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- Samsung Vibrant: How to Tether Without Root [Video]
- Motorola Droid 2 Coming August 12th?
- Samsung Captivate Source Code Released by Samsung
- HTC Desire Getting Android 2.2 Starting This Weekend
- HTC EVO 4G’s Android 2.2 Features Get Photographed
- Samsung Galaxy Tab Tablet Gets Blurry Cam Treatment Again
- Motorola profits top estimates thanks to Android
- HTC EVO 4G’s Update to Android 2.2 Beginning July 30th? [Update]
- Samsung Galaxy S in the UK will See Android 2.2 Update in September
- Motorola Droid 2 Cases Showing Up at Best Buy
| Samsung Vibrant: How to Tether Without Root [Video] Posted: 30 Jul 2010 10:50 AM PDT One of the best reasons to root your Android device, is to get your hands on some wired and wireless tethering options. It’s one of the greatest features of Android, and probably why all the carriers out there want to charge us for it (we’re lookin’ at you, Verizon). But, that’s not stopping Samsung from giving the option right from their own software, and some ingenious individuals out there from finding out how to actually use it.
The Samsung Vibrant, utilizing Samsung’s very own Kies software, can be tethered. Yes, without root. All you need is a USB cable (hey, that comes in the box!) and a PC that’s running either Windows XP or Windows 7. (No Vista?) The software that we just mentioned will make it perfectly possible for the Vibrant to function as a tethered device, you just need to know how to access T-Mobile’s network. Instead of go through a lengthy text format, we’re including the video below. So, if you’re interested in tethering your Vibrant without an app or rooting, here you go: Click here to view the embedded video. [via HackaDay] ) |
| Motorola Droid 2 Coming August 12th? Posted: 30 Jul 2010 10:32 AM PDT It’s the end of July, and August is literally right around the corner. One of the things we’re looking forward to the most is the Droid 2, and finally getting some official photography taken of the device. Plus, our hands-on time (that should be obvious). The release date of the device has been one of the best kept secrets within Verizon since its debut months ago, but now it looks like a recent leak from a Verizon internal screen shot shows that the Droid 2 is coming August 12th.
This can’t be confirmed by any means, and we’re sure that just because this is making its rounds over the Internet, it doesn’t mean that they are going to break their obvious game plan and announce anything sooner than they already planned. But, if the device does indeed launch August 12th, that puts it right near the middle of the month, and that tells us that an update to the Droid X to Android 2.2 at the end of the month, or right around the 15th, would make perfect sense. Here in just a few days, we’ll probably have all the necessary answers. [via Droid-Life] ) |
| Samsung Captivate Source Code Released by Samsung Posted: 30 Jul 2010 09:04 AM PDT Samsung, unlike Motorola, apparently wants you to have fun with your device, outside the normal restrictions. They have already released the source code for the international version of the Galaxy S, and now it looks like they want to do one better. They’ve just released the source code for the Samsung Captivate — the version that was released on AT&T not too long ago. (Yeah, the one you can’t side-load apps on.)
As you are all well aware, releasing the source code for a device is a huge step for developers out there. It will give them the tools they need to have their real fun, and start releasing full custom ROMs that other folks can download and use. So, with the software and code now open sourced, and the drivers along with them, we can hopefully start expecting some great things in the way of new ROMs and customizations. [via BriefMobile] ) |
| HTC Desire Getting Android 2.2 Starting This Weekend Posted: 30 Jul 2010 08:56 AM PDT Do you own an HTC Desire? Do you want an official build of Android 2.2 on your Desire? If you’re rooted, and love to root your device, then you probably don’t want to answer that question, but if you’re not rooted, and you’ve been patiently waiting to get your hands on the newest software version of Android, then this weekend is going to be a good weekend for you.
HTC have come forward and provided an official statement about Android 2.2, or Froyo, and come clean on when Desire owners should expect to get their mitts on it. Oh, but one little tid-bit that should be mentioned before we get into the official statement. If you’ve got a carrier locked Desire? This update isn’t for you. The carriers must be going through their checks and double-checks to make sure the update is kosher for their networks, so if you fall into that category, you may have to wait a bit longer. No, you will have to wait a bit longer. But, for the rest of you? Here’s the statement: Official Statement "The Android 2.2 (FroYo) update for HTC Desire will start rolling out across Europe this weekend. As well as including the complete set of Android 2.2 features, the update will contain a few special additions of our own through the latest iteration of HTC Sense. The update will provide 720p video capture, HTC's App Share widget, as well as our enhanced HTC Caller ID, and improved multi-language keyboard. Also, though the update, HTC Sync will allow HTC Desire users to sync their music with iTunes. HTC Desire users will be notified that the over-the-air update is available to download when their phone automatically checks for software updates. The update won't delete any of the phone's content. However, due to the size of the update, we would advise using a WiFi connection to download it wherever possible to avoid additional data charges. This update will initially roll out to unlocked HTC Desire handsets. Operator specific versions of the update are undergoing testing and we expect to make them available in several weeks' time." ) |
| HTC EVO 4G’s Android 2.2 Features Get Photographed Posted: 30 Jul 2010 08:49 AM PDT While we wait for August 3rd to come around, and you’re busy checking for software updates like crazy, why not take a few minutes to check out the new features headed to the EVO courtesy of Android 2.2 in some colorful pictures? Yeah, we thought you might like that. It may not be as good as using the features on your own device, but it’s better than nothing, right?
As you can see from the images, the new flashlight application is there and working (well, working as much as we can see, anyway). And considering HTC is including their new App Sharing widget in the update, we’re happy to see the new feature displayed right there in the images. But, there’s something else you EVO owners will be more interested. Apparently, there’s going to be some car dock-specific functionality that gets released with the new Android 2.2 udpate, too. And, to make it all make sense, there’s going to be an actual car dock that gets released some time in the first weeks of September. Plenty of good things are coming for the EVO, which will work well to make an already great Android device even better. Who’s excited? [via Engadget]    ) |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab Tablet Gets Blurry Cam Treatment Again Posted: 30 Jul 2010 08:09 AM PDT When it comes to Android powered tablets, or even Mobile Internet Devices (MIDs), there’s already a few options out there. But few of them are as enticing as the Samsung variant, scheduled to release some time this quarter. It’s called the Galaxy Tab, and it’s meant to bring all the great features of the Galaxy S lineage of devices into the tablet market, all powered by our favorite Android.
The Galaxy Tab will feature WiFi, GPS, a version of the Android mobile Operating System, GPS, a front- and rear-based camera, and access to 3G connectivity. However, the screen size is probably where many will either jump on board with the idea, or simply ignore it completely. At 7-inches, it’s somewhere right between that 10-inch mark, and the 4.3-inch monster smartphone/superphone place. In the picture above, it’s not officially verified that this is the Galaxy Tab, but it sure does have the same aesthetics, so we’re just as convinced as Samsung Hub that this is indeed Samsung’s tablet getting photographed again. Now, Samsung, we just need some official documents, and a release date. Thanks. [via Samsung Hub] ) |
| Motorola profits top estimates thanks to Android Posted: 30 Jul 2010 04:26 AM PDT Motorola has posted up its profits for the latest quarter and it should be sending gift baskets over to Google HQ. Motorola posted profits that beat Wall Street estimates thanks in large part to its line of popular Android phones.
Motorola posted profits per share, excluding some costs, of 9 cents. That 9 cents per share of profit beat expectations by a penny. Despite beating estimates, Motorola still saw revenue fall for the quarter with a 1.5% decline compared to last year. Net income did increase though to $162 million from $26 million from last year during the same quarter. ) |
| HTC EVO 4G’s Update to Android 2.2 Beginning July 30th? [Update] Posted: 29 Jul 2010 12:52 PM PDT That came out of nowhere. But, thanks to a new leak from an internal Sprint screen, it looks like the HTC EVO 4G is getting ready to get updated to Android 2.2 — starting tomorrow. That’s right, July 30th. But, in classic Sprint fashion, the update isn’t going to just bring the EVO 4G to the most current software version, but it’s also going to include a plethora of new updates to the device itself, courtesy of Sprint.
For example, you’ll be getting a host of new widgets (admittedly, that’s more from HTC than Sprint), and you’ll also be able to use a flashlight application to make use of that LED flash on the back of the device. You will also be able to use “light-assisted” features to help you take 720p HD video. There’s also improvements to the overall video capture as well. But, a bit of bad news, too. That mobile hot spot hack that made the rounds on some EVOs after its launch? Yeah, Sprint’s probably going to patch that up with this update, so if you’re partial to it, you may want to evaluate your situation. The OTA update is supposed to start tomorrow, but obviously it won’t get pushed to all the handsets out there at once. You should expect it to be rolled out in waves, and it will probably take until the end of the first week of August before it finishes up. That’s if the update actually starts rolling out tomorrow. We’ll be looking forward to some images from you EVO owners out there, if you get the update. [Update]Well, it looks like Sprint wanted to come forward and clear the air. And, guess what? It’s great news. HTC EVO owners should start getting notifications that their favorite Android handset is able to get upgraded to Android 2.2, beginning August 3rd. Again, this is an OTA update, so it should be staggered, so if you don’t get the update right when you wake up, don’t freak out. It’s coming. Check out the full press release below. [via Engadget] Press Release Sprint is the first wireless carrier to bring Android 2.2 to customers using the award-winning HTC EVO™ 4G beginning Tuesday, Aug. 3 Android 2.2 offers HTC EVO 4G feature enhancements including Bluetooth® voice dialing, built-in Flash, the ability to store apps to the memory card and much, much more The award-winning HTC EVO 4G just got that much better. We are excited to announce that beginning the week of Aug. 1; Sprint will begin rolling out the Android 2.2 upgrade to its HTC EVO 4G customers. Sprint will be the first wireless carrier to bring1 the latest version of Android to its customers. The Android 2.2 software release provides a significant number of feature enhancements, including: “Sprint is thrilled with our customers’ response to HTC EVO 4G and the innovative and exciting experience it offers,” said Fared Adib, vice president – Product Development for Sprint. “It is exciting for us to lead the industry in bringing the Android 2.2 update to these customers and improve on the amazing experience they receive with America’s first 4G capable phone.” Easy Downloading The notification will let the users know that the update is available and it will provide the simple two-step over-the-air download process. 1. Users will receive a notification that Android 2.2 is available for download. For those who just can’t wait to get Android 2.2, there will be an easy user initiated option to download the upgrade. Customers can access the software update through their HTC EVO 4G under the Settings Menu System Updates HTC Software Update. This will initiate the three-step process also. Rave Reviews and Accolades for EVO “The HTC EVO 4G, when used on Sprint’s 4G network, offers the highest consistent downstream data speeds I have ever seen on a cellular network. It also has a number of other strong features: a front-facing camera for video chatting, and the ability to serve as a Wi-Fi hotspot (for an extra fee of $30 a month) that can simultaneously connect up to eight laptops or other devices to the Internet.” Chris Ziegler with Engadget says: “Let us be crystal clear: we love this phone. Nay, we adore it. …truly one of the best smartphones ever made…” Sascha Segan with PC Magazine says: “…if you live online, the EVO offers a big, beautiful, and powerful window to the world.” “The EVO starts with a world-class 3G smartphone and adds 4G as a “turbo boost” option. If you’re an intensive Web user, you’ll like it even without 4G.” Bonnie Cha with CNET says: “Overall, the HTC Evo 4G is, hands-down, the best smartphone that Sprint has to offer and certainly ranks as one of the best Android phones on the market today.” Jessica Mintz with the Associated Press says: “HTC’s Evo 4G phone is fast, powerful and fun to use – as long as your heart isn’t set on tapping into the speedier new network it was designed for.” Mark Spoonauer with Laptop Magazine says: “Even if 4G hasn’t yet reached your neck of the woods, the Evo 4G is a killer device thanks to its zippy processor, huge display, and an interface that makes Android more intuitive and user-friendly. While the keyboard could be better and the battery life longer, the Evo 4G richly deserves our Editors’ Choice award. It’s a no-brainer for Sprint customers, and a tempting choice for those on other carriers.” Matt Buchannan with Gizmodo says: “It’s actually staggering how different the experience is of using a phone that has over 4 inches of display, diagonally, versus more conventional screens, which run closer to 3.5 inches. Even when you’re using the same OS at the same resolution-in this case, Android 2.1 with HTC’s Sense UI at 800×480, seen on their last few Android phones. It’s kind of like when the jeans you’ve been wearing forever start to fit a little too snugly because you’ve been eating a little too well, and you finally cave and buy a bigger pair of jeans, there’s a mindblowing moment when you close the button for the first time of how much freedom you suddenly have to breathe. So you kind of hyperventilate.” CNET, LAPTOP Magazine and eWeek gave HTC EVO 4G awards for Best of Show when it was announced at CTIA this spring. It was also recently cited on MobileTechReview’s Best Smartphones and Best Touch Screen Phones lists. Customer favorites on HTC EVO 4G’s long list of features include the 4.3-inch screen, dual 8MP video camera capable of capturing HD quality and front-facing 1.3MP camera. They also appreciate the HDMI output jack making it simple to start a movie for your children in the backseat of the car with the phone and then connect to an HDTV to finish it when you arrive at home.2 Business customers highlight its super-fast 1GHz processor, simultaneous voice and data capability in 4G or Wi-Fi coverage areas enabling Web surfing and more during conversation, and built-in mobile hotspot for up to eight Wi-Fi enabled devices.3 For HTC EVO 4G images visit Sprint’s image gallery. Amazing at 3G, Unbelievable at 4G |
| Samsung Galaxy S in the UK will See Android 2.2 Update in September Posted: 29 Jul 2010 12:06 PM PDT We’re all waiting for the update to Android 2.2. Perhaps for most situations, at least in an official capacity. And while we sit here with our fingernails between our teeth, we’re eagerly anticipating when phone manufacturers around the world tell us, beyond any shadow of a doubt, when that update is coming for any particular handset. Thanks to Samsung’s UK Twitter account, we now know when the UK-based Galaxy S is getting their update.
That would be some time in September. Yes, that’s right — no definitive date, but at least we have the month. And, even better, it’s just a little bit over a month away, which makes us plenty happy. Of course, there’s plenty of question still be asked: like, most importantly, when are the Galaxy S-based devices here in the States going to get upgraded? With the international Galaxy S having its own version of Froyo recently leaked, and UK saying that all Galaxy S devices under a network are getting upgraded, that just leaves the American versions let out in the wind. (The Korean models are probably launching with Froyo, so they don’t even count.) [via Samsung UK Mobile] ) |
| Motorola Droid 2 Cases Showing Up at Best Buy Posted: 29 Jul 2010 11:59 AM PDT We all know that the Droid 2 is coming. And, we’re all pretty much certain that the Droid 2 is coming next month. And it looks like folks at Best Buy may be under the same impression, too. Though, we’re curious if someone, somewhere, who has anything to do with the merchandise being placed out there, has any idea (officially) when the Droid 2 will actually get released. We’d like very much to talk to that person, or persons.
In any event, as you can see from the image, that’s clearly a case for the Droid 2. Even if you can’t tell from the aesthetics, there’s a big label at the bottom of the box that says what phone it’s for. Doesn’t get much clearer than that, we imagine. Then again, someone could have marked all of the boxes incorrectly, but that’s not likely. So, at this point, considering we already have the user manual, and now some cases, let’s go ahead and say that Verizon needs to come forward and announce this handset already. We’re waiting! [via Phandroid] ) |
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