Android Community |
- HTC M7 rumors suggest a February 19 announcement
- Facebook beats out Google Maps as the #1 app in 2012, but don’t worry Google
- Verizon Wireless almost launched Siri on Android smartphones
- Securifi Almond+ wireless smart router Kickstarter launches
- Pebble watch begins shipping today with Android app coming January 24
- Verizon Wireless launching the Droid RAZR M in pink on January 24
- Lookout now takes pics if you enter an incorrect lock screen passcode
- Nexus 4 arrives back in stock with T-Mobile
- Motorola X-Phone: Most wanted features
- Google CFO talks about Motorola: Be ready for product restructuring
- Temple Run 2 reminds developers: “if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it”
- Larry Page: Fixing the Nexus supply is a ‘priority to our teams’
- Google’s Q4 posts $14.4 bn revenue, $48 billion cash on hand
- Verizon Q4 earnings down, but gained over 2.1 million new subscribers
- Tasker beta reveals cleaner looking UI
- Samsung Galaxy Grand Duos gets official for India
- Silent Phone launches for Android with encrypted voice and video
| HTC M7 rumors suggest a February 19 announcement Posted: 23 Jan 2013 11:38 AM PST HTC M7 rumors have continued to flow. We have seen everything from specs, to images and even talk of possible release times and carriers. Things seem to be continuing down that path today as the latest brings a rumored announcement date. Surprisingly, a date that is coming before Mobile World Congress.
Granted, that is not to say that HTC will not be showing the M7 in full force at MWC, however it now looks like they may be announcing the phone a little before — on February 19. The details are coming by way of Twitter user @flapic who has said that the HTC M7 will be launched during a dedicated event on the 19th. Also noted was that the event was expected to take place in London. This would not be the first time we saw HTC unveil a smartphone at an event in London. But as always, until we hear something from HTC, this remains unconfirmed and therefor rumor. Otherwise, HTC is also expected to have the M7 available with at least three US based carriers. They include Verizon Wireless, Sprint and AT&T. No possible carrier release dates have been revealed. That all being said, the M7 is expected to include a 4.7-inch 1080p display, which would make this the second handset from HTC with a Full HD display. The other is the Droid DNA. Other specs include Jelly Bean with Sense 5, a quad-core 1.7GHz processor, 2GB of RAM, 32GB of internal storage, 2300 mAh battery, 2 megapixel front-facing camera and a 12 megapixel rear-facing camera. [via Unwired View] |
| Facebook beats out Google Maps as the #1 app in 2012, but don’t worry Google Posted: 23 Jan 2013 10:59 AM PST Everywhere we go people are always on their smartphones. This is nothing new but a recent study was just released that is leading me to believe almost all those people we see day to day are simply using Facebook way too much. We know the social network is hugely popular but today’s findings by ComScore has Facebook being the absolute #1 most used and downloaded app in 2012 — at least in the US.
Interestingly enough the report actually shows that Facebook is the number 1 mobile app in the US, and beat out Google Maps for the top spot. This is across only two platforms mind you, but still, pretty impressive yet scary at the same time. When looking at the above chart you’ll clearly see Google Maps being in the lead until Apple removed it in October for their own Maps option, which it then took a massive dive and Facebook took the lead. We all know how that turned out though. Right? 2013 will be a pretty tight race now that Google’s released their Maps to iOS again with a new and improved mobile app. We have a feeling Facebook won’t be quite so lucky come the end of 2013. Despite Google Maps losing the top spot to Facebook, there’s absolutely no argument as to who is winning the bigger picture. Clearly Google has a massive lead against everyone. Check out the chart below also released by ComScore, showing just how dominating Google really is across the board.
Aside from Facebook we see Google, and well, more Google. With Maps, Google Play, Search, Gmail, then the ever so popular YouTube all racking up enough traffic to triple that of Facebook. The web isn’t a one trick pony, and it shows. Interestingly enough the report shows iTunes near the button but has no mention of Apple’s App Store. Even though Google Play is listed right up near the top. It would be nice to see the numbers from the App Store somewhere in here. The report briefly goes into app engagement as well, showing Facebook and Instagram having a clear lead over just about everyone else. Now that Facebook owns Instagram they certainly have the lead when it comes to engagement on mobile apps. Will 2013 be the year for Google+, doubtful. Pretty neat report nonetheless so read more from the via below. [via Comscore] |
| Verizon Wireless almost launched Siri on Android smartphones Posted: 23 Jan 2013 10:13 AM PST Apple users have Siri and Android users have Google Now. That is just the way it goes now, however once upon a time, it looked as if Siri was going to be the assistant app for some Android users. Not to mention, some may not even be aware, but before Apple launched Siri as a feature of the iPhone — Siri was an app for the iPhone and it available by way of the iOS App Store. And not to try and make any iPhone users feel bad about having Siri, once a time Siri was quite a bit more capable.
You see, Apple may have introduced Siri in October of 2011, but Siri made its original debut a year earlier, in 2010. At that time the app was able to connect with 42 different web services. It was able to be used for everything from calling for a taxi, to buying tickets, making a call and more. Perhaps more interesting, it was also said that Siri was “on the verge of intuiting" the users preferences and pet peeves. One example given was how (in 2010), Siri was able to check and combine facts from Citysearch, Gayot, Yelp, Yahoo! Local, AllMenus.com, Google Maps, BooRah and OpenTable when asked; "I'd like a romantic place for Italian food near my office." You likely get the point, Siri was a bit more robust before Apple turned it into a feature of the iPhone. And while we could continue with those examples, Android users should know something — Siri was originally heading to them. The deal with Android began before Apple and Steve Jobs got involved. In fact, this happened before the app even launched for the iPhone. Once upon a time Verizon signed a deal to include Siri on all new Android smartphones. This deal was signed back in 2009 and was set to include all Android smartphones that were released in 2010. Simply put, if you bought any Android phone from Verizon in 2010 — it almost had Siri pre-installed. Of course, we know how that went, Apple came in and the deal with Verizon was closed. And from this point, Android users (or those running Jelly Bean anyway), eventually received Google Now. This all brings some interesting questions. For example, had Verizon included Siri on Android smartphones — would others have come with voice assistant apps. For example, would Apple have looked at what Android users had and began working on (or buying) their own solution. Another interesting take here, while Apple scaled down the ability of Siri, you have to wonder how it would have went otherwise. Would Siri would have remained as robust and as full-featured had it gone to Verizon Wireless? Not to mention, what level would Siri be at today had it followed that path. [via The Huffington Post] |
| Securifi Almond+ wireless smart router Kickstarter launches Posted: 23 Jan 2013 08:43 AM PST Securifi was showing off the Almond+ Wireless Smart Router during CES, and as of today, they have officially launched as a Kickstarter offering. Those interested will be able to pledge their support in hopes that the project gets fully funded and produced. That being said, the Securifi Almond+ project has a goal of $250,000 and pledging options starting at just under $100.
For those who missed the details that came out of CES, the Almond+ is touted as being able to offer “blazing fast 802.11ac WiFi – 1.17Gb/s” and being compatible with hundreds of smart sensors including some from Z-Wave and ZigBee. More to the point, the Almond+ is a router aimed at those looking to create a smart home. Or alternatively, for those who have already entered the post-PC era.
You see the Almond+ features a 2.8-inch color touchscreen display that will allow for setup without having to touch a regular computer. Aside from serving up fast speeds, the router (when used with some home sensors, will be able to allow you to do things such as turn the heat on or off, control your lights and even get an alert should someone open a door or window. And yes, the Almond+ will have an Android app available.
As of now the Almond+ is expected to begin shipping in September 2013. Pledging begins at $95 (or a limited number of early birds) and then goes to $99 for an Almond+ in black with free shipping for those in the US. Additionally, the router will be available in Pearl White, Sky Blue, Kickstarter Green and Funky Red. All that being said, those looking to back, or get a bit more information can head on over to the Kickstarter page. |
| Pebble watch begins shipping today with Android app coming January 24 Posted: 23 Jan 2013 07:58 AM PST During CES we learned that the Pebble e-paper watch had gone into mass production and would begin shipping on January 23. And well, coming just as had been promised — the first batch of Pebble watches will begin shipping today. The details come by way of the folks at Pebble who have offered confirmation of the shipping as well as other details about the Android app and some production notes.
In terms of this first batch of Pebble watches shipping out — that is less than 500. The details on this include some having been held up by documentation at the airport which caused a delay in getting to the fulfillment center for shipping. The good news, more are “expected to ship soon.” The other catch here, some that may have already received an address confirmation email will still have a few days to wait before a tracking number arrives. First shipment aside, those with a Pebble in route will likely want to get things up and ready as quick as possible and that may include having the app downloaded and installed prior to arriving. Simply put, the Pebble Android app will be available by way of the Google Play Store on January 24.
Finally, moving over the to the details on production. They are currently producing about 800 – 1,000 Pebbles per day and are “working hard” to get up to full capacity, which would be 2.4k per day. Pebble watches coming off the assembly line have a 5-7 day delay before arriving at a fulfillment center for shipping and at the moment, they are doing batches of one color at a time. Needless to say, given the black was the most popular, that is the one being worked on at the moment. Finally, for those with a colored Pebble, no timeline was given and instead it was noted that they are doing their “best to bring production of other colors on-line as soon as possible.” [via Kickstarter] |
| Verizon Wireless launching the Droid RAZR M in pink on January 24 Posted: 23 Jan 2013 07:26 AM PST The Droid RAZR M is far from the newest smartphone in the Verizon lineup, however as of tomorrow — there will be a new color coming available. The handset is launching tomorrow, but is actually coming in time for Valentine’s Day. And with that, you have probably already guessed the color — pink.
Yes, Verizon Wireless is taking the Droid RAZR M “Pink for Valentine’s Day.” For those looking to shop, Verizon has said that the pink RAZR M will be available online and in retail stores beginning on January 24. Otherwise, aside from the color — nothing has really changed. The handset remains priced at $99.99, which comes after a $50 online (instant) discount and along with the standard two-year agreement. Seeing as this handset was originally released several months back, a recap on the specs may be in order. The Droid RAZR M is running Android 4.1 Jelly Bean with LTE connectivity and sporting a 4.3-inch (960 x 540) Super AMOLED Advanced display, dual-core 1.5GHz processor, 1GB of RAM, 8GB of internal storage, microSD card slot, 2000 mAh battery, 0.3 megapixel front-facing camera and 8 megapixel rear-facing camera.
All things considered, this is certainly not the highest spec’d Droid device in the Verizon lineup at the moment, but for $99.99 it seems like a phone that will attract some interest. Of course, we suspect that those who will be picking up a pink RAZR M tomorrow will be doing that more for the color than the specs anyway. And if you are curious, we reviewed the Droid RAZR M back in September. Bottom line, if you wanted a RAZR M in pink — January 24 is your day. Device Info
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 [via Verizon Wireless] |
| Lookout now takes pics if you enter an incorrect lock screen passcode Posted: 23 Jan 2013 06:54 AM PST The Lookout Security and Antivirus app has recently been updated. And nicely done, this update has brought forth a new feature called Lock Cam. Perhaps key for some, a new feature that is available for free and premium users. The update also had some other changes, however Lock Cam is the big one this time around.
Diving right in, Lock Cam does sort of what the name would imply — a camera for the lock screen. In this case, you can set Lookout to take a picture of a person who enters an incorrect lock screen passcode three times. Taking that a step further, Lookout will also automatically email that picture to you. One catch here, as the Lock Cam feature does require extra permissions — those interested in using it will need to go in and turn it on. The process is simple enough, launch the Lookout app and go into the settings. From here, scroll down to the ‘Missing Device’ section where you will see ‘advanced protection’ — just check that and follow the prompts to get started. Otherwise, this update has also took care of some “minor” bugs. Bottom line here, current Lookout users now have another seemingly worthwhile feature and those who have yet to check out the app, now seems like as good a time as any. The Lookout app is available for free, however there are some premium features for those willing to shell out a few bucks every month. In addition to scanning for malware and backing things up, free users can remotely locate their device. Some of the premium additions include remote lock and remote data wipes. [via Google Play] |
| Nexus 4 arrives back in stock with T-Mobile Posted: 23 Jan 2013 06:24 AM PST Earlier in the month we were told that T-Mobile was going to have the Nexus 4 available today. And well, coming just as we had expected — the Nexus 4 has returned to an available status. Just to clarify, we are talking about online sales here. Though, the stores should also have some Nexus 4 stock available, but more on that in a moment.
The return of the Nexus 4 with T-Mobile doesn’t bring any real surprises. Simply put, the handset has returned at the $199.99 price point. That does however come after a $50 mail-in rebate, which means that you will need to be prepared to shell out $249.99 on the day of purchase. This also means a two-year agreement with T-Mobile. Touching back on the in-store availability. These details go back to when we last heard from T-Mobile — at that time it was said that the larger retail stores had the Nexus 4 and all stores were expected to have some within the coming weeks. This news came about a week ago so if you live close to a smaller T-Mobile location, if they don’t have any on-hand at the moment, they should be getting them in fairly soon. Of course, at this point, you could always take advantage of the website and have one delivered. Otherwise, those looking to ditch the contract, you can buy the Nexus 4 from T-Mobile at full retail, however you will be paying quite a bit more than $199. Or for that matter, quite a bit more than you would pay direct from the Google Play Store. That said, both the 8GB and 16GB Nexus 4 remain out of stock in the Google Play Store. Device Info
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| Motorola X-Phone: Most wanted features Posted: 22 Jan 2013 04:18 PM PST Now that Google and Motorola are rumored to be working together on the next flagship phone for the company, and potentially for Android, we want to go over a few of our most-wanted features. For those unaware multiple reports are claiming Google and Motorola have an X-Phone nearly finished, and an X-Tablet coming soon. With all the recent rumors and Google CEOs dancing around questions we figured we’d ask you guys – our readers – what you want from the X-Phone.
Now obviously everything is purely speculation at this point. Motorola and Google are clearly working hard on their next products of all shapes and sizes. Today’s comments from Google’s CFO about the 12-18 month product pipeline for Motorola devices has us questions what’s really coming in early 2013, and what role Google actually played. If they indeed have been working on a next-gen X-Phone flagship to rock the Android world we’d love to see it. I’m hoping the X-Phone does for Android and Motorola what the original Motorola DROID did for the platform. Reports are claiming the X-Phone has dropped Motorola’s usual DROID branding as they are planning a release across all major carriers. Just like Samsung’s Galaxy S III and Note II, the X-Phone will hit all carriers and even be sold by Google in the Play Store. So what do we want from the X-Phone? I won’t go into extreme details since nothing is official, nor will I talk too much about Android 5.0 Key Lime Pie. We’ll learn more about all of that at Google I/O and for now I’m loving every bit of Jelly Bean. If Motorola can take a Nexus-like approach and combine their RAZR M small and bezel-free design with the battery life of the DROID RAZR MAXX HD. I’d be sold! Here’s some specs to think over:
What’s most important for many is the screen, followed closely by battery life. For many (myself included) screens are getting too large and a 4.7-inch 1080p display would look amazing, and not be too big. Add in optimizations by Google with KLP for battery life, more efficient processors like the Snapdragon 600 and 800 series, and a 3,300 mAh battery we’d have a real winner here. Obviously we’d love to dream big and think of Octa-core phones with 4GB of RAM and 16MP cameras but we should be realistic. If Motorola and Google can fit something like the above smartphone into a package smaller than the Galaxy S III ( due to the edge-to-edge display) and offer it for all carriers with 4G LTE in the Google Play Store at $299, they’d have my hard earned dollars. Then of course Motorola will need to keep up with demand and not pull an LG. Which we’re confident they can do. If reports of a stock Android build with small Motorola additions are accurate mixed with next-gen hardware we’ll be happy campers. Oh and don’t forget to unlock the bootloader. What do you want to see in the Motorola X-Phone? What features are you looking forward to, and what can’t you live without? |
| Google CFO talks about Motorola: Be ready for product restructuring Posted: 22 Jan 2013 03:20 PM PST Google‘s investor relations call surely wasn’t anything exciting, but while we’ve been following along the Q and A sessions gave us a few treats. First up Larry Page talked about the Nexus supply, and now their CFO briefly mentioned their plans for Motorola. Read on for a quick quote right from Google’s own as he talks about big changes coming soon.
Google’s CFO Patrick Pichette was asked about the Motorola acquisition as a whole, and how they still lost $385 million with Motorola last quarter. His response was pretty straight forward and didn’t reveal anything – as expected – but the quote below has us excited with Motorola’s future already.
Now you can take this multiple different ways. For one being the entire RAZR HD, RAZR M, and anything that gets released in the near future will be all Motorola before Google took the reins. That isn’t to say Google hasn’t made some changes and had at least some effect. Whether it was the plan or not, Motorola’s slowly changed their UI to be closer to stock Android than most, and even adopted the on-screen navigation buttons. We’re still hoping HTC and Samsung do the same, but for now that isn’t looking likely. We’ve heard a lot lately about Motorola’s X-Phone, that’s reportedly been a joint venture and project with Google. 120 days into their “journey” we can’t expect things to be fully under way yet, but maybe they got started before the acquisition was finalized. For now everything is just rumors and speculation but hopefully we learn some concrete details soon. Google’s Pichette clearly mentioned to “be ready for a lot of fluctuation in P and L” and that product restructuring takes time. To an Android enthusiast like me that reads: Be ready for something brand new and different from Motorola. And expect some huge changes and major fluctuation in the future. While we don’t know what the future holds for Motorola, it’s safe to say good things are ahead of us with Google at least working with the teams. Stay tuned for more details as we’re sure they’re coming soon. |
| Temple Run 2 reminds developers: “if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it” Posted: 22 Jan 2013 02:37 PM PST The Google Play Store is loaded with games. Without calling out any specifics, there are many that are not so good – and some that are really, really good. Everything from casual games to more in depth games such as Dead Trigger and Modern Combat 4: Zero Hour. But for the focus here, lets concentrate on the casual games. A few of the top developers in this realm include Imangi Studios, Rovio Mobile, Halfbrick Studios and Zepto Lab.
Just for those who may not be as familiar with the developer names, Zepto Lab has Cut the Rope, Halfbrick Studios has Fruit Ninja, Rovio Mobile has Angry Birds and Imangi Studios has Temple Run. We are getting ready to see the release of Temple Run 2 for Android, but in the meantime — we are beginning to wonder if Imangi Studios will stray from the Temple Run brand. You see, they already have some other apps available for iOS. In addition to Temple Run, Imangi has also released a game called Harbor Master for iOS, which is actually quite a bit of fun. The reason we are wondering here, it seems the other studios have all strayed and experimented a little bit. For example, in addition to the numerous Angry Birds games, Rovio Mobile has also released Bad Piggies and Amazing Alex. The Amazing Alex game is quite a bit of fun, well, that is assuming you like easy to pick up puzzle games. Alternatively, Halfbrick Studios also moved away from Fruit Ninja with the release of Jetpack Joyride — another fun game, though based on the ‘installs’ number in Google Play, one that may not have been nearly as popular as Fruit Ninja. The last remaining example here is Zepto Lab who in addition to Cut the Rope, has release another puzzle style game called Pudding Monsters. Bottom line here, it seems that most of the more well known app developers have strayed. Maybe out of experimentation, or maybe out of necessity. We cannot pinpoint the reason as to why, however it does leave us wondering whether we will see a Temple Run 3, or something different come from Imangi Studios in the future. And while Temple Run is quite a bit of fun, it may be nice to see what other tricks they have up their sleeves. |
| Larry Page: Fixing the Nexus supply is a ‘priority to our teams’ Posted: 22 Jan 2013 02:05 PM PST As I’m sure many of you are aware, Google‘s currently in the middle of their Q4 2012 earnings report. Earlier today we mentioned their entire Q4 details resulting in more than $14.4 billion in revenue, but now we’re hearing little details from Google’s own Larry Page. We’ll be listening to the entire call but he briefly mentioned the Nexus supply issue and we thought you’d like to hear.
The calls are rather boring for us mere humans that have normal jobs. However, while listening in Google’s own Larry Page took a moment to update everyone on the terrible supply situation regarding the LG Nexus 4, Samsung Nexus 10, and everything else with a Nexus name on it.
That’s basically it for now. He certainly didn’t say much, but makes it extremely clear that they’ve recognized their terrible calculations for supply and demand and are making this a priority for their teams. Google’s Nexus 4 was launched with great fanfare and tons of eager potential buyers. Sadly the situation is so outright terrible that many have moved on, or just will wait for the next big thing. Personally many we know (myself included) tried and failed throughout December only to finally get a purchase delayed for 5-6 weeks. Shipping was delayed long past Christmas and into the new year, and many are still waiting. If Google had enough stock this phone would by flying off the shelve at $299, but instead is just covered in a re “sold out” tag and fading from our thoughts. I’ve already canceled and moved my attention to the Motorola X-Phone, and we have a feeling we’re not alone. Hopefully this issue gets solved sooner rather than later. Follow along at the link below [via Google Livestream] |
| Google’s Q4 posts $14.4 bn revenue, $48 billion cash on hand Posted: 22 Jan 2013 01:42 PM PST It’s that time of the year again. We’ll be seeing earnings report for Q4 from many different companies ranging from Google as we have here, Verizon from earlier, Apple, and many more coming soon. Today our good ol friends from Mountain View have detailed their Q4 earnings report and lets just say things are looking pretty good for Google.
We’re waiting for the actual earnings call to take place as that’s where we usually here a few goodies related to Android, especially when the QnA gets started. For now however the initial report is showing some strong year over year and quarter over quarter earnings to say the least. Google’s got a pretty decent amount of cash on hand too. Google’s Q4 report posted an overall revenue topping 14.4 billion dollars, with $2.1 billion in net income — and that’s just for Q4 of 2012. That stat of $14.4 billion revenue is up 36% YOY, and their not even counting the $1.51 billion in revenue from their recent Motorola acquisition. Add that in and they are getting close to 16 bn. While Motorola saw 1.51 in revenue, they still lost around $350 million. Chump change I guess. As we mentioned above we’ll be waiting around and listening to their actual earnings call that has just started moments ago, and will update when we hear additional details. To end we’ll report that Google claims to have around $48 billion in cash on hand — or sitting in a huge truck waiting to be delivered to my home. 53,861 full-time employees was mentioned at the end. They have some 37,000 employees, Motorola employee count rings in over 11,000 and Moto Home tops the 5k mark. We’ll update if we hear more and you can see the detailed breakdown below. [via Google] |
| Verizon Q4 earnings down, but gained over 2.1 million new subscribers Posted: 22 Jan 2013 01:25 PM PST This morning Verizon detailed their quarterly earnings report for the final months and holiday season of 2012. Releasing their Q4 earnings report that was full of useful numbers showing just how much they made, as well as a few losses. American’s largest 4G network was rocking all quarter and actually sold 9.8 million smartphones.
Overall Verizon posted extremely solid earnings and sales for Q4, but their continued investment in FiOS and improvements to their 4G LTE network made the end result post a $4.3 billion loss. Yes that’s billion. While they had a loss overall due to spending truckloads of cash on 4G LTE and FiOS, they still had an awesome overall report. Verizon states they had record smartphone adoption, as well as record breaking numbers in terms of new postpaid subscribers. Big Red added over 2.1 million new postpaid subscribers to their network, and as mentioned above sold roughly 9.8 million smartphones in the final months of 2012 alone. Of the 9.8 million phones it looks like the iPhone was around 6.2 million, so that leaves Android around 3 million with Apple selling 2/1 over Andy. Verizon’s past numbers showed a good report for Android and we’re not worried by today’s findings. In the end Verizon posted an 8.4% year over year increase in revenue topping $875 million in profit. [via Verizon] |
| Tasker beta reveals cleaner looking UI Posted: 22 Jan 2013 12:51 PM PST While Tasker has been a pretty great app in terms of function, the same was not able to be said about the look and feel. Simply put, Tasker is powerful, but not all that pretty to look at. That being said, while the Google Play Store version will still maintain the same look and feel, there is a new version in the works. And for those who are curious, the updated version of Tasker can be downloaded in beta form.
Of course, that means visiting the Tasker beta site, downloading and then sideloading the APK file. Assuming you are good with that, you can grab Tasker v4.0b4 (for Android 4.0 or later) by visiting this link. The app itself retains the same functionality as you have likely come to expect from using Tasker. That is to say, you can use Tasker to take control over your smartphone. This app allows for automated processes, such as being able to turn services on and off automatically. One example is being able to turn your Wi-Fi off when you leave home and have it turn back on when you return. The app also allows for neat tricks such as being able to change your app icons each day or being able to record battery levels over time and save those to a file on an SD card. Simply put, Tasker is pretty much only limited by your imagination.
As far as what to expect from this beta release, this brings an updated user interface as well as quite a few bug fixes. Otherwise, no word on when this beta release will land in the Google Play Store, however those new to the app will either need to use the 7 day trial or be prepared to purchase the app. And for those who are curious, Tasker is currently selling for $6.49. [via Lifehacker] |
| Samsung Galaxy Grand Duos gets official for India Posted: 22 Jan 2013 12:27 PM PST The teams at Samsung have already announced their somewhat uninspiring mid-range Galaxy Grand smartphone, but today they detailed a few new markets. Today Samsung announced the Galaxy Grand Duos will be launching for those in India, complete with dual-SIM options and Jelly Bean. More info on this little handset can be had below.
The Samsung Galaxy Grand sure sounds amazing, but the Grand isn’t quite as fancy as it sounds. For those that missed the original announcement this phone comes complete with a 5-inch display and Android 4.1 Jelly Bean — so it sounds awesome right away. You’ll quickly learn that the 5-inch screen isn’t 1080p or even 720p, it’s regular old school 480 x 800 and probably leaves much to be desired. On the other hand you’ll get a 1.2 GHz dual-core processor paired with 1GB of RAM, 8GB of internal storage, 8 megapixel rear camera and 2MP on the front, as well as the usual bells and whistles. It runs the latest Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean with TouchWiz, has Google Now, and is powered by a 2,100 mAh battery. Being a dual-SIM option and in India you’ll have multiple options with this smartphone, and it can be yours for around Rs 21,500. Or $420 off contract in US dollars. That might sound like a pretty high price when options like the Nexus 4 are $299, and you’re right it is. For those looking for a large 5-inch device with dual-SIM options in India give the Galaxy Grand a look. [via GSMArena] |
| Silent Phone launches for Android with encrypted voice and video Posted: 22 Jan 2013 11:43 AM PST Android users now have the ability to make secure audio and video calls directly from their device. These calls are encrypted and have arrived by the way of Silent Circle. The app itself is called Silent Phone. Those interested will be able to find the app in the Google Play Store and while it is free to download, you will actually need to be a Silent Circle subscriber to use it.
That being said, lets get into what the app offers. In the simplest form, Silent Phone allows you to call other Silent Circle members (over 3G, 4G or Wi-Fi ) and have that call be fully encrypted from end-to-end. In fact, you get a sense of the security from the first launch of the app — it opens asking for a provisioning code. And for those wondering, that code will be given when you create your Silent Circle account. Touching on the security aspect, Silent Circle has said that Silent Phone uses device-to-device encryption technology which means that “only the users have the keys exchanged on their device for each call” and that the “keys are not held on a server.” Furthermore, Silent Phone is described as using TLS and the ZRTP protocols to encrypt the packets. Moving over to the requirement of having an account — and yes, this does mean a cost. For users signed up under the $20 per month plan, you will get a “silent” phone number which can be used to make secure calls to other Silent Phone subscribers. Silent Circle refers to this as “Inside the Circle” calling, which is just that — the ability to call other Silent Phone users. There is also an option to upgrade to a $29 per month plan which includes the ability to call those who are not Silent Circle subscribers provided they are in the US, Canada or Puerto Rico. Bottom line here, if you are looking for the ability to make encrypted calls on your Android smartphone, Silent Phone looks like a viable option to consider for voice and/or video. And in addition, Silent Circle also has a Silent Text app, however that is still noted as coming soon for Android. [via Google Play] |
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