Thursday, February 21, 2013

Android Authority

Android Authority


Touchscreen Google Chromebook confirmed by WSJ, Pixel or Link codenames not mentioned

Posted: 21 Feb 2013 02:57 AM PST

Chromebook Pixel Jellyfish

A Chromebook laptop with Google branding and featuring a touchscreen display could be one of the most interesting Google products of the year, and a new Wall Street Journal report seems to back up previous rumors on the matter.

Just a short while ago we saw a concept video of the Chromebook Pixel (also known as Link,) and various proof that seem to confirm the existence of this particular Google project.

The Search giant has not acknowledged it yet – and did not comment on the matter when contacted by WSJ – but the fact that the publication has ran a story of the unreleased product is itself a very important indication that the touchscreen Chromebook is coming.

However, the WSJ article is not that revealing when it comes to actual details for the device. We still have no idea who's making it for Google, when it will be announced and launched, how much it will cost and what features it will have to offer, you know, in addition to a touchscreen display and cloud-based Chrome OS running under the hood.

Are you buying a Chromebook this year?

Intel takes a few swings at ARM while demoing the new Lenovo IdeaPhone K900 (video)

Posted: 21 Feb 2013 02:54 AM PST

Lenovo K900

Lenovo's IdeaPhone K900 might have not been the shiniest star of last month's CES (darn that Xperia Z), but it was definitely in the top 3. I mean, what was not to like about that beast? It looked different, it boasted a sensational 5.5-inch IPS display, and, best of all, it packed one of Intel's brand new Clover Trail+ chips.

And when the first benchmark came we were more in love than Kim Kardashian is with Kanye West's bank account. Unfortunately, our enthusiasm grew weaker with each passing day. Not only had we not heard a thing about pricing and availability, but the hype-building campaign seemed to end before actually starting.

But now it's back. And, hopefully, it's here to stay. Expected to be shown off during next week's MWC, the Lenovo K900 stars in a neat little video teaser. Or, as Intel likes to call it, a demo.

The chip maker starts off the clip by throwing a couple of jabs at ARM. "They told you it was not possible" and "we could not do it" says Intel and points at a couple of printed-out online articles in which ARM battered its rivals.

The video then takes an unexpected turn. The K900 is unveiled, preceded by the "x86 is in business in Phones" message. We then get a glimpse of how smooth Epic's Citadel is on the phone. The game is closed and Texture Mark, a popular benchmark measuring a device's responsiveness, is opened.

Just smoke and mirrors, because instead of taking the actual benchmark test, the Free Mode is opened. Sneaky devils! You can still get an idea of how responsive the new Intel GPU is, just no specific numbers.

Well, I got chills watching the video. And I don't even want to think about how I'd handle actually holding the device. But were they wrong? We shall see about that.

Optimus G2 to feature LG’s eight-core ‘Odin’ processor

Posted: 21 Feb 2013 02:28 AM PST

LG-logo-Android

It's not just Samsung that's interested in using eight-core processors on future mobile devices – although the Galaxy S4 is said not to pack the Exynos 5 Octa CPU – as a new report now reveals that LG has its own big.LITTLE eight-core project, a SoC that will apparently power the Optimus G2.

According to South Korean publication DDaily, the eight-core processor – dubbed Odin – will use a 28nm HKMG process, with LG hiring TSMC to produce it. The processor should be ready for market later this year, and should be found inside the Optimus G2, which we can only assume it's coming in late 2013, about a year after the Optimus G.

The Odin will feature four Cortex A15 cores for heavy-duty requirements, while four Cortex A7 cores will deal with more mundane activities. Just like the Exynos 5 Octa, LG's eight-core processor aims to offer high performance when needed, but also improved battery life, thanks to the big.LITTLE architecture.

The SoC will apparently offer eight-core graphics capabilities as well with support for Full HD resolution (1920 x 1080) and higher, but it will lack a baseband modem.

We'll have more details about Odin as we get closer to the Optimus G launch. What's clear though is that we'll see an interesting battle between processors later this year, with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 800, Samsung's Exynos 5 Octa and LG's Odin being some of the high-end SoCs to follow.

Beautiful Widgets gets updated with tablet widgets and more

Posted: 21 Feb 2013 02:06 AM PST

beautiful-widgets

Aren't widgets great? Functions are one thing, but if you also need your widgets to look darn pretty, then the aptly named Beautiful Widgets is a fine app to have on your device. The app received its last major update back in December, as it moved up to version 5.0, now the developer is bringing more improvements and features.

Version 5.1 of Beautiful Widgets is now available for download on Google Play. Here's what you can expect to see.

  • New weather provider
  • New Forecast Fragment Lifestyles
  • New widgets for tablets (6×1 or 6×2)
  • New beta channel
  • New layouts for WeatherWidgets 4×1

In addition to AccuWeather, you can now get those weather forecasts from Weather Underground. Other improvements include the ability to remove geolocation and disable weather animations, hide home fragment, new translations, and more.

That's not all – as the updated app also offers loads of bugs fixes. To name a few, they have fixed the Daydream animation issues, live wallpaper background color, display issue with double digits negative temps, and others. You can find the full change log for Beautiful Widgets 5.1 at the developer's website right here.

Loving the update? Tell us in the comments below.

 

Sprint ZTE Force smartphone leaks, due out on March 1 for $50 on-contract

Posted: 21 Feb 2013 01:47 AM PST

sprint-force

With MWC just around the corner, the race is on as to who can deliver strong contenders for Sony's Xperia Z and HTC One the fastest. We're also dying to see if there are any new affordable 7-inch tabs coming to Barcelona. Or maybe even that mythical 10-inch "iPad killer".

But, with the show still not on the road yet, we have to quench our thirst for new gadgets with something much more down to earth – the Sprint Force. It sounds pretty kewl, we know, but it's not.

Based on a leaked Sprint product page, the 4-incher is due out on March 1 with mediocre specs. There's a 1.5 GHz dual-core processor, which is nice we guess, but only Android 4.0 ICS. Scratch-resistant Gorilla Glass on the display, but most likely WVGA resolution (800 x 480 pixels).

4G LTE speeds, but a measly 1,730 mAh battery. And finally 1 GB of RAM, a 5 MP rear-facing snapper, a 1 MP front-facing cam and 4 GB of internal memory. Chances are the fellow will be branded as the Sprint Force, but we have to give credit where credit is due and say ZTE is responsible for its manufacturing.

And while the handheld is not yet official, this is the second time we're hearing about it, so we're certain it's real. The first was back in December 2012, when the Force was supposedly heading to Boost, one of Sprint's subsidiaries.

Unfortunately, we've saved the worst for last. According to today's leak, Sprint will sell the Force for $49.99 with 2-year contracts. After $50 mail-in rebates. Which is a terrible deal, to be frank. You can currently get the Flash for no charge after a similar rebate. And that fellow packs a punch – dual-core Krait CPU, 4.5-inch 720p display, 8 GB of storage, 12.6 MP camera. What is Sprint thinking?

Sony’s Xperia Z proving popular in Europe and in Japan

Posted: 21 Feb 2013 01:43 AM PST

Sony-Xperia-ZJust a few days ago I wrote about the release of Sony’s new 5 inch full HD smartphone, the Xperia Z, in France and of Sony’s plans for the rest of Europe. Even though it has a price tag of €649, the full HD, quad-core Android smartphone sold out in just one day! For those in France who didn’t manage to get hold of one, the good news is that more stock is expected in just a week from now.

The success of the Xperia Z in France was mirrored in Japan. Reports from the Japanese press say that DoCoMo, the predominant mobile phone operator in the country, sold 140,000 units in the first week. DoCoMo sees this as a “fairly encouraging start.”

Clearly getting a full HD phone out into the market before Samsung is proving to be a successful strategy for Sony. But the cool display isn’t the only reason consumers are keen on this smartphone. Other neat things about this LTE 4G phone is that it is dust and water resistant, supports NFC, and packs 2GB of RAM. Importantly it also has support for a micro SD card, something many of the leading smartphones don’t have.

The 13.1MP camera with Exmor RS sensor is also proving to be a key selling point, with the HTC One switching to UltraPixels could it be that the lure of big megapixel numbers is still a key factor when people buy a smartphone?

So it looks like the Japanese and the French are giving the Sony Xperia Z a thumbs up, what about you? Will you be getting one?

PlayStation App for Android brings second screen to PlayStation 4, not for gaming though

Posted: 21 Feb 2013 01:41 AM PST

playstation-4-controller

The leaks were right, the new PlayStation 4 will come with companion apps for Android and iOS, unfortunately Sony's event yesterday was rather boring when it comes to actually revealing details about the new product.

Never mind that Sony did not actually show the PlayStation 4 during the 2-hour long presentation, nor did it mention pricing and release dates, but it didn't share that many details about the PlayStation App either. And we would have expected the company to somehow link the PS4 to its Xperia smartphones, although the company can't really do that, not when it still wants to sell PlayStation Vitas.

The support for a second screen (tablet or smartphone) has been briefly covered during the event, with just one gaming studio revealing that users will be able to interact with the game via mobile devices. But the smartphone and/or tablet won't act as an actual game controller, in case you were hoping for that. Again, the company can't really offer that as long as it wants to sell you the new PS4 controller.

That's not to say that PS4 buyers won't appreciate a companion app on their smartphones and tablets, especially one that will offer added features compared with the existing PlayStation Official App.

The press release doesn't offer more details either:

A new application from SCE called "PlayStation App" will enable iPhone, iPad, and Android based smartphones and tablets to become second screens. Once installed on these devices, users can, for example, see maps on their second screens when playing an adventure game, purchase PS4 games while away from home and download it directly to the console at home, or remotely watch other gamers playing on their devices.

But it does specify that depending on OS version – mostly referring to Android – the app may or may not be supported on certain devices.

PlayStation Official App - screenshots from current Android app

PlayStation Official App – screenshots from current Android app

Just like we assumed before, the PlayStation App (which will probably be available this holiday season when the console launches) will be similar to Microsoft's SmartGlass app, also a console companion app.

Users will be able to view maps on the second screen while playing but also watch streaming gameplay footage from other people playing certain games. Moreover, using the app, PS4 will be able to buy games no matter where you are, and have them downloaded on the console at home (most likely automatically after the purchase is made, whether the console is turned on or not) to have them ready to play for later.

We have no screenshots for the PlayStation App at this time – like we said, Sony revealed little during the show – so we'll have to wait for the new console to arrive before we can tell you more.

Will game developers add extra smartphone and tablet features to their PS4 titles? That's something that could happen, but gamers will need to install additional apps on their mobile devices. During the show, just one studio revealed such plans. Evolution Studios' said that its upcoming DriveClub racing game – which will offer some sort of team racing and plenty of social interaction – will have a DriveClub companion app which will let users choose tracks, cars and setup challenges right on the mobile device of choice.

Let's hear it from future PS4 buyers out there that also happen to use Android smartphones and tablets. What would you like the PlayStation App to offer you in the future?

LG Optimus F5 and F7 official with mid-range specs and features

Posted: 21 Feb 2013 01:06 AM PST

LG Optimus F5 F7

We knew better than to get super-excited when LG vaguely teased the new F-Series, and yesterday's F5 and F7 leaks seemed to confirm our fears. There was nothing really special about the duo's design, so we didn't expect the specs and features to blow us away either.

And now that the two phones are official… it’s clear we weren't too far off from reality. Don't get us wrong, the Optimus F5 and F7 don't look awful. And their specs are not exactly run-of-the-mill. It's just, we can't see the wow factor.

And don't even get us started on how crowded LG's smartphone line-up is becoming and how tough it's going to be in a couple of months to distinguish each slightly different device.

But enough with that and let's see exactly what we're dealing with here. In a nutshell, the F7 is a 2012 high-ender dressed in 2013 mid-ranger clothes. You have your 4.7-inch True HD (aka not Full HD) IPS panel, your 1.5 GHz dual-core processor, 2 GB of RAM, 8 GB of internal storage, microSD support, 8 MP rear-facing snapper, 1.3 MP front-facing cam, Android 4.1 Jelly Bean, LTE and 2,540 mAh battery.

Again, nothing terribly wrong there (besides the 8 GB of on-board memory, maybe), but nothing to scream innovation either. The CPU is undetailed at the moment, but we're guessing it's going to be of Qualcomm's Snapdragon S4 variation.

LG teaser

Meanwhile, the design still feels like an Optimus G – Optimus L combo. Stylish, no doubt about that, but maybe the bezel and overall thickness of the device could have been shrunk down a tad.

As for the F5, that's even easier to forget, despite a better design and slimmer profile. The 4.3-inch IPS screen only boasts a 960 x 540 pixels resolution, the dual-core CPU is clocked at a lower 1.2 GHz, the RAM is cut in half, while the main camera is a 5 MP unit.

The 2,150 mAh battery doesn't sound half bad, as do the on-board Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean, LTE speeds, 8 GB of internal memory and microSD support. And yet there are too many common points between this fellow and another new mid-ranger from LG, the Optimus L7 II.

LG has worldwide rollouts planned for both the F5 and F7, but there are no details on pricing yet. The lower-end model will be made available sometime in Q2 in Europe, “followed soon by the F7 in selected markets”. We expect to hear more on that come next week’s MWC, when we’ll also most likely get some quality one-on-one time with the duo. The question is, is anyone interested?

Android 4.2 Jelly Bean changelog updated after Android 4.2.2 launch

Posted: 21 Feb 2013 01:02 AM PST

Android 4.2.1

Google has updated the Android 4.2 Jelly Bean changelog to reflect the new features available to Android users now that Android 4.2.2 is out in the wild, at least for Nexus devices.

After checking out the unofficial Android 4.2.2 changelog a few days ago, you can now go to the official Android Jelly Bean page and check out what's new – all the new features are marked that way, so you can easily spot what Android 4.2.2 brings to the table.

Some of the main new features have been wildly covered already, while some of the minor tweaks and performance enhancements may have been missed in the first Android 4.2.2 previews.

Without listing the new features here – the full changelog is available at the Source link below – we'll tell you that you can expect various updates when it comes to accessibility, camera and gallery, clock, graphics, fonts, keyboards, lock screen, messaging, networking, phone, settings and system improvements.

Android 4.2.2 is officially available on most Nexus devices that are compatible with the OS, although some carriers out there are yet to push out the update. This is most likely the last Jelly Bean update we'll see before Android 5.0 Key Lime Pie arrives, which is expected to be unveiled in mid-May at this year's Google I/O event.

Yota signs production deal for its dual-screen Android phone

Posted: 21 Feb 2013 12:54 AM PST

YotaPhoneBack in December Russian based Yota Devices unveiled its YotaPhone, a dual-screen Android phone with a normal touch screen on one side and an e-ink display on the other. Now the company has announced that it has signed a deal with Singapore Hi-P to manufacture the phone. Hi-P is a fast growing Tier 1 contract manufacturer that specializes in wireless telecommunications and consumer electronics.

Along with the new production deal, Yota Devices also announced that it is establishing an R&D and Asian sales office in Singapore. This makes sense since that is where the phone will be made and it will make it easier for the company to iron out any production issues. With the production deal signed and a new office in Asian, it is expected that the phone will be ready for sale first, in Russia and then globally, in the second half of 2013.

What do you think? Would you buy a smartphone with an e-ink display on the back?

Android and Me

Android and Me


New Google Glass video: ‘How It Feels’ to live with wearable computing

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 08:41 AM PST

We were all impressed when Google posted the very first Google Glass concept video. Since then, we’ve seen very little of what the UI has to offer. Many have wondered exactly how Google’s wearable computing device will help make our lives easier. To help answer those questions, Google...

Visit our site to read the full article.

Android Phone Fans

Android Phone Fans


ZTE and NVIDIA to bring first Tegra 4 smartphone to China by Q2′s end

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 05:11 PM PST

ZTE and NVIDIA have just announced that the two have paired up to bring the first round of Tegra 4 smartphones to the market. The first release is set to be out by the end of the second quarter of this year, and it will head straight to the manufacturer’s home base of China. With no details on what those phones will be just yet, we do know that the Tegra 4 will be paired with NVIDIA’s Icera i500 LTE-capable modem, giving those in China the super fast broadband speeds that we’ve all come to know and love.

The Tegra 4 chipset is a quad-core 4+1 ARM Cortex-A15 configuration with a GPU that has 72 cores — I don’t know about you, but that sounds like a boatload of sheer performance goodness. If ZTE ever needed a phone that would help launch the company into the upper-echelon of smartphone manufacturers then tasking Tegra 4 for the job is not a bad idea at all.

We’ll have to wait a while longer to know what, exactly, we’re in store for, so be sure to keep your eye on Phandroid as we had into what should be an exciting second quarter. Read on for full press details.

ZTE and NVIDIA Partner To Launch First Tegra 4 Super Phones

New Devices to Feature 72 Custom GPU Cores, Quad-Core Cortex-A15 CPU, Icera i500 LTE Chipset for High Performance, Power Efficiency, Fast 4G Networking

 

20 February 2013, Shenzhen, China – ZTE Corporation ("ZTE"), a publicly-listed global provider of telecommunications equipment, network solutions and mobile devices has announced that it is partnering with NVIDIA to deliver the first super phones powered by the NVIDIA® Tegra® 4 mobile processor, with the first models to reach the market before mid-year.

 

ZTE has a long-term strategic partnership with NVIDIA and expects to launch the first Tegra 4 super phones in China in the first half of 2013. The Tegra 4 processor was only announced by NVIDIA in January, at the CES 2013 exhibition in Las Vegas.

 

"This is a clear demonstration of ZTE's ability to quickly develop, and bring to market, market-leading devices running the industry's latest technologies," said Mr. He Shiyou, ZTE EVP and Head of the Terminal Division.

 

The NVIDIA Tegra 4 will enable the ZTE devices to deliver ultra-fast web browsing, improved app load times, more realistic gaming experiences and great battery life – thanks to the processor's 72 custom NVIDIA GeForce® cores and quad-core ARM Cortex-A15 CPU. Tegra 4 also enables worldwide 4G LTE voice and data support through an optional chipset, the NVIDIA i500 processor. ZTEand NVIDIA are also planning a new LTE super phone using the i500 LTE chipset for blazing-fast networking.

 

These new devices build on ZTE and NVIDIA's success with previous smartphones such as the Grand X, the first smartphone powered by both the Tegra processor and NVIDIA's Icera modem; the Grand Era super phone with Tegra 3; and the U950, the first premium quad-core smartphone with Tegra 3 priced below $160 USD.

 

“We're proud to continue our pioneering partnership with NVIDIA and are looking forward to offering more Tegra-powered devices, which are defining a new generation of phones offering premium mobile computing experiences," said Mr. He. “Our Tegra 4 smartphones will provide full HD entertainment and multimedia experiences that consumers will love.”

 

“ZTE’s newest super phones will show off Tegra 4′s processing power, efficiency and unprecedented capabilities," said Phil Carmack, Senior Vice President of the Mobile business at NVIDIA. "They're a great example of what the market expects from one of the world’s largest phone makers.”

 

About ZTE

ZTE is a publicly-listed global provider of telecommunications equipment and network solutions with the most comprehensive product range covering virtually every sector of the wireline, wireless, service and terminals markets. The company delivers innovative, custom-made products and services to over 500 operators in more than 140 countries, helping them to meet the changing needs of their customers while achieving continued revenue growth. ZTE's 2010 revenue led the industry with a 21% increase to USD10.609 billion. ZTE commits 10 percent of its revenue to research and development and takes a leading role in a wide range of international bodies developing emerging telecoms standards. A company with sound corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, ZTE is a member of the UN Global Compact. ZTE is China's only listed telecom manufacturer, publicly traded on both the Hong Kong and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges (H share stock code: 0763.HK / A share stock code: 000063.SZ). For more information, please visitwww.zte.com.cn.

Sony shows glimpse of Android tablet connectivity at PlayStation 4 unveiling

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 04:15 PM PST

Sony’s PlayStation event is going on right now, and the company has just announced the PlayStation 4! The games look great and the hardware sounds exciting, but Sony had a little something in-store for us Android-loving folks. Showing off the PlayStation 4′s powerful social features, Sony gave us a quick glimpse at a social app for tablets and smartphones. The folks at PlayStation EU have confirmed that via Twitter.

You’ll seemingly be able to connect with your friends even when you’re away from your console. We’re not sure what sort of features we’ll be getting on the go, but we imagine we’ll have access to profiles and, at the very least, the ability to exchange messages and chat with our friends.

We also saw a glimpse of an Android tablet during the demo of Sony’s new DRIVECLUB game. The tablet was shown to be running an app that lets you catch up on others in your “club,” allowing you to see who’s racing at a given time and getting updates on their progress. Since it was a simulated demo and the transitions were quick we couldn’t exactly tell how the functionality worked, but it would be awesome to be able to not only navigate that social menu from our phones and tablets, but also to initiate gameplay.

Sony didn’t go into too much detail regarding the social apps or tablet connectivity, but we’ll be seeking more information from those in charge. If you want more immediate coverage of everything that was announced tonight, park it right here.

Otterbox already planning HTC One cases

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 03:07 PM PST

Wondering whether or not you’ll be able to buy an Otterbox for your HTC One ahead of the phone’s launch? While some phones launch without any promise of support from Otterbox (they usually go by consumer demand), the HTC One seems to have gotten the case manufacturer’s attention right away. Coming soon pages for several HTC One cases — including Defender and Commuter designs — have been put up on the company’s website.

You’ll be able to get the Commuter in a multitude of colors, including Black, Glacier, Steel Blue, Lilac, and Punked. The Defender, on the other hand, is coming in Black, Glacier, Blushed and Punked. Finally, a separate RealTree color scheme will be available, and it’ll dress your HTC One up in camouflage goodness. I’m not sure what sort of market there is for that vomit of colors, but there it is anyway.

You can expect the Defender cases to cost you about $50, add $10 for the RealTree defender, and the Commuter cases will be $15 cheaper. It’s a bit pricey, but once you slap an Otterbox onto your device it virtually wipes out any fears you have of your phone breaking due to a fall. Head to Otterbox to throw your email address into the hat so you can be sure you’re notified once these cases drop.

Qualcomm unveils new Snapdragon 200 and 400 chipsets for entry-level and mid-range devices

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 02:13 PM PST

Qualcomm has announced a couple of new chipset options for vendors who want to provide powerful entry-level and mid-range smartphones at a more affordable price. Enter the Snapdragon 200 and 400, two chipsets which won’t boast “best overall” performance but should be a popular configuration in a time where OEMs are looking to capture every side of the market possible.

The Snapdragon 400 includes two different CPU options: a dual Krait-based setup with 1.7GHz per core, or a quad-core ARM Cortex-A7 setup at up to 1.4GHz per core. Both options include a nice Adreno 305 GPU, Miracast support, up to 13.5MP camera support with 1080p capture and playback, and more.

On the other hand, the Snapdragon 200 will be a quad-core ARM Cortex-A5 configuration at 1.4Ghz per core, will house an Adreno 203 GPU, support for cameras up to 8 megapixels and more. It’s tough to say how these chipsets will perform in real-world scenarios, but if these are headed into devices aimed at emerging markets we imagine they’ll be more than enough.

Qualcomm has more details over at its blog, including information about RAM, dual-SIM capabilities, the modems being paired with these chipsets and more. Get over there and read up if any of that stuff is important to you, and we’ll be keeping our eye out for any devices that might be coming to market with these two pups starting at Mobile World Congress next week.

Here’s the full changelog for Android 4.2 Jelly Bean

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 01:10 PM PST

Google didn’t quite give us a formal changelog for what was new in Android 4.2 Jelly Bean when the rollouts first began, but the silence didn’t last forever. Instead of leaving it up to us to figure out what’s new, Google has finally decided to upgrade the Jelly Bean changelog with new changes specific to Android 4.2. You’ll see new items tagged with a red “New” label, and the rest is everything we’ve been enjoying since Android 4.1.

Just to give you an idea of some of the more interesting features highlighted, Android 4.2 now includes the ability to enable “TalkBack,” which is a screen reader function, from the power menu, a completely redesigned camera app with HDR features and a new photo editor, a redesigned clock with a stopwatch, timer, and world clock, the new gesture-based keyboard and more.

Combined with the changes from Android 4.1 this is an awfully long list, but if you have a bit of popcorn and a few minutes on your hand be sure to give it a nice read and learn everything there is to know about the latest versions of Android. Head right to this link to get started.

Google Drive update brings pinch-to-zoom in presentation view

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 12:51 PM PST

Google Drive for Android received a pretty decent upgrade in the Play Store today, and it’s something those of you with gripes about the presentation viewer will be happy about. You can now perform pinch-to-zoom operations within the viewer so you can read slides a lot more easily. We’re surprised it took Google this long to implement the change, but I’ll repeat the age-old saying that never quite loses its luster: it’s better late than never.

Other key changes have been made to the Google Drive app, as well. Google says performance improvements have been made across the “whole up,” though we aren’t let in on how, exactly, performance will be improved. Whether this means faster connectivity or smoother UI operations we can’t say, but either way we aren’t complaining.

Support for streaming video files is now enabled for devices on Android 3.0 and higher, and some other bug fixes and improvements have been made. If you’re in love with Google Drive as much as I am and you often find yourself needing to do your bidding on the go, be sure to grab the upgrade at your earliest convenience. It’s in the Play Store is a 7.2MB download.

Will Sony revisit the idea of a PlayStation phone tonight?

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 11:43 AM PST

After HTC rocked our socks off yesterday with the announcement of the HTC One, Sony is looking to take the rest of this week by storm with some announcements regarding its PlayStation brand. We’re expecting some pretty big news tonight — after all, you don’t rent out the Hammerstein Ballroom and drum up this much noise for a dud. We’ll potentially be treated to an announcement regarding the next generation PlayStation console, but those of us who are interested in mobile have reason to be curious about this announcement, as well.

If you don’t remember, Sony tried to do a little cross-pollination between its gaming and phone sectors. The idea of a PlayStation phone was something that was rumored for a long time, and Sony eventually embraced the idea and ran with it. The Japanese company called it the Sony Xperia Play, but it wasn’t exactly what we were expecting.

Sure, Sony made it, it had a built-in gamepad, and it was “PlayStation Certified,” but aside from some PSOne classics and other mini titles it never fully sprouted into the must-have gaming device. Sony tried to continue the PlayStation Certified program with its line of Android tablets, but those devices didn’t exactly set the world on fire.

With Sony’s PlayStation event scheduled for later tonight, we have our eyes peeled and our curiosity piqued — will Sony look to bring us the “true” PlayStation phone we’ve all been waiting for?

Vita is Sony’s priority for mobile gaming

When the rumors of a PlayStation phone were still in infancy, folks believed it could be a worthy successor to the original PSP. The Vita hadn’t existed in our minds yet, and we figured there was a perfect opportunity to create the single most entertaining communication device one could ever wish to have. The Vita was announced, though, and the only thing it had to do with cellular were the AT&T radios sitting inside for mobile data.

Sony has gone full steam ahead with the PlayStation Vita, but the handheld hasn’t taken off like the company has hoped. Sales are down, and that’s largely due to the fact that Sony is finding a tough time getting support from third-party developers. Games are trickling in at a snail’s pace, and the odd titles we do get here and there aren’t always must-have blockbuster releases. Yours truly has sold his PlayStation Vita, and there is not much on the horizon making me want it back.

With that, it’s tough to imagine Sony would jump-start a new product category like that without a degree of hesitation. It has to find solid footing in the handheld space up against Nintendo, of course, but it’s highly unlikely the electronics giant would look to do that with a full-blown PlayStation phone. Other areas of opportunity exist, though, so let’s explore them a bit.

Gaikai could enable the perfect opportunity

Sony might still have a few tricks up its sleeve that could give it the edge it needs going further. If you haven’t heard, Sony acquired streaming game service Gaikai. Not unlike OnLive, Gaikai allows users to play games on any device as long as they have a decent broadband connection to stream them to. This means you can play console-quality games even if you don’t have great or compatible hardware. It actually works pretty well, and it’s a technological innovation that could help Sony a few different ways.

The most obvious scenario for Sony would be the ability to serve up PSOne Classics, old PS2 games, and PS3 games for those who buy the PlayStation 4. Backwards compatibility is a tricky subject in the console space, but Gaikai would give Sony the opportunity to solve that problem with relative ease since it wouldn’t have to rely on specific hardware to emulate games like it did with the Emotion chip for PS2 backwards compatibility inside the original 60GB PS3.

More than supporting older PlayStation titles on the PS4, though, Sony could finally look to deliver these games in the mobile space. A big reason the Sony Xperia Play never got as many games as we’d hoped is because much of it had to be ported to ARM architecture, and the hardware at that time — a 1GHz Snapdragon S2 processor with an Adreno 205 GPU and just 512MB of RAM — wasn’t great. This limited titles to less-demanding PSOne games and bite-sized mobile titles that you could probably find in the Play Store today.

With Gaikai, Sony’s entire range of Xperia phones and tablets could theoretically play almost any title since the fifth generation. This could kill two birds with one stone, because every phone and tablet could be a PlayStation device, and the PlayStation 4 could be backwards compatible with any generation. I don’t fully expect that to happen, but if Sony wants to bolster the Xperia line with something truly unique that no other OEM can offer it wouldn’t get any better than that.

At the very least, compete with Smart Glass and Wii U

If all else fails, we imagine Sony will at least want to match its console competitors in some areas. With the launch of the Wii U, Nintendo introduced an innovative tablet controller that allows gamers to interact in a new way. For instance, ZombiU — a game Rob has enjoyed quite extensively (read his review at Wii U Daily) — gives you a new perspective, allows you to use the controller as a manipulative tool, and can be used as a map in certain game modes.

Microsoft has plans to do something similar with SmartGlass, with its vision being the ability to enable that same sort of interactive connectivity in Xbox games. Nothing has taken off quite yet, but Microsoft originally teased scenarios like being able to call plays on your smartphone or tablet in Madden NFL as if you had an actual playbook in your hands.

Sony has shown signs of wanting to leverage similar technology with cross-platform integration between the Vita and the PlayStation 3 (and, eventually, the PlayStation 4), but why limit that to the Vita? Bring it to your Xperia smartphones and tablets, as well. Hell, bring it to all smartphones and tablets like Microsoft will eventually do.

Gone are the days where promising a superior music phone under the Walkman brand was enough to get a phone to sell like hotcakes — it’s the combination of gaming, music, and all forms of entertainment that will turn heads. It would give people more than enough reason to jump back into Sony’s mobile brand with excitement (though, to be honest, the beautiful Xperia Z is doing quite the decent job on its own merit).

What are you hoping for?

The PlayStation event kicks off in just under 4 hours — at about 6pm eastern — so it won’t be a long wait before we figure out where Sony plans to go from here. Sony has a lot riding on this announcement. Its recent financial struggles have the company on the brink of desperation mode, and we can’t imagine Sony can afford too many more blunders before President and CEO Kaz Hirai begins to sweat.

Be sure to stay tuned to GameFans.com and PS4Daily.com for coverage of all of today’s announcements, and you can bet Phandroid will be keeping an eye on things to see if Sony has anything to bless the mobile world with. Let us know what you hope Sony is getting ready to announce — aside from the obvious guess of a PlayStation 4 unveiling — in the comments below!

Qualcomm announces Quick Charge 2.0, boasts 75 percent faster charging times

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 10:50 AM PST

No sooner did Qualcomm let us in on the secrets of Quick Charge 1.0 than the company has announced the next generation of rapid-charging technology. Quick Charge 2.0 will debut in devices using the Snapdragon 800 platform, a hardware solution providing up to 75 percent quicker charge time.

As with Quick Charge 1.0, the second generation doesn’t require any software gimmicks, instead offering an integrated circuit that couples with Quick Charge-enabled wall adapters. In testing, Quick Charge 2.0 was able to bring a tablet to full power in just three hours compared to the typical seven plus. We’re talking 60 watts of power compared to the 10 watts provided by version 1.0.

The good news is that most standard microUSB wall chargers will soon feature the technology inherently, meaning you won’t have to hunt down an overpriced or specialized adapter. If you have an existing Quick Charge 1.0 adapter, the standards will be backwards compatible.

While Qualcomm is getting the hype train rolling today, don’t expect to see phones with the capability until early 2014. That’s when we will likely see the first round of smartphones featuring the Snapdragon 800 platform.

[via Qualcomm]

ASUS goes metal for Mobile World Congress teaser

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 09:23 AM PST


We’re not talking black hair and screaming guitars metal, we’re talking unidentified flying church spires. You know, “ultimate craftsmanship.” While the above video from ASUS doesn’t reveal much about an actual phone or tablet (or both? but we’ll get to that later), it does tease a “metallic miracle” to debut at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona next week.

It’s an interesting use of the unfinished Sagrada Familia church to illustrate their point about craftsmanship. That seems to be ASUS’ emphasis here, though the video’s description sheds a bit more light on what we might expect. “When Pad and Phone come together” is the tagline. So are we going to see another Padfone? A 7-inch phablet? If ASUS’ MWC showings are anything like this video, things could get weird.

[via BriefMobile]

See yesterday’s HTC One unveiling in its entirety

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 08:20 AM PST

 

Missed yesterday’s HTC One event? There is plenty to catch up on, including our initial hands-on and a look at how the phone stacks up to the competition, but if you want to relive the magic of the handset’s official unveiling you now can. HTC has made available the entire press conference, including a first look at the One as well as what’s new in Sense 5. Check it out below.

[via AndroidPolice]

Analyst: Google Nexus 7 sales have topped 4.5 million

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 06:45 AM PST

Google has experienced healthy sales of their Nexus 7 tablet, but you won’t hear it from them. According to analyst Benedict Evans, the company has sold between 4.5 and 4.6 million slates since launching last summer. While the figure is a triumph for Google — the company had hoped to sell 3 million tablets by the end of 2012 — it falls short of some predictions. It doesn’t match sales of Apple’s iPad Mini and Amazon’s Kindle Fire, either.

As recently as December reports suggested that Google could move as many as 7 million Nexus 7 tablets by the end of last year. The current estimate, based on sales data from ASUS, Google’s partner in manufacturing the N7, still falls within the low range of initial projections.

Rumors already have the next Nexus 7 launching later this year. Improvements might include a higher resolution display, faster processor, and access to Android’s Key Lime Pie version.

[via BGR]

 

LG Optimus F5 and Optimus F7 leak

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 06:02 AM PST

In a Mobile World Congress teaser released yesterday, it wasn’t hard to decipher the possibility of an Optimus F unveiling next week. A new leak has confirmed as much, and it looks like the F series will feature at least two handsets.

Seen here, the LG Optimus F5 and LG Optimus F7 look like pretty typical handsets for the Korean manufacturer. No specs accompany the images, so it’s hard to say exactly where LG will position the phones in their lineup. The phones will likely slot in between the high-end Optimus G line and the more affordable L Series.

Expect to hear a heap more about these devices come next week. LG will be hosting press on Monday, February 25th and providing a look at what’s new in 2013.

[@evleaks via BriefMobile]

Google offers glimpse of Project Glass UI

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 05:39 AM PST

We’ve seen plenty of Project Glass and have a pretty good idea of how it will look when you spot someone strolling down the street in a pair, but what we haven’t seen is what the world will look like through the eyes of the user. Google is finally lifting the veil by way of a new video showcasing life through the lens of Glass.

The clip, which takes its cues from recent Google ads for the Nexus line and features like Google Now, also gives us an idea of how we will be able to use our voice as the main means of controlling the experience. It all looks quite intuitive. If it works as well as Google portrays it here, the company might really be on to something.

SwiftKey 4 with Flow leaves beta, now available from Google Play

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 05:30 AM PST

After months of open beta, what was once known as SwiftKey Flow has launched via Google Play as SwiftyKey 4. Don’t worry, Flow wasn’t scrapped prior to release. The swipe-to-type functionality is the major component of this latest release, but it’s not the only update SwiftKey users can expect.

Flow is SwiftKey’s answer to software keyboard heavyweight Swype, but with a bit of flourish to boot. Aside from “flowing” through words without picking up a finger, Flow Through Space allows the construction of an entire sentence in a single fluid motion. SwiftKey 4 provides support for 60 languages and offers easier, more intuitive corrections while adapting to individual typing style.

For those that have already purchased the app, SwiftKey 4 should be available as a free update. For new users, the app is priced at $1.99 (and well worth every penny).

SwiftKey 4 Best-Selling Android App Revolutionized with Innovative 'SwiftKey Flow' Gesture Typing

SAN FRANCISCO — February 20, 2013 — SwiftKey 4 launches today on Google Play with smarter features that make typing on a touchscreen faster, easier and more accurate. Available now at the promo price of $1.99 and as a free upgrade for existing users, the new release features a unique take on gesture typing called SwiftKey Flow.

SwiftKey Flow combines the mind-reading capabilities of SwiftKey's personalized autocorrect engine with the speed of gliding your fingers across the screen. This revolutionary approach to continuous input begins predicting words from the moment a user touches the screen and goes on to predict their next word when they let go. A unique feature called 'Flow Through Space' also makes gesture typing more powerful than ever before by allowing users to enter entire phrases simply by gliding to the space bar between words.

SwiftKey 4 adds to everything that has made the app a bestseller since first launching in 2010. Users can still tap to type, the app constantly learns a user's style to ease the frustration of entering long words and users can further personalize predictions by granting access to their Gmail, Facebook, Twitter, SMS or blog posts.

"Everyone's had embarrassing autocorrect moments," said Ben Medlock, SwiftKey co-founder and CTO. "That's why we built SwiftKey to understand the context of words, not just their spelling. It works from the word go to adjust to you — from the phrases you write to how you touch the screen. It means you don't have to worry about typing, it does all the hard work for you."

The new features in SwiftKey 4 include:

SwiftKey Flow – blending SwiftKey's mind-reading next-word prediction and autocorrect with the speed of gesture typing
Flow Through Space – lets users write entire sentences in one motion without ever having to lift their finger to add a space
Support for contextual prediction across 60 languages – with new support for Albanian, Bosnian, Javanese, Sundanese, Thai and Vietnamese, all with dynamic auto-correction and next word prediction
Easier corrections – tap on a word and SwiftKey 4 will move the cursor to the end of the word and offer two alternatives
Personalized typing style – whether you write inaccurately with two thumbs or more carefully using a single finger, SwiftKey 4 now automatically adapts to how users type to provide more insightful corrections and prediction
Beta versions of the app have been tested by more than 200,000 SwiftKey fans over the last 11 weeks, with more than 2.4 billion characters flowed. A No.1 best-selling app on Google Play in 38 countries, SwiftKey is available in 60 languages and counting. For more information about SwiftKey, visit www.swiftkey.net.

About SwiftKey
SwiftKey was founded by Cambridge University graduates Jon Reynolds, CEO and Dr Ben Medlock, CTO in August 2008. With a growing team of over 90 people, the company is based in Southwark, London, UK.

The company's technology makes typing much easier on touchscreen devices, powering the text entry experience with intelligent natural language technology. This is seen in the flagship SwiftKey keyboard app on Android, which launched in September 2010. The app understands how words work together to give much more accurate corrections and predictions than other keyboards. It can even predict a user's next word as they type and also powerfully learns over time to make typing easier and even more accurate. Users can personalize SwiftKey using Gmail, Facebook, Twitter, SMS or their blog posts.

In the last year, SwiftKey won a People's Voice Webby Award for Mobile Experimentation and Innovation, Most Innovative App at the GSMA awards at Mobile World Congress and has also been recently named one of the top 10 most innovative companies in the world by Fast Company. Its bespoke product for clinicians using touchscreens, SwiftKey Healthcare, is currently shortlisted for "Best Mobile Health Product or Service" at the 2013 GSMA awards and last year won the Best Enterprise Appster at the Apps World conference.

Google expands Glass Explorer program, invites regular folk to try on a pair

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 05:15 AM PST

After a successful developer event that saw the first non-Google employees getting their hands on Project Glass, the Android-powered eyewear is inching closer and closer to a final design every day. Now the tech giant is inviting regular folk like you and me to try our hand at scoring a pair of Google glasses.

Today Google is expanding the Glass Explorer program to a group of lucky individuals to be selected by way of an online contest/application process utilizing Google+ or Twitter. To put your name in that hat, simply start a post with hashtag #ifihadglass and describe how you would use the futuristic headpiece in 50 words or less. Entrants can also include photos or a short video.

Google hasn’t begun shipping a pair of Project Glass glasses to all members of their Explorer program just yet, but it sure sounds like they are ready to make a big push to start creating some hype. Check out the original post on Google+ or the Glass homepage for more info.

[via Google+]

Google Android News Android Forums

Google Android News Android Forums


HTC One now available through Expansys for £520

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 12:19 PM PST

 HTC_One_Pre_Order_Expansys

 

Online retailer Expansys has officially made the newly announced HTC One available for pre-order through their website. Expansys is offering unlocked HTC One models with 32 GB or 64 GB of storage along with either black or silver colors for £520. Of course that is a pretty hefty cost for a device, but if you’re dying to be one of the first to get your hands on HTC’s new stunning flagship device, click the source to head on over to Expansys website where you can pre-order your device today.

Source: Expansys


Come comment on this article: HTC One now available through Expansys for £520

Qualcomm announces Quick Charge 2.0 technology giving us faster charge times on devices

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 12:09 PM PST

Qualcomm Atheros

 

Qualcomm’s Quick Charge 1.0 is nothing to sneeze at when it comes to better power management and faster charge times with Snapdragon-based devices, but Quick Charge 2.0 is looking to blow the original way out the water. The newest iteration of the revolutionary charging and power management system that is offered as a standalone IC solution or as part of the PMIC power management integrated circuit of Snapdragon 800 processor. According to Qualcomm, the new Quick Charge 2.0 technology can charge enabled devices up to 75% faster than non-Quick Charge-enabled devices. All that’s needed is a Quick Charge 2.0-compatible device and a standard micro-USB AC/DC wall chargers— unfortunately we won’t see both until sometime in 2014 (sigh).

Still, you can’t help but gush and look forward to yet another piece of innovative technology. If you’re reading this Qualcomm, don’t make us wait too long before we can actually see this in action. Pretty please?

source: Qualcomm


Come comment on this article: Qualcomm announces Quick Charge 2.0 technology giving us faster charge times on devices

Live TV now available from official CNN Android app

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 11:33 AM PST

CNN_Splash_Banner

CNN has updated their Android app that now includes the ability to live stream the official CNN TV channel. The only setback is that it also requires an active cable subscription with one of CNN’s partnered cable companies. The typical clips and content provided from CNN still exist in the app, however you will now find a “watch live TV” menu that will take you to the live stream. Due to the beginning stages of this new feature, expect there to be some bugs with the feature, but also expect CNN to fix those bugs as soon as they come up. It’s also worth noting that at the time this article was written, the app update only seems to be for phones and not yet available on tablets. Click the link below or snap the QR code to be directed to the Google Play store and check out the new features.

QR Code generator

 Play Store Download Link


Come comment on this article: Live TV now available from official CNN Android app

Beautiful Widgets gets updated to version 5.1 to include new widgets, more functionality

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 10:30 AM PST

BeatifulWidgets_5_01_Lifestyle_01

 

Beautiful widgets has just gotten updated to version 5.1 and gives it even more options and flexibility for users—making the awesome app even better than ever. In addition to having a few new widgets available (such as Barebone for tablets), the developer has finally removed the geolocation option in the widget— finally allowing users to manually enter their desired home location manually. Another noteworthy feature is the inclusion of the Lifestyles widget which in conjunction with AccuWeather, helps users to show different ratings in order to help you plan those fun outdoor activities like going out for a run or finally having that long overdue cookout.

There are more neat improvements and new additions to the app, but you’ll need to hit past the break to get an idea of what each are and grab the updated app from the Play Store as well.

 

New Features

 
  • New weather provider WeatherUnderground
  •  New Forecast Fragment Lifestyles
  • New widgets for tablets
  • New beta channel
 

Improvements

 
  • New layouts for WeatherWidgets 4×1
  • The geolocation can be removed
  • Add a setting to disable the weather animations
  • Hide Home Fragment, and put Tutorial when there is no widgets
  • Add clear app shortcut
  • Unlock Animation Stop without fade
  • Add a 4×1 layout to match the old home 4×1
  • New date formats
  • New translations
  • Physical menu button opens the Sliding menu in the Forecast Screen
  • Physical search button open the search in Location and Theme Store
  • FileLogger rewritten
  • Add compression on weather provider requests
  • Swipe to dismiss improvements
 

Bug fixes

 
  • Fix blue temperature text on blue sky
  • First image doesn't load in ThemeStore
  • Wording correction
  • FileLogger issue when no SD
  • Support theme without good NinePatch
  • Daydream animation issues
  • Battery percent launch the forecast screen
  • The layout of Clock 4×4 is bad for a layout upper than 5×5
  • Snow in mm instead of cm
  • Weather 1×1 layout issue when temp < -10°
  • Daydream data doesn't update
  • The days are bad shorten on Weather widget
  • Toggle silence and Timed Silence not working as previous
  • Display issue with double digits negative temp
  • Inverted temperatures are not working well
  • Import external themes show a "theme not found"
  • Widget 4×1, Home Legacy layout don't apply
  • 4×1 Inverted Layout, at least for tablets
  • TextClock widget, minutes not clickable when shortcut to settings not activated
  • Graphical bug after sort in themeStore
  • Today widget no longer opens the calendar
  • Fix livewallpaper background color
  • Fix few crashes
  • And more…

 

Beautiful_Widgets_5.1_QR

Play Store Download Link


Come comment on this article: Beautiful Widgets gets updated to version 5.1 to include new widgets, more functionality

HTC One London launch replay now available online

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 10:06 AM PST

 

HTC_One_Announcement

 

So you’re feeling a little blue because you missed out on the HTC One smartphone announcement yesterday? Well cheer up as the Taiwanese manufacturer has made its entire London announcement available for your viewing pleasure on YouTube. Once there, you’ll be able to see Peter Chou and Co. offering HTC’s perspective of what the device is and what it means to the brand and of course, consumers. Of course you won’t be able to get all up and close with the device in the video feed, but at least you have our own hands-on to give you a better idea of how the sexy smartphone looks up close.

You can check out the full announcement once you hit past the break.

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n5HM8MHkL3c&feature=player_embedded&list=UUiUC-8OJ7OqxyEEPNkBJEfA[/youtube

 


Come comment on this article: HTC One London launch replay now available online

GoSmart Mobile prepaid service launches nationwide in U.S.

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 09:40 AM PST

GOSMART-png

T-Mobile has launched their new GoSmart Mobile prepaid wireless service brand this month according to a press release they issued as we previously reported. Plans start at only $30 per month for unlimited voice and text or add $5 more per month for 2G web service. An unlimited voice, text, and 3G data plan is available for $45 per month. GoSmart is hoping to tap into customers who may be happy with their device but are looking for something prepaid by offering a Mobile SIM kit that will work with any compatible GSM phone. They also offer GoSmart branded devices, with two options available for under $100.

If you are interested in GoSmart Mobile, head over to their web site at www.GoSmartMobile.com to place an order. GoSmart Mobile indicates they will be available at dealer stores nationwide. Check out the full press release after the break for more details.

GoSmart Mobile Launches Nationwide No-Contract Wireless Service for Budget-Conscious Consumers

Unlimited Plans Starting at $30 per month – Without "DUM" Hidden Fees or Annual Contract

BELLEVUE, Wash. — Feb. 19, 2013 – It is time for FreeDUM in wireless.

GoSmart Mobile today announced the nationwide launch of its no annual contract wireless service for budget-conscious consumers, ending the era of DUM™ hidden fees, roaming charges and overly complicated annual contracts. GoSmart, a new brand from T-Mobile USA, offers affordable, no annual contract plans on a reliable nationwide network starting at just $30 per month.

With GoSmart, wireless customers get what they need – great savings and flexibility without the hassle. For example, customers have the choice of purchasing an inexpensive SIM kit to use in their own compatible mobile phone or they can buy a low-priced GoSmart phone. In addition, all GoSmart services are offered without limits. No DUM caps. No DUM overages. Just a very affordable service for calling, texting and Web surfing.

GoSmart is available online at www.GoSmartMobile.com and at thousands of dealer stores across the nation.

"You don't need food bigger than your face, and you don't need mobile phone plans that charge you more than you can afford for services you don't want or need," said Doug Chartier, senior vice president of marketing for GoSmart. "GoSmart is one of the simplest, most budget-friendly options in wireless, with unlimited plans on a reliable nationwide network starting at $30 per month."
GoSmart's launch comes as the no annual contract market continues to grow at a steady pace, fueled by cost-conscious consumers looking to reduce what they spend each year for wireless  service. The number of no annual contract customers in the United States is expected to reach 80 million by the end of 2013 and grow an average of 7.4 percent per year until 2016, according to a report from market research firm IDC.[i]

“The influx of data services, coupled with the traditional flexibility and value of no contract plans, has considerably increased consumer interest in the no annual contract wireless market” said John Weber, Associate Research Analyst at IDC. “Customers often look for unlimited service plans on a robust network, while simultaneously limiting monthly wireless expenses. GoSmart represents a viable option for consumers to consider.”

Pricing and Availability

GoSmart offers three simple plans with no annual contract:

$30/mo. Unlimited Talk and Text
$35/mo. Unlimited Talk, Text, Web
$45/mo. Unlimited Talk, Text, High Speed Web (3G)ii

A GoSmart Mobile SIM kit, which can be used with any compatible GSM phone, costs $8. If customers want GoSmart branded devices, there are two options currently available for less than $100.
In addition, GoSmart customers can add unlimited international texting to more than 200 countries for just $5 per month, unlimited international texting to more than 200 countries and unlimited landline calling to 50 countries for just $10 per month.

About GoSmart Mobile

GoSmart Mobile is one of the best values in wireless. The no annual contract mobile service seeks to eliminate DUM™ contracts, hidden fees and surprises through simplified pricing and plans. Built on a reliable nationwide network, GoSmart provides unlimited talk and text for $30/mo. and unlimited talk, text and Web for $35/mo. or $45/mo. GoSmart Mobile, provided by T-Mobile USA, can be found in thousands of dealer stores across the nation. For more information, please visit: http://www.gosmartmobile.com.


Come comment on this article: GoSmart Mobile prepaid service launches nationwide in U.S.

Root achieved for Sony Xperia Z before most of world has access to it

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 09:21 AM PST

Sony_Xperia_Z_rooted

You may not be able to get your hands on a Sony Xperia Z quite yet as it is just starting to trickle out to some international markets, but when you do, instructions are already available for those who want to root their new device before doing anything else. Gaining root access has been accomplished by XDA forum member DoomLoRD using a modified root file he had for a Google Nexus 4. After some modifications, and with the assistance of some other developers, the new file for the Xperia Z is ready. If you hit the source link for access to the necessary files and instructions, you might note that DoomLoRD achieved this remotely as he does not yet have the device himself.

If you do get an Xperia Z and want to go down the root path, keep in mind you are taking some risks in unlocking the bootloader and flashing a new kernel on your device.

source: XDA Developers Forum


Come comment on this article: Root achieved for Sony Xperia Z before most of world has access to it

LG Optimus F5 and F7 leak ahead of Mobile World Congress

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 06:56 AM PST

LG_Optimus_F5_Optimus_F7_Leak

Yesterday we posted a teaser video for LG’s big presser at Mobile World Congress. The F series was one of those teased as “Freedom” phones, but we already have the leaked press shot of both the F5 (right) and F7 (left). We don’t have any specs to go on, but one thing that I find odd is the different layout for buttons on both phones. Since both of these are within the same series (in this case F), it surprises me that there would be differences like that. It’s one thing to have different processors or display sizes, but button layouts? Odd indeed, but this is LG we’re talking about, so nothing surprises me. I guess we will find out more on February 25th, in Barcelona so stay tuned.

source: @evleaks


Come comment on this article: LG Optimus F5 and F7 leak ahead of Mobile World Congress

Google gives you an idea of what life will be like through Glass [Video]

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 06:41 AM PST

Google_Project_Glass_Interface

Google usually releases some pretty cool videos, but today is especially cool. Today’s video gives you a really good idea of what Project Glass is going to be like for you. We already know what it will look like aesthetically, but other than the skydiving stunt last year, we really never got a good look at what the experience will be like. This 2 minute video features many clips from family activities and events. It shows you how you will interact with Glass with your voice and it also shows you what types of information will be displayed. If you have even the slightest interest in Project Glass, you need to check out the video. I was already excited about Glass, but now I’m even more excited about the possibilities. Hit the break to see the full video.

Click here to view the embedded video.


Come comment on this article: Google gives you an idea of what life will be like through Glass [Video]

SwiftKey Flow now out of Beta and part of SwiftKey 4, Promo price of $1.99 to celebrate

Posted: 20 Feb 2013 06:13 AM PST

SwiftKey_4_Flow_TA

I know a lot of you have been testing the Beta version of SwiftKey Flow, but it’s now available to all as part of the new SwiftKey 4. Now if you’re already a user of SwiftKey Pro, you don’t need to worry about the promo price since it’s a free upgrade to existing users. If you are one of those that hasn’t tried it yet, now is your time to grab it for half the price and get one of their biggest upgrades. I personally love their stock keyboard and I’m not much of a swiping type of guy, but the fact that you get both in one package makes SwiftKey 4 one of the best keyboard replacement apps available for Android.

The update includes the following:

  • SwiftKey Flow – blending SwiftKey's mind-reading next-word prediction and autocorrect with the speed of gesture typing
  • Flow Through Space – lets users write entire sentences in one motion without ever having to lift their finger to add a space
  • Support for contextual prediction across 60 languages – with new support for Albanian, Bosnian, Javanese, Sundanese, Thai and Vietnamese, all with dynamic auto-correction and next word prediction
  • Easier corrections – tap on a word and SwiftKey 4 will move the cursor to the end of the word and offer two alternatives
  • Personalized typing style – whether you write inaccurately with two thumbs or more carefully using a single finger, SwiftKey 4 now automatically adapts to how users type to provide more insightful corrections and prediction
  • 60 languages: Now including Albanian, Bosnian, Javanese, Sundanese, Thai, Vietnamese

You will find free and paid versions for both phone and tablets in the Play Store. The paid versions are on sale for $1.99 (50% off).

Download Links

Full press release:

SwiftKey 4 Best-Selling Android App Revolutionized with Innovative 'SwiftKey Flow' Gesture Typing

SAN FRANCISCO — February 20, 2013 — SwiftKey 4 launches today on Google Play with smarter features that make typing on a touchscreen faster, easier and more accurate. Available now at the promo price of $1.99 and as a free upgrade for existing users, the new release features a unique take on gesture typing called SwiftKey Flow.

SwiftKey Flow combines the mind-reading capabilities of SwiftKey's personalized autocorrect engine with the speed of gliding your fingers across the screen. This revolutionary approach to continuous input begins predicting words from the moment a user touches the screen and goes on to predict their next word when they let go. A unique feature called 'Flow Through Space' also makes gesture typing more powerful than ever before by allowing users to enter entire phrases simply by gliding to the space bar between words.

SwiftKey 4 adds to everything that has made the app a bestseller since first launching in 2010. Users can still tap to type, the app constantly learns a user's style to ease the frustration of entering long words and users can further personalize predictions by granting access to their Gmail, Facebook, Twitter, SMS or blog posts.

"Everyone's had embarrassing autocorrect moments," said Ben Medlock, SwiftKey co-founder and CTO. "That's why we built SwiftKey to understand the context of words, not just their spelling. It works from the word go to adjust to you — from the phrases you write to how you touch the screen. It means you don't have to worry about typing, it does all the hard work for you."

The new features in SwiftKey 4 include:

  • SwiftKey Flow – blending SwiftKey's mind-reading next-word prediction and autocorrect with the speed of gesture typing
  • Flow Through Space – lets users write entire sentences in one motion without ever having to lift their finger to add a space
  • Support for contextual prediction across 60 languages – with new support for Albanian, Bosnian, Javanese, Sundanese, Thai and Vietnamese, all with dynamic auto-correction and next word prediction
  • Easier corrections – tap on a word and SwiftKey 4 will move the cursor to the end of the word and offer two alternatives
  • Personalized typing style – whether you write inaccurately with two thumbs or more carefully using a single finger, SwiftKey 4 now automatically adapts to how users type to provide more insightful corrections and prediction

Beta versions of the app have been tested by more than 200,000 SwiftKey fans over the last 11 weeks, with more than 2.4 billion characters flowed. A No.1 best-selling app on Google Play in 38 countries, SwiftKey is available in 60 languages and counting.  For more information about SwiftKey, visit www.swiftkey.net.

About SwiftKey

SwiftKey was founded by Cambridge University graduates Jon Reynolds, CEO and Dr Ben Medlock, CTO in August 2008. With a growing team of over 90 people, the company is based in Southwark, London, UK.

The company's technology makes typing much easier on touchscreen devices, powering the text entry experience with intelligent natural language technology. This is seen in the flagship SwiftKey keyboard app on Android, which launched in September 2010. The app understands how words work together to give much more accurate corrections and predictions than other keyboards. It can even predict a user's next word as they type and also powerfully learns over time to make typing easier and even more accurate. Users can personalize SwiftKey using Gmail, Facebook, Twitter, SMS or their blog posts.

In the last year, SwiftKey won a People's Voice Webby Award for Mobile Experimentation and Innovation, Most Innovative App at the GSMA awards at Mobile World Congress and has also been recently named one of the top 10 most innovative companies in the world by Fast Company. Its bespoke product for clinicians using touchscreens, SwiftKey Healthcare, is currently shortlisted for "Best Mobile Health Product or Service" at the 2013 GSMA awards and last year won the Best Enterprise Appster at the Apps World conference.


Come comment on this article: SwiftKey Flow now out of Beta and part of SwiftKey 4, Promo price of $1.99 to celebrate