Galaxy Note II
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How would you change the Galaxy Note II?
In just three years, the Galaxy Note has grown from a niche device to a must-have, which is almost as eagerly anticipated as Samsung's Galaxy S flagships. When we placed the Galaxy Note II in the hands of our tame phone driver, they had nothing but praise for the handset. Oh, except for its sky-high price, that is. But what of you, we ask? What particular things did you love or loathe about this particular slab of glass and plastic? Share your experiences on the forum.
Samsung Galaxy Note 3: What's changed?
Another IFA, another Galaxy Note -- that's how it goes, ever since Samsung launched its first version of the phablet two years ago in Berlin. The company's latest S-Pen-wielding handset is upon us, with a bevy of hardware and software updates as expected. Does this year's device bring some game-changing tweaks, or is the Note 3 more of an incremental refresh of its predecessor? Jump past the break for a full spec-by-spec comparison of the two super-phones. Follow all of our IFA 2013 coverage by heading to our event hub!
The Daily Roundup for 03.04.2013
You might say the day is never really done in consumer technology news. Your workday, however, hopefully draws to a close at some point. This is the Daily Roundup on Engadget, a quick peek back at the top headlines for the past 24 hours -- all handpicked by the editors here at the site. Click on through the break, and enjoy.
AT&T to update Samsung Galaxy Note II with Multi-Window tomorrow
Most US models of the Samsung Galaxy Note II have already been updated with Multi-Window -- a split-screen feature that allows users to view two apps at once -- but AT&T is the last of the four national powers that hasn't pushed the feature out to its customers. That will change tomorrow, as AT&T has confirmed to us in an email that it will roll out the new build over the air at some point during the day. We're happy that users won't have to rely on Samsung's proprietary Kies desktop software to update their devices, but minor downloads like this are typically facilitated OTA. There's no word on if the ROM will be pushed out in phases to minimalize the impact on AT&T's servers, but don't be terribly worried if you don't get notified right away. Continue below to read the carrier's official statement on the matter.
Samsung acknowledges Exynos security issue, promises update 'as quickly as possible'
It may have taken longer than we would have liked, but Samsung has finally confirmed that it's aware of the Exynos security exploit discovered this weekend. The smartphone maker hasn't issued a timeline for plugging the hole, but it is indeed on the case, stating "Samsung is aware of the potential security issue related to the Exynos processor and plans to provide a software update to address it as quickly as possible." Project Voodoo's François Simond (Supercurio) released his own root-free fix just hours after the vulnerability was discovered on Sunday, so you're welcome to use that simple solution in the meantime (at the source link below). You can also head over to Android Central for the full statement from Samsung.
T-Mobile reveals Multi-Window feature coming to Samsung Galaxy Note II on December 19th
We saw the productivity-increasing feature make its way to Sprint's Galaxy Note II not too long ago, and it looks like it will soon show up on T-Mobile's model as well. According to a support document on the Magenta carrier's website, Samsung's Multi-Window trait is due to hit the 5.5-inch, S-Pen-toting device on December 19th, via an upcoming software update. The aforementioned T-Mobile page doesn't list any other major changes (save for some fixes to issues with Exchange and Gmail), but the addition of the Multi-Window feature alone could certainly make it worthwhile for owners of most everyone's favorite phablet.
Security exploit opens Samsung Galaxy S III, Note II to attack, could let apps from Google Play write to Kernel
Amid the XDA community's ongoing quest to root every Android handset it comes across, one forum user appears to have found a serious exploit that affects certain Exynos devices. While fiddling with his Galaxy S III, XDA user Alephzain discovered a way to obtain root without flashing with Odin. The Samsung kernel apparently allows read / write access to all physical memory on the device, including the kernel itself. This makes for an easy root, Alephzain writes, but leaves devices open to attack -- allowing Kernel code injections and RAM dumps from malware-laden apps from the Google Play store. It isn't the only avenue for attack on an Android handset, but it is an exceedingly easy attack. Luckily, a community fostered fix seems pretty simple too -- XDA user RyanZA has already created a patch to modify write permissions on affected devices -- though Galaxy S III users are reporting that the fix cripples the phone's camera app. So far, Alephzain has confirmed that the Galaxy S II, III, Note II and the Meizu MX are at risk, but notes that the exploit might work on any device running a Exynos 4210 or 4412 processor. Samsung has not yet made a comment about the vulnerability, but forum members say that the issue has been reported. As for the exploit's lasting implications? Head on over to the XDA forums to join the discussion. Update: François Simond (aka Supercurio) wastes no time plugging holes, and has already released a root-free fix for the vulnerability. Simond's solution is wrapped up in a simple APK, and requires no root, no flashing and no special know-how. It can be enabled or disabled manually, too -- allowing Galaxy S III users to regain full use of their front-facing camera, which as previously stated, is disrupted by the fix. Best of all, it's free -- skip on over to Project Voodoo at the source to get protected. Update 2: Our good friend Supercurio also brought our attention to a statement released by Samsung France to Le Monde: the company will be issuing an official patch "very quickly," and it emphasized that this is an issue "only if a malicious application is installed." Obviously, for now you can use Supercurio's patch to ease your mind.
Galaxy Note II KIRF edition makes a quick appearance, shows no remorse
It was only a matter of time before we'd see this one, right? As has been the case with many, many other gadgets, Samsung's Galaxy Note II is the latest one to join the "Keepin' it Real Fake" revolution. Formally dubbed Star S7180, this phablet clone, as you can imagine, doesn't come even close to matching the genuine Note II's mighty spec sheet, with this 5.5-inch KIRF device said to be only boasting a dual-core MT6577 CPU with 1GB RAM, 4GB of internal storage and an 8-megapixel cam on the back -- but, hey, at least there's some Jelly Bean to go with that. According to GizChina, you'll have to shell out about $150 for the Star S7180, which, all in all, isn't too bad a deal -- that's if you don't mind taking the faux route, of course. At any rate, you'll find additional eye candy after the break, and, judging by the looks, it may just be Mr. Blurrycam's best work yet.
Galaxy Note II (GT-N7100) getting Android 4.1.2 update
Everyone loves a software update right? Even better when it's an official one. So, Galaxy Note II owners will be pleased as punch to know that Android 4.1.2 is now finding its way to the international variant (GT-N7100) of the handset. You might not think a 0.0.1 refresh will be all that snazzy, but word is that there's actually a reasonable amount of newness going on. This includes the elements we'd expect from 4.1.2, but also some Samsung-specific bits, such as the ability to disable Multi-View, new items in the notification toggles, a customizable notification panel, a new ink effect on the lock screen, and Swype-style typing (without even waiting for 4.2). It's possible you might not see the update right away, but might not hurt to have Kies on hand all the same.
Samsung Galaxy Note II confirmed to reach Verizon stores tomorrow
Despite the fact that Verizon's version of the Samsung Galaxy Note II -- complete with its ugly logo-laden home button -- is already starting to ship out to pre-orderers, the carrier and manufacturer continued to keep quiet about their official launch plans. We've finally received word from a Samsung spokesperson that the 5.5-inch smartphone-tablet hybrid is destined to make its way into Big Red stores beginning tomorrow for $300 with a two-year contract. If you've been exercising a heap of patience in waiting for this gigantophone, you'd best free up some time on your calendar first thing tomorrow. We have the official statement waiting for you after the break.
Samsung Galaxy Note II Smart Dock turns a big phone into an even bigger desktop
Many of us would already contend that the Galaxy Note II is more of a pocketable computer than a smartphone, so why not take the definition at face value? Samsung certainly is, as it just began selling a Smart Dock that transforms its phablet into a makeshift desktop. A trio of USB ports give the Note II options for a mouse, keyboard and even external storage -- and if the phone's 5.5-inch screen isn't already a large enough canvas, HDMI video (plus stereo audio out) should fill the gap. While there's no question that the Smart Dock's $100 price is relatively steep, it might be worthwhile for those still mourning the loss of Webtop.
The Engadget Show 37: Halloween Spooktacular with Wayne Coyne, movie monsters and ghost hunting!
Welcome boys and ghouls, to a very spooky episode of The Engadget Show. We've got plenty of tricks and treats for you in this Halloweentastic October episode. We kick things off with a trip to Oklahoma City, to the home of Flaming Lips frontman, Wayne Coyne, who talks Parking Lot Experiments, Halloween displays and why if your phone screen isn't broken, you aren't living your life. Next up, we'll show you all the necessary tools for a proper ghost hunt, with a little help from author Mary Roach, Ghost Hunters' Adam Berry and the crew of the Central NY Ghost Hunters. In Vermont, we have a conversation with robot head Bina48 to find out what it really means to be alive and we travel to Los Angeles to talk to movie makeup Wizard Kevin Yagher and the costume experts at Global Effects Inc. And when the Engadget Van breaks down outside of an electronics store, it's up to Tim, Brian and rock band, Free Energy, to solve a very spooky mystery. All that plus a new Ask @hodgman and a gadget table featuring the new iPod touch, Kindle Paperwhite and Galaxy Note II from Dapper Cadaver, our favorite place to buy prop corpses in the Southern California area. Jump on in after the break -- if you dare!%Gallery-168911% Hosts: Brian Heater, Jordan Morris, Tim Stevens Guests: Wayne Coyne, Mary Roach, Kevin Yagher, Adam Berry, Chris Gilman, Jesse Thorn, John Hodgman, Bruce Duncan, Stacey Jones, BJ Winslow Musical Guest: Free Energy Producer: Ben Harrison Executive Producers: Brian Heater, Joshua Fruhlinger Download the Show: The Engadget Show - 037 (HD) / The Engadget Show - 037 (iPod / iPhone / Zune formatted) / The Engadget Show - 037 (Small) Subscribe to the Show: [iTunes] Subscribe to the Show directly in iTunes (MP4). [Zune] Subscribe to the Show directly in the Zune Marketplace (MP4). [RSS MP4] Add the Engadget Show feed (MP4) to your RSS aggregator and have it delivered automatically. [HD RSS] Get the Engadget Show delivered automatically in HD. [iPad RSS] Get the Engadget Show in iPad-friendly adaptive format.
Samsung Galaxy Note II now available from Sprint for $300 on a two-year contract
Whether you're an existing or prospecting Sprint customer, the carrier's new big thing is now on sale. Priced at a whopping $300 with a two-year service agreement, the Samsung Galaxy Note II is the biggest smartphone to hit Sprint since the Hitachi G1000. As a reminder, the Now Network's Note II features an unbranded home button, a 5.5-inch 1,280 x 720 HD Super AMOLED display, a 1.6GHz quad-core Exynos processor, an 8-megapixel rear-facing camera, a 1.9-megapixel front-facing shooter, Android 4.1 and international voice and data compatibility with GSM / UMTS / CDMA networks. If the aforementioned sounds pleasing to your mobile palate, then the only thing left to decide is marble white or titanium gray?
Verizon, AT&T put Samsung's Galaxy Note II on pre-sale for $300 with a two-year contract
Samsung's Galaxy Note II played coy at first by only hanging out with the European crowd, but now that it's here, it's the life of the US carrier party. The two biggest, AT&T and Verizon, have now glommed the phablet and each are offering it for pre-sale in all its quad-core Exynos, 5.5-inch glory for $300 under a two-year contract. We just handled Verizon's variant, but weren't sure of a sale date, and AT&T's version, which we saw earlier was already expected for pre-order today. When Sprint's copy of the handset arrives later today, that'll round out the Note II's major US carrier dance card -- so you'll be able to grab it at whichever plucks on your heart (or purse) strings. [Thanks to all who sent this in]
Samsung Galaxy Note II for Verizon hands-on
So far we've had the opportunity to review the global edition of the Samsung Galaxy Note II -- as well as get our hands on three of the five variants known to be making their way to the US -- but tonight we got our first official look at Verizon's particular flavor. Not that it's much different than the rest of the crowd: it's loaded with the same specs we've seen on the N7100 model (5.5-inch HD Super AMOLED display at 1,280 x 720, 3,100mAh battery and a quad-core Exynos processor clocked at 1.6GHz), with the exception of Verizon-specific LTE bands, and have the same button layout that we've come to expect. Of course, there's that hideous Verizon logo on the main button, but that's the only visual difference we could spot. Software-wise, Verizon's version of the Note II contains the built-in apps we've gotten accustomed to with its Android phones: VZ Navigator, My Verizon Mobile, and Mobile Hotspot. The device we picked up was running Jelly Bean, like its counterparts from other carriers. Sadly, no pricing or availability is yet available for the Note II on Verizon, with reps at the Samsung event we're at saying that it's up to Verizon to loose that news.%Gallery-169274% Edgar Alvarez contributed to this report.
Samsung Galaxy Note II to arrive at US Cellular on Friday, pre-orders ship tomorrow
US Cellular has been offering the Samsung Galaxy Note II on pre-order for over a month now, but it just sent out an email clarifying that the device will be stocked on retail and virtual shelves beginning this Friday, October 26th. This falls in line with the "late October" timeframe we were promised; pre-orders, by the way, will also begin shipping tomorrow. As a recap, the Note II will only be available in titanium gray and with 16GB internal storage, and will cost $300 with a two-year commitment and $800 without one -- a huge difference, no doubt, given T-Mobile's $650 full retail cost. Tomorrow is the last day to pre-order if you're worried about facing inventory shortages or long lines on Friday. The best part? No silly logo on the home button (we're looking at you, Verizon).
Verizon's HTC DLX may be called Droid DNA, Windows Phone 8 devices get tentative prices
Verizon is one of the more common proponents of silly Android device names, in part through its insistence on that "Droid" prefix for some hardware. When its smartphone badges practically demand a pause for breath, you know there's a problem. Android Central's purported copy of a Minimum Advertised Pricing list could show that there's hope for the carrier yet. The chart shows the HTC DLX (6435LVW) skipping the rumored Droid Incredible X name in favor of Droid DNA -- and that's it. No superlatives, no arbitrary "4G LTE" tags to remind us of the network we already know we're using. The 5-inch phone might have even been a reasonable launch, as the MAP shows a $200 contract price that would potentially take effect just before Thanksgiving. Want more? Other smartphones are on the supposedly leaked MAP list as well, primarily focusing on Windows Phone 8 gear: the as yet unconfirmed Nokia Lumia 822 shows up with a $100 price and a mid-November release window, while Verizon's take on the Windows Phone 8X is present with a $200 price and similar timing. Those who'd rather go for a Samsung phablet than HTC's aren't left out, either. The Verizon edition of the Galaxy Note II is on the list with a $300 price and availability that starts immediately -- rather convenient, that.
Samsung Galaxy Note II for T-Mobile review
<p class="image-container" style="text-align:center;"><img alt="Samsung Galaxy Note II for TMobile review" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2012/10/dsc02462-1350970023.jpg"/> </p><div class="more-info"><h3>More Info</h3> <ul> <li> <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/08/samsung-galaxy-note-ii-review/">Samsung Galaxy Note II (N7100) review</a></li> <li> <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/09/samsung-galaxy-note-ii-for-t-mobile-hands-on/">Samsung Galaxy Note II (T-Mobile) hands-on</a></li> <li> <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/04/samsung-galaxy-note-ii-for-atandt-hands-on-an-s-pen-phablet-with/">Samsung Galaxy Note II (AT&T) hands-on</a></li> </ul></div><p> The <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/08/samsung-galaxy-note-ii-review/">Samsung Galaxy Note II</a> is coming to <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/10/samsung-confirms-october-24th-event-is-for-the-us-galaxy-note-ii/">America</a>, and unlike its predecessor, it's not being as quiet about the move. In a completely unprecedented feat, the mammoth smartphone not only won over the hearts of four national American carriers and one regional network, it did so without having to make sacrifices in its design, specs or even its name. This is a considerable amount of progress when taking into account the fact that only two mobile operators adopted the original <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/28/samsung-galaxy-note-review/">Galaxy Note</a> -- the inaugural phablet, if you will -- and they did so months after its global launch. Heck, T-Mobile released <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2012/07/30/samsung-galaxy-note-for-t-mobile-review/">its variant</a> of the Note just <i>three</i> months ago, which likely will be a sour point to early adopters for a long time to come.<br /> <br /> As you may have seen in our review of the global Note II, there's a reason for all of the buzz circulating around this new flagship device; it's good. It's very good. Once you get used to the idea of a 5.5-inch smartphone with an included <strike>stylus</strike> S Pen, you'll take heed of the incredibly fast quad-core processor, the latest version of Android, the high-end camera and the litany of other top-notch features that have helped the device become worthy of our praise.<br /> <br /> This review, as you see it today, discusses our impressions of <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/09/samsung-galaxy-note-ii-for-t-mobile-hands-on/">T-Mobile's version</a> of the Note II and how it sizes up against the global model (the N7100), but we're changing things up this time around. Since there will be very few differences across the five different versions offered on US carriers, we're simply going to add our reviews of each carrier-specific unit to this space as we go along. The idea is that this review will encompass every Galaxy Note II sold stateside. Enjoy the galleries below, and continue past the break as we dig into Samsung's latest flagship... again.</p><p> %Gallery-168986%</p>
Samsung Galaxy Note II to be available on AT&T November 9th for $299, pre-orders begin Thursday
In the leadup to tomorrow's Samsung Galaxy Note II event, AT&T has decided to make its pricing and availability known to the general public today. The 5.5-inch smartphone will be available in stores and online starting November 9th, and the cost for the LTE-enabled device will be $300 with a two-year commitment. Lest you fear having to wait an extra two weeks to waltz into a store, you'll be able to head online on Thursday and pre-order it. The press release below has the details, so follow us past the break.
Purported leak has Galaxy Note II for T-Mobile costing $300 on contract
While we're just a heartbeat away from Samsung's American launch event for the Galaxy Note II, that hasn't stopped the leaks and rumors from flowing around the release. What appears to be an internal T-Mobile page leaked to TmoNews has the 5.5-inch giant costing $300 on the carrier's Value plan -- on par with Sprint's up-front price, if you're not including the long-term device payments. Classic plan adopters would supposedly pay $420 before dutifully mailing in for a $50 rebate, and it would take a hefty $700 for an outright purchase. Nothing's definite until T-Mobile gives the green light, and we haven't seen the prices that every other carrier will offer, but the price if real could establish a common narrative where Samsung's biggest phone this year includes an equally large price tag.
