Android App
Latest
Klipsch intros Image S4A in-ears, lets Android users feel the in-line remote love
There's no question Klipsch's S4 in-ear headphone line has some of the best to be had for under $100, yet aside from its iPhone-compatible S4i variant, mobile phone users wanting an in-line remote's benefits were outta luck. Well, it looks like times are a-changin' as an Android-oriented version of the noise-isolating buds, appropriately dubbed S4A, has popped up for pre-order on Klipsch's site. The remote's compatible down to Android 2.1 and appears to be slightly tweaked from the S4i with less buttons, but the specs say it'll work for phone calls, music control and volume adjustment. To make this cake's icing even richer, a Klipsch Control App will also allow for "customized functionality." They're priced at a cool Benjamin with no word on a ship date just yet, but you'll find some robot-clad closeups in the gallery below. %Gallery-131960% [Thanks, Bjorn and Jason]
Talk O' Clock makes alarm clocks more social, strangers more friendly
Alarm clocks have been developing more and more unique ways to wake people up over the years, but being woken up by a stranger has always been something of a difficult proposition. Sure, you can use an old fashioned wake-up call service, but then you still sort of "know" who's calling you. Not so with the Talk O' Clock service -- soon to be available for Android and iOS devices, in addition to the current web-based app -- which relies on the power of social networking to ensure that a complete stranger calls to wake you from your slumber. Yes, it is real -- and, yes, you should proceed with caution (although you can at least rest assured that the person calling you doesn't actually see your phone number). It's still at the invite-only beta stage right now, but those seem to be readily available to anyone with a Facebook account. See how it works in the videos after the break.
Android Network Toolkit lets you exploit local machines at the push of a button
Defcon 2011 is in full hacking swing, and Itzhak Avraham -- "Zuk" for short -- and his company Zimperium have unveiled the Android Network Toolkit for easy hacking on the go. Need to find vulnerabilities on devices using nearby networks? The app, dubbed "Anti" for short, allows you to simply push a button to do things like search a WiFi network for potential targets, or even take control of a PC trojan-style. To do this, it seeks out weak spots in older software using known exploits, which means you may want to upgrade before hitting up public WiFi. According to Forbes, it's much like Firesheep, and Zuk refers to Anti as a "penetration tool for the masses." Apparently, his end-goal is to simplify "advanced" hacking and put it within pocket's reach, but he also hopes it'll be used mostly for good. Anti should be available via the Android Market this week for free, alongside a $10 "corporate upgrade." Consider yourself warned.
Android's Plan B app: an editorial love story
Plan A, we suspect, is not losing your phone. Plan C is biting the bullet and buying a new one. Plan B, on the other hand, is an Android app that helps you locate a missing handset even if you don't have it installed when you misplace the device. Sounds too good to be true, right? Turns out the thing actually works, something an Ars Technica writer discovered the hard way, after his phone slipped out his pocket during a cab ride from the airport. What follows is a wild mobile goose chase -- one, thankfully, with a happy ending. Get the full story in the source link below.
WIMM Labs introduces tiny wearable computer platform, we go hands-on
<div style="text-align:center;"> <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/02/wimm-labs-introduces-tiny-wearable-computer-platform-we-go-hand/"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/08/wimm-wearable-platform01.jpg" style="border-width:0px;border-style:solid;margin:4px;"/></a></div> Tablets and smartphones might rule the present, but if you ask the folks at WIMM Labs, the future of data consumption is a one-inch by one-inch square. The Los Altos startup just revealed its new, wearable computing platform, developed, in part, through a partnership with <a href="http://www.engadget.com/tag/foxconn/">Foxconn</a>, that it hopes will change the way we look at computers. Currently known as the WIMM wearable platform, this new modular device packs a full-color 160 x 160 touchscreen, WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, an accelerometer and magnetometer, and runs on good old Android. What's more, it's waterproof. Basically, it's a tiny, multifunctional computer, packed with "micro apps" that can make it anything from a smart watch to a health monitor, from a mobile payment device to an all-in-one remote. As of now, the company doesn't have plans to market it direct to consumers, but says it has a few partnerships in the works that could bring a WIMM-powered <em>something</em> to market by year's end; a developer kit will go on sale in the next few weeks for an undisclosed price. If you're itching to ditch that tired old <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/02/diamond-encrusted-lunatik-ipod-nano-watch-is-as-superfluous-as-i/">diamond-encrusted nano watch</a>, check out the galleries below and hop on past the break for our first impressions, video, and full PR. %Gallery-129730%%Gallery-129731%
Motorola considering Nike+ SportWatch contender?
It looks like Motorola might be prepping to give the Nike+ SportWatch a run for its money. An intrepid tipster sent along a screenshot from a recent survey showing off what looks like a tricked out nano watch. Described as an "all-in-one fitness and music personal fitness device" (redundant much?) that packs a GPS for "accurate performance tracking," the as of yet unnamed gadget also sports a "smart music player" that compiles a list of songs based on the tunes that help you sweat your best. It also lets you wirelessly sync to your PC for workout analysis, and apparently does the same for Android devices. Among the possible names listed in the survey is the MotoActive, hinting at, but certainly not pinning down, Motorola branding. Of course this is just an online survey, so we wouldn't get too excited about your new running mate just yet. [Thanks, Anon]
Onkyo remote app ushers in a new era of losing Android phones in the couch
Is the devoted remote going the way of dodo? HiFi audio manufacturer Onkyo is certainly hedging its bets with the release of its first Android app, which gives users the ability to control a number of its home theater systems. The Remote App, due out in August, makes it possible to browse content and stream audio from Android smartphones to the TX-8050 and all Onkyo A/V network receivers released this year. This isn't the company's first flirtation with the open world of Android. Late last year, Onkyo beat the competition to the punch by announcing a couple of Android tablets.
Android App Player leaks out on to BlackBerry PlayBook
Back in April, when we put the PlayBook through its paces, we were disappointed to find it lacked the previously promised, and eventually teased, Android Player. Well, the time has finally come -- at least for those of you, who don't mind getting your hands, and tablet, dirty with leaked software. The folks over at n4bb snatched up a beta version of the program, which brings nearly 250,000 little-green-monster apps to the BB slab, but point out that it's got its drawbacks. Aside from altogether lacking a back button, this build apparently has some lagging issues. If you're the adventurous type, however, you can download and sideload the appropriate file by clicking on the source link below. But if your PlayBook gets covered in all sorts of leaky beta goo, don't come running to us -- it is unofficial after all. [Thanks to everyone who sent this in]
Twitter for Android gets push notifications, multiple account support
Having a hard time juggling your full-cast reproduction of Harry Potter masquerade Twitter accounts? No worries, the firm just sent out an update to its Android app that will let you switch between multiple accounts with ease. It's almost magical. Not saddled with the burden of weaving a complex narrative across multiple online identities? That's okay, there's something here for everyone; this update includes push notification, updated home screen widgets, and assorted bug fixes. Version 2.1.0 is live today, assuming you're rocking Android 2.1 or higher.
Panasonic debuts UT-PB1 e-reader tablet, spices it with Android flavor (video)
Listen up, bibliophiles. Current e-readers don't have enough pizazz for ya? Panasonic's Japan-bound prototype e-book reader tablet may just be your fancy. According to DigInfo, the UT-PB1 was recently shown-off at e-Book Expo Tokyo sporting a 7-inch 1024 x 600 display, micro SD slot, webcam, and WiFi, all running atop a dual-core processor. Being Android-based, there's confirmed support for basic apps like email, but it's hard to tell just how restricted customized the build will be. The reader will have 600 "previewable" titles to get you started, and Rakuten's e-book store will serve up content and real-time updates -- via a custom API -- in August when the service goes live. Panny's remaining coy about specific price and release details, but before you get back to that hardcover on your desk, head past the break to view it in action.
Google+ sneaks NFC into its Android app, gets caught red-handed
NFC is gradually turning to the social side, thanks to new functionality found within the Google+ app for Android. Software developer Ridzuan Ashim discovered that, when used on an NFC-enabled device, you can read tags and share them through the new social networking service. After scanning, the OS asks you if you want to share the associated text with Google+ or another relevant program. Though the abilities seem somewhat limited for now, we'll likely see more developer support tossed in as the service matures. Using NFC in this way could lead us into a group Huddle, check us in at a restaurant and share it with our Circles, and perhaps even add us into somebody's Circle or Hangout. It's only functional on a limited number of Android devices for now, so if you happen to use a Nexus S and have been invited to the exclusive club better known as Google+, you're a prime candidate for giving it a look-see. If the above criteria doesn't apply, check out the video below to experience all that near-field glory through someone else's phone.
GMC showroom app tells you where to pick up your dream SUV, doesn't help with down payment
Ever felt the need to customize vehicles and search dealer inventory, right from the comfort of your smartphone? Us neither, but here's the General with another app to whet our appetites. While certainly not the first of its kind, the GMC showroom app for iOS (coming soon to Android), allows you to specify drive-type, trim, and both exterior / interior colors. Once content with your selections, you're shown nearby dealers carrying exact replicas of your magnificent taste. Unfortunately for us, the app makes no mention of the closest EN-V. If SUVs are your thing, however, have a peep at the free app at the source link below.
Google+ for Android app (hands-on)
Given the number of apps Google's made available for smartphones, it shouldn't be much of a surprise that it's taken its suite of social networking services direct to the mobile world as well. As soon as Google+ was officially announced, an app was ready for download in the Android Market and a web app became available for Safari for iOS (with its full offering to the App Store coming soon). As usual, we couldn't resist the urge to play around with it, but how does the mobile iteration fare against the competition? Continue past the break to get a peek of the larger-than-life service squeezed into a 4.3-inch (or smaller) display.
HTC EVO 3D gets Netflix under the table courtesy of EVO 4G's APK
So, you just bought HTC's EVO 3D for its three dimensional display and delectable dual-stage camera key, and you're loving its buttery smooth Sense 3.0 software. Yet, you were dismayed to find that the device wasn't among the chosen few granted access to Netflix for Android. But don't worry, folks, apparently the Netflix APK for the EVO 4G can get you streaming cinematic masterpieces in no time. Just head on over to the source link to get your download on, then sit back, relax, and enjoy.
Zinio brings Tegra hardware acceleration to Honeycomb tablets
Zinio's smartphone and tablet apps make it easy to bring a lifetime's worth of magazine content with you on the go, but performance has been inconsistent, especially when navigating through pages or zooming into photos and text. The company's latest app improves upon both critical elements, however, taking advantage of the Nvidia Tegra chip in your Mototola Xoom or Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 to smooth out page transitions and pinch-to-zoom. Nvidia posted a side-by-side comparison video demonstrating the improvements on a pair of Xooms, and there's clearly a noticeable difference. You can try it out for yourself by downloading Zinio version 1.10.3641 from the Android Market, or jump past the break for the demo.
MightyText pushes messages and incoming call alerts to your computer (hands-on)
Have you ever missed an extremely important phone call or text because you were too busy finishing those TPS reports on your personal computing machine? There's a Chrome add-on for that. We went hands-on with a new extension (and accompanying Android app) called MightyText, a free notification service launched today that syncs your phone's texts and calls to your computer in real-time. The idea is crazy simple, yet adds unyielding convenience: incoming SMS messages appear on your screen as a pop-up, giving you the option to read and reply to them without touching or even looking at the phone. The full extension will show each conversation thread in its entirety, as well as call logs. When sent from the computer, texts are still patched through from your phone number, so your colleagues will still see your messages coming through with your name on them. To make the service even more appealing, pop-ups alert you to incoming calls, so you can either hurry to find your phone or just send the caller a canned auto-text reply. It sounds like a great concept, but does it do the job? Head on past the break to learn our first impressions of the program.
Garmin to purchase Navigon, plans to complete acquisition by late July
News of Garmin's plans to acquire Navigon leaked out earlier this month, but we now have official word that the GPS giant will bring the smaller German company under its wing beginning in late July. Pending regulatory approval, the deal would have Navigon, one of the largest GPS brands in Europe, functioning as a subsidiary of Garmin, which has a much stronger presence in North America. The companies were unable to reveal any financial information, though previous estimates priced the deal in the "mid-double-digit million" Euro range. Navigon says it's not ready to share any details concerning the acquisition, but we're unlikely to see major effects in the US, where the company has smartphone apps but hasn't sold dedicated GPS devices in several years.
Lark's silent alarm clock hitting Apple Stores on June 14, promises not to wake your bedmate
Remember the Lark Up, that alarm clock that's likely to scare the bejesus out of you by sending vibrations through your unsuspecting wrist? The company's already taking pre-orders, but come June 14, you'll finally be able to waltz into an Apple store and handle one in person. For $129, it promises its silent vibrations won't wake your bedfellow, but if you've got a New Agey streak you can spend an extra $60 for one that analyzes your seven-day sleep history, including how long it took to fall asleep and how many times you woke during the night. For now, it's only available for iOS (hence, the Apple Store launch) but an Android version's predictably on the way, too. So is all this worth a good night's sleep? We'll leave that to you and your bed partner (or partners, if it's been that kind of week).
Zinio comes to Android tablets, gives you 24 magazine issues for free
The iPad has yet to transform the publishing world as many expected it would, but some healthy competition from Android tablets should help to keep that process in motion. Zinio's reader app is now available on select Android 2.2, 2.3, and all 3.0 tablets, bringing Esquire, National Geographic, and 20,000 other magazine titles to the Motorola Xoom, Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1, and a half dozen other devices. And, to kick off the launch, Zinio is picking up the tab on the most recent issues of 24 top magazines, as long as you download by June 15. Digital subscriptions are still often more expensive than their print counterparts, but at least Android tablet owners will have a safer place to hide their issues of Playboy.
Lodsys shifts in-app purchasing target to Android devs following Apple response
We figured Apple's firm response to Lodsys earlier this week regarding its claims against iOS devs would prompt the patent holder to move on to its next target, and sure enough, it looks as if said target has been selected. Unfortunately, a group of Android app devs have now found themselves in the Texas-based company's crosshairs, which is citing the same patent infringement that Apple recently addressed, relating specifically to in-app upgrade purchases. As was the case with the last round of letters, Lodsys is demanding licensing fees from small, individual developers, who don't have the resources to fight back. Lodsys appears to be maintaining its trend of ignoring media requests, so we're keeping an eye on the patent troll's blog to see if anyone comes up to the surface to defend this latest round of allegations. In the meantime, plugging your ears while humming and ignoring the mailman might not be such a bad idea... you know, if you do this kind of thing for a living.
