Android Authority

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• Qualcomm adds six new processors to Snapdragon 200 range
• The LG (Optimus) G2 will probably be announced on August 7 in New York
• Sick of being quiet, HTC will give Robert Downey Jr. $12 million in marketing deal
• Purported Galaxy Note 3 image hits the web, shows small bezel, rounded corners
• OPPO confirms Find 7, tests waters for potential Find 5 Google Edition
• Sony Xperia Tablet Z vs. Google Nexus 10 (video)
• HTC CEO Peter Chou isn’t going anywhere
• Samsung Galaxy S4 adding five new colors to the mix
• Samsung Galaxy NX camera official: runs Android, comes with interchangeable lens powers
• Ubuntu mobile OS now guided by an advisory group comprised of carriers
• Sony confirms Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean update for the Xperia ZL
• Samsung ATIV Q Windows laptop / Android tablet now official: specs, features, pricing and release date
• LiveMap will give motorcyclists a heads-up display
• Spotify Android app updated, finally brings notification controls
• Google faces fines in France over user data policy
• Video on Instagram official, to take on Twitter’s Vine starting today
• Dolphin Browser celebrates 80 million installs with new version
• Sony Xperia Z Jelly Bean 4.2.2 update could come in mid-July, carrier roadmap says
• Watch the Samsung Premiere 2013 live stream here
• 6 best cheap Android smartphones
• Huawei Ascend Mate vs. Samsung Galaxy Mega 6.3
• Nvidia lowers the price of the Shield to $299, ships on June 27. But will it be a home run?
• Privacy commissioners from around the world write to Google to get more details on Glass
• Asus, Acer, Dell and Lenovo are reportedly preparing 8-inch Android tablets for Q3 2013
• Why are millimeters more important than milliampere-hours?

Qualcomm adds six new processors to Snapdragon 200 range Posted: 21 Jun 2013 02:15 AM PDT There is lots of buzz at the moment about the speed of the Snapdragon 800 processor but high-performance processors aren’t the only type of chips that Qualcomm make. Along with the Snapdragon 800 there are the dual-core and quad-core Snapdragon 400 and 600 processors, which both use the Krait 300 core, and there is Qualcomm’s level entry class of CPUs, the Snapdragon 200. There is lots of competition at the low-end from companies like MediaTek which recently launched a quad core CPU using the Cortex-A7 architecture and is known to be working on a budget big.LITTLE processor. As a result Qualcomm’s current quad-core Cortex-A5 Snapdragon 200 processors are starting to look a bit old. To address this the company has released details of six new processors which it will add to the Snapdragon 200 class. Unlike the Snapdragon 400, 600 and 800 which uses Qualcomm’s custom Krait core, the Snapdragon 200 range uses a standard Cortex design as released by ARM. The new Snapdragon 200 processors will all use the Cortex-A7 following suit with MediaTek. The new processors will be available in dual- and quad-core configurations and will be built  using a 28nm process technology (down from 45nm for the current processors) just like the other Snapdragon CPUs. The new chips are designed specifically for entry-level smartphones and tablets and support 3G (but not LTE) out of the box, in single SIM and dual SIM configurations. The processors will also have support for dual cameras, up to 8 Megapixel for the rear-facing camera and up to 5 Megapixel for the front-facing one. On the GPU side the new Snapdragon 200 processors will get a boost with the inclusion of the new Adreno 302 GPU, which Qualcomm is claiming offers class-leading graphics performance. The six new processors are all compatible with Android, Windows Phone and the Firefox operating system. Qualcomm anticipate that the new processors will be available in late 2013.

The LG (Optimus) G2 will probably be announced on August 7 in New York Posted: 21 Jun 2013 01:20 AM PDT The follow up to the Optimus G is likely to be called simply the G2 and to arrive in late summer. LG has sent out invitations to the press for August 7, for a media event in New York. The company didn't reveal the theme of the event, but from the talk we've been hearing, it's certainly the G2. LG has been doing pretty good for itself lately. The second largest Korean smartphone maker managed to double its shipments in 2012, and has already sold 10.3 million devices in Q1 2013, prompting analysts to increase targets for this year. LG's current success is largely owed to a focus on quality and cutting-edge specifications, which allowed it to put out a series of successful devices, starting with the Optimus G, launched in the second half of 2012. The successor to the Optimus G will be just as impressive from a technical point of view, as it will be powered by the new Snapdragon 800 system on a chip from Qualcomm. The SoC will bring LTE Advanced compatibility (though that should prove useful for a very limited number of users), more speed, 4K resolution and 4K playback support, and lower battery consumption. In short, Snapdragon 800 is the processor that will be powering high-end Android phones for the next 6 to 12 months, and LG will be among the first manufacturers to use it. If you were hoping to see LG's long time coming flexible display on the G2, you're in for a disappointment. The first plastic-based panels will only trickle out in the fourth quarter of the year, and there's no way LG would use a brand new technology on a high-profile bestseller like the G2. We expect to see more details on the G2 leak over the next six weeks, so stay tuned.

Sick of being quiet, HTC will give Robert Downey Jr. $12 million in marketing deal Posted: 21 Jun 2013 12:30 AM PDT HTC was too quiet, for too long. At least that's what the company's Chief Marketing Officer Ben Ho told the press in March, when he revealed that HTC would retire the "Quietly Brilliant" tagline, in favor of a more "bold", "authentic", and "playful" image. The embattled Taiwanese company has already begun to be louder and more aggressive, openly criticizing its much larger rival Samsung and highlighting the areas where the One trumps the Galaxy S4. Now it looks that HTC is going to tap into the star power of the bold Mr. Tony Stark himself, Robert Downey Jr. Sources told Bloomberg that the actor has signed a two-year marketing deal with HTC that is worth a cool $12 million. The star from Iron Man, The Avengers, and Sherlock Holmes will be promoting HTC's products in television, print, and billboard ads, said Bloomberg, although he will only do it as himself and not as Iron Man or other characters he impersonates. Downey will reportedly have a say on the creative aspects of the marketing campaign. HTC refused to either acknowledge or deny the deal, though the reply from a company spokeswoman seems to allude to a deal with the Iron Man star: The HTC One smartphone's all-metal design has drawn overwhelmingly positive feedback from media and consumers alike. Anyone with a penchant for metal should be able to appreciate its appeal. Sally Julien, HTC Many industry watchers have decried HTC's weak and inconsistent marketing efforts, especially when opposed to Samsung's deluge of ads and promotional campaigns. The Korean giant spent $400 million for ads in the United States last year, compared to a paltry $46 million in HTC's case. Samsung has been successfully betting on star power, with celebrities ranging from Seth Rogen to LeBron James appearing in its ads. The latest celeb deal involves rapper Jay Z, who will make his new album available in advance to Galaxy users. HTC doesn't have the financial might of its rival, but celebrity endorsements like the deal signed with Robert Downey Jr. could do wonders for its sales. The actor is set to star in the next Iron Man in 2015, as well as in The Avengers 2 and 3, in the coming years. Will he sport an HTC device in any of these flicks? We hope so, but that involves a deal between HTC and the studios, which, while  possible, it’s only speculation for now.

Purported Galaxy Note 3 image hits the web, shows small bezel, rounded corners Posted: 21 Jun 2013 12:24 AM PDT Galaxy Note 3 concept A new purported image of the upcoming Galaxy Note 3 flagship smartphone has hit the web, although it can't be confirmed just yet. This isn't the first rumored image showing the next-generation Galaxy Note smartphone model, and it'll surely not be the last, so, as always, we advise taking it with the appropriate amount of salt. Assuming this is the real deal – or maybe another prototype of the device? – we're looking at a smartphone that seems to have a large screen, small bezel and rounded corners. Strangely enough, the following picture doesn't show the entire handset, only a portion of its top and right side – you'd think that those people leaking such details about an upcoming device would have time to take better pictures of the handset. The Galaxy Note 3 is expected to pack a 6-inch touchscreen display – which is exactly what the device in the image above is said to offer – and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor under the hood. Traditionally, Galaxy Note models are unveiled at the German IFA show in September, but new rumors suggest that the Galaxy Note 3 could arrive earlier to make up for poorer than expected Galaxy S4 sales. However, unlike in previous years when it had little competition in the “XXL” smartphone department, the Galaxy Note 3 will have at least a couple of formidable adversaries this year, including the HTC One Max (T6) and the Sony Xperia Z Ultra (ZU or Togari). Both devices are yet to be unveiled, although the latter should be announced in less than a week. Are you looking forward to the Galaxy Note 3, or will you buy a different large smartphone?

OPPO confirms Find 7, tests waters for potential Find 5 Google Edition Posted: 20 Jun 2013 07:33 PM PDT OPPO, a relative newcomer to the Android smartphone game, succeeded in producing a quality handset earlier this year, the Find 5. We did a thorough review of the phone, and, in summary, found the sleek design, unobtrusive software, and solid battery life impressive. It seems we weren't the only ones. Apparently, the Find 5 sold well enough to justify a sequel: OPPO announced today that it has begun development of the successor to the Find 5, the Find 7. Unfortunately, the statement OPPO provided was light on details. The company said the Find 7 is in the early stages of development, but didn't elaborate beyond warning not to expect the smartphone this fall. As a consolation of sorts, OPPO asked Google+ users if a Google Edition of the Find 5 sounded appealing, potentially hinting at a stock Android re-release of the phone. The company didn't confirm or deny such plans, but it's safe to say a Google Edition phone is an area of interest for them. The Find 7, whenever it comes, is rumored to sport a Snapdragon 800 quad-core processor, 2GB of RAM, and an astounding 4000 mAh batter under the hood. Should those rumblings prove correct, the Find 7 will be quite the answer to Samsung's revamped Galaxy S4.

Sony Xperia Tablet Z vs. Google Nexus 10 (video) Posted: 20 Jun 2013 05:17 PM PDT In one hand, we have the Xperia Tablet Z, a gorgeous tablet that inherits some of the elements from Sony’s flagship smartphone, the Xperia Z. In the other hand, we have the tried and true Google Nexus 10, yet another stylish tablet that proves to be a great performer. These are two of the best tablets on the market. The big difference between the two is that the Xperia Tablet Z offers a slick, forked version of Android with a few bells and whistles thrown in. On the other hand, the Nexus 10 offers buttery smooth performance with Project Butter and the coveted, vanilla Android experience. Design In what might become a tight race, we start off with design. The Xperia Tablet Z takes on a pleasing rigid rectangular design. The Tablet Z is a black state with rigid corners and one of the thinnest profiles we’ve ever seen on a tablet. The front is all black with a front facing camera placed at the top, and the spine has all of the buttons on the left side, including Sony’s iconic metal silver power button. As for the ports, you get a microSD card slot and microUSB slots, all covered by a piece of plastic, which enables the tablet to have water resistance. Looking at the back, we have the rear facing camera, and the material around it is made up of a slightly rubberized material that helps the device from slipping about. When it comes down to it, this is one of the most attractive and best handling devices on the market. Weighing in at 495 grams, this tablet is so thin and light that you’ll be tossing it around as easily as a spiral notebook. On the other hand, the Nexus 10 takes on a more classic look. Made by Samsung, the 10-inch beast has the tried and true rounded pebble design. You have the black slate front with the front facing camera, but this time time, you also get some really awesome front facing speakers along the sides. Buttons are found on the top, and ports on the side. The right side port is for a mini-HDMI connection. Looking around the back, the Nexus 10 has a much sticker material around the rear facing camera. All in all, the Nexus 10 is a somewhat no frills tablet when it comes to design — other than those gorgeous front facing speakers (more on that later). Weighing in at 600 grams, it’s a tad bit more heavy than the Xperia Tablet Z. Since the Nexus 10 doesn’t have the thinness of the Tablet Z, you’ll probably be keeping the Nexus 10 in both hands, as single hand usage feels a little perilous. When it comes down to it, it’s all based on preference. Are you looking for a tablet that brings a new, exciting style to what we already know? Then the Xperia Tablet Z is for you. The Nexus 10′s classic looks isn’t bad — it’s just something we’ve seen before, and that’s perfectly OK. Display Expectations are usually high when it comes to displays on larger tablets, and thankfully, both the Xperia Tablet Z and Nexus 10 give their best. While both offer 10-inch screens, the Xperia Tablet Z sports an LCD display capable of 1,920 x 1,200 resolution rated at 224ppi. It’s a beautiful display, and with good viewing angles and the BRAVIA Engine backing it, you get a TV-like experience, which is yet another industry Sony does really well in. On the other hand, we have the Nexus 10, which has some extra power behind it’s display. At 2,560 x 1,600 resolution rated at 299ppi, you get an unsurprisingly great viewing experience. While the PLS display is definitely not a Super AMOLED as we’ve come to expect from Samsung, it still has great color reproduction that rivals the LCD display on the Xperia Tablet Z. While there may seem to be a decent difference in pixel density, it’s actually pretty negligible. The everyday user isn’t going to notice the difference, and viewing text, whether in websites or ebooks, it poses absolutely no problems. If you really want that extra boost in resolution, the Nexus 10 is for you. However, since 95% of our media is in 1080p, either device will prove to be a great performer. Performance While the processor package powering the Xperia Tablet Z may seem a little dated by now, Sony knew that the Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro was and still is a reliable performer. Don’t discount the 1.5GHz CPU backed by the Adreno 320 GPU and 2GB of RAM — it has powered Sony’s flagship devices, which has achieved scores above 20,000 in AnTuTu, and the same goes for the Tablet Z.   Thanks to the extra RAM, you’ll get a lot of multitasking done on this device, and Small Apps, along with work and play, will be extremely easy to handle. It’s a fast tablet, but perhaps not as fast as the Nexus 10. Snapdragon processors seem to be the norm these days, but Samsung didn’t follow that trend. Instead, they equipped the Google tablet with an in-house package — the Exynos dual-core Cortex A15 clocked at 1.7GHz. Quad-core CPU’s tend to be the norm these days, but don’t discount the Nexus 10 because of its dual-core offering — it’s still a very good and reliable performer. The Nexus 10 is also equipped with a Mali-T604 GPU and 2GB of RAM, making the stock Android experience speedy as ever. The scores that AnTuTu offers is only tells part of the story, as optimization plays a big role in the Nexus 10. Those that are looking for more updated specs will love the Xperia Tablet Z, but I can’t stress enough how the Nexus 10, a tablet that scores under 15,000 in AnTuTu, feels more like an 18,000 performer. Hardware The Sony Xperia Tablet already has a trump card with its added water resistance capabilities. While it isn’t a feature we we’ll intentionally take advantage of, it’s a good type of insurance to have that will keep accidents from being more than just mishaps. Water resistance isn’t the only thing that makes this device appealing though — it has a microSD card slot to help bolster the 16 or 32GB of storage already built in. The speakers found on the two bottom corners are also decent, but this is where the Nexus 10 shines. Front facing speakers are awesome — you can’t argue with that. The two nondescript speaker grills on the Nexus 10 provide beautiful, loud and rich sound quality that you just don’t find on many mobile devices. This is definitely one of the major selling factors in terms of hardware. Unfortunately, the 16 or 32GB of storage built in aren’t expandable. However, the Nexus 10 can boast of its HDMI connectivity, as a secondary display is achieved on the Xperia Tablet through MHL, not HDMI. So, as you can see, both tablets have their ups and downs, but when it comes down to it, do you want your tablet to survive accidental splashing or would your rather go for the gorgeous sound quality? It’s up to you to decide which is more important. Battery and camera It might seem unfair to compare battery life in this. After all, the Xperia Tablet Z comes equipped with a 6,000 mAh unit that is somewhat dwarfed by the massive 9,000 mAh performer in the Nexus 10. The Nexus 10 is able to get through seven and a half hours of general usage on Wi-Fi easily, and the Xperia is able to reach Sony’s own claims of around six hours. It’s no surprise, though. Standby time is great on either tablet, and you can get even more battery life out of your Xperia Tablet Z by taking advantage of power saving features. When it comes down to it, you’ll get a tad bit more work and place out of the Nexus 10, but there really isn’t a huge difference here. Cameras on tablets are often hard to take seriously, perhaps that is because of their low quality and lack of mobility. However, both of the optics on these two performers are actually pretty good. The Xperia Tablet Z comes with an 8-megapixel rear shooter. It’s less powerful than the 13-megapixel shooter on the Xperia Z smartphone, but still similar in some cases. With the Xperia Tablet Z, you get an EXMOR sensor, and the app is loaded with a whole host of different scene modes that support Superior Auto, which helps you get just the right shot. Picture quality is decent, but it definitely isn’t as good as its smartphone counterparts, which is to be expected. Equipped with a 5-megapixel rear shooter, the Nexus 10′s camera isn’t as powerful as its competitors’. The camera app is also not loaded with as many features, but it does come with the coveted Photo Sphere function. While it’s a fast performer and has good shutter-to-file speed, pictures are even worse here. That’s not much of a surprise, though. It’s nice having a camera handy on your tablet, but these are definitely considered backups when you likely have much better camera performance on any smartphone you might have in your pocket. Software And finally, we arrive at the software. Depending on your preference, this could be a very skewed category. After all, many of us Android users prefer the standard, unadulterated, vanilla Android experience. The Nexus line makes it clear that Android at its purest can be the best, and that’s just what you get with the Nexus 10. Not only is it loaded with the latest version of Android, you can rest assured that this device will continue to get the most updated software available, which is the norm for most Nexus devices. Apps optimized for tablets come along with the coveted Google Now software and the smooth performance of Project Butter. Sure, it doesn’t come with a whole lot of bells and whistles, compared to forked versions of Android, but because of that, stock Android is the best performing software out there. There’s no doubt about that. While extras may not be particularly welcomed on stock Android, they may help Sony’s Xperia UI, though. The general look of the interface found on the Xperia Tablet Z resembles the Ice Cream Sandwich edition of Android; however, it does come with other apps and functionality that give the device a boost. Small Apps serve as small overlays over the current workspace for easy and quick multitasking. On top of that, Sony has included some of their own great applications, such as the Walkman and the Album picture gallery. They really do brings some key differences to this version of Android. If you’re certain that you can put the extras to good use in the Xperia UI, the Xperia Tablet Z will no doubt be a great companion for you. Otherwise, stock Android and its buttery performance is as good as it gets, and general functionality isn’t that far off, in this comparison. Either way, you get a nice, easy to use interface with a few bells and whistles thrown in, depending on your choice. Video review Price While the Nexus 10 is the tablet made for Google, it doesn’t retain the same low price point that the Nexus 4 and Nexus 7 boast of. However, even at $399, the price is still much cheaper than the premium price point of the Sony Xperia Tablet Z at $499. That $100 difference is huge. The Nexus 10 and Xperia Tablet Z are both formidable tablets, but when it comes down to it, it’s a matter of necessities. You’ll have an equal amount of fun on either device, but what are you looking to get out of your 10-inch tablet? Do you need water resistance, or at least the nimble fun you can have with such a thin and light device? Or do you need the great sound quality from the front facing speakers, or at least the latest and greatest that Google’s stock Android has to offer? The questions have to be answered on your own. However, the Nexus 10 and Xperia Tablet Z are two of the best tablets on the market. No matter which one you choose, you’re in for a lot of fun. Brad Ward contributed to this review.

HTC CEO Peter Chou isn’t going anywhere Posted: 20 Jun 2013 04:32 PM PDT Back in March we reported on rumors suggesting that HTC’s CEO would step down from his position if the HTC One didn’t prove to be a true success. Fast-forwarding a few months, the HTC One has seen its share of struggles with component shortages, but ultimately has been well received. So what’s the verdict? Will HTC’s Peter Chou step down? Absolutely not. Speaking in an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Chou made it clear that he has no intentions to quit, and claims he never did. “There are a lot of rumors that say I would quit, but I never said that. I’m not going to find another job.” With several high-profile execs jumping ship at HTC recently, it’s nice to know that Chou is ready and willing to stick it out through the difficult times ahead. HTC might still be struggling to find its way back to its lost golden age, but once it did manage to get things straightened out with the HTC One’s supply issues, the company did turn it’s highest revenue in 11 months, reporting NT$29 billion for May. That’s even with increasing competition in the form of the Samsung Galaxy S4. Chou is essentially considered the cornerstone of HTC’s business, and – for better or worse – even the company’s board seems more than ready to stand behind the CEO. “The board has a lot of confidence in Peter, and share price is not going to drive decisions on the future of the chief executive,” says David Yoffie, a member of HTC’s board and one of Chou’s former professors while in attendance at Harvard. Has HTC planted the seeds of success with the HTC One? It is really too early to say whether or not the HTC One can do enough to turn things around for the company. That said, HTC has noticeably made a real impact with the One. For the first time in while, people are buzzing about HTC – and not just talk about how it is supposedly dying. While Samsung’s Galaxy S4 is a solid handset with tons of great features, it is ultimately just an upgrade to the GS3 in design and philosophy (though that’s not necessarily a bad thing). The HTC One is something completely fresh, and it’s hard not to notice. Add this to compelling devices like the HTC Butterfly S and HTC One Mini and it’s obvious that HTC isn’t done fighting yet. This is good news, whether you love HTC or not. The more competition out there, the more we will start to see real innovation and competitive pricing. What do you think, can HTC turn things around? Is Peter Chou the man to do it, or is it time that the company considered a new direction – and new CEO?

Samsung Galaxy S4 adding five new colors to the mix Posted: 20 Jun 2013 02:49 PM PDT Like the Samsung Galaxy S4 but feel that its current color palette is a bit lacking? Today's your lucky day. At Samsung's Premiere 2013 event, the Korean giant announced it will soon be introducing five brand new colors to the mix: Blue Arctic, Purple Mirage, Red Aurora, Brown Autumn and Pink Twilight. That's certainly a big jump from the current Black Frost and Artic White options. When can we expect these new color choices, and where? That's a good question, and something that Samsung has yet to fully answer, other than we know that AT&T subscribers can already get their hands on Red Aurora. All we can say is that the colors are likely coming sooner rather than later, though we’ll keep you up to date as we learn more. Outside of the color changes, everything else about the GS4 obviously remains the same, hardware and software wise. For those that need a brief refresher, the Galaxy S4 is powered by an Exynos 5 or Snapdragon 600 processor – depending on your region. Other specs include 16/32/64GB storage, microSD, 2GB RAM, a 2600 mAh battery, and Android 4.2.2 with TouchWiz. If you’ve been on the fence about the Galaxy S4 and find the new color choices make you even more interested in getting Samsung’s latest handset, check out our full review to get a better idea of what to expect with the GS4: Samsung Galaxy S4 Review [11:50] What do you think of the new colors, which one would you be interested in picking up?

Samsung Galaxy NX camera official: runs Android, comes with interchangeable lens powers Posted: 20 Jun 2013 01:03 PM PDT Samsung on Thursday unveiled a new Android-based camera, the Samsung Galaxy NX, an interchangeable lens camera spotted in recent rumors. Hot on the heels of the Galaxy S4 Zoom, the Galaxy NX will offer you even better camera features considering that its buyers will be able to use whatever lenses they require for their phots. But unlike the Zoom, which is a hybrid ready to offer you features from two distinct worlds, the Galaxy NX won't come with smartphone features. In fact, here's what you can expect from the camera when it comes to hardware. Specs and features 4.8-inch touchscreen display 1.6GHz quad-core processor 2GB of RAM 16GB of internal memory microSD support Camera features: 20.3-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, DRIMe IV Image Signal processor, advanced Hybrid Auto Focus system, 1/6000 sec shutter speed, 8.6fps shooting, up to 25,600 ISO, built-in Pop-up flash, lens shift image stabilization and various smart camera modes including Photo Suggest, Story Album, Smart Mode (30 different modes), Multi Exposure, Animated Photo, Sound & Shot, Camera Studio 3G/4G LTE support (but no voice calls support) Wi-Fi a/b/g/n Bluetooth 4.0 GPS, GLONASS 4360mAh Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean Other software: Samsung Kies, Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Size: 136.5 x 101.2 x 25.7 (37.65) mm Weight: 410g(without battery) / 495(with standard battery) Release date and pricing Unfortunately, Samsung has not announced availability details for the handset during the London-based event. We don't have a launch date for you, and when it comes to pricing, The Verge estimates that the Galaxy NX will cost "close to $1,000 with a kit lens." We'll be back with more details once Samsung reveals more information about its brand new camera. Introducing GALAXY NX, The First Interchangeable-Lens Camera with 3G/4G LTE & Wi-Fi Connectivity Always connected, the Samsung GALAXY NX turns every picture into a story worth telling LONDON, UK – June 20, 2013 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced the launch of the GALAXY NX, the first 3G/4G LTE Connected Compact System Camera (CSC). Versatile and easy to use, the GALAXY NX combines cutting edge optical performance with connectivity capabilities and galaxy of applications based on Android eco-system, all in one stylish package. The result is a new type of connected device which allows users to turn their experiences into a story that can be instantly shared with anyone they choose, from wherever they might be, in amazing color and outstanding detail. “The GALAXY NX reflects the unique needs of a user who needs to take professional photos and share them immediately in any situation. For those who want to express themselves and the exciting moments that make up their lives quickly, easily and on the go, the GALAXY NX is an ideal choice” said Myoung Sup Han, Senior Vice President and Head of the Digital Imaging Business, Samsung Electronics. Share everything, from anywhere With the 3G/4G LTE technology, the GALAXY NX allows photographers to stay constantly connected with their world. Promising speedy sharing whether on the move or right at home, the GALAXY NXs’ seamless connectivity transcends the current offering to photographers, providing a device which puts the sharing of professional level images at its heart. The GALAXY NX embraces the era of visual communication to provide an outlet for passionate photographers to express their exciting experiences immediately, in spectacular quality. The GALAXY NX is equipped to help you capture the scene and mood of every hotspot you visit.Photo Suggest provides location based recommendations of popular photography spots, sourced from a huge library of images taken by fellow photographers across the world. Story Album lets users enjoy timeless memories by displaying special moments on one timeline, reframing and resizing them to create digital photo books which can be viewed and shared on other devices. Stunning picture quality Superior image quality is available whenever and wherever with the GALAXY NX and array of interchangeable lenses. The 20.3MP APS-C Sensor produces images which are bright and detailed, even in low light conditions, while the DRIMe IV Image Signal Processer delivers the speed and accuracy which today’s photographers demand. Life moves fast and the GALAXY NX makes sure that you don’t miss a moment. Its Advanced Hybrid Auto Focus (AF) System ensures accurate phase and contrast detection for crisp, vibrant shots, while the 1/6000 sec shutter speed and 8.6fps shooting lets you capture the action as it's happening. The flexibility offered by the GALAXY NX's selection of Interchangeable Lenses places creative control firmly in the hands of the photographer, opening up a world of imaging possibilities, whatever the scenario. From compact pancake lenses and an ultra-wide fisheye to exquisite longer prime and zoom lenses, the extensive range of lenses help change users perspective on their world to create images which are truly special and help them to tell their story in a new way. True 3D Creator also brings an added element of realism to the GALAXY NX results, allowing users to shoot images and movies in 3D with Samsung’s 45mm 2D/3D lens. Simple and easy to use With Android 4.2 Jelly Bean, the functionality of a smartphone is utilized to improve the photographic experience. Users can choose from an entire universe of Android apps to help personalize their GALAXY NX and do more than just shoot amazing photographs and video, from editing images to adding special effects to staying in touch with friends and family. The GALAXY NX is packed with features which help photographers to take images that embody their passions and express their unique outlook on the scenes they are shooting. More than 30Smart Mode lets users choose the optimum settings for the environment they are capturing, as well as create fresh, artistic images. 'Multi Exposure' merges two different shots together to produce one distinctive image, while 'Animated Photo' connects continuous shots of up to five seconds, creating a moving GIF file. For added realism, 'Sound & Shot' stores sound and voice together as the picture is taken, so moments are captured exactly as they happened. For added personalization, Camera Studio allows users to easily customize settings with their most frequently used applications or camera modes, making sure their photos are captured exactly as desired every time. For multimedia content and more detailed information, please visit www.samsung.com/galaxycamera.

Ubuntu mobile OS now guided by an advisory group comprised of carriers Posted: 20 Jun 2013 12:58 PM PDT Canonical, the folks behind the Ubuntu OS, have cobbled together eight mobile service providers to guide the development of their upcoming mobile OS. While the list doesn't include any major US carriers, Canonical notes that any "major" carrier may join this alliance. As for who has currently signed on to this project, Ars Technica notes that Deutsche Telekom, Everything Everywhere, Korea Telecom, Telecom Italia, LG UPlus, Portugal Telecom, SK Telecom, and “the leading Spanish international carrier" have signed on to the project. While Canonical refused to identify that Spanish carrier, we agree with Ars Technica that Telefonica is the likely candidate. Canonical notes these carriers will have "access to early information about Ubuntu and device manufacturer plans to support the OS, as well as the opportunity to be a launch partner for Ubuntu on smartphones." This still gives Canonical control of Ubuntu, but allows for carriers to relay their feedback directly to the source. While this conglomerate may not have any large domestic players, the concept of allowing carriers to guide development of a mobile operating system shouldn’t be treated lightly. If Canonical isn't careful, they could wind up indebted to these carriers, rather than having a cohesive relationship. Support is important, but we think developer support may be a better avenue to seek than carrier involvement. Ubuntu phones are set to hit shelves sometime in 2014, so we'll be curious to see where this new "advisory group" takes the OS.

Sony confirms Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean update for the Xperia ZL Posted: 20 Jun 2013 12:27 PM PDT We here at Android Authority have a soft spot in our hearts for Sony's Xperia ZL smartphone. Sporting hardware nearly identical to the Xperia Z, the ZL manages to cram high-end specs – like a Full HD display, quad-core processor, and 13-megapixel camera – into a small, light, and aesthetically pleasing package. And thanks Sony's recent pledge to continue supporting new Xperia devices with software updates, the ZL looks even better. As part of the “timely update” promise, Sony Mobile released today the Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean update for European LTE (C6503), HSPA+ (C6502), and North American (C6506) editions of the ZL. Firmware build 10.3.A.0.423 brings, in addition to features introduced as part of the latest version of Android, functionality specific to Sony devices. Particularly welcome is the new My Xperia application that allows users to remotely lock and locate their phone, and support for bigger (64GB) SD cards. Here's a full list of changes: Latest version of Sony Media Apps with seamless integrated services My Xperia application that helps you find your phone and secure everything you have on it. Read more at myxperia.sonymobile.com New Customizable navigation bar with quick settings New widget functionalities, both on lockscreen and homescreen Support for bigger (64GB) SD card so that you can store even more on your Xperia If you're the proud owner of an Xperia ZL, you should be prompted to download and install the update in the coming days. Intrigued by the ZL? It’s available for $249.99 on Cincinnati Bell with contract in North America, and in Canada on Rogers and Bell for $124 and $99, respectively. Not much choice, unfortunately, but perhaps Sony’s commitment to the ZL is a sign of bigger things to come.

Samsung ATIV Q Windows laptop / Android tablet now official: specs, features, pricing and release date Posted: 20 Jun 2013 12:24 PM PDT Samsung on Thursday unveiled during its London-based Premiere event a new member of its Windows ATIV family, but a device that has Android capabilities: the Windows laptop / Android tablet ATIV Q. The dual-booting device is actually a convertible laptop capable of running either Windows 8 or Android 4.2.2, depending on what you need at any particular time. Without further ado, let's check out the hardware under the hood of the ATIV Q. Specs and features 13.3-inch display with 3200 x 1800 resolution (275ppi) full QWERTY keyboard Design: ATIV Q works in four modes: tablet, laptop, stand and "floating" mode. Size: 0.55 inches thickness Weight: 2.84 pounds Intel Core i5 processor Intel HD Graphics 4400 4GB of RAM 128GB SSD Ports: 1 USB3.0, 1 USB2.0, HDMI, RJ45, headphone/mic combo, microSD 9 hours of battery life Windows 8 Android 4.2.2 SideSync software – lets users share data between Windows and Android; allows Windows laptop to update apps on an Android devices. S Pen stylus Release date and pricing While the ATIV Q may not be the must-have Android tablet users are looking for – or the must-have laptop – it certainly offers the best of both worlds, as it's capable to run both Windows and Android. However, don't get too excited about buying it, as the device doesn't have a launch date yet – it will be available "later this year" in the UK. Pricing details have not be announced either, and we're certainly curious to see how much the device will cost. We'll be back with more details about the ATIV Q as soon as we have them. SAMSUNG STRENGTHENS TABLET OFFERING WITH INNOVATIVE NEW ATIV MODELS Convertible ATIV Q, and the world’s thinnest Windows Tablet ATIV Tab 3 – offering versatility and productivity on the go London, UK – June 20, 2013 – Samsung Electronics today unveiled two new tablets, the ATIV Q and ATIV Tab 3. Both powered by Windows 8, the ATIV Tab 3 is the world’s thinnest tablet while the convertible ATIV Q is able to run Android apps. “We’re committed to offering our customers choice and convenience in personal computing, and the convertible nature of both these new tablets delivers the freedom and versatility our customers demand” said Simon Stanford, Vice President of IT & Mobile Division, Samsung Electronics UK & Ireland said. “These innovative devices have been designed with busy people in mind, and the adaptability they offer is better suited to busy lives than any tablet on the market.” ATIV Q The ATIV Q is a convertible device with the ability to change modes and has both Windows and Android capabilities. Built with today’s busy lifestyles in mind, it works as a notebook or tablet and gives you more flexibility and convenience than ever before. Addressing a common desire among PC users to be able to access Android apps on a Windows-based PC, the ATIV Q allows you to now experience both Windows 8 and Android (Jellybean 4.2.2) on the same device. Not only will you get access to Android apps via Google Play, but you will also be able to transfer files or share folders and files from Windows 8 to Android. The ATIV Q sports a hinge design that allows you to transform it into four functional modes. You can lay the display flat over the keyboard for tablet mode; raise the display upright to type just as you would a laptop; float and adjust the display to a comfortable viewing angle; or flip the display to place in the stand mode to watch movies. The four-in-one design of the ATIV Q easily adjusts to give you every possible option in the one device. The ATIV Q is also extremely thin and lightweight, at 1.29kg and only 13.9mm, making it very portable. Finally, the ATIV Q introduces the world’s highest resolution, QHD+ (3200×1800) display. Its 13.3-inch touch screen offers 2.8 times higher pixel density (275ppi) than full HD displays, and the device is also designed to give you an optimised viewing experience regardless of where you are or the brightness of the environment you are in. ATIV Tab 3 A tablet with the power of a PC, the ATIV Tab 3 makes personal computing easier than ever. As the world’s thinnest Windows 8 tablet – as thin as many popular smartphones – it shares a similar design and premium look and feel of the Samsung Galaxy series. It is perfect for creativity and productivity as it features Samsung’s S Pen functionality, high level pen display and S Pen compatibility with MS Office. Incredibly thin and lightweight at only 8.2 millimetres thick and 550g in weight, the ATIV Tab 3 is the ideal device to take on the daily commute to work. With up to ten hours of battery life, it is also a great device for taking on most long distance flights. The ATIV Tab 3 runs Windows 8, has the ability to run all Windows apps and programmes and comes preloaded with Office Home & Student. SideSync is available with both the ATIV Q and ATIV Tab 3, enabling you to easily switch from working on a PC to an Android-based Samsung smartphone. The PC keyboard can be used to respond to a text on a mobile phone, view maps on a larger screen, display photos and videos on both devices to make editing files even easier, or use an ATIV PC to back up and charge mobile devices. Availability The ATIV Q and ATIV Tab 3 will all be available to buy in the UK from selected retailers later this year. Be among the first to know when the ATIV tablet range is available, by visiting www.samsung.com/uk/ATIVBookQ/ and www.samsung.com/uk/ATIVTab3/. Or go to www.samsungmobilepress.com for multimedia content and additional information.

LiveMap will give motorcyclists a heads-up display Posted: 20 Jun 2013 12:18 PM PDT If you have a motorcycle, and find yourself wishing you had some navigation capabilities, Google Glass may intrigue you. If dodging your eyes from the road doesn't seem like a great idea, some engineers in Russia have you covered. A helmet, named LiveMap, is being designed to allow motorcyclists a heads-up display. The unit is said to have LTE, and be powered by two 3,000mAh batteries. GPS will accompany the HUD, and of course be voice controlled. It will be Android based, but highly altered to avoid folks watching movies or playing games while speeding down the road in their Ducati. How much, you ask? It's priced at $1,500 for now, with a working model set to cradle the heads of early adopters sometime next year. It will meet all international safety standards, and promises to be about as light as a regular helmet. It looks cool, and the display is very Daft Punk. If you want to support the project, head over to their Indiegogo page. There are lots of levels for funding, and you can make this a reality for as little as $1. If you want to see it for yourself, check out the video below.

Spotify Android app updated, finally brings notification controls Posted: 20 Jun 2013 12:11 PM PDT Since Google announced its Spotify competitor, Play Music All Access, the guys at Spotify have been working overtime to ensure that it doesn't lose customers. A few weeks ago we finally got landscape mode for the Android app, and today Spotify brought the long awaited notification controls for Jelly Bean devices. Now you can quickly pause, skip, or go back to the track that you we're listening to. You can also quickly add a song to a playlist, perfect for when you're listening to the radio, and it also allows you to quickly close the application from the notification panel as well. The new update also improves radio performance, fixes a bug which could cause white screens, and fixes the Facebook login issues. It's good to see Spotify take its Android users seriously after neglecting them for so long by withholding features that should be standard. With the additions in recent weeks, Spotify has improved upon an already impressive service, which will maintain its lead in the streaming services market, at least until All Access hits the rest of the world. Note that this is another one of those staged rollouts (we feel your pain), so if you don't see the update in the Google Play Store rest assured that its coming. Is Spotify still king of music streaming? Or has Play Music All Access taken its crown?

Google faces fines in France over user data policy Posted: 20 Jun 2013 11:17 AM PDT Credit: tiseb/Flickr Google has faced quite a bit of trouble in the EU lately. Some of that centers around silly anticompetitive complaints led by Microsoft, but there are also some privacy concerns being raised. The European Union is keen to keep Google honest with their privacy policy, and Google is more than happy to work with them. In france, a watchdog group called the "National Commission for Computing and Civil Liberties", or CNIL, has pointed out in as statement that Google is preventing users from "knowing how their personal data may be used and from controlling such use." In a statement, the CNIL alleges that Google has breached the French data protection act of 1978, and demands users have more control over their personal information, and how it's used. The CNIL is also careful to point out that the notice "does not aim to substitute for Google to define the concrete measures to be implemented, but rather to make it reach compliance with the legal principles, without hindering either its business model or its innovation ability." This isn't the first time Google has run afoul of the CNIL. In October, we told you about their issue with how Google uses web activity to personalize ads. This new complaint of theirs is along the same line. This time, the CNIL is ready to levy fines if Google hasn’t complied in three months time. We reached out to Google, and a spokesperson told us "Our privacy policy respects European law and allows us to create simpler, more effective services. We have engaged fully with the authorities involved throughout this process, and we'll continue to do so going forward." We look forward to seeing a resolution to this, hopefully soon.

Video on Instagram official, to take on Twitter’s Vine starting today Posted: 20 Jun 2013 10:54 AM PDT Facebook on Thursday announced Video on Instagram, a short video sharing service ready to take on Twitter's similar product called Vine. Before unveiling the new product, which was rumored a few days ago, Instagram's founder Kevin Systrom stepped talked Instagram numbers, showing, yet again, the popularity of the service. Instagram, a famous app among iOS and Android users alike, now has 130 million monthly active users who like photos 1 billion times. Over 16 billion photos have been shared on Instagram, so it's only logical to see the company release a video-based product to take on Vine. Video on Instagram – the official name of the product – will be available on iOS, Android and the web simultaneously. The Instagram mobile app will look virtually similar – meaning you won't need a Video on Instagram independent app – and will let you either take pictures or record videos. Unlike Vine, which limits video to six seconds, Video on Instagram will let you record up to 15 seconds, which Systrom said is just the right size for a video. Obviously, since we're talking about Instagram, there are new filters for your video, 13 of them. Moreover, the app will let you select the thumbnail for your video, to make it more attractive to your friends. The video, once taken, is uploaded almost instantly and can be shared via the regular social networks. When played, the video won't automatically loop like Vine does. Interestingly, users can delete the last section of a video, in case something gets in the way to ruin that perfect video recording. Speaking of video recording, Video on Instagram will feature a "cinema" stabilization video technology that will remove camera shake from your videos. Facebook did not unveil any new products except for Video for Instagram, despite being recently rumored to have been working on its own Google Reader alternative. That said, expect to see Video on Instagram later today, so make sure you check the Play Store for the appropriate update.

Dolphin Browser celebrates 80 million installs with new version Posted: 20 Jun 2013 08:57 AM PDT Dolphin Browser is one of the most popular mobile browsers out there, a fact proven by the 80 million downloads it’s celebrating (it has celebrated 50 million a few months ago). Well, if the 50 million downloads have been celebrated with the release of Jetpack, making Dolphin Browser much faster, the 80 million wouldn’t have gone uncelebrated, either. The makers of the browser are doing so with the release of version 10, one that’s filled with important improvements. The first thing you'll definitely notice is the new design, a cleaner, more elegant one. The first thing you’ll definitely notice is a cleaner, more elegant design. You now can swipe to get to menus or history, for example and you can populate your Dolphin Browser home screen with the web apps you need closer to you, for easy access. The even nicer part is that apps can be grouped into folders, by just dragging them one on top of the other, so you can keep things better organized. There are tons of them, so you’ll certainly find something of interest to you. Also, you have a button which allows to swipe in one of three directions to get to the Sonar feature (Dolphin Browser’s voice search feature), browser menu or the list of currently open tabs, which can be quite handy. Another nice idea is that you can use the search bar to look for things on multiple websites, not only the default search engine. You just click the bar and then Google (or whatever search engine is the default one), and you’ll get icons of the available search engines. Flash support is disabled by default in the new version, but you can easily re-enable it from the Settings menu (you’ll find it under Web Content). As you can see, lots of improvements to Dolphin Browser in the new version, made without altering the browser’s user experience. If you were a Dolphin Browser user until now, you’ll certainly enjoy the new version, and if not, now is as good a time as ever to give it a shot. Do you use Dolphin Browser? What do you think of the new update?

Sony Xperia Z Jelly Bean 4.2.2 update could come in mid-July, carrier roadmap says Posted: 20 Jun 2013 08:52 AM PDT The Sony Xperia Z may get its Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean bump as early as mid-July, if we’re to believe a roadmap on Australian carrier Telstra’s website. According to said page, which lists a number of phone update dates, the Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean update is currently in first round testing. The data on the page is current as of June 17, so there are reasons to take it seriously. As you can see in the screenshot below, approval date is expected to be July 1st, and the update (which has been received on June 14 and is currently in the test phase) is expected to be available to customers on July 15. The Sony Xperia Z with Android 4.2.2 is already unofficially unavailable, and features have even been shown in a video. Hopefully, the Australian carrier’s roadmap is right, and all you Xperia Z users will be able to enjoy the update in less than a month. However, if you’re still undecided about buying the Sony Xperia Z, maybe our thorough review of Sony’s flagship device will help you. Sony Xperia Z Review [9:38] The Sony Xperia Z is not the only device to be mentioned on Telstra’s update page. The same page also mentions August 5 as the expected availability date to customers of the Android Jelly Bean 4.2.2 update for Samsung Galaxy S4 and Samsung Galaxy Note 2 4G.

Watch the Samsung Premiere 2013 live stream here Posted: 20 Jun 2013 08:50 AM PDT In less than three hours, Samsung's Premiere 2013 event will be kicking off in London, and, although we think the main focus will be Sammy's ATIV line of Windows 8 products, we do hope to see at least a couple of new Android devices. Samsung has made it clear that today's event will be featuring the Galaxy and ATIV lines, though one by one, the Android devices we thought would be announced today were revealed in the previous weeks. We're talking about the Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini, the Galaxy S4 Active, and the Galaxy S4 Zoom, which were all launched without much fuss. So, what new devices will we get today? The rumor mill says we'll see a mirrorless camera dubbed the Galaxy NX and maybe the Galaxy Camera 2. But surprises can't be ruled out. We'd all love to see the Note 3, but for now, IFA 2013 in September remains the most probable launch date for the stylus-enabled smartphone. You can watch the live stream of the Samsung Premiere 2013 event right here. (The video is set to Private for the moment, but we expect it to become available soon). Stay tuned for more coverage – we'll be bringing you the latest news coming from London as soon as we can.

6 best cheap Android smartphones Posted: 20 Jun 2013 08:15 AM PDT A lot of web sites will tell you what today’s best Android smartphones are, whether in terms of camera performance, display size, or default software features. However, you can expect many of the phones present in these “best of” lists to be invariably expensive, often costing upwards of $500 or $600 a piece. Are end users really always doomed to break the bank if they wish to enjoy technology? Of course not. Not all phones require you to drop half a dozen Benjamins and sign up for a mandatory two-year contract just so you can paw at them through your daily existence. There are good models out there waiting to be acquired right now for about a hundred bucks — and some cost even less than that. Those are what this particular list is all about: the best cheap Android smartphones available, both with and without a contract. Read on to find out what phones these are now. LG Optimus G It may no longer be LG’s latest flagship Android phone, but the Optimus G is still one of the best Android-powered models with an inexpensive price tag. Currently, it may be purchased from the likes of AT&T for less than $50 outright, as long as you sign up for a new two-year contract. And if you’re quick, you may even get it for lower than that thanks to some other promotions. For its price, you’ll be getting an Android phone that’s often overlooked yet is actually one of the most impressive ones that has ever come out in the past 12 months. It’s considered by some people as the blueprint for the current Google-branded Nexus handset, and it can run the latest version of Android just fine, even though it’s a fairly old model if you think about it. Given that it has a 4.7-inch HD screen, a 1.5GHz quad-core CPU with 2GB RAM, an 8MP camera, and 4G LTE network connectivity, you can rest assured that not many people will be calling it outdated any time soon. Motorola Atrix HD For about the same price as the LG Optimus G, you can also get yourself a Motorola Atrix HD. We know, Motorola hasn’t really been active around these parts lately, but that doesn’t mean that the old Atrix HD is any less of a must-have for it. Part of the Motorola Atrix HD’s list of features are a 4.5-inch HD display, an 8MP camera with 1080p video recording capability, and support for 4G LTE. But its most interesting feature is probably its Dupont Kevlar construction, which makes it very sturdy. Combined with a splash guard coating, this makes the Motorola Atrix HD one of the few inexpensive choices for people who lead an active lifestyle. As mentioned earlier, it can be purchased for only $49 with a contract. But if you’d rather use a prepaid SIM card, its price tops off at just $350 without one. Sprint Vital Many of the Android phones in this list have sub-5-inch screens on them. But not this one. The Sprint Vital comes equipped with a 720p HD 5-inch display that’s capable of showing off the wonders of the latest version of the Android OS easily. It was just announced earlier this month and it has already generated some excitement. This is mostly because it uses Android “closer to the way it was intended.” Don’t let its simple outward appearance fool you. The Sprint Vital comes with a 2,500mAh battery, which should work well with its built-in 13MP camera and 4G LTE connectivity. If that sounds appealing, you’ll be glad to know that it will be sold for only $99 with a new two-year contract. Pantech Burst This one is a bit late when compared with the others on this list, software-wise. The Pantech Burst, which was announced as one of the cheapest LTE-enabled Android phones in the U.S. last year, is still around. And it’s stuck on Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich. However, that doesn’t mean that it can’t be put to good use anymore. The Pantech Burst has a 4-inch WVGA Super AMOLED touchscreen display, a 5MP camera with 720p HD video recording, 16GB of internal storage, and a 1,650mAh battery. Sure, it’s not the most powerful one out of this entire lot, but it certainly looks like it’ll get the job of a proper smartphone done. And with a $0.01 price on contract ($350 without), we’re not complaining. HTC First Here’s a phone that you might easily dismiss as something that can’t possibly be useful, especially when similarly-equipped affordable handsets are coming out left and right. The HTC First, long-rumored to be the “Facebook phone” before its official announcement, is different from the many other entry-level and mid-range handsets out on the market right now. And the reason is because underneath its layer of Facebook-centric features lies the stock Android experience. On top of that, it’s really not that bad when it comes to hardware either: it has a 4.3-inch HD screen, a 5MP camera with 1080p video recording, a dual-core 1.2GHz Snapdragon 400 CPU, 1GB of RAM, and a 2,000mAh battery (not to mention the world-famous HTC brand of quality). All of that can be yours now for only $99. If you can find a place that still sells the HTC First, that is. Nexus 4 Yep, we totally saved the best for last with this one. As one of today’s leading Android-powered devices, as well as the latest model in Google’s long-running Nexus series of handsets, the Nexus 4 certainly belongs in any list of best Android smartphones. It managed to land on the top spot of this list in particular because apart from having many of today’s best smartphone hardware features (with a few exceptions), it also has a shockingly low price tag. Google broke hearts when it announced that the Nexus 4 was going to sell for as low as $299 without a contract. It’s definitely a bargain, even with only 8GB of fixed storage space (the 16GB model costs $350), considering it has other top-notch hardware features to go along with it. And of course, as a Nexus phone, it’s not just all about the hardware. Software plays a very important role for it, too. Nexus 4 users can expect to upgrade straight to many later versions of Android as soon as Google releases them. Indeed, that’s the beauty of having a Nexus 4 — you pay once, and you get to see your phone undergo a transformation (or maybe even a rebirth) again and again. What other models do you think should be included in this list of the best cheap Android phones? Are there any ones here that you think should be taken out? Let’s discuss it in the comments! Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

Huawei Ascend Mate vs. Samsung Galaxy Mega 6.3 Posted: 20 Jun 2013 07:30 AM PDT While most people like a device that easily fits in their hands and pockets, some of us would really like a small tablet that makes calls. These aren’t just phones; they’re little computing devices that make calls. The problem is, which one do you pick? Luckily, we’re here to help. The Huawei Ascend Mate wowed us when we first saw it back during CES 2013. The Samsung Galaxy Mega 6.3 has since come along, making things bigger and adding the trademark Galaxy user experience. That said, which one is the best for you? Read on and find out. In a hurry? Check out our video review, or jump to the conclusion at the end of the article. Specs When it comes to specs, there is no clear-cut winner here. Each device has its weaknesses and stengths, so which one is better for you is really going to depend on how you use it. For example, the processor in the Galaxy Mega 6.3 has a higher clock speed than the Ascend Mate–1.7 GHz compared to 1.5 GHz–but the Ascend Mate uses a quad-core processor while the Galaxy Mega 6.3 only uses a dual-core. The Ascend Mate has more RAM–2 GB to the Mega 6.3′s 1.5 GB–but the Mega 6.3 has an option for more internal storage. Things become even more pronounced when we get to performance, but we’re getting ahead of ourselves here. Build Quality & Design It’s likely that most people are going to prefer the design of the Galaxy Mega 6.3 to the Ascend Mate. Rounded corners, slick plastic, one home button: it’s a Galaxy through and through. The build proves this. The polycarbonate body is light, but has that same slick feel that most Galaxy-branded devices have. The Ascend Mate on the other hand is an exercise in pragmatic design. It’s meant to be held, to be used, not to be observed and admired. It’s stark, straight lines aren’t going to be particularly attractive to most users, but you get the sense that Huawei isn’t interested in that; they’re interested in usability. This shows in the plastics used. They may not be the prettiest, but they definitely help you maintain a steady grip on the device. Display Our main complaint when reviewing these devices was that the resolution was 720p instead of 1080p. The most common criticism we heard back was that many televisions and computer monitors have a lower pixel density. This is true, except I can’t remember the way I had a computer monitor or television a foot or two away from my face. Viewing distance matters. Luckily with these phones, you won’t be holding tham that closely, so the pixelation and lack of sharpness isn’t very apparent on either phone. Are they equal? Not really. The Galaxy Mega 6.3 uses a TFT LCD display while the Ascend Mate uses an IPS+ display. Normally, an IPS display has better viewing angles than a TFT, and that is the case here, but it isn’t very noticable. Outdoor visibility is much better on the Ascend Mate, which is somewhat suprising, espeically since the Galaxy Mega 6.3 has a brighter display overall. This, combined with the viewing angles makes the Ascend Mate’s display the better of the two, but not by much. Performance During out individual reviews of the Ascend Mate and the Galaxy Mega 6.3 we ran a few benchmarks on both of them, and surprisingly they each ended up winning, albeit in different categories. AnTuTu Benchmark seemed to favor the Ascend Mate, with it reaching an average score of 15,639 over ten runs. The Galaxy Mega 6.3 on the other hand didn’t do as well, reaching only 13,309. When we turned to Epic Citadel on High Quality mode, the tables turned. The Mega 6.3 pulled in an average framerate of 57.4 FPS, while the Ascend Mate only managed 37.7 FPS. In real world performance, the Ascend Mate felt faster when multitasking and in general performance, thanks to its quad-core processor. The Galaxy Mega 6.3 was the phone to beat when it came to gaming though, solidly beating the Ascend Mate in Real Racing 3. Software The Galaxy Mega 6.3 runs the lastest version of Android: 4.2.2 Jelly Bean. This is skinned with the newest version of TouchWiz; the same version that the Galaxy S4 runs, so it’s definitely quite up to date when it comes to software. The Huawei Ascend Mate on the other hand runs Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean, skinned with Huawei’s Emotion UI. This is going to be hit or miss with people, as it’s quite a bit different than the UI most Android users are used to. The main difference? No app drawer. Everything is right on the home screens. Different sure, but very simple. Most people will likely prefer the Galaxy Mega 6.3, since it’s more familiar, but some may prefer the change of pace that is the Ascend Mate. Camera Both the Ascend Mate and the Galaxy Mega 6.3 have 8 MP rear-facing cameras, and both are very similar in many ways. It seems that both phones have fairly similar optics. When taking test photos of the same subject from the same distance, it was difficult to tell the picures apart. The Ascend Mate seemed to have somewhat sharper focus, but the Galaxy Mega 6.3 had had better saturation and richer colors. The 1080 video capture was very similar. Focus seemed about equal on either phone, though the Mega 6.3 still seemed to have deeper blacks and richer colors than the Ascend Mate. The front cameras on either phone are nothing to write home about, as is usually the case. The Galaxy Mega 6.3 gets a slight edge here for its 1.9 MP front-facing camera compared to 1.0 on the Ascend Mate. Battery Long story short: the Ascend Mate straight up wins the battery category; no contest. It’s got a 4,000 mAh battery compared to the Galaxy Mega 6.3′s 3,200 mAh battery. That may not seem like much, but thing about how much it would matter if we were talking about a 2,000 mAh battery and a 1,200 mAh battery. See? The Samsung Galaxy Mega 6.3 does get a nod, for having a removeable / replaceable battery. As nice as the Ascend Mate’s battery is, you’re stuck with it. If it goes bad, that’s all she wrote, unless you go the risky route and decide to change it yourself. Video Conclusion Objectively speaking, it’s very likely that the vast majority of users will prefer the Galaxy Mega 6.3, mainly because it does nothing wrong and it offers a very comfortable experience to anyone who has used a Galaxy device before. That said, the Huawei Ascend Mate will definitely appeal quite a bit to some. The Emotion UI really takes advantage of the openness of Android as a platform, and this helps make the Mate a really unique device in a sea of phones that are all pretty similar. It takes some getting used to, but it’d definitely worth a look. Which is your favorite? The Huawei Ascend Mate or the Samsung Galaxy Mega 6.3? Let us know down in the comments!

Nvidia lowers the price of the Shield to $299, ships on June 27. But will it be a home run? Posted: 20 Jun 2013 07:01 AM PDT The PS Vita isn't doing very well, and the Wii U shapes up to be a downright fiasco. With smartphones and tablets becoming the go-to gaming devices for millions of users, there's nothing but gloom in the future of portable gaming consoles. That won't stop Nvidia from trying its hand though – the Santa Clara company announced the Shield project in January at CES, and is now ready to start shipping it. Nvidia announced today that the Tegra 4-powered Shield will ship to those who pre-ordered on June 27. Even better, the Shield will be cheaper than initially expected, as Nvidia cut its final retail price from $349 to $299. If you pre-ordered the Shield, don’t worry, you will only be charged $299. The price cut is said to be the result of the feedback offered by gamers: "We've heard from thousands of gamers that if the price was $299, we'd have a home run." Nvidia But something tells me that market research and focus groups had more to do with it than the opinion of gamers. Nvidia has its work cut out with the Shield. Console gaming is facing a period of uncertainty, and portable consoles more so. Many potential customers can't justify paying good money for a new portable console when an old Android or iPhone does mostly the same thing. At $350, the Shield would have been just $50 cheaper than the starting version of the upcoming PlayStation 4. Faced with a choice between a new full-blown console for $400 and a portable console for $350, many a parent would choose the former for their kids. At $300, the Shield is still pricey, but at least it stands a fighting chance. Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

Privacy commissioners from around the world write to Google to get more details on Glass Posted: 20 Jun 2013 05:40 AM PDT Besides the technological innovations of Google Glass there are also privacy issues and implications for society, not just in the USA but all over the world. As a result of these concerns government privacy officials from six countries have written to Google asking for more details about its new wearable smart device. In a joint letter written to Google CEO Larry Page, data protection officials from Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Switzerland, and Israel have asked Google for more information on how Google Glass complies with data protection laws and details on what privacy safeguards Google and application developers are putting in place. The six privacy commissioners are concerned about the “privacy implications of a device that can be worn by an individual and used to film and record audio of other people” and the subsequent “fears of ubiquitous surveillance.” They also raise questions about Google's collection of data from Glass and what it means in terms of Google's privacy policy. The problem is that the information currently available to data protection officials about Google Glass, how it operates, how it could be used, and how Google might use the collected data, comes primarily from media reports. There is concern that these reports are based on speculation rather than fact. Although the six signatories were pleased that Google had decided not to include facial recognition in Glass, they wanted to know how Google intends to address the specific issues around facial recognition in the future. The officials have also asked Google if it will be wiling to demonstrate the device and allow any interested data protection authorities to test it. What do you think, what are the broader, ethical issues about wearable computing devices? What can Google do to help protect individuals’ privacy rights around the world?

Asus, Acer, Dell and Lenovo are reportedly preparing 8-inch Android tablets for Q3 2013 Posted: 20 Jun 2013 05:26 AM PDT According to NPD DisplaySearch, a well-known source of insightful information when it comes to production trends, Android tablet makers will no longer bet only on the casual 7-inch or 10-inch sizes to attract customers. Starting with the third quarter of this year, various manufacturers including Asus, Acer, Dell and Lenovo are preparing to launch new 8-inch devices. Following iPad Mini trend and later the success of the Samsung Galaxy Note 8, it seems the market has developed a new sense for slightly larger slates which can accommodate more content but still keep that high-portability factor and reduced weight. When did the 8-inch fashion started? When the 7.9-inch iPad Mini was introduced it claimed to have around 40 per cent more viewing area than a regular 7-inch Android tablet. While the claim caught the attention of the unwary public, many were disappointed to find that a 4:3 aspect ratio is not a great choice for watching movies and videos, which are usually rendered in 16:9 ratios. Huge portions of the screen were left unused and the experience, from my point of view, was amateurish. Well, that issue could now be fixed by a new batch of Android tablets. The first such device was the Galaxy Note 8.0, which came with a 16:10 aspect ratio, a proportion almost perfect for media consumption. iPad Mini vs Nexus 7 Another reason for this shift would be the consumer segment targeted by 8-inch tablets. While 7-inch units usually go for the lower-end market, selling for cheap prices and integrating rather modest specification (with some exceptions), slightly bigger units should be sold for premium prices. This is yet another Apple-borrowed principle, which managed to capture a significant share of the market even though the starting price of the iPad Mini is $329. Known mostly for their desktop products, vendors like the ones above are said to be shifting production towards the tablet sector as personal computer shipments continue to decrease. While the total number of tablet shipments is expected to increase around 67 per cent when compared with the past year, up to 10 per cent of all slates are expected to be 8-inch products. The report also mentioned a possible introduction of a new iPad Mini, but that is said to happen only in 2014. This should give enough time for Android enthusiasts to properly seize the opportunity. Would you opt for a 8-inch tablet instead of a slightly smaller one?

Why are millimeters more important than milliampere-hours? Posted: 20 Jun 2013 05:21 AM PDT My first cellphone was a Nokia 3310. It was, by today's standards, a clunky piece of equipment with a tiny monochrome display, and, gasp, it was 22 millimeters thick. I wasn't using it much back then, so I only had to recharge my trusty Nokia every four or five days. Today, I need to be always on the lookout to make sure that my Galaxy S2 has enough juice to stay on when I need to go out for a few hours. Sure, the phone is old, and a new battery would probably last longer, but that's not the point. Millimeters trump milliampere-hours. Why? The point is that, for years, manufacturers have been paying more attention to millimeters than to milliampere-hours, and I don't understand why. Two pieces of news this week made me think about this conflict between dimensions and battery life. First, Huawei unveiled the Ascend P6, the newest "world's slimmest phone". At 6.18 millimeters, it's a marvel of engineering and design, but, with its 2000 mAh battery, it probably wouldn't take me through one day of usage. Second, HTC unveiled the Butterfly s, a sleek, powerful device, that looks like a slightly improved HTC One, except for one department – the battery. While the One features a 2300 mAh battery, the new Butterfly s (10.6 millimeters thick) comes with a 3200 mAh unit, which is, compared to the average device, huge. For comparison, the larger Galaxy Note 2, which was praised for its extra-long battery life, features a 3100 mAh unit. Then I remembered that, about a year ago, HTC was saying that, according to research it had conducted, customers consistently prefer svelteness over battery life. Back then, we did our own little poll,  and guess what, only five percent of our readers said they rather had shorter battery life than a thicker phone. Crazy. (Edit: I realize our poll is not representative for the average smartphone buyer, but it don’t think the discrepancy is that big ) So, what gives? Why is battery life the only area where the smartphone user experience is regressing? Why can't we have more phones like the Butterfly s, and fewer phones like the Ascend P6? HTC, I really hope you'll bring the Butterfly s to international markets, with the same great battery. I also hope consumers will open their eyes and realize that milliampere-hours are just as important as millimeters, pixels per inch, gigahertz, and gigabytes. I hope they will shower you with money and you realize you've been doing it wrong all along. Motorola, please keep your promise to deliver a phone with long  battery life. Samsung, why don't you give us a Galaxy S4 Max? Apple? This is a field that is ripe for innovation. Maybe you can jolt the industry with a new approach. Anybody… PS: I hope I don't come off as a spoiled brat. I do realize that my two years old Galaxy S2 is a wonderful, wonderful piece of technology, and I am grateful for it. I just want to enjoy more of it.

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