Everything Nabi!

Accessories - The First Wave

2012-12-18T12:44:00.000-05:00

Here's a peak to show parents a bit more detail regarding some of the accessories that can be purchased through the nabi Store and select retailers. This is just really the first wave of which will shortly become a tsunami of optional add-ons for the nabi Tablet line.

The quality of the products is as good as promised in this sampling. The only thing I had slight issues with was the zipper on the nabi Protective Case which was a bit hard to close because of the dips on the top edge. This didn't seem to be as bad when opening the zipper though.

Kinabi Interest Packs - Desserts, Sports, Animals & Letters (Alphabet)

nabi Protective Case - Exterior

nabi Protective Case with Original nabi Tablet

nabi Protective Case with nabi 2 Tablet

nabi Charger Kit - Packaging (Front)

nabi Charger Kit - Packaging (Back)

nabi Charger Kit - Packaging (Open Flap)

nabi Charger Kit - Carrying Case, 10ft USB Cable, Combination Car & Wall Charger

nabi Power Bank - Packaging

nabi Power Bank - USB Cable, Micro USB Cable & Battery Pack

nabi Power Bank - 1.0A & 2.5 Ouptut & Micro USB Input Ports

nabi Power Bank - Specifications

nabi Care Kit (2)& Armor Shield (1) - Packaging

nabi Care Kit (2) & Armor Shield (1)- Opened with Micro Fiber Cloth

nabi Backpack - Exterior (Front)

nabi Backpack - Exterior (Back)

nabi Backpack - Interior with nabi Protective Case stowed away

Once Upon a Time...

2012-10-23T13:04:00.000-04:00

A number of parents have asked if Scholastic's Storia app could be installed on the nabi 2 Tablet. It's currently only available through the Google Play Store, but since it is a free app and thanks to Fan-a-Tech Nikki, parents in the United States can now install Storia and begin enjoying the wide selection of books that Scholastic has to offer children ages 0-13+.

Here's Nikki's review. " This app is amazing! Picture the Kindle or Nook app just for kids! It has your typical Scholastic books, including Diary of a Whimpy Kid and Harry Potter! And the prices are great! This will also give credit to your classrooms so your teacher can still get their free books! You can also set up different bookshelves so each child can have a bookshelf filled with age appropriate books. Also any book that has a lightning bolt next to it means its an interactive! Like one of the books it comes with has a little game on one page that asks the reader to find 3 things that start with the letter "S"! My son loves it! You also get 5 free books that includes Goosebumps and Clifford! One of our new favorite apps! "

It is highly recommended that you register for a Scholastic account, prior to installing the app on the nabi 2 Tablet. Click on the Register link in the top right corner of the Scholastic homepage and enter the required information to create an account.

SCHOLASTIC STORIA APK
1. Power on the nabi 2 Tablet.
2. Log into Mommy/Daddy Mode.
3. Launch the Browser app.
4. Type everythingnabi into the address bar and hit the Enter key.
5. Click on the Everything Nabi! link.
6. Click on the Once Upon a Time... post and scroll down to Step 7.
7. Click this link to download Scholastic Storia v1.0. (Alternative Link)
8. When the download is complete, launch the apk installation.
9. When the installation is complete click on the Open button.

10. Sign into the app using the e-mail address and password you used when registering.

11. Dismiss the Download the Storia Dictionary pop-up window by clicking on the Download Later button.

12. Click on the Go Now button when the Set Up Your Bookshelves pop-up window displays.

13. Select the number of bookshelves you'd like to create, then click the Next button.

14. Enter the first name and birth month and year of each child being assigned a bookshelf, then click the Next button.

15. Assign the 5 free books that come with the app to the appropriate bookshelves or if they are not age appropriate, leave them Not Assigned. Click the Next button.
NOTE: A book can only be assigned to one bookshelf at a time.

16. Click the Close button to exit the Bookshelf setup process.

17. Click on the desired Bookshelf button.

18. To access the Bookshelf settings, click on the icon in the top left corner.

19. Click on the View option to choose a Bookshelf or Detailed look.

20. Click on the Sort option to sort by Author, Last Read, Newest and Title.

21. Click on the Wallpaper option to pick a different color scheme.

22. Click on one of the free books to begin downloading it to read.

23. The lightning icon indicates some sort of interactivity within the book.

This can include comprehension questions and videos.
24. Exit out of the bookshelf, by hitting the Back key.

25. Click on the Settings icon in the top right corner.

26. Click the Shop for eBooks button in order to access the Scholastic Storia store.

27. Shopping by Grades makes it easy to find books that are age appropriate.
28. Make your selection, check-out and your new eBooks will sync with the tablet after you hit the Sync Your Account button.

Happy Reading!

Amazing Free Apps for the Rest of the World!

2012-10-10T22:49:00.003-04:00

For those of you living outside of the United States, you have probably found it somewhat aggravating not being able to download the Amazon Free Apps of the Day that I'm constantly posting on my Facebook page. This post will provide you the information necessary to fool the Amazon Appstore, so that you to can grab those apps, as well as, any other free apps offered on the site. In order to utilize the Appstore, we are required to have a user account that has a registered US billing address and credit card number. Second, we need to be in the United States, in order to get the free apps. Seems kind of impossible, but once you've followed the few steps to create an account , you'll be able to easily download the Free App of the Day whenever it fits your child's interests.

If you have a valid US credit card, then proceed in setting up a real Amazon.com account and skip down to Step 22. The rest of you will need to proceed with the following steps.

NOTE: Amazon has recently setup App Shops in France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom. If you live in one of these countries, then you'll want to skip over to Step 5 of the the Installing & Configuring the Amazon Appstore post.

SETUP AN AMAZON ACCOUNT
1. On your computer, launch your preferred web-browser.
2. Navigate to www.fakenamegenerator.com.

3. Play with the Basic Settings, choosing your desired sex and nationality. Ensure that the Country option remains set to the United States. You can click the Advanced Options, if you'd like to control the Age Setting.
4. Click the Generate button, until you come across a name that you like. This is just randomly generated information and nothing corresponds to a real person. This information is generally used for testing computer applications, databases, etc.

5. Once you've found a name that you like, I'd highly recommend copying the information into a text document, so that you can refer to it in the future if need be.
6. Launch www.Amazon.com in a new tab in your web-browser.

7. Click on the Sign-In link.
8. Copy and Paste the e-mail address from Fake Name Generator into the appropriate field.
9. Check the No, I'm a new customer option.

10. Click the Sign in using our secure server button.
11. Fill out the required information using what was provided by Fake Name Generator.

12. Create a password at least 6 characters long that you will remember. I'd recommend appending this the the text document you created in Step 5 and saving it in a secure location on your computer.
13. Click the Create account button.
14. Click on the Your Account pull down and select Your Account.

15. Choose the Add a Credit or Debit Card link, under Payment Methods.
16. Complete the required fields using the information from the Fake Name Generator site. NOTE: If Amazon does not accept the address that you provide, you can fine tune it by using Google Maps, locating the town or zip code and choosing an address. As nothing can be billed or shipped using this account, it doesn't manner what it is, as long as it exists.

17. Click the Use this address button.

18. Click the Your Account link to return to the Account Options page.

19. Scroll down to the Account Settings heading and choose the 1-Click Settings link.
20. Enter your password again in order to proceed to the next page.

21. Click on the Turn 1-Click On button, to complete the account setup.

Amazon checks your IP address when you launch and login to their Amazon Appstore. For those of us not living in the United States this has meant an inability to purchase apps for our Android devices. So we need a way to get around this IP address check. This can be done using Proxies, VPN or DNS services which makes your device appear to be located in the US, allowing you to view and download US content. The best services generally come with a monthly or annual fee. This might be of interest to you if you'd like to view all of the video content that the nabi 2 Tablet links to, but if you're just looking for some free apps, it is a bit of overkill. Unblock Us is a VPN that I have been referred to as a good option, though be sure to take them up on their 7 Day trial before subscribing to ensure they can provide you with the service you are looking for.

DOWNLOADING APPS
22. Ensure that you have installed and configured the Amazon Appstore app, following the instructions outlined in my previous blog post, before proceeding.
23. In Mommy/Daddy Mode, launch the Browser app.
24. Navigate to www.browsertunnel.com, a free web proxy.

NOTE: Though I haven't seen any inappropriate advertising while using this site, I can't say for sure that you might not come across something that may offend you. A good site should tailor its ads to your viewing preferences though, so hopefully offending ads are few and far between.
25. Click the Favorite star to bookmark this site, for future use.

26. Type amazon.com into the address field and hit the Go button.

27. Dismiss any image processing messages that may pop up by clicking on the OK button.

28. Click on the Shop by Department drop down menu.
NOTE: When you do this Browser Tunnel will launch another tab with advertising, which can be ignored or closed.

29. Click on the Apps link located under the Appstore for Android heading.

30. If you are looking to pick-up the Free App of the Day, click on the Sign on to get this app button, if not then you can search for the app you are looking for and click on it.

31. Sign in using your Amazon.com account information.

32. Click the Sign in using our secure server button.
33. If prompted, choose the Remember option for your password.

34. Click the Get app button.

35. The app has now been added to your account.

36. Exit out of the Browser app.
37. Launch the Amazon Appstore.

38. Click the Menu soft key.

39. Choose the My Apps option.

40. Choose the Cloud option.
41. Click on the Refresh button.
42. Click on the Download button.

43. Click on the Install button.

44. Click on the Done button.

45. Back out of the Amazon Appstore by hitting the Back soft key.
46. Launch Add Apps.
47. Check the box beside the app you just installed in order to make it available in nabi Mode.

48. Back out of Add Apps by hitting the Back soft key.
49. Launch nabi Mode.

50. Click the All Apps icon in the top right corner.

51. Locate the newly added app and press down on it, in order to copy a link to it on one of the Home pages of your choice.

Remember to do your due diligence when choosing apps for your child to use. Read the reviews, check the permissions and if you decide to install the app, be sure to play it in nabi Mode, to ensure that it works properly and is appropriate for your child.

STEPS NEEDED THE NEXT TIME
1. In Mommy/Daddy Mode, launch the Browser app.
2. Navigate to www.browsertunnel.com, by accessing your Favorites.

TIP: Try typing Amazon into your Browser address bar, once you've gone through the process a few times. This should list a few Amazon links in the drop down list, while you are typing. This will allow you to gain quicker access. The Sign-In one is the best one to click on if it pops up.

3. Type amazon.com into the Address field and hit the Go button.
4. Click on the Shop by Department drop down menu.
5. Click on the Apps link located under the Appstore for Android heading.
6. Click on the Sign on to get this app button, to get the Free App of the Day.
7. Click the Sign in using our secure server button, if you saved your sign-in credentials, otherwise type them in again.
8. Click the Get app button.
9. Exit out of the Browser app.
10. Launch the Amazon Appstore.
11. Click the Menu soft key.
12. Choose the My Apps option.
13. Choose on the Cloud option.
14. Click on the Refresh button.
15. Click on the Download button.
16. Click on the Install button.
17. Click on the Done button.
18. Back out of the Amazon Appstore by hitting the Back soft key.
19. Launch Add Apps.
20. Check the box beside the app you just installed in order to make it available in nabi Mode.
21. Back out of Add Apps by hitting the Back soft key.
22. Launch nabi Mode.
23. Click the All Apps icon in the top right corner.
24. Locate the newly added app and press down on it, in order to copy a link to it on one of the Home pages of your choice.

How do I install Netflix on the nabi 2 Tablet?

2012-10-04T21:46:00.000-04:00

Here is the answer to the most Frequently Asked Question on the nabi Facebook page. Netflix does not come pre-installed on the nabi 2 Tablet, due to the hoops that the Netflix now requires manufacturers to go through in order to register their app. Kind of silly when we as parents can just get it for free using this method.

1. Install and configure the Amazon Appstore using the steps shown in this other blog post. Do not skip setting up the Parental Controls and In-app Purchases or you are guaranteed to someday have a huge surprise on your CC.

2. Launch the Amazon Appstore.

3. Click in the search field and type Netflix and then hit the Enter key.

4. Click on the Netflix result.

5.Click the Download button.to begin downloading the apk to the tablet.

6.Click the Install button.

7.Click the Open button to launch Netflix.

8. Login with your existing account or register for a new one.
9. Exit Netflix by hitting the Back soft key.
10. Exit the Amazon Appstore by hitting the Back soft key, if it is still running behind Netflix.

To make the newly installed app available for your child in nabi Mode, perform the following steps.

11. Click on the Add Apps app in Parent Mode.

12. Check the Netflix app to make available in nabi Mode.

13. Back out of Add Apps by hitting the Back soft key.

14. Click the nabi Mode app, to launch nabi Mode.

15. Click the All Apps icon, the six squares in the top right corner, to access the full list of available apps in nabi Mode.

16. Click and hold on the Netflix app to put it on the Home Screen and position it in an open space.

AirDroid is a Slamdunk!

2012-10-01T08:36:00.000-04:00

AirDroid is a great app that lets you quickly interface with your Android device using any computer or electronic device that has a web-browser, no matter what the OS. This provides probably the best alternative for sideloading apps onto the nabi 2 Tablet from another Android 4.0 device that has the Google Play Store installed on it. It also provides a way to copy files (music, pictures, videos, etc.) to and from the nabi 2 Tablet without having to connect it to computer.

Thanks to Fan-a-Tech Robyn for helping test this app and bettering my initial approach to utilizing it.

If your other Android device is running less that Android 4.0, then the Google Drive Method is what you'll need to use.

PREREQUISITE: ES FILE EXPLORER/FILE MANAGER
1. Power on your other Android device.
2. Launch Google Play Store.
3. Search for ES File Explorer File Manager.
4. Click the Install button.
5. Click the Accept & Download button.
6. Open ES File Explorer File Manager.
7. Click the Yes button to enable the application.

AIRDROID INSTALLATION
8. Power on the nabi 2 Tablet.
9. Login to Mommy/Daddy Mode.
10. Launch Browser.
11. Type everythingnabi into the address bar and hit the Enter key.
12. Click on the Everything Nabi! link.

13. Locate the AirDroid is a Slamdunk! post and click on the Read More link.

14. Click to download and install AirDroid v1.1.0.
NOTE: The Amazon Appstore does not currently have this latest version available to download.

15. Click on the Download link.

16. Click on the Completed Download link.

17. Click the Install button.

18. Click the Open button.
19. Click the Start button to begin or the Next button to see some of the app's highlighted features.

20. Click on the Settings icon in the top left corner to set a Predefined Passcode.

21. Turn the Predefined Passcode switch to On,
22. Enter a Passcode and click the OK button to accept it.
NOTE: While not shown, turning on the Keep Screen Awake is a good option to turn On.
23. Back out of the Settings menu.
NOTE: The Predefined Passcode only works if both devices are on the same local area network. Otherwise you'll need to use the random Passcode generated by AirDroid.

SIDELOADING APPS
24. Switch back to your other Android device.
25. Launch a web-browser. NOTE: The Chrome browser seems to provide the best results.

26. Go to either http://web.airdroid.com or http://192.168.0.???:8888.
NOTE: Be sure to bookmark this address for easy access in the future.
27. Type in either the passcode provided on the nabi 2 Tablet or the one you setup in Step 22.
28. Click the Go key on the keyboard to login.
NOTE: The interface is designed for browsing with a tablet or computer and not a smartphone. If you're using your smartphone it in landscape mode.

29. Click on the Apps icon.

30. Click on the blue Install App button.

31. Choose ES File Explorer from the Select an Action pop-up.

32. Choose the AppMgr option (2nd from the right).

33. Choose the app that you want to install on the nabi 2 Tablet.

34. Choose the File Way option from the Pick up file as pop-up.

35. Switch back to the nabi 2 Tablet and wait for the apk to be downloaded.

36. Click the Install button.

37. Click the Done button.
38. Repeat Steps 30-37 for as many apps that you want to install on the nabi 2 Tablet.
39. Back out of AirDroid by hitting the Back soft key.
40. Click the Yes button to exit AirDroid.

SIDELOADING APPS THE NEXT TIME
1. Power on the nabi 2 Tablet.
2. Login to Mommy/Daddy Mode.
3. Launch AirDroid.
4. Switch to your other Android device.
5. Launch a web-browser.
6. Access the bookmark you saved or go to either http://web.airdroid.com or http://192.168.0.???:8888.
7. Enter your passcode.
8. Click the Go key on the keyboard to login.
9. Click on the Apps icon.
10. Click on the blue Install Apps button.
11. Choose ES File Explorer from the Select an Action pop-up.
12. Choose the AppMgr option (second from the right).
13. Choose the app that you want to install on the nabi 2 Tablet.
14. Choose the File Way option from the Pick up file as pop-up.
15. Switch back to the nabi 2 Tablet and wait for the apk to be downloaded.
16. Click the Install button.
17. Click the Done button.
18. Repeat Steps 10-17 for as many apps that you want to install on the nabi 2 Tablet.

OTHER CAPABILITIES
AirDroid also a great option for uploading files onto or downloading files from the tablet. If you've experienced issues connecting the nabi 2 Tablet to your computer, than this is definitely the best option currently available.

AirDroid offers four options for viewing, uploading or downloading your files. You can choose Files, Music, Photos or Videos.

Drag and drop any file format to the location of your choosing

Listen to music off of the tablet while you upload other files from you computer.

Watch videos off of the the tablet by using QuickTime

Download pictures created on the tablet. Delete unwanted images.

Quickly see storage details of the tablet.

The listed supported formats under the media options indicates what file types can be viewed through AirDroid and is not a limitation of the nabi 2 Tablet. The Files options allows you to upload basically any file format you'd like into whatever location you'd like on the tablet.

UPDATED - Googlie Booglie!

2012-08-18T16:59:00.000-04:00

Want to watch a Youtube video? Looking to create a Google Document? Have to upload a file to your Google Drive account? Want to surf the web using the Chrome browser? Looking to read your favorite Magazine or Novel? Need to rent and download a Movie for a car trip? Want to sideload a licensed app from another Android device and have it work? If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, then you'll want to follow the steps outlined in this post.

NOTE: The Google Play Store app is included in this list but it only allows you to purchase Books, Magazines, Music and buy or rent Movies for streaming or download. It also permits in-app purchases and app license checks. It does not allow for the purchase, downloading or upgrading of Android apps.

NOTE: Google Play Movies & TV app will not currently stream or download movies, so it is currently not available for download on this page.

The required apks need to be installed in sequence, so please ensure that you follow the step-by-step instructions below on your nabi 2 Tablet and everything should run smoothly. Updates have been placed at the top of this post for easy access, once you've gone through the original process.

GOOGLE APP UPDATES:
The following is a list of updates that have come out since the initial blog posting. These updates only need to be done if if you went through the process of installing the required and optional apks previously. These updates have been integrated into the main steps below, so if you are going through the installation process for the first time, skip down to the Required Apks stage below. This list is updated whenever Google puts out updates for the apps listed below. Be sure to "Like" my Facebook page to be notified when new updates are posted.

REQUIRED UPDATES: Google Play Services v2.0.12, Google Play Store v3.10.10 and Gmail v4.2.1.

UPDATE December 20, 2012: The following apps have been updated to the latest version: Google + v3.3.1.40177215, Google Earth v7.0.2.841, Google Play Books v2.7.25, Maps v6.14.2.

UPDATE December 14, 2012: The following apps have been updated to the latest version: Chrome to Phone v2.3.2, Google+ v3.3.0.40049528, Google Calendar v201212060, Google Currents v2.0.0, Google Drive v1.1.470.15, Google Earth v7.0.2.8403, Google Play Magazines v1.2.0, Google Play Movies & TV v2.3.7, Google Search v1.4.1.278776 and YouTube v4.2.16.

UPDATE December 5, 2012: The following new app has been made available from the Google Play Store: Google Gesture Search v2.0.1. The following apps have been updated to the latest version: Google Play Services v2.0.10, Google Search v1.3.3247963, and Google Translate v2.5.3.

UPDATE December 1, 2012: The following apps have been updated to the latest version:
Chrome v18.0.1025469, and Google Drive v1.1.470.11.

November Updates: The following apps have been updated to the latest version: Blogger v2.0, Google Analytics v1.1.7, Google Calendar v201210220, Google Earth v7.0.1.8239, Google Music v4.4.811H.526848, Google Play Books v2.6.41, Google Play Magazines v1.1.2, Google+ v3.2.2.38469528, Google Translate v2.5.2, Maps v6.14.1 and YouTube v4.1.47.

October Updates: The following apps have been updated to the latest versions available from the Google Play Store: Chrome to Phone v2.3.1, Google Play Movies & TV v2.1.9, Street View v1.8.1.2, Voice Search v.2.14.

REQUIRED APKS:
1. Power on the nabi 2 Tablet.

2. Log into Mommy/Daddy Mode.

3. Launch the Browser app.

4. Type everythingnabi into the address bar and hit the Enter key.

5. Click on the Everything Nabi! link.

6. Click on the Googlie Booglie! post then scroll down to Step 7.

7. Click this link to download the Google Services Framework - Login system for Google Apps.

8. Click on the Download button.

9. Click on the Download link in the bottom right corner, once the download has completed.

10. Click the Install button.

11. Click the Done button.

12. Close the Browser tab for the file just downloaded.

13. Click to download and install the following apks in order. Follow steps 8-12 for each apk until all are installed.

Setup Wizard - Wizard to setup Gmail.
Google Account Manager - Google login system.
Google Talk - Google's instant messaging service. (Text only, no Video.)
UPDATED Gmail - Google's e-mail app.
Google Contacts Sync - Sync system for contacts.
Google Calendar Sync - Sync system for calendar.
Network Location - Provides location through towers instead of GPS.
My Uploads
UPDATED Google Play Services - Integrated Google Play Store with Google + and Google Accounts. To work correctly, some apps require Google Play Services to be installed and up to date.
UPDATED Google Play Store v3.10.10 - App, Book and Movie market.
NOTE: See Step 14 before installing.

14. After installing the Google Play Store apk, click the Open button.

15. Click the Existing or New buttons depending on if you have a Google Account or not. The following steps assume that you already have an account.

16. Sign in with your Google Account information.

17. Click the Sign In button.

18. Check or uncheck the Backup and Restore option.

19. Click the Next button.

20. Review the Google Play Terms of Service and click the Accept button.

21. Do not update or attempt to install any apps, as it will force close the Google Play Store. The apk file installed is not fully functional on the nabi 2 Tablet. It does however allow for the purchase of Books, Movies and Music. The following pop-up will appear if you attempt to update or purchase an app.

CAUTION: If you have a credit card assigned to your Google Play account, be sure to set a PIN for all purchases in the Google Play Store app. Launch Google Play in Parent Mode, click on the three dots in the top right corner and select Settings > User Controls. Set a PIN and check the Use Pin for Purchases option. This will guarantee no unexpected purchases showing up at the end of the month.

If you ever see this pop-up, you`ll need to perform a Force Close, and Clear Data on the Google Play Store app under Settings > Apps > Google Play Store.

22. Back out of the Google Play Store by hitting the Back soft key.

RECOMMENDED OPTIONAL APPS:

23. Follow steps 8-12 for each apk that you'd like to install.

Chrome - Google's web browser app.*
Google Calendar - Displays events from your Google account(s) that are linked to the device.
Google Drive - Google's free 5GB Cloud storage and Docs app.
UPDATED Google Earth - Virtual globe app.
Google Gesture Search - Search by drawing gestures.
Google Music - Music player with cloud storage and access to millions of songs.
Google Play Books - eBook reader with access to millions of books.
Google Play Magazines - Read your favorite magazines anywhere you go.
NOT WORKING Google Play Movies & TV - Video library with access to thousands of movies and television shows.
UPDATED Google + - Social networking and identity service.
Google Search - Search box widget.
UPDATED Maps - Web mapping service app.
Street View - Explorer the world at street level through Maps.
Voice Search - Search the web and your device with your voice.
YouTube - Video sharing and viewing app.

* NOTE: If you choose to install the Chrome an/or the Google Drive apks, the next apk you click on will launch the following pop-up menu. Check the default box at the bottom and choose the Browser option. Once this entire process is completed you can go to Settings > Apps > All > Browser > Clear Defaults.

OTHER OPTIONAL APPS:

24. Follow steps 8-12 for each apk that you'd like to install.

Androidify - App that allows you to customize and share the Android.
Blogger - Blog publishing app.
Chrome to Phone - App that allows links and other information to be moved between Chrome browser on a computer to an Android device.
Google Analytics - App that displays detailed statistical analysis of your websites.
Google Body - 3D human anatomy. NOTE: With the closure of Google Labs this app is no longer available on Google Play Store. It however has been expanded online via Zygote Body.
Google Currents - A social magazine app.
Google Finance - Stock quote and financial portfolio app.
Google Reader - Atom and RSS feed reader. An excellent app to help stay up to date with Everything Nabi! blog.
Google Translate - Translate words and phrases between more than 64 languages.
NEW TalkBack - provides spoken feedback for vision-impaired users. (Parent Mode only!)

25. Back out of the Browser by hitting the Back soft key.

26.Click on the clock in the bottom right corner.

27. Click on the Settings icon in the bottom right corner.

28. Launch Settings.

29. Scroll down and select Accounts & Sync.

30. Click on the newly added account.

31. Check all boxes beside the apps that you'd like to sync.

32. Back out of Settings by hitting the Back soft key.

33. Launch and accept all terms for each of the apps that you've installed.

NOTE: If Google Earth has been installed, then the tablet needs to be restarted in order for it to work the first time.

34. Click on the Downloads icon and delete all of the downloaded apks, as their file names are coded and not of much use. If you`d like to have a copy of all of the apk files you can download them here.

UPDATED - Backing Up with Google Drive!

2012-08-15T23:55:00.000-04:00

If you have apps on another Android device (Android 2.3 or lower) that you've purchased from Google Play, you can easily back them up and enjoy them now. This method makes use of the Cloud rather than a Micro SD Card for transferring the apks between your Android device with Google Play Store and the nabi 2 Tablet. If you have an Android device that uses Android 3.2 or higher, then the AirDroid method should work for you.

NOTE: If you purchased and/or installed apps through the nabi App Zone or Amazon Appstore, reinstall them on the nabi 2 Tablet through these markets. This will ensure that if the developer releases an update with enhancements or fixes, that you can take advantage and quickly update your existing apps.

App Backup:
Prerequisites: Android Market /Google Play Store)
1. Power on the device.
2. Launch the Android Market / Google Play Store app.
4. Click the Menu button.
5. Select the My Apps option.
6. Update any apps that are located under the Update section.
7. Click to activate the Search bar, once all apps are updated.
8. Type in "ES File Explorer".
9. Select ES File Explorer.

10. Click the Install button.
11. Click the Accept & Download button.
12. Click the Done button.
13. Click to activate the Search bar.
14. Type in "Google Drive".
15. Select Google Drive.

16. Click the Install button.
17. Click the Accept & Download button.

18. Click the Open button.

19. Click the Accept button..

20. Click the OK button.

21. Click the My Drive option.
22. Select the Menu key on the device.

23. Pick the Upload option.

24. Choose the ES File Explorer option.

25. Click on the AppMgr tab.

26. Choose first app you'd like to upload.

27. Click on the File Way option.
28. Repeat Steps 22-27 until all of the desired apps are uploaded.
29. Back out of Google Drive.

App Installation:
nabi 2 Tablet Prerequisites: Ensure all Required Apks and Google Drive are installed on the tablet following the instructions in the Googlie Booglie post.
30. Power on the nabi 2 Tablet.
31. Log into Mommy/Daddy Mode.
32. Launch the Google Drive app.

33. Click the Accept button.

34. Click the OK button.
35. Click the My Drive option.

36. Click on an apk file to install.
37. Click the Install button.
38. Click the Done button.
39. Repeat this process until all of the apps are installed.
40. Back out of Google Drive by hitting the Back soft key.

NOTE: Some of the apks that you've backed up may not install on the nabi 2 Tablet, as they are not compatible with the Android 4.0.4 (Ice Cream Sandwich) OS. Others will install but may not actually allow you to play them.

Adding Apps to nabi Mode:
To make the newly installed apps available for your child in nabi Mode, perform the following steps.

41. Click on the Add Apps app in Parent Mode.
42. Check the apps that you'd like to make available in nabi Mode.

43. Uncheck the apps that you'd like to remove from nabi Mode.
44. Back out of Add Apps by hitting the Back soft key.
45. Click the nabi Mode app, to launch nabi Mode.

46. Click the All Apps icon, the six squares in the top right corner, to access the full list of available apps in nabi Mode.

47. Click and hold on the app that you'd like to put on the Home Screen and position it in an open space.

Wanting to Play!

2012-08-12T22:57:00.000-04:00

All of us are, except for Fan-a-Tech Eric who is officially Playing! Now Eric is tasked with coming up with an installation methodology for us laymen. While we wait, there are still a number of good alternative markets that can be used including the nabi App Zone, the Amazon Appstore, 1Mobile Market, AppBrain, Appolicious, AndroidPit, AndroidZoom, and GetJar .

If you have apps on your original nabi Tablet or other Android device that you've purchased from Google Play, you can easily back them up and enjoy them now. Fan-a-Tech Aleasha created a YouTube video that takes you through the basic steps in doing this. As some parents have struggled through this, I thought I'd provide some step-by-step instructions.

NOTE: If you purchased and/or installed apps through the nabi App Zone or Amazon Appstore, reinstall them on the nabi 2 Tablet through these markets. This will ensure that if the developer releases an update with fixes or enhancements, that you can take advantage and quickly update your existing apps.

App Backup:
nabi Tablet Prerequisites: Android Market and Micro SD Card
1. Insert your Micro SD Card into the nabi Tablet, prior to powering it on.
2. Power on the tablet.
3. Log into Mommy Mode.
4. Click the Menu button.
5. Click the Settings option.
6. Scroll down and select SD Card & Device Storage.
7. Click on the External storage choice option.
8. Ensure that Use SD Card is selected.
9. Back out of Settings, using the Back key, until you've returned to the Home Screen
10. Launch the Android Market app.
11. Click the Menu button.
12. Select the My Apps option.
13. Update any apps that are located under the Update section.
14. Click to activate the Search bar, once all apps are updated.
15. Type in "Backup".
16. Select App Backup & Restore by InfoLife LLC.
17. Click the Install button.
18. Click the Accept & Download button.
19. Click the Open button.
20. Click the Menu button in the right corner.
21. Select the Settings option.
22. Ensure that it reads /mnt/sdcard/App_Backup_Restore.
23. Back out of the Setting menu by hitting the Back key.
24. Go through and check the apps that you want to backup.
25. Click the Backup Selected Apps button. This will take some time, depending on the number of apps that have been checked.
26. Click on the Archived tab at the top to ensure that everything that you wanted has been backed up.
27. Back out of App Backup & Restore.
28. Power down the tablet.
29. Remove the Micro SD Card.

App Restore:
nabi 2 Tablet Prerequisites: Amazon Appstore, ES File Explorer and Micro SD Card
30. Insert the Micro SD Card.
31. Power on the nabi 2 Tablet.
32. Log into Mommy/Daddy Mode.
33. Visit the Installing & Configuring Amazon Appstore blog post, if you still require this prerequisite.
34. Search for and install ES File Explorer from the Amazon Appstore, if not already installed.
35. Launch ES File Explorer.
36. Click on the Favorites option in the top left corner.
37. Click on the /mnt/sdcard2/ to access the contents on the Micro SD Card.
38. Click on the App_Backup _Restore folder.
39. Click on the first app that you'd like to install.
40. Click on the Install button.
41. Click on the Done button.
42. Repeat this process until all of the apps are installed.
43. When done hit the Back soft key until you exit ES File Manager.

NOTE: Some of the apks that you've backed up may not install on the nabi 2 Tablet, as they are not compatible with the Android 4.04 (Ice Cream Sandwich) OS. Others will install but may not actually allow you to play them.

Fan-a-Tech Aleasha's YouTube Video

Adding Apps to nabi Mode:

To make the newly installed apps available for your child in nabi Mode, perform the following steps.

44. Click on the Add Apps app in Parent Mode.

45. Check the apps that you'd like to make available in nabi Mode.

46. Uncheck the apps that you'd like to remove from nabi Mode.

47. Back out of Add Apps by hitting the Back soft key.

48. Click the nabi Mode app, to launch nabi Mode.

49. Click the All Apps icon, the six squares in the top right corner, to access the full list of available apps in nabi Mode.

50. Click and hold on the app that you'd like to put on the Home Screen and position it in an open space.

Installing & Configuring the Amazon Appstore! (nabi 2 Tablet)

2012-08-08T15:03:00.001-04:00

Here are the step-by-step instructions on how to install and configure the Amazon Appstore app on your nabi 2 Tablet. For those of you wanting to access the Amazon.com Appstore, please begin with Step 1. If you live in France, Germany, Italy, Spain or the United Kingdom, skip down to Step 5, in order to download the appropriate app for your region. If you live outside of the US or one of the countries listed above, you'll want to check out the Amazing Free Apps for the Rest of the World post, before proceeding.

DO NOT SKIP SETTING THE PARENTAL &
IN-APP PURCHASE CONTROLS.

NOTE: To ensure an error free process, be sure you are using the Browser app and not the Maxthon Mobile Browser, as your default internet browser.

Also if you are already using the Amazon Appstore on another Android device or have an Amazon.com account for product purchases, be sure to log in with same account. This will allow you to install compatible apps that you've already paid for and prevent the need to manage multiple accounts.

Finally be sure to take advantage of Amazon's Free App of the Day, everyday! If the free app is kid-friendly, I list them on the Fan-a-Tech Scott & nabi Tablet Facebook pages.

Installing the Amazon Appstore (US & Canada):

1. Login to Mommy/Daddy Mode.
2. Click on the Fan-a-Tech app.

3. Click on the Get the Amazon Appstore link.NOTE: If the Fan-a-Tech link is not working, launch the Browser app and type Amazon Appstore apk in the address bar, then hit ENTER.

4. Click on Download Now and skip down to Step 8.

Installing the Amazon App Shop (France, Germany, Italy & Spain & United Kingdom):

5. Login to Mommy/Daddy Mode.
6. Launch the Browser app.
7. Type everythingnabi into the address bar and hit the Enter key.
5. Click on the Everything Nabi! link.
6. Click on the Installing & Configuring the Amazon Appstore! (nabi 2 Tablet) link, shown on the right of the blog, under Popular Posts and scroll down to Step 7.
7. Click on the appropriate Amazon App Shop link for the region you live in to begin downloading. Amazon.fr App Shop (France), Amazon.de App Shop (Germany), Amazon.it App Shop (Italy), Amazon.es App Shop (Spain), Amazon.co.uk Appstore (United Kingdom).

Installing continued...
8. Click on the Download Arrow in the bottom right corner.

9. Click on the Amazon_Appstore-release.apk - Download Complete.

10. Click on the Install option at the bottom.

11. Click the Open option at the bottom, when the installation has completed.

12. Enter the your e-mail address and password, if you have an existing Amazon.com account. If you don't have an account, please skip down to Steps 42 - 44.

13. Click the Sign-In button.

Setting Parental Controls:

The first thing you'll want to enable after successfully logging in to the store, are the Parental Controls, to ensure that In-App Purchases are disabled.

14. Click the Menu soft key.

15. Click the Settings option.

16. Click on Parental Controls.

17. Check the Enable Parental Controls option, to require your Amazon.com password or PIN in order to purchase in-app items.

18. Enter your Amazon.com password and hit the Continue button.

19. Check the Use PIN, if you'd prefer to use a four digit PIN number instead of your Amazon.com password, when making an in-app purchase.

20. Click on Change/Reset PIN.

21. Enter your PIN and confirm.

22. Click the OK button to close the notification that your PIN has been setup.

23. Click the Back soft key to back out of Parental Controls.

24. Click on In-App Purchasing.

25. Uncheck Allow In-App Purchases.

26. Enter your Amazon.com password and hit the Continue button.

27. Back out of Settings by hitting the Back soft key.

Installing Apps:

If you've purchased apps from Amazon.com in the past, these can be easily accessed and reinstalled on the nabi 2 Tablet.

28. Click on the Menu soft key.

29. Click on the My Apps option.

30. Select the app you want and click the Install button beside it.

31. Click the Install option once it has downloaded.

32. Click the Done option once the app has installed.

33. Continue install apps, as required.
34. Back out of the Amazon Appstore by hitting the Back soft key.

Adding Apps to nabi Mode:

To make the newly installed apps available for your child in nabi Mode, perform the following steps.

35. Click on the Add Apps app in Parent Mode.
36. Check the apps that you'd like to make available in nabi Mode.

37. Uncheck the apps that you'd like to remove from nabi Mode.
38. Back out of Add Apps by hitting the Back soft key.
39. Click the nabi Mode app, to launch nabi Mode.

40. Click the All Apps icon, the six squares in the top right corner, to access the full list of available apps in nabi Mode.

41. Click and hold on the app that you'd like to put on the Home Screen and position it in an open space.

Creating an Amazon.com Account:

42. If you do not have an existing account, rotate the nabi 2 Tablet so that it is in portrait mode.

43. Click on the Create an Account button.

44. Walk through the process of setting up you account by adding your e-mail address, creating a password, adding a Credit Card or Gift Card for app purchases. Once completed, back out of the Browser app and return to Step 12.

For those of you who prefer to follow a video, here's the offical nabi Tips & Tricks YouTube Video, which came out on October 4, 2012.

Post-Launch Nabi 2 Tablet FAQs

2012-08-07T14:43:00.009-04:00

Q: When and Where can I purchase the nabi 2 Tablet?

A: The tablet is currently available online at Amazon.com, Bestbuy.com, Gamestop.com, nabi Shop, RadioShack.com, Target.com and Walmart.com. It is also available in many Best Buy and Walmart store locations in the United States.
In Canada, the nabi 2 Tablet is available online at Amazon.ca, Bestbuy.ca, Futureshop.ca, TheSource.ca, and Walmart.ca.There will be further availability at retailers in Europe (France, Germany, Ireland, Italy,Scotland and the United Kingdom) and Asia (China, Hong Kong, Japan and Taiwan) by the end of the year. Argos.co.uk, Powercity.ie, SmythsToys.com, Tesco.com are British and Irish retailers that have the tablet on sale before the end of October.

Q: Where can I buy accessories?

A: A collection of colored bumpers, kinabi puzzle pieces, screen protectors are currently available online through the nabi Shop. A car charger kit with extra long USB cable, headphones, cases, backpack and more will be available before Christmas.

Q: How do you choose Mommy or Daddy mode?

A: During the Sign up process, the “Create a nabi™ ID” page has an option to select Mom or Dad, which dictates Mommy Mode or Daddy Mode. Be sure to make this selection prior to clicking the Already have a nabi ID Sign In link.

Q: How do you turn off keyboard clicks?

A: When you bring up the keyboard, tapping the bottom right key (advanced settings) will pop-up the Input options screen. There you can choose to go into the keyboard settings.

Q:Are there still issues with the Monarch OS or have they been fixed?

A: The first OTA (Over-the-Air) update 1.9.16 was released on August 6, 2012. This update included the following enhancements, additions and fixes:

Improved stability of the Monarch OS.
Smoother video streaming with an update to the Adobe Flash Player.
2.5 second hold on cold boot power-ups, from the previous 10 second hold.
nabi MD self-diagnostic app for easy troubleshooting.
Sprinkle game app provided as a free addition.
Wi-Fi connectivity and hibernation crash fixed.
Unauthorized access to Mommy/Daddy Mode from nabi Mode fixed.
Music playback stability while in Sleep mode fixed.

Be sure to install this update by following the video and step-by-step instructions provided by the link at the beginning of this answer.

Q: How do you download previously purchased apps from App Zone?

A: In Mommy/Daddy mode, go to App Zone. Scroll to bottom. Click on Downloads. Select the All tab and click to download any apps that were previously purchased.
NOTE: You will need to sign in to the App Zone using your existing account information.

Q: How do you get to Settings in Mommy/Daddy mode?

A: Click on the clock in the lower right corner. Click on the image of the sliding levers in the bottom right to open Settings.

Q: How do you take a screen capture?

A: Hold down and hold the Power Button, then press down and hold the Vol - Button. You'll hear a click and see the screen capture. The file is stored under \sdCard\Pictures\Screen Captures\...

Q: How do I get video chat to work on Skype?

A: First, make sure you have enabled video chat in settings by clicking on the three boxes in the top right of the Skype screen and choose settings. Scroll down and make sure enable video chat is checked. Then, make sure the person calling and the person answering select video call, not regular phone call (on the nabi, answer with the green video button, not the green phone button).

Q: How much of the listed 8GB of storage is actually available?
A: The total available storage on the nabi 2 Tablet is 4.49GB. The tablet does start with 8GB of storage, but 1GB is used for the Android OS, another 1.5GB is used for Factory Reset data and finally 990MB is used for all of the pre-loaded apps, music and video files. This is pretty much in-line with the Google Nexus 7 which comes with 5.9GB of total available space, but does not include all of the pre-loaded content.

Q: Do you have to subscribe to Fooz Kids University now? I thought it was FREE!
A: Fooz Kids University on the nabi is still FREE. Yes, it pops up with a 30-Day Trial message when first launched, but Fuhu is keeping it FREE until more content is added. The Fooz Kids Math content that is and was free on the original nabi Tablet, will always be FREE. The N-SITE, online reports service, that were previously charged for will continue to be a charged service. With the nabi 2 Tablet, Fuhu has added more content across different subject areas, including Science, English, and Social Studies. Although the pop-up says a 30-Day Trial, no one has been charged, and the 30 days is not set to expire anytime in the near future. Will you be charged for it eventually? That depends on how much more content is added and whether Fuhu believes it is worthy of a subscription...but as of right now it's FREE.

Q: What is the manufacturer`s warranty for the nabi 2 Tablet?
A: Warranty: Fuhu warrants product for the period of one (1) year from the date of original retail purchase. If you discover a defect covered by this warranty, we will repair or replace the product at our option using new or refurbished components with reasonable time during the warranty period. Shipping cost, insurance or transportation charges from you to Fuhu or any import fees duties and taxes will not be covered.

Exclusions and Limitations: This warranty does not cover defects resulting from improper or unreasonable use or maintenance, failure to follow operating instructions, accidents, excess moisture, insects, lightning, power surges, connections to improper voltage supply, unauthorized alteration or modification of original condition.

Q: Where is Google Play? How do I install it?
A. Google's Support Site: The Android operating system is open source, which means that any device manufacturer is free to use Android on its devices. However, Google Play is an application that is only made available to devices that pass Google’s compatibility requirements. In addition, manufacturers must obtain a license from Google in order to install the Google Play Store app on their devices.

If you don’t have the Google Play Store app, and your device is not listed here, that means your device is not supported for use with Google Play at this time.

Fuhu has been working hard with Google to become certified so that the Google Play Store can be installed through a future OTA update.

In the meantime, this my blog provides a number of options for sideloading apps from another Google certified Android device that you may own. Check-out AirDroid is a Slamdunk! and Backing up with Google Drive!

Alternatively, there is a way to root the nabi 2 Tablet and install Google Apps including the Google Play Store. *** Rooting voids your manufacturer's warranty. *** It is not recommended, unless you are familiar with doing it on other Android devices. Remember you are playing with your child's tablet, not your own. If you are interested, this post on XDA Developers will guide you through the process.

Tegra Zone in the House!

2012-08-06T17:12:00.003-04:00

DISCLAIMER: Everyone should want to maintain a healthy market that rewards and encourages developers to continuously upgrade and create new games and apps. Please be sure to download and purchase apps from the nabi App Zone, Google Play Store and the Amazon AppStore when they are shown to be compatible with the nabi Tablet.

With the Google Play app still not available on the nabi 2 Tablet, some parents have asked why there aren't many games that take advantage of the Nvidia Tegra 3 chipset in the nabi App Zone. The main reason is likely that most Tegra Zone games are not rated for kids.

Luckily I have access to a Tegra 2 tablet with Google Play! Below I've made available a few of the free apps that do not require access to Google Play to complete the installation process. This will allow parents and older siblings the opportunity to test out the real power of the nabi 2 Tablet, so that you're ready to purchase the full apps, once Google Play is finally available.

Viewing this blog post on your nabi 2 Tablet, will allow you to quickly download and install any or all of these apps, by simply clicking on the download links. If you type "everythingnabi" in the Browser address bar and hit Enter, you'll find several links that can get you to Everything Nabi!

Click on the link below the wallpaper to download the chosen app. If you'd like to read more details about the game, including permissions and user reviews, click on the following links which will direct you to Google Play for Auralux, Galaxy on Fire 2 THD, Guerrilla Bob THD Lite, Soulcraft THD, Vendetta Online, and Zen Pinball THD.

Auralux by War Drum Studios

Galaxy on Fire 2 by FISHLABS Entertainment GmbH

Guerrilla Bob THD Lite by Angry Mob Games

Soulcraft THD - Action RGP by MobileBits GmbH

Vendetta Online by Guild Software Inc
.

Zen Pinball THD by Zen Studios

Hey is that a Firefly?

2012-08-03T17:23:00.002-04:00

No, it's the slightly redesigned nabi 2 Bumper - Glow-in-the-Dark edition!

I've been allowed to officially post these photos with the condition that no VIP members go back to the Facebook page and ask when they'll be getting theirs. If anyone does that, then shipping will be delayed one day per comment! Just kidding! Well maybe not! I can tell you that if you are a VIP Plan member in good standing, that your Glow-in-the-Dark bumper is on it's way, a couple of people have already received theirs today.

Anyway on with the show.

As you'll see in the first picture, there are will be six new colors to choose from when they hit store shelves later this month.

The bumper has been slightly redesigned with improved power and volume buttons that make it easier to push down on the underlying tablet buttons. The food-grade silicone seems slightly smoother to the touch, though I'm not sure if there has been a minor material change or if it's just because it's new. The nabi logo on the top edge has been replaced with a nameplate holder which will allow your child to customize the tablet with their name using stickers. It is slightly longer, wider and thicker, with the four corners being beefed up.

For those of you privileged to be receiving the Glow-in-the Dark edition, the photo at the bottom truly does not do it any justice. You just can't use a flash when taking a photo of something glowing. My son's bedroom is covered with Toy Story and Buzz Lightyear wall decals that glow and this fit right in.

The only minor downside to the redesign is that it peels off the tablet a lot easier than the original red one does. I really liked how the original really seems to lock on. Again, I'm not sure if this was designed this way with intent or a small oversight, but the recesses for the red nubs appear to be slight shallower now, not allowing the nubs to grab and hold on to the bumper. It may also just be that the added thickness to the ends provides a bit more leverage for peeling it away. This doesn't detract from anything, just an observation.

Cheers!
Fan-a-Tech Scott

Check out all the colors to be available soon!

Redesigned Power & Volume Buttons

Original & Redesigned Bumpers

Slightly Longer, Wider and Taller

Taller Arch, Thicker Ends and the Nameplate Holder

It's Glowing! You'll just have to trust me on this!

Fan-a-Tech Aleasha's kids testing out their new favorite nabi accessory.

nabi kinabi pieces, nameplates and stickers

Letting the Monarch out of the Jar!

2012-08-01T09:17:00.002-04:00

Fuhu, Inc. finally announced to the world the launch of the nabi 2 Tablet on June 20, 2012, with a number of posts on their website and a number of technical reviews.

In a surprise announcement on their Facebook page, Walmart, Best Buy and the Gamestop started online sales July 15th, some 9 days before the tablet would be offered in their brick and mortar stores. Amazon and Target also followed suit with online sales beginning on July 22nd.

Late August should see sales beginning at Future Shop and Best Buy in Canada, as well as, Argos and Tesco in the UK.

There will be further availability at other retailers in Europe (France, Germany, Ireland, Italy and Scotland) and Asia (China, Hong Kong, Japan and Taiwan) by the end of the year.

Facebook Page Official Announcement

Make sure to Subscribe to the Official nabi Tablet YouTube Channel including the nabi 2 Versus Videos

Monarch 2.0 OS

Madagascar 3 : Alex the Lion Character Pack Concept Art

What's that grid on the back for?

nabi 2 Tablet's Pre-packaged Content

Fooz Kids University & N-SITE

Spinlets+ Music App & Service

nabi Cloud - Coming Soon!

nabi Sync - Coming Soon!

Pre-Launch Nabi 2 Tablet FAQs

2012-07-15T09:37:00.001-04:00

Here is a great list of recent Frequently Asked Questions related to the launch of the nabi 2 Tablet., put together and answered by fellow Fan-a-Tech Levi Wallach.

Q: When and Where can I purchase the nabi 2 Tablet?

A: The tablet is currently available online at Amazon.com, Bestbuy.com, Gamestop.com, Target.com and Walmart.com. It is also available in many Best Buy and Walmart store locations, with number of stores carrying it increasing every week.

The nabi 2 Tablet is scheduled to also be released in Canada at Future Shop and Best Buy Canada in late August, as well as, Argos and Tesco in the UK. There will be further availability at retailers in Europe (France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, and Scotland) and Asia (China, Hong Kong, Japan and Taiwan) by the end of the year.

UPDATE August 24, 2012 - Future Shop and Best Buy in Canada, along with Argos and Tesco in the UK have been provided the nabi 2 Tablets for sale. These retailers just haven't rolled the product out to their stores or made them available on their web-sites yet. Fuhu was told that they would be out by the end of August, but unfortunately has no control over the situation, other than ensuring that the retailers have the inventory they've ordered. This is the same type of scenario that played out in the US with the Walmart launch, which was delayed by Walmart for about a month. There is still a week left, but the beginning of sales may unfortunately drag out into September.

Q: When will Toys R Us have the Nabi 2?
A: Toys 'R Us, the exclusive retailer for the original nabi Tablet, will no longer be carrying any nabi related merchandise including the nabi 2 Tablet.

Q: How much with the nabi 2 Tablet cost?
A: The suggested retail price is $199US.

Q: Will I be able to buy the nabi 2 Tablet or will it be extremely hard to get after the first day or two? WIll I need to camp out overnight at my local Walmart?
A: Fuhu has partnered with many large retail chains and committed to producing very large numbers of nabi 2 Tablets for them from now until Christmas. You should have any problems whatsoever.

Q: What is all this VIP stuff and upgrades all about?
A: Fuhu went above and beyond to offer a special plan to their early adopters of their original Nabi tablet. The offer was promoted heavily here on Facebook for three months until the deadline was reached on May 31st. There is no organized upgrade program outside of those who signed up for them before that date.

Q: Where can I buy accessories?

A: A collection of colored bumpers, kinabi puzzle pieces, screen protectors and other accessories will be offered for the nabi 2 online ONLY on the nabi Tablet web-site first and then all retail partner web-sites after that. Accessories will not be sold in store until October and only then at a select few.

Q: Will the nabi Tablet bumpers fit the nabi 2 Tablet?
A: No. There have been some major design changes made to the new tablet, such as it being slightly larger in size; it now has stereo speakers; some of the port locations have been revised; and the back grid has been added.

Q: What is the nabi XD Tablet and how is it different from the nabi 2 Tablet?
A: The nabi XD Tablet is the next device tablet that will be coming out sometime near the end of the year or early in 2013. The differences between the two tablets will be:
1. Size: 9.7-11.6" for the XD vs. 7" for the nabi 2.
2. Target Market - Tweens and teens for the XD vs. 3-9 years old for the nabi 2.
3. Parental Controls - Fewer controls and social media for the XD vs. nabi Mode and Maxthon Kid-Safe Browser.
4. Cameas - Front and Back Facing cameras for the XD vs. Front Facing camera only, with accessory camera in development for nabi 2.5. OS - Possibly a different interface for the XD vs Monarch 2.0 interface for the nabi 2.
6. Fooz Kids University - Grade 6 and up for the XD vs. Kindergarten to Grade 5 on the nabi 2.
7. Price - $249-299 for the XD vs. $199 for the nabi 2.
Also note that the XD is still in the planning stages and so some or all of the items listed above could change slightly - this is the same reason why more details haven't been revealed yet.

Q: Should I buy the nabi 2 now or wait for the XD?
A: The answer is of course "it depends." Some items that might help determine this are: How old is your child? Is your child more advanced or have learning delays, etc.? Do you need the tablet as a present for a date in the future (the holidays for example) or as soon as possible?

Q:What kind of camera does the nabi 2 have?

A: The nabi 2 comes with a 2.1 Megapixel front-facing camera for use in Skyping, self-portraits, etc.  It doesn't have a back-facing camera. This was done because Fuhu wanted to provide an excellent camera for the back in order to work with an "Augmented Reality" game that they are introducing (called "Battle Kinabi's"), which requires a specialized high resolution camera.  To add this to the Nabi 2 would have required a significant price increase, which would have moved it out of the current sub-$200 market.  Instead they are planing on coming out with a separate camera that can be mountable to the tablet, put on a tripod or put in a camera housing. Their goal is to sell it at cost in order to make it as affordable as possible, and to introduce it in the Fall.  However, due to the fact that it is still in the planning stages, there are no hard and fast dates, specifications, etc.

Q: WIll the nabi 2 be able to download apps from Amazon's App Store or Google Play?
A: While it doesn't come pre-installed, the Amazon Appstore can be loaded on the nabi 2 Tablet. Google Play is not officially supported, however, customers were able to get the Google Play store on the original Nabi by "sideloading" a version of it that they downloaded manually - a relatively easy process. There is every expectation that a similar workaround will surface for the Nabi 2. Fuhu has also redesigned and loaded their App Zone, so there will be no shortage of apps available.

Q: I heard there are still some bugs on the nabi 2 Tablet, should I wait until the bugs are fixed before buying one?
A: The Fan-a-Techs have been busy testing various updates and Fuhu has fixed most if not all of the issues that have popped up. They will be putting out an OTA (Over-the-Air) update to the nabi 2's firmware as soon as everything is tested and working to expectations. If you buy a nabi 2 Tablet now you may have a tablet that has some of these issues for a week or two, until the first OTA update is pushed out. Please know that these issues are mostly relatively minor ones, such as occasional wifi connectivity issues.

UPDATE August 6, 2012 - The first OTA Update has been released which includes the following enhancements, additions and fixes.

Improved stability of the Monarch OS.
Smoother video streaming with an update to the Adobe Flash Player.
2.5 second hold on cold boot power-ups, from the previous 10 second hold.
nabi MD self-diagnostic app for easy troubleshooting.
Sprinkle game app provided as a free addition.
Wi-Fi connectivity and hibernation crash fixed.
Unauthorized access to Mommy/Daddy Mode from nabi Mode fixed.
Music playback stability while in Sleep mode fixed.

Q: How much of the listed 8GB of storage is actually available?
A: The total available storage on the nabi 2 Tablet is 4.49GB. The tablet does start with 8GB of storage, but 1GB is used for the Android OS, another 1.5GB is used for Factory Reset data and finally 990MB is used for all of the pre-loaded apps, music and video files. This is pretty much in-line with the Google Nexus 7 which comes with 5.9GB of total available space, but does not include all of the pre-loaded content.

Inspired!

2012-07-13T14:45:00.000-04:00

With Fuhu Inc. announcing their Inspire Special Needs Program to support research and generate awareness for autism, I thought I'd share some existing communication and visual scheduling apps that you and your child can trial and purchase today for the nabi Tablets.

I've compiled a sampling of what is available, based on app reviews, developer sites and what I perceived to be quality apps. In the near future, I'll be expanding the list to include Emotion and Social Behavior apps, among others.

If you have any apps that your child loves to use and would recommend to other parents, please be sure to comment below.

AAC Apps

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) includes all forms of communication, other than oral speech, that are used to express thoughts, needs, wants, and ideas. We all use AAC when we make facial expressions or gestures, use symbols or pictures, or write.1

Alexicon AAC for Android (Free Trial)

nabi Tablet compatible and available through Google Play.

This app is free to download and trial with 32 demo pages. If you decide to expand to the full implementation it will costs $34/month for one user/year. This service is not device dependent, so you could access it on your computer, laptop, smartphone, etc.

Gabby Tabs - AAC for Kids (Free Trial / $9.99)

nabi 2 Tablet compatible and available through the Amazon Appstore & Google Play.
An evaluation version is also available through the Amazon Appstore & Google Play.

JABtalk (Free)
nabi & nabi 2 Tablets compatible and available through the Amazon Appstore & Google Play.

Quick Talk AAC ($14.99)
nabi & nabi 2 Tablets compatible and available through the Amazon Appstore & Google Play.

Tap to Talk (Free Trial)

nabi & nabi 2 Tablets compatible and available through the Amazon Appstore & Google Play.

This app is free to download and trial with a sample album. If it is the right fit for you and your child, then you'll want to customize your albums with the Tap to Talk Designer which is $99.95/year subscription or a one-time purchase of $179.95. This service is not device dependent, so you could access it on your computer, laptop, smartphone, etc.

Tasuc Communication ($13.99)

nabi 2 Tablet compatible and available through Google Play.

Tobii Sono Flex ($99.99)
nabi 2 Tablet compatible and available through the Amazon Appstore & Google Play.

An evaluation version is also available through the Amazon Appstore & Google Play.
Tobii Sono Flex is the closest equivalent to the Proloquo2Go app offered for the iPad, at half the cost.

Voice4U ($49.99)

nabi & nabi 2 Tablets compatible and available through the Amazon Appstore & Google Play.

Yes-No Your Way ($1.99)

nabi 2 Tablet compatible and available through the Amazon Appstore & Google Play.

Visual Scheduling Apps
A visual schedule is a set of pictures that communicates a series of activities or steps of a specific activity. They are meant to help children understand and manage the daily events in their lives.2

First Then Visual Schedule ($9.99)
nabi 2 Tablet compatible and available through the Amazon Appstore & Google Play.

iPrompts: ASD Visual Support ($9.99)
nabi 2 Tablet compatible and available through the Amazon Appstore & Google Play.

Tasuc Schedule (Free Trial / $23.99)
nabi 2 Tablet compatible and available through Google Play.
An evaluation version is also available through Google Play.

Emotion Apps

AutismXpress Pro (Free Trial / $1.99)

nabi & nabi 2 Tablet compatible and available through Google Play.

An evaluation version is also available through Google Play.

Cam's Developmental Preschool ($1.99)

nabi & nabi 2 Tablets compatible and available through the Amazon Appstore & Google Play.

1. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association - Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
2. Healing Thresholds - Connecting Community and Science to Heal Autism

Spreading its Wings: A Nabi 2 Tablet Unboxing Review

2012-07-07T21:09:00.005-04:00

Starting July 6th, the Fan-a-Techs began putting the nabi 2 Tablet through its paces in various real-world environments, outside of the manufacturing facility. This testing will highlight any possible issues that may need to be fixed or enhancements that should be implemented within the Android 4.0.0 OS (ICS), nabi Monarch 2.0 OS or the included 3^rd party apps prior to going on sale on July 24^th.

This post is just a quick unboxing review to show you the nabi 2 Tablet packaging and what’s included inside.

As usual, the people behind the original nabi Tablet have gone beyond what we have come to expect from other manufacturers, by putting considerable thought into their packaging design, graphics and the final product. They've listened to and implemented many of the suggestions parents brought forward with the original nabi Tablet. 150 new customizations and features are packed into the this completely redesigned product.

I'll provide an actual operating review of the tablet later this coming week.

I still fall into the appropriate for age group!

Highlighting some of the pre-installed apps.

A familiar face ...

... and another!

It's a tight fit, but the outer sleeve does slide off.

It's an art studio. It's a library. It's a University. It's a movie theater. It's a game console. It's a sturdy well designed and crafted box.

Great packaging design with integrated magnet and hinge that closes the lid flap tight.

STOP: Do not contact the retailer!

For Support and service please contact us... e-mail, website, Facebook and phone!

A little Asian flair.

Ta-Dah!

Getting Started package, power adapter and Micro USB cable.

The power cord and Micro USB cable now have ferrite beads.

Getting Started package includes standard safety and handling document, plus layout card.

User Manual access.

nabi 2 Tablet with shipping screen protector.

A small tab located under bottom right hand edge of the screen and silicon cover allows for shipping screen protector to be removed.

Screen protector removed.

Turned on for the first time! Why does the nabi logo display in portrait mode?

Introduction video presented by Kristen Kemp Becker.

nabi Mode

Kinabi Grid and stereo speakers.

Unlike its predecessor, it takes some focused effort to remove the silicone bumper.
Good luck little kiddies!

The side ports include a headphone jack, a Mini HDMI port, a Micro USB port, a Micro SD Card slot and DC 5V 2.0A power port.

The power and volume buttons.

Two generations side by side. Note that there is a new battery light and no hardware buttons.

Added stereo speakers and the Kinabi Grid. Removed the Reset button.

nabi 2 Tablet's dimensions with cover are approximately 8.675" x 6.000" x 1.125", where as the nabi Tablet's were 8.375" x 5.500" x 1.125".

Different port configurations.

The nabi 2 Tablet weighs in at 1lb 5oz, just 1.875oz more than its predecessor. This plus the slightly larger dimensions and the grid make the nabi 2 tablet feel more robust.

Comic Book Apps & Free Comic Book Day

2012-05-04T14:33:00.002-04:00

Comic Books are an original American art form, finding their origins in the 1930s. They are fun to read and feature a wide range of diverse story lines that can capture the imagination of their readers.

Free Comic Book Day has been celebrated on the first Saturday of May every year, since 2002. On this day, participating comic book shops in North America and around the world give away a variety of publishers' comic books ABSOLUTELY FREE to everyone who visits. Most shops also incorporate meet and greets with local creators and store wide sales.

Your local comic store(s) can be located by using your zip code to search on the Comic Shop Locator web-site.

Sampling of free Comic Books that were Available on May 5, 2012 at your Local Comic Shop

Comic Book Publishers have been relatively slow in adapting to the digital age. While each company has tried their own initiatives, it wasn't really until 2011 that a standardized method of delivery was implemented. With tablets nearly matching the same form factor as a traditional comic leaflet there are now several apps and online options for reading and collecting comics digitally. Though with my 10,000+ comic collection, I'm still personally fond of the printed format.

As with all media, be it books, magazines, movies, music or video games it is up to you the parent to do your due diligence and monitor what your child is consuming. Comics are no exception. With the vast variety of genres and wide range of age groups that the publishers are trying deliver content to, there are bound to be numerous titles that are too mature for your child to read or look at, even though they may feature their favorite character. The first three apps below provide a suggested rating for each comic, so that you can quickly determine if the book is age appropriate.

PREREQUISITE: To installation of the following apps requires that you have the Android Market installed.

DC Entertainment is the largest North American comics publisher, featuring a wide variety of characters and genres. Renowned for the World's Greatest Super Heroes including Superman, Batman & Robin, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, the Flash and many, many more; DC has thrilled readers from around the world with fantastic tales since 1935.

With the official DC Comics App, you can download great comic books for your child to enjoy from DC's current weekly offerings plus a sampling of their ever growing classics library. Powered by ComiXology, this app enables your child to take advantage of the unique Guided View reading experience or enjoy the classic full page view. What's more, your child will be able to conveniently manage and read their entire collection anytime, whether they are using the nabi Tablet, a smartphone, a desktop or laptop computer. Once a comic is downloaded to the nabi Tablet, your child can experience the amazing world of DC Comics without a wireless connection. This makes it a great option for your next family road trip or vacation!

While there are lots of free books to download, purchasing transactions are made in conjunction with the Google Play Store. Enabling the Market's Use Pin for Purchases, eliminates the chance of your child buying an entire collection of books in minutes. See the Install Alternative Markets blog post for instructions.

Recommended Digital Titles for Children: Batman Adventures, The Batman Strikes!, Billy Batson and the Magic of Shazam!, Green Lantern: The Animated Series, Supergirl: Cosmic Adventures in the 8th Grade, Superman Adventures, Teen Titans GO!, Tiny Titans, and Young Justice.

Recommended Print Titles for Children: Batman Gotham Adventures, Batman: The Brave and the Bold, Cartoon Network Action Pack, Justice League Unlimited, Legion of Super-Heroes in the 31st Century, Loony Toons, Scooby Doo, Super Friends, and Superman Family Adventures.

Recommended Sites: DC Comics, DC Nation Kids WB

The official Marvel Comics App, allows you to download fantastic digital comics featuring some of your child`s favorite characters including Spider-Man, Iron Man, Thor, Captain America, Wolverine and more. Your child will experience reading some of Marvel’s greatest stories, with their choice of Guided View or by using regular device controls to zoom and pan their way through the comic.

While there are numerous free books to download, purchasing transactions are made in conjunction with the Google Play Store. Enabling the Market's Use Pin for Purchases, eliminates the chance of your child buying an entire collection of comics within a few minutes. See the Install Alternative Markets blog post for instructions.

As with the Distinguished Competition's app above, once a comic is downloaded to the nabi Tablet, your child can experience the astonishing world of Marvel Comics with or without a wireless connection, making this a great option for your next road trip or flight!

Unfortunately the Marvel Comics App can’t be directly installed on the nabi Tablet from the Google Play Store. Following the instructions below will allow you to install and use the app.

4Shared Mobile:

1. Go into Mommy Mode.

2. Launch the Market app.

3. Search for 4shared.

4. Select and install 4Shared Mobile app.

5. Click on the Register free account > white text, if you do not have a 4shared account.

6. Enter an e-mail address and password.

7. Click the Register button.

8. Click the Menu Key, then select Search.

Marvel Comics v3.0.4:

9. Enter “Marvel Comics apk”, and then click the Go button.

10. Select the marvel comics 3.0.4 (nabi).apk file from the list.

11. This will pop up the downloading progress bar.

12. Click the Install button.

13. Click the Open button to launch the app.

Recommended Digital Titles for Children: Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes, Marvel Adventures: Iron Man, Marvel Adventures: Spider-Man, Super Hero Squad.

Recommended Print Title for Children: Avengers & Power Pack Assemble!, Hulk & Power Pack, Fantastic Four & Power Pack, Iron Man & Power Pack, Marvel Adventures: Fantastic Four, Marvel Adventures: Hulk, Marvel Adventures: Super Heroes, Marvel Adventures: The Avengers, Power Pack, Power Pack: Day One, Skrulls vs. Power Pack, Spider-Man & Power Pack, Spider-Man Loves Mary Jane, Thor & the Warriors Four, Wolverine & Power Pack, and X-Men & Power Pack.

Recommended Sites: Marvel Comics, Marvel Kids

Still Under Construction!

Tips on Upgrading to nabi OS 1.1.2

2012-03-15T22:10:00.001-04:00

nabi OS 1.1.2 ENHANCEMENTS & FIXES

1. Real-time management of FoozKids apps content and multiple kids accounts when making changes through the Parental Dashboard on www.foozkids.com.

2. Automatic memory management that ensures sufficient memory availability at all times.

3. Enhanced WiFi connectivity.

4. Reduced screen freezing with improved touch screen driver.

5. Two fixes when using a Micro SD Card to free up internal storage space.

a. The ability to move apps onto the Micro SD Card.

b. The ability to access the apps on the Micro SD Card, after the card has been ejected and reinserted into the tablet.

6. Cell Standby has been removed from Battery Use display. (Device Settings > About Device > Battery Use)

nabi OS 1.1 ENHANCEMENTS & FIXES

7. Smoother and faster screen swiping!

8. Multiple child support from a single parental account.

9. Enables Kidz Mode ad-blocking, which disables external browser links

within apps.

10. Ability to customize content within the FoozKids apps (Web, Videos, Games and Crafts) through the FoozKids Parental Dashboard.

11. Introduction of the Fetch It, the app recommendation engine, built into the Nabi App Zone.

12. Screen Freezing caused by too many apps running in the background (a flaw in the Android 2.2 OS) is eliminated with the introduction of an automated task manager which ensures these apps are closed when children move their attention to a different app.

PREREQUISITE: Upgrading to nabi 1.1.2 OS, requires a Micro SD Card and SD Card Adapter. These are readily available for a minimal cost at your local big box, electronics and camera retailers. A minimum 1GB card is required, though 16-32GB (Class 6 or 10) cards are recommended if you intend to store photos, home videos, movies and additional apps.

PRE-UPGRADING TIPS

1. Move as many installed apps to Internal Device Storage, as possible. This will reduce the number of apps that you will have to reinstall after the update.

a. Go to Device Settings > Applications > Manage Applications > On SD Card.

b. Select an app that is installed on the SD Card.

c. Select the Move to Device button.

d. Once the app has successfully moved, hit the Back Key.

e. Repeat Steps b-d until you run out of apps or you receive a low memory warning.

f. Any remaining apps shown under the On SD Card tab should be Uninstalled, as they are stored under /Nand/ and will not work after the update is installed.

2. If you have any files on your Micro SD Card copy them to a folder on your computer.

UPGRADING TO nabi OS 1.1.2

1. On the nabi Tablet website, download the update file located under the Software Updates page to your computer. https://www.nabitablet.com/support/softwareupdate

2. There are different instructions for both Windows and Mac computers.

Take your time and follow the steps outlined. Do not skip anything. Most issues that occur with the installation are because a step was missed.

Windows Computer nabi OS 1.1.2 Update Instructional Video

Windows Computer nabi OS 1.1.2 Update Step by Step Instructions

Mac Computer nabi OS 1.1.2 Update Instructional Video

Mac Computer nabi OS 1.1.2 Update Step by Step Instructions

AFTER THE UPGRADE

1. Delete all of the update installation files off of the Micro SD Card.

2. Move all of the files that you copied off of the Micro SD Card prior to the upgrade back onto the card.

3. Relocate the apps that were moved to the Device storage prior to the upgrade onto the Micro SD Card.

a. Ensure that the Micro SD Card is inserted into the tablet.

b. Go to Device Settings > SD Card & Device Storage > External Storage Choice and select Use SD Card.

c. Hit the Back Key.

d. Go to Device Settings > Applications > Manage Applications > Downloaded.

e. Select an app that is installed on the Device.

f. Select the Move to SD Card button.

g. Once the app has successfully moved, hit the Back Key.

h. Repeat Steps e-g until you have as many apps moved to the Micro SD Card as you'd like.

4. Reinstall any apps that you had to uninstall prior to the upgrade from the appropriate app store(s).

Tip: When in the app store hit the Menu Key and select My Apps to see all of the apps associated with your account.

RECOMMENDED CUSTOMIZATIONS & APP INSTALLATIONS

1. If you haven't already done so you can install alternative markets, such as the Amazon AppStore and Google Play Store (formerly the Android Market), by following videos under the Fan-A-Techs Facebook section or walking through the step by step instructions in the Installing Alternative Markets blog post.

2. Once the upgrade is complete you can optionally customize your child's avatar by following the step by step instructions outlined in the Customizing Your Child's FoozKids Avatar blog post.

3. You can also customize the content of the FoozKids apps (Web, Videos, Games, Crafts) by following the step by step instructions listed in the Customizing FoozKids Apps on Nabi blog post.

4. Finally if you'd like to be able to rent, stream and/or download movies to your tablet, you can install Google Play Movies (formerly Google's Videos app) by following the step by step instructions outlined in the Going to the Movies - The Sequel! blog post.

Installing Alternative Markets! (Original nabi Tablet)

2012-02-23T23:26:00.002-05:00

Even with the myriad of YouTube videos out there, some parents appear to still be struggling when it comes to installing the alternative markets on the nabi Tablet. Below you will find step by step instructions to get you through those setups.

Viewing this blog post on your tablet, will allow you to skip several steps, by easily clicking on the download links. If you type "everythingnabi" in the Google Search field and hit Go, you'll find several links that can get you to Everything Nabi!

To ensure an error free process, be sure your default internet browser is the Browser app and not the Maxthon Mobile Browser.

Note if you already use the Amazon Appstore or Android Market on your smartphone, then logging in with same account will allow you to install apps that you've already paid for, as long as they are compatible.

Amazon Appstore:

1. Login to Mommy Mode.

2. Type "Amazon Appstore apk" into the Google Search field and hit Go.

3. Click on the link listed as: Install Amazon Appstore.

4. Click the Download now button.

5. Pull down on the Notification bar at the top of the tablet.

6. Click on Amazon_Appstore-release.apk, once the download has completed.

7. Click the Install button.

8. Click the Open button.

9. If you have an existing Amazon.com account, enter the proper e-mail address and password and click Done. If not then create an account, by clicking the button on the bottom.
After successfully logging in to the store, you may want to enable the Parental Controls and ensure that In-App Purchases are disabled.
10. Click the Menu Key.
11. Click the Settings option.
12. Click on Parental Controls.
13. Check the Enable Parental Controls option, to require your Amazon.com password or PIN in order to purchase in-app items.
14. Enter your Amazon.com password and hit the Continue button.
15. Check the Use PIN, if you'd prefer to use a four digit PIN number instead of your Amazon.com password, when making an in-app purchase.
16. Click on Change/Reset PIN.
17. Enter your PIN and confirm.
18. Click the Back Key to back out of Parental Controls.
19. By default In-App Purchasing should be disabled. If not, then uncheck the Allow In-App Item Purchases.

Google Play Store (Formerly the Android Market):
NOT AVAILABLE YET FOR THE NABI 2 TABLET

Prerequisite: ES File Explorer

1. Login to Mommy Mode.

2. Select and launch App Zone.

3. Click on the Search icon in the top right corner.

4. Enter "File" into the Keywords field and click Search button.

5. Click the Free button located by ES File Explorer.

6. Click the Download button.

7. Once downloaded, click the Install button.

8. Once installed, click the Done button.

9. Hit the Home key to exit the App Zone.

10. Type "mediafire.com/?5UGDTL9AWT74L14" into the Google Search field and hit Go. (Case does not matter.)

11. Select the 4.com.android.vending-3.3.12.apk link, if you are viewing this post on your tablet.

12. Click on the green Download (3.37 MB) button.

13. Pull down on the Notification bar at the top of the tablet.

14. When 4.txt shows Download Complete, click the Clear button.

15. Hit the Home key to exit the Browser app.

16. Launch the ES File Explorer app.

17. Click on the first icon that looks like an SD Card.

18. Click the nand folder.

19. Click the download folder.

20. Put your finder on the 4.txt file and hold down until the Operations window appears.

21. Select the Rename option.

22. Type 4.apk and click the Done button or key.

23. Click on the 4.apk file.

24. Click the Install button.

25. Click the Open button.

NOTE: Some parents have run into force close issues after clicking the Open button. If this happens power off the tablet and then restart it. Log back into Mommy Mode and launch the Market app.

26. Click the Yes button to begin adding an account to the tablet.

27. Click the Next button.

28. Click the Create button if you do not already have a Google account, otherwise click the Sign In button.

29. Click the Finish Setup button.

30. Click the Accept button to agree to the various Terms of Services.

After successfully logging in to the store, you may want to enable the User Controls and ensure that purchases can only be made by first entering a PIN.

31. Enter the Market app.

32. Hit the Menu Key.

33. Click on Settings.

34. Scroll down to User Controls and select Set or Change PIN.

35. Enter a PIN number then click the OK button.

36. Re-enter the Pin number then click the OK button.

37. Check the Use PIN for Purchases option.

38. Hit the Backup Key to exit Settings.

Anytime that an app is now to be purchased within the Google Play Store, a pop up will display asking for the PIN number.

There are a number of other websites that offer Android apps, just be sure to do your due diligence when selecting sources and apps for your tablet. Here are a few additional sites: 1Mobile Market, 4Shared, AppBrain, Appolicious, AndroidZoom, and GetJar.

Going to the Movies!

2012-02-18T01:17:00.000-05:00

Adding movies to the nabi Tablet seems to be one of the larger growing interests on the Facebook page. The information provided below is given simply to educate parents on the subject.

First backing up or ripping of your personal DVDs to another electronic format is illegal, as a result of the 1998 Digital Millennium Copy Right Act. This law goes against the rights of consumer's Fair Use protection and what has been previously ruled in regard to the older Audio Home Recording Act of 1992. The circumventing of a manufacturer's Digital Rights Management protection appears to be universally frowned upon by most governments and the Motion Picture Association of America. Please take this into consideration when reading the rest of this post.

While the nabi Tablet provides the FoozKids Videos with access to an assortment of predefined and customizable kid-friendly YouTube videos; WiFi access is required. On a long road trip you can only count on Angry Birds to hold your child's attention for so long. Sure tethering the nabi Tablet to your smartphone may be an option, but unless you have an unlimited data plan, this could be expensive.

An assortment of your Home Videos may do the trick. In this case, you can simply copy the AVI formatted files to your Micro SD card and the Gallery app will play them. That will probably keep your child entertained for a half hour or so; unless of course you're one of the families that is constantly submitting to AFHV.

On the other hand, if you have a number of DVDs that your children enjoy, you may want to make some of your investment portable by backing it up to an electronic file format that an Android Tablet can view. This is where the small investment in a large and fast Micro SD Card becomes worth it.

While some parents on the Facebook community have posted freeware applications that can bypass DRM protections and convert from DVD to the MP4 format, none of these are generally associated with each other or come in an all-in-one application. One of the issues that can arise with freeware is that the developer stops upgrading their program on a regular basis. With new DVDs releasing every Tuesday introducing the latest DRM protections developed by the industry, it may be important to choose something that is constantly being upgraded.

One application that can convert the latest commercially released DVDs with DRM protection direct to a supported digital file format is IDEAL DVD to MP4 Converter. A lifetime license key is currently on sale for $30.00 (regular $35.00) which provides you with the latest decryption software updates. An added bonus is that the fully functional trial version is capable of converting up to 10 DVDs at no cost.

Below are the basic steps required to use IDEAL DVD to MP4 Converter, after you've downloaded the trial version and installed it selecting all of the defaults.

1. Put your DVD into your Windows computer.
2. Launch IDEAL DVD to MP4 Converter.
3. Dismiss the Registration window.

3. Check the Title that you'd like to converter. Generally this will be the option with the largest time in square brackets.
4. Enter the desired Filename for the converted file or accept the default.
5. Choose the location where you'd like the converted file saved.

NOTE: You can save the file directly to your Micro SD Card. This will probably take a bit longer than saving the file to your hard drive, but it will save having to move the file later. A Class 10 Micro SD Card is recommended for this method.

6. You can change the default MP4 Profile to one of the many choices available in the pull down list or create your own by selecting the Configuration button. I'd recommend sticking with the default MP4 settings for now. You can play around with the settings on future rips, once you see how the first conversion turns out. Increasing or decreasing the quality and resolution settings will respectively increase or decrease the size and time to generate the file.

7. There are other settings for the program that you may also choose to change. Especially if you're doing this late in the evening.

8. Click the Rip button, once you have everything setup the way you want it.

9. The time it takes to backup a DVD will be dependent on several other factors including: other programs running, Windows OS, amount of RAM, Processor speed, DVD drive speed, and where the file is being stored.
10. Once the conversion has completed, if necessary, copy the MP4 file to your Micro SD card and put it in the nabi Tablet.
11. Launch the Gallery app and your video will display as one of the possible choices.

NOTE: IDEAL DVD to MP4 Converter will remember all of your settings from the previous backup, so if you were happy with the results all you'll really need to do is insert another DVD, launch the application, select your desired title and click the Rip button.

I'd request that if you have any other software recommendations for the community that you leave a comment below.

As a cool alternative to the default Gallery, I'd highly recommend Movie Gallery Free available in the Android Market. The only real difference between the paid and free app is that the free version limits the display to up to 10 movies in 5 folders.

The creators of Movie Gallery, Tools4Movies, also offer an all-in-one DVD to MP4 conversion application called DVD Catalyst which is currently on sale for $10.00 (Regular $20.00). They've provided the community with how to instructions from inserting the DVD to viewing the video on the nabi Tablet.

March 13, 2012 UPDATE: Check out Going to the Movies - The Sequel! for steps on how to install, rent, view and download movies using Google Play Movies (formerly Google's Videos app).

Customizing the FoozKids Apps on Nabi

2012-02-17T22:28:00.000-05:00

With the release of the nabi 1.1 OS upgrade, Fuhu, Inc. now allows parents to customize what is available in the FoozKids apps on the Nabi Tablet. This can be accessed through the FoozKids web-site or the FoozKids computer application.

1. On your computer, login to the FoozKids website.
2. Enter your account information, using the same e-mail address and password you used when setting up the Nabi. Hint: The password is the same one you use to go into Mommy Mode.

3. You are now logged into the Parental Dashboard where you can control what content is available through both the computer application and the nabi Tablet FoozKids apps. Select the nabi Tablet product.
NOTE: You can always switch between child accounts by clicking on their Avatar on the top of the page.

4. The nabi Parental Dashboard allows you to manage all of the content that is available to your child through the FoozKids apps found on the nabi Tablet. Select the Websites Edit link.

5. You'll be presented with 7 pages of the predefined Websites that are available for viewing through the FoozKids Websites app on the nabi Tablet. You need to uncheck the sites you'd like to remove access to.

Here's where I've found a slight flaw in the logic used for these pages.
If you choose to refine what is being displayed by choosing your child's gender and age it will display those websites fine, however it still keeps all of the other non-gender or non-age appropriate websites checked. I brought this up during the beta testing of nabi 1.1 OS, so hopefully it can be addressed in the near future.

WORK-AROUND:
7. Do not select your child's gender or age.
8. Click the Disable All link to uncheck all of the displayed sites on the page.
9. Click the Next link to move to the next page and repeat Step 8.
10. Continue until all of the websites are unchecked.
11. Now you can filter by Gender and Age.
12. Click on the title of a website that you may be interested in to read a description of the material. A link to the actual website is also provided, so that you can look at it further and decide if it is appropriate for your child.

13. Go through and check the websites that you'd like you child to have access to.
14. Other available websites can be viewed and checked by filtering on other Gender or Ages.

15. Repeat the above steps for Videos, Games and Crafts.

NOTE: Adobe Flash Player is required for many Websites and Videos. This app can be downloaded for free from the Android Market.

ADDITIONAL NOTE: Families outside of the US may be subject to a limited experience on some websites and videos due to international restrictions.

16. Once you have chosen from the predefined Websites, Videos, Games and Crafts you'll probably want to add some specific things that weren't available. Click on one of the Add links listed under My Channels. This is where families from outside the US can add country specific content.

17. My Channels provides Google and You Tube searches for sites that contain your search criteria.

18.Once you've reviewed the website or video and feel that it is appropriate for your child, then simply click on the green Add button to add it to your My Channels list.
19. Continue adding your custom content within Websites, Videos, Games and Crafts.

NOTE: For those parents wanting to make the YouTube app available to their children in Kidz Mode this is a much better option, as it allows you to control what your child is watching. It completely eliminates that chance of them going from a kid-friendly video to something on the other end of the spectrum.

20. FoozKids Flix works along the same principles, as above, check the video series you want your child to have access to.
21. Once you've completed all of your modifications, it's time to check to see if they've synced with the nabi Tablet. Simply launching Web, Videos, Games or Crafts in Kidz Mode will let you know.

NOTE: The syncing between the tablet and the FoozKids website takes a few hours to update the selections available on the Tablet. Nabi Cares Support addressed this issue with the release of the nabi OS 1.1.2 update.

UPDATE: I had planned to finish this blog post today over lunch, but unfortunately didn't have time to take that break. In the meantime, I was pleasantly surprised to see that Fan-a-Tech Robyn had uploaded the following You Tube video. Great minds think alike!

Customizing Your Child's FoozKids Avatar!

2012-02-14T21:40:00.004-05:00

Here are the steps necessary to have you and your child customize their avatar for FoozKids and the Nabit Tablet.

1. On your computer, login to the FoozKids website.
2. Enter your account information, using the same e-mail address and password you used when setting up the Nabi. Hint: The password is the same one you use to go into Mommy Mode.

3. You are now logged into the Parental Dashboard where you can control what content is available through both the computer application and the Nabi Tablet FoozKids apps (Web, Videos, Games, Crafts and Flix). Select the Computer product.

4. Click on the Click Here link located on the lower right corner.

5. The download of FoozKidsSetup_3.1.00.exe should start automatically.
6. Once the download is complete, launch the executable file.
7. Confirm that you want to install the program.
8. Walk through the installation confirming your desired language, accepting the license agreement and choosing the installation location. To keep it simple just go along with all of the defaults.
9. Click the Finish button to launch the FoozKids application for the first time.

10. Click the Sign In link located under Already a Member?

11. Sign into the FoozKids application using the same e-mail address and password, as in Step 2.

12. Choose the child's account that you want to use.

13. You can choose to sign up for the optional FoozKids subscription, or click the X in the top right corner, to continue.

14. Select the Creator application.

15. Begin customizing the avatar with the numerous options and hundreds of combinations. Be sure to click Save once you have what you want.
NOTE: Clicking the Undo button will take you back one change, as many times as you click.

16. OPTIONAL: Click on the Parental Dashboard link at the top right corner and login, in order to customize the options available for the FoozKids Apps on the Nabi.

17. Close the FoozKids application and power on the Nabi Tablet.
18. Click on the Menu Key and choose Child Settings.
19. Enter the Mommy Mode password.
20. Give it a second and your new avatars will display.

For those families with only one tablet but multiple children, be sure to take advantage of the FoozKids application that you've just installed.

Even the Competition has Issues!

2012-02-03T21:32:00.001-05:00

Ok, have you heard of or experienced any of these issues with your child's Nabi Tablet.

1. Screen Freezing.

2. Unable to connect to WiFi.

3. Charging problems.

4. Crashing Apps.

5. Sluggish Performance.

6. Problem with Physical Buttons,

7. Microphone Trouble.

If you have then you might have wondered if you made the right decision in purchasing this device over similar and higher priced market alternatives.

While there have been a few issues with the Nabi Tablet, for the most part they have been addressed quickly by Nabi Cares Support and the Facebook community with adaptable workarounds or factory resets. The charger issue has been addressed this week, no thanks to Toys R Us. There is the Android 2.2 OS issue which causes freezing and others like the inability to have multiple tablets under the same account which are to be addressed in the delayed firmware update. There are also some 3rd-Party apps that crash that need to be updated by the app developer.

Rest assured these are all typical technical issues experienced by nearly all tablet users. From the touted industry leader the Apple iPads to the Amazon Kindle Fire, each of these tablets have had their own various issues upon initial product launch and beyond.

Apple iPad issue listed by the Huffington Post

Apple iPad 2 issues listed by the Huffington Post

Apple iPad 3 issues listed by the Huffington Post

Amazon Kindle Fire Issues listed by the Huffington Post

Luckily the Fuhu, Inc. and the Nabi Cares Support team are sticking behind their product and working with us to correct issues as they come up.

I for one can't wait for the upcoming firmware update, though we really haven't had what I would call problems with our tablet, other than the periodic freezing. I hope that Nabi Cares Support can provide the Facebook community with an update sometime next week on the progress of the firmware/OS development. Fingers crossed!

For now sleep easy in knowing that you did make the right decision in purchasing the Nabi Tablet for your child and that we're dealing with a company focused on customer support.

We are all still early adopters of this product, as such we have to be aware that there will be bumps along the road, but we'll get to our destination in time. Remember patience is a virtue.

Getting to the Root of the Original Nabi Tablet!

2012-01-30T14:27:00.000-05:00

For those of you adventurous enough to steal away your child’s Original Nabi Tablet and root it, here are the refined steps taken by Fan-a-Tech Eric to do so. He’s modified a couple of lines of code to make them a bit more Nabi friendly.

1. Download the following compressed file from RapidShare: Universal qroot Rena3.rar

2. Extract the contents to the root of a MicroSD card, using Winrar.

3. Power on the Nabi while holding the Vol – button, in order to enter bootloader.

4. The install.sh file will auto-run and complete the rooting process.

5. Reboot the tablet and delete the install.sh file from the SD card, using File Explorer.

6. Next you should download ROM Manager and run the Fix Permissions options. Available free in the Nabi App Zone.

7. Download Titanium Backup and archive your apps and settings for safe keeping. Available free in the Nabi App Zone.

8. Finally download the Nabi specific USB drivers to allow you to use Android Debug Bridge (ADB) commands and programs like Droid Explorer from your computer.

Eric would also like to credit qalter for the auto-run script, which greatly simplified this process.

For those of you wondering why you’d want to root the tablet, The Android Authority has provided a good explanation of why and why not.

Rooting for Dummies: A Beginner’s Guide to Rooting your Android Device

Eric thank-you for letting me be the first to post your work and the great conversation we had on Friday!

Remember that although Eric has done this a few time, neither he nor I can be held responsible if your device becomes bricked.

Going on a Reckless Getaway! - A Quinn Pick

2012-01-28T11:16:00.000-05:00

If daddy and son are looking for a game that they can both enjoy, then Quinn and I highly recommend polarbit's Reckless Getaway. Quinn loves racing and crashing his Hot Wheels and today he's hooked on this game app, that performs fairly well on the Nabi tablet.

While Quinn doesn't understand the intricacies of maneuvering through the police blockades and highway traffic on the sixteen different levels, he enjoys the simple controls, sirens, music and of course all the crashing. Daddy does too!

Note this is kind of violent in nature, so make sure it suitable for you and your child.

polarbit is an Android Market Top Developer, check out Reckless Getaway and their numerous other games.

UPDATE: By default you control the vehicle with buttons located on the lower portion of the screen, as shown in the video below. However under the Control Options you can choose Tilt Steering, which uses the Nabi tablet's accelerometer to steer through the maze of traffic and obstacles.

Reckless Getaway by polarbit available on the Android Market

Other polarbit game apps available on the Android Market