What's going on with the HTC One X and the HTC EVO 4G LTE definitely isn't cool, a point that few besides the likes of Apple can deny. The good news is that HTC's latest One series isn't at a complete loss, with the HTC One S at T-Mobile ready for some finger grubbing. The stellar news is that with T-Mobile's current Magenta Days deal, you can get two of them for the price of one. From today through May 28th, the big pink T will be offering the buy one get one deal for several 4G devices on their network. Check out the press release below, and grab yourself up an HTC One S, a figurative finger gesture to Apple and a good phone to boot!

T-Mobile Proves That Two Is Better Than One

From May 18 to May 28, T-Mobile’s “Magenta Deal Days” continues, offering customers a free 4G smartphone when they purchase one of equal or lesser value

BELLEVUE, Wash. — May 16, 2012 — T-Mobile is showing customers how two is better than one. For a limited time, customers who purchase a select 4G T-Mobile^® smartphone will receive a second smartphone of equal or lesser value for free, after a mail-in rebate card, making it more affordable than ever for families to upgrade and have amazing 4G experiences on America’s Largest 4G Network^®. The promotion will take place from Friday, May 18, through Monday, May 28.

T-Mobile’s “Magenta Deal Days” Buy-One-Get-One (BOGO) promotion offers customers a mail-in rebate card worth up to $329 toward a new device with the purchase of a select T-Mobile 4G smartphone or mobile broadband device. Customers can choose from T-Mobile’s latest and fastest devices, including the HTC^® One™ S 4G, Samsung Galaxy S^® II 4G, HTC Radar™ 4G, Sonic^® 4G Mobile Hotspot and the Samsung Galaxy S^® Blaze™ 4G, among others, running on America’s Largest 4G Network^®.

“Our latest ‘Magenta Deal Days’ promotion continues our commitment to giving our customers the ability to enjoy all the 4G experiences of a smartphone on our best plans ever,” said John Clelland, senior vice president of marketing, T-Mobile USA. “What’s better than getting one of the sleekest, fastest 4G devices on the market? That would be getting two for the price of one.”

New and existing eligible (meaning 22 months or more on their current contract) customers can take advantage of this promotion and receive their second device for free after a mail-in rebate card when they sign up for a new two-year contract on any qualifying Classic Plan™¹ or paying a $0.00 down payment after mail-in rebate card on their second device when signing up on a qualifying Unlimited Value™² plan.

Below is an example of pricing for the BOGO promotion on either T-Mobile’s Classic or Unlimited Value plans. The devices listed do not reflect all of the devices available during the BOGO promotion.

The “Magenta Deal Days” BOGO promotion will be available at participating T-Mobile retail stores nationwide. For more information about T-Mobile’s products, services and a full list of eligible devices: http://t-mo.co/IFiLii.

¹ Standard upgrade eligibility rules apply for existing Classic customers who stay on a Classic plan.

² On approved credit and 0 percent APR. Down payment and unfinanced portion required at purchase. Remaining balance paid in 20 monthly installments. Total price of each device equals down payment amount plus 20 times the monthly payment amount.

About T-Mobile USA, Inc.

Based in Bellevue, Wash., T-Mobile USA, Inc. is the U.S. wireless operation of Deutsche Telekom AG (OTCQX: DTEGY). By the end of the first quarter of 2012, approximately 129 million mobile customers were served by the mobile communication segments of the Deutsche Telekom group — 33.4 million by T-Mobile USA — all via a common technology platform based on GSM and UMTS and additionally HSPA+ 21/HSPA+ 42. T-Mobile USA’s innovative wireless products and services help empower people to connect to those who matter most. Multiple independent research studies continue to rank T-Mobile USA among the highest in numerous regions throughout the U.S. in wireless customer care and call quality. For more information, please visit http://www.T-Mobile.com. T-Mobile is a federally registered trademark of Deutsche Telekom AG. For further information on Deutsche Telekom, please visitww.telekom.de/investor-relations.

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As the weather gets warmer we're finding ourselves out on the patio and deck grilling up some steaks and burgers more each week. And while we've got our favorite recipes and ways of preparing dinner we are always up for new ideas.  Really, who wants to show up to a Memorial Day party that is serving plain ol' hamburgers? That said, we've been looking to some Android apps for inspiration.  With hundreds of cooking titles to choose from, we've trimmed our list down to a handful of grilling-specific apps.

We recognize that there are tons of titles that we did not include or that this might look like an extremely limited list.  On the contrary, these are just five apps that we've picked to get you going in the right direction.  That's why we turn to you and ask that you add your titles to the comments below.  This way other Android users can discover the stuff that we may overlook or omit.

This week's topic: Barbecue and grilling apps

Weber’s On the Grill

• Developer: Weber-Stephen Products LLC
• Cost: $4.99 (Google Play)

As one of the premier names in backyard grilling, we were pleased to find the app offers 280 classic Weber recipes as well as 40 additional recipes for rubs, marinades, and sauces.  Additional features include more than 100 grilling tips, video tutorials, a grocery list compiler, and a food timer.  Betcha didn't know that steak cooks at a different rate than veggies.  Oh, you did?

iBBQ

• Developer: EBLEX
• Cost: FREE (Google Play)

Before you fire up the grill you are going to want to make sure that you've got the right cut of meat.  That's where iBBQ comes in handy!  Use this app to help hunt down the nearest Quality Standard accredited butcher or find the perfect spot for your next outing.  Despite what you think, not everyone finds your house to be the perfect venue.  We have to point out that the location-based stuff is geared to those living in the UK.  Having said that, we really dig the recipes, tips, and videos as they cover the gamut that is beef, lamb, salad and marinades.

Omaha Steaks Steak Time

• Developer: Omaha Steaks
• Cost: FREE (Google Play)

Obviously geared toward the steak crowd, this one is full of cooking tips, steak facts, health information, and more.  Want to learn how to create perfect grill marks?  There's a video for that.  Need to cook three different cuts of meat for the family?  There's a timer for that.  Spend a few minutes playing Conversation Cards with your grill-mates or catch up with Omaha Steaks on Twitter or Facebook while you wait for the filet to finish.

Grill-It!

• Developer: Sluice LLC
• Cost: FREE (Google Play)

Ever wondered how to grill asparagus or lobster? Lamb, Seafood, Poultry and more. Browse through instructions and high quality images for grilling recipes for beef, seafood, lamb, poultry, and more.   Search by category, ingredient, or key word and mark your next meal as a favorite.  Keep checking back, too, as new recipes are automatically added over time.

Big Android BBQ

• Developer: BigAndroidBBQ
• Cost: FREE (Google Play)

The official application for the 2012 Big Android BBQ, this one is simply a widget for now.  Count down the number of days until the annual event takes place in October so you can prepare for your trip to Dallas!  The application will evolve as more speakers and sessions are announced and will be the perfect place to keep up on the latest news!  As always, we plan to be heavily involved in the BBQ and can't wait to see you this fall!

Header image source

Five for Friday: Barbecue and grilling apps originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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Have a big phone? A big tablet? Little hands? Slippery hands? Here's what it comes down to: if you can answer yes to any of these, then you need a Flygrip. What's a Flygrip, you ask? Here's a video to give you an idea. Basically, it's a small accessory that goes on the back of your device and uses your middle and ring finger as a stabilizer and your index finger as a counterweight, so you can use your device one-handed.

With my Galaxy SII's massive screen, I was constantly having to do some major hand acrobatics to use my phone one-handed, if I could ever even do it at all. Enter the Flygrip. This device has not only made it so that I can use the device with one hand, but it allows me to simply keep a better grip on it, even when I'm using it with two hands. And one-handed swyping? This thing makes it a breeze.

Need more? How about this: the Flygrip also gives you a built in kickstand. Simply take the back piece, insert it into the built-in slot, and you're watching movies hands free.

The package comes with the Flygrip itself, padding for the finger slats for smaller hands, extra adhesive, an alcohol swab for cleaning, paperwork, and - I'll admit it - a REALLY cool box.

If you struggle with using your device (phone or tablet) with one hand, then you need to check this out. Be sure to hit up their website here and get you one. They run about $30 each.

Flygrip: The one-handed accessory you never knew you needed [review] originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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Chinese manufacturer ZTE has confirmed the Android-based Score M (MetroPCS, ) handset is susceptible to a backdoor security hole.  Once enabled, the bad guys could gain root access and add, remove or copy data from the smartphone.  Apparently the process starts with a hardwired device password which can be easily found online.  If there's an upside to the news it's that the ZTE Score M is not a top-selling handset.

"ZTE is actively working on a security patch and expects to send the update over-the-air to affected users in the very near future," ZTE said. "We strongly urge affected users to download and install the patch as soon as it is rolled out to their devices."

The vulnerability was discovered by Dmitri Alperovitch of CrowdStrike and calls the flaw "highly unusual".  As he sees it, either this was a simple mistake cause by poor development or that it could be that it's done for nefarious purposes.  ZTE, alongside fellow Chinese manufacturer Huawei, have been tied to allegations of links to the government. Although each companies have denied said claims, this sort of vulnerability doesn't help the image.  Other ZTE models such as the Skate are said to possibly contain the security flaw.

Yahoo

ZTE Score M found to have security vulnerability originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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If you had any doubts that Samsung's next Galaxy smartphone was not all that anticipated then perhaps this bit of news might convince you otherwise.  According to Reuters, Samsung has already taken 9 million preorders for the handset, spread across more than 100 wireless carriers.

Samsung typically shoots out press releases touting numbers of sales figures for the Galaxy line of devices and expect nothing less for the Galaxy S III.  We cannot wait for our U.S. versions and figure the sales will be off the chart once it arrives stateside.

Although Samsung has not confirmed these figures we figure we'll get something more official come launch time.

Samsung has already taken 9 million preorders for Galaxy S III originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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Pocket, formerly Read it Later, has been updated to version 4.1 today and it incorporates a number of notable changes.  First up is the ability to flip pages like a book or magazine, making it feel even more natural for reading longer articles.  Next is expanded support for video playback, something that goes against the idea of "reading" something later. Maybe that's why it's called Pocket now, eh?  Finally there is an improved dark theme and new sepia tone theme which feels very book-like.  Additional details in Pocket 4.1 can be found on the company blog!

Download Pocket for free from Google Play.

Pocket 4.1 debuts with page flipping, themes, and more originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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Virgin Mobile has become the latest wireless carrier to get behind the future of mobile commerce that is Google Wallet.  The provider shot out an email today advising that customers who pick up the new LG Optimus Elite can activate Google Wallet and score $25 credit in the process.  The catch is that you have to activate the service and Google prepaid card within seven (7) days of purchase and activation.  It's worth pointing out that this is a limited time promotion (May 18 through July18) and may not be available in all markets and retail locations.

If you're considering picking up one of these no-contract LG Optimus Elite models and want to learn more, head to Virgin Mobile's newsroom.

Virgin Mobile gets on Google Wallet bandwagon with $25 promo originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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As a blogger in the mobile tech space we receive plenty of requests from companies looking for help on the Kickstarter programs.  Sometimes it a smartphone stand, other times it's a tablet holder.  Once in a while it's software.  While we try to help spread the word as much as possible, sometimes it's tough to get behind products or services.  That is hardly the case with this new Android-related app/home screen.  It's called Chameleon and it's the future of home screens on Android tablets.

Set to arrive later this fall (September), Chameleon is a time-aware and location-aware way of presenting you with your most important and often-used apps. If you're like me then you wake up and head right into RSS readers, emails, the calendar, and weather.  At night, I find myself reading a different set of news sites, checking IMDb, catching up on books and magazines, and maybe getting in a game or two.  Chameleon can be set up so that it gives me an entirely different home screen based on time of day or where I am (GPS) on the map.  No, this isn't just a panel with widgets or a customizable launch bar.  This is much more than that.  It's a totally sexy and smart way of presenting your most relevant information and applications.

You can pledge as little as $1 to help the developers (Teknision) reach their goal of $50,000 but $5 will ensure you get a copy of Chameleon ahead of time.  You can also buy it once it arrives in the Google Play store and load it on your tablet.  If you don't have a tablet just yet then we say cough up a buck and sleep better tonight.  If you do own a tablet that meets the requirements then you're going to want to contribute at a higher level.

This is exactly the kind of stuff that Android needs for its tablet interface.  Not only can it run atop of anything else that your manufacturer loads ahead of time, it's the prettiest looking stuff we've seen thus far.  Our only hope here is that Teknision isn't bought out only to arrive as a specific experience for one particular tablet maker. This needs to be everywhere.

The future of Android tablet home screens looks like this… originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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Worried that your pre-ordered HTC EVO 4G LTE might be stuck sitting on the docks for weeks while U.S. Customs investigates the handset?  Fear not, that guy will be here in but a few days time.  According to an email being sent out from Best Buy, the new Sprint flagship handset should ship on May 23, only five days after its initial release date.  According to AndroidCentral, they received multiple reports of the Best Buy email in their inbox and forums.  Sounds like things are back on track for the carrier, no?  Look for HTC and/or Sprint to clarify matters a bit, whether through Twitter, Facebook, or a support forum.

Best Buy: HTC EVO 4G LTE to ship May 23 originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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T-Mobile today announced four data-only plans for consumers who don't like to commit to contracts.  Available come May 20th, the plans will provide access to the carrier's "blazing fast" 4G data speeds across tablets, laptop sticks, and mobile hotspots.  Prices range from $15 up to $50 and will provide anywhere between 300MB and 5GB of data.  The $15 plan lasts up to a week whereas three of the four plans give users a full month to use the data.

• 300MB 1-week pass for $15
• 1.5GB 1-month pass for $25
• 3.5GB 1-month pass for $35
• 5GB 1-month pass for $50

How do you like the new rates?  Fair?  Are you reconsidering a tablet or mobile hotspot as a result of the new plans?

T-Mobile Introduces New No Annual Contract Mobile Broadband Service Passes

New Passes, Available May 20, Offer Flexible, More Affordable Access to High-Speed Internet on the Go on an Advanced Lineup of 4G Tablets, Mobile Hotspots and Laptop Sticks

Bellevue, Wash. — May 17, 2012 — T-Mobile USA, Inc. today announced that its new, flexible and worry-free No Annual Contract mobile broadband service passes will debut May 20, making it easier for customers to enjoy access to high-speed Internet on the go whenever they want. With T-Mobile’s new, more affordable No Annual Contract data passes, customers can experience T-Mobile’s blazing-fast 4G network speeds across a variety of mobile broadband devices including tablets, mobile hotspots and laptop sticks – with no strings attached.

Starting at just $15, T-Mobile’s lineup of No Annual Contract mobile broadband passes delivers a pay-in-advance, overage-free solution that offers an allotment of mobile data, making it possible for customers to choose a pass that best fits their data needs without committing to a two-year contract:

• 300MB 1-week pass for $15
• 1.5GB 1-month pass for $25
• 3.5GB 1-month pass for $35
• 5GB 1-month pass for $50

“Although most of our mobile broadband customers choose postpaid rate plans for the best device prices and data rates, we know that many of our customers want the flexibility to be able to experience mobile broadband without committing to an annual contract up front,” said Jeremy Korst, vice president of marketing, T-Mobile USA. “With better pricing and new features like an auto-refill option and a simpler purchase experience, T-Mobile’s No Annual Contract mobile broadband passes make it easier and more affordable than ever to experience high-speed Internet on the go on a range of devices.”

T-Mobile® offers a variety of 4G mobile broadband devices that, when connected to T-Mobile’s high-speed 4G network, offer customers fast access to the Web, e-mail, gaming, movies and more, while on-the-go.
T-Mobile’s lineup of mobile, connected tablets, including the Samsung Galaxy Tab™ 10.1, the Samsung Galaxy Tab™ 7.0 Plus and the T-Mobile® SpringBoard™ with Google™, deliver a premium on-the-go entertainment and Web experience, making it possible to stream movies on a road trip or shop online while the kids play at the park.
The T-Mobile® Sonic™ 4G Mobile Hotspot and the T-Mobile 4G Mobile Hotspot are ideal for staying connected on-the-go with colleagues and clients or providing Internet on the go for the family on vacation. Providing simultaneous access to T-Mobile’s 4G network for up to five Wi-Fi-enabled devices, customers can use their mobile hotspots to connect their iPad® devices, laptops, music players, portable gaming devices and e-readers, among other devices, to T-Mobile’s high-speed 4G network.
T-Mobile’s laptop sticks, including the HSPA+ 42-enabled Rocket™ 3.0 USB Laptop Stick, are perfect for customers looking for a blazing-fast mobile Internet connection on their laptop.

Availability

T-Mobile’s new No Annual Contract mobile broadband passes are expected to be available beginning May 20 at T-Mobile retail stores, select dealers, national retailers and online at http://www.t-mobile.com. More information on T-Mobile’s mobile broadband offerings is available at http://mobile-broadband.t-mobile.com.

• T-Mobile’s lineup of mobile, connected tablets, including the Samsung Galaxy Tab^™ 10.1, the Samsung Galaxy Tab^™ 7.0 Plus and the T-Mobile^® SpringBoard^™with Google^™,  deliver a premium on-the-go entertainment and Web experience, making it possible to stream movies on a road trip or shop online while the kids play at the park.
• The T-Mobile^® Sonic^™ 4G Mobile Hotspot and the T-Mobile 4G Mobile Hotspot are ideal for staying connected on-the-go with colleagues and clients or providing Internet on the go for the family on vacation. Providing simultaneous access to T-Mobile’s 4G network for up to five Wi-Fi-enabled devices, customers can use their mobile hotspots to connect their iPad^® devices, laptops, music players, portable gaming devices and e-readers, among other devices, to T-Mobile’s high-speed 4G network.
• T-Mobile’s laptop sticks, including the HSPA+ 42-enabled Rocket^™ 3.0 USB Laptop Stick, are perfect for customers looking for a blazing-fast mobile Internet connection on their laptop.

T-Mobile intros four prepaid data-only options originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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Verizon, in an attempt to calm the angry mob, has released a statement that pertains to their upcoming data plan changes.  As you've likely heard by now, the carrier is expected to do away with their unlimited 3G data plans this summer, even those who are grandfathered.  Although the carrier has yet to spell out all the details, we anticipate that as users upgrade their handset from 3G connectivity to 4G LTE they will be forced to shed the data plan.

We could be a few months away from Verizon clearing things up and issuing a formal outline so it stands to reason that the provider doesn't want to tip their hand.  That said, they are trying to head things off with a statement in the interim. It's very light on details but it will have to do for now.

As we have stated publicly, Verizon Wireless has been re-evaluating its data pricing structure for some time, Customers have told us that they want to share data, similar to how they share minutes today. We are working on plans to provide customers with that option later this year.

We will share specific details of the plans and any related policy changes well in advance of their introduction, so customers will have time to evaluate their choices and make the best decisions for their wireless service. It is our goal and commitment to continue to provide customers with the same high value service they have come to expect from Verizon Wireless.

We don't have a crystal ball or any inside information here but we can't help but feel like there is a loophole that might be worth trying.  If you're a 3G smartphone and find yourself worried that you will lose your unlimited data plan when you switch to a 4G LTE model, then go ahead and do it.  Do it now.  Worst case scenario is that you end up getting moved over to something different down the road.  Best case scenario, on the other hand, is that you get the best of both worlds - 4G LTE and unlimited.

As it sounds from the statement above, Verizon will put the burden on users and make them pick from a number of "usage based" options.  Don't call them tiers because it's not Verizon that decides how much you consume.  You and your family, or you and your eight devices, will decide how much data is needed.

Verizon to give users time to evaluate their data choices originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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Sprint customers will find that they now have the option to pay for all content in Google Play through their monthly wireless bill.  Joining apps and games, subscribers can now purchase movies, e-books, and music and add it to their next statement.

The move is a welcome one for those who don't have a credit card to use on a regular basis or those who don't want to risk incurring interest rates.  Google recently expanded the Play storefront's carrier billing capabilities,  announcing similar content billing partnerships with T-Mobile USA and a few international providers.

Fierce Mobile

Sprint enables carrier billing for all Google Play content originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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With around six weeks to go before Google IO 2012 kicks off it would make sense to let registered developers know what to look forward to.  Such is the case now as Google has listed a bunch of developer sessions and fireside chats on the IO Sessions page.  As of right now there are 20 Android-related events to attend, spread across all three days of the conference.  Classes range from monetizing and marketing apps to creating a smooth, buttery experience and .

It doesn't appear like there's much room to add other sessions at this point however that's not to say things can't or won't change.  If you're one of the 5,500+ developers heading to San Francisco next month then we recommend keeping a watchful eye on the Google IO page over the coming weeks!

Google IO calendar filling up with Android developer sessions originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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Right now the browsing war is going on between Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox and Opera. Mostly people consider Mozilla and Google as the top competitors, and no doubt they are. Recently, Google launched the Google Chrome beta version for their very own Android OS, and now it seems Mozilla Firefox don't want to stay behind, that's why they are back with the Firefox 14 Beta version. Mozilla Firefox app is already available in the Android Market, and to compete with Google Chrome, Mozilla brought the new browser which comes with a native user interface that uses Android design elements, and the biggest thing here is the support for Adobe Flash.

The application is right now available at Google Play store for download, it's already downloaded 500,000+ times and the reviews are good so far. The browser requires Android 2.2 or higher devices. As we already told you, the biggest update is the new UI and Flash support; it's faster, text zooming is smoother, and it comes with a new API that prevents the screen from sleeping. That's pretty impressive.

Folks, the application is available for download, so do give it a try. I downloaded it on my phone, and I have to say that it's pretty impressive, so give it a try and tell us about it in the comment box below.

Source: CNet

Mozilla Firefox native version hit Android in beta, comes with mouth-watering features originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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In past few years, Verizon brought a lot of devices to horizon and all of them were no doubt impressive devices. Like if we talk about Droid Incredible series, which is a very successful series, and they recently launched the successor which is known as Droid Incredible 4G LTE. But Verizon customers are holding their horses, because they are expecting that Verizon will be launching the HTC One X and One S as well, but it seems that this is not going to happen any time soon, or may be never. 

Verizon's representative told PCMag that Verizon currently has no "HTC One series" phones in the pipeline, which means Incredible 4G LTE is the latest HTC device you can get from Verizon right now, but I would love to see either One X or One S over at Verizon, which is the largest mobile network in USA.

However, that doesn't mean Verizon is saying "farewell" to future HTC Android phones. What I think is that Verizon want to give some time to the recently launched 4G LTE smartphone, because the One series will effect the sales and probably will hurt Verizon market. I also believe that instead of carrying HTC One X or S. Verizon might be considering picking Samsung Galaxy S III, because they sold a lot of Galaxy S II devices last year. You never know, they might give it a chance again.

Folks, all we can do is to wait and see, but for meantime don't forget to have a look on the Droid Incredible 4G LTE. It is almost like the One S, so folks don't forget to share your thoughts with us in the comment box below.

Source: PCMAG

Verizon says “No” to HTC One Series originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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No one can forget the showcasing of the amazing Android devices by Huawei at the Mobile World Congress, which actually includes three devices. One of them is the Huawei Ascend D1 which is rocking a dual-core processor but it wasn't the centre of attention. However, it seems the device will see daylight soon as it passed through the FCC with approval tag. Not much information is leaked, but we know is that it will come with quadband GSM and pentaband HSPA+ / WCDMA radios, which means the unlocked version will run on both AT&T and T-Mobile. 

Right now, it's not confirmed who will be carrying it, but there are chances that either T-Mobile or AT&T will get it or maybe we will see this device running on regional carriers like Cricket, US Cellular etc. Anyway, anybody looking forward to grab the Huawei Ascend D1, I am sure this device will deliver a good performance with an affordable price tag, right? Tell us what do you think in the comment box below.

Source: FCC

Huawei Ascend D1 hits FCC, coming soon? originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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Oh boy, this could get ugly really fast.  Verizon will be killing off its unlimited data option for all customers this summer, even those on "grandfathered" plans.  Speaking at tech conference, Verizon's Fran Shammo advised that 3G unlimited data plan customers migrating to 4G LTE will be required to purchase the yet-to-launch data-share plan.  Kiss the $30 all-you-can-consume data plans goodbye because Shammo says, "Everyone will be on data share."  It's not clear when all of this will take place however Verizon plans to debut their shared data plans this summer.

All might not be lost...yet

Reading the details on Fierce Mobile, we get the sense that you might be able to hold on to your 3G smartphone for a while longer and keep the plan.  It sounds like as long as you stay on 3G then you won't be handcuffed by the change.  Perhaps some clarity from Verizon is in order.

Verizon to end “grandfathered” unlimited data plans this summer originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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If you were hoping to swing into a Sprint store early Friday morning and grab an EVO 4G LTE on your way to work then you'll not like this next bit of news.  The HTC smartphone will not make its May 18 launch date, thanks to an International Trade Commission (ITC) investigation.  A post in the carrier's forum advises that Sprint's new flagship handset should be in compliance with a recent ITC exclusion order and that it should pass through Customs in due time.

Those of you who have already pre-ordered your EVO 4G LTE have three options at this point: wait until it arrives, choose an alternate product or cancel your order.  Whereas Sprint would prefer you don't opt to cancel, they indicate that the process should be relatively painless.

• HTC EVO 4G LTE availability | The U.S. availability of the HTC EVO 4G LTE has been delayed.  HTC is working to resolve this issue and appreciates your patience as they work to get products into Sprint channels. We can’t provide specific timing for product availability at this time and we appreciate your patience as HTC works to get products on store shelves as soon as possible.
•  Pre-order status/availability | Delivery of products for pre-order are on hold and Sprint will provide a ship date as soon as possible. Sprint will maintain the promise for the preorder customers that they will be among the first to receive their HTC EVO 4G LTE units.

HTC EVO 4G LTE will miss its May 18 launch originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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A new report from the Wall Street Journal advises that Google is working with multiple partners for the Nexus release slated for later this year. Whereas we normally get our Pure Google experience out of one manufacturer, WSJ indicates that this year's launch will be more of a portfolio.  According to their source, Google is collaborating with up to five handset makers for lead devices running Jelly Bean. It is being reported that these phones will have GSM connectivity and will be made available directly through Google (Play Store).

The shift in strategies should help calm fears that Google will play favorites with their Motorola Mobility acquisition.  Some have feared that Google would alienate some of its partners if/when they decided to create their own hardware.  And while Google has done much to help dispel these rumors, a portfolio of lead Nexus products could bring added warm and fuzzy feelings.

We love this idea and hope to see Google bring multiple handsets or tablets to the Google Play Store later this year.  Priced right, consumers should be more likely to buy smartphones outright than they were a few years ago with the Nexus One.  If it were up to us, we'd like to see some CDMA love so that Sprint and Verizon could get in on the action.

WSJ | Image source

Google working with up to five partners on Nexus portfolio (Rumor) originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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A new HTC smartphone has leaked online which looks to closely resemble the HTC One S announced earlier this year.  Called (for now) the HTC Ville C, the specs are pretty much identical to the 4.3-inch handset save for some minor adjustments.

For starters, the Ville C is said to feature a Qualcomm MSM8260 S3 processor whereas the One S comes with a MSM8260A S4 chipset.  And while the image accompanying this post suggests a 1.7GHz clock speed, the source advises it will be set at 1.2GHz when it arrives. The other notable difference between the Ville C and the One S is that this newly leaked model is listed as running HTC Sense 4.5 instead of the 4.0 stuff found across the 2012 lineup.

We're a little concerned that these may be the only major differences between the two models and that this could lead to consumer confusion.  The last thing we want to see from HTC is a string of models that don't have much disparity between them.

HTC Ville C leaks which suggests slightly modified HTC One S originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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T-Mobile today confirmed that the Ice Cream Sandwich update is now available for the HTC Sensation 4G, matching previous reports from earlier in the week.  Available as an optional download for users, Android 4.0.3 can be manually installed beginning today, May 16th.  Further, T-Mobile also tapped the Amaze 4G with its own Ice Cream Sandwich update just five days from now, May 21.  We were thinking it would be a few more weeks until we saw the latter but we're not complaining.  For details on either of these updates, please head to their respective support pages.

• HTC Sensation 4G: http://support.t-mobile.com/docs/DOC-2392
• HTC Amaze 4G: http://support.t-mobile.com/docs/DOC-3021

T-Mobile confirms Android 4.0 updates for Sensation 4G, Amaze 4G originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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Evernote pushed out a brand new, "completely redesigned" version of their Android application yesterday, and boy does it look sharp.  Built with Android 4.0 in mind, Evernote 4.0 makes it much easier and more intuitive for users to take notes and navigate the app. You'll find that you can horizontally swipe your screen to move around, tap the elephant logo to return home, and other little things that matter.  According to the Evernote blog, the stuff we see on the surface is only part of the story and that this version is faster and more powerful than ever. It's worth noting that although this looks like it needs Android 4.0, it only requires 1.6 and above.

Evernote 4.0 Home Screen

Improved note and notebook list

Features in Evernote 4.0:

• A redesigned Home Screen, with improved note and notebook lists across the app
• Responsive Action and Navigation Bars, which relate to the screen you're viewing and disappear for easy reading or note viewing
• Swipe navigation horizontally to scan through Notebooks, Tags and Places easily
• Location tagging for all your notes, if your phone is "Location Services" enabled

Download Evernote 4.0 (FREE) from the Google Play store today.

Completely redesigned Evernote 4.0 introduced originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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LG today introduced their new custom interface which will run atop Android 4.0 devices.  Called Optimus UI 3.0, it's an enhancement that makes it more convenient for consumers to do some of the more popular daily tasks.  For instance, there is an improved Quick Memo feature that provides a simple way to jot down notes no matter where they happen to be in the handset.  Once the notes or memos are created, users are but one tap away from sharing across email, text, social networks, etc.

Additional details include Voice Shutter (snap pictures with voice commands), icon customization, and a pattern lock option.  The Optimus UI 3.0 will be part of the Optimus LTE II which launches in Korea later this week and will then find itself on the Optimus 4X HD and other models.

Although Optimus UI 3.0 is not necessarily earth shattering stuff, it's a smattering of little user experience features that consumers should come to enjoy.  The point here is to give users something to look forward to in their next handset.  "Can I take notes while in a call?"  "Will this one let me capture photos using my voice?"  Further, we like that it doesn't appear to be so thick and pervasive that it detracts from the standard Android experience.

LG

LG debuts new custom interface, Optimus UI 3.0 originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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And here we thought that Verizon released a bunch of Android devices in rapid succession.  Japan's NTT DOCOMO today announced that they will be offering no less than sixteen (16!) Android smartphones over the next few months.  Every single one of them runs Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich and many of them come from reputable companies such as Samsung, LG, and Sony.  Oh, and then there's also a tablet thrown in there as well!

Features for the smartphones are pretty impressive and include specs such as dual-cores, 8-megapixel cameras, NFC, and more.

Pricing and exact launch dates have yet to be determined however we suspect these will span the entire spectrum.  If you're heading to Japan this summer or happen to live there now, then you'll have plenty of Android to choose from come June through Augsut!

Here are a couple of bullet points lifted straight from the NTT DOCOMO press release:

• All models run on Android 4.0.
• All eight “NEXT” series smartphones, three “with” series smartphones and the lineup’s slim, stylish W-Fi router are compatible with DOCOMO’s Xi LTE service for extra-fast access and navigation.
• Potent processing power, including one model with a quad-core CPU and 12 models with dual-core CPUs for enjoying rich applications and high-resolution videos and games on the high-speed Xi network.
• Four smartphones and the tablet are compatible with NOTTV™, a V-high multimedia broadcasting service.
• Many models offer highly in-demand features such as water resistance, NFC, infrared communications and One-Seg terrestrial digital broadcasting.
• Six models are expected to feature the preinstalled “Twonky Beam” app, which allows users to enjoy recorded digital terrestrial contents and others on their smartphones, as well as wirelessly transmitting browsed content such as videos, images or music to large-screen televisions or audio systems.

NTT DOCOMO announces sixteen Android 4.0 phones and a tablet originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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T-Mobile plans to cut a number of jobs as part of a restructuring plan, according to a leaked company email written by CEO Philipp Humm.  Without saying how many will be affected or where the jobs will come from, Humm advises that some "difficult decisions" will be made in the coming days.  We might be reading our own things into the email (below) but it sounds like some middle management spots will be scrapped or consolidated. At least it's not a bottom-up shedding of sales reps from retail stores.  We'll find out the rest of the details as things come to light in the next couple of days.

Dear colleagues,

Since the beginning of the year, T-Mobile has stressed that 2012 is a rebuilding year for the company. A vital step in that process was announced in March with the consolidation of our call centers. This week, T-Mobile is taking the second essential step. We are announcing a new structure that further aligns our costs with our revenue realities, enables teams who support our field organization to act and react with greater speed and effectiveness to customer and market opportunities, and better positions us to return to growth.

The new organization required difficult decisions that will impact some of our employees. This week, news will be shared personally with employees and teams who are directly affected by the restructuring. Changes will include some position eliminations and changes to individual roles and responsibilities. It is important to emphasize these impacts to employees result from business decisions. We have tremendous employees here at T-Mobile and we truly wish we could retain all our talent, but our business realities require hard choices. For affected team members, we are providing generous transition support including severance, assistance with COBRA continuation coverage, and outplacement services. As mentioned in the March announcement, customer service representatives in the remaining 17 call centers, technicians in engineering, and frontline employees in our T-Mobile corporate-owned stores will not be affected.

Our rebuilt structure enables T-Mobile to realize significant savings, allowing us to invest in future growth — in particular modernizing our network to LTE, repositioning the T-Mobile brand, and aggressively pursuing the B2B segment where we plan to add 1,000 positions over the next few years. We gain the agility to put resources where the current opportunities are, grow in areas where potential is greatest, and act on emerging opportunities quickly and rationally.

The restructuring provides a sustainable organizational model, centered on our T-Mobile Values, with the following attributes:

A greater focus on driving Customer Delight by reducing the layers between working teams and executive leadership, and shifting and consolidating groups in the field sales regions and the FSC to minimize redundant work — resulting in more effective coordination and communication.

A renewed emphasis on Best Place to Perform and Grow:
Enhanced people manager spans of control (number of direct reports), enabling faster decisions, more ability to execute, and more empowerment of employees at all levels.
Evolution of our leadership model from player-coach, where more time is spent on daily tasks than on planning and guiding, to leader-coach, where time is focused more strategically on coaching, developing, delegating, and motivating.

We approached the restructuring process and decisions with care, rigor and cross-functional alignment. A team comprised of top leaders, with support from industry-leading subject matter experts, worked closely together over the past few months to develop an effective and sustainable structure. We strongly believe the organizational principles we applied are lasting ones. More details on the new organizational structure will be shared in department and team communications this week and more broadly after that.

I want to assure you we will move through the communications this week very thoughtfully, but also as quickly as we can while preserving the quality of the conversations that need to happen. As always, our T-Mobile Values will guide our actions.

Thank you for your patience as we work through what will be a difficult week. Thank you for your continued commitment.

With sincere appreciation,

Philipp Humm
CEO & President
T-Mobile USA

Source: The Verge

T-Mobile CEO announces restructure in email, says “difficult decisions” made this week originally appeared on AndroidGuys.

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