Android Central

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• The HTC One dev edition contest - Let's try this again ...
• ES File Explorer hits v3 with new UI, features
• Verizon confirms Samsung Galaxy S4 coming in May
• Facebook Messenger VOIP calling expands outside of Canada
• Google Q1 2013 earnings: $13.97 billion in revenue, $3.48 billion profit
• Google's Larry Page talks up Motorola's upcoming products
• Google's Q1 2013 earnings
• LG Lucid 2 review
• Gameloft releases a new Iron Man 3 trailer
• Verizon Q1 2013 earnings: another big quarter for big red
• Archos announces new line of stock Android (and Google-certified) smartphones
• Cut the Rope: Time Travel now available for Android
• Vote for your favorite user-submitted video in our HTC One developer phone giveaway
• Sprint fires up 21 new LTE markets, announces upcoming additions
• Moga Pro controller review - a must-have for gamers
• Deal of the Day: Seidio Spring-Clip Holster for Samsung Galaxy S3
• Sky Go updated to add support for more current devices
• AT&T expands LTE offerings to three new markets
• TalkTalk latest UK carrier to offer Samsung Galaxy S4, pre-orders begin April 22
• Doodle on your Pixel's touchscreen with this simple drawing app

The HTC One dev edition contest - Let's try this again ... Posted: 18 Apr 2013 05:19 PM PDT In hindsight, I suppose I should have known better. Ask folks to "Like" their favorite forum post video entry, and soon enough some joker's going to start making multiple accounts to try to stuff the ballot box. And it's come to our attention that it's happening in our HTC One developer edition giveaway. Multiple folks appear to have created multiple accounts. That don't fly on normal days, and it's a damn shame to see it spoil what otherwise has been a pretty heart-warming contest. I've loved seeing all the entries from all across the globe. And with all the horror that we've had to witness this week, a little pick-me-up was sorely needed.  There is hope, however. We know who's been creating multiple accounts. And those accounts are no longer with us. And we're still going to give away a phone. But we're also not going to use the "Like" method of picking a video. I don't know how we'll pick one just yet. I'll announce that on Friday. But for now, everyone can quit jamming up that thread.  For those who followed both the letter and the spirit of this contest, I thank you -- and especially those who have submitted videos. It really does mean more than I can express to see the faces and hear the voices of the people who truly make Android Central the greatest Android community in the world. (That's you guys and gals.) I'm sorry a few tried to ruin the fun for everyone else.  Stay tuned. We'll still get this done yet.

ES File Explorer hits v3 with new UI, features Posted: 18 Apr 2013 04:26 PM PDT One of the most popular file managers on Android steps up its design chops File managers on Android usually fall into one of two camps -- they're either well-designed and less than functional, or packed full of features and left back in the Gingerbread design days. ES File Explorer is hoping to span the gap between the two with today's update to v3. The new interface makes better use of a bottom action bar to hold common items like creating new items, searching and refreshing. The entire UI itself went to a cleaner and more visually appealing grey, blue and white scheme. The update also brings many back-end features, including multiple window support, Wifi file transfers, gestures for navigating and many new tools. The UI and features together make this feel like a great new update to an app that really needed it. You can grab a download of the new version from the Play Store link above.

Verizon confirms Samsung Galaxy S4 coming in May Posted: 18 Apr 2013 03:18 PM PDT No date was given, but previous leaked information points to May 30 Verizon has confirmed that the Samsung Galaxy S4 will be available on their network during the month of May via Twitter this afternoon. We've previously seen a May 30 date leaked from Staples for the Verizon version of the S4, but no actual date was given today. As just about every other US carrier has given out release information on their version of the Galaxy S4, it' nice to see Verizon say something -- even if it is just the month. With May right around the corner, I've a feeling we'll know more soon. Of course, we'll let you know as soon as we do. Source: @VZWnews

Facebook Messenger VOIP calling expands outside of Canada Posted: 18 Apr 2013 02:37 PM PDT Completely free VOIP calls between Facebook users now available around the world Unlike when it enabled the new Chat Heads feature with an update via the Play Store, Facebook has silently pushed out a feature to its Messenger app today to enable free VOIP calling. If you'll recall back to the beginning of March, the same happened to iOS users and Android users in Canada, but now we're looking at expanded availability in the U.S. and several more countries as well. The calls are of course completely free, and work between two Facebook users over data rather than the carrier's voice networks. To check and see if you have the option available, tap into an ongoing chat and hit the "i" button in the top right corner. You should then see a simple "Free Call" button. It isn't the most elegant solution, but as a first release we're not going to complain much. Are you seeing the feature enabled in your own Messenger app? Let us know in the comments below.

Google Q1 2013 earnings: $13.97 billion in revenue, $3.48 billion profit Posted: 18 Apr 2013 02:04 PM PDT Revenues increase notably, Motorola still posting a loss this quarter Google has just released its Q1 2013 earnings report, and while we listen in on the earnings call we're going to break down some of the raw numbers for you: $13.97 billion in revenue for the quarter, up 31-percent year-over-year $3.48 billion in operating income, up slightly y-o-y but down as a percentage of revenue Google-owned sites represented $8.64 billion of those revenues Google Network (partner sites) represented $3.26 billion of revenue Motorola posted $1.02 billion in revenues, 7-percent of Google's total Motorola ended with an operating loss of $271 million for Q1 A strong quarter for Google is seeing revenues increase largely over the same quarter last year, but while revenues did increase in nominal terms they did decrease in terms of share of revenues. Income from each different area of Google were strong, and though the number of paid clicks (for advertisements) increased about 20-percent the cost-per-click fell slightly by 4-percent. Speaking to Motorola specifically, the unit had $1.02 billion in revenue for the quarter, but is still posting a loss of $271 million in the end. Source: Google

Google's Larry Page talks up Motorola's upcoming products Posted: 18 Apr 2013 01:54 PM PDT Battery life, durability are key areas for innovation, CEO says on earnings call We're all chomping at the bit to see what Motorola -- which has been largely silent since being purchased by Google, finishing up its decidedly "not wow" product lines -- will bring to the table in 2013. Today, Motorola got a ringing endorsement from Google CEO Larry Page. "In today's multiscreen world, the opportunities are endless," Page said during Thursday's first-quarter earnings call. Specifically, Page mentioned a couple features. read more

Google's Q1 2013 earnings Posted: 18 Apr 2013 01:12 PM PDT Google has just released its Q1 2013 earnings. The big numbers: Nearly $14 billion in consolidated revenue, up 31 percent from the first three months of 2012. GAAP operating income was $3.48 billion. Motorola Mobility revenue was $1.02 billion Google's got about $50 billion in cash on hand We're kibitzing on the conference call this afternoon, so stay tuned for any Android-related snippets. Source: Google

LG Lucid 2 review Posted: 18 Apr 2013 12:14 PM PDT Don't just pass this one by - Verizon's potentially got a sleeper hit on its hands with the LG Lucid 2 With a fanfare-free launch, a budget-friendly price tag, and modest specs, you wouldn’t think that the Lucid 2 means a lot for Verizon’s portfolio; in the shadow of some of the greatest Android devices ever created, it’s easy to overlook LG’s latest entry as just another filler in Big Red’s lineup. Think again. Not only is the Lucid 2 a spectacular device, it marks a major step in the evolution of Android. The days of having to fork over $200 for a decent Android smartphone are long gone, and the fact that this remains true even on the largest (and most expensive) wireless carrier in America is a bigger deal than you think. read more

Gameloft releases a new Iron Man 3 trailer Posted: 18 Apr 2013 11:15 AM PDT This 'endless runner in the sky' is almost ready for an official release You may have heard that the official Iron Man 3 game is hitting Android (and iOS) on April 25, but Gameloft is making sure everyone stays excited about it. In the latest gameplay trailer, you get a better look at everything Iron Man 3 will have to offer. You get a better look at not only the exciting gameplay of flying, shooting and dodging obstacles, but also the entire "Stark Industries" side of things with the new suits, armor and upgrades available. Take a look at the video above for one more glimpse of the new gameplay, and be sure to check out our initial hands-on with the game at GDC just a few weeks ago.

Verizon Q1 2013 earnings: another big quarter for big red Posted: 18 Apr 2013 10:39 AM PDT 677,000 customer additions, $19.5 billion in revenue, ARPA up 6.9-percent Verizon has just posted its Q1 2013 earnings, and while it reports both its wireless and wireline businesses in one release, we're going to break out the wireless parts separately. Let's hit the high points first: $19.5 billion in revenue, up 6.8-percent year over year $16.2 billion of that revenue was related to selling service, up 6.9-percent y-o-y Postpaid ARPA (Average Revenue Per Account) was $150.27 per month, up 6.9-percent also 677,000 net customer additions for the quarter 98.9 million retail connections (93.2 million postpaid) in total at the end of the quarter, up 6.4-percent Retail postpaid churn was 1.01-percent, up 5 basis points Overall, it seems like a solid quarter for the company, posting improvements and increases on nearly every company metric. Customers, accounts, revenues and earnings per account all went up in the quarter. Verizon has also pointed out that its LTE network now reaches 287 million people in a staggering 491 markets across the country. The continuous quarters where Verizon makes boatloads of money don't seem to be stopping any time soon. Source: Verizon

Archos announces new line of stock Android (and Google-certified) smartphones Posted: 18 Apr 2013 09:47 AM PDT Manufacturer Archos has just announced a trio of new Android smartphones -- each with stock Android and including the full suite of Google Play services. The three phones run the gamut in size, as well. The Archos 35 Carbon is the budget phone of the group, starting things out with a 3.5-inch IPS display and a 320x480 resolution, powered by a 1 GHz Qualcomm 7225a processor and 1GB of RAM. It's running Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich. The Archos 50 Platinum bumps things up to a 5-inch display and Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean, powered by a Qualcomm 8225Q quad-core processor and 1GB of RAM. And the Archos 53 Platinum takes the 50 Platinum and bumps things up to a 5.3-inch IPS display. All three phones are 3G only -- no LTE here -- and are expected to be available in Europe by June. Archos 53 Platinum ($249) Archos 50 Platinum ($219) Archos 35 Carbon ($99)

Cut the Rope: Time Travel now available for Android Posted: 18 Apr 2013 08:53 AM PDT If you just can't get enough of Cut the Rope, it's time to check out Cut the Rope: Time Travel. The oddly lovable Om Nom heads back through time to feed his ancestors with candy, and this time you've got two monsters to feed on each level, so things are a little more challenging right from the start.  You'll be working your way through a half-dozen locations, including the Middle Ages, Renaissance, a pirate ship, ancient Egypt, ancient Greece and the Stone Age. Developer Zeptolab notes that this new Cut the Rope supports tablets, but we've found it to be a little buggy on 1080p phones, with an advertisement covering the button that moves you on to the next level. And we've seen it block things on 720p displays when you unlock a new level, too. And speaking of ads, 99 cents gets rid of 'em. Or you can just keep with the free version. Check out the cutesy cut scene after the break, and hit the link above to download. read more

Vote for your favorite user-submitted video in our HTC One developer phone giveaway Posted: 18 Apr 2013 08:08 AM PDT The One where you help us pick the winner of the HTC One developer edition Last week we started up a contest with an awesome prize -- a 64GB HTC One developer edition. It wasn't an ordinary contest (this isn't an ordinary phone) where you drop your name in a hat and Mr. Random Number Generator grabs one. Instead we decided to make it fun and all of you involved and engaged by submitting a short video of yourselves and your old phone.  Part 1 of the contest is over, so it's time to begin the next phase -- the one where you fine folks pick the winner. read more

Sprint fires up 21 new LTE markets, announces upcoming additions Posted: 18 Apr 2013 07:09 AM PDT Sprint CEO Dan Hesse today announced 4G LTE coverage in 21 new markets. The new locations to see increased speeds are: Albemarle, N.C. Bloomington, Ind. Charlotte, N.C. Contra Costa County, Calif. Denison, Texas Greeneville, Tenn. Joplin, Mo. Kerrville, Texas Lafayette, Ind. Lincolnton, N.C. Los Angeles Mankato/North Mankato, Minn. Memphis, Tenn. Norfolk/Virginia Beach/Newport News, Va. Palm Bay, Fla. Port St. Lucie, Fla. Rochelle, Ill. Salisbury, N.C. Shelby, N.C. Tullahoma, Tenn. West Palm Beach, Fla. Plus, Sprint has announced even more markets that will receive 4G LTE in the coming months. read more

Moga Pro controller review - a must-have for gamers Posted: 18 Apr 2013 06:01 AM PDT Ever wanted to use an Xbox controller for your Android games? The Moga Pro hits stores today for $49.99, and in addition to playing around a bit with it at PAX East, we got some time to try out with the Bluetooth controller before it arrived at retail. There are a few things you get in the box besides the controller itself: a tiny instruction manual, a micro USB cable, and a foldable tablet stand. I'm a huge fan of this stand since it's highly portable and can support fairly large tablets at a reasonable viewing angle.    Those who are familiar with the Moga Pocket controller will already know that these guys make controller accessories for mobile games, and offer developers hooks so they can optimize for the hardware. Like the first model, the Pro also includes the retractable brace to hold your Android device in landscape while you play. The Moga Pro expands on the original by more than just adding two shoulder buttons, clickable joysticks, a backlight toggle, and filling out to be more comfortable in the hand. Arguably the biggest new feature in the Moga Pro is the ability to support HID Bluetooth profiles thanks to a little switch in the middle of the controller. read more

Deal of the Day: Seidio Spring-Clip Holster for Samsung Galaxy S3 Posted: 18 Apr 2013 05:56 AM PDT The April 18 ShopAndroid.com Deal of the Day is the Seidio Spring-Clip Holster for Samsung Galaxy S3. This durable holster is made of a tough plastic that holds your device securely and lifts for quick access. Both the felt liner and the face-in design protect your screen from scratches and exposure to outside elements. With the rotating clip, the holster can be worn in seven different positions. The Seidio Spring-Clip Holster is available for just $17.00, 43% off today only. Backed by our 60-day return policy and fast shipping! Deal also available in the Canada store Never miss a deal. Sign up for Daily Deal alerts

Sky Go updated to add support for more current devices Posted: 18 Apr 2013 04:32 AM PDT Sony Xperia Z, HTC One, Motorola RAZR HD and Samsung Galaxy S4 owners will all be able to make use of the service now Sky Go, the app that allows Sky TV customers to stream live TV To their Android devices has been updated to support some of the latest devices on the market. The story of Sky Go is a somewhat troublesome one, with lack of support for devices and platform versions dogging it since launch. Thankfully the folks at Sky seem to be getting it together more so these days, and today's update adds support for the Motorola RAZR HD, Sony Xperia Z, the HTC One and the Samsung Galaxy S4 when it hits on April 26.  Sky Go is a service much loved by many of its customers, and there can't  be many better smartphones to stream TV on than this latest crop of HD devices. The update also promises some bug fixes and better stability, and you can grab yourselves a copy at the Play Store link above.

AT&T expands LTE offerings to three new markets Posted: 18 Apr 2013 04:28 AM PDT Marching towards full nationwide LTE coverage, AT&T hits a few more notable markets LTE brings the benefit of not only faster overall speeds, but of course faster ping (response) times and just general network robustness. Unfortunately, there are still plenty of places around the U.S. that haven't seen the light of day from AT&T's LTE reach. The carrier can at least now say there are three fewer locations on that list: Cheyenne, Wyoming Cushing, Oklahoma Florence, South Carolina As AT&T tends to do when it launches new markets with LTE, it notes how much money is being put into the building out of the network. This time around, at least $30 million was spent on network infrastructure in just Wyoming from 2010 to 2012. Networks ain't cheap, folks.

TalkTalk latest UK carrier to offer Samsung Galaxy S4, pre-orders begin April 22 Posted: 18 Apr 2013 03:35 AM PDT Samsung's latest and greatest available for free on plans starting at £30 per month We're edging ever closer to the day that real people can get their real hands on the Samsung Galaxy S4. There's naturally no shortage of options for anyone looking to pick one up, but the latest throwing their hat in the ring in the UK is TalkTalk. The MVNO carrier is still relatively new to the mobile game, but that hasn't stopped them going all out and launching one of the hottest phones to hit this year.  The Galaxy S4 will be available on TalkTalk from April 26, and pre-orders will begin on April 22. Price plans vary between "Small, Medium and Large" but the phone can be had free of charge on all plans from £30 per month.  More: Watch our Galaxy S4 hands-on Also: Visit the Galaxy S4 forums

Doodle on your Pixel's touchscreen with this simple drawing app Posted: 17 Apr 2013 06:23 PM PDT The Touch Drawing App puts the touchscreen on your Pixel to use Googler and Chromium Evangelist François Beaufort has released a little Chrome app that gives you a chance to put your touchscreen to work. Aptly named Touch Drawing App, all it does is present a canvas which you can draw on with your finger or a stylus.  Yes, it's pretty basic, and not something that will make folks rush out and spend $1300 on a Chromebook Pixel. But we have to start somewhere if we want great touch-based apps in Chrome, right? Besides, it's fun and free -- what's not to like. If you have a Pixel, or any touchscreen laptop with the Chrome browser installed, you can grab it at the Chrome Web Store right here. Via: +François Beaufort

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