Delta updates its Android app with v2.0 makeover [DYKWIA?]

Airline still lacking a proper tablet app, however

A bit of good news tonight for those of you who a decent amount of time at 35,000 feet. Delta has updated its Android application to Version 2.0, just a couple weeks after it dropped for iOS. With it you'll get a brand-new user interface, as well as a bevy of new options, including the ability to purchase domestic flights from your phone (they're still working on international flights), or add economy comfort seats and other trip extras.

A Delta representative on the Flyer Talk Forumsexpanded a bit on the update, saying:

Just like weve added in the iPhone version of the app, weve included the ability to find, compare and book flights. Weve also updated My Trips to give you a quick and easy way to purchase Economy Comfort and our Trip Extras, including Wi-Fi and Priority Boarding. Youll also be able to use the Track My Bags and Check Flight Status features to improve your day of travel experience.

At the core of the new functionality, weve optimized (and in some cases completely re-written) our backend systems to provide you with faster response times in all areas of the app. Additionally, we have updated the look and feel to help you find the most important features easily.

Missing -- still -- is any sort of tablet application. That's been annoying enough in the past (never mind that the phone application has worked just fine when sideloaded on tablets), but it's especially disappointing given the awesomeness that Delta brought in its iPad app, particularly when it comes to seeing what's on the ground beneath your flight at any given time.

More: Android travel apps

Via: Delta updates its Android app with v2.0 makeover [DYKWIA?]

CyanogenMod Gets Cease & Desist On 'Chronus' Name, Wants To Crowd-Source A New One [Updated]

Update: The CyanogenMod team has chosen a new name: cLock. According to the Google+ post, the new name was chosen by virtue of its simplicity.

In a post to Google+ titled "Pitfalls of being so big" earlier this evening, the CyanogenMod team informed followers that CM had been served with a C&D (Cease and Desist) request regarding their Chronus clock widget.

For those unfamiliar, Chronus is CyanogenMod's acclaimed lock screen (or home screen) clock widget, introduced last December, that displays the time in Android 4.2 fashion along with configurable calendar and weather information.

Specifically, the "entity" serving the C&D seems to have issue with the widget's name, which is similar to the entity's own "Cronus." CyanogenMod's post emphasizes that while the team does not agree with the C&D claim, they do not have the time or resources to fight it so, naturally, they're looking to crowd-source a new name for the clock.

CM's followers have already suggested some pretty great replacement names highlights include "Clockblocked," "Cease & Desist," and "Not-Cronus". If you've got a good idea for the widget's new name, hit the link below to head to the original post.

Source: Google+

Via: CyanogenMod Gets Cease & Desist On 'Chronus' Name, Wants To Crowd-Source A New One [Updated]

Metro PCS gets the LG Spirit 4G

Metro PCS has announced it'll carry the LG Spirit, a 4.5-inch Android 4.0 smartphone with 4G LTE data. It's powered by a dual core processor running at 1.2GHz, has a 2150 mAh battery and sports a 5-megapixel rear camera and a 1.3MP shooter up front. The Spirit is available online and in stores today for $199 (after a $70 mail-in rebate). Metro PCS' no-contract plans start at $40 a month.

More: Metro PCS

Via: Metro PCS gets the LG Spirit 4G

HTC Vows 'Continued Support For The Developer Community,' But We're Not Convinced

Late last week, news broke that HTC was forcing the owner of HTCRUU.com to not only give up the domain, but remove all hosted RUU files and custom ROMs based on Sense. This was, of course, because he was in violation of HTC's intellectual property rights, as the site's name had "HTC" in the title, was adorned with official HTC logos, and contained official HTC software. Needless to say, the developer community was a little up in arms over the removal of the files especially because HTC specifically requested that the Sense-based ROMs be taken down.

Now, however, the company has taken to its official blog and written a short post vowing its "continued support to the developer community." In the midst of this post, it specifically states that "the issue with the site in question was NOT that it provided custom ROMs or RUUs. The site used HTC trademarks without a license from HTC." This, of course, is in stark contrast to what HTC's lawyers told HTCRUU.com's owner in fact, they even asked if he could direct them to other sites hosting HTC ROMs without permission, as that would be "very helpful" (in having those sites taken down, no doubt).

On the ROM front, HTC does not endorse or allow distribution of its ROMs by any third party. (In particular, many of those hosted here are from pre-release phones.) The ROMs pose a significant consumer protection issue for HTC, since it does not control the software and, if installed on users' devices, it could cause harm to the user. If you are aware of any third party sites providing ROMs that HTC should know about, please do let me know - it would be very helpful.

^{Direct quote from HTC's lawyer. Emphasis mine.}

So, the question remains: if hosting RUUs and Sense-based ROMs wasn't the issue, can proprietary HTC firmware be uploaded and hosted elsewhere to a domain that doesn't infringe on HTC's intellectual property? Unfortunately, HTC is mum on any question of the sort just read the comments on their post, it's riddled with that very thought.

[HTC]

Via: HTC Vows 'Continued Support For The Developer Community,' But We're Not Convinced

New App Annie Index Shows Google Play Taking Off Led By Strong Sales in Japan, US, And South Korea

There was a day when app developers who chose to work on the Android platform were looked down upon by their more lucrative iOS brethren. Well, those days are drawing to a close. The newest App Annie index of mobile application sales is out, and it's overflowing with interesting data. The takeaway message is that Google Play revenue doubled between the third and fourth quarter of 2012.

This is, in many ways, the same trope we've seen in other metrics in the past. Android is behind iOS in absolute numbers, but the rate of growth is much higher. While Google Play revenue was growing by 100%, Apple's App Store was up only 20%. Sales of apps and games were up in the US, but much of the growth came from Japan and South Korea. In fact, Japan now accounts for slightly more Google Play revenue than the US does (according to App Annie). South Korea is just a little behind America, as well.

Another fascinating trend in the data shows the degree to which games are fueling the revenue increase. American users spent 76% of their dollars on games, in Japan that number is up to 88%, and in South Korea that figure is a whopping 95%. Part of this has to do with non-game apps being free more often, but we can also say that the best way to make money on Google Play is with a game that appeals to Japanese and South Korean users.

When breaking down the top publishers by revenue in Google Play, the domination of Asian developers is obvious. In the chart below, South Korean and Japanese devs are making the most cash. Some of these developers are probably familiar, but being based in Asia means all their games are going to be released in these booming app markets. Gameloft is the only western developer on the list, and that's probably thanks to its high prices and use of in-app purchases.

Google Play is really starting to take off following the release of devices like the Nexus 7. Whatever Google is doing, it's working. Solid growth in the US and explosive increases in Asian markets could finally ensure that Android users are taken seriously by all developers.

[App Annie]

Via: New App Annie Index Shows Google Play Taking Off Led By Strong Sales in Japan, US, And South Korea

NVIDIA explains how Project Shield was built

NVIDIA has posted a great blog post explaining just what it took to get Project Shield ready for CES. We all pretty much fell in love with the idea from the minute we first saw it (see Phil's time with the device), a gamer's device that does more than play games, but we tend to forget that the 20 minutes worth of Project Shield we saw was just a short part of the entire process of getting Project Shield from the minds of engineers to the keynote stage.

According to NVIDIA, Project Shield started in early 2012, as a game controller fastened to an Android smartphone via a block of wood. Spending the rest of the year designing and testing things, the first two real prototypes were delivered on December 18, just a few weeks before it was to be shown to the world in Las Vegas.

During the final weeks of hustle to prepare for CES, engineers spent long days assembling the units that would be demonstrated at CES in a contract partners facility somewhere in Silicon Valley. The work these fellows did -- putting batteries in place and carefully fitting together the device's shell -- will be used to assemble the units as they roll off the line. It's important, tedious, and surely frustrating work under a tight schedule.

Of course they pulled it off, as we witnessed the day before CESofficially kicked off. Project Shield looks awesome, and we can't wait until there are units out there for all of us to play with. The story is a great read, be sure to visit the link below to have a look.

Source: NVIDIA

Via: NVIDIA explains how Project Shield was built

ZTE teases Grand Memo for Mobile World Congress

Because it's never too early to start pimping hashtags, ZTE this morning sent out invites to its Mobile World Congress press event on Feb. 25, promising to show a new Android device in the ZTE Grand Memo (which it recently showed off in Hong Kong), as well as a phone with the fledgling Mozilla OS. The hashtags, of course, are ztegrandmemo and ztemozilla.

Mobile World Congress runs Feb. 25-28 in Barcelona, Spain. We'll be there, of course, to bring you the whole thing.

Via: ZTE teases Grand Memo for Mobile World Congress

Heads Up: Nexus 4 Should Be Back In Stock In UK, France, Spain, And Australia Play Stores January 30th/31st

If you're waiting your turn for a chance to buy the Nexus 4 off the Google Play Store in the UK, France, Spain, or Australia, then listen up. The elusive Nexus 4 stock should be replenished in the aforementioned countries come January 30th (January 31st for Australia).

According to our tipster who was spot-on this morning about the 9am U.S. launch (Germany and Canada are already live as well), "Temporarily Out Of Stock" will finally switch to "In Stock" at the following times:

• UK: January 30th 15:00 (3pm) GMT (January 30th 7am PST)
• France: January 30th 16:00 (4pm) CET (January 30th 7am PST)
• Spain: January 30th 16:00 (4pm) CET (January 30th 7am PST)
• Australia: January 31st 09:00 (9am) AEDT (Australian time zones are crazy confusing - there are at least 6 different ones, so feel free to calculate your own based on January 30th 2pm PST)

There's no word on whether the bumper cases will go on sale, so be sure to check once the Nexus 4 is live.

Set your alarms, though just to be safe I have to warn you that while we trust the tipster, anything and everything can delay the sale, and we cannot be responsible for loss of sleep, job, girlfriend, or time spent on Reddit as a result.

Nexus 4 8GB, Nexus 4 16GB, Bumper Case

Via: Heads Up: Nexus 4 Should Be Back In Stock In UK, France, Spain, And Australia Play Stores January 30th/31st

Judge Koh Rules Samsung Did Not Willfully Infringe Apple's Patents (But Yes, It Still Infringed Them)

Finally ruling on a hearing held in early December, Judge Koh decided that Apple's billion-dollar verdict won't be getting any bigger - having formally ruled that Samsung did not infringe Apple's patents willfully. Willful infringement is a concept in patent law that is largely self-explanatory (at least in a non-technical sense): did the defendant purposefully or with wanton disregard for obvious risk infringe the plaintiff's patents?

The jury in this trial held that Samsung did willfully infringe. Judge Koh disagreed, overruling the jury's findings on the matter. This finding most likely will not adversely affect Apple's damages award, as willful infringement damages are assessed by a judge, not a jury. If Koh had agreed with the jury, certain portions of Apple's award may have been up to tripled in amount. However, there have been serious questions since the verdict was reached about whether or not the vast bulk of that one-billion dollar sum was even eligible for such an increase, so today's ruling doesn't change too much.

It will, though, give Samsung a chance to publicly vindicate itself in some respects. By at least being able to declare there was no objective reason it should have known Apple's patents were infringed by its products, Samsung can push a narrative of a more 'forgivable' guilt (or as the case may be, non-guilt) to appellate courts.

Judge Koh also denied Apple's request for a new trial on findings of non-infringement and various other issues on which Apple did not prevail during the trial. Apple's unregistered iPad trade dress, for example, was deemed not protectable and not famous by the jury, and Judge Koh upheld that finding. On Apple's allegations of FRAND patent abuse by Samsung, Koh agreed with the jury's conclusion: Apple's claim was without merit.

Finally, Koh denied many of Samsung's claims alleging invalidity of certain Apple patents it was deemed to infringe during the trial, as well as Samsung's numerous grounds requesting a retrial. In summary, Judge Koh's ruling today is best paraphrased as "Don't like the result? Go to a higher court with your grievances."

As you might guess, we can expect many of these issues to go to appeal, assuming the dispute is not resolved in a settlement before the next round of legal slapfighting begins.

Ruling via The Verge, FOSS Patents

Via: Judge Koh Rules Samsung Did Not Willfully Infringe Apple's Patents (But Yes, It Still Infringed Them)

Cameringo update fixes sharing intents, bugs

We took a look at Cameringo a couple days ago, and the one issue we had was that sharing intents didn't work. Thankfully the developer has made a couple updates in the last day, fixing a few issues including sharing. We've gone through version 1.1 and 1.2 in the last 24 hours, and both have brought notable updates. 1.1 brought improved rendering on HTC devices and other internal improvements, and 1.2 fixed the sharing bug. The developer has been quick to respond to bug reports and get these fixes out quickly, which is great to see.

The end result is that Cameringo's UI has improved notably. Gone is the legacy menu key, and the UI elements to control settings and to capture photos are now transparent, giving you a full-screen viewfinder. When taking a shot you can now properly share that image to any available app, and the picture will actually come along.

As we said in our initial look at the app, it has a lot of great things about it that make it worth the $1.00 to purchase. Now with these improvements and bug fixes it's really a no-brainer if you're looking to add filters to your photos.

Via: Cameringo update fixes sharing intents, bugs

Deal of the Day: Qmadix Vibe Flex-Gel Cover for HTC EVO 4G LTE

The Jan. 29 ShopAndroid.com Deal of the Day is the Qmadix Vibe Flex-Gel Cover for HTC EVO 4G LTE. The Flex-Gel Cover accentuates your style and personality in vibrant color while protecting your device from the elements. This sporty, rugged cover is made from durable, abrasion-resistant TPU and offers the ultimate choice in style and protection. There's access to the screen, camera, ports and kickstand--available in black, red, and white color options.

The Qmadix Vibe Flex-Gel Cover is available for just $15.00, 50% off today only. Grab yours while supplies last!

Never miss a deal. Sign up for Daily Deal alerts

Via: Deal of the Day: Qmadix Vibe Flex-Gel Cover for HTC EVO 4G LTE

Today Must Be Nexus Day - All "Sold Out" Nexus Play Store Pages Now Say "Temporarily Out Of Stock"

The Nexus flood gates seem to have opened today, with both Best Buy and Wirefly not only launching their respective Nexus 4 pages, but also actually having devices in stock. And now it looks to me like Google is preparing a fresh batch of the sought-after sold out devices, as all "Sold Out" product pages were switched to say "Temporarily Out of Stock" a few minutes ago.

Call me crazy, but I don't think this is simply a meaningless change in wording. According to LG, the Nexus 4 supply should be replenished to satisfy demand by sometime in mid-February, and with the fresh stock and behind-the-scenes go-ahead that some e-tailers obviously received, today definitely looks special. I may end up eating my words later, but I think we're about to see some of these change to "In Stock" soon:

How soon? That's the question of the day month quarter. If you have any information regarding Play Store's stock, the anonymous tip line is open.

Here are the devices in the U.S. affected by today's change:

• Nexus 4 16GB
• Nexus 4 8GB
• Nexus 10 32GB
• Nexus 10 16GB
• Nexus 4 bumper

What do you think? An innocent change or an indication of things to come in the near future?

Via: Today Must Be Nexus Day - All "Sold Out" Nexus Play Store Pages Now Say "Temporarily Out Of Stock"

[International Giveaway] Win A Samsung Galaxy Note II (N7100) From Handy Apps And Android Police

• Giveaway

When it comes to online safety and passwords, I live and die by a password manager. I use one on my PCs, as well as my Android smartphones and tablets. This way, I always have my passwords with me, and I only have to remember one (to get into the password manager). In fact, I've never even seen some of my passwords when I use a generator.

If this is the type of secure password storage you need in your life, look no further than Handy Apps' new Password Wallet. Exactly as its name implies, Password Wallet is a safe, secure, digital locker for all of your passwords. It can even run in "stealth mode," so an icon doesn't show up in the app tray no one will have any idea it's installed.

So, how do you access it? Through a innocent-looking calculator widget, or by inputting a specific key code into the dialer. Either option will call on Password Wallet. That's just one layer of security, though PW also encrypts all data with AES-256 encryption. That means you can feel safe using its built-in cloud storage features to store your passwords in Google Drive or Dropbox, too.

The list of data able to be stored in PW isn't just limited to passwords, either. It can handle credit card info, bank account credentials, IDs, passports, email accounts, membership info, or basically any other text-based information you may need to keep locked up tight.

Best of all, the app features a floating window so you can see your info when you need it no need to switch back and forth to ensure you're inputting the information correctly. That's a godsend in many cases.

There's a free version of Password Wallet if you want to try it out, but the full shebang will set you back a five spot. A small price to pay to ensure all your sensitive data is secure, don't you think?

Password Wallet

Giveaway

To celebrate the release of Password Wallet, Handy Apps has graciously hooked us up with a brand-spankin'-new international Galaxy Note II (N7100) to give away. That's an unlocked GSM model for those who don't feel like keeping up with Samsung's ever-expanding lineup of absurdly similar model numbers.

This contest is available to users across the globe!

To enter, simply follow the instructions in the widget below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The giveaway begins now and will run for one week, until Tuesday, February 5th at 12:00AM (midnight) PT. After that, one (1) winner will be chosen at random. Gogogo!

Via: [International Giveaway] Win A Samsung Galaxy Note II (N7100) From Handy Apps And Android Police

Nexus 4 shows up for sale on Best Buy's website, T-Mobile contract in tow

The Nexus 4 has just show up for sale on Best Buy's website, with familiar T-Mobile on-contract pricing of $199.99. In typical Best Buy fashion, the off-contract price of the phone has been inflated, showing $599.99 to buy the device outright. This is something Best Buy(and other retailers) does to both cover its overhead and most importantly compel people to sign 2-year contracts, and is nothing new for the Nexus 4.

This isn't likely to be any special deal between Google and Best Buy to offer the device though, as you can bet that Google would rather secure supply for its own store before branching out to yet another retailer. This is probably just T-Mobile's current deals to resell handsets and service with Best Buy extending to the new handset. New stock heading to a wider range of T-Mobile stores means it is ready to also let resellers sell the device on its behalf.

Although not many people are likely to head to Best Buy to pick it up, the Nexus 4 is certainly getting a little more exposure as these new listings arrive. Let's just hope that Google can get its own supply channels sorted out so it can offer the device through the Play Store once again.

Source: Best Buy

Via: Nexus 4 shows up for sale on Best Buy's website, T-Mobile contract in tow

Samsung goes red with the Galaxy Tab 2 7.0

Samsung has announced that the Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 is available in garnet red this week at participating retailers. It runs $219.99 and comes with a free matching garnet red case. Samsung's 7-incheris running Android 4.2 Jelly Bean, sports a dual-core processor and has an IR port tucked away in there, too. The limited edition red version is available from Walmart, Amazon.com, Office Depot, Fry's, Tiger Direct and Toys R Us, among other retailers.

Samsung Brings Color to the Tablet Space with Garnet Red Edition Galaxy Tab 2

Limited edition color offering is a blend of on-the-go portability and style includes free matching case, runs Android Jelly Bean

RIDGEFIELD PARK, N.J., January 28, 2013 Samsung Electronics America Inc., a market leader and award-winning innovator in consumer electronics, today announced that a new Garnet Red Edition of the powerful Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 will be available for a limited time, beginning this week from participating retailers.

The new Galaxy Tab 2 7.0, preloaded with Android 4.1, Jelly Bean, showcases Samsungs commitment to providing users with choice, portability and entertainment. This limited edition version of the Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 is competitively priced at $219.99 and also includes a matching Garnet Red case ($50 value) at no additional cost.

A stylish choice perfect for Valentines Day or any occasion

The Garnet Red Edition Galaxy Tab 2 was created for consumers who want to stay connected and entertained on-the-go, and are seeking a unique color offering.

This new eye-catching version of the Galaxy Tab 2 offers endless entertainment in the palm of your hand, while the stylish Garnet Red look will set you apart from the crowd, said Michael Abary, Senior Vice President, Samsung Electronics America, Inc. The Garnet Red version of the Galaxy S III has been incredibly well-received, so we are happy to make the same brilliant color available for our Galaxy Tab 2 as well.

A compact 7 powerhouse thats smart and easy to use

The Galaxy Tab 2 is a powerful dual-core tablet running Android Jelly Bean, and features an easily accessible memory card slot for convenient loading of multimedia files in a range of supported file formats.

The tablet offer endless content access in a sleek design that can maximize the home entertainment experience. The Smart Remote App and built-in IR Blaster turns the Galaxy Tab 2 into a universal remote, helping users to easily find their favorite shows and change the channel directly from the tablet. Users can choose from hundreds of thousands of apps or access favorite movies and TV shows from Google Play or Media Hub.

The new Garnet Red Edition Galaxy Tab 2 will be available while supplies last, from Walmart, Amazon.com, Office Depot, Frys, Tiger Direct, ToysRUs and other fine retailers.

It features a 7 TFT display and measures 0.41 x 4.8 x 7.6. Weight including battery is 0.76 lbs and it features a built-in microSD slot supports up to 32 GB of additional storage. Connectivity includes WiFi, Bluetooth 3.0, USB 2.0 host, and integrated IR for home theater control.

A choice for every consumer

In addition to this new version of the Galaxy Tab 2 7.0, Samsung continues to offer the Galaxy Tab 2 in classic black or white in both 10.1 and 7.0 sizes. As well, the award-winning Galaxy Note 10.1 with integrated S-pen is available in black or white as well.

More information can be found at www.samsung.com.

Via: Samsung goes red with the Galaxy Tab 2 7.0

[Update: Sprint's, Also ] Verizon Galaxy Take note II Receives Its Initially Official CyanogenMod ten . 1 Nightly

When I was a child, my grandfather used to often say " last to industry, past to get formal builds of CyanogenMod." Looks the outdated man's wisdom after once more proves to be genuine, as official CM 10. one nightlies just confirmed up for Verizon's variant of the Galaxy Take note II.

Update: Looks like Sprint's variation of the Be aware II just bought CM10. one, as well.

For people of you who personal claimed Notice II, this means you can ultimately get absent from Samsung's Playskool- inspired Technicolor UI and practical experience Android in its pure kind. Properly, maybe not fully all-natural, but you and I both know the enhancements included by the CM staff are valuable, light-weight, and basically make the Android experience far better.

If that seems like what you want out of your VZW Be aware II, head underneath to seize the obtain.

[Get.CM]

Via: [Update: Sprint's, Too] Verizon Galaxy Note II Gets Its First Official CyanogenMod 10.1 Nightly

[The Android Law enforcement Podcast] Episode 46 : My Cousin's Drunk Monkey Got Strike By A Car or truck

Welcome to the Android Law enforcement Podcast, Episode 46.

Will not overlook - the Android Law enforcement Podcast's reside broadcast is each Thursday at 5PM PST (www.androidpolice.com/podcast). The unedited movie version of the podcast can be observed right here - and will likely incorporate numerous verbal expletives, specialized snafus, tangents, and in all probability a excellent five - ten minutes of pre-podcast banter as we put together. Observe at your very own possibility !

Subscribe to the Android Law enforcement Podcast:

• RSS Feed
• iTunes
• Stitcher Radio

The Solid

• Matthew Smith, Host
• Bob Severns, Editor, A/V
• Cameron Summerson, Co-host
• David Ruddock, Co-host
• Eric Ravenscraft, Co-host

THE Outline

Rumor Roundup

• Initial we found a render that allegedly appeared a bit like the HTC M7, but not completely. Then My. Blurrycam assisted us settle the distinctions.
• First Samsung confirms that an eight " Galaxy Take note is on the way. A person pulls one out in public and steals all of Samsung's thunder.
• Slides of Huawei's 5 " handset discover their way on to the world wide web.

Code Google

• The legendary Nexus seven dock exhibits up on mythical creature electronics retailer B&H's web site for pre- get.
• Google's inventory of the Nexus ten goes in and out of stock, like it's Malcom McDowell in 1971.

The Hotsheet

• Sony announces a 10 " quad- main tablet, the Xperia Tablet Z. Not to be puzzled with any of the other several dozens equipment with an Xperia Z identify.
• LG unveils the LG Optimus G Pro five " 1080p screen with one.7GHz quad- main processor and a generous three,000mAh battery, can make us all ponder why other handsets can't have major batteries.
• CyanogenMod ten. 1 M- Sequence builds roll out for a bunch of devices which includes many Nexuses and Samsung phones.
• Unit Updates: Verizon pushes update to Galaxy Take note II in all probability which include 'Exynos bug' patch, Samsung rolls out Jelly Bean to global GSII consumers in Spain

Application Updates

• Opera demoed a amazing wanting browser, no you cannot participate in with it still.
• Paranoid Android's PIE navigation system retains carrying out the very same awesome - searching thing its been carrying out, but now it performs effortlessly.
• LagFix does what it guarantees on the box, fixes lag problems on some equipment like the Nexus 7, needs root.
• Tasker will get a Holo-ified interface update, but it even now wants a lot of get the job done.
• Temple Run two comes out on the Enjoy Store. Have you heard about its huge monkey?

In Other News

• The Developer Economics report for 2013 comes out, exhibits that devs want a 3rd platform, pill guidance is rising, and app economies are booming. Which is awesome.

Via: [The Android Police Podcast] Episode 46: My Cousin's Drunk Monkey Got Hit By A Car

CyanogenMod 10.1 nightlies for the Verizon and Sprint Galaxy Note 2 now available

The CyanogenModteam has just given Verizon and Sprint Galaxy Note 2 users something to be happy about -- official 10.1 nighly builds for download. Users of these devices have been patiently waiting as development went along on the latest CyanogenModbuilds, and now they have their chance. Of course these nightly builds are far less stable than general releases and may have many bugs, but some users are completely willing to put up with it.

If you're willing to deal with some quirks you can see what CyanogenMod 10.1 has to offer at the source links below. If you're not so sure how or why you should get into these nightly builds, head to our forums and get a few things figured out first. And remember, backing up before flashing is a great idea!

Source: Verizon Note 2 Download; Sprint Note 2 Download

More: Galaxy Note 2 Forums

Via: CyanogenMod 10.1 nightlies for the Verizon and Sprint Galaxy Note 2 now available

Infobar A02 announced on KDDI in Japan with interesting UI and design

Japan is well-known for its seriously interesting mobile products, and the Infobar A02on KDDI doesn't disappoint on design or creativity in the least. The Infobar series has traditionally been a design-leading line, and the A02follows along with a striking thin unibody design in red, white and blue varieties. The design continues onto the interface, which is built on Android 4.1 -- although you wouldn't know it by looking at the homescreen. Closer to the paradigm of Windows Phone, the Inforbar uses a tiled interface comprised of smaller app tiles and larger widget tiles, in a vertical scrolling list.

This handset is actually manufactured by HTC, and has some top-notch specs on the inside. We're looking at a 1.5GHz Snapdragon S4 Pro processor, 16GB of (expandable) storage, 1GB of RAM, 720x1280 TFT display, 2100mAh battery and of course LTE. Like many high-end Japanese handsets, the InfobarA02 is also waterproof and dustproof, and includes NFC for mobile payments as well as a 1seg TV antenna.

This is quite an interesting handset on all fronts, and worth a look at some of the materials on KDDI'sproduct page for the phone. If you're interested, head to the source link and check out the galleries, especially the pictures showing the lineage of Infobar design for the last 10 years.

Source: KDDI

Via: Infobar A02 announced on KDDI in Japan with interesting UI and design

[Deal Alert] Lowest Price Yet For The DROID RAZR HD: It's Free At Wirefly For Upgrades Only

Most of the time when we post a good deal especially on a free phone it's typically for new customers. In a rare event, though, Wirefly has turned that deal on its head by making the RAZR HD free for upgrades only. New customers will still have to shell out $50 for the same devices. It's a pretty good deal either way, but it's particularly killer for existing Verizon customers.

If you need a quick spec-refresher for the RAZR HD, here you go:

• CPU: 1.5GHz dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4
• OS: Android 4.1.x
• Display: 4.7" Super AMOLED HD (1280x720)
• Memory: 1GB RAM, 16GB storage, microSD slot
• Cameras: 8MP rear, 1.3MP front
• Battery: 2530mAh
• Ports: microUSB, microHDMI
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.0, 802.11a/b/g/n
• Radios: LTE, GSM, CDMA (Global)
• Dimensions: 5.19" x 2.67" x 0.33", 5.15 oz.

It's hard to say how long a deal like this will last, so if you want to snag a new phone without paying a dime, you better hurry. Hit the appropriate link to buy.

DROID RAZR HD (White)

DROID RAZR HD (Black)

Via: [Deal Alert] Lowest Price Yet For The DROID RAZR HD: It's Free At Wirefly For Upgrades Only

Formal Nexus seven Dock Speedy Review : A Sound Accessory Which is Worthy of Its Price If You Can Locate It

• What it Seems to be Like
• What it Does
• A Term About Audio Output
• Is it Really worth Forty Dollars ?

Soon after months of speculation, pre-orders, and cameo appearances, it is lastly below ( type of) just one of the precious number of official Nexus equipment people have ever been capable to purchase : the Nexus seven Dock. Right after snapping one particular up when they appeared at B&H, I was just one of the unlucky handful to receive a "we regret to tell you" email, noting that the dock was not, in truth, offered but. Just a several times later on, even though, my dock showed up in the mail.

For these still on the fence about no matter whether the dock is worth the buzz it can be savored, I decided to give the accessory a rapid critique. In a phrase, the formal Nexus 7 dock is nice. Is it a have to have, are unable to - pass up buy ? Possibly not, but if you want a stylish way to stand up your tablet, you would not locate a better option than ASUS' formal dock.

What it Seems to be Like

The dock is sleek. It can be massive sufficient to cradle the edge of the Nexus seven, but not substantially larger. That said, it truly is weighty. It feels extremely stable, and has a rubbery bottom that will maintain it from sliding around. When inserted, the tablet rests at about a 110 angle.

It truly is an unassuming object, to be sure the only disruption in its smooth, matte surface area is a "nexus" mark on the front, and an ASUS symbol around again. Of program, it is also got a chunk cautiously sliced from its backside, the place the microUSB and 3.5mm audio plugs live.

Inside of the groove that holds the Nexus seven in place, you can find almost nothing but four pogo pins, utilised for audio transfer and charging. The instruction booklet that will come with the dock claims to "firmly insert Nexus 7 into the socket till it is appropriately seated," but there is no inserting to be accomplished. The tablet slips appropriate into the groove devoid of any indicator that it really is protected, but stays seated just very good.

Other than that, there's not a lot to say about the dock's form component it truly is sleek and easy with a matte complete, and gently cradles the Nexus seven at a very good viewing angle. The only downside is that the dock can select up a great deal of finger prints, but it truly is very straightforward to thoroughly clean, even with a dry cloth.

What it Does

For some, what would make the dock worthy of its $ forty price tag is not just what it looks like, but what it does. Apart from holding your Nexus 7 steady, the dock can output audio to speakers or headphones, and can simultaneously charge the unit, both attained working with the pogo pins pointed out before.

As before long as you seat the tablet in the (plugged in) dock ( employing your Nexus 7's personal microUSB adapter), a dialog pops up that will enable you to decide on whether or not audio is managed by means of the dock's three.5mm port, or by the tablet's designed -in speaker. The dialog is a little redundant, but you'll only have to offer with it the moment.

Should you have set Working day Desire to " whilst docked," your N7 will also enter Day Aspiration Mode. There are just a several apps that guidance Day Dream proper now, but it's a promising feature that only gets better when your tablet is held up in a dock.

Of system, the Nexus seven already has a 3.5mm jack you could use if you're so inclined, but the placement of an added jack on the back of the dock helps make for a cleaner, classier link if you approach on using the accessory for audio output.

A Phrase About Audio Output

I'm definitely no audio buff, so get the next with a grain of salt, but the dock's audio output seems fairly clean up. I would say that the output, to the common listener, appears as good or greater than the three.5mm jack on the Nexus 7.

Also value noting is the truth that the dock will depart audio management up to your speakers, rather than the system by itself, whereas the tablet's jack will enable you regulate quantity employing the device's created in quantity keys.

The dock's delegation of quantity to whatever you've bought plugged in can be a headache for these that insist on employing headphones, but it is not as well a lot of a hassle if you happen to be making use of speakers or one more three.5mm suitable device with volume controls. If you will need to use headphones, you can however plug them into the Nexus 7's jack and management the volume to your heart's articles.

Is it Worth Forty Dollars ?

As good as the dock is, the best concern has to be "is it worthy of forty pounds ?" To that, this reviewer's reaction is sure, but not for anyone.

It is good for those who want to look at a film without having holding their unit, want to output audio, or just want the Nexus seven to look stylish although it fees. If you might be not specifically anxious with any of people points, the dock is not for you. If you are, the dock is completely the best, most visually desirable selection out there. Now, if only we could get that Nexus ten dock.

Sadly, ASUS' dock is nevertheless out of stock at B&H, but hit the backlink beneath to signal up for stock notifications.

B&H Image / Movie

Via: Official Nexus 7 Dock Quick Review: A Solid Accessory That's Worth Its Price If You Can Find It

What you need to know about cell phone unlocking

Did you know that as of Jan 26, 2013, it's "illegal" to unlock your phone? Of course you did. You've seen the "Sky is falling!" headlines

It's not quite that simple, but that's what you'll hear around the Internets today. The too-long-didn't-read simple version is that you'll likely not be affected in any way (minus the personal freedom aspect). But afterseeing so many people worried, and some of the poor information they were receiving, we knew it was time to talk about it a bit.

In 1998 Congress passed a law that provides copyright protection to the software (and software means written code, remember) that locks your cell phone to a certain carrier. This has nothing to do with rooting, or bootloader unlocking. It only covers locking your phone to a GSM carrier through software. As a provision of this law, the Librarian of Congress (which I imagined as a totally hot babe with her hair in a bun, and was quickly disappointed when I investigated) is allowed to grant exceptions, and did until his October 2012 decision to allow the DMCA to regulate cell phone locking. Fast forward to today, when the exceptions expired, and now the software used to lock phones is covered under the same copyright laws as most other software.

It sounds scary. But it's really not. Let's have a look.

What is really going on?

The first thing to realize is that if you bought your phone before today, none of this applies. The conditions and terms you agreed to when you bought your phone will still apply. Anything up until now is grandfathered in. But what about phones you'll buy tomorrow and beyond?

Well, unlocking phones to use on a different carrier without permission is now against the law. That's pretty crappy, but as the CTIA blog points out, this is no different than your car. Until you're finished paying off your loan for it -- and that's really what a smartphone subsidy is -- you're not allowed to transfer title without permission from the lien-holder. When you buy a subsidized phone on contract from your carrier, it is the lien-holder, and it's up to the carrier when and where you get to use it. Read the fine print on your car loan -- I'll bet you never knew the finance company could tell you you're not allowed to park your car in a place they don't like. Of course, that's not enforced. But that's not to say it can't be used against you in court.

Now, AT&T and T-Mobile and any other carrier can do the same thing. Does that suck? Yes, but it's a price you pay for getting the phone subsidized (financed).

OK, what does that mean to me?

The good news is that, as the Librarian of Congress points out, carriers have "liberal, publicly available unlocking policies." AT&T will unlock your phone for you once you meet their criteria. So will Verizon. And that criteria hasn't changed now that the DMCA covers unlocking. Nine times out of ten, they will shoot you an unlock code if your bill is current and you have a legitimate need to use it.

The gray area comes from using third-party unlocking sites. Under the letter of the law, these folks may be committinga crime if they do this sort of business in he U.S. (We've asked a few for their take but have yet to hear back.) You are, too, if you knowingly use their services. It's the same crime millions of Android users commit when they flash G apps -- not honoring the license for software they are using. As a user, you can be subject to civil penalties. That means you can be held liable to pay the affected party (your carrier) the amount of money they have been harmed (the cost of the phone), with additionalassorted court fees. The penalties for folks unlocking phones to make money are more severe, and outside the scope of this blog post -- talk to a lawyer if you have those sort of questions.

Got it. Now how do I unlock my phone?

So, what do we need to do? Pretty much the same thing we always have done. If you need to unlock your phone, call AT&T or T-Mobile and ask them. They'll probably say yes, so long as your account is in good standing. (How new your phone is might affect things, too.) And it won't cost you anything if you give them a legitimate reason. Legit reasons are things like going on a trip and want to use a local SIM, or you need to use the phone in an area where they have poor coverage for work, or anything that sounds reasonable that doesn't make them think you're going to end your contract or sell the phone. I'm not saying you should lie to them, just deliver the truth the same way they do when they say unlimited.

T-Mobile has a simple, easy to read unlocking policy as you can see here. AT&T's policies are not so simple, but Dan over at WP Central managed to do it over the phonefor his Lumia900.

If they still say no, well I can't advise anyone to break the law, but I know what I would do -- head happily into that gray area like the honey badger.

A few more things worth mentioning

• While the law covers all phones, it only really applies to GSM phones. CDMA phones (Verizon and Sprint) aren't "locked" on the device, and instead use a database that the carrier controls to decide if you can or can not use a particular phone on their network.
• This does not apply to phones that are purchased unlocked. AT&T can't lock your Nexus 4 or any other unlocked device.
• Finally, this only applies inside the US. If you're reading from elsewhere, you can feel free to sit back and smugly laugh at our laws.

Hopefully, this answers any questions you might have had about this whole silly mess, and we can go back to arguing about which phones are better.

Via: What you need to know about cell phone unlocking

Nillkin leather flip cover for the Nexus 7

The Nexus 7 is substantially more portable than larger tablets, and that means you may be more inclined to use a case. I've found the Nillkin leather flip cover for mine, and it's quite an impressive little case for the money. When I got my Nexus 7 I planned on carrying it with me more often, tossing it in the bag whenever I left the house. It's light and portable with great one-handed use, but I wanted to protect the screen when I wasn't using it.

The case is a thin, tough, two-tone unit with black rubber edges accenting a colored leather primary case (red, grey or black colors are available). The leather part has a texture to it that I could only describe as a large hard cover book binding, which is very reassuring when holding the Nexus 7 one handed and provides an ample amount of grip. The case snaps on around the tablet like a normal case would, with no extra flaps, straps or fasteners. The flip cover pulls double duty as a screen protector and a tri-fold stand, and is attached with heavy stitching to the back of the case. The cover has a magnet to wake and sleep the device when opened and closed, which is a nice touch.

The inside of the flip portion is a light brown microfiber material, which should protect the screen nicely and help soak up some smudges when it's resting on the screen. When you're ready to use the tablet, it flips back out of the way but has no magnet or fastener to keep it pinned back. Luckily the cover is very thin and folds over nicely to be held in a very natural position, so it doesn't add a whole lot of bulk when it's on the back. If you would prefer to use the cover as a stand, it props up the tablet low for activities like typing, or stands it up near a 45-degree angle for things like watching video.

At somewhere between $20 and $25 (depending on the day) through many ebay sellersor Amazon, the Nillkin leather flip cover is worth a look to protect and add a good bit of functionality to your Nexus 7. It is well-made and keeps a clean and functional design throughout, something not found in accessories as often as we'd hope. Check out our hands-on video and several pictures after the break.

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Via: Nillkin leather flip cover for the Nexus 7