also means you'll be prodded into making in-app purchases pretty regularly. For a game this slick, isn't it worth the nuisance, though? They are getting a little pushy and Battlefield 3-ish with a premium account up-sell. It looks like device compatibility is slightly limited... Were you able to install it successfully? How many of y'all played the beta? 
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| AppRiver's CipherPost Pro offers users secure, encrypted email Posted: 15 Nov 2012 01:05 PM PST
Great, enterprise-grade encrypted e-mail is not a small thing to accomplish. In nearly every case, you're looking at special hardware, software and management to keep everyone's private email... well, private. AppRiver is hoping to get around that by offering its own over-the-top secure encrypted email solution with an app its just released called CipherPost Pro. Instead of running your own back-end security system, the idea of CipherPost Pro is that you can use any email provider you'd like, and simply pay a subscription fee to use this app's encryption system. Features you'd expect like mail tracking, data loss protection and MDM (Mobile Device Management) integration are all on board. CipherPost Pro is compliant with industry security standard such as HIPAA, PSQIA, PCI DSS, Sarbanes-Oxley and more. You can take a look at CipherPost Pro in the Play Store at the link above. Source: AppRiver (BusinessWIre) 
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| Nexus 4 backorder e-mails go out en masse Posted: 15 Nov 2012 11:43 AM PST
Several users in our forums are reporting receiving emails that are making their hearts sink. Customers in both the U.S. and U.K. that were lucky enough to grab a Nexus 4 order before they sold out -- in less than 30 minutes -- in the Play Store are getting an email indicating that their devices are now "on backorder". The email explains that the customer should expect their device to be delivered within 3 weeks. This isn't good, folks. We don't know what this means for the eventual availability of a second run of Nexus 4's in the Play Store, but we think everyone's expectations just got pushed back a bit. Take a look at the email after the break. Source: Google Nexus 4 Forums 
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| Samsung Galaxy S2 4G available from Virgin Mobile USA today Posted: 15 Nov 2012 11:33 AM PST
As was initially announced back on November 8th, Virgin Mobile USA has now made the Samsung Galaxy SII (S2) available online and across their participating retail outlets and dealers. Customers looking to pick one up can do so starting today with the pricing set at $370. You will have to decide upon a color though as Virgin Mobile is offering the device in titanium and white. If you need a plan to go along with it, Virgin Mobile "Beyond Talk" plans start at $35 per month for unlimited messaging and data. You'll find the full press release below should you wish to peruse through it. More info: Virgin Mobile 
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| HTC DLX leaks come full circle with the international 'Deluxe' Posted: 15 Nov 2012 10:50 AM PST
We've seen the HTC Droid DNA and J Butterfly for the U.S. and Japan respectively. Now it seems HTC's monstrous 5-inch smartphone may be getting a wider international release in the future. The image above comes via notorious Twitter leaker @evleaks, who identifies it as a "global edition" of the "HTC Deluxe." You may remember the Deluxe or "DLX" codename from successive Droid DNA leaks over the past couple of months. There's no information on which territories might be seeing the phone but if it's GSM unlocked, it should work just about everywhere. Europe might be a likely target for a global version of the DLX, though HTC has only just released the One X+ on European shores. If the Verizon and Japanese versions are any indication, this handset should pack a quad-core Snapdragon S4 CPU, along with 2GB of RAM and a 5-inch, 1080p SuperLCD3 display. That's about as good as it gets at the moment in terms of smartphone specs. Anyone excited for a possible international version of such a beastly handset? Source: @evleaks 
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| Cogs, Canabalt, Zen Bound 2 and more added to Android Humble Bundle Posted: 15 Nov 2012 10:25 AM PST
If you haven't picked up on the charity-driven bundle of Android games that went live last week, maybe the addition of Cogs, Canabalt, Zen Bound 2, Swords & Soldiers HD, and Avadon: The Black Fortress will tempt you. Those that have got in on previous Humble Bundles will recognize these titles, though many of those announced initially with the Android Humble Bundle 4 aren't even on Google Play yet. Those first titles include Splice, Eufloria, Waking Mars, Machinarium, Crayon Physics Deluxe, and Superbrothers: Sword & Sworcery EP. Waking Mars looks especially cool, but really, they're all fantastic games. The catch with the new bonus games is that you have to pay more than the average donation price, which currently sits at $6.18. See, they have a pay-what-you-want structure here, and you get to pick how you want to split up your donation between devs, the Humble Bundle organizers, and charity. Where available, you'll also get Steam codes to play these games on your PC. There's also an Android app available to keep tabs on new bundles, get game updates, and download previous purchases. Head on over to Humble Bundle's site to get started. So, who's already got the bundle? What's your favorite game in it so far? 
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| Unlock the hidden 'BeanFlinger' daydream in Android 4.2 Posted: 15 Nov 2012 10:14 AM PST
Android 4.2's "daydreams" are neat little screensaver-like apps that can run when your phone or tablet is docked or charging. Out of the box, there are five stock daydreams available, but there's a hidden fifth one that's unlockable if you access the Jelly Bean "Easter egg" animation. As we first revealed back at Google I/O, tapping several times on the Android version number under Settings > About phone will bring up a large Jelly Bean smiley face. Hold down on that for a few seconds, and you'll be taken to a screen filled with even more happy beans. Once that's done, the "BeanFlinger" daydream will be unlocked. Find it with the rest under Settings > Display > Daydreams. This process should work on any Android 4.2 device that supports daydreams. Happy bean-flinging, folks. We've got video after the break. Thanks for the tip, @bsrubio! 
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| Posted: 15 Nov 2012 09:46 AM PST
OK, let's face it. For a lot of folks, the launch of a smartphone like the Verizon Droid DNA just isn't complete without an official unboxing. Ceremoniously peeling back layer after layer. Decorative packaging. Then box itself. All those legal and quick-start booklets that you never, ever read. A charger. A cable. If you're lucky, a set of earbuds. If you're really lucky, a set of earbuds that won't leave you wincing in pain, either from discomfort or horrible sound quality. And then, finally, the phone. You know, that thing you actually paid good money for. More: Check out our Droid DNA forumsThis Droid DNA unboxing should feel pretty familiar. Verizon's retail packaging hasn't changed. Same Droid eye staring at you, mercilessly, throughout the ritual. And so with that warning in hand, hit the break for our official Verizon Droid DNA unboxing video. Huzzah. 
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| Early Galaxy S3 Android 4.1.2 firmware leaks, multi-view feature in tow Posted: 15 Nov 2012 08:36 AM PST
It's been rumored previously, and now there's more evidence to suggest that the Samsung Galaxy S3 will be getting the "multi-view" feature from the Note 2 in its upcoming Android 4.1.2 update. An early, leaked version of the ROM obtained by SamMobile also adds many other Note 2 features, including smart rotation, Paper Artist, a new gallery app and the Note 2's SwiftKey-powered keyboard. For the uninitiated, multi-window allows you to split the screen between two full-fledged Android apps by long-pressing the back key. It wasn't quite ready for the Galaxy Note 2's launch, but was added in an over-the-air update few days later. Today's leaked firmware is a pre-rooted testing build that's been cobbled together based on a system dump, so all the usual warnings apply. As it's not officially signed by Samsung, flashing the firmware will increase your custom binary counter, too. And it's for the international 3G S3 only (GT-i9300), so don't try flashing it on any other model. The Galaxy S3 isn't the only device rumored to be getting multi-view. There've been whispers in the past few weeks suggesting that the original Galaxy Note (international version, GT-N7000) could end up with some of its big brother's showcase features, in addition to the new TouchWiz Nature UX -- as part of its Android 4.1.2 update. There's no official timeframe for the Galaxy S3 to receive Android 4.1.2, but SamMobile seems to think the company's aiming for a December release on international models. Source: SamMobile 
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| AT&T LTE lights up Twin Cities Posted: 15 Nov 2012 08:28 AM PST
In addition to a handful of new LTE markets yesterday, AT&T has flipped the switch on LTE coverage in the Twin Cities, Minnesota today. AT&T took the announcement as an opportunity to pimp out some of their high-speed Android devices, such as the Sony Xperia TL, LG Optimus G, and Samsung Galaxy S3. Also, our Fearless Leader, Phil, is reporting that his hometown of Pensacola, Florida is starting to get some LTE lovin'. Anyone else notice new AT&T LTE in their area? Who's still waiting for 4G coverage? Source: AT&T 
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| Google launches global augmented reality game Ingress, invite-only for now Posted: 15 Nov 2012 08:11 AM PST Google's Niantic Labs has launched Ingress, a new worldwide augmented reality game that will be primarily played with your mobile device. Back in September, they released an app called Field Trip, which aims to provide relevant information as you walk or drive around. Ingress is far more ambitious and involved than Field Trip. It is a game that can be played by anyone with the app and will take quite a while. Not too much is known about the game, but what we do know is drawn from the vague video produced by Google above. It involves two groups, the Resistance, and the Enlightened. One group pushes back against 'the power' while the other seeks to use it to their advantage. A major aspect of the game will be using your phone while you're out and about, collecting power by walking certain routes or analyzing landmarks. This sounds pretty interesting and ambitious. It's invite-only for now and Android-only for now, but Google plans to be on multiple platforms because they want as many players as possible. To request an invite, hit up the source link, which is the main landing page for Ingress. If you're one of the lucky ones with an invite, there is also a link to the app in the Google Play Store. Source: Ingress; via All Things D 
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| Amazon opens Cloud Drive to Japanese users Posted: 15 Nov 2012 08:06 AM PST
Amazon this morning announced that its users in Japan now have access to its Cloud Drive service. The company is inviting users to store their files on the Amazon cloud and is dangling 5 gigabytes of space for free. Extra space of 20 gigabytes cost ¥800 per year, similar to the $10 charged in the U.S. The company first released a desktop app for cloud storage in May this year, and followed up with a photo app for Android devices at the start of this month. Besides tying in all your devices, the idea is also for its Android-based Kindle Fire and Fire HD devices to be hooked up to your files, especially photos, so you can show your colleagues yet another picture of your adorable puppy. The Cloud Drive Photos app is free in the Google Play Store and Amazon Appstore. 
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| Android dominates China with 90% market share Posted: 15 Nov 2012 07:32 AM PST
A recent smartphone platform study of China shows that Android is absolutely dominating the landscape with 90.1% market share. Over the last quarter, iOS dropped from 6% to 4.2%, though keep in mind that they still didn't have the iPhone 5. Apparently the survey skipped knock-off devices, which means the Android share might actually be higher, though there also may be plenty of iPhones getting smuggled into China that aren't accounted for. The average selling price of Android handsets is down from $251 to $223 this quarter. Even if Google's participation in the Android device market in China is limited, there are plenty of manufacturers in the area that are fleshing out their own Android variants to address local needs. Sure, that doesn't always work out, but otherwise, it seems like most manufacturers are doing what's to be expected of any open source project: hack away at it and make it their own. Any Chinese readers in the house? Is Android adoption as prevalent as this study suggests, or is the iPhone smuggling market big enough that the research doesn't do iOS justice? Is there room for a significantly competing platform in China? Via: TNW 
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| Amazon Kindle Fire HD 8.9-inch ships today, 4G version next week Posted: 15 Nov 2012 07:13 AM PST
Amazon has announced that their new tablet, the Kindle Fire HD 8.9-inch (see our Hands-On), starts shipping today. This is the WiFi-only version, with the LTE option set to ship next week. In case you've forgotten the Amazon event back in September, the Kindle Fire HD 8.9-inch boasts:
The Kindle Fire HD 8.9-inch comes in a few different varieties:
Currently, it can only be purchased from Amazon's Kindle Fire HD page, but will be available in Best Buy stores starting tomorrow, and at Radioshack and Staples in the coming weeks. The LTE option will ship starting on November 20th for $499. The tablet race has certainly gotten interesting this past year. Do you plan to pick up a Kindle Fire HD 8.9-inch? Waiting for the LTE version? Head over to our Amazon Kindle Fire HD Forum and let us know! Source: Amazon 
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| Deal of the Day: Cruzerlite Persona Case for Samsung Galaxy Nexus Posted: 15 Nov 2012 06:58 AM PST
The Cruzerlite Persona Case is available for just $6.00 today only. That's over 75% off! Pick yours up while supplies last. Never miss a deal. Sign up for Daily Deal alerts! 
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