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HTC's Droid DNA will get updated to KitKat this week, despite its age
Don't worry, Droid DNA fans -- HTC may have given the One series its first batch of Android 4.4 KitKat upgrades, but it still has plenty of love for Verizon's late 2012 flagship. Mo Versi, Executive Director of Product Management, announced that the DNA will get an over-the-air update to the latest firmware update (along with the Sense 5.5 interface) starting on April 24th. This is great news because the DNA, Verizon's version of the Butterfly, is quickly approaching its 18th month of life -- a milestone which is too often considered an expiration date by Android manufacturers. HTC recently announced its Advantage program, in which it guarantees its flagship phones will be updated for at least two years, but the DNA came out well before such a promise was given. Adding to our surprise is the fact that Verizon isn't exactly the quickest at pushing out phone updates.
Google's new camera app brings Photo Sphere and Lens Blur to Android devices
While Google has continued to toss new features into the camera app shipped on its Nexus devices, many Android phones replace it with something else. But just as we revealed a few weeks ago, now it's available in the Play Store, ready to run on any phone or tablet using Android 4.4 KitKat. Beyond bits like Photo Sphere that we've seen before, Google is filling in the blanks on its new "Lens Blur" option. Meant to emphasize the subject while blurring the background for an impressive depth of field effect, it uses algorithms to simulate the large camera lens and aperture your phone or tablet doesn't actually have. Taking the photo requires an upward sweep to capture multiple images, used to estimate the depth of objects for a 3D map that lets the software re-render the photo later and blur specific items based on where it thinks they are. Google's Research Blog has more details on how it's all done, including the Lytro-like ability to change which object is in focus after you take the shot.
Google Glass KitKat update lands ahead of tomorrow's big sale, removes video calling
Still need a push to drop $1,500 on Google's Glass headset when they go on sale to all US residents tomorrow? After skipping a couple of months, the team behind it is pushing a big software update later this week that lets it run the freshest version of Android and adds a bunch of new features. Other than switching to Android Kit Kat -- which will bring new features to apps and let developers use the latest SDK -- Glass is now organizing photos in bundles (think Instagram photo grids, look after the break for a peek) for easier scrolling, allows for photo replies in Google Hangouts, makes it easier to send feedback and even sorts voice commands to put your most-used ones at the top.
Samsung Galaxy S5 review: a solid improvement, but don't rush to upgrade
Now that I've been testing it for a few days, let's see if the Galaxy S5 lives up to all those promises.
KitKat's share of Android devices more than doubles to 5.3 percent
After months of treading water, Android 4.4 KitKat is finally taking off. Google reports that 5.3 percent of Android users are running the newer OS version as of early April; that's more than twice the 2.5 percent that it claimed one month earlier. There's no official explanation for the jump, but it's most likely thanks to a wave of KitKat upgrades from HTC, LG and Samsung. Most older versions lost share as a result. It could be a long, long time before KitKat overtakes Jelly Bean (which dipped to 61.4 percent), but the transition is under way -- and it's only likely to accelerate now that flagships like the Galaxy S5 and new One are reaching store shelves.
LG G2 for Sprint gets a taste of Android 4.4 KitKat
LG G2 owners on Sprint no longer have to look on with envy as their friends on AT&T and T-Mobile get upgrades to Android 4.4 KitKat. The CDMA carrier has just started rolling out the OS update on its network today. There aren't any special treats beyond Google's more advanced software, but the release does fix a bug with Sprint's included Next Radio app. Unfortunately, there's no word on a corresponding KitKat upgrade for Verizon's G2 customers -- if you're on Big Red, you'll have to keep waiting.
This is what the new CyanogenMod OS looks like on the OnePlus One
OnePlus has been constantly dishing out teasers for its upcoming One smartphone since December, but little is known about its UI until we received these two screenshots today, courtesy of a reliable tipster. First of all, this Android KitKat-based OS is dubbed "CyanogenMod 11S," and given how the lock screen on the left looks nothing like the one in the original CyanogenMod, we assume the "S" indicates that this flavor carries OnePlus' customizations. This cleaner lock screen lacks the usual unlock slider, but it still shows the clock, date, weather, battery level and text messages over a solid-color background. Here's hoping that we can also toggle specific apps from the lock screen using swipe gestures.
LG G Flex receives KitKat update, but only in South Korea for now
When it rains, it pours. Shortly after the news that AT&T's Galaxy Note 3 is finally getting a taste of Android 4.4, LG is doing the same with its G Flex back at home, in South Korea. Most notably, this update will bring the company's Knock Code feature, which debuted on the G Pro 2, to the flexible smartphone -- yes, it really does flex. But that's not it: LG's KitKat update also brings improved Bluetooth Car-Kit controls and a boost in overall performance, thanks to things like Google's ART experiment. And don't worry if you down own a South Korean model of the G Flex, you should take this as being a step closer to arriving on your device.
HTC One Max on Sprint gets its turn at Android 4.4 KitKat
HTC has been upgrading its normal-sized smartphones in the US to Android 4.4 KitKat for a little while; now, the giant One Max is getting its turn. Sprint has started rolling out the OS update to the 6-inch behemoth as of today. As with earlier upgrades, the One Max isn't getting Sense 6. This is more of an under-the-hood tweak whose most conspicuous additions (besides KitKat itself) are new Bluetooth device profiles and cloud printing support. Verizon hasn't pushed out a corresponding KitKat upgrade to its One Max variant, but HTC says the patch is in certification -- here's hoping that it comes relatively soon.
AT&T's Galaxy Note 3 gets a bite of Android 4.4 KitKat
Samsung's Galaxy Note 3 may already be running the latest version of Android in some places. Here in the US, however, most carriers still haven't updated the faux leather-covered device to KitKat. But, starting today, at least a good number of Note 3 owners will be getting a taste of it, with AT&T announcing that its version of Android 4.4 is now rolling out to the 5.7-inch handset. You can expect to experience quite a few new things as part of this, such as a revamped user interface, improved GPS and the option to choose a default messaging app. The update is said to be available now -- all you need to do is tap your way to that Software Update menu, download the goods and voilà.
HTC One Mini to get Android 4.4 KitKat update starting today
Now that the brand new HTC One is out, it's high time the rest of HTC's siblings get updated to Android's latest, especially if they want to remain relevant. The previous HTC One got the KitKat bump back in February, so now it's the little brother's turn at the firmware upgrade. Yep, if you have a HTC One Mini, you'll likely get your Android 4.4 KitKat with HTC Sense 5.5 update starting today if this post by carrier AT&T is to be believed. The update will bring a number of improvements, like an enhanced dialer app, new navigation bars, a full-screen immersive mode and a new BlinkFeed app. So go on, head into Settings and download the latest System Update to keep up with the cool kids. That is, if you're not tempted to get a new phone altogether.
KitKat now rolling out to Sony's Xperia Z Ultra, Z1 and Z1 Compact
An Android 4.4 KitKat update for the Xperia Z Ultra, Z1 and Z1 Compact is rolling out as of today, Sony's announced. In addition to what the newer OS version itself brings, Sony's folded in some tweaks of its own, like a reworked status bar and quick-settings menu, a couple of PS4-inspired UI elements and updated forms of Sony's stock and media apps. While KitKat might be ready for this trio of devices, remember that availability depends on where you live and what carrier your handset may be bound to, so don't bet on a notification popping up this very afternoon. Sony confirmed back in November that the Xperia Z, ZL, ZR and Tablet Z, too, were eligible for a KitKat update, but they'll have to wait until at least "mid-Q2" for their snacks. In better news, the Xperia T2 Ultra, E1 and M2 have been added to that exclusive list, though we can't give you even vague timelines for when these updates might be available just yet.
Google Wallet's tap-to-pay feature will require Android 4.4 KitKat starting April 14th
It's time to upgrade that old phone you've been using for Google Wallet payments at the local store. Google is now telling Android users that they'll have to run KitKat to use Wallet's tap-to-pay feature from April 14th onward. The company prefers the newer OS' "improved experience" for NFC-based payments; in other words, it would rather use a more universal, cloud-based approach to processing your banking info. You may be out of luck even if you are using KitKat, though, since the new requirements rule out support for the EVO 4G LTE, Galaxy Note 3 and 2012-era Nexus 7. We suspect that many Wallet fans are early adopters that already carry qualifying devices, but Google's move could have many shoppers looking for alternatives.
LG's L90 handset is rolling out this week... in Russia
If the debut of LG's L-series of handsets at last month's Mobile World Congress had you hankering for a new phone, you're in luck. The 4.7-inch L90 starts rolling out this week in the CIS region (think Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Russia). LG has also detailed a few new specs, as well. In addition to the 1.2GHz processor, the L90 comes with 1GB of RAM, 8GB storage space and a 2,540mAh battery. Its cameras are rated at 1.3MP up front, and 5MP or 8MP for the rear. Pricing and domestic availability remain ambiguous for now, but the South Korean outfit promises more local info will be available closer to a domestic launch. To pass the time until then, you could always work out your own custom Knock pattern; we recommend the beat from "Around the Fur" by the Deftones for maximum cool-points.
LG G Pro 2 review: new year, new Note contender
The large-screen smartphone market is now one of the most fiercely competitive in the wireless industry. But even though nearly every phone maker has produced a competitor to the Samsung Galaxy Note, only a handful of products have actually been worth considering. LG's Optimus G Pro, a 5.5-inch flagship introduced last year, was one such exception. A year later, its 5.9-inch successor picks up where the first Pro left off, adding enough extra firepower to take on the Galaxy Note 3 spec for spec. The LG G Pro 2 may very well have what it takes to stand up against its big-screen rival, but it'll have to overcome a few minor obstacles in order to succeed.
Google Glass team forgoes monthly updates for bigger changes, like Kit Kat
Whether you're a Google Glass wearer or merely observing the new devices, you may have noticed a lack of major updates in January and February. Android Police and Glass Almanac reveal a post from the Explorers-only community forum explaining that after version XE12 closed out last year, those monthly updates might not be monthly anymore. That's not necessarily a bad thing however, since the team is focused on making larger changes, and is currently focused on moving Glass from the Android 4.0.3 (Ice Cream Sandwich) software it shipped with to the current version of Android, 4.4 (Kit Kat), and all the improvements that includes. According to Glass team member Teresa Zazenski, it will make things "smoother and just plain better," adding that developers should be excited too. There is one small change to report though, as Glass wearers can now post photos and videos directly to Google+ communities. While we wait to find out what's in store, the Glass team just linked a behind the scenes video for tomorrow's Academy Awards, giving a POV look behind the scenes from workers who make the show happen -- check it out after the break.
HTC One KitKat update finally hitting T-Mobile and AT&T
We aren't far from HTC One owners on every major US carrier having access to Android 4.4.2 KitKat. T-Mobile's over-the-air update is rolling out now, and AT&T's will be out "soon," according to HTC's executive director of product management Mo Versi. As with its appearance on Verizon and Sprint, this update brings the latest version of the Sense UI (5.5) and all that that entails. Namely, a more customizable Blinkfeed and several appearance tweaks. The process is a little behind schedule, to be sure, but it's nice to see that carriers haven't slowed it down too much. [Thanks for sending this in, everyone!]
Samsung details KitKat update plans for US Galaxy phones and tabs
Some of Samsung's Galaxy devices are already getting Android 4.4.2, but today we found out exactly which ones in the US will get a taste of KitKat. The full list is a mouthful. The Galaxy S III, Galaxy S III mini, Galaxy S 4, Galaxy S 4 mini, Galaxy S 4 Active, Galaxy S 4 zoom, Galaxy Note II, Galaxy Note 3, Galaxy Mega, Galaxy Light, Galaxy Note 8.0, Galaxy Note 10.1, Galaxy Note 10.1 2014 Edition, and Galaxy Tab 3 are all on the waiting list. Sadly, even though part of Google's goal with KitKat was to bring a refined Android experience to "the next billion people," slightly older hardware like the Galaxy S II are conspicuously absent from the list. Samsung says the updates have already started trickling out, though it didn't mention which device (or devices) were at the head of the line. How quickly you get the update depends on what you have and how quickly your carrier can get it certified. So, just take a deep breath and keep an eye on Samsung's MWC announcements in the meantime.
LG's L Series III budget smartphones tout KitKat and smart covers
LG isn't just bringing high-end smartphones like the G Pro 2 to Mobile World Congress -- it's also launching its L Series III phones for the budget-minded among us. The 3.5-inch L40, 4.5-inch L70 and 4.7-inch L90 are subtle evolutions of the Optimus L II range in terms of hardware. All of them sport faster 1.2GHz dual-core processors and refined designs that are more in line with the company's higher-end devices. There's a larger 1GB of RAM on the L70 and L90, too. However, the real stars of the show are the L Series III's software and accessories. They're some of the first big-name budget phones to run Google's efficient Android 4.4 KitKat; they're also LG's first non-flagship devices to support optional Quick Window covers, letting you check an incoming call without exposing the whole screen. There's no word as to when these third-generation handsets will hit store shelves, although they're built for markets where 3G data is the best you'll get. In other words, don't expect them to reach LTE-obsessed American carriers any time soon.
Samsung Galaxy S4 on Sprint now getting Android 4.4 KitKat
Though Samsung kindly bestowed Android 4.4 KitKat onto the Google Play edition of its Galaxy S4 late last year, the TouchWiz variants of the same phone have not received the same attention, at least in the US. That ends today, however, as Sprint is finally rolling out said update to the Galaxy S4, making it the first US carrier to do so. This means that GS4 users on Sprint will finally get to enjoy the benefits of KitKat, such as better security, full-screen mode and of course, the new Hangouts. Sprint's changelog also indicates that the update will add Zact Mobile compatibility to the phone. There's been a sizable user demand for KitKat from GS4 owners, so hopefully this update shows that their phone is still relevant. Especially, you know, as there might be a successor coming up any day now. [Thanks to everyone who sent this in]
