Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Refresh Roundup: week of August 15, 2011]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/21/refresh-roundup-week-of-august-15-2011/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/21/refresh-roundup-week-of-august-15-2011/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/21/refresh-roundup-week-of-august-15-2011/#comments Your smartphone and / or tablet is just begging to get updated. From time to time, these mobile devices are blessed with maintenance refreshes, bug fixes, custom ROMs and anything in between, and so many of them are floating around that it's easy for a sizable chunk to get lost in the mix. To make sure they don't escape without notice, we've gathered every possible update, hack, and other miscellaneous tomfoolery from the last week and crammed them into one convenient roundup. If you find something available for your device, please give us a shout at tips at engadget dawt com and let us know. Enjoy!

Official Android updates
  • The HTC EVO 3D is now ready for a maintenance fix called 2.08.651.2, which offers some nice improvements like allowing more Sprint bloatware to be uninstallable by the user, contact transfer via bluetooth, fixes for the lock screen occasionally freezing, and GPS enhancements. This update is available through a manual install. [via SprintFeed]
  • Speaking of the HTC EVO 3D, the bootloader unlock tool is now ready for your enjoyment on the company's fancy new dev site.
  • Android 2.3.4 is finally rolling out on T-Mobile's HTC Sensation 4G, and all users should receive the OTA update by the end of September at the latest. Aside from the standard 2.3.4 enhancements, Sensation 4G owners can also expect better battery life, additional software stability, extra touchscreen responsiveness, and improved "device reboots." Curiously, the refresh also promises better screen and photo resolution. All in all, this is the kind of firmware boost we love to see. (Thanks, Anonymous) [via TmoNews]
  • If you're using a Samsung Fascinate 3G on Telus, you'll be interested to know that you may now have Gingerbread bestowed upon your device. It'll involve a manual install using Samsung Kies, so go to the website to get all the instructions. [via MobileSyrup]
  • The five people enjoying their Motorola Flipside can finally be treated to Android 2.2. Yes, that's Froyo. Go here to get the update manually. [via AndroidCentral]
  • Some Motorola Droid X users complained about bugs after its bump up to Gingerbread, which should be resolved by installing version 4.5.602. It's a simple maintenance fix that throws in a couple additional enhancements at the same time. [via AndroidCentral]
  • HTC Droid Incredible is inching closer to getting upgraded to Android 2.3.4, according to the support page Verizon recently set up on its site. [via Droid-Life]
  • In time for today's launch, Samsung has released the source code for the Conquer 4G. Devs, head here to download it -- you'll know what to do after that. [via Android Police]
  • For everyone who chooses to get the Conquer 4G, it's supposedly set to receive a device security enhancement today as well, according to some leaked screenshots. [via SprintFeed]
Unofficial Android updates/custom ROMs/misc hackery
  • This was fast -- the same bug fix update for the Droid X that we mentioned above has already been rooted. Go to the via for the full details on how to get it. As always, diving into these types of processes are more advanced, and you should follow the instructions to the letter. [via Droid-Life]
  • The MIUI custom ROM is starting to gain a lot of momentum in the Android community, and if you're interested in checking it out on your device without going through the hassle of installing the full version (let alone rooting your phone or buying a MIUI-supported phone), an XDA developer has created a clone of the MIUI launcher and has made an APK available for your downloading pleasure. The via has a large screenshot gallery to check out. [via AddictiveTips]
  • We've seen a lot of leaked Gingerbread ROMs surface for the HTC Thunderbolt, but this time an "official" update has made its ways to the Android dev world. It's been told that this is not yet the final build, so it's bound to get even better with time. Still, the impatient users may want to get this as soon as possible. [via RootzWiki and AndroidCentral]
  • Another build of Gingerbread, EH06, has leaked for the Samsung Epic 4G. [via AndroidCentral]
  • The HTC EVO 4G update to Android 2.3 can now be rooted, courtesy of Revolutionary. [via AndroidCentral]

Refresh Roundup: week of August 15, 2011 originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 21 Aug 2011 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4gandroidandroid 2.2android 2.3.3android 2.3.4Android2.2Android2.3.3Android2.3.4attcloneconquer 4gConquer4gcustom ROMcustom romsCustomRomCustomRomsdroiddroid incredibledroid xDroidIncredibleDroidXeh06epicepic 4gEpic4gevoevo 3devo 4gEvo3dEvo4gfascinate 3gFascinate3gfirmwarefirmware updateFirmwareUpdateflipsidefroyogingerbreadhtchtc evohtc evo 3dhtc evo 4ghtc incrediblehtc sensation 4ghtc thunderboltHtcEvoHtcEvo3dHtcEvo4gHtcIncredibleHtcSensation4gHtcThunderboltkiesmanual updateManualUpdatemiuimiui launcherMiuiLaunchermobilemobilepostminimotorolamotorola droid xmotorola flipsideMotorolaDroidXMotorolaFlipsideotaota updateOtaUpdaterefreshrefresh roundupRefreshRoundupROMrounduprrsamsungsamsung conquer 4gsamsung epic 4gsamsung fascinate 3gsamsung kiesSamsungConquer4gSamsungEpic4gSamsungFascinate3gSamsungKiessensationsensation 4gSensation4gsoftware updateSoftwareUpdatesourcesource codeSourceCodesprintsprint conquer 4gSprintConquer4gt-mobiletelusthunderboltunlocked bootloadersUnlockedBootloadersupdateupdatesverizonxdaSun, 21 Aug 2011 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Droid X gets friendly with CyanogenMod 7 beta, nightlies to follow (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/17/droid-x-gets-friendly-with-cyanogenmod-7-beta-nightlies-to-foll/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/17/droid-x-gets-friendly-with-cyanogenmod-7-beta-nightlies-to-foll/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/17/droid-x-gets-friendly-with-cyanogenmod-7-beta-nightlies-to-foll/#comments After months of labor and many helping hands, a tenacious modder known as "cvpcs" has succeeded with his efforts to bring CyanogenMod 7 to the Motorola Droid X. While this is still a beta release, fixes are coming swiftly and the developer intends to deliver nightly updates to resolve the outstanding issues -- the camera is non-functional, for instance. If you're willing to take the plunge with this one, you'll need to revert to Froyo for sake of kernel compatibility (but don't worry, CM7 is Gingerbread-based). Also, the most recent set of Google apps aren't working yet, so you'll need to grab an older release. All the juicy details -- along with the CM4DX download -- can be found at the source, and we've included some helpful guides to get you on the right path. So if you're feeling wily this weekend and Moto's Gingerbread isn't fitting the bill, be sure to thank "cvpcs" for his dedication.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Continue reading Droid X gets friendly with CyanogenMod 7 beta, nightlies to follow (video)

Droid X gets friendly with CyanogenMod 7 beta, nightlies to follow (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 17 Jun 2011 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.2android 2.3Android2.2Android2.3cameracm7cvpcscyanogenmodCyanogenMod 7Cyanogenmod7diydroiddroid xDroidXfroyogingerbreadgooglehackhackedhacksmobilemodmodsmotorolamotorola droid xMotorolaDroidXoperating systemOperatingSystemromromsrootsmartphonesmartphonesFri, 17 Jun 2011 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Droid Incredible 2 review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/25/droid-incredible-2-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/25/droid-incredible-2-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/25/droid-incredible-2-review/#comments It wasn't that long ago that we were jonesing for a Nexus One on Verizon. What HTC gave us instead was the Droid Incredible, with the same 1GHz Snapdragon CPU and gorgeous 3.7-inch AMOLED display -- not to mention a better camera (8 megapixel vs. five), 8GB of built-in flash storage, an optical trackpad, HTC's Sense UI on top of Eclair, and a dash of funky industrial design. The Incredible was an impressive phone with a lovely camera, marred only by questionable battery life and lack of supply, forcing HTC to build a Super LCD-equipped model to satisfy demand. Judging by the popularity of the Incredible, it came as no surprise that following HTC's announcement at MWC, the Incredible S eventually became Verizon's Droid Incredible 2. With a 4-inch Super LCD display, global CDMA / GSM radio, front-facing camera, updated internals (including 768 MB of RAM), trick capacitive buttons, and a Froyo-flavored serving of Sense, the Incredible 2 seems like a worthy successor to last year's Incredible. Does it live up to our expectations or is it just another fish in the crowded sea of Android? Does it significantly improve upon the original formula or is it merely a refresh? Hit the break for our review.

Gallery: Droid Incredible 2 review

Continue reading Droid Incredible 2 review

Droid Incredible 2 review originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 May 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4-inch720p8 megapixel800 x 480800X4808MegapixelAdreno 205Adreno205AndroidAndroid 2.2Android 2.2.1Android2.2Android2.2.1DLNADroidDroid IncredibleDroid Incredible 2DroidIncredibleDroidIncredible2front-facing cameraFront-facingCameraFroyoGlobalGobiGoogleHTCHTC IncredibleHTC Incredible 2HTC Incredible SHtcIncredibleHtcIncredible2HtcIncredibleSIncredibleIncredible 2Incredible SIncredible2IncredibleSKindleMDM9600MSM8655QualcommQuickofficereviewSkypeSlackerSnapdragonSuper LCDSuperLcdv castVCastVerizonVerizon WirelessVerizonWirelessvideovz navigatorVzNavigatorVZWWVGAWed, 25 May 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola Droid X2 official at $200: launching online May 19th, in stores May 26th (update: in some stores on 19th)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/18/motorola-droid-x2-official-launching-online-may-19th-in-stores/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/18/motorola-droid-x2-official-launching-online-may-19th-in-stores/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/18/motorola-droid-x2-official-launching-online-may-19th-in-stores/#comments Motorola and Verizon have finally stopped teasing us and have made the Droid X2 official. This is a 4.3-inch Android (2.2, to be upgraded to 2.3) smartphone with a qHD screen resolution and a dual-core 1GHz processor. An 8 megapixel camera with continuous autofocus and HD video recording graces the back. The X2 will cost the usual $200 on contract and will be available to buy online tomorrow, May 19th, before making its way out to stores a week later, on May 26th. Leap past the break for the full PR.

Interestingly, we've also spotted the close proximity of the USB and HDMI ports on the side of the new X2. That arrangement is reminiscent of the one on Motorola's Atrix, where the two connectors served to hook that handset up to its laptop and multimedia docks. We don't know whether the Droid X2 will fit into the accessories designed for the Atrix, but it looks sure to be strapping itself into a dock of some description in the near future.

Update: NVIDIA has confirmed that its Tegra 2 chip is the heretofore unnamed 1GHz dual-core chip inside the Droid X2, which just happens to be Verizon's first dual-core smartphone.

Update 2: A little birdie tells us you may be able to pick up this bad boy in person in some stores as soon as tomorrow (May 19th). Your mileage may vary, but let us know in the comments if you manage to buy one.

Update 3: Sure enough, they're on shelves. Matt sent us a pic, which is after the break.

Continue reading Motorola Droid X2 official at $200: launching online May 19th, in stores May 26th (update: in some stores on 19th)

Motorola Droid X2 official at $200: launching online May 19th, in stores May 26th (update: in some stores on 19th) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 18 May 2011 20:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1ghz4.3-inchandroidandroid 2.2Android2.2blurbreaking newsdatedroiddroid x 2droid x2DroidX2dual coredual-coreDualCorefroyolaunchmotomotoblurmotorolamotorola droid x2MotorolaDroidX2nvidianvidia tegra 2NvidiaTegra2officialpricepricingqhdreleasesmartphonespecstegrategra 2Tegra2verizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessvzwWed, 18 May 2011 20:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola Droid X2 ready for May 26 launch?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/12/droid-x2-ready-for-may-26-launch/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/12/droid-x2-ready-for-may-26-launch/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/12/droid-x2-ready-for-may-26-launch/#comments The skeptics in us are not ready to call this one confirmed yet, but we are beginning to see information trickle in about a possible launch date for the Droid X2. Droid-Life uncovered possible promo materials discussing the entrance strategy for the X2, in conjunction with several of the phone's specs. These docs strongly indicate May 26 is the magic day for a full-scale assault, with early orders allowed as soon as May 19. We don't see any major surprises in specs -- there's a dual-core Tegra 2 1GHz processor, 4.3-inch qHD screen, 8MP rear camera, and 1080p HDMI-out video, to list off the highlights -- although we are excited to see Gingerbread may be in the mix here, indicated by the ever-so-subtle blue bar seen on the phone's screen. We hope you can understand our hesitation, though, since an unproven spec sheet from Pocketnow suggests we should only expect Froyo. No way of knowing who will win this little argument, but you know which one we're rooting for. Check out another leaked image after the break.

Continue reading Motorola Droid X2 ready for May 26 launch?

Motorola Droid X2 ready for May 26 launch? originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 May 2011 22:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androiddroiddroid x 2droid x2DroidX2froyogingerbreadgooglelaunchleaksmotoblurmotorolamotorola droidMotorolaDroidverizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessvzwvzw wirelessVzwWirelessx2Thu, 12 May 2011 22:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Verizon's Droid Charge expected to invade Costco, beckons with free ravioli samples]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/03/verizons-droid-charge-expected-to-invade-costco-beckons-with-f/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/03/verizons-droid-charge-expected-to-invade-costco-beckons-with-f/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/03/verizons-droid-charge-expected-to-invade-costco-beckons-with-f/#comments The Droid Charge, our recently reviewed silent knight for Verizon, is expected to blaze into stores this week now that its retail embargo has lifted. Of course, this news comes like a blast of cold air following news that the handset would be indefinitely delayed. Android Central shares all the juicy details (thanks to a gutsy Costco employee), with the warehouse club expecting shipments to arrive on Thursday. As a side note, if you're intimidated by the $300 price tag, Costco's inventory screen suggests it will sell the phone for $250. Of course, given Verizon's hesitancy in bringing this LTE device to market, any additional hiccups wouldn't exactly surprise us, but if you're willing to brave those warehouse crowds and there's nary a Charge in sight, at least there's plenty of tasty morsels to nibble on.

Verizon's Droid Charge expected to invade Costco, beckons with free ravioli samples originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 03 May 2011 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4GAndroidAndroid 2.2Android2.2cellphoneChargecostcoDroidDroid ChargeDroidChargeFroyolaunchleakLTEmobilemobile phoneMobilePhonephoneSamsungsmartphoneUSVerizonVerizon WirelessVerizonWirelessTue, 03 May 2011 15:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Droid Charge review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/02/droid-charge-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/02/droid-charge-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/02/droid-charge-review/#comments We're still shaking our heads and sighing longingly at the performance of Samsung's Galaxy S II, a phone that wowed us in Europe but likely won't be coming to American shores for some time -- and who knows what it'll look like when it does. But don't get too down, dear reader, because here comes another slice of Samsung and this slab has that same 4.3-inch Super AMOLED Plus display tucked in there. It's a little less slim, a little less classy, and a little less quick than Sammy's latest world-conquering wunderphone, but the LTE-equipped Charge is a proper contender in its own right. Read on to see why.

Gallery: Samsung Droid Charge

Continue reading Droid Charge review

Droid Charge review originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 02 May 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amoledandroidandroid 2.2Android2.2chargedroiddroid chargeDroidChargefeaturefeaturedfeaturesfroyohummingbirdreviewsamsungsuper amoledsuper amoled plusSuperAmoledSuperAmoledPlusverizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessvideovzwMon, 02 May 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Verizon freezes Droid Charge launch indefinitely, blaming 'unexpected delays' (update)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/28/Verizon-freezes-droid-charge-launch-indefinitely-blaming-unex/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/28/Verizon-freezes-droid-charge-launch-indefinitely-blaming-unex/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/28/Verizon-freezes-droid-charge-launch-indefinitely-blaming-unex/#comments Can't say we're surprised by this, but turns out Verizon's decided to delay the launch of its Samsung Droid Charge -- originally scheduled for today -- at the very last minute. According to an internal email we obtained, the blame's on "unexpected delays" and no new date has yet been set. This makes sense, considering it wouldn't do Verizon much good to launch a new 4G Android when its LTE service is still down (for over 24 hours and still counting). Ah well, this 4.3-incher better be worth the wait.

[Thanks, Anonymous]

Update: We're hearing reports that LTE is gradually being restored across the states, and our own Myriam Joire also sees 4G connection in San Francisco. That said, at this stage it's unlikely that the Droid Charge will resume launch today.

Update 2: Apparently the folks at Target aren't picking up what Verizon's putting down, as a tipster has told us it's releasing the Charge today as planned. Picture's after the break.

Continue reading Verizon freezes Droid Charge launch indefinitely, blaming 'unexpected delays' (update)

Verizon freezes Droid Charge launch indefinitely, blaming 'unexpected delays' (update) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 28 Apr 2011 04:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4GAMOLEDAndroidAndroid 2.2Android2.2cellphoneChargedelayDroidDroid ChargeDroidChargeFroyolaunchLTEmobile phoneMobilePhonephoneSamsungsmartphoneSuper AMOLED PlusSuperAmoledPlusUSVerizonVerizon WirelessVerizonWirelessThu, 28 Apr 2011 04:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Droid Charge gets semi-unboxed behind the scenes at Best Buy]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/27/droid-charge-gets-semi-unboxed-behind-the-scenes-at-best-buy/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/27/droid-charge-gets-semi-unboxed-behind-the-scenes-at-best-buy/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/27/droid-charge-gets-semi-unboxed-behind-the-scenes-at-best-buy/#comments Still not convinced of the Droid Charge's inevitable release? Well here's some photographic evidence direct from a Best Buy backroom, you cynics! Our tipster was too excited about his triumph to tame Mr. Blurrycam or even finish unboxing Verizon's Froyo-packing handset, so the rest of us will have to wait until tomorrow for some clear shots of Samsung's 1GHz LTE beast from all angles. With luck, the unit above should be fully unboxed by then.

[Thanks, Anonymous]

Droid Charge gets semi-unboxed behind the scenes at Best Buy originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 27 Apr 2011 16:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AndroidAndroid 2.2Android2.2Best BuyBestBuyDroiddroid chargeDroidChargeFroyoGoogleLTEmobileSamsungsamsung droid chargeSamsungDroidChargeunboxingVerizonverizon droidVerizon Droid ChargeVerizonDroidVerizonDroidChargeVZWWed, 27 Apr 2011 16:54:00 EST<![CDATA[StreakDroid 1.9.0 takes Dell Streak Own3rs to the frontier]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/02/streakdroid-1-9-0-takes-dell-streak-own3rs-to-the-frontier/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/02/streakdroid-1-9-0-takes-dell-streak-own3rs-to-the-frontier/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/02/streakdroid-1-9-0-takes-dell-streak-own3rs-to-the-frontier/#comments Fans of rooting the Dell Streak are likely familiar with the efforts DJ_Steve, a tenacious phone enthusiast with a penchant for keeping the tablet at its bleeding edge. To the uninitiated, this five-inch smartphone is enjoying an underground renaissance, thanks in large part to the hacked ROMs known as StreakDroid. Even while Froyo has been available officially from Dell for some time now, the aforementioned spinner got it there first. Releasing a tireless flurry of updates since then, StreakDroid now sits at version 1.9.0. Dubbed 'The Final Frontier,' DJ_Steve's latest release brings Android version 2.2.2 to the Streak, along with a more polished, heretofore unreleased version of Dell's Stage UI. Additionally, users are now given the option to select a default launcher before installation, with LauncherPro, Stage UI, and Gingerbread's launcher available for the choosing. Issues of a flaky accelerometer are documented in the release notes, though initial user reactions have been overwhelmingly positive. Streak hackers, get your download on in the source below, and let us know how this particular mix resonates with you.

StreakDroid 1.9.0 takes Dell Streak Own3rs to the frontier originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 02 Apr 2011 22:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.2android tabletAndroid2.2AndroidTabletdelldiydroidfronierfroyohackhackermobilemodrootrootedslatesoftwarestagestage uiStageUistreakStreakDroidtabletuiuser interfaceUserInterfaceSat, 02 Apr 2011 22:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola Droid Pro tipped for November 9 pre-sales through Verizon, November 18 launch]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/04/motorola-droid-pro-tipped-for-november-9-pre-sales-through-veriz/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/04/motorola-droid-pro-tipped-for-november-9-pre-sales-through-veriz/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/04/motorola-droid-pro-tipped-for-november-9-pre-sales-through-veriz/#comments What would we ever do without informative tipsters, eh? Android Central has received an internal Verizon document identifying Motorola's Droid Pro as an iconic device and setting out details for its upcoming launch. November 9 is the date pinpointed for the commencement of pre-sales, which seem to be different from pre-orders insofar as they'll actually ship out to buyers starting November 10, meaning quite a few will have their portrait QWERTY handset in their pocket before the proper November 18 release date. Bear in mind that this is still unofficial information for now, though given that Moto itself promised the Droid Pro for the first week of November, it'd be weird if this wasn't the schedule for the handset's release. Speaking of weird... "iconic device," seriously Verizon?

Motorola Droid Pro tipped for November 9 pre-sales through Verizon, November 18 launch originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 04 Nov 2010 07:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.2Android2.2availabilitydroiddroid proDroidProfroyoiconiciconic deviceIconicDevicelaunchlaunch dateLaunchDateleakmotorolamotorola droid proMotorolaDroidPropre-orderpre-orderspre-salerumorspeculationverizonvzwThu, 04 Nov 2010 07:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Editorial: Firmware, forums, and desperation -- the dark side of Android hacking]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/23/editorial-the-dark-side-of-android-hacking/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/23/editorial-the-dark-side-of-android-hacking/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/23/editorial-the-dark-side-of-android-hacking/#comments That picture above is no joke -- that's where I ended up last night trying to revive my Droid X review unit. It was fun, in a hacky mad-scientist sort of way, but it's also really sad -- a testament to how Google approves Android device hacking with a wink and a nod, but doesn't provide any safety nets for its most passionate users.

Let's back up, though. How did I end up in such dire straits? It started when I had the nerve to update this Droid X to the leaked Android 2.2 build -- a simple process that involved installing the file on a microSD card and restarting. Unfortunately, since Motorola refuses to provide a sanctioned upgrade path from the leaked build to the official 2.2 build released earlier this week, I was forced to downgrade back to 2.1 to get back on track. Based on how easy the update was, this would be a piece of cake, right?

Continue reading Editorial: Firmware, forums, and desperation -- the dark side of Android hacking

Editorial: Firmware, forums, and desperation -- the dark side of Android hacking originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Sep 2010 15:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androiddroiddroid xDroidXeditorialfroyogooglehackhackedleakmotorolaThu, 23 Sep 2010 15:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola Droid X now getting OTA Android 2.2 update]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/22/motorola-droid-x-now-getting-ota-android-2-2-update/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/22/motorola-droid-x-now-getting-ota-android-2-2-update/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/22/motorola-droid-x-now-getting-ota-android-2-2-update/#comments Good way to start Wednesday, indeed. Right on schedule (and not a minute too soon), the over-the-air Android 2.2 (aka Froyo) update for Motorola Droid X has started propagating the radio waves. We've received dozens of tips already, from those who both checked manually and received notification in the status bar. In addition to a new Android, there's also improves visual voicemail with Bluetooth support, a refreshed mobile hotspot app, and a fix to prevent data connections from dropping as you move between WiFi and 3G coverage. Go on, check your phone now -- and don't forget to pick up the new Gmail when you're done updating.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Motorola Droid X now getting OTA Android 2.2 update originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Sep 2010 00:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.2androidandroid 2.2Android2.2droiddroid xDroidXfirmwarefroyogoogle androidGoogleAndroidotaupdateverizonvzvzwxWed, 22 Sep 2010 00:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Shocker: Verizon says Droid Eris won't get Froyo]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/16/shocker-verizon-says-droid-eris-wont-get-froyo/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/16/shocker-verizon-says-droid-eris-wont-get-froyo/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/16/shocker-verizon-says-droid-eris-wont-get-froyo/#commentsThough the HTC Droid Eris soldiers on in user pockets in a variety of guises, Verizon has unsurprisingly decided to disavow future updates for the canceled device. Carrier spokespersons told Computerworld that the Eris won't see Android 2.2. "We have other options in Android devices, so this is part of the normal evolution of our portfolio," a spokeswoman reportedly said. While we didn't really expect Verizon to pull a T-Mobile and support phones that died even before the original G1, we have to imagine there'll be a few ruffled feathers at that particular choice of words. No one likes to be told to buy a new device in order to get a software update. On the plus side, we expect XDA-developers will get a few new members this week, the better to unleash the potential of future neglected devices for us all.

Shocker: Verizon says Droid Eris won't get Froyo originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 23:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Android 2.2Android2.2DroidDroid ErisDroidErisErisFroyoHTCHTC Droid ErisHtcDroidErisShockerupdateupdatesVerizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessVZWThu, 16 Sep 2010 23:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Droid Does website points to imminent Froyo update for Droid X... but what does it mean?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/14/droid-does-website-points-to-imminent-froyo-update-for-droid-x/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/14/droid-does-website-points-to-imminent-froyo-update-for-droid-x/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/14/droid-does-website-points-to-imminent-froyo-update-for-droid-x/#comments Just as Paul Vasquez would have us do, we're questioning the true meaning behind a curious page that has popped up over at the Droid Does website -- a very authentic portal that Verizon Wireless itself has been pushing for nearly a year. Put simply, the splash page details "great news!" surrounding a heretofore unannounced Android 2.2 update for the arguably gigantic Droid X. In fact, we're even told about all the amazing features that Froyo brings, but alas, our own X has yet to get any sort of notification from Big Red. The image you're peering at above was purportedly texted to a tipster from VZW, but unfortunately, the links led to the previously referenced splash page rather than a download. Still, we're guessing that this means a bona fide release is just around the corner -- Verizon's already a few weeks late at this point, so hopefully the finishing touches are nearly done.

[Thanks, Kellen]

Continue reading Droid Does website points to imminent Froyo update for Droid X... but what does it mean?

Droid Does website points to imminent Froyo update for Droid X... but what does it mean? originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Sep 2010 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>android 2.2Android2.2cdmadroiddroid xDroidXfroyogooglegoogle androidGoogleAndroidmobile OSMobileOssmartphonesoftware updateSoftwareUpdateupdateVerizonVerizon wirelessVerizonWirelessTue, 14 Sep 2010 17:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola says leaked Droid X Android 2.2 build won't be updated to the official release]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/30/motorola-says-leaked-droid-x-android-2-2-build-wont-be-updated/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/30/motorola-says-leaked-droid-x-android-2-2-build-wont-be-updated/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/30/motorola-says-leaked-droid-x-android-2-2-build-wont-be-updated/#comments Can't say this is a surprise, but Motorola posted a note on its support forums today warning Droid X users against upgrading to that leaked Android 2.2 build or any of those custom ROMS that're out there -- they'll be cut off from the official upgrade when it hits in early September and potentially "stuck on the leaked version." Ouch. Of course, that's the risk you take when you start flashing your phone with unofficial firmware, but between this, eFUSE, and those cease and desist letters, it certainly feels like Motorola is decidedly unhappy that anyone would have the gall to hack or tweak one of its handsets, even if the phone in question is the size of a small tank and marketed by aggressive murderous robot hands insisting that it "does" everything one can think of with no restrictions. Contrast that with HTC, which is not only at peace with the hacking community, but even takes the initiative to resolve similar problems.

Of course, no one would care about any of this if Motorola would just release stock Android builds for its devices as soon as they're ready, but why learn that lesson when it's possible to waste money developing Blur and adopting painfully annoying staggered OTA rollout schedules at the behest of carriers? That would just be silly.

[Thanks, Matthew]

Motorola says leaked Droid X Android 2.2 build won't be updated to the official release originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 30 Aug 2010 21:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.2Android 2.2 FroyoAndroid2.2Android2.2Froyodroiddroid xDroidXefusefroyoleakmotorolaverizonMon, 30 Aug 2010 21:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Cyanogen Mod 6 -- the one with Froyo -- hits target list of devices, first stable release]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/30/cyanogen-mod-6-the-one-with-froyo-hits-target-list-of-devi/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/30/cyanogen-mod-6-the-one-with-froyo-hits-target-list-of-devi/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/30/cyanogen-mod-6-the-one-with-froyo-hits-target-list-of-devi/#comments If 6.0.0 RC1 just wasn't cutting it for ya, CyanogenMod-6.0 has released what's being touted as the "first stable release based on Android 2.2" and has hit the target number of supported devices, which by our quick count includes EVO 4G, Slide, Nexus One, Dream / Magic, Aria, and Droid -- and we might be missing a few.. You know the drill; if you need a bit of Froyo in your mobile life.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Cyanogen Mod 6 -- the one with Froyo -- hits target list of devices, first stable release originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 30 Aug 2010 00:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.2androidandroid 2.2Android2.2ariacyanogencyanogen modcyanogen mod 6CyanogenModCyanogenMod6dreamdroidevo 4gEvo4gfroyogoogle androidGoogleAndroidmagicmodmodsnexus oneNexusOneslideMon, 30 Aug 2010 00:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Verizon confirms Android 2.2 update for Droid Incredible hits today]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/27/verizon-confirms-android-2-2-update-for-droid-incredible-hits-to/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/27/verizon-confirms-android-2-2-update-for-droid-incredible-hits-to/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/27/verizon-confirms-android-2-2-update-for-droid-incredible-hits-to/#comments Just as we thought, HTC's Droid Incredible for Verizon is getting boosted from Android 2.1 to 2.2 today, which should make plenty of owners (and plenty of non-owners who've been unable to find any stock for the past couple months) happy as a clam. Major features include pre-installed Flash 10.1, 720p video recording, mobile hotspot support as first introduced for Verizon on the Droid X, and naturally, all the other standard greatness you've come to expect with Froyo. We imagine this update will take a couple weeks to roll out to everyone, so show some patience, Droid Incredible owners -- or, you know, do like we do and search frantically for an update.zip to get posted somewhere.

[Thanks, Ryan]

Verizon confirms Android 2.2 update for Droid Incredible hits today originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 27 Aug 2010 10:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.2Android2.2breaking newsBreakingNewsdroiddroid incredibleDroidIncrediblefroyogooglehtcupdateupgradeverizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessvzwFri, 27 Aug 2010 10:51:00 EST<![CDATA[The revolving door: Froyo for Droid Incredible coming tomorrow, Froyo for EVO 4G gets rooted]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/26/the-revolving-door-froyo-for-droid-incredible-leaks-as-froyo-fo/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/26/the-revolving-door-froyo-for-droid-incredible-leaks-as-froyo-fo/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/26/the-revolving-door-froyo-for-droid-incredible-leaks-as-froyo-fo/#comments The rich landscape of Android versioning just got a bit richer, with word of an official Froyo update for the Droid Incredible being launched tomorrow (based on the screencap pictured above), while the EVO 4G's recent Froyo software just got rooted. If you're crazily impatient, an Android 2.2 ROM for the Incredible just leaked out into the wild, and can be installed with a bit of work, but from the official-looking-ness of this leak from Droid Life, a painless official update is not far off. Meanwhile, in Sprint land, the xda-devs have a rather complicated, rather scary method posted for rooting 2.2 on the EVO 4G -- you'll have to ask yourself how much that freedom is worth to you, or just wait for the inevitably easier methods to come along and hold your hand.

The revolving door: Froyo for Droid Incredible coming tomorrow, Froyo for EVO 4G gets rooted originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.2androidandroid 2.2Android2.2droiddroid incredibleDroidIncredibleevofroyogooglehtchtc evohtc evo 4ghtc senseHtcEvoHtcEvo4gHtcSenseincredibleleakromrootsensesprintverizonThu, 26 Aug 2010 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola Milestone to get Android 2.2 in Europe and Korea in late Q4, Dext 2.1 upgrade looking bleak]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/22/motorola-milestone-to-get-android-2-2-in-europe-and-korea-in-q4/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/22/motorola-milestone-to-get-android-2-2-in-europe-and-korea-in-q4/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/22/motorola-milestone-to-get-android-2-2-in-europe-and-korea-in-q4/#comments Until now, Milestone owners could do nothing but to envy Droid users rocking the Froyo upgrade; however, according to Motorola's recently published timeline, the former device is now slated for the same dessert party in Europe and Korea in Q4 -- specifically, "beginning at the end of this year," which could well mean the majority of users won't get the update until 2011 (!). Meanwhile, said upgrade is still "under evaluation" for Canada, Latin America, Mexico and Asia-Pacific sans Korea.

But here's the real heartbreaking news from the same chart: unlike their American counterparts, the Dext and Backflip will not be getting an Eclair update in Europe, Latin American and Mexico, while Canada and Asia-Pacific still have a glimpse of hope. Sure, it's not like Motorola's earlier timeline laid any concrete details for the European Dext, but there was definitely a date for the Latin America flavor. What concerns us the most is that back in January, Motorola did make a promise -- which has since been deleted but forever cached by Google -- to its European fans on Facebook: "[the] Dext will get the Android 2.1 upgrade as well." We have the full shameful statement after the break.

In case you still care, other devices mentioned in the timeline include the US-only Devour (no 2.1 update), Cliq XT / Quench (2.1 in late Q3 / early Q4; under evaluation for Canada and Asia-Pacific), Droid X (Froyo upgrade in late summer, which we knew), Motoroi and Titanium (2.2 in Q4 in Korea for both). If you're still mourning over the canned update for your Dext, let us remind you that there's no stopping you from updating your Android slider manually; alternatively, there's no harm in sending Sanjay a nice postcard, either.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Update: Miraculously, the offending Facebook status link is now back online...

Continue reading Motorola Milestone to get Android 2.2 in Europe and Korea in late Q4, Dext 2.1 upgrade looking bleak

Motorola Milestone to get Android 2.2 in Europe and Korea in late Q4, Dext 2.1 upgrade looking bleak originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 22 Aug 2010 16:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.12.2android 2.1android 2.2Android2.1Android2.2asia pacificAsiaPacificbackflipcanadacliqcliq xtCliqXtdevourdextdroiddroid xDroidXeclaireuropefirmwarefirmware upgradeFirmwareUpgradefroyokorealatin americaLatinAmericamexicomilestonemobilemotoroimotorolamotorola cliqmotorola dextmotorola milestoneMotorolaCliqMotorolaDextMotorolaMilestonequenchtimelinetitaniumupgradeSun, 22 Aug 2010 16:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola clamps down on Droid X's leaked Android 2.2 upgrade with cease and desist scare]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/22/motorola-clamps-down-on-droid-xs-leaked-android-2-2-upgrade-wit/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/22/motorola-clamps-down-on-droid-xs-leaked-android-2-2-upgrade-wit/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/22/motorola-clamps-down-on-droid-xs-leaked-android-2-2-upgrade-wit/#comments Hoping to spoon-feed your Droid X some Froyo before the official OTA rollout? You'd better do it now -- Motorola's sending out cease and desist emails in an attempt to shut the leaked ROM down. We can't say whether it's just red tape or to protect customers from a EVO 4G-like non-final build, but for whatever reason Motorola's director of information security is asking sites like MyDroidWorld to remove the files ASAP. Given the company's recent history with the mod community, however, we imagine there's some sort of walled-garden reason behind it.
[Thanks, Dustin D.]

Motorola clamps down on Droid X's leaked Android 2.2 upgrade with cease and desist scare originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 22 Aug 2010 08:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.2Android2.2cease and desistcease-and-desistCeaseAndDesistDroidDroid XDroidXfroyoMotorolaMotorola Droid XMotorolaDroidXSun, 22 Aug 2010 08:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Droid Incredible getting a spoonful of Froyo on August 18th?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/14/droid-incredible-getting-a-spoonful-of-froyo-on-august-18th/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/14/droid-incredible-getting-a-spoonful-of-froyo-on-august-18th/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/14/droid-incredible-getting-a-spoonful-of-froyo-on-august-18th/#comments The Droid's slated for a second helping of Froyo, the Droid 2 came with one, the Droid X will see Android 2.2 by early September -- when's Droid number four getting its due? According to Mashable's anonymous sources, August 18th will be the day Verizon begins the Droid Incredible's OTA rollout -- which lines up pretty well with what we heard a couple weeks back, not to mention the fact that HTC just released the handset's Android 2.2 source code. As always, dates slip and Verizon often dishes out small batches at a time, but now you've got a ballpark estimate to assuage your troubled mind. And hey, you can always go shoot something in 720p if you get tired of waiting.

Droid Incredible getting a spoonful of Froyo on August 18th? originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 14 Aug 2010 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AndroidAndroid 2.2Android 2.2 FroyoAndroid2.2Android2.2FroyoDroidDroid IncredibleDroidIncredibleFroyoHTChtc droid incredibleHtcDroidIncredibleOTAOTA updateOtaUpdatesoftware updateSoftwareUpdateupdateVerizonVZWSat, 14 Aug 2010 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Verizon confirms original Droid will be getting second Froyo update]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/13/verizon-confirms-original-droid-will-be-getting-second-froyo-upd/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/13/verizon-confirms-original-droid-will-be-getting-second-froyo-upd/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/13/verizon-confirms-original-droid-will-be-getting-second-froyo-upd/#comments
It still doesn't add mobile hotspot or tethering functionality, but it looks like users of the original Droid will soon be getting a second Android 2.2 (a.k.a Froyo) update. That's been confirmed by Verizon itself, which says that the second update will be following the just-released one in the "coming weeks," and that it will let users download Flash 10.1 from the Android Market once it's available. Details are light beyond that, but Phandroid notes that the rollout of the current Froyo update is expected to be complete around August 18th, and surmises that the second rollout will begin shortly thereafter.

Verizon confirms original Droid will be getting second Froyo update originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 13 Aug 2010 19:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.2Android2.2droidflashflash 10.1Flash10.1froyomotorolamotorola droidMotorolaDroidverizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessvzwFri, 13 Aug 2010 19:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola Droid Android 2.2 Froyo OTA updates are go]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/11/motorola-droid-android-2-2-froyo-ota-updates-are-go/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/11/motorola-droid-android-2-2-froyo-ota-updates-are-go/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/11/motorola-droid-android-2-2-froyo-ota-updates-are-go/#comments Judging by the deluge of tips that just hit our inbox, it looks like Verizon just pulled the trigger and released the Android 2.2 Froyo over-the-air update for its venerable Droid handset. At least it has for some lucky owners. So tell us, did you get yours?

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Motorola Droid Android 2.2 Froyo OTA updates are go originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Aug 2010 01:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.2Android2.2droidfirmwarefroyomotorolaotaover the airOverTheAirsoftware updateSoftwareUpdateverizonWed, 11 Aug 2010 01:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Droid X update to Android 2.2 coming 'by early September']]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/05/droid-x-update-to-android-2-2-coming-by-early-september/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/05/droid-x-update-to-android-2-2-coming-by-early-september/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/05/droid-x-update-to-android-2-2-coming-by-early-september/#comments A Motorola support forum response about issues involving Exchange 2003 email problems on the Droid X has actually yielded something far more juicy: an updated window for the Froyo upgrade's release. Promised since the phone's initial launch, Moto's now saying that the new build is "scheduled for deployment by early September," so barring a miracle, we can probably toss out those dreams of getting it by late August -- and we can certainly forget the rumors that it had already started going out. Clearly we'd like it sooner rather than later, but hey, if they're hard at work squashing bugs as we speak, more power to 'em -- we're all for stable releases.

[Thanks, ARR]

Droid X update to Android 2.2 coming 'by early September' originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Aug 2010 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.2Android2.2droiddroid xDroidXfroyogooglemotomotorolaupdateupgradeverizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessvzwThu, 05 Aug 2010 18:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola Droid's Froyo update now available for download, if you dare]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/03/motorola-droids-froyo-update-now-available-for-download-if-you/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/03/motorola-droids-froyo-update-now-available-for-download-if-you/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/03/motorola-droids-froyo-update-now-available-for-download-if-you/#commentsIt's not rolling out to everyone just yet -- as usual, this is a phased update -- but that doesn't mean you need to twiddle your thumbs while you wait for Motorola and Verizon to grace your Droid with Android 2.2. Turns out the upgrade file on Google's servers has been located and mirrored a billion times already, so if the guys out in Mountain View decide to pull it, you should still have a pretty easy time tracking it down. Since this is an official, signed update, the risks are pretty low -- and it might be a nice hold-over while you wait for the Droid 2, right?

[Thanks, Jon]

Motorola Droid's Froyo update now available for download, if you dare originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 16:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.2Android2.2droidfroyogooglemobilemotomotorolaupdateupgradeverizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessvzwTue, 03 Aug 2010 16:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Verizon says original Droid 'doesn't have the hardware' to support a mobile hotspot]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/02/motorola-says-original-droid-doesnt-have-the-hardware-to-supp/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/02/motorola-says-original-droid-doesnt-have-the-hardware-to-supp/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/02/motorola-says-original-droid-doesnt-have-the-hardware-to-supp/#comments
This is the week that the original Droid will be getting the Android 2.2 update, but it looks like that update won't be bringing two of the most oft-requested features: tethering and a mobile hotspot. Why's that? While tethering seems to be simply due to a lack of an app that "isn't part of this update," the mobile hotspot issue is a bit more curious -- Verizon spokesperson Brenda Raney says that the Droid "doesn't have [the] hardware to support a mobile hotspot." No further explanation than that, but we have a sneaking suspicion that Motorola and Verizon aren't passing over the feature because of a lack of hardware, but because of too much hardware -- namely, the Droid 2 and Droid X.

Correction: It's Verizon making this claim, not Motorola.

Verizon says original Droid 'doesn't have the hardware' to support a mobile hotspot originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 02 Aug 2010 12:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>android 2.2Android2.2droidfroyomotomotorolamotorola droidMotorolaDroidupdateMon, 02 Aug 2010 12:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola Droid getting Android 2.2 next week (update)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/30/motorola-droid-getting-android-2-2-next-week/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/30/motorola-droid-getting-android-2-2-next-week/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/30/motorola-droid-getting-android-2-2-next-week/#comments We've just been dropped a brief note from Verizon that the original Droid will be getting the full Froyo treatment at some point next week. Considering the brevity of the announcement, it's entirely possible that this was thrown together in response to Sprint's EVO news -- but who cares? The more Android 2.2, the better, right? No official word on other Droid variants -- most of which are likely going to see Froyo updates soon -- but we'll be keeping our ears firmly planted to the ground.

Update: Want to know just how extensive your Droid makeover might be? Hit up the full Verizon PDF guide to Android 2.2 on Droid at our more coverage link. [Thanks, Sgenius]

Motorola Droid getting Android 2.2 next week (update) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 30 Jul 2010 17:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>android 2.2Android2.2breaking newsBreakingNewsdroidfroyomotomotorolaupdateupgradeFri, 30 Jul 2010 17:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Android 2.2 upgrade for Droid X may already be trickling out, other Droids shortly?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/28/android-2-2-upgrade-for-droid-x-may-already-be-trickling-out-ot/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/28/android-2-2-upgrade-for-droid-x-may-already-be-trickling-out-ot/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/28/android-2-2-upgrade-for-droid-x-may-already-be-trickling-out-ot/#comments We've already gathered that Verizon, Moto, and HTC all seem to be pretty well committed to bumping most of their Droid models to Froyo (as well they should), but things are starting to get real -- really real. First off, we've been fed a shot of a tipster's Droid X that has apparently already been blessed with 2.2 over the air; the baseband version is a tick older than the one in a shot leaked over on My Droid Life, but it's anyone's guess how Motorola is staging this and what the final gold binary really contains. We've also seen a 2.2 ROM for the Droid Incredible leak recently (and the Droid before that), so uncorroborated rumors we're seeing that three of the four retail Droids will be getting 2.2 by the 15th of next month aren't necessarily crazy. Remember: think positive thoughts.

[Thanks, Shane]

Android 2.2 upgrade for Droid X may already be trickling out, other Droids shortly? originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 28 Jul 2010 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.2Android2.2droiddroid incredibledroid xDroidIncredibleDroidXfroyohtcmotomotorolaupdateupgradeverizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessvzwWed, 28 Jul 2010 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Droid 2 and Android 2.2 fated to be together from the start, according to latest leaks]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/21/droid-2-and-android-2-2-fated-to-be-together-from-the-start-acc/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/21/droid-2-and-android-2-2-fated-to-be-together-from-the-start-acc/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/21/droid-2-and-android-2-2-fated-to-be-together-from-the-start-acc/#comments You know, some people get married with less information about their partner than we already have about the Droid 2. Today, we have a pair of independent leaks seemingly confirming that the second coming of Moto's QWERTY-sportin' Doer will be running Android 2.2 right out of the gate. Droid Life has a tipster that's apparently spent some quality time with the device, describing its keyboard as "phenomenal" and pointing out that it feels notably snappier than the original. The Froyo connection is reiterated by Phandroid's sources, which provide images of Verizon's device database indicating once again that Android 2.2 and Droid 2 will be an appropriately matched pair when the launch codes get entered (last mooted for August 12) and this thing finally hits retail.

Droid 2 and Android 2.2 fated to be together from the start, according to latest leaks originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Jul 2010 03:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.2android osAndroid2.2AndroidOsblurdroiddroid 2Droid2froyogooglelaunchleakmotomoto blurmotorolamotorola droid 2MotorolaDroid2rumorspeculationWed, 21 Jul 2010 03:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Droid 2 rumored to be launching August 23rd with Android 2.2]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/28/droid-2-rumored-to-be-launching-august-23rd-with-android-2-2/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/28/droid-2-rumored-to-be-launching-august-23rd-with-android-2-2/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/28/droid-2-rumored-to-be-launching-august-23rd-with-android-2-2/#comments
We've certainly gotten a peak at quite a few Droid 2 details so far, but word of a release date has unfortunately never been among them. That now looks to have changed, however, with the folks at Android and Me reporting that a "trustworthy source" has informed them that the phone will be launching on August 23rd. According to the site, that date was apparently chosen so the Droid 2 would be the first phone to ship with Android 2.2 out of the box, although that of course remains to be confirmed (current test versions of the Droid 2 are said to be running Android 2.1). If recent rumors pan out, however, the Droid 2 wouldn't be the first Droid to make the jump to Froyo -- the original Droid is said to be getting the update in "late July," while the Droid X will have to wait until late August.

Droid 2 rumored to be launching August 23rd with Android 2.2 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 28 Jun 2010 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.2Android2.2droiddroid 2Droid2froyomotomotorolamotorola droid 2MotorolaDroid2verizonMon, 28 Jun 2010 14:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Android 2.2 coming to Droid in 'late July,' Droid X in 'late August?']]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/25/android-2-2-coming-to-droid-in-late-july-droid-x-in-late-aug/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/25/android-2-2-coming-to-droid-in-late-july-droid-x-in-late-aug/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/25/android-2-2-coming-to-droid-in-late-july-droid-x-in-late-aug/#comments Care for some more specificity on when exactly to expect the Droid X to become even awesomer? Well, according to one "very reliable" source over at Droid Forums, we can look forward to a late August landing for Android 2.2 on the X, which will be preceded by a late July delivery on the venerable Droid. Both dates are caveated with an ominous "currently planned" proviso, so don't consider them carved in (Mile)stone, but we're liking the idea of Motorola having both its flagship devices tasting of Froyo by summer's end. There's no mention of the Droid 2, however, which may mean nothing or might suggest that handset's still a fair way away from its release. We shall see.

Android 2.2 coming to Droid in 'late July,' Droid X in 'late August?' originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 25 Jun 2010 08:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.2android osAndroid2.2AndroidOsdroiddroid xDroidXfirmwareforecastfroyogooglemobile osMobileOsmotomoto droidmoto droid xMotoDroidMotoDroidXmotorolamotorola droidmotorola droid xMotorolaDroidMotorolaDroidXoperating systemOperatingSystemosplansrumorschedulesoftwarespeculationupdateupgradeFri, 25 Jun 2010 08:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola Droid gets early Android 2.2 ROM, ready to download... now!]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/05/motorola-droid-gets-early-android-2-2-rom-ready-to-download/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/05/motorola-droid-gets-early-android-2-2-rom-ready-to-download/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/05/motorola-droid-gets-early-android-2-2-rom-ready-to-download/#comments What shall we call this, Frodroid or Droyo? Either way, an Android 2.2 update has been made available for Motorola's all-conquering slider, and it awaits eager firmware upgraders at the download link below. Produced by the good folks at My Droid World, this includes almost everything you'll need to get your Froyo on in style, though it excludes WiFi support at this stage. Such is the way with unofficial upgrades, but if you really need consolation, there's a whole set of superuser privileges to explore as this bad boy comes pre-rooted. You could of course skip this whole community business and wait for Moto's official update, but that company's idea of the "near future" is about as precise as the length of a piece of string.

Motorola Droid gets early Android 2.2 ROM, ready to download... now! originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 05 Jun 2010 13:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.2android osAndroid2.2AndroidOsdownloaddroidfirmwarefirmware updateFirmwareUpdatefroyomobile osMobileOsmotomotorolamotorola droidMotorolaDroidrootsoftwaresuperuserunofficialupdateupgradeSat, 05 Jun 2010 13:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola expects Android 2.2 update to hit Droid 'in the near future']]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/24/motorola-expects-android-2-2-update-to-hit-droid-in-the-near-fu/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/24/motorola-expects-android-2-2-update-to-hit-droid-in-the-near-fu/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/24/motorola-expects-android-2-2-update-to-hit-droid-in-the-near-fu/#comments Hearing Google say that Android 2.2 would be filtering out to the Nexus One in short order was no huge shock -- after all, it's Google's first smartphone. But for those who purchased Motorola's first heavy-hitter since the RAZR, it looks as if they'll be close behind in enjoying the spoils. According to a Motorola spokesperson quoted at Slashgear (full statement is past the break), the company is expecting the original Droid to get Android 2.2 "in the near future," though he / she wouldn't go so far as to provide specifics beyond that. Better still, the same person stated that Motorola is excited about Froyo in general, and it's "looking forward to integrating it on [the firm's] Android-based devices as [the software] is made available." We hate to read too deeply into anything, but "devices" sure gets our digits tingling.

[Thanks, Alex]

Continue reading Motorola expects Android 2.2 update to hit Droid 'in the near future'

Motorola expects Android 2.2 update to hit Droid 'in the near future' originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 May 2010 05:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.2Android2.2droidfroyogooglegoogle androidGoogleAndroidmotomotorolamotorola droidMotorolaDroidrumorsmartphonesoftwaresoftware updateSoftwareUpdateupdateMon, 24 May 2010 05:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Android 2.2 'Froyo' beta hands-on: Flash 10.1, WiFi hotspots, and some killer benchmark scores]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/20/android-2-2-froyo-beta-hands-on-flash-10-1-wifi-hotspots-an/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/20/android-2-2-froyo-beta-hands-on-flash-10-1-wifi-hotspots-an/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/20/android-2-2-froyo-beta-hands-on-flash-10-1-wifi-hotspots-an/#comments Much to our surprise at the time, when Adobe sent us a Flash 10.1-enabled Nexus One for testing, the phone came preloaded with a preview build of Android 2.2 -- a.k.a. "Froyo" -- the apparent turning point for curbing Android fragmentation due for a very public unveiling today at Google I/O. We've had a day or two to dig into it, and while we're surely missing some improvements here or there (Google was unable to provide us a changelog as of this writing), we've spent pretty much all our waking moments combing through every virtual nook and cranny. So what can Eclair alumni expect from the revised platform? Read on for more!

Gallery: Android 2.1 Eclair vs. 2.2 Froyo... food fight!

Gallery: Android 2.2 Froyo (unabridged)

Continue reading Android 2.2 'Froyo' beta hands-on: Flash 10.1, WiFi hotspots, and some killer benchmark scores

Android 2.2 'Froyo' beta hands-on: Flash 10.1, WiFi hotspots, and some killer benchmark scores originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 May 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>android 2.2android froyoandroid froyo 2.2Android2.2AndroidFroyoAndroidFroyo2.2droidfroyofroyo 2.2Froyo2.2googlegoogle androidgoogle android 2.2google iogoogle io 2010google nexus oneGoogleAndroidGoogleAndroid2.2GoogleIoGoogleIo2010GoogleNexusOnehands-onhtc nexus oneHtcNexusOneioio 2010Io2010motorola droidMotorolaDroidnexus oneNexusOnevideoThu, 20 May 2010 12:00:00 EST