Ask Engadget: best language to develop apps for Android and iOS?

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/03/02/ae-best-app-development-language/)

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 Nikunj, who wants to produce his own apps for both sides of the smartphone war. If you're looking to ask one of your own, drop us a line at **_ask [at] engadget [dawt] com._**

> "I'm a C++ student and I was wondering what's the best language to develop apps in both Android and iOS? Is C++ enough, and if not, could you all suggest some other languages? Thank you."

Your humble narrator isn't a developer, but has scratched out the knowledge that neither platform's SDK is that germane to C++. iOS, for one, uses Objective-C or Cocoa, while Android at least does provide a C++ developers kit, it's apparently not as nice to use as the Java equivalent. Beyond that? That's where we'll turn this question over to those developers who proudly call themselves members of the Engadget fraternity.

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

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/03/02/ae-best-app-development-language/#comments)**

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/03/02/ae-best-app-development-language/

Google Chrome for Android may get Opera Turbo like feature

Mobile browsing has improved a lot in recent years, and while coverage in many areas of the world has been improved in that time, for instance with the introduction of LTE, bandwidth is still a bottleneck in many parts of the world.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/03/google-chrome-for-android-may-get-opera-turbo-like-feature?fromrss=1

Porn apps pose rising risk to mobile users

Cybercriminals are stepping up the spread of data-stealing programs via pornographic content optimized for viewing on smartphones and touch tablets.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/03/porn-apps-pose-rising-risk-to-mobile-users?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-3e1b20f038be9a5b9439a3a27eccceea

Android this week: HP's me-too Slate7; Tablets as phones; Android on Chromebook Pixel

HP is back in the tablet game with an Android slate, but some of the specs are from 2010.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/03/android-this-week-hps-me-too-slate7-tablets-as-phones-android-on-chromebook-pixel?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-52100eef04842b7d6ecb6dcda428ee30

Apple, Samsung and Google under fire at Mobile World Congress

Apple and Samsung together account for 103% of all smartphone handset profits . Google dominates mobile search revenue in part because of its Android platform and in part because of its iOS apps.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/03/apple-samsung-and-google-under-fire-at-mobile-world-congress?fromrss=1

Samsung Partners with Citrix to Provide Knox Security on Mobile Devices

Mobile World Congress 2013 was the backdrop for Samsung's announcement of Knox, a new secure implementation of Android that will soon be available on Samsung leading smartphones.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/03/samsung-partners-with-citrix-to-provide-knox-security-on-mobile-devices?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-616ec0f635af693a4e64d8aba7d1eeb1

E Ink Android

Who would want a smartphone with a grayscale E Ink screen? Anyone who want days of battery life, superior outdoor readability and low cost should be interested in using the technology in a phone.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/03/e-ink-android?fromrss=1

Polaroid to make Socialmatic Camera a reality for fans of Instagram, recursion

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/03/01/polaroid-to-make-socialmatic-camera-a-reality/)

[Instagram](http://www.engadget.com/tag/Instagram/) owes its distinctive identity to [Polaroid's](http://www.engadget.com/tag/Polaroid/) [OneStep](http://www.engadget.com/tag/OneStep/) cameras; it's now time to return the favor. Socialmatic has signed a deal for a production, Polaroid-branded version of its 2012 Socialmatic Camera concept you see above, which translates the mobile app's retro icon to a real-world, instant-print shooter. While technical details are scarce, the agreement will see accessory maker C&A Marketing build and sell the design sometime in the first quarter of 2014. If the finished Polaroid work is anything like the concept, it could be more than a novelty with its interchangeable lens system, 4.3-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, WiFi and 16GB of storage. We don't know if the camera will ship with Android, but we hope it does -- there would be an appropriately [Xzibit-like](http://www.engadget.com/tag/yodawg/) aspect to running Instagram on top of an Instagram-shaped camera.

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

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/03/01/polaroid-to-make-socialmatic-camera-a-reality/#comments)**

**Via:** [DVICE](http://www.dvice.com/2013-3-1/concept-reality-polaroid-will-make-socialmatic-camera)

**Source:** [Socialmatic](http://www.social-matic.com/site/2013/02/20/12/)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/03/01/polaroid-to-make-socialmatic-camera-a-reality/

The most secure Android phone in the world

Of all the multitudes of phones launching amid the grandeur of Barcelona this week, Motorola Solutions quietly broke champagne over one device from the back corner of a convention center here.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/03/the-most-secure-android-phone-in-the-world?fromrss=1

Android 4.2.2 binaries arrive for AOSP-supported Nexus devices

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/03/01/android-4-2-2-jelly-bean-binaries-download/)

Google has just provided a veritable boon to Android devs and custom ROM makers. The Mountain View company has recently uploaded the latest [Android 4.2.2](http://engadget.com/tag/Android4.2.2) binaries to the Nexus device download page for _all_ [AOSP](http://engadget.com/tag/aosp)-supported Nexus gear: the [Nexus 4](http://www.engadget.com/2012/11/02/nexus-4-review/), the [Nexus 7](http://www.engadget.com/2012/06/28/nexus-7-review/) WiFi, the Nexus 7 3G, the [Nexus 10](http://www.engadget.com/2012/11/02/nexus-10-review/), the [global version of the Galaxy Nexus](http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/24/galaxy-nexus-hspa-review/) and its [Verizon equivalent](http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/16/verizon-galaxy-nexus-review/). This also means that the AOSP binaries for the Nexus 7 3G and the Nexus 4, which had been missing from [previous](http://www.engadget.com/2012/11/13/android-4-2-jelly-bean-binaries-added-to-aosp/) [updates](http://www.engadget.com/2012/11/29/android-4-2-1-jelly-bean-binaries-added-to-aosp/). If you've been on the hunt for the latest and greatest drivers for your wares, go ahead and download the binary of your choice from the source below and get to updating it before a certain [green pie update](http://www.engadget.com/tag/keylimepie/) comes along.

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

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/03/01/android-4-2-2-jelly-bean-binaries-download/#comments)**

**Via:** [Android Police](http://www.androidpolice.com/2013/03/01/google-completes-android-4-2-2-rollout-nexus-4-and-nexus-7-3g-now-fully-supported-by-aosp/)

**Source:** [Google Developers](https://developers.google.com/android/nexus/drivers)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/03/01/android-4-2-2-jelly-bean-binaries-download/

O2 launches VoIP service Tu Go

UK MOBILE NETWORK O2 rolled out its own voice over IP service today that allows customers to make calls over WiFi on a number of supported devices using a dedicated app.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/03/o2-launches-voip-service-tu-go?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-903c400ce5db45cab532c3f72fd9b456

O2's TU Go software spreads your phone number across multiple devices

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/03/01/o2-tu-go-software/)

Between [Skype](http://www.engadget.com/tag/skype/), [Google Voice](http://www.engadget.com/tag/googlevoice/), [Viber](http://www.engadget.com/tag/viber/) and several smaller players, there are plenty of platform-agnostic services vying to put your voice through their IP (_get it?_), and now UK carrier [O2](http://www.engadget.com/tag/o2) is introducing us to its twist on multi-device communication with TU Go. It's like a marriage of the traditional phone service with the idea of making calls on your laptop, or sending messages from your tablet. An evolution of parent company Telefonica's similar [TU Me](http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/09/tu-me-app-free-voip-calling/) apps, the TU Go software spreads your phone number across up to five devices simultaneously. You can make and receive calls / texts and manage your voicemail from compatible kit with a cellular or data connection, with all activity aggregated into one "timeline." You can't hook your smartphone up to WiFi, or gab away on another device to avoid eating into your plan's allowance, though -- all usage is treated as if it originated from your phone. TU Go is now available to all O2 customers on a monthly contract, and if you want your whole house to ring at once, head to the link below to find apps for iOS, Android, and a beta for Windows 7 (note: it really is 7-specific, and won't run in [Windows 8](http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/30/windows-8-review/)).

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

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/03/01/o2-tu-go-software/#comments)**

**Source:** [O2](http://www.o2.co.uk/tugo/want-it)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/03/01/o2-tu-go-software/

Humetrix Releases iBlueButton Mobile Apps for Intel Atom-Based Android Phones

DEL MAR, CA, Mar 01, 2013 -- Humetrix announced today it is working with Intel to demonstrate the new release of its award-winning iBlueButton mobile apps for Intel Atom -based Android phones at the HIMSS13 conference and exhibition in New Orleans, March 3-7. Additionally, the novel iBlueButton platform of mobile-to-mobile patient-controlled health ... (more)

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/03/humetrix-releases-ibluebutton-mobile-apps-for-intel-atom-based-android-phones?fromrss=1

TMN Go launches on iOS and the web, brings HBO Go-style experience to Canadians

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/03/01/tmn-go-launches-on-ios-and-the-web-brings-hbo-go-style-experien/)

While viewers in the US have had access to [HBO Go](http://www.engadget.com/tag/hbogo/) streaming on a varying number of platforms over the last few years, the licensing situation in Canada has, until now, made it more complicated. That's changing today, since Astral Media is bringing its The Movie Network Go app for iOS and PCs out of beta (an Android version is "in the works and launching shortly") with access to movies from many studios, as well as TV shows from HBO, Cinemax and Showtime. In Canada, Astral airs content licensed from our US premium networks as well as some Canadian productions and airs them on its five multiplex channels, including HBO Canada.

Some providers have already been streaming content online with setups like Rogers On Demand Online and Videotron's [Illico](http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/29/canadas-videotron-finally-delivers-tru2way-based-illico-tv-hd-d/), but hopefully this should make the feature more widespread. Currently it's open to customers on Bell Fiber / Satellite TV and Cogeco Cable, with Rogers due "in the coming weeks." Specific features announced include streaming over WiFi or 3G, playback state that syncs across devices, up to three simultaneous streams and five registered devices per account and more. Check out the press release after the break for all the details and a list of some of the available content.

Filed under: [Cellphones](http://www.engadget.com/category/cellphones/), [Home Entertainment](http://www.engadget.com/category/home-entertainment/), [Internet](http://www.engadget.com/category/internet/), [HD](http://www.engadget.com/category/hd/), [Mobile](http://www.engadget.com/category/mobile/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/03/01/tmn-go-launches-on-ios-and-the-web-brings-hbo-go-style-experien/#comments)**

**Source:** [TMN Go.ca](http://www.tmngo.ca/), [App Store](http://www.AppStore.com/TMNGO)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/03/01/tmn-go-launches-on-ios-and-the-web-brings-hbo-go-style-experien/

Apple iPads Get Green-Lit in the Enterprise After Surface Letdown

Now the iPad is under siege, as Android and Microsoft Surface tablets march on its turf.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/03/apple-ipads-get-green-lit-in-the-enterprise-after-surface-letdown?fromrss=1

5 Best Android Applications for IT Professionals

Android has become the first choice for users of different domains; be it for past time activities or for conducting official tasks.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/03/5-best-android-applications-for-it-professionals?fromrss=1

Sony Xperia Tablet Z in Australia: How Powerful is This $749 10-in Android?

The Tablet Z price tag carries the $749 figure for the 16 GB and $899 for the 32 GB variant.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/02/sony-xperia-tablet-z-in-australia-how-powerful-is-this-749-10-in-android?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-5ae11459fd5b1b8ede776d9cacccf305

Autodesk releases Socialcam 5.0 with HDR video, color correction

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/Autodesk-socialcam-HDR-video/)

[Autodesk's](http://www.engadget.com/tag/autodesk/) been trying to bring its special effects expertise to bear on various [handheld apps](http://www.engadget.com/2012/07/10/autodesk-scaleform-flash-games/), and now its turning to cameras with its first release of Socialcam (version 5), since it bought the app last July. With the release, it's bringing updated visual effects, 720P resolution, HDR video with one-click mapping, color correction and a new logo to the to the app's estimated 20 million users. You'll be able to grab it _gratis_ for iOS at the App Store today, or on Play for Android at an unspecified date next week. We're not sure if future releases will include the ability to add [creatures](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/14/autodesk-123d-creatures-lets-you-create-monsters-on-your-ipad/) to your vacation snaps, but we can always dream.

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

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/Autodesk-socialcam-HDR-video/#comments)**

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/Autodesk-socialcam-HDR-video/

CoolShip desktop Android computer looks like nothing more than a keyboard

Readers of a certain age will remember, probably with fondness, the computer-in-a-keyboard form factor exemplified by the likes of the Atari 800XL or the mighty Commodore 64.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/02/coolship-desktop-android-computer-looks-like-nothing-more-than-a-keyboard?fromrss=1

The Engadget Interview: Microsoft's Greg Sullivan on Windows Phone at MWC 2013

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/the-engadget-interview-microsofts-greg-sullivan-on-windows-pho/)

We caught up with [Greg Sullivan](http://www.engadget.com/tag/GregSullivan/) -- senior product manager of [Windows Phone](http://www.engadget.com/tag/WindowsPhone/) -- for an early morning chat during [Mobile World Congress](http://www.engadget.com/tag/MWC2013/). He was kind enough to give us an update on the state of Microsoft's mobile OS, which has apparently experienced a four-fold increase in sales since version 8 launched last fall and is [taking share away](http://www.kantarworldpanel.com/Global/News/Smartphone-Competition-Hots-Up) from Android in the UK. We discussed the delightful user experience provided by lower-end [Windows Phone 8](http://www.engadget.com/tag/WindowsPhone8/) handsets like Nokia's [Lumia 620](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/07/nokia-lumia-620-review/) and asked how Microsoft plans to satisfy power users at the higher-end of the spectrum who are still missing critical features such as proper notifications, quick settings and [CalDAV](http://www.engadget.com/tag/CalDAV/) / [CardDAV](http://www.engadget.com/tag/CardDAV/) support (to name a few). It's clear that the company's aware of these shortcomings and is working to remedy most of them in a future release. We also talked about the ecosystem, what Microsoft is doing to improve app quality, how it meshes with [Windows 8](http://www.engadget.com/tag/Windows8/) / [RT](http://www.engadget.com/tag/WindowsRT/) and whether the company is looking to expand its partnership beyond existing device manufacturers. Look for our full video interview after the break.

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

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/the-engadget-interview-microsofts-greg-sullivan-on-windows-pho/#comments)**

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/the-engadget-interview-microsofts-greg-sullivan-on-windows-pho/

OUYA's Kellee Santiago talks game publishing, her new role as Head of Developer Relations

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/ouya-kellee-santiago-interview/)

When Kellee Santiago [resigned from her previous gig](http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/kellee-santiago-leaves-thatgamecompany-nextcompany-unknown/) as president of thatgamecompany, she left behind a job running one of the most highly acclaimed indie game studios in the industry. But she left on a high note, having helped craft _Journey_ -- not just one of the best games of 2012, but a high mark on the medium. Her next move is similarly bold, [taking the reins](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/ouya-shipping-march-28/) of the Android-powered [OUYA](http://www.engadget.com/tag/ouya) console's digital content library as "Head of Developer Relations." On Santiago's LinkedIn profile, she describes her new job as, "curator of content for the games section on OUYA" (among other things); a job she's plenty qualified for given her time on the board of the Indie Fund (an angel investment group of successful indie game devs). "This role seems almost like a logical extension of everything I've done up to this point," Santiago told us in an email interview this afternoon. Indeed it does. In her new role at OUYA, Santiago will be "working with many developers globally and in different capacities," she said, as well as managing the digital library that users at home see.

"I'm very passionate about empowering new voices in game development so we can have more variety in game content -- that's what initially led me to co-founding thatgamecompany, and Indie Fund, and working with the Independent Games Summit, and IndieCade," she added. The job of course includes courting devs, even if that means OUYA assists in the funding and publishing of those devs' games. "OUYA is doing both," Santiago told us -- that's no doubt assisted by [the $8.5 million](http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/09/ouyas-kickstarter-funding-is-complete-over-8-5-million-raised/) OUYA pulled in during its Kickstarter funding campaign.

Despite her passion for indies, she said there's no "arbitrary restrictions for developing on OUYA," and that her guiding principle is identifying, "developers and content that for whatever reasons wouldn't be able to exist on any other console." In other words, there's no reason one of the biggies -- think EA, Activision, Ubisoft and others -- couldn't get in on the action. Square Enix has [already promised a variety of titles](http://www.engadget.com/2012/07/31/ouya-partners-with-square-enix-names-final-fantasy-iii-as-launc/), so it seems a given that others will sign on. One developer who's still curiously uncertain about the console, however? Santiago herself. Though she teased on Twitter earlier today that she'll, "still be making stuff, too," and not to worry, she wouldn't offer us any more details about her plans for development on OUYA. Again, it seems a given, but we can't help but want to know more sooner than later.

Filed under: [Gaming](http://www.engadget.com/category/gaming/), [Software](http://www.engadget.com/category/software/), [HD](http://www.engadget.com/category/hd/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/ouya-kellee-santiago-interview/#comments)**

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/ouya-kellee-santiago-interview/

Expand Photo Contest: Win a Samsung Galaxy Camera!

Our first ever [Expand](http://www.engadget.com/event/engadget-expand/about/) event is around the corner, this March 16-17 in San Francisco. In addition to oodles of [interesting speakers](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/26/engadget-expand-speakers-round-seven/), there'll be shiny sights to see: [robots](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/11/engadget-expand-speakers-round-five/), [retro games](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/12/10-reasons-to-be-at-expand/), of course gadgets galore and a few surprises we haven't even unveiled yet. Wouldn't it be nice to be able to record said sights with your own state-of-the art camera?

Show us you can shoot an awesome photo of your favorite gadget, and you could win a Samsung Galaxy Camera! We [described it thusly](http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/04/samsung-galaxy-camera-hands-on-att/):

> "Samsung's Android-powered Galaxy Camera is a bit of a wild card, marrying Google's Android Jelly Bean OS with a 16-megapixel camera - heck, it's even got a 4.8-inch 1,280 × 720-pixel (308 ppi) touchscreen display... the entire back consists of that 4.8-inch screen, edge-to-edge..."

Check out our [full review](http://www.engadget.com/2012/11/14/samsung-galaxy-camera-review/) for all the details and specs.

Want a chance at nabbing this bad boy for your very own? Step 1 is to [Like the Expand Facebook page](http://facebook.com/engadgetexpand). Step 2 is to use the [entry form on our Facebook page](http://apps.facebook.com/contestshq/contests/316217) to submit a photo you've taken of your favorite gadget, title the photo and give a short description about why it's your chosen top device. Team Expand will judge entries based on creativity, style and skill. Show us why you deserve a new camera!

Good luck, and may the best shot win -- you have until this coming Monday, March 4 at 5pm EST to get your entry in. To be eligible to enter, you must be 18 years of age and a U.S. resident (please peruse the [full rules](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/engadget-giveaways-expand-photo-contest-official-rules/)).

Filed under: [Announcements](http://www.engadget.com/category/announcements/), [Meta](http://www.engadget.com/category/meta/), [Samsung](http://www.engadget.com/category/samsung/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/expand-photo-contest-win-a-samsung-galaxy-camera/#comments)**

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/expand-photo-contest-win-a-samsung-galaxy-camera/

Google CFO says the Motorola pipeline doesn't 'wow, ' hasn't heard of the Osborne Effect

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/google-cfo-says-the-motorola-pipeline-doesnt-wow)

Common wisdom would suggest that executives talk up their existing device lines to keep customers buying until the next generation is ready. Leave it to Google CFO Patrick Pichette to think outside the box, if not necessarily for the better. He told guests at the Morgan Stanley Technology Conference that the [current](http://www.engadget.com/2012/09/12/motorola-droid-razr-m-review-a-very-good-ics-handset-in-a-small/) [roster](http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/19/droid-razr-hd-and-razr-maxx-hd-review/), while good, doesn't "'wow' by Google standards" -- it reflects the 18-month device pipeline that fell in Google's lap when it [acquired Motorola](http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/google-officially-closes-deal-for-motorola-mobility/) last year. As such, we won't see the full fruits of collaboration until Google has owned Motorola [for long enough](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/11/google-ceo-larry-page-talks-apple-android-monetization-and-an-e/) to put its own spin on products. While the remarks stoke the fires of anticipation for any [future flagships](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/21/motorola-x-phone-x-tablet-rumor-android-smartphone/), they may have unintentionally produced an [Osborne Effect](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Osborne_effect): however advanced Motorola's phones will be in the near term, customers may still have the nagging suspicion that something better is just around the corner.

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

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/google-cfo-says-the-motorola-pipeline-doesnt-wow/#comments)**

**Source:** [The Verge](http://www.theverge.com/2013/2/28/4040348/google-cfo-products-in-motorola-pipeline-arent-wow-by-google-standards)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/google-cfo-says-the-motorola-pipeline-doesnt-wow/

RSA: The Pwn Pad is an Android Tablet-Based Penetration Tester (Video)

Last year Pwnie Express showed us their Stealthy Pen Test Unit that plugged directly into a 115 VAC wall outlet. This year at RSA they're proudly displaying their Pwn Pad, which is a highly-modified (and rooted) Nexus 7 tablet "which provides professionals an unprecedented ease of use in evaluating wired and wireless networks." They list its core features as Android OS 4.2 and Ubuntu 12.04; large screen, powerful battery; OSS-based pentester toolkit; and long range wireless packet injection. If you can't see the video (or want to read along) the transcript is below.

[](http://twitter.com/home?status=RSA%3A+The+Pwn+Pad+is+an+Android+Tablet-Based+Penetration+Tester+(Video)%3A+http%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2FXdxMSm) [](http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fit.slashdot.org%2Fstory%2F13%2F02%2F28%2F2012211%2Frsa-the-pwn-pad-is-an-android-tablet-based-penetration-tester-video%3Futm_source%3Dslashdot%26utm_medium%3Dfacebook) [](http://plus.google.com/share?url=http://it.slashdot.org/story/13/02/28/2012211/rsa-the-pwn-pad-is-an-android-tablet-based-penetration-tester-video?utm_source=slashdot&utm_medium=googleplus)

[Read more of this story](http://it.slashdot.org/story/13/02/28/2012211/rsa-the-pwn-pad-is-an-android-tablet-based-penetration-tester-video?utm_source=rss1.0moreanon&utm_medium=feed) at Slashdot.


[](http://da.feedsportal.com/r/159490016605/u/49/f/647410/c/35028/s/29125459/a2.htm)

URL: http://rss.slashdot.org/~r/Slashdot/slashdot/~3/YGmZI3u7o4E/story01.htm

The CAT B15 Android Smartphone Has A Weird Name But The Brawn To Back It Up

Chris Velazco is a mobile enthusiast and writer who studied English and Marketing at Rutgers University.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/02/the-cat-b15-android-smartphone-has-a-weird-name-but-the-brawn-to-back-it-up?fromrss=1

Why Game Creators Prefer iPhone to Android

There is no great game on Android which is not also on the iPhone, and that's not changing anytime soon.

URL: http://feeds.wired.com/~r/wired/index/~3/UdxbXKdhNyE/

YouTube for iOS adds send-to-TV pairing, lets you skip the media hub

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/youtube-for-ios-adds-send-to-tv-pairing/)

Those running the dedicated YouTube app for iOS have had TV streaming for awhile... as long as there was an [Apple TV in between](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/04/youtube-app-ios-update-airplay-streaming-iphone-5/). Google's video division is cutting out that middleman with its newly available app update. Similar to what we've seen in the Android software, iOS device owners can at last [pair directly with some TVs](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/03/google-youtube-android-tv-pairing/), the PS3 or Xbox 360 to play and queue videos, even if there's multiple iPads and iPhones jockeying for attention on the same WiFi network. If your set is left out, YouTube still offers reasons to upgrade -- there's a connection to [YouTube Capture](http://www.engadget.com/tag/YouTubeCapture/) for recording, and better playback on a pokey WiFi connection. As long as you're at least curious about TV streaming beyond Apple's set-top box, it's arguably worth trying.

Filed under: [Cellphones](http://www.engadget.com/category/cellphones/), [Home Entertainment](http://www.engadget.com/category/home-entertainment/), [Tablets](http://www.engadget.com/category/tablets/), [HD](http://www.engadget.com/category/hd/), [Mobile](http://www.engadget.com/category/mobile/), [Google](http://www.engadget.com/category/google/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/youtube-for-ios-adds-send-to-tv-pairing/#comments)**

**Via:** [YouTube (Google+)](https://plus.google.com/+youtube/posts/i4r6u59DESK)

**Source:** [App Store](https://itunes.apple.com/app/youtube/id544007664?mt=8)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/youtube-for-ios-adds-send-to-tv-pairing/

HTC confirms Sense 5 coming to existing phones, some features limited to HTC One

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/htc-confirms-sense-5-coming-to-existing-phones-some-features-li/)

HTC didn't have much to say about its [Sense 5 UI](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/19/htc-one-software-hands-on-sense-5-blinkfeed-sense-tv-and-new/) coming to existing devices when it introduced it alongside its new [One ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/19/htc-one-hands-on-design-and-hardware/)handset, but it's now gotten a bit more talkative. In a post on Facebook, and confirmed to us independently, HTC says that global variants of the HTC One X, One X+, One S and Butterfly will all be getting an update to the new interface "in the next few months," although specifics remain light beyond that for the time being. The company does note, however, that not all devices will support all the features offered by Sense 5, as some of those features make use of hardware specific to the new HTC One.

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/2013/02/28/htc-confirms-sense-5-coming-to-existing-phones-some-features-li/#comments)**

**Via:** [Android Police](http://www.androidpolice.com/2013/02/27/htc-may-upgrade-one-x-one-x-one-s-and-butterfly-to-sense-5-ui/)

**Source:** [HTC (Facebook)](https://www.facebook.com/HTC/posts/10151732728163084)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/htc-confirms-sense-5-coming-to-existing-phones-some-features-li/

OUYA shipping to Kickstarter backers on March 28th


[OUYA](http://www.engadget.com/tag/ouya) announced this afternoon that its Android-powered game console is shipping to Kickstarter backers starting on March 28th. The company took to its Kickstarter page to announce the news, which says, "Parts are in the factory and assembly lines are buzzing." When the console starts arriving to folks who supported the Kickstarter campaign -- wherein the company raised [just over $8.5 million dollars](http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/09/ouyas-kickstarter-funding-is-complete-over-8-5-million-raised/) -- there'll be a lengthy list of launch games ([around 500 last we heard](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/14/informal-ouya-game-count-481-and-growing/)) and more on the way. Alongside news of the console's launch date for backers comes word that _Portal_ creator Kim Swift is developing a "brand new, exclusive title" for the console, and _Papo & Yo_ dev studio Minority Media is also stepping up with a new game. Both Tripwire Interactive and nWay are also bringing games to the OUYA, with the former working on two games and the latter working on one (action-RPG _ChronoBlade_).

If that weren't enough, _Journey_ developer Kellee Santiago was announced as the newest high profile OUYA employee, wherein she'll "lead developer relations." Santiago has a short history of high impact in the game industry, having helped create thatgamecompany (developers of _Flow_, _Flower_, and _Journey_) as well as leading [an excellent TED Talk](http://stevens.usc.edu/playvideo.php?v=91). She also appeared in [this Engadget Show](http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/30/the-engadget-show-33-indie-game-the-movie-fifth-avenue-frogge/).

And that's to say nothing of the console's future; company CEO Julie Uhrman told us at DICE 2013 that the OUYA will see [annual hardware refreshes](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/07/ouya-annual/), akin to mobile phones. We've yet to get our hands on the device, but we've heard [good things from developers](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/01/ouya-developers-sound-off/) who got their early units back in December. Should you wish to hear even more about the OUYA ahead of its late March launch, Uhrman is joining Engadget on-stage for our first ever Expand event in a few weeks -- [snag your tickets right here](http://www.engadget.com/event/engadget-expand/ticket-info/)!

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

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/ouya-shipping-march-28/#comments)**

**Source:** [Kickstarter](http://www.ouya.tv/ouya-is-coming/)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/ouya-shipping-march-28/

Google Play Books comes to India with an updated Android app in tow

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/google-play-books-comes-to-india-with-an-updated-android-app/)

[Google Play Books](http://www.engadget.com/tag/GooglePlayBooks/) has been on a slow [world](http://www.engadget.com/2012/06/15/google-play-books-now-in-germany/) [tour](http://www.engadget.com/2012/09/24/google-play-books-app-japan-translation-place/) that hasn't given Asia much love. Google is addressing that regional deficit in grand fashion today by launching its digital bookshop in India. The collection includes the expected blend of local and international titles, although the Books expansion is almost more important as a milestone for Google's overall content strategy in the country -- it's the first instance of anything besides Android apps reaching India's Google Play Store. In an appropriate (if not necessarily intentional) pairing with the launch, Google has also pushed out a worldwide update to the Books app for Android that lets readers filter books by type and identifies place names on the existing page. The news will still be happiest for those eager to read in Rajkot, but there's a little for seemingly everyone at the source link.

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

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/google-play-books-comes-to-india-with-an-updated-android-app/#comments)**

**Via:** [Google Play (Twitter)](https://twitter.com/GooglePlay/status/306954728393302016)

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

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/google-play-books-comes-to-india-with-an-updated-android-app/

Ubuntu Developer Preview Coming To More Android Devices

Last week, Canonical released the Ubuntu Developer Preview for Google's most recent Nexus devices.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/02/ubuntu-developer-preview-coming-to-more-android-devices?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-b3b7ef39be18ff8c28178ee4e483ea7e

Firefox OS should make Microsoft sharpen Windows Phone 8 sales plan

The emergence of the Firefox OS is just one more reason that Microsoft and BlackBerry will need to sharpen their marketing savvy to sell more smartphones in 2013.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/02/firefox-os-should-make-microsoft-sharpen-windows-phone-8-sales-plan?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-05b0d8775e593309c0c13733874edd71

HTC's 'Tiara' crowns a medium spec, Windows Phone 8 GDR2 device

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/htcs-tiara-crowns-a-medium-spec-windows-phone-8-gdr2-device/)

Trust. It's a valuable commodity. But serial twitter-sleuth [_evleaks_](http://www.engadget.com/tag/evleaks/) has done enough to earn ours for this latest leak. A Windows Phone 8 device -- apparently known internally as the Tiara -- which will be one of the first to run the next revision of the mobile operating system (GDR2). With a reported 4.3-inch display, a 1.2GHz Snapdragon processor, 1.6-megapixel front-facing camera and 1GB of RAM, it bears more than a resemblance to [another recent addition](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/06/htc-one-sv-review/) to the HTC fold. If you had hopes that it might also borrow from the firm's [latest Android flagship](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/19/htc-one-unveiled/) design, then sorry to dash them, as the sources suggest otherwise. The Tiara moniker is unlikely to remain, with _evleaks_ taking a stab at it coming to market mid-May, possibly as the HTC 8W. Not a bad guess. Now it's just a matter of waiting to see if all that trust is truly well placed.

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

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/htcs-tiara-crowns-a-medium-spec-windows-phone-8-gdr2-device/#comments)**

**Source:** [Unwired View](http://www.unwiredview.com/2013/02/26/htc-tiara-first-windows-phone-8-gdr2-handset/)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/htcs-tiara-crowns-a-medium-spec-windows-phone-8-gdr2-device/

Paid apps return to Google Play in Taiwan after 18 months of legal wrangling

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/paid-apps-return-to-google-play-in-taiwan/)

Android users living in the [Taiwan](http://www.engadget.com/tag/android,%20taiwan/) have something to celebrate: paid apps have returned to the Google Play store. The ability to purchase apps from the Taiwanese Play store was suspended over a year and a half ago when Google entered a legal battle with the local government. The issue? Taiwan's consumer protection laws demanded paid apps include a seven day trial period, but the Google Play refund period lasts only 15 minutes. Mountain View pulled paid apps from the region while it filed appeals and lawsuits with the local government, which eventually won it the right to handle returns and trials as it saw fit. Taiwanese users can now view [Google Play's](http://www.engadget.com/tag/GooglePlay/) Top Paid apps page _and_ actually purchases a few, too. Worth 20 months of waiting? We think so.

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

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/paid-apps-return-to-google-play-in-taiwan/#comments)**

**Source:** [Engadget Chinese](http://www.microsofttranslator.com/bv.aspx?from=&to=en&a=http%3A%2F%2Fchinese.engadget.com%2F2013%2F02%2F26%2Fgoogle-play-paid-apps-return-taiwan%2F)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/paid-apps-return-to-google-play-in-taiwan/

Samsung Unveils New Mobile Wallet App For Android

Samsung is launching a new mobile wallet application for its Android smartphone, and sticking closer to Apple's playbook than it could in doing so.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/02/samsung-unveils-new-mobile-wallet-app-for-android?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-8e7110ef5fd51acb0b7ab4b4ae777c8c

Libratone speakers get an Android app to call their own

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/libratone-speakers-get-an-android-app-to-call-their-own/)

[Libratone's](http://www.engadget.com/tag/Libratone/) speaker line hasn't been convenient at all for mobile users who don't swing the iOS way -- not unless they've got a very long audio cable. The audio designer hasn't quite achieved the Holy Grail of full wireless control for other platforms, but its new Android app provides the next best thing. The release lets Android 2.3 and beyond set up Live, Lounge and Zipp speakers on the WiFi network, and it can tune their sounds to match a physical space or musical tastes. There's still a distance to go when the speaker needs an aux-in connection just to change the volume. Still, we'll take a free app if it saves us a few walks across the living room.

Filed under: [Cellphones](http://www.engadget.com/category/cellphones/), [Peripherals](http://www.engadget.com/category/peripherals/), [Portable Audio/Video](http://www.engadget.com/category/portable-audio-video/), [Mobile](http://www.engadget.com/category/mobile/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/libratone-speakers-get-an-android-app-to-call-their-own/#comments)**

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

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/28/libratone-speakers-get-an-android-app-to-call-their-own/

Big screens and Jelly Bean mark Android trends at Mobile World Congress

As expected, the annual Mobile World Congress has delivered an army of new Android device devices.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/02/big-screens-and-jelly-bean-mark-android-trends-at-mobile-world-congress?fromrss=1

Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 LTE ships to US Cellular

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/27/samsung-galaxy-note-10-1-lte-ships-to-us-cellular/)

Americans wanting a [Galaxy Note 10.1 LTE](http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/07/samsung-galaxy-note-10-1-for-verizon-hands-on/) of their own have largely been biding their time for a Verizon model. They're still waiting for that variant to show, but US Cellular isn't -- it just started shipping its own variant of the 4G tablet. From all indications, the slate is largely a branding swap that's adapted to the carrier's network, which is good news for prospective buyers who aren't dead set on Big Red. Pricing might give at least some customers pause, however. US Cellular's Note 10.1 LTE costs $500 only when it's paired with at least a 2GB data plan, and $800 no strings attached. With that kind of outlay, you'll want to be fully committed to the concept of pen-based computing before picking one up.

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

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/27/samsung-galaxy-note-10-1-lte-ships-to-us-cellular/#comments)**

**Via:** [Android Central](http://www.androidcentral.com/samsung-galaxy-note-101-lte-now-available-us-cellular)

**Source:** [US Cellular](http://www.uscellular.com/tablets/Galaxy_Note_10_1_4G_index.html)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/27/samsung-galaxy-note-10-1-lte-ships-to-us-cellular/

LG Not Working On Windows Phone 8 Devices

helix2301 sends this quote from CNET: "LG's reluctance to embrace Windows Phone 8 underscores the difficulties that the platform faces with both consumers and vendor partners. LG was one of the early partners that signed on with Microsoft, releasing the LG Quantum in the first wave of Windows Phone devices. Microsoft's has a great relationship with Nokia, which is considered in the industry first among equals when it comes to Microsoft partners, has some vendors reassessing their own support for the operating system. Over the past year or so, LG has been focusing on Android and has started building phones running on Mozilla's Firefox mobile OS."

[](http://twitter.com/home?status=LG+Not+Working+On+Windows+Phone+8+Devices%3A+http%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F12bYA9t) [](http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Ftech.slashdot.org%2Fstory%2F13%2F02%2F27%2F2313239%2Flg-not-working-on-windows-phone-8-devices%3Futm_source%3Dslashdot%26utm_medium%3Dfacebook) [](http://plus.google.com/share?url=http://tech.slashdot.org/story/13/02/27/2313239/lg-not-working-on-windows-phone-8-devices?utm_source=slashdot&utm_medium=googleplus)

[Read more of this story](http://tech.slashdot.org/story/13/02/27/2313239/lg-not-working-on-windows-phone-8-devices?utm_source=rss1.0moreanon&utm_medium=feed) at Slashdot.


[](http://da.feedsportal.com/r/159489749962/u/49/f/647410/c/35028/s/2908bc7a/a2.htm)

URL: http://rss.slashdot.org/~r/Slashdot/slashdot/~3/3ukyyBeJo-k/story01.htm

Pentagon To Move Its Network To Apple, Android Devices

Even amongst their slow and glorious decline, BlackBerry devices have long dominated the market in the government sector.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/02/pentagon-to-move-its-network-to-apple-android-devices?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-63e7aaa8f3ffaddbd57a6d2da28f9586

Samsung Wallet Is Just Like Passbook, But on Android

Whether you agree with it or not, Samsung gets accused of ripping off Apple just about every time they roll out a new marquee phone or tablet. On Wednesday, the company unveiled Samsung Wallet, a new Android app that looks and works a lot like Apple?s Passbook app for the iPhone. Like Passbook, Wallet is a designed as one central place to store your digital gift certificates, coupons, tickets, travel details and boarding passes.

URL: http://feeds.wired.com/~r/wired/index/~3/buLIPBUVW6M/

How Paid Apps On Firefox OS Will Work

An anonymous reader writes "Mozilla has put up a blog post about how building a paid app will work for Firefox OS. The Firefox Marketplace will host web apps, and Mozilla is quick to point out that the apps won't lock you into Firefox OS. They will use the receipt protocol, which other devices can support. If they end up doing so, users could buy the app just once and run it anywhere. 'There is, of course, a chicken vs. egg problem here so Mozilla hopes to be the egg that helps prove out the decentralized receipt concept and iterate on the protocol. Mozilla invites other vendors to help us work on getting receipts right so that paid apps are as portable and "webby" as possible.' Mozilla has a JavaScript API for exposing device receipts, and a client-side library can then contact a verification service URL from the receipt." Somewhat related: a recent panel at Mobile World Congress consisted of representatives for Firefox OS, Ubuntu for Phones, and Sailfish OS. They spoke about the need for alternatives to Android and iOS, and how manufacturers and carriers actually seem eager to use these new operating systems to differentiate their products

[](http://twitter.com/home?status=How+Paid+Apps+On+Firefox+OS+Will+Work%3A+http%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F13ljiDv) [](http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fdevelopers.slashdot.org%2Fstory%2F13%2F02%2F27%2F1941219%2Fhow-paid-apps-on-firefox-os-will-work%3Futm_source%3Dslashdot%26utm_medium%3Dfacebook) [](http://plus.google.com/share?url=http://developers.slashdot.org/story/13/02/27/1941219/how-paid-apps-on-firefox-os-will-work?utm_source=slashdot&utm_medium=googleplus)

[Read more of this story](http://developers.slashdot.org/story/13/02/27/1941219/how-paid-apps-on-firefox-os-will-work?utm_source=rss1.0moreanon&utm_medium=feed) at Slashdot.


[](http://da.feedsportal.com/r/159489746591/u/49/f/647410/c/35028/s/29076897/a2.htm)

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

Google Chrome 25 for Android arrives with background audio

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/27/google-chrome-25-for-android-delivers-background-audio/)

If you've ever tried to play audio from a web app in [Chrome for Android](http://www.engadget.com/tag/Chrome,Android/), you've likely had the fun cut short the moment your attention wandered over to Google Maps or Instagram. A stable version of Chrome 25 is here to address that headache. Audio in the new browser build will continue to play in the background, and optionally pauses if there's an incoming phone call. Google has less perceptible upgrades behind the scenes, as well: multi-touch zoom and scrolling are faster, and the V8 rendering engine should be quicker on the draw with interactive pages. Those who won't wait for anything, including the end to an audio stream, can hit Google Play for the Chrome refresh.

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/2013/02/27/google-chrome-25-for-android-delivers-background-audio/#comments)**

**Via:** [Chrome Releases](http://googlechromereleases.blogspot.com/2013/02/chrome-for-android-update.html)

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

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/27/google-chrome-25-for-android-delivers-background-audio/

Intel Takes on ARM in Low-cost Android Tablet Market

One of the first low-cost Android tablets with an Intel x86 processor was announced at Mobile World Congress, setting the stage for a long battle between the world's largest chip maker and ARM, whose processors go into most tablets today.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/02/intel-takes-on-arm-in-low-cost-android-tablet-market?fromrss=1

E Ink reference phone and flexible display hands-ons (video)

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/27/e-ink-reference-phone/)

Looking for your dream phone? Chances are, this isn't it -- but it could be the precursor to what could eventually be cradled in your pocket, especially if you are a fan of [E Ink](http://www.engadget.com/tag/e+ink/). The device seen above and in the first gallery below is one of just five prototypes of the E-ink reference phone in existence. The point? The company wants to have a tangible Android-powered (2.3.5 Gingerbread, to be exact) model to give to potential partners, so they can craft something similar down the road. We're told that it will most likely be used on the back of color phones, much like the [YotaPhone](http://www.engadget.com/yotaphone), but partners are welcome to get crazy on the front screen as well. No official timeframe for availability or seeding has been set, but it is expected to roll out in limited capacity sometime this year.

Official specs are few and far between, but what we do know is that this nameless phone is driven by a Cortex-A5 CPU of some kind. Given that this is an extremely early prototype, the E Ink device had a lot of bugs when we played with it: force closes, reboots and slow response are among the things we noticed. However, we imagine this will continue to improve with time, so by the time of seeding it may be a completely different story.

The UI reminds us of a simplistic feature phone geared toward the basic user, with six icons on the front screen including an app menu. As we'd expect, the phone is great for reading books, and it comes with the option to install applications (though it's possible most games wouldn't look that great). You can also shake the device to clean the text in case it ends up getting "dirty," or misaligned.

**Gallery: [E Ink prototype hands-on](http://www.engadget.com/photos/e-ink-prototype-hands-on/)**

[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/e-ink-prototype-hands-on/5672592)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/e-ink-prototype-hands-on/5672593)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/e-ink-prototype-hands-on/5672594)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/e-ink-prototype-hands-on/5672595)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/e-ink-prototype-hands-on/5672596)

**Gallery: [E Ink flexible display prototype hands-on](http://www.engadget.com/photos/e-ink-flexible-display-prototype-hands-on/)**

[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/e-ink-flexible-display-prototype-hands-on/5672627)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/e-ink-flexible-display-prototype-hands-on/5672628)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/e-ink-flexible-display-prototype-hands-on/5672629)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/e-ink-flexible-display-prototype-hands-on/5672630)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/e-ink-flexible-display-prototype-hands-on/5672631)

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/2013/02/27/e-ink-reference-phone/#comments)**

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/27/e-ink-reference-phone/

Huawei, LG pitch tents in growing Firefox OS camp

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/27/huawei-lg-set-to-join-growing-firefox-os-camp/)

While we doubt Huawei or LG were singing "I'm late, I'm late for a very important date..." at MWC this year, in hindsight they likely would have enjoyed sharing what arguably became the biggest deal of this show. Unfortunately the two handsets we caught up with at Telefonica's booth were behind glass and no amount of reason was going to see them sprung. Obviously the Huawei offering isn't close to ready as it is running on an Android set, though, the LG while powered off certainly looked like a complete housing featuring the requisite home button. So it would seem Firefox OS has become a waiting game as we sit and tally what [other](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/24/alcatel-one-touch-fire/) [manufacturers](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/25/geeksphone-keon-hands-on/) feel it's safe to jump on [board](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/25/sony-telefonica-firefox-os-2014/). Short gallery of the two devices under glass are just below.

**Gallery: [Huawei, LG set to join growing Firefox OS camp](http://www.engadget.com/photos/huawei-lg-set-to-join-growing-firefox-os-camp/)**

[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/huawei-lg-set-to-join-growing-firefox-os-camp/5672251)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/huawei-lg-set-to-join-growing-firefox-os-camp/5672252)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/huawei-lg-set-to-join-growing-firefox-os-camp/5672253)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/huawei-lg-set-to-join-growing-firefox-os-camp/5672254)[](http://www.engadget.com/photos/huawei-lg-set-to-join-growing-firefox-os-camp/5672255)

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

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/27/huawei-lg-set-to-join-growing-firefox-os-camp/#comments)**

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/27/huawei-lg-set-to-join-growing-firefox-os-camp/

Hottest gadgets from mobile tech show

Stuart Miles, founder of Pocket-lint.com, has been scouring the world's biggest mobile technology show in Barcelona for the latest gadgets and innovations.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/02/hottest-gadgets-from-mobile-tech-show?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-0936149d2fc91a688f36dad13ea990ac

94Fifty smart basketball can tell when you've got game, teaches when you don't

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/27/94fifty-smart-basketball-can-tell-when-youve-got-game/)

Everyday street [basketball](http://www.engadget.com/tag/basketball/) players (and would-be pros) don't have many tools to quantify their progress. InfoMotion Sports thinks they're owed more than just a pat on the back, so it's bringing its 94Fifty smart basketball to everyday hoop fans. Like the existing model for teams, sensors inside the amateur basketball detect the forces involved in a dribble or shot, relaying details such as the throw angle or power through Bluetooth; Android and iOS apps will be available out of the gate. The stats are for more than just bragging rights, too. InfoMotion's custom software centers on training sessions and competitions, including challenges from seasoned veterans. No matter how hard they play, owners will just have to rest the ball on a [Qi wireless charging](http://www.engadget.com/tag/Qi/) pad at the end of a session. InfoMotion Sports' $295 asking price will be steep when the 94Fifty arrives in the summer -- but it may be one of the better options for amateurs who want to improve the finer points of their game without donning a uniform.

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

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/27/94fifty-smart-basketball-can-tell-when-youve-got-game/#comments)**

**Source:** [94Fifty](http://www.94fifty.com/)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/27/94fifty-smart-basketball-can-tell-when-youve-got-game/

Spotify for iOS gets a much-appreciated interface makeover

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/27/spotify-for-ios-gets-a-much-appreciated-interface-makeover/)

[Spotify](http://www.engadget.com/tag/Spotify/) gave its Android app a very overdue [interface overhaul](http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/19/new-spotify-for-android-preview-hands-on/) last year. The iOS version wasn't in quite as dire straits, but we'd still call today's redesign a long-needed modernization that pulls out some of the clutter. Its 0.6 update mostly brings in useful concepts from the Android version, including the always-on Now Playing strip and the seemingly inescapable navigation [sidebar](http://www.engadget.com/tag/sidebar/). The update also solves a handful of stand-out flaws, such as reflecting the right track on the lock screen -- about time, really. Listeners will need a Premium subscription for more than [just radio](http://www.engadget.com/2012/06/19/spotify-brings-radio-feature-to-ios-offers-streaming-to-non-pre/), but everyone in Spotify-supported countries can grab the update today.

Filed under: [Cellphones](http://www.engadget.com/category/cellphones/), [Portable Audio/Video](http://www.engadget.com/category/portable-audio-video/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/27/spotify-for-ios-gets-a-much-appreciated-interface-makeover/#comments)**

**Via:** [Spotify](http://community.spotify.com/t5/Spotify-Announcements/Release-Notes-Spotify-for-iOS/m-p/292580)

**Source:** [App Store](https://itunes.apple.com/app/spotify/id324684580?mt=8)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/27/spotify-for-ios-gets-a-much-appreciated-interface-makeover/

Google Settings app sneaks onto Android to bolster G+ Sign-In

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/27/google-settings-app-sneaks-onto-android-to-bolster-g-sign-in/)

If you're wondering what that pretty green icon is that may have popped up recently on your Android device, worry not -- it's just the new Settings app from Google. You can now access preferences from [Maps](http://www.engadget.com/tag/google%20maps/), [Google+](http://www.engadget.com/tag/googleplus/) and [Search](http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/29/google-now-emergency-alerts-sports-movies/) from one place through the app, and also see which are hooked in to the new Google+ Sign-In system we saw [yesterday](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/26/google-plus-sign-in/). Google took the unusual step of installing the app without asking via a Google Play service update, and if you haven't seen it yet you can force the issue by going to the application manager, clearing the data from Google Play services and rebooting. With its various apps becoming more [intertwined](http://www.engadget.com/2012/12/22/youtube-player-api-for-android-opens-for-all/), it wouldn't be surprising if Google dumped more settings there in the future, so you may as well get a handle on it now.

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

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/27/google-settings-app-sneaks-onto-android-to-bolster-g-sign-in/#comments)**

**Via:** [Android Central](http://www.androidcentral.com/about-google-settings-app-appeared-your-device-today)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/27/google-settings-app-sneaks-onto-android-to-bolster-g-sign-in/

Lenovo Announces Three New Android-Based Tablets At MWC

The line-up includes two new A-series 7-inch tablets, specially designed for optimal mobility packed with performance.

URL: http://www.topix.com/com/android/2013/02/lenovo-announces-three-new-android-based-tablets-at-mwc?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-d5843f0ea58d29233c6570e563ce2adf

Google+ Photos app for Chromebooks revealed in more detail, thanks to new screenshots

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/27/google-plus-photos-app-new-screenshots/)

Chances are, you've been gawking at that gorgeous new [Pixel Chromebook](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/25/chromebook-pixel-review/), but aren't planning on, you know, _buying_ it. No matter. For those of you who enjoy software porn, we've got a few more shots of the Pixel's forthcoming [Photos application](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/21/google-chrome-photos-gplus/), which will eventually make its way to other Chromebooks, too. A developer on Google+ named François Beaufort has uploaded a series of screenshots, giving us a more detailed look -- good news since we only had three screens to show you when the software was first announced. Included in Beaufort's gallery is the settings page, which confirms that automatic photo uploads from SD cards are actually optional. The one thing you won't see in those pics? A full illustration of the intelligent photo selector, which is supposedly smart enough to weed out your blurry and poorly exposed shots. Hopefully all you Pixel owners out there will see for yourselves soon enough.

Filed under: [Laptops](http://www.engadget.com/category/laptops/), [Software](http://www.engadget.com/category/software/), [Google](http://www.engadget.com/category/google/)

**[Comments](http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/27/google-plus-photos-app-new-screenshots/#comments)**

**Via:** [Android Central](http://www.androidcentral.com/google-photos-app-coming-chrome-developer-gives-us-peek)

**Source:** [Google+ (Francois Beaufort)](https://plus.google.com/u/0/100132233764003563318/posts/VPu9m4wbm2c)

URL: http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/27/google-plus-photos-app-new-screenshots/