Tuesday 20 December 2011

Android Community

Android Community


Acer Iconia Tab A200 pricing and picture gallery revealed

Posted: 20 Dec 2011 11:09 AM PST

ACER is all set to launch their next Android tablet named the A200 and while we don’t have a quad-core processor or anything revolutionary from their previous attempts this tablet should be quite impressive. We’ve seen various leaks and ACER officially announced this dual-core Tegra 2 slate in early December but no launch date or pricing was given. Today we have a full image gallery and some suggested prices courtesy of NotebookItalia.

While this isn’t the best tablet around it does offer impressive specs and a promise to be upgraded with Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich in early 2012 — all for a great price. The official press release didn’t give us any of those details but below you’ll find both suggested price, and availability. The A200 features the standard to Honeycomb tablets with a 1.0 GHz dual-core Tegra 2 processor, 1GB of RAM inside, 8 and 16GB versions for storage and a 10.1″ 1280 x 800 resolution display — not to mention front and rear cameras like most slates as of late.

The A500 was a pretty fat and chunky tablet so it’s nice to see the A200 coming in much lighter and thinner. The image gallery below will give potential buyers a better idea of what to expect with the A200 once it hits the streets. According to NotebookItalia the 8GB model will be priced around $399 USD with the 16GB flavor coming in at $449. Not the cheapest prices around but with a thin chassis, dual-core processor and ICS on the way it could be a great sleeper tablet come 2012 — until the A700 quad-core slate gets released of course. More details are available from our timeline and the source link below.

acer-a200-hero-540x323 acer_iconia_tab_a200_1 acer_iconia_tab_a200_4 acer_iconia_tab_a200_5 acer_iconia_tab_a200_6 acer_iconia_tab_a200_7.jpg

[via NotebookItalia]

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Motorola DROID Bionic receiving another hefty software update

Posted: 20 Dec 2011 10:26 AM PST

It has only been about a week since Verizon and Motorola pushed that huge software update to the DROID Bionic that was set to fix the large list of problems, bugs, and camera issues that users were having and today they are continuing the fun. Another large update coming in around 56MB in size is rolling out to DROID Bionic users as we speak according to Droid Forums. We’ve been looking for more details but Verizon’s keeping tight lipped on the update.

This latest over the air update that we don’t know much about will bring the Bionic to build 5.9.901 and searching for a changelog hasn’t been successful. A few users from our source link have claimed the update will kill root, and will prevent further root methods from working for those that like to tinker. If you run with a completely stock phone and don’t need root access then feel free to update away and share any changes or thoughts with us in the comment section below.

Other than plenty of bloatware being added with this update, not much else is known at the moment but we will continue to search for more details. Many are also reporting they have not lost root privileges so this should be an update at your own risk type situation. Hopefully this update addresses a few issues the last update did not, and I’m sure further camera improvements would be much appreciated.

As usual you can wait for the update or get it started right now by heading into settings > about phone > check for updates. Let us know if you run into any problems or this update brings about new issues in the process. More details on past updates and problems can be found in our timeline below.

Device Specifications and Information
Device Info
    Device Name : DROID Bionic
    Manufactuer : Motorola
    Carrier : Verizon
    Announced Date : August 24, 2011
    Release Date : September 08, 2011
    Also Known As : Targa
Display
  • Screen Size : 4.3 Inch
  • Resolution : 540x960
  • Screen Type : qHD
Dimension & Weight
  • Height : 5.00 Inch
  • Width : 2.60 Inch
  • Depth : 0.40 Inch
  • Weight : 159 Grams
Battery & Power
    Battery Type:
  • Lithium Ion
  • Battery Capacity : 1735 mAh
  • Talk Time : NA
  • Stand By Time : NA
Software
    Android OS:
  • 2.3.x
    Audio Playback:
  • MP3
    Video Playback:
  • MPEG-4 (MP4)
    Messaging:
  • SMS
  • MMS
Hardware
    CPU :
    CPU Clock Speed : 1000 Mhz
    Core : 2
    Ram : 1024 MB
    Internal Storage : 16.384 GB
    Front Facing Camera :
    Camera Resolution :8 MP
    External Storage:
  • MicroSD
  • MicroSDHC
    Camera Features:
  • Auto focus
  • Flash
  • 1080p Video Recording
  • 720p Video Recording
    Sensors:
  • Accelerometer
  • Ambient light
  • Proximity
    QWERTY :
Cellular Network
    Network Technology:
  • GSM
  • CDMA
    GSM Band:
  • 850
  • 900
  • 1800
  • 1900
    CDMA Band:
  • 800
  • 1900
Device Connectivity
    Wi-Fi:
  • 802.11a
  • 802.11b
  • 802.11g
  • 802.11n
    Bluetooth:
  • Bluetooth 2.0
    Location Features:
  • Compass
  • GPS
  • Cellular location
  • Wi-Fi location
    FM Radio :
    NFC :

[via Droidforums]

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Super Bowl XLVI will broadcast live to Verizon’s NFL Mobile app

Posted: 20 Dec 2011 09:57 AM PST

Welcome to the future, folks. We don’t have hoverboards, flying cards or instant pizza, but we can watch live sports on pocketable devices. And come February, we’ll be able to watch the biggest game of them all – assuming that the “we” in question uses Verizon and subscribes to their exclusive NFL Mobile service. It will be the first time that the Super Bowl will be officially streamed to mobile devices, a miracle of licensing negotiation as much as a technical achievement.

The game will also be streamed through NBC’s Sunday Night Football Extra, a premium web service. And it won’t just be the video feed that terrestrial TV watcher will be getting. Web viewers will get access to DVR features, multiple camera angles and social tools. There’s no word on whether or not these features will make it to Verizon’s mobile broadcast.

Unfortunately, all of these streaming options require a subscription. The only way to (legally) watch the game for free will be an old-fashioned over the air TV broadcast. What gives, NBC and Verizon? Something tells me that you’ll be playing the commercials anyway, so why not widen your advertisers’ potential audience?

Oh, and the NFL Mobile app isn’t currently working on Ice Cream Sandwich or the Galaxy Nexus. Hop to it, Big Red. On the other hand, owners of Verizon 4G LTE phones can get NFL Mobile for free – minus the Nexus. And before someone in the comments points this out: yes, I know that soccer (what everyone outside the Land of the Free calls “football”) is technically more popular than American Football. But that doesn’t count, because soccer is for girls.

[via NBC Sports]

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Myriad Alien Vue brings Android apps to TV, minus Google

Posted: 20 Dec 2011 09:24 AM PST

So, Google TV hasn’t done very well so far. But that doesn’t mean that big cable providers aren’t sitting up and paying attention. A bevvy of app-enabled set top boxes from Apple, Google, Roku and others are starting to seriously worry the dinosaurs of the TV industry. So why not just add apps to current receivers? Most of them are basically just low-powered computers running a locked-down Linux derivative, after all. Myriad Group, the folks behind the Alien Dalvik software that allows iOS and other platforms to run Android apps natively, have done just that.

The Alien Vue is a small piece of hardware that emulates Android’s various necessary pieces of hardware and software, specifically designed for TV output. At the moment it’s limited to Google TV apps, but it’s already allowing smartphones and tablets to control input. Basically, it’s an independent system that could be easily added to current-generation set top box hardware for a quick and dirty infusion of Android-powered goodness. HTML5 apps, including mobile versions of websites like YouTube and Facebook, are also supported.

Check out their demo below:

Is this an alternative to Google TV? In a word, no. What it could mean is that cable and satellite providers could easily build out smarter platforms, then add their own apps or partner apps by developing to Android standards. It’s a modified version of Barnes & Noble’s approach to its Nook devices, which run Android underneath a UI and app system designed to promote their own content. While the Alien Vue system would not have access to Google TV’s core functions, it would be a quick and relatively cheap way to keep the freebie cable boxes competitive with their Internet-based counterparts.

We’ll likely be seeing a live demonstration of Myriad’s Android prowess at CES in January. Stick around during our live coverage for this and other goodies set to debut in 2012 and beyond.

[via SlashGear]

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Researcher demonstrates an app taking over Android with zero permissions

Posted: 20 Dec 2011 08:55 AM PST

The first line of defense in computer security is the user, or at least that’s the way it works on Android. Whenever you install an APK from the Android Market or via an SD card or download, you’re presented with a list of permissions detailing what hardware and software the app can take advantage of. Wary users often opt to skips apps that take more permissions than are needed, and smart developers often post reasons for requested permissions in the Market. But it looks as if there’s at least one critical flaw in the Android permission system.  An R&D director with ViaForensics has proven that the system can be bypassed, by installing an app with no permissions at all that can nonetheless completely control the Android shell.

Thomas Cannon demonstrates the vulnerability in a screencasted video, working with a Gingerbread SDK emulator. The app that he’s created  installs with absolutely no enabled permissions – it’s about as threatening as a wallpaper, according to Android’s permissions system. The app allows him to take control of the shell via a a remote (virtual) connection. The app displays as “A Game” and requires no security or root access. Cannon says that the exploit he’s using is not new and has been known by security researchers for some time – I’m not knowledgeable enough to confirm or deny this. Cannon says that he’s tested the process on Android versions 1.5 all the way through Ice Cream Sandwich. The app tunnels into the Android web browser to leverage its permissions for web and other access.  Other security issues that he found were unencrypted files from the Email app stored on the SD card.

ViaForensics recently exposed vulnerabilities in Google’s Wallet NFC payment system as well. Cannon is a researcher, not a hacker. The application that he’s using is a test APK created to prove the vulnerability. Even so, the demonstration is worrying – if an advanced developer can manage the trick, an intermediate one should be able to figure it out eventually. Cannon didn’t articulate the particular system he’s using to take over the Android web browser, but presumably the engineers at Google can find it and plug the hole. As always, check your permissions (even if they might not tell you the whole story) and only install APK files from sources that you trust.

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Archos unveils the 70b Internet Tablet packing Honeycomb for a dirt cheap £180 [UPDATE]

Posted: 20 Dec 2011 08:06 AM PST

Tablets are expensive. Americans know this all too well, as many of them are still saddled with mostly unnecessary carrier contracts – see the recent DROID XYBOARD 10.1 and 8.2. That’s what makes devices like the Kindle Fire and Nook Tablet so popular. But it could be worse, yankees: over the pond in the UK, most tablets cost at least as much in pounds. Throw in a nasty conversion rate and Value Added Tax, and the £400 Galaxy Tab 7.0 Plus becomes a whopping $750 equivalent. Archos, ever ready to strike at the budget-conscious segment, is preparing its latest 7-inch tablet at a price well below the UK median.

The Archos 70b Internet Tablet will sell for just £179.99, about which works out to about $340 after taxes. Considering that tablets are primarily media consumption devices (which is a polite way of saying “toys”), a lower price is always preferable. For that price, you get a WiFi Honeycomb 3.2 tablet with a 7-inch 1024 x 600 screen, a 1.2Ghz processor and access to the Android Market and Google’s other proprietary apps. 512Mb of RAM means that it should perform much better than the older Archos 70, though that’s still a little pokey for Honeycomb. Storage space isn’t mentioned, so it will probably be available in multiple capacities. Archos’ press release did not mention an Ice Cream Sandwich upgrade, but industrious modders will probably have a version ready soon enough. The 70b Internet Tablet is not to be confused with the previous Archos 70b eReader.

There’s no news on the tablet making its way stateside just yet. Archos has a history of delays in getting its low-priced hardware out of Europe, but it usually does get here eventually. At this price for the UK version, you can probably expect a $200-250 price. That’s hard to beat as far as Honeycomb tablets go, and might be worth considering if you’re a fan of Archos’ rich media format support and generally minimal changes to Android. As an upgrade to the popular Archos 70 Froyo tablet, the 70b Internet Tablet looks promising.

UPDATE: It looks like the Archos 70b is scheduled for a US release next month at $199.99. The company’s US branch just sent out its own press release. Who called it?

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Duke Nukem 3D is free for two days, still isn’t really free

Posted: 20 Dec 2011 07:34 AM PST

When Duke Nukem 3D burst onto the Android Market back in November, fans of classic shoot-em-up gameplay couldn’t be happier. At least until they actually installed the game, and learned that you had to buy parts two and three separately, instantly turning a 99¢ game into a $2.99 one. Three bucks isn’t unreasonable for an Android game, but for a title that’s over fifteen years old, many users found the roundabout payment model a little sketchy. The fact that it also displayed ads (later removed) offended the sensibilities of the Android crowd, who are happy to either pay or deal with ads, but not both.

Today Duke Nukem 3D is free in the Android Market, for today and tomorrow only. That gets you the normally $1 app, but as usual, it’s only the first level (which was free in the original PC shareware version). The other two “episodes” will still cost you another dollar each. Installs have skyrocketed in the last few hours, and it is a great way to try out some classic first person shooter mechanics on your high-end Android device. That said, the app still only has a 3.1 rating; it’s probably still suffering from a flurry of angry early customers and those who are experiencing graphical and gameplay glitches in the port.

The game has caused speculation about the revenue systems behind mobile gaming. Most games on the Android Market employ one of three monetization systems: you download the game for free and deal with somewhat intrusive advertising, or you pay outright and play an ad-free game, or you download a free game with either levels or in-game perks unlockable for a fee, i.e. the “freemium” model. It looks like Machineworks Northwest wanted to reap the benefits of both the paid and freemium models, while still serving ads, at least initially. For two days the game is shifting into the fremium category. Perhaps the massive increase in downloads, and hopefully a few more dollars made on the paid extra portions of the game, will convince them to adopt a more consumer-friendly model.

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Nook Tablet update breaks 3rd party app installs

Posted: 20 Dec 2011 07:04 AM PST

The original Nook Color was a veritable toy box for Android modders, and remains a popular platform for  custom ROMs and other Android tablet modifications. Barnes & Noble’s newer Nook Tablet has proven a tougher nut to crack, with a locked bootloader and just 1GB of user-accessible space. But Nook Tablet users with an eye for modding could at least take advantage of a loophole in the modified Gingerbread software, which allowed any app downloaded from the Tablet’s browser to be installed via Android’s built-in installer. The eBook Reader reports that with the latest Nook Tablet firmware release, 1.4.1, Barnes & Noble has closed this loophole, making advanced modification much more difficult for any user who updates.

Considering the locked bootloader, this change in the Nook Tablet’s software is not unexpected. Barnes & Noble is certainly aware of how popular the Nook Color was and is as a modder’s cheap tablet, and have not raised any serious objections thus far. But as pieces of consumer electronics, the Nook Color and Nook Tablet are sold on extremely thin margins with the expectation that users will buy books and other media from Barnes & Nobles and its partners, justifying the low profits on the hardware itself. Every user who buys a Nook without the intention of using it primarily as a reader for Barnes & Noble’s ebooks is undermining their business model. Since advanced users aren’t breaking any laws, the best that the company can hope to do is frustrate their aftermarket efforts.

The solution for those who want to keep modding their tablets is simple: don’t upgrade to version 1.4.1 on the Nook Tablet’s software, at least until another work-around is found. Those who have already updated can flash to the original retail image and work forward from there. Strangely, third-party apps that have already been installed on updated tablets are still working, so users who already modified the Nook Tablet and gotten it to their desired level of functionality will probably be able to wait it out until someone finds another weakness in the device’s software armor.

When this sort of thing happens to an Android smartphone, I tend to get very irate. But remember that the Nook series of tablets only uses Android as a means to an end – Barnes & Noble is using these readers to keep their entire business relevant as the world shifts to ebooks. It’s hard to blame them for protecting such a forward-looking business model, even if it does mean that a much loved avenue of Android modding is closed off.

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DROID 4 pops up on DROID DOES, could land in stockings December 22nd

Posted: 20 Dec 2011 06:39 AM PST

We’d previously heard that Motorola’s 4th generation DROID was scheduled to be released on December 8th, a day before Verizon was to finally push out the Galaxy Nexus. Neither of those dates bore any fruit, and while the Nexus released just a week later, the DROID 4 is still nowhere to be found. According to another of Droid Life‘s internal Verizon leaks, the phone is currently headed for a December 22nd release, just two days from now. Considering the amount of PR and other information that’s already leaked, this certainly seems plausible.

Adding to the pre-release fervor, PocketNow spotted a specs page for the DROID 4 on Verizon’s DROID DOES branding vehicle website. That usually indicates an imminent release and marketing campaign – though 12-22 is a little late to take advantage of the gift-giving season in the United States, it would allow Verizon to air lucrative commercials over holiday specials and football games. Considering just how much information on the phone is already available, the actual release of the DROID 4 seems like a formality at this point.

The DROID 4 is a high-end QWERTY option for Verizon’s LTE network, outclassing the older Samsung Stratosphere (the only other sliding keyboard phone to feature Verizon’s 4G network) in every way. The latest generation of DROID largely abandons the utilitarian styling of its forebears, in favor of a tapered look that brings it in line with the DROID RAZR and the new DROID XYBOARD tablets. A 1.2 Ghz dual-core processor matches the DROID RAZR, as does an 8 megapixel camera, SD card and Gingerbread. It has the added advantage of a removable battery, with the downside of a 4-inch QHD LCD screen instead of Super AMOLED.

 

 

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Samsung confirms ICS update for Galaxy S II, Note in Q1

Posted: 20 Dec 2011 02:49 AM PST

If you own a Samsung smartphone or tablet and are wondering about an upgrade to Android 4.0 ICS for your device, Samsung is offering up details. Samsung has officially confirmed the OCD upgrade schedule for its Android devices so you now know how long you have to wait. Perhaps two of the most important devices getting the update will be the GSII and the Note in Q1.

With these two new and popular devices set for the first quarter of next year, Samsung listed eight devices total that will all be getting the ISC update. The other devices include the LTE versions of the S II, Galaxy R, the Tab 10.1, 8.9, and the 7.7. The Galaxy Tab 7.0 Plus is also listed. Samsung has said officially the updates are coming, but the firm didn't offer a timeline.

One popular smartphone that you might notice is missing from the ICS update line is the original Galaxy S. That won’t be good news for the users rocking that smartphone. The updates could take a while; Samsung will need to work with the carriers to get the updates to them specifically tweaked for their networks.

[via SlashGear]

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Peter Alfonso uploading Android 4.0.3 builds if his page reaches 100 “+1s”

Posted: 19 Dec 2011 10:09 PM PST

Peter Alfonso, respected AOSP developer, just tweeted that he will “start uploading builds as soon as [his] downloads page reaches 100 ‘+1′s’.” Right now he is at 71 – only 29 to go! My guess is he will be pushing out 4.0.3 nighties by the end of the night.


So lets get the word out! Peter Alfonso became most popular from his OG DROID development- it was hard to top his work. His 4.0.3 builds will most likely be hitting Nexus devices first, but we’ll find soon for sure. His website actually offers a 4.0.3 build for the Toro – aka Verizon branded Samsung Galaxy Nexus.

It would be a very welcomed ROM in the Galaxy Nexus forums, as only one other Verizon Galaxy Nexus ROM is currently available ( Android Revolution HD 2.1.1). ARHD is built very well, but without much to compare it to, we don’t know the true potential of the Galaxy Nexus. I’m downloading his build now and will give it a quick flash. Join me over in the forums later for with questions you may have!

[via Reddit]

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Android Market “Blowout Sale” offers millions of MP3s for 49¢

Posted: 19 Dec 2011 09:31 PM PST

The Android Market has offered some great music deals in since its initial launch, and now they’re offering one of the largest yet: Over half a million albums for $4.99 and over teem million tracks for 49¢. The music includes latest chart toppers from LMFAO to older legendary hits from Stevie Wonder. However, you won’t find Sony albums or artist hub tracks in the sale.


There’s no telling when the sale will end, so try and pick up all your favorites as soon as you can. Some of the most sought after albums of the year are practically 50%+ off, leaving these prices practically unbeatable. Even better, you’ll be able to stream all your downloads straight from the Music application on your Android device. That’s really the key with Google music, having the ability to access your entire library wherever you go.

This may be Google Music’s gift to us for the holidays, so my guess is it will last until Christmas. There’s bound to be a couple of your favorites in there. Now a feature I would love to see, is the ability to gift a song through the Android Market. I see a couple of albums right now that would make some great Christmas presents.

[via Android Market and TalkAndroid]

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Google’s X team working on Terminator-style HUD glasses

Posted: 19 Dec 2011 08:51 PM PST

“Wearable technology.” These days, the phrase conjures up images of laughably impractical watch-phone hybrids, single function devices like the FitBit and gigantic head-mounted displays that are useless for anything but watching movies for about 20 minutes at a time. But information leaking out of the shadowy inner test labs known as Google X indicates that the company is working on nothing less than a personal Heads-Up Display (HUD), a staple of science fiction for decades, and the goal of many converging technologies like transparent screens and microscopic transistors.

According to an anonymous source speaking to 9to5Google, Google’s take on HUD glasses is nearing the end of its prototype stage. The idea is that a pair of glasses overlays information onto transparent lenses, focusing on memory assistance – think things like a Google Maps Navigation overlay, or facial recognition that can display people’s when you can’t recall them. If you’re a literary geek, go read Daniel Suarez’s Daemon for an idea of the possibilities – the implications are staggering. According to the early leak the device, which SlashGear is calling the literal Google Goggles, will run Android, but will not be dependent upon an Android device to function. The mobile data connection and any other necessary hardware will be contained within the thick frames. Google co-founder Sergey Brin said to be taking a personal interest in the project.

All this is so speculative that calling it a rumor would be an understatement. But Google has a history of sinking tons of money into previously unknown territory, like its self-driving car program. And it’s not as if the applications don’t already exist – the military uses helmet-mounted HUD systems for fighter pilots and infantry, and even more recreational activities like skiing are starting to apply the ideas behind wearable displays.

Imagine the possibilities behind current and future tech: you receive a text party invite via your Google Voice account, it displays on your Google Goggles, you use voice input (perhaps Majel?) to respond and RSVP, then do a voice search for the address, eye tracking sensors let you indicate the right spot, and you activate a Google Navigation overlay – all without pressing a button. Fantastical? Maybe. Impossible? Maybe not.

[via SlashGear]

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DROID X gets a CyanogenMod 9 ICS port, despite locked bootloader

Posted: 19 Dec 2011 08:15 PM PST

The DROID X remains one of the most popular models of Android phones on Verizon, and no one who bought one on a contract back in 2010 (like me!) is eligible for an upgrade any time soon. So it’s great to see an active modding community around this solid phone, despite Motorola and Verizon’s continued stance on a locked bootloader. The latest project from RootzWiki for the venerable DX is a port of Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich.

That’s no small task, as the Droid X is still restricted to using the latest Gingerbread kernel from Motorola. That means that while newer ROMs can use the Ice Cream Sandwich software and expanded user interface, certain upgraded features are just impossible, and getting anything to work correctly is a major pain. Most of the essential features of the CM9-based “EncounterICS X” are working, including Internet access and calling, GPS, WiFi, audio and hardware buttons. There are still problems getting the camera, voice input (excluding phone calls), MMS and the speakerphone to work, and various apps like the gallery and calendar have major bugs.

These issues keep this early ROM from being a serious contender for your daily driver, but it’s still very cool to see ICS running on “locked” hardware. The lads over at RootzWiki are nothing if not tenacious, and most of these issues should see progress in the next few weeks. And after all, it’s not as if the official Ice Cream Sandwich software is completely without it’s faults. Remember: make an Nandroid backup if you don’t want to lose your existing ROM!

Device Specifications and Information
Device Info
    Device Name : Droid X
    Manufactuer : Motorola
    Carrier : Verizon
    Announced Date : June 24, 2010
    Release Date : July 15, 2010
    Also Known As :
Display
  • Screen Size : 4.30 Inch
  • Resolution : 480x854
  • Screen Type : TFT
Dimension & Weight
  • Height : 5.02 Inch
  • Width : 2.58 Inch
  • Depth : 0.39 Inch
  • Weight : 155 Grams
Battery & Power
    Battery Type:
  • Lithium Ion
  • Battery Capacity : 1540 mAh
  • Talk Time : NA
  • Stand By Time : 220 hours
Software
    Android OS:
  • 2.3.x
    Audio Playback:
  • AAC
  • AAC+
  • MID
  • MP3
  • WAV
  • WMA
    Video Playback:
  • h.263
  • h.264 / AVC
  • MPEG-4 (MP4)
    Messaging:
  • SMS
  • MMS
Hardware
    CPU : OMAP3630
    CPU Clock Speed : 1000 Mhz
    Core : 1
    Ram : 512 MB
    Internal Storage : 6.6 GB
    Front Facing Camera :
    Camera Resolution :8 MP
    External Storage:
  • MicroSD
  • MicroSDHC
    Camera Features:
  • Auto focus
  • Flash
  • 720p Video Recording
    Sensors:
  • Accelerometer
  • Proximity
    QWERTY :
Cellular Network
    Network Technology:
  • CDMA
    CDMA Band:
  • 800
  • 1900
Device Connectivity
    Wi-Fi:
  • 802.11b
  • 802.11g
  • 802.11n
    Bluetooth:
  • Bluetooth 2.0
    Location Features:
  • Compass
  • GPS
  • Cellular location
  • Wi-Fi location
    FM Radio :
    NFC :

[via Talk Android]

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Android Revolution HD ROM 2.2.1 on the Verizon Galaxy Nexus

Posted: 19 Dec 2011 08:02 PM PST

Though still a work in progress, mike1986 has brought Samsung Galaxy Nexus (GSM/LTE) owners his popular Android Revolution HD ROM. I myself have been running this 2.1.1 build without any problems so far. Actually, it is a great improvement over the stock ROM; battery life has improved, and screen transition effects are performed much smoother. The phone is initially very fast, but after installation I’ve only seen an improvement – no hiccups.


Here are a few screenshots of my homescreen; the stock launcher still comes standard with this release, but I can’t seem to veer away from ADW EX. Now it may sound silly, but the main reason I rooted my device is to install a tiny 1% battery mod patch found within the battery icon in the status bar. The only way to install this mod is to have a deodexed ROM so that’s the main reason I went ahead with the ARHD installation. This build still has the original kernel included in the official Android 4.0.2 update devices were just updated with, so don’t expect to undervolt/overclock your device quite yet (on the LTE version at least). For the GSM model however, Paul O’Brien has you covered.

I’ll periodically update with significant improvements that arise within the Galaxy Nexus LTE development community, so stick with us. Installing this ROM was relatively simple, and the instructions were very straightforward. Just download the ROM to your device via MTP, run his “Super Wipe” script from within ClockworkMod, and the install the ROM. I advise running “Super Wipe” even if coming from his 2.1.0 version – I experienced glitchy behavior when I didn’t. The development for Verizon’s Galaxy Nexus has really started strong, and hopefully the trend continues.

[via XDA Developers]

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Google+ Update hits the market with Hangout and UI improvements

Posted: 19 Dec 2011 04:52 PM PST

Google+ is on our update radar again today and has just received the latest update from Google. Between the recent updates to photo tagging, hashtags, instant hangouts on mobile devices and more this is quickly becoming one of Google’s premiere apps. It received a large update last week so I’m surprised to see another so quick — but I’ll take it.

Last weeks update brought the ability to start hangout (video chat) from mobile devices themselves and today they’ve added onto that much needed and awesome feature with the ability to start a video hangout from right inside a messenger conversation. Now users can instantly go from chatting to video chatting with ease. We also have the new layout for photo viewing that Google teased us about a few weeks back. Showing a much simpler and more refined layout similar to what we’ve been seeing with Ice Cream Sandwich.

From my screenshot above you can clearly see the changes to the photo viewing tab but if you’re not careful it will automatically instantly upload every photo from your phone right to Google+. I quickly opted out of that option as I’d only like to share a select few things personally. Google’s also added new icons so users know what photos are new in the instant uploaded list, we can leave one-on-one messenger conversation now too and more. At this rate Google+ will be one amazing application in just a few short months because they seem to be bringing awesome features every few weeks. Get the update available now or head to the market link below.

Market Link — Google+

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Nova Launcher brings much-needed options to the ICS home screen

Posted: 19 Dec 2011 04:42 PM PST

No doubt about it, the fancy new launcher is one of the highlights of Ice Cream Sandwich’s revised user interface. The default launcher has plenty of new animations, a revised app drawer that combines with a widget placement engine, and automatic folders that make grouping your apps easier than ever. But it’s still extremely light on customization, just like all the stock launchers beforehand. Enter Nova Launcher, a quickly-created customization of the launcher found in Ice Cream Sandwich’s open source code.

Nova Launcher looks almost exactly like the Galaxy Nexus stock launcher, but brings a host of options and settings to play around with. There’s the ever-popular landscape mode, a scrolling dock to allow more than just 5 pinned applications, and the ability to resize all widgets – not just the ones with the feature baked into ICS. I’m a big fan of the ability to remove labels from icons. Since ICS goes without a menu option on its native interface, the settings menu is moved to the app drawer.

You’ve got two options for installing Nova Launcher: download the APK file from this XDA-Developers thread, and install it like any non-Market application. Or root users can flash a ZIP file with ClockworkMod. The only difference is that root users will get the nifty widget menu as part of the app drawer. The app relies on various Ice Cream Sandwich APIs, so unfortunately there’s no way for Gingerbread users to join in on the fun. If you want to approximate ICS on an older phone, try the latest version of ADWLauncher EX.

The developer is already updating quickly, and a few of Nova Launcher’s early bugs have been squashed. You can now treat the formerly locked Google search bar as any other widget, for example. Try it out on your new Galaxy Nexus or an ICS ROM, and tell us what you think in the comments!

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Modern Combat 3: Fallen Nation is now available for Android

Posted: 19 Dec 2011 04:16 PM PST

Gameloft has just released the extremely impressive looking Modern Combat 3 for Android. We were teased with a few sample videos showing off this quality game back in August and sadly we’ve had to wait almost a half year to get this game on our Android phones and tablets. Gameloft officially released this first person shooter over the weekend and I’m excited to give it a try.

This might not be Call of Duty type gaming but the graphics and gameplay are extremely impressive for a mobile device. A large part of that is thanks to the huge 1.3 GB of internal storage needed for the game. So if you’ve been running low on space with that aging smartphone this might not be the game for you. Either way it’s extremely impressive and continues to build on the great series they’ve already released.

With 13 different missions across the globe from LA to Pakistan this offers one of the most immersive and realistic war games available on a mobile device. It has multiplayer support with up to 12 players across 6 different levels and 7 game modes. With plenty of gameplay scenarios from escort missions, search and destroy, Helicopter crashes, 4×4 racing and more you’ll be on the edge of your seat (or screen) the entire game.

This all sounds awesome but there are a few negatives. One being that huge 1.3GB storage requirement to download and play the game. Maybe they should let users download in 2 parts for those lacking internal storage. Another major issue is the game will run you $6.99 from the Android Market yet they still want to charge you extra money with in-app purchases for weapon upgrades and what not. If neither of those are a concern or you just love all first person shooter games then head to the market link below and give it a try. Graphics are excellent and so is the gameplay. Let us know what you think in the comments or drop us a comment in the Android Community forums.

Market Link — MC3

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LightPad: a pico projector for Android with big ideas

Posted: 19 Dec 2011 04:11 PM PST

As neat an idea as they seemed, Motorola’s various Lapdocks haven’t amounted to much. The principle’s is sound, but if you’re going to carry around an accessory that’s as big as a laptop, as heavy as a laptop, and almost as expensive as a laptop, why not just carry a real freaking laptop? Startup company QP Optoelectronics intends to change the equation, by giving you an 11″ screen, full keyboard AND up to a 60″ projector, all in a package about the size of a few magazines.They’re calling their flagship product the LightPad.

The LightPad consists of a hinge-mounted pico project attached to a frame containing a small screen and keyboard. When the projector is pointed in the forward position, it creates a rear projection image on the screen, creating a traditional laptop form factor, even if it is a little long – this wouldn’t fly on an airline tray table. Flip the projector around and you can throw your phone’s screen up to a 60″ space. The whole package connects to your Android phone via an HDMI port, with MHL support as well (you can see a Nexus One in the video).

Observe:

The idea is certainly novel, though I can see at least a few flaws. Neither screen would work particularly well in an outdoor environment, or even somewhere with bright fluorescent lights. The extra length is a problem too. The latest revision of the gadget will allow for pixel-perfect reproductions of phone screens up to 1280 x 720 resolutions. The gadget doesn’t have a distributor yet, though the creators will be on hand at CES in January. We’ll be sure to stop by their booth for a hands-on look at the device.

[via Engadget]

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Cricket seeks Honor and Glory with freshly renamed Huawei Mercury

Posted: 19 Dec 2011 03:28 PM PST

Huawei continues its American push, this time landing the Mercury on budget regional carrier Cricket. The 4-inch Gingerbread smartphone will run a single-core 1.4GHz processor on a 4-inch screen, and the impressive addition of an 8 megapixel camera. Cricket customers can pick up a no-contract Mercury now for just $249.99.

The phone was previously known as both the Huawei Honor and the Huawei Glory, apparently pandering to the lucrative market consisting of fans of crappy American kung fu movies from the early 90s. Those who’ve had hands-on looks at the hardware came away satisfied, considering its low price. A bright 854 x 480 screen combined with a relatively huge 1900mAh should make all-day use an easy proposition. 2GB of internal storage can be supplemented by a microSD card slot. A VGA front-facing camera rounds out the package.

Unfortunately, neither Huawei nor Cricket will commit to an Ice Cream Sandwich upgrade for the phone just yet. It should be more than capable of running the latest version of Android, but both companies have a lot on their plate. This is despite the fact that very same phone is already being update to ICS in parts of Asia. Here’s a hint, guys: promise us an update, or better yet, forget the lackluster aftermarket UI and release an AOSP Ice Cream Sandwich phone, and customers will break down your door to buy it.

[via Cnet]

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