Final Fantasy IV headed to iOS on December 20, Android version to follow in 2013

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/09/final-fantasy-iv-ios/)

That [Nintendo DS](http://www.engadget.com/tag/nintendods) re-make of _Final Fantasy IV_ may add 3D graphics, a variety of bug fixes, and a fresh localization, but who wants to lug around their old Nintendo DS? Thankfully, it won't be much longer before the same version of _FFIV_ ends up on iOS, as spotted by the folks at gaming forum NeoGAF. The game arrives on the iOS App Store for both iPhone and iPad starting on December 20, and is headed to Android sometime next year. As of now, it's only got a Japanese pricing of ¥1800 ($21.77), but we expect it'll cost about $17.99 when it launches Stateside. In anticipation of the pending release, Square's marking down prices of its other iOS FF games (which are usually priced _absurdly high_), so now's a good time to snap them up on the cheap. If you'd like to take a gander at the first images of the iOS port, Japanese publication [_Gamer_](http://api.viglink.com/api/click?format=go&key=7df47af1793a5979b66e3de78c0cf973&loc=http%3A%2F%2Ftoucharcade.com%2F2012%2F12%2F07%2Ffinal-fantasy-4-announced-for-iphone-and-ipad%2F&v=1&libid=1354893219780&out=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gamer.ne.jp%2Fnews%2F201212070033%2F&title='Final%20Fantasy%204'%20Announced%20For%20iPhone%20and%20iPad%20%7C%20Touch%20Arcade&txt=gaming%20web%20site%20Gamer&jsonp=vglnk_jsonp_13548999491573) has a first-look.

Filed under: [Mobile](http://www.engadget.com/category/mobile/), [Apple](http://www.engadget.com/category/apple/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/09/final-fantasy-iv-ios/#comments)**

**Via:** [NeoGAF](http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=503106)

**Source:** [Square Enix](http://dlgames.square-enix.com/ff/)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/09/final-fantasy-iv-ios/

Apple Loop: Tim Cook Talks, Macs In The USA, The 'Steve Jobs Patent, ' Kutcher In Costume

Keeping you in the loop on some of the things happening around Apple this week, which were fueled in large part by Apple CEO Tim Cook's making the media rounds in New York .

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/12/apple-loop-tim-cook-talks-macs-in-the-usa-the-steve-jobs-patent-kutcher-in-costume?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-744287525d791a8e42f1bcfbfe853a73

Sawai goes Mobile

Last year, when mechanical engineer-turned-software firm founder Parth Lawate attended the Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav, he found that even with all the elaborate schedules and guidelines, a lot of people like him were stuck.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/12/sawai-goes-mobile?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-8675bceb29828d414bca9d86636e5253

Apple vs Samsung: Is it advantage Samsung?

Some pundits say concerns are growing about the seemingly inexorable advance of Android, the Google OS championed by Samsung.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/12/apple-vs-samsung-is-it-advantage-samsung?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-1fe0209a7930b1c36b30231b00629500

HTC One VX budget beast hits AT&T

The folks at AT&T have just released the HTC "budget" device known as the HTC One VX, a smartphone that by early 2012 standards would have been considered a top-tier machine.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/12/htc-one-vx-budget-beast-hits-at-t?fromrss=1

Google Now coming to Chrome browser, brings reminder cards to the desktop


[Google Now](http://www.engadget.com/tag/googlenow/) is fast becoming one of [Android](http://www.engadget.com/tag/android/)'s defining features. But, if some recent additions to Chromium are anything to go by, the nifty little life-predictor could well be finding its way to Chrome browsers, too. An entry in the [Chromium project](http://www.engadget.com/tag/chromium/) code site titled "Show Google Now notifications in Chrome" along with some code revisions for "Creating a skeleton for Google Now for Chrome implementation" hints that the idea is, at least, at some level of development. This of course means that the service would leap out of its current mobile OS restraints, and become available to a much wider audience -- at least those using some portion of the Google ecosystem -- and not just it's Android platform. The code was spotted by an eagle-eyed François Beaufort, who points out the reference to it working with Chrome's desktop notifications. While we wait for more official word, we guess a card to notify us of when this might be coming would be too much to ask?

Filed under: [Desktops](http://www.engadget.com/category/desktops/), [Internet](http://www.engadget.com/category/internet/), [Google](http://www.engadget.com/category/google/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/08/google-now-coming-to-chrome-browser/#comments)**

**Via:** [CNET](http://news.cnet.com/8301-1023_3-57558039-93/androids-google-now-services-headed-for-chrome-too/)

**Source:** [François Beaufort (Google+)](https://plus.google.com/u/0/100132233764003563318/posts/9SQ47zdBsjn)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/08/google-now-coming-to-chrome-browser/

BBC iPlayer gets updated for iPad, iPhone 5

One of the most popular apps in the UK received some small, but siginificant updates yesterday.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/12/bbc-iplayer-gets-updated-for-ipad-iphone-5?fromrss=1

Sony and Box extend BFF status, offer 50GB free storage to Xperia owners through 2013

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/08/sony-and-box-extend-50gb-free-storage-to-2013/)

When [Sony and Box came together](http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/30/box-net-befriends-android-will-offer-sony-ericsson-xperia-phone/) last year to offer Xperia owners a tantalizing deal of 50GB of free storage for life, the promotion was only set to run for a year. Now that shopping season is upon us once more, however, the holiday spirit must've moved them to extend the partnership for yet another year -- that, or [Sony needs any edge it can](http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/sony-ericsson-posts-lower-profits-in-q3-earnings-report-will-sh/) to move those [Xperia](http://www.engadget.com/2012/06/24/sony-xperia-ion-review/) devices to consumer hands. Just as with the prior promo, Xperia and Sony tablet users can snag 50 gigs of cloud storage completely _gratis_ just by signing up or tapping into existing Box accounts on their devices before December 31st 2013. However, do note that the offer doesn't extend to the [Xperia X10 mini](http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/08/sony-ericsson-xperia-x10-mini-mini-pro-review/), the [X10 mini pro](http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/08/sony-ericsson-xperia-x10-mini-mini-pro-review/) and anything that has firmware older than Android 2.1. Now that Sony has this going for two years straight, maybe they should extend this to a _lifetime_ scenario, or as long as Box sticks around to offer up that sweet storage in the sky.

[Continue reading _Sony and Box extend BFF status, offer 50GB free storage to Xperia owners through 2013_](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/08/sony-and-box-extend-50gb-free-storage-to-2013/)

Filed under: [Cellphones](http://www.engadget.com/category/cellphones/), [Mobile](http://www.engadget.com/category/mobile/), [Sony](http://www.engadget.com/category/sony/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/08/sony-and-box-extend-50gb-free-storage-to-2013/#comments)**

**Via:** [MobileBurn](http://www.mobileburn.com/20979/news/box-and-sony-offer-users-50gb-of-free-cloud-storage-until-december-2013)

**Source:** [Sony](http://blogs.sonymobile.com/2012/12/07/xperia-and-box-renew-partnership-through-2013/)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/08/sony-and-box-extend-50gb-free-storage-to-2013/

Genietrack Family Locator Version 3.1 Now Available For Android Devices

Genietrack today announced the launch of the Genietrack Family Locator v3.1, the next generation of the Genietrack family safety service on the Android platform.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/12/genietrack-family-locator-version-3-1-now-available-for-android-devices?fromrss=1

Motorola updates its Jelly Bean timetables, puts key upgrades in Q1 2013

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/07/motorola-updates-its-jelly-bean-timetables/)

Now that Verizon's most [recent Droid RAZR family](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/03/android-4-1-jelly-bean-rollout-droid-razr-hd-maxx-hd/) has had its taste of Jelly Bean, it's time for Motorola to shift focus to the rest of the devices that have [made the cut](http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/19/motorola-phones-no-jelly-bean-upgrade/) for the upgrade -- and it's doing just that with an updated timetable for the rollout. Among those phones and tablets that aren't already on Android 4.1, only the [Atrix HD](http://www.engadget.com/2012/07/16/motorola-atrix-hd-review/) and Asia-Pacific RAZR HD models should get the refresh before 2012 bows out. A larger contingent that includes the [Electrify M](http://www.engadget.com/2012/11/01/us-cellular-intros-motorola-electrify-m/), the LTE-equipped [Xoom](http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/23/motorola-xoom-review/) and some international models like the European [RAZR i](http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/04/motorola-razr-i-review/) will have to wait until the first quarter of 2013 for their turn. Other devices like the [Droid Bionic](http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/07/droid-bionic-hits-verizon-tomorrow-we-go-hands-on-today-video/), original RAZR and [Photon Q](http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/21/motorola-photon-q-4g-lte-review/) are still on deck, but don't yet have a schedule. That's not a comforting sign when we could see a version of Android beyond 4.2 [in the spring](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/04/google-io-2013-dates-announced-may-15/), so we're hoping that Motorola is trying to underpromise now and overdeliver later.

Filed under: [Cellphones](http://www.engadget.com/category/cellphones/), [Mobile](http://www.engadget.com/category/mobile/), [Google](http://www.engadget.com/category/google/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/07/motorola-updates-its-jelly-bean-timetables/#comments)**

**Via:** [Android Central](http://www.androidcentral.com/jelly-bean-updates-ahoy-many-motorola-phones-q1-2013)

**Source:** [Motorola](https://forums.motorola.com/pages/00add97d6c)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/07/motorola-updates-its-jelly-bean-timetables/

FreeMyApps Bringing Its App Discovery, Engagement & Rewards Platform to Android

Created by , FreeMyApps has quickly become a destination for eager consumers seeking to discover new apps - more than 750,000 monthly active users are downloading.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/12/freemyapps-bringing-its-app-discovery-engagement-rewards-platform-to-android?fromrss=1

Android Tablets Giving Apple's iPads A Run For Their Money

Tablets are expected to fly off the shelves this holiday season, prompting one research firm to increase its tablet sales forecast for 2012.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/12/android-tablets-giving-apples-ipads-a-run-for-their-money?fromrss=1

Intel Red Ridge lands in the FCC, Medfield tablet dreams are reborn

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/07/intel-red-ridge-fcc-medfield-tablet/)

Mentions of Intel's Red Ridge tablet platform began cropping up in earnest well over [a year ago](http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/13/intel-shows-off-medfield-based-android-tablet-at-idf-2011-we-b/), but things have been fairly quiet on the [Medfield](http://www.engadget.com/tag/Medfield/) front -- with a few [exceptions](http://www.engadget.com/2012/09/18/motorolas-razr-i-benchmarks-intel-2ghz-medfield/), of course -- ever since. Now, however, Intel's signaling that it may be ready to pop the cork at CES, as the label you're peering at above just made it through FCC processing earlier today. While there's dreadfully little to go on in the filing, we know that Red Ridge is a Medfield-based tablet platform, with the model shown here tested on a device running Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) and capable of handling Bluetooth, NFC and 802.11a/b/g/n WiFi waves. Notably, we're also told that a "production unit" was used, hinting that we could see the commercial version of this mystery machine make its debut in just under a month. Rest assured, we'll be checking every nook and crannie allowed by law once we [land in Las Vegas](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/07/engadget-the-official-online-news-source-of-ces-2013/).

Filed under: [Tablets](http://www.engadget.com/category/tablets/), [Intel](http://www.engadget.com/category/intel/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/07/intel-red-ridge-fcc-medfield-tablet/#comments)**

**Source:** [FCC](https://apps.fcc.gov/oetcf/eas/reports/ViewExhibitReport.cfm?mode=Exhibits&RequestTimeout=500&calledFromFrame=N&application_id=136429&fcc_id=PSZ-VS14109)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/07/intel-red-ridge-fcc-medfield-tablet/

Samsung product page confirms Galaxy Camera coming to Verizon LTE

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/07/samsung-galaxy-camera-verizon-lte/)

Well, it was all but [confirmed at Photokina](http://www.engadget.com/2012/09/18/samsung-galaxy-camera-orange-pink/), but the release of AT&T's [HSPA+ Galaxy Camera](http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/04/samsung-galaxy-camera-hands-on-att/) threw a few doubts our way. Still, it looks like an LTE version of Samsung's [Jelly Bean shooter](http://www.engadget.com/2012/11/27/samsung-galaxy-camera/) will be in fact making its way stateside, landing on Verizon's 4G network no less. Pricing and availability info is still up in the air (the "Shop" link currently lands us at a 404), but we've reached out to Verizon and Samsung for those still-pending deets, and we'll pass along the good word as soon as it hits our inbox. For now, at least you can rest assured that the most compelling Android-powered shooter will be getting an LTE boost, so if you're currently in line to snag that lesser-equipped AT&T variant, you might want to step aside and wait for the 16-megapixel shooter to hit Big Red.

_Developing..._

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/07/samsung-galaxy-camera-verizon-lte/#comments)**

**Via:** [Android Community](http://androidcommunity.com/samsung-galaxy-camera-heads-to-verizon-with-4g-lte-20121207/)

**Source:** [Samsung](http://www.samsung.com/us/photography/digital-cameras/EK-GC120BKAVZW)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/07/samsung-galaxy-camera-verizon-lte/

JR Raphael: Top 3 Android phones on AT&T [December 2012]

Plug in, turn on. Veteran Android journalist JR Raphael goes beyond the headlines to serve up a fresh mix of Android news, views, and how-to's. Try it with margarine for a low-cal treat! With the holidays fast approaching, we're taking a look at some of the finest Android phones you can get your gadget-loving hands on right now.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/12/jr-raphael-top-3-android-phones-on-at-t-december-2012?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-5bda4327742901f9c251a579d99445c2

Hit Game Makes £52 In First Week On Windows RT

Barence writes "Great Big War Game, a popular iOS and Android app, made only £52 in its first week on Windows RT. In an angry blog post titled 'Windows RT -- Born to fail,' UK-based developer Rubicon blamed Microsoft for the paltry sum and said it won't be bringing any more of its titles to the fledgling platform. It seems Microsoft refused to promote the app as it would only run on Windows RT devices. However, Microsoft quickly got in touch with Rubicon, and the post was deleted and replaced with an apologetic response saying, 'Microsoft have graciously decided work with us to iron out the problems and get us past this incident.' Rubicon will be hoping that £52 figure improves quickly, as it spent £10,000 porting the game to Windows RT."

[](http://twitter.com/home?status=Hit+Game+Makes+%26pound%3B52+In+First+Week+On+Windows+RT%3A+http%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2FUrOJ7j) [](http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fgames.slashdot.org%2Fstory%2F12%2F12%2F07%2F1522248%2Fhit-game-makes-52-in-first-week-on-windows-rt%3Futm_source%3Dslashdot%26utm_medium%3Dfacebook) [](http://plus.google.com/share?url=http://games.slashdot.org/story/12/12/07/1522248/hit-game-makes-52-in-first-week-on-windows-rt?utm_source=slashdot&utm_medium=googleplus)

[Read more of this story](http://games.slashdot.org/story/12/12/07/1522248/hit-game-makes-52-in-first-week-on-windows-rt?utm_source=rss1.0moreanon&utm_medium=feed) at Slashdot.


[](http://da.feedsportal.com/r/151883311195/u/49/f/647410/c/35028/s/266070de/a2.htm)

URL: http://rss.slashdot.org/~r/Slashdot/slashdot/~3/1ijrE_tIzwQ/story01.htm

Onda's V972 tablet packs Jelly Bean and a Retina-like display for $240

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/07/onda-v972-tablet-jelly-bean-240/)

China's [Onda](http://www.engadget.com/tag/onda/) was once somewhat known as a manufacturer of low-cost PMPs that packed some relatively high-end specs, but it's unsurprisingly since moved on to more of a focus on tablets. While those haven't exactly garnered much attention to date, it's latest certainly continues that high-specs / low-cost tradition. Known only as the V972, the tablet packs Android 4.1 for an OS (a 4.2 upgrade is apparently promised), and it's among the first to use Allwinner's new quad-core A31 processor. The real standout detail, though, is a 9.7-inch screen that boasts the same 2048 x 1536 resolution as the Retina iPad. Otherwise, you'll get 2GB of RAM, 16GB of storage, a microSD card slot, front and rear cameras, and a promised eight to ten hours of battery life -- all for $240. Those interested in taking the plunge on one will have to wait a bit longer, though -- it's currently listed as out of stock on Onda's website, and there doesn't appear to be any other retailers selling it just yet.

Filed under: [Tablets](http://www.engadget.com/category/tablets/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/07/onda-v972-tablet-jelly-bean-240/#comments)**

**Via:** [PhoneArena](http://www.phonearena.com/news/Only-in-China-the-Onda-V927-is-a-9.7-inch-Retina-quad-core-tablet-with-Jelly-Bean-for-240_id37421), [Android Authority](http://www.androidauthority.com/onda-v972-tablet-retina-display-quad-core-cpu-jelly-bean-137268/)

**Source:** [Onda](http://www.onda-tablet.com/onda-v972-quad-core-9-7-inch-retina-screen-daul-camera-android-tablet-pc.html)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/07/onda-v972-tablet-jelly-bean-240/

LG Optimus 2X Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich update begins appearing in Europe

LG has spent the better part of a year promising and then relenting on its promise to deliver Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich to the Optimus 2X.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/12/lg-optimus-2x-android-4-0-ice-cream-sandwich-update-begins-appearing-in-europe?fromrss=1

Gaming company derides Microsoft Store: 'We've made the princely sum of £52'


UK gaming outfit Rubicon has castigated Microsoft after claiming a [Windows RT](http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/30/acer-delays-windows-rt-tablets/) port of its _Great Big War Game_ made a meager £52 ($83) in its first week in the [store](http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/31/microsoft-we-misspoke-actually-theyre-windows-store-apps/). The company was particularly incensed at Redmond's lack of promotional features to help the title's visibility, claiming that "if you're familiar with (its) new store, this means our app is forever consigned to the garbage bin." The company added that the iOS, Android "and even RIM" stores have promoted the app, which it said was widely lauded, and felt that after investing £10,000 on the port, "we got spat on" by the software giant. The developer punctuated its blog statement by saying it won't work with Microsoft again, and "that store is going to look mighty bleak for a long time to come" if it doesn't change its policy. No doubt there's some sour grapes getting squeezed here, but it's fair to say that RT is much in need of some sweeter news.

Filed under: [Gaming](http://www.engadget.com/category/gaming/), [Microsoft](http://www.engadget.com/category/microsoft/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/07/gaming-company-derides-microsoft-rt-marketplace-/#comments)**

**Via:** [Games Industry](http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2012-12-07-rubicon-porting-to-windows-rt-only-made-us-52)

**Source:** [Rubicon Blog](http://www.rubicondev.com/blog/windows-rt-born-to-fail/)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/07/gaming-company-derides-microsoft-rt-marketplace-/

Mobile browsers unsafe say researchers

Researchers from the Georgia Institute of Technology have discovered that almost all browsers currently used in smartphones and tablets are unsafe, so much so that even cyber-security experts are unable to detect when they are visiting potentially dangerous websites.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/12/mobile-browsers-unsafe-say-researchers?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-488ce7d53ad142988172880e54cebff1

Company Turns Your Android Smartphone Into a Game Console

MojoKid writes "The time we spend making calls on smartphones pales in comparison to the other activities we use it for, like surfing the web, logging into Facebook, streaming music and video, and of course playing games. It's that latter functionality that a startup called Green Throttle wants to tap into, and given the horsepower of today's smartphones, it makes a lot of sense. The company envisions harnessing the power of today's well-equipped Android smartphones and tablets in order to play console-like games on your HDTV. Right now the concept is limited to select devices -- Google Nexus, Samsung Galaxy S II and S III, HTC One X, Kindle Fire HD, and Asus Transformer -- though the company says it's adding to the list quickly. The system is fairly simple. You load Green Throttle's Arena app on your compatible device and start gaming using the company's Bluetooth-enabled Atlas controller, which looks a lot like an Xbox 360 controller, then push your phone's HDMI output to an HDTV."

[](http://twitter.com/home?status=Company+Turns+Your+Android+Smartphone+Into+a+Game+Console%3A+http%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2FRGeBzD) [](http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fgames.slashdot.org%2Fstory%2F12%2F12%2F07%2F0253208%2Fcompany-turns-your-android-smartphone-into-a-game-console%3Futm_source%3Dslashdot%26utm_medium%3Dfacebook) [](http://plus.google.com/share?url=http://games.slashdot.org/story/12/12/07/0253208/company-turns-your-android-smartphone-into-a-game-console?utm_source=slashdot&utm_medium=googleplus)

[Read more of this story](http://games.slashdot.org/story/12/12/07/0253208/company-turns-your-android-smartphone-into-a-game-console?utm_source=rss1.0moreanon&utm_medium=feed) at Slashdot.


[](http://da.feedsportal.com/r/151883289347/u/49/f/647410/c/35028/s/265b63ba/a2.htm)

URL: http://rss.slashdot.org/~r/Slashdot/slashdot/~3/Hi43XssJses/story01.htm

Citizens Bank Mobile Banking Apps For iPhoneA , Androida Receive #1 ...

Citizens Bank's Mobile Banking apps for iPhone and Android have been named the "best integrated apps" in the industry by Javelin Strategy & Research following its review of customer ratings in the Apple App Store and in Google Play.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/12/citizens-bank-mobile-banking-apps-for-iphonea-androida-receive-1?fromrss=1

Galaxy S III 'Premium Suite' features detailed: Multi-Window, Page Buddy and more (video)

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/galaxy-s-iii-premium-suite-features-detailed-multi-window-pa/)

Samsung started pushing [a new Jelly Bean update to its Galaxy S III phones yesterday,](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/05/samsung-reportedly-pushing-android-4-1-2-to-world-galaxy-s-iii/) and it's posted a video breaking down some of the features. Many of the "Premium Suite" upgrades are cribbed from the [Galaxy Note II](http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/08/samsung-galaxy-note-ii-review/), but we're sure users will still enjoy [multi-window](http://www.engadget.com/2012/11/13/samsung-galaxy-s-iii-multi-window-mode-rumor-update/), a customizable notification panel, smart rotation and more. The video shows off the new multitasking, NFC and reader features, plus contextual awareness tweaks that adjust the phone around your actions. Some of the other new features are apparently being saved for part two of the video, but if you need something to keep busy until 4.2 eventually arrives you can check it out after the break.

[Continue reading _Galaxy S III 'Premium Suite' features detailed: Multi-Window, Page Buddy and more (video)_](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/galaxy-s-iii-premium-suite-features-detailed-multi-window-pa/)

Filed under: [Cellphones](http://www.engadget.com/category/cellphones/), [Mobile](http://www.engadget.com/category/mobile/), [Samsung](http://www.engadget.com/category/samsung/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/galaxy-s-iii-premium-suite-features-detailed-multi-window-pa/#comments)**

**Source:** [Samsung Tomorrow](http://global.samsungtomorrow.com/?p=20717)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/galaxy-s-iii-premium-suite-features-detailed-multi-window-pa/

Carfax Mobile App For Consumers Surpasses 100,000 Downloads

Launched a year ago, the Carfax Reports app for iPhone and Android gives used car buyers anywhere, anytime access to Carfax information with just a few screen taps.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/12/carfax-mobile-app-for-consumers-surpasses-100-000-downloads?fromrss=1

Google Launches Private Android App Stores

Trailrunner7 writes "Malicious apps have emerged as perhaps the most serious threat to mobile devices at the moment, and the major players, such as Apple and Google, have tried several different methods of preventing them from getting into their app stores and into the hands of users. Now, Google is taking one more step with the launch of a new service called the Private Channel for Google Apps, which gives enterprises and other organizations the ability to create private app stores and control the apps their users can download. Private Channel is essentially a way for organizations to stand up their own miniature app stores inside of Google Play--the main app store for Android devices--and publish apps to it. That gives these organizations the ability to point their users directly to the apps they want users to download for their Android devices. The new service will include some of the security features built into Google Play, most notably the anti-malware system and the ability to authenticate users."

[](http://twitter.com/home?status=Google+Launches+Private+Android+App+Stores%3A+http%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2FSBSFT9) [](http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Ftech.slashdot.org%2Fstory%2F12%2F12%2F07%2F0025255%2Fgoogle-launches-private-android-app-stores%3Futm_source%3Dslashdot%26utm_medium%3Dfacebook) [](http://plus.google.com/share?url=http://tech.slashdot.org/story/12/12/07/0025255/google-launches-private-android-app-stores?utm_source=slashdot&utm_medium=googleplus)

[Read more of this story](http://tech.slashdot.org/story/12/12/07/0025255/google-launches-private-android-app-stores?utm_source=rss1.0moreanon&utm_medium=feed) at Slashdot.


[](http://da.feedsportal.com/r/151883281970/u/49/f/647410/c/35028/s/265a06f6/a2.htm)

URL: http://rss.slashdot.org/~r/Slashdot/slashdot/~3/gpbHU8P622Y/story01.htm

Is HTC's next flagship Android the 5-inch M7?

It's no secret that the last few quarters have been rocky for HTC. If this fresh batch of rumors prove true, the unannounced HTC M7 could get them back on track .

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/12/is-htcs-next-flagship-android-the-5-inch-m7?fromrss=1

YouTube brings its guide feature to all devices, provides easier access to subscribed content

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/youtube-guide-for-all-devices/)

The folks working at YouTube are quite the busy little bees, updating apps, adding content and [refreshing the site's look](http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/23/get-youtube-redesign-early-change-browser-cookie/). Today, the site's rolling out its guide feature through YouTube.com and every YouTube app there is. The video site first introduced the guide last year on its web portal, allowing folks an easy way to keep track of new videos on their subscribed channels. Now, [Android](http://www.engadget.com/2012/11/13/youtube-android-app-one-click-gtv-video/), [iPhone](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/04/youtube-app-ios-update-airplay-streaming-iphone-5/), PS3, Google TV and other YouTube apps are getting the feature, plus the website's getting a fresh new look as well. You can get a better look at the new page layout after the break, and there's more info about the changes at the source below.

[Continue reading _YouTube brings its guide feature to all devices, provides easier access to subscribed content_](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/youtube-guide-for-all-devices/)

Filed under: [Internet](http://www.engadget.com/category/internet/), [Mobile](http://www.engadget.com/category/mobile/), [Google](http://www.engadget.com/category/google/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/youtube-guide-for-all-devices/#comments)**

**Source:** [The Official YouTube Blog](http://youtube-global.blogspot.com/2012/12/a-new-look-to-help-you-to-subscribe-and.html)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/youtube-guide-for-all-devices/

IDC: Apple slipped to sixth in China smartphone share in Q3, Samsung and locals sat on top

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/idc-apple-slipped-to-sixth-in-china-smartphone-share-during-q3/)

The Chinese smartphone market is a [tough nut to crack](http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/12/gartner-samsung-top-smartphone-maker-china/) given its sensitivity to prices and a slew of strong domestic brands. [IDC](http://www.engadget.com/tag/IDC/) estimates suggest Apple may have learned this the hard way during the third quarter of this year: it slipped from fourth place in local market share during the second quarter to sixth. Samsung kept out in front, but everyone else who knocked Apple down a couple of pegs was from the neighborhood, starting with second-place Lenovo followed by [Coolpad](http://www.engadget.com/tag/Coolpad/), ZTE and Huawei. Price and wider availability no doubt played a part in shifting further towards a (mostly) Android-based field, although the period may have also exacerbated the [pre-update lull](http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/25/idc-iphone-wait-cuts-apple-china-phone-share-by-nearly-half/) in sales that Apple often faces -- while those in some countries were picking up an [iPhone 5](http://www.engadget.com/2012/09/18/apple-iphone-5-review/) in September, China won't have its turn [until December 14th](http://www.engadget.com/2012/11/30/apple-iPhone5-ipad-mini-china/). Fourth quarter results won't completely reverse the state of affairs, but they could easily be worth watching.

Filed under: [Cellphones](http://www.engadget.com/category/cellphones/), [Mobile](http://www.engadget.com/category/mobile/), [Apple](http://www.engadget.com/category/apple/), [Samsung](http://www.engadget.com/category/samsung/), [Lenovo](http://www.engadget.com/category/lenovo/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/idc-apple-slipped-to-sixth-in-china-smartphone-share-during-q3/#comments)**

**Source:** [Reuters](http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/12/06/us-china-smartphones-idUSBRE8B50DX20121206)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/idc-apple-slipped-to-sixth-in-china-smartphone-share-during-q3/

iRecycle app for iOS and Android Review

If there's one simple way of finding out where you're going to dump all of your recyclable materials in the United States, it's the iRecycle app.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/12/irecycle-app-for-ios-and-android-review?fromrss=1

Apple's Cook Says Some U.S. Manufacturing Will Return, Android, iPad Rivals Should Pack It In

Apple CEO Tim Cook said while some Mac manufacturing will return to the U.S. next year, "I don't think we have a responsibility to create a certain kind of job." Apple CEO Tim Cook said the company will invest more than $100 million as part a plan to bring "some production" of its Mac computers to the U.S. next year.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/12/apples-cook-says-some-u-s-manufacturing-will-return-android-ipad-rivals-should-pack-it-in?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-66678645c8d8799f1ff63dfb70eeb961

DoorBot lets you see and talk with who's at the door from the comfort of your smartphone (video)

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/edison-junior-doorbot-video-doorbell/)

If funding is successful, you'll be able to wave hello to [Edison Junior's](http://www.engadget.com/2012/07/19/insert-coin-pop-portable-battery-comes-with-25-000-mah-of-power/) DoorBot -- an app-enabled, WiFi-connected video doorbell. Sure, it's not exactly the first time we've seen such an [idea](http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/23/d-link-dwm-351-turns-the-doorbell-into-a-3g-video-intercom/), but the "weather-resistant," aluminium enclosure makes it one of the best looking concepts we've seen. Better yet, the system is set to work in unison with the Lockitron (a smartphone-controlled keyless door lock that was recently crowd-funded, albeit still yet to ship) allowing you to let welcome visitors inside your abode at the tap of your iOS or Android Device's app screen.

The DoorBot installs with four screws, but it'll have you running through four AA batteries once a year for power (which, based on the video, seem easily removeable by strangers, unfortunately). There's no word on the quality of the camera onboard, however, it's infared-equipped, so you'll be able to see who's there at night. Lastly, the actual doorbell button is wrapped with an LED light, and, as you'd expect, it alerts you via the app when pressed to see and speak with whomever is at the door.

In total, Edison Junior hopes to raise a lofty $250,000 to make the DoorBot more than a concept video, with 45 days to reach the goal. If you're willing to take the gamble as backer, $169 is what'll cost to secure a pre-order, and $319 snags you one bundled with the Lockitron. We're told that we'll see a working prototype in the flesh at [CES](http://www.engadget.com/tag/ces/), but until then, you can catch the full sales pitch at the source link and video demo after the break.

[Continue reading _DoorBot lets you see and talk with who's at the door from the comfort of your smartphone (video)_](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/edison-junior-doorbot-video-doorbell/)

Filed under: [Household](http://www.engadget.com/category/household/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/edison-junior-doorbot-video-doorbell/#comments)**

**Source:** [Edison Junior (Christie Street)](https://secure.christiestreet.com/products/doorbot)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/edison-junior-doorbot-video-doorbell/

iOS News Reader - Thursday, December 6, 2012

Create, edit, and view documents wherever you are. Pages works with iCloud, so your documents stay up to date on all your devices automatically.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/12/ios-news-reader-thursday-december-6-2012?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-2fb0566527428beb0d258745c7cc2991

DoorBot lets you see and talk with who's at the door from the comfort of your smartphone (video)

Edison Junior has yet to bring its crowd-funded [Lockitron](http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/03/lockitron-launches-iphone-controlled-keyless-entry-system/) (a smartphone-controlled keyless door lock) to fruition yet, but that's not stopping it from introducing its latest gizmo to enhance your doorstep experience. If funding is again successful, you'll be able to literally wave hello to DoorBot -- an app-enabled, WiFi-connected video doorbell. Sure, it's not exactly the first time we've seen this [idea](http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/23/d-link-dwm-351-turns-the-doorbell-into-a-3g-video-intercom/), but the "weather-resistant," aluminium enclosures makes it one of the best concepts we've seen. Better yet, the system is set to work in unison with the Lockitron, allowing you to let welcome visitors inside your abode at the tap of your iOS or Android Device's app screen. The DoorBot installs with four screws, but it'll have you running through four AA batteries for power (which, based on the video, seem easily removeable by strangers, unfortunately). There's no word on the quality of the camera onboard, however, it's infared-equipped, so you'll be able to see who's there at night. Lastly, the actual doorbell button is wrapped with an LED light, and, as you'd expect, it alerts you via the app when pressed to see and speak with whomever is at the door.

In total, Edison Junior hopes to raise a lofty $250,000 to make the DoorBot more than a concept video, with 45 days to reach the goal. If you're willing to take the gamble as backer, $169 is what'll cost to secure a pre-order, and $319 snags you one bundled with the Lockitron. We're told that we'll finally see working prototypes of both gizmos in the flesh at [CES](http://www.engadget.com/tag/ces/), but until then, you can catch the full sales pitch at the source link after the break.

Filed under: [Household](http://www.engadget.com/category/household/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/edison-juniors-169-doorbot-lets-you-see-and-speak-whos-at-th/#comments)**

**Source:** [Edison Junior (Christie Street)](https://secure.christiestreet.com/products/doorbot)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/edison-juniors-169-doorbot-lets-you-see-and-speak-whos-at-th/

Amazon Adds A/B Testing For Android Developers; Says App Downloads Grew 500 Percent In 2012

Sarah currently works as a writer for TechCrunch, after having previously spent over three years at ReadWriteWeb.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/12/amazon-adds-a-b-testing-for-android-developers-says-app-downloads-grew-500-percent-in-2012?fromrss=1

Archos GamePad now shipping for £130: Android 4.1, 1.6GHz CPU and a bona fide D-pad

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/archos-gamepad-now-shipping-android-gaming-handheld/)

You've waited long enough, haven't you? The low-cost PMP leader has kept the mantra alive with its [GamePad](http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/29/archos-gamepad-with-physical-controls/), which is now shipping to those interested for £129.99. Put simply, it's a widescreen gaming handheld that runs [Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean)](http://www.engadget.com/2012/06/28/android-4-1-jelly-bean-review-a-look-at-whats-changed-in-googl/), replete with a 1.6GHz dual-core processor and Mali 400mp quad-core GPU. There's a 1,024 x 600 resolution touchpanel, physical control buttons and analog sticks, and the whole thing checks in at just 0.3-inches thick. Unfortunately, there's no word on battery life, but even the optimist in us can't predict a number that'd be worthy of boasting about. Hit up the source link to make plans for purchase, or click past the break for the full presser.

[Continue reading _Archos GamePad now shipping for £130: Android 4.1, 1.6GHz CPU and a bona fide D-pad_](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/archos-gamepad-now-shipping-android-gaming-handheld/)

Filed under: [Gaming](http://www.engadget.com/category/gaming/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/archos-gamepad-now-shipping-android-gaming-handheld/#comments)**

**Source:** [Archos](http://www.archos.com/store/index.html?country=gb&lang=en)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/archos-gamepad-now-shipping-android-gaming-handheld/

Sony releases Xperia flash tool in beta, lets unlocked devices return to stock ROMs

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/sony-xperia-flash-tool-beta-unlocked-devices/)

There's no denying that of all the Android OEMs, [Sony's](http://www.engadget.com/tag/Sony/) the most consumer-friendly. With a track record encompassing [consistent and transparent software updates](http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/19/sony-to-start-xperia-upgrades-to-jelly-bean-by-mid-q1/), easily [unlocked bootloaders](http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/13/sony-ericssons-android-bootloader-unlocking-site-goes-live-mod/), a [former flagship](http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/08/sony-xperia-s-review/) that's been [in](http://www.engadget.com/2012/09/04/sony-posts-binaries-to-back-googlers-aosp-project-for-xperia-s/) and [out of AOSP](http://www.engadget.com/2012/11/09/sony-xperia-s-android-open-source-project/) and now this -- an Xperia flash tool -- the company's on a roll. Released today on the mobile outfit's developer site, the beta tool allows Xperia users with unlocked bootloaders to revert _back_ to Sony's lightly-skinned stock ROMs. Currently, only the Xperia S, arc and arc S are supported, but work is underway to include additional handsets. If you're rocking a compatible phone, the process is as simple as downloading the program from its dev portal, connecting your device, selecting the available "services" (read: Xperia ROMs), flashing your ROM of choice and then rebooting. Easy enough, no? For a brief video walkthrough, head on past the break.

[Thanks, Nabeel Ahmed]

[Continue reading _Sony releases Xperia flash tool in beta, lets unlocked devices return to stock ROMs_](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/sony-xperia-flash-tool-beta-unlocked-devices/)

Filed under: [Cellphones](http://www.engadget.com/category/cellphones/), [Software](http://www.engadget.com/category/software/), [Mobile](http://www.engadget.com/category/mobile/), [Sony](http://www.engadget.com/category/sony/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/sony-xperia-flash-tool-beta-unlocked-devices/#comments)**

**Source:** [Sony Mobile](http://developer.sonymobile.com/2012/12/06/new-flash-tool-from-sony-for-unlocked-xperia-smartphones-video-beta-download/)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/sony-xperia-flash-tool-beta-unlocked-devices/

Apple CEO Tim Cook On Apple's US Manufacturing Move

We mentioned a few days back the "Assembled in America" tag showing up on some models of Apple's iMac. Nerval's Lobster points out that in a new interview with Bloomberg Businessweek, Apple CEO Tim Cook offered some details on what that means: "'Next year we are going to bring some production to the U.S. on the Mac,' Cook told the magazine. 'We've been working on this for a long time, and we were getting closer to it. It will happen in 2013. We're really proud of it. We could have quickly maybe done just assembly, but it's broader because we wanted to do something more substantial.' He also had comments about Android and current litigation against Samsung and others."

[](http://twitter.com/home?status=Apple+CEO+Tim+Cook+On+Apple's+US+Manufacturing+Move%3A+http%3A%2F%2Fapple.slashdot.org%2Fstory%2F12%2F12%2F06%2F1627236%2F%3Futm_source%3Dtwitter%26utm_medium%3Dtwitter) [](http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fapple.slashdot.org%2Fstory%2F12%2F12%2F06%2F1627236%2Fapple-ceo-tim-cook-on-apples-us-manufacturing-move%3Futm_source%3Dslashdot%26utm_medium%3Dfacebook) [](http://plus.google.com/share?url=http://apple.slashdot.org/story/12/12/06/1627236/apple-ceo-tim-cook-on-apples-us-manufacturing-move?utm_source=slashdot&utm_medium=googleplus)

[Read more of this story](http://apple.slashdot.org/story/12/12/06/1627236/apple-ceo-tim-cook-on-apples-us-manufacturing-move?utm_source=rss1.0moreanon&utm_medium=feed) at Slashdot.


[](http://da.feedsportal.com/r/151883077414/u/49/f/647410/c/35028/s/26564a46/a2.htm)

URL: http://rss.slashdot.org/~r/Slashdot/slashdot/~3/bUrwTNVhFJM/story01.htm

Windows 8: a 'Christmas Gift For Someone You Hate'

zacharye writes "Microsoft is no stranger to criticism these days, and the company's new Windows 8 platform is once again the target of a scathing review from a high-profile user. Well-known Internet entrepreneur and MIT professor Philip Greenspun handed Windows 8 one of its most damning reviews yet earlier this week, calling the new operating system a 'Christmas gift for someone you hate.' Greenspun panned almost every aspect of Microsoft's new software, noting that Microsoft had four years to study Android and more than five to examine iOS, but still couldn't build a usable tablet experience..."

[](http://twitter.com/home?status=Windows+8%3A+a+'Christmas+Gift+For+Someone+You+Hate'%3A+http%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2FVz3Bp5) [](http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Ftech.slashdot.org%2Fstory%2F12%2F12%2F06%2F1544216%2Fwindows-8-a-christmas-gift-for-someone-you-hate%3Futm_source%3Dslashdot%26utm_medium%3Dfacebook) [](http://plus.google.com/share?url=http://tech.slashdot.org/story/12/12/06/1544216/windows-8-a-christmas-gift-for-someone-you-hate?utm_source=slashdot&utm_medium=googleplus)

[Read more of this story](http://tech.slashdot.org/story/12/12/06/1544216/windows-8-a-christmas-gift-for-someone-you-hate?utm_source=rss1.0moreanon&utm_medium=feed) at Slashdot.


[](http://da.feedsportal.com/r/151883076157/u/49/f/647410/c/35028/s/265641ee/a2.htm)

URL: http://rss.slashdot.org/~r/Slashdot/slashdot/~3/qv-nhQQZQHU/story01.htm

Snapseed launches on Android with Google+ integration, now completely free

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/snapseed-launches-on-android-with-google-integration/)

While this shouldn't come as a [huge surprise](http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/04/vic-gundotra-post-hints-snapseed-for-android-may-be-close/), today Google put to rest any [lingering doubts](http://www.engadget.com/2012/09/21/vic-gundotra-says-niks-high-end-tools-will-survive/) about keeping Snapseed alive and well. After [acquiring Nik Software](http://www.engadget.com/2012/09/17/google-buys-snapseed-developer-nik-software/) last September, Google's just launched Snapseed for Android and refreshed the existing iOS app. The Android version features seamless Google+ integration (complete with support for Instant Upload) and the iOS version gains a few additional filters. Better yet, the app is now completely free on both platforms (it was $4.99 in the App Store).

If you're not familiar with Snapseed, it's an incredibly powerful yet easy-to-use photo editor based on Nik Software's award-winning professional-grade imaging tools. The app provides a super-intuitive gesture-based UI to capture, tweak, enhance and share pictures. As such, it's more advanced than [Instagram](http://www.engadget.com/tag/Instagram/), but far simpler than [Photoshop Touch](http://www.engadget.com/tag/PhotoshopTouch/). It's available for phones, tablets, Macs and PCs (no word from Google on whether the desktop version was also updated).

We spent some time with Snapseed for Android yesterday and it looks and feels pretty much identical to the iOS version -- the user experience is just as polished and responsive. In the main screen, you'll find a new button which lets you post an image directly to Google+ via the same UI as the the Google+ app. There's a separate button to save pictures to the gallery (this also sends photos to Google+ if you've enabled Instant Upload in the Google+ app). Want more info? Peek at [our IRL post](http://www.engadget.com/2012/07/20/irl-canon-eos-7d-snapseed-for-ios-panasonic-lumix-dmc-ts4/) and the galleries below.

**Gallery: [Snapseed for Android](http://www.engadget.com/photos/snapseed-for-android/)**

[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/snapseed-for-android/5483089)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/snapseed-for-android/5483090)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/snapseed-for-android/5483147)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/snapseed-for-android/5483091)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/snapseed-for-android/5483092)

**Gallery: [Snapseed for iOS](http://www.engadget.com/photos/snapseed-for-ios/)**

[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/snapseed-for-ios/5483149)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/snapseed-for-ios/5483150)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/snapseed-for-ios/5483151)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/snapseed-for-ios/5483152)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/snapseed-for-ios/5483153)

**Gallery: [Snapseed sample shots](http://www.engadget.com/photos/snapseed-sample-shots/)**

[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/snapseed-sample-shots/5483158)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/snapseed-sample-shots/5483159)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/snapseed-sample-shots/5483160)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/snapseed-sample-shots/5483161)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/snapseed-sample-shots/5483162)

Filed under: [Cellphones](http://www.engadget.com/category/cellphones/), [Tablets](http://www.engadget.com/category/tablets/), [Mobile](http://www.engadget.com/category/mobile/), [Google](http://www.engadget.com/category/google/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/snapseed-launches-on-android-with-google-integration/#comments)**

**Source:** [Snapseed](http://www.snapseed.com/), [iTunes (App Store)](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/snapseed/id439438619)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/snapseed-launches-on-android-with-google-integration/

Android Options Mean "Best" Browsers Might Surprise You

An anonymous reader writes with this quote from Tom's Hardware: "Due to Apple's anti-3rd-party browser stance, and Windows RT's IE-only advantage on the 'Desktop,' Android is the only mobile platform where browser competition is thriving. The results are pretty surprising, with the long-time mobile browsers like Dolphin, Maxthon, Sleipnir, and the stock Android browser coming out ahead of desktop favorites like Firefox, Opera, and even Chrome. Dolphin, thanks to its new Jetpack HTML5 engine, soars ahead of the competition."

[](http://twitter.com/home?status=Android+Options+Mean+%22Best%22+Browsers+Might+Surprise+You+%3A+http%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2FTHeanM) [](http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fmobile.slashdot.org%2Fstory%2F12%2F12%2F06%2F1416246%2Fandroid-options-mean-best-browsers-might-surprise-you%3Futm_source%3Dslashdot%26utm_medium%3Dfacebook) [](http://plus.google.com/share?url=http://mobile.slashdot.org/story/12/12/06/1416246/android-options-mean-best-browsers-might-surprise-you?utm_source=slashdot&utm_medium=googleplus)

[Read more of this story](http://mobile.slashdot.org/story/12/12/06/1416246/android-options-mean-best-browsers-might-surprise-you?utm_source=rss1.0moreanon&utm_medium=feed) at Slashdot.


[](http://da.feedsportal.com/r/151883103249/u/49/f/647410/c/35028/s/26556d34/a2.htm)

URL: http://rss.slashdot.org/~r/Slashdot/slashdot/~3/qQvX_ZZbUTI/story01.htm

Mobile threats expected to worsen in 2013

Some cyber criminals who disseminate viruses and malware in attempts to hijack computers are beginning to shift their focus.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/12/mobile-threats-expected-to-worsen-in-2013?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-0f800960deeb5ba110d6761e32f7f4f8

Amazon and Google shower content love on Brazil

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/amazon-and-google-selling-ebooks-in-brazil/)

Through the magic of pure coincidence (or not), [Amazon](http://www.engadget.com/tag/amazon/) and Google have spontaneously started offering e-books in the land of [Brazil](http://www.engadget.com/tag/brazil/). In addition, Amazon has also introduced its Kindle e-reader to the region (available over "the next few weeks") for the equivalent of $145. _The Next Web_ notes that Amazon's move comes after it successfully gained control of the desired domain name from a local company, and also after it poached Apple's Brazilian director to head its own operations there. Meanwhile, Mountain View's Brazilian incursion lacks political shenanigans, but adds movie rentals and purchases. If you're in the area, head to the source links to bookmark something [unputdownable](http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/30/fahrenheit-451-now-available-as-an-ebook-memorize-at-your-own-d/).

[Thanks, Felipe]

Filed under: [Internet](http://www.engadget.com/category/internet/), [Google](http://www.engadget.com/category/google/), [Amazon](http://www.engadget.com/category/amazon/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/amazon-and-google-selling-ebooks-in-brazil/#comments)**

**Via:** [The Next Web](http://thenextweb.com/media/2012/12/06/amazon-has-quietly-launched-in-brazil-now-selling-e-books-and-announces-a-150-kindle/), [Android Police](http://www.androidpolice.com/2012/12/05/google-now-offering-up-play-books-and-movies-in-brazil/)

**Source:** [Amazon Brazil](http://www.amazon.com.br/), [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store?hl=pt_BR)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/amazon-and-google-selling-ebooks-in-brazil/

HTC DLX move over, HTC M7 set to be flagship Android phone... MWC launch likely

Although we're still awaiting news on a UK release date for the HTC DLX - or if it's coming to this country at all - reports have emerged that the Taiwanese manufacturer is working on a new flagship device that some suggest could be launched at Mobile World Congress in February 2013.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/12/htc-dlx-move-over-htc-m7-set-to-be-flagship-android-phone-mwc-launch-likely?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-f42236845c649f8c4ac266d8430d2ac0

Office 2013 Rumors: Welcome Office 2013 and Mobile Office 2013 for Android and iOS in 2013

In September, the price of Microsoft Office 2013 was released and in December, Office 2013 productivity suite was rolled out to business customers.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/12/office-2013-rumors-welcome-office-2013-and-mobile-office-2013-for-android-and-ios-in-2013?fromrss=1

SwiftKey Flow Beta available now, we tap our screens less (hands-on)


[As promised](http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/25/swiftkey-flow-keyboard-takes-fight-to-swype-with-predictive-gestures/), the latest update for one of our favorite Android keyboard has arrived. This time, there's a new input method that feels a [little familiar](http://www.engadget.com/tag/swype/), with text entry done by dragging your finger across the on-screen keys. SwiftKey's still trying to keep your spacebar interaction to a minimum, with its new 'flow through space' feature. This lets you glide down to the bar and back to writing without interrupting your missive. The new system still works in tandem with [SwiftKey](http://www.engadget.com/tag/swiftkey/)'s predictive voodoo, meaning as your finger loops around the screen (followed by a multicolored streamer), the keyboard app should be able to figure out what you _meant_ to type, although the prediction only works for so long -- we'd advise clipping your swipes to a handful of words at a time, as major mistakes can upset lengthy sentences.

We've been playing with it over the last week and the keyboard still learns your lexicon by poring over your internet profile, still connecting to Gmail, Twitter, RSS feeds and your SMS history. The more typical touch keyboard is still available and in comparison, we've found it's taking us a little longer to get up to speed on the new method. However, it's notably zippier if you're one of those rare one-handed typists. If you're willing to give the beta a try, you can sign up for Swiftkey's VIP program -- which already totals over 75,000 _important_ _people_ -- to grab the early APK.

**Gallery: [SwiftKey Flow launches in beta](http://www.engadget.com/photos/swiftkey-flow-launches-in-beta/)**

[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/swiftkey-flow-launches-in-beta/5478148)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/swiftkey-flow-launches-in-beta/5478149)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/swiftkey-flow-launches-in-beta/5478150)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/swiftkey-flow-launches-in-beta/5478151)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/swiftkey-flow-launches-in-beta/5478152)

[Continue reading _SwiftKey Flow Beta available now, we tap our screens less (hands-on)_](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/swiftkey-flow-available-now-hands-on/)

Filed under: [Cellphones](http://www.engadget.com/category/cellphones/), [Tablets](http://www.engadget.com/category/tablets/), [Software](http://www.engadget.com/category/software/), [Mobile](http://www.engadget.com/category/mobile/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/swiftkey-flow-available-now-hands-on/#comments)**

**Source:** [SwiftKey VIP](http://vip.swiftkey.net/), [SwiftKey Flow](http://www.swiftkey.net/flow/)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/swiftkey-flow-available-now-hands-on/

The Oppo Find 5 will be making its way stateside for $499 unlocked

Back in October we reported on the Chinese-made Android handset, the Oppo Find 5 , which not only boasted some pretty impressive specs, but had those specs packed into a pretty thin body.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/12/the-oppo-find-5-will-be-making-its-way-stateside-for-499-unlocked?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-555590f0efe2ddb9d164d278c1519947

Windows 8 Tablets Will Beat Apple & Android

After using and testing the Samsung ATIV Smart PC Pro 700t for a few weeks I've come to the conclusion that Windows 8 tablets will without a doubt beat Apple iPad tablets and Android tablets.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/12/windows-8-tablets-will-beat-apple-android?fromrss=1

Dropbox updates Android app with bug fixes and file management

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/05/dropbox-updates-android-app/)

[Dropbox](http://www.engadget.com/tag/dropbox/) updated its [app for Android](http://www.engadget.com/tag/dropbox,%20android/) today, bringing the oft-used cloud storage / sharing service to version 2.2.2. Included is the usual assortment of unspecified bug fixes we're accustomed to seeing in such point upgrades, but there is one major improvement of note: the ability to manage files and folders. Sure, this may not seem like a revolutionary move on the company's part, but for photo-obsessed users that have the service set to auto-upload, the change is welcome, indeed. It's live in the [Google Play](http://www.engadget.com/tag/google+play/) store now, so head on over to the source to get that download started.

Filed under: [Cellphones](http://www.engadget.com/category/cellphones/), [Software](http://www.engadget.com/category/software/), [Mobile](http://www.engadget.com/category/mobile/), [Google](http://www.engadget.com/category/google/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/05/dropbox-updates-android-app/#comments)**

**Via:** [Android Police](http://www.androidpolice.com/2012/12/05/dropbox-for-android-updated-to-v2-2-2-finally-brings-the-ability-to-move-files-and-folders/)

**Source:** [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.dropbox.android&hl=en)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/05/dropbox-updates-android-app/