Tuesday, September 11, 2012

Android Community

Android Community


Motorola and Intel tease edge-to-edge smartphone in new video

Posted: 11 Sep 2012 11:15 AM PDT

Motorola is at it again this afternoon after they posted a quick teaser video toying with everyone before their event in London next week. Motorola and Intel have sent out invitation where they’re expected to announce their latest device. Which will be Motorola’s first smartphone powered by Intel’s Medfield processor.

We already have a pretty good idea of what to expect from the announcement, so it won’t really be a surprise. The new Motorola DROID RAZR M that Moto announced in NYC last week is surely the star of the show. With its small design and nearly edge-to-edge 4.3-inch AMOLED display.

The difference between Verizon’s DROID RAZR M, and the international Motorola RAZR M is the processor. In London they’ll be showing it off with Intel’s own dual-core processor, not the Qualcomm S4 we’ve seen here in the US. The first confirmation of this device was leaked way back in February, but now we’ll finally see it for real.

From our previous hands-on time with Intel’s Medfield processor, while it’s powerful, it won’t be able to outpower the Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 inside the Verizon model. This however is a great first step for Intel and hopefully they’ll continue to improve their mobile processors. We are expecting the RAZR M international model to be debuted in London on September 18th during their joint event with Intel, and it could feature the same grey color design as the leak mentioned above back in February. In the meantime checkout our sister site SlashGear’s review of the DROID RAZR M — since they’ll be nearly identical hardware and software wise.

Did you count how many times that video said edge-to-edge? I didn’t. Stay tuned for more details as the event grows closer.


Google Now finally showing NFL scores and sports cards – a day late

Posted: 11 Sep 2012 10:49 AM PDT

When Google announced Google Now and Android 4.1 Jelly Bean earlier this year we all loved the new cards system for alerts. One that I was extremely excited about was sports updates and scores live right to your notification tray. After Google allowed team editing a few weeks ago, sadly during NFL weekend they were no where to be found.

This morning however, long after all the games have ended I got my alert from Google Now showing what I was expecting to see Sunday afternoon. And that was the depressing score of my Green Bay Packers losing to the 49ers. The screenshot above is what just appeared for me this afternoon. Yes this is Tuesday long after Sunday and Monday Night Football.

Google rolled out NFL teams and favorite team edit options in an update a few weeks ago and I was hoping all would be ready in time for NFL, but it appears they had a few slight issues. For everyone using Android 4.1 Jelly Bean (official or otherwise) Google Now should finally be ready to rock for this awesome upcoming NFL season — and other sports for that matter.

According to multiple reports over at XDA Developers Google knew about the back-end issue, and was getting things all squared away after this opening weekend. I thought that is what pre-season was for. Just kidding Google! For those that haven’t searched for their favorite team go into Google Now and edit your favorite team, then select any of the alerts you’d like to see live right on your device. Hopefully Thursday when my Pack gets the offense going against Da Bears Google now will be working as advertized.

Did Google Now work for you this weekend with NFL scores and alerts?


Samsung Galaxy Note II S-Pen Airview Hands-on

Posted: 11 Sep 2012 10:19 AM PDT

When Samsung announced their new Galaxy Note II many were excited to see that massive screen, us included. While the original Note phablet seemed too large originally, it sold extremely well (over 10 million) and the Note II is everything it was and more. We’ve had a change to enjoy another round of hands-on time with the new Note II from Samsung, so decided to capture some of the new features of that S-Pen stylus.

Obviously one of the many selling points of the Galaxy Note and the new Note II is the S-Pen stylus for all that content creation. Being able to take screenshots, draw notes and pictures, and interact with a device in a way we never have before. With the Note hardware and the Galaxy S III software, Samsung has combined all their efforts into the Note II to be the ultimate device. With Android 4.1 Jelly Bean they’ve enhanced many of the Note and Galaxy S III features and blend them together to make the Note II even more powerful.

The video below is a quick hands-on demo by Samsung showing a few of the many ways the S-Pen makes the Note II unique from anything else available. With their new Airview UI the S-Pen actually will be recognized by that 5.5-inch display. Once you get a few millimeters from the screen a mouse-pointer appears giving you absolute control and precision. From here it acts as a mouse and can show you email alerts with pop-ups, calender details without clicking, and many other neat features. The video below will demonstrate A few new additions with the Note II.

As you could see from the video above the Note II now recognizes once the S-Pen is removed, and it will even notice if you walk off without it. This means you’ll never leave the S-Pen stylus behind. Simply start walking away and the movement will trigger a check — presenting the screen you see below. Then all the Airview features are quite neat. Right?

As you saw at about the 1 minute mark the S-Pen is recognized and while hovering over the video timeline you see a live preview without even touching the screen, then just tap to move to that part of the video. It’s the little things here folks, the little things. Then the picture-in-picture mode (which we first saw on the Galaxy S III) has been improved with easy resizing options, and even quick pause/play without ever leaving the screen. That way you can pause the video, keep browsing the web or checking an email, then resume once you feel ready all without ever leaving what you’re doing.

Samsung’s new Galaxy Note II has tons of options available that are tailored around the S-Pen. Being able to quickly and easily do so many things is what will truly set this apart from the competition. Well that and the 5.5-inch HD Super AMOLED display, quad-core processor, Android 4.1 Jelly Bean, and super-thin design. For all of our Galaxy Note II coverage including additional hands-on pictures and videos be sure and take a peek at the timeline of links below.

P1100354 P1100325 samsung-jellybean
Device Specifications and Information
Device Info
    Device Name : Galaxy Note II
    Manufactuer : Samsung
    Carrier : NA
    Announced Date : August 29, 2012
    Release Date : TBA
    Also Known As : GT-N7100
Display
  • Screen Size : 5.5 Inch
  • Resolution : 1280x720
  • Screen Type : HD Super AMOLED
Dimension & Weight
  • Height : 5.95 Inch
  • Width : 3.17 Inch
  • Depth : 0.37 Inch
  • Weight : 180 Grams
Battery & Power
    Battery Type:
  • Lithium Ion
  • Battery Capacity : 3100 mAh
  • Talk Time : NA
  • Stand By Time : NA
Software
    Android OS:
  • 4.1.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 : 1600 Mhz
    Core : 4
    Ram : 2000 MB
    Internal Storage : 16 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 :


Google Drive update brings folders, presentation viewing and more

Posted: 10 Sep 2012 12:29 PM PDT

After we saw a few random tweets suggesting this update was coming, today Google has just issued a rather large update to their popular Google Drive application for both Android and iOS. The change-log is rather long and Google’s added an entire host of new features to the cloud storage and document service. Lets take a peek.

The update actually brought a host of about 10 new features but some are smaller than others. Among the important ones are full folder integration. You can now create, edit, and even comment on folders. Then they have presentation slide viewing. Then they’ve added multiple filters for sorting through files, documents, folders and other options.

The presentation feature has a lot of improvements. You can now swipe between slides and have much more control than before, which should make many users extremely happy. Google now allows for users to view tables in Google Drive. Here’s a quick video.

Tablet support has been improved as well as the option for truly fullscreen mode on all devices — something I’ve been waiting for myself for quite awhile. Last but certainly not least Google is looking to get us excited by teasing real native editing app wide and the upcoming update that should add real-time collaboration between employees or team members for a given document or presentation. Hit the Play Store link below for the all new app.

Google Drive link

[via Google]


Samsung Galaxy Note II screenshot leak suggests Verizon debut

Posted: 10 Sep 2012 11:50 AM PDT

When Samsung announced their exciting and larger than life Galaxy Note last year at IFA many were hoping it would arrive for Verizon. After a few leaks suggesting a Samsung Galaxy Journal, new details have surfaced that could have us all hopeful again. We are seeing a leaked screenshot suggesting the new Note II will hit Verizon.

Remember how angry you were that this massive device wasn’t headed to Verizon? Well now the all new and improved Galaxy Note II with its 5.5-inch 1280 x 720p HD display and 2GB of RAM should be headed to Verizon shortly. The folks from BriefMobile managed to snag a screenshot showing what we all expect to be the Note II for the US that also clearly shows Verizon 4G LTE.

According to their trusted sources we could see the Galaxy Note II hit most if not all major US carriers just like the Galaxy S III smartphone did, and what’s even better is they claim it will be keeping the quad-core processor. We aren’t sure if that means it will rock Samsung’s Exynos, or be powered by Qualcomm’s upcoming S4 Pro quad-core processor we are excitedly waiting to arrive.

The screenshot shows SHC-I605 which matches up nicely with model numbers for recent Samsung devices like the Galaxy Note II we saw at IFA last month. If the rumors are accurate we’ll be seeing the same awesome 5.5-inch quad-core 8 megapixel packing smartphone hit most carriers. It’ll still have that 8 megapixel camera, 1.9 front shooter, that awesome S-Pen stylus and array of apps, and that massive 3,100 mAh battery. We can’t wait to hear more on the Note II for the US and will update as soon as we hear more. Enjoy out hands-on video below from IFA 2012.

Device Specifications and Information
Device Info
    Device Name : Galaxy Note II
    Manufactuer : Samsung
    Carrier : NA
    Announced Date : August 29, 2012
    Release Date : TBA
    Also Known As : GT-N7100
Display
  • Screen Size : 5.5 Inch
  • Resolution : 1280x720
  • Screen Type : HD Super AMOLED
Dimension & Weight
  • Height : 5.95 Inch
  • Width : 3.17 Inch
  • Depth : 0.37 Inch
  • Weight : 180 Grams
Battery & Power
    Battery Type:
  • Lithium Ion
  • Battery Capacity : 3100 mAh
  • Talk Time : NA
  • Stand By Time : NA
Software
    Android OS:
  • 4.1.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 : 1600 Mhz
    Core : 4
    Ram : 2000 MB
    Internal Storage : 16 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 :


LG Escape 4G LTE announced for AT&T with ICS – only $49

Posted: 10 Sep 2012 11:36 AM PDT

LG is looking to make a strong push here late in 2012 with their upcoming powerhouse Optimus G smartphone, but for those looking for a little less power — and price — the LG Escape 4G LTE from AT&T might be the perfect choice. With a 4.3-inch display and a massive battery under the hood this is what LG claims to be the perfect phone for users to transition into a smartphone. Check it out!

The all new just announced Escape 4G LTE is nearly a top end phone in most regards although the camera and qHD resolution screen top of from being a top-tier device. With the Escape you’ll be working with a 4.3-inch qHD (960 x 540) resolution IPS display, Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, then the device rocks a massive 2,150 mAh battery under the hood and even NFC support for Google Wallet, ISIS, and Android Beam — not to mention LG’s own Tags NFC system.

Other specs include AT&T 4G LTEs blazing fast speeds of course, and then a decently quick 1.2 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, 1GB of RAM, and 4GB of internal storage. As usual with LG you’ll get a micro-SD card for expanded storage should you need.

Then LG’s rounded it off with a super sleek design, a 5 megapixel camera, 1.3 front for video chatting, and all of this comes at an extremely budget and family friendly price. Those interested in a nearly top end device while keeping the price down you can get the LG Escape 4G LTE starting September 16th for only $49.99 with a new 2-year contract. This will be in stores and available online so be sure and check it out. More details are available from the AT&T Mobile Minute clip below.


T-Mobile Galaxy S Relay 4G hits shelves September 19th

Posted: 10 Sep 2012 11:18 AM PDT

The newest Samsung Galaxy smartphone to grace the T-Mobile device portfolio has been announced today by the carrier and is headed to stores nationwide in just a few weeks. We’ve seen a few leaks before but now you can officially meet the all new Samsung Galaxy S Relay 4G with T-Mobile HSPA+ speeds. More details below.

The Relay 4G isn’t what we’d call a top-tier smartphone and just like many other carriers as of late T-Mobile is joining them by offering this decent mid-range smartphone for the budget crowd headed back to school and ending summer. T-Mobile just dropped the news that this smartphone will be available September 19th.

The Relay 4G is a pretty well rounded smartphone and comes with a 4-inch AMOLED display with a somewhat attractive WVGA 480 x 800 resolution display. The rest of the specs however are quite decent and it comes with a 1.5 GHz dual-core processor, 1GB of RAM, 8GB of internal storage, and of course that 5-row slideout QWERTY keyboard.

You’ll also get a 5 megapixel rear camera, 1.3 front for self portraits or goofy photos, 720p video recording and a decently sized 1,800 mAh battery that should keep you typing away on that hardware keyboard all day long. In other good news the Relay 4G comes out of the box running Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich and Sammy’s Touch Wiz UX for a simple and easy user experience. Pricing is ok given the device and it will run you $149, although that is after a $40 mail in rebate since that is a reoccurring trend from T-Mobile as of late. Stay tuned for more details and expect this in stores come September 19th.

Device Specifications and Information
Device Info
    Device Name : Galaxy S Relay 4G
    Manufactuer : Samsung
    Carrier : T-Mobile
    Announced Date : September 06, 2012
    Release Date : September 19, 2012
    Also Known As : SGH-T699
Display
  • Screen Size : 4 Inch
  • Resolution : 480x800
  • Screen Type : Super AMOLED
Dimension & Weight
  • Height : 4.96 Inch
  • Width : 2.56 Inch
  • Depth : 0.53 Inch
  • Weight : NA
Battery & Power
    Battery Type:
  • Lithium Ion
  • Battery Capacity : 1800 mAh
  • Talk Time : NA
  • Stand By Time : 312 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 : MSM8260A
    CPU Clock Speed : 1500 Mhz
    Core : 2
    Ram : 1000 MB
    Internal Storage : 8 GB
    Front Facing Camera :
    Camera Resolution : 5 MP
    External Storage:
  • MicroSD
    Camera Features:
  • Auto focus
  • Flash
  • 720p Video Recording
    Sensors:
  • Accelerometer
    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
  • A2DP
    Location Features:
  • Compass
  • GPS
  • Cellular location
  • Wi-Fi location
    FM Radio :
    NFC :


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Droid Razr M: Slim, Snazzy Entry-Level Android
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Google Drive Storage Updated for Android, iOS
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Five months after unveiling its Google Drive cloud storage services, Google is now adding several useful features that aim to make Drive even easier and more flexible for users on both Apple iOS and Android mobile devices. In a Sept. 10 post on the ...
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Get a Samsung Galaxy S III Android phone for $99.99
CNET
But for anyone who wants the hot Android phone (at least for the moment), here's your chance to score it for the best possible price. Gotta admit, I've never been more tempted to jump ship -- though I'll at least wait until after tomorrow before ...
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U.S. Consumers Reluctant to Ditch iPhone, Android for Nokia Lumia 920
PC Magazine
Nokia's new flagship Lumia 920 smartphone made a splash when it was unveiled last week, but most Americans don't plan to ditch their iPhones and Android devices for the new Windows Phone 8-powered device, according to a new survey.
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Sprint Rolling Out Jelly Bean to Nexus S 4G, Galaxy Nexus
PC Magazine
Sprint on Tuesday announced that the Nexus S 4G and Galaxy Nexus will be the first two Android phones in its lineup to receive the Android 4.1 Jelly Bean upgrade. The carrier said the over-the-air update is rolling out to customers now. The update will ...
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Children's computer tablet game heating up
Examiner.com
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Got a Nexus 7? Get your free $10 from Google before it's too late
Computerworld (blog)
Here's the important part: Google offers a free $10 credit when you set up one of those prepaid Wallet cards on any Android device. Any Android device. The Nexus 7 is included in that list -- and the $10 credit is available there even if you've set up ...
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Computerworld (blog)
HTC may not be loudly profitable, but it is still quietly brilliant
ZDNet
HTC makes Android and Windows Phone devices. HTC has something like 13,000 employees, compared to Apple's 60,000+ and Samsung with more than 345,000. If you look at financials, even just comparing Samsung Electronics and not all the Samsung ...
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LG Escape 4G LTE announced for AT&T with ... - Android Community
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LG is looking to make a strong push here late in 2012 with their upcoming powerhouse Optimus G smartphone, but for those looking for a little less power -- and.
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Android Authority

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Want a limited edition Cushnie et Ochs HTC One X? Enter this Pinterest contest

Posted: 11 Sep 2012 03:02 AM PDT

How often do you get the opportunity to see such a fashionable and "different" smartphone as the Cushnie et Ochs edition of the HTC One X? So doesn't it seem a bit unfair for HTC to only hand 150 or so such striking phones to celebrities?

It really does, but HTC has thought of us non-celebrities as well (after all), launching a contest that will put one half black-half white One X into the hands of one very lucky guy or gal.

I know, it still sounds like a drop in the ocean, considering how many people would love to get their hands on the ivory/ebony handheld. But if everyone could simply buy one, it would stop being so special, wouldn't it?

Now, if you want to join that select club of Cushnie et Ochs HTC One X owners, you won't have to do much, so, even if you see yourself like a real-life Bad Luck Brian, you should at least give the contest a shot.

 

To enter, you have to follow HTC on Pinterest before next Monday and repin one of the dazzling images of the HTC One by Cushnie et Ochs. You then have to go back to the original pic you decided to repin, and leave a link to your repin in the comments. It's really easy as pie, and you only need a couple of minutes to do everything. Of course, you'll need a Pinterest account before anything.

Not convinced of the phone's real "market" value? Well, here's a funny story to make you enter the contest even if you think the gadget looks like something that only Cruella De Vil would use… A Cushnie et Ochs One X was put up for auction on Ebay last night, and, after only a couple of hours, it got a bunch of bids raising its price from the initially requested $360 to around $600. Now imagine where would that price have gone in two or three days if the auction wasn't ended without notice.

We're not advising you to put the phone up for auction if you happen to win it (not officially, at least), but we're just saying. Why miss out on the opportunity to get into this giveaway just because you feel like screaming for Batman's help when you look at the "two-faced" device?

We’re of course joking with the Batman and 101 Dalmatians references and, all irony aside, I for one would definitely keep the Oreo-looking phone if I’d be lucky enough to win it. Oops, I did it again…


This article, Want a limited edition Cushnie et Ochs HTC One X? Enter this Pinterest contest , was originally published at AndroidAuthority.com - Your Android News Source.


Samsung launches a Hello Kitty branded Galaxy Y in Germany

Posted: 11 Sep 2012 02:12 AM PDT

Samsung has just announced that they’re going to bring a Hello Kitty branded Galaxy Y to the German market. The entry-level smartphone will be priced at 230 Euros, and for that amount of cash you’re going to get a 3-inch screen that pushes a meager 320×240 pixels, Android 2.3 Gingerbread, a 2 megapixel camera that’s probably useless, and … not much else.

How much does a Galaxy Y cost in Germany without the Hello Kitty logos? According to Amazon DE: less than 120 Euros. In other words, you’re paying more than double the cost of the phone for what’s essentially a coat of paint and a pretty theme.

But you know what, this thing will probably sell like hotcakes. Branding has the power to make people do things they wouldn’t otherwise do. People have no problem buying an outfit that costs more than 300 Euros, so this device isn’t exactly pushing the boundaries of irrational behavior.

Are more and more companies going to start producing branded smartphones? We hate to tell this, but this trend has already come and gone. Puma released a phone in 2010 that was made by Sagem. Adidas released a phone in 2007 that was made by Samsung. TAG Heuer has a whole range of insanely expensive phones. Do you guys remember the D&G Motorola RAZR from way back in 2006?

Like we said earlier, branding makes people do thing they wouldn’t otherwise normally do. There are folks out there who are more than willing to throw money at anyone selling who will them anything with a certain logo that’s prominently displayed. Say what you will about those kind of people, but they exist, and it’s a company’s fiduciary responsibility to advantage of that character flaw.

Related Posts

Vodafone Galaxy Note 2 price revealed for Germany: 640 Euros for 16GB unlocked LTE version, Vodafone Germany to parade 4G Asus Transformer Pad TF700KL and Samsung Galaxy S3 LTE at IFA 2012, Germany to get the quad-core Samsung Galaxy S3 LTE in October, but at what price?


This article, Samsung launches a Hello Kitty branded Galaxy Y in Germany , was originally published at AndroidAuthority.com - Your Android News Source.


Lenovo A660: Waterproof, dust-proof, dual-SIM, Android 4.0, what’s not to like?

Posted: 11 Sep 2012 01:09 AM PDT

Last month, China officially became the world’s largest consumer of smartphones. It makes sense when you think about it. The population of the United States hovers around 310 million people, Europe has about 730 million people, and as for China, they’ve got well over 1.3 billion men, women, and children.

Now, because China has the world’s largest smartphone market, chances are you’re going to hear a lot more about Chinese smartphones over the coming years. Here are the three companies that should be on your radar: Huawei, Lenovo, and ZTE. Today they’re roughly where Samsung was half a decade ago, meaning they make semi-interesting devices, but nothing that’s going to blow people’s minds. That’ll change over time of course, and we’ll be tracking that evolution.

But enough background, let’s get on to the news! Today Lenovo is announcing a new Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich device called the A660. It’s dust proof, water proof, and it even has two SIM card slots. Under the hood, there’s a dual core 1 GHz processor, a 0.3 megapixel front facing camera, a 5 megapixel rear facing camera, and a 4 inch display that pushes 800 x 480 pixels. It’s a little thick at 10.5 mm, but then again this is a phone that’s meant to survive being accidentally dropped in the toilet, so we’ll forgive it for that.

Will we see this thing being sold outside of China? Probably not, but it’s important to pay attention to what this device represents. Dual SIM is big in parts of the world where every penny saved is important. Having a rugged device is also critical if you’re going to hold onto a smartphone for at least a few years.

We don’t see too many dual SIM phones here in the West, but Sony, with the Xperia V, really impressed us last month at IFA in Berlin. That thing is not only gorgeous and powerful (Snapdragon S4, 720p screen, 13 MP camera), but it’s also completely waterproof.

Would you be interested in a dual-SIM waterproof device?

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This article, Lenovo A660: Waterproof, dust-proof, dual-SIM, Android 4.0, what’s not to like? , was originally published at AndroidAuthority.com - Your Android News Source.


AT&T announces the LG Escape: $49 gets you a dual-core 4G LTE phone

Posted: 11 Sep 2012 12:46 AM PDT

AT&T has just announced the LG Escape, a device we’ve seen leaked numerous times over the past few days. At $49, it’s one of the cheapest 4G LTE smartphones out there, but is it worth it? Let’s run through the specs: Starting with the screen, it measures 4.3 inches diagonal and pushes 960 x 540 pixels. Under the hood there’s a dual core 1.2 GHz processor, a 5 megapixel rear facing camera, a 1.3 megapixel front facing camera, and a massive 2,150 mAh battery. The LG Escape ships with Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich out of the box, and we’re going to assume it’s going to get 4.1 Jelly Bean at some point in the future, but no official timetable has been given.

Here’s an official demo video for the LG Escape from AT&T:

Looking at AT&T’s portfolio, for $50 more you can get the HTC One X. Now yes, some of you might have a problem forking over that extra bit of money, but remember, you’re tied to your device for two years anyway. With that in mind, $50 spread out over two years comes out to a little over $2 a month. That’s the price of a can of soda. And just look at the One X! It has a better screen, a faster processor, there’s an incredibly high probability it’ll get Android 4.1 Jelly Bean by the end of the year, it has a much better camera, probably the best camera on an Android device today, and because the One X is so popular, the custom ROM community is having a field day tinkering with it.

If you really want to save money then you shouldn’t even be looking at the big operators. You should be looking at guys like Straight Talk and Simple Mobile, but that’s a whole other topic of discussion.

More about the new AT&T LG Escape, including full specs, in the press release.

Show full PR text

Get Away to an Adventure Every Day with New LG Escape(TM) for AT&T Customers Available September 16

$50 4G LTE Smartphone Features Innovative New Browser Toolbar, Long-life Battery With LG QuickMemo(TM), Write Personal Memos on any Screen Capture for Expressive Communication with Friends and Family

DallasTexasSeptember 10, 2012

Starting Sept. 16, AT&T* will expand its 4G LTE product portfolio by offering an unparalleled combination of premium performance and value.  The LG Escape™ is perfect for consumers on a budget looking to transition into a powerful smartphone and pairs well with AT&T's recently announced shared data plans creating a great combination of low- cost hardware and service for data-minded families. The LG Escape is a 4G LTE Android smartphone with high-performance connectivity, processing and camera features with a vibrant qHD display. It will be available in AT&T company-owned retail storesand online for $49.99 with a two-year agreement**.

The LG Escape features the Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) platform and 4 GB onboard memory with the option to add up to 32 GB with a microSD card. A 1.2 GHz dual-core processor delivers seamless multitasking agility. The crisp 4.3-inch qHD IPS display gives users enhanced image clarity with true-to-life color rendering. Near-Field Communication enabled and equipped with the QuickMemoTM feature lets users instantly capture a screen image, add notes or decorate using just a finger, then share with friends. The LG Escape has full HD video recording capabilities, and users can even create customized videos by adding themes, music and text to videos or a series of photos with the Video Wiz editing application, played back in crisp cinematic Dolby® Mobile surround sound. To see more of the Escape's features in action, check out this video.

Because timing is everything when taking photos on the go, the LG Escape 5-megapixel auto-focus camera offers features to help users tap into their inner photographer. With the Continuous Shot feature, users can capture multiple images in a row to create that perfect panoramic photo or choose the best photo from an impromptu photo shoot to share with all their friends. Time Catch Shot eliminates shutter lag by taking several pictures before the shutter button is pushed to make sure users get the right shot every time.

Escape also features the Browser Bar powered by Skyfire's Horizon Browser Extension, a newly created browser toolbar extension that allows users to access their favorite social media pages while surfing the internet.

AT&T customers have access to the nation's largest 4G network***, covering 275 million people. AT&T has two 4G networks that work together for customers, LTE and HSPA+ with enhanced backhaul. That means AT&T customers are able to enjoy a widespread, ultra-fast and consistent 4G experience on their compatible device as they move in and out of LTE areas. With other carriers, when you travel outside of their LTE coverage area, you may be on a much slower 3G network.

"This is an impressive smartphone for $49.99," said Jeff Bradley, senior vice president, Devices, AT&T Mobility. "Running Android 4.0 and packing a 1.2 GHz dual-core processor, a qHD true-color IPS screen and cool features like our new browser bar, customers looking for incredible value will quickly select the Escape."

"LG Escape allows users to capture and share whatever life sends their way with its powerful dual-core processor, true-to-life screen and smart camera features," said James Fishler, senior vice president of marketing and go-to-market operations, LG Electronics USA. "And on AT&T's expansive network consumers can get the best possible experience with Escape by using its LTE capabilities to the fullest."

For more information, visit www.att.com/aboutus.

Limited-time offer. Discounted pricing on smartphones requires a new two year agreement with qualifying voice and data plans. Subject to Wireless Customer Agreement. Credit approval required. Activation fee $36 per line. Geographic, usage and other terms, conditions and restrictions apply, and may result in svc termination. Coverage, and svcs not available everywhere. Taxes and other charges apply. Data (att.com/dataplans): If usage exceeds your monthly data allowance, you will automatically be charged overage for additional data provided. Early Termination Fee (att.com/equipmentETF): After 14 days, ETF up to $325. Restocking fee up to $25. Other monthly charges/line may include a Regulatory Cost Recovery Charge (up to $1.25), a gross receipts surcharge, federal and state universal svc charges. Visit store or att.com/wireless to learn more about wireless devices and services from AT&T.

Key Features:

  • An advanced 5 MP camera with time catch shot, "cheese shutter," and different shot modes including Normal, HDR, Continuous and Panorama
  • Android™ 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich)
  • AT&T's 4G LTE Network
  • The innovative and convenient QuickMemo™ to create and share personalized memos by writing messages or drawings on screen captures
  • A 1.2 GHz Dual-Core Processor
  • True-to-Life 1080p HD recording
  • Long-lasting 2,150mAh battery
  • Bluetooth® Version 4.0
  • A crisp 4.3" qHD true-color IPS Touch Screen with Gorilla® Glass durability
  • Google™ Integration with Google Play, Google Maps™ Navigation and other preloaded Google apps
  • Add music and themes to videos and photos with Video Wiz
  • Data sharing with Android Beam and NFC Technology

Additional Features:

  • 1.3 MP front-facing camera and camcorder
  • Video resolutions up to 1920 x 1080 full-HD
  • Zoom up to 4x
  • Simultaneous GPS for Enhanced Location Accuracy

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This article, AT&T announces the LG Escape: $49 gets you a dual-core 4G LTE phone , was originally published at AndroidAuthority.com - Your Android News Source.


Forget about the hardware, Apple and Amazon have totally different business models

Posted: 11 Sep 2012 12:17 AM PDT

Amazon pricing

Last week Amazon announced several new devices, the most important being the company’s new Kindle Fire tablets. They’re all powered by Android, and we could spend the next hundred or so words running you through their respective spec sheets, but that would be a waste of time.

Comparing Amazon’s tablets to Apple’s tablets ignores something that’s fundamental to the way these two companies do business. Apple has ridiculously high margins. When they sell you a $500 device, roughly a third of that goes straight into their pocket. When Amazon sells you a tablet, they sell it to you for roughly the same price it took them to build the thing. Their hope is that you’ll use their device to buy stuff through their store. Whether it be digital media or physical goods, Amazon doesn’t care, they just want to become your preferred retailer.

Where have we seen this business model before? The videogame industry. Sony, Nintendo, Microsoft, Sega, they’ll sell you their consoles either at cost or they’ll even lose money on the hardware, but it doesn’t matter since they make that money back by charging publishing houses for the rights to sell their games to customers. It’s a business model that has worked for several decades, and there’s no reason to believe that it won’t continue to be successful going forward.

Is Amazon a threat to Apple? Yes and no. Apple tries their best to sell you something that you can actually use as your main computing device. Meanwhile Amazon is selling what can best be described as the 21st century equivalent of a shopping catalog. Those of us who grew up before the internet remember getting thick magazines in the mail, filled with glossy pages of things to buy. All those magazines had a toll free number on the bottom so you could buy whatever it is that caught your eye. Amazon, thanks to technology, has that all too tempting one click to purchase button.

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This article, Forget about the hardware, Apple and Amazon have totally different business models , was originally published at AndroidAuthority.com - Your Android News Source.


Emoticons are obsolete: new technology adds real face expressions to text messages

Posted: 10 Sep 2012 11:26 PM PDT

Messaging via SMS can be great. You can use it to send quick messages or have full blown conversations. With smart phones getting larger screens and better keyboards, there are people out there who prefer texting to phone calls or email. However, texting isn’t all it could be. Even with emoticons, it can be hard to decipher the tone someone is trying to use in a text. It is, after all, text. There is no voice or facial expressions to extrapolate mood.

This is a problem that NTT Docomo Inc is looking to fix with their new software called 3D Face Avatar. Utilizing new advancements in SMS technology, texters will soon be able to send their facial expressions right along with a text message. It may seem kind of silly, but getting facial expressions along with text can be useful. It greatly increases the reader’s ability to discern the mood of the text without overusing elements like emoticons.

smiley face expression TechOn

How does it work?

How it works is not difficult to understand. After constructing the text, 3D Face Avatar takes a peek at your mug. Based on your facial expressions, it creates a 3-dimensional representation of your expression to send along with the text. According to photos and demonstrations, the 3D avatar should even resemble your real face.

3D Face Avatar was first introduced by NTT Docomo Inc during the action packed 2012 IFA in Berlin. Despite its very recent announcement, NTT Docomo Inc claims that this technology is ready for mobile devices now. So it may not be very long before this technology is actually available.

Between this and the ever improving voice dictation, it won’t be long before we’re talking and smiling at our smartphones like we are talking to them. While it is for the benefit of our texting recipients, it’s really just one more step toward Skynet, don’t you think?

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This article, Emoticons are obsolete: new technology adds real face expressions to text messages , was originally published at AndroidAuthority.com - Your Android News Source.


Sprint LTE to launch in 100 new cities in the next few months

Posted: 10 Sep 2012 11:14 PM PDT

Sprint is looking to make up a lot of lost ground with a recent announcement to build and activate their new 4G LTE network in over 100 new cities. So far, Sprint LTE has been difficult to find unless you happen to live in a city where it was initially launched. Outside of that, customers have had to deal with WiMAX or Sprint’s tired 3G network.

The LTE roll-out initially began in the South and Midwest with Kansas City, San Antonio, Houston, Dallas, and Atlanta. Since then, the Sprint LTE coverage map has been slowly growing. Although it hasn’t stretched far beyond the initial launch points, Sprint claims that their network vision will eventually bring LTE to their entire 3G coverage area.

The list of cities included in the massive 100 city list range from backwater burgs to major metropolitan areas. Even Puerto Rico is getting in on the Sprint LTE action. Given the locations listed, it appears Sprint is focusing this major roll out in the Southern and Eastern portions of the United States. The furthest West they’re going will be Arkansas and the furthest North they’re going will be Massachusetts and Indiana. Customers outside of that umbrella won’t be seeing LTE just yet.

According to the press release, Sprint will focus mostly on the Washignton D.C., Boston, and Baltimore areas first. The rest is to be completed afterward. A little Easter Egg for customers is that they may be able to obtain LTE coverage before it’s officially completed. If you happen to live in those areas with a Sprint LTE-enabled device, keep an eye on your notification bars.

This is bittersweet for Sprint customers. It shows they are dedicated to their Network Vision, but it’s hard not to look at the listed cities without a little bit of envy. Especially for the residents of Ohio, who will surely notice that Sprint intends on delivering Sprint LTE to Columbus, Indiana and Cleveland, Tennessee.

It has been a slow and frustrating process for Sprint customers. Especially for those who already own LTE-enabled devices. However, Sprint is actually on track to complete their LTE build—as well as their 3G rebuild—within the time frame they specified. Albeit it’s 2013, but on schedule is far better than behind schedule.

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This article, Sprint LTE to launch in 100 new cities in the next few months , was originally published at AndroidAuthority.com - Your Android News Source.


Amazon to offer in-app purchases of real-world goods

Posted: 10 Sep 2012 08:56 PM PDT

(Image credit: The Verge)

We’ve heard of how Amazon is positioning itslef as a leader in the mobile industry through its content business. While the Kindle lineup has been a popular low-priced tablet due to its integration of e-books and content, here’s a significant piece of news that competitors should watch out for: Amazon will soon offer in-app purchases of real-world goods.

Amazon has partnered with game publisher Activision, which will be selling actual toys within its Skylanders series of games for children. Skylanders Cloud Patrol, which costs 99 cents, will feature in-game purchase of actual Skylanders toys. Doing so will also unlock a virtual version of that character, which can be used immediately within the game.

All of this is done through Amazon’s 1-Click, which makes the purchase of online and physical goods more convenient. The e-commerce giant is now seeking to market the service to developers, who can now monetize their apps through real-world merchandise.

So far, Amazon’s advantage here is its capability to physically distribute merchandise, which Apple and Google clearly don’t have at this point. Some third-party services  offer such a functionality — such as LoopJoy, which launches in beta soon — although not to Amazon’s scale.

Is there promise in offering real-world goods from within apps? Or is it just another way for consumers to easily part with our hard earned-cash through our mobile game and app addictions?

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This article, Amazon to offer in-app purchases of real-world goods , was originally published at AndroidAuthority.com - Your Android News Source.


FCC planning to auction off additional UHF spectrum to mobile carriers

Posted: 10 Sep 2012 07:41 PM PDT

Cell Tower

Image credit: ExtremeTech

Mobile broadband is on the rise, but with carriers trying to offer better and faster services, there is a resource that might go scarce soon: radio spectrum allocation. Most technologies today can support the network load through code-division, which lets data and voice packets share the same space, bandwidth permitting. However, as the need for “ubiquitous mobile Internet coverage” arises, the FCC feels the need to be proactive in allocating for these resources as demand grows.

FCC chairman Julius Genachowski says the move will encourage broadcasters to sell the unused spectrum that they own. As an alternative, broadcasting companies can can or move to alternative frequencies more adequate for broadcasting, such as VHF, which is not adequate for mobile telephony.

To ensure ongoing innovation in mobile broadband, we must pursue several strategies vigorously: freeing up more spectrum for both licensed use and for unlicensed services like Wi-Fi; driving faster speeds, greater capacity, and ubiquitous mobile Internet coverage.

The proposed rules on said auction have been circulated among FCC commissioners for discussion on September 28. While the effects of the said move will not likely be immediately felt by consumers, this will be beneficial in the long run.

“The auctions will yield innumerable benefits for American consumers to access wireless broadband and ensure that devices such as smartphones and tablets can continue to connect to those networks,” said Julie Kearney, vice president of the Consumer Electronics Association, the standards and trade organization that runs the annual Consumer Electronics Show every January.

Will a reallocation of the radio spectrum result in better services and faster mobile broadband speeds? That will be up to the mobile carriers and regulators. But as consumers, it’s up to us to be vigilant that we get reasonable service for what we pay.

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This article, FCC planning to auction off additional UHF spectrum to mobile carriers , was originally published at AndroidAuthority.com - Your Android News Source.


Google Wallet Discontinues Prepaid Cards, Refunds Coming Soon

Posted: 10 Sep 2012 06:24 PM PDT

Today, Google announced that they soon will be discontinuing their Prepaid Card program. Since the latest versions of Google Wallet enabled users to add any debit or credit card, the need for Google’s prepaid card has diminished. As a result, starting September 17th, you will no longer be able to add funds to your existing Google Prepaid Card or add a new Prepaid Card to a new Google Wallet device. Come October 17th, the Google Prepaid Card will automatically be removed from the Google Wallet app. Have no fear, if you happen to have funds left on your Prepaid Card, you’ll be able to request a refund.

Additionally, Google Wallet now has new terms and conditions. In the past, you were charged a $2.00 as a  monthly service fee after 180 days of inactivity. Since the Prepaid Card service is going away soon, you will be charged this fee after 30 days without any transactions. Don’t worry, this fee is automatically deducted from the balance of your Prepaid Card. If you still have a balance on your Prepaid Card, to avoid a service fee, you’ll want to spend your remaining balance by October 17, 2012.

Not sure if you have a balance? Open Google Wallet, select payment cards, swipe to the card labeled Google Prepaid Card. If you have a balance, just tap ‘Select Card’ below, and you’re all set.

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This article, Google Wallet Discontinues Prepaid Cards, Refunds Coming Soon , was originally published at AndroidAuthority.com - Your Android News Source.