Author: Jeff Causey

  • More information on which countries get which processor in Samsung Galaxy S 4

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    Since Samsung announced their new Galaxy S 4 last week, with a release date scheduled for April 26th around the globe, many people have been trying to figure out which model will be available for purchase in their location. SamMobile has started to compile a list to aid those trying to figure out their options. The Galaxy S 4 will come with one of two processors. The GT-I9505 model is slated to be equipped with a Snapdragon 600 quad-core cpu clocked at 1.9 Ghz while the GT-I9500 will come with an Exynos 5 Octa processor running eight cores at 1.6 Ghz. It appears one of the main determinants for which model will be available has to do with the availability of LTE service, which the Exynos chip does not support.

    You can check out the list after the break.

    GT-I**** = Not decided yet.
    GT-I9500 = Exynos
    GT-I9505 = Snapdragon
    GT-I9500 / GT-I9505 = Samsung to bring both versions

    Africa
    GT-I9500 – Afghanistan
    GT-I9500 – Algeria
    GT-I9500 – Egypt
    GT-I9500 – Kenya
    GT-I9500 – Lybia
    GT-I9500 – Marocco
    GT-I9500 – Nigeria

    Asia / Middle East
    GT-I9500 – Bangladesh
    GT-I9500 – China
    GT-I9500 / GT-I9505 – Hong Kong
    GT-I9500 – India
    GT-I9500 – Indonesia
    GT-I9500 – Iran
    GT-I9500 – Iraq
    GT-I**** – Israel
    GT-I9500 – Kazakhstan
    GT-I9500 / GT-I9505 – Korea
    GT-I9500 / GT-I9505 – Malaysia
    GT-I9500 – Nepal
    GT-I9500 – Pakistan
    GT-I9500 / GT-I9505 – Philippines
    GT-I9500 – Russia
    GT-I9500 / GT-I9505 – Saudi Arabia
    GT-I9505 – Singapore
    GT-I9500 – Sri Lanka
    GT-I9500 – Taiwan
    GT-I9500 – Thailand
    GT-I9500 – Turkey
    GT-I9500 / GT-I9505 – United Arab Emirates
    GT-I9500 – Uzbekistan
    GT-I9500 – Vietnam

    Australia
    GT-I9505 – Australia

    Europe
    GT-I9505 – Austria
    GT-I9505 – Baltic
    GT-I9505 – Belgium / Luxemburg
    GT-I9505 – Bosnia and Herzegovina
    GT-I9505 – Bulgaria
    GT-I**** – Croatia
    GT-I9505 – Cyprus
    GT-I9505 – Czech Republic
    GT-I9500 / GT-I9505 – France
    GT-I9500 / GT-I9505 – Germany
    GT-I9505 – Greece
    GT-I9500 / GT-I9505 – Italy
    GT-I9505 – Macedonia
    GT-I9505 – Nordic Countries
    GT-I9500 / GT-I9505 – Poland
    GT-I9505 – Romania
    GT-I9500 – Russia
    GT-I9505 – Portugal
    GT-I**** – Serbia
    GT-I9505 – Slovakia
    GT-I9505 – Slovenia
    GT-I9505 – Spain
    GT-I9505 – Switzerland
    GT-I9505 – The Netherlands
    GT-I9500 / GT-I9505 – United Kingdom
    GT-I9500 – Ukraine

    source: SamMobile
    via: Phandroid

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  • Samsung’s market share lead expected to double says analyst

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    With some analysts projecting Samsung’s new Galaxy S 4 will push the company back ahead of Apple in the worldwide smartphone market, the impact could be even more far-reaching according to IHS Research. In the broader cell phone market, Samsung is already number 1 in global shipments, leading second place Nokia by 5 percentage points.  IHS Research is projecting Samsung’s lead should expand to 11 percentage points by the end of 2013.

    IHS Research did not project actual market share for 2013. However, two factors are expected to increase Samsung’s lead and likely increase their share from the 29% they currently lay claim to. The first, most obvious item will be the Galaxy S 4 which is already generating massive interest. Samsung uses a strategy of making devices ready for “a massive worldwide rollout through almost every operator” to help get their devices into the hand of as many people as possible notes IHS Research analyst Ian Fogg. The second issue will be Nokia’s continued fade and inability to break into the smartphone market. Even if third place Apple were to experience significant growth, they are still far behind at only 10% of the worldwide market.

    source: CNET

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  • Google Currents adds support for audio playback in app

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    With many people looking for replacement news readers after Google announced the demise of Google Reader, Google has struck while the iron is hot with another one of their products. They have added audio playback support to their Google Currents app for Android devices. According to Google’s list of new features in the news reader, audio playback will work with publications that enable audio. Control can be achieved both in app and via the status bar with audio easily launched using icons in a story. Along with the new audio features, Google Currents can now sync read state between devices and some bug fixes were included in this release.

    If you haven’t tried Google Currents or want to update, use the download link below.

    QR Code generator

    Google Play Download Link

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  • ZTE and Intrepidus partner on smartphone security issue

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    You may have noticed in recent months that there is a big push on the part of smartphone manufacturers to sell the “security” of their devices. This is needed to obtain greater acceptance in the corporate world and to encourage consumers to use their devices for secure transactions. The latest manufacturer to join the frenzy is ZTE, the world’s fourth largest smartphone producer. Today ZTE announced a partnership with Intrepidus to evaluate the security mechanisms of ZTE devices. Intrepidus is a security testing company that specifically focuses on mobile devices, applications, systems and networks.

    According to their press release, ZTE is partnering with Intrepidus to identify vulnerabilities, conduct penetration testing, perform reverse engineering, and review source code. ZTE is pursuing this course because “the need to protect personal information becomes more important each day.” You can check out the full press release after the break.

    ZTE and Intrepidus Announce Partnership to Ensure Smartphone Security

    RICHARDSON, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)–ZTE Corporation (“ZTE”) (H share stock code: 0763.HK / A share stock code: 000063.SZ), a publicly-listed global provider of mobile handsets, telecommunications equipment and network solutions, today announced a partnership with leading provider of mobile application and device security services, Intrepidus, an NCC Group company.

    ZTE is the world’s fourth largest smartphone manufacturer and partners with all of the major US carriers. The company has seen tremendous growth in the United States in the past few years and continues to invest heavily in the US market. ZTE has long been regarded as a leader in international standards; in partnering with Intrepidus, ZTE now seeks to become a leader in smartphone security.

    As part of the agreement, Intrepidus will evaluate the security mechanisms of ZTE-manufactured smartphones. This evaluation includes identifying potential vulnerabilities; conducting penetration testing of ZTE device management interfaces and ZTE device features; and performing reverse engineering and source code review. The security testing will enable ZTE to deliver a wide range of smart, stylish choices for smartphone users with the added peace of mind that their device is secure.

    “Our work with Intrepidus stands as an important milestone in handset security,” said Lixin Cheng, CEO, ZTE USA, and President, North America Region, ZTE. “With the increasing number of transactions carried out on smartphones, the need to protect personal information becomes more important each day. At ZTE, we have always been committed to making world-class technology accessible to everyone; now our work with Intrepidus will ensure that our customers can continue to connect in meaningful, innovative and affordable ways without questioning the security of their smartphones.”

    This is the first step in a series of actions the company plans to take regarding smartphone security. ZTE hopes to work closely with carriers, app developers, policymakers and industry organizations to raise awareness among consumers about best practices and guidelines for handset security.

    About ZTE USA

    ZTE USA is a subsidiary of ZTE Corporation (H share stock code: 0763.HK / A share stock code: 000063.SZ), a leading global provider of mobile handsets, telecommunications equipment and network solutions. ZTE USA is dedicated to making quality communications technology accessible to all. The company draws on more than 25 years of experience and research investment to deliver smart, affordable, quality choices for infrastructure and mobile data device customers nationwide. For more information, visit www.zteusa.com.

    About ZTE

    ZTE is a publicly-listed global provider of mobile handsets, telecommunications equipment and network solutions with the most comprehensive product range covering virtually every sector of the wireline, wireless, service and terminals markets. The company delivers innovative, custom-made products and services to over 500 operators in more than 140 countries, helping them to meet the changing needs of their customers while achieving continued revenue growth. ZTE’s 2010 revenue led the industry with a 21% increase to USD10.609 billion. ZTE commits 10 percent of its revenue to research and development and takes a leading role in a wide range of international bodies developing emerging telecoms standards. A company with sound corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, ZTE is a member of the UN Global Compact. ZTE is China’s only listed telecom manufacturer, publicly traded on both the Hong Kong and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges (H share stock code: 0763.HK / A share stock code: 000063.SZ). For more information, please visit www.zte.com.cn.

    About Intrepidus Group

    Expert US security testing company Intrepidus Group, works with organizations to pinpoint and eradicate security flaws in mobile devices, applications, systems and networks.

    A leader in the field of mobile security research, testing & advice, Intrepidus assesses mobile applications, trains developers to code defensively, and evaluates the security mechanisms of cutting edge telecommunications products and smart phone devices.

    Intrepidus was established in 2006 and is part of leading global information assurance organization NCC Group plc.

    For more information, please visit www.intrepidusgroup.com

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  • No CM support for Galaxy S 4? Not so fast says CyanogenMod team

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    Earlier today we reported on some members of TeamHacksung expressing an unwillingness to develop a ROM for Samsung’s forthcoming Galaxy S 4 smartphone. The news certainly set the ‘net abuzz, but it appears the comments may not be as “official” as originally thought. The CyanogenMod Team has posted on their Google+ page a statement indicating no official position had been established regarding the Galaxy S 4 and that one would not be established until the device was available for retail purchases.

    In the posting, the CM team reminds folks that announcements regarding support for devices will be communicated via their official channels on Google+, Twitter, Facebook, or their blog. The CM team also points out the comments from this morning posted by XpLoDWilD were just the opinions of four members of TeamHacksung who do not speak on behalf of CyanogenMod.

    Those looking forward to getting CM running on a Galaxy S 4 can breathe a little easier for now.

    source: +CyanogenMod

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  • iMeet now available for Android devices

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    Web conferencing users will be glad to know they have a new option available to them in iMeet, a platform that had previously been available only for iOS devices. iMeet developer Premiere Global Services, Inc., says the conferencing app is intuitive, easy-to-use, and will unchain you from your desk when you need to participate in a web conference. The iMeet service is available on computers, smartphones and tablets and can transition between the devices during a conference.

    The iMeet app can handle connections for up to 15 people. Meeting organizers can start the meeting from their smartphone and manage other aspects of the meeting like muting guests, sharing files, chat and more. For guests the service is free while organizers can purchase audio minutes for as little as $19 per month. In addition to video conferencing or call-in participants, the service will also let users share videos, pictures, files or presentations.

    iMeet offers a 30-day free trial of the service if you head over to their web site at imeet.com. If you or your team are already using iMeet but you have been locked out by the iOS-only status of the app, you can use one of the download links below to grab the app for your Android device.

    imeet_screen_01
    imeet_screen_02
    imeet_screen_03
    imeet_screen_08
    imeet_screen_07
    imeet_screen_06
    imeet_screen_05
    imeet_screen_04

    QR Code generator

    Google Play Download Link

     

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  • Analysts say Samsung Galaxy S 4 to push Samsung back ahead of Apple

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    As Apple and Samsung continue to bounce the crown for best-selling smartphone between each other, analysts at Nomura say the latest Galaxy device will push Samsung back to the top spot. Nomura was not impressed with the latest device in Samsung’s Galaxy line, the Samsung Galaxy S 4. Nevertheless, the changes that they describe as “evolutionary” as opposed to “revolutionary” should be enough to propel Samsung to the top spot.

    During the fourth quarter of 2012 Apple sold around 27.4 million iPhone 5 devices versus 15.4 million Samsung Galaxy S III units to retake the title. Nomura’s analysts think Samsung’s Galaxy S 4 and the Samsung Galaxy Note II will combine for sales in the range of 35 to 40 million units per quarter during 2013. The analysts also expect a shift to occur during the upcoming sales quarters as both Apple and Samsung will have to start working on stealing users from each other rather than the smaller players in the smartphone market. Besides ratcheting up the acrimony that already exists between the two companies, this will probably result in more price-based competition. Such a situation will be good news for consumers but it will impact margins for Samsung and Apple and it will make life difficult for other manufacturers trying to capitalize on the market.

    source: BGR

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  • T-Mobile LTE update for Samsung Galaxy Note II pushing out

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    Owner’s of a Samsung Galaxy Note II on the T-Mobile network may notice an update is available for their device. The update is probably one you will want to grab as it enables a connection to T-Mobile’s new 4G LTE service. T-Mobile indicates the service should be available in Las Vegas and Kansas City by the end of this month. At some point this summer the new service should be lit up in enough areas to reach 100 million people and by the end of the year it should reach 200 million people. For comparison, the Verizon 4G LTE network reaches 275 million people.

    In some testing that was conducted using a Galaxy Note II, speeds were found to be in the 59 Mbps down, 25 Mbps up range.  Granted, there were probably no other users accessing the signal. As fast as the 4G LTE connection is, T-Mobile customers will also benefit from HSPA+ 4G when they find themselves in an area with no 4G LTE coverage.

    source: PhoneArena

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  • Real or fake? Image of possible LG Nexus 5 surfaces

    lg_nexus_5_prototype_leak

    It is always fun to play the real or fake game when it comes to leaked images of Android devices, especially when the image may be the first one to surface. So muster up your skepticism and consider the image above that purports to be a prototype of an LG Nexus 5. The anonymous source of the image claims this particular LG device is one of several that Google is considering for their next Nexus smartphone. The source also provided a list of specs and hardware for the device, codenamed “Megalodon”:

    • 5.2″ OLED Display with 1920×1080 resolution
    • Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 @ 2.3 GHz
    • 3GB LPDDR3 Ram
    • 16/32/64GB of internal storage
    • 16MP rear camera by OmniVision (4k video recording @30FPS, 1080p video recording @60FPS, Real Time HDR & HDR video recording, optical image stabilization, BSI 2.0)
    • 2.1MP front camera (1080p video recording @30FPS)
    • 3300 mAh Lithium Polymer battery
    • Front positioned stereo speakers
    • Qualcomm RF360 (LTE 150 Mbps & HSPA+)
    • Integrated DVB-T / ATSC-antenna
    • Gesture like controls (navigation, zoom, etc)

    Readers may note that a few of the items are not even on the market yet, like the Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor or their RF360 chip. According to the source, the new device will be released in October 2013, so it is conceivable some of this hardware could be part of the new device.

    What do you think? Is this legit or a case of someone trying to hoax the Internet?

    source: Android and Me

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  • Sprint 4G LTE test detected in Durham, North Carolina

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    Much like an incident that occurred last fall in San Jose for another TalkAndroid writer, Ed Caggiani, I happened to be travelling in a part of Durham I don’t normally visit when I came across some Sprint 4G LTE coverage. After grabbing some grub in a convenience store, I went to check my email while in the parking lot when I noticed the 4G indicator was lit up on my Galaxy Note II. Hit the break to read more about what it was like to have 4G LTE for a few minutes.

    sprint_4g_speedtest

    Life always seems to be about compromises and Sprint customers are well aware of that. They get nice unlimited data plans, but the Sprint 4G LTE network is definitely not on par with the other major carriers. At one time Sprint may have been ahead of the curve with their 4G WiMAX network only to find themselves on the wrong side of the fence as 4G technologies shook out and LTE emerged as the preferred platform. I can understand why having owned an HTC EVO 4G. When connected, the service was nice but tended to be hard to find and prone to dropping in and out if the signal was the least bit weak.

    While Sprint plays catch-up in deploying a nationwide 4G LTE network, users eager for the service may find themselves searching for any little hint or sign that it is coming to their area soon. When I visited the Sprint store at the end of December to grab my new Note II, the sales guy mentioned to me that he thought 4G was coming to the area in February or March. I’m not one to think the sales associate in a local Sprint store has access to Sprint’s project timelines for 4G coverage, but I still couldn’t help thinking silently to myself, “Yes!” Through my other job, I also know Sprint is overhauling the infrastructure in the area, including getting rid of the Nextel assets, as we have been dealing with problems from that project.

    This latest incident is another example that keeps me hopeful that it will not be too long before I have 4G LTE service available and can really take advantage of my smartphone hardware. According to Sprint’s web site, the central area of North Carolina isn’t even an available option in their dropdown list to check for when coverage may be coming, which I always thought odd given all the tech companies in the Raleigh-Durham area. Sprint has also posted on their community pages this disclaimer:

    We’re working on expanding the LTE coverage, but during the build out stages customers may pick up LTE signals, but it may not be reliable at times because it is still under the beta testing stages. However; customers are welcome to use it during this time.”

    sprint_4g_speedtest_results

    Clearly Sprint is working on upgrades in the area and I happened to find a spot with some access. After noting the 4G icon, I quickly launched the SpeedTest.net app to check out the speed. As you can see in the results, about 8.5 Mb/s down and 1.5 Mb/s up is not going to win any speed competitions from what I have seen. Nevertheless, it is still way superior to the 3G coverage I normally deal with in the area. I then fired up some apps like Google+, Facebook and Tweetings to see what the experience was like. My impression was one of being on a WiFi network. Everything loaded so fast. Part of that is likely due to the much decreased latency. When I’ve tested my 3G connection, I find latency to be in the 800+ ms range. On 4G, latency was sub-100 ms. I also felt like it was faster than the old WiMAX 4G service, though part of that difference could be the capabilities of the devices as well.

    Having drunk a sip from the well, my thirst for 4G LTE is even more intense. For those readers waiting for 4G LTE coverage, whether on Sprint or some other carrier, I think you will be pleased when you finally get it.

    If you have spotted some 4G LTE coverage where it is not officially available yet, let us know and share your story.

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  • HTC launching offensive against Samsung?

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    Earlier this evening we saw HTC play the role of party crasher at Samsung’s big reveal event for the Samsung Galaxy S IV. Their efforts to present a different option did not stop with their pre-activity stunt though. Since Samsung’s event concluded, HTC has been busy leveling criticisms about their competitor and the new device.

    Over on Twitter, HTC posed the following question:

    So…how off-Broadway is this production? #theNextBigFlop #HTCOne

    “The Next Big Flop” appears to be HTC’s attempt to rebrand the Galaxy S IV by playing off Samsung’s “The Next Big Thing” phrase. Meanwhile, HTC President Jason MacKenzie has been hitting up the journalists to express his opinion regarding Samsung’s efforts this evening. In an interview with CNET, MacKenzie indicated he “went from laughing to actually feeling embarrassed at some of the acting” in reference to some of the skits Samsung presented to highlight features of the new device. MacKenzie also thinks the Galaxy S IV lacks any significant new features and specifically called out S-Translator as an already available technology on Android phones.

    Samsung thus far has opted to stay above the fray with Ryan Bidan, director of marketing for Samsung Telecommunications America, merely acknowledging MacKenzie’s right to have an opinion.

    The actions of HTC may be one driven by some sense of desperation. They have already struggled a bit to get their new flagship HTC One device to market with the most recent delay pushing availability into April. Meanwhile, they are coming off of a difficult financial year with forecasts not looking pleasant. Clearly the Galaxy S IV and HTC One are both top-tier devices that will probably find themselves frequently mentioned in the same breath as being among the “best” Android devices available. For this evening at least, HTC has managed to get their HTC One device mentioned nearly as often as the Galaxy S IV judging by the headlines.

    Are you glad to see HTC coming out swinging or do you think it just makes them look petty and desperate?

    source: CNET, @HTC

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  • Major US carriers updating plans to carry Samsung Galaxy S IV

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    When Samsung mentioned during their Unpacked Event this evening that 327 mobile operators around the world would carry the Samsung Galaxy S IV there was little doubt all of the major U.S. carriers would get to carry the device. Those carriers have been hitting the Internet to get the word out that there was no need to make an assumption – availability is going to happen.

    Thus far US Cellular, Verizon Wireless, T-Mobile, Sprint and AT&T have all issued announcements of some sort to indicate they will carry the Galaxy S IV. Though none are providing any kind of pricing details or exact availability dates, Sprint did take the opportunity to mention in their release that the device would be available on their unlimited data plans:

    Sprint is excited to bring the benefit of Truly Unlimited 4G LTE data to the U.S. variant of Galaxy S4 in the second quarter of this year. Our customers will appreciate the ability to use Galaxy S4 to surf the Web, share pictures and videos, and use this smartphone as much as they want without worrying about throttling or overage charges on their monthly bill due to data caps. NPD Group data indicated in 4Q 2012 that Sprint was the top U.S. seller of Samsung Galaxy S III, so we believe our customers will also enjoy its successor’s features and unlimited data.

    T-Mobile and AT&T already have pages setup on their sites for potential buyers to sign up for notifications.

    sources: Phandroid, Android Central

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  • Samsung adds Knox and HomeSync to Samsung Galaxy S IV

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    During their big reveal of the Samsung Galaxy S IV tonight, the folks from Samsung talked about a couple new features they were including on the device that users may find useful. The first is the Samsung Knox security scheme. Knox is designed to create a virtual wall between the personal and work areas on a device. Knox may be thought of as the manifestation of their SAFE, Samsung Approved For Enterprise, security and part of their big push to get Samsung devices adopted in the enterprise.

    Meanwhile, for users not focused on using their new Galaxy S IV in the enterprise, Samsung included a nice function for home use. HomeSync is a personal cloud service based on a 1 TB device that will run at home. The device will let up to eight users connect to store and share media. The device will be accessible from outside the local area network via any Internet connection. Besides Internet access, HomeSync can be accessed via NFC and will have Bluetooth built-in as well. Using an HDMI cable, the device could be connected to your favorite large entertainment device for playback. The Galaxy S IV will include the ability to seamlessly upload content to the HomeSync device. This may be a way for some users to avoid online storage services for media content.

    source: Android Community

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  • Huawei Ascend Mate set to hit Chinese market on March 21st

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    It seems like we have been waiting for the release of the Huawei Ascend Mate for a really long time, but in reality Huawei is not too late in releasing the device relative to some of our earlier projections of a February release date. Huawei has confirmed today the giant phone will be available in the Chinese market on March 21 for 3,120 yuan ($500 USD). You may recall the Ascend Mate comes with a huge 6.1-inch IPS display, a 1.5GHz quad-core processor, 2GB of RAM and a gargantuan 4050mAh battery, running Android 4.1 Jelly Bean.

    What is still unclear is whether the Ascend Mate will ever find its way outside of China. There is some hope that it will at least make it to some European markets like Germany, where Amazon has listed the device for €499 ($646 USD).

    source: Softpedia
    via: Android Authority

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  • Amazon Kindle Fire HD 8.9-inch model price cut

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    Amazon announced today that it was cutting the price on both versions of its largest Kindle device, the Kindle Fire HD 8.9. The WiFi only version of the tablet was priced at $299 in the U.S. and will see its price drop to $269. The price cut for the 4G enabled version is more dramatic, going from $499 down to $399. According to Amazon, they sell their Kindle devices at cost. With the impending release of the device to several new markets including the U.K., Germany, France, Italy, Spain and Japan, Amazon claims they have achieved some new economies of scale as they ramp up production to meet the expected demand from the new markets.

    Amazon sells their devices at cost as part of a strategy to make their profit selling content for the devices, whether it is books, movies, magazines, games or other digital products. A small amount of profit is also made selling accessories for the devices. This strategy depends on Amazon selling a lot of units, something some analysts don’t think is happening. Chad Bartley with Pacific Crest Securities cites sources in the supply chain who have told him demand is weak. Others, like BGC Partners’ Colin Gillis, think the price drop is part of the normal sales cycle that slows down during the first part of the year.

    If you have been eyeing a Kindle Fire HD 8.9, now may be the time to make your move.

    source: Reuters

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  • New VoLTE tests show improved battery life for second generation

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    As we watch newer, faster smartphones come to market, many of us may gloss over one of the original uses of the devices – phone calls. Manufacturers and carriers have not forgotten though and as they have been working to rollout 4G LTE services, they have realized they could shift voice traffic over to the LTE network, but not without some challenges. To address the situation, some carriers have been looking at moving voice traffic onto the LTE network using technology referred to as VoLTE, Voice over LTE. The problem is that LTE was designed to move data not voice. In addition, LTE currently does not carry SMS traffic which accounts for a large portion of the revenue stream. To make voice calls over LTE means the use of some type of VOIP technology to convert the voice call into data, which means more computing overhead and thus, more demands on a smartphone’s battery. This concept was found to be true in testing in late 2012. MetroPCS and LG have been working to improve this situation as revealed in the results of recent tests.

    Spirent, a network testing firm, recently conducted comparative tests on the MetroPCS network with LG Spirit devices. They found the second generation devices’ power consumption showed a 35 percent improvement compared to the first generation when utilizing VoLTE. With the addition of higher capacity batteries, overall battery life improved by 122 percent, which puts the technology on par with current CDMA technology. Spirent also tested VOIP calls using Skype and found this used about one-third less power than regular voice calls.

    The trend is certainly in the right direction for VoLTE implementation. Both Verizon and MetroPCS have announced plans to implement VoLTE in late 2013 or early 2014. Hopefully improvements will continue throughout the year so the new technology can hit the market with at least the same battery life expectations that we have all become accustomed to.

    source: Spirent
    via: PhoneArena.com

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  • PowerVR SGX 544 to be used in Exynos 5 Octa

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    With only a couple days left before Samsung reveals the Samsung Galaxy S IV, a new detail has been confirmed regarding the hardware. Imagination Technologies revealed today that the Exynos 5410 “Octa” chip incorporates the PowerVR SGX 544 core IP. We still don’t know how many cores are being used or at what speed, though sources suggest three cores running at 533MHz will be present. The use of the PowerVR IP is a change for Exynos chips which have used ARM’s Mali GPU for the last couple years.

    source: AnandTech

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  • doubleTwist updated to v2.0, adds streaming Magic Radio

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    doubleTwist released a new version of their Android app today that adds a streaming music service named Magic Radio. The new v2.0.0 adds a personalized, streaming music service with access to over 13 million songs. According to doubleTwist, the doubleTwist Player app will examine your music library to create new, infinite playlists from the streaming service. Users can also create their own streaming playlist based on songs in their library or from scratch. Magic Radio is a $3.99 per month service that does not use ads so you can enjoy your music uninterrupted. However, in adding the new Magic Radio service to the app, it appears doubleTwist has removed the Internet Radio feature judging by reviews left in the Google Play Store. If that was an option you enjoyed and used, you may want to hold off on updating until we see whether doubleTwist has a change of heart and adds it back in.

    Check out the video below introducing the new Magic Radio service. To give the doubleTwist Player a try, use one of the download links below.

    Click here to view the embedded video.

    QR Code generator

    Google Play Download Link

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  • T-Mobile/MetroPCS FCC approval may be near as vote date approaches for MetroPCS

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    With MetroPCS scheduled to vote on a merger with T-Mobile only a couple weeks away, the deal appears to have moved closer to obtaining FCC approval. An attorney for the Communication Workers of America Union claims the deal will be approved “at the bureau level instead of the commission level.” The union is watching the proceedings closely as they have concerns about the merger and this apparent move by the FCC to usher approval on through does not sit well with the union. Debbie Goldman, a director with the CWA refers to the possible FCC decision as “outrageous” and “unprecedented.” Despite the CWA’s concerns, others see this latest development as positive news. David Kuat, an analyst with Stifel Nicolaus & Co., believes the lack of commission level action reveals the deal to be “basically non-controversial” and that “no one thinks this is going to be blocked.”

    source: TmoNews

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  • Riptide GP 2 splashes down on NVIDIA’s Project Shield device

    project-shield-overview

    Ever since NVIDIA announced the Project Shield device at CES 2013, they have continued to produce videos for a variety of games coming to the Tegra 4 powered mobile game console. The latest title to be highlighted on NVIDIA’s site is Riptide GP 2, a jet-ski racing game. It should be no surprise that a game involving so much water would show up to help demonstrate some of the capabilities of NVIDIA’s latest chip. 

    NVIDIA says the new version of Riptide GP will include “enhanced water and particle effects, HDR lighting, boosted reflection shaders and the all-new spectator mode.” Riptide GP 2 joins other titles like Need for Speed Most Wanted, Burn Zombie Burn and Real Boxing that have received the highlight treatment from NVIDIA.

    Check out the video below to see how the Project Shield device works and what Riptide GP 2 will be like on the device.

    Click here to view the embedded video.

    source: NVIDIA

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