Thursday, April 11, 2013

Android Central

Android Central

Google: Glass Explorer edition to ship within the next month

Posted: 10 Apr 2013 03:55 PM PDT

Google Glass

Developers (and non-developers) who signed up for the Google Glass Explorer program should have their very own pair right before Google I/O

If you plunked down the $1500.00 to become a Glass Explorer at Google I/O last year, you should have your very own set of Google's next big thing in your hands within a month. This is according to what Google has told the folks over at Tech Crunch during today's "Glass Collective" event with Google Ventures. 

The timing for this just screams Google I/O, and we certainly expect to see Google Glass spend a good bit of time front and center during Google's yearly developer conference. Since the project was first unveiled at Google I/O last year, we've seen quite a bit of push from Mountain View to keep people interested, and get developers on board. We wouldn't be surprised to see things come to a head with special developer sessions for Glass, along with plenty of exposure during the keynotes.

If you're a part of the Glass Explorer group, keep an eye on your inbox for more information.

Source: Tech Crunch

    

Sprint HTC One - the Android Central casual review

Posted: 10 Apr 2013 02:47 PM PDT

HTC One

Network - not software or hardware - is the big difference in the Sprint HTC One, for better or worse

Finally, we're getting our first look at the U.S. versions of the HTC One, the phone that many believe (right or wrong) will either make or break the Taiwanese smartphone manufacturer, which has been struggling financially for a number of quarters.

The HTC One represents a bit of a shift for HTC. As the name implies, it's one line. One brand. For all intents and purposes, we're looking at the same smartphone from Europe to Asia to the U.S., and everywhere in between. There will be a few small changes, of course -- radios and storage space and what not. And he U.S. carrier versions will have slightly different applications packages preloaded. But put, say, the Sprint HTC One beside an unlocked, European phone, and you'll not see a difference in looks, or in function. And maybe most important -- they're the same phone in name, finally giving HTC a proper platform to push its brand. That's something HTC has tried and failed at for a number of years, most notably with the 17 variants (more or less) in the originally attempt at the HTC One.

But no more.

I've had the Sprint HTC One for a week or so now, and I've had a European version for a number of weeks. There's simply no real difference in terms of hardware and functionality. For that, please see Alex Dobie's excellent comprehensive HTC One review.

We're going to do things a little differently here. What follows is not a deep dive into the Sprint HTC One. It's just not that different from what we've already reviewed. Instead, it's my thoughts on the HTC One in general and a breakdown of the specifics for Sprint's version. School's in session.

read more

    

Google gives away devices and gift cards in Play Store sweepstakes

Posted: 10 Apr 2013 02:34 PM PDT

Google Play

If you like free stuff, Google has some great news: it is giving away ten Nexus 10 tablets, seven Nexus 7 tablets, and (you guessed it) four Nexus 4 phones, as well as 100 gift cards worth $10 a pop in the Google Play Favorite Things Sweepstakes. Only U.S. residents 18 and older need apply, and a Twitter account is required to enter.

First, you'll need to follow @Google Play. Next, pick something you're fond of in the Play Store -- it can be any movie, music, book, app, game, magazine, or TV show. Tweet a link of the item with #favoritethings. The example given by Google is "My favorite movie on @GooglePlay is Toy Story https://play.google.com/store/movies/details/Toy_Story?id=c3986gGp3Qs #favoritethings." Finally, complete the official entry form.

Entrants have until 11:59PM PT on April 24, 2013 to complete the above. For a complete list of official rules, follow the link below. Google luck!

Source: Entry Page; Official Rules

    

Live this weekend: Catch Coachella on YouTube

Posted: 10 Apr 2013 02:12 PM PDT

Coachella on Youtube

YouTube on Android makes streaming the annual festival easier than ever

I'm getting old, so hanging out in the desert with 100,000 sweaty music fans isn't quite as much fun as it used to be. But I won't be missing out on Coachella this weekend just because I crave soft beds, warm showers and indoor plumbing. YouTube once again will be streaming three days of music.

Stars and Jake Bugg kick things off at 3:30 p.m. PDT Friday, with Teean and Sara and How to Destroy Angels (that's Trent Reznor & Co's new gig) closing things out in the wee hours. Saturday sees a ridiculous lineup including Baauer (be sure to thank him for all this Harlem Shake nonsense), Dropkick Murphys, Ben Howard, Puscifer, Violent Femmes, the Descendants, Janelle Monae, Phoenix, Moby and New Order. On Sunday there's The Gaslight Anthem, Social Distortion, Vampire Weekend, Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds, Dinosaur Jr., the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Dead Can Dance closing it all out.

Consider all that for a minute, and consider that because Android has the best mobile YouTube experience, you'll not miss a second of the music. It really is an awesome experience, all from the safety and comfort of your living room. Or the bathroom. We don't judge. Watch on your phone or tablet. Or with Google TV (or, gasp, the Nexus Q). Or in your Chrome browser.

More: Youtube.com/coachella

    

Chrome Beta updated with fullscreen mode, better search, tab history

Posted: 10 Apr 2013 01:14 PM PDT

Chrome beta

A new build is available for Chrome Beta users, moving the beta app's version to 27.0.1453.49. Those that have stuck with the stable version of Chrome might be persuaded to come over to the dark side thanks to the latest awesome feature: fullscreen mode.

Upon scrolling down a webpage, Chrome's toolbar will now completely disappear, giving a boost to the precious screen real estate that web page content can use. If a a web address needs to be typed in or the menu needs to be accessed, scrolling up will quickly restore the toolbar. This feature is currently for phones only.

Tablets get their own exclusive feature as well. Holding the browser back button will reveal a drop down area, with previously viewed tabs displayed in a vertical list. Viewing tab history doesn't get any easier.

All devices also receive a new and improved search function. Now when a search term is entered into the omnibox (address bar), it will stay in the omnibox -- instead of being replaced with a web address upon searching. This not only makes it easier to go back and edit search terms, but it eliminates the need for displaying a search box within the webpage, allowing more search results to be seen on the page.

Client-side certificate support was added to this release as well, allowing access to sites that require the use of a certificate. Users are given the option to select their desired certificate from any that are currently installed.

Expected bugs with this beta build include some lag and page flicker, as well as duplicate history items. If you don't already have Chrome Beta installed, follow the link at the top. Full release notes can be found below.

Source: Chrome Releases Blog

    

Microsoft Office now rumored for Android in (wait for it ...) 2014

Posted: 10 Apr 2013 11:06 AM PDT

Android Central

An Android release may have to wait until PC, Mac, and Windows Phone updates are finished

An official Microsoft Office app release is one of those things that seems to get further away as time goes on. The last notable rumor pegged Microsoft's suite of apps coming to Android in March of 2013. The newest rumor, an alleged roadmap being reported by ZDNet, lists Office for Android coming in 'Gemini Wave 2.0,' or October 2014. The first two 'Gemini Waves' show Office updates for Windows Blue, Office for Mac, Office RT, and Windows Phone. Once the developers get these out of the way, Android and iOS are supposed to be next in line to receive Office apps.

According to this roadmap, Office just isn't in the stars for Android as a 2013 release. Even if this information is correct, it wouldn't be surprising to see the release pushed back further, and Windows Phone keeping an exclusive on Microsoft Office for the foreseeable future. Luckily Google has been preparing for such a scenario, with its acquisition of Quickoffice to beef up its own apps product suite. The free copies of Quickoffice bundled in Google devices and given to Google Apps for Business users will have to do while the wait for Office for Android continues.

Source: ZDNet

    

HTC One just $99 for customers who switch to Sprint

Posted: 10 Apr 2013 10:05 AM PDT

HTC One

Current customers stuck with $199 price tag, full price still $549

Sprint is prominently displaying promotions on its HTC One pre-order page indicating that new customers coming to the Now Network will receive $100 off their purchase. Provided you bring your own number to the carrier (presumably to make sure people intend to stick around) and sign a two year contract, the device will ring up at just $99. The HTC One will be finally available on Sprint on April 19th, but pre-ordering before then secures your device, which Sprint says it will attempt to have arrive at your door before it actually goes on sale in stores.

If you're planning on pre-ordering you're unfortunately going to be restricted to just the silver/white model, with the black model still "coming soon". Is $100 enough money to make you consider switching carriers? You can get more info at the source link below.

Source: Sprint

    

ZTE Geek announced: next-gen Intel CPU plus Android 4.2

Posted: 10 Apr 2013 07:51 AM PDT

ZTE Geek

Runs Intel's new CloverTrail+ Z2580 32nm CPU at 2GHz

ZTE sends word of a newly-announced device at the Intel Developer Forum in Beijing, China. The ZTE Geek (yes, that's actually it's name) packs the latest smartphone chip from Intel -- the CloverTrail+-based Atom Z2580 at 2GHz -- alongside Android 4.2 Jelly Bean. The device's other specs are reasonably high-end, if not cutting-edge. It's got 1GB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage, a 5-inch 720p display and an 8-megapixel rear camera.

With the latest Intel CPU and the latest version of Android (not to mention its unconventional name and IDF unveiling) it's possible ZTE might be aiming this device at tech enthusiasts rather than average consumers. We'll have to wait and see how the manufacturer markets the Geek in the months ahead.

The new handset follows on from ZTE's previous collaboration with Intel, in the mid-range Grand X IN, released late last year. ZTE reps weren't able to confirm whether the Geek will see release in the UK or anywhere else outside of China, nor was there any information on release timeframes or pricing.

Source: ZTE

    

Telus HTC One priced as low as $149, preorders available now

Posted: 10 Apr 2013 06:51 AM PDT

HTC One

A quick heads up for our friends in Canada -- Telus has just dropped word that its HTC One is now available for preorder, ahead of its scheduled April 19 availability. The Canadian Standard Contract -- ah, the ol' CSC -- brings the price down to a mere $149, but that's for a ridiculously long three-year contract. Purchased outright, the HTC One will run $659.

More: Telus

    

Official Samsung Galaxy S4 UK TV spot is heavy on drama, close-ups

Posted: 10 Apr 2013 06:21 AM PDT

Samsung's marketing machine kicks up a gear with new TV ad

A world away from the goofy Super Bowl ads and iPhone mockery of old, Samsung's just sent over its first teaser ad for the Galaxy S4... and it's actually pretty good. The ad puts the product itself front and center, with dramatic close-ups of its design followed by quick demos of some of the headline features. Check it out above, and share your thoughts down in the comments.

The Samsung Galaxy S4 lands in the UK on Apr. 26. The U.S. launch is expected around the same time.

    

Deal of the Day: Mobi Crystal Case for HTC EVO V 4G and EVO 3D

Posted: 10 Apr 2013 06:07 AM PDT

The April 10 ShopAndroid.com Deal of the Day is the Mobi Crystal Case for HTC EVO V 4G and EVO 3D. This slim and sleek crystal case will showcase the original look of your device and help keep it protected at the same time. The case adds very little weight or bulk and is made of a completely transparent, hard plastic.

The Mobi Crystal Case is available for just $2.00, 90% off today only! Backed by our 60-day return policy and fast shipping.

Never miss a deal. Sign up for Daily Deal alerts

    

Source: LG Optimus G Pro headed to AT&T this May

Posted: 10 Apr 2013 05:37 AM PDT

Optimus G Pro

U.S. will get the 5.5-inch model on AT&T, May 10 pegged as likely launch date

U.S. carrier AT&T will launch the LG Optimus G Pro this May, Android Central has learned. A source familiar with launch plans for the device tells us that the U.S. model will feature a 5.5-inch screen like the Korean version, as opposed to the 5.0-inch Japanese variant.

The planned AT&T release date is May 10, however as with any unannounced date there might be some wiggle room either side of this. Our source couldn't confirm whether the Optimus G Pro would appear on any other U.S. carriers, but for the moment it seems AT&T is the only one on the horizon.

The timing of the launch would pit LG's latest against the similarly-specced Samsung Galaxy S4, expected to appear in the U.S. around the same time. But as we said in our review, it's the comparison with Samsung's Galaxy Note 2 that interests us the most, and the G Pro might represent the first real competition for the Note line.

For more on the Optimus G Pro, check out our review of the Korean version.

More: LG Optimus G Pro review

    

Win a 64GB HTC One developer edition from Android Central!

Posted: 10 Apr 2013 05:10 AM PDT

What's all this then? We're not just giving away an HTC One. Oh, no. If we're going to give away one 2013's hottest smartphones, we're going to give away one of the most desired versions of it. So you, dear reader are not vying for a mere HTC One. You're going to get the chance to win your very own developer version of the HTC One. That's the one whose bootloader is beyond the reach of meddlesome carrier politics. That's the one with the full 64 gigabytes of storage. 

You're probably dying to read ahead, looking for bullet points on how to enter. Fine. They're coming up next, right after this.

read more

    

Carphone Warehouse 'Super Value' line offers free smartphones for £7.50 p.m.

Posted: 10 Apr 2013 04:38 AM PDT

Xperia Tipo

HTC Desire C, Sony Xperia Tipo, Samsung Galaxy Ace part of new entry-level line-up

We tend to focus on the high-end stuff here on Android Central, but there's a lot of decent smartphone hardware at the entry level too. Today UK retailer Carphone Warehouse has announced 'Super Value,' a new range of entry-level handsets offered on contract (and PAYG, if you're after a dumbphone). Starting at £7.50 per month on contract, Carphone offers devices like the Sony Xperia Tipo (above), HTC Desire C and Samsung Galaxy Ace with no up-front charge.

At the slightly higher end, the Sony Xperia U is available for £11 per month with a humble 100MB of data on O2. £12.50 per month gets you a more substantial 500MB on TalkMobile, Carphone's own MVNO.

We've got reviews of many of the phones in this new line, check 'em out below.

    

AT&T announces 20 new LTE locations

Posted: 09 Apr 2013 10:10 PM PDT

AT&T LTE

AT&T dumps a bucket full of LTE location news, both currently active cities and coming soon announcements

AT&T just sent out 20 press releases with a bunch of LTE announcements. There's a lot to digest, so allow us to break it all down in one place for easy reading.

New LTE cities that are currently active:

New LTE cities coming this summer:

There's no word on when exactly during the summer these will light up, but I'm sure AT&T will remind us again when they go live -- or you fine folks will let us all know the minute it drops. 

    

HTC releases new kernel source for the Droid DNA and Vodafone France/UK HTC One

Posted: 09 Apr 2013 09:30 PM PDT

HTC One

3.4.10 kernel source released, time for developers to see how easily it builds

HTC has released a bit of source code this evening, and developers working with the Droid DNA on Verizon, and the HTC One on Vodafone France and Vodafone UK, now have some new toys to play with. When they get it all figured out (and they will) it's step one for serious ROM development.

Being compliant with the GPL is a hot topic among the Android community. It seems like nobody besides Google is capable of it, and when we see partial compliance after the fact we act relieved. Hopefully this is a portent of good things to come and we see what we've been promised, when we're supposed to see it.

If you need the kernel source, grab it at the link below. If you're just excited about what can be done with it, kick back and assist when you can. 

Source: HTC; Via: @htcdev

    

Mother of Myth coming this summer to Android, iOS and PC - and it looks amazing

Posted: 09 Apr 2013 05:35 PM PDT

Playnery is bringing a new game engine and what looks like an awesome game to run it in the summer of 2013

Looking for some way to push that Snapdragon 600 in your new or soon-to-be-bought Android phone or tablet? Playnery has you covered. Mother of Myth will be cross platform with iOS and PC, and if it's half as good as the trailer makes it look, it's one I'll be buying on day one.

Based on what we know now, it's an action / adventure / RPG game with sizzling graphics (optimized for the latest and greatest from Qualcomm), a full back-story, character customization, and all the other bells and whistles that make for a great, immersive game of this nature. 

Maybe the most exciting part is that the Playnery’s Bordeaux game engine was built on and with the Qualcomm platform. Ask anyone with a Tegra device and they will tell you that the optimized games are simply a step above anything else that's out there, and seeing a game of this caliber from developers who work with Qualcomm to make it great means your next phone or tablet can have great games no matter which processor is inside. We're looking forward to seeing what Playnary has to offer, and you should be too. Sign up for more info at the Mother of Myth site, and be sure to shout out at them in the forums to show your interest.

Via: Android Central forums

    
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