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Refresh Roundup: week of January 16, 2012
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!
Ice Cream Sandwich update for original Transformer coming 'mid-February,' says ASUS
Last we heard, the Ice Cream Sandwich update making its way to the O.G. Transformer was still "in the process of being approved" by the G-men. Although we've heard rumors that the holo-coated upgrade would come in February, nothing's been confirmed until now. ASUS replied to a life long fan's Facebook post, revealing that the update should arrive "mid-February." We know hearing the news that you'll have to keep waiting might not stop you from rolling on the floor and throwing a temper tantrum, but hey, you could not be getting one at all. [Thanks, Udupa]
HTC EVO 3D: poof, no more Carrier IQ software
It's been exactly a month since we received word that Sprint was disabling Carrier IQ software installed on its carrier-branded devices, and this week we witnessed a firmware update on the HTC EVO 3D that quietly removes all traces of the tracking software completely. Neither company was forthcoming about this particular feature disappearing -- we have a hunch they're trying to keep the public from being reminded that CIQ ever happened -- but Android Central discovered that both the HTC IQAgent and IQRD were completely gone after the update. So add this to the list of the build's other performance enhancements, and here's to hoping that we'll start seeing a plethora of other devices getting similar releases.
ASUS Eee Pad Transformer's ICS update currently awaiting Google's approval
Users of the ASUS Transformer Prime may already be enjoying their hot-off-the-press upgrade to Ice Cream Sandwich, but when will its predecessor be so lucky? We've heard that it would be inbound sometime in February, but there's still a slight possibility that it'll get here even sooner. On its North American Facebook page, ASUS responded to a curious user, mentioning that it's in the process of getting Google's official stamp of approval. Once this is complete, ASUS will click the big red button and commence pushing Android 4.0 out to the tablet. So hang tight, folks, the wait's almost over.
Refresh Roundup: week of December 26, 2011
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!
PS Vita gets second firmware update, nixes software bugs
There's not many things worse than when your new imported tech toy is hobbled by teething issues. Just over a week since its launch and Sony's great portable hope has been gifted its second firmware update. Version 1.51 can be grabbed through your PC, PS3 or the Vita itself and promises to fix issues with "game progress" -- mentioning launch title Dynasty Warriors: Next in particular. However, gamers have already figured out that playing through the title offline side-steps the software hiccups that this patch hopes to remedy. Early adopters can hit up the system update option to ensure their machines remain in peak condition or hit up the source for the PC link. [Thanks Adam]
Refresh Roundup: week of December 19, 2011
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!
HP issues LaserJet firmware update, hopefully ends exploding printer saga
Some of you might remember the story that HP LaserJet printers might be open to hack attacks that could result in some not-so-spontaneous combustion? Now the company has issued a statement saying that no-one reported their printer exploding, but to be on the safe side, it's produced a firmware update (available at the source link) that'll close the hole and ensure your Holiday doesn't end with a visit from the fire department.
Roku brings v3.1 software update to first-gen boxes, Amazon Instant Video channel gets refaced
Early birds may get the worms, but early adopters aren't always as equally rewarded. But, as they say, maybe first-gen Roku owners should simply be elated that their box is still on the update trail. A week (and change) after the Roku 2 and Roku LT saw a fairly significant software update, the company is now pushing v3.1 to OG models. As the company says: "Unless your Roku player is smaller than a hockey puck, this update applies to you." The fresh bytes provide added enhancements to support the official Roku iPhone app, improved playback of MP4 files streamed over the internet and over USB via the USB Media Player channel, and the ability to purchase Roku players, accessories and toys within the Roku Channel Store. Furthermore, we're told that issues found when navigating channels that display content in a grid screen have been solved, and perhaps most importantly, there's support for Amazon's downright delightful new Instant Video channel. Every last unit should see the update pushed their way in the coming hours, but if you're not exactly the "patient" type, just head to Settings -> Playing info -> Check for update.
Motorola MOTOACTV firmware bump gives you marathon-battery life (video)
Fitness people love to make us feel guilty as they jog past the car, sneering as they watch us eat six double downs in one go. It's those people who will be happy that Motorola's MOTOACTV is getting a firmware update promising better battery life and power-saving settings -- including a marathon mode that'll give you eight hours of accompanied running. You'll also find additional clock faces and the ability to measure your heart rate even when stationary. You know, with their clear skin and no body fat, maybe they've got the right idea and we should give some serious consideration to changing our ways -- you know, in January.
Pre 3 owners greeted by webOS 2.2.4 update, eradicates some bugs (update: Pre 2s as well)
Yes, friends, webOS is still alive and kickin' -- and no matter how uncertain the future may be for the open-source mobile platform, it's still cranking out fresh maintenance releases. This time, the Pre 3 is the beneficiary of an update to webOS 2.2.4. Though it's natural to be on the lookout for crazy new features, you'll find so such luck this time around -- it's just meant to offer some software improvements and bug fixes. Still, we're always happy to see signs of life with the OS. Update: And it's also rolling out to Pre 2s. Thanks Bryson!
Google sticks Nexus S ICS update back in the freezer
Eager to get your Nexus S all sticky with an Ice Cream Sandwich update? Google's saying not so fast, at least for some Nexus S owners. Google community manager Paul Wilcox responded to queries on the mobile support forum, explaining: If you received an update notification a little while ago but the update isn't currently available for your phone, this is likely the result of Google pausing the update in your area while we monitor feedback. The Android 4.0 update is continuing to roll out around the world so your phone will receive another update notification when it's available again in your region. Apparently the update is continuing to download for some users, but in some cases it won't install, though Wilcox says that this is "a different scenario." We've reached out to Mountain View for an update, but let us know about your experience in the comments.
Nook Tablet update closes sideloading loophole, lacks holiday spirit
Remember all that extra functionality your Nook Tablet used to have? Well, that's what memories are there for. The recently-released Nook 1.4.1 firmware update apparently prevents the Nook Tablet from installing Android apps from non-Barnes & Noble sources. As a result, the unit is confined to the roughly 2,000 apps available through B&N's app store (many of which are priced higher than their Android Market equivalents). This lockdown has already been performed on the Nook Color and trying to sideload a new title will pop up a warning that only apps from the Nook store can be installed on the device. At least it appears that third-party apps already on the tablet will continue to run and there's always the hope of a custom ROM that could reenable the feature on Christmas morning.
Vita launch issues in Japan result in apology, software update [update]
For us suckers in North America, the PlayStation Vita is still just a distant object of desire. For the Japanese, though, the Vita is already a couple days into its life, but apparently it's got some ... issues. Our tech savvy brethren at Engadget are reporting that some users are experiencing "software bugs, unresponsive touchscreens and complete system freezes," resulting in many taking to social media to voice frustration. Sony, as it turns out, is listening, already issuing a software update and penning an apology letter. The video above showcases some of the Vita's problematic issues, and it should at very least help you to sympathize with your Japanese equivalent's frustration. The letter, well, it's in Japanese, and it's kinda non-specific, so you may wanna skip that part. Regardless, with any luck, said issues will be ironed out by the time Vita arrives on US shores on February 22. Here's hoping, anyway. Update: Sony UK counters this report and others, saying the company, "can't find any evidence of widespread glitches." [Thanks Gerry!]
Refresh Roundup: week of December 12, 2011
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!
Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) comes to GSM / UMTS Nexus S starting today
You heard right -- Google itself has just affirmed on its own social networking branch that Android 4.0 will begin to hit GSM / UMTS (sorry, Sprint users!) Nexus S devices over the coming month, with the luckiest few to get it today. Outside of that, there's no more specific time table to be had, but if you're able to suck it down in the coming hours, definitely sound off on the improvements in comments below. Update: Looks like the package is available to download and install (at your own risk, of course) for Nexus S, AWS version (T-Mobile compatible). Huzzah!
Apple update twofer: Apple TV hits 4.4.4 (9A406a), minor iOS 5.0.1 bump comes to iPhone 4S
Here's a question: why, as a major consumer electronics company, would you introduce just one software update in a day, when you could just as easily introduce two? Exactly. Apple has just pushed out a new duo that honestly have little in common, but if you're the owner of a second-generation Apple TV and an iPhone 4S, you've hit the jackpot. The former is reaching v4.4.4, which claims to bring an assortment of not-big-enough-to-pinpoint bug fixes; the latter, however, tweaks the iPhone 4S' 5.0.1 build ever so slightly. If you've noticed anything major from either update, do tell in comments below. Update: The Apple TV 4.4.4 changlog notes that users can expect "general performance and stability improvements, including a fix for an issue that displayed an error when playing some video content."
Refresh Roundup: week of December 5, 2011
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!
Sprint pushing firmware update to Epic 4G Touch, fixes hotspot connectivity and signal strength
Has your Hesse-blessed Epic 4G Touch been acting up? Never fear, a fix for the WiMAX-equipped handset is on the way. Sprint's begun rolling out an update for its Galaxy S II variant that should addresses a couple of irksome bugs -- namely, the loss of 4G hotspot connectivity while on a call, and a boost for the wireless radio. The firmware update'll hit phones in a phased release and should take about ten minutes to complete. Sorry, there's no option for a manual download, so you'll just have to wait your turn in the random line.
PSA: 3DS firmware update is live
I just updated my 3DS, and other users are reporting that they've been asked to do so as well. This is the delayed "November update" meant to add DLC capabilities, 3D video recording, and more. Looking around my system, I see a new "Nintendo Zone" app for interfacing with "participating locations," to receive special content from certain free wi-fi hotspots. The "3DS Camera" app now has a toggle for video or stills, and -- most unexpected of all -- there are new "accomplishments" (achievements, kind of) in the StreetPass Mii Plaza. A few popped up immediately upon starting the app (above). You can see them all in a list within the Mii Plaza. I have 20 total (!) relating to the number and location of the people I've met. Other new stuff in the StreetPass Mii Plaza includes a music player for Mii Plaza music, new Find Mii stuff (Find Mii 2 game and lots of new hats, accessible only to those who have all the hats from the first game), new Puzzle Swap puzzles, and even some kind of new SpotPass connectivity, to bring Miis into your Plaza from the internet. I'm not sure how this works yet. Though the eShop was down all day in preparation for this update, I didn't see anything new there yet -- except for a news item about the 3D video update.
