Patent application filed by Motorola for smartwatch device

A new patent application was published today for a device from Motorola that basically describes a smartwatch. The application was initially filed with the USPTO in February of 2012 and describes a device that can “enfold about an appendage of a user.” For an example of what that means, just check out the image showing the device going around a human wrist. Besides describing a smartwatch in physical form, the patent application also describes several functions of such a device, like gaze detection, an orientation detector, and options for multiple displays with some being hinged on the device.

The claims in the patent application include the ability to change a background image in response to various criteria like the expiration of a timer, the mood of an individual, or the health condition of the wearer. Motorola indicates in the application that one of the goals of their invention is to break free of the paradigm where all displays rotate so the “top” of the output is above the “bottom” of the output. Based on that, part of the concept is to make the entire strap effectively become part of the display.

You can check out the full application at the source link below.

source: USPTO
via: Engadget

Twitter opens up their Android Beta Program

Usually the one to start trends, Twitter is following the trend and activating their beta program. Joining big name apps like Facebook, Snapchat, and Nova, the Twitter Beta Program allows you to access experimental features that aren’t yet live to the general public.

To join, head to the source link below, join the group, and then opt-in to the beta when prompted. From there you can download the beta Twitter app from the Google Play Store like normal. Try it out, and let Twitter know what you think, if you are so inclined.

Source: Twitter for Android Experiment

Xiaomi’s app store hits 1 billion downloads in a year, company looks to be on the climb

The news couldn’t have come at a better time for the company. Just as they wrangled away former Android icon Hugo Barra from Google, Xiaomi announced that they have reached 1 billion downloads from their MIUI app store in one year. Xiaomi’s UI is based on Android firmware, so it’s no wonder that so many apps have been developed for the platform. (Being located in the most populated region in the world helps a lot too.)

Since the company launched its MIUI app store, it has gained over 17 million active users with over 1.3 million daily searches. Add 5 million daily downloads to the recipe and you come out with with #5 ranked app store in China. (Out of over 200.)

We should expect to see more from Xiaomi in the coming year— we’re certainly looking forward to seeing what they’ve got up their sleeves, are you?

Source: TheNextWeb

New, cheaper variant of Samsung Galaxy Note III could be in the works

We are all familiar now with major manufacturers producing several variants of their flagship devices in order to target specific markets and demographics, so news that Samsung may be ready to release a cheaper variant of the new Galaxy Note III intended for emerging markets should not be surprising. According to sources in Korea, Samsung has a version of the new stylus-equipped phablet that costs 20 – 30% less to manufacture than the “normal” version slated to be unveiled next week. It appears changes will include the use of an LCD screen instead of Super AMOLED and a downgraded rear-facing camera capable of 8 MP compared to 13 MP for the normal unit. Samsung could also look at a change like downgrading the processor to a Snapdragon 600.

You may recognize that de-tuning the screen and camera were the same changes Samsung made when producing the Galaxy S 4 Active. So another alternative may be that Samsung is working on a ruggedized version of the Galaxy Note III for buyers who want to use their device in the great outdoors or other hazardous environments.

We should find out more next week.

source: ET News

Samsung Galaxy S 4 Zoom LTE camera officially hits European markets

Samsung’s Galaxy  S 4 Zoom is one heck of a sweet cameraphone, but there have been more than a few of you out there who have expressed major discontent for a lack of an LTE version. Fortunately, you can finally stop your bellyaching as Samsung has gone ahead and unleashed a new variant carrying a 4G chip built-in, allowing those of you out there to go ahead and use the device on your network of choice. As of now, Samsung has confirmed the new camera will operate on Deutsche Telekom, Tele2, Telia Sonera and Orange networks, though it wouldn’t be too much of a surprise if we saw additional networks added at a future date. Of course it doesn’t have an interchangeable lens like other cameras out there, but hey— at least some you out there can finally go ahead and upload those high-res photos to your social network of choice without having to wait forever.

There’s no word on exact pricing for the Galaxy S 4 Zoom LTE just yet, but we expect to see all that sooner than later.

source: Samsung
via: Engadget

Meizu MX3 pictured in what looks like official photos

It looks like Meizu’s upcoming smartphone has been spotted for the first time. The Meizu MX3 seems to have been pictured in official-like photos wearing a transparent protective case. We can see from front and back angles. The MX3 will run Flyme 3.0 OS (based on Android Jelly Bean), and has a 5.1 inch Full HD display, Exynos 5 Octa processor from Samsung, 2GB of RAM, and a 13MP rear camera.

The MX3 will officially be announced on September 2, and will likely be released only in China. Price is still a question mark, but rumor has it that it will cost 1,999 CNY – or about $327 – not a bad deal for a phone with the above specs.

Source: 3G.cnVia: Unwired View

Plug-in mobile camera lenses teased by Oppo

We are about a month away from the N1 unveiling, but Oppo is teasing a new series of plug-in camera lenses. They use 16MP CMOS sensors along with optical image stabilization (OIS). They also support NFC, SD cards and WiFi. The thinner version will sport 10X zoom and the thicker version will feature 15X zoom. I expect to see them alongside the N1 on September 23rd.

source: Sina Weibo (login required)
via: Engadget

T-Mobile Moto X could be offered exclusively through Google Play

Shortly after the Moto X launch, T-Mobile Marketing Chief Mike Sievert said that it would “initially be available through Motorola’s channels,” but it looks like things might have changed. The image above shows the T-Mobile Moto X to be available through Google Play only.

Now we have heard that the Moto X will eventually be offered in the Play Store, but will it only be compatible with T-Mobile or will it be a GSM version that’s compatible with both T-Mobile and AT&T? Unfortunately T-Mobile isn’t speaking up, so we are left guessing.

source: TmoNews

Gear Manager Android App for Galaxy Gear Smartwatch Leaks

As we wind down to the launch of Samsung’s Galaxy Gear, we’re bound to see more and more “leaks” come to light. This time around @evleaks (do they ever sleep) give us a taste of what the Android app, Gear Manager will look like. The app confirms that the model number will be SM-V700 and you’ll be able to connect the device through NFC or Bluetooth. Besides that you’ll see a host of other options you’ll get to use.

You’ll be able to change the clock or change various app settings. You’ll be able to find your watch should you ever lose it as well as mess with watch settings. We’re just a week away from the big debut so you can expect to see more “leaks” such as this. Anyone out there planning on getting this when it comes out?

source: @evleaks

HTC Zara Mini leaks, looks to be a smaller version of previously rumored device

Not too long ago, we heard about an upcoming new device from HTC, dubbed the Zara. Now, we’re hearing about a smaller version of the Zara… being called the Zara Mini. The device passed through the Chinese FCC equivalent with the model number HTC 301e, and it is considerably less powerful than the HTC Zara, with a 480 x 800 4.3 inch screen and 512 MB of RAM. It still might have the same processor as the Zara, a dual-core Snapdragon 400, but it’s sporting a 5 megapixel camera, which points at what’s probably not going to be an UltraPixel shooter. It’s also worth mentioning this device will come with Android 4.1.2, which is starting to show its age for a Q4 2013 device. At this point, though, the Mini has more confirmed specs than the regular device, if this filing is accurate.

Assuming the HTC Zara and the Zara Mini are two separate devices and not just a confusing stream of leaks for the same device, HTC might be continuing to do what put them in financial trouble in the first place. The One Max is still likely to come out later this year, and HTC already has the One and One Mini on the market, plus their mid-range Desire line of phones. Throwing two more phones into the mix would really be a prime example of bombarding the market with similar phones, and supporting that many devices at once is nearly impossible. Hopefully some official news from HTC will shed some light on this soon.

source: Tenaa

via: Phone Arena

Motorola could possibly offer “swappable” back-covers for lower-cost Moto X

We have already heard that Motorola is working on releasing a lower-cost variant of the Moto X, and now we’re finally starting to see some traces of the device. A Sina Weibo user has leaked a photo of what looks like swappable back-covers for a lower-cost Moto X, which means that those looking to get it would not have to go through Moto Maker to get their new phone. Nothing else about the phone was released, except the fact that there may be dual-SIM support. It’s only a matter of time before we start seeing some hard evidence of the cheaper Moto X…

Source: Engadget

[Deal] Grab the Verizon Moto X for $139.99 with promo code

The Moto X is now available on Verizon Wireless, and although you can’t customize it to your heart’s content, you can grab a white or black one for a pretty good deal. Normally priced at $199 on contract, if you go to the Verizon website and order a Moto X with the promo code “VERIZON30″, it will be yours for $139.99.

We have no idea how long this promo will last, but it’s unlikely it will be around when the Motomaker customization feature officially comes to Big Red.

source: Verizon
via: Android and Me

Samsung Galaxy NX camera to hit market in October for $1,599

Samsung announced today their new Galaxy NX camera will be available for purchase in October for $1,599. The interchangeable lens camera is an attempt by Samsung to merge a DSLR-type camera, including the ability to mount different types of lenses, with a smartphone. The camera portion of the device will have a 20.3 MP sensor, autofocus, an ISO sensitivity up to 25,600, and will be capable of shooting up to 8.6 frames per second in burst mode and 1080p video. The “smart” portion of the device constitutes a 4.8-inch 800×600 720p touchscreen on the back of the device powered by a 1.6GHz processor running Android 4.2.2 with Samsung’s TouchWiz interface.

You may be wondering why anyone would be interested in this device. Samsung would say the presence of WiFi, 3G and 4G LTE capability that makes sharing photos easy is one reason. With access to the Google Play store and the ability to install Android apps, the device does open the door to using popular photo editing apps directly on the device. From a specification standpoint, the camera functions and capabilities are on par with a mid-range prosumer type DSLR. However, dedicated cameras in that market cost less than $1,600 and the prices continue to fall.

Do you think Samsung’s new Galaxy NX camera will find a spot in the bags of shutterbugs?

source: The Verge

Foursquare CEO thinks location based notifications is the future for the app

Foursquare, the popular “check-in” app, is poised to introduce a new feature that CEO Dennis Crowley thinks represents the app of his team’s dreams. Crowley started talking up the push notification feature yesterday and apparently today the new capability will start rolling out to a small group of Android users. The new function runs in the background and when a user visits a location, the Foursquare app will periodically push a notification to the user with information about the place they are visiting. According to Crowley, the “tips” will come from other users or possibly the merchant, but they will not be paid messages.

Crowley thinks the new features is “huge” and represents the version of Foursquare “we’ve been talking about building for a long time.” He also thinks it is going to fuel growth for the app by generating new users and enticing former users back into the fold. Sources see this as more of a step to make Foursquare a more attractive target for a company like Apple or Yahoo! that may want to include this kind of user interaction in their own location-based apps.

The initial roll-out of the new function will be to only 2,000 Android users, but it should eventually be available for all Android device users by the end of 2013. iPhone users will have to wait a bit, probably until after iOS 7 is officially released.

If you are a Foursquare user, what do you think of this new feature? Is it something you would find useful?

source: AllThingsD

Sprint will release the HTC One in blue on September 10th

At the beginning of the month, a blue HTC one was leaked, and according to rumors, it was slated for Verizon Wireless. That could still be the case, but it looks like Sprint liked it so much, they are going to release it on September 10th. This is according to a leaked roadmap.

Sprint is already offering the One in silver, black, and red, so this added blue edition will put them in the lead for the most offered colors out of the U.S. carriers. Currently priced at $99, you won’t find a better deal on any other phone. If only Sprint had decent coverage.

source: PhoneArena

Report: Samsung readying production for metal housing on the Galaxy S 5

Critics of Samsung have complained about their heavy use of plastics on their phones and tablets, but things may change next year. The Galaxy S 5 will probably get a redesign which could include a metal housing. Reports out of South Korea say that Samsung is starting to plan production of a magnesium aluminum casing in the Gumi, South Korea plant and samples have already been created from a plant in Vietnam. According to reports, this casing would be ready for a spring release. I don’t think I have to tell you what phone will most likely be released in the spring do I?

Samsung has already been dominating the Android market, and if they can come up with a premium build on the Galaxy S 5, it’s going to make it that much tougher for competitors to put a dent in that armor.

source: ETNews

Hugo Barra resigns from Google, will join Chinese phone maker Xiaomi

Well just when I thought things were settling down for the day, Bam, major news breaks. Vice President of product management for Android, Hugo Barra, is leaving Google and will join Chinese phone maker Xiaomi. If you have watched any major Google Keynote, you’re familiar with Hugo. He recently unveiled the Samsung Galaxy S 4 Google Edition as well as the latest Nexus 7.

AllThingsD is reporting that his resignation came just before a romantic relationship with another Googler ended. What is most interesting is this Googler is now dating Sergey Brin, who just left his wife. Word is the resignation is unrelated, but how could it not be?

This is the second major loss for Android. Earlier in the year, Andy Rubin stepped away to “start a new chapter at Google.” Sandar Pichai took over for Andy Rubin and has been doing great, but Google hasn’t announced a replacement for Barra.

The Android team has some excellent talent, and I have no doubt Google will be able to fill Barra’s shoes, but this is a tough loss and we will miss him. Congratulations to Xiaomi for grabbing one hell of a guy.

source: AllThingsD

Waze finally showing some signs that it’s a Google-owned company, new update sets Google as primary search provider

When Google bought Waze back in June for around $1 billion, we all speculated about the awesome changes this could eventually bring to Google Maps.  We’ve seen quite a few since then, but this is the first time that we’re actually seeing signs that Google is truly taking control over the Waze application.

In a new update, Waze has integrated a new search bar (powered by Google, of course) which is visible while viewing the map. The UI is someone cleaner-looking as well and certainly more minimal. 1080p devices also now have full support available, and some bug fixes and optimizations were thrown in as well.

This is certainly just the start of the changes we’ll be seeing with the Waze app, as Google will want to make their $1 billion acquisition worthwhile.

Play Store Download Link

Hangouts Goes HD in a Move From Google to Go Plugin Free

There may be a lucky few of you who are seeing video chats in Hangouts a lot more clearly. That’s because Google has been quietly rolling out HD capabilities to Hangouts. While Google cranks up the quality of their revamped messenger it’s not just about that. In attempts to bring us video chat capabilities without the need for a plugin Google changed from the H.264 plugin to the open VP8.

Google’s Vice President of Engineering Chee Chew told the folks at Gigaom that this move will add, “cleaner, better video.” H.264 couldn’t handle HD video well as video in HD for up to 10 participants would require too much processing power. That’s not the case with VP8 as Google’s able to produce better quality video at lower bit rates. However, it’s not only about looks but a matter of convenience.

While you’ve been able to use various effects to video chats such as birthday hats or scuba glasses, WebRTC will eventually make this easier. The video becomes a native HTML element which that will allow an easier time for overlays and the like. As of now the rendering of such gags are on the client side of things and an easy way to do this with WebRTC is not available yet. But what does this mean for Google’s current video technology rendering vendor Vidyo?

According to Vidyo CEO Ofer Shapiro, “The need to install something is somewhat of a barrier.” That being said Vidyo will announce that they will be adding support, as well as working on, the next generation of the technology, VP9. They’ll work to provide that tech in the enterprise world. However this upgrade won’t just happen seamlessly for everyone.

Microsoft is pushing in a different direction with CU-WebRTC and Apple hasn’t given a statement on whether or not it will use WebRTC or not. Microsoft’s idea is to let developers decide on what codec they’ll use. According to Chew, “Some browsers will have the plugin to fall back on.” However others will not need to have a plugin at all.

source: Gigaom

Twitter updates Android app once again, this time bringing improved conversations, new notification settings, and more

Twitter has been firing out some really nice updates to their native Android app at a pretty regular rate lately, and continued the trend with an update today which will bring improved conversations and new notification settings. The update makes it much easier to follow conversation threads, as each tweet is linked to the one above it, giving it a much more natural look and feel. It’s definitely a nice addition, because the app was certainly missing the feature. The update also applies to the Twitter site. Here are some more things provided in the update:

• Optimization for entry-level Android smartphones
• Report Tweets as abusive or spam
• New notification settings
• Bug fixes for direct messages, login verification and more

It’s a staged roll-out so you might not get it quite yet— but check the Google Play link after the break to see if its arrived for your device. There’s also a video by Twitter about the new conversations feature below.

Google Play Download Link

Samsung Galaxy Note III possibly releasing to Taiwanese markets on September 27th

We’re incredibly close to that impending Galaxy Note III announcement, but that’s not going to stop the rumor mill. The latest details come from Chinese website ePrice and claim the Note III will hit the Taiwanese market on September 27th following preorders beginning on September 16th. There’s no indication if that means it will be a simultaneous global launch or if we’ll see it later in the States, but judging by how our carriers tend to release phones, I doubt we’ll see the Note III widely available by the end of September.

Regardless of when it launches, September is going to be a busy month for phones. Samsung and Sony both have high-profile devices set to be announced, and they’ll be running up against a new Apple iPhone in the same month. It’s an exciting time if you’re in the market for a new phone.

source: ePrice

Pricing for Sony’s upcoming ‘Lens Cameras’ QX10 and QX100 leaked

The upcoming “lens cameras” from Sony looks like a cool accessory for the camera enthusiast. Either one can be used as a standalone camera or attached to your phone utilizing its display as the viewfinder.

If you’re wondering how much Sony is going to charge for these bad boys, wonder no more. The QX100 sports a RX100MII sensor and a Zeiss lens, and according to “sources”, it will cost NT 14,900 or about $489. The more economical QX10 features a 1/2.3-inch 18MP sensor along with a f/3.3-5.9 Sony G Lens and 10X optical zoom. It is going to cost roughly NT 6,900 or about $230.

We are expecting Sony to unveil these next week at IFA. Stay tuned.

source: Sony Alpha Rumors

Google’s stock keyboard gets minor update in Play Store, adds long-press numbers for tablets and other bug fixes

If you’re a fan of Google’s stock Android keyboard that they’ve released in the Play Store, you’re in luck, as it’s getting an update that fixes a few annoyances. It’s not a major update, but if you use the keyboard on your tablet, for instance, you’ll finally be able to long-press the top row of keys as a shortcut to numbers, instead of opening up the alternate keyboard. There’s also some bug fixes and fine-tuning for different languages. If you need the update, hit the links below.

source: Android Police

Mirror 1

Mirror 2

Nexus 7 LTE now available in Germany and Italy

Normally when it comes to Google products, the U.S. usually gets them first while everyone else screams. Well this time the tables are turned as the new Nexus 7 with LTE is available in Germany and Italy. It’s not in the Google Play Store, but it’s available at select retailers such as Media Markt, Saturn, Redcoon, and the ASUS store. The price is €349 ($466). Let us know if you pick one up.

source: Android Authority

HTC to build smartphone operating system for Chinese markets instead of using Android

Here’s an odd turn of events for the struggling HTC; the Wall Street Journal is reporting that HTC is helping the Chinese government co-develop a smartphone operating system to be used on handsets in place of Android. Sounds weird, but it seems like every few months China disagrees with something Google is doing, so it makes sense that they would want to try and remove Android from their country as a whole. And considering HTC desperately needs something to anchor themselves back into the smartphone game, that’s a very beneficial relationship for them. Supposedly, the OS will also have deep integration with Chinese services like Weibo.

Now, this “custom OS” could always be a heavily forked version of Android that’s lacking all of Google’s services. It wouldn’t be the first time we’ve seen that happen, so it’s always a possibility. Considering HTC doesn’t have deep pockets like Samsung, I think it’s more likely that this OS will be based off of Android and not anything like Tizen. Regardless of what happens, we’ll be sure to keep you updated.

source: Wall Street Journal

DIRECTV updates app with UI overhaul, new features

DIRECTV customers may want to head to the Google Play Store to grab an update for the DIRECTV app for their devices. DIRECTV has released a new user interface for the app and the updated look is receiving generally positive reviews. However, it appears there may be some changes to what channels can be viewed on a mobile device which is resulting in some negative feedback.

Along with the change to the user interface, DIRECTV says the menu makes it easier to browse for content, a new TV shows section has been added, results can be filtered based on where you want to view your programming, users can set their favorite channels, a new info page is available, and a new watch button is available that combines all possible ways to watch a program into a single location.

You can check out some screenshots below and then use the download link to install or update the DIRECTV app.

Google Play Download Link

More HTC One Max images put fingerprint scanner back in play

Yesterday we had a report from a source in China indicating the HTC One Max may not have the fingerprint scanner we thought had been spotted in earlier leaked images. However, several new images out today from ePrice appear to definitely show a fingerprint scanner on the device. The unit pictured appears to be headed to China Unicom, so it could just be a variant for that particular market. The images also show the HTC One Max with a removable back cover and access to microSD and dual SIM slots.

Along with the fingerprint scanner and removable back, the images also reveal some wireless charging contacts. Sources also indicate the HTC One Max will be capable of shooting simultaneous video with both the front- and rear-facing cameras. We will have to see whether that is something unique to the HTC One Max or whether it is part of the new Sense 5.5 UI and thus available on other devices as they get updated.

source: ePrice