Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini rumored for May release
Posted: 15 Feb 2013 11:11 AM PST
It appears that this year Samsung is looking to offer both their flagship Galaxy S IV smartphone, as well as a smaller 4-inch Galaxy S IV Mini around the same time frame. Last years Galaxy S III received its own mini variant – which wasn’t all that great – but this time around we’re hearing rumors of a better mini, and it could even be released in May.
 There’s been a lot of talk about what’s being called Samsung Project J. This is not one device, but a family of smartphones. Rumored to be the Galaxy S IV that is highly anticipated, the J Mini (which would be the S4 Mini) as well as another unknown device. New reports today are surfacing with claims that the Mini will actually hit shelves and be available in May, so not long after it’s bigger brother. Original reports on the Galaxy S IV Mini have it coming with similar specs as the bigger brother, only with a smaller screen and no wireless charging. If Samsung could deliver a 720p HD 4-inch smartphone with Galaxy S IV specs under the hood it certainly would compete greatly with the iPhone 5 or 5s, considering the Galaxy S IV is in a class above on its own. For now we don’t have any details regarding the actual specs of the rumored Mini, but we’re hopeful Samsung will offer something more compelling than the Mini from last year. Reports from SamMobile usually are quite accurate, and they have reason to believe we could see the new and improved Galaxy S IV Mini in May. Stay tuned for more details. |
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Posted: 15 Feb 2013 10:32 AM PST
We were given a brief look at the Chameleon Launcher running on smartphones back in early January, however aside from the video, not much was really said in terms of when it could be expected. That has changed as of today though. The folks behind Chameleon have released their latest Kickstarter update and it includes a sneak peek of the launcher running on a Nexus 4 and also a Nexus 7.
 Before we get into the specifics from the video, lets answer the question that many are likely wondering — when will this arrive? Well, so far we have yet to see a specific release date, however it was said that it should be available in “about two weeks.” Basically, it looks like it will arrive sometime before the end of February. The videos, both on the Nexus 4 and Nexus 7 show what appears to be a solid update, however it was said that until the release, the team “will be working on refining it and tightening it up.” This update is being described as offering some major enhancements. Not to mention, the release of the smartphone version. The videos are both on the shorter side with the Nexus 4 coming in at only 29 seconds in length. Regardless, it does what a teaser video should — it leaves us wanting more. One point worth mentioning, the folks at Chameleon have said that those who purchased the tablet version will get the smartphone version without any additional cost. The key here will be in how users react. Reading through some of comments on these YouTube pages and it appears as if there is some frustration. Personally, I used the launcher for a short while, but eventually removed it. Now that a smartphone release is coming I would be willing to give it another look, but I am not convinced it will end up being anything more than a look. Anyone else excited about Chameleon for smartphones? [via Kickstarter] |
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Posted: 15 Feb 2013 10:17 AM PST
The NFL and Fantasy Football season might be over now, and my Packers didn’t win the Super Bowl, but that won’t stop us and Google from enjoying the NFL in some way or another. While the Ravens are champions and Ray Lewis is going out on his own terms, Google’s giving all of us fans an inside and up close look inside of some of the best NFL stadiums. Starting with a street view mode of Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Indianapolis Colts.
 The home of the 2006 Super Bowl Champions, the Colts, who also hosted last years Super Bowl are now giving Google’s cameras a look inside the stadium. Google Maps street view has rolled into the stadium and wandered down the hash-marks to the 50 yard line and is giving us a first-hand look of what it would be like to do an end zone touchdown dance Victor Cruz style. Google’s calling this their “Vip 360-degree experience” inside of many of the best locations around the NFL. They recently did the same for the Grand Canyon, but today’s all about the NFL. Basically for those that don’t want to watch LeBron and MJ argue about who’s the best Basketball player of all-time, you can turn on Google Maps and relive the football season. I can’t wait for draft day and training camp myself. Street view on mobile will let you walk on the field, and even wander the halls and head to the Colts locker room. For those on a PC however, Google claims you’ll get the full VIP experience heading into suite and club level VIP seats, walk through the stands, and anything else you can imagine. I’m thinking the Quarterback Suite is where I want to watch the game from. The Colts and Google are happy to give us, the fans, the chance to visit the stadium from anywhere in the world. Google plans to offer other locations and stadiums soon. I wouldn’t mind a tour of the Dallas Cowboys stadium, or my Packers of course. Who’s your team?    [via Google Lat Long] |
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Posted: 15 Feb 2013 09:50 AM PST
We had already been told that Ubuntu for smartphones was going to be arriving in October with a developer preview set for release in late February. And well, it looks like we now have a specific date to mark on our calendar. That date is February 21, and in a bit of extra news, there will now be two supported devices.
 In addition to running Ubuntu for smartphones on a Galaxy Nexus, you will also be able to use the Nexus 4. This should make it a bit easier for those looking to do a little playing around — especially since Google recently dropped those 4.2.2 factory image files. In terms of access, the developer preview will be available from the Ubuntu Wiki. In addition to the preview, Canonical will also have an SDK and Apps Design Guide available for those looking to get a head start building some apps. Aside from the good news in terms of an availability date and the expanded device support, Canonical notes that this release is “intended for enthusiasts and developers.” Simply put, you are not going to load this on your Nexus (Galaxy or 4) and start using it as a daily driver just yet. On the flip side though, if you happen to have a spare device lying around, it may be fun to do some playing around. If you have yet to see Ubuntu running on the Galaxy Nexus, we have a hands-on video from CES where we spent a few minutes playing for you to check out. Canonical has also said they will be at Mobile World Congress so we are going to keep an eye out for anything new at that time. Finally, for those who simply like the look and are happy with Android, you can get a little taste with the Ubuntu Phone Experience app. |
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Posted: 15 Feb 2013 09:12 AM PST
While there are plenty of alternative browsers available for Android users to pick from, it looks as if two of those have recently gotten together. Coming by way of an Opera issued press release, they have announced the acquisition of Skyfire. Based on details provided, Opera will be looking towards Skyfire’s video optimization and smartphone monetization products.
 The acquisition is expected to close on March 15, 2013 and according to Lars Boilesen, CEO, Opera Software; “Opera and Skyfire are a natural fit.” Boilesen went on to note that “both companies have evolved far behind their browser roots.” But perhaps key here, Skyfire has something called the Rocket Optimizer software helps to minimize start times and also deals with rebuffering issues and unwelcome stops on audio and video streams. Opera has been known for their compression technology. There are some other perks for Opera. Skyfire also has the Skyfire Horizon tool which is a mobile browser extension and toolbar. Not to mention, the Skyfire Horizon and Rocket Optimizer tools are in place with three US mobile operators and are currently in trials with another 10 global operators. Those agreements will likely benefit Opera. But basically, it was said that Skyfire will help the Opera portfolios dealing with video, app optimization, smartphones and tablets and in gereral increase their strength in North America. The key for users of either browser, they will both remain. Opera noted that Skyfire will “remain an independent entity” and that they will “continue to develop and support the Skyfire browser.” That is not to say we will not see them release something jointly in the future. While nothing specific has been given, the “coming year” could bring “a powerful new set of joint products.” The acquisition was for a mix of cash and stock with an upfront consideration of $50 million US. Otherwise, aside from the Skyfire acquisition, we also recently learned that Opera was going to be showing off their newest browser during Mobile World Congress. [via Opera] |
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Posted: 15 Feb 2013 08:32 AM PST
The latest comScore report has recently been released, this one is the 2013 Digital Future in Focus report. ComScore notes that this report highlights how the “prevailing trends in social media, search, online video, digital advertising, mobile and e-commerce are defining the current digital marketplace.” We of course, find the mobile related portion the most interesting.
 Some of these numbers will likely sound familiar as other reports have recently been released. Or at the very least, while some of the numbers may vary — the end results should sound familiar. For example, touching on smartphones and we find Android and iOS as being the overall majority. The good news for us here, Android now accounts for 53.4 percent of the smartphone market with iOS coming in second with 36.3 percent. Simply put, 89.7 percent of smartphone users now have either an Android or iOS device. Other details include how smartphone penetration climbed above 50 percent during 2012 and that tablet usage has also been on the rise. ComScore noted that more and more the average consumer is now using multiple devices, stating that due to “the rapid adoption of smartphones and tablets, and consumers’ increasing use thereof” we are now seeing a “fragmented digital media landscape where the typical consumer now shares his time across multiple screens.” Touching on the numbers, the report notes that 28 percent of smartphone owners also have a tablet. In total, as of December 2012 there are an estimated 52.4 million tablet owners in the US. Alternatively, only 10 percent of smartphone users also have an eReader. But perhaps the key for those who are excited about technology, Linda Abraham , comScore CMO and EVP of Global Product Development believes that “2013 is poised to be digital’s most exciting year yet.” Those interested in reading the full report can grab that right here. [via SlashGear] |
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Posted: 15 Feb 2013 07:49 AM PST
Sony has confirmed the beginnings of the European launch of the Xperia Z smartphone. The details are coming by way of the German language Sony Mobile Facebook page and notes a release date of February 21. The unfortunate part here, this posting only mentions a release date for Germany. Not to mention, it only talks of availability from one location.
 Basically, Sony Mobile has said that the Xperia Z will be available from the Sony Store in Berlin beginning on February 21. We expect to hear more release details soon and expect the handset to be available on a more widespread basis either on the 21st, or sometime soon thereafter. Of course, we need the word from Sony. Otherwise, Sony Xperia Z pre-orders went live for those in the UK back on February 1. Those pre-orders didn’t confirm a specific release date, however there was mention of an ‘estimated’ delivery date of February 28. Assuming that date holds accurate, those in the UK have a full week to wait once the handset comes available in Germany. Finally, for those still considering a purchase once the handset come available, remember Sony has already confirmed that the handset would be updated to Android 4.2 shortly after launch. You may also want to check out some Xperia Z videos. We have the few that were released by Sony showing off the display and water-resistance — not to mention, our Xperia Z hands on video from CES. [via GSM Arena] |
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Posted: 15 Feb 2013 07:06 AM PST
The GameStick game console was another Kickstarter success story in terms of funding and while we wait for those units to begin shipping, we have some good news for those who choose not to back. Of course, going back to the successful funding, we suppose this latter group may be the minority. Regardless though, the good news as of today is that pre-orders have come available.
 The GameStick pre-orders are available by way of the gamestick.tv website and are powered by Amazon. Basically, the powered by Amazon part should help to make the purchase process a bit quicker and easier. Well, that is assuming you already have an active and up to date Amazon account. Those looking to pre-order will be able to grab the console itself for $79 as well as GameStick dock and case. The dock is $24.99 and the case is $9.99. An availability date of April 30, 2013 is revealed during the checkout process. Otherwise, the word coming from GameStick notes that “pre-ordered devices will ship immediately after fulfillment of the initial Kickstarter run in April.” While those placing a pre-order now will have to wait for delivery until a time when the Kickstarter backers all receive their shipments, the good news is that you will have priority over the retail availability. Bottom line here, we now have the GameStick and the OUYA (both of which came out of Kickstarter) going head-to-head in the Android based game console space. OUYA launched pre-order availability a short while back and while the GameStick is a bit lower priced, they are both close in price. For those who are interested but have yet to commit, which will it be — a GameStick or an OUYA? [via GameStick] |
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Posted: 15 Feb 2013 06:40 AM PST
Similar to the HTC One leaks, the details surrounding the Samsung Galaxy S IV seem to be coming at a rapid pace. Just recently we saw details about how Samsung is preparing to sell more than 100 million units once the Galaxy S IV is released. One of the ways they are likely to accomplish that will be with widespread carrier availability.
 Given we saw that with the Galaxy S III, that seems to make perfect sense, however this latest leak still comes as a bit of potential good news for Verizon Wireless subscribers. We say potential because as always, nothing is confirmed until we get the official announcement. Until that time however, we look towards rumors and leaks to piece the details together. As of today we have some NenaMark 2 benchmark results that were discovered by the Japanese language rbmen blog. These results are showing the Samsung SCH-I545 and while they do not specifically reference Verizon Wireless, the model number does fit in with previous patterns. Those familiar with the Galaxy S III may have already realized, however that model number is the SCH-I535. Seems to make sense that the follow-up device could be the I545. Not to mention, three for the Galaxy S III and four for the Galaxy S IV. Otherwise, aside from some model number speculation, this benchmark filing does also mention some of the previously leaked specs. For example, this filing mentions the handset as having a1920 x 1080 display resolution, 1.9GHz processor, Qualcomm Adreno 320 graphics and Android 4.2 Jelly Bean. This filing doesn’t mention a specific size for the display, however previous leaks point towards that measuring in at 4.99-inches. [via SlashGear] |
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Posted: 15 Feb 2013 06:21 AM PST
Just when we had thought we seen everything related to the HTC One leak, it looks like we now have another image render to check out. This latest brings the familiar design that we saw earlier in the month, except it shows the handset in the other color. The previous was shown in white and this latest shows the handset in black. Otherwise, not much new in terms of details which really just goes to say that we have already seen just about everything. Well, everything except for the official announcement.
 The announcement of course, is expected to happen during the February 19th event. Aside from the color, the few minor differences in this latest render deal with the images on the display. You may have noticed the weather widget. This time around we are seeing New York, and if you remember back, the white HTC One render was showing London. This black render is also showing some differences in the data displayed. The previous white render had three items, all of which were from Facebook which seemed to imply that was a Facebook widget of some sort. The key here, this one is showing data from Facebook as well as others. Basically, this just seems to imply that the data is customizable. Touching back to the details we saw yesterday and it is looking like those in the US will be able to pick up an HTC One on March 22.  Word has it that HTC will release the One with T-Mobile, AT&T and Sprint with price points of $199.99 and $299.99 for a 32GB and 64GB model respectively. Finally, the specs are remaining consistent and include a 4.7-inch 1080p display along with a quad-core processor, 2GB of RAM, Jelly Bean and Sense 5. At this point we are not sure what else is still able to be leaked, however given these One rumors and leaks seems to be so consistant, we probably shouldn’t be surprised if something else is mentioned before the 19th. [via Unwired View] |
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Posted: 14 Feb 2013 04:29 PM PST
While we’ve already heard and seen our fair share of Galaxy S IV rumors, some new reports are coming out this week claiming that Samsung’s prepared to sell over 100 million units. That’s a bold statement, although a pretty fair assessment if you ask us. Last we heard the Galaxy S III sold over 50 million devices, and this new phone should be even more successful.
 Earlier this year Samsung announced between their original Galaxy S, the S II, and now the S III sales are way over the 100 million mark. Each release the sales have increased with the Galaxy S doing 20 million, the S II doing around 40 million, and now the Galaxy S III sitting at 50m strong and still going. If you look at it from that perspective, the new flagship should do quite well. In December Samsung reported that the company expects to ship over 500 million phones in 2013. 390 million of those are expected to be from smartphones alone. Looking at those numbers Samsung’s banking pretty big on the Galaxy S IV – and with good reason. Some analysts have reported that Samsung is preparing to manufacture and sell over 100m of their new flagship device, and might have to "reallocate resources away from Apple" in order to meet their own device demands. Rumor has it Sammy will announce the all-new powerhouse Galaxy S IV on March 15th at a Samsung Unpacked event. The device will rock a 4.99-inch full 1080p HD display, and be powered by their new quad-core processor — or possibly even an Octa-core chip. Reports and leaks also detail a 13 megapixel camera, Android 4.2 Jelly Bean, and they’ll be leaving the S-Pen stylus out for their Note lineup. Either way we’re getting excited! We’ll be their live with plenty of details come March so stick around folks. Catch up on all the Samsung rumors from the timeline below. [via Unwired View] |
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Posted: 14 Feb 2013 04:02 PM PST
If you’re the proud owners of the HTC DROID DNA, the US Galaxy S III, LG’s new Nexus 4, or more than 70 other Qualcomm Snapdragon powered devices you might have noticed the smartphone charging faster than most. Today the folks from Qualcomm have detailed a neat feature called Quick Charge 1.0 that’s been integrated into many of their current and upcoming processors.
 This rapid-charging technology allows us to charge our smartphones and tablets powered by a new Snapdragon processor more than 40% faster than the previous generation. All these Snapdragon S4 and S4 Pro powered devices all have the capability, as well as nearly 70 other devices released over the past 6-8 months. This isn’t anything new in terms of charging over USB, but it’s new in the way Qualcomm is delivering it. We haven’t talked about this feature much, but neither has Qualcomm — or anyone else in the mobile space for that matter. Using existing technology behind the way USB and micro-USB works they’ve developed and integrated a smart power-management solution on their chip that is geared towards how our devices charge up and receive juice from the wall or car outlet. This way we all benefit, but don’t have to buy new cables. I think iPhone owners know plenty about buying new cables. When previous generation devices took roughly 4 hours to fully charge, all the new devices using Qualcomm Snapdragon processors with Quick Charge 1.0 will be finished in under 3 hours. Giving you more time daily to use and enjoy that Android powered smartphone. We love the idea of not hanging next to a wall outlet at the airport, but would still love to see bigger battery options moving forward with smartphones. More details and the full device support list can be found from the official blog post linked below. [via Qualcomm Blog] |
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Posted: 14 Feb 2013 03:17 PM PST
If you’re rocking the 5-inch 1080p DROID DNA we have some good news. Earlier this week we reported that the folks from HTC have finally finished up the first update for their popular DROID smartphone. Now today we can confirm that the DNA over the air update is rolling out as we speak. More details can be found below for those interested.
 The HTC DROID DNA is the first 5-inch 1080p smartphone to grace the US, and it’s done so with great success. The smartphone received a glowing review (linked below) from us, and many owners feel the same way about that stunning HD display. All that aside, lets talk about the update which is rolling out as we speak to Verizon users according to multiple tips we’ve just received.  The update detailed earlier this week is the first update for the DNA, and is mainly fixing a rather large list of pesky little bugs and issues that have plagued the handset. The update will leave you on Android 4.1 Jelly Bean, but will bring you to build 2.04.605.2 and is approximately 103.5MB in size. We’d recommend a WiFi connection, or use that speedy Verizon 4G LTE. With this update there's tons of fixes to audio quality regarding speakerphone and headsets, WiFi, Bluetooth, mobile hotspot and more. The changelog also mentions "enhanced recent apps functionality has been improved" which is referring to the multi-task feature. Feel free to drop us a comment when you notice what’s changed on that front. As usual the update has just begun rolling out so users should start seeing it over the next 24-48 hours. I’d be heading into settings and checking for updates right about now.
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Posted: 14 Feb 2013 03:00 PM PST
While there’s no telling what apps the millions and millions of Android users have installed, especially considering there is more than 700,000 apps in the Play Store. However, today there was a pretty big list of apps getting updated that most users usually have on their phones. So instead of wasting time, here’s a list of some popular apps all receiving updates today.
 Probably the biggest update here is Facebook. This just arrived on the Google Play Store and doesn’t add any speed improvements or help the app work any better – something we still have problems with. They did however add one neat new feature. You can now change your cover photo right from your timeline on mobile devices. Fun! Today there’s also an update for Google+, the popular chat app GroupMe, PhotoVault for hiding those personal photos, ROM Manager received a quickie update, and last but certainly not least Temple Run 2. There’s probably tons more, but these are a few popular ones many people probably can look forward to. Google states their social network app only received a few stability improvements and bug fixes, so nothing too big here. Then GroupMe added custom back button options, as well as the usual bug fixes and better performance claims. PhotoVault added the option to click share and hide any photo on your smartphone to their vault. That’s neat. ROM Manager now supports TWRP (Team Win Recovery) and a few other various tweaks. Lastly the extremely popular Temple Run 2 was updated to fix a few coin purchases gone missing issues. If there’s anything else exciting that was updated today drop us a comment below. Head to the Play Store and get em all! |
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Posted: 14 Feb 2013 02:29 PM PST
For those not keeping up with Samsung news lately, the company is reportedly preparing to release a new Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0 tablet smartphone hybrid. We’ve seen countless leaks but yesterday we might have got our first look a little early on accident. While announcing the Garnet Red color of their Galaxy Tab 10.1 you’ll notice something out of place in the background. Check it out below.
 The image above was provided by Samsung for their official announcement of the rather boring red version of their Galaxy Tab 10.1 for Valentine’s Day. The tablet’s been available for some time, so this is just a limited edition color. Oddly enough a few readers (thanks Dan) noticed the device in the background. It isn’t the Galaxy S III, it surely isn’t the Note II, but it looks a lot like the recent leaks of a Galaxy Note 8.0 — or basically just a giant smartphone. The folks from SammyHub are reporting that this appears to be the Note 8.0 leaked on accident, but we still have our doubts. It’s worth noting you can clearly see the dedicated home button, as well as on-screen navigation buttons on the bottom left which would make sense for a tablet. Either Samsung made a mistake adding that to the Garnet Red release image, or this is just someone teasing us. I’m hoping the bezel will be a lot smaller than that eye-sore, but we’ll have to wait for MWC where we’re hopeful they’ll announce and unveil the new slate. Stay tuned for more details. |
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Posted: 14 Feb 2013 01:40 PM PST
Google has rolled out a new tool that may come in handy for those searching for a Nexus 4 smartphone or Nexus 7 tablet. The key here though, while this new tool will make things a bit easier, it doesn’t offer the most important part. More on that in a second though. Google has added Nexus 4 and Nexus 7 locator pages and as the page reads, it will help you “find a Nexus 4 near you.”
 The catch is that they are not showing any inventory levels, which ultimately will mean having to make some phone calls. Well, that or a bit of driving around. The page is simple enough, surf on over to google.com/nexus/4/retailers/ for the Nexus 4 or google.com/nexus/7/retailers/ for the Nexus 7. From this point, it is simply a matter of letting the page locate you, or typing in the address where you happen to be. You can limit the results by distance, with options for 5, 10, 20 and 50 miles. Basically, from what we are seeing — we have a nice list of T-Mobile stores when it comes to the Nexus 4. The Nexus 7 on the other hand shows a few more retailers including Staples, Walmart and GameStop. We hope to see some additional retailers come to the Nexus 4 locator page as well. Otherwise, the results come back with the store name, the distance, address and phone number. Of course, given we are talking about a Google provided tool this other bit shouldn’t come as a surprise, but you can also get directions to the store. Like we mentioned earlier though, this page doesn’t actually tell you which stores have inventory on hand so make sure you call before heading out. Lastly, while we have seen pages for the Nexus 4 and Nexus 7, we have yet to see anything for the Nexus 10. Needless to say, we are keeping an eye out here, which based on the format for the locator pages, should be where the Nexus 10 page will be once it goes live.
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Posted: 14 Feb 2013 01:22 PM PST
Yesterday the folks from Google teamed up with the co-stars from Wedding Crashers Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn and held a Google+ hangout session. It was hosted by the one and only Conan O’Brien to debut the official trailer for their brand new movie. It isn’t Google’s movie but it’s what many are now calling the “Google Movie” and both stars will be playing interns at Google.
 We mentioned this back last week and gave additional details, but for those that missed it this is what to expect. A pure comedic experience with these two awesome stars playing next to each other again, and they’ll be the oldest interns looking for a job at Google. In the usual out of control, rude and crude comedy they’re known for, this movie actually looks pretty good. The camera crew took over the Google headquarters in California for days and days of filming, and we’ll get to see an inside look at just how amazing it is to work at Google. They’ve long been considered one of the best companies to work for in the world, so I’m excited to see it all in theaters. Here’s the official debut trailer for the “Google Movie” which is called The Internship: Instead of Wedding Crashers we get Google Crashers, and it looks awesome. If you’re wondering if this will even come close to being as funny as Wedding Crashers here’s what the stars had to say during their Google+ hangout regarding their humor and chemistry on screen. “It takes a half a day to get those rhythms and chemistry percolating,” and that “We kind of picked up where we left off.”Everything from Google’s driverless cars, ping pong during lunch breaks with amazing food choices, and everything else you’d expect from one of the most rewarding a fun jobs available is all in the film. We’ll be enjoying all the blue, green, yellow, and red colors of Google’s headquarters throughout the entire film. The movie was directed by “Night at the Museums” Shawn Levy so we’re hopeful that this will be another classic comedy.    |
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Posted: 14 Feb 2013 12:55 PM PST
US Cellular has announced the latest details in terms of their 4G LTE network. Included in this update are details about some new markets, some expanded markets and where things stand as of now. Not to mention, where they believe the coverage will be by the end of 2013. At this time US Cellular has 4G LTE coverage available for 61 percent of their customer base.
 Looking forward, they plan to extend that to 87 percent by years end. In other words, by the end of 2013, US Cellular will have coverage available in “more than” 3,800 cities and towns. Perhaps key for those still looking for coverage — which markets are going to be getting some good news out of this announcement. According to details coming from the carrier, new 4G LTE service is going to be launched in “select cities” of California, Kansas and Nebraska. Unfortunately, US Cellular has yet to offer details on which cities are included in that group. On the flip side though, there is a bit more detail when it comes to the expansion in existing markets. US Cellular has said that additional cities in Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin will soon have 4G LTE. While they have yet to detail all the specific expansion cities, they have listed some including; Lincoln, Nebraska; Omaha, Nebraska; Manhattan, Kansas; Eureka, California and Ukiah, California. With that, for those looking for a 4G LTE device with US Cellular, they now have a total of ten including the Galaxy Note II and Galaxy S III. [via US Cellular] |
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Posted: 14 Feb 2013 12:31 PM PST
The latest update from Bump has been announced and while this one deals with the web version, it will have some perks for those using the app on an Android device. In short, thanks to this update you will be able to bump files between Android and your computer. The process, as it had been between phones, is just as simple as before and it now works with all the same data including images, contacts and files.
 Basically, this Bump update builds upon how you could previously send images from your phone to your computer. This update makes it a two-way option and as previously mentioned, now works with additional file types. Assuming you already have the Bump app installed on your phone, grab your computer, launch a browser and surf on over to bu.mp. From here it is just a matter of hitting the space bar. Well, finding that file you want to transfer over and then hitting the space bar. From this point, you are done. Some of the possible use cases include grabbing a presentation file from your desk computer and then bumping it to the conference room computer. Or alternatively, you can use it to back up files from your current smartphone so they can be transferred over to a new smartphone. You can also use it for a more practical purpose — to save those precious pictures and videos that you never want to lose. Anyway, at this time we are seeing the details on the Bump Blog, and the bu.mp website has just been updated and is ready for transfers. All said and done, this seems to be a nice step for Bump, certainly a feature that will be welcomed. And at the very least, this should make Bump quite a bit more useful for those who didn’t previously have a need to bump files from device to device. [via The Verge] |
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Posted: 14 Feb 2013 12:21 PM PST
Trying to get all in the spirit of Valentine’s Day, we decided to share with you this new app that was recently released to help you with all your greeting card needs. I’m not sure how much I’m going to enjoy writing about Taylor Swift, but she has an all-new greeting cards app for Android. Read on below considering today is Valentine’s Day, and surely a few of you procrastinated just as I did.
 For all those teen females out there, you’ll want to check out this app simply for the fact that Taylor Swift was involved. Then for all of the guys trying to magically come up with a last minute V-Day gift idea — you’re welcome! This will potentially save you the trouble, and be cute or sweet at the same time, or something like that. I’m not one for the mushy stuff. On that note, lets just get right to it so you can all enjoy this as much as I’m trying to. If you’re expecting a hands-on from me with this app, you can forget it. What we will do however is tell you the awesome features that will surely make this an app you might use today, and in the future. The all new Taylor Swift Greeting Cards app for Android has simple templates for all those big occasions. From Valentine’s Day, birthdays, to even simple Thank you cards and more. Here’s the full list: Your life is filled with card-worthy moments. Quickly find a great card for:Taylor Swift says, “The people in your life are AMAZING. Let them know, well…now, with a greeting card that's as unique as you are, sent via email, Facebook, text message, or Twitter.” Essentially you can use this neat little Android app to easily and quickly design a greeting card for any occasion. Then quickly send it to that significant other with multiple different means. You’ll get brownie points with her friends when you share it to Facebook too. Yup, I’m full of good ideas! On a side note the first 20 reviews on the Google Play store were all women but one, so this app certainly appears to be going over well with the ladies. Make a personalized and romantic Valentine’s Day card, get some chocolates, maybe some candles and Barry White, and you’re good to go. I’m not sure how I feel regarding the fact that Taylor Swift has her own jewelry, clothes line, perfume and now this, but to each his own. Happy Valentine’s Day folks!    |
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