Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Android Central

Android Central

Another Nexus 4 batch expected to ship out this week, says Google

Posted: 26 Nov 2012 04:22 PM PST

Nexus 4 Shipping

Many of our hearts sank when the e-mails started rolling out indicating that there would be a three-week delay in shipments of some "backordered" Nexus 4 handsets. Now many users are seeing a more encouraging e-mail landing in their inbox, informing them that their devices are expected to ship this week. Credit cards will be charged and tracking numbers sent once the devices finally get out the door. That said, we're still lacking actual dates. But we're not going to look this gift horse in the mouth.

This falls right into line with the three-week timeframe we heard before, so let's hope that this batch triggers availability in the Play Store again. Maybe this round we'll see orders stay up for more than 15 minutes. There are lots of eager potential buyers that want to get their hands on a Nexus 4.

More: Google Nexus 4 Forums

This week's sidebar poll: Are 1080p screens the next big thing?

Posted: 26 Nov 2012 04:20 PM PST

DNA

We've seen a couple phones from HTC with a 1080p screen; namely the Droid DNA and J Butterfly, and have rumors of similar phones coming from Sony and LG. Clearly, someone in charge of the secret cabal of folks who designs smartphones likes the idea of a super high-resolution screen on a smartphone.

I just finished playing with a Droid DNA (knowing a mobile device reseller has its perks), and the screen looks awful damn nice. Because it's smaller in size, I say it looks as good (pixel wise) as the Nexus 10. But -- so does the HTC One X's 720p screen. In all honesty, I can't say the DNA screen is any better than the One X screen. Push the One X to 5-inches and maybe it's different, or maybe my eyes are tired from looking at Android devices for a few years. In either case, looking as good as the One X screen is nothing to be ashamed of.

Of course, the best part of the Android world is choice. So what I think really doesn't matter to anyone but me. 1080p screens are coming. Are the new must have? Tell us in the poll you'll find in the sidebar to the right or after the break.

Before we go, a look at last week's results.

Which has your interest -- the Galaxy Note 2 or the Droid DNA?

Poll

It's pretty conclusive that Samsung has things pretty well in hand for Verizon customers. We're not sure if one OEM having that much influence is a good or bad thing, but customer dollars do all the talking.

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Netflix updated to support Android 4.2, improve UI

Posted: 26 Nov 2012 03:28 PM PST

Netflix

These are the kinds of updates we like to see. As many of us are getting our hands on devices running Android 4.2, Netflix (and many others) is updating for full support of the new platform version. The last couple of weeks may have felt like years waiting for the update, but it was still released in a pretty reasonable timeframe (now the Starbucks app, on the other hand...). Aside from supporting Android 4.2, there have been a few other notable changes:

  • Large volume button
  • Easy scrubbing with new screen stills
  • Improved stability and playback bug fixes

All-in-all, a very useful update. We'll take improved support and usability features any day of the week. You can grab a download at the Google Play Store link above.

LG 'Optimus G2' rumored for May launch with 1080p screen

Posted: 26 Nov 2012 02:19 PM PST

Android Central

LG's Optimus G isn't even available in some countries yet, but already it seems a successor could be in the works. Reports from Korea's MK Business News suggests that the "Optimus G2" (said to be a provisional name) could be scheduled for launch as early as next May. Key upgrades are said to include a a 5-inch, 1080p display, up from the 4.7-inch 1280x768 panel in the original, and a 2GHz quad-core Qualcomm CPU. LG will reportedly pit the G2 against the successor to Samsung's Galaxy S3.

But here's the kicker -- the article also claims the "Optimus G2" will come with Android "Key Lime Pie" on-board. KLP is the widely-expected codename for the next major iteration of Android, presumably either version 4.3 or 5.0. We'd be very (very) surprised to see a fresh version of Android so quickly after 4.2, especially considering the short interval between the two flavors of Jelly Bean.

Nevertheless, as a Nexus partner, LG would have privileged access to code ahead of time, which might help it get devices running newer versions of Android to market more rapidly than other OEMs. Stranger things have happened, but we're still inclined to take this part of the story with a large pinch of salt.

The 5-inch screen size and 1080p resolution look set to become the new standard for high-end phones in 2013. HTC has already launched the Droid DNA on Verizon in the states, while Sony's next high-end device, "Yuga," is rumored to sport a similar display. Likewise, Samsung is rumored to be hard at work on a 4.99-inch 1080p SuperAMOLED panel for use in future phones.

Whatever form it takes, the Optimus G's successor will find itself among plenty of competition.

Source: MK; via: TechCrunch

Don't like the Android 4.2 clock widget? Fixed 4.2 Clock Widget can help

Posted: 26 Nov 2012 01:28 PM PST

Android Central

One of the visual changes we were 'treated' to in Android 4.2 when it first dropped, was a re-designed digital clock widget. I say 'treated' because its design is a point of contention for many. Personally, I don't mind it, but many others have a vastly differing opinion. The mixture of bold and regular font doesn't cut it for some people, especially when compared to the relative simplicity of the light Roboto font we've all come to know and love. 

But, this is Android, so there's usually a way to change these things. This ones called Fixed 4.2 Clock Widget, and is available for free in the Google Play Store. And, it does exactly what it says on the tin. You can alter the font to your liking, and you can go all bold if that's your thing. But, it gives us a simple way to bring back the clock widget of old, and it's also compatible with the Android 4.2 lockscreen. Tapping on the clock widget also takes you into the stock clock app as you would hope. 

And, aside from mentioning that it also displays your alarm times -- as the stock widget also does -- that's about it. If you like it enough, there's a donate version also available, but all the features are available in the free version. 

We find the lack of Angry Birds Star Wars on the Droid DNA ... disturbing

Posted: 26 Nov 2012 01:04 PM PST

Angry Birds Star Wars

What's a guy got to do to fling some birds in high-definition on the Verizon Droid DNA? As has been the case since its release on Nov. 16, Angry Birds Star Wars HD (see our review) continues to crash and burn on the DNA. No option to report an error, no asking if we'd like to wait or force close the app. Just tap the first level, and the whole game disappears quicker than you can say "Hey, wasn't Alderaan around here somewhere?" 

User reviews are echoing what we've seen. Crashes on the first level on the Droid DNA. We've reached out to the developer through its support channels and will update if we ever hear back.

Help us, Rovio. You're our only hope.

DocScanner S now available on Android

Posted: 26 Nov 2012 12:11 PM PST

DocScanner S

DocScanner, an app that has over 1.5 million downloads on the iOS platform, has just launched onto Android. The basic idea behind these types of apps is simple -- scan pretty much any type of document, business card or receipt and you now have a digital copy of it. Nowadays we don't want to deal with paper more than we have to, and if there's a simple way to manage it electronically we'll take it.

DocScanner S is now available for free in the Google Play Store at the link above. There's also a paid version for $3 if you are so inclined.

Source: DocScanner

Plume update removes direct messages from lockscreen widget

Posted: 26 Nov 2012 11:28 AM PST

Plume for Twitter

There have been a lot of concerns about security since Google implemented lockscreen widgets in Android 4.2. Some may have concerns over how much information is actually accessible from these lockscreen widgets, and with no guidelines on what is and isn't okay, some developers are taking it upon themselves to implement some of their own security measures. Plume has decided to remove the DM (Direct Message) tab from its lockscreen widget, and now you can only see how many unread messages there are. The widget is otherwise the exact same as the one available on the homescreen.

Of course the best security policy is to not put any widgets on the lockscreen -- and use a PIN, pattern or password lock on the device -- but its good to see developers taking these things into consideration.

Samsung shows off device stress testing in promo video

Posted: 26 Nov 2012 10:53 AM PST

Samsung Stress Test

Its no secret that Samsung likes to use shiny, extremely flexible plastic materials for its devices. It can unfortunately lead to a device that feels somewhat "cheap" in the hand, but the tradeoff is some serious longevity when it comes to surviving every-day use. Some of us don't treat our phones very gently, and a device's ability to make it through a few bumps without breaking can be a feature for many.

Samsung has just released a video showing off various methods they use to stress test their devices, including mashing on a Galaxy Note 2 home button over 200,000 times, putting a device under simulated rain and even simulating sitting on devices repeatedly. Yes. It's a butt. Get over it. The video is narrated in Korean, but you'll enjoy the visuals nonetheless. You can skip along to about the 0:50 mark to get to where the good parts start. Take a gander after the break.

Source: BGR

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Galaxy S Relay 4G receiving small update via Kies

Posted: 26 Nov 2012 10:41 AM PST

Galaxy S Relay 4G

The Galaxy S Relay 4G from T-Mobile has only been available for a couple of months now, but it is already receiving a maintenance update. The update will bring the device up to firmware version T699UVALJ1 and is listed to fix two issues on the device. The first is fixing an issue with Media Hub playback, and the second is backend improvements to pinch-and-zoom throughout the software.

The update is unfortunately only available via Samsung Kies desktop software, and not OTA (Over The Air). For such a small update, we really wish they would just push it out without users having to go through the desktop process.

Source: Samsung

Tackling 'fragmentation': Developers sound off on supporting multiple screens

Posted: 26 Nov 2012 09:40 AM PST

Zappos

What does it take to support multiple devices? A few top developers weigh in

Android runs on a variety of devices, which means it also runs on a variety of screen sizes and resolutions. Lots of folks call this "fragmentation." Never mind the fact that they've been using products designed and developed the same way for years on their desktop. Apparently if everything isn't exactly the same it gets the "fragmentation" label. 

There are different ways to tackle the problems that arise when you use screens with different sizes and densities. Apple has separate listings for apps designed for the iPhone versus the iPad. Microsoft creates a new eco-system for its big screen devices. Android provides a way for developers to make the same app work differently for different screens. There's good and bad about each method, but we're going to focus on Android here.

In Android, applications can adjust the layout for different size screens as well as resolution. This is all built in, but there are a few things developers need to declare in their code to make the app look good. The thing to keep in mind is how screen size and density will change the look of the app. The Droid DNA has a higher-res screen than the Motorola XOOM tablet, but we don't want to see a tablet layout for apps on the phone-sized screen.

A developer needs to provide assets (images) that are high enough quality to look sharp at high resolution (never mind insanely high resolution), and be sure to use density independent pixel units when designing their layout. This is what keeps things like buttons and other controls from being really big on low density screens like the Galaxy S2, or from being really tiny on high density screens like the DNA.

It sounds complicated, but most of this stuff is done for you when coding an app. All the developer needs to do is make the right declarations, and provide the right assets to support any size (both physical and resolution) or layout. Even multiple layout apps like the Google+ app use the same code to cover every conceivable screen.

We're not trying to judge developers here. Writing apps is tough. The Android developers have been preaching all this since the release of Gingerbread, but how practical is it? We asked a few developers about it, see what they had to say after the break.

More: Google's Android developer site. 

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HTC tries the store-within-a-store approach in Germany

Posted: 26 Nov 2012 08:03 AM PST

HTC

HTC has opened its first store-within-a-store in Germany. The Taiwanese retailer is attempting to rebound after lackluster financial results by having a more profound retail presence. Rather than open up separate stores, these are dedicated areas within existing retailers, this one being a Saturn store in Germany.

Samsung has tried this approach in the UK and other European countries, and while it's unknown how much of a direct effect it has had, Samsung has enjoyed record sales of its phones over the past year.

As you'd expect, store staff will be trained by HT, and will have more in-depth knowledge of their products. HTC has also promised to expand this strategy to more cities and stores. We'll likely have to wait quite a while before we see if this helps HTC's financial position, but it seems like a good start.

Source: UnwiredView

AnTuTu Benchmark 3 now available

Posted: 26 Nov 2012 07:52 AM PST

Android Central

Good news for benchmark junkies, as one of the leading Android apps of this kind has today received a major update. AnTuTu Benchmark 3 brings a host of new features to the popular benchmark app, including a new dedicated 2D benchmark, and a 3D benchmark based upon OpenGL ES 2.0. Other changes include improved SD card detection and security features to prevent tampering with the app.

This version also improves support for a number of high-end devices, including the HTC Droid DNA and LG Nexus 4, both of which use Qualcomm's quad-core Snapdragon S4 Pro chip. Our Nexus 4 scores averaged around 17,500, a considerable increase over the 10,000 or so widely reported on the earlier AnTuTu 2.94. And our Droid DNA scored even higher, clocking in at just over 19,000.

The full changelog for the current version 3.0.1 can be found after the break. The free download can be grabbed from Google Play at the link above.

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Sprint lights up 11 new LTE cities, now at 43 total

Posted: 26 Nov 2012 07:28 AM PST

Sprint

Sprint this morning announced 11 new locales for its 4G LTE data service. They are:

  • Anderson, Ind.
  • Clarke County, Va./Jefferson County, W.Va.
  • Harrisburg/Carlisle/Hershey, Pa.
  • Hagerstown, Md./Martinsburg, W.Va.
  • Harrisonburg, Va.
  • Muncie, Ind.
  • Peabody, Mass.
  • Salina, Kan.
  • Shenandoah County, Va.
  • South Bend/Mishawaka, Ind.
  • Winchester, Va.

That brings Sprint's LTE coverage to some 43 markets. We've got the full list after the break.

Source: Sprint

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The BIGGEST online shopping day of the year is here! Enjoy Cyber Monday Savings on ALL Android accessories

Posted: 26 Nov 2012 06:45 AM PST

Android Central

REMINDER: Last Chance! 
Save 15% on ALL Android Accessories today at ShopAndroid.com.
Sale ends tonight at midnight PST.

White Sony Xperia T available SIM-free next week

Posted: 26 Nov 2012 06:34 AM PST

Android CentralThe Sony Xperia T (or the Bond phone, as it's sometimes known) has been with us for a short while now, but in order to get the white version in the UK, you'd have to go through O2.

If you've been waiting to get the white variant SIM free, then your wait is over, as Clove Technology will have this new silky white version in stock next week. The device will set you back £378 including VAT, which for what you're getting is pretty good value in our opinion.

Clove is taking pre-orders right now, and if you missed our full review of Sony's new flagship Android device you can catch that here.

You can also catch a quick reminder of the Xperia T specs below.

Source: Clove Technology

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Monday Brief: Droid DNA review, RIM's media blitz, a WP8 showdown, and more!

Posted: 26 Nov 2012 05:27 AM PST


Mobile Nations



Relive Chatterbox FM and V-Rock on your Android device with GTA Radio

Posted: 26 Nov 2012 05:14 AM PST

Android Central

As integral to the fabric of the Grand Theft Auto series of games to the driving and shooting things, is the selection of radio stations to listen to whilst driving around shooting things. From GTAIII onwards, we've been treated to sounds such as Chatterbox FM in GTAIII, and V-Rock in GTA: Vice City. And, now, thanks to an Android application, we get to take the aural treats of the Grand Theft Auto universe with us anywhere we go. 

Simply titled GTA Radio, this comes not from the guys at Rockstar Games, but still features the same sounds nevertheless. The selection is broad too, covering off the radio stations from GTAIII, Vice City, Liberty City Stories, Vice City Stories, San Andreas and GTA IV. Admit it, you're excited about being able to tune into Vladivostok FM again, aren't you? 

The only gripe so far would be the sound quality. It isn't the greatest, but then we're supposed to be listening to the radio, so it's not the end of the world. But, it buffers pretty quickly, and importantly also plays in the background. It's free, and ad-supported, and promises to work on anything from Android 1.5 and up, including Android 4.2 and it works on the Nexus 4. Just don't get too carried away if you're listening to it in the car, OK? 

via Pocket Gamer

Amazon Kindle Fire sales rocket for Black Friday

Posted: 26 Nov 2012 03:38 AM PST

Android Central

We reported just last week that Amazon were slashing the prices of their Kindle range for Black Friday, and it seems things have paid off for them. Kindle sales this weekend have been triple compared to previous Black Friday's, the retailer today announced. With the 7-inch tablet market bursting at the seams, it will be interesting to see if we get some sales figures from Google regarding its competing Nexus 7, now that we have both Wifi-only and 3G flavors available. (In October, ASUS said the tablet moved 1 million units.)

Whichever tablet floats your boat, there's no denying that a Kindle Fire for £99 is possibly bargain of the year. This offer finishes today, so if you want to take advantage, you had better get your order in quick.

You can catch the full press release below.

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Facebook statement casts doubt on European HTC 'Deluxe' launch

Posted: 26 Nov 2012 02:40 AM PST

Android Central

With recent rumors and leaks surrounding a possible global version of the Droid DNA (aka HTC J Butterfly), many in Europe have been hoping they too might be able to pick up the device in the lead up to the holidays. But if a recent Facebook post by HTC Germany is to be believed, Europeans wanting to buy the 5-inch, 1080p monster may be out of luck.

Responding to a fan question about the rumored device, HTC Germany hit back with what seems a fairly conclusive statement. Translated, it reads --

"The Deluxe will unfortunately not come to Europe."

Deluxe, of course, being the widely-rumored name (or codename) for the global version of the device.

We should also mention that a global version of the DNA/DLX has yet to be officially announced, and that all the rumors we've heard until now have focused on Asia -- specifically China and HTC's native Taiwan -- rather than Europe. It'd also be somewhat unusual for HTC to launch such a device in Europe at this time of year. Typically, the company saves its big European devices for Mobile World Congress, which takes place in February.

Regardless, the Facebook remark should be taken with a pinch of salt, as manufacturers' social media reps don't have a spotless record when it comes to accuracy. So it looks like just we may just have to wait and see where else the DLX crops up in the weeks ahead.

HTC declined to comment on today's developments, saying telling Android Central it "does not comment on rumor or speculation."

Source: Facebook, via: GSMArena

Nexus 4 16GB available on Daily Steals for $499

Posted: 25 Nov 2012 09:18 PM PST

Daily Deals Nexus 4

While many people still have backordered Nexus 4 devices waiting to be shipped, deals site Daily Steals is offering the unlocked 16GB version for a cool $499. The "list price" is a severely inflated $799, although we all know they're listed for $349 on the Play Store. We're not sure if this site got their devices from LG with a bulk discount, or somehow snatched up some when they were briefly on sale from Google, but we doubt they have that many in stock.

As is usually the case with these, they're probably going to sell out quick, so be sure to jump on one of these if you just can't wait any longer to get that sweet Nexus into your hands. If it's any consolation, you'll likely save some money when compared to the prices on eBay right now.

Source: Daily Steals

MObile Nations Movember Week 4 Update: Mo Money, Mo Power!

Posted: 25 Nov 2012 08:53 PM PST

Mobile Nations Network Movember Funds Raised so far: $11,330 (USD)

MObile Nations
The MO-bile Nations crew in the 'Peg eating deep fried chicken... it's great for 'stache growth!

WE DID IT! Movember isn't quite over, but we've already surpassed our Mobile Nations Network goal of raising over $10,000 for the cause. Mo-Mazing! We have witnessed some great fundraising efforts across the team, and special props go out to Canada's Mike Whitton for raising over $1500 and Australia's Daniel Kollehn for raising over $600. Great effort. HUGE thanks to everybody that has contributed!

If you haven't donated yet, you still have time. The only thing better than meeting our goal is blowing right past it! And we'll love you forever if you donate. Donations can be made easily over the web. Simply jump over to our Mobile Nations Network page, click on the name of any of the individuals listed as part of the network, and hit the donate button. All funds donated to an individual will pass through to the network total.

This is our fourth Movember update for the month, and we have one more to come once the month is over. We'll report back with our final pledge totals and a final gallery of all the moustaches we've grown out. Keep reading for more on Movember and to see some great photos from the team!

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5 million Galaxy Note 2s sold worldwide, Samsung says

Posted: 25 Nov 2012 06:43 PM PST

Samsung Galaxy Note 2

We reported earlier in November that just over a month after its launch, the Samsung Galaxy Note 2 had sold over 3 million units worldwide. Now just a few weeks later that number has jumped up to 5 million sales worldwide, according to Samsung. It's a pretty great rate of sales, and we're sure that those will only continue to increase as the holiday buying season kicks off. Especially considering that the Note 2 is now available on all major carriers here in the states.

Samsung notes (pun intended) that the device is outpacing its predecessor -- the original Note -- in sales at this point. In its previous sales release, CEO of Samsung Mobile JK Shin indicated a sales goal of 20 million units for the Note 2.

Source: Samsung
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