Tuesday, June 26, 2012

AndroidGuys

AndroidGuys


Press images of T-Mobile Galaxy Note leaked

Posted: 25 Jun 2012 02:54 PM PDT

T-Mobile USA is one of the major carriers which is launching the infamous Samsung Galaxy S III, but they still didn't tell anyone when they are planning to launch the Galaxy Note. It's a known fact now that Galaxy Note is next in T-Mobile's launch list and it will be announce any time soon, although we heard that it will be launched on July 11. Now out friends over at Tmo-News managed to get their hands on some press-shots of the T-Mobile Galaxy Note, though the pics are a little blurry but gives us an idea how the T-Mo Galaxy Note will look like.

Galaxy Note is literally one of the most successful devices ever made by Samsung, but the device is almost one year old and now it's hitting nation's one of the largest mobile network. I am not saying people will ignore the Android monster, the problem is T-Mobile is launching the Galaxy S III as well, and also the successor to Galaxy Note is around the corner.

Anyway, who am I to judge? Galaxy Note is a perfect device in every way, so tell us are you planning to pick the Galaxy Note from T-Mobile next month?

Source: Tmo-News

Press images of T-Mobile Galaxy Note leaked originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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Verizon launching Droid Incredible 4G LTE on July 5?

Posted: 25 Jun 2012 02:20 PM PDT

Last month, Verizon Wireless officially announced the DROID Incredible 4G LTE, which is actually successor to Big Red's famous DROID Incredible series of smartphones. Although Verizon is not planning to launch any phone from HTC's One Series, but this device actually looks a lot like the One S, for example the front buttons. Now according to Verizon's Equipment guide, the device will be launched on July 5, and finally after 2 months, we will be able to see this device in Verizon stores.

About the pricing, it will go for a healthy price tag of $199 with a 2-yr contract, and probably with a $50-rebate, the final cost will be $149. However, Samsung Galaxy S III is also coming to Verizon, which we all know is without any doubt superior than the Incredible 4G LTE, also it's priced at $199, so I actually think that Galaxy SIII will take down the HTC's monster in sales and will give it a really hard time.

Well, folks if you had a chance, which one would you pick, Incredible 4G LTE or the Galaxy S III? Tell us in the comment box below

Source: Droid-Life

Verizon launching Droid Incredible 4G LTE on July 5? originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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List of Android Sandbox attendees for Google I/O 2012

Posted: 25 Jun 2012 12:30 PM PDT

With Google I/O 2012 getting underway in just a few days time, we thought we'd take a look at the various companies expected to demonstrate apps and services in the Developer Sandbox.  Rather than giving you a full rundown of all companies across every platform or project, we'll focus on the Android aspect.

Typically Google I/O is a great way to gauge which companies have big Android news or updates coming in the short term.  On the other hand, it's here where we also get our first tastes from companies or services who have yet to dip their toes in the Android waters.  Pinterest, anyone?

Whereas last year focused heavily on Honeycomb and tablets, this year looks to be more general in nature.  We plan to stop by and talk with everyone in attendance and look forward to learning of the next big Android push.

Do you see anyone interesting here?

  • AndEngine
  • Application Resource Optimizer (ARO)
  • ARM
  • cloud.tv
  • Code Factory S.L.
  • Crittercism
  • Ekata Systems, Inc.
  • Electronic Arts
  • Epic Games
  • Expedia.com
  • Funf: Open Mobile Sensing
  • GREE/Funzio
  • Hipmunk
  • HyperDevbox
  • Immersion
  • iNiS
  • Intel Corporation
  • JetBrains
  • Kinetic Bytes
  • Komodo OpenLab & the Inclusive Design Research Centre
  • MobileBits GmBH
  • National Braille Press
  • NVIDIA
  • Onavo
  • Pebble
  • Pinterest, Inc.
  • Pocket
  • Pulse
  • Revision3
  • SQUARE ENIX CO., LTD.
  • TED
  • Testdroid
  • Texas Instruments
  • TinyCo
  • TourWrist
  • Unity Technologies
  • YoYo Games
  • Zipline Games

List of Android Sandbox attendees for Google I/O 2012 originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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AOL celebrates 15 years of Winamp with new Android app, Album Washer feature

Posted: 25 Jun 2012 11:46 AM PDT

In news that makes us feel older than we'd like to, AOL is celebrating 15 years of Winamp media player.  As part of the music app's anniversary, a new version of the Android app recently touched down in Google Play.

The 1.3 release of Winamp for Android is notable for a number of features however it's the introduction of Album Washer that users will like most.  Available for a limited-time 99¢ in-app purchase, Album Washer handles the menial task of filling in all the blanks for your music tracks.  Have missing album information or track details that you can't be bothered with fixing?  This is where that dollar comes in handy.

Additional features for Winamp 1.3 include the ability to move the app to SD card, SHOUTcast radio search and notification optimization, and the introduction of an in-app store.

Congrats to Winamp on more than 18 million downloads and counting!

AOL Unveils New Winamp Album Washer in Celebration of 15th Anniversary

Debuts Upgraded Versions of Winamp for Android, Mac and PC

#1 Free Third-Party Music Management App on Android Now with Almost 20 Million Downloads

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--AOL Inc. (NYSE:AOL) announced today the release of Winamp Album Washer, powered by Gracenote®, a new feature in Winamp for Android that allows users to clean-up and organize audio files creating a more seamless user experience for passionate music fans. Winamp also plans to unveil updated offerings for both Mac and PC platforms demonstrating Winamp's continued commitment to innovation as it celebrates its 15th anniversary.

"We're excited to introduce Album Washer and these latest updates which include a richer experience across Android, Mac and PC platforms," said Geno Yoham, GM of Winamp. "These product releases are another step in our roadmap and vision to provide our users with the most robust set of tools to enhance and customize the way they listen to and manage their music on multiple platforms, empowering the user has been a strategic focus and part of the Winamp DNA for the last fifteen years."

Winamp for Android (v1.3)

The latest version of the free player includes Album Washer, a premium add-on available in the new in-app Store. Album Washer makes cleaning up audio files easy by updating users' incorrect or missing tags (Artist Name, Track Title, Album Name, etc.) and by downloading high quality album art. In celebration of Winamp's 15th anniversary, Album Washer will be available for only $0.99 for a limited time.

Also available in the new in-app store is the Pro Bundle, a bundle of premium features including a customizable home screen, ability to browse by Folders, crossfading between tracks and a 10 band graphic equalizer. The new release includes:

  • New Winamp In-app Store
  • New Album Washer in-app purchase
  • New Move to SD Card feature -- great for user's who have limited internal storage
  • SHOUTcast radio search and notification optimizations

Winamp for Mac Sync Beta

Winamp for Mac is the OSX version of the popular Winamp media player available on Windows and Android. Winamp for Mac allows users to wirelessly sync their iTunes music library to their Android device, manage their music and playlists, and playback their music. The new release includes:

  • Album Art Views
  • Play Queue Window & Drag and Drop
  • Auto-update, including a Beta channel for the latest feature releases
  • Support for Growl and in application notifications
  • Faster performance and high quality playback

Winamp Media Player for PC

The iconic Winamp is still the Ultimate Media Player. With a robust feature set for managing and consuming audio, video, playlists, podcasts, internet radio and more. There over 6,000 add-ons including built-in services for ticketing, lyrics, and downloading music. The Winamp Media Player is translated into 16 languages and is home to SHOUTcast Radio – one of the largest internet radio directories with over 54,000 stations.* The new release includes MPEG Surround Playback support and an update to the popular Winamp browser toolbar, newly translated into 16 languages.

Released in 1997, Winamp offers a complete end-to-end media player solution that features wireless desktop sync, iTunes import, and access to thousands of SHOUTcast internet radio stations. "With the launch of today's latest offerings, Winamp furthers its position as a full service music management companion, helping consumers download, organize and manage the music they love using multiple devices," said Jay Kirsch, SVP and General Manager, AOL Media Group.

*Custom list built by AOL

ABOUT AOL

AOL Inc. (NYSE: AOL) is a brand company, committed to continuously innovating, growing, and investing in brands and experiences that inform, entertain, and connect the world. The home of a world-class collection of premium brands, AOL creates original content that engages audiences on a local and global scale. We help marketers connect with these audiences through effective and engaging digital advertising solutions.

Contacts

AOL Corporate Communications
Emily Hom, 917-606-4637
emily.hom@teamaol.com

AOL celebrates 15 years of Winamp with new Android app, Album Washer feature originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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Hulu Plus gains new Android devices, improved 7-inch tablet experience

Posted: 25 Jun 2012 10:53 AM PDT

The official Hulu Plus app for Android was updated late last week, adding in support for new devices (Galaxy S II series, HTC One S, Galaxy Tab 2) as well as enhanced support for Ice Cream Sandwich.  Also of note is that this release includes improved support for 7-inch tablets and improved support for high-resolution screens.  The timing couldn't be more coincidental if you ask us; Google I/O gets started in a matter of days.  Pretty much everyone expects to see the 7-inch Nexus tablet debut where it will likely be the prime candidate for some Hulu Plus love.

Via: Engadget

Hulu Plus gains new Android devices, improved 7-inch tablet experience originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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Box OneCloud arrives on Android with 50 launch partners

Posted: 25 Jun 2012 10:31 AM PDT

Box today announced that it has released its Android version of Box OneCloud, and brought 50 app integration partners along for the ride.  Like its iOS counterpart, Box OneCloud provides users with a full suite of productivity tools and services with Box's cloud-based content sharing platform.  Available for free in the Google Play Store today, Box (OneCloud) sees tight integration with other apps such Breezy, Docusign Ink, Fetchnotes, Dolphin Browser, and more!

In addition to the consumer-facing news, Box also announced its OneCloud SDK for Android, giving developers the opportunity to utilize the same tools.If you are an Android developer looking to take advantage of the SDK, head to developers.box.com today!

Box OneCloud for Android includes the following features:

  • App Gallery: shows users what apps work with Box and is contextually sensitive to show the best apps for file editing and creation
  • Round-trip integrations: provides a seamless way for you to open Box files in partner apps and save them back to Box.
  • Fifty Android App partners, including leading mobile productivity app integrations from FetchNotes, iAnnotate, Docusign Ink and Breezy

Download Box for Android today.

Box blog

 

Box OneCloud arrives on Android with 50 launch partners originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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Samsung expects Galaxy S III to top 10 million by end of July

Posted: 25 Jun 2012 09:19 AM PDT

Samsung expects big things pretty quickly for their Galaxy S III smartphone, advising that it will top 10 million units by the end of July, according to a Reuters (Canada) report.  The company's telecommunications lead, JK Shin advises that the hot handset of the summer is moving briskly however it's unclear if this is sales or shipments.  Either way, it's a commendable number to be sure.  We've loved our time with the Galaxy S III and think U.S. consumers are going to eat this device up once it hits the streets.

Via: The Verge

 

Samsung expects Galaxy S III to top 10 million by end of July originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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T-Mobile and Verizon ink spectrum deal

Posted: 25 Jun 2012 06:31 AM PDT

T-Mobile and Verizon have formally entered into agreement which will see the nation's largest wireless carrier licensing spectrum to the fourth largest. Following regulatory approval, T-Mobile will gain improved AWS spectrum in 218 markets, including 15 of the top 25 U.S. markets, covering around 60 million people. Verizon, for its part, will receive spectrum that covers another 22 million people and some cash as well.  While the application has been submitted to the FCC, it could be some time before anything happens in the consumer eye.

T-Mobile will gain spectrum covering 60 million people — notably in Philadelphia; Washington, D.C.; Detroit; Minneapolis; Seattle; Cleveland; Columbus, Ohio; Milwaukee; Charlotte, N.C.; Raleigh-Durham, N.C.; Greensboro, N.C.; Memphis, Tenn.; and Rochester, N.Y.

 

T-Mobile Signs Spectrum Agreement With Verizon Wireless 

T-Mobile to Improve Portfolio of Nationwide Broadband Spectrum Following Regulatory Approval Net Gain of Spectrum Will Assist Rollout of LTE in 2013 

 Bellevue, Wash. — June 25, 2012 — Today, T-Mobile USA, Inc. announced an agreement with Verizon Wireless for the purchase and exchange of certain Advanced Wireless Services (AWS) spectrum licenses in 218 markets across the U.S.  The transaction will improve T-Mobile's spectrum position in 15 of the top 25 markets in the U.S. by providing an opportunity for T-Mobile both to acquire additional AWS spectrum and to realign its existing spectrum holdings.  Following regulatory approval, this spectrum can be promptly deployed to enhance the company's 4G mobile broadband service, including the rollout of LTE service next year. Some of the spectrum T-Mobile is acquiring in this transaction include licenses that Verizon is purchasing from SpectrumCo, Cox and Leap, and the agreement is contingent on the closing of those transactions and is subject to regulatory approval by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Department of Justice.

"This agreement will provide T-Mobile with critical AWS spectrum, enhancing both network capacity and performance and allowing us to meet the growing consumer demand for 4G mobile broadband," T-Mobile CEO and President Philipp Humm said. "This is good for T-Mobile and good for consumers because it will enable T-Mobile to compete even more vigorously with other wireless carriers. We anticipate FCC approval later this summer, in time for us to incorporate this new spectrum into our network modernization and the rollout of LTE services next year."

T-Mobile will gain spectrum covering 60 million people — notably in Philadelphia; Washington, D.C.; Detroit; Minneapolis; Seattle; Cleveland; Columbus, Ohio; Milwaukee; Charlotte, N.C.; Raleigh-Durham, N.C.; Greensboro, N.C.; Memphis, Tenn.; and Rochester, N.Y. — in exchange for spectrum covering 22 million people and certain cash consideration. The agreement also includes exchanges in a number of markets in which the companies will swap licenses to create more contiguous blocks of spectrum and re-align spectrum in adjacent markets. These intra-market swaps will enhance T‑Mobile's network performance and data throughput in key locations. This agreement is in addition to T-Mobile's previously announced $4 billion 4G network evolution plan, which includes modernization of 37,000 cell sites, launching 4G HSPA+ services in the 1900 MHz band and deployment of LTE in 2013.

About T-Mobile USA:

Based in Bellevue, Wash., T-Mobile USA, Inc. is the U.S. wireless operation of Deutsche Telekom AG (OTCQX: DTEGY). By the end of the first quarter of 2012, approximately 129 million mobile customers were served by the mobile communication segments of the Deutsche Telekom group — 33.4 million by T-Mobile USA — all via a common technology platform based on GSM and UMTS and additionally HSPA+ 21/HSPA+ 42. T-Mobile USA's innovative wireless products and services help empower people to connect to those who matter most. Multiple independent research studies continue to rank T-Mobile USA among the highest in numerous regions throughout the U.S. in wireless customer care and call quality. For more information, please visit http://www.T-Mobile.com. T-Mobile is a federally registered trademark of Deutsche Telekom AG. For further information on Deutsche Telekom, please visit www.telekom.de/investor-relations.

T-Mobile and Verizon ink spectrum deal originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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Sony releasing a new Google TV set-top box on July 22, will be available globally

Posted: 25 Jun 2012 05:55 AM PDT

Sony has just announced their plans to release a new Google TV set-top box, the NSZ-GS7, on July 22. The hardware will go for $199, and will be released first in the US. After the US sales kick off, however, Sony will make the device available in the UK that same month, with Canada, Australia, France, Germany, The Netherlands, Brazil, and Mexico.

Sony has also announced that a Blu-ray version will come to the US in the fall, after which Canada, Australia, the UK, France, Germany, and The Netherlands will get the same Blu-ray love.

The device itself looks terrific, and is helping to kick off the 2012 GTV refresh Google promised us back in 2011. The box has a Marvell SoC dual-core CPU, which is a definite step up from the ATOM devices we've seen in the past.

How about the remote? Looks great from here as well. Front trackpad with a rear mini-qwerty... it definitely has the capacity to change the way folks think of Google TV.

Be sure to hit up the full presser below, as well as a photo  gallery, and let us know your thoughts in the comments.

nsg-mr5_b_uceal_s_r-1200 nsg-mr5_b_ucl_f-1200 nsg-mr5_b_ucl_r-1200 nsg-mr5_b_ucl_t-1200 nsz-gs7_b_all_f-1200 nsz-gs7_b_all_r-1200 nsz-gs7_b_ucl_st-1200

SONY'S NEXT GENERATION SET-TOP BOX WITH GOOGLE TV™ ARRIVES JULY 22

Internet Player's Versatile Remote Control and Library of Apps Customizes the Home Entertainment Experience

SAN DIEGO, June 25, 2012 –   Sony Electronics Inc. today announced the availability and pricing of the NSZ-GS7 Internet Player with Google TV™, originally introduced in January at CES. Powered by Google TV, the Internet Player will be available at retailers nationwide on July 22, priced at $199. Pre-orders begin on June 25, 2012 at www.sony.com/sonygoogletv.

"Expanding the reach and interoperability of the powerful Android platform with Sony's smartphones, tablets and renowned Audio & Video products, we are proud to continue our relationship with Google through the introduction of the new Google TV set-top-box," said Phil Molyneux, president and chief operating officer of Sony Electronics. "Entertainment content is available through so many channels and sites, and Google TV helps consumers easily find what they want to watch, listen to or play using familiar search engine technology, enhancing the viewer experience. TV will never be the same."

In addition to the NSZ-GS7 Internet Player, Sony's newest Internet Blu-ray Disc™ player with Google TV, the NSZ-GP9, will be available at retailers in time for the holiday season, priced at $299. The NSZ-GP9 player features Sony's proven Blu-ray Disc technology coupled with the robust Google TV platform.

Global Expansion of Google TV Platform

In 2010, Sony helped pioneer the Internet-TV convergence as one of the first manufacturers to launch products powered by Google TV. With the new NSZ-GS7 Internet Player with Google TV, Sony will also be the first manufacturer to launch Google TV products outside of the United States, initially starting with the United Kingdom in July, followed later by Canada, Australia, France, Germany, Netherlands, Brazil, and Mexico. The NSZ-GP9 Blu-ray Disc player with Google TV will be available this fall in the United States, followed later by Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Netherlands.

Customized Entertainment Made Easy

Sony's evolution of hardware to complement the continually updating Google TV is the next step in the future of home entertainment convergence. Sony's NSZ-GS7 and NSZ-GP9 bring the best of Google to your TV, with new experiences arriving every day through the Google Chrome™ browser; thousands of supported mobile apps in the Google Play™ Store, including hundreds optimized for TV; YouTube™ with 72 hours of video being added every minute; and a global community of developers from around the world. Google TV's cross search functionality shows viewers all content sources available from broadcast providers* and the Internet to deliver customized video results on demand.

Both new products come complete with a redesigned remote control equipped with a backlit QWERTY keyboard, a touch pad for easy operation and a three-axis motion sensor to enjoy games. Additionally, the Bluetooth® remote control can also be utilized as a universal remote to control connected devices such as TV, set- top-box and A/V receivers - the NSZ-GP9 Blu-ray Disc player even incorporates voice search capabilities.

 

For full specifications and high-resolution images, please visit www.sony.com/news.

* Must be connected to a set top box for cable TV or satellite broadcasting in the U.S for TV integration.

Sony releasing a new Google TV set-top box on July 22, will be available globally originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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Specs for Google Nexus tablet leak, should be seen this summer

Posted: 25 Jun 2012 05:40 AM PDT

Over at Gizmodo Australia, they're saying that they've got the leaked specs for the Google Nexus Tablet. According to G.A., it will be built by ASUS, and debuted at Google I/O... nothing new there. As far as the complete specs:

  • 7-inch 1280×800 IPS Display
  • Android 4.1 Jelly Bean (not confirmed to be 5.0 just yet)
  • 1.3GHz Quad-Core Tegra 3 CPU
  • NVIDIA GPU
  • 1GB RAM
  • 8GB / 16GB Internal Storage
  • 1.2MP Front Camera
  • 8 Hours Battery Life
  • Wi-Fi a/b/g/n
  • NFC

Also, according to Gizmodo, speculation hints that the tablet should go on sale sometime in July, meaning we here in the states should see it roundabout the same time.

Do these leaked specs make your mind up one way or the other as to whether or not you're getting one? Be sure to sound off in the comments.

UPDATE: For what it's worth, Google's own Dan Morrill tossed this drawing online in the last day, notating it with IT BEGINS. 6/27/2012.  You'll see that the image's resolution is at 800 x 1172 pixels.  Toss is a navigation bar and we're pretty confident that this was done on a Nexus 7 tablet.

via gizmodo australia

Specs for Google Nexus tablet leak, should be seen this summer originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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Google Android News Android Forums

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Droid Incredible 4G LTE available from July 5th

Posted: 25 Jun 2012 12:35 PM PDT

Earlier this month we broke the news that Verizon had been taking stock of accessories for the as yet unreleased Droid Incredible 4G LTE. Surely as good an indication as you’ll find of an immanent release. It seems that was a safe assumption as Verizon has today confirmed that it will finally launch the device on July 5th. The mid range device will cost you $199 on a 2 year contract which oddly prices the device the same as the Samsung  Galaxy S III, the current kingpin of Android devices.

This is certainly a case of better late than never however 2 months have passed since the device was first launched at the CTIA show. In that short time we’ve seen HTC itself launch two hugely successful devices in the One S and One X. With so many other options available and the Google I/O and Android Jelly Bean only days away, will you still be looking to pick one up? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

 

Source: Droid Life



Samsung Expects to Hit 10 Million Galaxy S III Sales in July

Posted: 25 Jun 2012 12:03 PM PDT

Samsung expects to sell 10 million Galaxy S III’s by the end of next month according to Reuters.  No Android phone has ever had a launch as successful, and it seems that Samsung is getting the hang of simultaneous launches on US carriers, maximizing the effect of a large marketing push.  

While the phones aren’t launching on the same day, at least this time they are (mostly) launching in the same month.  10 million is impressive by any standards, especially considering the HTC One X just launched, and there is another iteration of the iPhone looming this fall as well.

After hearing that there were over 9 million pre-orders last week this news isn’t really shocking, but it sure is welcome.

source: Reuters

 

 



Google ready to revamp Play Store with release of Jelly Bean?

Posted: 25 Jun 2012 11:30 AM PDT

With Google I/O slated to kickoff later this week, Android faithful are eagerly waiting for news about updates to the Android operating system. The Android 4.1 update, dubbed Jelly Bean, is anticipated to be shown running on a Nexus tablet. In conjunction with the release of Jelly Bean, some are also expecting changes that will flow throughout the entire Android ecosystem. A rumor of one such change surfaced this morning with the release of an image purporting to show a revamped Google Play Store interface for Android devices.

The image shared on the HD Blog web site came from a Google+ post by Loranz Yousif. It shows a revamped Play Store running on a Galaxy S III. The new interface resembles the old Android Market interface and is similar to the desktop version of the Play Store. Unlike the old interface, this new one appears to incorporate some ribbons along the top and bottom of the screen for access to different areas of the store.

We should keep in mind that faking images does not take great effort. The original HD Blog report has been updated with a note indicating some additional analysis shows an anomaly in the photo. Also, Mr. Yousif has not responded to comments on his Google+ post inquiring as to the authenticity of the image. It seems odd that Google would go back to a design it abandoned during their recent efforts to rebrand the Android Market to the Play Store. Anything is possible though, especially if users have been complaining.

What do you think? Fake? Real? Does the Google Play Store need a revamp? Perhaps our own Stacy Bruce, who will be attending Google I/O, will find the truth for us.

source: HD Blog
via: Android and Me



Google TV to hit the UK from July 22nd

Posted: 25 Jun 2012 11:27 AM PDT

The beauty of Android is that it is powerful, flexible and customisable enough to run more than just smartphones and tablets. You can throw in televisions, PMP’s, cameras and even refrigerators if you look hard enough. If you’re a UK based Android enthusiast, chances are you’ve been looking enviously across the pond at our state-side friends with their fancy Google TV‘s and Google TV set top boxes. The good news is that very shortly you’ll be able to see what all the fuss is about as Sony is set to launch the NSZ-GS7 Internet Player in the UK and US simultaneously from July 22nd. Sony and Google have also confirmed that the device will also launch in Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, Mexico and the Netherlands shortly thereafter. The nifty little box and innovative universal remote will set you back a cool £200 in the UK and $200 in the US.

It’s fair to say that the small selection of Google TV set top boxes have received mixed reviews so far however it’s still nice to finally have the option here in the UK. I’d also say it’s a safe bet we’ll get a look at the future of Google TV at the Google I/O in two days time.

Will you be an early adopter and grabbing Google TV’s long overdue debut into the UK market? Check out the full press release and be sure to let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

 

SONY'S NEXT GENERATION SET-TOP BOX WITH GOOGLE TV™ ARRIVES JULY 22

Internet Player's Versatile Remote Control and Library of Apps Customizes the Home Entertainment Experience

 

SAN DIEGO, June 25, 2012 –  Sony Electronics Inc. today announced the availability and pricing of the NSZ-GS7 Internet Player with Google TV™, originallyintroducedinJanuaryatCES. Powered by Google TV, the Internet Player will be available at retailers nationwide on July 22, priced at $199. Pre-orders begin on June 25, 2012 at www.sony.com/sonygoogletv.

"Expanding the reach and interoperability of the powerful Android platform with Sony's smartphones, tablets and renowned Audio & Video products, we are proud to continue our relationship with Google through the introduction of the new Google TV set-top-box," said Phil Molyneux, president and chief operating officer of Sony Electronics. "Entertainment content is available through so many channels and sites, and Google TV helps consumers easily find what they want to watch, listen to or play using familiar search engine technology, enhancing the viewer experience. TV will never be the same."

In addition to the NSZ-GS7 Internet Player, Sony's newest Internet Blu-ray Disc™ player with Google TV, the NSZ-GP9, will be available at retailers in time for the holiday season, priced at $299. The NSZ-GP9 player features Sony's proven Blu-ray Disc technology coupled with the robust Google TV platform.

 

Global Expansion of Google TV Platform

In 2010, Sony helped pioneer the Internet-TV convergence as one of the first manufacturers to launch products powered by Google TV. With the new NSZ-GS7 Internet Player with Google TV, Sony will also be the first manufacturer to launch Google TV products outside of the United States, initially starting with the United Kingdom in July, followed later by Canada, Australia, France, Germany, Netherlands, Brazil, and Mexico. The NSZ-GP9 Blu-ray Disc player with Google TV will be available this fall in the United States, followed later by Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Netherlands.

 

Customized Entertainment Made Easy

Sony's evolution of hardware to complement the continually updating Google TV is the next step in the future of home entertainment convergence. Sony's NSZ-GS7 and NSZ-GP9 bring the best of Google to your TV, with new experiences arriving every day through the Google Chrome™ browser; thousands of supported mobile apps in the Google Play™ Store, including hundreds optimized for TV; YouTube™ with 72 hours of video being added every minute; and a global community of developers from around the world. Google TV's cross search functionality shows viewers all content sources available from broadcast providers* and the Internet to deliver customized video results on demand.

Both new products come complete with a redesigned remote control equipped with a backlit QWERTY keyboard, a touch pad for easy operation and a three-axis motion sensor to enjoy games. Additionally, the Bluetooth® remote control can also be utilized as a universal remote to control connected devices such as TV, set- top-box and A/V receivers – the NSZ-GP9 Blu-ray Disc player even incorporates voice search capabilities.

 

For full specifications and high-resolution images, please visitwww.sony.com/news.



Contest: Win a Motorola Roadster 2 Bluetooth In-Car Speakerphone from Motorola and Talk Android

Posted: 25 Jun 2012 11:02 AM PDT

We just reviewed the Motorola Roadster 2, which is a Bluetooth in-car speakerphone. As you would expect from Motorola, the quality is great, but there are also some really nice features like compatibility with My MotoSpeak and the Motorola Car Finder app. For more information checkout the review, but here’s your chance to win one of these bad boys. Motorola was gracious enough to provide us one as a giveaway to one of our awesome readers to celebrate National Car Safety Month. How many of you are still fumbling around trying to use your phone in your car when you know its not only a danger to you, as well as others on the road?

All you have to do is head over to our forum post and tell us what your current car is, follow Motorola Mobility on Twitter and add TalkAndroid to your Google+ Circles. You have until Friday, June 29 at 11:59PM EST. We will pick one random winner and make the announcement sometime on Saturday, June 30. Make sure your using a real email address as part of your username because that’s how we’re going to contact you if you win.

Click here to enter.



Motorola Roadster 2 Review: A feature-rich Bluetooth speaker for your car

Posted: 25 Jun 2012 10:14 AM PDT

While many cars today have built-in Bluetooth there’s still so many without. That’s where the Motorola Roadster 2 comes into play. It’s a Bluetooth speaker for your car that offers so much more than just making and receiving phone calls. As we know, Motorola is the king when it comes to speakers and microphones so I would expect great quality and amazing performance. Does is live up? Hit the break to find out.

Design

The design is similar to the Roadster 1 as far as build, but the coloring is different. The Roadster 1 is all black while the Roadster 2 is silverish grey. I never had a chance to use the original Roadster, so I assume the quality is the same. I have no complaints about this version whatsoever, which is the norm when it comes to Motorola.

The clip is designed to go on your visor and leave the speaker face down just above you. You will find the majority of buttons/switches at the front and bottom. The front has buttons for turning the microphone mute on or off, Send/Receive, and voice actions. The bottom as play/pause, volume up (+), volume down (-), and FM (for sending output to your FM radio). On the right side you have the power switch and micro USB port for charging. The buttons are easy to locate which driving and had decent response.

Battery

Motorola promises 20 hours of talk time (or steaming time) and I got all of that. That’s a decent amount and if you’re an average user, which means you probably will only need to charge it once a week. If you do a lot of audio streaming and/or make a lot of phone calls, you might find you need to charge it every other day. What’s really nice is that the moment your phone connects, it will announce the battery level as high, medium, or low.

Performance and Software

As with any Motorola device you expect great performance from the microphone and speaker. I did find the speaker to be fantastic and crystal clear. As to the microphone it was a little lacking as compared to my built-in Bluetooth. I wouldn’t expect it to be as good as that, but nonetheless it’s very usable and I didn’t find people were having a hard time hearing me. I was able to carry on conversations without having to repeat myself constantly, which is usually the case with competing speakers.

What really separates this speaker is the additional features that go beyond making phone calls. For example it’s compatible with the My MotoSpeak app as well as the Motorola Car Finder app. Both are available for free in the Google Play Store, and can be used with most Android phones. MotoSpeak allows you to compose texts, make phone calls, and hear text messages on the Roadster 2 all via voice control. It will even announce appointment reminders. It really is slick. If for whatever reason you don’t want to use the MotoSpeak app, you can utilize other voice command apps like Vlingo or even S Voice. It’s just a matter of setting up whichever one you want to use as the default.

The Motorola Car finder also works great. There are many car finder apps, but this one works automatically without you having to think about it. As soon as your phone disconnects from the Roadster 2, it will automatically lock the location of your car so you can easily find it whenever your ready to head home (or go to your next location).

The last item to discuss is the FM Transmitter. Having Bluetooth for your phone calls and texts is nice, but the ability to stream music or podcasts is a major plus. The problem with portable add-on speakers is the size. Who really wants to listen to stuff through a small speaker when you have nice speakers in your car that sound better and will overall give you a much better experience? Motorola installed an FM transmitter in the Roadster 2 so you can send anything speaker-related to your car’s stereo system via the FM radio. This includes phone calls, texts, music, and podcasts. FM transmitters are generally not the greatest quality and I found it to be the case here as well. The problem is your transmitting via Bluetooth then to FM, which makes it nearly impossible to give you a high quality experience. It certainly wasn’t as good as the quality of my built-in Bluetooth, but it’s more than adequate for talk radio or podcasts. As to music, like I said, it’s not the greatest, but livable. All you have to do is tap the FM button (and tune your FM radio to the matching channel) and it will begin. You can also hit the + and – buttons to select which FM frequency works best.

All in all the Motorola Roadster 2 makes a great Bluetooth speaker for your car. No it isn’t as good as built-in versions, but you get more features, which more than makes up for it. Compatibility with The Motorola Car Finder and the My MotoSpeak app is a plus and works very well. Those are features I wish my car had. You should be able to find the Roadster 2 for approximately $75, which is a fantastic deal, and the fact that June is National Safe Driving Month, I can’t think of a better reason to grab one now.

 



Pinterest for Android announcement coming at Google I/O?

Posted: 25 Jun 2012 09:48 AM PDT

Are you one of the many people out there using Pinterest, one of the fastest growing social media sites? If so, exciting news may be on the way for you this week. Over at Ausdroid, while deep diving into the Google I/O app, they discovered an entry from Pinterest indicating the Pinterest for Android app was "now available." The entry can be found by navigating to Explore > Android > Sandbox > Pinterest from within the Google I/O app. There is no Pinterest for Android app available in the Google Play Store, but the inclusion in the Google I/O app seems to be a pretty strong indication that Pinterest is on its way for Android users. The question remains as to whether it will become publicly available sometime later this week in conjunction with the Google I/O event or at a later time.

An actual Pinterest app for Android will be welcome news for Android users who have had to rely on the mobile version of the Pinterest site up to this point. A Pinterest app would also put Android users on equal footing with iOS users who have been "pinning" from their devices for some time now.

While not a Pinterest user myself, I am glad my friends and family that do use Pinterest will have this option available to them on their Android devices. As far as an official release, our own Stacy Bruce will be in attendance at Google I/O and may be able to pin us with further updates.

source: ausdroid
via: androidpolice



T-Mobile And Verizon Ink Deal To Swap Spectrum

Posted: 25 Jun 2012 07:13 AM PDT

You’ve got to hand it to T-Mobile and Verizon— each wireless carrier is positioning itself to have the best wireless technology possible for its customers. Both carriers signed a landmark AWS spectrum purchase and exchange agreement. For T-Mobile specifically, the deal would allow it to acquire additional spectrum, while simultaneously realigning its current spectrum holdings. The deal would cover 15 markets and allow T-Mo to grab spectrum which covers over 60 million people. If or when the deal is approved by the FCC, this technology will allow T-Mo to use the spectrum for it’s existing 4G HSPA+ network as well as its upcoming LTE-Advanced network, which of course is due next year. Don’t think Verizon is left cut and dry from this deal too as it too gets what it’s ultimately looking for. For Big Red, it’ll stand to gain spectrum from T-Mo which covers 22 million people and “cash consideration” from this deal.

While this deal is indeed exciting, it could possibly face numerous challenges or obstacles which could prevent it from going through. The biggest issue is well, the FCC has to ok the deal first and you can bet the FCC certainly hasn’t forgotten about a certain deal T-Mobile was recently part of. The second is some of the spectrum is owned by SpectrumCo, Cox and Leap— and those individual deals must be approved first before T-Mo’s part can go through. Still, you can’t not be excited at the prospect of T-Mobile’s seemingly inevitable growth. After all, it is seeing the “modernization of 37,000 cell sites, launching 4G HSPA+ services in the 1900 MHz band and deployment of LTE in 2013″.

Hit the break to see the full presser from T-Mobile.

 

BELLEVUE, Wash., Jun 25, 2012 (BUSINESS WIRE) — –Net Gain of Spectrum Will Assist Rollout of LTE in 2013

Today, T-Mobile USA, Inc. announced an agreement with Verizon Wireless for the purchase and exchange of certain Advanced Wireless Services (AWS) spectrum licenses in 218 markets across the U.S. The transaction will improve T-Mobile’s spectrum position in 15 of the top 25 markets in the U.S. by providing an opportunity for T-Mobile both to acquire additional AWS spectrum and to realign its existing spectrum holdings. Following regulatory approval, this spectrum can be promptly deployed to enhance the company’s 4G mobile broadband service, including the rollout of LTE service next year. Some of the spectrum T-Mobile is acquiring in this transaction include licenses that Verizon is purchasing from SpectrumCo, Cox and Leap, and the agreement is contingent on the closing of those transactions and is subject to regulatory approval by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Department of Justice.

“This agreement will provide T-Mobile with critical AWS spectrum, enhancing both network capacity and performance and allowing us to meet the growing consumer demand for 4G mobile broadband,” T-Mobile CEO and President Philipp Humm said. “This is good for T-Mobile and good for consumers because it will enable T-Mobile to compete even more vigorously with other wireless carriers. We anticipate FCC approval later this summer, in time for us to incorporate this new spectrum into our network modernization and the rollout of LTE services next year.”

T-Mobile will gain spectrum covering 60 million people — notably in Philadelphia; Washington, D.C.; Detroit; Minneapolis; Seattle; Cleveland; Columbus, Ohio; Milwaukee; Charlotte, N.C.; Raleigh-Durham, N.C.; Greensboro, N.C.; Memphis, Tenn.; and Rochester, N.Y. — in exchange for spectrum covering 22 million people and certain cash consideration. The agreement also includes exchanges in a number of markets in which the companies will swap licenses to create more contiguous blocks of spectrum and re-align spectrum in adjacent markets. These intra-market swaps will enhance T-Mobile’s network performance and data throughput in key locations. This agreement is in addition to T-Mobile’s previously announced $4 billion 4G network evolution plan, which includes modernization of 37,000 cell sites, launching 4G HSPA+ services in the 1900 MHz band and deployment of LTE in 2013.

About T-Mobile USA:

Based in Bellevue, Wash., T-Mobile USA, Inc. is the U.S. wireless operation of Deutsche Telekom AG (otcqx:DTEGY). By the end of the first quarter of 2012, approximately 129 million mobile customers were served by the mobile communication segments of the Deutsche Telekom group — 33.4 million by T-Mobile USA — all via a common technology platform based on GSM and UMTS and additionally HSPA+ 21/HSPA+ 42. T-Mobile USA’s innovative wireless products and services help empower people to connect to those who matter most. Multiple independent research studies continue to rank T-Mobile USA among the highest in numerous regions throughout the U.S. in wireless customer care and call quality. For more information, please visit http://www.T-Mobile.com . T-Mobile is a federally registered trademark of Deutsche Telekom AG. For further information on Deutsche Telekom, please visit www.telekom.de/investor-relations .

SOURCE: T-Mobile USA, Inc.

 Media Contacts: T-Mobile USA Media Relations (425) 383-4002 mediarelations@t-mobile.com 

 



Sports Car Challenge Now Available For Android Devices

Posted: 25 Jun 2012 06:40 AM PDT

Racing Enthusiasts will be happy to know there’s a new game on the block that’s ready for those who are interested in driving the most exotic cars in the world. Developer FishLabs created the nifty Sports Car Challenge racing game which looks to place racers in the drivers’ seat of awesome cars, while racing on a variety of tracks and courses. The game offers realistic driving physics, authentic engine sounds and manifold customization options on account of an exclusive selection of original rims and paintworks. Among the cars available for racers are the following:

  • Audi TTS Coupé
  • Bentley Continental GT V8
  • Bentley Continental Supersports ISR
  • Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport
  • Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4
  • Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera
  • Porsche 911 Carrera S
  • Porsche Cayman R
  • Volkswagen Scirocco R

The game is available for free for Android 2.3+ devices— though there are reports highlighting the game may not be compatible with all devices, so you’ll want to check and see if the game will indeed run on your Android first. There’s also a ton of content for the game, so gamers will need to be prepared to download up to several hundred megabytes of additional data in order to enjoy the game’s full potential. Then again, I’m sure having the chance to drive the Bentley Continental GT may be worth the hassle.

Play Store link



ASUS Transformer Pad Infinity TF700 to be available mid-July starting at $499

Posted: 25 Jun 2012 06:32 AM PDT

 

Back at CES when we saw the ASUS Tranformer Pad Infinity, the planned price point was $599, but with similar offerings from Acer, they are going to price it more competitively. They will offer the 32GB version for $499 and the 64GB version for $599. The keyboard dock remains at $149 and is compatible with the Prime Dock. Last but not least, they will offer the same colors as the Prime: amethyst gray and champagne gold. According to ASUS it should be available by mid-July with no exact release date. If past history is any indication, you might want to pre-order this bad boy as soon as any retailers start the process. We fully expect availability to be low just like the Transformer Prime and the original Eee Pad Transformer.

The real question is what happens to the pricing of the Prime and TF300? Could those tabs drop to $399 and $299 respectively? With the Nexus tablet rumored to be $199, this “new” pricing wouldn’t surprise me. The Nexus tablet at $199 is intriguing, but I have to be honest, the TF300 at $299 is even more intriguing with the 10.1-inch display. As far as updates go, if Google releases 4.1, based on past history, it’s safe to assume that ASUS will get that update to all their tablets in a timely fashion.