Android Community |
- Android 4.1.1 now avaialble for US-based Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 users
- AT&T launches the 7-inch Lenovo IdeaTab A2107 tablet
- Goodbye CES 2013: See you next year!
- NVIDIA Project SHIELD hands-on with gaming
- Verizon Wireless: 4G LTE usage now accounts for nearly 50% of data traffic
- Google rolling-out Android 4.2.2 for Nexus 4 users in select countries
- Kogan Agora launches as a dual-SIM Android 4.0.4 device priced at $149
- Hive Settings app gives easy access to settings and apps
- ZTE Grand S will be coming to the US “later this year”
- Google releases Chrome Beta app for Android
- ViewSonic VSD240 Tegra 3-toting Display Hands-on
- Fitbit will soon be syncing direct with select Android smartphones
- MetroPCS has announced three new “simpler” 4G plans
| Android 4.1.1 now avaialble for US-based Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 users Posted: 11 Jan 2013 11:28 AM PST Samsung released the Android 4.1 Jelly Bean update for UK-based Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 tablet owners a short while back. And well, it looks like that same update has since come available for those in the US. More specifically, the Android 4.1.1 software update has arrived for those in the US and you can grab it over-the-air or by way of Kies.
The update is available for the Wi-Fi only variant of the tablet, the one sporting the model number of GT-P5113. The update measures in at a bit above 300MB and is build number JRO03C. That being said, we have yet to see a specific changelog for this update, however we know it contains Jelly Bean and as such — we know to expect goodies such as the smoothness of Project Butter. Additionally, the update will bring the enhanced notifications as well as Google Now. Those who happen to be in the US with a Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 in hand now have a few options to consider — you can sit back and wait for the update notification to arrive or take the pro-active approach and get it now. Those choosing to get it now can go with Kies or grab the tablet and navigate to Settings -> About device -> Software update to try and get the process started now. Bottom line here, you will likely want to grab this update as soon as possible as it is a decent improvement and will bring some new life into your tablet. Device Info
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 [via Android Police] |
| AT&T launches the 7-inch Lenovo IdeaTab A2107 tablet Posted: 11 Jan 2013 10:33 AM PST AT&T has announced the availability of the Lenovo IdeaTab A2107 tablet. And while this is far from the latest or greatest, it does come with a relatively nice price point. That being said, Lenovo originally unveiled the IdeaTab A2107 back in August 2012 during IFA. Given we already touched on the price, lets dive right in with the cost.
Those considering picking up the IdeaTab A2107 with AT&T have two options to consider — contract or no-contract. The former means shelling out $99.99 and the latter means shelling out $199.99. All things considered, $200 seems pretty fair for an off-contract device. But on that thought, lets move into the specs. The Lenovo IdeaTab S2107 is a 3G tablet. And just to clarify, this one is not going to get you LTE, or even HSPA+ connectivity — just straight 3G. Assuming you can live with that, you will likely want to know the other specs such as the tablet having a 7-inch (1024 x 600) display, a dual-core 1GHz Cortex A9 processor and Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich. Other goodies include 1GB of RAM, 16GB of internal storage, a microSD card slot, 3550 mAh battery, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 3.0, GPS, a VGA quality front-facing camera and a 3 megapixel rear-facing camera. Those opting to go the on-contract route, you will be able to add this tablet to your AT&T account for an additional $10 per month on an AT&T Mobile Share plan. Those going the off-contract route will be able to choose from one of the DataConnect plans which offer data packages from 1GB up to 20GB. Device Info
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| Goodbye CES 2013: See you next year! Posted: 11 Jan 2013 10:22 AM PST Everyone here in Viva Las Vegas is wrapping up their meetings, closing down their booths and shutting the doors. With that, we’d like to officially say goodbye to CES 2013. It was a fun, crazy, and exciting week with all sorts of goodness. Sadly I couldn’t get a Samsung rep to show me that rumored Galaxy Note III. And believe me, I tried. While we have more content coming we wanted to thank everyone involved in a quick post.
The title should actually read “Goodbye CES 2013 and Hello Sleep” but we figured that was a bit much. While we need to recharge our batteries (both gadgets and ourselves) we’ll be bringing you additional coverage, hands-on videos, pictures, news and more from what we experienced over the next week or so. It’s over, but it isn’t over. We also were missing a good part of our crew due to early flights, but had to take the opportunity to snap a photo with the SlashGear and Android Community truck as you can see above! Good stuff right? We had an amazing show and saw some awesome products from NVIDIA and can’t wait for their Tegra 4 to hit the market. Lenovo had an awesome 5.5-inch phone at the show, Samsung blasted us with 8-core (yes 8 core) smartphone news, Viewsonic had 24-inch Android tablets, then plenty of odds and ends we’ll be sharing soon. With companies like Samsung, Motorola, LG, HTC and more all choosing to not announce any new smartphones at the show the Android side wasn’t as exciting as we’d like. Don’t worry though because Mobile World Congress will be here late February with plenty of Android phones and tablets. In closing we'd like to take the opportunity here to say thank you to all of the individuals, PR teams, companies, and institutions that helped make this another excellent year. Expect way more smartphone news from MWC, and be sure to check out our CES Portal for all the news. Alternatively, head to our sister site SlashGear for even more CES coverage. |
| NVIDIA Project SHIELD hands-on with gaming Posted: 11 Jan 2013 09:56 AM PST NVIDIA had a few big announcements here at CES 2013. Those included the Tegra 4 processor, which was demonstrated with a round of Dead Trigger 2 as well as the GRID and SHIELD. And while these will all very in importance, we think the SHIELD is a pretty interesting device. At the basic level, the NVIDIA SHIELD is an Android game console, but there is a bit more to it. We’ve mentioned it plenty already but here’s an additional look.
In fact, you can also use it to play PC games. During our hands-on time with the SHIELD, we saw it playing Call of Duty: Black Ops II streamed from a GeForce-equipped PC. Basically, just connect over Wi-Fi and begin playing. The streaming game play was solid. The connecting process however, was not quite as good just yet. Nonetheless, we expect that be improved before a final release. Otherwise, the SHIELD is a stock Android device running Jelly Bean with a 720p display and of course, the console-like controller. And given this is stock Android, you also have the Android desktop experience which means you can take a break from gaming and check your email. In addition to the 720p display (which is 5-inches), the SHIELD also has 32GB of internal storage along with a microSD card slot, HDMI, USB, Bluetooth and a 3.5mm headphone jack. For those looking for a bit of personalization, NVIDIA will have what they are referring to as “tags” which will allow for some customization. And if nothing else, these “tags” will probably make it easier to avoid taking your friends console home thinking it was yours. A few other points worth mentioning, NVIDIA mention that the hard plastic surrounding the front, left and right of the controller will most likely be replaced by something softer before an official release. That brings us to the next point — the release. Nothing firm just yet, so far we are expecting the SHIELD to arrive for sale in Q2 2013. Otherwise, check out the hands-on video here in the post but make sure you keep your mouse near the volume control because a demo of the sound quality will have things cranking at around the 1:38 mark. But rest assured, while capable of putting out loud audio — it is quality sounding audio. During actual usage the entire device feels rather comfortable while gaming. NVIDIA went for a pretty common design with the layout so you’ll be right at home. The build quality is impressive, even if it’s all lightweight plastic. It’s light enough that you won’t get tired while gaming, but not too light as to where it feels cheap. We have plenty more pictures and video of this epic new device so stay tuned.             Device Info
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| Verizon Wireless: 4G LTE usage now accounts for nearly 50% of data traffic Posted: 11 Jan 2013 09:55 AM PST Verizon Wireless recently offered some details in terms of where their 4G LTE stands. For example, they noted that the network now covers 473 markets which means it is available for a potential 273.5 million people. They also mentioned that the 4G LTE network is now available for “close to 89 percent” of the US footprint.
In other words, more than a fair amount of Verizon Wireless subscribers have access to 4G LTE. And as we have seen, the carrier has been adding more and more 4G LTE devices to the lineup. Based on these bits one may begin to suspect that a fair amount of the data traffic was going over 4G LTE at this point in time. For those thinking that, it seems you are correct. In fact, Verizon Wireless recently confirmed to Fierce Wireless that “almost 50 percent of its data load now travels over its LTE network.” That is a number that has increased from 35 percent back in October 2012. Other details include how 23 percent of Verizon Wireless subscribers were using LTE phones at the end of the fourth quarter. For those looking for the trend, that number is up from 16 percent at the end of the third quarter. As to where this is going, obviously more 4G LTE data traffic for Verizon Wireless. It seems safe to think that number will soon climb above the 50 percent mark. That bit aside though, Verizon Wireless also said that they expect all data traffic to increase by seven during the next three years. [via Fierce Wireless] |
| Google rolling-out Android 4.2.2 for Nexus 4 users in select countries Posted: 11 Jan 2013 08:45 AM PST While most of the world is seeing Android 4.2.1 as the latest version of Jelly Bean, it looks like Google has quietly begun rolling out something a bit newer. According to new reports, Google has begun rolling out Android 4.2.2 in select countries. So far the reports are pinpointing just two countries — Brazil and Malaysia.
That being said, while Google has yet to publish an official changelog for this update, we suspect it will be minor and with nothing more than some bug-fixes. Of course, we also suspect that once Android users learn of a new update — they will want it as quickly as possible. So far the reports have pegged the 4.2.2 update as hitting the LG Nexus 4. The first of the reports has a 1,000 unit batch of the Nexus 4 coming out of a factory in Brazil running 4.2.2. This handsets are said to be on the way to Brazilian mobile carriers this month. Moving over to the second of the reports, in this case Malaysia. This one is coming by way of the lowyat.net website who are claiming to have received a review unit running 4.2.2. Further details here note that they have received an 8GB Nexus 4 review unit, which implies that it is not a local unit. Those in Malaysia only have the 16GB model available. Anyway, the handset is running 4.2.2 with a build number containing the term “dev-keys” at the end. All said and done, we would like to see some confirmation from Google, however in the meantime — this pair of 4.2.2 sightings does seem to imply that Google is at least testing this new build. [via unwired view] |
| Kogan Agora launches as a dual-SIM Android 4.0.4 device priced at $149 Posted: 11 Jan 2013 07:58 AM PST Kogan has confirmed the upcoming release of the Agora smartphone. The handset is launching with a 5-inch display and perhaps key for some — as a dual-SIM device. The handset will begin shipping next month where it will be available for a total of eleven countries and with a relatively low price point.
More specifically, the Kogan Agora will begin shipping on February 11. The available countries are varied and include the US along with Australia and the UK. The handset will be sold exclusively through the Kogan website. The price is $149.99. And keep in mind, that is a contract-free $149. Needless to say, with a low price you cannot expect super high-end specs. We suspect the key attraction for some will be the dual-SIM card support, however the handset also features a 5-inch (480 x 800) display and is running Android 4.0.4 Ice Cream Sandwich. Network support includes 3G on the 850, 900, 1900 and 2100MHz bands. Other goodies include a dual-core 1GHz Cortex A9 processor, 512MB of RAM, 4GB of internal storage, a microSD card slot, GPS, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth, a 0.3 megapixel front-facing camera and a 5 megapixel rear-facing camera. Bottom line here, the Kogan Agora is far from a screamer in terms of specs, however given the low price it could make for a handset worth checking out. [via TechRadar] |
| Hive Settings app gives easy access to settings and apps Posted: 11 Jan 2013 07:27 AM PST A recently updated app looks like it may bring some ease of use to Android users. Well, ease of use in terms of accessing things such as settings, apps and the file explorer. The app is called Hive Settings and it can be found in the Google Play Store. The app is free and sporting support for devices running Android 2.1 or later.
The Hive Settings app is nicely done, though, also fairly simple looking. The app launches to the Settings, however it also allows for easy access to the Apps and Explorer. You can also click the option to make the app remember the last screen you used. Otherwise, it defaults to Settings when launched. The options also include the ability to display, or not display the system apps. As for what you can do, well, adjust the settings. The gives quick and easy access to just about everything including Bluetooth, security, Wi-Fi, airplane mode, rotation, sync and more. The Apps section contains a list of apps and when one is clicked, it will give you the option to launch it, export it to the SD card or uninstall it. It also tells you how many apps you have installed, just in case you were curious. And lastly, the Explorer. Well, this one is simple, it allows you to access the files and folders on your device. The Hive Settings app is currently sitting at version 1.2.5 and the developer has noted that it is actively being developed. All said and done, the Hive Settings app seems to offer much that you can already do with your handset, however it does package it all together in a convenient layout. The one catch we see, it is only available in an ad-supported free version. [via TNW] |
| ZTE Grand S will be coming to the US “later this year” Posted: 11 Jan 2013 06:44 AM PST ZTE announced the Grand S smartphone during CES, except at that time, they were pretty vague about where the handset would be released. ZTE did mention that it would be available first for those in China. The availability would begin in Q1 2013, however after that — other release markets remained a mystery.
And well, as of today it looks like a bit more information has been revealed. Keep in mind here though, a bit is an accurate description. It seems the ZTE has confirmed that the Grand S would be coming to the US. Specific carriers were not mentioned and so far, we have yet to learn anything solid in terms of when. So far Lixin Cheng, who is the head of ZTE’s North America business has only said that the Grand S will be available in the US sometime “later this year.” Nonetheless, with specs such as a 5-inch (1920 x 1080) display, quad-core 1.7GHz Snapdragon S4 Pro processor, 2GB of RAM, a 13 megapixel rear-facing camera, 2500 mAh battery and Jelly Bean — it should make a nice addition for any carrier lineup. Otherwise, in addition to confirming the release of the Grand S in the US market, Cheng also noted that US carrier executives now have more trust in them and that they were impressed with the future concept models that were shown off during CES. Simply put, it looks like ZTE may wind up being a bigger player here in the US market. [via CNET] |
| Google releases Chrome Beta app for Android Posted: 11 Jan 2013 06:21 AM PST Google has officially released the Chrome Beta Channel for Android smartphones and tablets. And while that may sound a little fancier than what it needs to be, putting is simpler — Android users can now download and install a beta version of the Chrome browser. Similar to the stable Chrome app for Android, the Chrome beta app comes with the requirement of Android 4.0 or later.
That being said, this Chrome Beta app does come with some perks in that you will be first to see new features. But at the same time, given the beta tag, you may also experience some issues and/or quirks from time to time. As Google notes, using the Chrome Beta app will allow you to preview the latest features and also be able to provide some feedback. The good news here, you will be able to install the Chrome Beta app alongside the regular Chrome Android app. The most recent Chrome Beta release is sitting at version 25.0.1364.8 and can be found in the Google Play Store — just search for, download and install the app called Chrome Beta. Or alternatively, follow this link for a direct path. All said and done, and for those who are on the fence about why you would want to run the beta release as opposed to the stable release. Well, Google noted that with this release they have improved the Octane performance benchmark on average by 25-30 percent. And on top of that, this release comes with “interesting” HTML5 features for developers such as CSS Filters. [via Google Chrome Blog] |
| ViewSonic VSD240 Tegra 3-toting Display Hands-on Posted: 10 Jan 2013 03:58 PM PST The popular monitor and LCD manufacturer ViewSonic was here at CES 2013 showing off a rather unique Android device. Their VSD240 is a Tegra-touting “tablet” that they are currently calling a ViewSonic Smart Display. Read on for more details on this 24-inch quad-core display running on Android 4.1 Jelly Bean after the break.
We can’t really call this a tablet and feel good about it, but in a way that is exactly what it is. With a removable stand for portability you technically could enjoy it on the couch, but that might be a challenge. The Viewsonic VSD240 comes equipped with a 24-inch 1920 x 1080p HD multi-touch display. As well as a full array of ports and options on the backside. If you’ve been wishing for a massive Android device of this caliber the video below should get you plenty excited, as it’s pretty neat and we’re hearing ViewSonic has it coming soon. You'll be working with HDMI via MHL, full-sized USB, Bluetooth connectivity and DVI pass-through as well. Check out the video below: As far as Android is concerned we have a pretty stock version of Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean as the OS, and the device is powered by the newer, faster 1.7 GHz quad-core Tegra 3 and 1GB of RAM. IT comes equipped with 16GB of internal storage and overall the entire device was quite fast and fluid. Even if it was odd swiping and opening apps on a 24-inch display. Being a Tegra 3 device you’ll get to enjoy the NVIDIA TegraZone enhanced gaming, and I’m sure many will be looking forward to using a USB or Bluetooth enabled game controller. More details can be found here, and expect it to arrive soon for around $499.       |
| Fitbit will soon be syncing direct with select Android smartphones Posted: 10 Jan 2013 01:47 PM PST The Fitbit Flex wristband activity tracker was announced during CES. And coming along with that announcement, buried deep down at the bottom of the press release, was mention that select Fitbit devices would soon be able to sync directly with select Android smartphones — using Bluetooth.
And well, it looks like the folks at Fitbit have taken that a step further. But first, for those who missed that bit, Fitbit has said that Bluetooth 4.0 syncing will be available for Android users with a Samsung Galaxy S III or Galaxy Note II smartphone. Well, that is provided they are using a Fitbit One, Zip or Flex activity tracker. And for those not rocking either of those handsets, Fitbit is working to bring additional device support in the future. As for the additional device support, so far there is no timeline given. That aside though, the Bluetooth syncing for the Galaxy S III and Galaxy Note II is expected to arrive in late-January or early-February. In other words, it looks like this support will be here fairly soon. And in fact, the folks at Fitbit have already begun looking for some users to do some testing. Those looking to take part in the Fitbit testing period will need to meet a few requirements, not the least of which is having a Galaxy S III or Note II. You will also need to be available for 2 weeks and able to provide about 1 to 3 hours per week to give feedback. And on top of that, this is a private testing phase and you will be required to sign an NDA. [via Facebook] |
| MetroPCS has announced three new “simpler” 4G plans Posted: 10 Jan 2013 12:45 PM PST MetroPCS has recently announced some new calling/data plans. These new plans are currently in effect and according to the carrier, they are “simple plans for a simpler life.” Of course, that is likely a hint to the fact that they contain unlimited voice and messaging. Not to mention, one also has unlimited 4G data.
That being said, the plans, of which there are three — are priced from $40 on the low-end and up to $60 on the high-end. As mentioned, all three of these plans include unlimited voice and messaging. The $40 plan offers 500MB of 4G data per month, the $50 plan offers 2.5GB of 4G data per month and the $60 plan offers unlimited 4G data. And this probably goes without saying, however you can use more than 500MB and 2.5GB of data on the $40 and $50 plans, however once you top those levels — you will be dealing with throttled speeds. These plans also include the basics such as nationwide coverage as well as voicemail, caller ID, call waiting and 3-way calling. Android fans that are intrigued by these plans are in luck as MetroPCS has more than a handful of devices to choose from. The lineup includes devices such as the Galaxy S III and Admire 4G as well as the LG Motion 4G, LG Connect 4G, ZTE Avid 4G and more. Finally, we should also point out that MetroPCS recently began offering no-credit-check handset financing. [via Engadget] |
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