Saturday, August 18, 2012

Android Community

Android Community


Lenovo K860 5-inch Quad-core smartphone announced

Posted: 17 Aug 2012 04:59 PM PDT

Lenovo is the latest smartphone manufacturer to jump on the too big to hold train and have just announced their own 5-inch phablet smartphone for China. Dubbed the LePhone K860, also being called the Lenovo Music phone. This device packs Samsung’s 1.4 GHz quad-core Exynos processor and a pretty impressive spec sheet all around.

The Lenovo K860 is no slouch when it comes to specs. According to Engadget this phone rocks Samsung’s 1.4 GHz quad-core Exynos processor from the international Galaxy S III, has 1GB of RAM, a 2,250 mAh battery, an 8 megapixel camera capable of 100 continuous shots and is powered by Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich.

It isn’t quite as large as Samsung’s Galaxy Note, but the screen still manages to be 5-inches sporting a 1280 x 720p HD resolution. I like this much better than the LG Optimus Vu, but that’s just me. The Lenovo K860 also has a front facing 2 megapixel camera and is only 9.6mm-thick. There’s no mention of a stylus like the other phablets come standard with, so we’re assuming this doesn’t have those draw features.

No word on pricing or availability but the phone was just announced for China, and will probably never come to the states. They better get this out for sale before Samsung’s Galaxy Note 2 makes its debut, as it could cause them some trouble.


Google Play Store gift cards selling early, could launch in 2 weeks

Posted: 17 Aug 2012 03:50 PM PDT

It was recently unveiled that Google is bringing the much awaited feature of gift cards to their Play Store. Now that they offer a wide variety of apps, music, movies, books, magazines and more this only makes sense. To better compete with the likes of iTunes they’ve finally integrated gift card support into the Google Play Store, only it isn’t available yet.

This was all just recently uncovered in Google’s Play Store update earlier this week. While digging in we found evidence of not only gift cards, but wishlists too. Shortly after a few pictures appeared of the actual gift cards that Google will start selling, but now we have a few out in the wild and some reports on when we can expect Google to launch this service.

The folks from Android Police received a Google Play Store $25 gift card after a reader purchased it at Target as shown above. They’ve been able to redeem it for purchases although the Play Store doesn’t have the option live yet. There’s no point in explaining how, as Google should be letting this go live in the next 1-2 weeks according to anonymous tips.

According to some comments over on AP, Google will be launching these gift cards here in the US only (for now) at Target, Walmart, Gamestop, TRU and a few others, with Best Buy also offering them sometime next year. After receiving our own anonymous tips it’s safe to say Google should be making a formal announcement and rolling out Play Store gift cards in the next 1-2 weeks. The store has full support, it’s just hidden for now.

It’s about time Google! Stay tuned for additional details.


HARDcover smart case for the Nexus 7 available now

Posted: 17 Aug 2012 03:25 PM PDT

If you have the awesome new Google Nexus 7 tablet we have a nice professional looking case for you all today. From the popular case manufacturer DODOcase comes their unique HARDcover for the Nexus 7. These book-like hard cases offer multiple viewing angles, different color options, smart cover magnets to turn on the device, and even personalized engravings. Check it out after the break.

Now if you don’t own a Nexus 7 don’t worry because we have you covered. If you haven’t entered our massive Nexus 7 Giveaway yet you probably should, as today is the last day to enter. Once you win (or if you already have one) you’ll want to check out these cases from DODOcase. Below is more pictures and plenty of details.

The DODOcase HARDcover for the Nexus 7 comes in at a pretty penny costing $34.95, but you get what you pay for — and that is quality. I’ve owned their cases in the past and they surely build a good product. The Nexus 7 hard cover not only protects your tablet, but it also disguises it too. Those sneaky thieves will just think it’s a book and continue on their way. Using the magnet sensor inside the Nexus 7 the case also features the smart case option. When opening and closing the case the magnet will turn on/off your tablet. It is somewhat low profile, and the hardcase doubles as a stand providing two viewing angles as shown in the pictures below.

Overall these cases are rather impressive for the price, although surely you can find something cheaper although it won’t have DODO quality. For an extra $9 you can get it personalized, but sadly they only allow 3 letters. Once again today is the last day to enter our Nexus 7 giveaway linked to above, so hurry and get in on the action before it’s too late. Get the new DODOcase HARDcover for the Nexus 7 at the via link below.

nexus_family_1 nexus_tahoe nexus_type nexus_perch nexus_back nexus_front

[via DODOcase]


Black Galaxy S III reportedly slated for October release

Posted: 17 Aug 2012 03:02 PM PDT

It looks we might be closing in on the release of the black Galaxy S III, as UK retailer Clove has given it an October release window. Of course, we don’t have a solid release date yet, but with Clove saying that it’ll be out in October, we’re closer than ever to locking one down. Aside from the new black color, this version of the Galaxy S III also comes with a pretty major improvement: there’s reportedly a variation that comes with 64GB of storage, something the international version of the phone lacks.


That’s sure to get some smartphone fanatics excited, but that seems to be it as far as the improvements go. Other than the increased storage capacity, the phone still comes with the same Exynos quad-core processor clocked at 1.4GHz, the same 1GB of RAM, the same 4.8-inch Super AMOLED display, and the same 8-megapixel camera. That’s hardly a knock against the device however, as those specs were pretty solid to start with.

Indeed, few will complain about the hardware that the Galaxy S III comes equipped with. Consumers just want more color options. We’re slowly getting them too – Samsung launched the Galaxy S III with blue and white color variations, and since then also launched a red Galaxy S III at AT&T. Now it looks like we’re headed for a black variation soon, and possibly more colors afterward? It wouldn’t surprise us one bit, considering that the Galaxy S III is proving to be immensely popular with consumers.

Samsung hasn’t officially confirmed the black Galaxy S III yet, but with it popping up on Clove’s website (among other store sites), it’s as good as confirmed. Unfortunately the Clove posting doesn’t cover price, but if it is indeed launching in October, expect an official announcement from Samsung soon. Keep an ear to Android Community for more information!

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]


Motorola “Unlock My Device” Website goes live – finally can unlock bootloaders

Posted: 17 Aug 2012 02:14 PM PDT

It’s about time! Today Motorola has finally launched their initiative to allow Android users the option to unlock the bootloader on their smartphones. We’ve been waiting for this to come for well over a year, and today they’ve finally started the process. Motorola has just launched their Unlock My Device website although there’s currently no supported devices.

Just like HTC before them, and ASUS, Motorola will now be allowing users to unlock their bootloader and have full control of their smartphones and tablets. This will allow 3rd party software, custom ROM’s and many other exciting things. Just like ASUS, Motorola will be opting for a PC program that will safely and easily unlock the device.

To start you’ll go through a few hundred warnings and be told you will void your warranty, then that will be followed probably by more warnings. Motorola will then issue a device id and unlock key, using the Android SDK and Motorola drivers you’ll then be able to fully unlock your phone. Yay!

The software will verify and validate the process and you’ll be off and running to your nearest ROM developer to download Android 4.1 Jelly Bean or CyanogenMod 10. Motorola has offered up a supported devices list that sadly doesn’t appear to be working. Once you sign up and try to check you’ll be greeted with an error. It’s safe to say they are getting all the pieces into place, and will add devices throughout the weekend. Great news guys. We can finally enjoy some of the best Android hardware without Motorola’s terrible software. The PHOTON Q 4G LTE will be the first device to support bootloader unlocking, and hopefully the RAZR HD will soon follow. We’ll update when we know more.

– Thanks to everyone who sent this in!


Motorola September 5th event hints at DROID RAZR HD

Posted: 17 Aug 2012 01:57 PM PDT

Motorola has just started sending out special invite only invitations for an upcoming media event scheduled for September 5th. Get ready for the DROID RAZR HD. Most likely this will be their announcement and official unveiling of the Motorola DROID RAZR HD for Verizon. The invite specifically hints at the “display” so it only makes sense.

Add in the fact that both Motorola and Verizon are stamped on the bottom, this will in fact be the DROID RAZR HD, unless Motorola has some other surprise device that has been flying under our radar. The DROID RAZR HD will be the first Motorola device with a 720p HD to grace Verizon Wireless, and of course it will be blazing along with their 4G LTE network.

We’ve seen countless leaks of the device but conflicting reports has the specs still up in the air. So far we know the DROID RAZR HD will come complete with a 4.5-inch 1280 x 720p Colorboost HD display, just like their Atrix HD. Run on Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich and feature on-screen navigation buttons, a huge 2,530 mAh battery was spotted in the FCC documents, and recent rumors have suggested an 8 megapixel rear camera.

Previous leaks lead us to believe they’d be offering a 13 megapixel camera, but we still can’t be certain. Other specs include the same 1.5 GHz dual-core Qualcomm S4 processor as the Galaxy S III, and hopefully you’ll be able to unlock the bootlader. Latest rumors have stated the Motorola DROID RAZR HD will arrive sometime in October but we are hopeful Verizon gets this out before the iPhone 5 interrupts later in September.

We’ll be there live for all the details on the new RAZR HD so stay right here at Android Community!


GameStop’s game streaming service arrives in 2013

Posted: 17 Aug 2012 01:36 PM PDT

GameStop has announced that its game streaming service will be launching in summer 2013, but at least at first, it won’t be available on consoles. Dubbed “Spawn,” GameStop has been talking about this cloud gaming service ever since it bought Spawn Labs back in 2011. Obviously, GameStop means to expand beyond brick and mortar retail with this move, challenging other streaming services like OnLive and Gaikai while dipping its hand in a broader range of markets in the process.


It’s a smart move, especially now that GameStop is selling Android tablets and physical retail sales seem to be on the decline. As GameStop watches the market for used tablets increase, it can hit consumers with the double-whammy of offering a steaming service to go along with their freshly-purchased tablet. Spawn will also be available on PCs and Internet-connected TVs, but as stated above, it will be deviating from the original plan and skipping consoles.

Hearing GameStop president Tony Bartel explain it in an investor call, it seems that GameStop may be waiting for the next generation to arrive before offering Spawn on consoles. He also says that the decision to go with a “PC-based model” came from consumer feedback and the company’s newfound success in selling tablets. So, there may be hope for consoles eventually, but definitely not anytime around the launch of Spawn.

We’re pretty interested to see where GameStop goes with this one. Throughout the last few years, we’ve seen GameStop change its strategy dramatically, and now it’s looking to make tablets an integral part of its business. Will it be able to stand with the big boys in game streaming? That remains to be seen. Stay tuned for more details.

[via Gamasutra]


Motorola PHOTON Q 4G LTE hands-on and unboxing

Posted: 17 Aug 2012 12:58 PM PDT

Meet the latest 4G LTE smartphone to hit the market. while it’s carrier might not have 4G LTE in too many cities yet, the phone is ready to go so lets take a peek. This is the Motorola PHOTON Q 4G LTE. It has a nice 5 row QWERTY keyboard, 4G LTE, a fast dual-core processor and more so check out our hands-on video below.

With a long name like that this phone better impress. Just like the older original PHOTON 4G the design is a bit “out of the box” compared to others on the market, but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Motorola has blended the design elements of their XYBOARD tablets with the PHOTON of past into one durable feeling smartphone. We’ll start with our hands-on video, then break down the specs.

Motorola’s (takes deep breath) PHOTON Q 4G LTE is a rather nice smartphone for those looking for a slider with a dedicated keyboard. They’ve tossed in top of the line specs and an qHD display all into a fairly sleek package. Specs include a 1.5 GHz dual-core Qualcomm S4 Snapdragon processor. 1GB of RAM, 8GB internal storage, micro-SD slot, 8 megapixel rear camera with flash, VGA front for video chat, and all topped off by the Edge-lit 5 row keyboard.

The screen sadly is not rocking Motorola’s Colorboost HD technology used in the Atrix HD [see our review] and instead comes in at 4.3-inches with a 960×640 qHD resolution. So far our initial impressions are quite favorable, especially with the display. The design is pretty unusual, but we like some of the elements. The soft rubber surrounding the rear of the device is curved making it easy to hold, and one of the most comfortable phones around in the hand. One thing worth noting is Motorola’s added a large LED notification light above the speaker grill — something I’m a huge supporter of — and the bright green blinking is awesome. We aren’t sure if the notification LED has multiple color options, and oddly it doesn’t illuminate when the device is charging, but we love the feature.

For a full rundown on features and specs be sure to take a quick peek at our coverage in the timeline below, as well as all the pictures and device database spec sheet. Stay tuned for a full Android Community review!

P1100050 P1100047 P1100038 P1100039 P1100043 P1100041 P1100045 P1100044 P1100054
Device Specifications and Information
Device Info
    Device Name : Photon Q 4G LTE
    Manufactuer : Motorola
    Carrier : NA
    Announced Date : July 26, 2012
    Release Date : TBA
    Also Known As : XT897
Display
  • Screen Size : 4.3 Inch
  • Resolution : 540x960
  • Screen Type : TFT
Dimension & Weight
  • Height : 4.97 Inch
  • Width : 2.60 Inch
  • Depth : 0.54 Inch
  • Weight : 170 Grams
Battery & Power
    Battery Type:
  • Lithium Ion
  • Battery Capacity : 1785 mAh
  • Talk Time : NA
  • Stand By Time : 220 hours
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 : 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
    Camera Features:
  • Auto focus
  • Flash
  • 1080p Video Recording
    Sensors:
  • Accelerometer
  • Ambient light
  • Proximity
    QWERTY :
Cellular Network
    Network Technology:
  • GSM
  • CDMA
    GSM Band:
  • 850
  • 900
  • 1800
  • 1900
    CDMA Band:
  • 800
  • 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 :


New teaser trailer for The Respawnables lands

Posted: 17 Aug 2012 12:01 PM PDT

If you’re in the mood for some lighthearted shooter action (and want it on Android) you need look no further than The Respawnables. Developed by Digital Legends, the third-person class-based shooter seems to have a lot in common with games like Team Fortress 2 and Battlefield Heroes. It has a new teaser trailer as well, so you can see the game in action after the jump.


The trailer is short (it has been designated as a teaser after all), but that’s no matter – we still get plenty of time to see what the game is all about. Digital Legends shared this trailer with Pocket Gamer first, and we have to say that it looks like a blast. The cartoony graphics give the game a less serious look, which will undoubtedly be appreciated by those who are experiencing military shooter fatigue.

Indeed, this isn’t your typical shooter, apparently opting to go for comedy over realism. The graphics look great – especially for a mobile game – and the gameplay seems fast-paced and hectic, just like in Team Fortress 2 or Battlefield Heroes. Have a look for yourself in the trailer below.

Sadly, we don’t have a release date for this game just yet, with Digital Legends only saying that it’s “coming soon” at the end of the trailer. We also don’t have any details about pricing either. Regardless, The Respawnables seems to be grade-A shooter for mobile devices that has officially caught our attention, so keep an ear to Android Community for more information!