Friday, January 18, 2013

Android Phone Fans

Android Phone Fans

Samsung Galaxy Note 2 to come in Ruby Wine and Amber Brown color options

Posted: 17 Jan 2013 02:43 PM PST

Samsung will soon introduce two new color options for those looking to buy a Samsung Galaxy Note 2 in the near future. Accompanying the current Marble White and Titanium Grey options will be Ruby Wine and Amber Brown. The former will sport a reddish hue that is not unlike a fine red wine, of course, while the brown version is just that — brown.

Both of these options seem to be textured like the Titanium Grey version. It’s an interesting combination that is reminiscent of a tootsie pop, and perhaps it was Samsung’s intention to have these new models remind people of delicious pieces of candy. Hungry thoughts aside, don’t look for much more than a color change here — it’s still a Samsung Galaxy Note 2.

You’ll still be getting that 5.5 inch 720p HD display, 1.6GHz quad-core Exynos processor, 2GB of RAM, 8 megapixel rear camera with 2 megapixel front camera, S Pen, Jelly Bean and more. Google Translate is having quite the tough time deciphering Samsung Tomorrow’s text, but it does mention something about “January 17th” — it’s possible these are available starting today in select markets, but we wouldn’t expect your ordinary carriers to have them right away.

Look for unlocked versions and select carriers in South Korea to offer the device sooner than anyone else, while those of us in Europe, North America and other parts of the world will be subject to carrier-specific plans. Take a look at them above.

[via Samsung Tomorrow]

TSF Launcher used to give Android a Ubuntu Phone feel [VIDEO]

Posted: 17 Jan 2013 01:19 PM PST

While we’re waiting for the folks at Ubuntu to bring us the early Galaxy Nexus-compatible images for its mobile operating system, one user decided to throw together the best of both worlds. User Armando Ferreira employed the use of TSF Launcher and several other tools to give his Nexus 4 the Ubuntu Phone look and feel. The lock screen is minimalistic and gives you quick information at a glance. You can pull your favorite apps up with a swipe from the left edge of the display.

The flexibility of TSF Launcher and the other tools used allows every bit of this setup to be customized and manipulated so users can set it up exactly how they want. Directions are forthcoming if there are any of you out there looking to apply this for yourself, but if this just isn’t doing it for you then you’ll have to make sure you have yourself a Galaxy Nexus come February as that is when the real Ubuntu Phone release will be unleashed unto the mobile world. Take a look at this beautiful work above.

Sony Xperia Z to get Android 4.2 ‘shortly after launch’

Posted: 17 Jan 2013 01:16 PM PST

In a bit of news that slipped under the radar, during a Twitter conversation with Sony product manager Lego Svardsater (side note: can I have that first name?), some light was shed on plans to update the Xperia Z’s software to the most current version of Android. While the Sony Xperia Z will launch with Jelly Bean, it will be version 4.1. Svardsater, however, revealed that an update to Android 4.2 would arrive “shortly after launch.”

Just how shortly? That remains to be seen. Sony has been plenty transparent with their plans for updates to their entire lineup of Android phones, so we take them for their word when they promise to keep us updated via their official blog. The transparency, though, has not always translated to the timeliest of updates.

But new Xperia Z owners will surely be plenty happy with the handset regardless. It was one of the best showings at CES, a beautiful mix of design and hardware. Getting the software to the latest version of Android would be the icing on the cake.

[via Sony Mobile Blog]

Dolphin Browser update brings one-tap sharing, Remember Everything, new sync features and more

Posted: 17 Jan 2013 12:37 PM PST

One of Android’s most popular and oldest third party browsers has gotten a pretty decent upgrade in the Google Play Store today. I’m talking about Dolphin Browser, of course, and while none of these features are ground-breaking they are all contributing to add to one very comprehensive browsing experience.

One feature today’s update brings is one-tap sharing. This gives you the ability to share what you’re viewing to Facebook or Twitter without interrupting the browsing experience. In that same area, you can share to Evernote or Box.net using the Remember Everything feature in case there’s something you want to go back to later on.

Dolphin Connect has gotten some pretty decent new features, as well. Dolphin now has desktop extensions for the likes of Chrome, Firefox and Safari, the ability to send tabs, images, text and directions to other devices and the ability to sync bookmarks, tabs, history and passwords across devices and the ability to send a page to a friend that’s on the same WiFi network as you.

While Dolphin’s name doesn’t hold the same weight as Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox, it can most certainly hold its own in the realm  of mobile web browsers. The download is waiting for you in the Google Play Store, and it’ll only cost you 4.8MB of bandwidth and a tad bit of your time to get going with these exciting new features. Get to it, and let us know how things work out for you below.

Official wireless charging station for Nexus 4 shipping early February?

Posted: 17 Jan 2013 12:33 PM PST

If there is one drawback to Google’s Nexus program, it’s the fact that accessories often don’t ship until months after the actual phone. OK, so that’s a secondary problem with the Nexus 4, which itself has seen its fair share of shipping delays. The hard to obtain phone will soon have one of the niftiest accessories on the market, a wireless Qi charging station.

Wireless charging is one of the most unsung features of the latest Android flagship, and that’s in large part due to a lack of availability of a docking station. But according to one online retailer, the charging orb — in its own way resembling the Nexus Q — will begin shipping February 12th.

Norwegian retailer DustinHome has the dock listed for 739 krone, what amounts to about $113. Of course word from a third-party retailer does not an official release date make. So who knows if this will all come to fruition, let alone for regions outside of Europe. But if all goes according to plan, we might expect to see the Qi charging orb in the Google Play Store in about month. Finger crossed.

[via IntoMobile]

Google pulls plug on Nexus Q, lists as no longer available for sale

Posted: 17 Jan 2013 11:13 AM PST

The Nexus Q, which has been on ice since Google halted sales of the made-in-the-USA media orb shortly after its Google I/O unveiling, has run its course. Today, the Q’s status in the Google Play store changed from “not for sale at this time” to “no longer available for sale,” spelling an all-but-certain end for the device.

The cancellation shouldn’t come as a surprise. Most assumed Google at the very least would overhaul the design, find ways to make it cheaper (or at least increase its value by adding greater functionality) and then relaunch the Q at a later date. Either that or develop some sort of Nexus TV to replace it. While both of those scenarios could still play out, neither will do so as the Nexus Q we came to know only for a short period of time.

The Nexus Q was announced in June of 2012 and soon went up for pre-order before Google pulled the device, leaving its legacy in the hands of those developers attending the conference. All present were given the Q, and will likely remain the only members of the public to receive the device.

[Google Play via DroidLife]

Is Samsung prepping a Galaxy Note 8 for Mobile World Congress debut?

Posted: 17 Jan 2013 10:34 AM PST

New information has surfaced to suggest that the Samsung GT-N5100 — a device uncovered last December in the GLBenchmark database — will launch as the Galaxy Note 8, not the Galaxy Note 7 as originally believed. Specs listed for the unannounced slate detail an 8-inch Super Clear LCD display, 2GB RAM, and 5MP and 1.3MP cameras.

The tablet will likely attempt to bring the Note experience to folks seeking a smaller, less expensive device than the Note 10.1. For this reason, expect Samsung to stick with a lower screen resolution (1280×800). There is no word on what specific processor will be on board, but something from Samsung’s Exynos 4 family wouldn’t be a surprise. The Note 8 will feature connectivity ranging from HSPA+ and WiFi to Bluetooth and GPS. It could launch with Android 4.2.

The timing lines up for Samsung to introduce the tablet at Mobile World Congress at the end of February; the Note 8 could be a centerpiece to the company’s lineup for the show. And yes, the Note name just about guarantees S Pen support. With the introduction of a smaller Note tablet and rumors of a 6.3-inch Note 3 handset, it’s only a matter of time before the line between the two device classes becomes completely blurred.

[via SammyHub]

 

Temple Run 2 for Android coming January 24th

Posted: 17 Jan 2013 10:03 AM PST

In case you haven’t heard the exciting news, Temple Run 2 for iOS is out! Well… that news would be exciting if it were out for Android, but we do have a date to look forward to for its arrival and the wait won’t be unbearably long. Us Android folks should be seeing the sequel to one of the biggest mobile titles there is on January 24th.

Temple Run 2 builds on the original with a dramatic improvement in the graphics department, a new locale and an entirely new feel with more unique power-ups and imaginative tracks. Built on the Unity engine, Imangi says Temple Run 2 was built from the ground up to give them more freedom in evolving the experience. While the original Temple Run was fun and addictive, it’s no secret that things were a bit “flat” by today’s standards.

Now, levels are equipped with some gorgeous looking textures, lighting, new objects and a varying look and feel as you zip from place to place. New variations in levels will have you fleeing from the temple guardian in underground passage ways through things like a mining cart. Oh, and speaking of that temple guardian — there’s a bigger monkey now (because the old one just wasn’t that scary). It all sounds pretty darn good to me. Have a look at the game’s launch trailer above.

Get the Powerbag Rolling Office briefcase for just $50 today only

Posted: 17 Jan 2013 08:22 AM PST

Looking for a transport for all your devices and gadgets while you’re on-the-go? Powerbag’s line has always been one of the first stops for many considering its options come outfitted with high-capacity batteries and connections for charging most mobile devices you can hope to fit into one. Today’s your chance to get in on one of Powerbag’s more expensive offerings, though, as the device has gone up for sale at 1SaleaDay.com.

The daily sales site is selling the Rolling Office Powerbag for just $50. Compare this to the $250 it costs for getting it straight from Powerbag, and even the $100 it currently costs on Amazon. For that price you’re getting a satchel that has many different compartments to store things like your 15-inch laptops, tablets, smartphones and more.

It has standard microUSB, miniUSB and full-sized USB ports, as well as connections for those iOS devices you might have (you know who you are). Those connections hook up to a nice 6,000 mAh battery sitting inside that can charge your things on the go.

As the name suggests, the Rolling Office bag is outfitted with a set of wheels and a long handle so you can drag your stuff behind you instead of having to haul it over your back. It’s more roomy than the typical Powerbag backpack, too, so if you need to stuff in an extra change of clothes or something else you might need to bring along then that shouldn’t be an issue.

You only have about 13 hours to take advantage of this attractive price as of the time of this writing so don’t make any delay in heading to 1SaleADay if you’ve been waiting for the perfect price.

Watch Sony handcraft the Xperia Z (and a couple other devices)

Posted: 17 Jan 2013 08:10 AM PST

One of the coolest moments of CES occurred just before Sony’s press conference to unveil the Xperia Z (among other products). In a five minute video, we were treated to an up-close look at the assembly process of the new flagship phone alongside a Cybershot RX1 and HD camcorder. The video was so good, Sony showed it to us twice (at least that’s what Kaz joked…), and now it has been posted online for all to enjoy.

Sony’s presentation was slightly different, having each video swirl around a 360 degree display encircling their CES booth, but you get the idea. The display had us in awe and gives an idea of just the sort of craftsmanship that goes into these devices (even if they aren’t actually assembled entirely by hand at the factory). Now, when can we get our mitts on a limited edition handcrafted Xperia Z?

[via Engadget]

Ant Raid update brings 16 new levels

Posted: 17 Jan 2013 08:00 AM PST

We raved about Ant Raid when it first launched in the Google Play Store late last month, and our opinion hasn’t changed in the least bit. What has changes, however, is the number of levels afforded to us as Herocraft has done quick work to bring us another set of levels to sink our sweet teeth into.

Today’s update brings us 16 new levels to help our comrades defend. Specifically, 15 levels have been added to the game’s story element while one new level has been added to survival mode. The game’s fun, strategic gameplay and visually appealing graphics come together to create a very nice game that deserves a lot more downloads than it has.

The price of admission is only $.99 for this unique experience, so if you can hold off on that overpriced bag of chips for one day then do yourself a favor and add this one to your “Games” folder. The Google Play Store has all you need so be sure to initiate the download over there to get started.

Falcon Pro 1.6 brings mute by keyword, redesigned user profile screen and more

Posted: 17 Jan 2013 07:42 AM PST

Falcon Pro just got another huge upgrade in the Google Play Store, and its list of new additions, changes and fixes is long enough to be a grocery list. Its quick ascension to the throne of Android-based Twitter apps has been facilitated by timely and fruitful updates ever since it was in early alpha, so let’s see what this quick developer has added this go around.

For starters, the user profile screen has been redesigned with better views of who’s following you and who you’re following. A new “starred users” feature will allow you to favorite those whose tweets you care about the most. You can finally view a user’s profile picture within a native in-app viewer, you can now search for users, you’ll find a new user picker when going to compose a direct message and more.

Users can also look forward to the ability to mute tweets by keyword, improved autocomplete, support for Twitpic, YFrog and Mobypicture and a whole lot more. You probably wouldn’t believe me if I told you the changelog was much longer than that. You’ll want to read up on what else is new over at XDA, and if all of that sounds nice enough to spend some megabytes on then head to the Google Play Store and get your download started.

Could Google Glass one day be controlled by laser-projected virtual keypad?

Posted: 17 Jan 2013 07:38 AM PST

Google Project Glass is a pretty awesome, albeit uber-nerdy, concept that may or may not revolutionize mobile computing. But how, exactly, does one interact with the Android-based headgear? The most logical methods include voice control, gestures, or perhaps pairing with a smartphone, but a new patent application shows an intriguing method that Google could implement.

Yes, a laser projected virtual keyboard. As if wearing Google Glass couldn’t get any dorkier, the device might eventually beam forth an intangible keypad that can be interacted with on multiple levels. Aside from basic typing, Google proposes that the keyboard could perform different functions based on the way it is projected on a human hand, providing easy gestures for quick (quasi) hands-free input.

The specific technology needed to accomplish such a task isn’t new, but as Google presents it the current generation of laser-projected keyboards would need some major refinements. For this reason we doubt we will see the feature in the first iteration of Google Glass, but it very well could make future releases. Google, after all, is no stranger to releasing half-baked concepts to the public. I can see it now: Google Glass with Laser Keypad (beta).

[via UnwiredView]

Ainol’s Novo 7 Venus tablet closely resembles Nexus 7 for $155

Posted: 17 Jan 2013 07:06 AM PST

We’re used to seeing Android-based clones of Apple’s line of smartphones and tablets, but one manufacturer seems to have drawn its inspiration from ASUS and Google. Ainol, a China-based entity, has launched the Novo 7 Venus, a familiar-looking Android tablet that could easily be mistaken for a Nexus 7 at first glance.

You’re getting a 7 inch 1280×800 display, a 1.5GHz quad-core “Actions ATM7029″ processor, 1GB of RAM, 16GB of internal storage, a 2 megapixel camera on the rear with a VGA camera on the front and comes pre-installed with Android 4.1 Jelly Bean. You can net all of that for $155, but considering the cheapest Nexus 7 unit costs $200 we’re not sure we’d spring for less than $50 in saving for what looks to be a clean rip-off.

The Novo 7 Venus does have a couple of advantages over the Nexus 7, including that aforementioned camera and the inclusion of a microSD card slot, but it also has its shortcomings — for one, there’s no GPS. If you absolutely must find $50 in savings I’d urge you to get a Nexus 7 on eBay or Craigslist, or just go with something from a more reputable brand such as Acer or ASUS.

I’m not saying these Chinese manufacturers don’t have products worth spending money on, but when all you’re doing is blatantly copying Google’s official offering then it only makes sense to spring for that particular device. Still, someone’s bound to want the Novo 7 Venus so if that someone is you then it’s waiting for you at this link.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

Sony Xperia Tablet Z confirmed by Japanese carrier

Posted: 17 Jan 2013 06:33 AM PST

Just yesterday we heard the first details of a purported Xperia Tablet Z from Sony (pictured is the Xperia Tablet S). Not only has the upcoming slate been confirmed by Japan’s NTT DoCoMo, but it could see an unveiling as soon as next week. According to the agenda laid out for DoCoMo’s Tokyo Smartphone Lounge, Sony will be showing off its latest Xperia products from January 23rd through January 27th. A special event will take place January 22nd to introduce the new Xperia line.

The event will be livestreamed via Ustream, and could feature the debut of the Xperia Tablet Z. We speculated previously that the slate was just the sort of device we might expect to see at Mobile World Congress, but it looks like we might be treated to an announcement much sooner.

Rumored specs for the Sony Xperia Tablet Z include a 10.1-inch Full HD display, 1.5GHz Snapdragon S4 Pro CPU, and Android Jelly Bean. The tablet is said to feature the same rugged construction as its smartphone counterpart.

[Blog of Mobile via Xperia Blog]
Posted by at 8:50 AM

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