Android Community |
- Google CEO: what the…? We don’t give the feds your data
- Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom product photo revealed
- LG Optimus L7 II teased with Android 4.3 Jelly Bean on board
- Google Face Unlock patent adds facial expressions to Android security
- Samsung GALAXY S 4 sales boom to be short lived, says analyst
- Gmail how to: Remove sender images and bring back the delete option
- MOGA Power Series controllers unveiled with Boost for device charging
- Samsung Galaxy Mega 6.3 now shipping to the US
- HTC One “Max” blueprint leaks revealing a massive phablet
- GameStick trailer highlights portability and big screen gaming
| Google CEO: what the…? We don’t give the feds your data Posted: 07 Jun 2013 04:37 PM PDT In case you’ve missed some of the crazy news this week, news that we’ve been steering clear of, apparently Verizon Wireless gives the NSA access to all our calls. A court document leaked revealing they give the NSA access to all our ‘metadata’ on an ongoing daily basis. Then to top that a new report surfaced that the NSA has a program calls “PRISM” that does this for tons of other major companies.
We’ve been steering clear of this news, while also looking for our tinfoil hats. But after Google’s own CEO Larry Page addressed the story we decided to drop a quick comment. Another report from The Guardian states that the NSA (National Security Agency) basically has obtained direct access to the systems of Google, Facebook, Apple and many many others. And when we say direct access, we mean direct access to roam free and peek at what they want. Obviously this brings up some huge issues, complaints, red flags, and will have those “Big brother is watching you” people extremely angry. The report goes as far as to claim PRISM allows the NSA access to something such as Google, where they can then dig through our search history, emails, attachments in Gmail, and more. The same can be said for Apple and their iMessage, iPhone’s, and everything else. That’s not cool. Reminds me of that movie Enemy of the State. We’ve already seen countless comments from major company’s that are basically outright denying these rumors. Today however Google went a step further and their CEO basically said “what the f” in a recent blog post. Larry Page simply titled this public service announcement on their official blog as “What the…?” Larry Page goes on to talk about this entire PRISM initiative to be completely new to him, says they take our privacy extremely serious, and only give out little bits of information in accordance with the law. My question is what’s “the law” mean these days anyways? He outright denies that the government has any access to a “back door” giving them free rein on our privacy. In the end Page states, "there needs to be a more transparent approach," and we couldn’t agree more. Pretty crazy and scary stuff. I think I’ll be hiding in my basement for the rest of the weekend, with the battery removed from my phone, and my internet disconnected. All jokes aside. What do you guys think? |
| Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom product photo revealed Posted: 07 Jun 2013 03:48 PM PDT The highly anticipated Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom is making it into your pocket. That is, if it can fit. The awkward shape of the new phone, revealed in this newly leaked and possibly fake photo may suggest otherwise however. But while its looks may not win everyone over, as they say with true love “It’s what’s inside that counts most”.
SamMobile has the exclusive first photo of the new Camera Phone from Samsung, and although it is certainly astonishing in terms of its shape, it more than makes up for its awkwardness in its specs. With a 4.3″ qHD AMOLED display paired to a 16 megapixel Camera with optical zoom, a 1.6GHz dual-core processor, an internal 8GB memory (externally expandable up to 64GB via Micro SD), an external shutter button, and right sided volume/zoom buttons, it will give your everyday quick cam a run for its money. As previously reported it will also run Bluetooth 4.0 LE WiFi 802.11 a/b/g/n with A-GPS. Oh, and did we mention that it can make calls too? Most impressive is that the new Zoom will use Samsung’s usual Touch-Wiz Nature UX interface that will utilize Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean. That means that you’ll not only be able to snap great pictures, but edit them with ease on the go as well. Go crazy you Instagram fans. Unfortunately, the Zoom will also be Samsung’s last forte into the Galaxy S4 realm, closing up a charge held together with the S4 Mini, and the S4 Active. But for those still yearning for more, the Galaxy Tab 3 series is also set to make a debut on or before June 20th. SOURCE: SamMobile |
| LG Optimus L7 II teased with Android 4.3 Jelly Bean on board Posted: 07 Jun 2013 03:21 PM PDT Back in Spain during the Mobile World Congress event the folks from LG had quite a bit of smartphones to announce. One of many was their new Optimus L7 II mid-range handset. We know the device is coming, and we also know that Android 4.3 Jelly Bean should be coming soon, but maybe they know something we don’t. Today LG’s website has the device listed with Google’s latest OS update on board, but it could just be a mistake.
We’ve been seeing hints and leaks regarding Android 4.3 Jelly Bean for a while now. Talk of a Nexus 4 LTE launching with Android 4.3, and even a new Nexus 7 as well. While Google didn’t announce a new OS update at their annual Google I/O developer event, surely an update is in the works and coming soon. Many believed June 10th Google would be announcing the new OS, but with that date quickly approaching most likely that rumor was false. So now we’re just left wondering what exactly Google has planned. We’ve even seen a Nexus 4 running Android 4.3 at a trade show last week. All we’re waiting for is for Google to make it official.
Well, it looks like LG either made a boo-boo today, or they didn’t want to wait. The Optimus L7 II product page clearly states “Android 4.3 Jelly Bean” for the OS. Not only that but their product page clearly mentions it twice, so it wasn’t just a one-time mistake. We know Google gives early access to the new OS, especially considering LG is their Nexus partner, but could they know something we don’t? Apparently the folks from Techtastic have reached out to LG, yet haven’t received a reply, but hopefully we’ll know more. The fact that Android 4.3 Jelly Bean was clearly mentioned twice has our interest piqued. Just give it to us already Google!    SOURCE: TechTastic |
| Google Face Unlock patent adds facial expressions to Android security Posted: 07 Jun 2013 02:53 PM PDT The ongoing debate about how secure and realistic face unlock is on Android is still a hotly discussed topic. However, Google is exploring new and improved systems that could help improve the security as we unlock our smartphones and tablets. The easy to fool (with a picture) Face Unlock feature could soon be getting facial features and expressions to help bolster the security method.
We know Google’s been working to improve Face Unlock, and even Android 4.1 Jelly Bean brought a new “liveness” test where users were required to blink before it would unlock. This fixed the issue with a photo easily bypassing the method, but Google has a lot more work to do before this is ever actually a realistic “security” feature. Today, new research revealed in a Google patent application has them doing exactly that. Working harder to improve this feature. The report shows new ways that face unlock can be used. Methods would combine existing facial recognition systems with a preconfigured movement or gesture. Systems such as moving an eyebrow, making a goofy face, sticking out your tongue, and more.
That isn’t all either. This new system will use a double authentication method and even two different frames. To again know the front camera isn’t being fooled by images or a short video clip. To dive deeper into that the system will also work with corresponding facial landmarks. Things such as a mole and facial hair, not to mention a 3D “range finder” if you will that will know it’s an actual person. And not just a flat 2D image or video trying to trick the system. Just because Google patents some research, doesn’t mean it will make its way to our Android devices. However, if I were a betting man, we can expect to see some additional security measures introduced with Android 4.3 Jelly Bean. Or later with Key Lime Pie. I just hope we don’t see people walking around sticking their tongues out at their phones. That could get old really quick. VIA: SlashGear |
| Samsung GALAXY S 4 sales boom to be short lived, says analyst Posted: 07 Jun 2013 02:40 PM PDT Just 1 month ago, the Samsung GS4 entered the market with high hopes of reaching its yearly 100 million sales goal. 10 million sales into the first month, the company was prepared for yet another phenomenal success. Analysts however, fear that may not be the case, and are taking precautions against slowing sales.
With Apple projected to introduce a new “Trade-In” program, financial analysts are fearing that the growth of sales utilizing the GS4 nameplate (Which include the Mini and Active) will slump, therefore cutting sales forecasts and severely dashing last months growth. With projected early losses of 20-30%, it could hinder the hopes Samsung had of making a brash impact into an already heavily populated market space. With the Samsung GS3, sales hit an excellent high of 50 Million. The biggest dilemma is that although Samsung has sold 10 million S4′s to date, they have only been sold to regional channels, and not directly to consumers themselves. As well, to date, no announcements, either informal or formally, have been made regarding just how many of those units did make it into consumer hands. This has investors and analysts alike feeling skittish, especially with the previously mentioned “Trade-In” program rumor bouncing around from Apple. To date, Samsung has seen a cut of 6% from it’s market price; a drastic decrease from where it stood before. In the meantime, those in the know are waiting with abated breath to hear from Samsung as to how many have been sold commercially, and how they plan to counteract any top-tier competitors. In the meantime, it looks like the market will continue to remain cautious. VIA: SlashGear |
| Gmail how to: Remove sender images and bring back the delete option Posted: 07 Jun 2013 01:53 PM PDT Google announced the all-new Gmail last week and began rolling it out for all Android users this week. The update arrived in the Play Store on June 3rd and while it brought some notable changes, there are a few items that have been bugging us. The two that seem to be the most offending is the lack of a delete option and the sender images.
Anyway, as it turns out, both of these can be easily adjusted by heading into the settings. Specifically by heading to Settings -> General Settings. From here you will need to make a few additional taps depending on which item you are adjusting. Those looking to bring back the delete option should tap the first option — Archive & Delete actions. From here you have a few options available, but those looking to have delete and archive should choose Show archive & delete. Once that has been completed you will then see an option to archive and also to delete when viewing an individual message. Additionally, a tap and hold of a message from the Inbox view will also present both the archive and delete options.
Next up is the sender images. These, in theory are nice to see however when you seem to be getting messages from users that don’t have an image set, they seem rather silly. You can get a look at my current inbox from the image here, but we suspect others have a similar look. That said, this change is just as easy as the last. Again, you will need to head into the general settings. Once there just look for Sender image and make sure the button to the right is unchecked.
Of course, while there were some small annoyances, this update did bring some nice features. For example, the access to the labels (by tapping the menu icon in the upper left) seems convenient. Plus the swipe to clear seems to be a good way to quickly move through some messages. One of the other differences that arrived with this update is with the multi-deleting (archiving). This latest release requires a tap and hold for each message you want to include. Not ideal, but we suspect it is something that we will get used to with time. |
| MOGA Power Series controllers unveiled with Boost for device charging Posted: 07 Jun 2013 12:48 PM PDT MOGA has unveiled their latest game controllers just ahead of E3. These new controllers will be the MOGA Power Series and they will be arriving with a feature called MOGA Boost technology. This is rather simple, the Boost technology will allow you to stop worrying about the battery life of your device during game play. Simply put, MOGA Boost will make sure to keep your device battery charged.
Some hands-on time will be needed in order to make a final decision on how nice the Boost will be, but it does sound intriguing. The folks at PowerA are pushing this as being something never seen before in a mobile game controller. Aside from the Boost technology, the MOGA Power Series will actually be made up of two controllers and both will have support for multiplayer gaming. Other details include what PowerA is describing as improved ergonomics and improved Bluetooth radios that will allow for “seamless support.” The MOGA Power Series controllers will work with Android devices running 2.3 or later and they now also include support for Windows Phone 8. This controller series has also been redesigned and will now have clickable analog thumbsticks as well as shoulder buttons, a D-pad and an improved form factor. At present the MOGA controllers have a library of more than 100 MOGA Enhanced and HID compatible games. In addition to using the controller, those playing with the MOGA will need the Pivot app installed on their device. This app is free to download and provides quick and easy access to the MOGA Enhanced Games that are available for download. The Pivot app will also show you which (of your currently installed) games are compatible. These new MOGA Power Series controllers have yet to be priced, however PowerA has said they will be available in the fall. Otherwise, the full-sized MOGA Pro as well as the original pocket-sized MOGA controllers are still available at various retailers including Amazon. The other models are priced at $49.99 for the MOGA Pro and $39.99 for the MOGA. Finally, those curious about MOGA may benefit from reading our previously published MOGA Pro review. |
| Samsung Galaxy Mega 6.3 now shipping to the US Posted: 07 Jun 2013 11:59 AM PDT Samsung officially announced the Galaxy Mega 6.3 (along with the slightly smaller Galaxy Mega 5.8) back in April and since then we have seen reports suggesting the handset was going to arrive in the US by way of AT&T. Well, we have yet to see anything official from AT&T or Samsung on that front, however the handset has begun shipping to those in the US.
Given we do not have a carrier announcement those considering a purchase should prepare their wallet. The handset is shipping unlocked which means it is contract-free and therefor unsubsidized. Basically, you need to be willing to shell out $595 in order to make the purchase. The Galaxy Mega 6.3 is available by way of Expansys and in this case it will bring support for GSM on the 850/900/1800 and 1900 bands as well as HSDPA. Other specs include a 6.3-inch 720p display, dual-core 1.7GHz processor, 1.5GB of RAM, 8GB of internal storage, a microSD card slot, 3200 mAh battery, 1.9 megapixel front-facing camera and an 8 megapixel rear-facing camera.
The handset will be running Android 4.2 Jelly Bean with TouchWiz and have full access to the Play Store. Given the size of the display, it should come with little surprise that the handset itself is large. In this case that means measurements of 167.7 x 88 x 8.0mm with a weight of 199 grams. With that, while we wait for news from AT&T, the handset is at least available for those feeling like they simply cannot wait any longer. Any takers? |
| HTC One “Max” blueprint leaks revealing a massive phablet Posted: 07 Jun 2013 11:42 AM PDT Last week some initial reports and rumors surfaced claiming to have the full specs and details on an upcoming HTC smartphone codenamed the HTC T6. Previously thought to be a device over 5-inches to replace the HTC Butterfly and DROID DNA, we’re now lead to believe this will be called the HTC One Max, and look exactly like the original HTC One.
Today a blueprint or final visual draft has leaked of the HTC T6, and it’s officially being called the HTC One Max. Along with the leak we have a confirmation that the display will indeed be 5.9-inches in size, and be a 1080p full HD display. Interestingly enough the leak gives us a full breakdown on the device, but it doesn’t appear to be much longer than the original 4.7-inch HTC One, which leaves us a bit confused. Along with a 5.9-inch HD display, Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon 800 series 2.3 GHz quad-core processor and 2GB of RAM, the leak also states it will rock an UltraPixel camera, 16GB of storage, and have a large 3,300 mAh battery on board. Oddly we also see 140.4mm in length and 9.4mm thick. The original 4.7-inch HTC One was 137mm. So this doesn’t appear to be much longer.
According to Mobileaks it’s possible the new HTC One Maxx will be slightly longer, and slightly wider, which will make up for the 5.9-inch screen size. Then as the blueprint shows HTC will be bringing an extremely thin bezel to the device, so it won’t take up as much space as previous handsets yet still fit that massive 5.9-inch HD display inside. The details just continue to pile up on this new smartphone coming from HTC, but we’ll have to see it in the wild before we truly believe all these recent leaks. The report states it will be unveiled at IFA 2013 in Berlin in late August. We’ll be there live of course, so stick around for more details. VIA: PocketDroid |
| GameStick trailer highlights portability and big screen gaming Posted: 07 Jun 2013 11:21 AM PDT The latest GameStick trailer video has dropped and this one brings the focus to portability and gaming on the big screen. These are both features of the GameStick that have been mentioned before, though in this case they are sort of being put to an extreme. In this case, the trailer shows a girl-gamer repelling into a movie theater after hours and literally playing on the big screen.
Anyway, as you will see in the video sitting below, she is quickly discovered by the usher who just so happens to have his very own GameStick tucked away in his front pocket. This probably isn’t a scenario that will happen in the real world, but then again it did manage to drive home the possibilities. Basically, it is looking like the GameStick will be good for those who are planning to game from various locations. Otherwise, while the GameStick was a Kickstarter offering, those interested are now able to place a pre-order from the gamestick.tv website. The system is priced at $79 and is expected to begin shipping on June 25th. The GameStick will have WiFi 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 4.0 and will be running Android 4.2 Jelly Bean. Additional features include 8GB of internal storage space and a microSD card slot. The GameStick will also be getting XBMC and DLNA support, though that is not expected to arrive until sometime in September. That support will be arriving by way of an optional firmware update. Aside from the console itself, the folks at GameStick are offering a few accessories including a case and dock which are priced at $9.99 and $39.99 respectively. Both of these will be shipping at the same time as the system itself. The dock will allow for additional storage (up to 64GB) as well as connecting of peripherals. The dock will have Ethernet and HDMI as well as three USB ports (two on the back and one on the front). GameStick has this listed as being ideal for setups where the television is mounted and HDMI ports are not easily accessible. |
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