Thursday, January 31, 2013

Android Phone Fans

Android Phone Fans

100,000 new tours added to Google Earth

Posted: 30 Jan 2013 04:07 PM PST

Google Earth fans, listen up — it’s time to tour the world again. Google has announced that it has added 100,000 new tours to the virtual globe-trotting experience. Tours use pictures, Wikipedia excerpts and 3D flyovers to allow you to experience places you might not ever get a chance to visit all across the world. This massive update also features over one million user-made Panoramio photos, and Google uses some of the thumbnails from the photos which best represent that particular place.

Cities and popular landmarks from over 200 different countries are now represented so if most people should have no problem getting admitted to whatever virtual tour their minds can think of. The best part about it is that there’s no extra work involved on your part — if you have Google Earth on your desktop or Android device then the tours are ready to feed the curiosity bug inside of you. Google Earth can be had in the Play Store for the attractive price of $0.00.

[via Google+]

Google Play Music update brings improved widget and better shuffling

Posted: 30 Jan 2013 03:38 PM PST

Another Google application has gotten some update love today. Following Google+’s parade, Google Play Music has been blessed with some new features and changes that we should all appreciate. For starters, the widget has been improved with a “previous” button, something that was such a glaring omission that we were wondering if the Mountain View boy were smoking something when they were designing the widget. All our worries are quelled, though, as that is no longer an issue.

Going deeper into the app, Google has made it so that instant mixes now play beyond 25 songs. This annoying limitation made me use the feature sparingly, but we’re glad it’s finally been lifted. Other changes include new default album art, the ability to shuffle an album, artist or playlist, a fix for the freezing issue on the Samsung Galaxy S3 and the ability to see pinning progress on the album and playlist pages.

These updates address many things users have been speaking out about in the reviews for quite some time. There’s still work to be done, but no app is ever truly finished — any software engineer will tell you that much. Go ahead and grab the update from the Google Play Store.

Review: Nillkin case for the HTC Droid DNA [VIDEO]

Posted: 30 Jan 2013 03:32 PM PST

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As you guys well know by now, I cycle between Android devices like I do my underoos (every few weeks). Since I’m often selling a previous device for the next greatest model, I like to ensure my devices stay in tip-top shape and near mint condition. There’s no better way to guarantee that than by outfitting a phone with a snazzy, stylish case.

A few weeks ago, my journey led me to some extremely affordable cases from a brand called Poetic and if you remember that post, things didn’t turn out so well for my HTC Droid DNA. No matter, I continued searching for a case and found a brand called Nillkin who offers a wide variety of cases for a few Android devices, my DNA being one of them.

When it comes to the DNA, I’m actually one of the few who loathes the red accents along the side (or anywhere for that matter), so finding a case to cover everything up was just as much about asthetics, as it was about protection. Thankfully, the Nillkin case covers up the sides of the device rather nicely, while providing a nice, textured soft-touch feel.

The only part that really bothers me about the case is the gap left open for the volume rocker. On most cases the edges go up all the way along the sides of the device. With Nillkin’s model, it’s cutout leaving a big gaping hole and is not only an eyesore, but feels a little weird in the hand. But hey, accessing the volume rocker has never been easier.

Still, it’s this one shortcoming that will lead me on another search for an inexpensive, but premium quality case for my DNA. In the meantime, the Nillkin case will suffice. If you don’t think the volume cutout will bother you as much as it did me, you can nab a Nillkin case for the HTC Droid DNA via the eBay link below.

[Nillkin case for the HTC Droid DNA on eBay]

Google+ update brings new notifications tray, additional community moderation features and more

Posted: 30 Jan 2013 03:18 PM PST

Google+ for Android is getting itself a new upgrade in the Google Play Store that changes a few interesting things. For starters, the folks at El Goog have implemented a new notifications tray for the app. The new tray slides in from the right and is pulled up by pressing the indicator in the upper right-hand corner. This setup more closely mirrors notifications on the web and puts more emphasis on them, so this change makes a lot of sense.

Users can now add a link whenever they create a post, something that has long been part of the web experience but is finally coming over to mobile. Most people were fine with simple text links, but this new functionality allows us to automatically pull thumbnails from whatever site was linked. Finally, folks who manage Google+ communities will be happy to know that more moderation features are in tow. The update awaits you at this link so be sure to give it a go whenever you find the time.

Rumor: HTC M7 launching March 8th with different color options

Posted: 30 Jan 2013 02:31 PM PST

It’s not often we learn of a possible concrete launch date for a phone that has yet to be unveiled, but the latest rumors regarding the HTC M7 seem to suggest that we have just that. According to a HTCSource, the OEM will look to launch the device starting March 8th through several retailers and carriers. We imagine this date pertains to Europe where most devices tend to launch first, with North American counterparts getting a swing at the plate a little bit later.

No information on who, exactly, would offer it could be had, but in the European market it’s often harder to find a big carrier that isn’t offering these flagship devices. America might be a little more tricky with possible rebranding and exclusivity talks, but earlier rumors suggest HTC aims to get this thing onto as many different carriers as possible.

Alongside all of that, we’re also told to expect multiple color options for the device. There’s the typical black armor that we’ve already seen in leaked images, but a white version could be in the works, as well. It’s not like HTC has never made a white device before so it’s not hard to believe that we could be seeing the HTC in this particular hue. Another edition of the phone could be introduced with aluminum, but the source of that specific details didn’t seem quite as sure.

HTC is holding an event in New York City February 19th and we fully expect the HTC M7 to be in attendance. We’ll be there live to cover it all so keep that date circled and keep it tuned to Phandroid to get all the latest regarding HTC’s 2013 bread winner.

[via HTCSource.com]

HTC says it embraces efforts of development community, but is that enough?

Posted: 30 Jan 2013 01:55 PM PST

Last week, we learned that the owner of HTCRUU.com was contacted by an HTC lawyer to take the site off the interwebz due to the use of HTC’s name in the URL and imagery on the site itself. According to that lawyer, the site’s use of HTC’s name and logo weren’t the only things that got the OEM’s attention. The lawyer implied that the distribution of HTC’s RUU files was also problematic, stating that it’s an intellectual property of HTC’s and that the owner of HTCRUU was prohibited from distributing the files even on its non-infringing domain, AndroidFiles.org.

Welp HTC’s taken to its own blog to clarify the issue a bit. In a public statement, the Taiwanese manufacturer said its request was fueled only by use of the URL and logos on HTCRUU.com. HTC states that it didn’t want its name associated with a site that was distributing files that could potentially harm the users’ devices, and that’s totally understandable — no company wants to be liable for a broken device through files that weren’t meant to get into the hands of the public. Like we always say when we post about mods and ROMs, you do all of that at your own discretion and no one is responsible for it but yourself.

HTC went on to say that the company openly embraces the development community as evidenced by the bootloader unlock tool over at HTCDev.com. It’s true that HTC has facilitated the development community as well as just about anyone you can think of.

Last week, there was some buzz about a website that contained RUUs for HTC devices being taken down at the request of HTC. We'd like to take a minute to provide some background.

The issue with the site in question was NOT that it provided custom ROMs or RUUs. The site used HTC trademarks without a license from HTC. The domain name contained 'HTC' and it used HTC logos, making it appear to be an official HTC website. Like any other company, we must protect our trademarks and brand. We cannot risk being associated with, and held liable for, software that we don't have any control over that's put onto an HTC device through a third party.

HTC openly embraces the community that chooses to flash custom ROMs onto their devices. The HTC Unlock Bootloader tool on htcdev.com evidences this support. We think the custom ROM community is valuable to the overall health of the Android ecosystem, and we have no intention of abandoning them. We love the passion of this community, and we hope you continue to build with us, use HTC products, and give us honest and direct feedback.

The story won’t end on that note, though. Some users, including HTCRUU.com owner James Taylor, feel HTC is still dancing around the issue of the lawyer’s original request that RUUs be completely taken down from any other file hosting site. The aforementioned website owner states that “the lawyer also said that all HTC files were required to come down also. This request included all RUUs and custom roms of mine.”

This conflicts with HTC’s apparent stance that the site was targeted solely due to the domain name and HTC images, and users want it in clear writing from HTC that it is OK to distribute RUU files in a way that isn’t infringing on HTC’s image.

The development community’s concerns aren’t all that unreasonable, and should HTC truly be fine with RUUs being uploaded then we’re sure someone will test and challenge the company in due time. For now, though, Taylor will seek HTC’s blessings in clear wording before accepting this statement as a proverbial pass.

[via HTC, thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

Rogers and Fido RAZR HD customers receiving Android 4.1.2 update

Posted: 30 Jan 2013 01:08 PM PST

Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean has hit the slopes for yet another group of folks. Our friends up in the great white north who own the Motorola RAZR HD — those on Rogers and Fido, in particular — will be doused in some Jelly Bean goodness rather than snow as the update has come down from the smartphone heavens.

You’re getting Android 4.1.2 to be specific, a pretty interesting fact considering most updates tend to be Android 4.1.1. I guess if it takes this long you should at least expect the latest version of the first helping of Jelly Bean. It would be better to see Android 4.2 shining on the device, of course, but I suppose we can’t have our cake and eat it at the same time.

You’ll want to set aside 308MB in bandwidth, so be sure you have enough on your data plan or get hooked up to a WiFi network before you apply it. If the notification hasn’t already gotten to your handset then you can try your luck by visiting Settings > About Phone to force the update to commence.

[via Mobile Syrup]

Samsung’s 2013 La Fleur collection unveiled

Posted: 30 Jan 2013 10:20 AM PST

Samsung has unveiled new editions of some of its latest phones, such as the Galaxy S3, Galaxy S3 Mini, Galaxy Ace 2, Samsung Galaxy S Duos and the Galaxy Ace Duos part of its 2013 LaFleur collection of devices. These particular SKUs don’t actually offer anything of significant value over the original devices, but you do get some cutesy back plate designs. Perfect for the ladies and fitting for the upcoming Valentine’s day season, these phones aren’t confirmed to be headed everywhere just yet.

For starters, it sounds like only Russia is a sure bet to get a crack at this device, and if past releases are anything to go by then we won’t expect it to travel too far out of Europe. The Samsung Galaxy S3 La Fleur is said to be 22,990 rubles, or about $760, so it’s quite the pricey investment.

The other phones are sure to be much cheaper but we don’t have any information in regards to pricing as of now. The devices are said to be headed to Russian store shelves February 1st, and we’ll have to wait for word from Samsung regarding possible subsequent launches in other regions.

Android 4.2.1 update commences for Sprint’s Galaxy Nexus

Posted: 30 Jan 2013 10:17 AM PST

Sprint has begun pushing the Android 4.2.1 update for the Samsung Galaxy Nexus, bringing the Ice Cream Sandwich flagship phone to the latest version of Jelly Bean. Major changes include an overhauled camera interface with Photo Sphere feature, a retooled notifications shade with quick settings, and lockscreen widgets.

The update brings the phone’s software version to L700GA02 and will rollout to all users over the coming weeks. Sprint says all users should have the update within 21 days. Verizon, the ball is in your court now.

[via Sprint | Thanks, Andrew!]

BlackBerry Z10 vs. Nexus 4 vs. Samsung Galaxy S3 vs. iPhone 5

Posted: 30 Jan 2013 10:07 AM PST

Here comes BlackBerry’s latest push, but how does it stack up to some of the most popular handsets on the market today? The Samsung Galaxy S3 and iPhone 5 represent two of the best-selling devices for their respective platforms, while the Nexus 4 by LG operates as Google’s example of what they think an Android phone should be.

BlackBerry’s all-touch Z10 stacks up reasonably well, though for those obsessed with the latest and greatest mobile advancements, elements like a quad-core CPU will be missed. Ultimately, the real comparison will come down to the BlackBerry 10 OS playing nice with the given hardware while winning over consumers. It will be an uphill battle, for sure. Click on the above chart for a bigger view.

RIM is now BlackBerry, announces BlackBerry 10 and new devices

Posted: 30 Jan 2013 08:16 AM PST

Today RIM went all in with their latest update to the fading mobile platform that once had a stranglehold on the enterprise market. Did I say RIM? I meant BlackBerry, as the company has now been unified under the single brand. It all accompanies the launch of BlackBerry 10 and the first two devices to run it, the BlackBerry Z10 and BlackBerry Q10.

The Z10 is BlackBerry’s all-touch device featuring a 4.2-inch display with a 1280×768 resolution, equaling a pixel density of 356ppi. The phone carries a 1.5GHz dual-core CPU with 2GB of RAM, an 8MP camera, and 16GB or 32GB storage options. The Q10 has similar internal hardware, but features a full QWERTY keyboard and 3.1-inch display at 330ppi.

For BB10′s flagship handsets, the hardware seems a little light when compared to the latest Android devices (and even the iPhone 5). But BlackBerry is hoping to succeed not on hardware alone, but also on through their brand new software platform, which reinvents the BlackBerry ecosystem for the touchscreen era.

A new emphasis has been placed on multi-tasking via “BlackBerry Flow,” a system not unlike Android 4.x’s multi-tasking application launcher, and integration with social networks and other communications platforms looks to create a more robust experience while recapturing BlackBerry’s position as the leader in mobile messaging. Apps also look to play a bigger role than ever in the BlackBerry experience.

It’s a bold move forward for BlackBerry, but at first glance we still wonder if they have done enough. The new OS looks slick and contains some intriguing functionality, but nothing that transcends what we have seen from other mobile platforms. Same goes for the hardware. In short, this could be BB’s last hurrah. Android certainly shouldn’t feel threatened.

Nexus 4 back in stock in more European regions

Posted: 30 Jan 2013 07:51 AM PST

After returning to the Google Play Store in the US and Germany, the Nexus 4 is going back on sale in more regions around Europe. Citizens in the UK, France, and Spain can all count themselves among those currently able to purchase the oft-soldout smartphones. If they are as lucky as those on the US, the phone might even ship within one business day (instead of the one to two weeks suggested on Google Play).

Yesterday we wondered if Google has perhaps finally gotten their act together when it comes to stocking the Nexus 4, and this widespread availability seems to confirm as much. Word is Australia will also see new stock become available shortly, and other regions are sure to follow.

Now potential Nexus 4 owners are faced with a new question altogether. Rather than ask when the phone will be back in stock, buyers will have to decide whether or not to hold out for the new white version of the phone.

[via TechCrunch]

More hands-on photos of white Nexus 4 emerge

Posted: 30 Jan 2013 06:35 AM PST

The above picture is the white Nexus 4. Confused? Turns out that only the back of the device will feature a white deco, as revealed in an extensive hands-on photo shoot that should quash any doubts about the pending release of the new color scheme.

A single photo of a white Nexus 4 surface online yesterday to much speculation. Some decried the image as a hoax while others remained hopeful that we could see the new version of the device soon. The latter option seems more likely, especially since it seems Google has finally caught up on the backlog of orders for the standard black version of the phone.

The new images reveal a smartphone that features a two-tone paint job. The front appears unchanged from the black model, while the back half gets a whitewashing while retaining the textured pattern featured on the back panel.

Release details don’t accompany the images, but we would be willing to be Google Play will be the place to grab it (unless it launches as an exclusive with a particular retailer or carrier). Specs, and therefor pricing, should likely remain the same. More images at the source link below.

[Tinh.te via UnwiredView]

ZTE sets sights on high-end smartphone market in 2013, teases Grand Memo phablet

Posted: 30 Jan 2013 05:47 AM PST

Taking a page from fellow Chinese manufacturer Huawei’s playbook, ZTE is looking to shift their focus away from saturating the market with budget-friendly smartphones and gravitating toward high-end devices in 2013. The company forecasts shipments of 50 million smartphones in 2013, with the category driving 70 percent of its device sales business. This will include the recently unveiled Grand S as well as a newly-teased phablet known as the Grand Memo.

We expect to hear more about the ZTE Grand Memo at Mobile World Congress, but for now we know it sports a 5.7-inch display and measures in at 8mm thick. The phone should help ZTE capitalize on the growing trend of mid-size devices falling somewhere between a phone and tablet.

ZTE has already risen to become the world’s fourth-largest handset maker, but the company hopes that pushing high-end devices will lead to an increase in revenue as well. In 2012 ZTE posted a net loss of 2.9 billion yuan (~$467 million). The new approach could lead to a 40 percent increase in smartphone revenues, helping to narrow that margin.

[via Reuters]

 

Newly ordered Nexus 4 handsets already shipping

Posted: 30 Jan 2013 05:33 AM PST

Google’s notoriously hard to come by Nexus 4 went back on sale through the Play Store yesterday with an estimated shipping time of one to two weeks. Today, folks who placed their orders as the handset became available are already receiving shipping notifications.

As the manifest above shows, the 16GB Nexus 4 is ready to ship. [EDIT: 8GB models are shipping as well. Thanks, Adam!] We haven’t confirmed if 8GB models are also ready to ship. Stock issues seemed to affect both models about equally, but we can’t be certain of Google’s current supply. What we can be certain of is that Google has already started the process of shipping new purchases, so many should be seeing their brand new Nexus 4 by the end of the week. How’s that for a turnaround?

[Thanks, Justin!]
Posted by at 8:52 AM

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