Saturday, July 20, 2013

Android World Update # From the mail bag: Activting device administrator for an app

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From the mail bag: Activting device administrator for an app
Jul 20th 2013, 17:55, by Jerry Hildenbrand

Device admin

Apps that can alter the default security policy can be powerful and handy, but you need to know why they are doing it before you say OK.

Carolyn writes,

I purchased the Unlock with WiFi app that Jerry recommended a few weeks ago. I haven't fully installed it to use yet because it asked to "activate device administrator". I wanted to be sure that was OK? What risks does it create to allow this type of access to my phone?

Thanks!

What an excellent question! Security on any smartphone is pretty darn important, and the simple fact is that most of the time when it gets compromised, it's because of something we did. I don't mean something crazy like installing cracked apps from a website you had to use Google Translate to read, though that's always a good way to compromise everything. I'm talking about changing device settings or just not using some functions because we don't fully understand them. The Device Administration API is a great example.

Originally baked into Android with version 2.2, the Device Admin API allows you to alter the remote or local security policy of your Android. We'll use my Unlock with Wifi app as a walkthrough of what that means after the break.

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

More information about the Device Admin API

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Android World Update # Android Community

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Tracking the Android Platform Revolution 
Verizon offers a bug-fixing update for Samsung Stratosphere II users
Jul 20th 2013, 16:22, by Robert Nelson

Verizon Wireless and Samsung released the Stratosphere II back in November of last year. At the time the handset launched with Android 4.0.4 Ice Cream Sandwich, however an update earlier in this year did bring the device up to Android 4.1 Jelly Bean. While that bit by itself was nice to see, it looks like Big Red has recently begun rolling out another software update for the Stratosphere II.

176919-stratosphereiiopen

This update will keep the handset at Android 4.1, however you will see the version jump to JZO54K.I415VRBMF1. Other details coming from Verizon show an update that measures in at 91MB in size and one that includes a handful of device and software enhancements. Beginning first with the items listed on the device side.

These goodies touch on the Data Usage Meter, connectivity, the browser, Caller Name ID and some bugs that dealt with text messages and the device screen going blue or monochrome. The list breaks down as follows;

  • Data Usage Meter reliability has been improved
  • Connectivity when using mobile hotspot has been improved
  • Connectivity when using the new Kindle App (when downloaded from Google Play Store) is improved
  • Internet browser reset issue has been fixed
  • Issue causing device screen to go to blue or monotone screen, requiring power-down and restart, has been fixed
  • Caller Name ID is now supported as a downloadable (from Google Play Store) application
  • A defect where the entire text message was inadvertently replaced during word correction has been fixed

Shifting over to the software side of the enhancements and we have a slightly shorter list. In this case the list deals with the lock screen and custom ringtones. This list includes the following four items;

  • SIM pin entry screen now displays the correct number of remaining attempts
  • Lock screen functionality has been improved when in Emergency calling mode
  • Enhanced lock screen security
  • Custom ringtones for the contact list have been improved

With all that in mind, Stratosphere II users now have the option to sit back and wait for an update notification to arrive or take the pro-active approach and seek out the update. We suspect more will take the second approach and that being the case — you will need to navigate to Menu -> Settings -> About Device -> Software updates -> Check New to try and get the process started.

SOURCE: Verizon Wireless

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Android World Update # Motorola wants to make beautiful wearable devices, has opening for Senior Director of Industrial Design

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Motorola wants to make beautiful wearable devices, has opening for Senior Director of Industrial Design
Jul 20th 2013, 15:36, by Chris Smith

Motorola MOTOACTV

A recent Motorola job posting hints that the company may be interested in creating a variety of wearable devices in the near future.

The company is looking for a Senior Director of Industrial Design for "wearables" with the experience, knowledge and "courage" needed to develop interesting new wearable products.

While the job description doesn't actually mention the sort of wearable devices the company will be working on, the focus is clearly on the buyer of such devices:

Our ambition is to make Motorola a recognized leader in design of all things mobile. We will do this by creating product experiences that are lead by consumer insight and intuition, keen design sensibility and cutting edge technologies. We want our products and brand to be experienced and loved by millions of people worldwide. We want to create the new Motorola. […]

Specifically, the Industrial Design Team collaborates closely with our internal work partners to create compelling, usable and innovative products that define our brand with over a million consumers worldwide. The wearables design team will lead the establishment of our brand in the massive competitive and growing space of wearable connected products.

Motorola isn't new to "wearables," as the company did make a certain smartwatch that you may remember, the MOTOACTV (image above). Moreover, since Google already has one wearable gadget in testing – Google Glass – and is rumored to work on a smartwatch of its own, it certainly make sense to see its subsidiary develop a growing interest in wearable computing devices.

We'll certainly keep an eye out for future Motorola wearable devices, as we wait for more such products to be unveiled in the near future – a recent research has shown that the smartwatch market will explode next year, with shipments expected to top 5 million units, or ten times the number of smartwatch sales estimated for this year.

    


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Android World Update # New Android 4.3 build available for Galaxy S4 Google Play edition (version JWR66V)

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New Android 4.3 build available for Galaxy S4 Google Play edition (version JWR66V)
Jul 20th 2013, 14:39, by Chris Smith

Android 4.3

A newer Android 4.3 build version has been found for the Galaxy S4 Google Play edition, even though Google is yet to make the new Android update version official.

Apparently built on July 11 and leaked a week later, Android 4.3 version JWR66V is available for Galaxy S4 Google Play edition users to install on their devices. The existing leaked Galaxy S4 Google Play edition Android 4.3 version has build number JWR66N.

Xda-developer member Jah0n posted installation instructions on the forum, and listed improvements, bugs and app performance for the new Android 4.3 version, as discovered during testing. Should you choose to install version JWR66V on your device, we'll remind you that you're the only person responsible for whatever happens during the process.

The new JWR66V brings battery improvements and lets the handset wirelessly charge even when powered off. Furthermore, Google Wallet now apparently works for non-rooted devices. The same goes for Dash Clock widget and the IMDb app.

However, there are also bugs with this unofficial Android 4.3 version, affecting SIM unlock but also issues with various apps including GTA IV, CNN, Apex launcher, HBO Go, Titanium Backup, and others.

While you can already flash this new ROM, your best bet would be waiting for Google to roll out Android 4.3, at which point Samsung will likely release the appropriate Galaxy S4 Google Play edition software update – because this isn't a Nexus device, it's up to Samsung to do it.

Google is rumored to unveil Android 4.3 on July 24, during its special press event, alongside a new Nexus 7 model.

    


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Android World Update # Motorola X specs confirmed: device will feature 4.5-inch screen, dual-core processor and an always-on listening mode

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Motorola X specs confirmed: device will feature 4.5-inch screen, dual-core processor and an always-on listening mode
Jul 20th 2013, 13:07, by Roy Alugbue

Motorola_Logo_From_DROID_RAZR_MAXX_HD_TA

 

Boy, we sure can’t wait for that rapidly approaching August 1st holiday, but in the meantime, the minor wait for the Motorola X’s unveiling won’t stop us from getting important deets on the intriguing new smartphone. According to sources with The Verge, the CDMA version of the smartphone features a 4.5-inch screen, a dual-core Snapdragon processor, Android 4.2.2 (for now), the super-cool “always-on” listening mode and a wrist-flicking gesture which opens the camera app for good measure. While the confirmed specs are based off the CDMA version, it’s probably a safe bet the GSM version will likely have the same specs as well. I mean sure, we still don’t know other important details such as what specific battery will be used, but hey— at least the phone will probably be easy on our wallets and pocketbooks, right?

source: The Verge


Come comment on this article: Motorola X specs confirmed: device will feature 4.5-inch screen, dual-core processor and an always-on listening mode

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Android World Update # Another Android 4.3 leak surfaces for the Samsung Galaxy S 4 smartphone

Android News, Rumours, and Updates
The latest in android news, rumours, and updates, including device news and apps!
Another Android 4.3 leak surfaces for the Samsung Galaxy S 4 smartphone
Jul 20th 2013, 13:43, by Roy Alugbue

Galaxy_S_4_Google_Play_Edition_Android_4.3.3_leak

 

The Google Edition of the Samsung Galaxy S 4 smartphone may not be a Nexus in name, but it certainly is a Nexus in spirit and as such, will probably get early builds of important software updates before other devices. After seeing an earlier Android 4.3 build leak out last month, another build of the imminent update pops up, which naturally has been obtained by the boys at XDA. The build— identified as JWR66V— was concocted on July 11th and turned into a sweet ROM that can be flashed onto the device. It’s unsure of what exactly this build brings, but users are reporting there’s at least an improved battery charge, which also includes an improved wireless battery charging feature. Of course there may be a bug or two (or three), but we’re sure that won’t stop a few of you from trying out some of that sweet, sweet Android 4.3 glory before the rest of us.

source: XDA


Come comment on this article: Another Android 4.3 leak surfaces for the Samsung Galaxy S 4 smartphone

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Android World Update # Android Community

Android Community
Tracking the Android Platform Revolution
Android 4.3 build JWR66V leaks for the Galaxy S 4 Google Play edition
Jul 20th 2013, 14:47, by Robert Nelson

The Galaxy S 4 Google Play edition smartphone ships with Android 4.2, however it looks like the release of Android 4.3 is just around the corner. Of course, we are expecting Google to make the official announcement next week. That event is also expected to bring details of the Nexus 7 2, but for now it is all about Android 4.3 on the Galaxy S 4 and a second (newer) build has recently been posted on xda.

P7050412wtmk0000-540x331

That being said, those with a Galaxy S 4 Google Play edition can begin playing if they want. There appears to still be some work to do, however this is Android 4.3 and it is noted as being build JWR66V. Details coming from the xda posting include how this has been released as a flashable zip that can be used with TWRP and/or CWM.

The xda posting has plenty of talk from people that have already loaded up the ROM. It seems to be a mixed bag overall with some reports of success and some reports of issues. Though given this ROM has arrived by way of a leak the latter shouldn’t be all that surprising. Basically, we suggest this — do some thinking before diving in with this as your daily driver.

Otherwise, some of the highlights here include the wireless charging working — even when the device is powered off. The IR blaster has also been confirmed as working. One of the issues seems to be with a particular launcher. At least one user was having issues with force closing and Apex, however it was also said that Nova is working well.

Bottom line here, if you have a handset you can afford to play with — this may be a good option. Otherwise, we may suggest simply waiting to see what happens next week during the Google event. After all, should Google announce 4.3 as expected, the Galaxy S 4 Google Play edition should be updated by official means rather quickly.

VIA: xda-developers

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Android World Update # Android and Me

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Leaked press images show off the Motorola Moto X… again
Jul 20th 2013, 14:43, by Nick Gray

We still have a bit more than a week to go before the August 1 Moto X press event in New York, but that doesn’t mean we have to wait until then to see the official press shots of the device. The leaked Motorola Moto X images give us a clear look at the front and back of the phone. No new details were released with the images, but they do confirm the semi-transparent navigation bar which was spotted on previously leaked images of the device.

The rumored mid-range spec sheet of the Motorola Moto X isn’t something that will impress power hungry Android users, but it’s unique customization options, “always-on” voice commands, active updates and unique gesture controls should make this device quite appealing to the mass market if Motorola is able to get in into consumers hands at a bargain basement price.

How cheap does the Moto X need to be if Motorola wants to steal market share away the competition?

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Android World Update # USA PRISM Plus trolls the NSA on Twitter

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Android Central
USA PRISM Plus trolls the NSA on Twitter
Jul 20th 2013, 12:59, by Phil Nickinson

USA PRISM Plus

Points for creativity here. USA PRISM Plus plays off the recent NSA flap and attempts to turn the tables by randomly taking pictures with your phone and then Tweeting them at the @NSACareers account "to determine that you are not engaging in illegal activities."

The result is, well, pretty much what you'd expect. Random pictures, Tweeted at the NSA.

Wanna see what folks have been snapping? Ease on past the break.

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