Android Community

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• Cricket Huawei Ascend announced, cheapest Android phone on the market
• Tegra 2 Motorola phone could be pushed to early 2011 says Motorola
• Angry Birds coming next week, pushed back due to multitasking support
• Yahoo! Finance makes it’s way into the Android Market
• T-Mobile Prepaid Data pricing leaks
• Google close to accepting PayPal for Android Market purchases
• T-Mobile USA WiFi calling is coming to Android
• WolframAlpha app hits Android Market
• SAFECELLapp for Android keeps you from driving distracted
• Millennial Media unveils new SDK for Android devs
• Cisco Cius priced at “under $1,000″; due before end of 2010
• Windows Phone 7 beats Android claims Apple-loving John Gruber
• Nokia Android rumors reignite as Eric Schmidt calls Finland?
• Samsung Galaxy S ships over 5m units
• Motorola FLIPSIDE, BRAVO and FLIPOUT hands-on
• Star Wars Content App Now Available for Verizon Android Phones
• Motorola Droid Pro Hands-On [Video]
• Motorola Spice Heading to Brazil, Features Android 2.1
• Motorola Citrus announced by Verizon
• Motorola Droid Pro for Verizon Officially Announced

Cricket Huawei Ascend announced, cheapest Android phone on the market Posted: 06 Oct 2010 10:58 AM PDT We are starting to see more and more Android based phones coming to the prepaid market. First with Virgin's Samsung Intercept and now with Cricket's additional Android handset, the Huawei Ascend. The Ascend is an entry-level Android 2.1 based handset that Cricket will begin selling (without contract) this October. The phones features include: 3.5-inh HVGA 320×480 display 528 MHz Qualcomm MSM 7200A processor 3 Megapixel camera 3G WiFi If you recall these specs are strikingly similar to the HTC G1, which to today's standard isn't mind blowing, but you can't complain for a unsubsidized $149 device. Saving you even more money if you choose to go this route for your Android fix, Cricket also offers up some of the cheapest smartphone plans. A monthly plan with unlimited talk, text, and web will only set you back $55. [Via PC Mag] )

Tegra 2 Motorola phone could be pushed to early 2011 says Motorola Posted: 06 Oct 2010 10:39 AM PDT Last night after the Motorola event, CEO Sanjay Jha was asked a few questions regarding the new devices as well as some future devices. One of the questions that came up regarded the secret Tegra 2 phone that we have heard was rumored to be released before this years holiday season. He went on to say that there is a chance Motorola will launch one more phone before the end of the year, however, the Tegra 2 phone could be pushed back to the beginning of 2011. We can safely assume that the phone he was talking about being launched by years end would be the Droid 2 Global. But as far as specs, rumors, or anything regarding this new Tegra 2 phone, we are left dry. Word on the street is that Motorola is implementing extremely strict NDA agreements on all of their new products which would explain why he is the only one we have heard word of this device from. [Via Android and Me] )

Angry Birds coming next week, pushed back due to multitasking support Posted: 06 Oct 2010 10:30 AM PDT Angry Birds, arguably one of the most popular mobile games out there will be coming to Android devices, in full, next week. We have had the beta for about a month now and to have the full version will likely end up in even more time wasting. As Rovio announced on Twitter, it is being pushed back one more week to properly support Android multitasking. This is good news that they are not going to release a game without it being ready, and to have multitasking support will be a great addition to anyone spending countless (interrupted) hours playing the popular game. From RovioMobile: Good and bad news. Full version of Android pushed to next week. We are adding proper support for Android Multitasking. )

Yahoo! Finance makes it’s way into the Android Market Posted: 06 Oct 2010 07:30 AM PDT The popular stock application for both BlackBerry and the iPhone, Yahoo! Finance, has made it's way into the Android Market. Android users now have access to the No. 1 financial site in the U.S. on their Android devices. Some of the features that are included in the initial launch are: Real-time quotes Customizable stock watch list Access to Yahoo Finance portfolios Stats and news Tech Ticker video As of now the app is only available in the United States. However, they have full plans to launch it around the world with local content-specific versions for each market. QR Code: [Via Yahoo!] )

T-Mobile Prepaid Data pricing leaks Posted: 06 Oct 2010 07:06 AM PDT Let's face it contracts are not for everyone, they're binding, and although they offer competitive pricing for data plans (they have to to compete) many users who prefer to go the prepaid route have not seen cheap option plans. That looks like it will be changing now with a recently leaked T-Mobile Prepaid Broadband plans sheet. According to this information sheet we can expect the following plans: $10 = 100MB for 7 Days – plan complete with whichever comes first $30 = 300MB for 30 Days – plan complete with whichever comes first $50 = 1GB for 30 Days – plan complete with whichever comes first The plans are coming, and although they are not spectacular, or close to, prepaid users will likely love the options apart from their pay by the min/MB they have to do now. Prepaid plans around the world are far more flexible with far lower prices. Hopefully the United States will match up to their flexibility in pricing soon, but it is nice to at least have the option now. [Via Phandroid] )

Google close to accepting PayPal for Android Market purchases Posted: 06 Oct 2010 06:52 AM PDT PayPal the popular online money exchange website that's used in many online retailers and eBay, may soon be coming to the Android Market. Word is that come October 26 at PayPal's developer conference in San Francisco, we may hear an announcement of such a deal being implemented. PayPal will bring some peace of mind to users who do not want to set up a credit card in Google Checkout, as well as bring in a user base who is already familiar with the service, and prefers it over other methods of pay. [Via The Street] )

T-Mobile USA WiFi calling is coming to Android Posted: 06 Oct 2010 06:45 AM PDT T-Mobile USA has announced that it will be rolling out WiFi calling to select models in its line-up of Android smartphones “in the coming months,” allowing the handsets to route voice calls over WiFi rather than cellular networks.  The T-Mobile myTouch, Motorola DEFY and other devices will be able to make calls and send SMS messages via WiFi, using Kineto's Smart Wi-Fi Application. The exact list of handsets that will support the app is unknown, as is the timescale for its availability.  Still, it’ll be preloaded on the myTouch and DEFY, which are due before the end of the year and in time for the holidays respectively. Press Release: T-Mobile Wi-Fi Calling To Be Available on New T-Mobile myTouch, Motorola DEFY and More Bellevue, Wash. — Oct. 6, 2010 T-Mobile USA, Inc. today announced its continued innovation of Wi-Fi Calling technology with the upcoming availability of built-in Wi-Fi Calling solutions planned for a wide selection of Android™-powered smartphones, including the recently announced new T-Mobile® myTouch® and Motorola DEFY™ with MOTOBLUR™. A leader in bringing innovative and easy-to-use solutions to market to enhance indoor coverage for consumers and provide cost saving for businesses, T-Mobile hosts approximately 40 million Wi-Fi calls per month, a number that has grown steadily since the company launched Wi-Fi Calling in June 2007. In addition to consumers benefiting from enhanced coverage, T-Mobile business customers – from small business to multinational corporations – have long taken advantage of the company's Wi-Fi Calling plan offerings, enabling them to take advantage of the enhanced coverage, as well as the opportunity for reduced domestic and international minute usage, increased enterprise mobility cost savings and improved productivity benefits this solution can deliver. Currently, T-Mobile offers Wi-Fi Calling on numerous devices including the Nokia E73 Mode™, BlackBerry® Curve™ 8520, BlackBerry® Bold™ 9700 and the new BlackBerry® Curve™ 3G. "T-Mobile's expansion of Wi-Fi Calling to Android smartphones is an excellent innovation, and part of our ongoing initiatives on behalf of our customers to enhance indoor coverage," said Torrie Dorrell, vice president, connected family products and services, T-Mobile USA. "This new execution of Wi-Fi Calling technology helps us ensure that our customers' Android-powered smartphones can keep them connected to the important people in their lives where they work, live or play." The implementation of Wi-Fi Calling for Android smartphones brings a new solution to a fast-growing mobile platform and broader range of smartphones for consumers and business customers. Powered by Kineto's Smart Wi-Fi Application, T-Mobile's Wi-Fi Calling for Android smartphones will be ready to use out-of-the-box, providing the ability to make voice calls and send SMS from accessible Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n) access points across the globe in addition to the connectivity available through T-Mobile's mobile network. The application will also include a tutorial for the benefit of first-time users of the feature. Availability Wi-Fi Calling for Android is anticipated to be available on a growing selection of T-Mobile's Android-powered smartphones in the coming months. The new T-Mobile myTouch is expected to be available in time for the holidays, exclusively from T-Mobile USA in four colors —white, black, plum or red. Customers can visit http://mytouch.t-mobile.com for more information. Motorola DEFY with MOTOBLUR is expected to be available exclusively to T-Mobile USA customers in time for the holidays. For more information on Motorola DEFY with MOTOBLUR, customers can visit http://mytouch.t-mobile.com for more information. )

WolframAlpha app hits Android Market Posted: 06 Oct 2010 06:06 AM PDT A new computational search engine app called WolframAlpha is going to land in the Android Market today. The app has been available on other OS’ previously. The Android version will sell for the same $1.99 that the iPhone version goes for. Users can download the app and then search ten trillion different knowledge facts and tens of thousands of computational models using voice keywords. This app is a bit confusing as to the purpose it serves. The app lets you get all sorts of numerical data on science, engineering, health, nutrition, and tons more. Folks on a diet for instance can type in a specific food and get nutritional facts. It also works sort of like the Google calculator where you can enter a math problem and get the answer. The app first hit the iPhone with a big price of $50 and failed. It presumably sells better at $1.99 on both platforms. )

SAFECELLapp for Android keeps you from driving distracted Posted: 06 Oct 2010 05:56 AM PDT A new app for Android users has launched called SAFECELLapp. The app is designed to disable the phone, email, and messaging functions the Android smartphones and alert drivers when they are entering into school zones. The app also promises to pay drivers for using it with rewards for their favorite retail stores. The app has a yearly fee associated with it of $11.99 per year. Those who buy the app before December 28 will get the app free for life at the $11.99 rate with free upgrades. The app uses GPS and a proprietary database of federal, state, county, and city cell phone usage law to allow the app to function even in cities where the driver isn’t familiar with the laws. The app activates when the device is traveling at more than 5 mph. The app can also be used to monitor trip details including phone use, email, and text messaging. The reports can be used by companies, parents, and users to determine if laws are being followed. The points earned with the use of the app can be spent at Apple, Amazon, Barnes & Noble and more retailers. The user gets one point for every mile driven while following the applicable laws. )

Millennial Media unveils new SDK for Android devs Posted: 06 Oct 2010 05:31 AM PDT Millennial Media has announced that it has updated its SDK for developers on the Android platform. The new SDK offers some new features that will allow developers to add some new features to the advertisements and content they develop for Android devices The new SDK lets the Android dev add new features like improved static interstitials, video interstitials, updated overlays, enhanced JavaScript capability, and allows the advertiser to tailor the ad more appropriately. The updated SDK also allows the users to star engaged in the ad without having to leave the application. The new update is the fourth SDK release in less than six months for the company. As much as most mobile users loathe ads, perhaps these new features will make them easier to live with from a user standpoint. )

Cisco Cius priced at “under $1,000″; due before end of 2010 Posted: 06 Oct 2010 04:23 AM PDT Cisco’s 7-inch Android tablet, the webconferencing-centric Cius, has been priced, and if you were expecting a low-cost alternative to the iPad then you’ll be sorely disappointed.  According to an official FAQ turned up by CrunchGear, the Cisco Cius will cost “under $1,000″ when it arrives before the end of the year. As to why potential customers should buy the Cius rather than, say, two iPads, Cisco says it’s “not an equivalent comparison.”  The Cius, they insist, “is not a consumer device” but instead “ the first-of-its- kind mobile collaboration device.” There’s plenty more detail in the full FAQ – which is targeted at developers – below. Top 20 Frequently Asked Questions – Cisco Cius – August 2010 version 1.4 1) What is Cisco Cius? Cisco Cius is an innovative, secure mobile collaboration business tablet, designed for knowledge workers to the executive. With Cisco Cius, now casual-to-highly mobile employees have access to the very same desktop collaboration and communications experience wherever they are. With Cisco Cius, employees benefit from on-and-off campus mobility, complete access to the suite of Cisco Collaboration applications, including Unified Communications and interoperability with the Cisco TelePresence solution for video conferencing. In addition, Virtual Desktop Integration enables business applications to be hosted in the Data Center and delivered securely, reliably and on-demand, via the network to employees. Cisco Cius combines this Virtual Desktop Integration capability, with resident computing power that can support local processing of Android-based applications, thus enabling IT organizations to further consolidate devices at the desktop based on their IT objectives and their user preferences. Finally, as an open source platform, Cisco Cius shall support the Android operating system. This enables employees to take advantage of business applications available from the Android Marketplace, while accounting for appropriate IT controls. 2) When will Cisco Cius be available? Limited availability of Cisco Cius is expected to be CY Q4 2010 with general availability in calendar year Q1 2011. 3) What is the pricing for Cisco Cius? Pricing is still be finalized at this time. With typical discounts applied, expectation would be that the Cius tablet would be available at under $1000 ($USD street price). Note that discounts may vary by Cisco reseller and thus, prices noted should be considered a guideline. 4) Does Cisco Cius require Cisco media servers to support its features and if so, what Cisco media servers are supported? Yes. At time of Cisco Cius' First Customer Shipment (FCS), Cisco Cius will register to Unified Communications Manager and Unified Communications Manager Business Edition and will require system release 8.5 available this fall, along with any appropriate media servers, to support the Unified Communications Manager and Unified Communications Manager Business Edition deployment. 5) Why is Cisco Cius twice the price of an Apple iPad? Why should I purchase Cisco Cius versus just purchasing iPad's instead? Cisco Cius is not a consumer device so it's not an equivalent comparison. Cisco Cius is the first-of-its- kind mobile collaboration device. With Cius, casual and highly mobile employees benefit from a communications, collaboration and computing solution. Examples where Cius provides additional benefits over an iPad include: • Cisco Unified Communications –employees get the same desktop business communications features with Cius, whether at their desk or mobile. Cius will leverage the best elements in user experience from both the IP Phone 9900 Series' design and that of Cisco's Client Services Framework (i.e. Cisco Unified Personal Communicator). In addition, Cisco will use its networking technology to provide the quality of service businesses expect. • Cisco Collaboration – Interoperability with Cisco's TelePresence solution is unique to Cisco Cius such that employees can participate in larger video conferences with a superior HD video experience. In addition, employees will benefit from Cisco Quad for virtual teaming, Cisco Show and Share for secure video sharing, Cisco WebEx for conferencing and real-time file exchange, Cisco Unified Presence and so many more. These are capabilities that consumer tablets do not offer. • Virtual Desktop Integration – With Cisco Cius, support for a virtual desktop client will be provided day one. This provides an opportunity to consolidate devices at the desktop, while delivering full mobile access to employees, including Cloud Computing, where business applications are migrated to the Data Center. Combined with the local computing and storage capabilities of Cisco Cius, IT organizations now have the option to replace an employee's PC, based on their strategic objectives and user preferences, to save additional money, in addition to centralizing administration. • Security – At Cisco, we know security and with Cisco Cius, you benefit from full encrypted communications end-to-end voice and data networking. Protecting your most valuable asset – your intellectual property. Cisco Cius comes standard with Cisco AnyConnect VPN client for a secure connection wherever you are, media and signaling encryption, secure boot up to ensure only Cisco authorized software is installed and remote wipe applications in the event Cius is stolen or lost. Cisco Cius delivers enterprise class security, unlike consumer-based tablets today. • IT Management – Cisco Cius is designed to support IT organizations need for a centrally provisioned and administered device. It will be administered, provisioned and managed from Cisco Unified Communications Manager. For customers with existing investment in Apple iPad tablets today, note that Cisco offers Collaboration solutions which are supported on iPad to maximize the choice of the customer. One such example is Cisco WebEx for iPad. Cisco will continue to look for ways to interop with iPad and other mobile devices, independent of Cisco Cius introduction. 6) With the introduction of Cisco Cius, is Cisco entering the mobile phone market? No. Cisco Cius will support 3G/4G data services only as the form factor is optimized to deliver a superior experience with business productivity, collaboration and web 2.0 applications that can take advantage of its larger display. We will not support cellular voice on GSM, CDMA networks. Cius users, however, by using the Cisco AnyConnect VPN client, can take advantage of secure VoIP from the corporate network, running over the service provider's 3G/4G data network. 7) Is Cisco Cius a Smartphone/Mobile Phone replacement? No. Cisco Cius will support 3G/4G data services only. The larger display will provide a better browsing, collaboration and computing experience than typical smartphone devices. It is not intended as a smartphone/mobile phone replacement. Cius users, however, by using the Cisco AnyConnect VPN client, can take advantage of secure VoIP from the corporate network, running over the service provider's 3G/4G data network. Who are the service providers that will support Cisco Cius 3G/4G data services? We are in discussions with multiple service providers across the globe but are unable to make any public announcements around these discussions at this time. Upon declaration of First Customer Shipment (FCS), we will offer a configuration with native 3G support on multiple service providers data service networks. 4G native services are currently on our roadmap for CY 2H 2011. 9) Will Cisco Cius support video over 3G / 4G? Yes, but video will be best-effort on these networks. 10) Does announcement of the Cisco Cius signal that Cisco Unified IP Phones 9900 Series is going End-of-Sale? No. The Cisco Unified IP Phones 9900 Series offers employees, who spend the vast majority of their time at their desks, access to high-quality (VGA) video. The IP Phones 9900 Series is a cost-effective, scalable portfolio which provides high-performance video communications. Cisco Cius is designed for employees who can benefit from both desk and mobile communications. This can range from the casually or occasionally mobile to the actively mobile employee. In addition, while delivering full mobile access including Cloud Computing, Cisco Cius delivers applications-as-a- service on demand. Cisco Cius shall be priced as a premier offer in the Cisco portfolio, given the breadth and depth of its features and capabilities. As Cisco has noted previously in its communications, there is no one solution that fits every need. We're empowering customers with an expanded portfolio to pick the endpoint(s) that best suit their needs. Introduction of Cisco Cius is in support of this strategy to provide additional endpoint options. 11) Do we intend to keep pace with the Android release cycle? We will release on Android Froyo 2.2. We are committed to keeping up with the Android releases to enable new features and functionality. We intend to line up Android ongoing releases with our broader Cisco system releases to ensure system test, interoperability and compatibility with other Cisco products. This is yet another reason why Cisco Cius is a solution designed for business. 12) Is a Cisco Software Developer Kit (SDK) required to create applications for Cisco Cius? Developers can use the Android SDK to create applications that will run on Cisco Cius. The Cisco SDK v1 will be published the end of September 2010 to allow customization of Android applications to be optimized for presentation on the display of Cisco Cius. A second SDK (v2) will be published the end of November 2010 and include Cisco API's for call and media control to further integrate Android business applications with the Cisco Cius user experience and collaboration applications. 13) Is Cisco going to contribute to the Android OpenSource community? We will be participating members of the Open Handset Alliance (OHA) and intend to contribute to the community. Agreements to join the OHA are in process now. 14) Are there security concerns with Android 3rd party applications? For IT organizations concerned about applications their users may download that could possibly compromise security, Cisco Cius will provide the option to restrict user access to the Android Marketplace. In this scenario, IT Administrators could download acceptable applications and provision them through Cisco Unified Communications Manager by establishing a device profile for Cisco Cius. 15) With Cisco Cius, is Cisco partnering with Google? Android is an open source operating system now owned by the Open Handset Alliance. Android is projected by various industry experts to become the market leader for Mobile device operating systems. By moving to an open platform such as Android OS, Cisco Cius can take advantage of the latest processing technology, ensuring optimal performance, with very little impact on the operating system and your users. 16) What Cisco applications will be available on Cisco Cius when it is released? Cisco Collaboration applications, including Cisco Unified Communications, that are targeted for support at time of FCS including: • Cisco WebEx • Instant Messaging • Cisco Unified Presence • Cisco WebEx Mail • Cisco AnyConnect VPN Client • Cisco Quad • Cisco Show and Share • Cisco Unity Connection Additional applications: • Virtual Desktop Client • Android Web Browser (WebKit) • Cisco AnyConnect VPN Client • Access to third-party applications from Android Marketplace 17) Will Cisco Cius allow me to replace any of the multiple devices I use today? The device(s) replaced depend on user preference, their use case scenarios and their specific role in the organization. In addition, IT may find device consolidation opportunities based on their virtual desktop integration/cloud computing strategies and TCO reduction goals. 18) Is Cisco Cius intended as a PC alternative? It could be. For customers who adopt cloud computing, Cisco Cius supports a Virtual Desktop Client. This enables migration of business applications to the Data Center in a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) model. Similar to a PC, applications access is secure and available to employees anywhere, anytime. This Cloud Computing approach allows IT administration costs to be reduced. Cisco Cius allows IT organizations to migrate away from PC's at their own pace. Note also that Cisco Cius has resident processing capability along with local storage support. As the support for Android-based applications grows, the ability to leverage the computer power of Cius, independent of Virtual Desktop Integration and Cloud Computing, shall also continue to expand. 19) Can I replace the battery of a Cisco Cius tablet? Yes. Cisco Cius offers a battery that is both detachable and serviceable. As to anticipated battery life without need for a charge, we will make available actual performance numbers upon validation through customer trials. 20) Who are you partnering with to deliver Cisco Cius? We are partnering with a number of vendors to deliver Cisco Cius including the Open Handset Alliance (OHA) which oversees management of the Android OS. )

Windows Phone 7 beats Android claims Apple-loving John Gruber Posted: 06 Oct 2010 04:06 AM PDT John Gruber is well known as an Apple fan, but he unsurprisingly has an opinion on Windows Phone 7 and Android as well.  Having played with a phone running Microsoft’s new OS for roughly five minutes last week, Gruber revealed on his podcast (just before eight minutes in) that he was “really impressed” and that Windows Phone 7 feels more thoughtful than Android. That thoughtfulness, Gruber suggests, is absent from Android, which feels like it was put together by multiple teams working separately.  He particularly praises the software keyboard and iPhone-like absence of latency in typing, navigating and scrolling, as opposed to a “jaggy” Google Nexus One (which Gruber tried earlier in the year; no word on whether it was running Android 2.1 or 2.2). In all, while he concedes he only had a few minutes with the prototype, Gruber says he’d be more likely to pick a Windows Phone 7 device over an Android phone. [via Business Insider] )

Nokia Android rumors reignite as Eric Schmidt calls Finland? Posted: 06 Oct 2010 03:53 AM PDT The Nokia Android rumors just won’t die, and while the general consensus is that the Finnish company wouldn’t touch Google’s open-source OS with a barge-pole, that apparently hasn’t stopped Eric Schmidt trying his luck.  According to TechCrunch, at around the same time as Nokia’s VP of MeeGo devices was resigning, Google’s CEO was calling to see if he could persuade them to consider Android on future devices. According to their “good” source, Android could be implemented as a temporary measure used to showcase Nokia’s hardware.  That fits in to some extent with feedback after early previews of the Nokia N9 – which will be MeeGo based – that suggested the physical device showed promise but that the software was half-baked. Of course, Nokia continues to dismiss the speculation, and we can’t see them investing in Android for a short-term fix.  Still, having played with the E7 at Nokia World last month we will admit to wishing the smartphone came with Froyo rather than Symbian^3. )

Samsung Galaxy S ships over 5m units Posted: 06 Oct 2010 03:20 AM PDT Samsung’s Galaxy S is undoubtedly one of the more popular Android smartphones around right now, but according to the company’s latest figures it’s already sold over five million units.  Buried in among details on the Galaxy Tab‘s launch in Japan, the milestone includes over 2m Galaxy S family handsets sold in the US and over 1m in Korea alone. Obviously the US figures include the various versions of the Galaxy S that Samsung has crafted for the different carriers: Verizon’s Fascinate, AT&T’s Captivate and T-Mobile’s Vibrant.  It’s unclear if the Sprint Epic 4G – which also packs a QWERTY keyboard – is included, however. Press Release: Samsung unleashes a GALAXY of opportunities in Japan Seoul (Korea Newswire) October 05, 2010 10:26 AM — Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., a leader in mobile technology, today announced plans to launch its GALAXY S smartphone and GALAXY Tab smart media device in Japan. Samsung made the announcement during a GALAXY S and GALAXY Tab launch event at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Tokyo. More than 200 guests including journalists attended the event hosted by JK Shin, President and Head of the Mobile Communications Business, Samsung Electronics and Ryuji Yamada, President and CEO of NTT DOCOMO. The GALAXY S is scheduled to go on sale in late October and the smart media device GALAXY Tab in late November. Both mobile devices are powered by the Android™ 2.2 operating system, enabling users to choose from a large number of applications available at the mobile portals Android Market™ and docomo market. Ryuji Yamada, President and CEO of NTT DOCOMO says, "The GALAXY S smartphone and GALAXY Tab smart media device are highly promising new products for the smartphone era. We expect our Japanese users to make full use of their high performance to experience the wonderful world of advanced mobile content and functionality via DOCOMO's state-of-the-art mobile network. "The GALAXY S and GALAXY Tab will deliver true value and enjoyment through immersive, integrative and intelligent consumer experiences. We are very grateful for the fantastic global response we have received for the GALAXY S and I am convinced that the Japanese market will feel the same," said JK Shin, President and Head of Mobile Communications Business at Samsung Electronics. He continued, "With the launch of the GALAXY Tab and in partnership with NTT DOCOMO, we are bringing Japanese consumers a smart media device that has generated significant excitement across the world." The GALAXY S features a 4-inch, SUPER AMOLED screen and supports Flash?? for PC-like access to diverse Web content. Its 5.0 megapixel camera captures high-definition video that can be played back on the phone's industry-leading, high-resolution screen. Multi-touch functionality also enables intuitive control of the screen. Samsung continues to expand the reach of the GALAXY S around the world with the Japanese market launch following the recent launch in China, in September. The GALAXY S has been a phenomenal success in the global smart phone market, recording global sales of over 5 million units including more than 2 million units in the United States and more than 1 million units in Korea. The GALAXY Tab smart media device has opened up a new chapter for the Mobile industry in providing an all-new way to experience Internet browsing on the go. Consumers are able to experience PC-like fully Flash?? 10.1 compatible web-browsing and enjoy all forms of multimedia content on the perfectly sized 7-inch display, wherever they go. It is an exceptionally portable tablet device that can be easily held in one hand. Moreover, users can continuously communicate via e-mail, voice and video call, SMS/MMS or social network with the optimized user interface. The GALAXY S and GALAXY Tab will be exhibited at CEATEC Japan 2010 in Makuhari Messe, Japan from October 5 to 9. )

Motorola FLIPSIDE, BRAVO and FLIPOUT hands-on Posted: 06 Oct 2010 01:06 AM PDT It wasn’t just Motorola’s new Verizon phones at the company’s CTIA 2010 event; the new AT&T FLIPOUT, BRAVO and FLIPSIDE had come along for some hands-on play. The FLIPOUT we’re already familiar with, having seen the European model some months back, but the other handsets are a little newer. All are reasonably solid, the spring-loaded hinge mechanism on the FLIPOUT being surprisingly tactile while the slider on the FLIPSIDE feels sturdy.  Neither QWERTY keyboard is going to win awards for typing, but they’re also better in key-feel than the somewhat mushy DROID ‘board.  The BRAVO’s display is probably the best of the bunch, with the FLIPOUT being decidedly on the small side and the FLIPSIDE’s being reduced to fit the trackpad.  Personally we’d rather have seen a bigger touchscreen and lose the trackpad, or put it onto the back of the handset, like with other Motorolas. More hands-on shots in the gallery below, and details on the three phones here. )

Star Wars Content App Now Available for Verizon Android Phones Posted: 05 Oct 2010 11:20 PM PDT If you are a fan of Star Wars but either do not want to go all out and buy the Droid R2-D2, or you are currently stuck within a contract, then the Verizon Star Wars Empire Strikes Back app will be your best way to bring exclusive content to your device. The launch, celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Star Wars sage comes with a lot of content including: Star Wars news feed Trivia game Live wallpapers soundboards widgets soundboard The app is available for $2.99 now. Please note that the amount will be charged through your bill and not the normal app store purchase process. [Via Droid Life] )

Motorola Droid Pro Hands-On [Video] Posted: 05 Oct 2010 07:18 PM PDT Motorola just announced the Droid Pro, their first candy-bar, “BlackBerry-esque” Android-based device, and now we can say that we’ve managed to get some hands on time with the device. It’s a unique form factor, but we can safely say that it’s one that we’ve been waiting to get our hands on for some time now. The way that Motorola has incorporated the same Blur-style User Interface with the 3.1-inch touchscreen, and the full QWERTY keyboard underneath it, the Droid Pro definitely has the potential of climbing the list of favorite Android devices. As we messed around with the device, we were happy to see that there wasn’t much lag or stuttering at all. Clearly, the 1GHz processor under the hood was a good decision. But, the main takeaway from the device is its keyboard. It’s very, very good. But, it would have to be, considering the fact it plays front and center on the device, and doesn’t hide at any time. As far as the precise details on the feature set, that looks something like this: a 1GHz OMAP 3620 processor; 512MB of memory, and 2 GB of on board storage. You’ll find 802.11n 2.4GHz WiFi, Bluetooth 2.1, and the device supports tri-band UMTS. There’s a hardware key along the side of the device that, when you push it the first time, it will ask you what you want it to do from that point on. Customization done in a classy way. Check out our hands on video below, as well as the image gallery. )

Motorola Spice Heading to Brazil, Features Android 2.1 Posted: 05 Oct 2010 06:42 PM PDT Motorola’s time at CTIA tonight was busy, as the company released a handful of devices, and as the Spice showcases, they’re not all meant for the United States. While the Spice is definitely the Motorola XT300 from a ways back, it’s now got an official name, and it just landed in the Brazilian market. Unfortunately, it’s not the fastest, or most “up to date” device on the market, especially considering it’s a brand new device. Though, that portrait slider may make it interesting enough to give a second look at. Feature wise, the Spice doesn’t do much to stand out. It has a 528MHz processor under the hood, it’s running the full version of Motoblur, and it’s running Android 2.1. There’s the BACKTRACK trackpad on the back case of the device, as we’ve seen with other Motorola manufactured, Android-powered handsets in the past. The camera on the back is a 3.2MP, and the display is a 3.2MP QVGA. The device is available in Brazil, so if you’re tempted to get your hands on it, and you’re in the region, go ahead and check it out. [via Motorola] )

Motorola Citrus announced by Verizon Posted: 05 Oct 2010 05:54 PM PDT Motorola announced today the Citrus along with the Droid Pro for Verizon. This is an entry level phone that will most likely run Android 2.1 OS and Blur Skin. It’s not the next high end device that everyone would have liked to see, but it’s not necessarily all that bad, either. There’s a lot of information still missing though, even if Verizon has officially announced it. This phone also looks as if it will feature Bing as well. The phone has a 3-inch touch screen with multi touch also. Not much else is known about the phone, but more info will be available soon. As with the Droid Pro, Verizon has come clean on all the details, which you can read in detail in the press release below. But, here’s the main take-away: a curved design, a touchpanel on the back of the device that Motorola is calling the BACKTRACK, and it is confirmed that the device will be pre-loaded with Bing services. You’ll be able to customize 7 home screens. Unfortunately, there’s no word on how big the screen actually is. As for pricing and release date, Verizon says the Citrus will be available in the fourth quarter of 2010, and pricing will be announced closer to the launch. Press Release VERIZON WIRELESS AND MOTOROLA UNVEIL MOTOROLA CITRUS Designed Specifically for New Smartphone Users, this Full Touch, Android-Powered Smartphone Comes Compact and Fully Loaded SAN FRANCISCO – From CTIA Enterprise & Applications™ 2010, Verizon Wireless, the company with the nation's largest and most reliable wireless 3G network, and Motorola, Inc. (NYSE: MOT) today unveiled Motorola CITRUS™. Powered by Android™ 2.1, Motorola CITRUS delivers an affordable, entry-level, customizable smartphone experience in a compact design that is easy on both the eyes and the earth. Key features and specifications: · Curved design · Easy-to-use, on-screen QWERTY keyboard (available in landscape and portrait modes) for quick messaging · Full HTML Web browser – Preloaded with Bing Search and Bing Maps and delivers a PC-like Web browsing experience with quick access to Web apps and services such as Facebook®; Google services such as Gmail™, Google Talk™ and YouTube™ · Equipped with BACKTRACK™, a touch panel located on the back of the device that enables users to navigate and scroll through websites, home screens, e-mails, music and more without obstructing the display · Full capacitive touch screen display delivers fluid flick, swipe and pinch-to-zoom navigation · Seven home screen panels that can be tailored with an array of available shortcuts; applications; and pre-loaded widgets such as sticky notes, weather, messages and calendar · Android Market™ – Choose from thousands of downloadable apps, many of which are free · CITRUS has a housing made from 25 percent post-consumer recycled plastic, is certified CarbonFree® through an alliance with Carbonfund.org, and is PVC and BFR free. The packaging is made from 80 percent post-consumer recycled paper, and the user manual is made using 100 percent recycled paper and soy-based ink. Pricing and availability: · Motorola CITRUS will be available at www.verizonwireless.com and in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores in Q4 2010. · For more information about Verizon Wireless products and services, visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or go to www.verizonwireless.com. (EDITOR'S NOTE: Media can access high-resolution images of Motorola CITRUS in the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.) About Verizon Wireless Verizon Wireless operates the nation's most reliable and largest wireless voice and 3G data network, serving more than 92 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 79,000 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 Motorola Motorola is known around the world for innovation in communications and is focused on advancing the way the world connects. From broadband communications infrastructure, enterprise mobility and public safety solutions to mobile and wireline digital communication devices that provide compelling experiences, Motorola is leading the next wave of innovations that enable people, enterprises and governments to be more connected and more mobile. Motorola (NYSE: MOT) had sales of US $22 billion in 2009. For more information, please visit www.motorola.com. )

Motorola Droid Pro for Verizon Officially Announced Posted: 05 Oct 2010 05:42 PM PDT Verizon just released a photo of their soon to come phone, the Droid Pro. With its candybar style and full qwerty keyboard, this phone is a beauty. It is not what many people expected the phone to be like, but hopefully more information will be released later in the week at CTIA. But, having that 1GHz processor under the hood, and a 3.1-inch capacitive touchscreen display is nothing to scoff at. We also know that this phone will be a global phone and will have wireless service in more than 220 countries and data coverage in more than 200. For now we will just have to wait for more information about Verizon’s latest Android to come out. For now, we’ll have to be happy with knowing that Android 2.2 is on board, along with the new version of Blur. [Update] Looks like Verizon’s gone official, and provided the key details we’ve been waiting for. The full press release is below, but here’s what you should expect with this device: Full Flash Player 10.1 support, (confirmed Android 2.2), you’ll have 3G mobile hotspot options, a 5Mp camera with dual LED flash and autofocus, WiFi-enabled DLNA connectivity, and the rest of the goodies that are involved with the new Blur. As for pricing and release date, that hasn’t been announced yet, but it’s expected in stores in the coming weeks. Pricing will be announced closer to the launch date. Press Release Global Android Smartphone from Verizon Wireless Combines Rich Business and Personal Mobile Experiences SAN FRANCISCO – From CTIA Enterprise & Applications™ 2010, Verizon Wireless, the company with the nation's largest and most reliable wireless 3G network, and Motorola, Inc. (NYSE: MOT) today unveiled DROID PRO, a new, powerful, stronger and faster solution designed to meet both business and personal needs. The first Android™-based smartphone optimized for business use, DROID PRO is also a global-ready Android smartphone from Verizon Wireless, allowing customers to enjoy wireless voice service in more than 220 countries and data coverage in more than 200 countries. DROID PRO meets employers' and employees' needs by addressing the productivity tools businesses require, including corporate connectivity and security; full push corporate e-mail with corporate level security; unified calendar with additional work features; pre-loaded Quickoffice Mobile Suite, a powerful 1 GHz processor; 4 GB of memory (2 GB internal; and 2 GB removable) and a QWERTY keyboard designed for speed and convenience. "DROID PRO combines the feature-packed, high-level user experience that customers look for in an Android smartphone plus the security that enterprises require, all with the reliability of Verizon Wireless' 3G network," said Mike Lanman, president – Enterprise and Government Markets for Verizon Wireless. "DROID PRO builds on our commitment to deliver the best Android experience to the marketplace as well as to our enterprise customers." "The DROID PRO is an advanced business-ready solution that provides users with the full smartphone experience, redefined by delivering the power of a DROID," said Sanjay Jha, chief executive officer of Motorola Mobility. "The DROID PRO consolidates users' work and personal needs. This is just another reason the DROID PRO is setting a new standard for enterprise, allowing users to enjoy all the benefits of a smartphone with full push delivery of corporate e-mail and corporate level security." Key features and specifications: · Support for both Exchange e-mail and Gmail™ for business · Corporate directory look-up, unified calendar for Enterprise and sync with Google Calendar™ · PC-like browsing with Adobe® Flash® Player 10.1 on a full, multi-touch, 3.1-inch brilliant display built on Android 2.2 · View, edit and share documents, including Microsoft Excel® spreadsheets, PowerPoint® presentations and Word® documents · Built-in security features, including AuthenTec IPSec multi-headed VPN integration, remote wipe of device and SD card, and complex password support. Device and SD card encryption will be available in early 2011 · 3G Mobile HotSpot capabilities – Allows customers to connect up to five other Wi-Fi®-enabled devices and laptops · Live widgets that stream e-mail messages to the home screen; customers can filter the widgets to separate work and home e-mail · 5-megapixel camera with auto focus and dual LED flash as well as DVD-quality video · 3G diversity antennae provides customers with enhanced data speeds and range · Wi-Fi®-enabled DNLA® connectivity · Android Market™ – Provides customers with access to more than 80,000 applications · My Verizon and Backup AssistantSM support – Allows customers to manage their wireless accounts or their contacts from their phones Pricing and availability: · DROID PRO will be available at www.verizonwireless.com and in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores in the coming weeks. Pricing will be announced closer to launch. · For more information about Verizon Wireless products and services, visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or go to www.verizonwireless.com. (EDITOR'S NOTE: Media can access high-resolution images of DROID PRO in the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.) About Verizon Wireless Verizon Wireless operates the nation's most reliable and largest wireless voice and 3G data network, serving more than 92 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 79,000 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 Motorola Motorola is known around the world for innovation in communications and is focused on advancing the way the world connects. From broadband communications infrastructure, enterprise mobility and public safety solutions to high-definition video and mobile devices, Motorola is leading the next wave of innovations that enable people, enterprises and governments to be more connected and more mobile. Motorola (NYSE: MOT) had sales of US $22 billion in 2009. For more information, please visit www.motorola.com. MOTOROLA, the Stylized M Logo and MOTOBLUR are trademarks or registered trademarks of Motorola Trademark Holdings, LLC. Used under license. The Bluetooth trademarks are owned by their proprietor and used under license. All other product and service names are the property of their respective owners. © 2010 Motorola Mobility, Inc. All rights reserved. Android, Gmail, Google Calendar, and Android Market are trademarks of Google Inc. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 5, 2010 MEDIA CONTACTS: Brenda Boyd Raney Verizon Wireless 908.559.7518 Brenda.Raney@verizonwireless.com Danielle McNally Motorola Mobility 312.613.7021 danielle.mcnally@motorola.com )

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