Android Community |
- Plants vs Zombies 2 release confirmed for July
- AT&T 32GB GALAXY S 4 hits shelves this Friday
- Saturday Night Live shows us their take on Google Glass
- PSA: AT&T GALAXY S 4 WiFi tethering bug fixes step-by-step
- BlueStacks Android-apps-on-Windows tops 10 million downloads
- AT&T 4G LTE expands in Kansas, Missouri and Texas
- CyanogenMod 10.1 nightlies arrive for the T-Mobile GALAXY S 4
- Barnes & Noble announce Mother’s Day price cuts for the NOOK HD and HD+
- Sony Xperia Z now selling unlocked in the US
- Stable version of XBMC XAF custom build released for Android
- Things are looking up for HTC thanks to strong demand for the One
- Touch screen computer monitors running Android are on the horizon
- Samsung Galaxy Core borrows some Galaxy S 4 features for less
| Plants vs Zombies 2 release confirmed for July Posted: 06 May 2013 10:43 AM PDT PopCap Games has been pretty quiet in terms of Plants vs. Zombies 2 details. A short while back they opened up a little bit and had said the game was going to be released sometime in the early summer. As of today however, it looks like we now have a tiny bit more in terms of detail. Basically, PopCap Games has confirmed the game will be released in July.
They have yet to say anything about platforms. Of course, we are expecting Plants vs. Zombies 2 to arrive for Android. Not to mention the various other platforms the original is available on. We only hope that PopCap Games has the game available for all platforms at the same time. Otherwise, nothing specific was given in terms of a date. The July confirmation comes by way of a recently released teaser trailer. The catch with the trailer, aside from providing for a few laughs, there is no gameplay footage shown. Basically, the trailer is a supercut that consists of a handful of internet celebrities and fans. On the bright side, the end does reveal the new artwork, which can be seen above and in the video sitting below. While we certainly hope some additional details are revealed soon, judging from how PopCap Games has been moving forward with this — we suspect we will see more teasing before anything else. After all, we have been hearing about a Plants vs. Zombies sequel for quite some time now and it was only recently that the “early summer” timeframe was even mentioned. Anyone still playing the original? Or maybe more accurately, anyone replaying the original? [via Facebook] |
| AT&T 32GB GALAXY S 4 hits shelves this Friday Posted: 06 May 2013 10:31 AM PDT Since first announcing the Samsung GALAXY S 4 live on stage, we haven’t seen or heard anything official, from any carriers, regarding the 32 GB model of the popular handset. The 16GB GALAXY S 4 is readily available from multiple carriers, but so far we haven’t seen the 32 or 64GB flavor hit the street. Well, today AT&T just confirmed they’ll be offering the 32GB GALAXY S 4 starting May 10th.
We aren’t sure if there was a small delay from Samsung or if they are having issues meeting demand, but the 32GB model of the GALAXY S 4 has been missing in action until today. Last week we learned US Cellular wouldn’t even be offering a version over the standard 16GB option, but now at least AT&T will be able to help. In case you missed the news. Thanks to all the pretty awesome features (and some not so awesome) of the GALAXY S 4, that 16GB smartphone only comes with about 8.5GB usable out of the box. This has caused quite the controversy lately from power users wanting more storage on their devices. So now at least you’ll be happy to know the 32GB model should have around 25GB for you to fill with apps, games, movies, music and more. Today the folks from AT&T confirmed the news on Twitter. Stating the 32GB Samsung GALAXY S 4 would be available on May 10th, which is Friday, and will cost users $249 with a new 2-year contract as usual. So while we still have a while to wait for that 64GB exclusive model, those that wanted more storage can get it later this week. Device Info
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| Saturday Night Live shows us their take on Google Glass Posted: 06 May 2013 10:13 AM PDT Is it just me, or is SNL not quite as funny as it was a couple of years ago? Maybe that is because nothing can beat the Will Ferrell cowbell skit in my mind. Either way, this weekend the folks from SNL decided to let Google Glass take the stage, and they had a bit of fun at Google and other tech fans expense.
We’ve been seeing and hearing a lot about Google Glass lately in the news, especially with Google I/O just a few weeks away where surely Google will be giving us plenty of additional Glass details. This comedy skit would probably be better if we never were subject to that shower with glass photo, but to each his own. As we all know, Google Glass has received its fair share of praise and criticism in the media lately for the neat things it does, and all the things it cannot. The cast from SNL decided to take advantage of this clearly being an early product for developers only, and pokes fun at Google and Glass for a good few minutes. Enjoy! That was quite the roast right? I don’t know about you guys but I found it to be pretty hilarious and I couldn’t stop laughing at the neck jerks. It does pose a certain question about how realistic Google Glass really is. In case you didn’t notice, we got our own pair of Google Glass in this weekend, so get ready for plenty of details coming soon. So did you like this SNL skit? |
| PSA: AT&T GALAXY S 4 WiFi tethering bug fixes step-by-step Posted: 06 May 2013 10:02 AM PDT As the Samsung GALAXY S 4 roll-out continues, it is looking like the users are beginning to find some issues. Some of these will most likely be described as being bigger and more important than others. For example, the locked bootloader will probably not bother all that many users, however the limited amount of available storage on the 16GB GALAXY S 4 probably will. With that in mind, it looks like another GALAXY S 4 bug has recently been discovered.
This latest deals with WiFi tethering. Specifically, WiFi tethering for those using an AT&T model GALAXY S 4. The issue is affecting those trying to use the official tethering option found in the ‘wireless and networks’ section of the settings. Basically, even those with tethering enabled are not able to activate and use it. This issue is affecting at least some of the AT&T users and our device happens to be one of the affected. You can get a look from the screenshots below, the phone will make an attempt to verify and then jumps to the ‘mobile hotspot is unavailable’ message.    We’ve since reported the issue to Samsung and they’re looking into it. In the meantime, we have done some testing and do have a workaround solution for those in need of tethering. There is an app called Extended Controls available in the Google Play Store. The app isn’t free, however it is sitting at a low-priced $0.99. Getting tethering setup with the Extended Controls app involves just a few steps, which are detailed below.
   From here, you can begin using tethering as you want and/or need. For those who may have issues with spending $0.99 to be able to use a feature that should be accessible from your phone, you can take some comfort in knowing the Extended Controls app has plenty of other worthwhile features. Just to start, this app offers customizable widgets with lots of available advanced settings for each of the widgets. The app has the option to set custom backgrounds and adjust the transparency of the widgets. Some of the available widgets include an AlwaysOn feature, AutoLock, AudioManager, Contact Direct Dial and many more. While we wait for something further from Samsung on this issue, those needing WiFi tethering now can find the Extended Controls app using this Google Play Store link. Device Info
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| BlueStacks Android-apps-on-Windows tops 10 million downloads Posted: 06 May 2013 08:29 AM PDT The BlueStacks app player for Windows was released in beta form a little more than a year earlier. The software launched in beta towards the end of March 2012 and as of today it looks like the company is celebrating a new milestone. It seems they have crossed the 10 million download mark.
For those keeping track, the BlueStacks app player wasn’t released for the Mac until December 2012. Putting the Mac release to the side, it looks like the 10 million download mark has surpassed the expectations of everyone from the company. In fact, the BlueStacks employee with the closest guess was still off by roughly 9 million. BlueStacks CEO Rosen Sharma said the employees all took bets on where they would be after the first year. According to Sharma, the employee that was the closest had guessed a few hundred thousand. In addition to sharing the milestone number, BlueStacks is also working to get a new version of Android up and running. There hasn’t been any specific release dates revealed just yet, however a Jelly Bean version is expected to arrive in the not-to-distant future. Otherwise, the other side of the 10 million download milestone is the amount of active users. Sadly the company didn’t share this number. Instead, the senior VP of marketing did refer to that number as being “spooky high.” That said, anyone here a BlueStacks user? [via AllThingsD] |
| AT&T 4G LTE expands in Kansas, Missouri and Texas Posted: 06 May 2013 07:56 AM PDT AT&T has announced their latest 4G LTE expansion. While this roll-out doesn’t include as many markets as the last go around, there is probably something to be said for the timing as this update has arrived less than a week after the last. This latest bit is dealing with five markets across Kansas, Missouri and Texas.
Specifically, AT&T 4G LTE coverage has arrived for those in Manhattan, Kansas as well as Sedalia and Warrensburg, Missouri. The Texas coverage is for those in Jacksonville and Palestine. Basically, it looks like those in any of these five markets may want to start considering an LTE capable device when they next upgrade their handset. As for LTE capable smartphones, AT&T has recently released a few to include the LG Optimus G Pro as well as the Samsung GALAXY S 4 and HTC One. Those looking for a bit more information on any of those devices may benefit from some of our recent coverage, which included some hands-on time with the Optimus G Pro. The Optimus G Pro is the most recent of that bunch and the carrier began accepting pre-orders for the handset last week. Alternatively, if you are already sporting an LTE capable device, now seems like as good a time as any to head out and begin taking advantage of those newly increased speeds. |
| CyanogenMod 10.1 nightlies arrive for the T-Mobile GALAXY S 4 Posted: 06 May 2013 07:29 AM PDT We had previously seen details of CyanogenMod 10.1 running on the T-Mobile version of the GALAXY S 4. As of today however, it looks like we now have word that the nightly builds are available for those who want to begin playing. The details are coming by way of Steve Kondik who recently made mention that the T-Mobile GALAXY S 4 nightlies have arrived and that they will be porting CM10.1 to other variants when they get the devices.
As far as the T-Mobile version of the nightlies, this one comes with the warning about how there are still a “few rough edges.” Perhaps key though, it was also said that these rough edges will be “ironed out in short order and you should be able to use it as your daily driver without serious issues.” Of course, remember that these being nightlies — there may still be some issues and quirks. Other details mentioned about this build include how the touchscreen “should” support hover events. Remember though, while there are different variants of the GALAXY S 4, you will need to make sure you are using the correct build for your particular model. That is to say that if you have a GALAXY S 4 that is not the T-Mobile version (SGH-M919) you shouldn’t try to install this CM10.1 release. Basically, just sit back and hope that the other devices come available so the CyanogenMod team can work to complete the port. And for those wondering, the I9505 was mentioned specifically. [via Google+ Steve Kondik] |
| Barnes & Noble announce Mother’s Day price cuts for the NOOK HD and HD+ Posted: 06 May 2013 06:59 AM PDT Barnes & Noble has announced a price cut for the NOOK HD and NOOK HD+ tablets. This time around the price cuts are for those in the US market, however the newly lowered price will only be available for a limited time. Barnes & Noble has timed this drop in price with Mother’s Day and as such, these prices will only be in effect through May 12.
Those considering a purchase will be able to pick up an 8GB NOOK HD for $149. The 16GB model will be selling for $179. The NOOK HD+ is available in a 16GB and 32GB model and those will be priced at $179 and $209 respectively. Barnes & Noble has said these prices will be available by way of the NOOK.com website as well as at their retail stores and “other leading retailers.” With the sale pricing in mind, Barnes & Noble is using this as another opportunity to remind everyone about how the NOOK HD and NOOK HD+ now have access to the Google Play Store. Basically, in addition to everything the NOOK tablets could do in the past, they now also have access to the Google services including Gmail and Google Maps. Aside from the Google services, the NOOK HD and HD+ also have access to the more than 3 million books available from the NOOK Store, of which it was said that more than 1 million are available for free. These tablets also have HD displays, expandable memory and WiFi connectivity as well as NOOK Channels and NOOK Profiles. |
| Sony Xperia Z now selling unlocked in the US Posted: 06 May 2013 06:27 AM PDT Sony had previously begun selling the Xperia ZL for those in the US. The handset was selling unlocked and as such, it was priced a bit above $700. Well, it looks like the Sony Xperia ZL has recently been given a price cut. Additionally, Sony has also begun selling an unlocked version of the Xperia Z. The Xperia Z is HSPA+ compatible and is available at this moment.
That being said, lets first dive into the Xperia ZL price cut. When the handset first came available in the Sony Store it was priced at $759.99. As of today however that same handset is now priced at $629.99. The Xperia ZL remains available in three colors — black, white and red. Otherwise, Sony currently has the expected shipping date as being May 7th and those making the purchase can also expect free two-day shipping. Shifting over to the availability of the Sony Xperia Z. Here you have a handset that is priced at $629.99. The Xperia Z is available in black, white and purple. Specifically, the available model is the C6602, which brings HSPA+ network support. Aside from the network support, the Xperia Z also brings specs to include a 5-inch display at 1920 x 1080, quad-core 1.5GHz Snapdragon S4 processor and is running Android 4.1 Jelly Bean. The Xperia Z also has 2GB of RAM, 16GB of internal storage and a 13 megapixel rear-facing camera with Sony’s Exmor RS for Mobile image sensor. Specs aside, while Sony is now selling an unlocked version of the Xperia Z, the handset is also expected to arrive for sale with T-Mobile. While we have yet to hear anything direct from the carrier, we have recently seen an FCC filing that had the handset showing with support for the T-Mobile LTE network. [via Xperia Blog] |
| Stable version of XBMC XAF custom build released for Android Posted: 06 May 2013 06:08 AM PDT If you have your eyes on an Android-powered HT PC for the living room, a stable XAF custom build of XBMC is now available for Android users. The people behind the software say that it’s the first and only truly end user-friendly release of XBMC available on the Internet. If you’re not familiar with XBMC, it is a media center software suite that uses third-party add-ons allowing you to access content available online in formats that are easy-to-use.
The software also links to existing websites that provide streaming video content, so there’s no piracy going on using the software. The new stable release of the software offers some of the most popular XBMC add-ons pre-configured with the software. New add-ons are being worked on each week according to the developers. The software uses an external player allowing for hardware accelerated video decoding on just about any Android device out there. You can follow the steps for the installation of the software on your own device on the official website here. The process involves installing the MX Player application. Once the application is launched, users can then download and install the XAF Custom Build of XBMC. You will have to apply any updates to the application the citizens installed on your device. If you decide to take advantage of this new software, be sure and let us know how it works for you. [via XBMC] |
| Things are looking up for HTC thanks to strong demand for the One Posted: 06 May 2013 05:16 AM PDT The outlook at HTC was very bleak earlier this year as demand for its smartphones continued to decline in the face of increasing competition from Samsung and other Android smartphone makers. However, HTC bet big on its new smartphone called the HTC One. In fact, HTC was so confident in its new smartphone that it promised a turnaround for Q2 of 2013 once the device gained traction.
Early indications and that HTC is in fact gaining traction thanks to the popularity of its One smartphone. HTC recently reported that revenue for April 2013 was up by 23% unaudited compared to March. The numbers HTC is throwing around for April 2013 are $664 million in revenue. Despite popularity for the HTC One, the smartphone maker is still operating in rough waters. In March of 2013, HTC was down 48.57% compared to the previous year. Even though HTC improved in April 2013, the numbers are still 36.87% lower than the same month last year. Despite still treading murky waters, HTC is still betting big on the One as rolls out to broader availability over the coming months. If demand stays strong, the One could help HTC return back to significant profitability. [via SlashGear] |
| Touch screen computer monitors running Android are on the horizon Posted: 06 May 2013 05:06 AM PDT It’s difficult to set most computer monitors apart from other products on the market for manufacturers. There are number of units that offer touch support for computers running Microsoft Windows 8 and other operating systems, and most of them are virtually identical. An analyst from a company called WitsView believes that computer monitors featuring integrated Android operating system will be coming to the market soon.
According to the analytics firm, computer monitor makers are currently considering producing computer displays in a size range of around 21-inches that would feature an integrated ARM processor and would be able to run Android without the need for a computer. The analytics firm says that these Android-equipped computer monitors could be looked at as simple as all-in-one computers or even large tablets. Presumably, these devices will be able to be connected to a normal computer just as a standard desktop monitors. The analysts believe that these Android packing computer monitors will be about twice the price of conventional displays. The company estimates that the cheapest Android-powered monitor will sell for around $400. Compared to AIO computers that typically start at about $600, a price of $400 for the computer monitors featuring Android looks pretty good. I’m not sure this sort product would be that popular, what do you think? [via The Register] |
| Samsung Galaxy Core borrows some Galaxy S 4 features for less Posted: 06 May 2013 04:51 AM PDT Samsung creates some of the most popular Android devices in all of the ecosystem. The company is undoubtedly going to sell hordes of its new Galaxy S 4 smartphone. The problem for some people is that the S 4 will be more than their budget can support. Samsung is aiming at these budget shoppers with a new low to midrange device that looks a whole lot like the S 4 but carries a lower price.
The new phone is called the Galaxy Core and has a 4.3-inch display. The smartphone uses a 1.2 GHz dual-core processor and has support for dual SIM cards. The device also allows users to have both of those SIM cards active at the same time and switch between calls. Some markets will only get a single SIM version of the device and it’s unclear exactly which market will get what version.
The smartphone will run Android 4.1 for the operating system and use Samsung TouchWiz user-interface. The Galaxy Core has a five-megapixel rear camera and a VGA resolution front camera. The Core doesn’t support LTE, but will operate on 5.7 Mbps HSPA networks and quad band GSM/edge.
Other features include integrated Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 3.0, A-GPS, and 8 GB of internal storage. The phone also has 1 GB of RAM and a microSD card slot. That memory card slot supports up to 64 GB of additional storage. Power comes from a removable 1800 mAh battery been. Pricing is unannounced and it’s unclear which areas of the world will get the device first. Those details are expected closer to launch, which is tipped for later this month. [via SlashGear] |
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