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Posted: 10 Feb 2013 03:11 AM PST
 Rovio’s Angry Birds just refuses to fade into the annals of great games, and why should it, since it continues to be one of the most popular gaming franchises in the world. For those who have yet to try their hands at some bird-flinging magic, Angry Birds Space HD and Angry Birds Star Wars HD are now available for only a dollar each. As a special mention, Amazing Alex HD (a great puzzler also made by Rovio) is also on sale for a dollar. All of these apps see regular updates with bug fixes and most importantly, new content such as level packs. With this great price, there is no reason not to invest in any one of these games, all of which are guaranteed to give you hours after hours of gameplay. Also, who knows how long the sale will last, so if I were you I would try to grab them sooner rather than later. Related Posts |
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Posted: 09 Feb 2013 01:31 PM PST
 The Strand-1 is one such Nexus One-based project and a pretty interesting one. The Strand-1, short for Surrey Training Research and Nanosatellite Demonstration 1, happens to be a satellite that will soon go into space to test various things, with the Nexus One and its collection of built-in apps being one of the features of the project. In fact, the satellite was built around an unmodified (although it is running custom software), fully functional Nexus One smartphone, and will head to space from India, attached to the Isro Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle that will be launched on February 25. The Nexus One's mission is to take pictures of the environment using its 5-megapixel camera and use a variety of apps to test out, well, the space around it. One interesting app that's going to be found on the Nexus One is the "Scream in Space" app suggested by Cambridge University students. In case you haven't guessed it by now, the app will play videos of people screaming in order to test that famous Alien tag line: "In space, no-one can hear you scream:" A camera looking at the phone’s own display will record the likely silent screaming faces in the videos.More scientific uses for this camera include showing the satellite's telemetry to another application. Additionally, the magnetometer of the Nexus One will also be tested during the six-month mission of the Strand-1.  One uses the ejection of a water-alcohol mixture to provide thrust. The system is tiny but has a grand name – Warp Drive (Water Alcohol Resisto-jet Propulsion De-orbit Re-entry Velocity Experiment).Why has the Nexus One been chosen for the project? Well, the company appears to be interested in using smartphone-like components in future space-related projects, so what better way to test the way they work in space than by actually sending a smartphone up there and see how it operates. The fact that the chosen smartphone runs Android isn't random either, as the company is interested in testing open-source software for future projects. The Strand-2 will take another popular device up into space, Microsoft's Kinect, but that will happen at a later date. Related Posts |
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Posted: 09 Feb 2013 12:15 PM PST
 In fact, our tipster points us to an unresolved, but apparently closed thread on Google Code that's filled with complaints regarding Wi-Fi connectivity on Nexus devices, a bug that has been observed since Android 4.2 came out. Issue 40065 as it's called – or “Nexus 4 and Nexus 7 Wifi drops connection Android 4.2“ – has 464 people talking about it. The thread has been started on November 20, 2012 and closed on February 1, 2013, without Google acknowledging any issues with Android 4.2/4.2.1 that affect Wi-Fi experience on Nexus devices. Please describe the problem in detail. Be sure to include:The Nexus 4 and Nexus 10 were obviously launched running Android 4.2 out of the box, so some users started experiencing these Wi-Fi issues right out of the box. But is it a hardware problem? Considering that other Nexus devices have shown similar Wi-Fi symptoms only after getting Android 4.2/4.2.1, this seems to be more of a software issue, one that will be most likely resolved in a future Android release, most probably the Android 4.2.2 version that we keep seeing in reports lately but also in our traffic logs. While the thread has plenty of responses detailing personal Wi-Fi issues and some workarounds, it's not clear how many devices out there are affected by the problem. At the same time we don't expect all Nexus owners to know about the existence of this thread, and many people may have turned to other resources for fixing the issue. Most notably, an xda-developers Forum thread (see Source link below,) started on December 30, 2012 and titled "Wifi network connectivity issues and a possible fix," details Wi-Fi issues on the Nexus 4 and a possible fix. While not official, this could help Nexus 4 owners get rid of the Wi-Fi issue until Google releases a new software update. But that’s definitely not the way things should be handled. Why isn't Google acknowledging the problem? Even if it’s affecting only a small number of devices, the problem can be seen on a variety of Nexus products – in addition to he Nexus 4 and Nexus 7, the Nexus 10 and Galaxy Nexus also appear to suffer from similar problems. We have no answer for that question, but we can only imagine that admitting that your latest Android OS version has a flaw that affects Wi-Fi connectivity will not get you great press. But Google wouldn’t be the first or the last company to admit there are Wi-Fi issues with its devices, and it wouldn’t be the first or the last to try and fix them.  So why isn’t it publicly addressing them, and why hasn’t a fix appeared in the almost three months since these issues were initially reported? After all, smartphones and especially tablets that can’t connect to Wi-Fi are definitely a hassle, with the latter being useless without a dependable Internet connection. And customers will complain about such issues, and take additional measures, like returning faulty devices and asking for their money back. This is where Android’s fragmented state comes in handy at least for Google. Imagine what would have happened in case Android 4.2/4.2.1 were available for multiple non-Nexus devices, and they would have all experienced similar issues after the update. On the Google Code thread mentioned above, Google only intervened a few times to comment on the situation, without actually saying that it's a software issue. Instead, Google reps asked users posting reports about their Wi-Fi experiences to provide router model and firmware details. Only on February 1, 2013 did Google sort-of mentioned its findings for these Wi-Fi issues, but it didn’t say they have anything to do with Android 4.2/4.2.1 code: Thanks to folks who provided details. Some issues have been identified:At the same time, the status of Issue 40065 was set to "Future Release," but users can still file comments on the matter. Let’s hear it from Nexus device owners out there, are you experiencing any issues with your Wi-Fi connection? Thanks, Jason! Related Posts |
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Posted: 09 Feb 2013 08:21 AM PST
 Barely a week after BLU Products introduced its line of Tegra-3 powered Quattro smartphones, the company's next two Android offerings are set to enter the U.S. market, the BLU Studio 5.3 II and the BLU Tank 4.5. The BLU Studio 5.3 II, as the name implies, is the successor to last year's 5.3-inch phablet. While the specs have been improved, it still comes with the same $199 price tag. Here's a quick rundown of its specs.
 Meanwhile, the BLU Tank 4.5 is the company's first rugged Android smartphone, and it can be yours for $199. Not only is it dust and sand proof, but it's also water resistant. More of its specs below.
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MIAMI, Feb. 8, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — BLU Products, one of the fastest growing mobile phone manufacturers in the world started shipments today on the new BLU Studio 5.3 II and BLU Tank 4.5. Each device featuring a Dual Core 1GHz Cortex™ -A9 processor, with PowerVR™ SGX Series 5 GPU, 3G HSDPA connectivity, and running on Jelly Bean 4.1 OS, all of which ensures an enhanced user experience enabling fast operating speed for seamless multitasking, faster webpage loading and quick UI transitions. Rich multimedia capabilities include support for 1080p full HD video playback, and significantly enhance the user’s personal entertainment experience. The BLU Studio 5.3 II and Tank 4.5 were designed with a sleek minimalistic approach with smooth curves resulting in a stylish appearance for an exceptionally comfortable in-hand feeling.
“BLU Products maintains our determination and promise to continue developing worthwhile smartphone devices available unlocked, and contract-free to consumers in the US, at affordable pricing,” said Samuel Ohev-Zion, CEO of BLU Products. “We have achieved that in releasing two remarkable new devices, both at sub $200 retail pricing, with the latest technology, high-end performance and incredible build quality our customers can be proud of.”
BLU Studio 5.3 II
Following on the success of its predecessor – the BLU Studio 5.3, which was launched at the same time last year, the new BLU Studio 5.3 II features dramatically improved performance and features, while maintaining the same $199.00 Retail Price Point, unlocked, and contract free through several online retailers in the US.
Specifications Include:
* GSM Quad Band 850/900/1800/1900, HSDPA 850/1900 for US Markets
* 5.3 inch qHD (540 x 960) display with 208 ppi pixel density, including IPS technology, resulting in clear images with consistent and accurate color from all viewing angles
* 4GB Internal Memory expandable to 32MB with Micro-SD Card
* 8.0 Mega Pixel autofocus camera, with dual-LED flash, capable of 720p Video Recording, and 2.0 Mega Pixel Front Facing Camera
* 150 x 77 x 10.8mm with 2200mAh battery
* Dual SIM capability
BLU Tank 4.5
Built for an active lifestyle, the new BLU Tank 4.5 is designed to withstand the most rugged outdoor conditions. With IP67 Certification, the BLU Tank 4.5 is dust and sand proof, as well as water resistant to a depth of one meter for up to 30 minutes, becoming one of the slimmest water proof phones available in the market today at just 9.7mm. The BLU Tank 4.5 will be available on several Online Retailers in the US at $199.00 Retail.
Specifications Include:
* GSM Quad Band 850/900/1800/1900, HSDPA 850/1900 for US Markets
* 4.5 inch qHD (540 x 960) display with 245 ppi pixel density, including IPS technology, resulting in clear images with consistent and accurate color from all viewing angles
* 4GB Internal Memory expandable to 32MB with Micro-SD Card
* 5.0 Mega Pixel autofocus camera, with LED flash, and front facing camera
134 x 68.9 x 9.7mm with 1760mAh battery
* Dual SIM capability
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Posted: 09 Feb 2013 07:25 AM PST
Earlier today, I ranted a bit about HTC's apparent lack of focus when it comes to branding and picking the right product naming strategy. The reason was a report originating from @evleaks that said that HTC's upcoming flagship would be called HTC One, instead of HTC M7, as we assumed so far.
But what was @evleaks' source in the first place? Well, it might be the picture below, which was published yesterday on Flickr. It may not look like much, but the EXIF info indicates that the picture was taken with an "HTC One".
A caveat – EXIF data can be tampered with, so take with a grain of salt.
This week, we've heard that the HTC One/M7 will feature a novel type of camera sensor, that replaces the conventional RGB sensor with a multilayered sensor of lower resolution. To market the new sensor, HTC reportedly wants to use the term ultrapixel, with the sensor having a resolution of 4.3 ultrapixels.
While the EXIF data of the above image doesn't include the resolution, similar images from the stream of user sq030 show a resolution of 1520 x 2688, or about 4.1MP. However, only the most recent image appears to be snapped with an HTC One.
Speaking of the user sq030, some of the other pictures in the stream suggest that he or she works for HTC, perhaps as a quality assurance technician.
The HTC One will make its official debut on February 19 at a New York event. We'll keep you posted.
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Posted: 09 Feb 2013 06:04 AM PST
A few days ago, LG has hinted that it'll be unveiling a new series of smartphones with "unexpected distinction" at the upcoming Mobile World Congress. While it hasn’t been confirmed yet, they could be talking about the sequels to the Optimus L-series phones, the specs of which have just leaked online.
Meet the Optimus L3 II, the Optimus L5 II, and the Optimus L7 II, the latest addition to LG’s popular budget series. Let’s check out what the phones are supposedly packing inside.
LG Optimus L3 II (LG-E430) specs
- 3.2-inch display (320 x 240 resolution)
- 5MP rear camera
- A-GPS, WiFi, Bluetooth
LG Optimus L5 II (LG-E455) specs
- 4-inch display (800 x 480 resolution)
- 1GHz Cortex A9 processor
- PowerVR SGX531
- Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean
LG Optimus L7 II (LG-P715)
- 4.3-inch IPS display (800 x 480 resolution)
- 1GHz Qualcomm MSM8225 processor
- Adreno 203
- 768MB RAM
- 8MP rear camera
- 2,460mAh battery
- Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean
Excited about the revamped Optimus L phones? Bear in mind that LG has yet to make these models official. We won't be surprised to see more information making its way online in the coming days. We'll keep you posted.
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Posted: 09 Feb 2013 06:04 AM PST
Credit: DDay Even if Samsung announced it won't hold a special press event at the Mobile World Congress scheduled for the end of the month, we know that the Korean giant is preparing to show at least one interesting device at the show, the Galaxy Note 8. Newly revealed Bluetooth certification documents indicate that the stylus-equipped tablet will be offered in three versions.
The basic variant, codenamed GT-N5110, will come with Wi-Fi connectivity only, while two other variants will add 3G and 3G+LTE connectivity – GT-N5100 and GT-N5105, respectively.
Given the breadth of connectivity options available, we expect to see the Galaxy Note 8 at retailers and carriers across Europe. For now, pricing is controversial, due to a couple of conflicting reports. On one side, industry sources quoted by Digitimes say that the device will cost between $250 and $300, depending on the storage configuration. I assume that this is the price tag of the Wi-Fi version. On the other side, some sites in Germany and Austria have put up the Galaxy Note 8 with 3G for sale for prices ranging between €450 and a whopping €550, depending on configuration.
I tend to think that Samsung will not make the mistake to overprice the Galaxy Note 8, especially considering that the iPad mini starts at $329 for the basic configuration. There still are about three weeks till MWC begins, but we expect to find more as the official launch nears. Stay tuned.
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Ultra high capacity mobile charger needs Kickstarter funding, $50 gets you 11,200 mAh portable power
Posted: 09 Feb 2013 05:18 AM PST
The 10,00 mAh “Destination” comes in a brushed aluminum casing and can charge your smartphone 6-8 times before going flat. This Kickstarter project also offers a 6,600 mAh and 11,200 mAh variant.
Mobile charging packs are a big help, but a new campaign on Kickstarter aims to build the mother of all mobile charging packs, with a capacity of 11,200 mAh. Creator Anthony Vilgiate aims to raise at least $25,000 through crowdsourcing to finance three models of mobile, multi-device chargers. These are built in small form-factors (just a bit bigger than the average phablet), but carry enough juice to recharge a typical smartphone four times or a tablet computer 100%.
Here are the models:
- The Adventurer costs $30 and has a 6,600 mAh capacity. It can recharge an iPhone or similar device 3 to 4 times up to 100%. The device charges from a typical USB port for 6 to 8 hours.
- The Destination costs $65 and comes with a 10,000 mAh capacity. It can charge a smartphone 6 to 8 times to 100% or an iPad or similar-sized tablet about 1.5 times. The device comes in a sleek brushed aluminum case that the creator says would help in heat dissipation, as well as look nice alongside a device like a MacBook Pro. A full charge takes about 6 to 7 hours from a typical USB port.
- The Expedition costs $50 and comes in 11,200 mAh capacity. It charges smartphones up to 10 times on a single charge, or an iPad-sized tablet 1.5 times (plus a smartphone twice over). The device charges from 4 to 6 hours when plugged into a USB port.
Notable here is the fact that the Destination costs more than the Expedition, but that’s due to the use of the Aluminum enclosure. The bigger-capacity cells still do not fit in the designed enclosure. Also, the Expidition uses cheaper Lithium Ion cells, while the two other devices use Lithium Polymer. While Li-Poly has the advantage of being able to fit into different or smaller form factors, Li-Ion has the benefit of faster charging.
The two bigger power packs can charge two devices simultaneously, which is perfect if you’re at an event, in a commute or on the road and several devices are running flat. The devices come with a power indicator similar to those found on MacBook Pro batteries. Press a button and LEDs light up to show you the approximate charge level. All packs come with universal adaptors that work with several brands and models, but you would most likely need just a USB to microUSB cable for most of your Android charging needs. (Good luck if you have the iPhone 5, iPad 4 or iPad Mini, because the universal adaptor package does not come with a Lightning adaptor.)
Of course, items like the 55,000 mAh Nectar Power Pack, which featured at CES this January, can give you more juice, but the power packs offered by the Kickstarter project are definitely more portable and cheaper. By comparison, Nectar costs $300 for the device itself and $10 per power pod. Some comment-posters have pointed out that the Nectar Power Pack says milliwatt-hours (mWh) and not milliampere-hours, which means 55,000 mWh at 5 volts equals 11,000 mAh. Either way, Anthony’s Kickstarter project will end up cheaper.
As of this writing, Anthony has raised $14,242 from 243 backers, and the deadline for funding would be by March 8th. Once funded, power packs can be produced and delivered within a 4-6 month time frame. The creator says he has hardware experience building LED devices and systems, and is doing this as his first independent project.
Think this is a worthy Kickstarter project to invest in? $50 seems a good price to pay for peace of mind (at least in terms of power availability) while traveling? Check out the Kickstarter project page from the source link to make a contribution.
Check out the project video below.
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Posted: 09 Feb 2013 03:42 AM PST
Microsoft continues to spread its anti-Google sentiments via the Scroogled campaign. Launched a few months ago to target Google Search and its apparent failure to respect user privacy, the public information campaign has switched aim and is now bashing Gmail.
Fully dubbed as 'Don't Get Scroogled by Gmail,' it is Microsoft's initiative to increase awareness among Americans about Google's method in assimilating information from Gmail emails and use that to target specific ads to its users. According to the company's press release, about 70 percent of consumers do not know that most email providers perform such invasion in privacy to sell ads and, once they have been informed, 88 percent of them condemn the act.
The revitalized campaign also comes with a website at http://www.scroogled.com, complete with a series of videos and an encapsulating slogan that reads 'Think Google respects your privacy? Think again.' As a measure to avoid getting Scroogled, Microsoft proposes to users its own email service alternative, Outlook.com. There is also a petition to "tell Google to stop going through personal email to sell ads." Only a few thousand have signed to date, a far cry from the 25,000 signature goal it is trying to reach.
In Google's defense, the search giant claims that all major email services – that includes Microsoft's own Hotmail – "automatically scan email content for the benefit of users." The company also emphasizes the fact that none of these content or other personally identifiable information are shared with advertisers. Most of all, no prying human eyes read any email messages.
Ads from Microsoft that directly criticize Google and its product are nothing new. Before Scroogled, Microsoft's then-new Outlook email client has been released with an ad spot that implicitly attacks Gmail. In 2011, Microsoft released the 'Gmail Man' spoof ad to public, although it originally started as a stimulating video for its Office 365 sales team.
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