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Posted: 12 Feb 2013 04:55 PM PST
 There are some other user-facing changes that probably won't apply to anyone without a Nexus device. Once a manufacturer gets their hands into the code, they tend to change these types of "features" to something that fits in with their version of Android a it better. Often times their version works better than stock Android, so we're not going to complain that they get changed. Here's what folks using stock are seeing:
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Posted: 12 Feb 2013 02:09 PM PST
 The Check In screen has received a facelift as well, with some cleaner lines and little more visual flare. The text box asking "What are you up to?" is now more prominently laid over a map of the check in location with an option to add a picture still prominently set to the right of it. There's still a bit more cleaning up and unification of the UI to go, but things are looking better with each update. 
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Posted: 12 Feb 2013 01:18 PM PST
 All you have to do is shop. And then check out. And then use the coupon code vday13. Do that, and we'll take 14 percent off your entire order. Seriously, folks. She doesn't want a thong. He doesn't want a card. Do yourselves a favor and get something your Valentine can really use -- accessories from ShopAndroid.com. 
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Posted: 12 Feb 2013 12:59 PM PST
  Stranger things have happened, so we let Mophie send us a review unit, and it arrived about a week later, on Feb. 8. In the meantime, we purchased a third Mophie Juice Pack -- this time directly from Mophie -- and had it overnighted to us, arriving on Jan. 31.In all four Galaxy S3 Mophie Juice Packs, there remains a sharp edge on the chin, and that remains our biggest complaint. It's not going to attack you or anything. But it's noticeable, it's uncomfortable, and it makes us want to take a file to the case -- something you should never have to do. 
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Posted: 12 Feb 2013 11:46 AM PST
 With the phone as yet unavailable for those outside Japan, we doubt there'll be too much development activity going on over the next couple of weeks. But it doesn't hurt to have code ready and waiting for when devices start to make their way out -- especially as so many manufacturers lag behind with their open-source duties. For more on the Xperia Z, check out our hands-on coverage from CES 2013.
Source: Sony Open-Source Archive; via: XDA
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Posted: 12 Feb 2013 11:21 AM PST
SwiftKey Flow remains the keyboard of choice for many of us here at AC, despite its beta status. Hopefully we'll see it graduate to Google Play soon.
Source: SwiftKey
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Posted: 12 Feb 2013 10:45 AM PST
 Some great news has emerged for those eagerly awaiting the arrival of the latest in the Real Racing series, Real Racing 3. The title now has a release date, and a price. The so far stunning looking title will be dropping into Google Play on Feb. 28 and will be a completely free download. That's right, Real Racing 3 will be a freemium title. Knowing that would be met with mixed reaction, the developers, Firemonkeys, made a statement regarding the decision: Today we announced Real Racing 3 will be free. And yes, Real Racing 3 was designed from the ground up to be a free to play experience. We are so excited about this game and wanted it to be accessible to everyone so we didn't want there to be any barriers to entry. This accessibility is also what drives the awesome new Time Shifted Multiplayer feature, in that you can play competitive multiplayer with anyone any time, and they don't need to be online with you at the same time. At launch we have 46 licensed vehicles covering 3 classes, a 22 car grid, real world tracks, 8 varied event types and 900+ events. This means hundreds of hours of gameplay for free making this one of the most expansive games ever on mobile. We plan to continue to add more free and exciting content with every update.Doesn't sound all that scary, and being free to download will potentially drive higher initial download figures. In any case, we're looking forward to this one a lot, and thankfully we only have a couple more weeks to wait.
Source: Firemonkeys via Facebook
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Posted: 12 Feb 2013 09:56 AM PST
 Oh, and did we mention this is an Android-exclusive title? Read on past the break and see what it's all about. read more 
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Posted: 12 Feb 2013 09:46 AM PST
 Motorola Solutions -- that's the other Motorola that wasn't bought by Google -- has announced the launch of AME 2000, a secure platform including an Android handset, aimed at federal agencies. Using Moto's Assured Mobile Environment tech, AME 2000 combines an off-the-shelf smartphone with additional hardware and software to enable secure voice and messaging services, as well as secure VPN connectivity over mobile data or Wifi.The AME 2000 includes Security Enhanced Android -- the NSA-approved custom version of the OS designed with high-security use in mind. In addition, it features Motorola's CRYPTR hardware security module for microSD security. Moto hasn't released an exact spec sheet for the phone itself, but based on the images published, it looks like we're dealing with a RAZR-class device running Ice Cream Sandwich or higher. Regardless, if you want to get down into the details of the security features provided, you'll find that over at the source link. It's by no means the first time we've seen Android used in high-security devices. Just over a year ago it emerged that U.S. government and military officials were to be outfitted with secure Android-based phones, and in 2010 General Dynamics was said to be looking at Android for use in "next-gen wearable" computers.
Source: Press Release
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Posted: 12 Feb 2013 08:33 AM PST
 DashClock Widget is quickly changing my mind. It's the work of Roman Nurik, a Googler and Android design guy and was released this morning to Google Play and as open-source code. The widget itself is devilishly simple. Add it to the Android 4.2 lock screen like you would any other widget. From there you add "extensions." At launch you've got extensions for weather, missed calls and texts, your next calendar appointment, unread e-mails and your next scheduled alarm. Chances are we should see additional extensions pretty quickly. (Here's hoping for some world clock love, which is the only thing I'm missing from the stock Android lock screen clock.) Want to get rid of an extension? Just swipe it away. Nice. This one's free, it's open-source, and it's definitely worth a look. Hit the link above, and ease on past the break for a little hands-on action if you need more convincing. read more 
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Posted: 12 Feb 2013 06:32 AM PST
 The Feb. 12 ShopAndroid.com Deal of the Day is the Amzer Snap On Case for Samsung Galaxy Note 2. This lightweight hard shell case features impact resistance in an extremely slim profile design. There's cutouts for all ports and buttons for instant access, and the cutout around your camera lens is raised and reinforced to prevent scratching when placed on a flat surface. Comes in black, blue, red, purple, pink, green, and white.The Amzer Snap On Case is available for just $7.00, 65% off today only. Grab yours while supplies last! Never miss a deal. Sign up for Daily Deal alerts! 
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Posted: 12 Feb 2013 06:30 AM PST
BlueStacks has partnerships with several OEMs already, and users have made over 5 million downloads of the software directly from its website alone. The software is also free, which is fantastic for Windows 8 users looking to try out the experience of running Android apps on their PC's with full touch capabilities. You can get more information and grab a download at the source link below.
Source: BlueStacks
read more
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Posted: 12 Feb 2013 06:27 AM PST
 LG's promotional site for the G Pro doesn't reveal much beyond the screen size and resolution, so we'll have to wait on confirmation of other changes like the larger battery and microSD support. However, the device in the image above certainly looks a lot like what we saw in last week's spy shots. As for whether the Optimus G Pro will eventually extend its reach outside of Asia, that's something we'll likely find out at Mobile World Congress in a couple of weeks.
Source: LG; via: UnwiredView
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Posted: 12 Feb 2013 05:51 AM PST
 The Ultrafast Galaxy S3 sells for £449.99 on Pay As You Go, and it's also available on two-year £34-36 per month contracts, which include "All You Can Eat" data. If you're buying on contract, you'll need to stump up a £29 up-front fee.
Source: Ultrafast Galaxy S3 on Three
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Posted: 12 Feb 2013 03:26 AM PST
 On the inside, the Vertu Ti isn't all that remarkable -- there's an unnamed 1.7GHz dual-core processor running the show, an 8MP rear camera with 1080p video recording, as well as a 1.3MP front-facer, a 3.7-inch WVGA screen, 64GB of storage and pentaband DC-HSDPA connectivity. Even less remarkable is the year-old skinned Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich powering the software side of things. But Vertu's banking on its build quality and unique materials to set it apart -- the chassis is constructed out of titanium, and the screen is fashioned from sapphire crystal -- apparently designed to be more durable than the average plastic phone. What's more, customers get access to Vertu's "concierge" call service to help out with things like "local advice and restaurant booking." (Think of it as a little like Google Now, except with humans.) We'll be honest here, we doubt anyone reading this will actually stump up the $10,000 to purchase a Vertu Ti, but the fact that this kind of manufacturer is embracing Android goes to show the wide appeal of the OS. If you've got ten grand to burn, the Vertu Ti is available for sale now at the manufacturer's website. 
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Posted: 11 Feb 2013 09:13 PM PST
 No news on the Nexus 4, interestingly enough, but we'd assume if the rest of the Nexuses are getting it, the N4 will be on that train too. We're of course not sure what all this update has in it, but we're not expecting much more than bug fixes considering it's just a x.x.1 jump. After updating our own Galaxy Nexus to 4.2.2, there don't seem to be any immediately-noticeable changes. So have at it folks, start checking your devices for that update. If you're into manually updating (advanced users only), we've got direct OTA package links for the Gnex and Nexus 10 after the break.
Source: AndroidPolice; Reddit; Thanks, Karl!
read more
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Posted: 11 Feb 2013 07:49 PM PST
 There's no word on when we'll see this, or if it will be part of an OS update or an update available via Google Play. We're guessing the latter, which makes it readily available for carrier phones that might be, shall we say, an OS version or two behind. We'll just have to wait to get the full details. Update: Looks like Google's pulled that support page.
Source: Google. Thanks, @mattatwar1!
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Posted: 11 Feb 2013 06:36 PM PST
  We've heard about a refresh of the LG Optimus L-style phones coming, and LG just made things official. There aren't many surprises here, as all three of the phones look to be mid-range devices, and based on dual-SIM specification, we assume they are destined for central and eastern Europe. First out of the gate will be the Optimus L7II, which debuts in Russia this week. It's a 4.3-inch (WVGA; IPS) Jelly Bean powered phone, with 768MB of RAM and an 8MP camera. The dual-SIM specification already mentioned is on board, and it's all powered by a healthy 2460mAh battery. On the software side, the L series II devices include LG's unique features like QSlide and QuickTranslator. Releasing at a later date, the Optimus L5II will be a 4.0-inch version with a 1700mAh battery, and the Optimus L3II will feature a 3.2-inch display and a 1540mAh battery. We'll know more about these soon, as LG plans to display the new L series II devices at Mobile World Congress later this month. You can find LG's full press release after the break. read more 
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Sunday, February 17, 2013
Android Central
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