Atrix
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UK Advertising Authority takes issue with Atrix's 'world's most powerful smartphone' status
Just about every day we're treated to claims of a device being the "world's first" or "world's biggest" or, indeed, "world's fastest." Typically we file these stories into the "world's least exciting" folder in our inbox, but in the UK, Motorola's advertising wing has really been pushing the "world's most powerful smartphone" angle for the Atrix. Sharp-eyed UK viewers (one of whom was kind enough to write in to us) aren't buying it, however, complaining to the nation's Advertising Standards Authority, the ASA. Citing the Galaxy S II, which has a 1.2GHz processor compared to the Atrix's 1GHz, the ASA has indicated that the complaint will be upheld, as you can see for yourself after the break. Now, it's looking like Motorola will have to come up with a new way to market the thing over there. We'd suggest "smartphone most likely to run Firefox in an overpriced laptop dock," but that doesn't quite have the same ring to it. [Thanks, Anonymous]
Atrix gets Gingerbread update, sideloading support, new outlook on life
Its evil cousin the Bionic may be lurking just around the bend, with its too-long sideburns and its crazy eyes, but that doesn't mean the Atrix 4G is ready to hang up its hat just yet. AT&T's wunderphone with the woven back is just now receiving a 2.3.4 update, bringing it all the sensuous flavors of Gingerbread and finally, finally, the ability to sideload apps. First, though, you'll need to download the 161MB update, which is waiting for you at the other end of the source link below. No, really, it is -- but it's getting impatient. Go on, go say hello. [Thanks to everyone who sent this in]
Netflix app on Android updated to work on 24 models including Galaxy S, Droid 3 (update: tablets too!)
The number of Android devices officially compatible with the Netflix streaming app has more than doubled in v2.3, growing from 9 to 24. Last night the description was updated with a new list of devices but the actual updated APK only started pushing this afternoon, bringing Netflix not only to the Lenovo tablet announced last night but also to the Droid 3, HTC Thunderbolt, Motorola Atrix, several Galaxy S phones including the Epic 4G and Fascinate and more. Fragmentation is clearly still an issue for DRM'd apps like this and Hulu Plus, but at least now there's a growing number of recent superphones supported instead of sitting on the sidelines. We've got the updated list of devices after the break, hit the source link to download the app from the Android Market. Update: As multiple commenters have noted, sideloading the Netflix APK will still work for devices that haven't yet made the list. We were able to confirm the app works fine on the Galaxy Tab 10.1 and Motorola Xoom, however we're hearing it's not up and running on the Tegra 2-based Transformer just yet. Itching for some Watch Instantly on your Honeycomb tablet? Check XDA-Developers for a download link. Update 2: Alex wrote in to let us know that things are now operational on the Transformer, too. Check out xda-developers for the details. [Thanks to everyone who sent this in]
International Atrix unlocked bootloader uncovered, hackers around the globe rejoice
That Atrix unlocked bootloader that leaked last month had one nagging limitation -- it was only for the AT&T version of Motorola's dual-core device. Now, thanks to the tireless folks who haunt the XDA forums, all of our international friends rockin' the laptop-dockable handset will soon be free of Moto's chains. Project Cheesecake, as the quest was known, has dug up files from a forthcoming Orange UK firmware upgrade that can be applied to any Atrix across the globe. That means even our impatient neighbors to the north on Bell will be able to get in on the unlocking action early. If you can't wait for Motorola to officially get the update out the door, just keep an eye out at the source and more coverage links. The devs are doing some final testing to ensure it doesn't brick phones and creating localized builds, so you're just gonna have to wait a tiny bit longer. [Thanks, Guillermo]
Atrix 4G bootloader unlocked: you can hack it up today or wait for official Gingerbread update
The Atrix 4G is today an eminently more intriguing smartphone than it was yesterday. Leaked code from Motorola's upcoming Gingerbread update for the handset has made its way into the hands of the always-eager coders at xda-developers, which has resulted in two things: one, the discovery that Motorola intends to unlock the Atrix's bootloader when it upgrades it to Android 2.3, and two, downloadable files to let you do exactly that today, even if you're still stuck on Froyo. Moto users have been pleading for this change for a long time and Motorola did pledge to make it happen across its portfolio of devices, but it comes as a mild (and happy) surprise to see this change being effected retroactively. Check the links below to see how you can unchain your phone's bootloader if you can't wait for the official software to drop. [Thanks to everyone who sent this in]
Atrix 4G available for $100 from AT&T, just 50 bucks per Tegra 2 core
We're not going to mince words, the Motorola Atrix has a number of urgent software issues that make it tough to recommend, but at least AT&T is pricing the Blur-saddled smartphone into the realm of reason. As of right now, the dual-core Tegra 2 device can be purchased for $99.99 when signing a two-year agreement with Ma Bell. Its qHD display resolution, 1GB of RAM and 14.4Mbps HSPA+ capabilities are still pretty much top notch, so if you can figure out a way to make peace with Motorola's software, now might be the time to strike. [Thanks, Logan]
Motorola's Atrix Certificate Updater remedies its mobile banking blunder
If you're an Atrix 4G user who has been reeling since your banking apps failed, go ahead and cancel that next therapist appointment -- thankfully for you, a permanent fix is now available in the Android Market. Motorola's Atrix Certificate Updater swaps the troublesome security signatures from v4.1.83 with versions that should play nicely alongside your mobile banking apps. If you're a sucker for punishment and want to restore the v4.1.83 certificates, the change can be reverted by relaunching Motorola's updater. With this misstep out of the way, you can enjoy the Memorial Day holiday and keep your financial life in order -- even while your bank's doors remain tightly locked.
Motorola's Atrix 4G update 4.1.83 breaks the bank (literally)
Fans of mobile banking are discovering harsh surprises after updating their Atrix 4G to v4.1.83. Amongst the numerous improvements in this release (including the widely touted HSUPA fix), Motorola added new SSL certificates to the mix. While such a change would normally be inconsequential, many banking apps have stopped functioning with the new certificates in place -- a rude shock for anyone needing to deposit a paycheck. So far, Moto confirms that American Express, Bank of America, Chase and Discover are affected -- while Wells Fargo and Citibank's apps run just fine. Motorola plans to issue a workaround for affected users, but currently suggests that everyone access their financial institution through Android's web browser. Maybe it's just us, but this sounds like a fine opportunity to take the new Firefox 4 for a spin. [Thanks, David]
Screen Grabs: Atrix 4G cameos in Vampire Diaries, Klaus utilizes webtop for evil deeds
Screen Grabs chronicles the uses (and misuses) of real-world gadgets in today's movies and TV. Send in your sightings (with screen grab!) to screengrabs at engadget dot com. If Vampire Diaries holds any sway, the fantasy-drama based in "Mystic Falls, Virginia" suggests that vampire / werewolf hybrids clearly prefer Android superphones. In this screen grab, you'll find antagonist Klaus keeping tabs on his shape-shifting captive from the comfort of the Atrix 4G's 11.5-inch webtop. Fans of the ethereal series will note we've previously caught the troubled character, Jeremy, logging some time with LG's Quantum, but this marks the first attempt we've seen of a Motorola handset playing a supporting role in breaking a witch's curse. [Thanks, Andrew]
Motorola promises more Atrix-like laptop docks for future phones
Motorola's Atrix 4G laptop dock was a seriously sweet concept, which is why we were so disappointed when it failed to pan out. Sounds like Motorola CEO Sanjay Jha is ready to give it another try, though -- on the company's earnings results call this past week, he told investors that Moto is planning a whole series of Lapdock devices in the second half of the year: You will see multiple devices from us in the second half launching with these capabilities, and we will expand the range of our Lapdock devices so we cover a broader price point, addressing both the enterprise premium tier as well as more consumer tiers. "We plan on introducing successive iterations of our Webtop software and accessories that incorporate improved productivity tools and multiple price points," he also said, echoing previous promises to include Webtop in all high-end smartphones starting this summer. Perhaps those closely spaced I/O ports on the Droid Bionic and Targa won't go to waste after all? If you simply can't wait, Sanjay claims there's also an official price drop inbound for the Atrix 4G -- AT&T will offer a bundle with the Lapdock and phone for $400 later this month.
How would you change Motorola's Atrix 4G?
Motorola's Atrix 4G may have some serious competition from a performance standpoint, but it's still got one thing going for it over all of the other Android superphones hitting the streets these days: an optional laptop dock. 'Course, it's debatable whether or not said accessory is truly worth paying for, but the phone itself has certainly done its fair share of impressing. You've read our take on Motorola's latest Android whizkid, and now it's your turn to vent. If you had the power necessary to overhaul the Atrix 4G, how would you go about doing so? Would you nix Motoblur altogether? Toss the latest build of Android onboard? Make it available on more carriers? Handle the laptop dock differently? All (sane) opinions are welcome, and comments are open below.
AT&T brings HSUPA to Atrix 4G and Inspire 4G, one requires WiFi to download update
If you're the somewhat-proud-but-feeling-throttled owner of a Motorola Atrix 4G or HTC Inspire 4G, your days of terribly slow uploads are nearly through -- following some preliminary tests, AT&T is rolling out updates that provide "increased potential data speed" to both HSPA+ handsets right on cue. The Inspire 4G's patch will also "make the email set up process much easier," while the Atrix 4G will actually get a pair of updates which will allegedly bring better Bluetooth headset compatibility, fingerprint reader performance and battery life (which is always a plus) as well as the questionable utility of turning the Atrix into an EDGE hotspot, and a bump to Android 2.2.2 to hopefully fix any lingering SMS routing bugs. Word of warning though, you'll need to throw your Atrix up on a WiFi network to obtain these goodies -- all the Gs in the world won't help you.
Motorola tests update for Atrix 4G, includes HSUPA support
Sure, AT&T set a self-imposed deadline for HSUPA support on the Atrix 4G, but it's waited until the last possible moment to turn in the completed assignment. Soon after hearing that a hack can flip the upload switch to "speedy", we learned that beta testers have been handed an over-the-air update to version 4.1.83. Motorola's site lists the changelog and vaguely mentions that the update brings "increased speed at which data can travel on the network." While such a statement implies the update will crank the HSUPA knob to 11, reports from testers are backing up the theory left, right, and center. Aside from the elephant in the room, the new update should bump the Atrix 4G to Android 2.2.2 and bring improvements to Wi-Fi, Skype, and email, along with a fix for the occasional frozen display bug. Of course without AT&T making this update widespread, and with only three days left in the month, it looks like we might have to dock points for tardiness. Follow the source link for all the nitty gritty details.
XDA Developers trump AT&T, release HSUPA support for Motorola's Atrix
We've known AT&T intends to enable HSUPA support for its mighty Atrix soon, but if you want it now (and we mean now), two restless XDA contributors are delivering some instant gratification for your upload woes. Today, dew.man and NFHimself released a modified radio file that allows Atrix owners to send data properly -- a feat iPhone users simply take for granted. This mod requires that your device be rooted, but reactions in the forum are ranging from ecstatic to elated (and everywhere in between). Of course, you could wait for AT&T's official release, but where's the fun in that? Hey, it's your phone, so take ownership already! Everything you need to know is in the source link below.
Motorola Xoom and Atrix shipping to Latin America, get your Honeycomb on pre-order
Gadget lovers in Latin America anxious to get their hands on Motorola's Xoom tablet and Atrix superphone can stop living vicariously through our reviews, as the creator of the Pageboy is bringing the turbocharged devices to Argentina, Brazil and Mexico. Though Moto insists these head-turners are now shipping, Droid Matters suggests we'll see delays in getting the Xoom to Brazil and Mexico, though if you're in Argentina, they've got the tablet for pre-order at $3599. Even if you can't get your hands on Honeycomb yet, perhaps poking around with a docked Atrix will satiate your gadget desires. PR after the break.
Motorola Atrix to launch exclusively with Orange UK in early May
Just in time to duel with the Samsung Galaxy S II, Motorola's Atrix is crossing the Atlantic for an early May release in Orange livery. UK carrier Orange has proudly announced it'll be the "exclusive launch partner" for the Atrix in the UK, offering the dual-core handset for free on two-year contracts costing £35 per month or more. A Work and Play Kit that includes the phone's Multimedia Dock will be made available at a reduced £50 price to new customers buying the phone, or for free to existing Orange subscribers upgrading to the Atrix during May. Business customers on some of the more overpriced fully featured tariffs will also get the chance to snap up the Lapdock for free. Jump past the break for Orange's fulll press release or hit the source link to register your interest now.
HTC Sensation versus the rest of the dual-core world: smartphone spec sheet smackdown
We got to feeling a bit curious about how exactly HTC's latest Android superphone, the Sensation 4G, stacks up against its fellow dual-core competition, so we did what every geek does in such situations, we compiled a chart. Included in this list are the finest and brightest Android handsets from each of the major manufacturers that have gone dual-core so far: the Galaxy S II, the Atrix 4G, the Optimus 2X / G2X, and HTC's own EVO 3D. As it turns out, there are quite a few commonalities among these phones (besides the benchmark-crushing performance). They all boast screens of either 4 or 4.3 inches in size, the minimum amount of RAM among them is 512MB, the smallest battery is 1500mAh, and yes, they all have front-facing video cameras. Basically, it's the future of smartphones, reduced to a stat sheet. As such, it must also come with the warning that specs aren't everything, and user experience will most often depend on the software available on each device and on the preferences of the human holding it. With that proviso fully digested, join us after the break for the data.
Atrix 4G's 4.1.57 update spruces up a few things, patches known root methods
The HSUPA-enabling update? No, not yet. The voice call quality fix? In the pipeline. The mission-critical Bluetooth multimedia experience improvements? Oh yes, we've got those right here! Motorola is preparing to deliver an imminent OTA update to its Atrix 4G super phone, which will fix up battery performance, overall software stability, and car dock, headphone jack, and fingerprint reader performance, but will regrettably leave the two major drawbacks to the AT&T-riding phone untouched. Alas, if you've rooted your Atrix, you'll have to pay a dear price to benefit from these upgrades as users over at xda-developers, who've obtained the pre-release build, report the new 4.1.57 update disables their previous superuser privileges. C'est la vie. Update: Word is this update will be released to the general public tomorrow. Sit tight. [Thanks, Daniel]
AT&T says Atrix 4G, Inspire 4G will have HSUPA enabled in April
We've already seen some hints that something was coming soon courtesy of the FCC, and now AT&T has confirmed to CNET that both the HTC Inspire 4G and Motorola Atrix 4G will have their HSUPA capabilities enabled sometime in April via a software update. That should dramatically increase upload speeds on the phones (up to 5.76 Mbps), and make them more "4G" than ever before, but still not quite as "4G" as some other "4G." Incidentally, the Samsung Infuse 4G has also been confirmed to be shipping with HSUPA enabled, although it's still not clear exactly when it will ship.
Motorola recognizes, investigates Atrix 4G voice quality issues (update)
Experiencing voice quality woes with your otherwise delightful Atrix 4G? You aren't alone, buster. In fact, the issue has become so prevalent and widespread that Motorola itself has taken notice, with one of its forum managers creating a sticky to confirm that the company is looking into things. As of now, there's no clear indication of why the problem is emerging, but the positive news is that you aren't actually losing your hearing -- it's a legitimate quandary, and if you'd care to help Motorola fix it, you can visit that source link to tell your story. Till then, we hear local phone providers are offering unbeatable deals on landline connections. Update: Motorola pinged us with an official response. Check it out after the break. [Thanks, Kyle]
