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White Nexus 7 now on sale in the UK

White Nexus 7 now on sale in the UK

White Nexus 7

Available in Wifi+ 32GB version only, priced 239.99

The new white Nexus 7, announced yesterday for the UK, U.S. and Japan, is now available for Brits to buy. The tablet appeared on the UK Google Play Store yesterday along with a "coming soon" notice, but now it's on sale at the regular price of 239.99 for the Wifi-only version with 32GB of storage. As is the case in the U.S., that's the only white Nexus 7 available at the moment so if you want LTE connectivity or the cheaper 16GB storage option you're limited to the traditional black version.
White Nexus 7s ordered today in the UK are due to ship within 1-2 working days, with free ground shipping being offered "for a limited time."


Nexus 7 from Google (7-Inch, 32 GB, Black) by ASUS (2013) Tablet

Nexus 7 from Google Features

  • World's sharpest 7" tablet screen (323 ppi).
  • Powerful battery, up to 9 hrs of active use.
  • Quad-core speed and performance, 2GB RAM.
  • Comes with Android 4.3.
˅ Show All Features ˅

Nexus 7 from Google Description

view largerThe all new 7" tablet from Google Now thinner, lighter, and faster - Nexus 7 brings you the perfect mix of power and portability and features the world's sharpest 7" tablet screen. ˅ Show All Description ˅

Google Translate updated with nine new languages

Google Translate updated with nine new languages

Google Translate

Additions including Somali, Zulu and Punjabi bring total supported languages to 80

Google has updated Translate service with support for nine new languages from Africa, Asia and Oceania, bringing the total number of supported languages up to 80. The new additions includeHausa, Igbo, Yoruba, Somali, Zulu, Mongolian, Nepali, Punjabi and Maori, with more than 200 million native speakers between them. In the case of Maori, spoken by just 160 thousand people, the addition is the result of a volunteer effort by native speakers of the language.

The new languages are available now through Google Translate on the web and on mobile, including the Android app in the Play Store.

Source: Google Translate blog


Via: Google Translate updated with nine new languages

ASUS announces the Padfone Mini convertible phone + tablet


4.3-inch mid-range phone turns into a 7-inch mid-range tablet

As widely anticipated, ASUS has today announced the latest addition to its Padfone line of convertible Android devices, the Padfone Mini. Like other Padfone products, the Padfone Mini comes in two parts a 4.3-inch phone and a 7-inch tablet dock meaning you can slot the former into the latter. This lets you use a single data plan for both tablet and phone mode, and charge the phone while it's docked in the tablet.

Unlike previous Padfones, the Padfone Mini is aimed squarely at the mid-range market. It's got a quad-core 1.4GHz Snapdragon 400 CPU with 1GB of RAM and a qHD (960x540) display on the phone, which expands to 1280x800 on the tablet. There's microSD expandability in addition to the 16GB of built-in storage, as well as a 1500mAh battery in the phone and a2200mAh bank in the tablet. For your imaging needs there's an 8-megapixel camera with burst mode and ASUS' PixelMaster tech for boosting brightness in dark scenes.

And on the software side, the Padfone Mini runs Android 4.3 Jelly Bean and ASUS' own software customizations.

So the specs aren't earth-shattering, but given the price point ofNT$11,990 ($405) that's not entirely surprising. The Padfone Mini is due to go on sale inChina, Russia, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore and Indonesia, according to Engdget, with no word on any Western release plans.

Source: Engadget


Via: ASUS announces the Padfone Mini convertible phone + tablet

Angry Birds Go now available on Google Play

Angry Birds Go now available on Google Play

Angry Birds Go

Kart racer from Rovio launches today

Mobile gaming giant Rovio has launched its latest title on Android and iOS today. Anry Birds Go is a free "kart" racer based in the Angry Birds universe, featuring feathered friends from the popular artillery shooter. If you've played Mario Kart or any similar titles you'll know what to expect here fast-paced 3D racing with a focus on power-ups and weapons, featuring familiar characters (birds and pigs, in this case.) There's a variety of game modes to choose from besides a straight-up race to the finish, includingTime Boom, Fruit Splat, Champion Chase and Mega Match.

Naturally you can also upgrade your vehicles by earning points in-game or buying them through in-app purchases and you can add more characters to the game by capturing Rovio "Telepod" toys with your devie's camera. The base game itself, however, is completely free, and it's available now at the Google Play link above.


Via: Angry Birds Go now available on Google Play

Buy a Nexus 7 and Chromecast from Google Play, get a $35 credit for content

Buy a Nexus 7 and Chromecast from Google Play, get a $35 credit for content

Nexus 7 and Chromecast

Free shipping for both thrown in as a bonus

Just in case you were looking for yet another reason to pick up a Nexus 7 and Chromecast, Google Play is running another deal on the devices. If you buy both at the same time, you'll be offered $35 in Google Play credit to spend on apps, books, movies and whatever other digital content tickles your fancy. Further, you'll get free shipping on the order as well.

This follows a $25 Google Play credit previously offered for picking up just the Nexus 7, but is more beautifully timed with the recent announcement of 10 new apps coming to Chromecast. If you planned on picking up both devices this holiday season, now's probably a better time than any to do so from Google Play.


Via: Buy a Nexus 7 and Chromecast from Google Play, get a $35 credit for content

Google Play Books updated, brings performance tweaks and uploading from your phone or tablet

Google Play Books updated, brings performance tweaks and uploading from your phone or tablet

Google Play Books

PDF and ePubfiles can be shared to Google Play Books using the Android intents system

Google Play Books is getting a nifty little update. The app has the same look and feel, but performance tweaks and new sharing features make for a worthwhile upgrade.

For starters, things have been tweaked to make your books both your own uploads and Google Play purchases open faster. If you've ever had to sit through the spinning cursor while the app looks for your bookmark, you'll appreciate this. Also included are improvements to your highlights and notes, the ability to dismissrecommendations, and a lower brightness setting for low-light reading. All good stuff.

But the best new feature, and one plenty have been wanting, is the ability to upload your own ePub and PDF files right from your phone or tablet. Using the standard Android intents system, selecting a compatible file gives the choice to send it to Google Play Books. Once uploaded, it will be available for reading at your leisure.

As usual, this is a slow rollout so it may take several days before you get an update notification. If you understand the risks, you'll likely find the file at the usual locations.


Via: Google Play Books updated, brings performance tweaks and uploading from your phone or tablet

Samsung's latest Christmas video is way less creepy than last year's


That's pretty benign.

Now last year's video, on the other hand ...


Via: Samsung's latest Christmas video is way less creepy than last year's

Twitter for Android updated, brings photos in direct messages and new unread count alerts

Twitter for Android updated, brings photos in direct messages and new unread count alerts

Twitter

Slight UI revamp to for the stable release

Twitter has updated their mobile app this afternoon, and updaters will find two sizeable changes. The first is a shot at other messaging services photos in direct messages. Twitter has long been a popular social network, but their direct messaging options are sparse compared to alternatives. The inclusion of photos will help here, and may lure more people to use Twitter for messaging that other services.

The second change is the timeline navigation and alerts. Swiping to the left or right will move you betweenyour stream, the Discovery section where you'll find trends and tailored content, and the Activity timeline to see what your friends are doing and who they are doing it with. The badges at the top have been changed, making unread tweets and messages more prominent, with an ability to turn on notifications for a single user by starring their profile.

The new version is in Google Play now, waiting for you to go update.

Source: Twitter


Via: Twitter for Android updated, brings photos in direct messages and new unread count alerts

AT&T CEO knows device subsidies are going the way of the dodo

AT&T CEO knows device subsidies are going the way of the dodo

AT&T

Higher data usage and new markets expected to increase profits going forward

AT&T knows that it can't keep providing subsidized devices to customers forever. Speaking at an investor conference in New York, CEO of AT&T Randall Stephenson explained that with smartphone adoption at 75 percent and rising, the cost of offering devices on subsidies just isn't financially viable. Just as we've all seen, carriers in the U.S. have been offering handsets for little or no money on-contract to drive smartphone adoption rates, but now with so many people buying expensive phones it's starting to take a toll.

New "Mobile Share Value" plans that give you a $15 break in your monthly bill for bringing your device or keeping one past two years is the first indication of this realization, but so are AT&T's increased prepaid efforts. Between its own GoPhonebrand that has increased data allowances at reduced prices and acquisitions of other prepaid brands like Leap, AT&T plans to continue moving down market with smartphones to increase its subscriber base.

The nation's second-largest carrier doesn't intend to just lower rates and take a cut in profits, however. Stephenson explained that a decrease in the standard monthly price of having AT&T service will be made up in the long run with higher data usage on tiered plans, as well as moves into new markets like home automation and automobiles. Not to mention its new device financing plan, AT&T NEXT, which lets customers buy new phones without a subsidy.

Source: CNET


Via: AT&T CEO knows device subsidies are going the way of the dodo

Sprint to sell new tri-band Galaxy S4 in the coming weeks

Sprint to sell new tri-band Galaxy S4 in the coming weeks

Sprint S4

New version fully supports Sprint Spark

As part of their national Sprint Spark rollout, Sprint will be releasing a new version of the Galaxy S4 in the coming weeks. Support for LTE bands 25, 26 and 41 will be included, and the new version will be compatible with the new LTE network in the locations that currently have it available, as well as any and all expansion sites.

Today, Sprint Spark is limited to Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, and Tampa, but Sprint says it will expand to 100 markets over the next year.

The new version of the Galaxy S4 will cost $199 with a new agreement and a $50 mail-in rebate, or just $25 monthly with Sprint's One Up financing.

Existing Galaxy S4 phones will not be compatible with Sprint Spark. See the full press release after the break.

Sprint Debuts Samsung Galaxy S 4 with the Benefit of Sprint Spark

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sprint (NYSE:S) expects to begin delivery of Samsung Galaxy S 4 (16GB) with the addition of Sprint Spark (enhanced LTE) to its sales channels in the next few weeks. This enhances the current version of Galaxy S 4 with a design change to take advantage of unprecedented speeds by combining all three Sprint bands (800MHz, 1.9GHz and 2.5GHz) of 4G LTE wireless spectrum.

Sprint Spark allows tri-band devices, like Galaxy S 4, to support active hand-off mode between 800MHz, 1.9GHz and 2.5GHz and provide data session continuity as the devices move between spectrum bands.

Sprint Spark provides the capacity to greatly improve the performance of video and other bandwidth-intensive applications while opening the way for futuristic applications. Sprint Spark is designed to support a new generation of online gaming, virtual reality, advanced cloud services and other applications requiring very high bandwidth.

Sprint plans to deploy Sprint Spark in about 100 of Americas largest cities during the next three years, with initial availability in five markets now. The first markets with limited availability are New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Tampa and Miami. Sprint 4G LTE service is expected to be available by mid-2014 to approximately 250 million Americans, and Sprint expects 100 million Americans will have Sprint Spark or 2.5GHz coverage by the end of 2014.

This super-high-speed capability demonstrates 50-60 Megabits per second (Mbps) peak speeds today with increasing speed potential over time. Given Sprints spectrum and technology assets, it is technically feasible to deliver more than 2Gbps per sector of over-the-air speed.1

Samsung Galaxy S 4 with Sprint Spark will be available for $199.99 (excluding taxes) with a new line or eligible upgrade and two-year service agreement after a $50 mail-in rebate via reward card2 or $25 per month with Sprint One UpSM.

Customers can take advantage of Sprint One Up3, a new program that offers customers an affordable option to upgrade their device more frequently. With Sprint One Up, participating smartphone customers get unlimited talk, text and data for an introductory rate of $65 per month4 a $15 per month savings off their Unlimited, My Way standard rate plan and Sprints guarantee of unlimited talk, text and data for the life of the line of service.5 Sprint One Up is also available for smartphones on the My All-in plan.

Sprint offers unlimited 4G LTE data, text and calling to any mobile device with no metering or overages, all while on the Sprint network, making it the ideal carrier for customers who want to use every feature of their Galaxy S 4 every day of the month without worry. Sprint 4G LTE is available in select markets.

Manufactured by Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile), Galaxy S 4 is powered by Android 4.3, Jelly Bean, boasts a brilliant 5-inch full-HD Super AMOLED touchscreen, 1.9GHz quad-core processor and access to the Sprint 4G LTE network. It also offers Multi Window, which allows the use of two apps side-by-side.


Via: Sprint to sell new tri-band Galaxy S4 in the coming weeks

Shutterstock app hits Google Play - find stock photography on the go

Shutterstock app hits Google Play - find stock photography on the go

Shutterstock

Search, browse and share stock photos from your phone

One of the most popular stock photo and video services, Shutterstock, has released its own app into the Play Store after being available for some time on iOS. The Shutterstock mobile app lets you search, browse and view stock photography from its vast catalog, and then curate and share sets of photos with lightboxes.

And naturally if you choose to sign in with your Shutterstock account (you can browse for free regardless), your activity will be synced from mobile devices over to the web when you need to reference and image or make a purchase.


Via: Shutterstock app hits Google Play - find stock photography on the go

LG announces Google Play edition G Pad 8.3

LG announces Google Play edition G Pad 8.3

GPe LG G Pad 8.3

LG's latest mid-sized tablet comes in a new software flavor

Following tightly on rumors that it would release a stock tablet, LG has just announced the Google Play edition G Pad 8.3. The tablet looks nearly identical to the original version of the G Pad 8.3, but is of course running a stock version of Android 4.4 KitKat, as you would expect from a Google Play edition device.

The device is only available in black (rather than black and white), and packs the same 1.7GHz Snapdragon 600 processor, 2GB of RAM, 16GB of storage (expandable by MicroSD) and an 8.3-inch 1920 x 1200 IPS display.

The Google Play edition G Pad 8.3 is now available on the Play Store for $349.99, and at the moment shows 1-2 business day shipping. For the moment, Google and LG aren't releasing details on availability outside of the U.S.

GPe LG G Pad 8.3

LG ANNOUNCES FIRST-EVER
GOOGLE PLAY EDITION TABLET

LG G Pad 8.3 First Android Open Source Project Tablet Running Android 4.4 KitKat
SEOUL,Dec. 11, 2013 The LG G Pad 8.3 from LG Electronics (LG) will be the first device ever to be designated a Google Play Edition tablet. Googles first Android Open Source Project (AOSP) tablet will feature the latest Android operating system, Android 4.4, KitKat. The LG G Pad 8.3 Google Play Edition reference device will be available for purchase starting today in the United States on Google Play.

With the perfect combination of KitKats Full-screen Immersive mode and LGs stunning 1920 x 1200 WUXGA Full HD IPS display, this special edition of LG G Pad 8.3 offers an optimal viewing experience. Apps can utilize every pixel on the G Pad 8.3 screen to create full-bleed UIs reaching edge to edge. With the ability to hide the system UI such as the status bar and navigation bar, this feature is ideal for rich visual content such as photos, videos, maps, books and games.

LGs working relationship with Google has always been strong and our collaboration on the first-ever Google Play Edition tablet is proof of that commitment, said Dr. Jong-seok Park, President and CEO of the LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. The LG G Pad 8.3 Google Play Edition is a device with hardware and software that has been optimized for a truly consumer-friendly experience. Theres nothing else like it out there in the marketplace.

The LG G Pad 8.3 was designed based on insights from consumers resulting in a compact, modern-looking device accentuating sleek lines and subtle curves for comfortable holding with one hand. The powerful 1.7GHz Quad-Core Qualcomm Snapdragon 600 CPU and 4,600mAh battery provide both performance and long-life between charges.

The LG G Pad 8.3 Google Play Edition will be available in glossy Indigo Black for USD 349.99. Availability in other countries has not yet been determined at this time.

Key Specifications:
Processor: 1.7GHz Quad-Core Qualcomm Snapdragon 600 Processor
Operating System: Android 4.4, KitKat
Display: 8.3-inch Full HD IPS WUXGA (1920 x 1200 pixels / 273 ppi)
Memory: 16GB eMMC
RAM: 2GB LPDDR2
Camera: Rear 5.0MP / Front 1.3MP
Battery: 4,600mAh
Connectivity: Wi-Fi
Size: 216.8 x 126.5 x 8.3mm
Weight: 338g
Colors: Indigo Black


Via: LG announces Google Play edition G Pad 8.3

White Nexus 7 now available in the U.S.

White Nexus 7 now available in the U.S.

Nexus 7 white

Amid all the Google Play edition news dropping today, Google has also taken the wraps off the Nexus 7 (2013) in white. Google says it'll be available in the UK, U.S. and Japan, and besidesthe change in color it's the same ASUS-made,current-generation Nexus 7 we've been using since the summer.

It's worth noting that at the time of writing it's only available in Wifi + 32GBversions no 16GB or LTE at present.

For more, see the Play Store link above. It's currently marked as "coming soon" in the UK; in the U.S. it's available to order right now.


Via: White Nexus 7 now available in the U.S.

Sony Z Ultra Google Play edition announced, available now


$649 price tag, compatible with AT&T and T-Mobile in the US

Google has dropped yet another surprise in the device section at Google Play, and this one comes from Sony in the form of their 6.4-inch Z Ultra.

The latest Google Play edition device, the Z Ultra, will have the same hardware and specifications we all know and love, but carry a basic "Nexus-like" build of the software. This has proven to be a quick track for manufacturers to get the Google Play edition devices on the latest version of Android, and keep them there.

At the same time, hardware features typically not found in Nexus devices (SD cards come to mind) are included and supported. It's a win-win situation for consumers, and one we love to see.

The Z UltraGoogle Play edition is availablenow at Google Play, and carries a $649 price tag. As with the previous Google Play edition devices, this looks to be US only at least for the time being. The Z Ultra GPe has full support for HSPA+ and LTE on both AT&T and T-Mobile in the US.

More: Sony announcement


Via: Sony Z Ultra Google Play edition announced, available now

Nexus 7 Folio case hits Google Play for $49

Nexus 7 Folio case hits Google Play for $49

Nexus 7 Folio

New colors of Nexus 7 Sleeve, Nexus 7 Case now shipping as well

Just when you thought two new devices and a white version of the Nexus 7 was enough Google Play news for one day, Google has just made available new Nexus 7 cases as well. The Folio case is designed for just the Nexus 7 (2013), and offers an open-back bumper style along with a dual-fold cover on top. Just like many other cases of the style, the screen cover can fold up on the side to prop up your tablet at one of two angles. Buying the Folio will set you back $49.99 plus shipping, which ranges from $3.99 for 5-10 day to $15.99 for overnight.

Google has also begun selling two new colors of the previously-released Nexus 7 Sleeve (which works with both Nexus 7 generations), yellow and grey both will set you back $29.99, and are a pretty solid value even at that price. Additionally, the hardcover Nexus 7 Case is also now for sale in white/red, grey/blue and grey/red color combos for $49.99 as well.

You can pick up the new Folio at the Play Store link above, and the new colors of the previously announced cases at the links below.

  • Buy the Nexus 7 Sleeve on Google Play
  • Buy the Nexus 7 Case on Google Play

Via: Nexus 7 Folio case hits Google Play for $49

12 Days of Christmas giveaway day four: Win a Galaxy S4 Mini from AC and Sprint

12 Days of Christmas giveaway day four: Win a Galaxy S4 Mini from AC and Sprint

Sprint contest

On the fourth day of Christmas AC and Sprint gave to me ... A Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini

The good people atSprinthave partnered with us to do something awesome for the holidays, and we're giving away a great Samsung phone or tablet every day for 12 days.

We've got a pile of great stuff, including the Galaxy Tab 3, the Note 3, the Galaxy S4 and the Galaxy S4 mini. Winning one is easy, but you'll need to follow the rules.

  • Leave a comment on this blog post for a chance to win today's prize. Only one comment.
  • We'll close the comments after 24 hours and pick a winner at random.
  • Make sure the contact details you have entered when you signed up at AC are good, because that is how I will get in touch with you.

Today's prize is aSprint Samsung Galaxy S4Mini. Everything you love about a premium Android experience, in a smaller package, and Sprint Spark ready.

The 12 days of Christmas giveaway is brought to you by Sprint, and their truly unlimited plans.


Via: 12 Days of Christmas giveaway day four: Win a Galaxy S4 Mini from AC and Sprint

Source code points to possible Google Play edition LG G Pad 8.3

Source code points to possible Google Play edition LG G Pad 8.3

GPe Pad

LG-V510could be the first Google Play edition tablet, according to open-source listing

There's been some speculation online lately surrounding an upcoming LG tablet carrying the model number LG-V510. Twitter leaker @evleaksrecently published info suggesting it'd be a "Google open" device, and now files in an open-source code drop from LG itself refer to it as the "G Pad 8.3 Google Play edition."

The source code and framework support files appear to be fromKitKat-based software, as you'd expect from this kind of tablet. What's more, Android Police has come up with a build.prop from the purported tablet, which is consistent with what we'd expect from such a device.So there are some strong indicators that we could be on the way to the first Google Play edition tablet, which might join the existing GPe phones on Google's online store.

G Pad Nexus 7

The question of what a Google Play edition G Pad brings to the table that's not present in the Nexus 7 is a little more difficult to answer. The existing G Pad be sure to read our full review sports a microSD slot, a metal chassis and a larger, better-looking display, but besides that the internal hardware is very similar, and the G Pad currently sits at a price point above the Nexus tablet, selling for $350.

We'll wait on an official announcement before speculating any further, as we've seen other potentialGPe devices fall through the cracks. In the meantime, hit the comments and let us know whether you'd pay $350 for an LG tablet with stock Android.

Source: LG; via: Reddit, More:Android Police


Via: Source code points to possible Google Play edition LG G Pad 8.3

Viber announces Viber Out worldwide, brings low-cost calling to any number


Viber

Promises no connection fees and significantlylower per-minute charges than Skype

Viber, the popular cross-platform messaging and VOIP calling application, is rolling out theirViber Out service worldwide. The service uses credit purchased through in-app purchases, or via credit card for desktop users. Purchased minutes can be used on Android, iOS or the desktop client.

In addition, Viber is also adding more stickers to their paid Viber Sticker Market, and will continue to add more content.

The most interesting part the rates are detailed after the break along with the full press release.

Viber Out rates

As you can see, the biggest draw for many will be the rate plans. Offering a substantial savings over Skype for users in various countries, Viberaims to deliver HD audio at rates that are highly competitive. In fact, based on what we see above the rates are actually disruptive and just may cause other providers of Internet calling to re-evaluate their own rates.

Viber has more than 200 million users in 193 countries, with Android, iOS, Windows, BlackBerry, Bada, Mac, Linux, Symbian and Nokia S40 fully supported. To download the Viber app, you can use the Google Play link above.

VIBER LAUNCHES VIBER OUT WORLDWIDE, ALLOWING MORE THAN 200 MILLION USERS TO MAKE LOW-COST CALLS TO ANY PHONE NUMBER

LONDON December 10th, 2013, Viber announced today the release of Viber 4.1 for Android and iPhone which includes the full global launch of Viber Out, a new feature that allows users to make low-cost calls to any mobile or landline phone number.

Viber had previously enabled Viber Out for users in the Philippines in the aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan to help users contact friends and loved ones. To provide free calls from the Philippines, Viber partnered with telcos across the world including Telecom Austria, Telecom New Zealand, Hutchison, Bharti Airtel, Telecom Italia, Citic, Netvision Cellcom, Mada Communication and Omantel. Viber also partnered with Globe Telecom to allow users worldwide to call the Philippines for free.

Now with the official worldwide launch, Viber Out enables all Viber users to call anyone worldwide at low rates on Android, iPhone and Desktop, coming to Windows Phone in the future. Viber Out credit can be bought with an in-app purchase from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store, or with a credit card via Viber Desktop. Additionally, Viber Out has a significantly lower price-per-call than other competing services due to lower per minute rates and the omission of connection fees.

Viber Out gives our millions of users a new way to use Viber and ensures that they can reach any contact at any time, said Talmon Marco, CEO of Viber. We will continue to improve Viber Out, keeping our users connected at the most affordable rates possible.

Unlike competing services, Viber Out displays your real phone number to the recipient so he or she knows who is calling. Further, Viber Out on Desktop has your phones address book so you dont have to remember numbers or dial them manually.

Viber Out joins the Viber Sticker Market as the apps second paid feature. As part of this release, Viber added new stickers and will continue to add more content. Viber also released a new promotional video highlighting one of its signature characters Violet.


Via: Viber announces Viber Out worldwide, brings low-cost calling to any number

Google announces new apps, local content streaming for Chromecast

Google announces new apps, local content streaming for Chromecast

Chromecast

VEVO, Plex, Songza highlight list of 10 additions

Google this morning announced a new cadre of apps for its Chromecast streaming appliance as well as the ability to cast local content to your TV.

The new apps include the likes of VEVO, Red Bull.TV, Songza, PostTV, Viki, Revision 3 and BeyondPod. And you'll be able to stream local media fromyour phone or tablet over Plex, Avia or RealPlayer Cloud. Not quite the same as the direct casting we've been hoping for, but it's better than nothing at this point.

Google says the new apps will be available "over the next few days."

Source: Google


Via: Google announces new apps, local content streaming for Chromecast

Find your next rental with Lovely - now available on Android

Find your next rental with Lovely - now available on Android

Lovely

A simpler, more functional way to find a new place to live

Finding just the right place to rent for your next apartment or home can be a very frustrating experience. If you've spent any decent amount of time looking to rent, you've no doubt spent countless hours dredging through Craigslist or just straight-up Google Maps search results, and that's just a terrible experience. Rental finder Lovely is now available on Android, thankfully, and it's here to help you find your next rental with less pain.

The app's main view is just a map of where you are, and for this kind of service it's exactly what you want to see. You begin zoomed out, with circles filled with numbers placed on the map showing the number of rentals available in that neighborhood. Tap a number or zoom in manually, and you'll see the numbers broken down into specific blocks of a city tap in further and you'll get a list view accompanying the map with the listings.

Individual listings are simple and highlight the features you'll want to see when browsing rentals price, bedrooms, square footage, amenities and the address. The top area of each listing is devoted to pictures, and while the rental companies don't always provide the best shots, when you find one that does the experience is great.

If you take the time to fill out your personal details in the app, sending your information to inquire on a property is just a couple of taps away, and if you'd prefer to contact them directly, quick links to email or call property managers are on each listing (when provided). Further, you can set up filters to be alerted of when new listings are posted so you can be the first to jump on desirable properties.

We wish there were easy links to view the rental company's website, but we can live without that. When you are ready to take things up to the big screen, you can even log into your Lovely account on the web and continue your house hunt.

Lovely is now available in the Play Store, and if you're looking to move in the coming weeks or months (and don't want to end up living in an Airbnb), this is an absolute killer app to have on your devices.

previous next

Via: Find your next rental with Lovely - now available on Android

Google Glass as a music player: Sounds pretty good, but it's also tough on battery

Google Glass as a music player: Sounds pretty good, but it's also tough on battery

Google Glass earbuds

Google Glass actually is a decent little music player. OK, insofar as $1,500 face-mounted wearables go. The official Google Play Music Glassware app was made available on Dec. 2, along with $85 stereo earbuds that plug into Glass' USB port.

Do the math, and that's damned near $1,600 to do what your phone and a $100 pair of headphones could accomplish. But that's not really the point. This is The Future we're talking about here.

So, we strap on and plug in.

Google's $85 stereo Glass earbudsaren't cheap, let's just get that out of the way. But neither was Glass. But you get a much better experience when you're using them. As important as the mono-earbud that came with v.2 of Google Glass might have been, these stereo guys are that much better.

Google Glass earbuds

You get whiteearbuds out of the box. But Google also throw in four pairs of color backs blue, brown, black and red. Definitely a cooler experience, and a nice piece of personalization, but I'd worry a little about someone thinking I'd just had a stroke with the red ones in. Swapping out the caps takes just a simple twist.

The fit of the earbuds is pretty good. Not the most comfortable thing in the world, but I think they fit me better than Apple's earbuds, which have been notoriously bad for me. Still, I'd prefer something like my old Bose. That's not in the cards right now, however, because these connect via microUSB and not a 3.5mm jack.

Google Glass music

Playing music is a pretty simple affair. Just load up the Google Play Music Glassware app, say "OK, Glass listen to ..." and name your tune. Or artist. Or Album. It takes a couple seconds, then the song starts up. The current track lives as a top-level card (hopefully with album art) in the UI. One tap gets you one level down, where you can play/pause, go to the next track, previous track, hop over to Radio, stop playback, and change volume. I'd prefer to see the volume settings a little higher on the list of options, though.

Perhaps most important, of course, is the sound. And it's surprisingly good here. I didn't expect much out of these earbuds and, again, if I had my druthers I'd go for something a little more comfortable but there's a decent amount of bass. Highs are crisp and clear. The overall sound is decently full not great, and it thins out some if you crank the volume.

Google Glass earbudsGoogle Glass earbuds

Finally, there's the issue of battery. Google doesn't specifically list battery capacity on Glass it says one day, which is generous so you definitely feel any continuous use. I listened to Pearl Jam's latest from front to back (ask your parents what that means, kids). The 46 minutes of tunes took about 23 percentage points of battery off my Glass. Maybe not as much as I'd feared not having the display on certainly helps but that's still almost a quarter of the device's lifespace before recharging.

And that, in a nutshell, is listening to music on Google Glass. It's not some transformative musical experience. It just works. And it works pretty well.


Via: Google Glass as a music player: Sounds pretty good, but it's also tough on battery

Oppo N1 now available in U.S. and Europe

Oppo N1 now available in U.S. and Europe

Oppo N1

As expected, the OppoN1 has today gone on sale in the United States and Europe, where prices for the 16GB model start at $599 and 449 respectively rising to $649 and 479 for the 32GB version. The latest high-end handset from the Chinese manufacturer, the N1 sports a 5.9-inch 1080p display, a rotating 13-megapixel camera for all your high-res selfie needs, and a 1.7GHz Snapdragon 600 processor with 2GB of RAM. Powering the phone is a capacious 3,610mAhbattery.
Connectivity-wise, the N1 includes pentaband HSPA+ support up to 42Mbps as well as Bluetooth, NFC and WifiDirect though you'll be missing out on LTE support, putting the device at a significant disadvantage for Western buyers.
The Oppo N1 ships with the manufacturer's ColorOSsoftware, based on Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean, but buyers will be easily switch to officially-supportedCyanogenMod as an alternative OS that's currently marked as "coming soon" on Oppo's site. (It's not to be confused with the limited run of "CM edition" N1s that run the community firmware out of the box.)
So it's fairly expensive and lacking in connectivity options compared to the competition, but there's no doubt that the N1 is a unique piece of technology. If you're picking one up today, shout out in the comments.

Unlocked OPPO N1 White 16GB

Unlocked OPPO N1 White Features

  • FullHD 1080p Wide 5.9" Screen
  • 13MP Rotating Camera
  • O-Touch backpannel touchpad
  • ColorOS or CyanogenMod OS
  • O-Click Bluetooth Remote and White Easy Cover Included
˅ Show All Features ˅

Unlocked OPPO N1 White Description

World's First Rotating Camera SmartphoneOPPO was the first in the world to release a 13-megapixel camera smartphone. With the N1, we are once again realizing new possibilities in smartphone photography. Introducing the world's first smartphone with a rotating camera.The revolutionary rotating camera features a 206° rotation, and will securely lock at any angle. No matter what angle you choose, having just one amazing camera means that front facing shots are finally just as good as back facing shots.Good photos are the result of excellent hardware and software working in harmony, which is why we created Pure Image. Applied to the photo at the time of capture, it helps you capture breathtaking and vividly realistic images.N1 is the first Android smartphone to use six physical lenses, giving you a clearer image while eliminating any distortion. The latest generation stacked CMOS sensor, upgraded type 1/3.06 imaging module and f/2.0 wide aperture lets more light in, so you can take great photos even in dark environments.Never Miss a BeatEasily the fastest starting camera available on the market, the N1 camera will boot in just 0.6 seconds. A simple 120° rotation of the camera will wake a sleeping screen and let you immediately start taking pictures. Recording your moments has never been easier.Ultimate CraftsmanshipThe full metal aluminum alloy frame is produced over a 20-day period. During this time it undergoes a 14 step polishing process involving more than a dozen suppliers. Strengthening the core of the phone, the frame adds an air of toughness, firmness and style to the OPPO N1.The phone body is made with a smooth, delicate material for a ceramic-like elegance, designed to keep your device free of fingerprints and eternally soft to the touch. ˅ Show All Description ˅

Source: Oppo Style

Deal of the Day: Seidio SURFACE Case (with kickstand) for Samsung Galaxy Note 3

Deal of the Day: Seidio SURFACE Case (with kickstand) for Samsung Galaxy Note 3

Deal of the Day The Dec. 10 Deal of the Day is the Seidio SURFACE Case (with kickstand) for Samsung Galaxy Note 3. The SURFACE Case is the perfect hard case; combining a super-slim design, protective outer shell and a magnetic kickstand for convenient viewing. The retractable stand comes in handy when watching movies, slideshows or displaying your calendar or clock in a landscape position. Comes in black, blue, red, purple and teal.

The Seidio SURFACE Case (with kickstand) is available for just $19.49, 44% off today only. Backed by our 60-day return policy and fast shipping.

Deal also available in the Canada Store

Check out our extensive selection of Samsung Galaxy Note 3 accessories at ShopAndroid.com!


Via: Deal of the Day: Seidio SURFACE Case (with kickstand) for Samsung Galaxy Note 3

Qualcomm announces Snapdragon 410 - mid-range 64-bit processor with LTE

Qualcomm announces Snapdragon 410 - mid-range 64-bit processor with LTE

Qualcomm

Chipmaker Qualcomm has announced a new addition to its mid-to-entry-level chipset lineup, the Snapdragon 410. The new SoC supports 64-bit processing (a technology debuted in mobile on the iPhone 5s) and "world mode" 4GLTEcapable of supporting "all major modes and frequency bands." It's targeted at devices around the $150 price point shipping in the second half of 2014 so think the next generation of affordable Moto G-like handsets.

The Snapdragon 410 features an Adreno 306 GPU with support for 1080pvideo playback and up to a 13-megapixel camera. Other major bullet points include Qualcomm's RF360 solution for multi-band and multimode operation, as well as Wifi, Bluetooth, NFC and FM radio, in addition to GPS, GLONASS andBeiDou location support.

The announcement follows the first news of Qualcomm's new 4K-capable high-end chip, the Snapdragon 805, a couple of weeks back.

While the introduction of 64-bit processing and "world mode" LTEcapabilities in a mid-level chip are exciting, it'll be up to manufacturers to use them to their fullest potential in future products. Nevertheless, it sounds like a solid platform for the next generation of low-cost handsets.

Press Release

Qualcomm Technologies Introduces Snapdragon 410 Chipset with Integrated 4G LTE World Mode for High-Volume Smartphones

4G LTE, 64-Bit Processing Expands Qualcomm Technologies' Global Product Offerings and Reference Design Program

SAN DIEGO, Dec. 9, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Qualcomm Incorporated (NASDAQ: QCOM) today announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., has introduced the Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 chipset with integrated 4G LTE World Mode. The delivery of faster connections is important to the growth and adoption of smartphones in emerging regions, and Qualcomm Snapdragon chipsets are poised to address the needs of consumers as 4G LTE begins to ramp in China. The new Snapdragon 410 chipsets are manufactured using 28nm process technology. They feature processors that are 64-bit capable along with superior graphics performance with the Adreno 306 GPU, 1080p video playback and up to a 13 Megapixel camera. Snapdragon 410 chipsets integrate 4G LTE and 3G cellular connectivity for all major modes and frequency bands across the globe and include support for Dual and Triple SIM. Together with Qualcomm RF360 Front End Solution, Snapdragon 410 chipsets will have multiband and multimode support. Snapdragon 410 chipsets also feature Qualcomm's Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, FM and NFC functionality, and support all major navigation constellations: GPS, GLONASS, and China's new BeiDou, which helps deliver enhanced accuracy and speed of Location data to Snapdragon-enabled handsets. The chipset also supports all major operating systems, including the Android, Windows Phone and Firefox operating systems. Qualcomm Reference Design versions of the processor will be available to enable rapid development time and reduce OEM R&D, designed to provide a comprehensive mobile device platform. The Snapdragon 410 processor is anticipated to begin sampling in the first half of 2014 and expected to be in commercial devices in the second half of 2014.

Qualcomm Technologies also announced for the first time the intention to make 4G LTE available across all of the Snapdragon product tiers. The Snapdragon 410 processor gives the 400 product tier several 4G LTE options for high-volume mobile devices, as the third LTE-enabled solution in the product tier. By offering 4G LTE variants to its entry level smartphone lineup, Qualcomm Technologies ensures that emerging regions are equipped for this transition while also having every major 2G and 3G technology available to them. Qualcomm Technologies offers OEMs and operators differentiation through a rich feature set upon which to build innovative high-volume smartphones for budget-conscious consumers.

"We are excited to bring 4G LTE to highly affordable smartphones at a sub $150 ( 1,000 RMB) price point with the introduction of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 processor," said Jeff Lorbeck, senior vice president and chief operating officer, Qualcomm Technologies, China. "The Snapdragon 410 chipset will also be the first of many 64-bit capable processors as Qualcomm Technologies helps lead the transition of the mobile ecosystem to 64-bit processing."

Qualcomm Technologies will release the Qualcomm Reference Design (QRD) version of the Snapdragon 410 processor with support for Qualcomm RF360 Front End Solution. The QRD program offers Qualcomm Technologies' leading technical innovation, easy customization options, the QRD Global Enablement Solution which features regional software packages, modem configurations, testing and acceptance readiness for regional operator requirements, and access to a broad ecosystem of hardware component vendors and software application developers. Under the QRD program, customers can rapidly deliver differentiated smartphones to value-conscious consumers. There have been more than 350 public QRD-based product launches to date in collaboration with more than 40 OEMs in 18 countries.


Via: Qualcomm announces Snapdragon 410 - mid-range 64-bit processor with LTE

Samsung hails 10 million Galaxy Note 3s sold after second month on sale

Samsung hails 10 million Galaxy Note 3s sold after second month on sale

Galaxy Note 3

Samsung's latest Note inducted into '10 million seller' club

Not long after the company announced it had shipped 5 million Galaxy Note 3sworldwide, Samsung has revealed that the device has now passed the 10 million sold mark. The milestone earns the Galaxy Note 3 in the "10 million club," Samsung says, alongside recent successes like the earlier Galaxy S and Galaxy Note phones, and popular clamshell phones from the last decade.

It's unclear whether this means 10 million Note 3 devices are in the hands of end-users around the world, or whether Samsung has sold this number of handsets to retailers and carrier partners. Either way, that's a lot of Note 3s in a relatively short space of time. By comparison, the Galaxy Note 2 had shifted 5 millionunits shortly before the end of its second month on sale.

The Samsung Galaxy Note 3 also earned the title of "best oversized phone" in our recent roundup of the best Android phones on the market.

Source: Samsung Tomorrow


Via: Samsung hails 10 million Galaxy Note 3s sold after second month on sale