Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Android Community

Android Community

HTC Thunderbolt on sale for $99 at Verizon for Valued Customers

Posted: 01 Jun 2011 11:37 AM PDT

From what we are seeing from our friends over at Droid-Life the HTC Thunderbolt and a few other phones at Verizon Wireless are on sale now until June 12th. It looks like Verizon is holding a private sale on many devices for what they are calling “Loyal Customers”. This may mean long time subscribers, or multi-line customers but apparently certain people have received emails and texts regarding this sale.

Pay no attention to that Blackberry “smart”phone in the image above, its all about the Thunderbolt and that blazing fast 4G LTE it features. It seems a few lucky people might be snagging the device for the low low price of $99 with a new contract of course. The rest of the phones in the image don’t look all that exciting, but I think the main attraction for this sale is directed at that front runner we know as the HTC Thunderbolt.

We don’t have many details regarding this sale, or who all/what qualifies but I have a feeling if your 2-year contract is up and you call and ask nicely Verizon might just be willing to send you off with the Thunderbolt for that $99 pricetag, or at least a discount if you mention the ad. Don’t take my word for it though, call them yourself or stop by a store and see. Don’t forget to come back and comment if you happen to get lucky and get that low price of $99.

[via DroidLife]

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DropBox to come Pre-installed on Sony Ericsson Phones

Posted: 01 Jun 2011 11:02 AM PDT

DropBox has recently announced they have partnered with Sony Ericsson and will be coming pre-installed on future devices from Sony. Dropbox is the popular cloud based storage option that many Android users currently take advantage of. For now the Xperia Play and Arc will be getting the DropBox treatment. They do mention they are working on it for Verizon, but future releases for those devices will have it.

Don’t worry, Dropbox will still be available for everyone else via the app in the Android Market. Dropbox also mentions they have partnered with Softbank for customers in Japan and will launch installed on devices with them in the future. This news is nothing extremely exciting but it is news so we bring it to you.

One little note I wanted to point out is the DropBox press release mentions an Android powered 3D phone from Sharp, that sounds like an interesting device and I think I’ll look into that more and report back, but it may be for Japan only. For now head over to DropBox to read more if you’d like.

[via DropBox Blog]

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ASUS Transformer Android 3.1 Update rolling out Now

Posted: 01 Jun 2011 10:32 AM PDT

Asus was serious when they said the Android 3.1 Honeycomb update would start rolling out in early June for the ASUS Transformer Tablet because it looks like that has started today, June 1st. The Transformer is for sale everywhere if your lucky and can find them in-stock.

According to Brief Mobile the update for Android 3.1 is rolling out now so I’d be hitting that update button if I were a Transformer owner. I have seen a few tweets this morning regarding this update as well so it looks like it has at least started, hopefully everyone will be getting it soon.

The update to Android 3.1 brings many needed improvements and changes to our beloved Android tablets, recently we mentioned the Transformer can use Xbox 360 and PS3 controllers for gaming once it gets Android 3.1 so that should be another amazing new feature I’d love to try out myself. Playing Riptide GP with a 360 controller or a Wii-mote sure would be sweet. Back to the update, like we said it is rolling out now so don’t be afraid to hit that update button.

[via Brief Mobile]

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HTC EVO 3D Possible Launch Date of June 24th

Posted: 01 Jun 2011 10:13 AM PDT

We all first saw the EVO 3D back at CTIA, we even had some hands-on with it. There has been talk and rumors about a release date for a while now but we still have not heard anything concrete. Apparently a flyer recently found by Radio Shack is noting the EVO 3D will be for sale starting June 24th.

A few sources in May mentioned pre-orders were under way but most were all a secret, from Best Buy Mobile to Sprint themselves. Radio Shack has been accepting pre-orders for a while now for this device, but it looks like you might want to go pre-order sooner than later as this device should be a big hit just like the EVO was.

So does Radio Shack know something we don’t or are they just looking for some action and additional orders. Hopefully we will be hearing more details regarding the EVO 3D soon direct from Sprint. I’d expect them to release some info any time now, especially after T-Mobile just officially announced pricing and availability for the Sensation 4G. Both are great devices, but what would you rather have in your hand the EVO 3D or the Sensation 4G?

[via Phandroid]

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HTC Sensation 4G T-Mobile landing page goes Live

Posted: 01 Jun 2011 09:49 AM PDT

Just last night T-Mobile announced the exciting new HTC Sensation 4G would be available starting as early as June 12th at Walmart and in T-Mobile stores on June 15th. The Sensation has received a lot of attention as of late, especially with HTC talking about unlocking device bootloaders. This should be a great phone and you can now see all you’d like on the T-Mobile landing page for the Sensation 4G.

Head on over to T-Mobile and check out the Sensation and all its amazing features. They only have some pictures and advertisements up but we have seen some hands-on in the wild. Or even better check out our very own hands-on review of the European version by our man Chris Davies.

Don’t worry we will have the Sensation 4G from T-Mobile soon enough and will show you everything and more about this exciting new device. It is nice to see T-Mobile putting the page up so soon, you can sign up to receive updates and information if you’d like, I already did. So without talking too much go check out the Sensation 4G and get ready to buy one when the time comes. What would you rather have readers: the Sensation 4G or the Droid X2? Tell us below in the comments. Thanks!

[via T-Mobile Sensation 4G]

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Motorola Atrix Gingerbread 2.3 Preview, Update coming soon

Posted: 01 Jun 2011 09:27 AM PDT

It looks like Brief Mobile got early access to the Atrix Gingerbread 2.3.3 build and are having some fun with it. For all things Atrix check out our Motorola Atrix portal. You can also see our original review by Chris Burns by clicking here. The Motorola Atrix has seen a few updates over the last two or so months and it looks like soon it will be getting another, to Android 2.3 Gingerbread.

According to the source of this preview the Atrix will get the update to Android 2.3 sometime soon in June or possibly July. It brings with it many improvements and loads of new features like: Application side-loading, overscroll glow effect, download manager, improved camera, as well as an update version of Moto Blur. The new Moto Blur looks a lot like what we have recently seen on the Droid X2 we reviewed here.

Motorola has for the most part been tight-lipped regarding their bootloader policy, so for now the Atrix is still pretty locked down but changes could be coming eventually. Now that AT&T is allowing side-loading of applications the need for root has decreased a little but many users would still opt for that route if it were available. Check out the video below for more coverage on the Atrix with Android 2.3 Gingerbread or head to the source.

[via Brief Mobile]

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HTC Merge available now at US Cellular, LG Genesis coming June 9th

Posted: 01 Jun 2011 09:00 AM PDT

US Cellular looks to be launching two power packing Android phones, or at least that is what they are calling them. First up is the HTC Merge and it is available starting today, then they will soon be offering the fold out QWERTY sporting LG Genesis. US Cellular is touting the HTC Merge as the carrier's first Android-Powered Global Ready Smartphone.

The LG Genesis is no slouch either with its impressive dual-screens. It features a 3.5″ Display and while opening the clam-shell design you’ll find a 3.2″ touchscreen inside for your convenience. It also has a faster 1 Ghz Snapdragon processor compared to the HTC Merge and its 800 Mhz CPU, both are Qualcomm Snapdragon CPU’s might I add. The HTC Merge is available today starting at $149 with a new 2-year contract (and a $100 MIR). We mentioned the Merge back when it became more noticeable that Verizon wouldn’t be selling it.

For those that want that dual-screen LG Genesis it can be yours starting June 9th. Just like the HTC Merge above it will also be available for the same price of $149 on contract and after the fun $100 mail-in rebate, don’t you guys love MIR’s? Check out all the details in the press release below:

U.S. CELLULAR TO LAUNCH TWO POWER-PACKED ANDROID™ DEVICES

HTC Merge™ is carrier's first Android-Powered Global Ready Smartphone;

LG Genesis™ is a carrier exclusive; features dual touch screens

CHICAGO (May 31, 2011) – U.S. Cellular (NYSE: USM) is expanding its device portfolio with two more Android-powered smartphones that are packed with cool features and access to countless apps. Starting today, the HTC Merge is available for $149.99 after a $100 mail-in rebate, and the LG Genesis will debut June 9 at the same rate.

"Customers who switch to U.S. Cellular join the happiest customers in wireless and can get easy-to-use devices that can be personalized to fit their busy schedules," said Edward Perez, vice president of sales and marketing operations for U.S. Cellular. "Whether it's managing your calendar, keeping track of family activities or staying in touch with close friends, we have phones that make your life easier."

The HTC Merge is U.S. Cellular's first Android-powered Global Ready smartphone. So, if you're traveling abroad this summer, you can stay in touch with friends and family no matter the continent or time zone by using a required SIM card and service for the country you're visiting. The HTC Merge also has a keyboard that can be switched to 18 different languages and offers users the freedom to check Facebook, tweet, text, browse the web and access e-mails anytime using the 3.8-inch touch screen or the slide out QWERTY keyboard. Other handy features include a 5.0 megapixel camera, GPS, 720p video recorder, Adobe Flash 10.1 and a customizable quick key that lets you program your favorite function whether it's an app, web site, media player or contact.

Exclusive to U.S. Cellular, the LG Genesis features a sleek flip design with two touch screens that allow users to view social network updates and stay up-to-speed with texts and e-mails. Input lightning fast messaging on the 3.5-inch touch screen using Swype® technology on a virtual QWERTY keyboard or text hands free using voice. The internal 3.2-inch touch screen is paired with a wide, slide out keyboard that also makes typing quick and easy. A built-in 5.0 megapixel camera and 32 GB of storage makes snapping and sharing pictures of family and friends in high or low light a breeze with auto focus and zoom functions.

The HTC Merge and the LG Genesis are equipped with the Froyo 2.2 Android platform, and the Android Market™ has more than 200,000 apps awaiting download by users. Both smartphones are also Wi-Fi® hotspot capable and come with 8GB memory cards.

Several of U.S. Cellular's value-packed national plans are a perfect fit for smartphone users. The $79.99 Primary Plus Plan is the best value in wireless and offers 5GB of data with unlimited text, picture and video messaging. The plan also comes with 450 voice minutes, free incoming calls, free nights and weekends and free mobile-to-mobile calls.

A family of four who switches to U.S. Cellular and joins the happiest customers in wireless can save more than $1,000 a year with the company's Premium Plus family plan. The whole family can get the latest Android-powered smartphones to download apps and keep up with friends, the latest news and favorite social networks.

U.S. Cellular has the highest call quality and network satisfaction of any national carrier, and all devices are backed by the carrier's high-speed nationwide network. Customers also get unique benefits, like new phones faster without continuously signing contracts. For more information about all of U.S. Cellular's deals, plans and phones, and other restrictions on these offers, visit any U.S. Cellular store, go to uscellular.com or check out U.S. Cellular on Facebook.

The HTC Merge is available for $149.99 after a $100 mail-in rebate, and the LG Genesis is $149.99 after a $100 mail-in rebate. Purchase of a data plan is required, and a new two-year agreement and activation fee may apply.

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Specs on Galaxy S II I9101 show new innards

Posted: 01 Jun 2011 08:32 AM PDT

On Monday a couple pics of a new Samsung Galaxy S II smartphone surfaced. The smartphone has the model number I9101 and we reckoned that the device was the NFC packing version of the SII that we have been expecting for a while. Today some new details of that smartphone have surfaced and the screen shots show that the S9101 has new hardware inside.

The images apparently came from the Samsung Singapore Facebook page and the specs may not be the final version offered. The screens show that the smartphone has a TI OMAP4430 chipset with a 1GHz dual-core ARM Cortex-A9 CPU. The smartphone also has PowerVR SGX 540 GPU and 1GB of RAM. The RAM is the same amount as the SII I9100.

This means that the hardware in the I9101 is not as good as what is in the existing handset. What gives? Could this be a cheaper handset for emerging markets or something? The camera is expected to be a 5MP unit and the screen may be a Super Clear LCD rather than the Super AMOLED Plus on the other SII smartphone.

i9101hw-1 i9101hw-2

[via GSMarena]

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Verizon launches IndyCar Mobile app

Posted: 01 Jun 2011 08:17 AM PDT

There are many fans out there that really enjoy all sorts of motorsports. There are also bunches of apps around that help the motorsports fan to follow their favorite race series. Verizon has announced a new app for Android users called IndyCar Mobile. The app offers fans of the race series all sorts of cool content to allow them to follow the race even if they miss it on TV.

The app offers information on the drivers, standings in the points chase and a lot more. There is a news page that tells all the goings on in the news for the series and a schedule page for all the races. The app also offers video and photos from INDYCAR Nation and Verizon users can participate in special weekly fan promotions.

The app is available for more than 25 different Verizon wireless smartphones including the Thunderbolt and the Xoom tablet. Any Android-based smartphone can run the app and it is free. Verizon customers can get the app by texting INDY to 3406 or just get it from the Android Market.

[via Intomobile]

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Amazon App Store give Pac-Man for free today

Posted: 01 Jun 2011 08:00 AM PDT

If you are an Android smartphone user that likes to play games and has a soft spot for the retro variety, the free game on the Amazon App Store will be appealing. For today the free game of the day is the retro classic Pac-Man. I know many geeks around in the 80′s cut their gaming teeth on that arcade game.

The only downside to me with this game is that the virtual joystick isn’t my favorite control method. Typically, this game sells for 99 cents and what you are getting for free is the full version of the game, not some limited version. If you don't like the virtual joystick, you can swap it to the flick mode.

I hate the flick mode even more though; our pal Pac-Man never seems the change direction when I want him to using that control method. Apparently, the trick is to flick just before the turn you want to make. Go download this game right now and save yourself a buck to put towards something else.

[via Gottabemobile]

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Will TI be the chipmaker of choice for Android Ice Cream Sandwich?

Posted: 01 Jun 2011 07:14 AM PDT

There have already been many announcements coming out of Computex 2011 so far this week. We have seen some cool demos of the powerful upcoming Kal-El platform running very cool looking upcoming games at the show. While NVIDIA is showing off its wares, we have yet to hear anything from TI. A new rumor is surfacing that TI might well be the preferred chipmaker for the next version of Android beyond Honeycomb called Ice Cream Sandwich.

NVIDIA’s Tegra dual-core is the main processor behind the Honeycomb tablet realm right now. According to a new rumor NVIDIA may not be the major supplier of chips for the next Android tablet version. The TI OMAP 4 chip may be the processor that Google develops Ice Cream Sandwich around reports Gottabemobile.

According to some sources, NVIDIA is apparently struggling to innovate and this is the reason for TI getting the nod to come up to The Bigs for Android tablets. The source reportedly said that TI is reliable whereas NVIDIA is struggling to innovate and with engineering resources. Another rumor claims that Google may be looking for Qualcomm chips for the Android Jello version coming after Ice Cream Sandwich.

[via Gottabemobile]

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Samsung Galaxy S II gets even better 1080p 30Mbit/s video hack

Posted: 01 Jun 2011 03:21 AM PDT

Yesterday I mentioned that there was a new hack that had been unveiled for the Samsung Galaxy S II smartphone that wasn't quite ready for the masses. The hack took the standard video capability of the Galaxy S II and gave the smartphone 1080p 24Mbit/s capability with 44.1khz/192kbps audio. The developer of that hack was hyperX. HyperX has now teamed up with a developer at XDA-developers called potatoman to develop an even better hack.

The new hack takes that 24Mbit/s video from yesterday and turns it up a notch with 30Mbit/s Super fine 1080p HD at 30 fps with 48Khz/192kbps audio. The new hack has some other options for the video settings as well. In addition to the new 30Mbit mode, the hack also offers access to the 24Mbit fine mode we talked about yesterday.

Users can also opt for 17Mbit normal mode. All of the available modes use the same sound quality. Apparently, another version of the hack keeps the sound standard and just ups the video quality. Potatoman and hyperX say that they will work together on more hacks for the GSII in the future. There is no word on when this mod will be ready for the masses.

[via SlashGear]

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XOOM 2, Targa, and MORE leaked by Motorola

Posted: 31 May 2011 10:25 PM PDT

Let’s have a look at what we’ve got right here. The folks at Motorola have, very recently, uploaded a brand new version of their homepage collection, and in a move that can only be described as nothing less than the classic “FFFFFFFUUUUUUUUUUUU”, they’ve released images of several devices that’ll certainly be released inside 2011 (right, that’s how this works, right?) This collection includes the Motorola XOOM 2, Slimline, Zaha, Targa, and a Dick Tracy watch by the name of Tracy XL.

As yours truly is an oddity lover, I’m glad to see they’ve started at the top of this page with the really weird watch by the name of Tracy XL. With any luck, this device will be Android powered, standalone, and will have a front-facing 8+ megapixel camera with 1080p capture. Sound good? Good.

It’s important to mention here that there really aren’t any hard details in any of these devices, only whispers as to what they might be and/or contain. Next is the Slimline, a gunmetal silver device that has a sort of single-eye thing going on, while the thinnest point will certainly be smaller than a flick of paper, that meaning it’ll be more dangerous than a sword blade. Of course!

Next down the line and 3 out of 5 is the Zaha with the tagline “The Future is Now.” This of course means that the device will be the best thing since sliced Android. It definitely does look rather snazzy, reminding this reporter of the slickness only found thus far in everyones favorite Nexus S device. Below this there are no other perfect central looks at devices because PocketNow.com didn’t snap them up fast enough we must assume, but you can see a tiny corner of the Targa, and the XOOM 2 is at the bottom of every one of the shots and can be seen as a much more sculpturally lovely device than its predecessor. Finally there’s a device called “Pearl,” the details of which, as you’re sure I’m sure, are anyone’s guess.

See more info on the Targa via this simple portal.

Looks like fun all around!

[via PocketNow]

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T-Mobile Sensation 4G Availability Revealed [Official!]

Posted: 31 May 2011 07:35 PM PDT

We’ve just got our hands on the press release as revealed by T-Mobile that contains all the information we’ve gotta have before we know how much cash we’re going to have to drop down on the HTC Sensation 4G. This press release lets us know that the device will be out “by June 15th,” this POSSIBLY dashing hopes that the device will be announced on June 8th, but not completely – announcements, releases, and presentations are all different of course.

This device will launch here in the USA with Android 2.3 (the latest, they say,) a 4.3-inch qHD display, and what T-Mobile notes as being 4G speeds. Of course this device is also rolling out with the thus far fabulously impressive 1.2GHz dual-core Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ processor. Would you like to see this device as it stands in the UK thus far? Have a look at our review courtesy of our main England homie Chris Davies.

Or perhaps you’d like to see the device in action versus the Samsung Galaxy S II? You can also see now, thanks to this press release, the fact that several new elements will be in place on this device including HTC Watch for movie rentals, HTC Listen for the same situation but with music, T-Mobile TV for free and pay content in live-tv format, Qik for video chat, and everyone’s favorite radio app Slacker Radio.

Another bonus note you may want to pay attention to is thus: “The HTC Sensation 4G is also expected to be available as early as June 12 at select Wal-Mart locations.” For real! Check out the rest of the press release below:

T-Mobile USA, Inc. today announced the upcoming availability of the HTC Sensation 4G. Expected to be available by June 15, and exclusively from T-Mobile, the HTC Sensation 4G is T-Mobile's most powerful smartphone, delivering the latest Android™ 2.3 (Gingerbread) operating system with the hallmark HTC Sense™ experience and lightning-fast speeds with a 1.2GHz dual-core Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ processor paired with access to America's Largest 4G Network.

T-Mobile's high-speed 4G network continues to expand and is now available in 184 markets, reaching more than 200 million people nationwide. With the HTC Sensation 4G, T-Mobile customers in these areas can take advantage of 4G speeds as they download and watch premium entertainment on the device's 4.3-inch qHD display virtually anytime, anywhere, without waiting.

"The HTC Sensation 4G's already powerful performance is elevated by T-Mobile's high-speed 4G network, offering customers quick download speeds, seamless Web browsing, and easy access to their favorite movies," said Andrew Sherrard, senior vice president, marketing,

T-Mobile USA. "The sophisticated and innovative design of the HTC Sensation 4G complements its rich entertainment features, making it a must-have for high-end smartphone fans."

Designed and manufactured by HTC, the Sensation 4G features a premium design with rounded edges, aluminum unibody construction and T-Mobile's first 4.3-inch qHD touch-screen display. The HTC Sensation 4G delivers a quality on-the-go entertainment experience with easy access to top movie titles, TV programs, music and more via the following preloaded applications:

HTC Watch™: A library of the latest, premium movies and TV shows available for rent or purchase using innovative progressive download technology
HTC Listen™: A VIP pass to a library of millions of songs with the freedom to transfer purchases to another device or computer
T-Mobile® TV: A free selection of live and on-demand TV including news, sports and kids programming, plus full episodes of popular shows
T-Mobile Video Chat powered by Qik™: Video conversations with friends and family through T-Mobile's network and over Wi-Fi
Slacker Radio: Free, personalized radio with over 150 genre stations and the ability to create your own stations
"The HTC Sensation 4G defines the perfect balance of power and design. Its dual-core processor and qHD screen place it firmly in the superphone class, but its sleek machined aluminum housing and contoured display give it an in-hand feel unlike any superphone that has come before it," said Jason Mackenzie, president of HTC Americas. "HTC's history of working with T-Mobile to bring innovative new services to market continues with the HTC Sensation 4G, the first device anywhere to offer HTC Listen, an innovative new mobile music service."

The HTC Sensation 4G comes equipped with the latest HTC Sense™ experience which includes new features and enhancements such as a customizable lock screen, allowing customers to quickly jump to their favorite features and applications with the same gesture typically used to unlock the phone. The HTC Sensation 4G also offers access to more than 200,000 applications available on Android Market™ and integration with popular Google services such as Gmail™, Google Maps™ with Places and Navigation, YouTube®, and more.

For capturing and sharing memories in real time, the HTC Sensation 4G features an 8-megapixel rear-facing camera with dual LED flash, digital zoom and auto-focus, as well as a front-facing camera and 1080p HD video recorder. With DLNA compatibility, HTC Sensation 4G customers can wirelessly connect to a compatible HDTV or other DLNA device for streaming full HD video content.

The HTC Sensation 4G includes smartphone essentials such as easy access to personal and work e-mail, including support for Microsoft Exchange e-mail, contacts and calendar, social networking, and instant messaging. The HTC Sensation 4G also features Trace™ for easy text input, visual voicemail, a pre-installed 8GB microSD card, built-in 3.5mm headphone jack, Adobe® Flash® Player support and a music player.

Availability

The HTC Sensation 4G is expected to be available by June 15 exclusively to T-Mobile customers nationwide at T-Mobile retail stores, online at http://www.t-mobile.com and through select national retailers and dealers. The HTC Sensation 4G is also expected to be available as early as June 12 at select Wal-Mart locations.

Customers can visit http://htc.t-mobile.com/sensation for more information.

T-Mobile's 4G network has expanded to 14 additional markets including Bloomington, Ind; Bremerton and Mount Vernon, Wash.; Flagstaff, Ariz.; Santa Fe, N.M.; Madera, Oxnard, Riverside and Santa Cruz, Calif.; Manchester, N.H.; Reading and York, Penn.; and Springfield and Worcester, Mass.

For more details on where T-Mobile's 4G network is currently available, please visit http://newsroom.t-mobile.com/articles/4g-fact-sheet

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Android Community mini collectibles series 02 Giveaway Number 2

Posted: 31 May 2011 02:30 PM PDT

Win your very own Android toy like you see in essentially every single video we film – those happy little plastic robots that come in so very many different varieties. We’ve got a contest going on right this second in which you’ll be able to win one, two, three, or even four sealed “blind” boxes of Android Mini Collectible Series 02 – aka the second of two sets, as sold out as the first set, this one containing a fabulous assortment including that cool little cupcake you see in the photo below.

If you’d like to see if you can purchase one of these toys, before you try to win one, head over to DeadZebra, where they are distributed. I think you’ll find that they are quite sold out, QUITE sold out. Thusly, let’s get to talking about how you’ll win this particular set of four (or just one, just two, or maybe just three.)

Lets discuss the rules:

1. This isn’t the first time we’ve had an Android Toy Giveaway but it IS the first time we’ve had this particular set of rules.

2. To enter into this contest you’ve got to post in the following thread in our forums: What would you like Ice Cream Sandwich to do? [No Limits!]

3. That’s it!

These toys will be given away to entrants based on their quality and creativity. You’ll be able to win up to 4 toys, one per awesome entry into the contest via that forum thread.

Winners will be announced via message IN the forums on June 7th 2011.

Win some toys!

P1130020 P1130021 P1130022 P1130023 P1130024 winandroidtoysz )


Riptide GP Upgraded Video Review

Posted: 31 May 2011 01:51 PM PDT

If you’ll recall all the way back in mid-April on the 19th, we had an early-early look at the completely awesome jetski racing game by the name of Riptide GP. This is a game we got to see first all the way back at CTIA 2011 being demoed on the T-Mobile / LG G-slate, a device we then got to review and use for our own initial review then and again for our final review now. Riptide GP is a game that’s both massively impressive and expansive in its graphics and ultra-simple in its gameplay. Steer your vehicle and win, experience the color fantasy.

This game is unique in that while you are racing using the entire device as your steering mechanism, you’re racing on a road of water. You’ll feel completely unique in your attack of the track while you splash and goosh through a track like you’ve never seen of felt before. Certainly there have been racing games that’ve taken place on the water in the past, but absolutely positively never on a level of impressiveness as this.

First let me show you the video of the review we did back in mid-April. Notice the background, the colors, and the waves, and get ready to compare them to the now current version of the game:

Now have a look at the update. Everything is just a LITTLE bit better it seems, that extra little push into excellent turning the game into one that’s not to be forgotten. Note that we’re again using the G-Slate to take a peek at this app and that the app is available for ANY device that’s got an NVIDIA Tegra 2 processor inside, not just tablets, but that we recommend you use a tablet for the win.

If you head over to the Android Market (or the Tegra Zone) and find Vector Unit, you’ll see that Riptide GP comes in a full version for $6.99 or a FREE DEMO that you can download for FREE. Now you’ve got NO reason not to try this mother out. Go get it!

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Nexus 3 was a Fake, Hearts Break

Posted: 31 May 2011 01:50 PM PDT

Well people the internet over were skeptical. I personally wanted it to be true, but it turns out that the supposed leaked image of the Nexus 3 was indeed a fake. As several people have noticed, there do appear to be signs on the image which would tend to indicate a photoshop job. The site responsible for the leak has apologized and explained that their source, whom they believed to be a Google employee, was in fact not. It was fun while it lasted, now we go back to awaiting the real Nexus 3.

It was a weak link from the beginning, and now the evidence proves hands down the leak was always a fake. TechHog had several photo experts confirm that the image had indeed been fabricated, as many suspected. Adding to the certainty was a non-responsive source, who it turns out was the one who requested TechHog pull the info and image from the site. I can’t imagine what so motivated this guy to fake a leak anonymously, but he clearly put some thought into it.

The image above is the supposed source of the fake leak. We aren’t sure what this phone is, but it bears a resemblance to several previous HTC phones, appearing to be a metallic version of the Sensation, or the Incredible S. A key thing to notice is that the image above, still has the usual extra bezel space for hardware buttons, even though they are not visible, further strengthening the link to the Incredible S and its rotating capacitive buttons. We’ll keep you updated if anymore details about this phone, or the Nexus 3 comes to light.

[via TechHog]

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New Malware from the Folks That Brought You DroidDream

Posted: 31 May 2011 01:25 PM PDT

It’s been a few months since we first reported on the outbreak of “Droid Dream,” a piece of malware which was found present on the Android Market. Now it appears that a new, stripped down DroidDream is appearing in the market, and has affected tens of apps from no less than 6 developers. Google has removed the apps from the market, but we aren’t sure if they’ve used their kill switch to nuke the apps from any phones that have downloaded them at this time.

The malware, hijacks your phone in the background, triggered by certain actions such as receiving a call. This means that the app itself does not even need to be launched. The malicious app will then send several details about your phone to the creators of the malware.

The list of known infect apps is as follows:

By Magic Photo Studio:
Sexy Girls: Hot Japanese
Sexy Legs
HOT Girls 4
Beauty Breasts
Sex Sound
Sex Sound: Japanese
HOT Girls 1
HOT Girls 2
HOT Girls 3

By Mango Studio:
Floating Image Free
System Monitor
Super StopWatch and Timer
System Info Manager

By E.T. Tean:
Call End Vibrate

By BeeGoo:
Quick Photo Grid
Delete Contacts
Quick Uninstaller
Contact Master
Brightness Settings
Volume Manager
Super Photo Enhance
Super Color Flashlight
Paint Master

By DroidPlus:
Quick Cleaner
Super App Manager
Quick SMS Backup

By GluMobi:
Tetris
Bubble Buster Free
Quick History Eraser
Super Compass and Leveler
Go FallDown !
Solitaire Free
Scientific Calculator
TenDrip

Remember to always be careful when downloading apps, checking reviews and user ratings, and only downloading from trusted sources, keeping in mind that just because it’s on the Android Market does not guarantee it is safe. In short, use common sense. While the extent of infected apps ability to cause mischief once the data has been sent is not detailed, uninstalling it is your obvious first step should you be infected. The report comes from Lookout, a mobile security company. They say they are able to assist infected users, should you email them at support@mylookout.com

[via The Lookout Blog]

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Sprint Releases Details of 3D Content to be Available for Evo 3D

Posted: 31 May 2011 12:27 PM PDT

While we’re still waiting for a release date, Sprint and has decided to tease us with a few new details about the HTC Evo 3D. The dual-core, glasses-less 3D featuring phone is launching on Sprint’s 4G network sometime this summer, and now we’re starting to get a better idea of what sort of content we’ll have to take advantage of that 4.3″ 3D screen.

The Evo 3D (see our hands on from CTIA here) is set to be the first major Android smartphone to feature the stereoscopic, glasses-less 3D. Being the first of its kind, one would think it would be a bit lonely in the content department, but Sprint is seeing to it that doesn’t happen. To give you something to do right away, Sprint’s going to be including The Green Hornet in 3D on the pre-packaged SD card with all phones, at least for its initial release. You’ll also get a demo of a 3D Spiderman game, courtesy of Gameloft.

Once you get bored with the pre-loaded content, You’ll be able to bring your money to HTC’s Watch movie store as well as a Blockbuster On-Demand app which will rent, and sell you 2D and 3D movies. Should you be more of a gamer, Sprint has you covered. Gameloft will also be bundling a store app. Gameloft Storefront, as it will be called, will offer several promising sounding 3D games including an Assassins’ Creed title. If you can stand the wait, it sounds like Sprint has every intention of making sure the Evo 3D is a worth successor to the giant it follows.

Exciting Content Coming for this Summer's Highly Anticipated Smartphone, HTC EVO 3D Exclusively from Sprint
New 2D and 3D content, including games, movies and apps, available for HTC EVO 3D at launch; Gameloft, HTC and Blockbuster latest content providers offering exciting new content designed to take advantage of Wi-Fi and the Sprint 4G Network along with HTC EVO 3D's powerful features

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (BUSINESS WIRE), May 31, 2011 – Missed seeing "The Green Hornet 3DTM" and other 3D films at the movie theater? Maybe you are a gamer looking for more action with your favorite game? Today, Sprint (NYSE: S) is offering a sneak peek into some of the exciting content, including movies and games, that will be available on HTC EVOTM 3D, when it launches this summer.

Announced at International CTIA Wireless 2011 and recipient of the coveted 'Best in Show' honor from Laptop Magazine, HTC EVO 3D is America's first 4G phone with a 4.3-inch qHD 3D display for a glasses-free 3D viewing experience.

Available this summer exclusively from Sprint, HTC EVO 3D is built on AndroidTM 2.3 (Gingerbread), and powered by a 1.2GHz Qualcomm® Snapdragon® dual core processor. It also features dual, rear-facing 5-megapixel cameras, which can be used to capture both high-quality conventional and stunning 3D images and videos, opening up new frontiers for user-generated content, social networking and streaming video. The device also offers video chat capabilities through a front-facing 1.3-megapixel camera.

"When HTC EVO 3D launches this summer, it will introduce our customers to exciting new capabilities that will appeal to consumers," said Steve Elfman, president-Network Operations, Product and Wholesale, Sprint. "When combined with Wi-Fi and the Sprint 4G Network, HTC EVO 3D offers an innovative user experience that will give our customers the ability to play games, watch movies, take pictures and video chat in 3D right in the palm of their hand."

3D Movies On Demand

For a limited time, Sprint will be offering customers who purchase the HTC EVO 3D the blockbuster movie "The Green Hornet 3DTM." The movie will be pre-loaded on the device's microSD card out of the box.

HTC EVO 3D will be pre-loaded with the HTC WatchTM movie application. With HTC Watch, consumers will have access to 2D and 3D movies and television programming on demand. Customers can buy or rent and download movies that will be optimized for viewing on HTC EVO 3D. Additionally, up to five movies can be stored in the HTC cloud, and programming purchased through the HTC Watch application can be viewed on other HTC devices. Rentals range in price from $2.99 to $3.99, and purchases start at $8.99.

HTC EVO 3D will be the first 3D handset pre-loaded with the Blockbuster On Demand® mobile app offering access to one of the largest catalogs of movies, including 3D titles. This movie store in your pocket offers video optimized for viewing on HTC EVO 3D's 4.3-inch screen and offers the hottest new releases on the same day they become available on Blu-ray and DVD. Customers can buy or rent titles digitally and download directly to their smartphone, including select 3D movies. Drive Angry, starring Nicolas Cage, will be one of the first action-packed 3D titles available to customers.

Rentals range from $2.99 to $3.99 each, and purchases are $4.99 and up. If a video isn't available digitally, Blockbuster also gives customers access to more than 100,000 movies and TV shows, as well as games, through its by Blockbuster® by Mail service and Blockbuster stores nationwide. With the HTC EVO 3D, customers can manage and update their mail queues from their phone, while on-the-go.

Gameloft Provides Hottest 3D Gaming

With 3D animation from HTC EVO 3D, gamers will feel like they are part of the action. A free Ultimate Spider-Man: Total Mayhem 3D demo version of the game will be pre-loaded on HTC EVO 3D. Gamers will enjoy the sleek graphic style with bold colors and impressive animations, including slow motion that brings the ultimate Spider-Man universe alive right in their hands.

The device will come pre-loaded with the Gameloft Storefront, giving customers access to a variety of 2D and 3D games. Exciting 3D games that will be available at launch include Assassin's Creed: Altair's Chronicles and GT Racing Motor Academy. The 3D and 2D games are available for purchase in the Gameloft Storefront for $4.99.

Additional 3D Applications

With its 3D HD (720p) video capture, 4G speeds where available and the latest version of the acclaimed HTC Sense experience, HTC EVO 3D makes it possible to become part of the action and then easily and seamlessly post and view high-quality 3D video to YouTubeTM or Facebook®, or share moments in real time over the Internet live, via Qik. The 3D content will automatically convert to 2D if the viewer does not have a 3D capable device.

Its integrated DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) capability also makes it fast and easy to share stored music, pictures and user-generated HD video wirelessly with other DLNA-certified home electronics, including HDTVs, monitors, digital cameras and printers. Using an HDMI cable (sold separately) makes it possible to also share user-created 3D video content via a 3D TV.

Learn more about the HTC EVO 3D by visiting www.sprint.com/evo3d.

A Sprint developer guide for HTC EVO 3D will be available on the Sprint Developer website at launch. The developer guide will provide details and information on how to take advantage of the unique hardware and software capabilities, including 3D, HDMI output and DLNA on the Sprint Network.

As the first U.S. national wireless carrier to test, launch and market 4G technology, Sprint made history by launching 4G in Baltimore in September 2008. Sprint currently offers 4G service in 71 markets in 28 states. For more information, visit www.sprint.com/4G.

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Two New Games for Tegra: Galaxy of Fire 2 and Hardwood Backgammon

Posted: 31 May 2011 12:15 PM PDT

If you’ve been paying attention to the app previews and reviews we’ve been doing over the past few months, you’ve noticed that we’ve had a rather exciting run of games come to our desk released exclusively for Tegra 2 devices. NVIDIA’s been working VERY closely with the top minds and most ambitious developers in gaming to move the greatest possible games to mobile via Android – all of them through the app called NVIDIA Tegra Zone. What’s coming up next, you might be asking yourself? Why, Galaxy of Fire 2 and Hardwood Backgammon, of course!

You may be wondering why Galaxy of Fire 2 isn’t already here. Why, when we got to see a rather close-to-complete build of the game back in March? First, have a look at that app review and marvel at the awesomeness of it all, then hear this: it’s pushed back to June. Not so bad! You’ve just got a LITTLE bit longer to wait. You’re gonna want to be grabbing this freaking thing as soon as it pops out:

Perhaps because of Android 3.1 and 3rd party controller support they’re re-tooling the game for ultimate fun!

NOTE we’ve got another game guide for Tegra 2 devices back here and note that most of those games are now out on the market. And they’re AWESOME.

Next is a game called Hardwood Backgammon. Where otherwise there’d be no reason in the world for us to be posting a backgammon game, especially since there’s been no backgammon game out for mobile or ANY platform other than actual, physical board game, this one’s a doozie. Silver Creek Entertainment, developers of Hardwood Solitaire and Hardwood Spades, have created this newest vision of a mobile board game – high res graphics, shadows, dynamic lighting, all the greatest stuff! Have a peek here at a preview:

Features:
• Great 3D graphics with dynamic lighting and more
• Unique 3D effects with playing pieces such as the checker piece flipping or dice rolling
• Tablet-ready as well
• Achievements to earn
• Online leaderboard
• In-game purchases for more customization

Now we’ve just got to remember how to play backgammon.

[via DGamers]

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