Saturday, January 26, 2013

Mobile Miscellany: week of January 21st, 2013

If you didn't get enough mobile news during the week, not to worry, because we've opened the firehose for the truly hardcore.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/01/mobile-miscellany-week-of-january-21st-2013?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-58fa8171b81df6bdaea023589bccf4b4

Ask Engadget: best video baby camera?

[![Ask Engadget best video baby monitor](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/askengadgetlogo09-1359050441.png) ](http://undefined/2013/01/26/ae-video-baby-camera/)

We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, then here's the outlet to do so. This week's [Ask Engadget](http://ask.engadget.com/) inquiry is from Berry2Droid, who wants to geek-up monitoring his first-born. If you're looking to ask one of your own, drop us a line at **_ask [at] engadget [dawt] com._**

> "My wife and I are having a baby soon and need a video monitor. We'd like it to be compatible with our Android phones, rather than having a separate screen in the package. We'd also like some sort of visual aid as my wife is deaf so she would need some sort of other signal. If there was any ability to add additional cameras, that'd also be great. Thanks for your help!"

We could certainly point you in the direction of Samsung Techwin's [Video Baby Monitor](http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/08/samsung-introduces-wifi-smartcam-and-video-baby-monitors/) or [Y-Cam's ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/03/y-cam-homemonitor-cube/)[offering](http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/24/wifi-baby-3g-review-or-how-we-learned-to-stop-worrying-and-lov/), both of which are infrared-and-internet capable cameras that pump the picture straight to your mobile device. We came a little unstuck on the visual warning element for your wife, however, but that's why we'll turn this question over to our faithful group of commenters to see if their knowledge stretches further than our own. Dear friends, help out a lovely couple as they embark upon the majestic (albeit fraught) journey of parenthood and provide some wisdom in the comments below.

Filed under: [Cameras](http://www.engadget.com/category/cameras/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/26/ae-video-baby-camera/#comments)**

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/26/ae-video-baby-camera/

Mobile Miscellany: week of January 21st, 2013

[![Mobile Miscellany week of January 21st, 2013](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/mobile-misc-mini-1359181564.jpg) ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/26/mobile-miscellany/)

If you didn't get enough mobile news during the week, not to worry, because we've opened the firehose for the truly hardcore. This week brought a new smartphone from Xolo to India, HTC's crackdown on a custom ROM distributor and the UK's largest mobile spectrum auction to date. These stories and more await after the break. So buy the ticket and take the ride as we explore the "[best of the rest](http://www.engadget.com/tag/mm/)" for this week of January 21st, 2013.

### Xolo A500 debuts in India with Android 4.0

![Mobile Miscellany week of January 21st, 2013](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/mm-lava-xolo.jpg)

A new Android 4.0 smartphone known as the [Xolo A500](http://xolo.in/500) became available within India this week, and from all appearances, it's entirely run of the mill. That said, with a price of ₹6,999 ($130), it may just turn a few heads. The Xolo A500 sports a 4-inch WVGA (800 x 480) display, along with a dual-core 1GHz CPU (Snapdragon S4 Play) and dual-SIM functionality. You'll also find a 5-megapixel rear camera, along with a front-facing VGA shooter. The device includes a 1,500mAh battery, 512MB of RAM, 4GB of built-in storage and supports microSD cards up to 32GB in size. [[Fone Arena](http://www.fonearena.com/blog/61048/lava-xolo-a500-with-4-inch-display-1ghz-dual-core-processor-android-4-0-launched-for-rs-6999.html)]

### Ofcom kicks off 4G spectrum auction in UK

![](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2012/11/winstonvic.jpg)

The largest mobile spectrum auction to date in the UK began this week, which is set to nearly double the wireless resources available to Britons. In all, 28 lots of spectrum are available across the 800MHz and 2600MHz bands, which will add 250MHz of spectrum to the 333MHz in use today. Telefonica (O2), Vodafone, EE, Hutchison (Three), Niche Spectrum Ventures (BT), HKT and MLL are participants in the auction, which carries a total reserve price of £1.36 billion. According to UK regulator [Ofcom](http://media.ofcom.org.uk/2013/01/23/bidding-in-4g-auction-under-way/), the auction will take place in several rounds over the coming weeks. [[Android Central](http://www.androidcentral.com/uk-4g-spectrum-auction-gets-underway-today)]

### AT&T CEO reveals interest in smartphone financing

![Mobile Miscellany week of January 21st, 2013](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/mm-randall-stephenson.jpg)

Verizon's Lowell McAdam now [has some company](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/12/mobile-miscellany/). During this week's earnings call, AT&T CEO Randall Stephenson revealed that AT&T is similarly monitoring T-Mobile's shift to [drop the subsidized business model](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/t-mobile-value-plans/) and instead provide customers the ability to finance their new smartphone purchase. While Stephenson may lack grace with his words, the intent is clear: "We expect there to be some dynamics in the marketplace that -- and we'll have to respond to some of it -- we find interesting, like the handset financing that they're doing." Curiously, Stephenson admitted that AT&T has considered the approach in the past, but like Verizon, much of how his company responds will depend on consumers' reception of T-Mobile's new approach. [[FierceWireless](http://www.fiercewireless.com/story/atts-stephenson-indicates-interest-handset-financing/2013-01-25)]

### US Cellular now offers carrier billing for online shopping

![Mobile Miscellany week of January 21st, 2013](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/mm-buy-more-stuff.jpg)

US Cellular announced this week that it now supports carrier billing for online purchases. The system was launched in partnership with Boku, and subscribers may pay for goods at participating merchants by entering their mobile number at checkout and then confirming the purchase with a text message. From there, customers will find the total amount of the purchase added to their wireless bill. [[PhoneScoop](http://www.phonescoop.com/articles/article.php?a=11833)]

### AT&T working to integrate Data Sense for Windows Phone 8

![](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2012/11/lumia822-dsc04086-review.jpg)

Data Sense is one of the more unique features of Windows Phone 8, which allows users to monitor their data usage and squeeze more from their data plan through the magic of server-side compression. Verizon is the only carrier to support the feature within the US, but that may soon change, as AT&T has revealed that it's "exploring Data Sense and how to optimize the experience" for its subscribers. About damn time, right? [[FierceWireless](http://www.fiercemobilecontent.com/story/att-considers-supporting-microsofts-data-sense-service-windows-phone-8/2013-01-24)]

### HTC forces shutdown of custom ROM site

![Mobile Miscellany week of January 21st, 2013](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/mm-htc-aggressive.png)

A provider of many popular Sense-based ROMs is no more. This week, _HTCRUU_ closed its doors and took its repositories offline in acquiescence to legal threats from HTC. Historically, HTC has taken an admirably lax approach to distribution of customized Sense ROMs, which are popular among enthusiasts of the company's smartphones. Naturally, many other sources exist for custom Sense blends, which raises the question of whether this move was but a one-off showing of legal force, or whether HTC will take a more active approach to ending the underground custom ROM community. Those interested can [learn more](http://www.reddit.com/r/Android/comments/176z3i/htc_demanding_i_take_down_ruus_and_even_my_custom/) of the situation on _Reddit_. [[Android Police](http://www.androidpolice.com/2013/01/24/htc-forces-owner-of-htcruu-com-to-shut-down-hand-over-the-roms-and-domain/)]

### Other random tidbits

* Following in the footsteps of [Android](http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/05/android-market-4gb-app-limit/) and [iOS](http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/07/apple-ups-over-the-air-download-limit-to-50mb-for-ios/), Microsoft has upped the mobile data cap of app downloads and updates for Windows Phone to 50MB. [[WPCentral](http://www.wpcentral.com/microsoft-lift-20mb-download-limit-windows-phone?style_mobile=0)]
* The [Meizu MX2](http://www.engadget.com/2012/11/27/meizu-mx2-launch-china/) is now available as a subsidized handset for customers of China Unicom. The smartphone can be gotten for free with all two-year plans of ¥226 or more per month, or with all three-year plans of ¥156 or more per month. [[GSM Arena](http://www.gsmarena.com/meizu_mx2_launches_on_china_unicom-news-5391.php?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)]
* Colombia's state-owned telecom, [UNE EPM](http://www.engadget.com/2012/06/16/lte-arrives-in-colombia/), announced that it would invest $2.5 million to bring LTE services to Barranquilla -- the country's fourth most populous city -- which sports a population of approximately 1.8 million. [[RCR Wireless](http://www.rcrwireless.com/americas/20130125/carriers/colombias-une-invests-2-5-million-expand-lte-services-coverage/)]
* An internal leak has revealed that the [HTC 8S](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/20/htc-8s-review/) will become available at Bell Mobility on February 1st. [[MobileSyrup](http://mobilesyrup.com/2013/01/25/htc-8s-coming-to-bell-february-1st/)]
* Videotron has announced that it'll begin selling the [Nexus 4](http://www.engadget.com/2012/11/02/nexus-4-review/) on January 30th. Similarly, Fido is accepting reservations (and a requisite $40 deposit) for the smartphone, which it's targeting for an early February arrival. [[MobileSyrup 1](http://mobilesyrup.com/2013/01/23/videotron-launching-the-nexus-4-on-january-30th/), [2](http://mobilesyrup.com/2013/01/25/nexus-4-coming-to-rogers-and-fido-early-february/)]

[Buy More Stuff photo credit: [jbhthescots](http://www.flickr.com/photos/jbhthescots/) / [Flickr](http://www.flickr.com/photos/jbhthescots/5227664185/sizes/z/in/photostream/)]

[Mobile Miscellany photo credit: [Thristian](http://www.flickr.com/photos/thristian/) / [Flickr](http://www.flickr.com/photos/thristian/4591410590/sizes/z/in/photostream/)]

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

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/26/mobile-miscellany/#comments)**

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/26/mobile-miscellany/

Android this week: Galaxy Note 8.0 pics; App finds best network; a Google smart watch?

This week brought more images of the Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0 tablet, a new mobile app that helps you find the fastest network and speculation on a Google smart watch.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/01/android-this-week-galaxy-note-8-0-pics-app-finds-best-network-a-google-smart-watch?fromrss=1

Do smartphones and tablets grant us more time away from work, or less?

Technology is supposed to make our lives easier right? It should be bringing us greater convenience and saving us time.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/01/do-smartphones-and-tablets-grant-us-more-time-away-from-work-or-less?fromrss=1

Hold your breath: The hottest phones you can't buy yet

We don't report every leaked shot of every rumored handset -- there are blogs for that -- but we try to keep you informed about what's out there and what's coming up.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/01/hold-your-breath-the-hottest-phones-you-cant-buy-yet?fromrss=1

Emirates NBD goes mobile with BlackBerry, iOS and Android-supported phone app

Emirates NBD, a bank in the region, announced the launch of its Emirates NBD Mobile Banking App for handheld smartphones running on the BlackBerry OS, iOS and Android operating systems.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/01/emirates-nbd-goes-mobile-with-blackberry-ios-and-android-supported-phone-app?fromrss=1

Baig: Lookout can snap a mug shot of phone thief

For years, you were warned about the nasty things that could happen to your PCs - viruses, data loss, online scams.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/01/baig-lookout-can-snap-a-mug-shot-of-phone-thief?fromrss=1

MobileKids App Provides Snapshot of Child's Mobile Phone Use

Mobile personal safety product developer Bipper's newest app for iPhone and Android devices, MobileKids, enables parents to monitor activity and set limits on a child's mobile phone use without eavesdropping on private conversations or combing through text messages.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/01/mobilekids-app-provides-snapshot-of-childs-mobile-phone-use?fromrss=1

Friday, January 25, 2013

Microsoft Can 'Start Printing Money' as Soon as it Launches Office for iOS

Computerworld - Microsoft will reap a windfall of revenue as soon as it introduces versions of its Office productivity suite for iOS and Android, but that window of opportunity is quickly closing, an analyst said today.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/01/microsoft-can-start-printing-money-as-soon-as-it-launches-office-for-ios?fromrss=1

Huawei MediaPad 10 Link hits the FCC looking worse for wear

[![Huawei MediaPad 10 hits the FCC looking worse for wear](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/huawei-mediapad-10-link-fcc-1359147992.png) ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/huawei-mediapad-10-link/)

[Huawei's](http://www.engadget.com/tag/huawei/) MediaPad 10 Link clearly didn't know what it was getting itself into when it traveled to the FCC. The Android tablet, which made a brief appearance at CES a few weeks back, took quite a few hits to its 10.1-inch display, now that Wolverine is apparently handling electronics for the commission. According to notes from CES, the tablet's running Ice Cream Sandwich on a 1.2GHz quad-core processor and 1GB of RAM. No word yet on how soon the newest member of the [MediaPad family](http://www.engadget.com/2012/11/08/huawei-mediapad-10-review/) will be riding FCC approval onto our shores -- or if the name signals some new Hyrulian tie-in for the company.

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

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/huawei-mediapad-10-link/#comments)**

**Source:** [FCC](https://apps.fcc.gov/oetcf/eas/reports/ViewExhibitReport.cfm?mode=Exhibits&RequestTimeout=500&calledFromFrame=N&application_id=215630&fcc_id=%27QISS10-201WA%27)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/huawei-mediapad-10-link/

Samsung plays favorites, blesses Korean Galaxy Grand with quad-core and LTE

[![DNP Samsung plays favorites, blesses Korean Galaxy Grand with quadcore and LTE](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/gal-grand.jpg) ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/samsung-korean-galaxy-grand-quad-core/)

After being [unveiled](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/18/samsung-galaxy-grand-dual-core-wvga-5inch/) at the close of 2012, yesterday [Samsung](http://www.engadget.com/tag/samsung/) announced the Galaxy Grand for its native South Korea. At a glance the domestic build of this handset looks nearly identical to its foreign counterpart, however the device's spec sheet tells a different story. Opposed to a meager dual-core chip and faux 4G connectivity, the Korean version of the Galaxy Grand sports a beefy 1.4GHz processor, along with LTE network support. Additional unique features include NFC capabilities and USB 3.0. Aside from these hometown enhancements, the device's 5-inch WVGA display, dual-cameras and Android 4.1 operating system remain intact. Set to be available on three unannounced Korean carriers at an undisclosed time, potential suitors can pick up this superior version of the Galaxy Grand for 350,000 won (around $325).

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/2013/01/25/samsung-korean-galaxy-grand-quad-core/#comments)**

**Via:** [Android Headlines](http://androidheadlines.com/2013/01/samsung-gives-the-galaxy-grand-a-refresh-for-the-home-crowd.html)

**Source:** [Samsung (translated)](http://samsungtomorrow.com/3930)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/samsung-korean-galaxy-grand-quad-core/

How to Protect Your Phone From Malware

Protecting your computer from viruses and malware is second nature for most people, but many users don't apply the same level of diligence to their smartphones.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/01/how-to-protect-your-phone-from-malware?fromrss=1

The Daily Roundup for 01.25.2013

[![DNP The Daily RoundUp](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2012/11/dailyroundup4.png)](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/the-daily-roundup-for-01-25-2013/)

_You might say the day is never really done in consumer technology news. Your workday, however, hopefully draws to a close at some point. This is the Daily Roundup on Engadget, a quick peek back at the top headlines for the past 24 hours -- all handpicked by the editors here at the site. Click on through the break, and enjoy._

[![](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/pebble2f0a6577_250x250.jpg)](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/pebble-smartwatch-review/)

#### [Pebble smartwatch review](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/pebble-smartwatch-review/)

After $10 million in funding from Kickstarter, Pebble finally ships to backers, and us...

[![](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/ubuntu-iv-lead3_250x250.jpg)](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/canonical-richard-collins-interview/)

#### [The Engadget Interview](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/canonical-richard-collins-interview/)

Don't ask, don't get. That's why we rang up Canonical and requested an early build of Ubuntu for the Galaxy Nexus. (Politely declined.) Next, we asked if maybe the company could speed up development...

[![](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/applesupplier_250x250.jpg)](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/apple-supplier-responsibility-report-2012/)

#### [Apple drops supplier over underage labor](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/apple-supplier-responsibility-report-2012/)

Apple's latest Supplier Responsibility Report has just been published...

[![](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/012513announce_250x250.png)](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/distro-issue-75-history-of-human-powered-flight/)

#### [Distro Issue 75](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/distro-issue-75-history-of-human-powered-flight/)

Ever wanted to take off and soar the friendly skies...

##### You also might like:

* [Samsung reports $8.27 billion in profits for Q4 2012](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/24/samsung-q4-2012-earnings/)
* [IDC: Samsung extends lead over Apple in smartphone marketshare, while Huawei and ZTE increase influence](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/idc-samsung-extends-lead-over-apple-q4-2012-smartphones/)
* [Dual OS phone with Android and desktop Ubuntu not likely to arrive before 2014](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/ubuntu-for-android-schedule/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/the-daily-roundup-for-01-25-2013/#comments)**

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/the-daily-roundup-for-01-25-2013/

HTC-made au Infobar A02 launches in Japan, wraps unique Android UI in trippy body

[![HTC's au Infobar A02](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/au-infobar-a02-htc.jpg) ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/htc-au-infobar-a02/)

KDDI's funky au [Infobar](http://www.engadget.com/tag/infobar/) is back! Once again designed by the famed Naoto Fukasawa, this A02 -- co-developed by HTC -- brings the series up to date with Qualcomm's 1.5GHz quad-core APQ8064 (but with just 1GB of RAM), 4.7-inch 720p display, 16GB of storage, microSD slot, 2,100mAh battery, LTE radio (800/1500) and Android 4.1. Better yet, this phone also supports both CDMA2000 800/2100 and WCDMA 850/1900/2100, making it a great global phone. Judging by one of the demo clips after the break, it seems that this Infobar's 8-megapixel main imager (with F2.0 lens) and 2.1-megapixel front-facing camera take advantage of HTC's [ImageSense](http://www.engadget.com/tag/imagesense/) chip for speedy burst shots. Likewise, you'll find Beats Audio built into the system. As per typical Japanese mobile phone, the usual NFC (with Osaifu-Keitai mobile wallet), 1seg TV tuner and infrared are also packed inside the 9.7mm-thick, 147g-heavy waterproof (IPX5 and IPX7) and dustproof (IP5X) body.

We're already fans of the iconic nishikigoi (meaning "brocaded carp") color scheme as pictured above, but it was really the fluid animations and uniqueness of the "iida UI" 2.0 (iida stands for "innovation," "imagination," "design" and "art") that caught our attention. As you'll see in the video clips after the break, the home screen here shares some similarities with Windows Phone 8's counterpart -- in the way items snap to grid and resize, even though the former is enhanced by plenty of bouncy animation and more colors. Expect this A02 -- which is also available in blue or gray -- to hit the Japanese market in mid-February.

**Gallery: [HTC-made au Infobar A02 launches in Japan, wraps 4.7-inch screen and quad-core chip in funky colors](http://www.engadget.com/photos/htc-made-au-infobar-a02-launches-in-japan-wraps-4-7-inch-screen-and-quad-core-chip-in-funky-colors/)**

[![](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/a02-nishikigoi_thumbnail.jpg)](http://www.engadget.com/photos/htc-made-au-infobar-a02-launches-in-japan-wraps-4-7-inch-screen-and-quad-core-chip-in-funky-colors/5596344)[![](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/a02-aoao_thumbnail.jpg)](http://www.engadget.com/photos/htc-made-au-infobar-a02-launches-in-japan-wraps-4-7-inch-screen-and-quad-core-chip-in-funky-colors/5596345)[![](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/a02-ice-gray_thumbnail.jpg)](http://www.engadget.com/photos/htc-made-au-infobar-a02-launches-in-japan-wraps-4-7-inch-screen-and-quad-core-chip-in-funky-colors/5596346)[![](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/nishikigoi_thumbnail.jpg)](http://www.engadget.com/photos/htc-made-au-infobar-a02-launches-in-japan-wraps-4-7-inch-screen-and-quad-core-chip-in-funky-colors/5596446)[![](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/aoao_thumbnail.jpg)](http://www.engadget.com/photos/htc-made-au-infobar-a02-launches-in-japan-wraps-4-7-inch-screen-and-quad-core-chip-in-funky-colors/5596448)

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

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/htc-au-infobar-a02/#comments)**

**Source:** [KDDI (Japanese)](http://www.au.kddi.com/original-product/a02/)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/htc-au-infobar-a02/

Roland Cube Lite mini amplifier allows you to control guitar licks, aux input independently (video)

[![Roland Cube Lite mini amplifier allows you to control guitar licks, aux input independently video](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/dsc04183.jpg) ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/roland-cube-lite-hands-on/)

At the start of [NAMM 2013](http://www.engadget.com/tag/namm2013/), [Roland](http://www.engadget.com/tag/Roland/) announced two new models in its Cube line and an iOS app to complete the trio. Both the Cube Lite and Cube Lite Monitor are on display in all of their dual-connecting glory, but we're far more interested in the former for its guitar amp wares. The 10W compact unit touts built-in JC Clean, Crunch and Extreme tones alongside Chorus and Reverb controls. We were pleasantly surprised with how well these on-board sounds came across at the strings of a Stratocaster during the booth demos we witnessed. Usually included presets can be really hit or miss, but these are quite serviceable -- especially in a portable unit. As you might expect, all of the usual controls are here including volume, treble, bass and drive and the requisite 1/4-inch input graces the backside. That's all quite nice, but the real story here is the iOS software and aux connectivity.

That iOS app, Cube Jam, allows you to record and play along with tunes from your iDevice and connects via the i-Cube Link stereo auxiliary input from the headphone jack of a slate or handset. We were a bit disappointed that the connection didn't come at the hands of a 30-pin jack or Lightning port, but overall the unit worked quite nicely in our limited time with it. The separate volume control for the aux port is quite nice and allows the user to adjust levels of the amp and the accompanying track independently to keep things just so. We'd surmize that you'd be able to connect an Android, BB10 or WP8 device for playback, if you're willing give up the Cube Jam software. Cube Lite also requires a tethered power supply and doesn't support Bluetooth connectivity like we saw on the [iLoud](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/24/ik-multimedia-iloud-and-iloud-mini-hands-on-video/) from IK Multimedia. If you don't have a need for the guitar functionality, the Cube Lite Monitor wields the same 1/8-inch input, but offers stereo 1/4-inch jacks instead and tosses the in-built tones. Head on past the break for a quick tour and a closer look awaits in the gallery just below.

**Gallery: [Roland Cube Lite hands-on](http://www.engadget.com/photos/roland-cube-lite-hands-on/)**

[![](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/dsc04183-1359145482_thumbnail.jpg)](http://www.engadget.com/photos/roland-cube-lite-hands-on/5596638)[![](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/dsc04184_thumbnail.jpg)](http://www.engadget.com/photos/roland-cube-lite-hands-on/5596639)[![](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/dsc04195_thumbnail.jpg)](http://www.engadget.com/photos/roland-cube-lite-hands-on/5596649)[![](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/dsc04185_thumbnail.jpg)](http://www.engadget.com/photos/roland-cube-lite-hands-on/5596640)[![](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/dsc04187_thumbnail.jpg)](http://www.engadget.com/photos/roland-cube-lite-hands-on/5596641)

_James Trew contributed to this report. _

Filed under: [Misc](http://www.engadget.com/category/misc/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/roland-cube-lite-hands-on/#comments)**

**Source:** [Roland](http://www.roland.com/products/en/CUBE_Lite/), [iTunes](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cube-jam/id585464498?mt=8)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/roland-cube-lite-hands-on/

By popular demand, Sony releases Jelly Bean alpha build for Xperia T

[![By popular demand, Sony releases Jelly Bean alpha build for Xperia T ](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/xperiat2012-09-20-10.56.09mat800.jpg) ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/sony-jelly-bean-alpha-rom-xperia-t/)

Because [the first time](http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/15/ice-cream-sandwich-alpha-released-for-xperia-trio-is-sony-erics/) proved to be such a charm for Android developers, Sony's once again offering [Xperia](http://www.engadget.com/tag/xperia/) owners an official alpha ROM. And this time, it's of the [Jelly Bean](http://www.engadget.com/tag/sony,%20jellybean/) variety. But before you rush to the source and [flash](http://www.engadget.com/tag/Rom+flashing/) your cares away, there are a few caveats we need to cover. For starters, the price of entry to this Android 4.1 test run is an _unlocked_ [Xperia T](http://www.engadget.com/2012/09/21/sony-xperia-t-review-a-new-4-5-inch-smartphone-flagship-that-is/). Not the [TX](http://www.engadget.com/tag/Xperia+TX/), not the [V](http://www.engadget.com/tag/Xperia+V/), not the [S](http://www.engadget.com/tag/Xperia+S/), so don't even try it. You'll also have to sign away your legal right (via [the company's unlock utility](http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/13/sony-ericssons-android-bootloader-unlocking-site-goes-live-mod/)) to whine and demand compensation should your handset brick in the process. Once those hurdles have been cleared, you're almost [home free to flash](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/06/sony-xperia-flash-tool-beta-unlocked-devices/) -- so long as you don't mind an unfinished UI, non-functioning radios for voice, WiFi, Bluetooth and NFC, _in addition_ to a complete lack of Gapps. Oh, and did we mention your unlocked T won't be privy to the official Jelly Bean update once it hits? Yeah, there's that too. Basically, you shouldn't look to this for a daily driver. In fact, it's probably best to leave this one to the big boys.

Filed under: [Cellphones](http://www.engadget.com/category/cellphones/), [Wireless](http://www.engadget.com/category/wireless/), [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/2013/01/25/sony-jelly-bean-alpha-rom-xperia-t/#comments)**

**Source:** [Sony Mobile](http://developer.sonymobile.com/2013/01/25/jelly-bean-available-for-custom-rom-developers-alpha-rom/)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/sony-jelly-bean-alpha-rom-xperia-t/

Open Garden And TextMe Team Up So Android Tablet Users Can Text,...

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

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/01/open-garden-and-textme-team-up-so-android-tablet-users-can-text?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-ea4f67f6880383c9ea5241dc700c1936

Dual OS phone with Android and desktop Ubuntu not likely to arrive before 2014

[![DNP Converged Android and Ubuntu smartphone 'coming soon' ](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/ubuntu-for-android-2.jpg) ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/ubuntu-for-android-schedule/)

It's [beautiful](http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/21/ubuntus-full-desktop-os-coming-to-multi-core-android-devices/). It even [works](http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/24/ubuntu-for-android-hands-on/). But if there's a downside to the notion of an Android phone that runs full-blown desktop Ubuntu when docked to a big screen and keyboard, it's the need for patience. Nearly a year after the first announcement, we've had an update from one of the key project leads, Richard Collins, to the effect that work on a converged Ubuntu for Android device is running on schedule, but won't culminate in an actual product until shortly _after_ the launch of the first [Ubuntu-only smartphone](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/02/ubuntu-for-smartphones/):

> "We are planning to very quickly follow our initial launch [of an Ubuntu-only handset] with the converged device which will have high-performing system components that will allow Ubuntu to run as a desktop OS when docked."

Considering that the first Ubuntu smartphone isn't expected until early 2014, pending agreements with manufacturer and carrier partners, we could be looking at another 12-month wait. Still, the company probably wouldn't flesh out its roadmap like this unless things were going well behind the scenes. It's also possible that Canonical will release early builds of the dual OS for us to try -- just like it's going to cater for [experimental GNex owners](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/07/canonical-narrows-timeframe-for-ubuntu-for-smartphones-february/) next month. In fact, Collins told us that we "might not have much longer to wait" before we see something new on Ubuntu for Android, even if it isn't a finished product. Read our [full interview ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/canonical-richard-collins-interview/)with him right here.

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

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/ubuntu-for-android-schedule/#comments)**

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/ubuntu-for-android-schedule/

The Engadget Interview: Richard Collins, head of Ubuntu mobile products

[![DNP The Engadget Interview Richard Collins, head of Ubuntu mobile products](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/ubuntu-iv-lead3.jpg) ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/canonical-richard-collins-interview/)

Don't ask, don't get. That's why we rang up [Canonical](http://www.engadget.com/tag/canonical) and requested an early build of [Ubuntu for the Galaxy Nexus](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/07/canonical-narrows-timeframe-for-ubuntu-for-smartphones-february/). (Politely declined.) Next, we asked if maybe the company could speed up development of its [dual OS solution for Android](http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/24/ubuntu-for-android-hands-on/), since we're really looking forward to it. (Funny looks.) Finally, we wondered if there was any possibility of dropping by the London HQ and interviewing someone in charge. ("Come on over!") We promptly found ourselves sitting across a desk from Richard Collins, who left the [Symbian Foundation](http://www.engadget.com/tag/symbian+foundation/) 18 months ago to work at Canonical, and who has a very firm grasp of how Ubuntu is going to be hauled into the mobile era. He explains everything after the break, so if you have a big OS-shaped gap in your belly, or if you're just intrigued to hear the proposition of a new player, read on.

### Ubuntu for Smartphones

![DNP The Engadget Interview Richard Collins, head of Ubuntu mobile products](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/ubuntu-hands-on-620-ces2013-1359133315.jpg)

**How is Ubuntu on a smartphone really the same Ubuntu we know from desktop PCs? **

It's the same code base, with our Unity UI, adapted to provide a very particular experience according to the device it's running on. That makes it straightforward for developers to say, "here's an Ubuntu application that I know works brilliantly on the desktop, I only have to adapt it using the tools that Ubuntu provides in order to make it work on a smartphone."

**But legacy desktop apps will still have to be ported?**

Legacy apps will have to be adapted. They'll need to compile on ARM processors, but that's not a significant amount of work. When we start launching products, we'll include an SDK which will allow developers to build apps which work on both the smartphone and the desktop interface.

### More Info

* [Hands-on with Ubuntu for smartphones](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/02/ubuntu-for-smartphones/)
* [Canonical's Mark Shuttleworth at CES 2013](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/11/canonical-interview/)
* [Ubuntu core apps project launched](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/24/canonical-ubuntu-smartphone-core-apps/)

**Since Android is also Linux-based, is there any plan for Ubuntu to run Android apps? **

Many Android developers already use Ubuntu as their desktop OS and we have a very close affinity with them. We intend to encourage them to make their Android applications run on Ubuntu, but we won't engineer any middleware for running Android apps. Developers are intelligent and capable enough to make their apps run on our devices. We have an active initiative right now to directly help them achieve this. [See More Coverage below.]

**Will you have a full app store ready for the launch of your smartphone? **

In terms of our first go-to-market product strategy, the intention is not to have an application store full of ready-made applications that are there to download. We have a very definite approach in terms of addressing an important part of the market where users are primarily interested in being able to use a core set of applications.

> "The intention is not to have an application store [at launch]"

**You're saying people interested in low-cost phones don't need lots of apps? **

At launch, we'll have the capability for a mobile app store, but at this stage we don't believe it is essential for the entry-level smartphone market we're targeting. However, we won't just be saying "there's your basic applications, that's all you're going to need." Our strategy includes giving carriers and manufacturers ways of delivering services in conjunction with us -- we plan to give them more influence.

**Do you want people buying your entry-level phone, in China for example, to know the Ubuntu brand?**

Yes, of course. I want them to associate Ubuntu with a very interesting, relevant and enjoyable experience. The challenge for us is to take the success we have with developers, with enterprises, and take that into the consumer market.

### Budget rivals

![DNP The Engadget Interview Richard Collins, head of Ubuntu mobile products](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/geeksphone-1359134013.jpg)

**Are you going after the same market as Mozilla's [Firefox OS](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/22/firefox-os-developer-phone/)?**

[Mozilla] has a very particular type of technology. We believe that a rich user experience requires a native capability -- it can't be entirely addressed by a phone that only runs web applications. Web apps sit on servers in different parts of the internet, so it's hard for them to interact and share information.

**You're also going up against [Nokia's Asha series](http://www.engadget.com/2012/11/26/asha-205-nokia-slam-hands-on/) running on [S40](http://www.engadget.com/tag/S40/)...**

Nokia's S40 is _only_ defined as being a low-end smartphone platform. Ubuntu is engineered to run across different devices, and it's engineered to scale up to higher-end devices.

### High-end rivals

### ![DNP The Engadget Interview Richard Collins, head of Ubuntu mobile products](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/surfacepro-1359134060.jpg)

**What advantages do you have over Android as a smartphone OS?**

With Android, it's implicit that if you want to run Google services then there's a levy associated with that. Our model is entirely different. We're working with industry partners who want to have more influence over the way services are provided to end users. We won't try to lock people into licensing our services.

**Windows already straddles the divide between x86 and ARM. Has Microsoft stolen a march on you?**

> "Microsoft generates uncertainty and conflict..."

We compete with them, in that sense. There are ways in which Windows is a very costly OS to build hardware on. We have an alternative approach that is more software-based, more collaborative, more open, and offers more promise for developers who want their apps to run on desktops, phones, TVs and so on.

Microsoft generates uncertainty and conflict in the way it's trying to gain market share. They're in conflict with their own hardware partners. There's a very different stance in the way we propose to work with people.

### Ubuntu for Android

![DNP The Engadget Interview Richard Collins, head of Ubuntu mobile products](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/ubuntu-for-android-2-1359133333.jpg)

**Many people are waiting on mobile Ubuntu because they want to see boundaries pushed and the market disrupted. Won't your first phone jar with those types of users?**

Not if we're clear about where we want to take Ubuntu. We're planning to very quickly follow our initial launch with a high-end [converged device](http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/24/ubuntu-for-android-hands-on/), which will have high-performing system components that will allow Ubuntu to run as a desktop OS when docked. It'll also have full access to the Ubuntu Software Center. So we need to be clear about our roadmap -- we don't have tunnel vision around low-end products.

**Speaking of which, are you okay with how long it's taking Ubuntu for Android to come to market?**

It takes a long time to release a software-based product and turn it into a hardware-based product. But I can tell you that you might not have much longer to wait before you see something on that side.

### Makin' money

![DNP The Engadget Interview Richard Collins, head of Ubuntu mobile products](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/ubuntuos2.jpg)

**You're not going to be like Microsoft or Google, but how will you make money?**

The simplest model would be per-unit licensing. Then there's also the fact that hardware manufacturers and carriers don't want to focus on software. They want people like us to manage that on their behalf and it might be possible to commercialize that.

**So you'd directly look after the software -- including updates, for example?**

Yes, absolutely. There's no fragmentation in terms of the way we will progress our OS. Each update will come on a six-monthly basis and manufacturers will be able to rely on that. They'll be able to deliver their services without worrying about OS versions.

### More Info

* [Ubuntu for Android -- prototype hands-on](http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/24/ubuntu-for-android-hands-on/)
* [Ubuntu lands on Nexus 7 slates](http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/27/ubuntu-nexus-7-installer/)
* [Kite tablet flies Android 4.0 and Ubuntu 12.04](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/15/exynos-kite-tablet-android-ubuntu/)

**How would those services run regardless of OS version?**

Because often those types of services will be web-based. With Ubuntu, web applications can feel more like part of the main operating system. We can make them feel very native.

**Will you try to advertize on mobile Ubuntu?**

That has to be done in conjunction with carriers and manufacturers. But part of what we're doing with the OS is providing direct access to services that the user has subscribed to, and putting them in the main UI -- like with Amazon.

### The Future

**Where do you want to be in two years' time? **

I want to be shipping in mass volume, in the millions of units, and for Ubuntu to be recognized globally as one of the major platforms. Our analysis says there's the opportunity to gain a 7-8 percent market share by 2016. There's a window of opportunity for a new player to capture that kind of share.

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

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/canonical-richard-collins-interview/#comments)**

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/canonical-richard-collins-interview/

Pebble smartwatch review

[![Pebble smartwatch review](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/pebble2f0a6577.jpg) ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/pebble-smartwatch-review/)

### More Info

* [Pebble smartwatch hands-on](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/09/pebble-smartwatch-hands-on-video/)
* [Pebble smartwatch unboxing](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/24/pebble-smartwatch-unboxing-video/)
* [Pebble smartwatch raises $100,000 in two hours](http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/12/pebble-smartwatch-raises-100-000-in-two-hours-retires-on-a-bea/)

What is [Kickstarter](http://www.engadget.com/tag/Kickstarter/)? The answer you'll hear, as long-winded as it may be, will likely touch on [Pebble](http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/11/allerta-intros-pebble-smartwatch-inpulses-attractive-younger-s/). If it doesn't, you'll probably want to ask someone else -- with more than $10 million pledged, the people's smartwatch catapulted past the crowdfunding site's records and the startup's own expectations. It achieved a $100,000 funding goal [in two hours](http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/12/pebble-smartwatch-raises-100-000-in-two-hours-retires-on-a-bea/), and it was clearly a favorite among our readers. Of course, there were doubts that Eric Migicovsky, the company's founder, would deliver such an appealing and seemingly powerful product for $125, but following our first look during the company's [CES press conference](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/09/live-from-pebble-ces-2013-press-event/), that dream [became real](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/09/pebble-smartwatch-hands-on-video/).

So, what is Pebble? It's not a smartphone for your wrist, as we've seen [attempted before](http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/13/swap-rebel-watch-phone-laughs-at-your-wrist-mounted-ipod-nano/). In fact, it's far less sophisticated than you might expect -- the lightweight device reads out basic text, lets you skip through music tracks and, of course, displays the time. It's hardly the greatest achievement of our generation, or even the device of the year. It's become incredibly popular, sure, but despite the hype, you certainly don't _need_ to own one. Yet, somehow, even the most technologically inept people in our lives have heard it mentioned on morning talk shows, FM radio stations or from pre-teens anxious to impress their friends. Having a smartphone alone isn't enough anymore. Or is it?

**Gallery: [Pebble smartwatch review](http://www.engadget.com/photos/pebble-smartwatch-review/)**

[![](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/zsh2f0a6502_thumbnail.jpg)](http://www.engadget.com/photos/pebble-smartwatch-review/5596380)[![](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/zsh2f0a6503_thumbnail.jpg)](http://www.engadget.com/photos/pebble-smartwatch-review/5596381)[![](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/zsh2f0a6507_thumbnail.jpg)](http://www.engadget.com/photos/pebble-smartwatch-review/5596382)[![](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/zsh2f0a6509_thumbnail.jpg)](http://www.engadget.com/photos/pebble-smartwatch-review/5596383)[![](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/zsh2f0a6515_thumbnail.jpg)](http://www.engadget.com/photos/pebble-smartwatch-review/5596384)

### Hardware

We tested a black Pebble, which is the first color to ship. The face is slightly glossier than renders implied, but otherwise the production device looks nearly identical to early prototypes. There's a 22mm rubber strap for mounting the device to your wrist -- you'll likely be able to swap in your own band with matching dimensions. It's a fairly attractive combination, though regardless of the strap you choose, you'll probably want to leave Pebble behind during formal events, or walks down the runway.

Pebble feels very comfortable when fastened on the wrist -- it's relatively lightweight, and the smooth edges maintain their distance from sensitive skin. Still, it feels solid enough for regular use, and thanks to waterproofing down to 50 meters (164 feet), it can stay on your wrist during laps in the pool (or in the ocean), and it'll work just fine in the shower as well. There are two exposed metal connectors, used to pair up with the proprietary magnetic USB charging cable (the only accessory that ships in the box), but the housing appears to be properly sealed.

The secret to Pebble's weeklong battery life and daylight readability is a technology that's penetrated the lives of bookworms young and old: an e-paper display. The 114 x 168 black-and-white screen sports nearly 20,000 pixels, letting you view emails and a time readout in several fonts, along with watch faces and other indicators. The display looks great both indoors and out, though we did notice some odd black spotting while viewing the panel in direct sunlight -- adjusting the angle eradicates the issue.

![Pebble smartwatch review](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/pebble2f0a6537-1359133970.jpg)

There's a simple backlight that illuminates the panel briefly at night, automatically when you receive a notification or manually when you activate any of the four side-mounted buttons. It's fairly dim, enabling you to avoid disturbing fellow moviegoers or that patient significant other sharing your bed, but still bright enough for you to catch every detail. Pebble will reflect even a small amount of ambient light, however, so your backlight usage is likely to be fairly minimal.

Pebble doesn't offer much functionality without a smartphone. You'll need one (and an accompanying app) to get started, and although you'll be able to display the time while disconnected (in Airplane Mode, for example), software updates, feature additions and notifications all require a Bluetooth connection. Fortunately, there's Bluetooth 4.0 support, which offers speedy performance with reduced energy consumption. This also contributes to Pebble's weeklong battery life, and a reported five to 10 percent hit to your smartphone's longevity.

We'll detail the user interface more in the section below, but since there's no touch functionality here, you'll need to navigate using the four side-mounted buttons. There's a home (or back) button on the top left side, which brings you back to Pebble's main configuration page. Positioned to the right of the e-paper panel: a top button scrolls up, a smaller center button makes selections and the control on the bottom scrolls down -- through messages, menus or tracks while controlling music playback. All of these buttons require a firm press, rather than a tap, and while you won't accidentally activate the controls, registering input can take a bit of effort.

### Software

Pebble's two apps -- one for Android 2.3 or later and the second for Apple devices running iOS 5 or later -- enable everything from initial setup to push notifications. There's no user manual in the box, so you'll need to download your respective app to get started. Pairing takes a few seconds, and then you're good to go. The smartwatch will automatically adopt the local time on your smartphone, and you can select from a few default watch faces, ranging from Text Watch, which you're probably already familiar with, to Classic Analog.

![DNP Pebble smartwatch review](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/pebbledsc05423.jpg)

To take full advantage of the device's functionality, you'll need to head back over to the smartphone app, where you can push additional watch faces (there are currently just five to download, including TicTockToe). Eventually, this custom app store will include third-party apps, such as the bike computer and golf rangefinder that the company pitched on its Kickstarter page, though they're not available now.

The app's Settings page is where you'll select notifications to push. Based on the apps installed on our Galaxy Note II, we were able to choose from incoming call alerts, text messages, calendar reminders, email previews, Google Talk messages, Google Voice messages and Facebook messages. Each option has a checkbox, so if you want to use your Pebble for caller ID but don't want to be bothered with Facebook messages, that's perfectly OK. With each notification, the watch will vibrate once, the backlight will flip on (for a few seconds) and the message will pop up.

Theoretically, you can simply shake your wrist to dismiss the notification, though we were only able to accomplish this by pressing one of the buttons. You can choose from large and small fonts for notifications, but regardless of the size, you can scroll to see more using the up and down buttons. You'll need to hop over to your smartphone to read the full message or send a response. Similarly, when you receive a call, your only option on the watch is to dismiss the notification, but doing so won't send your caller to voicemail.

Unless you're looking at your watch every few seconds, there will likely come a time when your inbox contains multiple messages. Unfortunately, Pebble will only display the very last notification received, so it won't completely eliminate a need to check your smartphone. Also, it's not currently able to display certain languages -- a message we received with Chinese characters rendered as several lines of rectangles on the display.

![DNP Pebble smartwatch review](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/pebblescreen-1359140340.png)

At this point, all of the interactions between Pebble and a connected smartphone go in one direction -- from your handset to the watch -- with one exception. The wristwatch's music player controls playback on your Android or iOS device, including play / pause and track skipping. There's no volume control, which seems reasonable given the limited number of buttons. With our Android phone, the watch was able to identify and control music from the native app, but not third-party services, such as Spotify.

### The competition

Although it may seem to be the case given the excitement surrounding this launch, Pebble is not the only smartwatch on the market. Sony and now [Toshiba](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/08/toshiba-smartwatch-concept-hands-on/) are two of the giants behind similar tech, and the former company's [SmartWatch](http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/sony-smartwatch-hands-on-video/) is even reasonably priced, at $149. Allerta, the company behind Pebble, released its own wearable several years ago, called [inPulse](http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/inpulse-and-wimm-one-the-tale-of-two-smartwatches-video/), but smartphone compatibility was limited to BlackBerry models and certain Android-powered handsets, and the device uses an OLED display. Similarly, WIMM Labs' [WIMM One](http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/09/wimm-one-android-wearable-gets-developer-release/) was made available to developers, but is no longer in production.

Pebble's success stems from the promise of third-party apps and the practical e-paper display, along with the marketing power of Kickstarter. Functionality remains somewhat limited, but this is a first-generation device from a small manufacturer that's currently only in the hands of a very limited number of lucky backers. If consumer interest is any indication, developers will likely soon be hard at work on a variety of unique applications, if they aren't already. The platform is incredibly young, and the best is yet to come.

### Wrap-up

![DNP Pebble smartwatch review](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/pebble2f0a6502.jpg)

We've really enjoyed our time with Pebble so far -- it's not a fashion statement, necessarily, but we wouldn't be surprised to see it pop up on many wrists in the weeks and months to come. Functionality is still quite limited at this point, and considering how fresh the device is, that's to be expected. The features that are already available work well, and the smartwatch has been a pleasure to use.

Taking price into account, Pebble is an excellent value, especially for lucky Kickstarter backers who were able to take advantage of $99, $115 and $125 pre-orders. We're very optimistic for the device's future -- our chief concern relates not to the hardware, but how it will affect behavior: If you thought that friend who glances at his smartphone every few minutes was rude, just wait until he owns a Pebble.

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

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/pebble-smartwatch-review/#comments)**

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/pebble-smartwatch-review/

Gizmo Board is an AMD-powered embedded system for developers and tinkerers

[![Gizmo Board is an AMDpowered embedded system for developers and tinkerers](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/amdgizmosphereboard.jpg) ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/gizmo-board-is-an-amd-powered-embedded-system/)

GizmoSphere and [AMD](http://www.engadget.com/tag/amd) are targeting independent developers, embedded system makers and tinkerers with the Gizmo Board -- a four-inch square powered by a dual-core 1GHz G-T40E. The x86 CPU and Radeon 6250 GPU put a lot of power and flexibility in your hands, though, the 1GB of soldered on RAM does limit it somewhat. In addition to being able to run Android, Linux or Windows, there's also a host of connectivity options packed in. There's a VGA connector and two USB 2.0 ports, along with an Ethernet jack and a pair of custom I/O connectors -- one of which can be hooked up to GizmoSphere's Explorer board, which has a keypad, LCD and an area for prototyping. You can pick up the Gizmo Board direct from the company's site (at the source) for $199 which certainly makes it more expensive than options like the [Raspberry Pi](http://www.engadget.com/tag/raspberrypi/), but there's also a lot more horsepower under its passively cooled hood. Check out the PR after the break for more.

Show full PR text

**GizmoSphere Launches an AMD APU-based Gizmo Board for Embedded Systems Inventors and Hobbyists**
AMD is a Founding Member of GizmoSphere Embedded Developer Community

SUNNYVALE, Calif. -1/24/2013
AMD (NYSE: AMD) today announced that the newly launched Gizmo board, a low-cost board geared toward x86-based embedded system development available from GizmoSphere, is powered by an AMD Embedded G-Series Accelerated Processing Unit (APU). Gizmo is a 4-inch by 4-inch x86 development board that can run a variety of operating systems including Android, Linux(R), RTOSes and Windows(R). AMD is a founding member of GizmoSphere, a not-for-profit organization whose collective goal is to drive and enable technology projects of interest to independent developers, with a focus on stimulating and encouraging innovation around multicore heterogeneous computing using APUs.

The Gizmo board includes the G-T40E dual-core processor running at 1.0 GHz, combined on a single die with AMD Radeon[TM] HD 6250 discrete-class graphics. The board provides a performance capacity of 52 gigaFLOPS (GFLOPS) at less than 10 watts. Custom high- and low-speed edge connectors enable a full range of functions. This unprecedented level of integration between serial and parallel processing offers a power-efficient foundation for high-performance multimedia content delivery across a broad range of embedded designs such as digital signage, x86 set-top box (xSTB), IP-TV, thin client, information kiosk, point-of-sale, casino gaming, media servers and industrial control systems.

"Gizmo is an excellent board for the next generation of embedded systems development," said Kamal Khouri, director of Embedded Products, AMD. "The new board will serve the diverse and growing embedded development community and is especially useful for those wanting to incorporate the advanced capabilities possible by harnessing a heterogeneous architecture. Developers ready to take advantage of a high-performance, full I/O-featured x86 development board will find tremendous value in Gizmo."

Packaged as part of a development kit, the Gizmo board is available now through GizmoSphere.org for $199. GizmoSphere's founding members include AMD, Sage Electronic Engineering, Texas Multicore Technologies and Viosoft.

Filed under: [Misc](http://www.engadget.com/category/misc/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/gizmo-board-is-an-amd-powered-embedded-system/#comments)**

**Via:** [SemiAccurate](http://semiaccurate.com/2013/01/25/amd-puts-out-a-cheap-embedded-apu-development-board/#.UQKdZulQCoN)

**Source:** [GizmoSphere](http://www.gizmosphere.org/)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/gizmo-board-is-an-amd-powered-embedded-system/

WindowsAndroid Lets You Run Android 4.0 Natively On Your PC

An anonymous reader writes "WindowsAndroid is a very cool tool from the Beijing-based startup SocketeQ that lets you run Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) as a native application on Windows Vista, Windows 7, or Windows 8 machines. The creators tell us they have a deep background in virtualization, operating system, and graphics technologies, and have been working on the project for years. Essentially, WindowsAndroid allows you not only to execute Android apps on your Windows computer, but also use the browser, not to mention every other component of the operating system."

[![](http://a.fsdn.com/sd/twitter_icon_large.png)](http://twitter.com/home?status=WindowsAndroid+Lets+You+Run+Android+4.0+Natively+On+Your+PC%3A+http%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F14dZjVR) [![](http://a.fsdn.com/sd/facebook_icon_large.png)](http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fmobile.slashdot.org%2Fstory%2F13%2F01%2F25%2F1844208%2Fwindowsandroid-lets-you-run-android-40-natively-on-your-pc%3Futm_source%3Dslashdot%26utm_medium%3Dfacebook) [![Share on Google+](http://www.gstatic.com/images/icons/gplus-16.png)](http://plus.google.com/share?url=http://mobile.slashdot.org/story/13/01/25/1844208/windowsandroid-lets-you-run-android-40-natively-on-your-pc?utm_source=slashdot&utm_medium=googleplus)

[Read more of this story](http://mobile.slashdot.org/story/13/01/25/1844208/windowsandroid-lets-you-run-android-40-natively-on-your-pc?utm_source=rss1.0moreanon&utm_medium=feed) at Slashdot.

![](http://slashdot.feedsportal.com/c/35028/f/647410/s/27e71958/mf.gif)

[![](http://da.feedsportal.com/r/151884916851/u/49/f/647410/c/35028/s/27e71958/a2.img)](http://da.feedsportal.com/r/151884916851/u/49/f/647410/c/35028/s/27e71958/a2.htm)![](http://pi.feedsportal.com/r/151884916851/u/49/f/647410/c/35028/s/27e71958/a2t.img)![](http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/Slashdot/slashdot/~4/UPfa2vpb3nk)

URL: http://rss.slashdot.org/~r/Slashdot/slashdot/~3/UPfa2vpb3nk/story01.htm

Three essentials of Android design DNA

For many years since its release, the Android OS has been behaving like a teenager in the grip of raging hormones.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/01/three-essentials-of-android-design-dna?fromrss=1

Alcatel One Touch Evo 7 makes FCC pitstop, still runs Ice Cream Sandwich

[![Alcatel One Touch EVO 7 makes FCC pitstop, still runs Ice Cream Sandwich](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/alcatel-one-touch-tab-7.jpg) ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/alcatel-one-touch-evo-7-fcc/)

If it's ICS, you can be sure it ain't fresh. And [Alcatel](http://www.engadget.com/tag/Alcatel/) seems to know that, but it's offering a base version of its _non-HD_ [One Touch Evo 7](http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/12/alcatel-one-touch-evo-7-ics-tablet-in-europe/) tablet that runs that so very 2011 Android OS anyway. Yes, this is the very same 7-inch "modular" slate we saw [at this past CES](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/07/alcatel-one-touch-evo-7-hd/), except now it's made an appearance at the FCC, indicating market availability on the horizon. Just in case you need a refresher, Alcatel's outfitted the tab with a WSVGA (1,024 x 600) display, single-core 1GHz Rockchip CPU buffered by 1GB RAM and 4GB of internal storage -- nothing to get excited about, really. All the goods are here on display, from test setup shots to its user manual. So, feel free to peruse the source below for a glimpse at the official docs.

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

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/alcatel-one-touch-evo-7-fcc/#comments)**

**Source:** [FCC](https://apps.fcc.gov/oetcf/eas/reports/ViewExhibitReport.cfm?mode=Exhibits&RequestTimeout=500&calledFromFrame=N&application_id=170309&fcc_id=)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/alcatel-one-touch-evo-7-fcc/

Chrome beta for Android exposes WebGL, brings more 3D to the mobile web

[![Chrome beta for Android makes WebGL an easy toggle for mobile speed freaks](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/chrome-android-galaxy-note-ii-1359120938.jpg) ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/chrome-beta-for-android-makes-webgl-easy-to-toggle/)

Did you hop on the new Chrome [beta track for Android](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/10/google-chrome-launches-new-beta-channel-for-android/)? There's a treat waiting under the hood. Google's Brandon Jones has confirmed that the latest build enables the flags page, letting us toggle hidden elements -- including the rather big deal of [WebGL](http://www.engadget.com/tag/WebGL/) support. Anyone with reasonably quick graphics can now experiment with full 3D on their phone without having to hack or use a plugin, whether it's [wild music videos](http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/12/3-dreams-of-black-is-the-trippiest-webgl-interactive-music-vid/) or [lovefests](http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/14/love-and-hate-tweets-collected-on-3d-love-will-conquer-site/). Just remember that the experience won't be as seamless as it is on the desktop. You'll likely have to force the desktop version of a page just to see the graphics code, and few if any WebGL developers are optimizing for the performance and screen size of a phone. If you'd still like to get a peek at what could be the future of the mobile web, hit the source to join the beta flock.

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/2013/01/25/chrome-beta-for-android-makes-webgl-easy-to-toggle/#comments)**

**Via:** [Brandon Jones (Google+)](https://plus.google.com/101501294230020638079/posts/LsHQCDk557P), [The Next Web](http://thenextweb.com/google/2013/01/25/google-finally-makes-it-easy-to-enable-webgl-support-in-latest-chrome-for-android-beta/?awesm=tnw.to_s0P9&utm_source=Twitter&utm_medium=Spreadus&utm_campaign=social%20media)

**Source:** [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.chrome.beta)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/chrome-beta-for-android-makes-webgl-easy-to-toggle/

Can New Smartphones Rekindle the BlackBerry Fire?

"Not dead yet" could well be the new BlackBerry marketing theme, as the world prepares to hear about two new BlackBerry 10 smartphones to be announced next Wednesday.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/01/can-new-smartphones-rekindle-the-blackberry-fire?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-2f2d122d9d37d93c58f6194c227b4d11

The Samsung juggernaut widens its lead over Apple

The Korean manufacturer's supremacy in the smartphone business is now entrenched, while the demand it's seeing in other lines provides a timely reminder of a wider shift from the desktop to mobile.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/01/the-samsung-juggernaut-widens-its-lead-over-apple?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-725cf30959f5e2ca237cc574f00bce38

Samsung announces new waterproof, ruggedized Galaxy Xcover 2

[![Samsung announces new waterproof, ruggedized Xcover 2 Android phone](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/xcover.jpg) ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/samsung-waterproof-xcover-2-android-phone/)

We've still got about a month until [Mobile World Congress](http://www.engadget.com/tag/MWC/) spills forth an untold number of unseen smartphones, but Samsung's announced something a little early. The Galaxy [Xcover](http://www.engadget.com/tag/xcover/) 2 is its [new ruggedized smartphone](http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/10/samsung-galaxy-xcover-gets-uncovered-in-germany-dares-us-to-dro/), with GPS and GLONASS pitching it directly at the adventurers among us. It's water resistant up to a depth of one meter and can hold its breath for 30 minutes, while a 4-inch WVGA display will beam out Android 4.1. Expect to see the same Motion UI features spotted on other Samsung devices recently, including the ability to overturn and mute incoming calls. It'll be powered by an as-yet unmentioned 1GHz dual-core processor, while a 5-megapixel camera will peer out the back. There's also physical camera button to ensure you don't miss any of your [underwater adventures](http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/14/gopro-flat-lens-dive-housing/).

Samsung mention that the Xcover 2 will also pack a Cardio trainer Pro workout app, although there doesn't appear to be any hardware additions to augment the fitness program -- aside from a strap holder. No word yet on where the phone is expected to land, nor how much the jungle-ready slab might set you back, but we'll be sure to drop it on the ground in Barcelona in a few weeks time.

Show full PR text

**Samsung GALAXY Xcover 2**

January 25, 2013

SEOUL, Korea - January 25, 2013 - Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd, today unveiled the Samsung Xcover 2, the ideal smartphone for active explorers who are enjoying outdoor lifestyles and seeking a durable mobile device with essential smartphone capabilities.

o. The GALAXY Xcover 2 is optimized to endure against the most rugged outdoor conditions, whether you're at work or
play. Protected against the elements, it is dust and sand proof. It's even water resistant to a depth of one meter for up to
30 minutes (IP67 Certified). You can now take photos under water with the direct camera key, hold on tight to your
device with the strap holder and not worry about dropping your phone as the battery cover lock gives added protection.

o. Pre-downloaded Google map data, an enhanced GPS + GLONASS which shortens the satellite signal detection by
up to 20% to tracks your location more accurately, LED Flash next to the camera which can be used like a torch and
a huge battery capacity of 570 hours(1,700mAh), making the GALAXY Xcover 2 is the best possible smartphone partner
for outdoor exploration.

o. In addition, the Cardio Trainer Pro workout application will also help you achieve your fitness goals by creating a
tailored training program, checking your progress and recording your track and speed.

o. For everyday, users can expect the powerful performance characteristic of a Samsung smartphone with the robust
GALAXY Xcover 2 shell. Its vivid 4.0" (100.8mm) WVGA display provides a clear and wide viewing experience,
a 5-megapixel camera and VGA front camera that will let you record precious moments in high resolution,
Bluetooth(R) v 4.0 gives a better connection that consumes less power and detects devices 50 meters away.
An impressive 1GHz dual core processor powers the core of the GALAXY Xcover 2, which ensures
a fast operating speed for seamless multitasking, faster webpage loading and softer UI transitions.

o. Samsung GALAXY Xcover 2 runs Android[TM] 4.1 (Jelly Bean) enabling faster and smoother screen transitions and
providing an enhanced user interface featuring a new, easier-to-use notification panel. As a premium Samsung
Android[TM] phone, the device is packed with a series of innovative features and services to boost performance and
the overall user experience. The intuitive Motion UI understands your movements to shake and update or turn over
to mute; data can be synced, backed up and restored with S-Cloud; S Voice lets users control the phone using
their voice, allowing you to see the weekly weather forecast, the contact number you're trying to find or even take
a picture as you speak; Best Shot recommends the best shot from a series of photos; Smart Stay recognizes
whether the user is looking at the screen to dim the screen accordingly. Users can also enjoy all the benefits of
Samsung Hubs, including the latest versions of Readers Hub, Video Hub, Game Hub and Music Hub.

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/2013/01/25/samsung-waterproof-xcover-2-android-phone/#comments)**

**Source:** [Samsung](http://www.samsungmobilepress.com/2013/01/25/Samsung-GALAXY-Xcover-2)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/samsung-waterproof-xcover-2-android-phone/

Acer announces Liquid E1 phone with 4.5-inch qHD display, Android 4.1.1

[![Acer announces midrange Liquid E1 with 45inch qHD display, Android 411](http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/acer-liquid-e1-2-pic.jpg) ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/acer-liquid-e1/)

[Acer](http://engadget.com/tag/acer) just added another smartphone to its [Liquid E](http://engadget.com/tag/liquide) line of mid-range handsets, and it's called, unsurprisingly enough, the Liquid E1. Device specs aren't bad for a phone of this caliber: you get a 4.5-inch qHD (960 x 540) IPS display, a dual-core 1GHz processor, 1GB of RAM, 4GB of built-in storage, a microSD card slot, a 5-megapixel camera and a decent 1,760mAh battery. It ships with Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean, though we would've preferred the latest Android 4.2 on board instead. While the specs didn't wow us, the curved design does look quite handsome at first blush -- it measures 132 x 68.5 x 9.9mm and weighs in at 4.59 ounces (130g), so it appears quite lightweight as well. We'd be inclined to like it even more if the price was low enough, but Acer hasn't announced that just yet. We hope to get a closer look at this smartphone at [Mobile World Congress](http://engadget.com/tag/mwc2013), but until then you'll just have to make do with the picture above.

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

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/acer-liquid-e1/#comments)**

**Via:** [Phone Arena](http://www.phonearena.com/news/Acer-Liquid-E1-is-a-midrange-Android-smartphone_id39067?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+phonearena%2FySoL+%28Phone+Arena+-+Latest+News%29)

**Source:** [Weibo (Acer)](http://e.weibo.com/2993023192/zfXi2emLA), [Eurodroid](http://eurodroid.com/2013/01/24/acer-liquid-e1-android-4-1-on-a-4-5-display/)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/25/acer-liquid-e1/