By Roger Cheng and Scott Morrison Of DOW JONES NEWSWIRES NEW YORK (Dow Jones)-
The rubber is about to hit the road for Motorola Inc. (MOT) and Google Inc. (GOOG) On Sept. 10, the troubled cell phone maker is expected to unveil its first smartphone running Google's Android mobile operating system, software the Internet giant developed to stake its claim in the mobile search advertising market Both companies have a lot on the line. For Motorola, it's a chance to turn around its struggling mobile devices business and recapture past glory. For Google the phone represents the first in a wave of new Android-powered devices expected to ship by the end of the year, giving Google a chance to make a splash n a market dominated by Apple Inc.'s (AAPL) iPhone and Research in Motion Ltd.'s (RIMM) Blackberry"These launches are critical (for Google) because the availability (of Android) has been so constrained," said Avi Greengart, an analyst at product research firm Current Analysis Over the next few months, a number of handset makers and wireless carriers are expected to embrace Google's upstart mobile platform.
The open-source software - which is free to phone makers and third-party developers - was announced in late 2007, but only four phones running the software are currently on the market That is expected to change soon Andy Rubin, the engineering vice president responsible for Android, said in May that Google expects there will be at least 18 Android devices on the market by the end of the year, suggesting an accelerated release schedule over the next four months Google told Dow Jones this week it continues to work closely with manufacturers and still expects handset makers to reach Rubin's year-end target Motorola will almost assuredly be the first to show off its new handset. Invitations to a Sept. 10 event came emblazoned with Android's distinctive robot logo Deutsche Telekom AG's (DT) T-Mobile USA, which already carries HTC Corp.'s (2498.TW) Android-powered MyTouch 3G as its flagship device, is likely to sel the first Motorola phone. Motorola Co-CEO Sanjay Jha shares keynote speech duties with T-Mobile Chief Technology Officer Cole Brodman on Sept. 10 Both companies declined to comment Motorola's ability to revive its mobile devices unit hinges on a strong initial launch so it can generate momentum for its follow-on slate of Android devices analysts said.
"The pressure is on," said Nielsen & Co. analyst Roger Entner, referring to Motorola Verizon Wireless - jointly owned by Verizon Communications Inc. (VZ) and Vodafone Group Plc (VOD) - and Sprint Nextel Corp. (S) have also said they wil bring Android phones to the market by the end of the year Verizon Wireless is expected to carry one of Motorola's two planned Android devices, but the carrier told Dow Jones this week it will not participate in the Sept. 10 Motorola event Industry observers believe Sprint will carry the Hero, which is HTC's flagship Android device, currently available overseas. The Hero uses HTC's own Sense user interface, which separates it from the pack A Sprint spokesman wasn't available for comment Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.'s (SSNHY) Android-powered Galaxy handset is already available in Europe and the company is expected to reveal more details about its Android line-up next month. The company could push its products to multiple carriers given its strong relationships Samsung declined to comment AT&T Inc. (T) hasn't committed to selling Android phones, noting only that it is open to the platform. Still, industry observers believe AT&T will quickly join the
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Thursday, August 27, 2009
What we might see at Moto's Android event?
Motorola is finally ready to unveil its first Google Android handsets. Invitations sent out Tuesday announced a media event in San Francisco on September 10. Details were limited, but we expect to see an appearance from two rumored Motorola phones, the Morrison and Sholes.
The Morrison should launch on T-Mobile later this year. Initial rumors said it would be a budget Android phone, but the leaked specs are impressive. The Morrison will feature the same CPU as the first two Android phones (G1 and MyTouch), but will offer several enhancements that should make it a desirable phone.
Android fans will welcome the 256MB of RAM that is expected on the Morrison. As that's a healthy increase over the 192MB of RAM on both the G1 and MyTouch, the Morrison should offer better performance. The camera resolution is also greater (five megapixels vs three megapixels) and the Morrison includes the long-awaited 3.5mm headset jack (HTC's Android phones use a mini-USB jack).
Sholes is the codename for the upcoming Android phone for Verizon Wireless. The handset should aim for the high-end user and usher in the second generation of Android devices. Moto has chosen the Texas Instruments OMAP3430 platform to power the Sholes, which would make it the fastest Android phone to date. The OMAP3430 features a 600MHz CPU and is the same platform that supports the Palm Pre.
My sources tell me that the Sholes will ship with Eclair, which is expected to be named Android 2.0. Users can expect a significant user interface refresh, increased gaming performance, and more social networking integration. BoyGeniusReport has leaked documents which show the Sholes launching in late October on Verizon.
We might also get new information on Blur, the codename for Motorola's custom user interface for Android. It is expected to be tightly integrated with many social networking platforms and offer push updates. For example, opening a contact on your phone would instantly display real-time updates from Facebook, Twitter, and Flickr. We could also get an update from Motorola on its possible plans to launch its own app store.
Credit: Motorola)
The Morrison should launch on T-Mobile later this year. Initial rumors said it would be a budget Android phone, but the leaked specs are impressive. The Morrison will feature the same CPU as the first two Android phones (G1 and MyTouch), but will offer several enhancements that should make it a desirable phone.
Android fans will welcome the 256MB of RAM that is expected on the Morrison. As that's a healthy increase over the 192MB of RAM on both the G1 and MyTouch, the Morrison should offer better performance. The camera resolution is also greater (five megapixels vs three megapixels) and the Morrison includes the long-awaited 3.5mm headset jack (HTC's Android phones use a mini-USB jack).
Sholes is the codename for the upcoming Android phone for Verizon Wireless. The handset should aim for the high-end user and usher in the second generation of Android devices. Moto has chosen the Texas Instruments OMAP3430 platform to power the Sholes, which would make it the fastest Android phone to date. The OMAP3430 features a 600MHz CPU and is the same platform that supports the Palm Pre.
My sources tell me that the Sholes will ship with Eclair, which is expected to be named Android 2.0. Users can expect a significant user interface refresh, increased gaming performance, and more social networking integration. BoyGeniusReport has leaked documents which show the Sholes launching in late October on Verizon.
We might also get new information on Blur, the codename for Motorola's custom user interface for Android. It is expected to be tightly integrated with many social networking platforms and offer push updates. For example, opening a contact on your phone would instantly display real-time updates from Facebook, Twitter, and Flickr. We could also get an update from Motorola on its possible plans to launch its own app store.
Credit: Motorola)
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Asustek's Android Eee PC Remains in Deep Freeze
The CEO of netbook pioneer Asustek Computer said Tuesday that he still sees no clear market for mini-laptops known as smartbooks, the reason the company isn't moving forward in that product segment.
The company raised hopes it would soon launch an Eee PC smartbook based on chips made by Qualcomm and running Google's Android mobile operating system when such a device was displayed at the Computex Taipei electronics show in June. But the company quickly put the project on the back burner, refusing to discuss it days later at a press event that featured Asustek's chairman alongside executives from microprocessor maker Intel and OS giant Microsoft.
It appears the Android device remains in deep freeze.
"Currently, I still don't see a clear market for smartbooks," said Jerry Shen, CEO of Asustek Computer, during an investors' conference in Taipei.
The company's backing isn't essential for smartbooks, but it would lend weight to the credibility of such devices, which use mobile phone chips and components to offer far greater battery life than existing netbooks, and potentially ubiquitous wireless connectivity. Smartbooks appear almost identical to the netbooks Asustek pioneered, mini-laptops with 8-inch to 10-inch screens.
Asustek executives have said the reason the Android smartbook was shifted to low priority was because the company's engineering resources were limited and would be used elsewhere. But Asustek could use some of the smartbooks made by contract manufacturer Pegatron, the company's subsidiary.
Several smartbooks from Pegatron were on display at Computex. The estimated retail price of the devices was about US$199, compared to between US$300 and US$400 for a comparable netbook.
Asustek has used Intel microprocessors in all of its netbooks so far, and mainly Microsoft Windows XP as the OS, though it has sold netbooks with Linux OSs. The advantage of netbooks is that since they use Intel x86 architecture microprocessors, they can take software used on regular PCs, while smartbooks can only use software designed for or ported to RISC (reduced instruction set computer) processors, made by Arm Holdings. Arm processors are mainly found in mobile phones.
Dan Nystedt
The company raised hopes it would soon launch an Eee PC smartbook based on chips made by Qualcomm and running Google's Android mobile operating system when such a device was displayed at the Computex Taipei electronics show in June. But the company quickly put the project on the back burner, refusing to discuss it days later at a press event that featured Asustek's chairman alongside executives from microprocessor maker Intel and OS giant Microsoft.
It appears the Android device remains in deep freeze.
"Currently, I still don't see a clear market for smartbooks," said Jerry Shen, CEO of Asustek Computer, during an investors' conference in Taipei.
The company's backing isn't essential for smartbooks, but it would lend weight to the credibility of such devices, which use mobile phone chips and components to offer far greater battery life than existing netbooks, and potentially ubiquitous wireless connectivity. Smartbooks appear almost identical to the netbooks Asustek pioneered, mini-laptops with 8-inch to 10-inch screens.
Asustek executives have said the reason the Android smartbook was shifted to low priority was because the company's engineering resources were limited and would be used elsewhere. But Asustek could use some of the smartbooks made by contract manufacturer Pegatron, the company's subsidiary.
Several smartbooks from Pegatron were on display at Computex. The estimated retail price of the devices was about US$199, compared to between US$300 and US$400 for a comparable netbook.
Asustek has used Intel microprocessors in all of its netbooks so far, and mainly Microsoft Windows XP as the OS, though it has sold netbooks with Linux OSs. The advantage of netbooks is that since they use Intel x86 architecture microprocessors, they can take software used on regular PCs, while smartbooks can only use software designed for or ported to RISC (reduced instruction set computer) processors, made by Arm Holdings. Arm processors are mainly found in mobile phones.
Dan Nystedt
Google Denies Blocking Skype on Android Devices
Google on Friday denied that it is blocking VoIP services like Skype on Android devices, and said that full-featured VoIP apps are not available on Android phones only because developers have not yet created them.
The statement came after USA Today published an article that said Google does not allow a full Skype VoIP app on Android devices. The paper accused Google of blaming T-Mobile, which provides service for Android phones, for blocking Skype and only allowing Skype Lite, a version of the service that runs over traditional phone networks, not the Web.
T-Mobile told USA Today that it did not ask Google to block VoIP services.
At this point, Google does not have a full-featured version of Skype for Android handsets, but Google said Friday that this was not because the search engine giant had blocked VoIP apps.
"While the first generation of our Android software did not support full-featured VoIP applications due to technology limitations, we have worked through those limitations in subsequent versions of Android, and developers are now able to build and upload VoIP services," Andy Rubin, vice president of mobile platforms at Google, wrote in a blog post.
USA Today, however, is "wrong" to suggest that Google blamed T-Mobile for the lack of a full Skype app on Android, Rubin said.
"As we told USA Today earlier in the week Google did not reject an application from Skype or from any other company that provides VoIP services," he wrote. "To suggest otherwise is false."
Why are there no complete VoIP apps for Android? No one has created one, Rubin said.
"At this point no software developer – including Skype – has implemented a complete VoIP application for Android," he said. "But we're excited to see – and use – these applications when they're submitted, because they often provide more choice and options for users."
Rubin closed by saying that Google looks forward to when consumers "can access any applications, including VoIP apps, from any devices, on any networks."
Skype confirmed that it developed Skype Lite because Android did not support a full-featured version of the VoIP service.
"It is our point of view that consumers benefit most when software companies such as Skype, operating systems such as Android, and wireless operators collaborate to deliver a complete mobile Internet experience," a Skype spokesman said in an e-mail.
"Today in the Android Market there are Skype and other VoIP-related applications available for download by T-Mobile customers with Android-based handsets," T-Mobile said in a statement.
Friday is also the deadline for Google, AT&T, and Apple to submit their responses to an Federal Communications Commission inquiry surrounding Google Voice. Late last month, the FCC penned letters to the three companies requesting detailed information about why Apple blocked several Google Voice-related apps from the iPhone as well as data about the companies' roles in approving apps.
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2351887,00.asp#w_talkback
The statement came after USA Today published an article that said Google does not allow a full Skype VoIP app on Android devices. The paper accused Google of blaming T-Mobile, which provides service for Android phones, for blocking Skype and only allowing Skype Lite, a version of the service that runs over traditional phone networks, not the Web.
T-Mobile told USA Today that it did not ask Google to block VoIP services.
At this point, Google does not have a full-featured version of Skype for Android handsets, but Google said Friday that this was not because the search engine giant had blocked VoIP apps.
"While the first generation of our Android software did not support full-featured VoIP applications due to technology limitations, we have worked through those limitations in subsequent versions of Android, and developers are now able to build and upload VoIP services," Andy Rubin, vice president of mobile platforms at Google, wrote in a blog post.
USA Today, however, is "wrong" to suggest that Google blamed T-Mobile for the lack of a full Skype app on Android, Rubin said.
"As we told USA Today earlier in the week Google did not reject an application from Skype or from any other company that provides VoIP services," he wrote. "To suggest otherwise is false."
Why are there no complete VoIP apps for Android? No one has created one, Rubin said.
"At this point no software developer – including Skype – has implemented a complete VoIP application for Android," he said. "But we're excited to see – and use – these applications when they're submitted, because they often provide more choice and options for users."
Rubin closed by saying that Google looks forward to when consumers "can access any applications, including VoIP apps, from any devices, on any networks."
Skype confirmed that it developed Skype Lite because Android did not support a full-featured version of the VoIP service.
"It is our point of view that consumers benefit most when software companies such as Skype, operating systems such as Android, and wireless operators collaborate to deliver a complete mobile Internet experience," a Skype spokesman said in an e-mail.
"Today in the Android Market there are Skype and other VoIP-related applications available for download by T-Mobile customers with Android-based handsets," T-Mobile said in a statement.
Friday is also the deadline for Google, AT&T, and Apple to submit their responses to an Federal Communications Commission inquiry surrounding Google Voice. Late last month, the FCC penned letters to the three companies requesting detailed information about why Apple blocked several Google Voice-related apps from the iPhone as well as data about the companies' roles in approving apps.
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2351887,00.asp#w_talkback
HTC has yet to announce its Click smartphone!
HTC has yet to announce its Click smartphone, but images now floating around the Web reveal details about the low-priced Google Android handset. The Click, which should launch in the fourth quarter of this year, is reported to cost about $300. This would put the Click on track to being one the lowest priced Android phones available.
The Click's design is similar to the MyTouch 3G with some minor changes. The phone is touch screen only and it features a smaller 2.8-inch display. Gone is the trackball and in its place is a large circular directional pad. HTC has committed to start including a 3.5-millimeter headset jack on all phones and the Click has this highly requested feature.
The remaining navigation controls are similar to the MyTouch, but they also have a new design. The Home and menu buttons and the back and search controls are combined into a single rocker style button. The images also show a dragon design on the battery cover. Features include a microSD card slot and a camera.
Video of the phone also appeared on YouTube, but has since been taken down. In the video, the Click was running Donut, a future update to Android. While we don't know the official specifications of the Click, this is a good for Android fans who have been eagerly waiting on Donut to arrive.
We can't confirm when HTC will officially announce the Click, but it should come in the next few months. Depending on if a U.S. carrier offers the phone, we might see it priced less than $100 with a two-year contract. As we expected to see budget priced Android phones this year, the Click is a welcome addition. Even with its low price, the phone appears to offer the full Android experience in a slightly smaller package.
http://www.cnet.com/8301-19736_1-10315617-251.html
The Click's design is similar to the MyTouch 3G with some minor changes. The phone is touch screen only and it features a smaller 2.8-inch display. Gone is the trackball and in its place is a large circular directional pad. HTC has committed to start including a 3.5-millimeter headset jack on all phones and the Click has this highly requested feature.
The remaining navigation controls are similar to the MyTouch, but they also have a new design. The Home and menu buttons and the back and search controls are combined into a single rocker style button. The images also show a dragon design on the battery cover. Features include a microSD card slot and a camera.
Video of the phone also appeared on YouTube, but has since been taken down. In the video, the Click was running Donut, a future update to Android. While we don't know the official specifications of the Click, this is a good for Android fans who have been eagerly waiting on Donut to arrive.
We can't confirm when HTC will officially announce the Click, but it should come in the next few months. Depending on if a U.S. carrier offers the phone, we might see it priced less than $100 with a two-year contract. As we expected to see budget priced Android phones this year, the Click is a welcome addition. Even with its low price, the phone appears to offer the full Android experience in a slightly smaller package.
http://www.cnet.com/8301-19736_1-10315617-251.html
Saturday, August 22, 2009
GOOGLE TO BRING DESKTOP PHONE!!
By Marin Perez, Aug 21, 2009 05:18 PM
Google said its Android operating system wasn't just going to be for mobile phones and Cloud Telecomputers is bringing it to a desktop phone near you. The enterprise-focused device has some very interesting features that show the vast potential of the Linux-based OS Essentially, the company is trying to bring the functionality and features of smartphone to the desktop. The demo product Mobile Video which will run off a platform known as Glass Mobile Video which will run off a platform known as Glass features an 8-inch touch screen, and it can integrate with your corporate PBX and IP PBX fo corporate calling. The phone will also come with corporate calling. The phone will also come with Bluetooth built-in so you can transfer your mobile phone contacts to it easily, and you'll also be able to view Outlook e-mails, as well as click on contacts to call them. Bluetooth built-in so you can transfer your mobile Bluetooth built-in so you can transfer your mobile phone contacts to it easily, and you'll also be able to view Outlook e-mails, as well as click on contacts to call them The platform itself is a tailored version of Android and the company will be licensing it out to companies that want to create their own model of phones. As you would expect from its name Cloud will be offering hosted services for thi interfaces for custom applications like Salesforce(NYSE: CRM)'s CRM software. Being able to send SMS messages from the desktop and the ability to run multiple apps are also nice features This is still not a firm release date for the Glass products, but the company is expecting devices to be released in the first quarter of 2010 for about $599 or $699. I'm not really sure how big the market for this specific device will be due to the pricing and the fact that many companies' budgets are still hurting, and the desktop phone is way down on the list of priorities. Verizon (NYSE: VZ) is also trying to bring smartphone features to desktop phones with devices like its Hub, and I think there will be a decent market for these types of devices, even as features into Glass or the Hub and I'm sure you'd find plenty of people happy to pick one up« AT&T Responds To The FCC: We're Innocent | Main | Apple Responds To FCC » Sign Up Now S
Google said its Android operating system wasn't just going to be for mobile phones and Cloud Telecomputers is bringing it to a desktop phone near you. The enterprise-focused device has some very interesting features that show the vast potential of the Linux-based OS Essentially, the company is trying to bring the functionality and features of smartphone to the desktop. The demo product Mobile Video which will run off a platform known as Glass Mobile Video which will run off a platform known as Glass features an 8-inch touch screen, and it can integrate with your corporate PBX and IP PBX fo corporate calling. The phone will also come with corporate calling. The phone will also come with Bluetooth built-in so you can transfer your mobile phone contacts to it easily, and you'll also be able to view Outlook e-mails, as well as click on contacts to call them. Bluetooth built-in so you can transfer your mobile Bluetooth built-in so you can transfer your mobile phone contacts to it easily, and you'll also be able to view Outlook e-mails, as well as click on contacts to call them The platform itself is a tailored version of Android and the company will be licensing it out to companies that want to create their own model of phones. As you would expect from its name Cloud will be offering hosted services for thi interfaces for custom applications like Salesforce(NYSE: CRM)'s CRM software. Being able to send SMS messages from the desktop and the ability to run multiple apps are also nice features This is still not a firm release date for the Glass products, but the company is expecting devices to be released in the first quarter of 2010 for about $599 or $699. I'm not really sure how big the market for this specific device will be due to the pricing and the fact that many companies' budgets are still hurting, and the desktop phone is way down on the list of priorities. Verizon (NYSE: VZ) is also trying to bring smartphone features to desktop phones with devices like its Hub, and I think there will be a decent market for these types of devices, even as features into Glass or the Hub and I'm sure you'd find plenty of people happy to pick one up« AT&T Responds To The FCC: We're Innocent | Main | Apple Responds To FCC » Sign Up Now S
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Microsoft Wants To Compete Against Android and iPhone OS By Delaying Windows Mobile 6.5 and 7
Man I hate Microsoft and its Windows Mobile division. I just don’t understand any of their decisions anymore. According to some reliable Taiwan phone manufacturers, Microsoft is going for a dual-platform strategy. That’s not good at all. The Redmond-based company will launch Windows Mobile 6.5 on October 1 (not official yet) this year, and it will upgrade it sometime in February 2010 with a new touch interface.
Reports say that Microsoft wants to compete against Android OS with Windows Mobile 6.5, and against iPhone OS 3.0 with Windows Mobile 7. However Android 1.5 Cupcake looks good, Android 2.0 Donut will be even better, while Windows Mobile 7 will be launched in late 2010. How can Microsoft compete against iPhone OS? iPhone 3.0 is the best now while iPhone 3.1 will be even better when it will be launched later this year.
The strategy of the software maker is wrong although the prices will be lowered. WinMo is old and rusty, and by the time 7 is coming out all mobile platforms will be in front of it. Apple is preparing to release a new tablet, and probably a new iPhone next year.
The iPhone OS will definitely be improved while Google already announced that Android OS is getting 3 updates this year after Cupcake. This means that Android 3.0 or at least 2.5 will be released before 2010, and who knows how many updates it will get until the end of 2010. Just how good Microsoft thinks Windows Mobile 7 will be?
via DigiTimes
Reports say that Microsoft wants to compete against Android OS with Windows Mobile 6.5, and against iPhone OS 3.0 with Windows Mobile 7. However Android 1.5 Cupcake looks good, Android 2.0 Donut will be even better, while Windows Mobile 7 will be launched in late 2010. How can Microsoft compete against iPhone OS? iPhone 3.0 is the best now while iPhone 3.1 will be even better when it will be launched later this year.
The strategy of the software maker is wrong although the prices will be lowered. WinMo is old and rusty, and by the time 7 is coming out all mobile platforms will be in front of it. Apple is preparing to release a new tablet, and probably a new iPhone next year.
The iPhone OS will definitely be improved while Google already announced that Android OS is getting 3 updates this year after Cupcake. This means that Android 3.0 or at least 2.5 will be released before 2010, and who knows how many updates it will get until the end of 2010. Just how good Microsoft thinks Windows Mobile 7 will be?
via DigiTimes
AT&T First ANDROID powered device????
AT&T may delay or cancel its first Google Android device built by HTC, reports digiTimes, which references industry sources in Taiwan. Engagdet reported similar rumblings yesterday.
So far, only T-Mobile has launched an Android device in the U.S., so a launch by AT&T would have provided a nice lift to the platform's popularity. But reportedly, the device, which is codenamed the HTC Lancaster, has not yet passed AT&T's review process. The delay will cause a setback to AT&T and HTC, as other handset makers, such as Motorola LG and Sony Ericsson get close to launching their own devices-most likely on a broad set of carriers that could include Verizon Wireless and Sprint Nextel.
AT&T is expected to launch two HTC handsets running Windows Mobile 6.5, including the Touch Diamond 2 and Touch Pro 2 in October.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/08/20/AR2009082002680.html
So far, only T-Mobile has launched an Android device in the U.S., so a launch by AT&T would have provided a nice lift to the platform's popularity. But reportedly, the device, which is codenamed the HTC Lancaster, has not yet passed AT&T's review process. The delay will cause a setback to AT&T and HTC, as other handset makers, such as Motorola LG and Sony Ericsson get close to launching their own devices-most likely on a broad set of carriers that could include Verizon Wireless and Sprint Nextel.
AT&T is expected to launch two HTC handsets running Windows Mobile 6.5, including the Touch Diamond 2 and Touch Pro 2 in October.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/08/20/AR2009082002680.html
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
No Further Android Updates for G1; No “Sense” for MyTouch 3G?
No Further Android Updates for G1; No “Sense” for MyTouch 3G?
We early adopters know that we risk not being able to update our first-generation mobile gadgets, but that doesn’t make it any easier to stomach. Android engineers have tweeted that T-Mobile G1 (HTC Dream) phones may not be able to handle any OS updates going forward. It seems that the early G1 model has limited system memory and the current version 1.5 (aka Cupcake) update completely filled it up. That means future updates, aka Donut and Eclair, will likely not be released for the Dream, as new versions almost always require more memory.
“As much as I’m hoping that it’ll be possible to somehow continue updating the G1, I can’t promise anything.”
More disturbing news is coming out of Asia (HTC is a Taiwan company) that the HTC Magic, aka MyTouch 3G, will be receiving the innovative “Sense” UI update in Europe, but that T-Mobile models in the U.S. won’t. This is reportedly due to licensing issues with the T-Mobile versions that require “Google branding.” We’ve voiced our concerns that licensing issues might fragment the Android line with updates in some areas but not others and it looks like that concern might be valid. Which is a real shame, as the MyTouch 3G (Magic) is the newest Android phone in the HTC line and the Sense UI is light years ahead of the native Android UI.
via I4U and Gizmodo)
We early adopters know that we risk not being able to update our first-generation mobile gadgets, but that doesn’t make it any easier to stomach. Android engineers have tweeted that T-Mobile G1 (HTC Dream) phones may not be able to handle any OS updates going forward. It seems that the early G1 model has limited system memory and the current version 1.5 (aka Cupcake) update completely filled it up. That means future updates, aka Donut and Eclair, will likely not be released for the Dream, as new versions almost always require more memory.
“As much as I’m hoping that it’ll be possible to somehow continue updating the G1, I can’t promise anything.”
More disturbing news is coming out of Asia (HTC is a Taiwan company) that the HTC Magic, aka MyTouch 3G, will be receiving the innovative “Sense” UI update in Europe, but that T-Mobile models in the U.S. won’t. This is reportedly due to licensing issues with the T-Mobile versions that require “Google branding.” We’ve voiced our concerns that licensing issues might fragment the Android line with updates in some areas but not others and it looks like that concern might be valid. Which is a real shame, as the MyTouch 3G (Magic) is the newest Android phone in the HTC line and the Sense UI is light years ahead of the native Android UI.
via I4U and Gizmodo)
T-Mobile G1 may not receive major Android updates because of limited flash RAM
One of Google's Android developers said Friday that the T-Mobile G1 may not receive operating system updates in the future because of a lack of internal flash RAM, according to mobile news publication JKOnTheRun.
"As much as I'm hoping that it'll be possible to somehow continue updating the G1, I can't promise anything," Android engineer Jean-Baptiste Queru wrote on Twitter. "We knew that internal flash space was going to be very tight on the G1 and we kept the system partition tight on purpose."
According to the publication, the G1's current operating system, version 1.5 - code named "Cupcake" - filled the memory so future versions, including Donut and Eclair, likely will not fit on the device.
A T-Mobile spokesperson told EngadgetMobile that the OS will continue to be updated, though the carrier was not clear if those updates will include operating system overhauls. "We plan to continue working with Google to introduce future software updates to the T-Mobile G1. Reports to the contrary are inaccurate," the spokesperson said in a statement.
The news comes after HTC said yesterday that it will offer its attractive Android-powered Sense UI, originally developed for the HTC Hero, to HTC Magic users, as we reported. The T-Mobile version of the HTC Magic, the myTouch 3G, will not receive the upgrade.
News by Brian James Kirk on Tuesday August 18, 2009.
"As much as I'm hoping that it'll be possible to somehow continue updating the G1, I can't promise anything," Android engineer Jean-Baptiste Queru wrote on Twitter. "We knew that internal flash space was going to be very tight on the G1 and we kept the system partition tight on purpose."
According to the publication, the G1's current operating system, version 1.5 - code named "Cupcake" - filled the memory so future versions, including Donut and Eclair, likely will not fit on the device.
A T-Mobile spokesperson told EngadgetMobile that the OS will continue to be updated, though the carrier was not clear if those updates will include operating system overhauls. "We plan to continue working with Google to introduce future software updates to the T-Mobile G1. Reports to the contrary are inaccurate," the spokesperson said in a statement.
The news comes after HTC said yesterday that it will offer its attractive Android-powered Sense UI, originally developed for the HTC Hero, to HTC Magic users, as we reported. The T-Mobile version of the HTC Magic, the myTouch 3G, will not receive the upgrade.
News by Brian James Kirk on Tuesday August 18, 2009.
Monday, August 17, 2009
G1 may not be getting update unfortunately :(
No Android past 1.5 for G1; no Sense for myTouch 3G
Wireless provider T-Mobile will not release a significant update to the original
Android-powered G1 handset, according to a recent, unofficial report. While T-Mobile is saying otherwise when questioned, it is being ambiguous enough that its promise of introducing future software updates could be related only to small security updates or bug fixes, with Donut (possibly Android 1.6) and Éclair (Android 2.0) builds not coming to the device. The 256MB internal storage capacity of the G1, which is split for the OS and apps, eliminates this possibility as the updates are too large.
"There will come a time in the near future when we won’t be able to fit the latest release on the G1 internal flash," said Android software engineer Dave Sparks, and the Android software team has said it has struggled to fit the Cupcake update into the G1's internal flash.
Despite hopes to the contrary, the Donut and Éclair updates will not include the ability to install apps to SD cards to free up internal space. This inability to update to the latest system will make the G1 outdated before its two-year contract runs out, leaving owners to upgrade hardware if they want the newer releases.
In related Android news, the Sense UI update that is coming to the HTC Magic device is not likely to be sent out for T-Mobile's Magic, rebranded as the myTouch 3G. This is because of licensing reasons, as Sense is an HTC product, while the myTouch is branded with Google and is thus likely obliged to use Google's interface. European and potentially Canadian Magic users aren't likely to have this problem as their devices are reference models.
Link:http://www.electronista.com/articles/09/08/17/no.android.updates.for.g1/
Wireless provider T-Mobile will not release a significant update to the original
Android-powered G1 handset, according to a recent, unofficial report. While T-Mobile is saying otherwise when questioned, it is being ambiguous enough that its promise of introducing future software updates could be related only to small security updates or bug fixes, with Donut (possibly Android 1.6) and Éclair (Android 2.0) builds not coming to the device. The 256MB internal storage capacity of the G1, which is split for the OS and apps, eliminates this possibility as the updates are too large.
"There will come a time in the near future when we won’t be able to fit the latest release on the G1 internal flash," said Android software engineer Dave Sparks, and the Android software team has said it has struggled to fit the Cupcake update into the G1's internal flash.
Despite hopes to the contrary, the Donut and Éclair updates will not include the ability to install apps to SD cards to free up internal space. This inability to update to the latest system will make the G1 outdated before its two-year contract runs out, leaving owners to upgrade hardware if they want the newer releases.
In related Android news, the Sense UI update that is coming to the HTC Magic device is not likely to be sent out for T-Mobile's Magic, rebranded as the myTouch 3G. This is because of licensing reasons, as Sense is an HTC product, while the myTouch is branded with Google and is thus likely obliged to use Google's interface. European and potentially Canadian Magic users aren't likely to have this problem as their devices are reference models.
Link:http://www.electronista.com/articles/09/08/17/no.android.updates.for.g1/
Sunday, August 16, 2009
More on 2.0 soDOnOOdONUTMTMo
In the tech industry, nothing is more unforgivable than resting on your aurels. That's why the Android developer team has moved right on from Cupcake to Donut with nary a pause between the two. If you haven't heard yet, Donut is the code-name for the Android 2.0 update. Previously we brought you leaked info about the new widget utilities and UI changes on the dev version of Donut. Now, thanks to a demo from Google, we've got even more juicy Android gossip For one, the Android 2.0 update is bringing an expanded search utility to the open source OS.
'Android Search' will allow users to quickly search for items in your smartphone, or on the Internet. It comes with a text-to speech API, which will allow people to use Google Voice Search in their apps and online. Another neat feature is the ability to draw letters on the touchscreen in order to search for items beginning with that letter Android is moving forward fast, which is exactly what they need to be doing.
Despite some impressive successes and expansion into severa product lines, Google's OS still only controls about 1% of the smartphone market. The main advantage that Android has over larger OS's like Symbian is that, since it is open source, it has more opportunities for expansion and customization Right now, Donut is expected to come out for mass consumption around August, when HTC's new line of Gphones are set to hit the market. If you just can't wait to see what's around the corner, you can always get a dev phone and dig up the Donut that leaked a few days back. If so, please drop us a line and let I4U know what you think about Android 2
'Android Search' will allow users to quickly search for items in your smartphone, or on the Internet. It comes with a text-to speech API, which will allow people to use Google Voice Search in their apps and online. Another neat feature is the ability to draw letters on the touchscreen in order to search for items beginning with that letter Android is moving forward fast, which is exactly what they need to be doing.
Despite some impressive successes and expansion into severa product lines, Google's OS still only controls about 1% of the smartphone market. The main advantage that Android has over larger OS's like Symbian is that, since it is open source, it has more opportunities for expansion and customization Right now, Donut is expected to come out for mass consumption around August, when HTC's new line of Gphones are set to hit the market. If you just can't wait to see what's around the corner, you can always get a dev phone and dig up the Donut that leaked a few days back. If so, please drop us a line and let I4U know what you think about Android 2
Friday, August 14, 2009
ANDROID 2.0???
Android 2.0 bringing multitouch this year?
One of the main reasons to pick an iPhone or Palm Pre over one of their Android rivals is multitouch: Apple has it, Palm has it, Android doesn’t. But that could soon change, if some web speculation proves accurate.
CNET claims there could be two updates to Android this year: Android 1.6 (aka Donut) and Android 2.0 (aka Eclair). Donut is a fairly minor update of the firmware but Android 2.0 should be a biggie.
Apparently it will debut on a handset before becoming available to download on existing Android devices. CNET reckons this could be a Motorola phone, which we can see happening: it’s well known that Moto has plans for an Android-powered handset, and there’s even talk that it’s working on its own Blur UI to sit on top of Android. CNET’s bet is on a phone called the Motorola Sholes becoming the Android 2.0 flagship.
But what about multitouch, we hear you cry. Well, apparently the evidence for that comes courtesy of some new code dropped into the Android Open Source Project by Google. Some code for multitouch has been spotted by developers - but not for Donut. This has lead CNET to speculate that multitouch will be part of Eclair/Android 2.0.
There are a lot of “what ifs” in this story, but we can definitely see Google adding multitouch soon in an effort to keep up with Apple. l will keep you posted.
August 14, 2009 3:30 pm by Sam Kieldsen Categories:
One of the main reasons to pick an iPhone or Palm Pre over one of their Android rivals is multitouch: Apple has it, Palm has it, Android doesn’t. But that could soon change, if some web speculation proves accurate.
CNET claims there could be two updates to Android this year: Android 1.6 (aka Donut) and Android 2.0 (aka Eclair). Donut is a fairly minor update of the firmware but Android 2.0 should be a biggie.
Apparently it will debut on a handset before becoming available to download on existing Android devices. CNET reckons this could be a Motorola phone, which we can see happening: it’s well known that Moto has plans for an Android-powered handset, and there’s even talk that it’s working on its own Blur UI to sit on top of Android. CNET’s bet is on a phone called the Motorola Sholes becoming the Android 2.0 flagship.
But what about multitouch, we hear you cry. Well, apparently the evidence for that comes courtesy of some new code dropped into the Android Open Source Project by Google. Some code for multitouch has been spotted by developers - but not for Donut. This has lead CNET to speculate that multitouch will be part of Eclair/Android 2.0.
There are a lot of “what ifs” in this story, but we can definitely see Google adding multitouch soon in an effort to keep up with Apple. l will keep you posted.
August 14, 2009 3:30 pm by Sam Kieldsen Categories:
What is ANDROID?
What is Android?
Developed by the Open Handset Alliance, Android brings Internet-style innovation and openness to mobile phones.
Android™ delivers a complete set of software for mobile devices: an operating system, middleware and key mobile applications. The Android Software Development Kit (SDK) is now available.
Open
Android was built from the ground-up to enable developers to create compelling mobile applications that take full advantage of all a handset has to offer. It was built to be truly open. For example, an application can call upon any of the phone's core functionality such as making calls, sending text messages, or using the camera, allowing developers to create richer and more cohesive experiences for users. Android is built on the open Linux Kernel. Furthermore, it utilizes a custom virtual machine that was designed to optimize memory and hardware resources in a mobile environment. Android is open source; it can be liberally extended to incorporate new cutting edge technologies as they emerge. The platform will continue to evolve as the developer community works together to build innovative mobile applications.
All applications are created equal
Android does not differentiate between the phone's core applications and third-party applications. They can all be built to have equal access to a phone's capabilities providing users with a broad spectrum of applications and services. With devices built on the Android Platform, users are able to fully tailor the phone to their interests. They can swap out the phone's homescreen, the style of the dialer, or any of the applications. They can even instruct their phones to use their favorite photo viewing application to handle the viewing of all photos.
Breaking down application boundaries
Android breaks down the barriers to building new and innovative applications. For example, a developer can combine information from the web with data on an individual's mobile phone -- such as the user's contacts, calendar, or geographic location -- to provide a more relevant user experience. With Android, a developer can build an application that enables users to view the location of their friends and be alerted when they are in the vicinity giving them a chance to connect.
Fast & easy application development
Android provides access to a wide range of useful libraries and tools that can be used to build rich applications. For example, Android enables developers to obtain the location of the device, and allows devices to communicate with one another enabling rich peer-to-peer social applications. In addition, Android includes a full set of tools that have been built from the ground up alongside the platform providing developers with high productivity and deep insight into their applications.
ANDROID.com
Developed by the Open Handset Alliance, Android brings Internet-style innovation and openness to mobile phones.
Android™ delivers a complete set of software for mobile devices: an operating system, middleware and key mobile applications. The Android Software Development Kit (SDK) is now available.
Open
Android was built from the ground-up to enable developers to create compelling mobile applications that take full advantage of all a handset has to offer. It was built to be truly open. For example, an application can call upon any of the phone's core functionality such as making calls, sending text messages, or using the camera, allowing developers to create richer and more cohesive experiences for users. Android is built on the open Linux Kernel. Furthermore, it utilizes a custom virtual machine that was designed to optimize memory and hardware resources in a mobile environment. Android is open source; it can be liberally extended to incorporate new cutting edge technologies as they emerge. The platform will continue to evolve as the developer community works together to build innovative mobile applications.
All applications are created equal
Android does not differentiate between the phone's core applications and third-party applications. They can all be built to have equal access to a phone's capabilities providing users with a broad spectrum of applications and services. With devices built on the Android Platform, users are able to fully tailor the phone to their interests. They can swap out the phone's homescreen, the style of the dialer, or any of the applications. They can even instruct their phones to use their favorite photo viewing application to handle the viewing of all photos.
Breaking down application boundaries
Android breaks down the barriers to building new and innovative applications. For example, a developer can combine information from the web with data on an individual's mobile phone -- such as the user's contacts, calendar, or geographic location -- to provide a more relevant user experience. With Android, a developer can build an application that enables users to view the location of their friends and be alerted when they are in the vicinity giving them a chance to connect.
Fast & easy application development
Android provides access to a wide range of useful libraries and tools that can be used to build rich applications. For example, Android enables developers to obtain the location of the device, and allows devices to communicate with one another enabling rich peer-to-peer social applications. In addition, Android includes a full set of tools that have been built from the ground up alongside the platform providing developers with high productivity and deep insight into their applications.
ANDROID.com
Thursday, August 13, 2009
5 Android Market Apps!
You've already seen our hands-on review of Google's new mobile operating system, Android—so now it's time to take a look at what kinds of apps third-party developers have made available for the platform. The first phone running Android has been out in the wild for eight months now, and every day new applications have appeared in the Android Market that add fun and functionality to your handset. Best of all, most of them are free. Let's take a look at our favorite free apps (so far) that make working and living a lot easier in Android. Note: There are plenty of games and social networking apps available for Android, from Pac-Man to Solitaire to at least seven dozen Twitter clients, but this review's gonna stick to the stuff that makes doing stuff (besides eating virtual pellets) faster. For a longer list of apps that include games and kill-the-time type stuff, check out Gizmodo's marathon Android App review. Alright, let's make your Android phone more productive. To install any of these apps, hit up the Android Market on your phone and search for 'em by name.
Any Cut
My one must-have app, Any Cut creates one-click shortcuts on your home screen to common activities, like texting your sweetie. To Android's credit, sans Any Cut, you can already make a direct shortcut to a Gmail label (like "to respond"), and there are configurable application keyboard shortcuts baked into the OS. But Any Cut goes that extra mile towards making repetitive actions a one-click task. Here's the Any Cut two-step workflow to create a shortcut: Here's what a shortcut to text Terra looks like (tap that to launch a new SMS message with Terra's phone number all filled into the To: field):
Caller ID
Should you pick up the call from that unknown number or not? The WhitePages.com's Caller ID app helps you decide with a little more information—specifically, whether the number of the incoming call is a cell or landline, and where it's located. Worked like a charm for both a San Diego landline and NYC cellphone, though disappointingly it only includes cities, and not specific listings.
TooDo
You want your to-do's in the cloud, and you want them on your phone. There are quite a few list apps available for Android, but TooDo is my pick for the serious GTD crowd. TooDo is a very rich to-do manager that does all the things a featureful desktop task manager does—including reminders, categories, and dependencies—with some sweet location-aware goodness too, like geographical-based reminders (ie, if you're within range of the dry cleaner, pick up the pants). Since Android has had all kinds of trouble pinpointing my exact location, I can't tell you whether or not the geo-reminders actually work. To be honest, TooDo had so many options and controls, it was almost too overwhelming. The developer says attaching audio and video notes to tasks is even on the way. But the kicker feature? TooDo syncs with Remember the Milk and Toodledo, so you don't have to peck out your list on the phone keyboard.
Compare Everywhere
Having only heard of bar scanner apps and never using one myself, Compare Everywhere gave me a serious "holy cow" moment. Point the camera at a bar code—on a book, DVD, or any kind of product—and the phone auto-detects it, vibrates when it's scanned the code, and brings up the product details, with prices at online stores and brick-and-mortar retail locations near you. Then you can add the item to a list—like your shopping list or wishlist. Magical. Here's what the scanner looks like pointing at the back of my book. Note this acts just like a bar scanner—you just swipe, no need to hit the shutter button: Here's the product lookup result on this scan:
Cab4Me
You're exhausted and stranded in a neighborhood you don't know at all because your best friend left the bar with that hottie and left you high and dry. Instead of starting to Google for a local cab company, fire up Cab4Me, which finds cabs near your current location. Tap one to make the call.
ToddlerLock
Sometimes your productivity (or just plain sanity) depends on how quiet the kid is. ToddlerLock turns your phone into an interactive toy, with bright shapes and colors on screen and (optionally) fun sounds. Your kid can draw on screen and press the keys to make new shapes appear; a complicated key combination quits the app. Good for long grocery lines and funerals.
Hotspot Locator
When the slow data connection is killing you but you need to get some serious surfing done on your phone, locate a T-Mobile hotspot near you to get some free wireless love. This app will get you there.
Translate
When you don't speak the language, you don't want to futz with the web interface to Google Translate. The Translate app offers a cleaner way to look up translations quickly. Type in your phrase and set the "from" and "to" language and go—up to 150 language pairs are available; this one's a must-have for international travelers.
Musical Productivity
While music isn't always under the "personal productivity" umbrella, there are still a few Android apps that let you get music-related tasks done a lot quicker.
Ringdroid
Turn any MP3 on your phone to a ringtone without touching your desktop with Ringdroid. Using the app you select the start and end of your tone on a song timeline, and preview it before you save. (That sound you hear is iPhone owners eating their hearts out while they manually sync ringtones from iTunes.)
Shazam
Just like the popular iPhone app, Shazam identifies songs you hear on the radio or elsewhere. Just hold the phone's microphone near the radio's speakers while it plays the song in question, and Shazam will guess what it is. Shazam only works with recorded music, not humming or live versions. Scroll down the result to search for the song on YouTube and in Amazon MP3 (included on the phone so you can purchase the tune on the spot).
TuneWiki
See the lyrics displayed in time with a music video using TuneWiki, the awesome app that will finally settle arguments about what the hell that line was, anyway. YouTube videos work too (pictured), although the lines aren't always synced—but you can tap the screen to advance to the next one. Your best bet is to check out TuneWiki's lists of popular songs (of the day, week, month, etc) to see the synchronization go as the song plays. G1 owners, what Android apps have become your must-haves? Let us know in the comments.
Gina Trapani.
Any Cut
My one must-have app, Any Cut creates one-click shortcuts on your home screen to common activities, like texting your sweetie. To Android's credit, sans Any Cut, you can already make a direct shortcut to a Gmail label (like "to respond"), and there are configurable application keyboard shortcuts baked into the OS. But Any Cut goes that extra mile towards making repetitive actions a one-click task. Here's the Any Cut two-step workflow to create a shortcut: Here's what a shortcut to text Terra looks like (tap that to launch a new SMS message with Terra's phone number all filled into the To: field):
Caller ID
Should you pick up the call from that unknown number or not? The WhitePages.com's Caller ID app helps you decide with a little more information—specifically, whether the number of the incoming call is a cell or landline, and where it's located. Worked like a charm for both a San Diego landline and NYC cellphone, though disappointingly it only includes cities, and not specific listings.
TooDo
You want your to-do's in the cloud, and you want them on your phone. There are quite a few list apps available for Android, but TooDo is my pick for the serious GTD crowd. TooDo is a very rich to-do manager that does all the things a featureful desktop task manager does—including reminders, categories, and dependencies—with some sweet location-aware goodness too, like geographical-based reminders (ie, if you're within range of the dry cleaner, pick up the pants). Since Android has had all kinds of trouble pinpointing my exact location, I can't tell you whether or not the geo-reminders actually work. To be honest, TooDo had so many options and controls, it was almost too overwhelming. The developer says attaching audio and video notes to tasks is even on the way. But the kicker feature? TooDo syncs with Remember the Milk and Toodledo, so you don't have to peck out your list on the phone keyboard.
Compare Everywhere
Having only heard of bar scanner apps and never using one myself, Compare Everywhere gave me a serious "holy cow" moment. Point the camera at a bar code—on a book, DVD, or any kind of product—and the phone auto-detects it, vibrates when it's scanned the code, and brings up the product details, with prices at online stores and brick-and-mortar retail locations near you. Then you can add the item to a list—like your shopping list or wishlist. Magical. Here's what the scanner looks like pointing at the back of my book. Note this acts just like a bar scanner—you just swipe, no need to hit the shutter button: Here's the product lookup result on this scan:
Cab4Me
You're exhausted and stranded in a neighborhood you don't know at all because your best friend left the bar with that hottie and left you high and dry. Instead of starting to Google for a local cab company, fire up Cab4Me, which finds cabs near your current location. Tap one to make the call.
ToddlerLock
Sometimes your productivity (or just plain sanity) depends on how quiet the kid is. ToddlerLock turns your phone into an interactive toy, with bright shapes and colors on screen and (optionally) fun sounds. Your kid can draw on screen and press the keys to make new shapes appear; a complicated key combination quits the app. Good for long grocery lines and funerals.
Hotspot Locator
When the slow data connection is killing you but you need to get some serious surfing done on your phone, locate a T-Mobile hotspot near you to get some free wireless love. This app will get you there.
Translate
When you don't speak the language, you don't want to futz with the web interface to Google Translate. The Translate app offers a cleaner way to look up translations quickly. Type in your phrase and set the "from" and "to" language and go—up to 150 language pairs are available; this one's a must-have for international travelers.
Musical Productivity
While music isn't always under the "personal productivity" umbrella, there are still a few Android apps that let you get music-related tasks done a lot quicker.
Ringdroid
Turn any MP3 on your phone to a ringtone without touching your desktop with Ringdroid. Using the app you select the start and end of your tone on a song timeline, and preview it before you save. (That sound you hear is iPhone owners eating their hearts out while they manually sync ringtones from iTunes.)
Shazam
Just like the popular iPhone app, Shazam identifies songs you hear on the radio or elsewhere. Just hold the phone's microphone near the radio's speakers while it plays the song in question, and Shazam will guess what it is. Shazam only works with recorded music, not humming or live versions. Scroll down the result to search for the song on YouTube and in Amazon MP3 (included on the phone so you can purchase the tune on the spot).
TuneWiki
See the lyrics displayed in time with a music video using TuneWiki, the awesome app that will finally settle arguments about what the hell that line was, anyway. YouTube videos work too (pictured), although the lines aren't always synced—but you can tap the screen to advance to the next one. Your best bet is to check out TuneWiki's lists of popular songs (of the day, week, month, etc) to see the synchronization go as the song plays. G1 owners, what Android apps have become your must-haves? Let us know in the comments.
Gina Trapani.
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