The Frozen Android: 2012-04-01

Saturday, April 7, 2012

Mobile Miscellany: week of April 2nd, 2012

Not all mobile news is destined for the front page, but if you're like us and really want to know what's going on, then you've come to the right place.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/mobile-miscellany-week-of-april-2nd-2012?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-2d559e151f304ac60031f7dbad7d14bb

The Google 7-inch Android tablet will cost more, be delayed until July

Due to cost pressures, it looks like Google's own slate will cost the same as the Kindle Fire, and be launched in July.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/the-google-7-inch-android-tablet-will-cost-more-be-delayed-until-july?fromrss=1

Help improve the "blue dot" for people visiting your venue

When we announced the availability of indoor maps for Android last November, we also introduced Google Maps Floor Plans as a tool for business owners to upload the floor plans for their venue and have them appear in Google Maps for Android.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/help-improve-the-blue-dot-for-people-visiting-your-venue?fromrss=1

Mobile users' Facebook identity at risk

The Facebook identity of users of Android phones and tablets and iPhones and iPads can be stolen because of a security vulnerability, a British researcher says.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/mobile-users-facebook-identity-at-risk?fromrss=1

SwiftKey 3 Beta: The best Android keyboard I've seen

SwiftKey 3 Beta, the newest version of the incredibly popular Android replacement keyboard, is now available to VIP Community members.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/swiftkey-3-beta-the-best-android-keyboard-ive-seen?fromrss=1

Lenovo's ICS, 42-inch K71 smart TV going on sale by month's end in China

[![Lenovo's ICS, 42-inch K71 smart TV going on sale by month's end in China][1] ][2]

Similar to that [K91 TV][3] we saw Lenovo tease back in January, its K71 brethren's also stuffed with Ice Cream Sandwich, and according to the outfit's online shop it's ready to hit Chinese shelves by the end of the month. Along with running a flavor of Android [four-dot-oh][4], this 42-inch [smart TV][5] is also packing an undisclosed 1.5GHz dual-core CPU, WiFi and 3D capabilities, plus a gaming remote control (you know, to use while playing _TurboFly 3D_). The K71's said to be carrying a 6499 yuan (around $1,030) price tag once pre-orders go live on April 10th, while pricing and availability for the other expected models still remains unknown. Mum's the word on when, or if, these ICS, LED TVs will ever come to US shores, but we'll keep you in the loop if any news pops up.

[Lenovo's ICS, 42-inch K71 smart TV going on sale by month's end in China][2] originally appeared on [Engadget][6] on Sat, 07 Apr 2012 02:54:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][7].

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URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/07/lenovo-k71-ics-smart-tv-china/

Android army rankled over race to bottom: Is it too late?

Google's Android army is getting a wee bit restless amid a race to the profit margin bottom and devices that all look alike.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/android-army-rankled-over-race-to-bottom-is-it-too-late?fromrss=1

Friday, April 6, 2012

SwiftKey Tablet X Keyboard for Android

Brand new AI tablet keyboard, with unrivaled prediction and split key layout! SwiftKey Tablet X is the smartest tablet keyboard on Android, using artificial intelligence to help predict your next word as you type.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/swiftkey-tablet-x-keyboard-for-android?fromrss=1

Instagram for Android update adds support for tablets, WiFi handsets and SD card installs

[![Instagram for Android update adds support for tablets, WiFi handsets and SD card installs][1] ][2]

It's only been three days since [Instagram][3] [launched on Android][4] and the only thing that seems to match the influx of new users is the pace at which the company is pushing out updates to enhance support and tweak a few glitches. The latest one to hit today (1.0.3) promises expanded support for tablets and WiFi handsets, app installation on the SD card for storage-limited users and fixing an audio mute bug during capture. If you haven't delved into its photo sharing and filter features already, [check out our hands-on][5] to see how this highly anticipated app has made the transition to Android, or just hit the source link below and install it yourself.

[Instagram for Android update adds support for tablets, WiFi handsets and SD card installs][2] originally appeared on [Engadget][6] on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 19:56:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][7].

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URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/06/instagram-for-android-updated-tablets/

IMDb updates Android app, now lets you watch 720p trailers

[![IMDb updates Android app, now lets you watch 720p trailers][1] ][2]

iOS friends still flaunting those HD movie previews from Cupertino's [Trailers app][3]? Well, looks like now you can come right back at them thanks to IMDb. The all things Hollywood site just gave its Android application a minor refresh, boosting the max resolution on teasers within the app from 480p to 720p -- which you can change to accommodate any [data caps][4] you may have. Aside from the higher-res trailers, there's not much to dig save for the fix of some "pesky bugs." You can snag the update straight from your handset, or hit the Play link below if you're an [IMDb][5] first-timer.

[IMDb updates Android app, now lets you watch 720p trailers][2] originally appeared on [Engadget][6] on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 18:09:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][7].

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URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/06/imdb-android-app-720p-trailers/

Lenovo K800's initial benchmark scores look promising, but not ambitious

[![Lenovo K800's initial benchmark scores look promising, but not the ambitious kind][1] ][2]

If Lenovo's sticking to its promise, it should only be another two months maximum before its [Intel Medfield][3]-powered K800 smartphone [debuts][4] in China. Until then, we won't know the full potential of the 1.6GHz Atom Z2460 powering Ice Cream Sandwich, but we do have the next best thing for now: what we've just obtained are some benchmark results from a K800 prototype with Android 2.3.7, and while the graphics performance wasn't top notch this time round, the general score performance came close to that of the Galaxy Note (powered by a 1.4GHz dual-core Exynos chipset).

However, the K800 did beat pretty much everyone -- including the brand-spanking-new [One X][5] and [One S][6] from HTC -- in the SunSpider 0.91 Javascript test, where it only took 1,270ms to complete! What remains to be seen is whether Medfield will really deliver a better battery performance than its competitors; so until we find the answer (along with improved scores) on a final unit, you'll just have to make do with our list of scores after the break.

[Continue reading _Lenovo K800's initial benchmark scores look promising, but not ambitious_][2]

[Lenovo K800's initial benchmark scores look promising, but not ambitious][2] originally appeared on [Engadget][7] on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 17:31:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][8].

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URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/06/lenovo-k800-benchmark/

Google's Page: 'Android Is On Fire'

As Google CEO Larry Page took to the Web on Thursday to talk about his first year as the company's leader, he called out many of the company's accomplishments .

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/googles-page-android-is-on-fire?fromrss=1

Max Payne Mobile coming to iOS and Android

Grand Theft Auto III made the leap to Android and iOS devices back in December, offering the same classic game but adapted for touchscreens.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/max-payne-mobile-coming-to-ios-and-android?fromrss=1

Keep Google Weird

[![Image][1] ][2]

There's a sign that hangs in the windows of shops in downtown Santa Cruz, California. "Keep Santa Cruz Weird." It's not unique to that town, of course -- the best known implementation of the slogan is the one seen all over Austin, Texas. Localized versions have also been spotted on t-shirts and bumper stickers in places like Portland and Boulder -- any area where the undercurrent of independent thinking does daily battle with the threat of homogenized commerce. The Santa Cruz example sticks in my mind in particular, of course, due to the five years I spent in that town, whose weirdness never fully recovered from the '89 earthquake, a natural disaster that both wreaked havoc on the landscape and caused a shift in the local zeitgeist, opening crumbled and abandoned storefronts up for Starbucks and Taco Bells -- chain stores devoid of the character that makes the town so unique. So weird.

There are, naturally, growing pains with any company -- particularly one that has had so [meteoric a rise][3] as Google has experienced over the past decade and a half. Evil claims aside for the moment, the transformation from a dorm-based project to an international corporation nearly always risks the loss of the character and principles on which the project was initially founded. After [taking the helm as CEO][4] last April, co-founder Larry Page stressed the need for focusing the company's countless product lines, announcing during an [earnings call][5] that, "We've [...] done substantial internal work simplifying and streamlining our product lines."

It's easy to appreciate the sentiment. As Google grows at a tremendous rate, it risks losing focus, following in the footsteps of companies like Yahoo, which never did all that great a job subscribing to its own "Peanut Butter Manifesto," by pruning away its ever-growing list of redundancy. Surely no one can fault Google for opting to pump more resources into successful properties like Android -- brands with large user bases that require, arguably, even more attention than the company has been able to allot thus far.

[Continue reading _Keep Google Weird_][2]

[Keep Google Weird][2] originally appeared on [Engadget][6] on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 14:15:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][7].

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URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/06/keep-google-weird/

Rockstar's Max Payne Mobile coming to iOS and Android

In the tradition of last year's Grand Theft Auto III port , the classic 2001 console game May Payne will be arriving on iOS and Android phones this month, according to an announcement made today by Rockstar Games .

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/rockstars-max-payne-mobile-coming-to-ios-and-android?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-b62a814f34dd31a339ffe31f4ba7b14e

Google offers Floor Plan Marker app to businesses so they can improve indoor mapping

[![Google offers Floor Plan Marker app to businesses so they can improve indoor mapping][1] ][2]

Are folks still getting lost in the faux marble expanse of your airport or shopping mall, even after you've uploaded the floor plan to Google Maps? Then maybe it's time you went the extra mile and improved [indoor mapping][3] using the official Floor Plan Marker app. It instructs you to walk around the "entire surface" of your place of interest, while gathering position data from GPS, public WiFi signals and cell towers. Once added to Google's database, this extra info will allow the familiar blue dot to function on your customers' Android phones even when your actually-concrete building gets in the way of their satellite signal. The app's already available at Google Play, so go ahead -- make the schlep now so that others don't have to.

[Google offers Floor Plan Marker app to businesses so they can improve indoor mapping][2] originally appeared on [Engadget][4] on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 12:49:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][5].

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[1]: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2012/04/floorplansmarker.png
[2]: http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/06/google-floor-plan-marker-app-indoor-mapping/
[3]: http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/29/google-maps-6-0-hits-android-adds-indoor-navigation-for-retail/
[4]: http://www.engadget.com
[5]: http://www.weblogsinc.com/feed-terms/
[6]: http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/06/google-floor-plan-marker-app-indoor-mapping/ (Permanent link to this entry)
[7]: http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/post_label_source.gif
[8]: http://google-latlong.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/help-improve-blue-dot-for-people.html
[9]: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.insight.surveyor
[10]: http://www.engadget.com/forward/20209963/ (Send this entry to a friend via email)
[11]: http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/06/google-floor-plan-marker-app-indoor-mapping/#comments (View reader comments on this entry)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/06/google-floor-plan-marker-app-indoor-mapping/

Engadget Podcast 288 - 04.05.2012

[![][1] ][2]

If you look at this edition of the Engadget Podcast through our own pair of tortoise shell-framed, azure-lens'd Google Glasses it looks like Darren is saying "Welcome to the _Ghost Rider _900 edition of the Engadget Podcast" from beyond the void.

**Host:** Tim Stevens, Brian Heater, Darren Murph
**Producer:** [Trent Wolbe][3]
**Music: **[Orbital][4] - [Never][5]

00:03:20 - [HTC One S review][6]
00:03:30 - [HTC One X review][7]
00:04:00 - [HTC One X vs. One S: which phone is The One for you?][8]
00:11:25 - [Nokia Lumia 900 review][9]
00:16:30 - [Instagram comes to Android, available to download now][10]
00:16:45 - [Instagram for Android hands-on][11]
00:36:50 - [Sprint HTC EVO 4G LTE preview (video)][12]
00:45:20 - [New York International Auto Show][13]
00:45:40 - [Fisker Atlantic EVer unveiled in New York, we go eyes-on][14]
00:49:05 - [Terrafugia Transition aircraft first hands-on (video)][15]
00:53:05 - [Nissan NV200 Taxi of Tomorrow hands-on (video)][16]
00:53:35 - [Nikon D4 field review][17]

01:00:30 - [Google testing heads-up display glasses in public, won't make you look like Robocop][18]
01:12:00 - [HTC Sense 4 review][19]

**Hear the podcast**

**Subscribe to the podcast**

[[iTunes][20]] Subscribe to the Podcast directly in iTunes (enhanced AAC).
[[RSS MP3][21]] Add the Engadget Podcast feed (in MP3) to your RSS aggregator and have the show delivered automatically.
[[RSS AAC][22]] Add the Engadget Podcast feed (in enhanced AAC) to your RSS aggregator.
[Zune] Subscribe to the Podcast directly in the Zune Marketplace.

**Download the podcast**

**[LISTEN (MP3)][23]
[LISTEN (AAC)][24]

Contact the podcast**

Send your questions to [@tim_stevens][25].
Leave us a voicemail: (423) 438-3005 (GADGET-3005)
E-mail us: podcast at engadget dot com
Twitter: [@bheater][26], [@tim_stevens][25], [@darrenmurph][27]

Filed under: [Podcasts][28]

[Engadget Podcast 288 - 04.05.2012][29] originally appeared on [Engadget][30] on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][31].

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URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/06/engadget-podcast-288-04-02-2012/
Enclosure: http://www.engadget.com/podcasts/Engadget_Podcast_288.mp3

Friendcaster for Facebook gets shiny new 5.0 update on Android, rocks new UI

[![Friendcaster for Facebook gets shiny new 5.0 update on Android][1] ][2]

When it comes to alternative [Facebook][3] apps, Friendcaster checks in as one of the more robust options for [Android][4]. Now the app is getting a major status update thanks to a 5.0 makeover. Highlights touted by the Friendcaster team include design improvements, real-time notifications, higher resolution news feed images, the ability to tag more than one friend at a time in a post, a new check-in interface and memory improvements. The update -- which is compatible with Android 1.6 and higher -- also kicks off with a suite of themes in six fresh colors, with more in the works. After all, if you're gonna ignore yet another [Farmville][5] and Texas Hold'em request, you may as well do it in style.

[Friendcaster for Facebook gets shiny new 5.0 update on Android, rocks new UI][2] originally appeared on [Engadget][6] on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 09:51:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][7].

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URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/06/friendcaster-for-facebook-gets-5-0-update-on-android-devices/

Avis Extends Mobile Reservations Accessibility With Launch of New Application for Android Devices

Building upon its track record of innovation in the car rental industry, Avis Car Rental has launched a mobile application for devices running on Google's Android mobile platform, making Avis the first in the industry to have applications on all four major mobile platforms.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/avis-extends-mobile-reservations-accessibility-with-launch-of-new-application-for-android-devices?fromrss=1

Distro Issue 35 gets smart with the Smartphone Buyers Guide, HTC's army of Ones and Nokia's Lumia 900

[![Distro Issue 35 gets smart with the Smartphone Buyers Guide, HTC's army of Ones and Nokia's Lumia 900][1] ][2]

Just last week, [Nielsen announced][3] that smartphones now account for almost half of US mobile ringers. As such, we thought it only fitting to dedicate this, the 35th issue of [our fine weekly][4], to those intelligent pocket dwellers. In it, we'll bring you our top handset picks from the big four and beyond, with the Spring 2012 edition of our [Smartphone Buyers Guide][5], as well as our in-depth impressions of the HTC One S, One X and Sense 4 UI and Nokia's Lumia 900. Also in this issue, a look back at the history of the smartphone in this week's Stat, a Q&A with Jared Polin of FroKnowsPhoto and the comic stylings of Dustin Harbin for the Last Word. So hit the approrpriate link below and enjoy!

**[_Distro Issue 35 PDF_][6]**
[_Distro on the iTunes App Store_][7]
[_Distro in the Android Market_][8]
_[Distro APK (for sideloading)][9]_
[_Like Distro on Facebook_][10]
[_Follow Distro on Twitter_][11]

[Distro Issue 35 gets smart with the Smartphone Buyers Guide, HTC's army of Ones and Nokia's Lumia 900][2] originally appeared on [Engadget][12] on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 09:15:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][13].

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URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/06/distro-issue-35-smart-with-the-smartphone-buyers-guide/

Signal issues arrive after Android 4.0.4 Ice Cream Sandwich update

Last week Google released the latest version of Android, version 4.0.4 Ice Cream Sandwich to multiple devices.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/signal-issues-arrive-after-android-4-0-4-ice-cream-sandwich-update?fromrss=1

LTE devices keep rolling out, mostly for 700 MHz

The Global mobile Suppliers Association said 63 manufacturers have announced 347 LTE-enabled user devices, with 250 of those being announced over the past year.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/lte-devices-keep-rolling-out-mostly-for-700-mhz?fromrss=1

Android 4.0 arriving for HTC Rezound today, Droid RAZR update delayed

[![Android 4.0 set to arrive for HTC Rezound today, Droid RAZR and RAZR Maxx see delays][1] ][2]

April 4th has come and gone, and sadly, both the [Droid RAZR][3] and [RAZR Maxx][4] remain [without their promised bites][5] of Ice Cream Sandwich. The latest communique from Best Buy confirms the delay, and similarly, a tweet from Motorola Mobility adds that a new release date has yet to be established. As a touch of silver lining to the otherwise gloomy news, the Best Buy crew reiterates that the [HTC Rezound][6] is set to receive Android 4.0 today -- in all its [Sense 3.6][7] mediocrity. Cross your fingers, Rezound owners: this looks to be the big day.

[Thanks, VoxPCS]

[Android 4.0 arriving for HTC Rezound today, Droid RAZR update delayed][2] originally appeared on [Engadget][8] on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 00:46:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][9].

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URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/06/android-4-0-arriving-for-htc-rezound-today/

Thursday, April 5, 2012

Larry Page looks back at a year of leading Google, promises velocity, execution and focus in the future

[![Larry Page looks back at a year at the head of Google, promises velocity, execution and focus in the future][1]][2]A year and a day after [taking over the reins at Mountain View][3], Google co-founder and Chief Executive Officer [Larry Page][4] has plenty to say about where the company has been recently, and where it's going. While there aren't any [Project Glass][5] bombs dropped, in this open letter he's promising a Google that will achieve even more, and faster, as it goes forward. First, a spoiler alert: he really likes Google's products. From [Google+][6], to tighter integration with results for things like weather and [airfare][7] to that little Android side project there's plenty of praise to go around. One of the longest segments is dedicated to the "love and trust" Google desires to deserve from its users, mentioning that creating "a much better, more intuitive experience across Google" is a focus for 2012. Hit the source link to have your own look at the Google boss' innermost thoughts -- do you think he's on the right track?

[Larry Page looks back at a year of leading Google, promises velocity, execution and focus in the future][2] originally appeared on [Engadget][8] on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 23:34:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][9].

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URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/larry-page-looks-back-at-a-year-at-the-head-of-google-promises/

CTERA Intros Mobile Cloud Storage Apps For Secure File Access

Cloud storage provider CTERA Networks this week unveiled mobile Apple iOS and Android apps targeting business users looking for secure access to files and data backups.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/ctera-intros-mobile-cloud-storage-apps-for-secure-file-access?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-4634bdd63f6e2ce9d903bcd477373bfc

Time Warner Cable app for Android tablets with live streaming is (still) right around the corner

[![Image][1] ][2]

To be fair, when we heard that Time Warner Cable's [TWC TV app for Android tablets might add live TV streaming by the end of March][3] it was described as a "very loose" projection, so it's not much of a surprise we're still waiting for it now, in April. It is still coming however, and a new post is up on the blog teasing the above image of the app in action and promising to make the feature available in the next few weeks, certainly by Memorial day. we should also note, [it's for Ice Cream Sandwich loaded tablets only][4] -- they have the required "security and stability" (read: DRM) necessary. Also noted is that developing a [live video streaming app for iOS][5] was easier simply because of the limited number of manufacturer, OS and hardware combinations, which mirrors [what we heard previously from Netflix][6]. Still, it's on the way, so if you're looking to use your slate as an extra TV screen in the home, you should look next to your manufacturer to make sure it's been updated with ICS.

[Time Warner Cable app for Android tablets with live streaming is (still) right around the corner][2] originally appeared on [Engadget][7] on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 18:39:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][8].

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URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/twc-tv-android-live-streaming-soon/

Time Warner Cable Promises Android Live TV App By Memorial Day

A Time Warner Cable expects to deliver an app for Android-based phones and tablets within the next few weeks that will let subscribers watch live TV at home -- although not many Android devices currently on the market will be able to run it.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/time-warner-cable-promises-android-live-tv-app-by-memorial-day?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-0d6ff57ddf31da86c0e4db21689e30db

Caption Contest: HTC's down-to-earth photo shoot

[![Image][1] ][2]

With the Android handset market as jam-packed as it is, it can be tough to distinguish your device from the maddening crowd. We've seen some [bizarre][3] and [sublime][4] attempts to do so over the years, but few have reached the terminal velocity of HTC's skydiving fashion photoshoot aimed at promoting its new [One line][5] of phones. Has the company hit the bullseye here, or is it and its accompanying light-headed skydivers destined to splatter all over the advertising landscape? It just might take a caption contest to find out for certain.

**Zach Honig: **"If I make this reverse overhead shot do you _promise_ to attach a parachute to my string?"
**Sean Buckley****:** "Drop test #3 will commence in 3.. 2.."
**Christopher Trout: **"Who needs a facelift when you have wind effects like these?"
**Darren Murph**: [_Yelling, to combat the wind_] "WHY DO WE HAVE FOUR PEOPLE TO PROMOTE THE ONE LINE?"
**Brian Heater: **"Another dropped call from AT&T."
**Myriam**: "Looks like we fixed that bug in the accelerometer! It's working just fine right now..."
**Tim:** "Hang on, trying to decide which Instagram filter to apply... so many choices..."

**Michael:** "Well, whaddya know, Face Unlock works while free-falling at 10,000 feet!"
**Zach Lutz:** Despite the fabulous view, Guy couldn't resist his overwhelming urge to check for available software updates.
**Sharif Sakr:** As if throwing Dr Dre and his Beats Audio out of a plane wasn't enough, they had to shoot him in the back with an arrow.
**Richard Lawler**: What do you mean there aren't any FourSquare badges for this?
**Jose Andrade:** "Don't move. I'm almost done with this DrawSomething drawing"
**Billy Steele: **"You just hold the phone and I promise I'll pull the 'chute. Maybe."

[Caption Contest: HTC's down-to-earth photo shoot][2] originally appeared on [Engadget][6] on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 18:06:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][7].

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URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/caption-contest-htcs-down-to-earth-photo-shoot/

Tigerbot Android trojan

Let's imagine you're the state of I***** and you've installed a bunch of these stealthy trojans in the handsets of the President's cabinet in the nearly-nuclear state of I***. At two in the morning you send over the drones, activate the phones to send in SMSes with their targeting information, and decapitate the entire regime.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/tigerbot-android-trojan?fromrss=1

GSM Galaxy Nexus seeing signal issues after Android 4.0.4 update?

[![gsm galaxy nexus signal issue][1] ][2]

Sometimes, updates aren't as sweet as they initially sound. Such is the case with Android 4.0.4, which recently [rolled out][3] to owners of the [GSM Galaxy Nexus][4]. According to an increasingly vocal swath of members at _xda-developers_ (and confirmed by a listing on Google's own Support page), there are mysterious signal issues now troubling the device. For many users, there's an inexplicable loss of signal -- a complete inability to make or receive calls and text messages -- after applying the v4.0.4 update, though it's beginning to look like Sleep is the issue. For some, preventing the phone from going to into a deep sleep mode has solved the dilemma, but it has also created a life where a nearby AC outlet is more of a necessity than usual. Hit up the source link to submit a bug report if you're experiencing precisely this, and let us know of any potential fixes down in comments below.

[GSM Galaxy Nexus seeing signal issues after Android 4.0.4 update?][2] originally appeared on [Engadget][5] on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 16:55:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][6].

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Sprint announces ICS for the Nexus S 4G, official download now available

[![Image][1] ][2]

If you were hesitant to try the leaked version of Ice Cream Sandwich for the Samsung Nexus S 4G, here's your chance to go the official route. After a lengthy wait, Android 4.0.4 is now available to download.

_Developing..._

[Thanks, Brent]

[Sprint announces ICS for the Nexus S 4G, official download now available][2] originally appeared on [Engadget][3] on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 17:06:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][4].

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Novero Solana convertible netbook gets flipped by the FCC

[![Image][1] ][2]

If you're excited about [convertible tablets][3] but can't wait for the [IdeaPad Yoga][4] to arrive, then perhaps [Novero's Solana][5] might give you a temporary fix. It's a dinky [netbook][6] (yes, [netbook][7]) that runs both [Windows 7][8] and [Android][9], but you can flip the display over in its frame to turn it into a tablet PC. It's packing a dual-core 1.6GHz [Intel Atom][10] N2600, Intel GMA 3600 IGP Graphics, 2GB of RAM and a choice of 32 or 64GB of solid-state storage. Fortunately, it looks like it won't be long before we get to clench it to our chests since it's now been given the thumbs-up from the assembled experts down in the [FCC's][11] underground bunker. For around $800, you too can pretend it's 2009 all over again, just remember to bring the Flo Rida.

[Continue reading _Novero Solana convertible netbook gets flipped by the FCC_][2]

[Novero Solana convertible netbook gets flipped by the FCC][2] originally appeared on [Engadget][12] on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 15:32:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][13].

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URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/novero-solana-fcc/

PhotoBox! comes to Android, can be used to fix Instagram's lack of SD save

Mobile app developer WeaverMobile USA announced on Thursday that its formerly iOS-exclusive photography management app PhotoBox! has launched on Android.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/photobox-comes-to-android-can-be-used-to-fix-instagrams-lack-of-sd-save?fromrss=1

US government sticking with BlackBerry, appreciates RIM's focus on security

[![US government sticking with BlackBerry, appreciates RIM's focus on security][1] ][2]

Just when you thought RIM couldn't [catch a break][3], _The Washington Post_ is reporting the US government doesn't plan to jump smartphone ships anytime soon. According to the publication, Casey Coleman (chief information officer at the General Services Administration) says that while the agency may have handed out iPhone and Android phones to the staff, a big chunk of the 12,000 agency-issued handsets are BlackBerry devices. The main reason behind the choice of Berries is [RIM's][4] focus on security, which Coleman notes "is paramount for government use." Still, the GSA officer isn't ruling out switching to a different OS in the distant future, as platforms like iOS and Android start to become "equally secure." For RIM's sake, we hope the [refocusing on enterprise][5] pays off.

[US government sticking with BlackBerry, appreciates RIM's focus on security][2] originally appeared on [Engadget][6] on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 11:33:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][7].

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URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/us-governement-rim-blackberry-smartphones/

US Cellular ships first LTE smartphone: Samsung Galaxy S Aviator

[![galaxy s aviator us cellular][1] ][2]

Welp, that didn't take long. Just weeks after US Cellular's first LTE device hit the shops (yeah, the [Galaxy Tab 10.1][3]), in flies the carrier's first 4G LTE _smartphone_. It's the Samsung Galaxy S Aviator -- otherwise known as the [Droid Charge][4] -- taking the crown, shipping today with a 4.3-inch Super AMOLED Plus touchpanel, front-facing camera, Android 2.3.6 (Gingerbread), an eight-megapixel rear-facing camera, an HDMI output and access to Google Play (despite the deceased 'Market' logo shown on the press imagery above). The bulk of you will be asked to pony up $199.99 on a two-year contract (and after a $100 mail-in rebate), but "select" LTE cities will be selling it for $100 less; as for LTE service, we're told that portions of Iowa, Maine, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Texas and Wisconsin are being served now, while coverage is expected to expand to Illinois, Maryland, Missouri, New Hampshire, Oregon, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington and West Virginia in the latter half of the year.

[Continue reading _US Cellular ships first LTE smartphone: Samsung Galaxy S Aviator_][2]

[US Cellular ships first LTE smartphone: Samsung Galaxy S Aviator][2] originally appeared on [Engadget][5] on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 10:21:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][6].

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Use Gmail Tap and Android for Ultra Fast Mobile Emailing

Typing on cell phones is usually never as effective as using a standard computer keyboard.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/use-gmail-tap-and-android-for-ultra-fast-mobile-emailing?fromrss=1
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Engadget Giveaway: win one of three Kindle Fires, courtesy of TurboTax!

![Image][1]

Ah, nothing takes away from the beauty of a new spring quite like the demands of Uncle Sam. TurboTax is hoping to relieve you of much of that stress, finally bringing its easy-use software in the form of an Android tablet app -- and even [Kindle Fire][2] users get to share [the apptastic love][3], which is why the tax software company hooked us up with three of them to give away to our fine readers. You may be procrastinating until April 17th to file your taxes, but this contest only lasts for two days, so head below to leave a comment. Good luck!

[Continue reading _Engadget Giveaway: win one of three Kindle Fires, courtesy of TurboTax!_][4]

[Engadget Giveaway: win one of three Kindle Fires, courtesy of TurboTax!][4] originally appeared on [Engadget][5] on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 11:01:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][6].

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Football Manager Handheld for Android coming on 11 April

Football Manager Handheld for Android will be released on 11 April, marking the debut of the extremely popular coaching simulation game for devices outside of iPhone, iPod touch and iPad.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/football-manager-handheld-for-android-coming-on-11-april?fromrss=1
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Nest Thermostat update adds 10-day history, helps send chilly air through the home

[![Image][1] ][2]

There's a first for everything, including Engadget stories about software updates for thermostats. If we're going to suddenly start getting granular in our coverage of home automation products, though, we may as well start with the [Nest][3], a device slick enough to make us use "thermostat" and "sexy' in the same sentence. Now that it's been out on the market for about five months, the company's issuing a software update that introduces a couple new features.

For starters, particularly fastidious users can now access a detailed 10-day history, showing precisely when and for how long their heating and cooling systems kicked in, as well as the reason for that shift (e.g., you manually changed the temperature, were away). Though you can't view all that data on the device's small, circular screen, you can look it up online or through Nest's iOS and Android apps. Next up is Airwave, a feature that uses your fan to distribute chilled air through the home after your air conditioner has turned off (you know, instead of letting one room get intensely, unnecessarily cold). According to Nest, that feature turns on automatically when the temperature is high and the humidity low, though we're hazy on the algorithm being used there. Rounding out the list, Nest has made certain settings easier to access, and the hardware itself will ship with redesigned connectors that purport to work well even without wall anchors. Save for that last bit, current owners can enjoy all these tweaks via a free software update -- fully automated, 'o course.

**Gallery: [Nest Thermostat update with 10-day energy history][4]**

[![][5]][6][![][7]][8][![][9]][10][![][11]][12][![][13]][14]

[Continue reading _Nest Thermostat update adds 10-day history, helps send chilly air through the home_][2]

[Nest Thermostat update adds 10-day history, helps send chilly air through the home][2] originally appeared on [Engadget][15] on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][16].

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Why iOS makes more money for Google than Android does

Mobile devices running Apple's iOS are more profitable for Google than Android devices, analysis of data revealed in court shows.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/why-ios-makes-more-money-for-google-than-android-does?fromrss=1
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Samsung: We're still not into 3D smartphones

[![][1] ][2]

By now you may have already seen a handful of "leaks" on Samsung's imminent Galaxy S III, but if you ask us, they all smell like a cruel prank on anticipating fans. As far as we're concerned, the only reliable tidbits so far are the GT-i9300 and GT-i9308 [codenames][3] (the latter likely a TD-SCDMA variant for China Mobile) on Samsung's support page; along with murmurs from executives about a certain [quad-core chipset][4] and a [release date][5]. Funnily enough, we just received the following statement from Sammy who's probably not too happy about some of the speculations out there:

> Although Samsung Electronics is constantly exploring new technologies for our mobile devices, we have no immediate plan to include displays featuring 3D technology in our upcoming smartphones.

So there you have it: the upcoming Galaxy S III, along with its new siblings, definitely won't feature a 3D display; and you can certainly forget that [4-inch 3D handset][6] we heard about last February. Unless, of course, [LG][7] can convince its Korean buddy to think otherwise.

[Samsung: We're still not into 3D smartphones][2] originally appeared on [Engadget][8] on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 08:02:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][9].

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Huawei Mercury for Cricket gains unlimited Muve Music service, challenges aural appetites

[![Reintroducing Huawei's Mercury for Cricket, now with Muve Music][1] ][2]

Consider it a bit of a rebirth. Cricket's premiere smartphone, the [Huawei Mercury][3] -- known elsewhere as the [Honor][4] -- has just taken on a new life as a member of the carrier's Muve Music lineup. Beginning today, current owners may add the unlimited music subscription service to their phone via an over-the-air download. The requisite [Muve Music][5] plan is available for $65/month, which is a $10 premium over the carrier's traditional no-contract Android offering. The service comes with unlimited music downloads, ringtones and ringback tones, along with unlimited calling, messaging and 1GB of mobile data. For a quick refresh on the Mercury itself, the phone retails for $230 without contract, and highlights include a 1.4GHz processor, a 4-inch, 854 x 480 TFT-LCD display, an 8MP rear camera -- and now, an endless supply of tunes. Ready to rock out? You'll find the full PR after the break.

[Continue reading _Huawei Mercury for Cricket gains unlimited Muve Music service, challenges aural appetites_][2]

[Huawei Mercury for Cricket gains unlimited Muve Music service, challenges aural appetites][2] originally appeared on [Engadget][6] on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 07:00:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][7].

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URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/huawei-mercury-for-cricket-gains-unlimited-muve-music/

Safely Phone Controls on Android announced

Safely has just announced their latest app, the Safely Phone Controls that will target the Android platform.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/safely-phone-controls-on-android-announced?fromrss=1
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Android User Demand For SwiftKey 3 Beta Crashes Servers

TouchType's new SwiftKey 3 beta release for Android smartphones and tablets sports a larger space bar as well as a typing user interface makeover.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/android-user-demand-for-swiftkey-3-beta-crashes-servers?fromrss=1

Hotels.com Launches Mobile App for Windows Phone 7

Hotels.com, the world's leading hotel booking website, has today announced the launch of its mobile app for Windows Phone 7. Launched last year, the Hotels.com mobile app has since received several million downloads.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/hotels-com-launches-mobile-app-for-windows-phone-7?fromrss=1

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

How AT&T, Nokia pulled Windows Phone into 4G LTE world

The ink was barely dry on Nokia's deal with Microsoft to use Windows Phone more than a year ago when Nokia rushed to AT&T in an early bid to get a foothold back into the U.S. AT&T was hesitant at first.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/how-at-t-nokia-pulled-windows-phone-into-4g-lte-world?fromrss=1
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ParentLinkA Releases Mobile Parent for Android

Called Mobile Parent , the app is the first of its kind for Android users and was recently approved for download from the Android Marketplace.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2012/04/parentlinka-releases-mobile-parent-for-android?fromrss=1

Hands-on with Smart Monitor's SmartWatch, the seizure sensing wristwatch

[![Hands-on with Smart Monitor's SmartWatch, the seizure sensing wristwatch][1] ][2]

Millions of people suffer from epileptic seizures, and the threat of such episodes is a constant concern for those with the condition, their families and caretakers. Smart Monitor knows that the freedom of folks with epilepsy is curtailed by trepidation caused by the unpredictability of seizures, so it's created the SmartWatch. The device is a wristwatch, roughly the size of a [WIMM One][3], that has a GPS module and a proprietary accelerometer/gyroscopic sensor inside to detect the excessive and repeated motions that occur during grand mal seizures. It then records the time, duration and location of the occurrences and sends that information via Bluetooth to the accompanying app on your Android smartphone (an iOS version is in the works). The app tracks and stores the info and automatically calls your designated caretakers to alert them of the seizure, thusly ensuring the safety of the watch wearer. The watch also has physical buttons on the side that allow users to cancel a false alert or manually send one out with a single press.

**Gallery: [Smart Monitor SmartWatch hands-on][4]**

[![][5]][6][![][7]][8][![][9]][10][![][11]][12][![][13]][14]

Aside from the real-time safety net that comes with wearing the watch, it also provides valuable information to neurologists over the long term. When and where seizures take place is data that those who study and treat epilepsy find useful, and it can be quite difficult for folks to recall such info after a seizure. SmartWatch can give doctors an accurate long term look at a patient's episodic history that they wouldn't be able to obtain otherwise. Because it's a motion detection unit, the device is only for those who suffer from tonic clonic, or grand mal seizures, so it's not a universal seizure detector. However, the company's clinical trials with the device are ongoing, and Smart Monitor will submit it for FDA approval as a tonic clonic seizure sensor later this year.

[Hands-on with Smart Monitor's SmartWatch, the seizure sensing wristwatch][2] originally appeared on [Engadget][15] on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][16].

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URL: http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/04/hands-on-with-smart-monitors-smartwatch-the-seizure-sensing-wr/