Tuesday, February 5, 2013

Android Central

Android Central


Android 4.1.2 update for Verizon Galaxy S3 leaks out

Posted: 04 Feb 2013 04:51 PM PST

Android Central

The Verizon model of the Galaxy SIII (S3) received its Jelly Bean update fashionably late back in December, and now an Android 4.1.2 update has leaked out as well. A poster at XDA Forums, who has had previous versions of the Galaxy S3 software posted, has just added this latest version to the list. The build -- version VRBMA2 -- is based on Android 4.1.2 and has a build date of January 19th. Initial reports are that this update doesn't include the "Premium Suite" apps, at least at this time, so we'll have to keep an eye out for future builds.

The file is available to download and flash at the source link below, but we have to put a word of caution on flashing pre-release versions of firmware. If you know the risks and want to go ahead with it, be sure to chime in in the forums and let other users know how it goes.

Source: XDA; Via: Droid-Life 

More: Verizon Galaxy S3 Forums



Droid RAZR M appears in 'Platinum' on Best Buy website

Posted: 04 Feb 2013 04:23 PM PST

Android Central                                     Android Central

Seemingly out of nowhere, a new color of the Motorola Droid RAZR M has just appeared for sale on the Best Buy website. The new model, dubbed "Platinum" is a shiny silver color with blue accented power and volume buttons. The top and bottom bezels around the screen are still black, but everything else is shiny and new. Unfortunately the back of the device isn't pictured on the website, and Verizon's site doesn't seem to list the phone anywhere either.

The rest of the device and specs seem to be the same as the original, and Best Buy is offering the new variety at $49.99 with a two-year contract -- same as the other colors online -- on Verizon. Head to the source link if you want to check out a few more pictures for yourself.

Source: Best Buy; Via: Droid-Life



Brit + Co. app now available for Android

Posted: 04 Feb 2013 04:01 PM PST

Android Central

Brit + Co. is debuting their Android application, which brings the entire Brit + Co. experience to your Android phone or tablet. The app let's you browse through all the blog posts, sort them by category, and even search out posts by subject. 

If you're not familiar with Brit + Co., you'll find all sorts of "innovative ideas for simple, beautiful and creative living, online and off". Things like how to sew patches on the elbow of your favorite sweater, or where to find an ice mold that looks like Richard Branson, or even a tasty recipe for hot chile cocktails. Now, you can do this away from your computer with a very nicely done application. Grab it from the Google Play link above, and visit Brit + Co. to learn more about who they are and what they do.

Source: Brit + Co.



T-Mobile set to launch Galaxy S3 LTE as soon as March 27

Posted: 04 Feb 2013 03:01 PM PST

Android Central

A leaked roadmap, obtained by TmoNews, seems to show that T-Mobile is set to launch a Galaxy S3 with LTE as soon as March 27th. The T999L (L for LTE, naturally) is set to launch on either March 27th or April 4th, but the on- and off-contract pricing is still under wraps. Other than the new LTE capabilities for T-Mobile's soon-to-launch network, we wouldn't expect many other changes to be made on the inside. If you're interested in seeing what a Galaxy S3 with LTE is like, we took a look at a U.K. model back in December.

Also on this roadmap is the Galaxy Exhibit, which we saw in leaked press images of earlier today. T-Mobile looks to be readying both a prepaid and postpaid launch of this device the same week as the Galaxy S3. Also notable is the BlackBerry Z10 -- which should have LTE -- and a Sonic LTE hotspot.

It looks like the last week of March could be a big launch of T-Mobile's LTE network and devices to run on it all at once. We'll be looking forward to it.

Source: TmoNews



HTC promises 'new sound and camera experience in 2013'

Posted: 04 Feb 2013 01:26 PM PST

HTC

Normally I avoid infographics like the plague. They're basically free advertising, and baby needs a new pair of shoes. But HTC just published one on a "Brief history of photography." And tucked down at the bottom is the following line:

HTC kicks off a new sound and camera experience in 2013

That's very much in the same ballpark as the supposed "ultrapixel" sensor Pocket-Lint reported will be used in HTC's next round of phones.

Only a couple weeks until HTC's Feb. 19 events in New York and London, folks. We're getting close.

Source: HTC



Carbon: the way Google should be doing backup on Android

Posted: 04 Feb 2013 12:56 PM PST

Carbon - App Sync and Backup

In theory, apps and data on your Android device should be backed up to "the cloud" and tied to your Google account. This means -- again, in theory -- that when you sign into a new device your apps and data will be restored to that device. Anyone who has owned an Android phone or two (or ten) knows that this really isn't the case. There isn't any transparency as to what apps are backed up, which apps will be restored and least of all which apps will bring their associated data along. So how do you solve this problem?

Enter, Carbon - App Sync and Backup.

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ASUS MeMO Pad promo video details the underspec'd, underpriced tablet

Posted: 04 Feb 2013 11:11 AM PST

Android Central

Like we said when the 7-inch ASUS MeMO Pad was announced a few weeks ago, price -- nor performance -- is the point of this guy. Specifically, the $149 price tag. Of course for $50 more you can get yourself a nice Nexus 7 (also by ASUS), but this guy's more likely to be found in emerging markets where the Nexus 7 might not be available.



HP debuts new Pavilion 14 Chromebook for $329

Posted: 04 Feb 2013 11:07 AM PST

HP Pavilion 14 Chromebook

The last few months have brought us quite a bit of new hardware on the Chrome OS front, and that's continuing today with HP's Pavilion 14 Chromebook. This is HP's first entrance into the Chromebook market, which has been rumored for some time, with this nicely affordable machine. As the name implies we're looking at a 14-inch 1366x768 display, stuffed in a black chassis that's under an inch thick and just 3.96 lbs. On the specs front, we're looking at a 1.1GHz Intel Celeron processor, 2GB (or 4GB) of RAM, 16GB flash storage, HDMI video out and 3 USB 2.0 ports.

The new Pavilion 14 is on sale for $329.99, which is a bit more expensive than the offerings from Samsung and Acer at $249.99 and $199.99. We're not sure how HP is looking to position this product, but its clear now that Google isn't giving up on its vision of having Chromebooks become a mainstream product.

Source: Google Chrome Blog; HP



Samsung Galaxy Exhibit leaked - T-Mobile gets a Galaxy S3 Mini

Posted: 04 Feb 2013 09:49 AM PST

Android Central

The Samsung Galaxy S3 Mini is already available internationally, and we've also started to see variants like the Galaxy Express on AT&T and Galaxy Axiom on US Cellular. So it's natural that we might see other versions of Samsung's diminutive handset on rival carriers, and today brings the first evidence that such a device could be headed to T-Mobile USA.

The image above, obtained by UnwiredView through notorious Twitter leaker @evleaks claims to show T-Mobile's Samsung Galaxy Exhibit. If the name sounds familiar, it's because T-Mo launched the Galaxy Exhibit 4G a couple of years back. According to @evleaks, the new Galaxy Exhibit (SGH-T599) looks set to offer a dual-core CPU, a WVGA display and 5MP camera, with release due before the end of the quarter. The specs aren't earth-shattering, and there's no information on cost yet, but it should make a solid addition to T-Mo's line-up if it's priced appropriately.

Source: UnwiredView



HTC M7 rumored to carry 4.3-'ultrapixel' camera

Posted: 04 Feb 2013 09:05 AM PST

Android Central

Unannounced device also starting to appear in retailer inventory systems

As we count down the days to HTC's Feb. 19 announcement event, the rumors surrounding its upcoming "M7" handset are starting to intensify. The latest details to appear come from UK tech blog Pocket-Lint, which claims to have knowledge of some unique technology at work in the phone's rear camera.

Earlier rumors had suggested the device would pack a 13-megapixel camera, but Pocket-Lint, citing "sources familiar with the matter," says that's not quite true. Instead, it reports that the M7 camera will feature a 4.3 "ultrapixel" sensor consisting of three 4.3-megapixel sensor layers, one for each primary color, which combine to form a single image. So while technically a total of 13 megapixels will be captured, the end result will be a much sharper 4.3-megapixel image.

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Mobile Nations fitness month week 1: Exercise!

Posted: 04 Feb 2013 09:01 AM PST

It's February and you know what that means? Mobile Nations Fitness Month! That's when we all get together to get in shape, share tips and tricks and recipes for success, review amazing apps and accessories, give away great prizes, and have a ton of fun! This year we're doing it a little differently, though. We're doing weekly themes, and that means every week you'll have new and exciting challenges, and new chances to win!

Week 1: Exercise!

We want to get in shape and feel great! Exercise helps us in so many ways. It helps us lose weight, reduce stress, feel energized, and improve our self-image. Getting moving reduces the likelihood of diseases, and keeps us healthy and as we get older.

As part of fitness month, we'll be reviewing a bunch of great apps and accessories that can help motivate, track, and train us to exercise better and smarter. We'll also be doing a couple of cool contests.

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Ten basic Android terminal commands you should know

Posted: 04 Feb 2013 08:05 AM PST

command line

For a lot of us, the fact that we can plug our Android phone or tablet into our computer and interact with it is a big plus. Besides the times when we've broken something and need to fix it, there are plenty of reasons why an advanced Android user would want to talk to his or her device. To do that, you need to have a few tools and know a few commands. That's what we're going to talk about today. Granted, this won't be the end-all be-all discussion of adb commands, but there are 10 basic commands everyone should know if they plan to get down and dirty with the command line. 

The tools are easy. If you're a Mac or Linux user, you'll want to install the SDK as explained at the Android developers site. It's not hard, and you don't have the whole driver mess that Windows users do. Follow the directions and get things set up while I talk to the Windows using folks for a minute. 

If you're using Windows, things are easier and harder at the same time. The tools themselves are the easy part. Download this file. Open the zip file and you'll see a folder named android-tools. Drag that folder somewhere easy to get to. Next, visit the manufacturers page for your device and install the adb and fastboot drivers for Windows. You'll need this so that your computer can talk to your Android device. If you hit a snag, visit the forums and somebody is bound to be able to help you through it. 

Now that we're all on the same page, enable USB debugging on your device (see your devices manual if you need help finding it, and remember it was hidden in Android 4.2), and plug it in to your computer. Now skip past the break and let's begin!

read more



Start your week with the Greatest Android Podcast in the World!

Posted: 04 Feb 2013 07:11 AM PST

Android Central Podcast

If you missed Thursday night's recording of the Android Central Podcast, you missed a lot. The Nexus 4 is back in stock. Our first look at the BlackBerry Z10 and how it compares to Android. HTC's got some stuff up its sleeves. And, yes, our first podcast via Google Hangout. And as always, more of your questions.

The Android Central Podcast is your weekly peek into the world of Android, where we break down the news that really matters, and explain what's just a bunch of hype. Plus, we answer your e-mails and voicemails. You don't want to miss it. Check out the Android Central Podcast.



HTC revenue and profits down again ahead of new product launches

Posted: 04 Feb 2013 06:58 AM PST

Android Central

Despite the launch of major new devices like the Droid DNA, One X+ and Windows Phone 8X, HTC's revenues and profits fell once again in the final quarter of 2012. Today the company reported fourth-quarter revenues of NT$60 billion, or $2.03 billion U.S. (down from NT$70.2 billion in Q3), with gross margin of 23% and operating margin of 1% (down from 25% and 7% respectively).  Net profit and EPS (earnings per share) also fell, the former from NT$3.9 billion to NT$1 billion, and the latter from NT$4.7 to NT$1.21.

HTC expects things to get worse in the first quarter of 2013, predicting Q1 revenue in the NT$50-60 billion range, with a gross profit margin between 21 and 23% and operating margins between 0.5 and 1.0%.

Despite the grim outlook, HTC CEO Peter Chou is optimistic about the company's prospects in 2013 --

“We continue to focus on the most important element of our business: innovation,” said Peter Chou, CEO of HTC. “Our teams are delivering beautifully designed phones, containing the newest technological advancements. Outstanding products, paired with improvements in our marketing execution and overall readiness give us reason to feel optimistic about the progress we will make in 2013.”

That progress, if it comes, will start with the launch of the company's first major Android phones of the year, rumored to be a 4.7-inch, 1080p device codenamed "M7," and a 4.3-inch 720p phone known as "M4." HTC has scheduled press conferences in London and New York City for Feb. 19, just ahead of Mobile World Congress, and we'll learn more at those events.

Source: HTC



Deal of the Day: Incipio Ultralight Hard Case for Motorola RAZR HD

Posted: 04 Feb 2013 06:27 AM PST

Deal of the Day The Feb. 4 ShopAndroid.com Deal of the Day is the Incipio Ultralight Hard Case for Motorola RAZR HD. Measuring less than 1mm thin, this case is ideal for the user seeking inconspicuous, first-class protection. Feather is made of an ultra light, ultra strong polymer for light as a feather, form-fitting durable protection without the added bulk. Color options include black, blue, pink, and gray.

The Incipio Ultralight Hard Case is available for just $17.00, 32% off today only. Backed by our 60-day return policy and fast shipping!

Never miss a deal. Sign up for Daily Deal alerts



Canadian Galaxy Note 2s to receive multi-window update this Wednesday

Posted: 04 Feb 2013 06:05 AM PST

Android Central

If you've got a Canadian Samsung Galaxy Note 2, then you're in for a pretty big update this week. Samsung Canada's official Twitter account has announced that from this Wednesday the phone will be updated with the impressive multi-window feature that hit U.S. and European Note 2 devices late last year. As the tweet explains, the same update will bring Chinese language support to the Canadian Note 2 --

“TheNextBigThing arrives Wed for GALAXY Note II owners as we begin rolling out the Multi Window & Chinese language support update.”

Multi-window enables you to split the screen between two full-screen applications -- for example, allowing you to browse the web and watch a video on YouTube at the same time, or read your Twitter feed and chat to someone on Google Talk. We've already seen the feature arrive on devices like the Galaxy S3, so it's great to see Canadian Note 2s finally getting caught up.

Source: Samsung Canada; via: MobileSyrup



Monday Brief: BlackBerry Blitz, HTC's M7, Macworld, and more!

Posted: 04 Feb 2013 05:29 AM PST

Mobile Nations

 

 



Acer Iconia B1 hands on and initial walkthrough

Posted: 04 Feb 2013 04:23 AM PST

Android Central

Acer looks to make a mark in the entry level tablet stakes with the Iconia B1, but how much tablet does £99 actually buy?

A whole lot of plastic. That's what £99 buys. And sadly that's one of the biggest downers on the new Acer Iconia B1. But, we'll come to that shortly. When the Iconia B1 was first announced, the biggest draw to the tablet was its sub-£100 price tag, and the fact that for this money you were getting a tablet from a recognized OEM. We all yearn for cheaper tablets, and Acer has delivered, but as you would expect some sacrifices have had to be made. Acer isn't kidding anyone though, squarely aiming this at first time users and children. But, is it a total washout? Click on and we'll take a first look at Acer's new budget tablet offering. 

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AC asks: What did you think of Samsung's Super Bowl commercial?

Posted: 03 Feb 2013 08:09 PM PST

Everyone knows that the best part of the Super Bowl is the great commercials. We saw plenty of great ones this year, as well as plenty that make us wonder "what were they thinking?" Of course Samsung got in on the action, as they understand the value of marketing like few other companies do. Case in point -- an ad with Seth Rogan, Paul Rudd, and LeBron James can't be cheap to make.

Now that we've all seen it (if you haven't, look up) what do you think about it? Was it worth the money they must have spent, or would a commercial showing the product(s) and what it can do have been a better way to go? You know what we do when we want answers -- we run a poll. You'll find it after the break, be sure to let us know what you thought about the whole thing.

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