Prince of Persia : The Shadow And The Flame for Andorid and iOS

The sequel to the very first Prince of Persia, at least canonically, namely Prince of Persia: The Shadow and the Flame is now available on iOS and Android. It is a side-scrolling adventure that has been developed by Ubisoft Pune, located in India. It will follow the events of Prince of Persia: Classic.

The game is actually an HD remake of Prince of Persia 2 released in 1993. Despite being a 2D platformer, the game features 3D environments and players will be able to either use touch-based mechanics for controlling the Prince or by using a virtual joystick. It will also have revamped sound and a more friendly difficulty curve in comparison to the original while still remaining challenging.

Prince of Persia: The Shadow and the Flame is currently retailing for Rs 200 on the Google Play store. It is available on Apple iTunes for Rs 170. As always, make sure to check system requirements before purchasing the game for either platform.

Prince of Persia: The Shadow and the Flame will allow players to jump into environments that have been modeled in 3D, but still, stay true to those portrayed in the original game. These include 14 levels that will be set in 5 distinct environments. Moreover, it has also been revealed that Prince of Persia: The Shadow and the Flame will be seen heralding the introduction of a fresh combat system

Said to put forth tactical challenges through multiple enemies, this system will feature new combo moves as well. And that’s not all; the developers also tell us that fresh weapons have been infused into this game. The controls in Prince of Persia: The Shadow and the Flame have of course been designed for touchscreens, and gamers will have the option of choosing from two different schemes. While they will be allowed to play with gesture-based touch commands, the classic joystick will also be made available to them virtually.

Sony Xperia Tablet Z gets official Android 4.3 Jelly Bean

Sony has decided not to waste any time and push the freshly announced Android 4.3 Jelly Bean as part of its Android Open Source Project (AOSP) for the Xperia Tablet Z.

Sony Community manager Marcus Hansson says that Sony developers began work only after Google made its Android announcement at the event yesterday just to get the latest Jelly Bean version running on the Tablet Z. As a result, not all of the Android 4.3 functionality works just yet.

However, while the official post says it’s pretty unstable, the build seems to run just fine on the tablet. The enhanced multi-profile support works just fine, so does Wi-Fi, as you can see from the video below. With time, more of the cool Android 4.3 Jelly Bean features will be made available through the AOSP program, so stay tuned.

If you’re an advanced Sony Xperia Tablet Z user, head up to the company’s GitHub repository from the source link below to get your hands on the beta Android 4.3 Jelly Bean ROM.

More reason for switching from iOS to Android: Google Play is now the largest app store with over 1 million apps surpassing App Store

Google’s Play Store is now officially the largest app store with 1 million apps surpassing Apple’s App Store, which has about 900,000 applicationsit is now finally outgrown the Apple App Store and its 900 000 applications. That's a huge achievement for Android, the platform that launched as the underdog, after Apple first started the app revolution. Now, the tide has clearly changed. 

The news was brought by Sundar Pichai at the Android event earlier today. Google Play now has the largest collection of digital books, millions of songs and thousands of TV shows. And starting in August the repository will be getting a new Textbook category that should be appreciated by Android-rocking students.

Mr. Pichai also revealed that Google Play Store developers have increased their revenue 2,5 times in the last twelve months. Perhaps this also has a lot to do with the 50 billion app downloads milestone that was crossed recently.

Sony announces list of smartphones and tablets getting the Android 4.3 JellyBean update

Sony has just published the list of devices that will be getting the Android 4.3 Jelly Bean update that was announced yesterday. On the smartphone side, the company will be bringing the latest Jelly Bean version to the Xperia Z, Xperia ZL, Xperia ZR, Xperia SP and Xperia Z Ultra. The only tablet that is confirmed to get treated to the latest Android release at this point is the Xperia Tablet Z.

Sony is currently seeding the Jelly Bean 4.2 update for the Xperia Z and Xperia ZL. Starting from early August, the Xperia ZR and Xperia Tablet Z will get Android 4.2 as well.

Some older Xperia phones running Android 4.1 are still under examination. There's a possibility that at least some of them will be updated straight to Android 4.3, but no names have been confirmed yet.

Additionally, Sony acknowledges that its updates haven't been "as succinct or as timely as you might’ve expected." The company's developers have now changed their workflow to assure that future updates arrive faster. The whole procedure is detailed in a lengthy and educational blog post, in case you are interested.

Sony isn’t the only manufacturer that could skip Android 4.2, either. Samsung is expected to do the same with the Galaxy S III and the Galaxy Note II, updating them from Android 4.1 straight to Android 4.3.

Play Games app for Android, all the Android games in one place

Google has released a new dedicated app for all the games on the Play Store, called Google Play Games. This app puts focus on discovering new games as well as tracking your achievements and scores as well as playing multiplayer games with your friends. It’s more or less the Game Center equivalent for Android.

The Play Games app looks quite similar to the new Play Music and Play Movies apps. You can see a list of your friends from Google+ with details about the games they have and their achievements. Currently, not a lot of games support this feature so you’re likely to see mostly empty profile pages.

The app also has a featured games section where it highlights new games. Below, it suggests people that you may know but aren’t already in your Google+ circles.

Yes, this is Android’s answer to Apple’s Game Center.

This release ties directly into the May announcement of Google Play games services, a utility that lets developers include cloud saving, achievements and multiplayer features into their apps.

The reasoning behind this launch, Google says, is that it wants to ”turbo charge gaming on Android.” If you’re hooked on competing with friends, or even crossing over from an iOS device, this app may prove a welcome addition to Android.

The app keeps a list of your own games, along with recently played ones and your achievements. Just like the Play Music, Movies or Books app, you can’t actually purchase anything from this app but are directed towards the Play Store app when you hit the purchase button. You do see the list of achievements (including the ones you’ve unlocked) and leaderboards for that game, which is not visible on the Play Store.

The Play Games app is now available on the Play Store and can be downloaded from the link below.

Download

Google Android 4.3 launched with bulk of improvements and little to chirp about

Android 4.3 has officially been announced – it's been in the wild on Google Play Edition devices for a while, but the unveiling was put off for today. So, what's new? Well, 4.3 is a minor upgrade so it brings minor improvements and refines the user experience, rather than delivering game-changing features.

Multi-user support was introduced in 4.2 and it's updated in 4.3 with the new restricted profiles. A restricted profile can limit what content and apps can be used – even limit in-app stuff like what levels of a game can be played.

The suite of stock apps has been updated - Hangouts now officially replaces Talk and Keep is available out of the box. The Drive, Chrome and Maps applications have been revamped too.

The way Android handles notifications has been changed too. For one, you can view your notification history. Also, third party apps have access to notifications, which will help smart watches and apps that sync notifications across devices.

There are plenty of changes under the hood too. OpenGL ES 3.0 is now supported (Google presented impressive improvements in 3D game graphics) and the graphics stack should be faster overall. For games, Google unveiled the Google Play Games app, which lets you keep track of what your friends are playing and a leader board of achievements in the game.

Android 4.3 now adds the autocomplete feature in the dial-pad suggesting contact names or phone numbers when users start keying-in something. This is not a new feature as OEMs like Samsung and HTC had already introduced this feature on to their UI skins running on top of Android, but devices running stock Android were missing it. Users can initiate the feature by going to the app settings and enabling 'Dial Pad autocomplete'

Android Jelly Bean now supports corrections to user inputs while signing-in to the device, the first time. This is due to more streamlined user agreements. Now a user can change the information that was keyed-in during the first boot of the device. Google has also introduced faster user switching from the lock screen in case of multiple users.

One feature that Google didn't formally announce is the new Emoji keyboard, which comes stock with the OS and can be enabled through the Language & input menu under Settings. Once enabled, you can long-press the spacebar key to pull it up and emote to your heart's content.

Android 4.3 comes with an upgraded algorithm for tap-typing recognition that makes text input easier while chatting via messages or even while composing emails. It also brings a new emoji keyboard, which we've previously seen in iOS. The update also adds lower latency input for gamepad buttons and joysticks

Google has introduced native local language support to its operating system for Africaans, Amharic, Hindi, Swahili and Zulu. Hindi has finally reached the stock Android operating platform.

With the update, Google has also added support for Hebrew and Arabic (right-to-left) in the home screen, Settings, Phone, People, and Keep apps.

The "master key" exploit patch has been incorporated into Android 4.3, of course.

Bluetooth 4.0 with Low Energy mode (low power usage and longer range for low-bandwidth accessories like those fitness tracking gadgets) is now supported in stock Android. Before, each maker had to roll its own drivers. Also for Bluetooth, AVRCP 1.3 is supported, meaning the phone can stream metadata about the currently playing song to the wireless speakers (or your car's stereo).

Wi-Fi can be kept on at all times to determine your position, even when you toggle it off.

A new hardware-based encryption for DRM has been added so content providers will be more willing to stream high-quality content. A new Netflix app is among the first to make use of this and streams 1080p video (it's now available in the Play Store).

An Android 4.3 update will be available on Nexus devices from the Galaxy Nexus up (4, 7, 10, you name it). Samsung Galaxy S4 and HTC One Google Play Edition will get the update soon, too.
MY TAKE:
Google's Android department has done a nice job in keeping the new Android 4.3 JellyBean low-profile as many are excited for the Android 5 Key Lime Pie. There are a lot of improvements in the OS and it will be adopted by most of the high-profile cell phones. this performance-focused update says that Google is taking a slower development route, possibly to minimize fragmentation as device manufacturers play catch-up. If that is, in fact, what's going on, then the move, as unexciting as it is, might be better for all Android users in the long run.

Line reaches 5M users in India , 200M users worldwide

Free calling and messaging app, Line that was announced this month has successfully managed to cross the 5 million registered users mark in India across platforms. On the other hand, Line has crossed 200 million user mark globally.

The Line messenger, which competes with products such as Whatsapp, WeChat and Viber, offers lifetime free utility for sending and receiving text and voice based messages along with creative stickers that is one of the major USP of Line messenger. The sticker are made available to the users free of cost as well as in form of in app downloads which users can purchase to express themselves better.

Commenting on the achievement, Jun Masuda, chief strategy and marketing officer, Line, said, "We are extremely happy with the response to our service in India. This is the testimony that we are in the right market with the right product and at the right time."

He further added: "Our aim is to achieve 10 million users in India in a few months. We are confident with our feature rich product and market specific localization, India will be one of the key markets contributing to our global growth."

Along with that Line messenger also extends its functionality by offering features such as interactive games in between chat participants and users can even make in app purchases for improving game play. Also Line offers users to share files and even recorded messages along with live calling on the go making it a one stop solution for users.

Line as a part of its 200 Million global user landmark celebration is offering users premium stickers free of cost. These stickers can be downloaded by visiting the sticker shop and will be valid for a period of 180 days from the date of download. Line app is available across multiple platforms including iOS, Android, BlackBerry, Windows Phone and Nokia Asha Tech2 reports that the company looking to even support several Indian languages soon and is also looking to tie-up with telecom operators to provide offers with the app.

Delhi Transit Bus info Android app launched

DIMTS (Delhi Integrated Multi-Modal Transit System Ltd), a joint venture of Delhi government and IDFC Foundation, has launched an Android application which aims to make public transport a much smoother and reliable experience.

The application will help users to get vital information like estimated time of arrival of buses, bus routes, track location of a bus, location of bus stops etc.

"The Delhi Transit Bus Info application will be available both on the Internet and on Android-based devices. Bus passengers can either go on to the DIMTS website www.dimts.in and click on 'Bus information for orange-coloured Delhi transit buses' or view the application on the beta version 'Delhi Transit Bus Info', which can be downloaded from Google Play Store," said DIMTS in a press release.

The application is currently available for only Orange coloured Delhi Transit buses, except for the Trip Planner feature which gives data of the DTC bus routes also. The information for DTC operated buses for the rest of the features will soon be integrated into the application.

The application will help the passenger get all the information on the click of a mouse or a button, all in real time, claims DIMTS. Users can give their feedback on the system through a feedback form that has been made available in the phone application.

The application is currently available in beta version on Android app store. DIMTS though will soon launch its iOS , Blackberry and Symbian versions.

HTC Desire 500 with 4.3-inch display, quad-core Snapdragon 200 processor announced

HTC has announced a new mid-range Android smartphone in Taiwan called the Desire 500. The phone is priced at a suggested retail price of NT$11,900 and will be launched exclusively through Taiwan Mobile on August 1.

The Desire 500 looks somewhat similar to the One S from the front but trades in the metal body for plastic. It has a 4.3-inch, 800 x 480 resolution display, Qualcomm Snapdragon 200 SoC with a quad-core, 1.2GHz CPU and Adreno 205 GPU (likely the same 8625Q chip found in the Desire 600), 1GB of RAM, 4GB internal memory with microSD card slot, 8 megapixel BSI rear camera with 720p video recording, 1.6 megapixel BSI front camera, optional dual-SIM functionality, Android Jelly Bean with HTC Sense 5 and BlinkFeed UI and a 1,800mAh battery.HTC transplanted a few of the marquee features of the One, including BlinkFeed and Video Highlights, though obviously the hardware dependent ones are absent.

The Desire 500 carries the Beats Audio feature but lacks the Boom Sound speakers found on recent HTC phones. The phone will be available in three colors: Black, white with green accents and white with red accents.

HTC Desire 500 key features

• 1.2GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 200 quad-core processor
• Android 4.2.2 with HTC Sense
• Total storage space: 4GB, microSD memory card
• RAM: 1GB
• Size: 131.8 x 66.9 x 9.9 mm
• Weight: 123 grams
• 4.3-inch display, WVGA resolution (480 x 800)
• Built-in GPS / AGPS antenna, 3.5mm audio jack, NFC, Bluetooth 4.0, Wi-Fib/g/n, DLNA
• Beats Audio
• 8-megapixel rear camera with auto focus, LED flash, BSI sensor, built-in HTC ImageChip, F2.0 aperture and 28mm lens
• 1.6-megapixels front camera, with BSI Sensor
• Battery: 1800 mAh

Google to release Chromoting remote desktop app for Android

Third party apps to remotely control a computer from an Android device already exist, but Google is working its own. The software will work with devices running the Google Chrome browser, tying the two platforms together even more.Google is developing a new application for the Chrome Remote Desktop but for the Android platform this time. Google Chrome web browser offers an extension that allows accessing the host computer remotely through Chrome web browser or Chromebook (Chrome OS running laptop). The Next Web spotted a note by Google open-source Chromium developer that clearly stated the Chromoting Android app.

As per the Chromium Code Review listing, the Chromoting app can be used to authenticate the device using a Google account on the phone. Users can use the app to connect and communicate with the host machine. Establish peer to peer channels for communicating the host service.

Chromoting app is currently under development and two of the most crucial features missing in it are - capability to display the host desktop and handle any kind of input. Basically, Google is trying to create an app that will let you access your computer from anywhere over an Android phone with the help of a Google Account.

The reason is likely because the app currently has very few capabilities; so far it can only:

• Authenticate using a Google account on the phone.
• Query and display the host list from the Chromoting directory server.
• Connect to and communicate with the host service over XMPP/ICE.
• Establish peer-to-peer channels for communicating with the host service.

The developers behind it note the app still can’t display the host’s desktop or handle any kind of input. In other words, this is very much in the prototype or alpha stage.

For those who don’t know, the original Chrome Remote Desktop is an extension for Google’s browser. It was first released as a beta in October 2011 and could be used to control another one of your own computers as well as a friend’s or family member’s (usually to help with IT issues).

When it came out of beta a year later, our own Paul Sawers explained how it worked:

To authorize the connection between the machines, the app generates a code which you must share with the other person. So, for example, if you wish to share your desktop with a tech-savvy friend to fix an on-going issue, you’d send them a 12-digit code that looks roughly like this:

We presume Chromoting for Android will be similar, although there will definitely be some limitations due to the mobile platform. You’ll probably enjoy using the app more on a tablet than a phone, although Google will surely try to make it work well with both. We’ll keep you posted as Chromoting’s development continues.

Several such remote desktop services driving apps such as LogMeIn and Citrix GoToMeeting are available in the Google Play Store. With this Chromoting app, we can see yet another feather in Google's Hat for its Android as well as Chrome based ecosystem.

Samsung Galaxy S III Spotted Running Android 4.3 Jelly Bean

According to leaked information from Samsung R&D in India, Samsung is simultaneously developing Jelly Bean 4.2.2 and 4.3.0 updates, and the former could be dropped altogether if Jelly Bean 4.3 is officially announced this week by Google.

These rumors from last week garnered a whole lot more credibility thanks to the provided leaked image which allegedly shows a Galaxy S III running on a 4.3.0 Jelly Bean test build.

The more interesting bit is that the leak allegedly comes from Samsung R&D India, if a report by Temefy.com is to be believed. According to the website, the company is working on an Android 4.3 build for the Galaxy SIII and the Galaxy Note II. The site has also posted an image of a Galaxy S III (GT-I9300) phone running Android 4.3 with Build number JDQ47.I9300XXUFMGQ and Baseband version I9300XXUFMGQ. We'd like to point out that there's no way to verify this information, and it should be taken with a grain of salt. Device manufacturers do work on experimental software internally, and a device spotted running a build of the OS does not imply that an update is imminent. Having said that, we'd expect Samsung to release a software update for the Galaxy S III bringing some features of the Galaxy S4 to it. Android 4.2 also offers additional features like lock screen widgets and daydream picture mode, so it's likely that the company would be planning to release an update, soon. 

However, the Android 4.3 update is an incremental update bringing more changes under the hood, so it's hard to say if the company would altogether abandon development on Android 4.2 just because Google is expected to release the Android 4.3 update. It's worth pointing out that integrating Samsung's UI and UX (user experience) features with Android takes time due to development and testing, but Samsung's score is improving when it comes to OS updates.

In June, a near finished Android 4.2.2 firmware for the Samsung Galaxy S III had leaked online. The update included a number of new software enhancements including a new Galaxy S4-like lock-screen with support for multiple widgets, an additional 'Light' unlock effect and an improved ripple effect compared to the current version, the ability to change clock size and set a personal message. It was reported that Samsung intended to release the update in July or August.

The new firmware also reportedly includes the Adapt Display screen mode that optimises display settings depending on ambient light conditions automatically and offers more natural colours.

It also brings the Daydream lock screen mode, a driving mode, actionable notifications, a new notification tray with additional toggles and a Galaxy S4-like tabbed interface for the phone settings menu. The update also offers a new version of S-Voice, Samsung's voice assistant and adds voice controls for operating the phone using voice commands. It also includes full-screen Samsung apps, a new smart switch widget and a white background in the 3D view mode for the Gallery app.

It's still not known if the final version of the update will also bring the camera features of the Galaxy S4.

Word is that development of the 4.3.0 update is also underway for the Galaxy S4 flagship, as well as another yet unannounced device, possibly the Galaxy Note 3.

It's still unknown what kind of features the 4.3 Jelly Bean update will to bring - or when, for that matter - but if the above leak is any indication, the announcement is imminent!

Seeing as how the kernel version and build date in the image are the same as those found on Android 4.1, then either the software is not finalized, or the build.prop has been tweaked to show a different Android version.

NVIDIA Shield To Start Shipping On July 31st

Get excited, potential purchasers of Nvidia's Shield handheld gaming device. NVIDIA’s Android-based portable gaming console – the Shield, was supposed to start shipping on June 27. However, due to a mechanical issue found out during the quality assurance testing, NVIDIA was forced to push its launch date back. The NVIDIA Shield will start shipping on July 31, according to an email issued to a Shield buyer. The full message went as follows: “We want to thank you for your patience and for sticking with us through the shipment delay of your SHIELD. We have great news to share with you – your SHIELD will ship on July 31st. Our goal has always been to ship the perfect product, so we made sure we submitted SHIELD to the most rigorous mechanical testing and quality assurance standards in the industry. We built SHIELD because we love playing games, and we hope you enjoy it as much as we do.”NVIDIA Shield comes with a 1.9 GHz Tegra 4 processor with 72-core GPU and 2GB of RAM. The portable console features a 5-inch 720p display, 16 GB internal memory, microSD card slot, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, microHDMI out, Android 4.2.1 Jelly Bean and carries a price tag of $299. Pre-orders for the Shield opened up on May 14, the console seems to have generated quite a bit of hype particularly with their hardcore fans/customers. Nvidia still hasn't specified what said mechanical issue actually was nor has it clarified how the company managed to uncover the issue at one of the last possible moments prior to Shield's initial shipping date. To its credit, Nvidia does go to good lengths discussing how important quality is to the manufacturer in the follow-up email it sent today to announce the new shipping date. The Tegra 4-powered device is basically a gaming controller with a five-inch, 720p touchscreen attached to a top that folds up and down to cover the device. The controller portion looks a bit like your typical Xbox 360 controller: two analog sticks, a D-pad, buttons, and bumpers. The WiFi-friendly device also comes with an HDMI port and MicroSD slot if you'd like to display your gaming on a bit larger of a screen (up to 4K resolution supported for HDMI output) or or supplement the Shield's 16 gigabytes of internal storage with a wee bit more. Not only can the Shield tackle Android games, but it can also receive certain streamed games from your Nvidia-equipped PC

New Android 4.3 build now available for Samsung Galaxy S4 Google Play edition

Some devices get all the ROMs. Of course, for the Google Play Edition of the Galaxy S4, that's kind of the point. Late last month an early version of Android 4.3 was leaked for the phone right around the time of its Play Store debut, and now an even newer build labeled "JWR66V" has popped up. According to XDA Developers forum poster Jahon, it was build on July the 11th, and now it's been re-packaged into a ROM file flashable in the custom recovery of your choice. Details are scarce at the time being, as users are still testing to feel out the extent of the changes. Notably the Galaxy S4's wireless charging feature now works even when the phone is off, and battery life and charging rates seem to be improved. Google Wallet now works (if you're not rooted) as do some third-party apps like DashClock and IMDB. There are a few bugs with other apps and SIM unlocking, so it may not be ready as a "daily driver" just yet.

Even the most flash-happy ROM addicts may want to wait a bit before flashing a new 4.3 build.Google's event on Wednesday may reveal some new Nexus 7 hardware, and possibly the formal release of Android 4.3 as well, which should come to Nexus and Google Play devices without too much delay.

 Google is yet to announce its newest version of Android OS and will be doing so on July 24 in San Francisco. The Android 4.3 version with build JWR66V has been leaked and the latest Android OS brings battery improvements, supports wireless charging even when the device is powered off and few other under the hood enhancements.

The unofficial Android 4.3 OS also comes with few bugs like SIM unlock issues and abnormal functionality of a few applications, which include CNN, APEX launcher, GTA Vice City, XDA Premium app, BestBuy app, Titanium Backup, Nobex Radio and HBO Go.

Reassuring buyers and the Android community that Samsung and Google are working together to ensure that as soon a new version of Android is released, these GPE devices will have it. 

This is the second leaked build of Android 4.3 we have seen for this device, with this one showing a build date of July 11. What this leads us to believe is that once Google “okays” Android 4.3, the Galaxy S4 GPE will be ready to receive it. Previously, it was somewhat unclear whether the HTC One and Galaxy S4 GPE devices would be first in line to receive the newest versions of Android alongside Nexus devices, but this a pretty good sign.

Compared to the previous leak, the new build doesn’t bring anything new to the table instead of a few fixes – previous leak stopped the CPU from going into an idle state which caused a huge battery drain, this has been fixed in this new build. The new firmware is reportedly much snappier and smoother than the previous leak, as well.

Firmware Details:
Model: GT-I9505G
Country: United States of America
Version: Android 4.3
Changelist: 1081152
Build date: Thu, 11 Jul 2013 19:23:28 +0000
Product Code: XAR
PDA: I9505GUEUBMG8
CSC: I9505GXARBMG8
MODEM: I9505GUEUBMG8

While you can already flash this new ROM, your best bet would be waiting for Google to roll out Android 4.3, at which point Samsung will likely release the appropriate Galaxy S4 Google Play edition software update – because this isn’t a Nexus device, it’s up to Samsung to do it.

The new "Scanning always available" option under Wifi > Advanced, which lets the device use Google location services even when Wifi is off, is now explained as part of the setup process, too.

This tells us that once Google places their stamp of approval on Android 4.3, the Google Play Edition Galaxy S4 will primed to welcome it in. It wasn’t clear if the HTC One or the Galaxy S4 GPE would be standing next to other Android Nexus devices when the update rolled out, but now it looks like this will in fact be the case.

Press image of Verizon's mid-range LG Enact surfaces

Another device with uninspired design and LTE to fill out Verizon's end-of-year lineup Verizon and LG have had a steady relationship of releasing mid-range devices to fill out its smart phone portfolio, and it looks like the LG Enact will be the latest in the series. Following in the footsteps of devices like the Lucid, Spectrum and Revolution, the Enact (aka VS890) looks to have a moderate screen size, four capacitive buttons (yes, menu button included) and typical branding in all the right places. The interface looks to be the same as other recent LG phones, and considering that Chrome is highlighted as an app on the home screen we're likely looking at Android 4.1 or above loaded on the Enact. Look for this one to hit Verizon by the end of the year at a low price point on-contract. A new press image of the Verizon bound smartphone, dubbed as LG Enact has been leaked, courtesy ofevleaks. The mid-range Android device with a model number VS890 is rumored to be announced with Android 4.1 Jelly Bean on board. The LG Enact is said to sport a display with a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels and the smartphone is expected to feature a Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Plus or a Snapdragon 400 processor and will support 4G LTE connectivity. Unfortunately, there is no word on the pricing and the launch date of the upcoming Verizon smartphone, but it's likely that it's going to be subsidizes to free on contract.

REVEALED : Why Nokia didnt adopt Android

Nokia, which has adopted the Windows Phone operating system for its smartphones, is better placed without Android, according to its chief Stephen Elop.

Without naming Samsung, Elop said the Android ecosystem has been dominated by one dominant player and he is happy that Nokia decided against opting for the Android few years back.

"I'm very happy with the decision we made. What we were worried about a couple of years ago was the very high risk that one hardware manufacturer could come to dominate Android.

We had a suspicion of who it might be, because of the resources available, the vertical integration, and we were respectful of the fact that we were quite late in making that decision. Many others were in that space already," Elop said in an interview given to The Guardian.

"Now fast forward to today and examine the Android ecosystem, and there are a lot of good devices from many different companies, but one company has essentially now become the dominant player," he further added.

Back in the year 2011 Nokia decided to slowly move away from Symbian . However, instead of going for Android - a platform that all other handset manufacturers were opting for except BlackBerry - the Finnish handset company adopted Microsoft's Windows platform for its smartphones.

At that time the choice of Microsoft Windows mobile operating system seemed a bit off from a manufacturer like Nokia. But no reasons were given back then to support the move.

Though, Samsung is the top Android smartphone maker but it was HTC who first launched an Android smartphone, the HTC Dream, in October 2008. Samsung joined the race the following year, in June 2009, when it launched Samsung i7500/ Galaxy.

Nokia is currently manufacturing smartphones with Windows Phone operating system only. It will though provide support to its Symbian based devices till 2016.

But despite Elop's rhetoric's now, Nokia may well join the race if its shipments of Windows devices continue to fall in future.

BitTorrent Sync enters Beta, introduces Android app

BitTorrent has been working tirelessly to create a new file sync service that utilizes the peer-to-peer BitTorrent protocol, dubbed BitTorrent Sync. An Alpha version of the service debuted back in April, and now BitTorrent Sync has entered the Beta stage. An Android app is now available, bringing the cloud syncing platform to the mobile realm. Where BitTorrent differs from other cloud syncing services such as Box and Dropbox is in its use of the cloud. BitTorrent Sync utilizes the BitTorrent protocol to deliver content directly to a user’s devices, instead of syncing the data to a server which is standard procedure for other syncing services. By ensuring that a user’s files and data do not reside on a third-party server, those entities cannot access a user’s files or data, providing an added layer of security. The Android app allows users to send files between mobile devices via mobile-to-mobile sending, quick access to folders via QR code, back up pictures, videos and files. If you’re concerned about privacy of your files and need to sync files across multiple devices, give BitTorrent Sync a spin. Download it here from the Google Play Store.

Samsung Galaxy Note II & Samsung Galaxy S III to get Android 4.3 JellyBean update directly instead of Android 4.2.2

Australian carrier Telstra has received a confirmation that the Samsung Galaxy Note II 4G model will skip Android 4.2.2, which, at first, sounds really, really bad for a flagship device. In some ways, this is a good move. Android 4.3 brings OpenGL ES 3.0 support along with standardized Bluetooth LE functionality and a host of other small improvements. Considering some devices, like the Nexus 7, actually dropped in performance from Android 4.1 to 4.2, Samsung may be waiting for Google to fix some underlying code issues before pushing the upgrade trigger. However, there’s a silver lining; Samsung will reportedly just skip 4.2.2 and update the device straight to Android 4.3. With Samsung’s Google Play edition Galaxy S 4, they obviously have some inside access to newer versions of Android, so this isn’t too much of a stretch to believe. No word on the Galaxy S III, but considering its 4.2.2 update has been delayed for this long, we may see it skip straight to newer versions of Android as well. It doesn't seem to be a regional thing either - all Galaxy Note II units might be treated that way. Here is the official quote from Telstra's support page: Samsung have elected globally to skip the 4.2.2 update for this device and will instead go to a newer version of Android. No schedule has been provided for this update. We already know that Samsung Galaxy Note II will live long enough to taste the Android 5.0 Key Lime Pie, so owners shouldn't worry about the Android updates. Meanwhile, Samsung still manages to keep the upcoming Galaxy Note III under wraps, but a picture taken with it popped up in Picasa yesterday. 

It hardly gives us much info, but it does confirm the device model number - N9005. This will most probably going to be the Snapdragon 800 version of the phablet with therevamped Exynos 5 powering the N9000 version. The Note III will be announced on September 4 ahead of IFA in Berlin. It's expected to bring 5.7" 1080p Super AMOLED display and 3GB of RAM.

Android 4.3 update for the Nexus 4 detailed, shown on video

The Android 4.3 update has been floating around for a while, with the first ROM being leaked for the Samsung Galaxy S4 Google Play Edition, ironically even before Google’s own Nexus device. As you probably` known, the same update has now been leaked for the Nexus 4 and we now get to learn what has changed since Android 4.2 in more detail. Admittedly, there is not a lot of new stuff here but here’s what has been discovered so far.

First of all, there is said to be an improvement in the touch response on the Nexus 4. Users who previously complained about lack of responsiveness from the display are reporting improvement after updating to 4.3, so there’s that to look forward to. There are some improvements to the connectivity features. The Bluetooth now gets support for the low energy standard, which reduces power consumption when used with other Bluetooth devices that support this standard. This standard is usually used by devices such as fitness accessories and smart watches that don’t need to transfer a lot of data but need a constant connection. Meanwhile, a new setting for Wi-Fi lets applications quickly switch on the Wi-Fi to get a quick lock on your location and then switch it back off without bothering you to enable Wi-Fi (E.g., Google Maps). There have been some changes to the dialer as well. You can now enter numbers and the app will match it to your saved contacts and suggest numbers accordingly. This feature has been in custom OEM skins since eons but it’s good to see it finally being added to stock Android. You can also enter pauses in the number now through the menu below. The camera app has also been updated. It’s essentially the same one we saw on the Google Play Editions of the Samsung Galaxy S4 and the HTC One, where the UI appears as an arc above your thumb instead of the previous circle. The UI now also rotates to landscape even if auto-rotation has been disabled, something which wasn’t possible before.

There are some developer focused changes as well, such as a running graph on the screen that tells you when an app dips below the magic 60fps framerate so you can tune your app accordingly a list that shows every notification you have received in the past even after you remove it from the notification drawer.

This is all that has been found so far. You can check the video below for a demonstration of some of these features.

 Leaked Android 4.3 Jelly Bean is also available (unfooicial download) but it might cause you to lose your data. Why be in a hurry when the official update is days away 

HP trying to get into the Smartphone world again by their BRAVE

HP's first Android smartphone is reportedly codenamed as Brave and will house a quad-core 2.3 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 mobile chipset. However HP spokesperson calls it a hoax. HP is reportedly working on a Android operating system based smartphone. PhoneArena has claimed to have got the image renders and AnTuTu Benchmark listing of the HP smartphone. As per the leaked images of the AnTuTu Benchmark, HP's first Android smartphone is dubbed as HP Brave 675A. It will feature 4.5-inch touchscreen display with 1600x900 resolution. The phone packs quad-core 2 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 mobile processor with 2 GB RAM. The smartphone is said to feature a 14.5 megapixel camera at the back and 5 megapixel camera in the front. Meanwhile, a spokesperson of HP dismissed the report, saying, "This is not an HP phone. The photo is a fabrication and is not a photo of anything HP has in the works. Someone is making stuff up." The image renders appear like someone has taken the Apple iPhone chassis image and stamped the HP logo at the back and Android user interface in the front. The leaked images and specifications details may not be of the actual HP Android phone but then it certainly draws the attention to the company for a bit. Believed to feature a 2.0 GHz Snapdragon 800 chip along with a unique 14.5MP camera sensor, the HP Brave could certainly be a smartphone to watch out for. Other specs include Android 4.2, a resolution of 1600×900 and 2GB of RAM.. We’re guessing HP will launch this smartphone during the IFA event in September where other prominent devices could be announced. We will certainly get to hear a lot about this smartphone in the coming days. While there’s no guarantee HP will actually launch such a device, gathering data from AnTuTu in the past has been a solid source for upcoming devices. Based on the data, the HP Brave could be a nice comeback for the company, which has floundered in the mobile space with a failure in webOS and a budget Android tablet to date.: Sony, LG and HTC are all expected to use Qualcomm’s best silicon in upcoming phones. That’s lower than the 1920 x 1080 screens on current flagships, but provides a similar pixel density at 408 pixels per inch. That means the screen would be just as clear as peer devices even though the screen is smaller. And that may be a good thing: It’s nearly impossible to find a top performing Android phone these days that doesn’t have a screen under 4.7-inches. 

READ MORE about HP trying to enter the smartphone world http://pitstoptech.blogspot.in/2013/07/hp-aims-to-re-enter-smartworld.html