Android Central

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• Samsung Galaxy S4 wireless charging kit now available from ShopAndroid.com!
• Sprint announces budget-minded LG Optimus F3 for just $29 on-contract
• ZTE expands availability of recent flagships to Russian market
• Samsung Galaxy Mega 6.3 now in stock at some online retailers
• Falcon for Android updated with multipe account support, new flat design
• Update: Nope, no BBM for Android on June 27
• Why isn't mobile gaming better? - Talk Mobile
• International Samsung Galaxy S4 updated with apps-to-SD support, visual changes
• Deal of the Day: LLOYD HD Screen Protectors for Google Nexus 7
• The official Samsung Galaxy S4 wireless charging kit
• Modern Combat 5 teased ahead of E3, looks spectacular
• EE unveils new 4G plans and next wave of LTE expansion
• US Cellular announces LG Optimus F7 for $99 on-contract
• About that MegaPixel myth: This 46" print from the HTC One camera looks awesome
• From the Forums: What else can you do with the NVIDIA Shield?
• Sprint's iDEN network is going to a better place June 30

Samsung Galaxy S4 wireless charging kit now available from ShopAndroid.com! Posted: 06 Jun 2013 01:33 PM PDT   The official GS4 wireless charging pad and cover are now on sale If you've been wanting to get hold of the Samsung Galaxy S4 wireless charging kit we reviewed earlier today, now's your chance. The official Samsung kit in white is now available to buy from ShopAndroid.com, priced at $89.95 -- that's 10 percent off the list price. The pack includes everything you need to charge your Galaxy S4 without getting tangled up in wires -- a white wireless charging-enabled back cover and an inductive charging pad. The kit is based around the Qi wireless charging standard, meaning the pad can be used to charge other devices like the Nexus 4, too. More: Buy the Samsung Galaxy S4 wireless charging kit ($89.95)​

Sprint announces budget-minded LG Optimus F3 for just $29 on-contract Posted: 06 Jun 2013 01:15 PM PDT The first phone to have Google TalkBack speech-to-text enabled out of the box Sprint announced today that a new budget offering, the LG Optimus F3, will be coming to the network starting next week for $29.99 on-contract. Just as we expected based on previous leaks, this low-end device is hitting the Now Network as an option for those looking to start up a new line on the cheap. The Optimus F3 has a 1.2GHz dual-core processor, 4-inch 480x800 IPS display, LTE networking, a large 2460mAh battery and Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean. Just as we've seen with a few of LG's recent low-end devices, it will come loaded with a few of LG's premium software features such as VuTalk, QSlide and QMemo. The Optimus F3 is also the first phone to come pre-loaded and pre-enabled with Google TalkBack, a service that provides speech-to-text functionality for visually impaired users. The device will be configured and ready to offer the service from the first time it is powered on, removing an important barrier that would otherwise keep those with visual impairments from starting to use the device. The Optimus F3 hits Sprint on June 14th for $29.99 on-contract after a $50 mail-in rebate offer. Source: Sprint

ZTE expands availability of recent flagships to Russian market Posted: 06 Jun 2013 01:01 PM PDT Russia the first market outside of China to see the Grand S, Grand Memo and Grand X Quad ZTE announced today that it will expand the availability of its 2013 smart phone lineup outside of China, starting first with the quick jump up to Russia. First up are the Grand S and Grand Memo, which are the very top-end of ZTE's line with large screens, all of the software bells and whistles and the best internals the manufacturer offers. Both devices are available now for 21990 and 17990 rubles ($682 and $558), respectively. Rounding out the lower end are the Grand X Quad and V880H, which have mid-range specs, Android 4.2 on-board and come with dual SIM slots. These will be available for 9990 and 7990 rubles ($310 and $248 ), respectively. Along with the expected launch of a new ZTE device -- which looks like the Grand S LTE -- on Sprint here in the states, it's good to see ZTE expanding into new markets with its best devices. read more

Samsung Galaxy Mega 6.3 now in stock at some online retailers Posted: 06 Jun 2013 12:19 PM PDT Samsung's 6.3-inch beast goes on sale in the U.S. and UK. The Samsung Galaxy Mega 6.3, one of the brand new phones announced by Samsung in April, is now available and in stock at some online retailers. If you have been waiting for the 6.3-inch device, you're in luck, but it's going to cost you. Two examples of places where you can buy the Samsung Galaxy Mega 6.3: Unlocked Mobiles: £498.97 (~$770.00) Expansys USA: $595.00 Other websites have the Mega 6.3 listed, but it's not in stock just yet. If you need a refresher, on specs, the Galaxy Mega 6.3 comes with a 1.7GHz dual-core processor, an "HD" screen, 1.5GB RAM, 8-megapixel rear-camera and a 1.9MP front-facing camera.  Who's getting one?

Falcon for Android updated with multipe account support, new flat design Posted: 06 Jun 2013 11:55 AM PDT Update to Falcon version 2.0 now live on Google Play Popular Twitter app Falcon has seen a major update today, bringing a host of new features. Falcon 2.0 adds support for multiple for the first time, along with a new, flatter UI and an optional black skin to complement the light and dark grey offerings. In addition, Falcon 2.0 adds in optional swiping between columns and transition animations for devices running Android 3.0 or higher. It's a solid update to what's become one of the top third-party Twitter clients for Android -- and multi-account support in particular addresses a major omission in previous versions of the app.. So if you've yet to check it our, then now's a great time. Hit the Google Play link above to download the new version of the app. Existing users can grab the new version from the 'My apps' area of the Google Play Store app.

Update: Nope, no BBM for Android on June 27 Posted: 06 Jun 2013 08:42 AM PDT Despite no official word from BlackBerry as yet, T-Mo UK pegs June 27 for BBM hitting Android and iOS Odd to be heard via a carrier and not from BlackBerry, but according to T-Mobile UK BlackBerry Messenger will launch on Android on June 27. There's been some rumors floating around in recent days as to when BlackBerry's prized messaging platform will finally launch cross-platform, but perhaps we now know.  The news appeared on the T-Mobile UK Twitter page, which is the official, verified account for the carrier. Accompanying the message was an image of what appears to be BBM running on a Samsung Galaxy S3. Well, a kind of Instagram image, at least -- click on past the break to take a look. Is this for real, is it a monumental slip up by T-Mobile, or just why would we first hear such a big piece of news from a carrier? Our buddies over at CrackBerry are on the case, so we'll let you know when we have more.  Update: And BlackBerry has gotten back to CrackBerry, whom we met up with at Pinkberry, and sure enough, T-Mobile UK apparently pulled that one out of thin air. Here's the full statement: On May 14th, BlackBerry announced plans to make its ground-breaking mobile social network, BlackBerry Messenger (BBM), available to iOS and Android users this summer, subject to approval by the Apple App Store and Google Play. While there have been reports that BBM will be available to iOS and Android on June 27th, this is not accurate. We will communicate an update as soon as we have an availability date to share. So, move along, folks. Source: T-Mobile UK via CrackBerry read more

Why isn't mobile gaming better? - Talk Mobile Posted: 06 Jun 2013 08:02 AM PDT The quantity and quality of mobile games have exploded over the past few years. Game developers have been blessed with rapidly improving hardware and an ever-growing customer base that's becoming more comfortable with the idea of spending money for mobile entertainment. Mobile development studios like Rovio and Glu along with independent, one-man developers like Loren Brichter of Letterpress and Andreas Illiger of Tiny Wings are playing on the same field for the same dollars as long-time game studios like Electronic Arts and Rockstar. But while the customers and dollars might be directed towards any one of those warriors, the battlefield itself is segmented. Is it better for a developer to target the expansive iOS or Android ecosystems and risk all of their work being lost in the fog of app storefront warfare, or should they go for less-populated venues like BlackBerry and Windows Phone, where they can be the big fish in the small digital pond? Do they try and support those features unique to specific platforms, like BBM or Game Center, or do they hit only the most common features across all platforms? And how do those answers change if they're small indie developers, or powerhouse studios? read more

International Samsung Galaxy S4 updated with apps-to-SD support, visual changes Posted: 06 Jun 2013 07:06 AM PDT International LTE Galaxy S4s get first major software update, starting with unlocked German devices The international LTE version of the Samsung Galaxy S4 (GT-i9505) has started receiving its first substantial software upgrade today, with unlocked devices in Germany being among the first to get it. The update to version I9505XXUBMEA incorporates a number of visual changes, including a new, partially-transparent notification bar, new settings icons, and fix for ghosting issues in certain areas of the UI. But the biggest addition for S4 owners might be reintroduction of apps-to-SD card support. First added in Android 2.2 Froyo and removed in the most recent 4.2 Jelly Bean, the ability to move apps to the SD card was originally a way to work around the anemic internal storage of older Android phones. The S4, of course, has been criticized for the fact that its 16GB version ships with only 9GB or so of available space. So the reintroduction of apps-to-SD might alleviate some of these storage issues, but you'll still be relying on app developers to enable apps-to-SD before you're able to use it. (Update: We're also noticing significantly improved responsiveness and less animation lag in this new S4 firmware.) German users with unlocked S4s should be able to pick up the update over-the-air or through Kies, and other regions should follow in the weeks ahead. (Of course, if you're feeling adventurous, you could always flash the German firmware directly.) Source: SamMobile

Deal of the Day: LLOYD HD Screen Protectors for Google Nexus 7 Posted: 06 Jun 2013 06:56 AM PDT The June 6 ShopAndroid.com Deal of the Day is the LLOYD HD Screen Protectors for Nexus 7. These clear screen protectors are custom designed to protect your Nexus 7's screen while giving you an ultra-clear, high definition look and feel to your device. Durable and scratch resistant, the TruTouch sensitivity gives these custom protectors a more natural feel on your touchscreen. The LLOYD HD Screen Protectors are available for just $7.00, 72% off today only. Grab yours while supplies last! Never miss a deal. Sign up for Daily Deal alerts

The official Samsung Galaxy S4 wireless charging kit Posted: 06 Jun 2013 06:23 AM PDT   Official accessory brings Qi wireless charging to the Galaxy S4, at the cost of a little extra girth Wireless charging is one of those features that seems like an unimportant luxury until you've used it for yourself. The ability to place your phone down on a magical pad and have it charge through the ether can change the way you use your device. Suddenly, you're free from wires and don't having to worry about constant plugging and unplugging. It's an added convenience if you're sat working at a desk all day, or even if you want to charge your phone on a nightstand without getting tangled in wires. The Samsung Galaxy S4 doesn't include wireless charging capabilities out of the box, but the official S Charger kit brings Qi-standard inductive charging to the device, in the form of a replacement back cover and charging plate. In exchange for a little extra thickness on the phone, this lets you take advantage of wireless charging on your S4. So let's take a closer look -- we've got video, photos and more words after the break! read more

Modern Combat 5 teased ahead of E3, looks spectacular Posted: 06 Jun 2013 05:43 AM PDT Latest installment teased ahead of annual games show, more FPS action with incredible looking graphics Gameloft is heading to E3 next week with their big guns in tow, and the release of this trailer tells us one game we will be seeing. What we see here is the first teaser for new title Modern Combat 5, and it looks pretty incredible. The trailer shows the action tearing up Venice, Italy, with some pretty awesome looking visuals. There's very little else to go on, though we do know it will be coming to Android. As for when, and how much, maybe we'll find out more next week from E3. Mobile Nations will have a team on the ground in Los Angeles, so stay tuned! Source: Gameloft (YouTube)

EE unveils new 4G plans and next wave of LTE expansion Posted: 06 Jun 2013 04:36 AM PDT New plans come as carrier announces 500,000 4G subscribers, double speed rollouts and next phase of LTE expansion EE, the UK's only 4G carrier, has today announced their next expansion plans for the network, alongside some new sharing plans as well as some pay-as-you-go 4G mobile broadband plans as well. The new sharing plans will allow customers to share their allowances across different devices, or with other people entirely. The mobile broadband plans represent the first time EE has offered 4G mobile data on the prepaid market. Prices and availability for both will be announced in the coming weeks.  Also announced today are the first 10 cities to receive the 'double-speed' boost. This will take top line speeds up to 80Mbps with the average download speeds increased to 24-30Mbps. Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, London, Manchester and Sheffield will all receive the boost in the weeks to come.  Not done there, EE has confirmed a bunch of new towns across the UK that will receive their own LTE expansions in 2013. Customers in Aberdeen, Bath, Bournemouth, Brighton, Cambridge, Ipswich, Middlesbrough, Northampton, Norwich, Poole, Plymouth, Portsmouth, Swansea and York are specifically mentioned as getting 4G data. As well as the expansion to cover towns and cities, the next phase of the LTE rollout will target major commuter routes, shopping centres and Airports such as Gatwick which recently flipped the switch.  While EE has been criticized for some high pricing for their 4G plans, there's no doubts that they're making the most of their headstart in the market while we await competing networks lighting up.  Source: EE

US Cellular announces LG Optimus F7 for $99 on-contract Posted: 05 Jun 2013 09:47 PM PDT A solid mid-range offering to expand U.S. Cellular's LTE device selection LG is expanding the reach of its latest mid-range device, the Optimus F7, stateside as it becomes available today on U.S. Cellular for $99 on-contract. This Android 4.1 device is packing some pretty solid specs for the price, with a 4.7-inch 720x1280 display, 1.5GHz dual-core Snapdragon S4 processor, 1GB of RAM, 8GB of storage (with SDcard support), 8MP camera on back and very sizeable 2540mAh battery. Being a recent U.S. Cellular device it naturally has LTE support, alongside standard CDMA 3G radios. On the software side the Optimus F7 has many of LG's latest custom software tweaks such as QSlide multi-windowing, QuickMemo and VuTalk which were previously reserved to its high-end devices. We came away generally impressed with the style and build quality back when we took a look at an international version of the Optimus F7, and the U.S. Cellular version will likely meet that expectation. Customers picking up the device on a new 2-year contract can expect to pay $99 for it, and those upgrading out of cycle will spend a full $399, barring any changes in regional pricing in your area. Source: LG; U.S. Cellular

About that MegaPixel myth: This 46" print from the HTC One camera looks awesome Posted: 05 Jun 2013 08:28 PM PDT A skilled hand and the HTC One's UltraPixel camera turns a lakeside sunset into art anyone would be proud to display There are three constants you'll hear when anyone is discussing smartphone cameras: more MegaPixels doesn't mean "better", the best camera is the one you're carrying, and there are no bad cameras -- only bad photographers. This 46-inch wide print from a panorama photo taken by the HTC One's 4MP camera tells us all three just might be true. The folks at SpittingImages let us know just what they did to the 5798 x 1088 sized 5.5MB image taken at Bobcaygeon, Ontario, and the work they describe to get it ready to hang over your fireplace or behind the couch is surprisingly light. Much less than what I have to do to make my pictures from a more expensive camera half as presentable.  Of course, this is really a testament to the skill of the photographer, but it's still really cool seeing a picture snapped with the HTC One turned into an objet d'art. Be sure to follow the source link below to have a read, then head into the forums and thank k-fos for sharing! There's also one more view of the finished piece after the break. Source: SpittingImages; via: Android Central Forums  read more

From the Forums: What else can you do with the NVIDIA Shield? Posted: 05 Jun 2013 07:05 PM PDT We all knew the controls were great for games, but did you know they're also a really cool way to navigate the UI? As release day for the NVIDIA Shield gets closer, I know plenty of us are thinking of the games we're going to download and play on the Tegra-powered clamshell. I know I am, and so is Forums Moderator Team Leader Kevin O'Quinn. Hell, half of what we talk about is about the Shield, because both of us can hardly wait. Today, he showed me this video that makes things even more awesome. I've used a game pad to navigate Android on my Transformer Prime, but this looks like an entirely new -- and better -- experience. The joysticks will scroll and pan, and the 5-inch LCD delivers all the same great content you would get from any other Android device.  I'm hooked, and knowing that the controls work for more than just games has me even more excited. Have a look at the video, then be sure to head into the forums and join the discussion. What ELSE can you do with SHIELD?

Sprint's iDEN network is going to a better place June 30 Posted: 05 Jun 2013 05:13 PM PDT 100 million pounds of unusable materials will be recycled as part of iDEN shutdown As previously announced, Sprint is scheduled to shut down its Nextel iDEN network on June 30 -- starting immediately at 12:01am. Voice (including 911), push-to-talk, and data services will cease functioning. The last full day of service for iDEN customers will be June 29. During these final days, Sprint is pushing hard to get all users migrated over to Sprint's Direct Connect service, which they say has 'three times the push-to-talk coverage area compared to iDEN.' What happens when networks die? In iDEN's case, it is going to the big recycle bin in the sky. Sprint announced today that all the equipment it can't reuse will be recycled, adding up to 100 million pounds of network gear and other materials. This move in the decommissioning plan will save landfills from having to absorb the iDEN network's remnants, which includes cables, batteries, radios, server racks, and air conditioners. Concrete shelters will be recycled into composite for roads and bridges. The full press release about the decommissioning of the iDEN Nextel National Network and Sprint's 'environmental stewardship' can be found after the break. Source: Sprint read more

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