Saturday, August 3, 2013

Android World Update # Root method blocked with latest Chromecast update (build 12840)

Android News, Rumours, and Updates
The latest in android news, rumours, and updates, including device news and apps! 
Root method blocked with latest Chromecast update (build 12840)
Aug 3rd 2013, 18:10, by Robert Nazarian

 

Got Root

Just last week we saw a root method surface for the Chromecast, and just like that, Google is closing the door. Google released build 12840 as an over-the-air update a few days ago, and one of the enhancements is to close the root method. Of course, you might not see that as an enhancement if you were looking to root your Chromecast.

Now it might not be all doom and gloom as XDA member tchebb has posted a couple of methods you can try to stop the OTA from hitting your device. The first thing you need to do is check to see if you’re device has been updated. Just open the Chromecast app on your phone or tablet and tap on the specific Chromecast device. The current build number will be listed at the bottom. If your Chromecast didn’t get the update, then hit the break for instructions.

THE FOLLOWING METHODS ARE UNTESTED AND ARE NOT GUARANTEED TO WORK OR LEAVE YOUR CHROMECAST IN A WORKING STATE. PERFORM THEM AT YOUR OWN RISK.

After telnetting into your rooted Chromecast or otherwise obtaining a root shell, you can try these two possible methods

  1. Rename otacerts.zip to otacerts.zip.bak in /system/etc/security/. This may remove the OTA signing keys and cause the Chromecast to reject any OTAs. However, I do not know whether this file is actually used or whether is simply a remnant from Chromecast's Android base.
  2. Replace /chrome/update_engine with an empty, executable, shell script (make sure to make a backup copy first). I am very unsure of this method, since it is simply going off the name of the update_engine binary. If update_engine happens to perform some task core to the system, doing this will leave your device in an unusable state. If this happens, simply re-rooting using GTVHacker's USB image should restore your system to how it was.

As tchebb mentions, this one might be a little risky. If you’re feeling brave, be sure to hit the source link for more information.

source: XDA


Come comment on this article: Root method blocked with latest Chromecast update (build 12840)

You are receiving this email because you subscribed to this feed at blogtrottr.com.

If you no longer wish to receive these emails, you can unsubscribe from this feed, or manage all your subscriptions

Android World Update # Samsung smartwatch concept shown in patent hints at flexible display use

Android Authority
Android News, Reviews, How To 
Samsung smartwatch concept shown in patent hints at flexible display use
Aug 3rd 2013, 17:04, by Chris Smith

Samsung logo

A Samsung patent for a smartwatch device has been discovered in South Korea, with concept images apparently revealing that the device could pack a flexible display of some sort.

According to Sam Mobile, the patent found with the Korea Institute of Patent Information mentions SM-V700 model number for the smartwatch, which is the same model number we've seen in recent Samsung Gear smartwatch rumors. The Gear name is yet to be confirmed though.

It’s worth pointing out that it’s rather strange to see a product’s model number mentioned in a generic patent, and that the publication doesn’t show any proof for that statement.

The SM-V700 model number has been spotted on an Indian logistics website that seemed to confirm that the handset has been shipped by Samsung for R&D purposes. A subsequent report said that Samsung Germany is currently testing the device, most likely in preparation for an IFA 2013 unveiling event. The device may be announced right alongside the Galaxy Note 3 in early September.

The images in the patent seem to indicate that the smartwatch will include a speaker and microphone, an USB port, but also Back and Menu buttons. The available pictures also seem to suggest that the smartwatch may pack a flexible display.

Samsung smartwatch patent
samsung-gear-concept-patent-3
Samsung smartwatch patent


As you may already know, Samsung is developing its own flexible display technology for mobile devices, and such screens would make even more sense on smartwatches.

However, we will remind you that imagery taken from patent applications will not always describe upcoming devices from a company. Instead, such images serve to showcase the concept described in the patent.

Are you buying a smartwatch this year?

You are receiving this email because you subscribed to this feed at blogtrottr.com.

If you no longer wish to receive these emails, you can unsubscribe from this feed, or manage all your subscriptions

Android World Update # Android Device Manager beginning to push to phones

Android Central - Android Forums - News - Reviews - Help and Android Wallpapers
Android Central 
Android Device Manager beginning to push to phones
Aug 3rd 2013, 16:49, by Jerry Hildenbrand

Android Device Manager

The settings on a few phones have turned up an entry for the new Android Device Manager — have you checked yours?

It looks like the first stage of the new Android Device Manager is pushing out to a few people, but the service is not yet live. Google told us their new "find my phone" service would be hitting all Android devices running Android 2.2 or higher sometime this month, and while there's nothing to be found on the web side, the device administrator is showing up slowly.

Oddly enough, there doesn't appear to be an associated apk file or a new version of Google Play services attached, and right now nobody is really sure where to find the details. The good news — and this is really good news — is that the reports are coming from everywhere, not just the U.S. look for Android Device Manager to be a world-wide roll out.

You'll surely want to check and see if you're one of the chosen few, so here's how you can do that. Grab your phone, and open the settings. Under the Security section, look for the Device administrators section. Tap it, and see what's there. We're not seeing it yet on any devices in the office, but Reddit is full of folks with the new settings. If you see it, too, be sure to shout out in the comments.

Source: Reddit

    


You are receiving this email because you subscribed to this feed at blogtrottr.com.

If you no longer wish to receive these emails, you can unsubscribe from this feed, or manage all your subscriptions

Android World Update # Could Samsung challenge Amazon with E-Ink Optimized “Daynote”?

Android Phone Fans
Android Phone News, Rumors, Reviews, Apps, Forums & More! 
Could Samsung challenge Amazon with E-Ink Optimized "Daynote"?
Aug 3rd 2013, 15:35, by Rob Jackson

The USPTO is our friend. When companies create new products, they get their product names trademarked through the United States Patent & Trademark Office, which makes these records public and searchable. Before a new smartphone or gadget is ever announced, we often see it’s name pop up in these records. While they don’t always tell […]

You are receiving this email because you subscribed to this feed at blogtrottr.com.

If you no longer wish to receive these emails, you can unsubscribe from this feed, or manage all your subscriptions

Android World Update # Chromecast-a-day: The final dongle

Android Central - Android Forums - News - Reviews - Help and Android Wallpapers
Android Central 
Chromecast-a-day: The final dongle
Aug 3rd 2013, 13:16, by Phil Nickinson

Chromecast-a-day

This is it, folks. The final offering from our weeklong "Chromecast-a-day" contest. We've given away a half-dozen already, and today rounds it out.

To enter to win, just leave a comment on this post. That's it. We'll pick from entries through midnight PST tonight. We've got a little catching up to do, so stay tuned for a week's worth of winners.

Good luck!

    


You are receiving this email because you subscribed to this feed at blogtrottr.com.

If you no longer wish to receive these emails, you can unsubscribe from this feed, or manage all your subscriptions

Android World Update # Android and Me

Android and Me
Meet Your New Android Friend. Your Community For All Things Google Android. 
HTC One, Samsung Galaxy S4 Google Play editions now receiving Android 4.3 update
Aug 3rd 2013, 11:51, by Nick Gray

After Samsung and HTC shared their respective Android 4.3 source code for their Google Play edition phones, the OTA update for both devices started rolling out. Samsung build for the Galaxy S4 weighs in at 150.7MB while the HTC One’s is a but heftier at 185.5MB. The Android 4.3 update for both phones delivers Bluetooth Smart, OpenGL ES 3.0 for better 3D graphics, dial pad auto-completion and a few more technical changes like security and network enhancements. Other tweaks include larger app icons, a functional IR blaster on the HTC One and Bluetooth tethering on the Samsung Galaxy S4.

While the Android 4.3 update for the Samsung Galaxy S4 and HTC One Google Play editions has been available for nearly 12 hours now, we are still waiting patiently for our HTC One GPe. You can try to manually ping the download servers by going to Settings > About phone > System updates > Check now but there’s no guarantee that it’ll actually work.

Is a nine day turnaround time for the Android 4.3 update for the Google Play editions acceptable? Do you think Samsung and HTC will capitalize on this momentum to help them release the Android 4.3 update for their mainstream devices in a more timely manner?

You are receiving this email because you subscribed to this feed at blogtrottr.com.

If you no longer wish to receive these emails, you can unsubscribe from this feed, or manage all your subscriptions

Android World Update # In Brief: Android-related things worth knowing today

AndroidGuys
Android news and opinion 
In Brief: Android-related things worth knowing today
Aug 2nd 2013, 20:14, by AndroidGuys


in_brief_720

In Brief is a compilation of notifications, rumors, and Android-related news tidbits which, for whatever reason, did not end up with a post of its own on AndroidGuys. These are things that we still feel are worth knowing, even if in a passing manner. Consider it a grab-bag of Android goodies. If you have something that you think is worth a mention on AndroidGuys, be sure to reach out to us via our contact page.

Lookout has a new report that provides an in-depth look at the Russian SMS fraud code-named "Dragon Lady“. Key details in the study is how the malware can be distributed, who is largely at risk, and what is being done to avoid detection. Malicious mobile attacks is a million dollar industry and worth knowing about.

iblazr

New Kickstarter project iblazr is for an Android accessory that improves the flash and makes pictures brighter and better. The $39 portable LED flash “levels playing field between DSLR cameras and smart devices” and should be available in time for holiday shopping.

Did you know that you could set up an automated home protection system and keep an eye on things from your mobile devices? Yeah, for reals. Protection1 has a variety of options at your disposal so be learn more about eSecure 2.0!

dodocase_nexus7

DODOcase has launched 7 new products for the generation of Nexus 7 tablets, including 3 new DODOcase styles (Classic Black, Cardinal Red, and Gray Color Block) 2 HARDcovers (Classic Black and Cardinal Red) and a new Durables sleeve and paper Folio.

protag_elite

Have you ever left your briefcase, phone, or purse in the store or at a restaurant? Need to hunt down you child’s backpack? Be sure to keep an eye out for the PROTAG Elite. Set to launch on IndieGoGo on August 7, these little guys are unobtrusive tags that alert you when your items are left behind and even indicate the last known GPS position. About the size of a credit card, the PROTAG Elite can be slipped into your wallet or bag.

seidio_ledger

Seidio, a brand that we love, recently introduced new case options for the Samsung Galaxy S4 and HTC One.  Called the LEDGER and LEDGER View, they are flip cases that keep your privacy but also protects against scuffs and scratches. What’s more, they also come with a credit card slot on the inside for keeping an ID, credit card or business card.

Gameloft announced that Order & Chaos Online is now bringing the first true real-time, fully-3D MMORPG experience to the OUYA system. Celebrating its second birthday, the game features customizable characters of differing classes and races, over 1200 quests, PvP arenas and much more.

The post In Brief: Android-related things worth knowing today appeared first on AndroidGuys.

You are receiving this email because you subscribed to this feed at blogtrottr.com.

If you no longer wish to receive these emails, you can unsubscribe from this feed, or manage all your subscriptions

Android World Update # Moto X, between the hype and the backlash

Android Authority
Android News, Reviews, How To 
Moto X, between the hype and the backlash
Aug 2nd 2013, 19:49, by Bogdan Petrovan

The-Friday-Debate aa

Evan Forester

On this edition of the Friday Debate, we talk about Motorola, the Moto X, the hype and the backlash.

Join us in the discussion, vote in our poll, and sound off in the comments!

Robert Triggs 

As a European, it's disappointing to be excluded from what was supposed to be the next big product from Google/Motorola. As a decent looking mid-range product, the Moto X was on my list for a potential upgrade, but sadly it looks like I won't even have the choice any more.

But even if I was living in the US, there are a few little things to feel disappointed about, despite the fact that the phone has turned out pretty much how most of us expected, hardware wise at least. The AT&T exclusivity over the customization features is certainly annoying, I don't see the logic behind advertising customization and consumer choice so strongly, only to tie these features to a single carrier. But the price range is even more absurd, especially considering that you can pick up more powerful handsets, like the Galaxy S4, for a fraction of the price.

Finally, the lack of the latest Android 4.3 features out of the box is again a bit of a let down. It seems like Google missed an opportunity to leverage its own technology and finances to make this truly stellar product launch. Instead, the launch appears to be pretty messy, and that's sure to disappoint many consumers.

Having said all that, it's still a good little device, and some of the handset’s unique features still make it a worthwhile purchase. But I expect that, for many, the Moto X does not live up to all the hype.

Derek Scott

The Moto X is Google’s coming out party to the masses, not the technophiles.

I’m in a glass half full mood today so instead of ranting about what I don’t like, here are a couple things I do like.

1. No logo on the front screen.
It is a serious pet peeve of mine seeing any branding on the front screen.
2. The colour/material options.
I love the bold move for trying something new, it is going to be really interesting to see the results. Sure you can choose your colours, but when it comes time you want to sell your phone, will your bright yellow Moto X be easy to sell?

Joshua Vergara

FINALLY everything that we have been hearing about the Moto X has been… unsurprisingly… confirmed. But like Derek said, this isn’t a phone for the techies in us. However, it is a phone for the individual in us.

I’m actually considering going against all my best instincts and putting myself on an AT&T contract just to get the first customizable Moto Xs. Here’s why.

It’s about time smartphone truly entered the realm of customization in the same vain as laptops, computers, and even fashion. Remember what I said a few weeks ago? Moto X buying should be much like when you buy a pair of Nikes. You can quite literally pick, choose, and change any aspect of the product to your liking. This is almost what the Moto X provides, though many of the options that people may likely want most won’t be available until much later. No wood backs just yet, unfortunately.

Also, Motorola is reminding us of something very important – we’re spoiled. We want 1080p, we want the fastest processors, we want this, we want that. But keep an open mind and realize that specs like 720p and the Snapdragon S4 Pro really aren’t bad. At all. We try so hard to get the best and the greatest that we forget one important aspect about technology (and things in general) – that if you already have a method that works, often optimizing it is better than just jumping to the next step. I am willing to bet that the vast majority of people who use the Moto X won’t have much phone envy towards those who have Snapdragon 600s or better. The pure customization of the Moto X, inside and out, will be exciting and fun for a LOT of people.

Want proof? Ask any happy Nexus 4 owner. There are a lot of them. And that’s just customization from the inside. Imagine that coupled with what the Moto X offers on the outside.

Andrew Grush

No, in my opinion the Moto X does not at all live up to hype, but how could it have?

From the beginning the rumor mill turned hard, spitting out all kinds of fantastic, over-the-top ideas like true hardware customization, extremely detailed outside customization, a sub-$300 no-contract price and it went on and on.

When the dust finally settled, a clearer picture of the handset could finally be seen and what we saw was a decisively mid-range handset, despite some pretty cool features like touchless controls and a few special customization features.

That said, the Moto X doesn’t need to live up to the hype to be a success. Motorola's latest flagship is still a solid enough device, though I feel that a combination of a slightly high asking price ($200 with contract) and the AT&T MotoMaker exclusivity might make the X Phone not nearly as much as an iPhone/Galaxy killer as some had previously thought.

Now that it’s official, how do you feel about the Moto X?

Join us in the comments and vote in our poll.

Now that it's official, how do you feel about the Moto X?

View Results

Loading ... Loading ...

You are receiving this email because you subscribed to this feed at blogtrottr.com.

If you no longer wish to receive these emails, you can unsubscribe from this feed, or manage all your subscriptions

Android World Update # CyanogenMod bringing official support to eight new devices

Android Authority
Android News, Reviews, How To 
CyanogenMod bringing official support to eight new devices
Aug 2nd 2013, 20:04, by Andrew Grush

CyanogenMod

The CyanogenMod team has announced official support for eight new Android devices, six of which are Motorola handsets and two from Sammy.

What could be better than getting official CyanogenMod support? Seven out of eight of these devices are in line for the Android 4.3-based CM10.2 code base – the exception being the C Spire version of the Galaxy S4.

Here's the a full list of the added phones, and their model numbers:

  • Samsung Galaxy S Relay 4G (apexqtmo)
  • Samsung Galaxy S4 – C Spire (jfltecsp)
  • Motorola Atrix HD (mb886)
  • Motorola Photon Q – GSM (xt897)
  • Motorola Photon Q – CDMA (xt897c)
  • Motorola Droid Razr M (xt907)
  • Motorola Razr HD – GSM (xt925)
  • Motorola Droid Razr HD – CDMA (xt926)

Is it just me, or does it seem somewhat ironic that all six of these older Moto devices might end up with Android 4.3 (via Cyanogenmod) ahead of the newly announced Moto X? But I digress.

Once these builds are live, you'll be able to snag them by heading over to get.cm. From there you’ll have several choices, including whether to go with a nightly, experimental or stable build. According to the folks behind Cyanogenmod, this is just the first wave, so expect more additions in the near future!

You are receiving this email because you subscribed to this feed at blogtrottr.com.

If you no longer wish to receive these emails, you can unsubscribe from this feed, or manage all your subscriptions