Friday 22 October 2010

Android Community

Android Community

You Want Your Documents… To Go! 3.0!

Posted: 22 Oct 2010 10:51 AM PDT

The top selling productivity and business application in the Android Market is turning over to version 3.0, now with a redesigned user interface, Google Docs support, enhanced file browser, a new desktop app for two-way file support sync, improved viewer edition, and more. Just announced today at their headquarters in Milford, CT, DataVis presents Documents To Go 3.0, available through dataviz.com. It’s been one of the top selling productivity applications as a payed app for a reason, as it’s free “view only” version continues to be a top download as well.

Documents To Go’s free version is still limited in its scope (because of course, they want you to buy the full version), but it does get an upgrade in 3.0. The free version now has the ability to view PowerPoint files, originally in payed only, but there’s a trade off: free now includes ads. These ads no longer show up once you’ve payed your way into the full version.

The full version of Documents To Go 3.0 includes Google Docs, which can be saved, edited, then saved back into Google Docs for “anywhere access,” or created brand new in DTG and saved up to the Google Docs cloud. DTG 3.0 has desktop synchronization, using a desktop application that provides Windows customers the ability to transfer files back and forth from their desktop to their Android device with USB. Users can select individual or multiple files and sync all updates made in either location.

The user interface has been updated in DTG 3.0, adding tools to browse and manage files, view, edit create, delete, rename, sort, filter, star, sync, backup, and send files from one centralized app. “Live Folders” are used to keep recently used and favorite files in a convenient easy to access location. PDF to Go now includes pinch-to-zoom, multi-touch, totate page, and more. Slideshow To Go has improved rendering and quality improvements, and Office 2007 password protected files are now supported.

All this fabulous functionality can be yours for $14.99 at http://www.dataviz.com/. If you’ve already purchased Documents To Go full version Key 2.0, you can recieve a free update to version 3 via an on device notification through the Android marketplace. The desktop application is compatible with Windows XP, Vista, and Windows 7, and can be downloaded at www.dataviz.com/getdesktop (this is an exe file which will instantly download).

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Android Gingerbread to be released as 2.3, not 3.0?

Posted: 22 Oct 2010 10:51 AM PDT

Gingerbread has been a hot topic of discussion for quite some time now. When we first heard about development of the next major release of the Android Operating System details were few, at that was a year ago. Today we know a little bit more – very little is known still about the upcoming OS. Not knowing which version it will be it has usually been referred to as 3.0 and 2.5.

Back on September 30th of this year, a user was requesting help in the Google issue repository. The issue in question concerned issues connecting to a corporate WiFi network after the Froyo update. A Google team member responded that a fix for this issue will be in the next major release of the Android Operating system, 2.3.

Now team members and customer support staff have been wrong before. But they are closer to the matter than most, and although this is only a rumor, it’s a pretty strongly sourced one. Hopefully we will be finding out more about the much anticipated upcoming OS as we get closer to the end of the year.

[Via AndroidCentral]

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Samsung Moment gets firmware update – DJO7

Posted: 22 Oct 2010 10:39 AM PDT

A new update for the Samsung Moment on Sprint is currently being pushed OTA. This maintenance release (DJ07) will fix some generally frustrating bugs in the system’s software.

Currently being pushed OTA, this update brings fixes as well as some more troublesome fixes.

Fixes:

  • 911 call restrictions after modem crash related to airplane mode and data lockup
  • Proximity sensor and screen lock enhancements

To update your software OTA wait until you get a system update notification and click install now, it’s not a large update so it shouldn’t take long. After a reboot your phone will be updated to ECLAIR.DJ07

The update will also be available for download online November 3rd at Sprint’s Software Download page.

[Via Sprint]

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China’s Huawei Reveals Two New Android Phones: IDEOS X5 and X6

Posted: 22 Oct 2010 10:20 AM PDT

Over in China, equipment company Huawei is showing off two Android smartphones that go by the names IDEOS X5 and IDEOS X6. Both phone suppoert HSPA+ high-speed data and Android 2.2 Froyo. The X5 model is a mid-range phone with 3.8 inch touchscreen and 5 megapixel camera, bluetooth, and wifi connection. The IDEOS X6 is a larger screened phone with 4.1 inch 800×480 capacitive touchscreen.

The IDEOS X6 is powered by a Qualcomm MSM8255 SnapDragon 1GHz processor, has 512MB of RAM and 2GB of ROM. It can handle Flash and HD video playback because of the graphics chip in the SnapDragon, and also has an FM tuner. X6 has a 5 megapixel camera with autofocus, flash, and 720p HD video recording, Bluetooth, GPS/A-GPS support, HDMI output, WiFi connectivity, and a microSD card slot.

[Via iTechNews]

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HTC Desire HD hits Three UK on contract and PAYG

Posted: 22 Oct 2010 07:20 AM PDT

Three UK has announced that the HTC Desire HD is now shipping on its network.  The 4.3-inch Android 2.2 smartphone is free on £40 per month tariffs (2000 any network minutes, 5000 Three-to-Three minutes, 5000 texts and 1GB data).  Meanwhile on Pay As You Go the HTC Desire HD is £449.99 and includes a £10 Top Up.

There are more details on the HTC Desire HD over at our unboxing article.  While we were hoping to bring you the full review this week, unfortunately HTC informed us that all the review units sent out were in fact running non-final firmware, and needed to be returned to be reflashed.  We should have the full review early next week, however.

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Google TV Virtual Tour available for the undecided

Posted: 22 Oct 2010 07:01 AM PDT

Google TV is now released to the world. It’s features are great, but even after the many press conferences, it’s hard to get a feel for how it will actually perform in real world situations – like your living room. This can be a deciding factor for many when making a purchase, so to answer any questions and show off a bit Google has released a Google TV virtual tour site that showcases many features of the service.

Specifically they cover a few of the main key features of the system including:

  • Television, meet search
  • Full web browsing from your TV
  • Applications
  • Using your Android phone as a remote control
  • Personalized homepage
  • TV/Web dual view
  • Searching through your DVR
  • and easy integration will your entertainment system

If you’re still on the fence wondering if Google TV is right for you check out the virtual tour site and look over the features and uses of the system.

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Who makes the best mobile operating system – according to WSJ Readers

Posted: 22 Oct 2010 06:41 AM PDT

It’s been asked many times, who makes the best mobile operating system? While we definitely have strong opinions here at Android Community about our favorite, we’re definitely not alone in the world of opinions.

According to the current ‘Question of the Day,’ users so far are voting Google as the best mobile operating system company with ~53% of the vote early this morning.

The poll is currently ongoing to feel free to voice your opinion and head over to the Wall Street Journal’s Question of the Day page and vote for your favorite operating system company.

[Via WSJ]

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YouTube stand-alone app supports Android 2.2 only

Posted: 22 Oct 2010 05:01 AM PDT

Google has unveiled several apps for Android over the last months like Maps, Search, and Gmail. The company is now set to launch a new stand-alone app for YouTube. There is a bit of a catch for users of anything but the latest version of Android though.

The new YouTube app supports only Android 2.2 and up. There are many Android users out there today that have devices that haven’t yet been offered an Android 2.2 update. The reason for the stand-alone app is apparently to allow Google to apply updates without having to wait for updates that work with other versions of the OS.

The new app will support some cool features. It will allow the viewer to watch in portrait or landscape modes, get channel info, like videos, and share videos on Buzz, Facebook, and Twitter. As long as you have Froyo, you can get the app now.

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UK Galaxy S owners to get Android 2.2 by November

Posted: 22 Oct 2010 04:50 AM PDT

If you are a UK user of the Samsung Galaxy S smartphone that is hankering for Android 2.2 we have some news today. Apparently, by early November you will be able to get your paws on the OS upgrade. The update is said to be in testing right now with several carriers in the UK.

After the testing is done, the update will be offered to end users. The update will add new features to the phone with enhanced browser performance, better navigation, and pinch to zoom functionality. The interface will also get new brighter colors and a menu structure the user can control.

The update will require that the user update with the Samsung Kies update software. That update software was recently updated itself to a new version that can be downloaded from samsungmobile.co.uk.

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Lumigon T1 gets Bang & Olufsen tech

Posted: 22 Oct 2010 04:45 AM PDT

Bang & Olufsen is a well known and high-end maker of audio and video devices like speakers and TVs. The company is also involved with some carmakers providing premium sound for some luxury cars. A new Android phone has surfaced that is the first to use tech from B&O.

The phone is called the T1, comes from Lumigon, and features a 3.5-inch WVGA touchscreen. The B&O tech in the phone is the ICEpower for better audio quality in the speaker, receiver, and headphones. Other features of the phone include support for HSPDA, WiFi, a FM transmitter, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

The device also has HDMI out and integrated remote control, and a 5MP camera with flash. The processor inside the phone is a Freescale i.MX515 running at 1GHz. The thing is also very nice looking with a brushed aluminum case and glass that resists scratches. The handset is expected in early 2011 with Android 2.2 for €525.

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Samsung Continuum and LG Vortex Hitting Verizon on October 29th

Posted: 22 Oct 2010 12:28 AM PDT

Another day, another Verizon phone launch rumor. This time rumor is that the dual-screened Samsung Continuum and LG Vortex may be hitting the Verizon network on October 29th.

Followed two weeks later with all of the other rumors devices to be launched including the LG enV Touch Pro, DROID Pro, DROID 2 Global and Motorola CITRUS, customers may face the problem of having too many Android offerings.

[Via Droid-Life]

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DX/D2 Overclocker brings simple Droid X and Droid 2 Overclocking to the Android Market

Posted: 22 Oct 2010 12:16 AM PDT

Early this week we saw the Droid 2 and Droid X get overclocked bringing insane speeds to the device. Many wanted to try this themselves however, it was not just an easy process. Requiring multiple steps all with the possibility of causing extreme damage, many users strayed away from the hack.

Well now you can enjoy these super clocked speeds with little to no work. From the same app developers that brought us Easy Root, we now have available some minor overclocking with a few simple taps.

DX/D2 Overclocker is available now in the Android Market for $.99

PR Code:

[Download]

[Via Droid-Life]

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ABC, CBS and NBC blocking website access on Google TV

Posted: 21 Oct 2010 11:47 PM PDT

The big three broadcasting companies have blocked the web-based version of their shows from Google TV. Although some websites are optimized for Google TV the big three networks, which air some of the most popular shows, will not be joining in.

In fear that they will lose advertising revenue, Walt Disney and NBC Universal have confirmed that access has been blocked access to broadcast TV shows available on their websites. CBS has declined to comment, and Fox may using this same strategy and pull it’s content as well.

Currently Google is in negotiating with the big three trying to bring back content to it’s devices. One of the key advertising points of Google TV was that it enables access to all the web content you already get on your PC, but bringing it to your television. However, ultimately it’s up to the content provider to allow access so we’ll see if Google and TV networks strike a deal.

[Via Reuters]

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Charleston, WVa, will be one of the first cities to get LTE from Verizon

Posted: 21 Oct 2010 07:02 PM PDT

This news only excites those of you who are on Verizon even more(and those that live in Charleston). According to the Verizon’s website, Charleston will be one of the first areas to enjoy access to Verizon’s 4G LTE Network. Nine other West Virginia cities will also have access to the LTE.

Keep an eye out for a full announcement on October 27 by Verizon and West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin at the Embassy Suites Hotel. I definitely would check it out if you’re in the area. Senator Jay Rockefeller will also be there. He most likely had something to do with this since he is also the Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Technology. This is big news and very pleasing to Android users on Verizon(and soon to be iPhone 4 users?). Check out the speed test Verizon had against Sprint’s 4G network as well here.

Via [Verizon News]

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Logitech shows off Video Calling on the Revue

Posted: 21 Oct 2010 04:22 PM PDT

Just as Logitech Revues were hitting doorsteps we get treated to video demos of some of the non-tv features of the device. In the latest video we see demo of a web cam chat from the Logitech Revue.

“In case you're wondering what video calling on your TV will really be like, we thought we'd give you a little preview. By now you've already heard all about the products that we announced earlier this month, including Logitech Revue with Google TV and the Logitech TV Cam accessory, so this time we want to tell you, or rather show you, more about the experience of keeping in touch with loved ones.”

The video brings an interesting personal take on video calling – similar how Apple advertised it’s FaceTime chat service. Video chat is definitely the future of communication and video chatting directly from your TV is a big part of that.

[Via Logitech]

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HTC myTouch 4G for T-Mobile to Launch With Four Color Options

Posted: 21 Oct 2010 01:47 PM PDT

The HTC myTouch line-up of devices have always been some of the most colorful Android-based handsets to reach the market. And now it looks like T-Mobile and HTC are keeping the tradition in tact, as a new image has just leaked onto the Internet, showing the new color options for the upcoming device. While this isn’t official by any means, there’s probably no doubt in anyone’s mind that the smartphone will indeed launch in an array of color schemes.

As you can see, you’ve got the pretty much standard white and black options, as well as a red thrown in there for good measure. But, perhaps to add a bit of interest to a wider range of the market, the myTouch 4G will also come in a plum color.

As for the device itself, you should expect to have a 1GHz Snapdragon processor under the hood, a 3.8-inch capacitive touchscreen display, and Android 2.2 running the whole show. You’ll find a front facing camera, too, along with a 5MP camera on the back. And, yes, WiFi calling will be a stand-out feature for the handset, too. Rumors have the launch pegged for somewhere in November, so perhaps now would be a good time to start getting excited.

[via CellphoneSignal]

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Samsung Captivate Now Available for Rogers Wireless

Posted: 21 Oct 2010 01:30 PM PDT

Rogers Wireless was meant to carry the Samsung Captivate, the same device that launched for AT&T here in the States not too long ago, for awhile now, but it seems that the shortage of displays proved a bit too problematic for the Canadian carrier. However, that’s all over and done with, as Rogers Wireless has officially announced that they have Captivates in store, ready to go.

Samsung Electronics Canada’s Vice President, Paul Brannen, went on the record as saying, “Due to a worldwide shortage in Super AMOLED technology screens, we regret that Samsung was unable to deliver the Galaxy S Captivate to Rogers in time for the scheduled launch. The continued shortage has resulted in repeated delays. We know this is a widely anticipated device and apologize to Rogers customers. We're pleased to say that we have begun shipping the device to Rogers, though shipments will be limited over the next few weeks.”

So, there’s good news in there, but at the same time it seems to be lined with a bit of bad news, too. While Rogers Wireless locations have begun receiving the device, it looks like they’re not getting all the devices they wish they were, so supplies might be small. If you’re interested in picking up a Captivate for yourself, then you’ll need to fork over $149.99 on a new, three-year contract with the mandatory voice and data plans tacked on for good measure. That deal only lasts until November 2nd though, as the price goes up to $179.99 after that, so act quickly.

[via Boy Genius Report]

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Barnes & Noble May Release a COLOR NOOK

Posted: 21 Oct 2010 01:22 PM PDT

Oh shiny! It’s always exciting to see a device transform from monotone to color. Remember way back when Gameboy did it? That was radical. Next Tuesday, a source telling CNET says, Barnes & Noble will be making a similar (in a way) announcement about their NOOK line. The NOOK Color may well be one that not only features a color display, but a touchscreen, too!

The unnamed source notes that the entire B&N development team and indeed company have been focusing on this new color design. It’s said to have a 7 inch color touchscreen display, powered by Android, and for the lowlow price of $249. That’ll blow some fishies out of the water. The display could possibly be a Qualcomm-backed Mirasol – they who’ve shown prototypes for color eReaders in the past, but the truth is yet unknown.

[Via SlashGear]

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Verizon 4G Information Sheet Leaks, LTE Blows Sprints 4G speeds away

Posted: 21 Oct 2010 01:05 PM PDT

We all know that Verizon currently has plans to release it’s new LTE 4G network to 38 cities by the end of the year. A fact sheet just recently released to the web compares Verizon’s LTE upcoming network with Sprint’s “Ultra-Fast” WiMax network. Verizon’s network is truly going to be ultra fast, so far as blowing Sprint’s network out of the water when comparing speed.

This is going to be one of the best 4G networks in the US with speeds pegged at 5-12 Mbps Downlink, and 2-4 Mbps Uplink.

Now it’s only a matter of time until we get a true 4G device lineup. We’re expected to see many new handsets and tablets at this year’s CES in January. Until then we will have to settle with the few options we have for the upcoming network.

[Via Droid-Life]

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Android Wins the USA Election! (But Loses the Gadgetorial Vote)

Posted: 21 Oct 2010 12:26 PM PDT

Oh I bet you didn’t know that devices such as these got to vote this electoral season, did you? They don’t get to vote on humans, don’t worry, and technically it isn’t them voting, it’s their users, and they’re getting voted on, not representatives for them. Retrevo, master of census taking in strange places, recently had a vote across the whole 50 nifty United States and found that of the three: Android, Blackberry, and iPhone, the victor was none other than our friend the robot.

This election was run in a way very similar to that of our presidential election for example, with both so many votes per state and an electoral college. The difference is, people cast their votes by telling the truth about which phones they owned. Gadgetoral votes were calculated based on ownership of each smartphone per capita across the country, while each state was granted a 3 vote minimum as per the real electoral college. State counts were created based on the difference per capita ownership between individual states and the the national average.

This entire vote was conducted Match 2010 through July 2010 online and consists of responses given by Retrevo users without restriction of gender or age. Location was taken in to consideration, and all votes were given an amazingly generous 95% confidence level with a confidence interval of +/- 4%. So basically it would have been even more amazing if they’d taken sale reports instead of asking users to tell the truth, but hey! This way’s much more fun.

[Via Retrevo]

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