Android Central

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• Hands-on with Iron Man 3 by Gameloft
• Springpad update brings redesign, better search and performance
• Google pledges to only use open-source related patents defensively
• Factory images posted for 4.2.2 Verizon Galaxy Nexus and 4.2.1 Sprint Galaxy Nexus
• HTC One official 'double dip' hard shell case review
• iFixit tears down the HTC One, finds HTC One parts inside that sexy aluminum shell
• Jelly Bean update now available for the Sprint Epic 4G Touch
• Meet Fynch: Not just another Twitter app
• Confirmed: Nexus 4 shipping with updated design
• HTC One official flip case review
• Iterate 43: Pocket Casts and going Android first
• OUYA shows up for pre-order at UK retailer GAME
• HTC One now available on Three UK
• AT&T Galaxy S4 preorders start April 16 for $249 on contract
• Deal of the Day: Qmadix Metalix Snap-On Cover for Galaxy S3
• Commuters text while driving more than teens, AT&T-sponsored survey finds
• Incoming Real Racing 3 update includes new race mode and Chevrolet cars
• EE's 4G LTE reaches 50-market milestone in the UK
• Samsung Galaxy S4 up for pre-order in the UK
• Chillingo goes all-in with Android - Endless Road, He-Man, and more on the way
• Xperia TX now receiving Jelly Bean via PC Companion software
• Ultima Forever: Quest for the Avatar to bring casual demon-slaying to Android
• 'Featured Android Apps for Tablets' page now on Google Play website

Hands-on with Iron Man 3 by Gameloft Posted: 28 Mar 2013 03:58 PM PDT It's just like being Tony Stark! Minus the women, money, genius, and booze.  You might have heard about the new free to play Iron Man 3 on-rails shooter coming soon to Android. We caught up with the Gameloft folks here at GDC 2013 to have a go, and it looks fantastic. Players have to tap, swipe, and tilt to avoid obstacles and blow up bad guys. Along the way, players collect tokens which can be spent on buying bitchin' new Iron Man suits and consumable power-ups.  Even though it largely follows the simple endless runner formula, the awesome graphics and wealth of unlockables guarantees you'll be playing this one for awhile to come. Keep an eye out for this one in Google Play on April 25. Anyone itching to catch the new movie?

Springpad update brings redesign, better search and performance Posted: 28 Mar 2013 02:55 PM PDT A much needed update makes Springpad feel fresh again A large update brings Springpad up to version 4.0 today, with some notable improvements. The once cumbersome left toolbar has been simplified, and many of its previous controls are now intuitively integrated into the foreground of the app. There are now three main screens: home, notebooks, and search. The home screen displays individual springs (notes). A slider can be moved to show only your springs, your springs and those of collaborators, or your springs and springs you follow. The notebooks screen is relatively unchanged, with the addition of notebooks being followed at the bottom. The search screen lets you search through your own springs, or find other people's springs and notebooks. Homemade Cadbury Creme Egg recipe anyone? Best of all, adding new springs is a breeze with the new static add button on the bottom right of each screen. It seems Springpad has taken a few notes (no pun intended) from Google Keep. This leaner, meaner design makes Springpad much more enjoyable to use. Hit the Google Play link at the top to give it a spin for yourself.

Google pledges to only use open-source related patents defensively Posted: 28 Mar 2013 02:09 PM PDT Google has taken to its Open Source Blog today to announce that it is creating a new pledge to never use its patents related to open-source software unless attacked first. The new pledge, officially named the "Open Patent Non-Assertion Pledge" (or OPN Pledge for short), indicates that unless otherwise attacked by another creator of open-source software, Google will not use its patents against any other entity. The entire pledge runs a few paragraphs (and can be seen at the source link below), but the idea is that Google wants to be able to hold patents to protect itself (and software) from attack while agreeing to not attack themselves. A small excerpt from the pledge reads: It is Google’s intent that the Pledge be legally binding, irrevocable (except as otherwise provided under “Defensive Termination” below) and enforceable against Google and entities controlled by Google, and their successors and assigns. Meaning that not only does the pledge apply to Google's own operations, but also those of any company owned or operated by it -- such as Motorola, presumably -- as well as any company that buys or sells patents with Google. The pledge states that any company receiving patents from Google must agree to the terms of the pledge in their own use, and also have similar requirements if it were to ever transfer the patents again to a third entity. It is worth noting that the OPN Pledge only applies to other entities that are also making open-source software, and makes no mention that Google's patents couldn't be used offensively against one making closed-source software. And while Motorola presumably falls under the category of "entities controlled by Google", because it is technically being run as an independent company we're unsure on how this pledge affects it. Reiterating that it believes that open internet and open software systems are the best choice for everyone, Google is hoping that the OPN Pledge "will serve as a model for the industry". It also notes the devotion to open-source software by other entities like IBM and Red Hat, which are said to be examples for what the OPN Pledge was built on. Source: Google Open Source Blog; OPN Pledge

Factory images posted for 4.2.2 Verizon Galaxy Nexus and 4.2.1 Sprint Galaxy Nexus Posted: 28 Mar 2013 01:56 PM PDT Like a trail of breadcrumbs, Nexus factory images are your safe way back Google has posted a pair of new factory images on the Google Developers site today, allowing folks using a Verizon Galaxy Nexus to have access to the 4.2.2 software, and folks with the Sprint version to grab a copy of the 4.2.1 files. These images are a must have if you like to do any sort of tinkering to your Nexus, as they allow you to restore everything to the stock state with a simple fastboot flash. It's also a testament to just how hard Google works with partners to get licensing issues sorted so they can post the bits that aren't open source. We take this sort of thing for granted, but I'm sure we shouldn't. If you have either of these Nexus phones, follow the link below and download your safe way back. Here's hoping you never need them, but thank goodness they're there. Source: Google Developers

HTC One official 'double dip' hard shell case review Posted: 28 Mar 2013 01:54 PM PDT The official shell case for the HTC One aims to make it impervious to knocks and scrapes If you pick up a phone as beautiful and well-designed as the HTC One, chances are you're going to want to keep it that way. Full protective cases -- like the official HTC offering for the HTC One -- aren't for everyone, but tough plastic covering just about everything that's not a touchscreen, it's hard to match the level of protection they offer. We'll take a closer look at HTC's official "double dip" shell case after the break. That's also where you'll find a quick video walkthough and more photos. read more

iFixit tears down the HTC One, finds HTC One parts inside that sexy aluminum shell Posted: 28 Mar 2013 01:12 PM PDT Professional on closed course, do not attempt this at home The machined aluminum unibody and zero gap construction makes the HTC One a very attractive phone. It also makes it extremely difficult to take apart. Scoring a 1 out of 10 for reparability, iFixit warns that it is nearly impossible to open the phone without damaging the back case. Dead batteries and shattered screens are going to be problematic, since iFixit found them nearly impossible to replace. Make sure to keep that warranty number and accidental insurance handy, because like a fine European car this phone is not cheap to repair. On the plus side, the solid construction makes for great durability. Bottom line: make a case the first accessory you buy for the One. Source: iFixit

Jelly Bean update now available for the Sprint Epic 4G Touch Posted: 28 Mar 2013 12:40 PM PDT Update only available over KIES The Epic 4G Touch is getting its Jelly Bean today, courtesy of Sprint. Don't bother looking in system settings for a notification, as this one is only available through Kies due to its large size. Sprint is not listing any specific changes on its update page, but this update to build GB27 should bring with it the usual Jelly Bean goodies like Google Now and Project Butter.  Hit the forums for more discussion about what's new and improved, or for help updating using the Kies method. Source: Sprint; Thanks to everyone who sent this in!

Meet Fynch: Not just another Twitter app Posted: 28 Mar 2013 11:34 AM PDT You can get a regular Twitter client that just replicates functionality anywhere, but what if you want something more? There are plenty of Twitter clients out there that aim to replace Twitter's official offering, often bringing along enhanced design and features -- Fynch for Twitter goes in a different direction. The idea of Fynch is to instead analyze your Twitter feed and instead of display everything, it just display what it thinks will be relevant, and group it into nice categories so the information is easier to digest. Hang with us after the break to learn a bit more about Fynch for Twitter, a new app that tries to go beyond being just another client. read more

Confirmed: Nexus 4 shipping with updated design Posted: 28 Mar 2013 10:07 AM PDT Small nubs now lift the back of the phone up off a table; camera lens gets a slight redesign Android Central has confirmed that the Nexus 4 has undergone a little bit of a design tweak. As first reported by German site MobiFlip. there are now a couple of small nubs on the rear of the phone, where the glass meets the foot, positioned just above the two screw holes.  We've confirmed the change on a pair of Nexus 4s we ordered on Monday this week and received on Wednesday. In the image above, our original Nexus 4, now some four months old, is on top, with a new retail unit (still in its protective plastic) at the bottom. Note the little nub between the screw holes of the two phones. This small design change has a couple of effects. It lifts phone up ever so slightly, allowing sound to escape the flush speaker. We can confirm that sounds are a little fuller and louder. Not a great deal, but we can tell. The change also should help keep the glass back from getting the little hairline scratches it's been prone to pick up. And perhaps more important, it should keep the ultra-slick phone from sliding off any similarly slick surfaces. read more

HTC One official flip case review Posted: 28 Mar 2013 09:37 AM PDT HTC's stylish flip case also doubles as a kickstand With the HTC One starting to become available in more countries, it's time to start taking a look at HTC's official accessories. The first is a protective case that doubles as a stand when the phone's in landscape orientation, which just might make it an ideal accessory for heavy multimedia users and anyone flying with an HTC One. Check past the break for a quick video tour, more words, and an extensive photo gallery. read more

Iterate 43: Pocket Casts and going Android first Posted: 28 Mar 2013 09:07 AM PDT Russell Ivanovic, Philip Simpson, and Matt Kelsh of Shifty Jelly talk to Marc, Seth, and Rene about being indie in Australia, making Pocket Weather, and why they decided to go Android first for Pocket Casts. Note: All accents in this show are, we assume, fake. Subscribe via iTunes Subscribe via RSS Download Directly read more

OUYA shows up for pre-order at UK retailer GAME Posted: 28 Mar 2013 08:02 AM PDT Android powered console appears on GAME's website for pre-order priced at £99, but without a release date Today is OUYA day. With the console set to begin shipping to Kickstarter backers, there's also the official launch party in San Francisco too. So, now it's time for OUYA to make its way into the big wide world, there's no doubts a few of you that'll want to be getting in on the action. Here in the UK, no official stockists have been confirmed for the console, but high street gaming retailer, GAME, has already started taking pre-orders.  There's no indication of a shipping date, but there is a price, and thankfully it's what we would expect -- £99. GAME will also be shipping the additional controllers for OUYA, and these are priced at £39.99. We may have to wait a little while to be able to head out onto the British high streets and pick one up, but it's a positive note for the fledgling console that we'll soon see it line up on the shelves next to offerings from Sony and Microsoft.  The OUYA may not be packing the most bleeding edge hardware on the market, but it's still one of the most anticipated device launches of 2013. Android, a dedicated gaming console, and under £100, what's not to be excited about? Anyone out there waiting on theirs being delivered? Be sure to jump into the comments, or better yet, head on into the OUYA forums.  Source: GAME

HTC One now available on Three UK Posted: 28 Mar 2013 07:40 AM PDT Free HTC One plus unlimited data starting at £34 per month Right on schedule, we're starting to see broader UK availability for the HTC One, and today Three UK has officially launched the silver version of the handset. Three's 24-month plans start at £34 per month for its "Ultimate Internet 500" deal, which bags you a free HTC One, unlimited data, 500 minutes and 5,000 texts. For £36 per month you'll get Three's "One Plan," which gets you unlimited data (with tethering included), 2,000 minutes, 5,000 Three-to-Three minutes and 5,000 texts. The phone is also being offered on Pay As You Go for £479.99. The black HTC One is available for pre-order on the same price plans. More details at the source link. More: HTC One review Source: Three UK

AT&T Galaxy S4 preorders start April 16 for $249 on contract Posted: 28 Mar 2013 07:08 AM PDT Storage options still not known for AT&T's Samsung Galaxy S4 AT&T this morning announced that it's Samsung Galaxy S4 will be available for $249 on contract. Preorders start April 16. Said the operator in a brief statement: Continuing our legacy as the first carrier to launch Samsung’s Galaxy series, we are excited to announce AT&T customers will be able to begin pre-ordering the Galaxy S4 beginning April 16 for $249.99 with a two-year commitment. We are proud to offer this iconic device and continue to offer our customers the best smartphone line-up, with a variety of devices for every lifestyle and budget. For more information and to pre-order, please visit http://www.att.com/galaxys4. We still don't have an exact launch date for the Galaxy S4 on AT&T, but figure a week or two of preorders (at least) before it's available. Nor do we have storage options for AT&T's Galaxy S4.  T-Mobile has announced that its Galaxy S4 will be available May 1. Source: AT&T More: Our Galaxy S4 hands-on preview; Samsung Galaxy S4 forums

Deal of the Day: Qmadix Metalix Snap-On Cover for Galaxy S3 Posted: 28 Mar 2013 07:02 AM PDT The March 28 ShopAndroid.com Deal of the Day is the Qmadix Metalix Snap-On Cover for Samsung Galaxy S3. The Metalix Snap-On Cover adds style, sophistication and protection to your Galaxy S3. The durable but lightweight, textured polycarbonate border helps to keep a firm grip on your device while aluminum alloy accents enhance the look without adding bulk or unwanted weight. Comes in red, green and copper. The Qmadix Metalix Snap-On Cover is available for just $16.00, 54% off today only. Grab yours while supplies last! Never miss a deal. Sign up for Daily Deal alerts

Commuters text while driving more than teens, AT&T-sponsored survey finds Posted: 28 Mar 2013 06:44 AM PDT Some 77 percent of kids say their parents aren't setting a good example A pair of recent surveys commissioned by AT&T found that 49 percent of commuters reported having texted while driving, compared to 43 percent of teenagers in a companion study. Some 97 percent of the 1,200 teens surveyed in April 2012 said they knew texting while driving was dangerous, with 70 percent recognizing that texting while at a stoplight also wasn't safe.  Perhaps more sobering for those of us with children is that 89 percent of the teens surveyed said they believed their parents were bad role models for not texting while driving, and 77 percent of them believed their parents text "all the time" in the car. It's simple. Do not text and drive. Better yet, keep the phone in your pocket. Period. Source: AT&T; More: Commuter survey (pdf), teenager survey (pdf)

Incoming Real Racing 3 update includes new race mode and Chevrolet cars Posted: 28 Mar 2013 05:18 AM PDT We got a sneak peek at an as-yet-unreleased content updated for the free-to-play Real Racing 3 on Android at GDC 2013. The next big update, due to launch this spring, will include cloud saving support, a new hunter race mode where players need to beat a specific car in a single lap, and introduce a new lineup of Chevrolet vehicles, including the Camaro.  I also got to needle the Firemonkeys community manager a bit about their decision to switch over from a premium price point to free to play, and he was generally pretty classy about how they're listening to consumer feedback and making sure their implementation isn't unbalancing. Any real racers in the house? How have you found the game so far? Any particular changes you'd like to see in the next patch?

EE's 4G LTE reaches 50-market milestone in the UK Posted: 28 Mar 2013 03:55 AM PDT UK's first 4G network says it now covers half the country's population EE, currently the UK's sole provider of 4G LTE services, has announced that its 4G network is now live in a total of 50 towns and cities, five months after its launch. The operator says today's 4G light-ups mean its 4G network now covers half the UK population. Today EE's LTE has been switched on in Bradford, Bingley, Doncaster, Dudley, Harpenden, Leicester, Lichfield, Loughborough, Luton, Reading, Shipley, St Albans and West Bromwich. EE says it's committed to bringing 4G to a further 30 towns and cities by the end of June. EE claims its 4G network currently offers average download speeds of 16Mbps and peak speeds of 50Mbps. That average speed sounds about right, but the 50Mbps claim is nowhere near what we've seen from EE's network in real-world use. If you've been using EE's 4G network in recent months, let us know how you're getting on down in the comments. We've got the full list of all towns and cities with EE 4G service after the break. read more

Samsung Galaxy S4 up for pre-order in the UK Posted: 28 Mar 2013 03:31 AM PDT Official pre-orders start today ahead of April 26 launch A little under a month away from launch day, Samsung's Galaxy S4 is now available to pre-order from leading UK retailers and carriers. You'll find a breakdown of what the major players are offering with Samsung's latest handset after the break. We'll update this post with any more pre-order deals that come to light during the day. Check below for the full breakdown. read more

Chillingo goes all-in with Android - Endless Road, He-Man, and more on the way Posted: 27 Mar 2013 10:00 PM PDT One of my favorite mobile game publishers, Chillingo, was at GDC 2013 and we got to catch up with them and hear about all of the awesome titles that are coming to Android. Some are already out, like Parking Mania and Contre Jour, but others like He-Man, Puzzle Craft, and Endless Road are on the way, and others still like Catapult King just came out. We only got to try out a few of these, but Chillingo's catalog is really impressive, and it will be great to see more of their stuff hitting Google Play this year.  What are your favorite Chillingo games? Any other publisher that you have a particular fondness for?

Xperia TX now receiving Jelly Bean via PC Companion software Posted: 27 Mar 2013 08:14 PM PDT Sony said back in February that it would deliver Jelly Bean for the Xperia TX, and the update has hit just in time. Starting late last night, folks who have a Sony Xperia TX and the associated "PC Companion" software on their computer were being notified of an update. Luckily it is indeed the Jelly Bean update promised by Sony all the way back in the first week of February. The update brings big improvements to all of Sony's customizations, from the included apps to the launcher and home screen experience. The move to Jelly Bean of course brings Google's own set of goodies like Google Now, Project Butter and actionable notifications as well. At this point the update only seems to be coming over that PC Companion software and not OTA -- which is unfortunate -- but the option should be there if you're ready to get your Jelly Bean on. Grab the update yet for your own device? Let us know in the comments. Source: XDA

Ultima Forever: Quest for the Avatar to bring casual demon-slaying to Android Posted: 27 Mar 2013 06:52 PM PDT The venerable Ultima franchise is coming to Android this spring by way of a lightweight role-playing game called Ultima Forever: Quest of the Avatar. We got to play around a bit with it at GDC 2013, and it really does promise to bring the classic hardcore MMO model to a more casual audience. Players party up in groups of four to delve into dungeon romps that last five minutes and up, depending on how much time you and your buddies have. read more

'Featured Android Apps for Tablets' page now on Google Play website Posted: 27 Mar 2013 06:46 PM PDT Developers who spend time to make apps that look great on a tablet get a shout-out from Google on a new page at the Google Play site. Google has put up a page at Google Play that focuses on apps designed with a tablet in mind. Android doesn't require applications to be specifically written for tablets, instead opting to allow developers to use UI elements like fragments to better utilize screen real estate on any device. But the truth of the matter is, most app developers aren't doing it. Hopefully, a chance to get featured by Google will jump start a bit more development in this area. We're not saying it's easy to make one app work across all devices, because it's not. Google provides a good toolbox for it, and they have outreach programs for developers, but it still takes time and work to make you app look great on both a phone and a tablet. While Android is the market leader for smart phones, their tablet sales fall to a distant third behind Apple and Amazon. It makes sense for developers to focus on an app designed to look great on a smaller screen before he or she starts worrying about tablet-sized screens and the new challenges they bring. Anyhoo, it's nice to see Google give props to a handful (there's 116 apps featured) of applications that are awesome on your tablet, and we hope this list grows and grows. To check them out for yourself, just follow the link below. Source: Google Play. Thanks, Tomas!

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