Wednesday, June 6, 2012

AndroidGuys

AndroidGuys

Gameloft demos new titles at E3

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 01:52 PM PDT

Gameloft is in Los Angeles this week, showing off some of their new Android and iOS titles at the annual E3 conference. In addition to demonstrating known upcoming games like The Amazing Spider-Man or N.O.V.A 3, Gameloft is giving their first glimpses of previously unannounced titles. If you're in town for the event then you're in luck! You'll be among the select few to see demos of Asphalt 7: Heat, Kingdom & Lords, and Cosmic Colony.

We cannot wait to see these for ourselves!

GAMELOFT WILL BE AT E3 TO UNVEIL ITS UPCOMING RELEASES FOR iOS AND ANDROID IN WORLDWIDE EXCLUSIVES

Los Angeles – E3 – June 5, 2012 – Gameloft, a leading publisher of digital and social games, will be at the 2012 E3 (Electronic Entertainment Expo), where we will unveil our upcoming
releases for iOS and Android smartphones and tablets in worldwide exclusives. Gameloft's booth, located in the West Hall (booth 4761) will allow attendees to discover and test the
eagerly anticipated The Amazing Spider-Man and Asphalt 7: Heat, as well as many other titles, including new social games such as Cosmic Colony and Kingdoms & Lords.

The Amazing Spider-Man: After the phenomenal success of Spider-Man: Total Mayhem, Gameloft and Marvel have teamed up once more to develop The Amazing Spider-Man, the
official game of one of the most highly anticipated films of the year. Experience hours of gameplay in an open-environment action game with mind-blowing graphics.

Asphalt 7: Heat: From Paris to Rio, players compete against each other in cutthroat races at the wheel of 60 cars from prestigious brands such as Lamborghini and Ferrari. The game
features 6 different game modes, including a multiplayer mode for up to 6 players.

Kingdoms & Lords: This simulation and strategy game lets players build and develop their own kingdom and amass an army to hold barbarian invaders at bay. Players can battle each
other and prove who has the best army in this compelling title.

Cosmic Colony: Players must create their own colony and make it prosper on a mysterious planet. Surprising events and numerous space missions will turn players into real space
pioneers!

Successful titles such as N.O.V.A. 3: Near Orbit Vanguard Alliance, Fashion Icon, Shark Dash, Ice Age Village and Men in Black 3 will also be available for free demonstrations at the
booth.

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Cordcruncher headphones review

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 01:23 PM PDT

We've recently spent some time with a new set of headphones that are handy on more than one front.  Called Cordcruncher, these headphones are housed in an elastic sleeve which eliminates concerns of tangles and knots.  If these sound like a Kickstarter project to you, your right!

When not in use, the headphones are essentially converted to a wearable necklace or bracelet.   The jack can plug into the end of the sleeve,  creating a rubber-like loop that travels extremely well.  Ready to use 'em?  Pull the earbuds out only as far as you need to, anywhere from 16-inches to 42-inches.

The cords are very light, thin, and the elastic sleeve comes in a variety of colors.  The review units we were sent were Rocket Red however they would be more accurately described as fluorescent pink.  Additional color options include Pearl Blue, iGizmo White, and Matte Black.

So how did they sound?  Surprisingly, these $20 headphones sounded much better than we expected.  We anticipated something thin and tinny however these delivered a fuller sound with more bass than other, more expensive earbuds.

  • Guaranteed tangle-free headphone experience, anywhere and every time
  • Elastic-sleeve to customize headphone experience and allow user to take command of cord length
  • Adjusts from 16 inches to 3.5 feet of cord length
  • Elastic-sleeve manufactured with hypo-allergenic (99.9 percent protein-free) material
  • Easily crunch and be worn as a necklace or bracelet between use

You can order the CordCruncher headphones directly from their website or through Amazon.

Cordcruncher headphones review originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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Retail price for Verizon Galaxy S III outed [UPDATED]

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 01:08 PM PDT

Verizon officially confirmed today that they will carrying the Samsung Galaxy S III, one of the most anticipated Android smartphones of 2012. It will be up for pre-order from June 6. The 16GB version will cost $199 and 32GB for $249, however Verizon didn't mention how much it will cost at full retial price. As we know that Verizon will soon bring an end to unlimited data, replacing it with shared data plans. However, Verizon cleared the air by saying:

Customers who choose to purchase phones at full retail price and are currently on an unlimited smartphone data plan will be able to keep that plan. The same pricing and policies will apply to all 3G and 4GLTE smartphones.

If you are looking forward to getting the Samsung Galaxy S III and you are expecting to have unlimited data plan, then there are no chances you will get it on the subsidized version. Verizon will soon implement the shared data plan; however, if you purchase the unsubsidised version of SIII, then you can enjoy it.

According to Verizon Equipment Guide leaked by Droid-Life, the SGS-III will cost $599 for the 16GB version and $659 for the 32GB version. I hope to see Verizon confirming the release dates, as this is all the info we find ourselves with now. What are your plans? Are you looking forward to it?

UPDATED

A quick heads up folks, according to Android Community, Verizon will be launching the Galaxy S III on July 5. However, let's wait to hear some official words from Verizon. Tell us about it in the comment box below.

Source: Droid-Life

Retail price for Verizon Galaxy S III outed [UPDATED] originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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Amazon offering Verizon Galaxy Nexus for one penny (Limited Time Deal)

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 01:00 PM PDT

Amazon dropped us a note to advise that they've started offering the Verizon Galaxy Nexus for one penny (with a new two-year service agreement).  According to the online retailer, this will be a limited time deal and could end at any time.  We checked to verify the savings and found it currently listed at $50 however even that's still a heck of a deal.  If you're in the market for one of the best Android smartphones on Verizon's network, the Galaxy Nexus is the way to go. We assume the penny deal will go live any moment.

UPDATE: The deal has gone live - HURRY!

Amazon

 

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ASUS Transformer AiO – a dual boot Windows 8 and Android all-in-one PC/tablet

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 12:27 PM PDT

ASUS launched a teaser video on YouTube a few days ago, in which they mentioned a new transformation is coming out at Computex. Well, Computex 2012 is here, and ASUS is also in total action, as they launched their first-ever tablet with dual OSes. ASUS merged both Windows 8 and Android 4.0 into what they'er calling the ASUS Transformer AiO. It's actually like an 18.4-inch all-in-one PC, but as the display is detachable, it feels like an 18.4-inch Android tablet.

ASUS showcased the prototype version at Computex, so you can expect some changes in the final version. When the 18-inch tablet is docked, it runs on a standard Windows 8 platform. However undock, and you'll be running Android 4.0. The thing I like about it is that you can also run Android applications in Windows 8 mode, thanks to Bluestacks Android player.

There are two form factors involved here: either use it as an all-in-one PC, or use it as the world's largest (big, fat, huge, ginormous) Android tablet. Right now, there are no words on the pricing and availability of AiO, but I hope ASUS will confirm it soon. Have a look at the video posted by Engadget, found here.

So folks, are you looking forward to something like the AiO? Tell us in the comment box below.

Source: Engadget

 

ASUS Transformer AiO – a dual boot Windows 8 and Android all-in-one PC/tablet originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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NVIDIA debuts five Tegra 3 games at E3

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 12:09 PM PDT

NVIDIA is at the annual E3 gaming conference where they have just announced no less than five new games designed for their Tegra 3 processor.  Set to arrive in the coming weeks and months, these five titles take full advantage of the technology that comes with the 4-PLUS-1 quad core mobile processor.  We cannot wait to get our hands on each of these so we'll be checking the TegraZone on a regular basis!

Jump below for a screen shot and synopsis for each game and tell us which one sounds the most intriguing to you!

Dead Trigger: The world has collapsed and meat-eating zombies are after you! This first person shooter takes advantage of the Tegra 3 processor to provides exclusive effects like enhanced water, specular lighting, volumetric fog and ragdoll physics.

Puddle THD: The hot Xbox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network console game is now being shown off on an NVIDIA Tegra 3 device at E3. The game mechanics are simple and intuitive – guide the water to a target destination through tilt controls. On Tegra 3, you'll get higher resolution textures, advanced fluid effects, better shadows and advanced physics effects.

Demons' Score THD: A break-beat action game that integrates music with battles. It's developed using Epic Games' Unreal Engine 3 to produce high-quality 3D graphics and a user interface optimized for smartphones and tablets. Tegra 3-exclusive features include higher resolution textures, advanced bloom effects, rim lighting, dynamic shadows and depth-of-field effects.

Bounty Arms: This exciting 3D side-scrolling action game will be playable for the first time at E3. Open-Reset and Luma Arcade are working closely with NVIDIA to create Tegra-exclusive enhancements for Bounty Arms on Android, tapping the graphics potential of Tegra 3.  These enhancements include visual and performance upgrades and exclusive content like co-op play and advanced particle effects.

Heroes Call: Heroes Call is a playable action RPG that brings next generation gaming to Tegra devices. Lush graphics, deep quests, multiple characters and varied abilities make Heroes Call an experience unlike any you've seen on your mobile device before. The Tegra 3 exclusive features here are higher resolution light maps, spectacular maps on character weapons and armor and additional physics interaction on objects and particles.

NVIDIA debuts five Tegra 3 games at E3 originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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Sony ST21i to be renamed as Sony Xperia Tipo, an affordable device from Sony

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 12:07 PM PDT

Sony is getting ready to launch another Android device, however it's definitely not their best smartphone to date. We are talking about the Sony ST21i 'Tapioca', the device we saw a month ago. More information is revealed by the Indonesian Ministry of Communications and Information Technology about it, where the name of the device is mentioned as Sony Xperia Tipo.

While Sony high-end devices offers an amazing Android experience, every manufacturer has to come up with low-end smartphones as well to compete in market. The Xperia Tipo comes with an 800 MHz single-core processor, 512 MB of RAM, and a 3.2-inch display; the good news here is that it comes with Android 4.0. Although it's not yet confirmed when Tipo will see sunlight, we really hope that it will be out soon.

While it might be possible that Sony is making this device for Asian markets only, I hope they will confirm it soon. What are your thoughts about an affordable device like Tipo? Tell us in the comments below.

Source: Phandroid

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Samsung Galaxy Note II launching in October?

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 11:03 AM PDT

The Galaxy Note is one of those devices you just can't forget about, and it's Samsung's one of the best-selling devices ever, with around 7 million units sold so far. It's been around for a long time now, and it seems that we will see its successor soon. Word on the street is that Samsung will be launching the Galaxy Note II in October, and the original version was launched last year in October, so it seems legit. 

While the picture above is just a mock-up, we got some words about the specification of this upcoming monster. According to UbuntuLife.net, it will be rocking a 5.5-inch Super AMOLED display with even higher WSXGA+ resolution (1680 x 1050 pixels). It's rumoured to feature an 8MP camera, 1.5 GB of RAM, and the new Exynos 5250 chipset, along with a dual-core ARM-15 processor. 4G connectivity will be available in all international versions.

That's all we know about this upcoming big boy. Tell us: what are your thoughts about it? Do you think it will be a true market shaker? Hit up the comment box below and let us know.

Source: UbuntuLife.net

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Microsoft wants to automate your life with new on{X} app for Android

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 10:52 AM PDT

Microsoft today introduced a new Android application which aims to automate your life with custom alerts and notifications.  Called on{x}, the app lets users create somewhat detailed rules that run and/or respond to events on their handset or tablet.  Let's say you want your phone to automatically tell your girlfriend where you are with exact coordinates every time she texts "where" to you.  Done.  Maybe you need an extra prompt to get your butt to the gym.  You can configure on{X} to remind you should you skip out a few days in a row.

Example scenarios and rules on{X} could enable:

  • Show me the quickest route to work when I leave home
  • Launch the music app when I am running
  • Remind me to take an umbrella first time I unlock my device on a given day, if it is forecast to rain
  • Launch my calendar when I get to work
  • Remind me to visit the Gym if I haven't been there for 3  days

You can download on{X} from the Google Play Store today and get started with some notifications and alerts!  NOTE: You will need to register with a Facebook ID.  For more details on what on{X} is and how you might be able to harness its capabilities, head to the Bing blog.

Microsoft wants to automate your life with new on{X} app for Android originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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ViewSonic introduces 22-Inch Android Smart Display at Computex

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 10:28 AM PDT

We gave you a little information a few days ago that ViewSonic will be launching a new Android machine at Computex 2012. Today is the day and they've introduced the ViewSonic Android Smart Display VCD22 - which is a 22-inch 1080p Android 4.0 powered all-in-one machine. It actually sounds like a good alternative to a desktop experience however I am not sure you how it plays out when used on your lap. About the specs, it comes with a 1GHz dual-core processor and 1GB RAM. The touch response appears to be really good and smooth, and it's running the stock version of Android 4.0.

Though the source mentioned that the display has poor viewing angles and contrast, but it's a good device if you want to use it at home as an educational or entertainment unit. With price tag of only $479, I don't think so this machine is a bad deal after all. Anyway, tell us what do you think about it in the comment box below.

Source: The Verge

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WhosHere brings location-based social discovery to Android

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 10:15 AM PDT

After tallying up million of users on Apple's iOS, WhosHere has launched it location-based social discovery platform on Android.  Available immediately for free, WhosHere lets users connect with like-minded folks, discover that new special someone, or just keep in touch.  Log in, create a profile, and share as little information as you feel comfortable with, or share pictures and details with others.

Download WhosHere from Google Play Store today!

 

WhosHere Arrives On Android

World's first location-based mobile social discovery app launches on the Amazon Appstore for Android and Google Play

Meet new and interesting people around you for FREE!

ALEXANDRIA, VA and SAN MATEO, Calif. – June 5, 2012 – WhosHere®, the first location-based mobile social discovery app, today announced its availability on Android. With more

than 850,000 Android devices activated every day, millions of new smartphone, tablet and PC users across the globe are now able to safely meet like-minded people nearby for FREE via

WhosHere, which already has millions of users on Apple iOS devices. WhosHere can now be downloaded from the Amazon Appstore for Android and Google Play.

 

WhosHere connects users with similar interests and within close proximity of each other. It is the first mobile app to allow users to safely discover new contacts, for love or friendship, or

to stay in touch with family and friends – and communicate via texts, picture messages, and voice calls – all for FREE and without ever disclosing any personal information.

"There's been a groundswell of interest in WhosHere for Android ever since Google launched the Nexus One in January 2010," said WhosHere CEO and co-founder Bryant Harris. "We

are 100 percent committed to our community of users and it is only fitting to expand the platforms we support. WhosHere's availability on Android expands our reach and unlocks a

new universe of connections for users."

 

WhosHere is available to download today on Google Play and is featured in the Amazon Appstore for Android in the Social Networking category.

 

About WhosHere

WhosHere is the first location-based mobile social discovery app: a free, safe and private way to connect with like-minded people around you. Founded in 2008, WhosHere has helped

more than five million users worldwide make spontaneous connections on-the-go through free text messages, calls and video chats – all while preserving their personal identities.

WhosHere users have made connections for many aspects of life, including love, friendship, keeping in touch with family and travel, among many others. For more information, visit

WhosHere.net.

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AT&T Galaxy S III up for pre-order on June 6, also launching in Red?

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 09:40 AM PDT

AT&T has officially opened their sign-up page for the Samsung Galaxy S III. AT&T mentioned it's coming soon, though they didn't mention how soon. In other words, the cat is finally out of the bag as AT&T confirms that the Galaxy S III will be available for pre-order from June  - however, they forgot to tell us when they will start shipping it. The Galaxy S III is running hot in USA at the moment, and it's like the whole month is dedicated to it, as all other carriers are also launching the magnificent device; i.e. T-Mobile, Verizon, Sprint, US Cellular. 

Everything is same under the hood, except it comes with Qualcomm's 1.5 GHz dual-core Snapdragon in order to support 4G LTE instead of Samsung Exynos quad-core, though there is 2GB of RAM. AT&T will only launch the 16GB version, but they are looking forward to launching the SGS-III in red. Trust me, I can't wait to see it in that color. Obviously, the device will be launched in June, but red version will be launched later this summer.

What about pricing? AT&T will be offering the 16GB model for $199, and there's an optional 16GB micro-SD card at $39. That means that, in the end, you will have 32GB of total memory for a price of $238.99. AT&T fans, are you looking forward to grabbing the S-III from AT&T? Tell us in the comment box below.

Source: Android Community

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Appreciate provides user unique, personalized app recommendations

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 09:36 AM PDT

Try as we might, it's impossible to keep readers informed as to all the latest and greatest Android apps and games hitting the market.  Whereas bigger developers might have a built-in fanbase to cater to, smaller firms have a tough time getting in front of audiences.  The sad part is that there are plenty of titles that could go viral were someone able to give the ball just a little push over the hill.  Appreciate is an app and a service that aims to be the one who does the pushing.

Billed as "your Personal App Market for Android", Appreciate is designed to help Android users discover new apps based on you and your tastes.  Users can connect via Facebook however it's not required for a great experience.

Once logged in and using Appreciate, the app will deliver personal recommendations across games, trending apps, and other categories. And, rather than simply offering up a static list of titles, the app tells you exactly how much it fits with your profile.   As you might suspect, Appreciate gets better and more accurate as you involve yourself.

Should you find an app or two that you think deserves a little extra love, you can share them across email, Facebook, and the Appreciate network.  You don't have to run an Android blog to help spread the word!

For a bit of added app insight, we definitely recommend checking out the recently launched Stats page.  Sign up for free and check out industry trends to see which games are getting more popular, which are losing steam, and other helpful details.  Curious to see if the most downloaded games are the also the apps we return to every day?  Want to see what handsets are most popular among Android users?  Appreciate has all kinds of wonderful information to dig through, with a number of filters to pare down results.

 

 

 

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AT&T taps eco-friendly $50 Samsung Exhilarate for June 10

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 07:49 AM PDT

AT&T today announced that the Samsung Exhilarate, an eco-friendly 4G LTE smartphone, will arrive next week.  Announced all the way back in January (CES), the handset features a dual-core 1.2GHz processor, 4-inch Super AMOLED display, a 5-megapixel camera, and 1.3-megapixel front-facing camera.  Made from 80 percent recycled material, the Samsung Exhilarate also comes with an energy-efficient power charger.

The Samsung Exhilarate is expected to arrive on June 10 for $49.99 with qualified two-year service agreements.

AT&T

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Huawei to debut Emotion UI for Android in July

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 07:32 AM PDT

The competition between Android OEMs is getting stronger, especially between competitors like HTC, Samsung, LG, and Motorola. The UI customization is actually one of the main things that differentiate the Android experience on the devices from different manufacturers; It's sometimes the reason people prefer a specific brand. Now, it seems that Huawei is also planning to introduce their very own user interface, which will be known as "Emotion UI", and it will be launched in July.

As of now, nobody is quite sure when the current Huawei devices will receive this update. Huawei recently delayed the release of their flagship device, the Ascend D Quad, which should be launched in July featuring the latest UI. Though we don't have much information about the UI, Huawei has said that it will be "emotional", "simple", and "smart"; words that many manufacturers have used to describe OSes in the past. Huawei is holding an event on June 9, and we hope that we will hear more about this new interface.

I personally think it's a good move by Huawei to compete with brands like HTC, Samsung and others in the smartphone market, because that's one of the ways to snag customers from other companies and expand the market out. Are you interested in Huawei's UI? Tell us about it in the comment box below.

Source: UV

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HTC One gets PlayStation Certification

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 06:58 AM PDT

HTC has become the first company outside of Sony to receive PlayStation Certification for their smartphones.  Announced, not coincidentally during E3, this means that future HTC handsets will be able to play official Sony Playstation titles.  What's more, today's current HTC One series of devices are the first to join the party, including the HTC One X, HTC One S, and HTC One V.

"HTC is focused on delivering innovative mobile experiences for people everywhere and SCE's immersive world of gaming will bring compelling entertainment to HTC One customers across the globe," said Kouji Kodera, Chief Product Officer, HTC Corporation.

In a related note, Sony has re-branded the PlayStation Suite of games to a more universal PlayStation Mobile.  Looking ahead, Sony indicates that we'll see the first games enter the market which have been developed using the PlayStation Mobile SDK.

Press release

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Latest Sony SmartWatch Updates Causing Significant Issues With Devices Including Complete Malfunction

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 01:47 PM PDT

 

Software updates are generally greeted with open arms for owners of various devices. But occasionally, there are updates that are released that owners may want to ignore… which may be for owners’ good. Such is the case with recent software update for the Sony SmartWatch. Apparently owners of the device who recently updated the required application in order to operate the watch has experienced everything from random disconnects to minor functions not working as seen in the below examples:

As of now, there are two specific software versions that are identified to likely have caused the issues. Version 1.2.33 has caused SmartWatches to be completely bricked— as in they are completely non-functional. Shortly after it was found that version affected devices, version 1.2.34 was released, though while it keeps the device functional– it’s not without its gaffes either as highlighted in the above screenshot. It looks as if most owners haven’t been affected just yet, so if you own the watch, you will want to hold off on updating the watch until Sony releases a statement highlighting the various issues have indeed been corrected or that a new and thorough update is on the way.

Let’s hope Sony does one or the other soon. Otherwise they’re going to have an ugly blemish on its otherwise impressive year so far.

Play Store link

 

 

source: XDA

NVIDIA showcases five upcoming Tegra 3-optimized games at E3

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 12:49 PM PDT

E3 just kicked off a few minutes ago and our friends at NVIDIA are showcasing 5 big time TegraZone games at their booth. All five are Tegra 3-optimized, which make them console-like quality. The first is Dead Trigger (pictured above), which we told you about last week. It’s a First Person Shooter and it’s your job to take down all the zombies. The Tegra 3-optimized version provides effects like enhanced water, specular lighting, volumetric fog and ragdoll physics. It should be available by the end of this month.

Next up is Puddle THD (pictured below). This game is already on Xbox Live Arcade and the PlayStation Network, but for the first time is being shown off utilizing the power of the Tegra 3. It has simple mechanics in that you guide the water to a target through tilt controls. With Tegra 3 you get higher resolution textures, advanced fluid effects, better shadows and advanced physics effects.

Demons’ Score THD (pictured below) also utilizes the Tegra 3 and is a break-beat action game that integrates music with battles. It features high-quality 3D graphics thanks to Epic Games’ Unreal Engine 3. Tegra 3 optimization brings higher resolution textures, advanced bloom effects, rim lighting, dynamic shadows and depth-of-field effects.

Bounty Arms (pictured below) is a 3D side-scrolling action game created by Open-Reset and Luma Arcade. Tegra 3 enhancements include visual and performance upgrades and exclusive content like co-op play and advanced particle effects.

Last but not least is Heroes Call (pictured below), which is an RPG with “lush” graphics, many quests, and multiple characters with varied abilities. With Tegra 3 optimization you get higher resolution light maps, spectacular maps on character weapons and armor and additional physics interaction on objects and particles.

source: nvidia

 

 

Toshiba Excite 7.7 unboxing and initial hands on review

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 11:04 AM PDT

Toshiba is upping the anti for tablets in 2012 after the lack of success from the Thrive lineup. These newer versions are thinner, sport a better design, and feature more horsepower. We recently reviewed the Excite 10 LE, which didn’t quite impress us, but Toshiba has three newer tabs from Excite line: the Excite 7.7, Excite 10, and Excite 13. All three tabs sport the NVIDIA Tegra 3 quad-core processor, 1GB of RAM, 5MP rear camera, 2MP front-facing camera, stereo speakers enhanced by Toshiba and SRS Technologies, WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS, Android 4.0.3 Ice Cream Sandwich. All three look gorgeous and feels great in the hand thanks to the textured aluminum body.

The biggest difference with the three models is the display size. I’m reviewing the 7.7, which sports, you guess it, a 7.7-inch display. This version is the only one with a AMOLED display and it’s resolution is at 1280 x 800. They did include a microSD slot for up to an additional 32GB of storage, a microUSB port, and Toshiba’s proprietary connector slot for charging and connecting to optional docks.

Toshiba is offering the 16GB version for $499 and the 32GB for $579 starting June 10th. My initial impression is that it’s a great tablet, but the price seems very high. Yes, it has a Tegra 3, but ASUS is offering up the Transformer Pad TF300 for $399, which sports a Tegra 3 and has a 10.1-inch display. I do need to spend more time with it, but for now check out my initial hands on….

Click here to view the embedded video.

 

 

T-Mobile Rolling Out Maintenance Update for the HTC One S

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 10:44 AM PDT

Good news for you T-Mobile HTC One S owners. A new update has been readied by T-Mo and they’ve begun to push out version 1.84.531.2.710RD to all handsets beginning today. The update is being delivered via the OTA (over the air) method and T-Mobile sates that you wont be able to force the download yourself. Looks like you will just have to be patient on this one. The update is rolling out in stages and should reach all One S devices by July 7th. Along with the usual bug fixes the update includes the following:

  • Resolves goodbye splash not appearing when powering off due to low battery.
  • Resolves voicemail indicator not appearing while using Wi-Fi calling.
  • Improvements to Wi-Fi Calling
  • Improvements to camera stability
  • Resolves signal fluctuation.

So there you have it folks. Keep an eye out for an update notification because overall improvements are always welcomed. Hit the source link to see the official support doc and be sure to let us know when the update hits your device.

source: T-Mobile
via: AndroidCentral

New Facebook Concept Phone Emerges Online

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 10:23 AM PDT

After the downright failure of the HTC ChaCha and Salsa, rumors of a new Facebook phone have been in the works for quite some time now. It has been said that HTC and Facebook are teaming up again to create round two of the Facebook phone but this time will will sport the Facebook brand instead of HTC. Facebook has even added fuel to that fire by hiring an ex Apple designer who is thought to be helping in the creation of said phone. While nothing has emerged as of yet, outside designer Michal Bonikowski whipped up a little design of his own outlining what he believes this possible Facebook handset will look like.

Without having anything to go on, Bonikowski rendered this image entirely on his own. He believes the phone will be Facebook blue, made from metal, and will adorn a 4.2-inch screen. Bonikowski’s mock-up also contains a 5MP front facing camera coupled with an 8MP shooter on the rear. Charging the phone is done through the wireless inductive method which would include a dedicated “Facebook” docking station (seen above). As far as internals go, we have no information in that regard but when we are talking about a hypothetical rendering done by someone who doesn’t even work for Facebook or HTC it shouldn’t really matter. Either way, bonikowski’s rendering looks a heck of a lot more appealing that what HTC came up with before. Head to the source link if you want to check out more of his design.

source: YankoDesign
via: UberGizmo

Samsung’s new Eco-Friendly Galaxy Exhilarate Launches on AT&T June 10th for $50

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 09:13 AM PDT

 

Back in January AT&T announced at CES a number of new devices and this Samsung Galaxy Exhilarate was one of them. This Android device would be considered an entry level smartphone, but it does pack a bit of decent hardware inside. Along with being eco-friendly, the Exhilarate boasts a 4-inch Super AMOLED display, 1.2GHz dual-core Snapdragon,, a 5MP shooter with video recording at 720p, a 1.3MP front facing camera. So this device stacks up to be a fairly decent phone for anyone looking for an Android phone in the $50 price range. June 10th you can expect the Samsung Galaxy Exhilarate to land on AT&T. So keep a close watch if this is right up your alley.

For the full press release hit the break.

 

 

AT&T to Launch its First LTE Smartphone with Environmentally Conscious Features, the Samsung Galaxy Exhilarate

Dallas, Texas, June 05, 2012
Beginning June 10 AT&T will offer a new option for customers looking for sustainable features in a smartphone – the Samsung Galaxy Exhilarate™. The Exhilarate will be available in all AT&T channels for $49.99 with a two-year agreement and is the first AT&T 4G LTE smartphone to obtain UL Platinum certification. This phone is also set to be one of the first to go through AT&T's eco-rating system, which will be unveiled later this summer.

AT&T customers have access to the nation's largest 4G network, covering more than 260 million people. AT&T has two 4G networks that work together for customers, LTE and HSPA+ with enhanced backhaul. That means AT&T customers are able to enjoy a widespread, ultra-fast and consistent 4G experience on their compatible device as they move in and out of LTE areas. With other carriers, when you travel outside of their LTE coverage area, you're on a much slower 3G network.

The Exhilarate features a rear casing made from 80 percent recycled (post-consumer waste) material and is packaged with a low-load, energy-efficient charger that alerts customers when the device is fully charged. The device also boasts a 4-inch touchscreen Super AMOLED display, a dual core 1.2 GHz Scorpion processor, voice recognition and access to AT&T U-verse® Live TV****. It also features a 5-megapixel auto-focus rear-facing camera that let's you record videos in 720p HD and a 1.3 megapixel front-facing camera.

In addition, the Exhilarate is the first 4G LTE smartphone to receive platinum certification from UL Environment, a business unit of UL (Underwriters Laboratories). Since 2011, AT&T has joined UL Environment and other sustainability stakeholders in working towards the development of requirements to identify leading mobile phones from an environmental and human health perspective. UL Environment sets minimum requirements for "environmentally preferable" mobile devices by measuring environmentally sensitive materials, energy management, manufacturing and operations, impact to health and environment, product performance, packaging and product stewardship.

AT&T will also offer two custom case options by Incipio. These ECO ® SILICRYLIC® cases are made from a combination of biodegradable and recycled materials. Composed of two parts, an inner silicone rubber made of recycled silicone regrind material, and an outer bio resin plastic shell, ECO SILICRYLIC complements the environmentally conscious features of the smartphone it protects.

"AT&T is committed to developing and supporting products, like the Samsung Galaxy Exhilarate, that enable consumers to reduce their environmental impact without sacrificing features or the ability to enjoy a world-class smartphone experience," said Jeff Bradley, senior vice president, Devices, AT&T Mobility. "We're working hard every day to empower consumer choice and provide consumers with more options in-store as part of our ongoing commitment to sustainability."

source: AT&T

 

 

 

 

Amazon Wireless Offers New Verizon Customers The Galaxy Nexus For 1¢ Only

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 09:08 AM PDT

 

Unhappy with your existing mobile carrier and considering Verizon’s awesome mobile service, while also desiring that almost pure Android experience found in the Galaxy Nexus smartphone? Online retailer Amazon Wireless may just have the deal for you. It has just announced a very sexy deal where it is offering the awesome device for a mere 1¢. Yes you read that right… new Verizon customers will be able to grab the 4G LTE and Android 4.0.4-powered smarphone for a penny. While this deal is only for new customers, Amazon hasn’t forgotten existing customers may very well be interested in the device as well. That’s why it will be offering the Galaxy Nexus to existing customers for a not-too-shabby price of $50 as well.

The Amazon promotion link is currently not live yet, but be sure to keep checking as it will appear anytime now. Oh and you’ll want to make sure you do that too— the deal for both new and existing customers is a limited time only.

source: Amazon Wireless

Best Buy Now Taking Galaxy S III Pre-Orders for Verizon, AT&T and Sprint

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 09:07 AM PDT

Now that we know that all five of the major U.S. carriers are getting the Galaxy S III, I can only imagine a large sum of you are just dying to get your hands on one. With as much demand as there will be for the device, it would behoove you to get your pre-order in a as soon as possible to help fend off any possible delays from getting your precious new toy. For those of you who have been throwing money at your computer screen we’ve got one better for you. Best Buy today started taking pre-orders for the GSIII as offered from Verizon, Sprint, and AT&T. That’s right, you can walk into a Best Buy store right now and claim one for your very own. As it stands right now, you are going to have to go into an actual brick and mortar store to place your pre-order, no sign of online pre-orders as of yet.

So those of you that are still with us, who’s getting one and from which carrier?

Thanks Sven!

source: Best Buy

 

 

Verizon officially announces the Samsung Galaxy S III, Grandfathered customers won’t lose unlimited data

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 09:01 AM PDT

Somehow we missed the Verizon press release yesterday on the Samsung Galaxy S III. There really isn’t anything new because we already knew that pre-orders will start tomorrow, June 6th with a price of $199 for the 16GB version and $249 for the 32GB version. What we didn’t know was the release date, but Verizon didn’t offer one up in the presser. It’s likely to be June 21st since Verizon likes to release devices on Thursdays, and yes, sometimes on Fridays, which would make it the 22nd.

They do offer one thing that differentiates their version of the GSIII from the others and that’s the Color App. About a month ago Verizon and Color announced their partnership, so it’s no surprise that it will come pre-loaded on their GSIII. If you’re not familiar with Color, it will allow you to live broadcast video with audio.

The other thing to note is that Verizon’s presser uses “Pebble Blue” terminology as opposed to “Metallic Blue,” which was in T-Mobile’s presser. Rumors have circulated that Samsung may have changed the color. I haven’t received a flat out denial from Samsung reps, only that it’s supposed to be called “Pebble Blue.”

Last but not least, we reported yesterday that grandfathered customers might lose their unlimited data upon purchasing the Galaxy S III. Verizon has said that they will transition to a shared data plan and customers will lose their unlimited data upon signing a new contract using an upgrade. This will take place sometime in the Summer, but we have no idea what date. Verizon reps told me that if you pre-order, you won’t lose your grandfathered status. The question is if you don’t pre-order, will they change the plan right before the phone is released? It doesn’t appear to be so. In looking at the presser below, they say that customers are subject to a 2GB data plan at $30 per month. This is the current plan, so if they really planned on changing things before the actual release, they would need to mention it. They didn’t, so everybody can relax. Of course if you wait until July, you could have an issue, which would mean that in order to keep your grandfathered status, you would need to pay full retail.

Full press release

Verizon Wireless Announces Samsung Galaxy S® III Coming To America's Largest 4G LTE Network

The Next Generation Smartphone with the Power to Share and Intelligence to Make Everyday Life Easier

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Verizon Wireless and Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile) today announced the 4G LTE-powered Samsung Galaxy S® III is coming to America's largest 4G LTE network.

Galaxy S III customers can use Share Shot to create their own temporary photo sharing network with a group of friends who are nearby at the same party or event. Photos can be taken by any member of the group and shared with the entire group. One touch sharing with S Beam allows friends to share pictures, videos, documents and more by simply touching two Galaxy S III devices’ backs together. Galaxy S III customers can take advantage of 4G LTE to share live video broadcasts of life's special moments with their Facebook® friends using the Color app. As an exclusive feature for Verizon Wireless, customers can live broadcast video with audio when using Color.

The Galaxy S III has a 4.8-inch HD Super AMOLED™ display and runs Android 4.0™, Ice Cream Sandwich. Watch a video while texting friends or surfing the Web at 4G LTE speeds with Pop Up Play. Videos can be played in a small window while customers use the rest of the display to complete other tasks such as typing emails, organizing calendars and updating their social networks. Multi-tasking is seamless with the 1.5 GHz dual-core processor and 2 GB RAM paired with the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network. Customers can also interact with the Galaxy S III in simple and fun ways thanks to Motion Gesture.  With Motion Gesture, customers can initiate a phone call from a text message by simply raising the phone to their head, or they can pause a video by covering the display with their hand, and even get to the top of an email message and contact list.

The Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network is currently available in 258 markets, covering two-thirds of the of the U.S. population.  Verizon Wireless 4G LTE will be in 400 markets covering 260 million people by the end of this year.

Additional features:

  • Smart Stay – So intelligent, the display only dims when the customers' eyes are closed or no longer facing the screen
  • S Voice™ – Featuring natural language recognition, you can control the apps and services used most with words instead of touch. Use S Voice to turn the volume up or down on the music player, answer or reject incoming calls, shut off or choose to snooze the alarm clock, or take a picture by saying "smile" or "cheese."
  • AllShare® Play – Share HD videos and your favorite songs by streaming multimedia content from the Galaxy S III to a compatible Samsung Smart TV® or home audio system when connected to the same Wi-Fi network, and remotely access files on up to six Samsung devices.
  • Evolved camera capabilities – Burst Shot mode instantly captures 20 continuous shots and Best Photo feature selects the best shot to display.
  • Enhanced camera – 8-megapixel rear camera with zero-lag shutter speed and a 1.9-megapixel front camera so customers can capture pictures and videos of themselves or video chat with family and friends.
  • Mobile Hotspot – Share a 4G LTE connection with up to 10 Wi-Fi-enabled devices.
  • microSD card slot for expandable memory.

Pricing and availability:

  • Samsung Galaxy S III will be available online for pre-order starting June 6 at 7 a.m. ET atwww.verizonwireless.com/galaxys3 and will be available in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores and online in the coming weeks.
  • The Samsung Galaxy S III will be available in 16 GB and 32 GB models for $199.99 and $249.99 respectively with a new two-year customer agreement.  Customers will also have the choice of the Galaxy S III in two colors, Marble White or Pebble Blue.
  • Customers that purchase a Galaxy S III will need to subscribe to a 4G LTE mobile broadband data package starting at $30 monthly access for 2 GB of data.

Customers can visit http://www.verizonwireless.com/galaxys3 to sign up for more information and availability details on the Samsung Galaxy S III for Verizon Wireless.  For additional information on Verizon Wireless products and services, visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or go to www.verizonwireless.com.  Follow @VZWnews on Twitter™ for the latest news on Verizon Wireless.

About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless operates the nation's largest 4G LTE network and largest, most reliable 3G network. The company serves 93.0 million retail customers, including 88.0 million retail postpaid customers.  Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 80,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE, NASDAQ: VZ) and Vodafone (LSE, NASDAQ: VOD).  For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

About Samsung Mobile
Samsung Mobile (Samsung Telecommunications America, LLC), a Dallas-based subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., researches, develops and markets wireless handsets and telecommunications products throughout North America. For more information, please visit www.samsungwireless.com.

Samsung, Galaxy S, AllShare, S Voice, Samsung Smart TV and Super AMOLED are all trademarks of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.  Other company names, product names and marks mentioned herein are the property of their respective owners and may be trademarks or registered trademarks. 4G used in connection with the Samsung Galaxy S III refers to the fact that the device is capable of operating on Verizon Wireless' 4G LTE network.

Oracle Has Its Sights Set On A New Target, Slaps Lawsuit On Lodsys

Posted: 05 Jun 2012 07:14 AM PDT

 

Oracle has its sights set on a new target now that it quickly found it was no match for Google. It has decided to go after patent troll and bully Lodsys by seeking invalidation of four of Lodsys’ patents. Here’s the quick rundown of Lodsys: the company has been harassing developers of all types for the last few years by either suing them or offering quick and demeaning small settlements. Developers generally figured it would be easier to settle, rather than go out through a costly and exhausting legal battle. However, the same developers who were bullied eventually went to Google and asked for some help regarding this. Google filed a report for reexamination back in August 2011 seeking to invalidate two specific patents: “078″ and “565″. Generally speaking, if the patents were found invalid, then Lodsys would have no patents and thus, nothing to sue for. The catch to this process is it takes an incredibly long time to go through the process and both Lodsys as well as developers almost always settle before the process is complete.

So what does this have to do with Oracle? Well there is the notion that Oracle is trying to make a few things right away since it lost to Google. You see, like Google-based developers, Oracle developers have also been sued by Lodsys in the past. Seeing that it can at least salvage something from the Google loss, Oracle has decided to sue Lodsys for you guessed it— seeking to invalidate patents. The difference between Oracle’s action against Lodsys and Google’s previous action? Well— this is a lawsuit. This means if Lodsys is found guilty, you can bet Lodsys will be liable for any and all damages including legal fees and additional costs.

Ladies and gents, let the next chapter of the lawsuit games begin.

source: Android Police
Posted by at 5:44 AM 0 comments
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