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- Talk Android’s Smartphone Buyer’s Guide Fall 2012: A Guide For Students, Geeks, Show-Offs And Android Newbies
- Samsung releases kernel source code for Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 tablet
- Droid 4 ICS Soak Test Starting Soon?
- Sony Xperia P to get Ice Cream Sandwich between August 19 and August 25
- AT&T’s new Mobile Share plan officially starts August 23rd
- Samsung’s Jelly Bean Update Schedule And Plans Leakded For Galaxy Smartphones
- HTC Rumored To Launch 5-Inch Smartphone In September Or October
- Holo Launcher HD Brings Jelly Bean-Based Launcher To Ice Cream Sandwich Devices
- Samsung Officially Launches The Galaxy Note 10.1, Brings Quad-Core Glory And Hefty RAM
- Study Shows Google’s Nexus 7 Commercial More Effective Than Apple’s Genius Ads
Posted: 06 Aug 2012 02:35 PM PDT
Fall is almost here for those of us here in the States and many of you may be in the market to grab a new phone. Whether it’s the latest and greatest quad-core beast, something that will let you be able to share all those updates of your trip around the globe or if you’re upgrading from a dumbphone to a basic Android smartphone that will give you the most bang for your buck, this guide has you fully-covered. In this guide, you’ll find the device that will be well within your budget range as well as feature items you may care about most such as a full touchscreen or slide-out keyboard, solid camera and topnotch multimedia capabilities. Without further ado— let’s hit the break to see what phone will suit you best on your respective wireless network.
AT&T Best Android… Period Samsung Galaxy S III
It was a tough choice between the HTC One X and Samsung Galaxy S III on Ma Bell’s network. Both phones feature a heavy slab of Ice Cream Sandwich, superior Snapdragon S4 dual-core processor, gorgeous 720p displays and run on AT&T’s 4G LTE network. Despite HTC’s outstanding camera with ImageSense technology and the smooth Sense 4.0 UI, the Galaxy S III is the better overall phone. One major knack against the One X is the fact that it only comes in a 16GB configuration and while the Galaxy S III is also available in a 16GB configuration, there is the ability to add even more memory via an expandable microSD card. Sure HTC has the awesome DropBox deal, but we suspect that most smartphone users will want to access those precious photos or music at anytime such as when you’re on that cross-country flight— not just when there’s a cellular signal available. Don’t forget, Samsung also features items such as the cool S-Voice and of course, Sammy’s own AllShare feature. Oh and Samsung generally has a better track record of updating its premium smartphones to the latest Android software and has confirmed the Galaxy S III should get the Jelly Bean update by Q4 of this year. The One X will also get Jelly Bean at sometime, but exactly when is anyone’s guess. The Galaxy S III is worth every penny— believe us. Price: $199.99 on 2-year contract
Best Mid-Range Phone HTC One X
The initial thought was Motorola’s fine Atrix HD smartphone would take the crown here, but with AT&T’s recent decision to drop the price of the One X, it was only fitting to slide the second-best phone available in this category. We here at Talk Android love the One X’s superior Super LCD 2 display, incredible camera capabilities thanks to ImageSense and the ample 1,800mAh battery which should offer acceptable juice for use throughout the day— even when you’re surfing the web on AT&T’s blazing 4G network. Of course prospective owners may have trouble trying to tinker with the One X for now— but hey— the hope is that an easier feat will arrive sooner than later. Price: $99.99 on 2-year contract
Best Budget Phone Pantech Burst
A smartphone featuring a 1.5GHz dual-core processor, 4-inch Super AMOLED display, a 5MP camera with 720p video recording and LTE surely must not be considered a budget phone, can it? Well AT&T and Pantech offer premium features for under a buck in the Burst smartphone. Yes friends, for only 99¢, AT&T customers can be treated to a solid Android device and experience. The best thing is that while the device still features Gingerbread 2.3, it’s expected to be updated to Android 4.0 sometime later in the year. Without a doubt, this device is hands-down the best budget offering available on AT&T’s network. Price: 99¢ on 2-year contract
Verizon Wireless Best Android Phone… Period Samsung Galaxy S III
Much like AT&T, Verizon Wireless has a clear-cut winner in the Galaxy S III smartphone. Compared to devices such as the Motorola DROID RAZR MAXX or Galaxy Nexus, the Galaxy S III features a gorgeous display, awesome camera, great battery life and an underrated slim profile. One thing Verizon variant has going against it is the fact that well… it kind of has a locked bootloader which may turn some of you experimental Android users off a bit. Fortunately, Samsung is offering the Developer Edition of the smartphone as well, though you’ll need to shell out a princely sum if this option is indeed the right one. Price: $199.99 (16GB version); $249.99 (32GB version) on 2-year contract
Best Mid-Range Phone Samsung Galaxy Nexus
The controversial Verizon Galaxy Nexus is head and shoulders above the other devices in the sub-$100 category (price is $99 when $50 online discount is applied). The most notable feature of the Galaxy Nexus is the Price: $99.99 on 2-year contract (when ordered online) or $149.99 on-contract
Best Budget Phone LG Lucid Smartphone
The Sony Xperia Play smartphone was oh-so close to being the top choice here, but alas— the top smartphone must cater to all types and groups of people and let’s face it— many Verizon customers may not care about a device’s gaming capabilities. Instead, they may be focused on a device with a decent screen, snappy performance and of course— a sexy appearance. The LG Lucid smartphone brings all that and more for Android users. The 4-inch screen of the phone should also be more than enough for those of you with large digits such as people like your’s truly. And hey— the Xperia Play only features 3G— the Lucid operates on Verizon’s 4G LTE network. Price: $49.99 on 2-year contract
T-Mobile Best Android Phone… Period Samsung Galaxy S III
Surprise, surprise— the best device available on T-Mobile’s network is Samsung’s Galaxy S III smartphone almost by default. As being in a class of its own, the phone has an unparalleled display, NFC and a superior camera. Best of all— the phone comes in both the Pebble Blue and Marble White colors, as well as in the 16GB and 32GB configurations. The upcoming Samsung Galaxy Note may end up being a success too thanks to its sweet display and 5.3-inch form factor, but for sheer value— the future-proof Galaxy S III should be on top of customer’s short list. Price: $279.99 on-contract (16GB version); $329.99 on-contract (32GB version)
Best Mid-Range Phone HTC One S
The HTC One S smartphone is not only the best mid-range phone across all major networks— it might be one of the best overall smartphones available. The device features a super-smooth Snapdragon processor that can easily compete with the big boys, solid 4.3-inch Super AMOLED qHD display and a stunning 8MP camera that features HTC’s ImageSense software. What’s even more remarkable is the fact HTC was able t0 not only squeeze the superior internals into a slim 7.8mm frame— but it was also able to develop what is a sleek and modern body. Toss in the buttery smooth Sense 4.0 software and Beats Audio and you’ve got one heck of a steal for T-Mobile customers. If you’re looking to get the most bang for your buck on T-Mobile’s network, you can’t do any better than the One S. Price: $149.99 on 2-year contract
Best Budget Phone T-Mobile Prism
The Huawei-manufactured Prism is a solid entry-level/budget device for T-Mobile customers. It features a screaming dual-core processor it may feature an outdated display, have a lackluster 3.2MP camera and is barely capable of 3G-level speeds, but the Prism does offer a near-stock experience and will more than certainly meet customer’s needs. A major selling point is the fact the device is not only perfect for T-Mobile customers looking to save a lot of dough, but it’s also one of the best options for T-Mobile’s prepaid customers.
Sprint Best Android Phone… Period HTC Evo 4G LTE
You’d think it would be a clean sweep among the Big 4 wireless carriers for the Galaxy S III, but Sprint’s version of the One X known as the EVO 4G LTE takes the crown here. While it’s discouraging that Sprint has yet to expand its 4G LTE coverage, Sprint customers can look forward to not only a device with a gorgeous display and great camera, but they can also look forward to comprehensive support not just from HTC, but Sprint as well— especially as Sprint and HTC has a close relationship with one another. In addition, the two features that separates the EVO 4G LTE from the other variants of the One X smartphone is the fact it includes the coveted expandable microSD slot and of course, the trademark kickstand. Ladies and gentlemen, if you’re looking for a complete phone on the NOW Network— the EVO 4G LTE is definitely it. Price: $199.99 on 2-year contract
Best Mid-Range Phone LG Viper 4G LTE
Like the other 4G LTE-capable devices on Sprint’s network, the Viper 4G LTE cannot access true 4G LTE unless used in a handful of U.S. markets at this time. And that’s a shame too because the phone is priced at a hair under $80 and brings with it a snappy 1.2GHz dual-core processor + 1GB of RAM, an acceptable 5MP shooter and tasty Vanilla Gingerbread 2.3 running the show. Once Sprint’s LTE network is really running at full speed— we suspect the Viper 4G LTE will start flying off shelves— especially since it has premium items like NFC as well. Price: $79.99 on 2-year contract
Best Budget Phone ZTE Fury
The ZTE Fury is a new entry in Sprint’s lineup and is a solid option for new smartphone buyers or those looking to save a little (or a lot). For under $20, the Fury brings customers a device with a not-too-bad 3.5-inch display, 512MB of RAM, Bluetooth 2.1 capability and an almost-untouched Gingerbread 2.3 OS. Sure the phone doesn’t quite compare to the Pantech Burst on AT&T— but for those looking to do the absolute basics on their smartphone, the Fury is a great option. Price: $19.99 on 2-year contract
Prepaid Carriers Boost Mobile HTC EVO Design 4G
This WiMax-powered smartphone is easily among the cream of the crop of Boost Mobile’s lineup. While the EVO Design 4G doesn’t feature Sense 4.0, Sense 3.6 certainly does its part to help Ice Cream Sandwich purr along and it doesn’t hurt that customers will be treated to solid items like a 5MP camera and 4-inch qHD screen. Oh and the $300 price tag isn’t too shabby either. Price: $299.99
Virgin Mobile HTC One V
While the HTC One V rides a fine line between being a budget and a mid-range device, you can’t deny the smartphone’s attractive features. Virgin Mobile customers can be treated to appealing items like Beats Audio, a decent 5MP camera that will allow you to send all those crazy moments to your friends via the preloaded Facebook and Twitter apps. While Virgin Mobile is under the Sprint brand– it is notorious for having lackluster call quality, so the hope is that prospective buyers will utilize the solid phone for its multimedia and social networking capabilities— and not much else. Price: $199.99
Cricket Wireless Huawei Mercury
Cricket Wireless is still a fairly relative unknown in the prepaid market— but it doesn’t mean it doesn’t have solid offerings. The Mercury is certainly one that will appeal to many customers. For starters, there’s a 4-inch screen along with a 1.4GHz processor. The real kicker here is the smartphone’s built-in Muve music player and whopping 8MP camera— all in a sub-$200 package. Price: $199.99 MetroPCS Huawei Activa 4G
MetroPCS is widely known as a budget brand, but it’s quietly building up its LTE network that even beats the likes of Sprint at this time. The Activa 4G LTE features a terribly slow processor, but makes up for the shortcoming by having stock Android, a 5MP camera and wait for it— a bundled memory card with Kung Fu Panda preloaded. And who doesn’t want Kung Fu Panda preloaded with their new smartphone? Price $249.99
Unlocked Smartphone Samsung Galaxy Nexus HSPA+
The thought is that the unlocked versions of the HTC One X or Samsung Galaxy S III (GT-I9300) would be the clear-cut winner. But don’t forget– neither device has Google’s direct backing nor does either phone have the latest Android software preloaded (Jelly Bean). While the Galaxy S III and One X each has today’s specs, the specs of the Galaxy Nexus certainly doesn’t disappoint as it has an awesome 720p display, dual-core processor, and NFC among other things. Don’t forget— the Galaxy Nexus is still a Nexus— meaning it’s a Google Developer and Reference device and will get updates before most other Androids. And hey— the $399.99 price tag doesn’t hurt either. Price: $399.99 on Google Play Store
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Samsung releases kernel source code for Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 tablet Posted: 06 Aug 2012 12:32 PM PDT With the Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 ready to roll out around the world, Samsung has released kernel source code for a couple versions of the tablet. Samsung has made available the code for model number SHW-M480K to be branded for Korea Telecom and for model number SHW-M480S to be branded for Southern Korean Telecom. Code for the WiFi-only version of the Galaxy Note 10.1 has not yet been released. The files can be downloaded from the Samsung Open Source Release Center using the source link below. source: Samsung Open Source Release Center
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Droid 4 ICS Soak Test Starting Soon? Posted: 06 Aug 2012 11:08 AM PDT
Droid Life is reporting that a new software soak test is imminent for the Droid 4, which is assumed to be an ICS test build. It looks like notifications will be sent out via the Motorola Feedback Network, so make sure you opt-in to be among the first to receive the update. We’ll let you know when we find out exactly what’s in the update. source: Droid Life
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Sony Xperia P to get Ice Cream Sandwich between August 19 and August 25 Posted: 06 Aug 2012 10:08 AM PDT Sony Xperia P owners will be happy to know that Ice Cream Sandwich should arrive between August 19th and August 25th according to Sony Mobile India. They originally estimated that it would hit in the second-half of August so it looks like everything is on schedule. source: xperiablog
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AT&T’s new Mobile Share plan officially starts August 23rd Posted: 06 Aug 2012 08:57 AM PDT Last month AT&T announced their new Mobile Share plan, which is essentially a whole new pricing structure for accounts with multiple phones for sharing data. They said it would start in late August, but didn’t give an exact date. They just annnounced that it will officially start on August 23rd. They are also offering an online tool to help you decide which plan to go with. Of course you can get help in stores as well. Verizon already started a similar program nearly two months ago called Share Everything, but it’s mandatory with all new contracts. AT&T, on the other hand, isn’t forcing you to go with theirs. Hit the break for a quick video.
Click here to view the embedded video. source: AT&T
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Samsung’s Jelly Bean Update Schedule And Plans Leakded For Galaxy Smartphones Posted: 06 Aug 2012 08:46 AM PDT
We know there are many new and existing owners of successful Samsung devices, but as Samsung continues to churn out new flagship devices– the old ones may be left in the cold and not subject to updates of the latest Android software. While it’s certain owners of the Galaxy S III are all clear for the Jelly Bean update, it looks like owners of both “older” devices such as the Galaxy Note and Galaxy S II will possibly be primed for some Jelly Bean lovin’ as well. SamMobile reports “the test firmwares for the Galaxy S III are passed and they are working on a public version of the first Jelly Bean updates for the Galaxy S III”. All that’s left now is the public version to be complete for the device as well as the OK from Google itself. The Galaxy S II and Galaxy Note currently has firmware that’s being tested by Samsung at this time and has been successful so far, but should Samsung decide against offering the full update for both devices— it would offer a Value Pack instead (sound familiar…?). And finally, the Galaxy Note 2 is currently running on Android 4.0 at this time and it’s not certain if Sammy will the Galaxy Note 2 will launch with ICS or Jelly Bean— if it does indeed launch with ICS, then the public can expect an update within a few months after the device’s initial release. SamMobile also provided an unofficial guidance of if/when we can expect the Jelly Bean update for the respective Galaxy devices:
We’re excited for Galaxy S III owners, but we’re keeping our fingers crossed for the Galaxy Note and Galaxy S II smartphones as well! Maybe then you won’t have to give up your old Galaxy phone to Sammy after all. source: SamMobile
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HTC Rumored To Launch 5-Inch Smartphone In September Or October Posted: 06 Aug 2012 08:19 AM PDT
Considering Samsung and now LG have established their positions in the phablet game, it was only natural for manufacturing giant HTC to join the party. Notorious story leaker Digitimes reports HTC’s device will come in at 5-inches and sport a mind-boggling 1794 x 1080 pixel display, good for a true 1080p HD screen. There are no further details at this time, but reports point to HTC fully launching the device sometime in September or October of this year. Naturally this could all be hearsay and probably just a tease, but the idea of an HTC-developed 5-inch phone sure is intriguing. Any of you HTC fanatics crazy about the idea of owning a Sense-infused phablet?
source: Digitimes
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Holo Launcher HD Brings Jelly Bean-Based Launcher To Ice Cream Sandwich Devices Posted: 06 Aug 2012 07:53 AM PDT
Mobint (of Holo Launcher fame) has developed the brand-spanking new Holo Launcher HD for Android 4.0+ devices. While the launcher brings a delicious stock feel to your Android device— it also is modeled after the newly released Jelly Bean OS. The launcher is also fully customizable with the ability to do things like add additional homescreens (up to 9), a nifty scrollable dock and for those of you who splurge on Holo Launcher Plus— some cool desktop gestures and even icon packs if that strikes your fancy. Again, if you’re on an Android 4.0+ device, but hate those pesky Android skins, be sure to give the new launcher a try. You can find the Play Store link and QR code once you hit past the break.
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Samsung Officially Launches The Galaxy Note 10.1, Brings Quad-Core Glory And Hefty RAM Posted: 06 Aug 2012 06:35 AM PDT
It took long enough, but it Samsung has finally launched the Galaxy Note 10.1 for those looking for some stylus action in their tablets. The Galaxy Note 10.1 will initially arrive in a WiFi-only flavor and be available immediately in the U.K., Korea, Germany and of course, here in the States. Those of you looking for some cellular action will be able to score the 3G/HSPA+ and LTE variants of the tablet later on in the year. In case you’ve forgotten, the Galaxy Note 10.1 was scheduled to be released earlier in the year, but was pulled for “minor tweaks” and will now come fully loaded too as it will feature: a 1.4GHz quad-core Exynos processor, a whopping 2GB of RAM, 16/32/64GB storage configurations, an expandable microSD slot and a display capable of 1200 x 800. While the Galaxy Note 10.1 sure does sound tantalizing— there’s no word on the exact pricing just yet. Oh but don’t worry— we’ll find out soon enough at Samsung’s event next week… which we will be there by the way giving you up-to-date news and details. While you wait for our coverage, why not go ahead and check out the full presser and the cool tablet in action once you hit past the break?
Click here to view the embedded video.
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Study Shows Google’s Nexus 7 Commercial More Effective Than Apple’s Genius Ads Posted: 05 Aug 2012 08:54 PM PDT We showed you Google’s Nexus 7: Camping commercial where a father and son are enjoying the Nexus 7 in all sorts of ways during a camping “trip”. It’s a fun spot that showcases some of the things the tablet can do. In contrast, Apple has released a series of commercials featuring an “Apple Genius” helping many people figure out their Macs during a crisis. The message, at least to me, seems like it goes against the ease-of-use mantra Apple has been pushing for years. Ace Metrix, an analytics company specializing in advertising, has reported that Google’s commercial has scored better than Apple’s ads in their study. Measured by their “effectiveness scale” the Nexus 7 ad scored 662 out of 950 points, whereas only one of Apple’s ads scored above the upper half of the scale. Ace Metrix VP Jonathan Symonds said of Google’s ad, ”Google has taken their strong emotional appeal and married that with strong product demonstration.” Hit the break to watch all the ads from both companies.
Click here to view the embedded video. Click here to view the embedded video. Click here to view the embedded video. Click here to view the embedded video. source: droid dog
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