Thursday 27 September 2012

Android Community

Android Community


Samsung Galaxy Note II event scheduled for October 24th

Posted: 27 Sep 2012 10:41 AM PDT

Are you ready for the “next big thing” as Samsung likes to call it. Surely you’ve seen their commercials showing just how awesome the Galaxy S III is while everyone waits in line for the iPhone 5. Today however they’ve started sending out those casual “save the date” invites for October 24th where we’ll all see what’s truly the “next big thing” with the Galaxy Note II for the US.

The Galaxy Note II was announced earlier this month with great excitement. After the original Note sold over 10 million units this Note II is a sure success. Coming with upgrades across the board, Jelly Bean out of the box and more this smartphone looks exciting.

The invite doesn’t specifically say Galaxy Note II, but that S-Pen stylus pretty much confirms it. Add to the fact that Samsung announced their new Note will be arriving late October, early November for 5 major US carriers — that is what we all know is coming on the 24th of October.

Above is a nice quick video of what we all expect to see in NYC later next month. That being the same 5.5-inch 1280 x 720p HD rocking quad-core smartphone tablet. Running Android 4.1 Jelly Bean and Samsung’s Touch Wiz UX, complete with that S-Pen stylus, 8 megapixel camera and awesomely sleek design. I’ll be snagging the Titanium Grey model on Verizon with 4G LTE as soon as possible. Will you go for the Note II, or are you already enjoying that Galaxy S III?

Device Specifications and Information
Device Info
    Device Name : Galaxy Note II
    Manufactuer : Samsung
    Carrier : NA
    Announced Date : August 29, 2012
    Release Date : TBA
    Also Known As : GT-N7100
Display
  • Screen Size : 5.5 Inch
  • Resolution : 1280x720
  • Screen Type : HD Super AMOLED
Dimension & Weight
  • Height : 5.95 Inch
  • Width : 3.17 Inch
  • Depth : 0.37 Inch
  • Weight : 180 Grams
Battery & Power
    Battery Type:
  • Lithium Ion
  • Battery Capacity : 3100 mAh
  • Talk Time : NA
  • Stand By Time : NA
Software
    Android OS:
  • 4.1.x
    Audio Playback:
  • AAC
  • AAC+
  • AMR
  • MID
  • MP3
  • WAV
  • WMA
    Video Playback:
  • h.263
  • h.264 / AVC
  • 3GP
  • MPEG-4 (MP4)
  • WMV
    Messaging:
  • SMS
  • MMS
  • IM
Hardware
    CPU : Exynos 4412
    CPU Clock Speed : 1600 Mhz
    Core : 4
    Ram : 2000 MB
    Internal Storage : 16 GB
    Front Facing Camera :
    Camera Resolution : 8 MP
    External Storage:
  • MicroSD
  • MicroSDHC
    Camera Features:
  • Auto focus
  • Flash
  • 1080p Video Recording
    Sensors:
  • Accelerometer
  • Ambient light
  • Proximity
    QWERTY :
Cellular Network
    Network Technology:
  • GSM
    GSM Band:
  • 850
  • 900
  • 1800
  • 1900
Device Connectivity
    Wi-Fi:
  • 802.11a
  • 802.11b
  • 802.11g
  • 802.11n
    Bluetooth:
  • A2DP
  • Bluetooth 4.0
    Location Features:
  • Compass
  • GPS
  • Cellular location
  • Wi-Fi location
    FM Radio :
    NFC :


Gameloft’s NFL Pro 2013 coming soon to Android

Posted: 27 Sep 2012 10:19 AM PDT

Gameloft is back with yet another game announcement this afternoon. Following along with previous titles, Gameloft has just released their official trailer for the brand new NFL Pro 2013 for iOS and Android. Sadly as usual, the game is available today for the former, but not quite ready for Android yet but is coming soon. Check it out below.

NFL Pro is the only realistic NFL simulation for Android that is also completely free-to-play, just like each of the previous versions. NFL Pro 2013 is back with improved graphics, better gameplay, and even more realistic simulations.

This time around you can even get a first-person view as the Quarterback (Go Rodgers) and actually feel like you’re inside the helmet of your favorite NFL QB. Check out the screenshots below to get an idea of what to expect from the first-person mode — it looks extremely exciting and be sure to watch out for Clay Matthews blitzing the QB.

Looks great right? The game is free-to-play, but there’s probably a few in-app purchase somewhere — as that’s becoming a reoccurring theme as of late. Earlier this year Gameloft vowed to bring Android and iOS games to market simultaneously but sadly that still isn’t quite happening. NFL Pro 2013 is available today right now for iOS, and is only stated as “coming soon” to Android. Celebrate the refs finally coming back with a brand new game from Gameloft. Enjoy!

aHI85nxWBxBaN6OWICvYODc4RMrRd0L51grRQ4wybfk yYjO4o3qAw6wiClIhn05BVWcMB66i28Ac_Fs8URzP-A uMT3nhN1IThmSl6L9xtxgZfED3PIzRjFVN7mpMYvSjk bplaThJecZ8g3ic6gjav5QbMdERVjgEj5WHkzmBTsiA Screen Shot 2012-09-27 at 10.09.48 AM


Qualcomm S4 Play processors set to bring quad-cores to mass market

Posted: 27 Sep 2012 09:46 AM PDT

Qualcomm has just announced an all new line of mobile processors to join their growing set of popular and powerful Snapdragon chips. Better known as SoC (system on chip) the new Snapdragon S4 Play processors are a new dual and quad-core lineup with impressive power for all those entry-level devices.

With this new line Qualcomm is looking to bring quad-core power and efficiency to the mass market. Enabling manufacturers to use powerful dual-core processors, and in many cases quad-core S4 Play processors on even mid-range and entry-level smartphones. This means you’ll no longer have to get the flagship, most expensive phone on your carrier to get awesome performance.

The dual-core S4 available now has been powering some of the most successful smartphones to date in the Galaxy S III, AT&T’s HTC One X, and many upcoming smartphones like the DROID RAZR HD. Today’s new processors will be known as the S4 Play — which will be joining Qualcomm’s top-end S4 Pro quad-core powerhouse in the LG Optimus G.

The Qualcomm MSM8225 and MSM8625 S4 Play processors are what’s being described above, and is set to bring that next level of power and performance to everyone. They come in both dual and quad-core options with 1GB of LPDDR2 RAM, and support for HSPA+, CDMA, LTE and even dual-SIM variations for the international markets. These Qualcomm Reference Design (QRD) chipsets will begin consumer testing later this year. With the quad-core Snapdragon S4 MSM8225Q and MSM8625Q, you'll be working with next-generation power by the first quarter of 2013. Get excited!


Google rumored to launch $99 Nexus 7 tablet

Posted: 27 Sep 2012 08:52 AM PDT

If you thought $199 was a steal for Google’s Nexus 7 tablet, you may want to think again. Digitimes is reporting that Google and ASUS have teamed up once again and are currently working on a cheaper Nexus 7 tablet model that will go on sale for a mere $99 later this year.

Google is said to launch the $99 version of the Nexus 7 alongside an updated and thinner $199 version. Both tablets will supposedly feature HannStar Display panels, and will hit the market by the end of the year. That’s about all the known details so far, but we’re guessing Google and ASUS will somehow be forced to use cheaper components if they plan on releasing such a discounted product.

If Google can maintain the quality of the Nexus 7 in its rumored $99 model, they will absolutely blow the entire tablet market out the window. A Nexus 7 tablet for under $100 would be an amazing feat, and coming in at a fifth of the cost of an iPad, we’re sure that a lot of people would scramble for a Google tablet. However, Apple is also rumored to release a cheaper 7-inch tablet of their own shortly to compete with the Nexus 7, Kindle Fire HD, and the Nook Tablet series.

Digitimes reports that ASUS has denied the claims that they’re working on a $99 Nexus 7 tablet, so take this rumor with a grain of salt. Plus, we’re still curious as to how Google plans to sell a $99 tablet without losing a ton of money. As it stands, it requires around $150 to produce a Nexus 7, so in order to sell a $99 tablet, they’ll either have to use cheaper components or sell the device at a subsidized cost.

Device Specifications and Information
Device Info
    Device Name : Nexus 7
    Manufactuer : Asus
    Carrier : NA
    Announced Date : June 27, 2012
    Release Date : TBA
    Also Known As : Google Nexus 7, MeMo 370T
Display
  • Screen Size : 7 Inch
  • Resolution : 1280x800
  • Screen Type : IPS LCD
Dimension & Weight
  • Height : 7.81 Inch
  • Width : 4.72 Inch
  • Depth : 0.41 Inch
  • Weight : 340 Grams
Battery & Power
    Battery Type:
  • Lithium Ion
  • Battery Capacity : 4325 mAh
  • Talk Time : NA
  • Stand By Time : NA
Software
    Android OS:
  • 4.1.x
    Audio Playback:
  • AAC
  • AAC+
  • AMR
  • MID
  • MP3
  • WAV
  • WMA
    Video Playback:
  • h.263
  • h.264 / AVC
  • 3GP
  • MPEG-4 (MP4)
  • WMV
    Messaging:
  • IM
Hardware
    CPU : Tegra 3
    CPU Clock Speed : 1300 Mhz
    Core : 4
    Ram : 1000 MB
    Internal Storage : 8 GB
    Front Facing Camera :
    Camera Resolution : NA
    Sensors:
  • Accelerometer
  • Ambient light
  • Proximity
    QWERTY :
Cellular Network
Device Connectivity
    Wi-Fi:
  • 802.11b
  • 802.11g
  • 802.11n
    Bluetooth:
  • Bluetooth 3.0
  • A2DP
    Location Features:
  • Compass
  • GPS
    FM Radio :
    NFC :


AMD AppZone Player brings Android to the PC

Posted: 27 Sep 2012 07:24 AM PDT

Playing around with Android apps on a larger screen isn’t anything new — BlueStacks has been offering it for a while, but AMD announced today that they’re joining in on the fun. The company revealed a partnership with BlueStacks and introduced the AppZone Player. It uses a specially-optimized version of the BlueStack software that’s modified to run on AMD Radeon graphics and APU processors.

The AppZone Player also comes with a feature called Cloud Connect, where you can sync apps and SMS messages with your Android device. This will no doubt be great for those looking to not only play around with apps on their computers, but to use text messaging between both devices, which is extremely convenient to say the least.

To get started with the AppZone Player, you can download the player directly from AMD, and once installed, you’re up and running in no time. You’ll be able to browse apps either by category, recommendations, or similar apps to what you’ve already downloaded.

This isn’t the first time AMD and BlueStacks have partnered up. Last year, AMD invested in BlueStacks to bring Android apps to Windows tablets. Now, it’s working on Windows PCs, hoping to bring the Android experience to more platforms than just Android itself. Hopefully, the project expands to include a broader list of requirements other than just AMD chips.

[via SlashGear]


Chrome for Android updates with x86 support

Posted: 27 Sep 2012 06:53 AM PDT

Google has updated its Chrome mobile browser for Android, which now supports devices running x86 processors. This means that newer devices running on Intel’s Medfield chip, like the Motorola RAZR i, can now enjoy Google’s own browser solution. Before the update, Chrome was sadly not compatible with non-ARM devices, but that’s no longer the case.

Unfortunately, very few mobile device are running Intel’s 32nm Medfield processor — the most notable one being Motorola’s RAZR i. However, we can confirm, though, that Chrome runs great on it. So when it’s time for you to pick up your new RAZR i when it hits store shelves later this year, you’ll already have a couple of browser options to choose from.

The new Chrome update for Android also comes with the usual various bugfixes and stability improvements, and there are now YouTube video controls in full-screen playback mode. Videos also now continue playing even after the phone becomes locked, making it a great battery-saving feature if you only want to listen to the audio portion.

Google Chrome is a free download and the update is available now in the Google Play store. Also, if you want more info about the Medfield-equipped RAZR i, have a look at our hands-on for photos and more. You can also read over our review of another Medfield device, the Orange San Diego.

[via SlashGear]


LG Optimus Vu II arrives in Korea, looks to take on Galaxy Note II

Posted: 27 Sep 2012 06:25 AM PDT

In a move to compete with the slowly-growing phablet market, LG has decided to launch one of their own smartphone-and-tablet hybrids. The LG Optimus Vu II, as it’s called, has a 5-inch display with 4:3 aspect ratio, which is something we don’t normally see these days from an Android device. LG hopes to compete with Samsung‘s upcoming Galaxy Note II phablet head on with this new device.

We heard about the Optimus Vu II a month ago when LG officially announced it, but details and specs were pretty sparse at that point in time. This time around, we get to hear more about it. While the device isn’t a huge jump from its predecessor, there are some slight improvements that make it better than the original Optimus Vu.

The Vu II comes with a Qualcomm S4 MSM8960 processor clocked at 1.5GHz and packs 2GB of RAM (doubled from the original Optimus Vu). It also has a slightly larger 2150mAh removable battery, an 8MP rear camera with a 1.3MP front-facing camera, NFC capabilities, an IR blaster with a QRemote app for use as universal remote control, and a “One Key” feature that helps you locate your device if it comes up missing.

The Optimus Vu II runs off Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich and there’s no word whether or not it will get Jelly Bean any time soon. The device will be launching in South Korea for 966,900 won ($864) in black, white and pink colors. No word yet on when the Optimus Vu II will be making its way to the states. Hopefully it’s only a matter of time.

[via SlashGear]


YouTube updated with new UI for Gingerbread and older devices

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 04:40 PM PDT

We have great news for the millions of Android users still not running the newest Android 4.1 Jelly Bean or even Ice Cream Sandwich. We’ve been enjoying an awesome new user interface on YouTube for quite a while, and today Google‘s updated it for all those older devices. Users running Android 2.2 (FroYo) or 2.3 Gingerbread will have an update today making YouTube even better.

Who’s still on FroYo these days? Seriously! Obviously not everyone can have the latest and greatest smartphones around, and for all of you this will be a much needed and wanted update. The fancy user interface that we’ve been enjoying can be yours today so you’ll want to hurry and update to the latest and greatest.

That isn’t all either. Google’s added a few new features and options to YouTube for older devices, not just the pretty new UI. You’ll get pre-loading options, add videos to your queue and more. Here’s the full changelog provided by Google:

What’s in this version:

* New UI and Preloading now available on Froyo and Gingerbread devices
* New Watch experience
*Add videos to your YouTube TV queue
* More channels to pick from on the Channel Store

The entire user interface should be much more intuitive and easy to use, the large tiles should help too. The new “watch experience” is a nice touch especially since older devices had the boring old school design. We also see the “recommended by YouTube” option now for older devices — so that’s a major plus. I’m always finding neat things with that option. Although sometimes it takes me to the odd depths of YouTube. Hit the link below to get it now you FroYo and Gingerbread users.

YouTube Play Store Link


Motorola Atrix 2 getting Android 4.0 ICS update

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 04:11 PM PDT

Late last week Motorola issued a statement and updated the public regarding their plans to update devices to Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich and Jelly Bean, but the results didn’t look too good. After the Atrix 2 was pushed from Q3 to “further plans coming soon” we were worried, but today they’ve actually started the initial ICS update.

Motorola themselves have just detailed the update for the Motorola Atrix 2 to Android 4.0.4 Ice Cream Sandwich, which should bring it more in like with the Atrix HD, RAZR M and more from the company. Why they don’t just skip to Jelly Bean I don’t know, but we’ll take the update now that it’s here.

The details confirm the update to ICS and build number 67.21.125 and mentions all the fixes and changes we can expect to see. All those still rocking the Atrix 2 will be happy to have nearly the latest and greatest. You can expect an all new look, an improved notification bar, and lockscreen shortcuts have been overhauled. Everything is in line with the Atrix HD. Oh and enjoy that awesome Circle Widget that was included — it’s one of my favorite parts of Motorola’s Blurish user interface.

It looks like this has already rolled out to select few users and soak test beta members of Motorola’s feedback network, but it should also be headed to all AT&T Atrix 2 owners this week. As usual you can accept the OTA update, or head to Settings > About Phone > System Updates to get started as soon as possible. Hit the links below for our review of the Atrix HD for an idea of what to expect software wise. Let us know if you have any issues updating.

Device Specifications and Information
Device Info
    Device Name : ATRIX 2
    Manufactuer : Motorola
    Carrier : AT&T
    Announced Date : October 11, 2011
    Release Date : October 16, 2011
    Also Known As : Motorola Edison, Motorola MB 865
Display
  • Screen Size : 4.3 Inch
  • Resolution : 540x960
  • Screen Type : NA
Dimension & Weight
  • Height : 4.96 Inch
  • Width : 2.59 Inch
  • Depth : 0.40 Inch
  • Weight : 147 Grams
Battery & Power
    Battery Type:
  • Lithium Ion
  • Battery Capacity : 1785 mAh
  • Talk Time : NA
  • Stand By Time : 382 hours
Software
    Android OS:
  • 2.3.x
    Audio Playback:
  • AAC
  • AAC+
  • AMR
  • MID
  • MP3
  • WAV
  • WMA
    Video Playback:
  • 3GP
  • MPEG-4 (MP4)
  • WMV
    Messaging:
  • SMS
  • MMS
Hardware
    CPU : OMAP 4430
    CPU Clock Speed : 1000 Mhz
    Core : 2
    Ram : 1000 MB
    Internal Storage : 2.048 GB
    Front Facing Camera :
    Camera Resolution : 8 MP
    External Storage:
  • MicroSD
  • MicroSDHC
    Camera Features:
  • Auto focus
  • Flash
    Sensors:
  • Accelerometer
  • Ambient light
  • Proximity
    QWERTY :
Cellular Network
    Network Technology:
  • GSM
    GSM Band:
  • 850
  • 900
  • 1800
  • 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 Android Police]


Google Play services version 1.0 launches

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 03:32 PM PDT

Google I/O was filled with a lot of announcements this year, but one of the announcements aimed solely at Android developers was the reveal of Google Play services. In a nutshell, Google Play services allows app developers to integrate other Google services, like Google Plus, into their apps. Today, Google rolled out version 1.0 of Google Play services, inviting developers to get to coding.


However, before you developers get too excited, you should know that the full roll out of Google Play services won’t be finished for another week. While the roll out happens, Google is obviously asking that developers don’t put any apps that use Google Play services up on the Store, for obvious reasons. After all, releasing an app that uses a service which hasn’t been fully released could cause some issues and it exactly a surprise that Google would like to avoid dealing with those.

Still, Google has released the client library a little bit ahead of the finished roll out so developers can get a head start. Google Play services version 1.0 features a handful of components, including OAuth 2.0 authentication, Google Plus sign-in, and the Google Plus +1 button. Google Play services 1.0 is compatible with all Android devices running Android 2.2 (Froyo) or later, and Google has released a getting started document to serve as a springboard for developers.

Google Play services is still a little light on features at this early stage, but we expect that all to change soon. Version 1.0 is just the beginning of things, and we’re thinking it won’t be long before Google has a new update primed and ready to go. Still, plenty of people are excited for the launch of 1.0, and eager developers can get the client library from the Android SDK now – just remember to hold off on launching those apps until Google says that the roll out has finished!

[via Google]


T-Mobile HTC One S update rolling out now

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 02:57 PM PDT

Those proud owners of the T-Mobile HTC One S should have an update arriving for their device starting today. If you’ve not received it yet, it’ll be showing up soon. Today T-Mobile has yet again detailed the upcoming update over on their support forums, and mention you’ll be getting upgraded to Android 4.0.4 Ice Cream Sandwich — no Jelly Bean just yet.

The update will bring users to Android 4.0.4 Ice Cream Sandwich, as well as the new Sense UI 4.1 we’ve seen others receive. The update is bringing a huge host of fixes and changes for the better. Some include WiFi tweaks and improvements, better signal, better data connection, problems with links in emails have been resolved and more. Many don’t have these problems but for those who do, this is good news. Here’s the full list:

Build 1.8.4.531.2 710RD to 2.35.531.7 710RD
HTC SDK from 4.11 to 4.23

Helps with data connection delay
Helps with signal fluctuations
Helps with Wi-Fi dropping connection or not connecting
Helps with Wi-Fi stays connected when out of range
Helps with device crashes or restarts
Helps with email links do not open
Helps with loading screens or lag when returning to home screen
Helps with streaming music skips
Improved Wi-Fi stability
User interface improvements
Improvements to Bluetooth connectivity

As usual, you’ll have to be using a completely stock and unrooted smartphone to accept the update. T-Mobile details that this will be arriving over the air starting today, and we’ve heard from several users the update has already arrived. The screenshot below came in from one tipster that received it this morning. This update originally rolled out in August and was then stopped, so everyone should be getting it this week.

Just like other HTC devices, this update will allow users to change the multi-tasking (recently opened apps) button to a menu button or whatever you’d like. Just head to Display > Gestures > Buttons to change the capacitive multitask button to something more useful like menu. This also removes that large black bar many have been seeing in apps for the menu button. Give it a go and let us know if you have any issues by dropping a comment below.

hero-540x3891 2012-09-26_08-05-18
Device Specifications and Information
Device Info
    Device Name : One S
    Manufactuer : HTC
    Carrier : NA
    Announced Date : February 26, 2012
    Release Date : April 25, 2012
    Also Known As :
Display
  • Screen Size : 4.3 Inch
  • Resolution : 540x960
  • Screen Type : Super AMOLED
Dimension & Weight
  • Height : 5.15 Inch
  • Width : 2.56 Inch
  • Depth : 0.31 Inch
  • Weight : 120 Grams
Battery & Power
    Battery Type:
  • Lithium Ion
  • Battery Capacity : 1650 mAh
  • Talk Time : NA
  • Stand By Time : NA
Software
    Android OS:
  • 4.0.x
    Audio Playback:
  • AAC
  • AAC+
  • MID
  • MP3
  • WAV
  • WMA
    Video Playback:
  • h.263
  • h.264 / AVC
  • MPEG-4 (MP4)
    Messaging:
  • SMS
  • MMS
Hardware
    CPU : Snapdragon S4
    CPU Clock Speed : 1500 Mhz
    Core : 2
    Ram : 1024 MB
    Internal Storage : 16 GB
    Front Facing Camera :
    Camera Resolution : 8 MP
    External Storage:
  • MicroSD
    Camera Features:
  • Auto focus
  • Flash
  • 1080p Video Recording
    Sensors:
  • Accelerometer
  • Ambient light
  • Proximity
    QWERTY :
Cellular Network
    Network Technology:
  • GSM
    GSM Band:
  • 850
  • 900
  • 1800
  • 1900
    CDMA Band:
  • 1700
  • 2100
Device Connectivity
    Wi-Fi:
  • 802.11b
  • 802.11g
  • 802.11n
    Bluetooth:
  • Bluetooth 3.0
    Location Features:
  • Compass
  • GPS
  • Cellular location
  • Wi-Fi location
    FM Radio :
    NFC :

[via TmoNews]


Samsung Galaxy S III lands at MetroPCS in October

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 02:27 PM PDT

A lot of Samsung fans probably already have their Galaxy S III, but just in case you don’t yet, you might be pleased that the flagship will be arriving at MetroPCS next month. The phone launched at most major carriers a few months back, but now it appears to be time for the budget carriers to get a piece of the action too. The Galaxy S III is already an incredibly popular smartphone, selling 20 million units since its launch earlier this year, and Samsung can definitely count on a sales boost by bringing the handset to MetroPCS.


The teaser for the S III’s launch at MetroPCS says that the phone will be arriving in October, but an exact release date is still being kept under wraps. Also unknown at the moment are pricing details. This will unquestionably be one of the best smartphones MetroPCS offers, so expect it to be a bit on the expensive side, but we wonder if Metro’s status as a budget carrier will bring the price down a little bit.

That would be great, but really, we think the Galaxy S III is worth the money even if MetroPCS only offers it at full price. The phone deserves the title of “flagship” as it’s definitely one of Samsung’s best phones to date (if not the best). In other words, don’t worry – if you pick up the Samsung Galaxy S III at MetroPCS, you probably won’t regret it.

The Galaxy S III comes equipped with a dual-core Snapdragon processor clocked at 1.5GHz, a 4.8-inch Super AMOLED touch screen, a rear-facing 8-megapixel camera, and 1GB of RAM to keep things speedy. It’s unknown which version of Android it will be running, and while we’re keeping our fingers crossed for Jelly Bean, it’s probably a better idea to expect Ice Cream Sandwich at launch. It gets even better too, as users can sign up to win a free Galaxy S III from MetroPCS. Will you be picking up the Galaxy S III when it launches at MetroPCS, or do you already have one from another carrier?

Device Specifications and Information
Device Info
    Device Name : Galaxy S III
    Manufactuer : Samsung
    Carrier : NA
    Announced Date : May 03, 2012
    Release Date : May 29, 2012
    Also Known As : The Next Galaxy, SGSIII
Display
  • Screen Size : 4.8 Inch
  • Resolution : 720x1280
  • Screen Type : Super AMOLED HD
Dimension & Weight
  • Height : 5.37 Inch
  • Width : 2.77 Inch
  • Depth : 0.33 Inch
  • Weight : 133 Grams
Battery & Power
    Battery Type:
  • Lithium Ion
  • Battery Capacity : 2100 mAh
  • Talk Time : NA
  • Stand By Time : NA
Software
    Android OS:
  • 4.0.x
    Audio Playback:
  • AAC
  • AAC+
  • AMR
  • MID
  • MP3
  • WAV
  • WMA
    Video Playback:
  • h.263
  • h.264 / AVC
  • MPEG-4 (MP4)
    Messaging:
  • SMS
  • MMS
Hardware
    CPU : Exynos 4 Quad
    CPU Clock Speed : 1400 Mhz
    Core : 4
    Ram : 1024 MB
    Internal Storage : 32 GB
    Front Facing Camera :
    Camera Resolution : 8 MP
    External Storage:
  • MicroSD
  • MicroSDHC
    Camera Features:
  • Auto focus
  • Flash
  • 1080p Video Recording
    Sensors:
  • Accelerometer
  • Ambient light
  • Proximity
    QWERTY :
Cellular Network
    Network Technology:
  • GSM
    GSM Band:
  • 850
  • 900
  • 1800
  • 1900
Device Connectivity
    Wi-Fi:
  • 802.11b
  • 802.11g
  • 802.11n
    Bluetooth:
  • A2DP
  • Bluetooth 4.0
    Location Features:
  • Compass
  • GPS
  • Cellular location
  • Wi-Fi location
    FM Radio :
    NFC :

[via Unwired View]


HiddenRadio wireless bluetooth speaker hands-on

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 02:20 PM PDT

Today we have the impressive HiddenRadio wireless speaker to show you all. You might recognize the name of the HiddenRadio from their Kickstarter campaign earlier this year that raised nearly a million dollars. Well it’s available now and shipping to consumers after a successful campaign so we’re taking a look.

At first glance you’re not quite sure what this is when you lay your eyes on it, then once you realize it’s a speaker you’ll be surprised. It’s extremely simple, elegant, and fashionable although I’m not sure where I’d set it in my living room. The minimalistic design might have you thinking this is an Apple product, but it’s not although works great with their devices. Today however we’re taking a look at it for Android using the awesome Bluetooth capabilities.

This isn’t just another wireless speaker either — well not really. It’s simple, elegant, lightweight, and outputs quality sound in a full 360 degrees. That means you won’t have to worry about directional sound, and it’s amazing for camping or a day at the pool or beach. Simply twist the top to reveal more of the speaker grill as it rises to let out more sound, which doubles for the volume nob and increases the output to extreme levels. It’s intuitive but isn’t quite realistic. Lets take a peek:

We said it was lightweight and it comes in only at 430g, or less than 1 lbs. You can fit this device in your backpack, pool bag, or purse with no trouble at 3.4 x 3.4 x 3.8-inches, and it comes in three colors – metallic silver, graphite black, and pure white. Now bluetooth is the most ideal situation, but it isn’t your only option. We also have FM radio.

As you saw in the picture and video above it also features FM radio. While the entire design is unintuitive with just a forward and back button on bottom, I’m sure an accompanying app is on the way at some point. They’ve included a nice FM antenna for better signal, as well as a USB cord for charging.

So the bottom line? This wireless and bluetooth speaker will run you $149.95, or $189.95 after September 30th in the silver and black editions, or the Pure White model will be $179. While the price is rather steep for lets be honest — just another wireless speaker — it sounds great. It’s the simple design, ease of use, and exceptional sound that makes these what they are. Cranking it to full volume got extremely loud enough for just about the entire pool to hear without any serious distortion. Being full 360 degrees the entire group could enjoy the tunes. It doesn’t quite feel like a $180 product, but comes pretty close to sounding like one. Check it out at HiddenRadio’s website.

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Samsung and Google CEOs meeting to discuss Apple lawsuits

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 01:30 PM PDT

By now we’re all plenty aware of the ongoing legal battles Android has faced, especially Samsung from the folks at Apple. Today we’ve heard that Google’s own Eric Schmidt is scheduled to have some “strategy” meetings with multiple Samsung execs in South Korea throughout the upcoming week to discuss the lawsuits.

According to Samsung's mobile chief these meetings are tipped to be an attempt to boost Google's involvement in Android litigation — as well as the come up with some sort of strategy to deal with the situation. Both Shin Jong-kyun and Google’s Eric Schmidt have declined to comment regarding the matter — but according to the Korea Times these meetings are indeed scheduled.

Despite losing big in court with the 1 billion ruling earlier this year, Samsung is still pushing strong with sales from their Galaxy Note, Galaxy S III, and soon their Galaxy Note II. Samsung’s fired back their own set of lawsuits regarding 4G LTE patents, and hopes to get the iPhone 5 banned — if we can ever see that actually happening.

That isn’t all either. Google Maps has recently been dropped from Apple’s iOS 6 and iPhone in favor of their own home-grown offering which has seem plenty of scrutiny from the media and public as of late. Their Map app works well, but is no where near the complete product Google brought to the table. We aren’t too sure what to make of these meetings, or if Google will actually be stepping forward more regarding the lawsuits. Most likely they’ll help out with the cash-flow, but we can’t be sure of anything at the moment. Samsung’s Shin also revealed that Samsung will be holding "strategy meetings with major carriers" in the US next week. Interesting stuff!

[via SlashGear]


Google Maps adds underwater locations to Street View

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 12:39 PM PDT

Apple Maps may be trying to drive people through buildings and down roads that haven’t existed in years, but meanwhile, Google has been busy adding underwater locations to its own Maps offerings. Starting today, Google Maps users will be able to get a look at select underwater locations such as the Great Barrier Reef through Street View. How’s that for a cool addition?


At first, adding these underwater locations may seem rather pointless, awesomeness aside. However, the addition of underwater locations does have some real-world applications, as marine biologists and scuba divers could use this new functionality to pick out points of interest. Along with the Great Barrier Reef, Google Maps will also allow users to get an up-close glimpse of some ancient coral off the coast of Apo Island in the Philippines, Oahu's Hanauma Bay, and the coral reef that has taken up residence in Maui’s Molokini crater.

Obviously, this is a pretty big undertaking, so Google had to call in a bit of help to get these underwater locations into Google Maps. These new additions are the result of a team up between Google and The Catlin Seaview Survey, which is a major scientific study of Earth’s coral reefs. The Catlin Seaview Survey used their SVII underwater camera to take the pictures that are now featured in Google Maps.

Google has been increasing its Street View offerings a lot lately, recently giving Google Maps users the ability to explore portions of the Amazon rainforest. Even if you’ll never make it to the Great Barrier Reef or Hawaii in real life, these new locations in Google Maps offer a pretty great way to get up close and personal with some of Earth’s most diverse collections of marine life. Let’s hope that Google keeps adding more underwater locations from here on out, because we can’t get enough.

[via Google Maps Blog]


NFL Mobile update adds Jelly Bean and HD resolution support – Free trial included

Posted: 26 Sep 2012 11:31 AM PDT

Today the folks from Verizon Wireless and the NFL have updated their wildly popular NFL Mobile app for Verizon Wireless customers. Today’s update will bring some much needed features for those in the now on Android. They’ve added Android 4.1 Jelly Bean support — officially — as well as support for true HD high resolution devices.

While the app isn’t nearly as good as last year, it’s still one of the best NFL apps for Android and sadly only available for those on Verizon Wireless. Now we have everything we need from this app — can we please for the love of god get the regular NFL Referees back. Don’t even get me started on that!

Today’s update adds full support for Android 4.1 Jelly Bean. I’ve been using it on my Galaxy Nexus without issue for a few months now, but it’s nice to know they’re officially supporting the OS as of today. Verizon has also added HD resolution support — seemingly for the Galaxy Nexus and its 1280 x 720p HD display as well as their Galaxy S III smartphone.

Verizon also lists “bug fixes” but doesn’t state anything specific. I know a few DROID Bionic users were still experiencing problems, so hopefully those bugs have been squashed. We have just about every way imaginable to watch the NFL, now they just need to make it fun to watch again. Being a Packers fan (and NFL fan in general) Monday was hard to watch.

Verizon is offering their fully premium version of NFL Mobile to all Verizon Wireless smartphone owners absolutely free this weekend until October 1st. So give it a try and if you like it you can sign up for $4.99 a month. I thought it was free for all 4G LTE owners but that deal sadly has ended. Get it from the link below.

NFL Mobile


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