Posts Tagged Update

New Swiftkey Flow Beta Released as Build 4.0.0.61

Posted by admin in News on January 4, 2013

A new Swiftkey Flow beta was just released to the public as version 4.0.0.61. It includes a bunch of performance fixes, allows flowing on tablets in landscape, takes care of memory leaks, improves battery usage, and more. This is the first major update to Flow after its initial launch, so the Swiftkey team was quick to [...]

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beta, flow, Flow Beta Released, Flow�, landscape, launch, memory, memory leaks, New, performance, post, Swiftkey, Tablets, team, Update

SwiftKey Flow Beta Updated To 4.0.0.61

Posted by admin in News on January 4, 2013

SwiftKey’s take on the swipe keyboard, SwiftKey Flow, has been in public beta for about a month now. An updated beta was all but guaranteed as the version it replaces, 4.0.0.54, had a limited license for use set to expire January 7, 2013. Today’s release, 4.0.0.61, has a relatively short limited license, expiring on January 30, 2013, and comes with a host of improvements. The short beta window could be an indication SwiftKey is nearing the end of beta testing or is at least prepared to quickly launch another updated version.

The update brings performance and battery improvements and addresses a few bugs causing force closing and memory leaks. It will also allow for “flow” in landscape on tablets. Hit the source to see the full change log and download the update. I’ve been using it for weeks and have been very happy. Go get it!

Source: SwiftKey

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2013, beta, beta testing, change, download, flow, Flow Beta Updated, improvements, indication, January 7, landscape, on January 30, public beta, Swiftkey, swipe, Update, use, Version

Recent Samsung Galaxy S III Update Fixes More Than Just The Sudden Death Issue— Also Fixes Major Security Exploit

Posted by admin in News on January 4, 2013

You folks remember about a subtle, but very important utility update for the Galaxy S III that was released a few days ago? Well apparently, it does more than just fix the sudden death issue. SamMobile reports that the same update (I9300XXELLA) fixes a well-known security vulnerability found in the Exynos chip. Basically, the vulnerability essentially gave root permissions to any app (again with emphasis— any app), with the result being no control over the permissions from users of the smartphone. Fortunately, it has been identified that the recent update the has actually patched the security vulnerability. Additionally, the update contains new bootloaders which should help to alleviate any sort of possible sudden death issues with the smartphone.

As of now, only owners of the GT-I9300 variant in the UK have received the update, though we’re hopeful that the rest of the GT-I9300 owners out there will get the update sooner than later.

source: SamMobile

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death, Exploit, Exynos, Fixes, galaxy, MAJOR, Major Security Exploit, result, root, root permissions, SamMobile, Samsung Galaxy S III, security vulnerability, sort, Update, variant

Google TV Custom Recovery sneak peak video released

Posted by admin in News on January 4, 2013

It looks like the folks over at GTV Hacker have been busy lately. In fact, they have recently released a teaser video for their Google TV Custom Recovery software. And just to give a quick once over here, the recovery software will allow users to do things such as install an update from USB, perform a factory reset, check the system information and reboot the system.

This particular group has been around for sometime now and have apparently been making some decent progress over the years. This team is looking to create a tool that will allow Google TV users to “allow for custom kernels to be run on most of the newest generation of Google TV devices.”

Some of the notable breakthroughs came back in February of 2012 when they released a customized and open Google TV kernel for Sony devices. They have also done good work with the Boxee OS. They discovered and then released a pair of exploits which allowed Boxee users to install packages such as Boxee+.

Bringing this back to the present day though, the GTV Hacker team recently offered up a video demo of the Google TV Custom Recovery software running on a Sony NSZ-GS7 Google TV device. A few notes here though, at the present time there are still some limitations and holdbacks. The crew noted that they “are trying to keep most of the specifics private in order to avoid an update that could patch the exploit before the community gets to utilize it.” And lastly, at this time the software is said to be in beta and not having any release date.

Story Timeline

February, google, pair, peak, progress, reset, software, sony, time, tool, Update

Samsung working on fix for ‘sudden death’ bug affecting some Galaxy S III owners

Posted by admin in News on January 4, 2013

If you own a Galaxy S III that appears to have suffered some form of cardiac arrest, failing suddenly for no apparent reason, Samsung is aware of the problem, and is working on a fix. The issue, being referred to in the forums as “sudden death,” seems to be relatively rare: a Samsung spokeswoman told Tweakers that the problem affects “only a very limited number” of devices. So far, we know the problem applies to users running the stock software, as well as custom ROMs. For whatever reason, too, these defective models are all 16GB variants, according to Samsung. In any case, Sammy says it will push out a firmware update to correct the problem, though the company hasn’t said when that patch will be ready.

[Thanks, Zhewei]

Filed under: Cellphones, Mobile, Samsung

Via: SamMobile

Source: Tweakers

arrest, cardiac arrest, Filed, Fix, galaxy, issue, Mobile, no apparent reason, reason, samsung, SamsungCommentsVia, software, stock, the problem, tweakers, Update

Facebook Silently Releases Pages Manager For Android, But You Probably Won’t Be Able To Install It Yet

Posted by admin in News on January 4, 2013

Yesterday, Facebook rolled out a big update to its Messenger Android app, but as it turns out, it was only a small part of what the social network had in store for us. On the same day, the company also quietly released Facebook Pages Manager to the Play Store – an application iOS users have been enjoying since the first half of last year.

As a Facebook Page manager for Android Police, I immediately wanted to take it out for a spin but was forced to put the plan on hold because the app is actually not available in the U.S.

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Facebook Silently Releases Pages Manager For Android, But You Probably Won’t Be Able To Install It Yet was written by the awesome team at Android Police.

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Grand Theft Auto 3 update adds Transformer Prime support

Posted by admin in News on January 4, 2013

Rockstar has issued an upgrade for Grand Theft Auto 3 that fixes and changes a lot of things. Today’s big update finally brings support for the ASUS Transformer Prime, has support for Immersion Haptic Vibration Feedback, new video display settings to customize the graphical elements of the game, improved controls for those playing with game pads (including the one found on the Sony Xperia Play), support for GameStop’s Wireless Game Controller, the game can now be installed to your microSD card and more.

All of these changes will help make Liberty City even more immersive and make it a lot easier to traverse. If you haven’t already given the game a shot yet you might want to head to the Google Play Store as Rockstar is only asking you to pay $1 for this age-old classic. Why not take the first big 3D sandbox game on the go to cause havoc without being tethered to a console? Sure, the visuals are dated by today’s standards but high resolution graphics and better particle effects have helped it age very well.

The game was originally rated M for Mature, of course, so if you’re sensitive to violence and aggressive tones, or your child wants to download the game, keep that in mind. Otherwise, you owe it to yourself to play the game that started this sandbox craze and changed the face of GTA for good. You can find it in the Google Play Store.

ASUS Transformer Prime, Auto, customize, gamestop, Google Play Store, Grand, grand theft auto, Haptic, rockstar, sony, Sony Xperia Play, store, Theft, Update, Wireless, Wireless Game Controller, xperia

HTC One X Jelly Bean update now live for O2 users

Posted by admin in News on January 4, 2013

Those of you using HTC’s awesome One X Android model bought through O2 are about to have a VERY EXCITING DAY INDEED, as HTC has pushed out a version of the Android 4.1 or “Jelly Bean” code for users connected to the network.

HTC’s already released this update — which adds a few new HTC Sense features as well — for unbranded versions of the One X, much to the annoyance of O2 users who’ve been hammering “Check Now” since last autumn. Now something should happen.

There’s your confirmation. We’ve lost track of Who’s On What when it comes to the HTC One X, but hopefully this brings joy to a few of you.

annoyance, Bean, code, htc, INDEED, jelly bean, joy, Model, o2, track, TweetThose, Update, VERY

Samsung starts rolling out software update in the UK to fix Exynos security flaw – S3 gets it first

Posted by admin in News on January 4, 2013

This image has no alt text

Looks like Samsung isn’t wasting any time in addressing the security flaw found in their Exynos processors after formally acknowledging the issue almost 3 weeks ago. Seems Galaxy S3 owners across the pond are now receiving software update I9300XXELLA over-the-air and via Kies to patch up the vulnerability. While there isn’t solid evidence suggesting as much, some are speculating Samsung could be killing 2 birds with one stone, also addressing that nasty sudden death issue plaguing some devices. This is due to the fact that the new software also updates the device’s bootloader as well.

Course, we’ll need an official word from Samsung before confirming but if you’re in the UK — get to updating. As for the rest of us here in the states, we’ll have to twiddle our thumbs a little longer as our respective carriers put the update through its paces before it hits our Note 2′s (don’t worry about our carrier branded Galaxy S3′s, they’re packing entirely different processors and aren’t susceptible to the same security flaw). Should be soon!

[via SamMobile]

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Facebook Messenger update lets you send voice messages via app

Posted by admin in News on January 4, 2013

Facebook Messenger got a nifty little update today. The popular messaging app now includes a “voice record” feature. If you’re feeling too lazy to type out a message, you can simply touch “voice record”, hold down the red record button and speak what you want your friend to know. When you’re done recording your message, just let go of the record button and the app will automatically upload your message and send it across the airwaves to your friend’s phone, where they can give it a listen. For now, voice messaging is limited to one minute, so if you’re gonna talk longer than that, you should probably just make a normal phone call (do people even still make those?). If you want to grab the app, use the QR code or download link below.

Google Play Download Link

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Samsung rolling out Exynos security patch to UK Galaxy S III owners

Posted by admin in News on January 4, 2013

A few weeks back a security exploit was discovered that left owners of select Exynos-powered Samsung devices feeling uneasy. While an independent developer quickly cooked up a fix, Samsung soon acknowledged the issue and pledged that an official patch was in the works. UK Galaxy S III owners can now breathe a sigh of relief, as Sammy has made good on its word and is now issuing an over-the-air update that addresses this potential security flaw. While we’re happy to see Samsung actively working on this issue, there’s still no word of when the company will release this fix to other devices and additional regions. Hopefully the software’s ongoing European tour is a sign of things to come globally.

Filed under: Software, Mobile, Samsung

Via: Android Central

Source: XDA-Developers

CentralSource, Exynos, Filed, independent developer, issue, Relief, samsung, SamsungCommentsVia, security, Security Exploit, security flaw, security patch, software, UK Galaxy, Update, XDA-Developers

Grand Theft Auto III Updated To Version 1.3 With Expanded Compatibility, Improved Xperia Play Controls, And More

Posted by admin in News on January 4, 2013

Grand Theft Auto III, the car-stealing, open world game that came to Android in celebration of the series beginning ten long years ago, got a nice update today, bumping it to version 1.3. Besides the usual bug fixes, the GTA update expands the game’s compatibility to ASUS’ Eee Pad Transformer Prime and the Medion Lifetab, while also adding support for Gamestop’s wireless game controller, and enhanced controls for other gamepads and Sony’s Xperia Play.

If that’s not enough, users can now install the game to an SD card, enable haptic feedback, and adjust video display settings for better performance. Here’s a full look at the version 1.3 change log.

Done With This Post? You Might Also Like These:

Grand Theft Auto III Updated To Version 1.3 With Expanded Compatibility, Improved Xperia Play Controls, And More was written by the awesome team at Android Police.

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Official Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich for LG Optimus Black P970 now available [How to]

Posted by admin in News on January 4, 2013

The official LG Optimus Black P970 Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich update, dubbed as Android 4.0 V30B, is now available to most of the users in European countries. While third-party developers have been developing custom ROMs for this device and have released several firmware based on Android 4.0, many would still want to use the official firmware especially the ones who are not into taking greater risks in flashing unofficial ROMs.

It will, for sure, be made available to other regions as the roll out has already been started. However, LG didn’t release a roadmap as what country is going to receive the update next and when. For owners who can’t possibly wait for it, there is a manual way to update LG Optimus Black P970 with the official Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich. Continue reading below as we will walk you through every step of the way.

Reminders

It is strongly advised you backup all your data including your contacts, internet settings, SMS messages, videos, files, etc. We have our separate guide on how to backup an Android device.
Disable your antivirus and other security apps installed in your device to prevent interference from them.
Enable USB Debugging in your device: Settings => Applications => Development => USB Debugging.

Step-by-step Tutorial

Step 1: You will need to download KDZ file to start with the process. This is an executable file that contains all necessary files needed for this update. Depending on your connection, the download may take a little more time because it reaches up to 333MB in size.

Step 2: Open the application and set Type and Phone Mode to choose the correct .kdz file in your computer.

Step 3: After the software is launched, you just have to wait until the update process is completed. It may take, at least, 5 minutes to have the update installed.

Step 4: Once the process is completed, check the version of your device’s firmware to confirm whether it was successful or not: Settings => About Phone.

There are two most common issues reported by owners who recently updated: the device doesn’t boot up or doesn’t show the home screen. The common workaround is to take the battery out and re-insert it then reboot. It should work this time.

For now, there is no information whether or not LG Optimus Black will receive Android 4.1/4.2 Jelly Bean updates. So while this update is ICS only, it is not bad at all.

[source: XDA]

Android, Black, Continue, debugging, doesn, download, Ice Cream Sandwich, Ice Cream Sandwich update, LG Optimus Black P970, phone, roadmap, time, Update, way

Samsung starts rolling out software update to fix Exynos security flaw in the UK

Posted by admin in News on January 3, 2013

This image has no alt text

Looks like Samsung isn’t wasting any time in addressing the security flaw found in their Exynos processors after formally acknowledging the issue almost 3 weeks ago. Seems Galaxy S3 owners across the pond are now receiving software update I9300XXELLA over-the-air and via Kies to patch up the vulnerability. While there isn’t solid evidence suggesting as much, some are speculating Samsung could be killing 2 birds with one stone, also addressing that nasty sudden death issue plaguing some devices. This is due to the fact that the new software also updates the device’s bootloader as well.

Course, we’ll need an official word from Samsung before confirming but if you’re in the UK — get to updating. As for the rest of us here in the states, we’ll have to twiddle our thumbs a little longer as our respective carriers put the update through its paces before it hits our Note 2′s (don’t worry about our carrier branded Galaxy S3′s, they’re packing entirely different processors and aren’t susceptible to the same security flaw). Should be soon!

[via SamMobile]

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Samsung Galaxy S III getting OTA update for Exynos exploit and more

Posted by admin in News on January 3, 2013

Today we’re hearing Samsung is pushing a bug fix update out to their Galaxy S III in the UK. Back in December a potentially huge issue was discovered in many of Samsung’s smartphones and popular devices like the Galaxy S III, Note II, and many others. The issue was found inside the Exynos 4 processor kernel basically giving developers, hackers, and potentially malware jerks full access to the device with ease.

Screen-Shot-2012-07-13-at-2.02.24-PM1-540x406

That isn’t all either. Earlier this week we reported on a “sudden death” bug where some Galaxy S III smartphones main-boards were completely failing and ruining the entire device. OK, so these issues are minor on a mass level and don’t effect many people, but things are a bit of a hot mess here. It looks like both are being fixed soon.

According to multiple reports from XDA as well as the folks from Android Police Samsung has issued a quick software update (still 4.1.2 Jelly Bean) for the UK Galaxy S III that brings multiple changes. While we don’t have a changelog it has been confirmed that the Exynos kernel exploit has been patched and should no longer pose a problem. Then reports are also claiming there’s a fix for the mainboard issue but that can’t be confirmed.

Along with these two bigger issues, Samsung’s also fixing a few minor issues and security patches as a routine update. The build date is listed as December 22nd, so it’s a fairly new build for the GS III, and is available now OTA or from Samsung Kies as usual. Those international UK users feel free to check for updates and let us know if you notice any changes.

Story Timeline

Device Specifications and Information

Device Info

Device Name

Manufactuer

Carrier

Announced Date

Release Date

Also Known As

Display

Screen Size : 4.8 Inch
Resolution : 720×1280
Screen Type : Super AMOLED HD

Dimension & Weight

Height : 5.37 Inch
Width : 2.77 Inch
Depth : 0.33 Inch
Weight : 133 Grams

Battery & Power

Battery Type

Lithium Ion

Battery Capacity : 2100 mAh
Talk Time : NA
Stand By Time : NA

Software

Android OS

4.0.x

Audio Playback

AAC
AAC+
AMR
MID
MP3
WAV
WMA

Video Playback

h.263
h.264 / AVC
MPEG-4 (MP4)

Messaging

SMS
MMS

Hardware

CPU

CPU Clock Speed

Core

Ram

Internal Storage

Front Facing Camera

Camera Resolution

External Storage

MicroSD
MicroSDHC

Camera Features

Auto focus
Flash
1080p Video Recording

Sensors

Accelerometer
Ambient light
Proximity

QWERTY

Cellular Network

Network Technology

GSM

GSM Band

850
900
1800
1900

Device Connectivity

Wi-Fi

802.11b
802.11g
802.11n

Bluetooth

A2DP
Bluetooth 4.0

Location Features

Compass
GPS
Cellular location
Wi-Fi location

FM Radio

NFC

[via Sam Mobile]

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Facebook Messenger app update brings voice messaging

Posted by admin in News on January 3, 2013

Facebook has recently rolled out the latest update for the Messenger app. And with this update, they have gone from offering text and image messaging to text, image or voice based messaging. This latest Facebook Messenger app update is currently available in the Google Play Store where it is sitting as version 2.2.4.

The new voice messaging ability can be found within the app by tapping to write a message. Once there you will see the four options which include Choose Photo, Take Photo, Image Search or Record Voice. The last is (obviously) the option you will want to tap if you are looking to record voice. From this point, you will be given the button to begin your recording.

The button must be held while recording and users will be able to record messages up to one minute in length. Assuming your voice message is good and what you wanted to say, just release the button to send the message. Otherwise, if for some reason you needed to re-record, just slide your finger off the button to take your do-over. In addition to this update bringing the voice messages, the what’s new section in the Play Store listing also notes “other improvements and bug fixes.”

Otherwise, while the voice messages have been added for all users, it looks like Facebook is also testing a VoIP based calling solution. This testing is currently available only for those in Canada and takes the voice messaging a step further — into two-way calling. And on top of this being available only for those in Canada, it is also limited to iOS. That being said, assuming the testing goes well, Facebook is expected to roll it out for Android and also for a wider audience.

Story Timeline

[via TechCrunch]

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Skype for Windows Phone update ‘temporarily’ kills People Hub integration

Posted by admin in News on January 3, 2013

Earlier this week Microsoft updated its Skype for Windows Phone application. Making good on its plans to retire Messenger, users can now IM their buddy list from within the app. In addition, the new software push adds the ability to receive calls and messages while Skype is closed, but the changelog cautions that this feature is a “work-in-progress.” While we welcome these new features with open arms, they come at somewhat of a steep price. Skype 2.1.0.241 “temporarily” kills the app’s integration with Windows Phone’s People Hub. Something that Microsoft plans to patch up via another update at an undisclosed time. If you can get past losing such a prominent feature for the sake of being up to date, then head on over to the Windows Phone Store to claim your 8MB prize.

Filed under: Software, Mobile, Microsoft

Via: CNET, GeekWire

Source: Microsoft

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Facebook adds voice recording to Messenger, testing VoIP service in Canada

Posted by admin in News on January 3, 2013

If you’re a fan of the Facebook Messenger app keep your eye out for an interesting update coming down the pipe today for both the iOS and Android versions. The social network is adding the ability to record and send voice messages, up to one minute in length, to your friends. The goal isn’t to create a voice mail system for Facebook, but to give users another option for interacting when typing is either impossible or inconvenient. It works much like the video feature in the company’s Poke app — press and hold the red record button, speak your message and it’ll appear in-line as part of your chat, represented by a clickable sound wave icon. Even more interesting though, is the VoIP capabilities that are being flipped on for Canadian users. It’s a little buried at the moment — hidden behind the “i” icon in the chat window — but everyone’s favorite social network is now offering a way to place free voice calls to friends. Interestingly, the platform is built on open source technology and not on its Skype partnership. If things go well in the land of maple trees and Mounties we imagine it wont be too long before America gets a taste of VoIP calling Facebook style.

Filed under: Software, Mobile, Facebook

Source: TechCrunch

Android versions, Facebook, length, minute, network, pipe, poke, press, recording, social network, today, Update, voice, voice mail, voice recording, voip service

Samsung Starts Pushing Update (Build I9300XXELLA) To The Galaxy S III In The UK, Reportedly Fixes The ‘Exynos 4 Bug’

Posted by admin in News on January 3, 2013

I’ll be the first to admit – this one’s a bit of a mess. Samsung just started pushing a small OTA update to Galaxy S III units in the UK, which is said to bring a number of potentially major fixes. Considering there’s no official word (or changelog) from Samsung, however, we’re having to go on hearsay for this one.

Firstly, this update fixes the bug that allows any app to root and gain full access to Exynos 4 systems. That’s a good thing, and has been confirmed over at XDA as patched with this OTA. From here, however, things get a little fuzzy.

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Samsung Starts Pushing Update (Build I9300XXELLA) To The Galaxy S III In The UK, Reportedly Fixes The ‘Exynos 4 Bug’ was written by the awesome team at Android Police.

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[Update: It's Live, Hands-On] Facebook Preparing To Roll Out ‘Push-To-Talk’ Voice Messaging, Is Testing Free VoIP Calling In Canada

Posted by admin in News on January 3, 2013

Alright, Google. It’s time to stop leaving your VoIP service to languish on the vine. Facebook has released a double-whammy of big news bits. For starters, today the social network is rolling out an update to its Messenger app that will allow users to send each other short, recorded audio clips. It’s voicemail for the 21st century, if such a thing can even exist without being horrible. And, really, this sounds like it’s not.

Perhaps more interestingly, though, is that Facebook is also testing free VoIP calling in Canada right now. This is a huge deal, as it competes directly with Google Talk.

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[Update: It's Live, Hands-On] Facebook Preparing To Roll Out ‘Push-To-Talk’ Voice Messaging, Is Testing Free VoIP Calling In Canada was written by the awesome team at Android Police.

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Motorola says Jelly Bean coming to all Droid RAZR and Droid RAZR MAXX users in Q1 2013

Posted by admin in News on January 3, 2013

After a select group of Motorola Droid RAZR and Droid RAZR MAXX users received a Christmas gift in the form of Android 4.1.2, the update ceased without explanation. We can’t say for sure why Motorola halted the software upgrade, but we now have confirmation that Motorola plans to deliver Jelly Bean to all users of the RAZR and RAZR MAXX sometime in Q1 of this year.

The news was posted to the comments section of a post touting Jelly Bean for the Droid RAZR M on the Motorola Facebook page. No specifics were offered as to when exactly in Q1 we can expect to see the Android 4.1 update begin anew. We’re in Q1 now, so Jelly Bean could touch down as soon as tomorrow or as late as March. Let’s hope the latter isn’t the case.

If a major bug was discovered at the last minute, it could be a while before we see the update reach handsets. On the other hand, if the software only needed a few minor tweaks expect it much sooner.

[via Facebook | Thanks, Dave!]

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Facebook Updates Messenger App With Voice Message Feature, Tests VoIP in Canada

Posted by admin in News on January 3, 2013

If you are big fan of all things Facebook, including Messenger, you’ll be pleased to learn that the latest update introduces a voice messaging system. Oh, boy. You know, for those times that an emoticon, photo, or tapping of your keyboard won’t do the job. Your virtual friendship begging can now be taken to a [...]

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canada, emoticon, Facebook, fan, Feature, job, keyboard, Message, Messenger App, photo, post, Tests VoIP, Update, voice, voice message, voice messaging system

Android Distribution Numbers Update for January – Jelly Bean Tops 10%, Gingerbread Takes a Hit

Posted by admin in News on January 3, 2013

10%! Ten percent! Diez por ciento! (I think that’s the Spanish version) Jelly Bean, in the newest Android distribution numbers has hit the double digit mark. I don’t know why I’m acting like I’m excited about that fact, but it certainly seems like some sort of a milestone, doesn’t it? Also of note, we have [...]

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Facebook Messenger updated with voice messaging, VoIP calls also being tested

Posted by admin in News on January 3, 2013

Facebook Messenger is receiving a sizeable update this evening, introducing thumb-happy texters into the world of real voice messaging (that thing you used to use a phone for). Now, jumping into the application and pressing on the “+” icon will pull up the usual set of messaging attachments with “Record Voice” being the newest option. The recipient can then listen to the recorded message at their leisure (this isn’t push-to-talk).

While some would likely speculate this is Facebook challenging apps like Voxer I must say, sound quality isn’t anywhere near the clarity of Voxer. Facebook Messenger voice messages sound like your typical cellular gibberish. Pity. Still, there’s no beating it if you’ve got your hands full and need to quickly respond to a Facebook buddy.

There’s also talk that Facebook is dabbling in VoIP capabilities for Facebookers in Canada, allowing users to place calls using their phone’s data connection as opposed to cellular voice minutes. Neato. Expect it to arrive stateside in the near future.

[Facebook Messenger on Google Play | via TechCrunch]

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Samsung pushing update to fix Exynos security exploit

Posted by admin in News on January 3, 2013

Exynos security fail

Samsung has started pushing out an update for the Exynos security issue for users in the UK. You might remember, there is a critical "bug" in the Exynos 4210 and 4412 powered Samsung phones including the world versions of the Galaxy S3 and other models. This bug allows any application to read the devices RAM, leading to all sorts of potential mischief.

A third party patch was quickly made available by Supercurio that fixed the issues, and Samsung told us they would be addressing the situation as quickly as possible. For folks in the UK using a Galaxy S3, it appears that means right now.

The update is 4.1.2 (build JZO54K) and was signed off on December 22. It's available as an over the air update, and is currently rolling out. Remember, you need to be running all stock software to accept and install any OTA updates, this one included.

There's also some speculation that this update will fix the seemingly random issue of hardware failure in the Galaxy S3 main boards, but I think it's a bit too early to suggest this. The fix to the Exynos exploit, however, is included in this update. No word on when to expect updates for other areas where folks are still in need of this critical patch, or other phones that need this update.

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Facebook Preparing To Roll Out ‘Push-To-Talk’ Voice Messaging, Is Testing Free VoIP Calling In Canada

Posted by admin in News on January 3, 2013

Alright, Google. It’s time to stop leaving your VoIP service to languish on the vine. Facebook has released a double-whammy of big news bits. For starters, today the social network is rolling out an update to its Messenger app that will allow users to send each other short, recorded audio clips. It’s voicemail for the 21st century, if such a thing can even exist without being horrible. And, really, this sounds like it’s not.

Perhaps more interestingly, though, is that Facebook is also testing free VoIP calling in Canada right now. This is a huge deal, as it competes directly with Google Talk.

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Facebook Preparing To Roll Out ‘Push-To-Talk’ Voice Messaging, Is Testing Free VoIP Calling In Canada was written by the awesome team at Android Police.

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YouTube launches smartphone remote control feature for TVs and more

Posted by admin in News on January 3, 2013

Google has been working hard to improve YouTube and today they’ve announced an awesome new feature to make viewing videos on the big screen even better. They’ve already pushed features to allow sharing videos to Google TVs, but today they’ve announced the same feature will soon be arriving with support for multiple smart TVs and accessories from a variety of manufacturers. Their remote control feature will soon be available on a mass scale, not just Google TV.

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Today on the official YouTube Blog Google has shared a few details and a nice new video showing off this exact feature. Explaining that later this month at CES they’ll be releasing their new mobile/TV pairing feature to popular upcoming smart TVs from multiple manufacturers. Claiming this will make our smartphones the best remote control for YouTube available.

If you’ve ever trying to control and type video titles out on that terrible on-screen keyboard on your smart TV, you know exactly what they mean. Being able to use our favorite Android devices and keyboards to control the entire experience sure will be nice. We’ll run down a few launch partners, but first here’s a quick video from Google:

Today Google and YouTube are happy to announce that this feature will be rolling out to YouTube during CES next week, and we can all expect the update to arrive soon. Out of the gate they have launch partners including Bang & Olufsen, LG, Panasonic and Sony with their smart TV devices. Then later in 2013 we’re expecting more releases from popular manufacturers such as Philips, Samsung, Sharp, Toshiba, Vizio, Western Digital and others. With Western Digital not being a TV maker, we can expect this feature to roll out to many additional smart TV-like accessories and companion devices too.

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Samsung Galaxy Camera Users In The UK Seeing Update To Android 4.1.2

Posted by admin in News on January 3, 2013

galaxy-camera

The Android powered Samsung Galaxy Camera is beginning to receive its very first update in the United Kingdom via OTA (Over The Air). This update brings the Android firmware version to Android 4.1.2 and adds the Galaxy Note II’s gallery to the device. You are essentially getting a few more toys to play around with, along with three different beautiful viewing modes. It’s not a large update, but an update nonetheless. If you’re a resident in the United Kingdom and own a Samsung Galaxy Camera, be sure to check for an update through the settings option or hook the device up to your computer and grab it through Samsung’s Kies desktop software!

Samsung originally introduced the Galaxy Camera at IFA in Berlin, Germany last year. The device features a 4.8-inch Super Clear LCD display, a 16-megapixel shooter, a 1.4GHz quad core CPU, Wi-Fi, HSPA+ and Samsung’s latest TouchWiz Nature UI based off of Android 4.1 Jelly Bean. This is Samsung’s first camera based off of the Android operating system. Rumors are going around the internet claiming that Samsung has some other Camera ideas in the works as well.

Those who are interested in purchasing a Samsung Galaxy Camera here in the U.S. can head on over to their local AT&T store where they can get the device with HSPA+ data connectivity. Those who are looking for LTE data connectivity and the exclusive black model of the Galaxy Camera can head on over to their local Verizon store.

If you have downloaded the update and noticed a difference, be sure to let us know in the comments section below!

source: SamMobile

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Samsung Preparing a Fix For Galaxy S III Units With the Motherboard Issue

Posted by admin in News on January 3, 2013

We’re pretty much in sync with what goes on around the tech sphere every day. There are numerous rumors coming through, speculations, device launches etc and on some occasions bad news too. One such bad news was with regards to the Samsung Galaxy S III which was reported to have a messy motherboard issue which apparently caused the device to stop working all of a sudden. While this issue could be easily disregarded as a hardware glitch, many felt that this had something to do with Samsung’s software. If you recall, Samsung smartphones have or had an exploit capable of allowing third party apps to remotely wipe data on the device, although this was something to do with Exynos chipsets and not the software. So it was obvious that fingers would be pointed on Samsung over the motherboard row too. And it now seems like the company has secretly acknowledged the motherboard bug and has already prepared an update with a patch to the bug. The info was accessed by a Dutch site named Tweakers.

This shows the commitment of Samsung to improve its products and provide optimum performance to its users. The issue apparently is only spotted on 16GB models of the Galaxy S III, so people with the 32GB GS3 can breathe a sigh of relief. Regardless, it’s a pretty annoying issue if you’re a GS3 user and it needed to be fixed. Samsung however was reportedly fixing affected devices by replacing the motherboard units for free, regardless of its root status, so that’s reassuring too. There haven’t been too many reports of Galaxy S III units instantaneously giving up on the user though, which gave us a feeling if this was an isolated case. But since Samsung has come out and acknowledged it, we can make out that it means something to them.

Let’s hope the fix rolls out sooner rather than later as it is the company’s highest selling smartphone as of now, and it would want to keep that going until the next major Galaxy flagship is announced in Q2, 2013. There is no word on when the update will be rolled out, but Samsung has said that it only affects a limited number of 16GB models, so a minor firmware update should be on its way to the said devices. Of course, the South Korean manufacturer didn’t really make it clear as to which model numbers could be affected, so there’s some mystery over that.

Do you own a Galaxy S III? If yes, let us know if the motherboard glitch has worried you at all.

Source: Tweakers
Via: Talk Android

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YouTube remote control not just a Google TV feature anymore

Posted by admin in News on January 3, 2013

Last November Google introduced an update to its YouTube app that allows users to remotely control video playback on their Google TV devices. Debuting at CES, the feature will soon be available on even more smart TVs, regardless of whether or not they run Google’s Android-based platform.

Google has announced that it is partnering with smart TV manufacturers including Sony, Panasonic, Bang & Olufsen, and LG to bring the experience to even more living rooms in 2013. Those companies will be showing off their latest sets, which will feature the latest version of YouTube’s app for the big screen (complete with 1080p playback), at CES next week. Later in the year we can expect the trend to continue with companies like Samsung, Sharp, and Vizio.

Using the app paired with a TV, users can watch a video on their HD set while easily searching for the next on their smartphone, all uninterrupted. You can even queue up entire playlists.

Does the move suggest Google will be moving further away from their own Google TV and instead focusing on a more integrated experience with other platforms? That’s doubtful Google loves ubiquity, even if it means a killer feature or app my not be exclusively theirs. Regardless, YouTube is making itself right at home in the living room.

[via Google]

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