Android Authority |
- HTC One trade-in program extended again, gets you $100 off until June 19
- Android stats: Jelly Bean inches closer to Gingerbread, moving past Ice Cream Sandwich
- Samsung and Apple set to gain Pentagon security approval soon, BlackBerry to follow suit
- Google+ Sign-In brings app activity data to Google Search results
- For the first time ever, Android tablets have overtaken Apple’s iPad
- Google Glass gets a lock screen, which it didn’t have for some reason
- Just out the door, T-Mobile Galaxy S4 already running unofficial CyanogenMod build
- Rumor: Galaxy Note 3 to pack eight-core Mali-450 MP GPU in addition to Exynos 5 Octa CPU
- Microsoft earns billions from Android, so why do they feel ‘Scroogled’?
- Why did Google schedule only one keynote at I/O?
- Sony Xperia Z takes a trip through FCC, apparently headed to T-Mobile
- Nexus 4 battery cover cracked? This video shows you how to replace it.
- LG Optimus G Pro exclusive to AT&T, available for pre-order on May 3
- More rumored HTC M4 details posted online, HTC One-like design mentioned
- Give your HTC One a boost with Mophie’s 2,500 mAh Juice Pack
- T-Mobile and MetroPCS merger finalized
- How to use Tasker
- Second-gen Asus MeMO Pad Smart 10 specs apparently leaked
- Sony ‘Honami’ to feature impressive Cyber-shot camera, new report reveals
| HTC One trade-in program extended again, gets you $100 off until June 19 Posted: 02 May 2013 02:08 AM PDT
The HTC One trade-in program has been extended once more, which can only be a good thing for you if you haven’t already taken advantage of the offer. This isn’t the first time the offer has been extended, so we’ll remind you what you have to do to get back $100 out of what you pay for a new HTC One. You have to be located in the U.S. or Canada, buy the HTC One until May 19 and mail in your old phone, alongside proof of purchase of the One, until June 19. You also have to follow a series of easy steps and have an old eligible phone to trade in. First, you’ll have to pre-register your e-mail address on the HTC site, after which you’ll get a code via e-mail. You can then go to the page of the program (the link is below, but you’ll also get it in the e-mail HTC will send you), type in the code and select the type of phone you’ll be trading in from a list (it has to be an eligible one), as well as some details regarding the device. You’ll get an estimate for the old phone, which will be at least $100. Then, if you’ve already purchased your HTC One, you can continue the process and get instructions on how to mail the old phone in, together with your proof of purchase. If that is not the case yet, you can save the details for later. Either way, after the process is completed, you’ll get the trade-in value in the form of a pre-paid card. And if you still haven’t made up your mind yet, you can take a look at our HTC One review below: Do you plan on taking advantage of the HTC One trade-in program? 
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| Android stats: Jelly Bean inches closer to Gingerbread, moving past Ice Cream Sandwich Posted: 02 May 2013 01:56 AM PDT  Jelly Bean (left) vs Ice Cream Sandwich (right) Google has published new Android stats that show Jelly Bean's growing share of the Android pie at the expense of previous versions. Combined, Android 4.2.x Jelly Bean (2.3%) and Android 4.1.x Jelly Bean (26.1%) account for 28.4% share, or just enough to move past Ice Cream Sandwich in the charts which has a 27.5% share. The numbers are based on "data collected during a 14-day period ending on May 1, 2013" and use Google's new algorithm to count Android devices, which focuses on Google Play Store visits rather than data from Google's servers: Beginning in April, 2013, these charts are now built using data collected from each device when the user visits the Google Play Store. Previously, the data was collected when the device simply checked-in to Google servers. We believe the new data more accurately reflects those users who are most engaged in the Android and Google Play ecosystem. Gingerbread is still the most used Android OS out there, accounting for 38.5% of the Android ecosystem, while older OS versions including Donut, Eclair, Froyo, and Honeycomb are still in the picture, but they account for less than 6% combined.
Compared to the previous reporting period, Jelly Bean is up 3.4%, with Ice Cream Sandwich and Gingerbread also losing ground – 1.8% and 1.3% market share drops, respectively. Obviously, the numbers shouldn't be that surprising considering that more OEMs are releasing Jelly Bean-running devices, but also upgrading more of their existing smartphones and tablets to one of Google's Jelly Bean versions. Furthermore, new rumors combined with server log data seem to suggest that Google may be launching an Android 4.3 version at Google I/O later this month. Android 4.3 is expected to be part of the Jelly Bean family, a move that would give and OEMs plenty of time to upgrade existing devices to Jelly Bean before moving to a next major OS such as Android 5.0. 
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| Samsung and Apple set to gain Pentagon security approval soon, BlackBerry to follow suit Posted: 01 May 2013 08:33 PM PDT Both Samsung and Apple are set to receive security approval from the U.S. Department of Defense very soon, according to a new report on the Wall Street Journal. To be more specific, officials at the Pentagon are looking to clear Samsung Galaxy smartphones with Samsung’s Knox software for use, as well as Apple iPhones and iPads with the latest version of iOS, iOS 6. The WSJ report was quick to point out that the security approvals probably won’t translate immediately into huge sales for either of the two companies, and in fact Samsung itself made it known that it was well aware of this through a comment made by one of its executives. But ultimately, this was still a net positive due to it being a possible point of leverage to getting more security-conscious firms to sign up as new customers. Currently, BlackBerry still holds the dominant position in the small U.S. defense sector market, with more than 78% of all commercial mobile devices “in operational and pilot use” being BlackBerry products. But things are likely to change in the future, though it probably isn’t going to happen any time soon. For its part, BlackBerry is also seeking to get fresh approval for its new BlackBerry Z10 smartphone and the new BlackBerry 10 OS that comes along with it. It is said to be close to getting this much-needed approval, and will find out the DOD’s official decision some time in the next two weeks. Around this time, both Samsung and Apple are expected to be cleared by the DOD as well. 
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| Google+ Sign-In brings app activity data to Google Search results Posted: 01 May 2013 05:22 PM PDT
When Google+ Sign-In was first announced, one of the features introduced was App Activities, that allowed users to share their activity on a particular app or a site on their Google+ profile, giving the app or site more exposure to a larger audience. At the time, the Google+ Sign-In team mentioned that, “we’d be exploring even more ways activities from your app can surface across Google,” and now, we get to see one of those ways. In a blog post, Google introduced the integration of App Activities into Search results. This means that now if you search for an app or site on Google, and if the app or site uses Google+ Sign-In, popular and aggregate user activity will now show up to the right of the search results. The image below provides a good example. If you search for Fandango, you’ll now be able to see a list of movies that are popular among Googlers. Or if you’re searching for SoundCloud, you’ll not only see how many Google+ users use the app, but also what the most popular songs (or podcasts, etc.) are. The added benefit also is that clicking on a listing will take you directly to the page on that particular site.
With Google+ Sign-In slowly making its way across to numerous sites and apps, that is a lot of activity data that Google is collecting, and looks to be putting to good use. It’s great to see social results integrated directly into Search, giving both new, and old, app users the chance to see what other Google+ users are interested in. I think this is going to prove to be incredibly useful, and be another way Google has made Search, and our lives, easier. This feature will be available over the next few weeks on desktop Search, with a small number of music and movie apps like Deezer, Fandango, Flixster, Songza, Slacker Radio, TuneIn, and SoundCloud already signed up, with more apps, that integrate Google+ Sign-In, sure to be added soon. What do you think of app activity results showing up alongside Search? How useful do you think this feature is going to be? Share your thoughts in the comments section below. 
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| For the first time ever, Android tablets have overtaken Apple’s iPad Posted: 01 May 2013 02:53 PM PDT
Just last month, IDC predicted that Android would soon overtake Apple in terms of tablets shipped. If their latest numbers are correct, the tides have now officially turned! IDC reports that for the first three months of 2013, 49.2 million tablets have already shipped, with 27.8 million of those tablets running Android. In contrast, Apple shipped just 19.5 million units. Apple is still the most popular single brand in the tablet world, but Samsung isn’t too far behind with 8.8 million units. While that’s less than half of what Apple is shipping, it is still a jump forward for Samsung compared to the same timeframe last year. In Q1 2012, Apple held 58.1% of the tablet market, and Samsung held just 11.3%.
The year is far from over, so what will happen next? The answer to that question hinges on what Samsung, Apple and Google are planning. At Google I/O, it’s possible we will see a new Nexus tablet, that could certainly have an impact on the market. We also can’t say for sure what Apple will do next. They’ve had a lot of success with the iPad Mini, and the rumored HD version of the Mini is expected later this year. As for Samsung? They recently released the impressive (though a bit pricey) Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0, in order to better compete against 8-inch tablets like the iPad Mini, and they likely have a few other tricks up their sleeves. We might not know what the future holds, but it is great to see that Android tablet shipments are on the rise. What do you think, will Android be able to continue pushing out more tablets than Apple? Can Samsung overtake the iPad as the most popular brand of tablet? 
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| Google Glass gets a lock screen, which it didn’t have for some reason Posted: 01 May 2013 12:57 PM PDT
For all that we do know about Google Glass, we've not seen a lot of app development yet. It hasn't been long since the mirror API was released for Glass, so we're not surprised at the lack of forthcoming info. Glass is also a long way from retail, so again… no rush. Leave it to developers to come up with the right stuff to add, though. For Mike DiGiovanni, the most glaring omission from Glass was a lock screen. Interestingly enough, Glass doesn't have one. Perhaps this was an oversight by Google, or perhaps they just didn't see a need to have one on device that is being sent to a limited audience of dedicated developers and early adopters. Even with a limited user base, there is still a need for security. Not that those who have or will be getting them plan on taking them off, maybe ever, but that doesn't stop a thief or curious friend. Glass may be an accompaniment to your Android device, but your info is still there. Contacts, videos, pics… that's all private, and should be protected. The video below shows a very basic lock screen function for Glass. It seems to be reliant on the touchpad, not gesture based. Maybe this can be manipulated to encompass both touch and gesture at some point, we're not sure. What we are sure of is that you shouldn't wear Glass to a baseball game… someone may try to steal third. 
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| Just out the door, T-Mobile Galaxy S4 already running unofficial CyanogenMod build Posted: 01 May 2013 12:10 PM PDT
If you are the type of person that likes to snag a ROM as soon as possible and remove the extra bloat, you might be wondering how long it will be before the first ROM finds its way onto Samsung’s latest flagship. For T-Mobile customers, right now. It’s only been one day since the Galaxy S4 was available online for T-Mobile customers, but that’s not stopping CyanogenMod founder Steve Kondik. Earlier today, he took to Google+ with a screenshot showing T-Mobile’s Galaxy S4 running an unofficial CyanogenMod build. This is certainly is an exciting news for T-Mobile users. Too bad the same kind of good news can’t be said for AT&T’s bootloader-locked Galaxy S4.
So what all is and isn’t working? According to Kondik, he just got started on things today, but just about everything works already. Despite what the original screenshot shows, that also includes the radio. There will probably need to be more testing before he releases the build to the public, but it’s still hard not to be awe over how quickly Steve Kondik was able to get CyanogenMod working on the Galaxy S4. For those considering the Galaxy S4, do you plan to eventually run a custom ROM like CyanogenMod, or would you rather stick with Samsung’s TouchWiz build? 
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| Rumor: Galaxy Note 3 to pack eight-core Mali-450 MP GPU in addition to Exynos 5 Octa CPU Posted: 01 May 2013 11:16 AM PDT  Galaxy S4 (left) vs Galaxy Note 2 (right) A new rumor says that Samsung's third-generation Galaxy Note 3 will pack an eight-core Mali-450 MP GPU in addition to an Exynos 5 Octa CPU, with the latter having already been mentioned in a few reports detailing the handset. Sam Mobile has it from its "trusted insider" that the Galaxy Note 3 will be "Samsung's most wanted device," with the future device supposedly ready to offer some very interesting specs and features. Even though the publication has delivered accurate rumors on Samsung products in the past, we're still going to advise you to take everything with a bit of salt, as nothing is yet confirmed by Samsung. While the Exynos 5 Octa is by now "old news" in the mobile industry, as Samsung's relatively young SoC has been widely covered and is already available in the international Galaxy S4 version (GT-I9500 model), we haven't talked that much about the Mali-450 MP graphics processing unit. The new GPU is not ARM's current flagship mobile GPU, but having been unveiled only in mid-2012 it will certainly be able to provide a great graphics experience to mobile device users. Allowing up to eight-cores, Mali-450 MP promises to offer double the performance of its predecessor, the Mali-400 MP, which was found in various mobile devices including two Samsung high-end handsets you may have heard of, the Galaxy S2 (clocked at 270MHz) and the Galaxy S3 (clocked at 400MHz). Comparatively, the Galaxy S4 uses two different GPUs, a PowerVR SGX544MP3 for the Exynos 5 Octa version, and an Adreno 320 for the Qualcomm Snapdragon 600 version. That said, the new report goes on to mention other specs and features for the handset, with some of them having been found in previous Galaxy Note 3 stories:
As for the final Galaxy Note 3's design, Sam Mobile says that Samsung is still undecided, with a flexible display version and a Galaxy S4-like version being apparently still in the cards, which is a detail offered by a previous report also. Presumably, the company is waiting to see whether flexible displays will be available in time for the handset's launch. However, the site does note that the Galaxy Note 3 will be about the same size as the recently announced Galaxy Mega 5.8, and feature a narrower bezel. Moving to launch window, the phone is said to be unveiled in August/September, with IFA 2013 being one likely place where Samsung could announce it – previous Galaxy Note version were announced around the same German event. But we don't have actual release dates for you at this time. 
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| Microsoft earns billions from Android, so why do they feel ‘Scroogled’? Posted: 01 May 2013 11:15 AM PDT
The realm of mobile technology has a lot of nuance. Whether it's HTC trying to rebuild their brand, Huawei leaving the US market, or Samsung continuing to steamroll the world, we always have something interesting going on. Part of that discussion is patent technology, and how it affects the changing landscape. Often ambiguous, the amount earned per device for licensed patents is still interesting. We've seen some court cases, but those are often for past damages. We never see the out-of-court decisions, or other closed-door deals that are negotiated. Not unusual, but still curious, are analyst estimates of just how much these patent licences earn. Speculation is often wild, though never proven. If we take a look at Microsoft, and their licensing agreements with the various Android OEM's, the patent situation becomes muddled… but still fascinating. Some analysts estimate Microsoft makes an average of $1 for each device, while others cite 'sources' who point to $8/device as a solid number. Those sources are equally mysterious to the numbers they spew forth, meaning this is still a game of intrigue. Recent reports are no different, and like the rest, based on a very educated estimate of alleged fact. A recent projection by tech analyst Gartner suggests Microsoft could earn $8.8 billion from Android licenses by 2017. Of course, this is all based on roundly speculative earnings. This number of $8.8 billion is assuming Microsoft earns an average of $1 per device in royalties. If that number were $8 per device, Microsoft stands to earn $3.4 billion in 2013 alone. ScroogledAgain, these estimates are mired in anonymous hearsay and innuendo. If they are accurate, so much more about the mobile technology space starts to erode. If Microsoft, which has a stranglehold on the PC market is actually doing so well from Android licensing, why take such an aggressive approach against it? The PCWith steady declines in computer sales annually, it may represent a loss for Microsoft. Device sales can be directly linked to new MS Office licenses, or other software purchases. Microsoft also earns a royalty from each Windows PC sold. So, why is the PC not selling? With other devices occupying our time, and an increasing move to mobile, we just don't use them as much. A laptop is a great, low-profile solution… but they're hardly mobile. An uptick in phone and tablet sales cannibalize PC sales, which fell 14 percent last quarter alone. The PC has also become more reliable, for a longer time. The rapid growth in processor speed and need for memory has given us low cost PCs that last for years. Compound that reliability with lower use and other devices, then it only further complicates sales of the PC.
AndroidEven if the estimates are accurate, and Microsoft actually makes $4-8 per device, they clearly feel they can do better with their own OS. Windows 8 is meant to be the first true cross-platform operating system for Microsoft. It missed the mark for many of us, but is still a really good first step. Sales of PCs are slow, and the expensive Surface tablet continues to sputter. Windows Phone is a niche device right now, but Microsoft has bigger plans for all three markets. It seems as though they fully understand the ground they're losing is not easy to find again. If Microsoft can leverage Windows 8 against the user, it could persuade us into upgrading our tech. It could also bring customers back to Microsoft. The declining PC market, a very small share of the mobile market, and no mobile platform to speak of cost Microsoft valuable time. Now that the customer has gone elsewhere, and invested in a new ecosystem, Microsoft has to battle to earn them back. Those Android patent licenses are solid ground in which to stand and fight. Nobody can petition a court to revisit a decision with no new evidence, and waging war against Google or Android is not anti-competitive. Android is also massively successful, so the flow of income from those licenses isn't going to erode like Microsoft's market share and sales have. ConclusionIt's about money, and Microsoft wants as much as they can cobble together. Their methodology for doing so may be questionable, but their motive is sound. To lob hand grenades against the very platform that earns you so much in royalties seems ludicrous, but Microsoft has nothing to lose. Literally.
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| Why did Google schedule only one keynote at I/O? Posted: 01 May 2013 10:33 AM PDT
In the past, Google held two separate keynote events at Google I/O. For the day one keynote, Android was the primary focus. The day two keynote previously saw Chrome as its focus point. This year, Mountain View is changing things up, combining the two separate keynotes into one three-hour event. Not surprisingly, this change has sparked a fair amount of gossip and speculation. We’ve taken a good look at the session schedule for Google I/O, as well as other gossip surrounding Google, Chrome and I/O in general. Putting on our thinking caps, we’ve come up with a few possibly ‘theories’ on what the combined keynote might indicate. Theory 1: Chrome OS and Android integrationAndy Rubin is no longer at the helm of the Android development ship, and Sundar Pichai now manages both Android and Chrome. This leads to the obvious theory that Android and Chrome might be combining in some way. Back in March, Google’s Eric Schmidt said a straight-up merger isn’t happening between the two products, but that doesn’t mean they can’t come together in other ways. In fact, Schmidt himself said that there could be more ‘commonality’ between the two. While the idea of running full Android apps on Chrome OS comes to mind, there’s also the possibility of integrated services that make using the two platforms a more cohesive experience. I don’t pretend to know the inner-workings of Google’s master plan or even what Google I/O has in store for us, but if it is about unification, it could likely center around services like Babel messaging and perhaps even a cloud gaming platform. Theory 2: Google Gaming Platform in the worksTaking a look at the session schedule for Android, Chrome and the Google Cloud Platform, one subject seems to pops up more often than anything else: gaming. For Android, gaming-related sessions include "New developments in Mobile Gaming", "Practical Android Games Development", and "Level up your Android Game". For Chrome we have "JAM with Chrome: How We Built a Massive Multiplayer Game Using Only Web Technology". As for the Google Cloud platform, we see "Intense Gaming" and "Here Be BigQuery: Building Social gaming Infrastructure on the Google Cloud Platform". If we are lucky, Google I/O’s gaming focus will also extend to Google Glass. These separate gaming events might be just an all-around refocusing on games, or a sign that a unified cloud gaming platform is in the works. Again, I’m not a psychic nor a fortune teller. Personally I’d love to see a Chrome-driven cloud gaming platform that works with Android devices, gaming consoles, set-top boxes and ChromeBooks.
Theory 3: Google I/O won’t see many major announcementsThere are some pessimists out there that might be thinking the single keynote is a sign that Google’s I/O is nothing to be excited about this year. Some evidence that we shouldn’t get our hopes up can be seen in the possible revelation that Android 4.3 Jelly Bean could be coming to I/O, not Key Lime Pie. Then there are the rumors suggesting the Motorola X Phone isn’t ready, and won’t be part of Google I/O. We also still don’t know if we will see any new Nexus devices for sure. Here’s what I have to say to you negative-Nellys: Stop it, stop right now! If you are a Google fan, you have probably come to realize that Google rarely disappoints. Like any company, they make mistakes, but even if they don’t unveil the X Phone or Key Lime Pie – there will be something big for us. Google knows how important this event is for Google fans and developers. Simple as that. Theory 4: Google I/O’s single keynote could really mean nothingBottom-line, let’s not get ahead of ourselves too much. I’m excited about Google I/O and the possibilities in store, as I’m sure you are. That makes it easy to let our imaginations run wild, into places both positive and negative. Looking at the single keynote event with a level head, the answer for the change could be much less complicated than Android/Chrome integration, a unified gaming platform announcement, or Google I/O being a bust. At Google I/O 2012, most of the good stuff was in the first keynote, which weighed in at 2 hours and 6 minutes. The second keynote took 1 hour and 19 minutes, and part of that time was dedicated to replaying Sergey Brin’s epic skydiving stunt from Day 1. Google could just realize that it is better to lump everything together into one stunning performance, instead of dragging it all out. This would also give Google more time to focus on sessions and less time worrying at the next day’s keynote. Honestly, we can’t say for sure what Google I/O will bring, though it is admittedly fun to speculate. What do you think will be the big focus of Google I/O 2013? Are you excited yet? 
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| Sony Xperia Z takes a trip through FCC, apparently headed to T-Mobile Posted: 01 May 2013 09:32 AM PDT
The Sony Xperia Z might be selling well in other parts of the world, but it’s yet to gain any traction with any carriers in the U.S. That looks like it's all about to change after a not so secretive visit of the handset at the FCC. It’s been rumoured that the Xperia Z was headed to T-Mobile and now it seem we’re on the right track. Although T-Mobile has yet to confirm the inclusion of the Xperia Z in its smartphone lineup, it doesn't look like it will take too long for T-Mobile to announce it now.
The Xperia Z comes with a 13-megapixel camera, a quad-core Snapdragon S4 processor clocked at 1.5GHz, a 5-inch Full HD screen and it’s also waterproof. It looks like the T-Mobile version will also have AWS LTE and pentaband HSPA+ included. It will be interesting to see the device finally hit a U.S. carrier, especially since we get to see it on T-Mobile and its UnCarrier approach. Still not convinced, head on over to our review for the full picture. Are you interested in picking up the Sony Xeria Z? Hope that it'll hit other carriers? 
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| Nexus 4 battery cover cracked? This video shows you how to replace it. Posted: 01 May 2013 09:26 AM PDT  The small crack is visible near the flash LED. If you have a Nexus 4, you know how it feels to see that cracked back plate. Even if it's not your device… you feel that twinge of pain for the other guy. That gorgeous, glassy phone in such a condition just hurts. I'm exaggerating, but the despair is real. With no way to easily get hold of another battery cover, it can feel like we've got to live with it. Chris Chavez over at Phandroid know that pain, and he's gone ahead and lived it publicly for us. The video below shows how to replace your Nexus 4 battery cover. It's pretty easy, but maybe a little nerve racking. The whole thing is simple enough, and the only special equipment you'll need is a T5 torx screwdriver. Keep in mind the replacement cover in the video is pretty basic, and doesn't have the bells and whistles you may be used to. NFC isn't going to work with the new cover, which is something you may enjoy using (as I've recently found, it can be amazing). Rather than replace the back, a case may be a suitable fix for you. Check out the video, and let us know if you have a cracked Nexus 4. We're curious just how many are floating around out there! 
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| LG Optimus G Pro exclusive to AT&T, available for pre-order on May 3 Posted: 01 May 2013 09:03 AM PDT
The LG Optimus G Pro is coming to the U.S. as an AT&T exclusive, the carrier has announced in a press release today. This information had already been rumored a while ago, but now you have the official confirmation, as well as all the details. The price at which AT&T will be selling the LG Optimus G Pro is $199.99 with a two-year contract, and the device will be available to buy starting May 10, on the carrier’s website as well as in stores. If you want to make sure that LG’s flagship device is yours to have, you should know that pre-orders start on AT&T’s website on May 3, just a couple of days from now. AT&T revealed the pre-order web page in its press release, but, since pre-orders only start in two days, it will probably start working only then. Provided you pre-order the device, you’ll also receive an added bonus, in the form of a free Quick Cover black folio case, as long as stocks last. You can also take more than $100 off the price of the device by trading in an old qualifying smartphone. AT&T even has a presentation video for the device, in which it introduces some of the features of the device. You can watch it below: We have already reviewed the handset ourselves, albeit not the AT&T version, and we have a video of that as well: If you live in the U.S., will you pre-order the LG Optimus G Pro? AT&T and LG Unveil Powerful, Full HD Optimus G Pro LG Optimus G Pro(TM) Enables Users to Connect and Share Like a Pro; Suite of Sharing, Multitasking Capabilities Enrich Users’ Demanding Lives AT&T* and LG Electronics USA announced today the LG Optimus G Pro, available exclusively from AT&T, for $199.99 with a two-year service agreement beginning May 10. LG Optimus G Pro is a powerful smartphone offering innovative solutions designed to help users creatively and more deeply connect, express and share their lives while providing the superior power and performance required to manage life on-the-go. Customers excited to reserve their Optimus G Pro can pre-order the device beginning May 3 at www.att.com/optimusgpro. While supplies last, anyone who pre-orders will receive a free Quick Cover black folio case. The LG Optimus G Pro comes packed with a host of high-performance features that refine mobile communication and help users better organize their lives. Backed by the powerful Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 1.7GHz quad-core processor with 2 GB of RAM, users can access content and complete tasks faster than ever: The brilliant 5.5-inch, 1920 X 1080 Full HD IPS display (400ppi) gives users more pixels and screen real estate to view and show off content. "From engagements to weddings, to newborns to family gatherings and work to vacation, active and involved people require robust mobile technology designed specifically to support and enrich their lives," said James Fishler, senior vice president, marketing, LG Electronics USA. "LG Optimus G Pro is the ultimate device for creating, viewing and sharing media content, whether it be HD video in full 1080p or high-resolution photos. This device offers a vast collection of features and capabilities for those who want and need the best multitasking functionality." "The LG Optimus G Pro gives AT&T customers the ability to create and share rich content easily," said Jeff Bradley, senior vice president – Devices, AT&T. "There's no better place to experience that content than exclusively on our 4G LTE network, the nation's fastest." Whether users are multitasking industry professionals who require powerful recording and viewing capabilities or just want great mobile technology, LG Optimus G Pro provides the tools to capture important moments and share them with family, friends and co-workers. With Dual Recording, users capture special and productive moments from both sides of life, all simultaneously on a single screen. The combination of a powerful quad-core processor and 13 MP video camera lets you zoom in tight on the finest of details when viewing your recordings and helps maintain video playback quality and image resolution. LG Optimus G Pro features a stylish ergonomic design with a narrow screen bezel delivering a more comfortable in-hand experience and great "pocketability." Hardware features enhance productivity while providing fun, entertaining moments. QuickRemote is a universal remote application that utilizes the built-in Infrared (IR) sensor, turns the device into a Universal Remote Control for use with compatible TVs, Blu-Ray players, cable provider set-top boxes and more. The LG Optimus G Pro also comes packed with features designed to enhance and simplify your experience. With VuTalk™, users can draw and share fun and productive notes in real time*** between compatible devices, creating new ways for to express your creativity beyond traditional text-based communication*****. Using QSlide 2.0, you can also overlay up to two application windows on an existing open application, adjusting size and transparency as needed, for advanced yet convenient multitasking. For spur-of-the-moment thoughts or just to add some fun commentary to photos or screenshots, QuickMemo™ lets you take screenshots and add personalized notes, drawings and messages, then share them via social media, text or email. Key Features – Powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 1.7 GHz Quad-Core Processor with 2 GB RAM - Expansive 5.5″ 1080p Full HD IPS Screen (400 ppi resolution) - Long-Lasting 3,140 mAh Battery - Android 4.1.2 (Jelly Bean) - Advanced 13 MP Full HD Camera with Dual Recording - 2.1 MP Full HD Front-Facing Camera for Dual Recording and Video Conferencing - Visually and Audibly Collaborate in Real Time with VuTalk - QSlide 2.0 for Advanced and Convenient Multitasking - Audio Zoom to enhance audio quality during video capture by focusing audio mics on the video target - QuickRemote for Universal Remote Control - Pocketable Ergonomic Design with Narrow Bezel - Internal Storage: 32 GB on-board, support for up to 64 GB of expandable memory for a total of 96 GB - Bluetooth® Version 4.0 Pricing and Availability LG Optimus G Pro will be available for preorder online May 3 at www.att.com/optimusgpro and in AT&T retail stores May 10 for $199.99 with a two-year service agreement. Beginning today, customers who trade in their recent model smartphone to AT&T may be eligible to receive at least $100 credit** toward the purchase of a new smartphone, including the LG Optimus G Pro. This brings the cost of the device down to $99.99 with a two-year commitment. To take advantage of this offer, customers are encouraged to visit any AT&T company-owned retail store or participating authorized dealer with their previous smartphone that is no more than three years old and in good, working condition. In stores, upon trading in their old phone, customers will receive the $100 credit on-the-spot and can use it immediately. *** Some trade-in phones may have a value higher than $100. In this case, customers will receive the credit at the higher value. *AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc. ** Certain conditions apply. Credit refers to a Private Label AT&T Promotion Card ("Card"): This card is issued by MetaBank™ or CenterState Bank of Florida NA, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Requires trade-in of qualifying wireless device. Card may only b eused toward purchases of AT&T products and services in AT&T owned retail stores, at att.com, or to pay your wireless bill. Card is not redeemable for cash and may not be used for cash withdrawal at any cash-dispensing locations. Card funds are available for a minimum of 90 days after issuance, through the "Expiration Date" shown on the card. ***Limited 4G LTE availability in select markets. LTE is a trademark of ETSI. Claim based on a comparison of U.S. national carriers' average 4G LTE download speeds for Android™ and Windows smartphones and iPhone 5. 4G speeds not available everywhere. **** Based on availability of AT&T 4G LTE in in 47 markets out of 77 total cities studied; ©RootMetrics®LTE Performance Report, March 2013).http://www.rootmetrics.com/special-reports/lte-performance-review/. ***** Must initially be established with a contact over a voice call Design, features and specifications subject to change without notice About AT&T AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) is a premier communications holding company and one of the most honored companies in the world. Its subsidiaries and affiliates – AT&T operating companies – are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and internationally. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation's largest 4G network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet, voice and cloud-based services. A leader in mobile Internet, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide of any U.S. carrier, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse® and AT&T |DIRECTV brands. The company's suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world. Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com/aboutus or follow our news on @ATT, on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/att and YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/att. About LG Electronics USA LG Electronics USA, Inc., based in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., is the North American subsidiary of LG Electronics, Inc., a $45 billion global force and technology leader in consumer electronics, home appliances and mobile communications. In the United States, LG Electronics sells a range of stylish and innovative mobile phones, home entertainment products, home appliances, and air conditioning systems and energy solutions, all under LG's "Life's Good" marketing theme. LG Electronics is a 2013 ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year. For more information, please visit www.lg.com. © 2013 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. 4G not available everywhere. AT&T, the AT&T logo and all other marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners. 
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| More rumored HTC M4 details posted online, HTC One-like design mentioned Posted: 01 May 2013 08:49 AM PDT
A new HTC M4 rumor mentions specs and design details alongside a purported image of the unannounced device. The article, which has been published on Phone Arena via @evleaks, says that the HTC M4 will be positioned as an HTC One-like device, but with lower specs (something similar to what the Samsung Galaxy S3 Mini is in comparison to the S3). Of course, we’ll have to wait for an official announcement from HTC to see if these rumors will be confirmed. In terms of look, the M4 is said to be very similar to the HTC One, but the handset will obviously be smaller and the quality of the materials used will be slightly lower (a previous report said that HTC would be using a metal chassis exclusively from Catcher, in order to avoid the supply problems it faced with the One). Still, you’ll have a tough time telling them apart without a closer look. Looking at the posted picture (which you can see below), I would tend to agree.
Most of the specs rumored in the previous report have appeared in this one, too. The previous M4 rumor mentioned a 1.2GHz Snapdragon 400 processor, while the current one talks about a dual-core CPU (Qualcomm has recently demonstrated the dual-core 400). But, while it was previously said that the smartphone would have 1GB of RAM, @evleaks says that 2GB of RAM will be found on board. The two sources agree on the 4.3-inch 720p resolution display, the UltraPixel camera and Android Jelly Bean 4.2.2 OS. But now we’re also told the HTC M4 will pack 16GB of internal memory and a 1700mAh battery, which is non-removable. As for release date, the end of the second quarter is mentioned. The previous rumor said it would be coming in June, with LTE on board. Would you be interested in getting an HTC M4 that will offer you such specs? 
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| Give your HTC One a boost with Mophie’s 2,500 mAh Juice Pack Posted: 01 May 2013 08:28 AM PDT
Mophie, known for its high quality extended batteries, is now offering the Juice Pack for the HTC One. The Juice Pack, while offering a 2,500 mAh backup battery for HTC’s flagship device, also offers a protective casing around your smartphone. There’s no need to worry about the extended battery making your HTC One look ugly, either. Mophie’s Juice Pack comes in two colors to match both hues of the device, Glacial Silver or Stealth Black. Unlike a lot of extended batteries, the accessory maker seems to have made this particular Juice Pack very sleek and thin. In other words, you won’t notice a whole lot of bulk added to your HTC One. The one downside to Mophie’s Juice Pack for the HTC One is that it’ll run you an extra $100, which isn’t that bad considering how high quality and how stylish Mophie’s extended batteries are. Do you plan on getting Mophie’s Juice Pack for the HTC One or would you rather not cover up your device? Let us know in the comments section! Mophie Announces juice pack for the New HTC One™ Smartphone SANTA ANA, Calif., April 30, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — mophie, the company trailblazing innovation in the portable power category, today announced the expansion of its world-renowned juice pack line with the introduction of the juice pack for HTC One™. Customers using HTC’s newest flagship smartphone with a mophie juice pack can rock, talk, surf, and send for twice as long with the simple flip of a switch, receiving the benefits of double the battery life on one charge. The ultra-thin and lightweight design of the juice pack also complements the smartphone’s zero-gap unibody design, delivering full protection and power in a sleek profile. The juice pack for HTC One fortifies mophie’s offerings for the Android community, joining solutions for the Samsung Galaxy S III and a universal line of external rechargeable battery packs that help keep users powered up wherever they go. 
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| T-Mobile and MetroPCS merger finalized Posted: 01 May 2013 08:18 AM PDT
It's been a bit of a long-winded process, but T-Mobile and MetroPCS have successfully finalized their merger plans, which were setup all the way back in 2012. After a revised offer to MetroPCS shareholders, T-Mobile finally managed to win everyone around, and the two have now ironed out the final details, one of which is that the company will trade on the New York Stock Exchange under a new ticker symbol, TMUS. Finally, we can confirm that T-mobile will be adding the 9 million MetroPCS customers to its existing 34 million, although this will still leave the company in fourth place behind rivals Sprint. Anyone holding MetroPCS shares may also be interested to note that they'll be receiving half a share of the new company for each MetroPCS share currently owned, resulting in a 26 percent ownership of the newly formed T-Mobile US. So the finer details have all been worked out for the two companies and their stockholders, but where does that leave current MetroPCS and T-Mobile consumers? For starters, customers with existing MetroPCS plans will have to gradually move over to T-Mobile's network by 2015. T-Mobile will be shutting down MetroPCS's CDMA network, considering it's not compatible with their handsets. That's not exactly an ideal situation for MetroPCS customers, as they'll need to upgrade their handset within the next two years or lose their coverage completely. Fortunately, it's not going to be an overnight switch. There's a plus side to current and future T-Mobile LTE customers though, as MetroPCS's CDMA network will be recycled to make way for additional LTE networking space for T-Mobile, which should help it take on networking giants AT&T and Verizon. In the future, T-Mobile customers should experience better network coverage in some areas and potentially faster download speeds too, which is always a bonus. On balance, the merger is quite a good thing both for consumers and the market as a whole. Many would argue that someone needs to challenge the dominance of Verizon and AT&T, and this merger puts T-Mobile in a much better position to do so. Consumers will also be better off with a faster, less fragmented mobile network in the coming years. 
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| Posted: 01 May 2013 05:03 AM PDT
We are Android users, and we are a pampered bunch. Android is such a flexible mobile OS that our Android devices often act as our personal genies granting our daily mobile wishes, making some of our mobile dreams come true. And, powerful as OEM-provided genies already are, a task control and task automation app such as Tasker only multiplies their power severalfold. Most people describe Tasker as a task control and task automation app. But, I see more than that. It’s an Android programming app for complete noobs like me and for advanced users with experience in Android programming. But, instead of scaring you with lines of code, Tasker lets you use a friendly interface, which, at its fundamental level, lets you create mini Android apps that do your bidding. To learn how to use Tasker exhaustively is beyond the scope of this post. Instead, in this post, you’ll learn the basics of using Tasker to program your Android phone or tablet to do things that you want it to do according to rules that you specify. (Looking for a video tutorial? Jump right ahead to our video guide at the end of this post.) Tasker terminologyFirst, let’s come to terms with the terms in Tasker. Many of the concepts may be new to you, and they can be a bit overwhelming, especially to neophytes. But, once you get the logic of Tasker, you’ll find that it’s a truly powerful app even for idiots in programming.
Tasker UI
Tabs and modesAlthough I find Tasker’s features and overall user interface somewhat complex and definitely intimidating to a casual user or a newcomer to Android, the tabs on the main screen are rather self-explanatory. Freshly installed, Tasker’s interface shows three tabs by default — Profiles, Tasks, and Scenes. The default interface is set up for newbies and beginners (i.e., Beginner Mode). The default UI looks a bit different from non-beginner mode. For instance, in Beginner Mode, you can find three buttons at the bottom row of all tabs: Search, Add, and Help. When Beginner Mode is disabled, these three buttons are replaced by the default project tab (represented by a Home icon) and the Add button, plus at the top row of tabs you get a fourth tab named Vars (i.e., for variables).
Easily switch to “advanced” mode by unticking “Beginner Mode” on the UI tab on Tasker’s Preferences page. Tapping on a main tab’s name (except the Vars tab) on the main screen opens a menu with buttons for importing files and for setting the sort order for that tab. Project tabsIn “advanced” mode (i.e., with Beginner Mode disabled), tapping the default project tab opens a menu with buttons labeled Add, Import, Rename, Set Icon, and Lock/Unlock. The Add button lets you create a new project, which will have its own tab. The Import and Export buttons, of course, let you share your Tasker project files to others, or use files created by others. You can also assign custom icons to your project tabs.
You can protect your projects by setting a lock code; when prompted, just type your lock code in order to view and edit a project. Main menu
Tasker’s main menu offers commands and options that help you use and manage how the app works. Access the main menu via the capacitive Menu key or the virtual Menu button (three dots icon) at the upper-right corner of the screen. You’ll find these on the menu:
PreferencesTasker’s preferences and options reflect the flexibility of the app. To some people, this can be truly discomfiting, but to those with elevated understanding, this actually shows what Tasker and Android are all about — freedom and flexibility. Beside many of the options on the Preferences screen, you’ll see big question marks. These can offer relief if you start to scratch your head about what an option might be for. However, some of the help tips are clouded in developer or programmer language, and an idiot like me may need some time to completely digest the info.
Tasker’s configuration options are grouped into four tabs. You can customize the app’s user interface via the UI tab. On the Monitor tab, you can set personal preferences for the app’s monitoring behavior when the display is either off or on. On the Action tab, you can set values for camera delay, task execution priority for widgets or shortcuts, displaying warnings and/or errors, and maximum number of queued tasks. On the Misc tab, you can specify how long to keep backups, whether to allow other apps to run tasks, and debugging options. In the next section, you’ll continue to learn more about how to create a task and assign one or several actions to a task. 
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| Second-gen Asus MeMO Pad Smart 10 specs apparently leaked Posted: 01 May 2013 03:49 AM PDT
The Asus MeMO Pad Smart 10 is said to have a second edition coming this summer and apparently the specs for the new tablet have made their way online. The specs have been published by Greek site TechBlog and you should probably take them with a pinch of salt, since they’re far from being official and the site doesn’t state where it has received them from. On the other hand, they do look pretty good (if they will confirm, that is). The second-generation Asus MeMO Pad Smart 10 is said to run Android Jelly Bean, without the actual version being mentioned (the first model recently got updated to Jelly Bean 4.2) and feature 4G / LTE connectivity. The same source says that the CPU will be a quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 running at 1.5GHz, coupled with 1GB of RAM and an Adreno 320 GPU. The display is said to be a 10.1-inch Full HD one, while the cameras are described as a 13-megapixel main shooter and 1.2-megapixel secondary one. The specs also mention 16GB of internal memory (which you can increase using the microSD slot), as well as a 5050mAh battery. The tablet, bearing model number ME302KL would be coming out this summer, and the price, says the source, will be lower than the one of the Transformer Pad Infinity. The model number also appears in data from a Russian certification institute, quoted by Italian site Android World. Two new Transformer Pad models are mentioned alongside it, the TF302T (Wi-Fi-only) and the TF302TG (Wi-Fi and 3G), as well as the Wi-Fi-only TF501T and the Wi-Fi and 3G model TF501TG. Details about these devices are not known yet. Until the specs confirm (or not), you can check out our review of the first-gen Asus MeMO Pad Smart 10: What do you think about the rumored specs? Would you be tempted to get the second-gen Asus MeMO Pad Smart 10 if they’ll be confirmed? 
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| Sony ‘Honami’ to feature impressive Cyber-shot camera, new report reveals Posted: 01 May 2013 03:39 AM PDT
Following a previous set of rumors detailing H2 2013 future Android handsets, a new report reveals more details about one of them and its camera capabilities. Codenamed "Honami," the handset has been described in a previous report as a "One Sony" kind of handset, a device that would pack some of the best features Sony has to offer. At the same time, we'll remind you that the Honami is still in rumor phase, and we can't confirm these rumors yet. VR-Zone also reveals that "every department of Sony and not just Sony Mobile" are working on creating the device and the Honami would offer some very interesting camera features. According to the publication, the Honami may end up being one of the best camera phones out there, and could surpass in quality even the Samsung Galaxy Camera, which is one of the first Android-based camera-only products released to date. The Honami would sport a Sony 1/1.6'' Exmor RS stacked sensor, a Cyber-shot G Lens ("glass lens, premium grade") and a Xenon or Dual-LED flash that's reportedly going to be "10 times brighter than ordinary flash on smartphones." Apparently the Honami's camera sensor will be only second to the Nokia Pureview 808 in size (see image below) surpassing competitors including the Galaxy Camera, the HTC One and the Xperia Z and Galaxy S4. The number of megapixels are not mentioned this time around, although that previous rumor said the handset will pack either a 16- or 20-megapixel camera.  Image Credit: VR-Zone
The Honami would also offer new software features to complement the hardware:
Augmented Reality is also mentioned as a potential software feature for the camera. The price for such camera features is apparently paid in the design department, as the Honami won't be as slim as the Xperia Z. The device is said to have a profile of about 10mm, which is thicker than you'd expect from new smartphones. That said, it doesn’t mean Sony will compromise on design. Apparently the handset will be made of glass, metal and carbon fiber, and the Honami is already being described as "Sony Japan's most beautiful smartphone design ever. The previous report revealed that the Honami would be a 5-inch Android handset set to arrive at some point in the second half of the year. In addition to camera features, the smartphone would pack a Full HD display, dedicated Walkman audio chip, 2.3GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 800, Adreno 330 graphics, 2GB of RAM and a 2700-to-3000mAh battery. For the time being, we're still going to hold on to our grain of salt when going through these reports, even though they look more and more believable. Anyone looking forward to a better camera phone? 
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