Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Android Community

Android Community


Samsung Galaxy S III Android 4.1 Jelly Bean leaked on video

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 10:44 AM PDT

When Samsung announced that Android 4.1 Jelly Bean could arrive for their new flagship Galaxy S III smartphone in the month of August, many were surprised as usually updates take much longer than that, especially from Samsung. Today a video has leaked showing an official Samsung build of Jelly Bean for the Galaxy S III, and things are looking rather smooth so lets take a peek below.

Samsung has stated the update to Jelly Bean could arrive starting August 29th, and if this video is any evidence I’d say they are right on track for that release date. This could be the fastest update from Samsung yet. Sadly the US models might be waiting a bit longer, but the international version looks to be enjoying Android 4.1 Jelly Bean, Google Now, and everything else from those Jelly Belly’s already. Check out this video:

The folks from Android Police managed to get tipped off on this “official” Samsung build of Jelly Bean, and we’d have to say it looks pretty legit. The software build is labeled as i9300XADLG4, and the about screen clearly shows Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean.

As you can see from the screenshot above, and the multiple below Samsung has made a few neat changes to the notification bar. You can clearly see Android 4.1′s improved notifications above with the share options all included right in the drop down, as well as brightness options and a slightly refined interface. If this video is legit, and it appears so, we could in fact be seeing Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean arrive for the Galaxy S III before the end of the month. Well done Samsung! Stay tuned right here to Android Community for all the details as I’m sure we’ll be hearing more soon.

Screen-Shot-2012-07-13-at-2.02.24-PM1-540x406 nexusae0_4.1-better_thumb1 nexusae0_noti2 nexusae0_notibar nexusae0_introscreen
Device Specifications and Information
Device Info
    Device Name : Galaxy S III
    Manufactuer : Samsung
    Carrier : NA
    Announced Date : May 03, 2012
    Release Date : May 29, 2012
    Also Known As : The Next Galaxy, SGSIII
Display
  • Screen Size : 4.8 Inch
  • Resolution : 720x1280
  • Screen Type : Super AMOLED HD
Dimension & Weight
  • Height : 5.37 Inch
  • Width : 2.77 Inch
  • Depth : 0.33 Inch
  • Weight : 133 Grams
Battery & Power
    Battery Type:
  • Lithium Ion
  • Battery Capacity : 2100 mAh
  • Talk Time : NA
  • Stand By Time : NA
Software
    Android OS:
  • 4.0.x
    Audio Playback:
  • AAC
  • AAC+
  • AMR
  • MID
  • MP3
  • WAV
  • WMA
    Video Playback:
  • h.263
  • h.264 / AVC
  • MPEG-4 (MP4)
    Messaging:
  • SMS
  • MMS
Hardware
    CPU : Exynos 4 Quad
    CPU Clock Speed : 1400 Mhz
    Core : 4
    Ram : 1024 MB
    Internal Storage : 32 GB
    Front Facing Camera :
    Camera Resolution : 8 MP
    External Storage:
  • MicroSD
  • MicroSDHC
    Camera Features:
  • Auto focus
  • Flash
  • 1080p Video Recording
    Sensors:
  • Accelerometer
  • Ambient light
  • Proximity
    QWERTY :
Cellular Network
    Network Technology:
  • GSM
    GSM Band:
  • 850
  • 900
  • 1800
  • 1900
Device Connectivity
    Wi-Fi:
  • 802.11b
  • 802.11g
  • 802.11n
    Bluetooth:
  • A2DP
  • Bluetooth 4.0
    Location Features:
  • Compass
  • GPS
  • Cellular location
  • Wi-Fi location
    FM Radio :
    NFC :

[via SlashGear]


SwiftKey 3 updated with new themes, bug fixes, and Google Voice dictation

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 09:34 AM PDT

SwiftKey is back today to offer their first update since officially launching their new and improved SwiftKey 3 keyboard for Android smartphones and tablets. SwiftKey 3 has just been updated to version 3.0.1 and brings with it tons of bug fixes, as well as two new languages, and two fun themes for summer. We have screenshots and all the details below.

SwiftKey 3 continues to be one of the best 3rd party keyboards for Android, and today they’ve improved it even more. They’ve finally replaced the voice actions with Google’s voice dictation, which should make just about everyone happy. Then for summer they’ve released two new color themes — although summer is almost over. Then they added two new languages. Adding both Malay and Urdu support, which brings the total to 44 languages.

SwiftKey 3.0.1 - Fuchsia Theme SwiftKey 3.0.1 - Sky Theme

Above you can see both of the new themes from the creators of SwiftKey. They aren’t anything extreme and are rather simple and elegant. I don’t think I’ll be hanging out with the pink option, but I could see many of my lady friends enjoying it. Colors and languages aren’t the only thing here though. SwiftKey has continued to make their keyboard one of the best by updating with bug fixes, here’s what to expect from today:

BUG FIXES
Fixed the following issues:
Font size and indentation inconsistencies in preference menus;
Font size too large on the sharable Heatmap;
GTalk smiley button has gone in JellyBean
Handle the case where languagePacks.json somehow gets set to "readonly"
Punctuation does not always auto correct
Reports of performance lag on some devices for some users;
Swedish localization problems for key height settings;
Theme list wrong after upgrade 2.2 -> 3.0;
Twitter personalization does not handle OAuthException gracefully;
When composing, after an auto-completing punctuation character, selecting the prediction inserts it twice.

As usual they state they’ve improve performance, general usage, and stability, but it’s the other things that are important. Now that SwiftKey 3 will use Google’s own voice dictation you can expect more accurate results too. SwiftKey just keeps getting better and better with each update. Are you a SK fan, or a Swype user? Get the latest update right this minute at the Google Play Store.


Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 Book Cover, dock, and cases coming soon [Hands-on]

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 09:21 AM PDT

In case you missed the news this afternoon, Samsung just officially announced their Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 tablet — available tomorrow August 16th. We’ve seen plenty of it, and now it’s finally going to be available for everyone. As usual, Samsung has just detailed an entire line of impressive accessories to go along with it. From a “book cover” that doubles as a stand and more. Check them out below.

First we’ll start with that neat looking case they are calling a Book Cover. It isn’t a smart case and doesn’t have any magnets, but the origami-like folding allows this cover to quickly become a stand. With easy to view multiple viewing modes too. Simple fold it the right way and you’re off. Take a peek below.

IMG_6259 IMG_6255 IMG_6256

Then they’ve also prepared a custom dock for their Galaxy Note 10.1. We are still waiting for more details but this durable, and solid feeling dock easily clicks into the 30-pin connector below, and will charge the tablet at the same time. While it isn’t a “smart dock” with HDMI out, they do provide stereo outputs for streaming music or enhancing audio. If fits snug and holds the Note 10.1 securely even while tapping away with the S-Pen as you can see from our video reviews.

Then last but certainly not least is a sleek and lightweight Galaxy Note 10.1 Sleeve protector too. This is made out of what feels like Pleather, and has a soft-touch microfiber lining to protect that beautiful 10.1-inch screen. As you can see from the pictures of the sleeve, and all the other accessories below Samsung is prepared to offer a little of everything. We’ve seen a lot of their accessories never make it to shelves, but hopefully that isn’t the case here. We’ll update once we know availability dates and pricing.

IMG_6228 IMG_6259 IMG_6255 IMG_6256 IMG_6248 IMG_6232 IMG_6251 IMG_6230


Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 Review USA [Wi-fi]

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 08:03 AM PDT

This week we’ve got our hands on the final release version of the USA-bound Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1, a device that’s got a 10.1-inch display and a love for S-Pen magic. This device runs Android 4.0.4 Ice Cream Sandwich and a brand new bit of TouchWiz over the top and has a pen like it’s smaller original Galaxy Note counterpart. This device also has front-facing speakers as well as a microSD card slot – and Samsung’s most powerful processor yet, the 1.4GHz quad-core Exynos!

Hardware

You’ve got a relatively large chassis surrounding a 10.1-inch WXGA 1280 x 800 TFT LCD display here, and it feels quite nice to handle. Where Samsung very much took part in the “smallest and thinnest” race with the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 originally, here they’ve dared to get a bit wider in order to bring us all the gloriousness of front-facing speakers.

Around the rim you’ve also got a high-quality silver plastic while the center of the device on the front is covered with a single pane of reinforced glass. This device also has a proximity sensor and a 1.9-megapixel camera up front as well for video chat. The top of the device contains a selection of lovely buttons and ports, starting with the headphone jack, then the IR-Blaster, microSD card port, volume up/down, and power/lock button.

The Infrared Blaster is for changing the channel on your television, of course, with Samsung’s deal with the Peel app leading the way. With the Samsung Exynos 1.4GHz quad-core processor under the hood here, you’ve got a collection of benchmarks that beat out essentially the rest of the Android world right this moment – stock builds, anyway.

• Antutu: 12245
• CF-Bench: Native 24386, Java 6906, Overall 13898
• Quadrant Standard: CPU 13041, Memory 4469, I/O 5158, 2D 1000 2D, 3D 2459

Software

Samsung has learned from several devices of the past, the Galaxy Tab 10.1′s version of TouchWiz UX, Galaxy S III’s Ice Cream Sandwich TouchWiz, and Android’s Ice Cream Sandwich for tablets, and has combined the good parts into one new system. You’ll find yourself having an easy time getting used to this version of Android as you’ve basically used it before, several times, with different features on different devices.

You’ll jump in directly with the most awesome features that the Galaxy S III had – and has – with AllShare. With this sharing-centric app and set of abilities, you’ll be able to do great things like GroupShare. Have a peek at how you’ll do presentations in the future.

It’s with this system you’ll be able to share all of your Samsung devices as one with the cloud-based SugarSync as well. Upload all of your photos and videos automatically for one big party! Then head down to your ability to multi-task in at least one way never before seen on an official build of Android!

The one you’ve probably never seen nor heard of before is Multiscreen. With this ability embedded into several standard applications like your Gallery and basic Email as well as more advanced apps like Polaris Office, you’ll be able to push files back and forth like a snap. Not quite like what you’re able to do on a desktop machine white yet, but they’re getting there!

You’ll also see the Ice Cream Sandwich / TouchWiz version of recent apps, complete with a quick link to your task manager. Then of course there’s your TouchWiz UX-born set of Mini Apps, each of them able to sit above whatever else it is you’re doing at the time and do their specified task besides.

S-Pen

With your S-Pen you’ll be able to do everything the first Galaxy Note is able to and more – with Photoshop Touch you’ll be editing photos and creating your own works of art in no time, and with S-Note you’re going to be sketching at a generous size. The note-taking experience here feels rather well put together, especially if you’ve gotten used to taking notes on your original Galaxy Note – more space!

The Galaxy Note 10.1 comes with a set of replacement tips for your S-Pen for if you get too wild with it, too. The pen has been sized and shaped much closer to a tool not unlike a number 2 pencil. The size feels a bit more natural than the Galaxy Note’s original tiny S-Pen for sure.

Entertainment

You’ve got an HD display, a quad-core processor under the hood, and front-facing speakers that are quite impressive – what more do you want? Prop your Galaxy Note up with your official Samsung dock for extra excellence for watching videos and playing big time games. Have a peek here at our quick tour through Netflix, Samsung Media Hub, and a video that’s housed on the device itself rather than streaming.

Note that the games are found in the Samsung Games Hub, an app which essentially lets you know which awesome games are out now and will be coming soon that work perfectly well with the Galaxy Note 10.1. Gameloft and Glu are on board, just to name a couple of heavy hitters. You’ll also find Samsung’s Music Hub – just launched recently here in the USA.

Camera

On the front of this device you’ve got a lovely 1.9 megapixel camera made for video chat and on the back there’s a 5 megapixel camera ready for fair photo and video action. Have a peek at several examples of the highest quality photos and video this machine can muster and see if it suits you!

Battery

Here in the Android tablet universe, it’s actually a bit more difficult to find a slate with terrible battery life than it is to find someone with fabulous battery life. In this case, Samsung has made certain to keep their battery in check unless the device runs into a perfect storm, as illustrated here:

As you can see, this constantly-on and constantly-used (nearly) Galaxy Note 10.1 runs out of juice in about 6 hours. When used a moderate amount, you’ll certainly have more than a day’s life without issue. If you only use your tablet to take a note here and there as well as to check your email, you can expect several days of battery life.

Wrap-Up

Here in the Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 we’ve got a rather unique experience, with the ability to create as well as consume on one 10.1-inch touchscreen display with a built-in pen to make it all happen. This device is clearly Samsung’s best effort yet, and with the power you get right along with the hardware that just feels nice to use, you’ve got a winner on your hands. You’ll be able to pick this device up from your local tablet-selling outlet immediately if not soon all across the United States.

IMG_6228 IMG_6230 IMG_6232 IMG_6233 IMG_6234 IMG_6236 IMG_6237 IMG_6239 IMG_6241 IMG_6243 IMG_6244 IMG_6248 IMG_6251 IMG_6253 IMG_6255 IMG_6256 IMG_6259 IMG_6261 IMG_6263 IMG_6264 IMG_6265 IMG_6266 IMG_6267 IMG_6268 Screenshot_2012-08-13-21-46-46 Screenshot_2012-08-13-22-08-24 Screenshot_2012-08-13-22-16-54 Screenshot_2012-08-13-22-17-34 Screenshot_2012-08-13-22-18-53 Screenshot_2012-08-13-22-20-41 Screenshot_2012-08-13-22-21-16 Screenshot_2012-08-13-22-21-39 Screenshot_2012-08-13-22-22-17 Screenshot_2012-08-13-22-23-03 Screenshot_2012-08-13-22-23-33 Screenshot_2012-08-13-22-23-46 Screenshot_2012-08-13-22-33-26 Screenshot_2012-08-13-23-46-42 Screenshot_2012-08-14-00-01-16 Screenshot_2012-08-14-00-14-15 20120814_185320 20120814_185038 20120814_023719
Device Specifications and Information
Device Info
    Device Name : Galaxy Note 10.1
    Manufactuer : Samsung
    Carrier : NA
    Announced Date : February 27, 2012
    Release Date : TBA
    Also Known As : GT-N8000, GT-N8010 (WiFi only)
Display
  • Screen Size : 10.1 Inch
  • Resolution : 1280x800
  • Screen Type : LCD
Dimension & Weight
  • Height : 7.08 Inch
  • Width : 10.31 Inch
  • Depth : 0.35 Inch
  • Weight : 600 Grams
Battery & Power
    Battery Type:
  • Lithium Ion
  • Battery Capacity : 7000 mAh
  • Talk Time : NA
  • Stand By Time : NA
Software
    Android OS:
  • 4.0.x
    Audio Playback:
  • AAC
  • AAC+
  • AMR
  • MID
  • MP3
  • WAV
  • WMA
    Video Playback:
  • h.263
  • h.264 / AVC
  • 3GP
  • MPEG-4 (MP4)
  • WMV
    Messaging:
  • SMS
  • MMS
  • IM
Hardware
    CPU : Exynos 4412
    CPU Clock Speed : 1400 Mhz
    Core : 4
    Ram : 2000 MB
    Internal Storage : 64 GB
    Front Facing Camera :
    Camera Resolution : 5 MP
    External Storage:
  • MicroSD
  • MicroSDHC
    Camera Features:
  • Auto focus
  • Flash
  • 1080p Video Recording
  • 720p Video Recording
    Sensors:
  • Accelerometer
  • Ambient light
  • Proximity
    QWERTY :
Cellular Network
    Network Technology:
  • GSM
    GSM Band:
  • 850
  • 900
  • 1800
  • 1900
Device Connectivity
    Wi-Fi:
  • 802.11b
  • 802.11g
  • 802.11n
    Bluetooth:
  • A2DP
  • Bluetooth 4.0
    Location Features:
  • Compass
  • GPS
  • Cellular location
  • Wi-Fi location
    FM Radio :
    NFC :


Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 revealed, hits shelves August 16 for $499

Posted: 15 Aug 2012 08:02 AM PDT

Say Hello to the Galaxy Note 10.1 and that stylus! After countless leaks, delays, and redesigns today the folks from Samsung have unveiled their all new Galaxy Note 10.1 tablet – again. Originally shown off earlier this year, only to get scrapped for improvements like the now present quad-core processor. Live in NYC Samsung has just announced the WiFi model for the USA, and we’ll have all the details.

We’ve already seen plenty of the new Galaxy Note 10.1 tablet, so this isn’t anything particularly new. Samsung delayed it earlier this year in favor of adding the Exynos 1.4 GHz quad-core processor and 2GB of RAM for an extra boost of power, and we’re glad they did. Then as usual we have the 10.1-inch display, Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich is on board, as well as Samsung’s TouchWiz UX, and then the S-Pen sytlus. This is the second “Note” device from Samsung, with the Galaxy Note 2 expected to be unveiled later this month.

Other hardware includes a 5-megapixel main camera and 1.9-megapixel front camera, and a 7,000 mAh battery. There's also WiFi a/b/g/n (2.4/5GHz), Bluetooth 4.0 with apt-X high-quality audio, USB 2.0 Host, MHL-HDMI output (for mirror mode) and even an IR transmitter for using the slate as a universal remote.

Today they’ve formally announced the tablet for the US market, and it will be available in 16GB, 32GB, WiFi flavors. While the hardware might not be particularly exciting, aside from the quad-core processor, the software however is. Samsung’s added multiple window viewing at the same time, with what they are calling Live Panels. Essentially doing what we do on PC’s and laptops. This makes the Note 10.1 an ultimate multitasking machine. Not only can you resize and have multiple windows or apps open, but you can choose side-by-side view for watching movies while reading an email and more. It really is neat, and you’ll see more in our full review coming soon.

To add to the multitasking capabilities we have Adobe Photoshop Touch pre-installed, so that is a plus. Then just like the Galaxy Note, the Note 10.1 uses a Wacom digitizer for absolute precision while drawing, or writing with the S-Pen stylus. This makes it over 10x as accurate and it features 225 levels of pressure sensitivity too. They made special notice to mention it being both lighter and thinner than the new iPad, while also having more storage via the micro-SD port.

The new flagship Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 tablet will hit the streets and shelves across the US starting tomorrow. Yup, August 16th nationwide. Pricing start at $499 for the 16GB model and $549 for the 32GB. Available in white or dark grey. These would be awesome at $100 less though. They plan to announce further details and pricing on LTE models later this year too so stay tuned.

Device Specifications and Information
Device Info
    Device Name : Galaxy Note 10.1
    Manufactuer : Samsung
    Carrier : NA
    Announced Date : February 27, 2012
    Release Date : TBA
    Also Known As : GT-N8000, GT-N8010 (WiFi only)
Display
  • Screen Size : 10.1 Inch
  • Resolution : 1280x800
  • Screen Type : LCD
Dimension & Weight
  • Height : 7.08 Inch
  • Width : 10.31 Inch
  • Depth : 0.35 Inch
  • Weight : 600 Grams
Battery & Power
    Battery Type:
  • Lithium Ion
  • Battery Capacity : 7000 mAh
  • Talk Time : NA
  • Stand By Time : NA
Software
    Android OS:
  • 4.0.x
    Audio Playback:
  • AAC
  • AAC+
  • AMR
  • MID
  • MP3
  • WAV
  • WMA
    Video Playback:
  • h.263
  • h.264 / AVC
  • 3GP
  • MPEG-4 (MP4)
  • WMV
    Messaging:
  • SMS
  • MMS
  • IM
Hardware
    CPU : Exynos 4412
    CPU Clock Speed : 1400 Mhz
    Core : 4
    Ram : 2000 MB
    Internal Storage : 64 GB
    Front Facing Camera :
    Camera Resolution : 5 MP
    External Storage:
  • MicroSD
  • MicroSDHC
    Camera Features:
  • Auto focus
  • Flash
  • 1080p Video Recording
  • 720p Video Recording
    Sensors:
  • Accelerometer
  • Ambient light
  • Proximity
    QWERTY :
Cellular Network
    Network Technology:
  • GSM
    GSM Band:
  • 850
  • 900
  • 1800
  • 1900
Device Connectivity
    Wi-Fi:
  • 802.11b
  • 802.11g
  • 802.11n
    Bluetooth:
  • A2DP
  • Bluetooth 4.0
    Location Features:
  • Compass
  • GPS
  • Cellular location
  • Wi-Fi location
    FM Radio :
    NFC :


T-Mobile Springboard tablet getting Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich tomorrow

Posted: 14 Aug 2012 04:01 PM PDT

If you’re the proud owner of the Huawei MediaPad Android tablet, better known as the T-Mobile Springboard here in the U.S. you’re about to get an update. Today the folks from T-Mobile have announced they’ll be pushing out a software upgrade for the Springboard bringing it to Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich.

There’s good news and bad news here. The bad news is the international “Huawei” branded model received ICS well over 3 months ago, while T-Mobile users have been left waiting. The good news is that wait is over starting tomorrow, August 15th. In their usual fashion T-Mobile has just updated their support forums with all the details.

Unlike many recent tablet updates from Samsung, the Springboard will be able to update simply by accepting an over the air update. No wires or PC needed like Samsung’s Galaxy Tablets lately. T-Mobile has confirmed the update to Ice Cream Sandwich will begin rolling out in stages tomorrow to T-Mobile customers, and you can expect it to arrive within a few short days.

The Springboard is a quality 7-inch 1280 x 800 HD tablet running on a Qualcomm 1.2 GHz dual-core processor, and was a great “4G” HSPA+ option from T-Mobile before the Nexus 7 came and trumped that size range. You can still get it from T-Mobile for only $299 with a 2-year contract, and now it will be running on Android 4.0.3 Ice Cream Sandwich. Don’t even ask yet about Jelly Bean either. For those few who own this tablet, let us know how the update goes once it arrives tomorrow.

Device Specifications and Information
Device Info
    Device Name : SpringBoard
    Manufactuer : Huawei
    Carrier : T-Mobile
    Announced Date : November 09, 2011
    Release Date : TBA
    Also Known As :
Display
  • Screen Size : 7 Inch
  • Resolution : 800x1280
  • Screen Type : NA
Dimension & Weight
  • Height : 7.48 Inch
  • Width : 5.08 Inch
  • Depth : 0.41 Inch
  • Weight : 400 Grams
Battery & Power
    Battery Type:
  • Lithium Polymer
  • Battery Capacity : 4100 mAh
  • Talk Time : NA
  • Stand By Time : NA
Software
    Android OS:
  • 3.2.x
    Audio Playback:
  • AAC
  • AAC+
  • MP3
  • WMA
    Video Playback:
  • h.263
  • h.264 / AVC
  • MPEG-4 (MP4)
Hardware
    CPU : MSM8260
    CPU Clock Speed : 1200 Mhz
    Core : 2
    Ram : 768 MB
    Internal Storage : 16 GB
    Front Facing Camera :
    Camera Resolution : 5 MP
    External Storage:
  • MicroSD
  • MicroSDHC
    Camera Features:
  • Auto focus
    QWERTY :
Cellular Network
    Network Technology:
  • GSM
    GSM Band:
  • 850
  • 900
  • 1800
  • 1900
Device Connectivity
    Wi-Fi:
  • 802.11b
  • 802.11g
  • 802.11n
    Bluetooth:
  • Bluetooth 2.0
    Location Features:
  • Compass
  • GPS
  • Cellular location
  • Wi-Fi location
    FM Radio :
    NFC :

[via Android Police]


Google now selling official Android Neon Lamps

Posted: 14 Aug 2012 03:14 PM PDT

We know all you die hard Android fans have some sort of memorabilia or Android collectibles, but what we have here is even better. An official Google Android Neon Lamp to go right next to that Budweiser light in your room. In case you didn’t know, Google offers all types of gear from pillows, t-shirts, coasters and more all covered in Android. More details available below.

Surely you’ve seen some of those Android beanies, or guys wearing Android shirts. Many of those come right from Google themselves at their very own Google Store. I’ve bought a few Google Frisbee’s, coasters, and coffee mugs — but i think I just found my next purchase. What better way to show your Android pride than with an actual neon light?

The folks from Droid-Life managed to find this gem hanging out on the Google Store, and we had to share it with our readers. We know many of you are as crazy as us. For just $36 dollars you can get your very own Android Neon Light as shown above. the listing doesn’t give any actual details but it appears to be a little more than a foot tall, and about 8-inches wide, but that is only a guess. Either way you’ll probably want one for your office desk.

Get out the Red Bull, download that Android SDK and enjoy building ROM’s right from AOSP while hanging out in Android powered light. Get your own Android Neon Lamp from the via below. Who’s buying?

[via Google Store]


Samsung patent shows TV recording for Android devices headed to the US

Posted: 14 Aug 2012 02:52 PM PDT

Ever been watching TV on your Samsung Galaxy S II and wish you could record it? TV Tuners inside Android smartphones are nothing new for the folks in Japan and some European countries, but is a new idea for us here in the States. A new patent has revealed that not only is Samsung looking to provide gestures and recording features for Android, but maybe even bring live TV to their US smartphones.

We’ve briefly checked out these phones in the past. For a better look at Samsung’s Galaxy S II with a built-in TV tuner antenna (DMB Tuner) check our our DoCoMo SC-02C hands-on here. What we have today is a discovery from the fine folk at PatentBolt showing multiple new patents from team Samsung regarding TV for Android devices.

The patents filed to the USPTO covers multiple aspects of TV Tuners in Android smartphones and tablets, and then today they even go into gestures. The details outline touch gestures to perform a series of actions by touching your smartphone screen. Using actions like writing the letter “R” to start recording, or simply drawing the channel number to change channels.

Many of these patents reveal DMB Tuners for their devices, which is nothing new. Most Samsung devices in South Korea and Japan already have these, but to possible have this in the US would be amazing. Most European Counties use the DMB standard, but not here. The US uses a different digital TV standard known as ATSCH-M/H, so we can’t really see this coming to the US quite yet. Samsung filed for these patents in early 2012 here in the US, not Japan or South Korea, and now they’ve been granted. Hopefully Samsung has some exciting devices planned for the US, so stay tuned.

[via Android Authority]


Adobe to finally pull Flash from Android

Posted: 14 Aug 2012 02:13 PM PDT

We’ve heard this more than a few times, but today Adobe looks to get serious and actually do it. Starting tomorrow Adobe will no longer be allowing users to download their Flash Player for Android. It has officially reached the end of its life. Adobe has been a part of Android for a long time, but they are finally dropping support.

Back in November the folks from Adobe announced that they would no longer be supporting Android with their Flash Player, and would continue to focus their efforts on the PC market. This came specifically around Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich launch and the Galaxy Nexus. They will no longer be supporting the mobile flash player.

Staying in the fight after HTML 5 was taking over was a noble move, but it sure didn’t last long. Adobe has said that they’ll still allow Flash developers to package native apps with Adobe AIR, but the actual app for Android browsers will no longer be supported.

Starting tomorrow the app will no longer be available for download from the Google Play Store. That means new devices will not be supported, nor can they download it. However, those with Flash already installed will still be able to keep it, and get the occasional security patch update. Adobe has said they plan to focus on gaming, HTML5, and "premium video", while continuing their efforts on PC. It looks like the truckload of Android cash ran out for Adobe, and they’ve called it quits. If you feel like having Adobe Flash we’d suggest you download it now before it’s too late.

[via DroidDog]


Motorola Atrix HD LTE available today from Bell

Posted: 14 Aug 2012 02:00 PM PDT

Motorola recently launched their new Atrix HD smartphone on AT&T here in the US, but we aren’t the only ones enjoying a new impressive phone from Moto. If you’re up in Canada and feel like dropping a quick $50 on a new smartphone Bell has you covered. Announcing the Atrix HD LTE is available now starting at $49, only with a new 3-year contract.

Motorola’s new Atrix HD is an impressive phone. It packs a 4.5-inch 1280 x 720p Colorboost HD display rocking over 320 PPI (pixels per inch.) That is more than the Galaxy S III, the Galaxy Nexus, and even the iPhone 4 "retina display." Along with a dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 processor at 1.5 GHz, 1GB of RAM, and a solid 8 megapixel rear camera.

The new Atrix HD LTE isn’t quite RAZR this, but it’s quite the sleek yet powerful device. For full details on essentially the exact same phone check out our AT&T Atrix HD Review. The screen is smaller than most that have a 1280 x 720p display, making it even crisper and better looking than the others. We loved the Atrix HD.

Bell Canada has the Atrix HD LTE available starting today at the low price point of $49, but users will be required to marry them for 3-years at that price. They have other offerings, or the Atrix is $600 outright should you choose that route. More details can be found at the Bell link below, and be sure to hit the timeline for extra details.

Device Specifications and Information
Device Info
    Device Name : Atrix HD
    Manufactuer : Motorola
    Carrier : AT&T
    Announced Date : July 05, 2012
    Release Date : July 15, 2012
    Also Known As : MB886, Atrix HD LTE
Display
  • Screen Size : 4.5 Inch
  • Resolution : 1280x720
  • Screen Type : LCD
Dimension & Weight
  • Height : 5.25 Inch
  • Width : 2.75 Inch
  • Depth : 0.33 Inch
  • Weight : 140 Grams
Battery & Power
    Battery Type:
  • Lithium Ion
  • Battery Capacity : 1780 mAh
  • Talk Time : NA
  • Stand By Time : NA
Software
    Android OS:
  • 4.0.x
    Audio Playback:
  • AAC
  • AAC+
  • AMR
  • MID
  • MP3
  • WAV
  • WMA
    Video Playback:
  • h.263
  • h.264 / AVC
  • 3GP
  • MPEG-4 (MP4)
  • WMV
    Messaging:
  • MMS
  • IM
Hardware
    CPU : MSM8960
    CPU Clock Speed : 1500 Mhz
    Core : 2
    Ram : 1000 MB
    Internal Storage : 8 GB
    Front Facing Camera :
    Camera Resolution : 8 MP
    External Storage:
  • MicroSD
  • MicroSDHC
    Camera Features:
  • Auto focus
  • Flash
  • 1080p Video Recording
    Sensors:
  • Accelerometer
  • Ambient light
  • Proximity
    QWERTY :
Cellular Network
    Network Technology:
  • GSM
    GSM Band:
  • 850
  • 900
  • 1800
  • 1900
Device Connectivity
    Wi-Fi:
  • 802.11a
  • 802.11b
  • 802.11g
  • 802.11n
    Bluetooth:
  • A2DP
  • Bluetooth 4.0
    Location Features:
  • Compass
  • GPS
  • Cellular location
  • Wi-Fi location
    FM Radio :
    NFC :

[via Bell Canada]


Sony adds Playstation Mobile games support for ASUS tablets and WikiPad

Posted: 14 Aug 2012 12:24 PM PDT

Gamescom 2012 is currently underway in Germany, and Sony is busy making a few announcements that mostly won’t effect Android. Some however will, and we have good news for those looking to play classic Playstation games on Android. Sony has just announced that Playstation Mobile (previously Playstation certified) access will be available for ASUS tablets like the powerful Transformer Prime.

Sony has verified that both ASUS and the Wikipad will have full access to Sony Playstation Mobile games. Things like Crash Bandicoot and many, many more. We all should know plenty about ASUS, who has some of the most popular best selling quad-core Android tablets on the market. Those powerful slates will now be able to enjoy tons of Sony certified games.

Then they also announced the same support for the Wikipad. You might not know much about the Wikipad, but this upcoming tablet is powered by NVIDIA’s Tegra 3 quad-core processor, and features an optional built-in game controller — so this obviously should benefit from Sony Playstation Mobile. Now we’re just wondering when they’ll do the same for OUYA, but they haven’t mentioned that yet.

Between the NVIDIA TegraZone and now Playstation Mobile, those looking for a tablet will be happy to know ASUS is a great choice — especially for gamers. This includes the brand new Nexus 7. These two manufacturers are the only non-Sony devices with access other than HTC. Stay tuned for more details.

[via The Verge]


T-Mobile Galaxy Tab 7.0 Plus gets Ice Cream Sandwich

Posted: 14 Aug 2012 12:06 PM PDT

If you’re the proud owner of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.0 Plus from the folks at Samsung and T-Mobile then we have good news. Samsung is keeping up on their word to update their tablet family to Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, and today the 7.0 Plus 4G is up for the frozen treat. T-Mobile lists the update as optional, but we have all the details below.

Honeycomb to Ice Cream Sandwich is more than an optional update if you ask us. It’s mandatory! The performance enhancements alone are worth the change, not to mention it will help all apps run better on your Android tablet. Samsung’s 7-inch tablet won’t be getting this update via an over their air notification. Instead this optional update must be applied using Samsung’s Kies software.

For all the details you can head over to the T-Mobile support forum where the full changelog and information about the upgrade have been outlined. Most of Samsung’s recent updates to ICS require Kies and aren’t coming OTA, so this is nothing new. The WiFi model received ICS earlier this month, now it’s T-Mobile’s turn.

Oddly enough the update details state this as Android 4.0.5 Ice Cream Sandwich. As usual T-Mobile has provided a thorough detailed walk-through for the update, so it should be a painless process for those interested. All those Galaxy Tab 7.0 Plus 4G users can now enjoy one of the latest versions of Android. Let us know in the comments below how the update process goes.

Device Specifications and Information
Device Info
    Device Name : Galaxy Tab 7.0 Plus
    Manufactuer : Samsung
    Carrier : T-Mobile SIM-free
    Announced Date : September 30, 2011
    Release Date : TBA
    Also Known As :
Display
  • Screen Size : 7 Inch
  • Resolution : 1024x600
  • Screen Type : LCD
Dimension & Weight
  • Height : 7.62 Inch
  • Width : 4.82 Inch
  • Depth : 0.39 Inch
  • Weight : 345 Grams
Battery & Power
    Battery Type:
  • Lithium Polymer
  • Battery Capacity : 4000 mAh
  • Talk Time : NA
  • Stand By Time : NA
Software
    Android OS:
  • 3.2.x
    Audio Playback:
  • AAC
  • AAC+
  • AMR
  • MID
  • MP3
  • WAV
  • WMA
    Video Playback:
  • h.263
  • h.264 / AVC
  • MPEG-4 (MP4)
  • WMV
Hardware
    CPU : Exynos
    CPU Clock Speed : 1200 Mhz
    Core : 2
    Ram : 1024 MB
    Internal Storage : 16 GB
    Front Facing Camera :
    Camera Resolution : 3 MP
    External Storage:
  • MicroSD
  • MicroSDHC
    Camera Features:
  • Auto focus
  • Flash
  • 720p Video Recording
    QWERTY :
Cellular Network
    Network Technology:
  • GSM
    GSM Band:
  • 850
  • 900
  • 1800
  • 1900
Device Connectivity
    Wi-Fi:
  • 802.11b
  • 802.11g
  • 802.11n
    Bluetooth:
  • Bluetooth 3.0
    Location Features:
  • Compass
  • GPS
  • Cellular location
  • Wi-Fi location
    FM Radio :
    NFC :


Motorola DROID RAZR HD and MAXX HD could arrive this October

Posted: 14 Aug 2012 11:26 AM PDT

We’ve been seeing a lot of leaks lately of Motorola’s next big push into the high end of Android smartphones. Their DROID RAZR HD has been spotted in the wild more than a few times. Recently a few reliable rumors have appeared from Hot Hardware stating Motorola and Verizon will be releasing these new impressive phones come early October.

According to sources close to the matter, Motorola is in the final stages with their new RAZR HD smartphone, and will be dropping two near identical phones in Q4. The tipster didn’t confirm any specs, although we’ve seen countless leaks that confirm the hardware. What we do know is according to the leakster Motorola will be waiting until October to launch these new top-tier smartphones.

The RAZR HD leaks have shown us a large 4.5 or bigger 720p HD display, Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich with on-screen navigation buttons, an 8 megapixel rear camera, a huge 2,530 mAh battery, and running the same powerful 1.5 GHz dual-core Qualcomm S4 processor as the Galaxy S III. Some FCC reports showed a 3,300 mAh battery, which is where we get the idea they’ll also launch a DROID RAZR MAXX HD to follow in the footsteps of that popular phone.

With the Galaxy Note 2, and the next iPhone both expected in September, Motorola should be looking to drop this new phone around the same time. Hopefully they get everything in order and get these phones shipping soon. Now that Google has control I was hoping for just that. We’ll keep our eyes open for more RAZR HD news so stay tuned.