Android Simplicity

How-To #35: Connecting To Adhoc Networks on Android Tablets/Phones

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:21:00 +0000

Lets review the basics: firstly, what is tethering and Adhoc WiFi? Tethering is basically the sharing of internet connection of an internet capable device(host) with other devices(clients).

The host device usually have internet connection from some kind of data plan such as 3G, 4G, and/or Edge. Obviously, it would be a waste of money to purchase data plans for every device that you own.

Review Corner: Motorola MOTOLUXE

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 15:53:00 +0000

The Motorola Motoluxe, expected for release in February/March 2012, is Motorola’s attempt to create an affordable, large screen, Android smartphone. The MOTOLUXE, alongside the Defy Mini, is one of Motorola’s first releases since Motorola Mobility - the mobile phone side of the business - was acquired by Google.

Many saw this as a move by Google not necessarily to turnaround a struggling part of the Motorola business but rather an attempt to expand their patented technology portfolio to use in other future Google phones. Nevertheless, the Google owned phone makers announced in 2011 their intention to release the two new attempts to break into the smartphone market.

The MOTOLUXE, with its large 4inch, 480 x 854 pixel screen on the front and a sharp 8 megapixel camera on its back with a built in zoom feature, certainly looks like a potential leader in the low-cost market. It’s very unlikely to ever rival the likes of the iPhone but then it was never really intended to as Motorola look to capitalise on this low-budget market.

How-To #44: Play Flash Games On Android

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 15:52:00 +0000

As you know, one of the major selling point of Android over iOS is the ability to play Flash content. While the Android OS handles Flash flawlessly using Adobe Flash Player, I find myself having trouble playing Flash games through the web browser.

Plugging in a bluetooth mouse would easily solve the problem, but in most cases, I am playing the Flash game on the go, with no mouse readily available. So using the touch screen to control the flash games is the only option.

The browser app was not designed for gaming purposes; it would commonly mistake the touch commands for the game as a scroll, zoom, or some other unwanted action. So the true problem was: how to play flash, or swf files, on Android outside of the browser?

How-To #43: Setup Google Cloud Print For Android & PC

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 17:33:00 +0000

Printing can be difficult sometimes; when the only printer you have is not connected to the network. You would then have to save whatever website, email, or document you are viewing from your printer-less laptop or Android device and send it to the PC with printer connectivity. All that work just to print a simple page.

With Google Cloud Print, that time consuming process is a thing of the pass. The files you want to print is sent securely through the web, or "cloud". Since its sent through the internet, you can print anywhere, anytime, and without any printer drivers. It also doesn't matter if its a tablet, phone, laptop, tv, or PC; there are no boundaries to Google Cloud Print.

You can setup Google Cloud Print with "Cloud Ready" printers or with the classical usb/network printers you have connected at home. For the Cloud Ready printers, all there needs to be done is plugging it in to the network using the instructions provided by the manufacturer. For classical printers, you would need to use a "Google Cloud Printer Connector". The connector is basically the original PC with the printer installed linked up with Google Chrome.

How To Set up Google Cloud Print With Classical Printers
These instructions will enable the "Google Cloud Connect". This will bridge the connection between the printer enabled PC with any other devices.

Update The New Android Market Manually

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 18:13:00 +0000

*Updated 12/14/11* Android 3.4.4 has been uploaded, links below - Note: Faster + adding setting for auto adding of widgets to desktop(see image).

*12/10/11* Android 3.3.12 has been uploaded - Note: not much as changed since 3.3.11 except for stability

Ever since the announcement, the new Android Market3.0 has been rolling out for Android devices with 2.2 or higher. The main feature of this Android market is the way users purchase books and movies, which starts at $1.99. These can be streamed or downloaded to an Android device. The new services is currently only available in US markets. In addition to the service features, they also made a massive overhaul of the UI to greatly enhance speed and usability.

How-To #42: How to Unlock Android Phone

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 18:22:00 +0000

Android users who bought their Android phones off a 3rd party(like Ebay or other people), mat soon realize that the device will not work with their mobile cell phone provider. The reason for this is because Android phones are "locked" to one carrier. Like IPhones, Android software is designed to keep you loyal to one company. However, there is a process to unlock most Android phones. This process is device specific and can be usually found on the internet.

Nonetheless, the general procedure is still the same, you must obtain the unlock code to unlock an Android Phone. Also, be sure to do some Google-ing/research before you make any attempt to unlock a phone; there may be some unforeseen consequences down the line if you are unprepared.

T-Mobile:
Typically you must have a contract with them before they will give you a Unlock code. T-Mobile will provide the code and instructions under certain conditions. Give them a call at their customer service and they will be happy to assist you. Keep in mind that you are entitled to receive an unlock code and may want to push the issue especially if you are a loyal customer(the long-term traveling excuse usually works).

How-To #41: Transfer Files Using BlueTooth Between Two Android Devices

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 05:12:00 +0000

Ever wanted to share some music or videos with another buddy that also has an Android device? Android lets you do that with BlueTooth when you lack the access to a PC or the internet.

Never heard of BlueTooth? Its esstenially just a wireless communication protocol that enables direct mobile data connection between any two electronic devices.

Bluetooth is hands down the easiest way for two Android devices to communicate directly with each other, without the need of a 3rd party. These are instructions on how to pair and transfer files between two Android tablets and phones using BlueTooth and ESFileExplorer.

Both Devices must follow these steps:
1) Turn on BlueTooth in settings and select "Visible"(you may want to increase visible timeout)

2) Select "Find nearby devices"

Android Game Review: Colosseum Heros

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 04:13:00 +0000

Gamevil recently released Colosseum: Heros, a sequel to the popular Colosseum. The game is basically the extension of the first, with more spells and even more baddies.

The game lets you select between a knight or vampire. The character that is selected has a unique path for the skills and the equipment, which is purchased from the armory screen before each battle.

Like most free games, you also have the option to buy premium items. Once equipped with the spells and equipment, the hero is then thrown into the arena to battle for glory, honor, and gold(exactly as seen below).

Although the content has been extended to great lengths, there is not much more then leveling the character, killing monsters, and buying items. The game is essentially a repetitive hack-n-slash with no story or much substance.

The selling point of Colosseum Heros is the price: free (Colosseum is at $.99). There is no reason to turn down a pretty decent game with great looking graphics as this.

How-To #39: Get Free SMS & Calls Using Data

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 01:37:00 +0000

For parents who can't afford to pay their kids costly cellular plans, for students who are living off ramen noodles, and finally, for those of us that just refuse to be bounded by a cellular contract, Android is here with free mobile messaging and minutes.

How does free calling and SMS work on the Android? The answer is simple: through the internet. This concept doesn't just work on phones... In fact, I can even use my Android tablet to make calls using the microphone for the camera. The only catch is that my Android device needs to be connected to WiFi, 3G, or 4G data networks.

Sure, 3G and 4G plans can be expensive but that can replace the cost of a monthly contract for minutes and texting. Most people are typically around free Wifi networks for most of their day anyways (@work,school,cafe, restaurants, etc) so the data plan shouldn't be needed.

Android 4.0 x86 Live Installation Images Released

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 01:31:00 +0000

Once again the Android x86 Project team has released the latest version of the Android OS live CDs, Android 4.0 IceCream, for x86 processors(the cpus that is running on your PC). While Android 4.0 still has many bugs and is unavailable on most Android phones, it is worth the install an Android Virtual Machine to see what it has to offer. Download links are below.

While this release may not seem significant to most Android users, big chip manufacturers now has the ability to use the source code to build a heavy competition against ARM in the mobile market; ARM currently has a monopoly over most of the Android mobile CPU market, since Android was not designed for x86(intel/amd) architecture. With the mobile market constantly expanding, Intel and AMD will no doubt want in on the piece of the profit.

Android App Review: AirDroid

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 00:06:00 +0000

Sand Studio has now introduced a new Android App that allows the user full control of the Android phone or Android tablet. What makes it great is that you can do all of this from the PC's web browser, without ever touching the device. All that is required is installing the app on any Android device.

With AirDroid you can:
- Access, send, and manage SMS messages
- Manage contacts
- Uninstall and install apps from Android Market
- Backup apps(they are saved as apk files)
- Manage music and ringtones
- Access phone information(system, battery, status, etc.)
- Manage and transfer files

Android 3.2 For Samsung Galaxy 10.1

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 02:09:00 +0000

With Android 4.0 Icecream just over the horizon, Samsung finally decides to upgrade the users of highly popular Galaxy 10.1 with Android 3.2(Read the change log). While some are having trouble with the build, many are successful in the transition. You can grab the file Android 3.2 For Odin | Mirror For Odin(Pass: sampro.pl) and flash it with ODIN to begin using it now! Alternatively, you can flash with CWM using Android 3.2 for CWM. Instructions on flashing with Odin is below.

Requirements

Samsung 10.1 USB Driver(Find your device and run the exe)

Choose the Perfect Android Anti-Virus Software for You

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 17:37:00 +0000

Do you know which features your Android antivirus software actually needs? Aside from its ability to clean up and determine computer viruses, adware and spyware programs, it has to have an updated database of well-known virus threats and it has to be able to look for infections on important system files, as well.

Other than that, mobile application inspections for viruses and real-time scanning would be important features to watch out for along with anti-theft protection. The program shouldn't have a hard time finding the device in case it is stolen, either, and it should be able to keep the information on it safe and secure. Another feature you might want to take into consideration would be the ability to check for SMS service content.

What Is Rooting On Android? Is Rooting Right For You?

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 17:58:00 +0000

People who have recently purchased a mobile phone or tablet computer which runs on the Android operating system may have been made aware of the potential to root the device. Typically most people will be completely unaware of what this entails, in which case it would be pertinent to ask “what is rooting on Android?”

So What is Rooting?
Rooting Android devices essentially means giving the owners extended privileges. This would allow them to be able to customize various aspects of the software which would otherwise be very strictly controlled. Originated from Linux, the term "Root" is coined from the owner having to obtain superuser rights from logging in as a "Root" user/id. Thus, the process where the user goes through to obtain superuser permissions on an Android device(linux based) it is referred to as "Rooting".

How Do I Get Root?
The method of rooting Android devices varies depending on the make and model of the phone or tablet. Android is an operating system which is used in handsets by many different manufacturers, and so it is important for anybody who is thinking of attempting to root their device to carefully research the correct specific procedure. Any mistakes which are made could render the device useless, and since the procedure invalidates the warranty this could be very costly to the owner.

Android Game Review: Jelly Defense

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 19:47:00 +0000

The Jellies of planet "Diploglobe" are in a bind, they are getting invaded by strange alien species seeking to steal the Jellie's emeralds. This is where you come in. You are to help the jellies construct intricate tower defenses to ward off the alien invaders. Fear not though, as you destroy enemies and collect coins from the discarded alien remains, the Jellies will be able to advance and develop stronger tower technologies to help you in the Jellie's resistance.

However, don't think of Jelly Defense as the traditional tower defense, where positioning and upgrades play the critical roles; Jelly defense is more about spells, tower selection, and strategic "trading" of towers. The reason for this is that the enemies comes in two favors: red and blue. The towers can only attack monsters relative to their own corresponding colors. And as the levels becomes more complex, you will soon notice that the selection and placement of the towers that defeated the previous wave will not be able to handle upcoming onslaught... Therefore, quick adjustments is constantly needed.

Android App Review: Email App Alternative

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 19:26:00 +0000

While the stock email app on Android Tablets and Phones is amazing enough, there are many reasons as to why an alternative app is needed. Whatever the case, Android has a large establishment of alternative email apps avilable on its Andorid market. One of those app is the K-9 Mail.

Of all the email apps I have used, this would be hands down the best alternative. Not only is it free, it incorporates and integrates all your email into one application. The app has a similar feel to that of Microsoft Outlook in that all mail from every account is displayed on one huge list.

Android Game Review: DESTINIA

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:13:00 +0000

GAMEVIL, developer of the popular Zenonia and Baseball Superstar series, recently released another RPG on the Android Market - Destinia. Like most of the other GAMEVIL games, this free to play RPG plans to offer unlocks, specials, and upgrades for ingame money purchased by real, hard cash. In this "action" RPG, you will encounter combinations of enemies and puzzles with a single character in form of one of three classes: thief, warrior, or gunner - yes, they took out the mage class. The gameplay is almost identical to Zenonia, while the story takes on the more serious note(summary and video below).

If you get bored of the 20-30hours of the campaign, there is also the multiplayer mode, where you can challenge other players, sell items, read mail, and many more.

How-To #40: Remotely Access Android Devices

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 19:43:00 +0000

You may be familiar with using the Android device to remotely access the home desktop PC but did you know that you can do the opposite and control the Android device remotely using USB or WiFi? There is probably that one person in your life that has little or no experience using the Android system. With this app, it makes setting up or debugging their Android device a painless experience. The app that will be used is in beta and is for Root users only.

Requirements:
- Root
- *Optional* Android SDK, adb shell, and Android USB driver: Needed for USB remote connection

How-To #38: Build the Android NDK

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 21:35:00 +0000

Did you know that you can integrate C/C++ code into your Android app? Sure, Android runs on the Java platform, but with the Android NDK companion tool, you can build performance critical portions in native code.

For you C/C++ junkies, just think of it like coding Assembly inside C/C++ for that extra performance increase. The Android app that uses the NDK tool will still be packed into the .apk file and can run on any Android device or virtual machine.

Reading, Creating, and Sharing QR Codes

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 17:59:00 +0000

Have you ever seen the little picture below? They seem to be everywhere these days. I’ve seen them on TV, ads, t-shirts, and even tattoos. So, what is a QR code? What’s the purpose of them? QR, or Quick Response, codes are complex 2d barcodes, similarly to the one you see on food labels. They provide quick access of information. Where the barcode can only provide serial numbers, QR code takes it a step farther by delivering complex text or strings.

Accessing the information is simple: download a QR code scanner app for Android/iOS and “scan” the QR code using the camera on the device. The app should decrypt the data automatically and then typically brings up the app/browser for the corresponding data type. Test it out by scanning the QR code below on your tablet or phone and you will see that it brings up the app market for the AndroidSim Mobile App.

AndroidSim Mobile App QR Code

Android Game Review: Third Blade

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Sun, 04 Sep 2011 19:32:00 +0000

Com2us has finally ported over their popular hack n slash game, Third Blade, from iPhone/iPad. This is your typical side scroll slasher, where the enemies come in the dozens and where your goal is to spam attacks and skills to get to the next level. This game stays true to the proven methodology of hack n slash gameplay. If this style is your cup of tea, then know that this game pretty well executed for a free game(Apple App store sells it for $1.99). The animation is beautiful and the skills are plentiful. The customization on the other hand is a bit lackluster, as the character attributes are set in stone from stage to stage. You can only change the equipment and what skills to level up and where to place them on the hotkeys.

Android Honeycomb 3.2 SDK Released

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Sat, 03 Sep 2011 18:18:00 +0000

~Welcome to Android 3.2!~

The SDK for Android 3.2 Honeycomb, the latest platform for the Android tablet, was recently released. If you haven't already jumped on the Android development train, now is a good time to do it. The tablet app market is still in its infant stages, with only a handful of apps optimized for tablet use. Slowly, but surely, tablets will replace the common household laptop as the primary means to access the internet.

Use this opportunity to improve your chances of selling a popular Android app by entering in the market early. Selling Apps is undoubtedly one of the best passive income any individual or business can earn. Learn what it takes to make an app here then read the guide for SDK Installation.

How-To #37: Install Android On Virtual Machines

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 18:20:00 +0000

Installing Android on Virtual Machine has become a very straight forward process. This guide will use the recently released Android-x86 3.2 and Android-x86 2.3 Live CDs. They will be running on Virtual Box, a free software released by Oracle for virtualization.

For those of you new to Virtual Machines, what this software does is emulates a PC inside a PC. Confused? Think of it like inception, except for the PC. It does this by isolating a small chunk of your computer then uses that chunk to run another computer. What you do in the Virtual Machine can completely be isolated from the host machine.

Android 3.2 & 2.3 Live Installation Images Released

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 07:35:00 +0000

*update* - Android 4.0 x86 is out!

The Android x86 Project team has recently released Android 3.2 and Android 2.3 Live CDs to the public. The Live CD is a disc that contains a bootable/installer for the Android operating system for desktop or laptop computers. While not being able to achieve the full functionality of the Android, it does well to give the user a good demo of the Android without a dedicated mobile device, and without making changes to your machine. These demos to the Android 3.2 / 2.3 operating system are not for long term use.

How To Quickly Edit Tag IDs and Filename of Music Files

noreply@blogger.com (Tony Le) — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 23:19:00 +0000

Ever since switching to Google Music and The Google Music app for the Android, I have yet to touch the Music Player Application on the Android. By reaching the 2,000+ uploaded songs treshold, I soon realized that this music software also suffers the same crtical flaw as iTunes: they can only organize the songs by Tag ID, typically using the Album/Artist/Genre Tags.

Why is this such a big deal? Well, if you own a large song collection, you probably realized that not all mp3s and other song formats have Tag IDs imprinted in them when you downloaded/rip the song onto your computer. Thus, when the songs are uploaded into a music software, all you have for organization is a HUGE list of file, making it a very diffcult to navigate through the songs just to find the one you want to listen to.

Changing the Tag ID of each songs one by one can be such a tedious task.

So my solution? Since I have songs organized in folders on my PC by either date of purchase or by album name, all I had to do was use the folder name as a tag.