Friday, March 8, 2013

Android Phone Fans

Android Phone Fans

Cut the Rope: Experiments update brings ant colonies to help feed Om Nom [VIDEO]

Posted: 07 Mar 2013 06:44 PM PST

Cut the Rope is one of the most unique games in the Google Play Store, and the Experiments offshoot has just gotten a nice new upgrade. Today’s upgrade is called Ant Hill, and it evolves the gameplay experience by bringing a colony of ants to help feed everyone’s favorite lovable critter — Om Nom.

The ants will care the piece of candy as far as they can carry them, and it’s up to you to figure out the best way to get the treat to Om Nom while also getting all three stars in the level. These levels will tax your brain a bit so if you are looking for some fun and a decent problem-solving exercise you shouldn’t hold back on downloading this one. The upgrade is free if you’ve already bought the game, otherwise you can get it for $.99 in the Google Play Store.

LG Optimus F7 launches as Optimus LTE 3 in Korea

Posted: 07 Mar 2013 06:06 PM PST

Last week we caught wind of a possible LG Optimus LTE 3 headed our way, and we might have a bit of an idea of what that device turned out to be. It looks like the LG Optimus F7 has adopted that name for its launch in Korea, as the devices share near-identical specs and aesthetics. The device is tricked out with a 4.7 inch IPS display with a resolution of 1280×720.

Inside will be a 1.5GHz dual-core Snapdragon S4 processor, 2GB of RAM, an 8 megapixel rear camera with a 1.3 megapixel webcam, Bluetooth 4.0, a 2,540mAh battery and more. SK Telekom will put the device up for sale tomorrow, apparently, which is unusually quick turnaround from having its press release come to light just today (but, again, if it’s just the rebranded Optimus F7 then that’s no issue). The device will launch in both white and black.

[via Unwired View]

Weather Bomb makes reading weather reports absolutely mesmerizing

Posted: 07 Mar 2013 04:54 PM PST

Weather apps are a dime a dozen these days, so an app really needs to stand out to get me to take notice. Weather Bomb fits the bill quite nicely, and just 10 seconds with the app will let you know why. Weather Bomb delivers comprehensive weather forecasts by giving you a nice look at temperature, precipitation, humidity, cloud formation, wind patterns and even more over a period of days and times.

This particular app simply lets you thumb back and forth across the map or daily timeline to get a time lapse of the radar as if you were watching the meteorology report on your local news channel. Couple its easy-to-digest information with an app that’s pure holo and you’ve found my new favorite weather app. Oh, and best of all, it’s free! Download it in the Google Play Store and see if you can’t find something that you like in this very beautiful package.

[via Reddit]

Able Remote update comes with improved Netflix support, but Google TV V3 support still missing

Posted: 07 Mar 2013 04:28 PM PST

If you’re a fan of Able Remote then you might want to check the Google Play Store as the app has just gotten an upgrade. It’s quite small in scope, but it does fix some very annoying pairing issues it had with Netflix. That’s all fine and dandy, but we’re most worried about the overall compatibility with Google TV V3.

Unfortunately, that particular hurdle still hasn’t been cleared. Google is taking quite a long time to release a new channels API, so until they do Able Remote will not be compatible with the latest versions of Google TV. Aside from all that, the usual pot of bug fixes and performance enhancements have been made so users will want to grab the upgrade regardless. You can find everything you need in the Google Play Store.

[via GTV Source]

LG Intuition OTA exits lengthy testing process, still proceeds to be ultra buggy

Posted: 07 Mar 2013 04:10 PM PST

LG and Verizon have long promised that the LG Intuition would receive received the upgrade to Ice Cream Sandwich, but lengthy delays — likely due to carrier and OEM “testing” — delayed that to no end. We have to wonder what, exactly, was being tested as many users have come forward regarding some rather major issues post-update.

For starters, it seems to be nuking the gallery app for users, with some mistaking this behavior for their data being wiped. Fortunately it sounds like the data is safe, it’s just that it can’t be accessed without a file browser. On top of that, it seems Google Play Store access is broken for many users, and other miscellaneous app errors are being thrown every which way.

It’s a classic case of “out of the frying pan and into the fire,” and for the time being it doesn’t look like either party — be it Verizon or LG — has a solution. In fact, one might question if either of the two even know about what’s going on. That’s why we’ve contacted our friends at each respective company to find out, and we’ll let you know if we hear anything back.

In the meantime, LG Intuition users are advised to reject this update. It might go off perfectly for you, but you’ll have a lot more peace of mind by rejecting it altogether in the off chance that it doesn’t.

[Verizon 1, 2, 3 via Android Police]

Nexus 10 review from an iOS user’s point of view

Posted: 07 Mar 2013 03:28 PM PST

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For many Android users, they would rather lick a toilet seat than to so much as touch an iOS device. I’m sure Google appreciates the dedication, but unfortunately that can leave some of us with a good amount of… bias. While it’s great to read a review of a new Android device from a devotee, it can also be just as valuable to get an opinion from the other side of the fence. Perhaps that’s why I found this review of the Nexus 10 from iSource so refreshing. No blind fanboyism. Just a pure, honest opinion, from a techie who has an affiliation with Apple products and has owned every iteration of the iPad (even dabbled with the Nexus 7 in the past).

While he largely had great things to say about the tablet, issues arose from Samsung’s less than premium build quality, and overall inconsistencies within Android’s UI that eventually pushed said reviewer back to his beloved iPad. I get it. I do. Small issues for someone like myself but I believe he made some pretty valid points. With the Nexus 10 you’re getting 3 things: an awesome processor, amazing display, and great price. For some, that’s all they need. My favorite snippet:

“I have been asked the question, "How could you prefer a platform that doesn't offer as many options or customizations as Android?" before. Just remember that this review is from the perspective of someone who is an iOS user, and is happier with that experience. Even though I am a tech professional by trade, have been interested in mobile technology for close to 20 years, and have owned at least one device running just about every major mobile OS ever produced, that doesn't mean that I am automatically required to run Linux via a command line and carry a 6" phablet running the latest version of Cyanogen to keep my geek status card certified and stamped. Believe it or not, some of us tech enthusiasts actually PREFER simplicity and a clean look and feel. But, again, that's just me.”

Still, Android users will be quick to point out how much more a power user can do with the Android OS, a testament to its superiority but honestly, that’s not for everyone. And if it’s not — there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that. Personally, I could never leave Android and believe it or not, I also like peanut butter in my pepperoni pizza. Just because your palate isn’t advanced enough to handle the complexities of the two flavors exploding in your mouth doesn’t mean you’re any less of a person. It only means you like something simpler, and that’s okay. I’ll never understand all the hate towards people who simply prefer an OS that’s different or more “simple” to use (sometimes simple is good), and although I’ve sent a jab or 2 the way of an iOS user in the past and will continue to do so in the future, I mean no ill will by it and it’s always in good fun.

For those that thought the ending of this review was predictable, let me remind you of another post from a member of iSource who reviewed the Samsung Galaxy Note 2 and at the end of the day, fell in love with it, making it his daily driver. It happens. So, if you’re an Android user who was thinking of purchasing the Nexus 10, or perhaps mixing things up with iPad, you may want to check out the review for yourselves over on iSource.com. After you’ve checked it out, let us know if you agree or disagree with this man’s review.

FYI: Google I/O site has some fun easter eggs for you to play with

Posted: 07 Mar 2013 03:10 PM PST

While we’re all waiting for the floodgates to the Google I/O 2013 registration page to open up on the morning of March 13th, Google seems to have injected some fun easter eggs into the main landing page for the developers’ event. The “I” and “O” react to mouse clicks, and you can get a nice variation on the event logo by inputting the right string of 0′s and 1′s (binary code, if you aren’t familiar).

For instance, inputting “01111111” will bring up a Matrix-esque ASCII visualization of the logo, and “10001000” will bring up a cool synthesizer. My personal favorite, “10010000“, brings up a tasty dish of bacon and eggs (because when isn’t bacon awesome?)

There are quite a few to be discovered here so take a look at the quick cheat sheet below and give it a try for yourself. Oh, and we’re hearing from our ninja sleuths that Google developers have a fun time adding more everyday, so if you find any that aren’t listed below be sure to let us know in the comments section!

  1. 01110101
  2. 01000101
  3. 01010011
  4. 10010000
  5. 10001000
  6. 00101010
  7. 11100111
  8. 01111111
  9. 00111001
  10. 11010011
  11. 11011011
  12. 10000001

[Google I/O via TheNextWeb]

Sprint LG Optimus G gets Jelly Bean upgrade

Posted: 07 Mar 2013 02:32 PM PST

There’s quite a bit of Jelly Bean news today, folks, and now Sprint’s getting in on the fun. The carrier has announced the upgrade to Android 4.1.2 for its LG Optimus G. It’ll bring obvious goods such as Google Now, expandable notifications and an updated Android Beam experience, alongside the many other things unique to Jelly Bean.

Alongside that, a bunch of changes specific to the Optimus G have been made. Sprint says you can expect a smoother user interface thanks to the Android framework doing all the heavy lifting for vsync timing, user-installable keyboard maps, an improved camera app, improved voice search, the ability for third-party launches to add widgets without requiring root access, the ability to download the QuickTranslator application from the Application Manager and more.

That’s quite the hefty update, but you’re probably wondering how you can get it anyway. As usual, you can make your way to Settings > About Phone to check for the upgrade, and make sure your WiFi is on and your battery is charged to at least 50% to ensure the best and most safe updating experience.

[via Sprint, thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

Google in danger of having Maps banned in Germany

Posted: 07 Mar 2013 02:01 PM PST

Some very interesting developments have taken place over at the German court halls. The patent dispute between Microsoft and Google/Motorola, the one that accuses the latter’s Google Maps platform of infringing on map-related patents owned by the former, seems to be heating up.

According to FOSS Patents, German courts are inclined to enforce an injunction on Google Maps in Germany, and this ban wouldn’t just affect the use of the service on mobile. Google would apparently need to unlist Google Maps in the Play Store (and possibly on other platforms) for German users, block German IP addresses from accessing Google Maps from any web browser, and if it wants to continue to distribute Chrome in Germany they must implement a filter that effectively blocks Google Maps.

Those are some pretty high stakes in a time where the likes of Microsoft, AOL and Nokia are gunning for Google’s head in the digital mapping scene. To sidestep such a huge issue Google would have to convince the courts to narrow the scope of the patent or convince the courts that no infringement is taking place, neither of which seem very likely at this point.

The only other (obvious) alternative if Google doesn’t want its maps service shutdown in those parts of the world is to pony up the same license fee that other OEMs have been paying to Microsoft for each Android device sold. Motorola obviously feels strongly against doing that considering it was them that initiated the lawsuit in Germany in the first place (though they probably felt like Microsoft was going to pull them into another battle anyway). The two will grind it out for a while yet, but it won’t be long before we get a stance from Google or Motorola (or the German courts) either way.

[thanks PhaseBurn!]

Motorola officially details Jelly Bean rollout for DROID RAZR/MAXX

Posted: 07 Mar 2013 12:55 PM PST

Motorola couldn’t keep things on the low regarding its Jelly Bean soak tests for the DROID RAZR and RAZR MAXX, so what better way to deal with a problematic leak than to embrace the opportunity and run with it? Motorola has posted an official blog post about the upgrades over at its site, and while there aren’t any surprises to be had — it’s Android 4.1 with Motorola’s custom user experience, and we all know about that by now — we’re still excited to know that a few more of you will join us in Jelly Bean land sometime soon.

Some of you might already be seeing the upgrade on your handset, but Motorola has stressed that this is a phased rollout. If you don’t receive a notification to download it right away then you can try your luck at pulling it from the servers by visiting Settings > About Phone. Failing that, I guess you’ll just have to wait until Motorola decides your particular device is cool enough to be drenched in gooey Jelly Bean goodness. Head to Motorola’s blog for more information.

OUYA opens shop, games go live for download

Posted: 07 Mar 2013 11:04 AM PST

Though early backers won’t have their consoles until later this month, those in the developer program might notice a bit more activity than usual in the OUYA Shop. Those working tirelessly to bring their content to OUYA have been given the go ahead to begin uploading games. It’s all part of an effort to make sure there is plenty available for new owners come launch day.

One way to encourage devs to put the finishing touches on their games and get them up for download comes in the form of a contest. OUYA is going to feature the top three developers (based on the first 6 weeks of availability) in a series of short documentaries.

The success of OUYA greatly depends on the content available. If the console comes up short on dev support, users will have little incentive to move away from gaming on a traditional console or mobile device. So far the community support for OUYA has been overwhelming, so we expect big things come launch day.

[via GameFans]

Apple marketing chief jumps on latest Android security report

Posted: 07 Mar 2013 10:54 AM PST

Not to miss a golden opportunity to knock Android, Apple marketing chief Phil Schiller tweeted a link to F Secure’s new report on Android security today. It was accompanied by the text, “Be safe out there.” Ouch, Phil. That really hurts.

If you’re not familiar with the contents of the report, it claims that Android malware is at all time high with 79 percent of all mobile threats targeting the platform. It’s the same rhetoric we have been sold for the past couple of years, little more than good advertising to sell mobile security software. Or a different brand of phone, in the case of Schiller.

Yes, Android is susceptible to malware. Yes, more of it is running around today than in the past. But the problem isn’t as widespread as Schiller would like users to believe. His advice is good, though. As long as users are “safe” about the way they use their devices, including what apps they download and install and where they obtain the apps, there is actually little need for concern. Take that part to heart, at least.

[via The Verge]

Sony Xperia Tablet Z launches March 22nd in Japan

Posted: 07 Mar 2013 10:09 AM PST

The Sony Xperia Tablet Z, which we ogled at Mobile World Congress, will start its worldwide rollout in Japan later this month. Available on NTT DoCoMo’s LTE network, the slate will launch on March 22nd following a pre-order period starting March 9th.

The Tablet Z will be available in both black and white finishes when it goes on sale for an unspecified price (expected to be near $900 US). The tablet boasts a waterproof, dustproof design, 1080p display, quad-core processing with 2GB RAM, and a super thin profile ( a mere 6.9mm).

Expect the Japanese release to be followed with a greater availability across the globe. Sony has not detailed their exact plans, though.

[via Xperia Blog]

AT&T’s HTC One X gets Jelly Bean update

Posted: 07 Mar 2013 09:12 AM PST

According to AT&T, HTC One X owners can expect to see the update to Android 4.1 Jelly Bean begin arriving on handsets today. It still keeps last year’s HTC flagship a hair behind the curve in terms of the latest Android software, but it’s a major upgrade from the Ice Cream Sandwich build the phone shipped with.

AT&T detailed what users can expect from the update in a blog post, including new Jelly Bean features such as Google Now, enhanced notifications, and more. The phone’s Sense 4 build remains more or less the same with the addition of a new front-facing camera countdown timer. (Curiously, that blog post covering the update has since disappeared from the web. We’re unsure if this means the update launched prematurely.)

To check for the update, which also enable ISIS mobile payments and AT&T’s Locker cloud service, navigate to your phone’s settings menu and check under ‘About phone.’

[via AT&T | Thanks, Rel!]

 

 

Samsung comes up short in UK 3G lawsuit

Posted: 07 Mar 2013 08:55 AM PST

More legal news out of Samsung’s camp today as the Korea company has failed to convince a UK court of claims that Apple has violated three 3G data transmission patents with the iPhone. The result, aside from more legal ammunition for Apple, is that the California-based company won’t face a sales ban any time soon.

The news comes at the same time we are learning of Nokia backing Apple on an appeal to the US court system pertaining to injunctions against Samsung in North America. Samsung is still deciding whether or not to appeal the UK 3G case.

[via Reuters]
Posted by at 8:49 AM

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