Monday, April 15, 2013

Android Authority

Android Authority


Sources: Google and EU reach antitrust settlement, Google forced to change some search results

Posted: 14 Apr 2013 11:54 PM PDT

eu

After two years of investigations and subsequent negotiations, the EU and Google have agreed on a set of terms which will see Google legally obliged to change some of its search results in Europe to ensure that it doesn’t create a monopoly in vertical search.

Vertical search results are those which focus on a specific segment like those for online shopping or flights. Google has been expanding its vertical search business which has prompted complaints from companies such as Yelp and TripAdvisor who are worried that Google will favor its own results rather than those of third parties. According to the EU, if Google “abused” this power then it would be unfair since in Europe it has 90% of the market.

The good news for Google is that the EU aren’t asking it to change any of its algorithms or results for normal web based searches, it is mainly only the vertical searches which are causing concern. However it will have to clearly label search results from its own services, like Google Plus Local or Google News. Also, in some cases, it will need to show links from rival search engines.

The question you have to ask is: Is labeling going to change any consumer behavior? And if the answer is no, then it's not going to do any good for Microsoft Bing or for any rival search engines - Herbert Hovenkamp, a professor of antitrust law at the University of Iowa.

The EU deal will be legally binding for the next five years and a trusted third party will ensure that Google keeps its end of the bargain. In exchange Google will avoid paying any fines (for past breaches) and would not be formally charged with any wrongdoing. This is also good for Google as these lengthy antitrust cases can be expensive and drag on for years. However if Google doesn’t comply then it could face fines of up to 10% of its global (not just European) annual sales.

What is interesting is that the EU’s decision is very different to that of the USA’s which recently ended a two year investigation into Google's search business. The FTC concluded that there was no evidence that Google’s actions harmed consumers.

Google exec Eric Schmidt proclaims entire Earth will be online by 2020, but what will it take?

Posted: 14 Apr 2013 09:49 PM PDT

Eric Schmidt
Where do you see the Earth in terms of Internet connectivity five years from now? If you ask Google executive chairman Eric Schmidt for his opinion, he’ll tell you that in five years, even more people will have access to the Internet one way or another. In fact, Schmidt thinks that every single person on the planet will be online by the end of the decade. This is what he said over Google+ yesterday morning in a widely-talked about post that has since been +1′d over 500 times.

What the Google exec sees is a future where everyone is able to go on the Internet, and probably quite easily, at that. In his Google+ post, he correctly pointed out that “for every person online, there are two who are not.” He then made the bold claim that by the year 2020, “everyone on Earth will be connected.”

There are two ways to look at Schmidt’s statement here in regard to the Earth’s Internet-connected future. First, it could be seen as a sort of pre-announcement for Google’s imminent aggressive expansion in the world ISP market. As one of the biggest Internet-based companies ever, it is in Google’s best interest to ensure that more and more people get the chance to go online. That explains the company’s push for more connected devices in the hands of consumers (i.e. Android smartphones and tablets), as well as its work towards providing better and faster Internet service for everyone (Google Fiber, which is a work in progress).

Schmidt’s statement could also be seen as a type of wishful thinking, if not for himself, then perhaps for everyone else. The Internet is seen by many as the great equalizer, and it truly stands to change the lives of billions of people in radical ways. There’s no telling where Google itself will be by 2020, whether it will be the one to facilitate the major expansion of the Internet or not, but as long as Schmidt’s statement turns out to be true somehow, then it’s a definite win for us all.

But what will it take for the Google chairman’s claim or wish to come true?

Internet usage: A look at the numbers

Internet usage stats
According to information from the Internet World Stats web site, which collects data on Internet usage from around the world, about 34.3% of the Earth’s entire population are able to go online right now. So it’s still quite a ways from the estimated total world population of about 7 billion people.

How will Internet access spread to billions?

If Google intends to help bestow Internet access to everyone on the planet, it’s going to have to do more than just launch its Fiber Internet service in a few states across the U.S.

Also, let’s not forget that some countries, even though they have the necessary budget or infrastructure for it — or at least they could — still simply do not allow their citizens to enjoy full access to the Internet. Places such as China and North Korea come to mind. This means that Google will also have to continually brush up its diplomatic relations. So far, it’s off to a good start.

There’s really a whole host of things that needs to be done in order to fulfill this prophecy. In Schmidt’s mind, we’re all probably in for an Android-powered Internet-based future. But it’s worth noting that many things could happen in the next seven years.

It took Android less than five years to make it to the top of the world smartphone market. Now with a bunch of new smartphone ecosystems on the horizon, there’s no telling what might happen. Will Android even still be around by 2020? What about Google? And what kind of company will it be? Whatever the answer, one can only hope that “Don’t be evil” is not forgotten.

ASUS Transformer AiO P1801 now available for $1,299

Posted: 14 Apr 2013 05:14 PM PDT

Transformer Aio

The ASUS Transformer AiO P1801, the part Windows 8 all-in-one PC, part Android tablet, first surfaced back in June last year at Computex. It was “unveiled” again at this year’s CES, with the official specs and release date finally being announced about a month back. As announced, the ASUS Transformer AiO is now available in the US and Canada from official ASUS retailers.

On the Android tablet side of things, we’re looking at an 18.4-inch 10-point multi-touch capacitive display with 1920×1080 resolution, a quad-core Nvidia Tegra 3 processor, 2GB RAM, 32GB internal storage expandable via microSD, 1MP front camera, 7,600 mAh battery, and Android 4.1 Jelly Bean on-board. If you’re looking forward to carry this tablet around, keep in mind that it weighs around 2.2 kgs (~5 lbs) so it’ll be quite heavy. Not that the 18.4-inch display makes it ultra-portable anyway, but it’s still useful for lounging on the couch.

Docking the tablet into the PC station changes it to a Windows 8  machine featuring an Intel Core i5-3350P processor, 8 GB of RAM, a 1 TB HDD, and a GeForce GT 730M GPU. The PC station also features a SuperMulti DVD Drive, as well as a host of ports and connectivity options including USB 3.0, HDMI, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and an SD card reader. Of course, you can switch to Android while it’s docked as well.

If you’re wondering how such a large tablet would look and feel, check out our first-look and hands-on video of the device from Computex 2012 -

The ASUS Transformer AiO P1801 is now available from official ASUS retailers such as Amazon, NextEgg, Fry’s, and more for $1,299, so about the same price as the Chromebook Pixel. You can find the full list of retailers here.

What are your thoughts? Will you be picking up the ASUS Transformer AiO? How useful do you think it will be as a portable Android tablet? Let us know in the comments section below.

Sony Xperia ZL now available from Mobilicity Canada

Posted: 14 Apr 2013 04:15 PM PDT

sony-xperia-zl-in-hand-2 aa

The Sony Xperia ZL has been available in the US, India, Australia, and Russia for a while now, and made its way to Canada last week, available on-contract or SIM-free from Bell, Rogers, and Videotron. As the earlier report suggested, the non-waterproof sibling of the Xperia Z is now also available from Mobilicity.

As usual, Mobilicity will be offering without the need for any contractual obligation, which means that you’ll be able to pick up the device for its full price of $599.99. Of course, you’ll also have to pick from a selection of the company’s “simple and unlimited” plans, which start from $25 per month, and go up to $75 per month with premium data.

As a quick reminder, the specifications of the Sony Xperia ZL include a 5-inch display with 1920×1080 resolution, 1.5 Ghz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro processor, Adreno 320 GPU, 2GB RAM, 16GB internal storage expandable via microSD, 13MP rear camera and a 2MP front camera, 2,370 mAh battery, and Android 4.1 Jelly Bean on-board.

If you’re having trouble deciding whether the Sony Xperia ZL is the smartphone for you, don’t forget to check out our in-depth hands-on review of the device here, or catch the video below -

What are your thoughts? Will you be picking up the Sony Xperia ZL from Mobilicity? Let us know in the comments section below.

AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon Galaxy S4 release dates mentioned in reportedly leaked Staples memo [Update]

Posted: 14 Apr 2013 03:08 PM PDT

samsung galaxy s4 4 aa 600

“Tentative” release dates for the AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon Galaxy S4 versions have been spotted in what's said to be a leaked Staples memo.

According to the document received by Phone Arena, AT&T could launch the Galaxy S4 on April 26, followed by T-Mobile on May 1 and Verzion on May 30.

The memo also reveals that Staples could start pre-orders, or reservations, beginning with April 16. Coincidentally, that's the same day Walmart will reportedly start taking in-store pre-orders for the handset according to a different leak provided earlier by the same publication. Moreover, AT&T and U.S. Cellular have already confirmed that they will start taking pre-orders on the same day.

Like with the previous leak, we can't say at this time whether this is a real document or a fabricated one, so we'll hang on to our grain of salt until Staples properly announces its Galaxy S4 sales.

We will point out that while T-Mobile revealed during its UNcarrier event a few weeks ago that it will stock the Galaxy S4 starting with May 1, AT&T has not mentioned launch details for the handset in its pre-order announcement.

staples-memo-galaxy-s4-pre-order

As for Verizon, the carrier has not even made its Galaxy S4 official yet, and it's yet to start taking pre-orders for the handset.

The purported Staples document does mention the same May 1 launch date for the T-Mobile Galaxy S4, but the other two potential release dates have not been seen before when talking about the AT&T and Verizon Galaxy S4 launches.

For what it's worth, the UK Galaxy S4 will be released on April 26, this being the earliest confirmed release date for the handset.

As for that May 30 launch date listed for the Verizon Galaxy S4, we'll note that, if real, it wouldn't surprise us to see Verizon launch a highly anticipated device a lot later than the competition.

We'll be back with more U.S. Galaxy S4 availability details in the coming days, as soon as we find out more details about the phone's launch in the region.

staples-memo-galaxy-s4-pre-order-2

[Update:] A different version of the same document has been posted up by Engadget, see image above.

Walmart Galaxy S4 pre-orders to start April 16, leaked internal memo claims

Posted: 14 Apr 2013 02:20 PM PDT

samsung galaxy s4 10 aa 600

An internal Walmart memo advising company employees about the upcoming Galaxy S4 pre-order process has apparently been leaked revealing that the retailer could start Galaxy S4 pre-sales as soon as Tuesday, April 16.

Sent to Phone Arena, the memo can't be confirmed at this time, as Walmart is yet to announce pre-order details for Samsung's flagship smartphone. However, if this is indeed an actual Walmart memo, then interested buyers should be able to pre-order the handset in a couple of days from Walmart retail stores.

The document calls the Galaxy S4 "the biggest phone launch for this year in wireless," and offers additional details about the pre-order process as follows:

  • Launch dates for this product have not been announced and vary by carrier
  • Walmart is allowing customers to reserve their SGS4 on multiple carriers starting Tuesday, April 16 through a pre-sell program
  • The pre-order cards arrive in your store Monday, April 15 via FedEx with the attached orange label
  • A guide explaining the pre-sell program and launch details will be sent to your store via Event Calendar Plus Week 12.

We'll certainly be on the lookout for more details regarding the Walmart Galaxy S4 pre-order process, as we expect the retailer to properly announce Galaxy S4 availability details in the very near future, especially if this is a real company memo. We will note that the document (or the part of it in the photo below) doesn’t provide any pricing or shipping details for the Galaxy S4 pre-orders and doesn’t say what Galaxy S4 versions (by carrier) Walmart would make available.

walmart-memo-galaxy-s4-pre-order

Meanwhile, we're going to remind you that the Galaxy S4 is already available for pre-order in the U.S. from AT&T and U.S. Cellular, while T-Mobile has also announced availability details for the handset. However, Verizon and Sprint are yet to announce their Galaxy S4 launch plans at this time. You can read more about Galaxy S4 pre-orders and launches for a variety of markets in our handy guide here.

Samsung Galaxy Express I8730 Review! [video]

Posted: 14 Apr 2013 02:19 PM PDT

samsung-galaxy-express-front-in-hand

A little while back, the Samsung Galaxy Express was launched for AT&T customers in the U.S. Now the phone is headed to the rest of the globe with an updated design and updated software. In a sea of Ice Cream Sandwich-powered phones, is Jelly Bean and the Samsung name enough to give the Galaxy Express I8730 an advantage? Read on to find out.

In a hurry? Check out our video review, or jump to the conclusion at the end of this article.

Specs

  • 4.5-inch Super AMOLED display (800 x 480, 207 ppi)
  • 1.2 GHz dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Krait CPU
  • 1 GB RAM
  • 8 GB internal storage (expandable via microSD)
  • 5 MP rear-facing camera
  • 1.3 MP front-facing camera
  • 720p video capture
  • 2,000 mAh battery
  • Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean

Build Quality & Design

Samsung is known from producing some of the lightest smartphones on the market; they aren’t, however, known for producing the strongest. This could be an issue with the Galaxy Express, as it feels a little on the slippery side. The back, as with the rest of the device, is slick plastic, and it doesn’t feel like it would easily survive a drop. Here’s a hint: if you buy this phone, spring for a case too.

samsung-galaxy-express-headphone

When it comes to the design, the redesigned Galaxy Express seems to fall right in line with the ever-increasing number of Samsung devices that look exactly like other devices. This is good for giving Samsung a recognizable brand identity, but if you want a phone that looks a little different, you won’t find it here. Your only option is what color you want it in. Of course, if you want to look like you’re carrying a higher-end phone to passers-by without spending a lot of money, this is a perfect choice.

Display

It may not come as a surprise, but the 4.5-inch Super AMOLED display is the biggest flaw of the Galaxy Express. Stretching an 800 x 480 resolution over a screen so big just doesn’t work, leaving us with a pixel density of 207 ppi. But hey, at least it’s not 5 inches like the Samsung Galaxy Grand.

samsung-galaxy-express-front-2

Strangely enough, pixelation isn’t all that noticeable in either icons or text. There is definitely a lack of sharpness, but things look a little on the blurry side instead of notably jagged. Whether this is a plus or a minus is up to you.

The display did seem a bit washed out when compared to the displays we’ve seen on other mid-range Samsung devices, though this was most noticeable on menu screens where it isn’t as likely to matter as it would in photos or videos. Still it’s worth keeping in mind.

Performance

Those dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 chipsets do a great job of packing a lot of performance into a small SoC, and the 1.2 GHz clocked CPU and Adreno 305 GPU in the Galaxy Express are no exception.

To get a handle on exactly how well the hardware performs, we started with a few benchmarks. First up was AnTuTu. Upping the ante from previous tests, we ran the benchmark 10 times. When all was said and done, the final average score came in at 10,994.

samsung-galaxy-express-with-box

Then came Epic Citadel. Run in High Quality mode, the benchmark achieved an average framerate of 53.3 FPS. In High Performance mode, the framerate averaged 54.2 FPS. Of course, with a low res display, these numbers aren’t that impressive, but they do hold their own against other devices in the same class.

Looking at real world applications, performance held up. The very accurate and empirical “scroll as fast as you can” test produced little noticeable lag on the home screen and in the app drawer, though it could be a little jittery. Apps launched quickly and, though you won’t be playing top of the line games on the Galaxy Express, the few we tested worked well.

Software

Unlike a whole lot of phones with very similar specs, the Galaxy Express I8730 runs Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean. Of course, since it’s skinned with TouchWiz and the Nature UX launcher, it would be hard to tell what version of Android the device runs without looking at the “About device” menu in Settings or launching Google Now.

samsung-galaxy-express-app-drawer

The Galaxy Express is fairly free of bloatware, though it does come with quite a few apps preinstalled. The usual suites of Google apps and Samsung apps are included, so expect to see S Voice, S Memo and S Planner, along with Samsung’s own counterpoint to the Play Store.

A file browser (aptly named “My Files”) is included, as are an FM Radio app and a Voice Recorder app. As is often the case, Flipboard is bundled and can’t be removed, but as it is quite a popular app, this shouldn’t bother many people.

Camera

The 5 MP rear-facing camera on the Samsung Galaxy Express is certainly among the best cameras we’ve seen in this class, as long as the lighting conditions are good. Images are sharp without much visual noise or noticeably overly-aggressive noise reduction. Colors are vivid and accurately represented, and high contrast seems to be handled well.

samsung-galaxy-express-camera-app

When you move into a low-light situation, the quality takes a bit of a nose dive. Without the flash, images are both dark and very noisy. Even with the flash, photos are on the blurry side and tend to be ugly. If you just need to grab a photo, this isn’t a problem, but if you like to take pictures of your food in dark restaurants, this camera is not going to be your best friend.

samsung-galaxy-express-from-camera

The most surprising aspect of the camera was the fact that it only shoots 720p video. Most every device we’ve reviewed recently in this class shoots 1080p, and as this is a recent revision of the Galaxy Express, this seems to be a curious omission on Samsung’s part. With that addressed, the video quality is good, with a solid 30 FPS framerate, though it does suffer from the same poor low-light performance that still photos do.

Battery

You might look at the 2,000 mAh battery and think that it’s a bit on the small side, but the juice that you’ll get from it is quite impressive. Snapdragon chipsets are often very good with battery life, and in this case, the CPU being clocked down to 1.2 GHz helps with battery life even further.

samsung-galaxy-express-battery

On the first day of testing, I took the Galaxy Express out of its box, popped in the battery and checked the level. It was at 60 percent. After 6 hours of heavy testing and benchmarking, I checked the level again. It was at around 30 percent. In comparison, I’ve seen batteries go from full to less than 30 percent with similar testing, and they were still fairly good for a full day’s use.

In case that isn’t enough, the battery is removeable and replaceable, so it should be fairly easy to pick up and use a spare or an extended battery.

Video Review

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy Express I8730 is another example of a Samsung phone that looks and acts like a Samsung phone. The company seems to be pushing hard to give the same basic look and experience across a large range of prices, and if sales are a clue, it seems to be working for the company. For prospective buyers, the choices boil down to how fast you want or need your device, and how big you want it to be. If the Galaxy Express meets your needs, it does a great job of doing exactly what it claims to do.

samsung-galaxy-express-front samsung-galaxy-express-battery samsung-galaxy-express-back samsung-galaxy-express-with-box samsung-galaxy-express-power-button samsung-galaxy-express-headphone samsung-galaxy-express-front-in-hand samsung-galaxy-express-front-2 samsung-galaxy-express-from-camera samsung-galaxy-express-camera-branding samsung-galaxy-express-camera-app samsung-galaxy-express-app-drawer

Are you thinking of picking up the Samsung Galaxy Express I8730? Have you already got one? Let us know what you think or ask any questions you have in the comments below.

Enable your phone’s hidden tethering feature with Hotspot Control

Posted: 14 Apr 2013 01:33 PM PDT

banner-better-wifi-on-off-app-review-120815

Tethering functionality on Android devices is no doubt convenient for users. Unfortunately, some devices are subject to carrier branding and therefore modified to have the ability of creating their own local networks disabled. The functionality may be even unavailable when no SIM is present. With the Hotspot Control app, however, users can bypass said issues that prevent creating portable hotspots, allowing their devices to connect with each other.

Developed by Chainfire, the app comes with a straightforward interface to complete a simple task. To allow tethering, just turn on the Wi-Fi, input a name and password, and then enable the access point. A password is always present for security purposes and uses WPA2 AES + TKIP encryption. The app is friendly even to the average user since, in most cases, rooting is not required.

Hotspot Control

Take note that Hotspot Control is used for establishing local connections only. As per the description in the Play Store, the app is not created with the purpose of circumventing the carrier-implemented protection used to prevent sharing a mobile device's Internet through tethering. Users have submitted reviews with varying results upon using the app. Depending on how carriers deactivated the tethering option, certain devices are not compatible with the app while some others are lucky enough to actually gain Internet access.

Hotspot Control works on devices running on Android 4.0.3 and up. It only requires a measly 80k storage space and can be downloaded for free. Also check out the issues, results, and suggestions that are further discussed at an XDA Developers forum thread.

Weekly News Roundup – India

Posted: 14 Apr 2013 09:36 AM PDT

wnri feature

In  a new weekly segment, I’ll be doing a roundup of the mobile technology news in India, including new device announcements and releases from Indian manufacturers, network carrier news, and anything else that captures the pulse of the Android scene in India.

It’s been a busy week for in India for international manufacturers in India, with Sony releasing the Xperia SP, HTC officially launching the HTC One, while also slashing the prices of the One X and the One X+, and finally, we found rumored release and pricing information of the highly-anticipated Samsung Galaxy S4. But that’s not even close to how busy Indian manufacturers (and one Chinese manufacturer) have been!

This week, we have two smartphone announcements from Lava and Intex. But this has definitely been the week for budget-friendly Android tablets, with three (!) new tablets on offer from Micromax, two from Karbonn, and one each from iBall and Lava. There’s also great news for owners of the Lava Iris 501 and the WickedLeak Wammy Titan 2, with both companies announcing software updates for their respective devices. If you’re planning to pick up some of these devices, or any others, you’ll also be interested in Vodafone’s “One Time Trial” 2G and 3G packs that the company introduced this week.

As you can see, there’s a lot to talk about. Let’s get started!

Android Smartphones

Lava Iris 455

wnri - lava iris 455

While the company’s Xolo lineup of smartphones is certainly more popular, Lava continues to add to its budget-friendly portfolio with the Iris 455. The Lava Iris 455 features a 4.5-inch display with a 960×540 resolution, 1Ghz dual-core processor, 512MB RAM, 4GB internal storage expandable via microSD, 5MP rear camera and 0.3MP front camera, and a 1,500 mAh battery. While similar devices from competitors, at best, feature Android 4.0 ICS, Lava has upped the game with the Iris 455, which comes with Android 4.1 Jelly Bean on-board.

The specifications of the Lava Iris 455 are decidedly mid-range, but will also boast a price to match that, which is expected to be in the Rs 7000 to Rs 9000 range (~$132 – $169). The device will release with two color options, grey and silver.

Source – Tech 2

Intex Aqua Wonder 2

wnri - intex aqua wonder 2

Intex earlier this week announced its intention to join the budget-friendly quad-core market with the Aqua Wonder 2. The company is hoping that what will make the Intex Aqua Wonder 2 stand out is the fact the device will be priced at less than Rs 10,000 (~$188), while similar devices currently available are pushing the Rs 15,000 (~$288) mark.

The Intex Aqua Wonder 2 features a 4.5-inch qHD display, 1.2 Ghz quad-core MediaTek MT6589 processor, 512MB RAM, 2GB internal storage expandable via microSD, 8MP rear camera and 1.3MP front camera, 1,800 mAh battery, dual-SIM support, and Android 4.1 Jelly Bean on-board.
The low pricing certainly makes sense, considering the compromises made with RAM, and internal storage. The Intex Aqua Wonder 2 is expected to release tomorrow, and will be available for Rs 9,900 (~$187).

Source – Think Digit

Software Updates

wnri - wickedleak wammy titan 2

The biggest concern consumers have when deciding to buy a smartphone or tablet from a local manufacturer is software support. Most devices from Indian manufacturers don’t receive software updates, and remain stuck with the Android OS version it released with. Luckily, this is a trend that is slowly changing. This week, WickedLeak and Lava announced software updates for their respective devices.

The WickedLeak Wammy Titan 2, which was released a month ago, will now receive an official update to Android 4.2 Jelly Bean, which is amazing, considering a lot of international manufacturers haven’t released the Android 4.2 update for their devices yet. The update, that is rolling out now, will feature performance and stability enhancements, Google Now, GPS Info with Pictures synced with Camera, and swipe/gesture typing. This is another good reason to pick-up the low-cost alternative to the Samsung Galaxy Note 2.

Lava also announced an update for the Iris 501, which had launched with Android 4.0 ICS. The update to Android 4.1 Jelly Bean will feature Google Now support, enhanced notifications, UI changes and Project Butter improvements. Unfortunately, the update will not be over the air, and will require you to go to a Lava service center to update your phone. You can find the full list of Lava Service Centers here.

Source – AndroidOS.in, Think Digit

Android Tablets

Micromax Funbook Talk P360, Funbook Talk P362, and Funbook 3G P560

wnri - micromax funbook 3g p560

Micromax Funbook 3G P560

Micromax announced three new budget-friendly Android tablets this week, two a part of the company’s Funbook Talk series that features the ability to make voice-calls from the device, and a new addition to the Funbook 3G series.

Most of the specifications of the Funbook Talk P360 and the FunBook Talk P362 are the same, with the only differences being the fact that the former features a 1Ghz single-core processor, 2GB internal storage, and Android 4.0 ICS on-board, with the latter coming with a 1.2 Ghz single-core ARM Cortex-A9 processor, 4GB internal storage, and Android 4.1 Jelly Bean on-board. Other specifications of both devices include a 7-inch capacitive display with a 800×480 resolution, 1GB RAM, expandable storage up to 32GB, 2MP rear camera and 0.3MP front camera, 3,000 mAh battery, in-built 2G support and 3G support via USB dongle.

The Micromax Funbook 3G P560 features a 1Ghz single-core processor, 512MB RAM, 4GB internal storage expandable via microSD, 7-inch capacitive display with 800×480 resolution, 2MP rear camera and 0.3MP front camera, Android 4.0 ICS, 3,000 mAh battery, and in-built 2G and 3G support.

As you can see, Micromax is continuing its strategy of flooding the market with devices with minor differences between each. The Funbook Talk P362 is the pick of the lot, with Android 4.1 Jelly Bean on-board, and a comparatively faster processor, and with the insignificant difference in pricing, it’s difficult to understand the reasons behind releasing the other two tablets.

The Micromax Funbook P360, Funbook P362, and Funbook P560 are available from online retailers Saholic for Rs 6,999 (~$132), Rs 7,499 (~$141), and Rs 8799 (~$166) respectively.

Source – AndroidOS.in

iBall Slide 6309i

wnri - iball slide 6309i

iBall continues to make waves in the budget-friendly Android smartphone and tablet segment with the launch of the iBall Slide 6309i, which is one of the cheapest 7-inch tablets available compared to other devices with similar specifications.

The iBall Slide 6309i features a 7-inch display with 1024×600 resolution, 1.2 Ghz ARM Cortex-A9 processor, 1GB RAM, 2GB internal storage expandable via microSD up to 32GB, 2MP rear camera and 0.3MP front camera, 3G support via USB dongle, and Android 4.1 Jelly Bean on-board.

Considering the fact the specifications are comparatively better than the Micromax tablets on offer above with only the option of 2G voice-calls not available, it’s amazing that the iBall Slide 6309i is priced at just Rs 5,199 (~$98).  You can find out more about the iBall Slide 6309i here.

Source – NDTV Gadgets

Lava ETAB Connect

wnri - lava etab connect

Apart from the Iris 455 smartphone, Lava also launched the ETAB connect Android tablet this week. The Lava ETAB Connect boasts specifications that are very similar to the Micromax Funbook Talk P360, including voice-calling capabilities, but with the ETAB Connect allowing for 3G voice-calling, while the Micromax tablet is restricted to 2G.

Specifications of the ETAB connect include a 7-inch capacitive display with 800×480 resolution, 1Ghz Qualcomm processor, 512MB RAM, 4GB internal storage expandable via microSD, 2MP rear camera and 0.3MP front camera, 3,000 mAh battery, and Android 4.o ICS on-board.

The selling point for the Lava ETAB Connect is its pre-loaded content, that features over Rs 15,000 worth of digital content from Hungama, BIGFLIX, MeritNation, EduKart, and more. That being said, the Rs 9,499(~$179) price point is steep compared to Micromax Funbook P360 and the iBall Slide 6309i.

Source – BGR India

Karbonn A37 and A34

wnri - karbonn a37

Karbonn has also adopted the policy followed by Micromax, and released two tablets with minor differences between the two. The Karbonn A37 and A34 both have a lot of similar features with the difference lying in the fact the the former features a 1Ghz dual-core processor, 4GB internal storage, and Android 4.1 Jelly Bean on-board, while the latter is powered by a 1Ghz single-core processor, with 2GB internal storage, and Android 4.0 ICS on-board. The Karbonn A37 also features 3G voice-calling support, as opposed to the A34, which is restricted to 2G.

The other common specifications include a 7-inch capacitive display with 800×480 resolution, 512MB RAM, expandable storage via microSD, 2MP rear camera and 0.3MP camera, dual-SIM card slot, and a 3,000 mAh battery.

The Karbonn A37 and A34 boast very similar specifications and features to the other tablets on this list, and is similarly priced as well, with the Karbonn A37 available from Infibeam for Rs 9,490 (~$179), while the Karbonn A34 is priced at Rs 7,290 (~$137).

Source – BGR India

Network Carrier News

Vodafone Logo

Vodafone introduces 2G and 3G “One Time Trial” Packs

With so many budget-friendly Android smartphones and tablets on offer, it’s become very easy, but maybe a bit confusing, to pick up a smartphone. Of course, the best of using a smartphone is to get online and stay connected, which requires an additional 2G or 3G data connection. To help you decide which option suits your needs the best, Vodafone has announced 2G and 3G “One Time Trial” packs.

The 2G pack is priced at just Rs 25 (~$0.47) with the 3G pack almost double at Rs 49 (~$0.93). Both packs will be valid for 7 days after activation, and will include 500 MB of data. The user’s device will determine which pack can be activated on your device, that is, if you have a 3G-enabled phone, then the 3G pack will be chosen. The “One Time Trial” is available for both pre-paid and post-paid Vodafone customers, and can be activated by sending TRY to 111 by SMS.

Source - BGR India

What do you think of the latest Android smartphones and tablets that were released in India last week? Would you consider buying any of these devices? If you’re a Vodafone customer, have you tried out the 2G or 3G One Time Trial Pack? Share your thoughts in the comments section below, and also let us know what else you’d like to see covered in this segment.

Android Central

Android Central


Leaked Staples doc show Galaxy S4 coming to AT&T April 26, T-Mobile and Verizon later

Posted: 14 Apr 2013 03:44 PM PDT

Galaxy S4

The new 5-inch Galaxy S4 to be tentatively available for AT&T on April 26, T-Mobile on May 1, and Verizon on May 30 says leaked Staples training sheet

So far nobody has given a firm date for the release of the Samsung Galaxy S4, but this document from Staples that was leaked to Engadget may hold the answers. Clearly marked as tentative, the sheet says the S4 will hit AT&T on April 26, T-Mobile on May 1, and Verizon on May 30. There is no mention of the Sprint model, and the leaked materials give no pricing for phones sold at Staples.

The S4 brings a larger 5-inch display to the Galaxy S family, and it comes in slightly smaller that its predecessor. With all new internals and updated software and features, it promises to be more than your new phone -- it will be your new "Life Companion"

While we're not so sure we would call a smart phone a life companion, plenty of folks are looking forward to the release of the S4, including all of us here at AC. According to this, we won't have to wait too much longer. With two great new top-tier devices releasing this month on AT&T, it's going to be a tough choice. 

Source: Engadget

    


AT&T branded HTC One bootloader unlocked via HTC Dev, rooted, CWM recovery installed

Posted: 14 Apr 2013 02:07 PM PDT

AT&T HTC One

Using tools from HTC and existing methods for the international version, the AT&T HTC One has cracked open

Good news for some folks interested in the AT&T version of the HTC One -- the HTC Dev site will unlock your bootloader, and the methods used to root and install ClockWorkMod recovery are the same as the international version.

We mentioned a few days ago that a few people were lucky enough to get their HTC One early from AT&T, and of course that means that people have been working at opening it up. Some have been concerned that AT&T would have the device blocked from using the standard HTC bootloader unlocking tool, but that doesn't seem to be the case. 

There are a few things to keep on mind if you plan to try this for yourself as soon as you get your HTC One. This procedure will wipe everything off your phone as part of the bootloader unlock process. Also, the Calculator, Flashlight, Ringtone Trimmer and Sound Recorder apps are deleted in the process. This doesn't sound like a very big deal, but the absence of these apps means the device won't pass a file integrity check and can no longer receive OTA updates.

In any case, this is good news for those waiting on their new HTC One from AT&T, and also like to tinker with things. 

Source: XDA developers

    


Radarscope for Android

Posted: 14 Apr 2013 07:36 AM PDT

Radarscope for Android

We try out a $10 weather application that's way too much app for most of us

Radarscope probably is too much app for you. Let's be perfectly clear about that. (I usually use the screws in my left leg to tell me when the rain's a-comin'; this is way too much app for me, too.) Radar apps are a dime a dozen on Android, and there are some really good ones, available free, or for just a buck or two. Radarscope, on the other hand, is meant for weather professionals -- meteorologists -- or the serious weather nerd. 

It costs $10. But it's also really good. 

read more

    


Don't forget your $25 Google Play credit with your Galaxy Note 8 purchase

Posted: 13 Apr 2013 05:26 PM PDT

Note 8 Gogle Play credit

Register your new tablet with Samsung for $25 to spend at any of the Google Play stores

If you already picked up a Samsung Galaxy Note 8, or are considering it, don't forget that Samsung has $25 worth of Google Play credit they want to give you with your purchase. All you need to do is register your new device with Samsung, which is usually a good idea anyway for warranty issues.

Doing so is easy. You'll need the box your Note 8 came in, and have the device powered up and connected to Wifi. Follow the form's instructions and fill in your model, serial number, and MAC address. A few minutes later, you should get a gift code in the Gmail account you specified.

Half the fun of getting a new Android device is shopping at Google Play, and $25 free makes it even better. Click the link below to get started.

Samsung Galaxy Note 8 perks page