Sunday, March 24, 2013

Android Community

Android Community


Dear Google: please make the HTC Nexus 5

Posted: 23 Mar 2013 12:13 PM PDT

I have a confession to make. The HTC Nexus One is still one of my favorite devices. Sure, multi-touch was a mess and Eclair was a work in progress, but I loved it. Fast forward a few years and Android has evolved, Samsung is a powerhouse, and HTC is struggling to keep their head above water. The Nexus 4 has arrived from LG, we all know what the GALAXY S 4 is about, and now everyone is focused on Motorola. That being said, I want an HTC Nexus 5.

dna-nexus-540x462

Before the LG Nexus 4 arrived on the scene there was plenty of rumors suggesting Google was preparing an HTC Nexus 5. Most likely they were just dreams like mine, but it would certainly be a dream worth coming true for both parties involved. I even wrote a post titled HTC Nexus 5 rumors skip over LG. We all know how that turned out, but it doesn’t mean an HTC isn’t in the works.

Now this is just opinion here, hence the title being what it is, so take it as you will. We’ve heard tons of rumors and talk about Samsung being “too big” and them obviously having the outright majority of Android users on their side. With that, some are worried. Then of course competition is good for growth and innovation, and Samsung needs some competition – especially after looking at their S4. This is where Google and HTC come in. Not only does the HTC Nexus 5 match the “Nexus” update schedule and naming, it would be the perfect evolution to the line. The Galaxy Nexus at 4.65-inches, Nexus 4 at 4.7, and then the HTC Nexus with a 5-inch 1080p HD display. Perfect!

Screen-Shot-2012-10-17-at-12.16.03-PM1-540x292

Clearly Google is focused on Motorola, but that won’t stop them from working with others. Or at least it shouldn’t. While their pricing strategy might not immediately save HTC from their downward spiral, it would surely be taking things in the right direction. Launch a flagship HTC Nexus 5 with the beautiful design cues of the “One” in a form factor like the DROID DNA. Give us stock Android 5.0 Key Lime Pie and a powerful processor all for the Nexus 4 price, on all major carriers, and with 4G LTE. Sounds good right?

HTC Nexus 5 specs:
– Android 5.0 Key Lime Pie
– 5-inch 1920 x 1080p Full HD SLCD3 (or 4) display
– Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 quad-core 2.3 GHz processor
– 2GB of RAM
– 32GB storage
– 13 megapixel camera (or a better UltraPixel camera)
– Front facing speakers (Beats Audio?)
– 3,300 mAh battery

I said it once and I’ll say it again, the DROID DNA should’ve been the Nexus 5. Give us that phone with stock Android and a bigger battery, and it would be killer. HTC and Google are both in the perfect position to do exactly that. The past two Nexus smartphones have been released during the Q4 holiday season and it would be perfect to do exactly that with the Nexus 5.

Google will probably be focused on Android 5.0 KLP, Motorola, and Project Glass at Google I/O in May. That gives them plenty of time to refine and perfect the next Nexus, that being the HTC Nexus 5. Bring top tier specs and the latest version of Android to a truly premium feeling flagship smartphone – and offer it to everyone on the Google Play Store. Hopefully this time they’ll have enough stock to go around too.

HTC-Nexus5

While this all sounds like a geeks wish list everything about it is highly plausible. The specs aren’t overboard and unrealistic, Google’s worked with HTC in the past, and of course it would be great for competition and help HTC in these struggling times. For now we have no clue what the folks from Mountain View have brewing, but we’ve seen various leaks of a Motorola device that looks extremely similar to a Nexus. Then last week heard rumors that LG will be on board for the Nexus 5.

We can’t wait to see what Google does next in the Nexus line, but hope HTC has something to do with it. What do you guys think, or what do you want?

Android Authority

Android Authority


HTC One trade-in deal deadline extended again

Posted: 23 Mar 2013 06:03 PM PDT

HTC One [aa] 600px (1)

After failing to ship the HTC One according to the initial launch schedule, HTC has decided to offer potential buyers another extension for the HTC One trade-in program.

This is the second time HTC does this in a matter of days in order to cope with the HTC One shipping problems. Here’s what HTC told AndroidGuys:

HTC is thrilled with the positive response we have received to our $100 trade-up offer. Due to this, we are extending the offer for customers who purchase the HTC One by 4/26 and trade in their old device by 5/31. We are pleased to bring this offer to even more customers so they can upgrade to the HTC One at an amazing price.

HTC One buyers that register on the company's website until April 4 and buy the device by April 26, will get some cash-back for their old handset.

Depending on the trade-in value, you'll a pre-paid Visa gift card with at least $100 credit on it (perhaps more depending on the value of your trade-in) as long as you complete one more step by May 31. That's mailing a copy of the proof of purchase of your new HTC One alongside the handset you're trading-in for the new HTC smartphone.

Are you buying an HTC One this year? What handset will you trade-in?

The post HTC One trade-in deal deadline extended again appeared first on Android Authority.

Rogers Xperia ZL pricing leaked ahead of early April launch

Posted: 23 Mar 2013 05:40 PM PDT

Sony Xperia Z vs Sony Xperia ZL [aa] (1)

Those Rogers subscribers interested in getting on of Sony's new high-end Xperia handsets should be happy to hear that the Xperia ZL will soon be available from the Canadian carrier, with a new leak confirming launch details for this particular mobile operator.

Sure, it's not the Xperia Z flagship, but the Xperia ZL is definitely worth considering when buying a new handset this year. In case you forgot, the Xperia ZL features a 5-inch 1080p display (443PPI) with Mobile Bravia Engine 2 technology, 1.5GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro processor, 2GB of RAM, 4G LTE, 13-megapixel camera with Exmor RS sensor, 2-megapixel front-facing camera and Android 4.1 Jelly Bean.

According to a leaked screenshot published by MobileSyrup, the phone will be available in Canada in early April, having an estimated ship date of April 2.

The internal document in the following image also reveals the pricing structure for the smartphone: $624.99 outright or $124.99 with a new three-year contract with the carrier. A few days ago, we told you that the handset is available for pre-order from Sony, carrying an off contract price of $674.99.

rogers-xperia-zl-pricing

Are you buying the Xperia ZL or are you more interested in getting your hands on the Xperia Z?

The post Rogers Xperia ZL pricing leaked ahead of early April launch appeared first on Android Authority.

The Best Live Wallpapers for Android – Android Authority

Posted: 23 Mar 2013 04:05 PM PDT

Best Live Wallpapers for Android feature Simple put, there are a lot of live wallpapers out there. You can find anything from simple wallpapers that just change color to ones that look and do crazy things. You can even find live wallpapers that have functionality. Finding the ones you’re looking for can be tough since there are so many. We’ve decided to help out by providing a best live wallpapers for Android list that you can start your search from. As usual, if you’d rather watch it, then we have posted our video at the bottom.


Android Pro! Live Wallpapers

Source url To download Android Pro! Live Wallpaper, click on the source URL.

Androids Pro! Live Wallpapers

First on our list is Androids Pro! live wallpaper. This is a simplistic wallpaper with a lot of customization options. There are a few shapes to choose from and you can make them pretty much any color you want. You can also change the background color or pattern. Once you have the objects and colors picked out, you can change the physics, size, and speed of the objects to your liking. So it’s possible to have a hundred little objects floating around or one giant Andy the Android floating around.

As far as live wallpapers go, Androids Pro! is pretty typical. The free version is the same as the paid version except a few settings are locked. People seem to really like the paid version, however, and it has already amassed a 4.9 rating in the Google Play Store. So if you like Androids, customization, and live wallpapers that aren’t overly complicated, Androids Pro! is one to check out.


Christmas Rink Live Wallpapers

Source url To download Christmas Rink Live Wallpaper, click on the source URL.

Christmas Rink Live Wallpapers

Christmas Rink Live Wallpaper is our next app and, admittedly, it’s really only worthy during one time of the year. Due to shopping crazes, that time of year lasts like three months, but who are we to complain? Christmas Rink is a very simple background and one of the more elegant live wallpapers on our list. It features an ice skating rink with a Christmas tree centerpiece that people ice skate around. It’s also interactive, as tapping skaters will make them skate faster.

There aren’t a lot of customizations with this one. You can change the skaters to elves or Santa Claus if you want to. You can also control the snow that falls. However, that’s about it. If you’re not af an of Christmas or if you want something like this year round, the developer of Christmas Rink has a few other live wallpapers depicting other holidays.


Device Info Ex Live Wallpapers

Source url To download Device Info Ex Live Wallpaper, click the source URL.

Device Info Ex Live Wallpapers

If you’re a regular watcher and reader of our app lists, then you’ve seen Device Info Ex Live Wallpaper before. It’s a favorite of ours and happens to also be the most functional of the live wallpapers on our list. Instead of just playing some animations and looking pretty, Device Info LWP shows you a variety of stats about your phone. You can view your CPU and RAM usage, storage, temperature, time, and even things like compass and tilt.

You can customize Device Info in a lot of ways. You can change the colors of the background to match whatever theme you’re using. Also, the stat boxes are modular. So you can click and drag them which allows you to arrange the boxes in any order you like. You can also delete categories you don’t want or use. None of the other live wallpapers on this list have the functionality and usefulness of Device Info LWP.


Gold Future Interface Live Wallpapers

Source url To download Gold Future Interface Live Wallpaper, click the source URL.

Gold Future Interface Live Wallpapers

Gold Future Interface Live Wallpaper is a simple app but it looks glorious. It has a Dues Ex kind of flavor and that cyberpunk look is totally awesome. It features a gold color scheme with a clock, some moving spotlights, and some spinning circles that move when you change home screens. It has a lot going on but it really is a simple live wallpaper.

Unfortunately, there aren’t a lot of customization options. You can change the position of the clock and the clock itself. Other settings include the speed of the animations and where other graphics are placed. However, unlike most of these live wallpapers, you can’t change the color scheme of Gold Future Interface. So if you don’t like gold, you probably won’t like this.


Koi Live Wallpaper

Source url To download Koi Live Wallpaper, click on the source URL.

Koi Live Wallpapers

Of all the live wallpapers on this list, Koi Live Wallpaper is among the most beautiful. It’s essentially a pond where a bunch of Koi fish are swimming around. When you touch the screen, the water will ripple. When you touch the fish, they’ll get scared and swim away, and if you double tap, it’ll drop little blue flakes that the fish will eat. If you’re a fan of nature, then you’ll just love this wallpaper.

There is nothing in this live wallpaper that can’t be customized. You can change how many fish there are and pick their colors individually. The water ripple effect can be controlled. There is a healthy supply of background images to choose from. So if nature, water scenes, and fish are your thing, this is one of the best live wallpapers on the list for you.


Snowfall Live Wallpaper

Source url To download Snowfall Live Wallpaper, check out the source URL.

Snowfall Live Wallpapers

Snowfall Live Wallpaper has been around so long that it can be considered a classic. It was released during the very first waves of live wallpapers when the feature first became available and it’s still among the most popular and highest rated live wallpapers to date. It features a tree line view with falling snow. It’s a calm live wallpaper for those who don’t like a lot of action going on.

It also happens to have a decent amount of customization options. Our favorite is the feature where you can have it switch from night to day based on what time it is. So it’ll be dark at night and bright during the day. You can also control snow fall, the trees swaying, and a number of other variables. If you want some more color, you can even add aurora borealis. If you’re into the Christmas spirit, you set Santa Claus to fly at random intervals across your screen.


Thunderstorm Live Wallpapers

Source url To download Thunderstorm Live Wallpaper, click on the source URL.

Thunderstorm Live Wallpapers

Like Snowfall, Thunderstorm Live Wallpaper was around back when live wallpapers were a new feature. Also, like Snowfall, it continues to be among the highest rated in the Google Play Store. As the name implies, Thunderstorm shows people a thunderstorm on their devices. It’s complete with rain, moving clouds, and lightning strikes. It’s another one of our favorites on the list.

It has a surprising amount of customization options as well. Really, you can make this do whatever you want. One of our favorites is the ability to set off a lightning strike by touching the screen. You can control the intensity of the lightning strikes as well. Perhaps its most unique feature is the ability to change the color of everything. You can do a black sky with red lightning if you want to. Or green lightning on a purple sky. It really is up to you and makes this among the best live wallpapers on the list.


Vortex Galaxy Live Wallpapers

Source url To download Vortex Galaxy Live Wallpaper, click the source URL.

Thunderstorm Live Wallpapers

No really, Vortex Galaxy is probably the most beautiful live wallpaper on this list. It’s a space scene. So if you like space scenes, you can appreciate this live wallpaper even more. When you set it up, it fades in with a myriad of beautiful colors and stars. Then it will pulse and rotate and otherwise just sit there and be pretty. There is little to no interaction, though, so people who like slow wallpapers without a lot of action will enjoy this one.

It also has very few customization options. What few options there are will be barely noticeable if you change them. So with Vortex Galaxy, what you see is pretty much what you get. This is no big deal because it looks very good and because it is very colorful, it can go with a plethora of themes already.


leaderboard best wallpapers

Leaderboard and Wrap Up

If you check out our leader board, you can see how all these apps rank up against one another. We at Android Authority do not have a ranking system. These are simply sorted by how they’re rated in the Google Play Store. So there is no bias by us. This is how the people who use these applications rated them.

Also, an obligatory shout out to the live wallpaper Magic Butts. It didn’t rank high enough to be on the list itself but it was insisted that we include it somewhere. So here is its honorary shout out. If you like jiggling badonkadonks, then you can give Magic Butt a try in the Google Play Store.

Of course, there are hundreds of live wallpapers in the Google Play Store. So it’s very possible that we may have missed one or two. So feel free to leave a comment below with your favorite live wallpapers if you think we missed one. Caring is sharing, is it not?

The post The Best Live Wallpapers for Android – Android Authority appeared first on Android Authority.

32GB Nexus 7 up for sale on e-Bay’s Daily Deals for $229

Posted: 23 Mar 2013 02:23 PM PDT

nexus-10-vs-nexus-7-14

The 32GB Nexus 7 model has gone up for sale on e-Bay's Daily Deals for a mere $229, which is a bit cheaper than what the device is running for on the Google Play store.

If you're in the market for a Nexus 7, the sale is quite a steal, especially with free shipping included. Of course, there's only a limited quantity available, so you'll need to snag one of these bad boys fast.

Are you getting a Nexus 7 now that it has a discounted price? If you’re interested, be sure to hit the source link.

The post 32GB Nexus 7 up for sale on e-Bay’s Daily Deals for $229 appeared first on Android Authority.

Developer Appxplore launches Alien Hive on the Google Play Store

Posted: 23 Mar 2013 01:52 PM PDT

alien-hive

Appxplore, a developer well known for a game called Sporos, has release a new game this week, Alien Hive.

Alien Hive may, at first, look like another Bejewled clone, but don't let that be a turn-off, as the developer has incorporated some very unique features in the game, which, as Android Police notes, puts an interesting twist on the genre.

In Alien Hive, just like you would slide three jewels together in Bejewled, you slide three alien seeds and eggs together. This results in evolving alien life, which you have to do more and more to create an advanced being without running out of energy.

Focusing on developing alien life isn't the only thing you're going to have to worry about though. Robots will notch up the difficulty level of Alien Hive a bit when they begin to steal your evolving aliens, which you have to fend off with the variety of powerups you're given. The powerups are a nice addition to the game, but the items, like blasters and worm holes, are what you would expect from any alien-themed game.

While Alien Hive may be hard during the first few levels, players should be able to ease into the concept of the game rather quickly with a helpful set of introductory lessons. Alien Hive is a casual game, so players will be able to learn and move through levels at their own pace.

The game is currently available for free in the Google Play Store, but it is ad supported. If your interest is peaked, make sure to hit the source link below!

The post Developer Appxplore launches Alien Hive on the Google Play Store appeared first on Android Authority.

Microsoft’s Xbox did not infringe Google patent, judge rules

Posted: 23 Mar 2013 01:15 PM PDT

Patent Infringement

Google-owned Motorola Mobility went after Microsoft over a patent involving the Xbox, and administrative law judge David P. Shaw has ruled in Microsoft’s favor.

U.S. Patent Number 6,069,896 describes a technology that allows devices to communicate wirelessly over short distances. Microsoft was, to no surprise, “pleased with the administrative law judge’s finding,” while Google said it looks forward to the ITC’s final decision which will take place in July.

In the meantime, Google has the chance to petition the International Trade Commission over the judge’s ruling and impose an import ban on the Xbox. Back in 2010, Motorola filed a complaint that accused Microsoft of infringing five different patents. Four of those patents have since been dropped. In fact, two patents regarding video-decoding were dropped by Motorola after Google reached an agreement with the Federal Trade Commission.

That agreement promises that Google will not pursue sales bans based on infringement of standard essential patents (FRAND), patents which are, well, essential to devices. We’ll have to wait until July to see what the final decision is between both tech giants. However, with several patents being dropped in the past and the judge ruling in favor of Microsoft, it’s not looking like Google will be getting the decision it hopes for.

The post Microsoft’s Xbox did not infringe Google patent, judge rules appeared first on Android Authority.

HP develops next-gen 3D mobile display, no glasses required

Posted: 23 Mar 2013 12:48 PM PDT

HP

HP has developed a 3D screen for mobile devices that requires no glasses, and will be revealed in the Scientific Journal Nature on March 28. 3D hasn’t caught on like electronic manufacturers would have hoped for, a big problem being that many users experience headaches.

Here is how this new screen from HP works: with traditional 3D mobile displays, the user has to be directly in front and center in order to see the effect. However, HP has created a way where you can still see a 3D effect with the display and user at as much as a 45 degree viewing angle.

To pull this new display off, HP is using nanotechnology which involves multiple circles with tiny grooves etched into the glass, allowing for up to 64 different points of view. The grooves bend light and allow the user to see two points at one time, one with each eye, creating the no-glasses 3D effect. There are no details on when this display will make its way to phones or tablets, but HP may finally have a nice 3D solution for future mobile devices.

The post HP develops next-gen 3D mobile display, no glasses required appeared first on Android Authority.

Gameloft’s UNO & Friends announced for Android with an official trailer

Posted: 23 Mar 2013 11:52 AM PDT

uno-and-friends-gameloft

While Gameloft may already offer a decent version of UNO, that isn't stopping the developer from improving upon it. The studio has launched an announcement trailer unveiling its second UNO game, UNO & Friends.

UNO & Friends promises to bring the thrill of the classic competitive card game UNO to Android, iOS and Facebook. Unlike Gameloft's previous UNO game, UNO & Friends will let players create their own multiplayer games with friends, family and even other random players around the world.

Players have no need to worry about a lack of players to compete against, as Gameloft has added cross-platform multiplayer support to the game. Players, whether they be on Android, iOS or at home on Facebook, will be able to compete with each other seamlessly. Those players will also be able to start a game on Facebook and pick up where they left off on an Android or iOS device.

In addition to the droves of multiplayer features, you'll be able to customize your game with unique avatars, different background themes and themed card decks too. With social features being at the core of UNO & Friends, Gameloft has added a weekly and all-time leaderboard to the game where players can compete for the top ranks.

If you're a big fan of UNO and are looking forward to its dazzling multiplayer aspects, be sure to keep an eye out, as the game should be available very soon!

The post Gameloft’s UNO & Friends announced for Android with an official trailer appeared first on Android Authority.

Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini reportedly appears on official Samsung website

Posted: 23 Mar 2013 09:51 AM PDT

Galaxy-S4-miniYesterday, photos were posted to Twitter revealing the Galaxy S4 Mini. However, another image was posted to Twitter today reportedly revealing four Galaxy S4 Mini model listings on the Samsung support website.

galaxy-s4-mini-model-numbers

Italian publication Android Caotic (source below) reports that the GT-I9190 is the standard Galaxy S4 Mini model while the GT-I9192 is the dual-SIM version. The GT-I9195 is reportedly the LTE variant and the GT-I9198 seems to be a model being made for China.

This, of course, has not been confirmed by Samsung, so it’d be best to treat it as a rumor for now. On the other hand, it would be highly possible that four Galaxy S4 Mini models exist considering Samsung often makes multiple models for different markets.

According to SamMobile, the Galaxy S4 Mini is expected to have a 4.3-inch Super AMOLED qHD 960 × 540 display with a pixel density of 256ppi. It is also said to have a 1.6GHz dual-core processor and is running the latest version of Android, 4.2.2.

The post Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini reportedly appears on official Samsung website appeared first on Android Authority.

Love ‘Game of Thrones’? Grab the companion app from Google Play for free

Posted: 23 Mar 2013 07:13 AM PDT

Game-of-Thrones-Android

Are you a fan of the epic HBO TV series – and the superb novels – the Game of Thrones? If you're still trying to make your way through the books, whilst waiting for season 3 to start on the small screen, we know how difficult it can be to follow the story.

While it's easy enough to hop on Wikia to try and make a better sense of the book's often twisted storyline and characters, now there's an alternative for those who like to get their fix of the hit show on Android devices. Previously released on iOS, the Game of Thrones Android app – A World of Ice and Fire – has landed on the Play Store.

The app features profiles for over 540 characters complete with artwork, 380 places, and major houses, as well as interactive world maps. Rooting for Daenerys? Well, you can easily learn more things about her, such as her detailed bio, family and house information, and more.

You can download the app for free, but it only lets you access the InfoPack from the first book. Each additional book companion will set you back $1. You might as well grab the complete set for $5 and get a bonus InfoPack.

Hit the link below to get your copy now. To get you in the medieval mood, we’ve also embedded the latest Game of Thrones trailer above. Enjoy!

The post Love 'Game of Thrones'? Grab the companion app from Google Play for free appeared first on Android Authority.

Android Phone Fans

Android Phone Fans


Android Overload: Customizable Motorola X-Phone, Nexus Smartwatch, and more [VIDEO]

Posted: 23 Mar 2013 06:34 PM PDT

Hey there, Phandroids. We had some technical difficulties yesterday and weren’t able to upload your Android Overload video of the week. We are back in the game now, though. Here is your weekly Android Overload roundup, as well as some stories that didn’t make it to our home page. Enjoy!

  • Eric Schmidt uses a BlackBerry [Guardian]
  • Microsoft did not violate Google patent [Reuters]
  • Sprint Statement on FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski's Decision to Step Down [Sprint]
  • Smartphone screens could start being made of sapphire [MIT Technology Review]
  • Samsung working on Galaxy Tab 3 Plus with Super AMOLED Full HD display [SamMobile]
  • Rogers Sony Xperia ZL pricing revealed [Mobile Syrup]
  • Angry Birds Star Wars: Cloud City coming soon [Rovio]

World Wide Maze turns any site into a game, uses smartphone as controller [VIDEO]

Posted: 23 Mar 2013 04:21 PM PDT

Chrome is the world’s favorite browser for a reason. Google really has taken a simple and fast browser and given it the most powerful features any browser can have. It really displays how far the web has come, and at Phandroid we are totally amazed to see the latest Chrome Experiment – World Wide Maze.

This internet-based game turns any site into a maze (hence the name). That is cool and all, but the impressive part is that it uses Android devices as controllers. It uses no cables, bluetooth, or other traditional forms of connectivity.

Any smartphone/tablet with Chrome connected to the same Google account as the desktop browser can be utilized. This means the only connection between both devices is the web, which is impressive to see. As our friends from Chromespot.com mention, it opens the door to many possibilities.

Imagine if any internet or cloud game was able to use a smartphone as a controller. This Chrome Experiment shows us that the technology is certainly there. We hope developers start taking this idea and running with it. Maybe at some point Google (or anyone) could even sell a WiFi-enabled controller that connects to your Google account and the Chrome browser.

We know powerful games can be played in the cloud, so it is not a far-fetched idea. Go play around with it at Chrome.com/maze and let us know what you think! Does this represent the beginning of a new gaming era?

[Source: World Wide Maze Via: Chromespot]

What is your Google Reader replacement? [POLL]

Posted: 23 Mar 2013 02:31 PM PDT

Finding out Google Reader is to be shut down felt like a punch in the stomach to hundreds of thousands of users. The service offers a clean, simple way to organize and read news. Many of us have never even thought about the idea of ever switching to another RSS reader, but now we simply have to get used to the idea and find a replacement by July 1st.

The decision has been made and odds are no petition will change that at this point. So it is about time we shake our heads for a second and snap out of our denial – We need to find a solution. At Phandroid, we religiously use Google Reader for work, so you are not alone in the search for the next best option!

Though many may not know about them, there are some great solutions out there. I (and hundreds of thousands of other users) like Feedly because it offers a very similar experience to Google Reader, but it also has a great design and awesome options for those looking for an more aesthetically pleasing experience. The “Today” section features images and descriptions of your top news. There are also many themes available and a series of social features.

The Old Reader and NewsBlur are also great as simple RSS feeds. If you prefer the more graphic-intense and shiny readers, you can go for options like Flipboard, Pulse and even Google Currents. The only problem with such options is that it is harder to go through a longer list of news. They are good if you only follow a few sources.

Many of you are also going with Feedly, but we would be interested to see how the numbers are looking. Participate in the poll and let us know what your favorite Google Reader replacement is, and why!

T-Mobile’s first 4G LTE markets and launch date leaked

Posted: 23 Mar 2013 01:35 PM PDT

We have been waiting for T-Mobile to jump into the 4G LTE game for a while and Magenta’s time to shine is almost here. We can expect an announcement any day now. We know T-Mobile has been testing the network across the US, and now we have a leaked screen shot giving us the first 7 markets and a launch date.

According to the leaked image, T-Mobile will flip the switch on 7 markets this March 26th. The first cities to get LTE’s blazing speeds are said to include Las Vegas, Phoenix, San Jose, Houston, Washington DC, Kansas City and Baltimore.

Only a few devices will support the faster speeds at launch, including the Galaxy Note 2 (which has been getting its LTE-friendly update), the BlackBerry Z10 and the T-Mobile Sonic 2.0. Not much to choose from, but this list should grow in no time. Are you ready for some T-Mobile 4G LTE?

[Via: TmoNews]

Google Android News Android Forums

Google Android News Android Forums


HTC Myst slips through the FCC with AT&T LTE bands in tow

Posted: 23 Mar 2013 10:00 AM PDT

Facebook_Phone_Android

The HTC Myst (or Opera, depending on how far back you keep up with these phones) has recently come through the FCC, and it’s sporting four LTE bands that AT&T smartphones are generally seen with. Aside from that, the only other concrete details from this filing are dual-band WiFi antennas and Bluetooth 4.0. Nothing exciting, but at least we know the phone is more than just rumor. Of course, if the earlier rumors are true, the phone will have a dual-core Snapdragon S4 Plus clocked at 1.5 GHz under a 4.3 inch, 720p screen, as well as 1 GB of RAM and 16 GB of internal storage, but no SD card slot. There’s nothing here that’s going to excite the enthusiast chasing the cutting edge of technology, but I think it’s a safe bet that’s not going to be the primary demographic of this phone.

source: FCC

via: Engadget


Come comment on this article: HTC Myst slips through the FCC with AT&T LTE bands in tow

T-Mobile Uncarrier Value Plans outed and detailed

Posted: 23 Mar 2013 09:42 AM PDT

T-Mobile_LTE

If you’ve been keeping an eye on T-Mobile’s new Uncarrier Value Plans that are are likely to be unveiled on the 26th, you’re in for a treat, as we’ve got a few more details about how the plans are going to work. Like with the other leaked info we’ve seen, unlimited talking and texting is the centerpiece of these plans, with different amounts of data being the part that you’re charged more for. The base plan starts at $60 with free 500 MB of data, or you can go up to 12 GB for $130 per month, tethering included. For $90 a month, you get unlimited talk, text, and data, but no tethering. The tethering plans can be added on individually to the unlimited plan in 500 MB, 2.5 GB, or 4.5 GB bundles.

They are also offering family plans rivaling those of the bigger wireless carriers, with $160 getting you unlimited everything for two phones. (Add $50 for each line after that for unlimited data) It’s fairly competitive pricing that’s sure to keep T-Mobile relevant in the near future.

We also have some info at how T-Mobile will be marketing these plans. They’re going to be pushing four big unservices they’re offering; uncongested, unbeatable, unlimited, and unrestricted. On paper, this all looks like a great idea, but as we all know they’re going to be dropping carrier subsidies on phones in the process of moving to these plans. It’s going to be interesting to see if the general public reacts positively to that kind of change.

source: Android Authority


Come comment on this article: T-Mobile Uncarrier Value Plans outed and detailed

T-Mobile Reportedly Testing LTE In Nine Major US Cities

Posted: 23 Mar 2013 08:52 AM PDT

T-Mobile

T-Mobile is just days away from their March 26 event in New York and aside from hearing more about their UNcarrier plans, there may also be talk about 4G LTE hitting more cities. Thanks to OpenSignal, it appears that T-Mobile has been testing LTE in nine different cities which are Seattle, Denver, Las Vegas, New Orleans, New York, San Diego, Kansas City, and San Jose/Bay Area. In early testing, speeds have been very solid with 25Mbps down and 8Mbps up. Unfortunately, unless you have the Galaxy Note II, S 4 (lucky you), S III, or the S II HD LTE, you won’t experience LTE speeds until T-Mobile makes the networks live for everyone.

Source: OpenSignal


Come comment on this article: T-Mobile Reportedly Testing LTE In Nine Major US Cities

Prior Head Of Android Andy Rubin Was Stubborn, Says Samsung Exec

Posted: 23 Mar 2013 08:32 AM PDT

Andy Rubin

Andy Rubin was a major part of Android ever since Google acquired the company in 2005, and Andy left his position with Android last week to work on something else inside Google. At Business Insider’s IGNITION Mobile conference in San Francisco, Jessica Lessin spoke with Samsung chief product officer Kevin Packingham. Kevin mentioned that Samsung’s relationship with Google has strengthened over the past couple years, and praised Sundar Pichai who will be replacing Andy, saying that he’s a “a super-nice person” and “very collaborative”. While there were good things said about Rubin, Kevin said that once he made a decision, “You weren’t going to get him to deviate from that position.” Stubborn or not, Andy’s decisions have clearly paid off.

Source: Business Insider


Come comment on this article: Prior Head Of Android Andy Rubin Was Stubborn, Says Samsung Exec

Archos Releases GamePad, 97 and 80 Titanium Tablets in US

Posted: 22 Mar 2013 09:12 PM PDT

nexusae0_archos_97titanium_front_hidef_2

For those of you in the US that are itching to get your hands on the newest tablets from Archos; you’re in luck. The GamePad, 97 Titanium and 80 Titanium tablets are breaking US soil through various retailers. The tablets that made their debut at CES this year will be available through Adorama, Amazon, B&H Photo, Brandsmart, Beach Camera, Hastings, and J&R.

Both the 97 Titanium and 80 Titanium tablets will house a 1.6GHz processor, 1 GB of RAM, dual cameras, 8GB of storage and both will run Android 4.1. The differences between the two are  what display each will have and pricing. The 97 will run a 2048×1536 9.7-inch display where the 80 will come with an 8-inch 1024×768 display. They’ll both come in under $300 with the 97 coming in at $249 and the 80 at $169.

If you don’t remember, we were able to get some hands on time with both the Titanium series and the GamePad. Unlike the other two tablets, the GamePad has dedicated gaming buttons that are mappable. It comes with a 7-inch 1024×600 display and powered by a 1.6GHz A9 dual-core processor. It will have 1GB of RAM, 4-core GPU and will also run Android 4.1. It’s priced at $179.

As you can see Archos has priced these tablets to move and while the GamePad may not be set to take on Nvidia’s Project Shield, it should peak the interest of mobile gamers out there. If you’re interested in finding out more about these tablets you can check out the source links below.

sources: Archos Titanium, Archos GamePad


Come comment on this article: Archos Releases GamePad, 97 and 80 Titanium Tablets in US

Android Central

Android Central


From the Android Forums: Unlocking and root

Posted: 23 Mar 2013 03:48 PM PDT

unlocked

Justiceanthony asks in the Android Central Forums:

Hi all,
I'm new here. I'm looking to buy a new Note 2 for the third time (yeah, I lost the first one and gave the second to my girlfriend). Someone is selling one to me here in Ghana , and it was previously locked to O2 (UK network), it's now been unlocked and my question is whether it's been automatically rooted since it's unlocked. I wouldn't mind a rooted phone since I would like a little more "freedom" . thnx to you all.

First things first -- welcome to AC justiceanthony!

Now to the question. No, SIM unlocking a Note 2 (or any Android phone) does not automatically root it. SIM unlocking is a built-in tool that uses a key to activate. It's done outside of any modification to the firmware, like rooting. Having said that, sometimes the opposite is true, and a root method that unlocks the bootloader will also SIM unlock the phone.

This begs for an explanation about the different uses of the word unlock and root. Lets do that.

Root: Rooting an Android phone is simply adding a file to the system that allows other apps to elevate their permissions and read, write, and execute anything on your device. In this case, anything means anything -- if it is user editable or actionable, you can do it with root. This is both powerful and dangerous, so be sure to get all the answers and be clear on the subject before you do it.

SIM or Network Unlocking: This allows a phone bought for use on a particular network to be used on another network. If you buy a phone designed to only work on Orange (or AT&T for an American example), to use it on any other network, you will need to unlock the SIM programming. This is what Justiceanthony has done in the example above, as he wants to use an O2 phone on his carrier in Ghana. It's done without rooting or modifying any firmware in your phone or tablet.

Remember, the networks have to be compatible. A phone with radios designed for one carrier may not provide 3G or 4G service on another, and sometimes they won't work at all.

Bootloader Unlocking: All Android devices ship with a locked bootloader. Some are very easy to unlock, like Nexus devices, some need a little hacking to unlock (like most Samsung devices), and some are encrypted and designed to be very difficult to unlock (hello, Moto). Bootloader unlocking allows you to flash (write to your phone's "hard drive") images files that haven't been signed with the official key from the folks who made it. A locked bootloader can flash a new recovery provided in an OTA update because the recovery was signed with the right key. It will fail to flash a custom recovery like ClockWorkMod. An unlocked bootloader will flash anything that fits, as long as you tell it to. Once a custom recovery (or sometimes a "Super" boot image) is flashed, you can install and erase custom built system firmware at will. Again, this means you need to do your homework before you start fiddling with things. Use the forums. Read, ask questions, and read some more.

Have a question you need answered? (Preferably about Android, but we're flexible.) Hit up our Contact Page to get in touch!



Apps of the Week: Hi-Q MP3 Voice Recorder, NCAA March Madness Live, WeVideo and more!

Posted: 23 Mar 2013 12:49 PM PDT

Apps of the Week

Weekly app picks. You want 'em, we got 'em. We're a little short on app choices this week, but we think the ones that are here are worth mentioning. As a good follow-up to last week's post we have another voice recorder, and March Madness is on so we've got something for the basketball fans as well.

Hang around with us after the break and see how we did with this week's picks.

read more



International roundup: New Sony phones, our HTC One review and Galaxy S4 chips

Posted: 23 Mar 2013 11:44 AM PDT

HTC One Xperia SP + LGalaxy S4 Nexus 4

In the week that we reviewed the new HTC One, there was quite the gathering of stories from other major manufacturers. Samsung dropped a Snapdragon 600-shaped bomb on chipset-conscious UK fans. Sony finally took the wraps off its interesting new mid-ranger, the Xperia SP. And the LG Nexus 4 showed its face once again in the UK and Germany.

Check out some of the bigger international Android stories of the week after the break.

read more



First generation ASUS Padfone gets bumped up to Jelly Bean

Posted: 23 Mar 2013 04:50 AM PDT

ASUS Padfone

While we may be waiting on the arrival of the new ASUS Padfone Infinity, it could be easy to forget about the first generation Padfone. The one that started it all for ASUS and their phone/tablet hybrid range first properly appeared back at MWC 2012, but ASUS sure hasn't forgotten about it. An update is now available for the device which bumps it up to Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean. 

Currently, two variations on the update are out in the wild, a worldwide version and a Chinese version. There are a few ASUS specific improvements bundled in, such as improved File Manager, camera functions, scrapbook functions and supporting NTFS and EX FAT format SD cards. But, ultimately the headline is all about Jelly Bean, and the improvements it brings along such as Project Butter and Google Now. 

It's a hefty update, weighing in at 579MB, and download links for both versions can be found at the source link below. 

Source: ASUS



Samsung rumored to have full-sized octa-core Galaxy Tab 3 Plus with a Super AMOLED HD display in the works

Posted: 22 Mar 2013 05:07 PM PDT

Samsung

Raise your hand if you didn't think Samsung had a high-end 10-inch tablet in the works for this year. We all knew it had to be coming, and a source tells SamMobile that it should have the specs that put it at the top of the tablet heap for a while. The rumored Galaxy Tab 3 Plus will have an octa-core Exynos 5 CPU, a Super AMOLED Full HD display of either 10.1-inches or 11.6-inches, and dazzle our eyes with a high-resolution screen. Currently there are two supposed prototypes floating around out there, and the screen size has not been finalized.

Samsung killed it with the ultra-high res PLS display on the Nexus 10, but plenty of folks out there prefer the deep, wet blacks and saturated colors of AMOLED. If this rumor turns out to be true, those folks (myself included) might be buying a new tablet this summer. 

We'll keep our ears open, and if anything develops from this we'll let you know.

Source: SamMobile