Android Phone Fans |
- T-Mobile’s off-the-wall press release likens AT&T CEO to Darth Vader
- Boost Mobile announces (ZTE) Boost MAX with 5.7-inch display, 3,200mAh battery, all for $300
- In case you missed it: Chrome Beta for Android now supports color emoji
- Nokia Normandy could launch as Nokia X; underwhelming specs leaked
- Developers can officially port their Chrome apps to Android (and iOS) using Google’s new tool
- TegraZone update allows you to track all your games, support for Google Play Games and more
- Nintendo squashes rumors that they’ll be releasing mini-games for smartphones and tablets later this year
- Google Glass Titanium Collection prices for shades and frames go live
- Stack Exchange Android app is finally here
- Sprint 4G LTE launches in 40 new cities
- Twitter for Android update brings basic photo editing tools
- Dead Zebra’s Year of the Horse Android Collectibles go on sale at 11am Eastern
- Google Glass Titanium Collection arrives for those needing prescription lenses
| T-Mobile’s off-the-wall press release likens AT&T CEO to Darth Vader Posted: 28 Jan 2014 05:21 PM PST When it comes to T-Mobile CEO John Legere, you gotta admit… the guy keeps it interesting. In the carrier’s latest bout against AT&T, T-Mobile issues a satirical press release written with “tongue firmly planted in the cheek.” The completely off the wall press release features fictional quotes by AT&T CEO Ralph de la Vega — as played out in the head of John Legere, no doubt — where Mr. Vega applauds T-Mobile’s Uncarrier methods, calling T-Mobile’s network faster than their own, even offering their customers $450 to try T-Mobile risk free. It’s AT&T’s latest move that Legere attempts to flip it on them, calling AT&T their latest partner in the “Uncarrier consumer revolution.” A bit over the top, and not something we’re used to seeing from multi-billion dollar telcos, but apparently it’s working to some degree. T-Mobile’s strange press release comes after AT&T reported their Q4 financials in which they saw 566,000 new customers. T-Mobile? 869,000. Has John Legere finally gone crazy? Crazy like a fox. [T-Mobile] |
| Boost Mobile announces (ZTE) Boost MAX with 5.7-inch display, 3,200mAh battery, all for $300 Posted: 28 Jan 2014 04:56 PM PST Thrifty Android shoppers on a budget might wanna check out Boost Mobile’s latest device, the Boost MAX. Made my ZTE, you’d be hard pressed to find any of the manufacturer’s branding on the device. Spec wise, we’re looking a solid mid-ranger, the most standout spec being the device’s large 5.7-inch display. Yeah, that’s Galaxy Note 3 territory, folks. Here’s the quick specs: ZTE Boost MAX
All-in-all, not a bad device for $300 off-contract. Don’t forget that Boost Mobile offers a $55 unlimited talk, text, and Sprint 4G LTE with shrinking payments. Those who stick with Boost for 6 months, get $5 off their monthly bill up until it reaches $40. This device might not be a spec-beast for the hardcore crowd, but for those looking for a big, easy to read Android on the cheap — the Boost MAX might be a good option. |
| In case you missed it: Chrome Beta for Android now supports color emoji Posted: 28 Jan 2014 03:11 PM PST So it might not have been on everyone’s top priority list for new Chrome features, but I’m definitely glad to see the Google boys on top of it. In an update that hit late last week, Chrome Beta for Android now officially supports emojis. You know, those cute little smiley faces based on Japanese characters that the kids are into these days? Yeah, those. Bye bye, blank boxes I know, this doesn’t sound like a very big deal and even though you may not use them, the fact that you wont have to look at blank boxes whenever viewing emoji on web page should come as plus. Believe it or not, not even the Chrome desktop browser supports emoji viewing (although there are extensions to help with this). If you’re viewing this post on your newly updated Chrome Beta app, check out the Wiki page for a list of all the now viewable emojis. For those that haven’t tried it yet, Chrome Beta for Android can be found via the link below.
[via ChromeSpot | Image credit: Francois Beaufort] |
| Nokia Normandy could launch as Nokia X; underwhelming specs leaked Posted: 28 Jan 2014 02:41 PM PST Another week, another Nokia Normandy rumor. Well, Nokia X rumor, because that’s what folks are starting to call this mystery Android phone that Nokia has apparently been working on for quite some time. Twitter account @evleaks had that much to share, but was also keen on letting us know what would be the silicon behind the scenes. We’d already heard the device was being built to be budget friendly, but this list of specs (if true) would pretty much confirm that:
He also mentioned the device would be available in a total of 6 eye-popping colors, some of which we’ve already seen in previous leaks. One other interesting bit of information he dropped was that it’d have “Nokia Store + 3rd party.” We’re not sure what this is supposed to mean, but it sounds like Nokia will be maintaining its own apps store, as well as possibly using another repository not named “Google Play.” Of course, we’ll have to wait for more juicy details to be dropped before we know what that’s all about. With that, it’s worth mentioning that we’re still without a solid release date. In fact, we have no idea of Nokia is even planning on launching this thing anytime soon.     Previous rumors stated that rumors about the Nokia Normandy / Nokia X being canned are “greatly exaggerated,” but that didn’t exactly make the picture any more clear for those of us who’re still following this interesting journey. In any case, with how this phone is shaping up we imagine this won’t interest the hardcore lot of you out there, but it still has our attention regardless. Keep it tuned to Phandroid for all the latest on this peculiar device. |
| Developers can officially port their Chrome apps to Android (and iOS) using Google’s new tool Posted: 28 Jan 2014 02:31 PM PST We’ve known for a few weeks now that Google was hard at work on building an upcoming developer tool — based on Apache Cordova — that would allow developers to port their Chrome apps into native Android/iOS ones, quickly and easily. Today, Google has officially launched the toolset in an early developer preview which means developers now officially have what they need to begin submitting their Chrome apps directly into the Google Play Store, or Apple’s App Store. It was in September that Google announced Chrome apps for the desktop that were are able to work offline, and only last month that they finally launched on Mac OSX. While there aren’t a vast number off Chrome apps currently available, we’re sure the ability to write up apps for Chrome and wrap them in an Android shell will bring an influx of new apps. What this means for Android is anyone’s guess at this point. |
| TegraZone update allows you to track all your games, support for Google Play Games and more Posted: 28 Jan 2014 12:59 PM PST Word to the gaming public: NVIDIA has just released a pretty big TegraZone update that concerns even those without Tegra devices. The app is now available for everyone to use regardless of device, meaning you’ll be able to keep track of all your games across all your devices.
We imagine NVIDIA mainly made that change for folks using the SHIELD who may or may not be playing Tegra-only games, but anyone is free to take advantage. It’s a welcome addition considering the TegraZone train has slowed down a bit in recent months. NVIDIA is also bringing enhanced controller mapping support for NVIDIA Shield players, as well as improved interfacing with Android HID controllers (for consoles, set-top boxes and other devices). Neato! Here’s what else is on tap:
As is usual with these upgrades, the download is absolutely free and can be had in the Google Play Store. Trot on over there to give it a spin with the vast amount of games you already have access to in a deep sea of Google Play goodness. |
| Posted: 28 Jan 2014 12:19 PM PST Yesterday, a report from Japanese publication Nikkei suggested that we would soon see Nintendo enter into the mobile market with “mini-games” and other digital content later this year. This morning, Nintendo was quick to squash these rumors (and fanboys’ hearts in the process) like a Goomba, releasing the following statement:
While we weren’t expecting full fledged mobile titles featuring Nintendo’s iconic franchises, it seems smartphones and tablets wont be receiving any type of gaming content in any capacity. Well, not by official means anyway. While this means mini-games are out of the question, keep in mind Nintendo did confirm Mr. Iwata’s plans to leverage mobile devices if, for nothing else, than to help promote their products. Although specifics weren’t given, we hope this means more than simple game FAQs and extends into 2nd-screen functionality (or at least a live wallpaper or 2). Even though this blogger is in possession of every Nintendo console currently available, sometimes I can’t help but wonder if Nintendo’s stubbornness wont eventually be the downfall of The House Mario Built. Keep doing you, Nintendo. |
| Google Glass Titanium Collection prices for shades and frames go live Posted: 28 Jan 2014 09:51 AM PST Google said we’d know more about how Glass Explorers can get their hands on Titanium Collection frames and shades later this afternoon, and the first bit of information is already up. For starters, we have our first bit of information (that is perhaps more important than anything else): price. You’ll be able to get each frame for about $225 before taxes. As for the sporty clip-on attachment shades, you’ll be able to scoop those up for $150 a piece. Interestingly enough, all of the shades currently show as out-of-stock on Google’s Glass Explorers website, though we can’t be too sure if that’s due to Google readying the rest of the site for public consumption. In either case, we’ll be keeping a close eye on all of it in the moments to come. In case you’re wondering about getting these outfitted with appropriate lenses, here’s a quick blurb from Google’s FAQ:
Google has also added a list of preferred optometrists whose cutters have been specially trained for the Google Glass Titanium collection. The list is rather small at the moment, with only a fraction of the country having specially trained cutters, but Google says most eye care places should be able to custom fit lenses for your Google Glass frames (so long as you bring them the frames and tools they may need). And for those of you who will be switching frames out on their own, you’ll find some key instructions over at the Google Glass help site. The screwdrivers and any other tools you’ll need will come with your shipment of replacement frames, so take care not to lose them in case you need them down the line. We’re still thumbing our way through the new drags added to the Glass Explorers site, so stay tuned for any more information we might be able to come across (such as information about finding lens providers for your new frames). We’ll be updating this post with all the latest.     |
| Stack Exchange Android app is finally here Posted: 28 Jan 2014 09:24 AM PST Sites like StackOverflow, Arqade and more are all valuable resources for the community. They’re a community of experts, professionals and noobs alike all helping each other by answering questions that they can’t easily find the answer to. StackOverflow has especially been very key for developers on the Android front, with many folks turning to that particular community for help with uncommon tricks of the trade that aren’t heavily documented. That’s why we were excited to see that an official Stack Exchange app for Android has finally been made. The folks at Stack Exchange said it would have been too much work and far too cumbersome to create and maintain apps for each of their communities, so they wanted to take extra care to make a one-size-fits-all app that could be used to access all of their communities from once central location. Just as you’d expect from a technical-focused community such as Stack Exchange, their Android app has been designed with all of the latest Android design guidelines in mind. This version 1.0 release already feels right at home, and it’s only going to get better from here on out. Unfortunately that does mean that this app is limited to folks on Android 4.0 and higher, though we’d urge people who are still on Android 2.x to get with the times and upgrade to a phone that can take advantage of these modern apps. Stack Exchange is sitting in the Google Play Store as a free download, so get over there and dive into the most fluid mobile portal we’ve ever seen for one of the best communities out there. [via Stack Exchange] |
| Sprint 4G LTE launches in 40 new cities Posted: 28 Jan 2014 07:38 AM PST It’s no secret that Sprint is playing catchup in the LTE game up against Verizon and AT&T, but the carrier is making up good ground lately. Their latest LTE rollout adds a whopping 40 new cities, some of which have been up and running for weeks for testing and trials. Here’s the full list in case you’re curious:
There are some pretty big and important markets on that list, so if you happen to live in an area you believe should have already had 4G LTE, you might want to go over it once or twice. It’s in alphabetical order by name of city, so it shouldn’t take you long to find (or not find) whatever you’re looking for. Let us know how the network is performing for you in the comments below! [via Sprint] |
| Twitter for Android update brings basic photo editing tools Posted: 28 Jan 2014 06:42 AM PST If you haven’t abandoned Twitter’s official Android app yet (it’s actually gotten quite good over the past few months), you’ll be glad to know there’s an upgrade waiting for you in the Google Play Store. This latest version adds some very basic image editing tools. You’ll be able to specify a crop at either square or wide aspect ratios, as well as rotate the image as you see fit. It’s no Snapseed, but if you only want to make a couple of quick framing adjustments before posting then this should work out quite well. Twitter has also made it so that you’ll always see something new when you pull the timeline down to refresh, even if that “something new” isn’t coming from any of your followers. They’ll pull in trends, recommended Tweets and more at the top so you can explore other topics of interest and people on Twitter while you wait for your lazy friends to submit their next 140 characters. It’s not the biggest upgrade in the world, but you’ll want to get your hands on it as soon as possible. Here’s the Google Play download link, so head over there and give it a shot at your earliest convenience. [via Twitter] |
| Dead Zebra’s Year of the Horse Android Collectibles go on sale at 11am Eastern Posted: 28 Jan 2014 05:36 AM PST Ready for another limited run of Android collectibles designed to celebrate the Chinese New Year? This year’s zodiac symbol for the Chinese calendar is the Horse, and you can bet Dead Zebra has made a fine stylized Android robot to commemorate the sign. This little guy features a primarily red coat of paint,with accents of bronze / gold, black, and white accents making up the details of its face and clothes. You can also see two very distinct sets of buck teeth sitting between a stout nose and a very defined chin. Looks horsey enough for us! These bad boys go on sale starting at 11am Eastern time (landing page is right here), so you’ll want to set the alarm, crack those knuckles and make sure you’re ready to grab one as they’ll probably be going very quickly. If you happen to miss out on the first opportunity, Dead Zebra will also be hosting a last call at 11pm Eastern tonight.    Much like other limited releases, folks are being limited to 2 per household. You’ll also want to take heed to all the other special information you need to know that generally applies to these limited releases. Those details are all sitting in the nice FAQ document right here. There’s no word on pricing just yet (we do know you’ll be able to add a square or hexagonal display case for $3), but those details should come to light closer 11am. Be sure to check out some choice photos above. [via Dead Zebra] |
| Google Glass Titanium Collection arrives for those needing prescription lenses Posted: 28 Jan 2014 05:15 AM PST While a few different optometrists have attempted to create custom prescription lens solutions for Google Glass already, most folks are waiting to see what Google will be doing in the way of official offerings. They’ve finally revealed those details, and they’re calling it the Google Glass Titanium Collection. What you’ll be getting is a slim, yet diverse collection of stylized frames that are ready for prescription lenses. Whether you’re going for that book smart trendy look or something that’ll compliment a nice wide pair of eyes, there should be something here that catches your eye. And if you’re more of the sporty type, Google has also released a few new pair of clip-on shade styles for existing Glass units. The new frames are made from lightweight titanium, so you can wear these things on your face all day without feeling like the world is coming down on your nose and ears. Google says the frames might be covered under some vision care plans, so you might even have options for having your healthcare provider covering some of the costs of buying them.        As for those costs, we’re not quite sure what they are just yet. Google is looking to make those details available to Explorer users later this afternoon. In the meantime, you’ll be able to check out more pics of the Titanium frames in the gallery above, as well as inside the cool promo video you see embedded. Color us excited. |
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