Life of Android

iPhone 6 – An Android Handset for Every New Feature

Alan Martin — Thu, 18 Sep 2014 15:18:49 +0000

So, the iPhone 6 is now official. So why do we care in Android Land? Well, I guess we don't, but in the spirit of celebrating our little Green buddy, here's each 'killer feature' of the iPhone 6, and an Android handset you could buy today that already offers it: Larger Display Big handed iPhone users have been out of luck for years. While Android has a vast selection of handsets in all shapes and sizes, the iPhone has had one and one only: 4-inch. Until 2013, it was even smaller at 3.5-inch, but wow - choice! The iPhone 6 will come in 4.7-inch and 5.5-inch flavours. And the alternative is... Take your pick. Phones in the 5-inch area of Android are ten a penny and have been for some time. Try the HTC One M8 (5-inches), Samsung Galaxy S5 (5.1-inches) or Sony Xperia Z2 (5.2-inches). Want something bigger? Android has you covered, with the LG G3 (5.5-inches) matching the iPhone exactly, but Samsung do even bigger with the upcoming Note 4 clocking in at 5.7-inches, and the Galaxy Mega tipping the scales at a whopping 6.3-inches. Or anything in between, because, y'know, Android doesn't limit itself two two arbitrary screen sizes. 1920x1080 resolution For the longest time, Apple banged on about how the Retina Display was sharper than the human eye could see, but it seems like it's not enough as the Pixels Per Inch is being upped on the iPhone 6 Plus to 1920x1080. Where the hell can you find that sharpness in the world of Android? And the alternative is... Where can we possibly find... oh, pretty much everywhere. Look at any top end phone from Samsung, HTC, Sony or Google and you'll find a 1920x1080 display. Actually, we'll do better: the LG G3 has a resolution of 2560x1440 on exactly the same size display. That's a crazy 538 pixels per inch to the iPhone 6 Plus' 401. NFC connectivity It's finally here! NFC in iPhones... oh, it can only be used for payment with Apple Pay. Still, it's better than nothing, right? And the alternative is... Samsung's Nexus S was the first Android handset to have NFC, way back in 2010. Four years later and a watered down version is on the iPhone. It's harder to find an Android handset WITHOUT NFC than finding one with, these days... Bigger battery Yes, the iPhone 6 has a bigger battery, and Apple claim it'll give you 12 hours of talk-time! And the alternative is... Take your pick again. CNET does a roundup of strong battery phones, and the iPhone is nowhere to be seen. The best hitting flagship Android is the Samsung Galaxy S5 (21 hours), while the Huwei Ascend Mate2 4G clocks in a massive 25, should you want to make a phone-call last over a day. Oh, and most allow you to remove the battery, so you should never be without. Fingerprint unlocking The iPhone 5s introduced the ability to unlock it with a fingerprint, for added security. Never mind the fact that this was fairly easily bypassed, it's an extra deterrent that you can't get on Android. Right? And the alternative is... Wrong. The Samsung Galaxy S5 is the most obvious candidate for this, but Huwei is also getting in on the act. Conspicuously missing So what of the iPhone 6's other killer features? You know, the water resistance, wireless charging, virtual buttons, multi-user support and so on? Oh, still not here. Suffice it to say, there's an Android for that. Too harsh? Not harsh enough? Let us know in the comments.

All you need is love, and MagicSolver’s 7 free apps!

Kurren Tatla — Fri, 07 Feb 2014 10:39:25 +0000

Love is in the air, and you can make this Valentine’s day extra special with MagicSolver’s must-have app, Valentine’s Day 2014. Join Cupid for a 7-day countdown to the 14th, unlocking a brand new, top rated free app each day. Do away with the cliché gifts; chocolates, poorly chosen flowers and late night takeaway for two, and enjoy this special occasion with the only app dedicated to making the most of Valentine’s Day. Check-in every day leading up to Valentine’s Day to see what Cupid has in store for you, and share the moment with your significant other. The Valentine’s Day 2014: 7 free gifts to fall in love with features the following:

A gift of one free app every day, for seven days until Valentine’s Day.
Beautiful graphics and a romantic soundtrack to set the tone
‘Lovemeter’: Prove your devotion and earn special bonuses by filling up the lovemeter!

Emmanuel Carraud, CEO of MagicSolver says, “Yes, 14^th February is considered a time for couples to get romantic but you don’t have to be loved up to enjoy Valentine’s Day 2014: 14 best free apps for your love. Get a top-rated app for free every day from 7^th to 14^th February and get caught up in the romance of our Valentine’s app.”

You can’t go wrong with Valentine’s Day 2014, so download it from Google Play and fall in love with this great app now.

Samsung to ‘unpack’ Galaxy S5 this month at Barcelona event

Kurren Tatla — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 14:46:53 +0000

Samsung has announced an official release date for their first Unpacked event of 2014, and perhaps more significantly, it appears as though the Galaxy S5 will be taking centre stage. The Unpacked events are usually built around Samsung’s latest flagship device and this year doesn’t appear to deviate from tradition. The name itself (Unpacked 5) gives us a hint as to why we suspect the rumours may be true, that the Samsung Galaxy S5 will finally be revealed to the tech world after months of speculation. The event will be taking place on Monday 24^th February, kicking off at 8pm local time (7pm UK time). For those that can’t make it, don’t fret! The entire event will be streamed on Samsung’s YouTube channel to ensure you’re kept up to date with all the latest announcements as soon as they're made. More recent rumours regarding the Samsung 5 indicate that there could potentially be two different models. One is said to come with a quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 and 2GB of RAM, and another with an eight-core Samsung Exynos 5430 along with 3GB of RAM. Other rumoured specifications include a 5.2-inch WQHD display, a 2MP front-facing camera and a 16MP rear-facing camera. The wait is almost over folks, will you be tuning in to Barcelona on the 24th?

Stream live TV on your tablet with the new TVPlayer

Kurren Tatla — Fri, 31 Jan 2014 15:35:03 +0000

Having cemented its reputation as one of the top free apps in 2014 following a landmark 250,000 downloads within just 28 days, Simplestream's live television streaming app TVPlayer has launched a new tablet version. For UK television license holders, TVPlayer offers the opportunity to legally stream live UK channels. With the new tablet version, users are able to set reminders to ensure you never miss your favourite show again. The channels are conveniently categorized under Entertainment, News, Kids and Desi. As well as the main terrestrial channels (BBC 1 & 2, ITV, Channel 4 & 5), TVPlayer includes music channels such as Kiss, Kerrang!, The Box and Smash Hits, with plans to expand its free-to-air channel line-up to over 100 channels. Based on research by YouGov, 80% of 18-24 year olds say they would be likely to use a free-to-air mobile television TV service. TVPlayer will provide its channel partners detailed analytics of particular viewing statistics including gender and age amongst others for further demographic research purposes. So far, the most watched shows on TVPlayer include BBC News, Family Guy, Eastenders, FA Cup Live, Match of the Day and The Simpsons. Adam Smith, Founder and CEO of the Simplestream Group, says: “We are delighted to have achieved 250,000 downloads in the first few weeks and it is really exciting for us. TVPlayer enjoys excellent relationships with our channel partners who have all shown great forward thinking in embracing the Internet and mobile as a new delivery platform for linear TV. We look forward to working closely with them all to ensure TVPlayer is a success for everyone involved.” Head over to Google Play to download TVPlayer now and start streaming directly to your Android device!

Dailymotion unveils new Android app

Kurren Tatla — Fri, 24 Jan 2014 17:35:08 +0000

For those of you who have experienced Dailymotion before, or simply have a love for videos on the internet, we are pleased to announce that there is a brand new Dailymotion app for Android users. The new design and layout offers users a far smoother navigation as well as high quality, uninterrupted playback of videos from a variety of (always entertaining) sources. Whether you have a tablet or smartphone, the app is compatible across all mobile and tablet devices, providing optimal viewing and Full HD across a variation of screen sizes. Developed by the Dailymotion mobile team in Palo Alto, the app is indeed synchronised with the Dailymotion website. One of the more handy features is that if you upload a video from a mobile device, it will immediately be available on users' Dailymotion accounts on any other device. The developers have also announced that there will be plenty more features planned for the months ahead, so Android users keep an eye out, and we'll have further updates as soon as they're available. You can download the app here.

How to sync your iTunes library to your Android device

Kurren Tatla — Fri, 24 Jan 2014 12:21:35 +0000

Like it or not, Apple is still king when it comes to music consumption. While many have tried to overcome it's domination, it's going to take a seismic shift for the masses to unchain themselves from their iTunes libraries. However, if you're an Android-user looking to sync your device to iTunes, then we have a very easy method we’d like to share with you. By using Google's very own Google Play Music, users are able to wirelessly stream tracks and playlists from various sources. First off you’ll need to download both the Google Play Music app on your Android device and the Google Play Music manager on your desktop. You then have to sync your iTunes music to your Google Play Music account in a few simple steps;

Open the Music manager on your desktop and select the UPLOAD tab.
You can then sync the whole iTunes library or select specific playlists.
Remember that syncing them to your Play Music library doesn’t automatically download them to your device, so you can experiment as you please at this stage.
Open Google Play Music app on your device and select ALL MUSIC from the drop down menu toward the top.
Select MY LIBRARY to view the music currently in your Google Music Play library.
This will now allow you to stream music via WiFi. However if you want to sync the music to your device, simply press on a song, album or playlist and select KEEP ON DEVICE.

Enjoy!

Samsung Galaxy S5 set for April release?

Kurren Tatla — Tue, 21 Jan 2014 12:11:21 +0000

The seemingly long wait for the release of the new Samsung Galaxy S5 may be over, according to one expert. Thanks to some informative tweeting on the part of Eldar Murtazin, who correctly guessed the release date of the Samsung Galaxy S4 last year, we now know that Samsung are going to be holding a ‘pre MWC’ launch on February 23^rd in Barcelona, at 18:00 local time. Murtazin has also said that the price will stay exactly the same as the Galaxy S4, with an official release date set for the month of April. The newest feature of the S5 is the new Touchwiz, which contains new home screen designs and a Google Now-like service. Murtazin’s most revealing tweet read as follows: “Galaxy S5 software is a next step in Touchwiz evolution. UI (has) a difference name but who cares? Niche features for PR is a smart thing” Samsung Galaxy fans won't have long to wait for further revelations as to the specific design and spec elements, and all eyes are now on Barcelona.

Animin to bring digital pets into the real world

Kurren Tatla — Fri, 17 Jan 2014 10:02:19 +0000

East London game developers, Figure Games, are bringing what they believe to be the new generation of augmented reality gaming to smartphones and tablets, and are set to take the tech world by storm. From feeding them, playing with them and, believe it or not, even administering medicine to them, the creatures of the new digital game, Animin, aren’t just any old companions. Using the latest augmented reality technology you'll be able to set your digital pet loose into the real world, with the ultimate aim being to become a portal in which to communicate with friends and family. Animin Director, Joe Kletz, says, “Our primary aim at Toy Fair is to creatively disrupt the toy industry, as we strongly believe there is such a clear space for a genuinely new digital pet that uses cutting edge mobile technologies in such a fun, social and innovative way.” The idea behind the game itself is to continuously evolve your particular Animin creature. In order to do so you will have to take care of their food and medicine needs as well as play mini-games to keep them fit and in good condition. The healthier and happier your Animin is, the more Zef coins you will receive, and it’s these Zef coins that you use to unlock Evo tokens, which ultimately allow your Animin to evolve. Upon purchase you will receive a neatly designed Animin pack, which contains your specific creature. Then all that’s left to do is to download the Animin app on your tablet or smartphone and you can set your creature free into real-world environments. Animin will be showcased for the first ever time at Toy Fair 2014, in the GreenHouse at London’s Olympia on 21 January. Meanwhile, you can see Animin in action by clicking play on the video below, and watch this space for more news ahead of its full commercial launch later this year.

A Goo.ey, hands-free solution for your smartphone or tablet

Kurren Tatla — Wed, 15 Jan 2014 12:15:37 +0000

No longer will you have to find a safe spot to put your device whilst washing up, working out or sorting through paperwork. No more fiddling with stands or attempting to delicately lean it against another unstable object. Goo.ey offers you the ultimate solution to all of your hands-free needs. Sydney born Rachel Verghis is the entrepreneurial brain behind, arguably, one of the most useful accessories for your particular smartphone or tablet. Goo.ey is specifically designed to stick to surfaces including glass, mirror, marble and metallic surfaces. So no matter where you are, the gym, at the office or around the house, there will almost always be somewhere handy to stick your device to, leaving you free to focus on the more important tasks of the day. Interestingly, despite the stick-to-the-surface nature of Goo.ey, it doesn’t actually feel sticky, so when users do handle the Goo.ey it will be smooth to the touch. It features an adhesive polyurethane epoxy, which is placed on the back of the phone, sticking tightly to smooth surfaces. The Goo.ey currently stands at £15 and is compatible with the iPhone 4 and 5, Samsung Galaxy S2, S3 and S4, Samsung Galaxy Note 2, iPad Mini and iPad (all generations). Click below to take a peek at the product in action, and let us know what you think!

Pre-order the new curved G Flex smartphone from LG

Kurren Tatla — Tue, 14 Jan 2014 17:10:43 +0000

The new G Flex smartphone by LG is officially available to pre-order from Carphone Warehouse across the U.K, although some may be hard-pressed to gather the necessary funds in order to do so. The brains behind the newest LG device, featuring the long awaited curved plastic OLED screen, may argue that the price tag is every bit justifiable. So let's take a look. The G Flex features a 2.26GHz quad-core Snapdragon 800 processor, 2GB RAM, 32GB internal storage and a 13 Megapixel rear-facing camera. Perhaps some of the more interesting features, the phone also boasts a self-healing back panel as well as the showcase ability to literally flex under pressure. The 6-inch screen's 720p resolution lets it down somewhat, but other than that the rest of the phone features pretty high end specifications. Is it worth the money though? Well that's for you to decide. There are currently two options for users to choose from, both coming through O2. The first is to pay an upfront fee of £79 and then a tariff of £52 per month for two years. Or if cash-flow is a big concern, then the second option is to pay an upfront fee of £49 and then a further £57 a month for two years. For those ready to upgrade, the news is slightly more up-lifting. You have the choice of paying £42 a month without any upfront fee, or a whopping £449 upfront fee accompanied by a less burdening tariff of £16.99 a month. So the curved POLED has finally arrived, now the question is whether or not you view this latest tech trend as a mere gimmick, or something far greater and more significant, worthy of a big pay out.

Keecker: The Android robot built to entertain

Kurren Tatla — Mon, 13 Jan 2014 17:10:02 +0000

A new state-of-the-art robot was being flaunted around at CES 2014 this past week, and the plaudits were seemingly well deserved. Designed by Pierre Lebeau, a former product manager at Google, the device, known as ‘Keecker’, is an oval-shaped robot that moves in a similar fashion to smart vacuums, gliding along the floor following your every move. But rather than clean, they project videos onto your walls to satisfy your mobile entertainment needs. The Keecker is decked out with a 1280 x 800 resolution screen and 1,000-lumen brightness allowing for daytime viewing. Given that it runs on Android, it will effortlessly connect to Google Play, thus supporting apps such as Netflix and YouTube. The idea is that Keecker projects images onto not just particular parts of the wall, but the entire surface including ceilings. If you’re wondering about sound quality, the device features an impressive 360-degree sound system thanks in part to six carefully located speakers. Users also have the option of using their Android smartphones or tablets in order to control Keecker for particular actions which include the ability to stream music. Another method of controlling Keecker is through voice commands, instructing the device to meet you at a specific point in the house. Perhaps one of the most jaw-dropping features is the fact that Keecker will intelligently map its way around your house, storing and remembering your viewing / listening location preferences. Unfortunately it doesn’t look as though these robots will become synonymous with households in 2014 as they are currently valued at a retail price somewhere between $4,000 and $5,000. Nonetheless, this is one of the smartest devices running on Android to date, ensuring that there will never be another dull moment in the house again.

Actual Movie Trailers

Kurren Tatla — Mon, 13 Jan 2014 15:42:48 +0000

The Story

2014 promises to be one of the biggest years for Hollywood in recent memory, showcasing a plethora of potential Academy-winners in the coming months. So how do we decide which ones we want to see throughout the year? Introducing ‘Actual Movie Trailers’.

The Background

Often when searching for high quality movie trailers we find ourselves running into a number of frustrating situations, such as the dreaded ‘Movie Clip’ instead of an actual trailer. Or perhaps a tinny-sounding, low-resolution, waste-of-time trailer that puts you off the movie entirely. Actual Movie Trailers, (much like the name suggests), delivers actual movie trailers right to your smartphone or tablet, accompanied by all the relevant, need-to-know details; Cast, Release Date, Genre, Director, etc. The app itself couldn’t be easier to use, with a swiping interface that lets users scroll through the movie posters of numerous films that have just come out or are on the cusp of worldwide release. You don’t need to visit external links to view the videos either; just a single tap on the poster and the trailer instantly begins playing. Wherever possible, the trailer is uploaded in 1080p FullHD, giving users the high-quality action that most of these films deserve. What helps separate this from the rest of the movie clip/trailer apps out there, as well as its ridiculously user-friendly interface, is the fact that it pays as much attention to the indie film market as it does to the Hollywood blockbusters, keeping everybody satisfied.

The Bottom Line

One of the most entertaining and reliable movie apps available right now, and we are hard-pressed to suggest future improvements at this moment in time. Let this app be your guide to what critics are heralding as a game-changing year for Hollywood.

Themer – Beta

Kurren Tatla — Fri, 10 Jan 2014 16:04:53 +0000

THE STORY

One of the attractions that continuously draws people to Android is the ability to customise, allowing for an extension of your personality that fits in the palm of your hand. Well, thanks to MyColorScreen's Themer, this type of interface jiggery-pokery has just stepped up a notch.

THE EXPERIENCE

Considering the fact that this app is free, we didn’t really know what to expect initially. The absence of a price tag can often have sobering results. Not the case here, however. Themer is an app designed to help transform the homescreen of your Android device with one simple click, from a default look to one of many carefully and immaculately designed themes. The team at ‘MyColorScreen’ are known for creating homescreen themes that bring a device to life, but now offer an opportunity to browse through hundreds of their designs all in one place. Using the app couldn’t be easier. Featuring easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions on an extremely friendly user interface; Themer not only presents users with a multitude of exclusive android themes but also allows further customisation within certain designs. From minimalist themes to ‘robotic’ and Breaking Bad designs, there is something for everyone. Amongst the countless pros that this app offers, the one con we may pick on (if we were really pushed), would be that the lockscreen remains unchanged, meaning the phone still has to be unlocked in order to enjoy these innovative designs.

THE BOTTOM LINE

A ‘hands down’ winner in our books, Themer offers everything you could ever ask for in terms of personal customisation. There’s no better way to take advantage of the creative platform that Android was designed for.

Additional information

Current version: BETA Requires Android: 4.1 and up

Introducing the truest Smartwatch of the future

Kurren Tatla — Thu, 09 Jan 2014 16:27:00 +0000

As manufacturers continue to announce their own versions of the smartwatch, some may argue we are yet to see what exactly is so ‘smart’ about them. After all, they still need to tether from smartwatch to smartphone in order to function. One can only succeed with the other. Until now that is – as Canadian-based electronics company Neptune have created what looks to be the first truly ‘smart’ watch, a standalone Android wearable that does everything without the need to connect to a smartphone, (although that is still an option). In terms of spec, the Neptune Pine is packed with a 1.2GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 dual-core Cortex processor and can make phone calls using a quad-band GSM Radio with 3G network support. The watch runs Android 4.1 and features a 2.4”, 320 x 240 resolution screen. Those that don the watch will notice that Neptune's Pine is larger on the wrist than some of the other smart-watches on the market, featuring a QWERTY keyboard that would only be possible on a 2.4” screen. The teen team behind Pine are still tweaking the product to reduce the size before officially releasing it into the market. Having raised eight times it's original Kickstarter goal, Neptune are expecting around 2,500 units to be shipped throughout North America and Canada by the end of January 2014. The initial price tag for pre-orders on the Pine stands at $215 (£131) for the 16GB model and $262 (£159) for the 32GB.

Vizio introduce Android based wireless speaker system

Kurren Tatla — Thu, 09 Jan 2014 14:45:20 +0000

What better way to separate yourself from the crowd than by designing a wireless speaker system that runs Android apps via an LCD built-in touchscreen. Amidst the many speaker systems already on the market, the desperate calls of those craving something new appear to have, at last, been answered. The system runs Android KitKat 4.4 and users will have access to lots of the popular apps whether it’s music, video or gaming. The innovative design means Netflix users can watch their favourite shows on a high quality wireless speaker system, as if there weren’t enough ways to watch TV shows right now. The brand new system, known for now as ‘Vizio’s Portable Smart Audio device’, comes in two variations. If you want something a little smaller then you may opt for the more compact size available, which features a 4.7” screen. For those that want to hark back to the good old days of the boom box era, there is a larger model with a 7” screen and a built-in carrying handle. Both speakers are powered by a quad-core processor and feature built-in Wi-Fi allowing users to stream directly from the web. There’s also a Bluetooth option if you want to use your mobile device. Both models offer an integral lithium-ion rechargeable battery for true portability and have received positive reviews this week as they were announced at CES 2014 in Vegas. It remains to be seen just how successful these standalone devices will be on the market, but the fact that Vizio is thinking outside the box speaks volumes as to the future of all portable audio system design.

Tado: The new SMART cost-efficient heating app

Kurren Tatla — Wed, 08 Jan 2014 15:02:03 +0000

We are always looking for ways to cut costs on heating, especially during the winter months in big, old, poorly insulated buildings. Well as the saying goes, ‘There’s an app for that’. Technology start-up Tado has developed possibly the smartest and most financially efficient heating app you will ever come across, and the good news is that they have recently launched it in the UK after enjoying success across Europe. So just how smart is Tado? If apps could join Mensa… Tado detects when the last person has left the house, with absolutely no user action required. A signal is sent to the heating system to turn down the temperature. Amazingly, as soon as the user begins their journey back home, Tado reacts immediately and warms up the house accordingly As if that wasn’t enough, Tado also recognises that buildings come in all different shapes and sizes, determining just how quickly your particular home cools down or how the sunlight influences it when setting the temperature. The way the app works is that it sends a signal to a sleek looking Tado box (which you receive upon ordering), which in turn establishes a connection with the central heating system. It has been estimated that users will save around 27 per cent on heating costs and CO2. The Tado Connector Kit hooks the heating system up to the internet and is available to buy with a lifetime service for £249, or you can rent it for £6.99 on a monthly contract. The Tado app itself is free on Android. So with all the money you save with this handy little app, it might be time to start planning your next big spend!

Manufacturers hint at Android KitKat 4.4 release date

Kurren Tatla — Tue, 07 Jan 2014 16:34:47 +0000

As we ring in the New Year, speculation remains as to when Android will release its much-coveted KitKat 4.4. It’s been eerily quiet since we announced the new operating system back in September, but a number of the biggest mobile manufacturers have now indicated when they will be receiving the latest update. News leaked on French website SFR that the update would be made available to Samsung’s S4 before the end of January and on the Note 3 at the beginning of February. Meanwhile HTC have stated that they will be looking to roll out the KitKat update for the HTC One from the end of January. This will also include the Sense 5.5 update for their flagship handset. For most other HTC devices including the One DualSIM, One Max and One Mini it has also been difficult to pinpoint a particular release date, but developer llabtoofer have shed some light on the situation, tweeting that a release date is looking more like January-February. LG haven’t commented at all on the matter surrounding a KitKat release, however, rumours have suggested that LG users will have to wait until the end of March for a software update. Sony, on the other hand, have decided that they are going to phase the introduction of KitKat meaning that a release date will depend on your preferred network and home address! So it looks like Android users will have to wait at least another month for the latest instalment its dessert-themed OS, but hey, at least we now feel that little bit closer.

The Android desktop has arrived

Kurren Tatla — Tue, 07 Jan 2014 13:16:15 +0000

In an unexpected yet perhaps unsurprising twist in the PC market, Lenovo has launched an Android-powered all-in-one home computer designed specifically as a ‘living room multimedia PC’. CES 2014 kicks off this week in Sin City, along with it comes the announcement that Android has now officially entered the desktop market, lining up against a Microsoft Windows franchise that may yet have its work cut out. Officially labelled the Lenovo N308, the all-in-one desktop boasts a 19.5-inch screen with a 1600 x 900 resolution and is initially priced at a pretty reasonable $450 (compared to the price tags attached to most touchscreen desktops). The N308 also runs Android 4.2 Jelly Bean and is powered by an Nvidia Tegra processor. With up to 500 GB storage, the Lenovo also includes a webcam, keyboard, mouse and integrated battery that provides users with 3 hours of life. For ease of access the N308 can stand or lay flat - much like a tablet - for those who are accustomed to that platform. The fact that Lenovo has turned to Android to create a more inexpensive version of its much bigger tabletop PC (the Horizon 2), sets a precedent for other manufacturers looking to experiment with their future desktops. Android seems a safe bet for those looking to turn a profit with desktops and PC’s as there isn’t a whole lot to lose, but enormous potential gains based on the success Android has enjoyed in the smartphone/tablet industry.

Google automotive project to bring Android to cars

Kurren Tatla — Mon, 06 Jan 2014 16:39:18 +0000

When was the last time you used a car’s in-built system to figure out the fastest route to your destination or access your favourite playlists? Don’t worry, we can’t remember either. With tablets and smartphones becoming almost as common a household item as salt and pepper, infotainment systems are becoming increasingly obsolete, especially when you consider your smartphone’s inspired combination of auxiliary ports and Spotify helping to create the perfect soundtrack for your route to work. In an attempt to modernise infotainment systems and gain an inside edge over the world of tablets and smartphones, Google have teamed up with a group of notable automotive companies including General Motors, Honda, Audi and Hyundai to bring Android to their latest models. Car manufacturers will look to customize the operating system in order to best suit their models. The ultimate goal for the car companies is for drivers to use the infotainment system for regular tasks like navigation as well as enhance the passenger experience on the entertainment side of things. The announcement was made just before the official opening of the International Consumer Electronics Show held in Las Vegas and comes as part of the dominating ‘car-as-gadget’ theme. In the past carmakers have gone with custom in-car software systems, one example being Ford Motor collaborating with Microsoft on MyFord Touch. Others have tried to solve the problem through partnerships similar to those Google are now developing with automotive giants. In 2009, BMW, GM, Intel and others worked around the Linux operating system as part of the Genivi Alliance. With the help of Google’s most popular operating system, the automotive industry might just be able to save the future of the endangered infotainment system.

DreamWorks to launch Android tablet aimed at kids

Kyle Ellison — Mon, 06 Jan 2014 12:23:22 +0000

DreamWorks is poised to invade the tablet market with the 8"inch 'DreamTab' – strongly rumoured to be announced at the International Consumer Electronics Show which begins in Las Vegas this week. According to a report by the New York Times, DreamWorks has partnered with a technology company, Fuhu, on creating a tablet that can be programmed with DreamWorks content just like a cable channel. The studio will create original animations for the tablet featuring its best-loved characters and, in the spirit of balance, probably a fair few of its least-loved characters as well. Because let's face it, does anybody really need anymore Puss in Boots in their lives? DreamWorks is not the first studio to branch out into branded tablets, but the DreamTab differs from the likes of of Disney's and Nickleodeon's efforts by offering exclusive animation to promote forthcoming films and enhance its relationship with its young fans. Fuhu chief executive Jim Mitchell told the New York Times: “By teaming with DreamWorks to create a device that will have original content — original content that is automatically and frequently updated — we are not following consumers, we are getting ahead of them."

The DreamTab will also have the technology to connect wirelessly with certain DreamWorks toys, much like recent efforts from Skylanders and Rovio's Angry Birds. So, a standalone action figure for How To Train A Dragon, for instance, might also unlock extra games or options on the DreamTab.

There will also be an educational focus to get parents on side, with learning features and drawing workshops from the pros to help kids draw their favourite characters.

Although targeted squarely at children, the device is also set to come with a 'parent mode' and promises roughly the same computing power as an iPad.

So, what do you make of the DreamTab? Let us know in the comments below, and keep it locked to Life of Android for all the latest goings on from CES this week.

Samsung launches smartphone GamePad for Android

Kyle Ellison — Thu, 19 Dec 2013 12:26:00 +0000

Samsung has unveiled a new gamepad that is optimised for its Galaxy phones, imaginatively titled – wait for it – the Smartphone GamePad. This is not Samsung's first attempt to create a separate controller for its gaming apps, but it is its best – made of a steel frame with glossy black plastic for a sophisticated finish. The GamePad is out now in select European countries and is expected to hit the UK in the coming weeks. Connecting using Bluetooth 3.0, the GamePad features an eight direction D-pad, two analogue sticks, four buttons and two triggers. There's also a slide-out stand to lock your phone in place (see below), or you could connect it to a TV for a proper console experience. The Smartphone GamePad works best on Samsung's Galaxy series, but it does in fact fit any Android phone or 'phablet' (we're still not comfortable saying that) from 4 to 6.3 inches running Android 4.1 or higher. Another great feature of the controller is the Play button in the centre, which launches Samsung's accompanying Mobile Console app via NFC.Mobile Console is a new game store for Android that features only those apps that support the controller – so, you know that anything you download is going to be compatible with the pad. There are a total of 35 games supported by the GamePad at launch, including Need for Speed, Modern Combat 4 : Zero Hour, Virtua Tennis Challenge and Prince of Persia : The Shadow and the Flame. Lookout for more news on the Samsung GamePad in the coming weeks, but for now – what do you think? Are you looking to add separate pad to enjoy your favourite Android games? Or are you happy enough without?

Angry Birds Go!

Kyle Ellison — Mon, 16 Dec 2013 13:34:01 +0000

THE STORY

It's almost exactly four years since Angry Birds crash landed into the app store, and eight games, 10 books and a cartoon series later the franchise is spreading its wings once more. It's been a great ride so far, but is there any mileage in these karting capers?

THE EXPERIENCE

So here it is, the inevitable 'karting' game that gets made whenever game developers run out of ideas. Sonic Racing, Mickey's Speedway, Crash Team Racing – we've been here before with varying success, but Angry Birds Go! deserves a fair crack given the series' excellent track record. Although Angry Birds has previously deviated from its format by merging with the Star Wars universe, Angry Birds Go is different sort of side-step – one that finds the game removing the very dynamics which catapulted it to success and testing whether or not its characters can fly solo. The result is a perfectly passable go-kart app, but one that lacks the kinks and imagination which makes the original games so maddeningly addictive. Angry Birds Go! does all the things you'd expect it to – there are races and time trials, boss levels and upgrades. You can tilt to steer or simply tap either side of the screen. It looks nice and handles well, too, but despite getting all the basics right, something here feels very run-of-the-mill. Even the more novel level ideas are lifted from other games, such as the Fruit Ninja-indebted 'Fruit Splat' races or many a concept lifted from Mario Kart. The lack of an online or multiplayer mode is equally disappointing, although there's every chance they could be added in at a later stage. Perhaps we've been a bit harsh here, after all, Angry Birds Go! is free to download and its in-app purchases don't feel too intrusive to the game as a whole. Somebody new to Angry Birds could have a lot of fun racing their way through the game's many levels, but the problem-solving satisfaction which made the original great is sorely missing.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Angry Birds Go! is far from the worst karting spin-off we've played – in fact, it's perfectly decent – but it's hardly re-inventing wheel either.

Additional information

Current version: 1.0.1 Requires Android: 2.3.3 and up

Nokia prepares Android phone ‘Normandy’ for 2014 launch

Kyle Ellison — Thu, 12 Dec 2013 12:53:28 +0000

Image courtesy of @evleaks

Nokia is rumoured to be building a low-end Android phone codenamed Normandy, as the Finnish mobile giant nears the finalisation of a deal with Microsoft. A source close to The Verge claims that Nokia is working on a 'forked' version of the Google operating system, which isn't nearly as homemade as it sounds. In fact, the 'forking' of this potential Nokia doesn't involve any cutlery at all – confusing, right? – but actually refers to the way in which the Android OS is redeveloped using the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) code – similar to the way in which Amazon uses Android hardware for its Kindle devices. Supposed images of the Nokia phone were published by Evan Blass, who is responsible for the @evleaks Twitter account and is notable for past handset leaks. Nokia has struggled to compete in the budget smartphone market, after its Asha handset on the company's own Symbian OS suffered heavily from its lack of apps. Nokia will be hoping that Normandy will perform much better with Android backing, particularly in China where millions of phones using AOSP are sold every quarter. Of course, the Nokia Normandy is still very much in the rumours stage, especially considering the overhanging possibility of Nokia's deal with Microsoft. The cost of developing Normandy for Android will be very high, and Microsoft is unlikely to want to invest in developing an operating system that competes with Windows. The deal between Microsoft and Nokia's handset business is far from a done deal, though, and even if it did go ahead Nokia may be able to release Normandy prior to an agreement between the two companies. So, what do you think of Nokia's rumoured Normandy project? Could Nokia enjoy a happy union with Android? Or should it partner with Microsoft and concentrate on its Lumia range? Let us know in the comments below.

Top five apps for simpler Christmas shopping

Kyle Ellison — Tue, 10 Dec 2013 16:28:11 +0000

Christmas Day is just over a fortnight away, so the pressure to find the perfect gifts for your friends and family is officially on. The way we see it, you have two options. You can bury your head in the snow until the very last minute, by which point the shelves will be barren – leaving you no choice other than to flee your loved ones in shame and begin a new life in the Philippines. Alternatively, you can just download our merry collection of Christmas shopping apps, and let all the hard work take care of itself. There is no middle ground. The choice is yours. Christmas Gift List (Free) If you've got a lot of presents still to buy, then the first thing you should do is get yourself organised. Using Christmas Gift List you can set budgets for all of the people you need to buy for, and then add in gifts as you buy them to keep track of your spending. You can even keep a record of your gift wrapping, so there will be no botched last-minute jobs using newspaper or tin foil. Gift Professor (Free) If you're buying for close friends or relatives then coming up with present ideas shouldn't be too difficult, but what about the office secret santa or buying for people that you know less well? Gift Professor generates gift suggestions based on a short quiz of interests and personality traits – even if it doesn't find the answer, it may point you in the right direction. Red Laser (Free) Okay, you've settled on a present idea, but now the price tag is putting you off. Don't worry, Christmas can quickly get expensive and you aren't being cheap – but download Red Laser and you may be to find a bargain elsewhere. Scan in the barcode of the gift you had in mind, and check the prices and deals that other retailers have to offer. Open Secret Santa (Free) There's always somebody who tries to wrangle their way out of Secret Santa, so make it official with the Open Secret Santa app. Add contacts and e-mail addresses of all participants and then draw assignments randomly with notifications for all. There's something about receiving an assignment via text that will make you feel like a spy, and drawing names out of a hat just doesn't cut it anymore. Groupon (Free) One last present buying tip is the Groupon app for daily deals on everything from dinner reservations to a day in a fancy spa. Of course, Groupon is for life, not just for Christmas – but if you're stuck for ideas then it's worth taking a look at what's on offer.

Boson X

Kyle Ellison — Mon, 09 Dec 2013 13:06:22 +0000

THE STORY

If we were to tell you that Boson X is a scientific experiment in which you must generate energy to unearth strange new particles, it probably wouldn't sound like your idea of fun. But then, most apps aren't like this one.

THE EXPERIENCE

We've never been scientifically-minded here at Life of Android, although had our physics lessons been as imaginative and as furiously paced as Boson X it might have been a different story. Okay, so we might not have actually learned anything, but the game at least builds a tenuous scientific setting for its technicolor endless running. Except the running isn't endless, in fact, Boson X is a game with clearly defined objectives. While there is no exact finishing line or target distances, you must generate energy by running along the blue coloured platforms until your reading reaches 100 per cent. There are many obstacles in your path, of course, and you can dodge them by jumping from left to right by tapping either side of the screen – holding for a longer jump, and tapping both sides of the screen to leap straight forward. While that basic control mechanism might not scream originality, somehow Boson X manages to feel different to the games which came before it. There are six levels – or experiments, as they're know in the game – and each presents new challenges and brightens the action with a new visual style. The level design is bold and strangely familiar – having the look and feel of a gaming classic without completely ripping off its influences.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Boson X is a frantic endless runner with a scientific twist, injecting some much-needed originality into an increasingly tired genre.

Additional information

Current version: 1.0.26 Requires Android: 2.3.3 and up

Introducing YotaPhone: the mystery dual-screen Android from Russia

Kyle Ellison — Thu, 05 Dec 2013 15:33:14 +0000

YotaPhone, the baffling dual-screen Android phone which first made waves in January, is set to be released before Christmas in Russia, Germany, Austria, France and Spain. UK customers will have to wait until early next year for the phone which will be available only from the manufacturer's online shop, while 15 other countries have been confirmed for launch in Q1 2014. YotaPhone is 4.3"inch device with a 720x1280 HD LCD display on the front and, crucially, a 360x640 e-ink display on the back. The front LCD display works just like any other phone, while the e-paper reader on the back is able to receive notifications and display maps and news while conserving precious battery-life.

Yota Devices CEO Vlad Martynov explained at a launch event in Moscow: “Once we determined that an electronic paper display would work as a second screen, an array of new and improved user experiences became obvious.” “For example, Yotaphone combines a smartphone and e-reader into one device for those who enjoy reading on the go. You can save images and information on the second screen, and it stays there, even if you lose battery power.” Yota Devices is a new company and Yotaphone is its first product - as such it comes in at a hefty ¢499 as it struggle to strike deals with manufacturers. It might be worth sitting this one out and seeing how it pans out for YotaPhone, but if you're still keen keep your eyes peeled on the company's website. Meanwhile, we'd love to know what you make of the device in the comments below.

Keep your conversations private with Redact app for Android

Kyle Ellison — Fri, 25 Oct 2013 10:38:13 +0000

Redact is a new messaging service for Android and iOS claiming to be “the world’s first totally secure instant messenger application.” Following the furore surrounding ex-CIA and NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden, we now also know that security agencies in the US and UK have been routinely collecting personal communications from private citizens via the clandestine data-mining program PRISM. Using a combination of encryption, ciphers and peer to peer messaging, Redact is capable of sending messages between phones without passing through any central servers. Messages you have sent or received can then be redacted from both handsets at the touch of a button – to be forever lost in the abyss with no method of recovery. What’s more, there are no ways of refusing or avoiding a redaction – so it'll be as though the message never existed. Redact is uniquely positioned within the messaging market, and while unlikely to take on the likes of What’s App for general purpose messaging – it’s secure service is a notable selling point. Unlike rival apps, Redact does not request a username, does not link to social media accounts, has no interest in an email address and cares not for accessing contacts. Instead, the app gives the user a unique PIN and lets the user set up an alias which only they can alter, ensuring no name appears anywhere in the app. The app’s listing explains: “All instant messaging apps store messages you’re sending to your contacts. No matter how securely these messages are saved, they’re vulnerable to hackers or government subpoenas. Redact stores no messages, contact information or usernames so there is no information to be stolen.” “Redact never asks for a username, email of phone number, but you’re automatically assigned a PIN. Your unique number is never stored anywhere, and there is no recovery tool for hackers to exploit. Only you can change your alias, so you can be certain contacts aren’t using your real name anywhere in the application.” Security like this comes at a cost, and the app is priced at £3.99 in Google Play. But if you’re looking for a complete peace of mind over your sent and received messages, then Redact's one-off cost will seem a small price to pay.

ESET Mobile Security & Antivirus

Kyle Ellison — Thu, 24 Oct 2013 10:49:59 +0000

THE STORY

You wouldn't let just anyone walk off with your sensitive data now, would you? ESET Mobile Security & Antivirus is the online security company's latest attempt to keep cyber-criminals, scammers and serial spammers at arm's length in one easy-to-use app.

THE EXPERIENCE

If you've used ESET's mobile security apps before, the first thing you'll notice is that the latest version is far easier on the eyes. While design mightn't be the first thing you look for in a security app, the blank panels of old have been replaced with new icons and branding that give the whole thing a cleaner aesthetic that instills trust in the user. So, it looks nicer, but what does it offer in the way of new features? Perhaps best of all the app now comes with anti-phishing, integrating with most common web browsers to keep your usernames, passwords and banking information safe when browsing and shopping from your mobile device. Like the antivirus and SMS & call filter functions, anti-phishing runs quietly in the background, so you just need to make sure it's switched on once you've downloaded the app. There have also been improvements made to the virus scanner, which scanned our Sony Xperia Z in testing along with all its applications in a mere 17 seconds – not too shabby, eh? You can use the scan as and when you feel the need, or schedule it in as a weekly or daily task that operates without interfering. Old features such as anti-theft have returned in all their former glory too, enabling the forgetful among us to lock and wipe our devices remotely should we leave them lying around or if they fall into the wrong hands. But it's the overall package which is most impressive, and while you'll need to upgrade to the premium version to unlock all of these features – it's well worth doing for the piece of mind of complete mobile protection.

THE BOTTOM LINE

ESET has upped its game again with its latest Mobile Security & Antivirus app for your Android device. Carrying all of that sensitive data around in your pocket every day, can you afford not to download it?

Additional information

Current version: 2.0.815.0 Requires Android: 2.3 and up

A Halloween app-a-day keeps the ghouls away…

Michael Brook — Fri, 18 Oct 2013 12:50:55 +0000

Skeleton suits, buckets of fake blood and Android smartphones at the ready, Halloween - October 31 - is very nearly upon us. This means bobbing for apples, small people knocking on your door demanding sweets and huge pumpkins getting hacked to pieces. It also means a frightful slew of ghoulishly themed apps. Thankfully, the good people of MagicSolver are here to save Android users having to wade through the dross, by picking the best of the bunch with their fiendish Halloween app.

“Halloween 13: Free Spooky Apps” recommends the best and most spine-chilling apps, delivering one a day for free download for Android users, from the 19th October to the big day itself, October 31. And don’t freak out if you miss a day, the apps will stay available to download for whenever you get the guts to play them.

Using a crack editorial team, MagicSolver, the company behind the hugely successful Free App Magic, has been picking the bones out of the best horrifying apps the Google Play app store has to offer, so you don’t have to. This means you’re guaranteed only the creepiest graphics and most blood-curdling sound effects. As well the free app-a-day, MagicSolver throws in 13 challenging mini games to keep Android users entertained while they wait for their treat to be delivered. Emmanuel Carraud, CEO of MagicSolver, told us: “Our new look 2013 app helps users get into the spirit of Halloween two weeks early. What better way to build up to this wicked day than by getting free apps, and thanks to our expert team all the apps are top quality; ones our users will come back to time and time again.” Download the app for free on Google Play now. And don’t come crying to us if it turns your hair white...

Sweet, sweet dreams with Netatmo Weather Station

Michael Brook — Thu, 17 Oct 2013 10:23:30 +0000

According to the Great British Sleep survey, half of us experience trouble sleeping. If you’re one of the unlucky 50%, help is at hand from the Netatmo Weather Station - a product designed to help you to create the optimum conditions for peaceful slumber. One of the key factors in ensuring a good night’s sleep is room temperature, with experts suggesting between 15-19°C to be the ideal range. The Netatmo, designed for use with your Android smartphone, allows you to monitor temperature, as well as humidity, air pressure, noise and CO2 levels. Pair it with a sleep monitoring app, such as the popular Sleep Cycle, and you can tweak conditions until you tailor your perfect atmosphere for a restful night. Netatmo is made up of two modules; one for indoors and one for outside. You can access the data via the free dedicated Netatmo app or by looking on the website. It costs £139 and you can also purchase and install up to three additional indoor modules (£59 each), allowing you to monitor air conditions in multiple rooms around your abode.

Mad Catz finds its MOJO with new Android console?

Kyle Ellison — Thu, 10 Oct 2013 11:55:40 +0000

Mad Catz has revealed a new Android console hoping to rival the Kickstarter success of Ouya, launching the £220-valued M.O.J.O. on December 10th. The company – best known for making joysticks – enters the market with a startlingly high price tag, more than twice the price of Ouya and also more expensive than the soon to be outdated PS3 and Xbox 360. So, what is so special that's hiding behind M.O.J.O.'s mysterious acronym? The bulk of that cost goes towards Nvidia's Tegra 4 processor, offering the M.O.J.O. a power and speed well beyond the capabilities of any other Android device. There's also 16GB of storage on-board, with a micro SD slot capable of increasing that number by 128GB. As you might expect, M.O.J.O. will also come pre-loaded with Google Play and Nvidia TegraZone, including the option to access everything you've bought already and download it again for free. Despite some impressive spec, with most Android games designed around touchscreen control there's a worry that not all titles will easily translate to a physical control. Eurogamer's Richard Leadbetter explains: "The vast majority of Android titles are built around the touchscreen because that's where the overwhelming majority of the market is. Mobile titles running at 1080p on a living room flatscreen just don't tend to work as well." Being a Mad Catz product, M.O.J.O. is likely to come with a great controller – but at such a high price point you have to worry how it will compete next to the releases of next-gen gaming consoles from Microsoft and Sony. So, what do you think? Is there a future for Android gaming consoles like M.O.J.O and Ouya? Or are Android games simply better suited to smartphones and tablets? For more information, or to pre-order the M.O.J.O from Mad Catz ahead of its December release, visit the company's website.

Stitcher update brings offline radio to Android

Kyle Ellison — Wed, 09 Oct 2013 11:02:00 +0000

Stitcher has rolled out its latest Android update, adding offline listening to its library of over 18,000 podcasts and radio shows. The company claims to be the mobile leader in on-demand news, entertainment, sports and talk radio, featuring favourites from BBC, NPR, TedTalks, CNN, Freakonomics and many more in its colourful tiled design. Up until now Stitcher users have had to be connected to the internet to listen to their favourite shows, but that all changes with its latest upgrade. A post on the company's blog revealed: "You can now listen to your playlists anywhere with our new offline listening feature. Seamlessly access your favourite shows from our catalog of over 18,000 at work, in the gym, on the plane or anywhere else you may not have a wireless connection." Once you've selected your favourite shows, the app simply updates them in the background when a WiFi connection is available so that they're ready for when you want to listen. There have also been improvements made to Stitcher's interface, which now features a sidebar that drags in from the corner of the screen. The Stitcher blog adds: "Instead of requiring you to tap back four times in order to navigate to a different section of Stitcher, now you can swipe right from the left edge to access Stitcher’s main menu." The company also claims to have improved the user experience by fixing crash bugs and enhancing the app's memory management and usability. To put all these changes to the test, download Stitcher for free via Google Play.

Pinball Rocks HD

Kyle Ellison — Tue, 08 Oct 2013 10:45:04 +0000

THE STORY

Pinball is a proven arcade classic, and this Sony spin-off is lifted straight from the corner of a grimy, basement rock bar – just minus the stench of vomit and Jägermeister.

THE EXPERIENCE

While the gameplay was always unlikely to surprise, the success of a pinball game is in the details. Pinball Rocks is packaged with five tables designed around major rock bands from the Sony catalogue – including Slayer, Alice in Chains, AC/DC and Bullet For My Valentine. The tables are designed with care, taking the visual style of each band and creating a shrine to their legacy with all the usual flippers, bumpers and chasms. So, why does Pinball Rocks leave a sour aftertaste? The problem is that it feels more like a store for Sony products than it does a game for rock fans. While the app is free to download, each band table costs nearly £2 to unlock and then there are songs and upgrades on top of that which are sold through Google Play Music. Ugly menu screens and intrusive advertising also hurt the experience, getting in the way of what began as a strong concept. Even so, if you're a particular fan of any of the featured bands, then £2 will seem a small price to pay for a playful bit of Pinball memorabilia. Just don't bother if you're a casual listener. [See image gallery at www.lifeofandroid.com]

6.1

THE BOTTOM LINE

Pinball Rocks is a collectors items for metal fans, but hardly worth bothering without a vested interest in one of the four featured bands. A missed opportunity.

Additional information

Current version: 1.0 Requires Android: 2.3.3 and up

Make Android navigation easier with Edge and Edge Pro

Kyle Ellison — Mon, 07 Oct 2013 11:41:05 +0000

Developers are constantly looking for ways to make Android navigation simpler, but Edge: Quick Actions deserves a special mention for its subtle innovation. While it's already relatively painless to find the app you're looking for using Android's native interface, Edge makes it even simpler with a gesture area that drags in from the left side of the screen. Simply swipe your thumb from the device's edge – hence the name – and move along to whichever service you need, opening recent apps or settings in one satisfying action. What's more, the app is careful not to get in your way when you're not using it, requiring a very explicit drag from the side of the screen. Edge is initially populated with five most recent apps in a middle row, with further settings available above and below. All of this functionality comes in a free-to-download app, although there is a premium version available should you wish to access a few extra features. Edge Pro is available for for £1.99, allowing you to add more settings, increase the number of recent apps, change colours and the edge that the gesture area rests on. The developer also promises you'll be able to execute smart actions in a future update. Now, arguably navigation on Android isn't enough of a 'problem' to warrant the premium features to begin with, but if you find yourself taken with Edge: Quick Actions then it might be worth upgrading to Edge Pro. Download both Edge: Quick Actions and Edge Pro now via Google Play.

The Week in Android

Kyle Ellison — Fri, 04 Oct 2013 14:55:47 +0000

Hello reader, and welcome to another week in Android. And oh my what a week it's been, as some of the biggest apps of the year landed in our review section alongside news stories that range from the useful to the ridiculous. In apps, headline status is shared between the returns of FIFA and Angry Birds – but which is better? Scroll down to find out, and also lookout for reviews of Pivvot, Gravity and the charmingly titled Dumb Ways to Die. In the news, we've got apps to help you get a new job, a new T-shirt of your own design and a drink as served by a robotic Jeeves. So if those things interest you – and they should interest you – then you know know where to look. Let's get on with it, shall we?

THE APPS

Gravity: Don't Let Go George Clooney and Sandra Bullock’s anxiety-filled space adventure, ‘Gravity’, is already being touted as a serious Oscar contender, but what of the accompanying app? Pivvot Pivvot is a thrilling two-button test in ‘strategic avoidance’, with obstacles that hurtle towards you in various intimidating shapes and sizes. Dumb Ways to Die With nearly 60 million views on YouTube, it’s safe to say that Dumb Ways to Die has already been a viral hit. Can this spin-off app repeat the success? FIFA 14 As dependable as a sturdy Stoke back line or a Mourinho press conference, FIFA has returned for another year. Can the king of football apps hold on to its title? Angry Birds Star Wars II Angry Birds Star Wars is back! Our feathered heroes have recharged their lightsabers for round 2, now with the addition of playable piggies of the empire – but will you join the pork side?

THE NEWS

Supercharge your work life with career MOT Career MOT is a new app from Pitman Training designed to get you out of the job you hate, and into something tailored to your personality. Help kickstart Monsieur: the artificially intelligent robotic bartender Welcome to the future as seen through the lens of 80s sci-fi – Monsieur is an artificially intelligent robotic bartender that learns your drinks preferences with a companion app for Android and iOS. Design and order your own T-shirts with Snaptee for Android Snaptee, a free iOS app that lets you design, share and order custom T-shirts has now been released for Android devices. New Android Gmail app could open door to mobile ads Android users getting to grips with the recent Gmail 4.6 update may soon be greeted with a more unwelcome addition, with the new potential to be filled with mobile adverts.

AND FINALLY...

Have you got an app you want to see reviewed on Life of Android? Have you some news you want to see shared on these hallowed green and white pages? Drop us an e-mail on info@lifeofandroid.com or find us over on FaceBook.

Supercharge your work life with Career MOT

Kyle Ellison — Fri, 04 Oct 2013 11:27:24 +0000

Career MOT is a new app from Pitman Training designed to get you out of the job you hate, and into one that's tailored to your personality. What's that, you actually quite like your job? Well perhaps this isn't for you, but the statistics suggest you're in the minority. According to a recent Gallup survey, seven out of 10 American workers have "checked out" at work or are "actively disengaged". While in the UK, only 8% of workers feel we’re in our dream job; Over 42% waste up to 4 hours a week dreaming of what we could be doing instead, but 72% of people rate being happy at work as one of the most important factors to their job. Ouch. If those numbers sound all too familiar to you, then you'll want to give Career MOT a try. All you have to do is download the app for free, create an avatar, and answer 12 simple questions to form the basis of your MOT. Once that's done you'll receive a breakdown of your personality traits – which isn't quite as brutal as it sounds, and might actually throw up some positive qualities you hadn't considered before. It'll also suggest possible career paths and even highlight development ideas and training courses to get you on track. A spokesperson from Pitman Training Group, the company which invested in developing the MOT Career app said: “We’re on a mission to help save the future of Britain’s workforce. With America often being a country that delivers the warning signs of the shape of things to come for UK industry these recent figures are very worrying. We are determined to try and stop Britain going the same way!" Got your interest? Download Career MOT now via Google Play – it's free, so even if its useless you won't lose anything more than five minutes of your time.

Gravity: Don’t Let Go

Kyle Ellison — Thu, 03 Oct 2013 16:45:08 +0000

THE STORY

George Clooney and Sandra Bullock's anxiety-filled space adventure, 'Gravity', is already being touted as a serious Oscar contender, but what of the accompanying app?

THE EXPERIENCE

Like the film of the same name, Gravity taps into an idea not often explored in Hollywood's frequent journeys into outer space – the feeling of becoming detatched, left to drift in the enormity of the universe as your oxygen is gradually depleted. It's a terrifying prospect, so thankfully this spin-off app from Warner Bros is a tamer affair. There is, however, just enough tension in the gameplay to play into your anxieties and keep things exciting. It begins with a series of simple tasks, having to first stabilise yourself using circular motions and resist spinning out of control. Once you're steadied things quickly get tricker, as floating around in zero-gravity proves to be about as difficult and frustrating as it sounds. There's a bit of a knack to it, but expect to spend some time flying off in the wrong direction as your intended targets disappear into the distance. The game's 3D graphics makes it beautiful to ogle at, even if there's little time for stargazing. As your oxygen runs out on a continuous ticking clock, you have to make snap decisions on whether to plough on with your objectives or head back for oxygen so you can try again. On top of the main game mode there's a multiplayer option, but disappointingly it was full of bugs at the time of testing. [See image gallery at www.lifeofandroid.com]

7.9

THE BOTTOM LINE

Gravity is a satisfyingly tense movie spin-off with graphics to die for. If only they'd taken the time to expand it and fix the multiplayer bugs.

Additional information

Current version: varies with device Requires Android: varies with device

Help kickstart Monsieur: the artificially intelligent robotic bartender

Kyle Ellison — Thu, 03 Oct 2013 11:39:15 +0000

Welcome to the future as seen through the lens of 80s sci-fi – Monsieur is an artificially intelligent robotic bartender that learns your drinks preferences with a companion app for Android and iOS. A Kickstarter project with the noble aim of "reinventing the social drinking experience", Monsieur is a retro-futuristic hardware that prepares drinks to their exact specifications, tailored to the no-doubt discerning tastes of its users. You'd hope they'd be discerning anyway, as prices for the robot Jeeves start at $1499. “Enjoying cocktails and spirits is a fundamental component of social life for many Americans, but the overall social drinking experience has not been innovated in centuries,” said Barry Givens, CEO and co-founder, Monsieur. “The goal of Monsieur is to redefine the social drinking experience by using smart technology to create a personal bartender, assistant and mixologist for everyone – providing an unmatched cocktail experience, anywhere you might be. We’ve also built in features to encourage responsible drinking by monitoring consumption, estimating blood alcohol levels and even helping users order a cab.” That's all well and good, we hear you cry – but where does the Android bit come in? Well, owners of Monsieur can put their drink-ordering power in the palm of their hand. Featuring seamless integration with WiFi and Bluetooth, Monsieur harnesses intelligence to become your very own personal butler. “We have combined cutting-edge innovations from robotics, home automation, and mobile and applied them to social drinking, one of the world’s favorite pastimes. The result is a new experience foreshadowed by futuristic views from the Jetsons,” said Dr. Paul Judge, chairman, Monsieur. So there you have it, a fancy, american-made drinks robot inspired by the Jetsons. What a world we live in. Intrigued by this brave new vision of 'social drinking'? Check out the Kickstarter where you can pledge, find out more information and see Monsieur in action.

Design and order your own T-shirts with Snaptee for Android

Kyle Ellison — Wed, 02 Oct 2013 15:44:21 +0000

Snaptee, a free iOS app that lets you design, share and order custom T-shirts has now been released for Android devices. The Hong Kong based company is aiming to "make T-shirt design accessible to everyone", giving users the chance to create and even sell their own designs in just a few simple taps. With full Instagram integration, templates and a range of fonts, colours and filters, Snaptee gives you plenty of options to flex your creative muscles and design your perfect T-shirt. You don't have to be a creative mastermind to get involved either, as you can also browse through designs and 'remix' any that you like to match your personal style and preferences. Catherine Shao, chief communications officer at Snaptee, told Tech Crunch: “We envision Remix growing and playing a part in friends and collaborators designing together in Snaptee. To us, a T-shirt is more than just an article of clothing, it’s a blank canvas for expression.” Finished designs can be printed onto 100% organic cotton T-shirts for $19.99 each – shipped anywhere in the world starting at $5 for regular shipping. Users can also sell their designs for a 10% commission per order. So, while we set to work on designing a Life of Android shirt, download Snaptee for free and let us know what you think of it in the comments below.

Pivvot

Kyle Ellison — Wed, 02 Oct 2013 12:00:40 +0000

THE STORY

Pivvot is a thrilling two-button test in 'strategic avoidance', with obstacles that hurtle towards you in various intimidating shapes and sizes. Test your reactions in five different game modes set to a pulsing electronic soundtrack.

THE EXPERIENCE

It seems like minimal puzzlers are all the rage at the moment, and here's another beautifully simple challenge to get your head around. The controls are very basic – just tap one side of the screen to pivot in one direction, and the other will send you the opposite way while moving only in circular motions. As you speed along the track – twisting and turning as you go – new obstacles are introduced with different techniques for coming through unscathed. The two main game modes are Voyage and Endless – both of which use this same game engine in slightly different ways. In Voyage mode there is a long and treacherous track to complete – lives are infinite and multiple deaths are inevitable, but the aim is to reach the end with the lowest number of fails. Endless mode is about lasting as long as you can without dying at all, improving on your best scores and aiming for targets set by the game. Perform well at both these game modes and unlock 'Expert' versions of each, and do really well for a crack at 'Beserk' mode. We haven't got there yet, which we suppose speaks volumes for how much shelf life the game has. Having said that, priced at nearly £2 that's to be expected. In truth, there's some room here for the Voyage mode to be expanded with new challenges and the music – as good as it is – could be even more central to the game with a choice of songs. [See image gallery at www.lifeofandroid.com]

7.5

THE BOTTOM LINE

Pivvot is a hypnotic and compulsive puzzle app with a striking design, but with so many apps of this type filling up the app store – could it be giving us more for our money?

Additional information

Current version: 1.0 Requires Android: 2.0.1

Dumb Ways to Die

Kyle Ellison — Tue, 01 Oct 2013 16:27:18 +0000

THE STORY

With nearly 60 million views on YouTube, it's safe to say that Dumb Ways to Die has already been a viral hit. Can this spin-off app repeat the success?

THE EXPERIENCE

Like the video which inspired it, Dumb Ways to Die mostly works because of its ridiculously cute 2D design. We're not the kind of people to throw around words like 'cute' willy nilly either – perhaps its the underlying threat of gruesome death that gives it a sinister charm. The game is comprised of 15 mini-games that – as fun as they are – wouldn't be nearly as addictive without the same colourful characters lifted from the video. They're all here in full-force, and it's up to you to collect them all – Pokemon style – by racking up as big a score as possible. So, it's your job to clear up a screenful of vomit so that one little guy doesn't trip and fall to its death, and you'll have to stand on guard as another guy prances around in a shallow pool of piranha-filled waters. Each activity is made into its own mini-game which become harder and harder as you progress, with less and less time to complete them and a rapidly accelerating soundtrack to ramp up the tension. All this adds up to a fun and varied challenge that'll be a true test of your reactions, but with just one game mode to play through it's unlikely to provide more than a few hours game time. Even so, as a free app Dumb Ways to Die is worth a download if only to soak up its adorable animation [See image gallery at www.lifeofandroid.com]

7.6

THE BOTTOM LINE

Dumb Ways to Die is a lightweight companion app to the viral video of the same name, but its characters and designs are just as memorable.

Additional information

Current version: 1.4.1 Requires Android: 2.2 and up

New Android Gmail app could open door to mobile ads

Kyle Ellison — Tue, 01 Oct 2013 12:14:06 +0000

Android users getting to grips with the recent Gmail 4.6 update may soon be greeted by a more unwelcome addition, with the new potential to be filled with mobile adverts. The eagle-eyed code crackers at Android Police noted that Gmail now has the potential to turn on mobile advertising at the flick of the switch – a functionality not possible in previous versions of the app. Although adverts are turned off for now, the news will come as a concern to upwards of a billion Android users. Based on the contents of the APK, it has been suggested that Google could implement advertising with a degree of restraint should they decide to turn it on, but it's a worrying step in the direction of more obviously commercial e-mail providers. Google responded to the speculation in a brief, guarded statement to Tech Radar, commenting: "We're always experimenting with new features, but have nothing new to share at this time." More positive additions to Gmail 4.6 include a warning about any unsent messages, as well as some minor design tweaks to improve the user experience. Are you concerned by the prospect of an ad-filled Gmail? Let us know what you think in the comments below.

FIFA 14

Kyle Ellison — Mon, 30 Sep 2013 16:35:13 +0000

THE STORY

As dependable as a sturdy Stoke back line or a Mourinho press conference, FIFA has returned for another year. This time however, it's been given a radical overhaul – so can the king of football apps hold on to its title?

THE EXPERIENCE

If you think that you know FIFA inside out, then think again – as FIFA 14 is unlike any previous mobile version of the EA Sports giant. Most significantly, there's been a rethink of the controls, with two options for controlling your starting eleven. While you can still opt to use the on-screen control pad in the conventional way, there's now a purely touch-screen option which involves tapping around the screen to pass and swipe gestures to slide and shoot. The results are mixed, and while it's initially a fun novelty, we soon found ourselves getting frustrated with our lack of control over the game. To its credit, at least you have the option to change to the other control set, and what's more – you can get to know both of them in a fully-functional free demo. In fact, depending on which game modes you want to use, there might not be any reason to pay for FIFA 14 at all, with a £2.99 freemium version locking away just the 'Tournament', 'Manager' and 'Kick Off' modes. If you're just looking for a bit of kick about, then, you can do so at no cost at all and even compete online. Otherwise, it's business as usual for FIFA 14, which still looks the part and has the usual fully licensed sheen. It's easy to take for granted just how good FIFA is when we're faced with a new game every year, but at least this time they've tried something different. As a result, the faults are more apparent, but the future could be bright. [See image gallery at www.lifeofandroid.com]

7.5

THE BOTTOM LINE

The new ideas flowing through FIFA 14 don't all work, but the very generous freemium offering at least gives everyone the chance to try it out. Hopefully next time they'll be able to perfect the control system.

Additional information

Current version: 1.2.9 Requires Android: 2.3.3 and up

Angry Birds Star Wars 2

Kyle Ellison — Tue, 24 Sep 2013 10:47:00 +0000

THE STORY

Angry Birds Star Wars is back! Our feathered heroes have recharged their lightsabers for round 2, now with the addition of playable piggies of the empire – but will you join the pork side?

THE EXPERIENCE

As the seventh Angry Birds game since the series launched back in 2009, Angry Birds Star Wars 2 should be just about flawless – but instead of concentrating on the kinks, Rovio have thrown in the proverbial kitchen sink with upgrades and abilities galore. Let's start with the positives, because there are loads of them. Angry Birds Star Wars 2 hasn't simply been churned out to to continue the series, it's crammed with smart ideas and lovingly designed characters from the Star Wars universe. Okay, so much of the creation is drawn from the disappointing prequel trilogy, but for every birdie Jar Jar Binks there is a Pig General Grievous or Jango Fett to keep you amused. Each of these characters come to life with their own unique abilities to learn and master – and yes, that means you can play as Good and Evil sides with separate missions for both. As for missions, there are 120 to get through – each of them with new physics-based challenges to find a solution for. Obstacles include giant magnets which can wreak havoc on the environment, and gravitational fields which can pull you around the level and drag you into deep space. Whether its bird or pig, you must deploy your team wisely – knowing when to use the force and when to use Jar Jar Binks' grappling hook tongue to the greatest effect. It's a shame that for all these great ideas ABSW2 feels overloaded, especially when it comes to in-app purchases. On top of those there are also collectible toys – or Telepods – which can be bought and thrown into the game using QR codes, following in the path of Skylanders and Disney Infinity. While it's easy enough to complete the game without paying any more than the 79p it costs to download, if you want to use every character and earn three stars on each level, in-app purchases are a must. At this point, the lines between Angry Birds' artistry and upgrade store is blurrier than ever. [See image gallery at www.lifeofandroid.com]

8.4

THE BOTTOM LINE

Although the paid add-ons are a bit excessive, Angry Birds continues to show why it still rules the mobile gaming roost. These are detailed, addictive puzzles from the paired charms of Rovio and Lucas Arts.

Additional information

Current version: 1.0.2 Requires Android: 2.3 and up

Moves brings free activity tracking to Android

Kyle Ellison — Mon, 23 Sep 2013 11:18:53 +0000

Moves, the free physical activity tracking app for iPhone, is now available on Android. Having already been downloaded 2.5 million times since launching in January, activity tracking has gone mainstream – no longer the preserve of fitness freaks and calorie counters. Unlike alternative trackers from Nike, FitBit and JawBone, Moves doesn't require you to buy any additional accessories, relying purely on sensors within your phone to track walking, running and cycling. “We believe Moves is the most popular activity tracker available as we’re tracking over two billion steps every day,” said Sampo Karjalainen, Designer & CEO, Moves. “It is very difficult to beat the price and convenience of having the activity tracker in your phone. You simply download the app and leave it to track your daily movements. There’s no need to buy, charge, carry and sync one more device.” The Finnish startup is likely to gain an even bigger market share following its Android launch, initially available on handsets running Android 4.0 and upwards with the intention of expanding soon. The Android version features the same simple but striking design, making the most of the app's minimal yet effective functionality. Karjalainen added, “smartphones are a great platform for mainstream activity tracking. There are already over billion iOS and Android devices on the market. Thanks to their location technology and processing power, we can show routes taken, places visited, and recognize cycling – something that activity tracking wristbands can’t do.” Despite the simplicity of its current design, Moves has stated its intention to focus on analysis in future versions – offering a breakdown of activity that tells 'stories' about your life, rather than just number crunching. We'll be keeping a close eye on Moves in the coming months then, as it keeps an eye on us. Download the app now for free via Google Play.

Introducing Hudl: a new family tablet from Tesco priced £119

Kyle Ellison — Mon, 23 Sep 2013 10:15:11 +0000

Tesco has launched a new Android tablet that looks set to spark a good old fashion price war – entering the market at a very competitive £119, or if you buy it with clubcard loyalty points, just £60. The 7"inch Hudl tablet has 16gb of built-in memory, a 1400x900 screen resolution, and instant access to supermarket shopping services as well as Blinkbox music and movies. All these apps and widgets are pre-installed with the device, as well as all the usual Google tools and gadgets. So, while Tesco isn't a name that you're likely to associate with technology, it's clear that the retailer has done its homework. The Hudl is less than half of the price of the iPad Mini, and considerably cheaper than both Amazon's Kindle Fire and Google's new Nexus 7. Tesco chief executive Phil Clarke commented: “Hudl is a colourful, accessible tablet for the whole family to enjoy. The first stage in our tablet offering – it’s convenient, integrated and easy to use with no compromise on spec. Customers are quite rightly very discerning about the technology they buy so we knew we had to be competitive on all fronts.” “Being online is an increasingly essential part of family life and whilst tablets are on the rise, usage is still quite limited. We feel the time is right for Tesco to help widen tablet ownership and bring the fun, convenience and excitement of tablets to even more customers across the UK." While Hudl might not be able to match its competition in a simple spec by spec comparison, it's been designed as a family tablet with all the necessary settings and accessories to keep your children safe. Its low price point too, is a significant advantage that makes the device a unique proposition. So, what are your first impressions of Hudl? Will you be sticking with established technology brands, or are you tempted by this low-cost family tablet from Tesco?

The week in Android

Kyle Ellison — Fri, 20 Sep 2013 16:03:21 +0000

As the curtain draws on this chilly autumnal week, it's time to wrap up warm in those forgotten layers at the back of your wardrobe. It's also time to wrap up the week in Android – but first, we'll just give you a moment to let the seamlessness of that link sink in. Ready? Okay. Let's have a look at what's been reviewed and in the news this week.

THE APPS

Little Galaxy Little Galaxy is a planet hopping platformer inspired by the ‘real story’ of a young scientist in an intergalactic property hunt. It's like Location, Location, Location in space. The X Factor UK The new official X Factor app lets you be the ‘fifth judge’ – so as well as cheering along and shouting abuse at the screen, you can use the app to cast your judgement and watch the reaction online. SimpleNote Despite boasting over a million apps through the Google Play store, Android is still sorely lacking when it comes to productivity tools. SimpleNote won’t be the most exciting thing you’ll download, but it may be one of the most useful. Totem Runner Is it a bird? Is it a rhino? No, it’s Totem Runner – a new endless running game for Android that lets you transform into a mighty eagle or a rampaging rhino.

THE NEWS

Kogan launches reasonably priced 5"inch smartphone Kogan has launched a high-power Android smartphone, looking to provide a cheaper alternative to the colossal market leaders Apple and Samsung. Nokia tested Android on Lumia phones Android Lumia has a nice ring to it, and was very nearly a reality. It turns out Nokia tested its Lumia phones on Android before partnering with Microsoft’s Windows operating system. Disney Storybooks let kids create their own adventures Disney has released nine new storybook apps for Android, giving children the chance to create their own adventures using some of the studio’s most beloved characters. OS MapFinder app plots its way over to Android Ordnance Survey has released its OS MapFinder app for Android, helping to guide walkers, runners, ramblers and cyclists around Great Britain’s great outdoors.

AND FINALLY...

Kogan launches 5” quad-core smartphone for under £150

Kyle Ellison — Fri, 20 Sep 2013 11:22:38 +0000

Kogan has launched a high-power Android smartphone, looking to provide a cheaper alternative to the colossal market leaders Apple and Samsung. The Kogan Agora 5.0 is – as its name suggests – a 5"inch phone, equipped with a 1.2Ghz quad-core processor, Android Jelly Bean 4.2.2 and an 8 megapixel rear-facing camera. The Australian online-only retailer entered the market earlier this year with a budget phablet – and we're sorry to say that it looked as ugly as the words 'budget phablet' sound in your ears. The company's second effort though, is a leaner, curvier and, well, better than its last. Ruslan Kogan, founder and CEO of Kogan, said British shoppers deserved an affordable smartphone that still packed a punch. "Some big tech companies think they can launch a phone for the budget-conscious consumer and still price it at over £450. At Kogan, we know better. We think everyone should be able to afford a great smartphone that has all the main features that you want, without paying for features you don’t need. " He added: "Thousands of customers said they want a phone that looks stylish, but is also powerful and feature-packed - and that’s exactly what the Kogan Agora Quad-core Smartphone delivers." The Agora 5.0 also comes with dual-SIM capability, 1GB of RAM and 4GB of internal storage – not bad, considering it's priced at a staggeringly low £149. For more information and to see the full specification, head over to the Kogan website now. Additionally, if you can think of an uglier pairing of words than 'budget phablet', do let us know.

BBM Android app to hit Google Play on Friday?

Kyle Ellison — Wed, 18 Sep 2013 15:03:15 +0000

BlackBerry Messenger could be available to download on Android by the end of the week, according to a tweet from Samsung Nigeria. While BlackBerry announced earlier this year that it was developing Android and iOS apps for its BBM messenger platform, up until now there has been no indication of when they might see a release. Before you get your hopes up, the Samsung tweet also claimed that the manufacturer had secured a three month exclusive deal on BBM – a fact that BlackBerry have since denied. So, perhaps we should take Samsung Nigeria's tweets with a pinch of salt. Victoria Berry, BBM communications director at BlackBerry, told CrackBerry "I want to clarify that no one will have an exclusive on offering BBM. We’ll be bringing the app to Android and iPhone users across the globe soon." A leaked video of a BETA version on YouTube provided another signal that the app could be released imminently, clearly showing BBM up and running on an HTC handset. Whether or not the app sees an Android release this week, it's clear that BlackBerry is serious about making BBM the world's number one messaging platform. It's already been a major asset for BlackBerry, as the popularity of the app among the younger generation has been partly responsible for keeping the manufacturer afloat in recent years. For the official word on BBM's Android and iOS releases, visit the BlackBerry website and sign-up to the mailing list. So, will you be downloading the app when it reaches Android? Watch the BETA video below and let us know what you think.

Little Galaxy

Kyle Ellison — Tue, 17 Sep 2013 14:44:24 +0000

THE STORY

Little Galaxy is a planet hopping platformer inspired by the 'real story' of a young scientist in an intergalactic property hunt. Collect stars to earn points along the way, but time your jumps carefully or risk getting lost in orbit.

THE EXPERIENCE

Like all the best mobile games – from Angry Birds to Temple Run – Little Galaxy is simple. In fact, it's so simple that you only use one button to play – just tap the screen to leap from planet to planet. The platforms spin on a constant rotation so it's all in the timing, especially as the gravitational forces attempt to drag you into the abyss. Despite how basic the controls are, the game's gradual introduction of new features and upgrades means that there's always something new to play for. Collect stars to earn more points, find magnets to help attract more stars, and there are many more bonuses and space-themed add-ons to be found along the way. You can either play for a high score, or work your way through the many goals and objectives to introduce new elements into the mix. It's a shame that there's only one game mode, because there's likely a limit on how long you can amuse yourself hopping around with a one button control. Even so, with loveable 3D graphics and a huge number of challenges to complete, Little Galaxy is a very decent platformer from Bitmap Galaxy. [See image gallery at www.lifeofandroid.com]

7.4

THE BOTTOM LINE

In Little Galaxy you can explore the universe one planet at a time, and yet somehow the game feels too limiting to be a real classic. Still, at just 64p, it's both great-looking and addictive.

Additional information

Current version: 1.1.0 Requires Android: 2.2 and up