Appolicious Articles
Appolicious Articles
Android App Video Review: Songify
All you have to do to become an amateur singer is tap the big record button, read your shopping list out loud, and then hit the button again. Now, your shopping list will be "songified" with the help of speech recognition software and auto-tune. I mean, this isn't Katy Perry level auto-tune, but it's enough to be tons of fun. You can re-songify any recording using a huge variety of pre-set songs, although you'll only have access to four at first. The rest must be purchased using special tokens. You can either purchase these tokens in-app or make use of various paid and free promotions to get them. I feel like they should give you more variety to start with, and personally don't think it's worth spending a lot of money for this stuff, but that's just me.
Posted on 18 May 2012 | 11:58 pm
HTC modifies One X for U.S. market; Best Buy forced to delay sales
Patent infringement lawsuits have become a permeating characteristic of the mobile industry these days, particularly with Apple’s watchful eye over rivals’ hardware and software implementations. The latest to fall under Apple’s ire is HTC, whose shipments of the HTC One X and EVO 4G LTE were seized by U.S. Customs to ensure they don’t violate an injunction on behalf of Apple.
Posted on 18 May 2012 | 4:10 pm
Fresh Android Apps for May 18: Everyme, Zombie Granny, Gobber Ninja
Ready for yet another social network? This one offers a new spin on privacy that might peak your interest. It’s called Everyme and you can read more about it below.
Posted on 18 May 2012 | 2:18 pm
Songify tops Android Apps of the Week
Another iPhone success turns to Android with the launch of Songify on Google Play, transforming your speech into an auto-tuned song. Hitting the social music scene is Turntable.fm, with collaborative rooms where you can show off your DJ skills. If you’re in the mood for a witty e-greeting head to the Someecards app, while ShoeBox keeps you organized with a mobile scanner to preserve those cards and photos still printed on paper.
Posted on 18 May 2012 | 1:30 pm
Burn the City is hot, but doesn’t always ignite
Burn the City’s title perfectly sums up its gameplay. Placing you in the shoes... er, claws of a fire-breathing newborn lizard, you’ll reign fire on human cities that stole your family. Using familiar physics-based gameplay it’s quite easy to shrug off the game as another Angry Birds clone. While it may seems unfair to compare it to Rovio’s series behemoth, Burn the City (also available as a free version) attempts to add its own spin on the genre.
Posted on 18 May 2012 | 12:30 am
Gunman Clive puts a bullet into terrible platformers
Platforming and onscreen controls. Those two words are enough to make hardcore mobile gamers cringe. Like first person shooters, platform games on smartphones are often atrocious or merely mediocre. Only a few select titles have managed to rise above the shoddy controls. Developer Bertil Hörberg brings a tightly-controlled platformer with a visual flair in his western-inspired game, Gunman Clive.
Posted on 17 May 2012 | 10:30 pm
Digital radio service iHeartRadio has 10 million users after just 8 months
Apparently, people really like iHeartRadio.
Posted on 17 May 2012 | 8:56 pm
Android App Video Review: Monster Shooter
After some alien octopi come and kidnap your kitty cat for whatever reason, you, an alien creature yourself, go on a bloodthirsty rampage in which you massacre everything that isn’t you. You can do this in the three world; 30 level campaign or in the three level survival mode. The dual stick shooting is smooth, and comes in floating and fixed stick variety. Aside from the various weapons in your arsenal, extra toys like grenades, nukes, stim-packs, and much more can be acquired. As you mow down these fairly stupid aliens who keep coming to you, they’ll drop score orbs and cash. Random health recovery and vengeance power-ups will occasionally spawn around the map, the latter of which gives you unlimited and powered up ammo for a short time. Each game session has a self-contained leveling system, letting you choose one of four random perks per level, such as increased movement speed, fire rate, max health, and much more.
Posted on 17 May 2012 | 7:13 pm
Different apps to manage Twitter on Android
I remember when I first signed up for Twitter. I really was not that impressed and I only did it because my friends had. Well, a number of years have passed since that day and I am officially hooked. Of all the social networks, Twitter is the one that I use the most.
Posted on 17 May 2012 | 6:00 pm
Nvidia cloud graphics chip makes life easier for Android gamers
Certainly the biggest news in mobile gaming this week comes from Nvidia, with a new Kepler-based graphics chip that aims to revolutionize cloud-based gaming. Unveiled at the GPU Technology conference in San Jose, Calif., the new chip will make cloud-based gaming more economical, faster, and less reliant on end-user hardware. The heavy lifting is done in the data center, where the graphics chip lives, so a gamer needs only their mobile display to play a game. This goes for low-end smartphones and other displays, including tablets, PCs and even television sets.
Posted on 17 May 2012 | 4:28 pm
Fresh Android Apps for May 17: Evernote update, Ultimate Mission2, Spirit of Wandering
Loving the cloud storage services? Then you’ll want to take a look at the latest update to Evernote.
Posted on 17 May 2012 | 2:16 pm
Customize virtual sticky notes with the BugMe! Android app
Whether it is an urban office myth or total truth, I shunned real sticky notes when I was told the little colorful organization helpers are not recyclable. However, I found the perfect alternative to use on my Android Device. The BugMe! Stickies Pro app for Android ($0.99) offers all the organizational fun of my beloved real-life sticky notes but in a green fashion. My eco-friendly soul can be reassured that I am not harming the Earth every time I need to scribble a note, which is a lot because I am a writer after all.
Posted on 17 May 2012 | 12:30 am
Rule the Kingdom is actually different from other RPGs
If you want a game that you'll be able to play for a long time and that doesn't cost you any money, then Rule the Kingdom will satisfy your urges. At its heart, Rule the Kingdom is an RPG not unlike Zenonia or old Legend of Zelda games, for example, but there's more substance to it than that, and it handles very differently.
Posted on 16 May 2012 | 10:30 pm
Apple wins appeal, now can seek injunction against Galaxy Tab in U.S.
Things might get rough for Samsung in its U.S. patent fight against Apple.
Posted on 16 May 2012 | 8:38 pm
Flipboard alternatives for social Android news junkies
Flipboard has been a mainstay on iOS devices for about two years, only now making its way to Android through an exclusive launch on the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S III. While a leaked APK made Flipboard unofficially available for all Android users, there’s no telling how long it will take Flipboard to release the official app for everyone to enjoy. So let’s take a look at some social news alternatives that have already established their presence on Android’s platform.
Posted on 16 May 2012 | 6:15 pm
Android App Video Review: CheeseMan
I will come right out and admit my slight bias. The game is very clearly inspired by Super Meat Boy (SMB) on the Xbox Live Arcade and PC, which is one of my favorite platformers ever. The devs are not shy about this fact either. They thank Team Meat in the opening logo splashes and Meat Boy and Dr. Fetus make a brief cameo appearance. I love fast paced, challenging platformers, and thus was drawn to this title. Now, that doesn't mean I'll lie about its quality. It's very, very rough around the edges, with graphical errors, random bugs, amateur art, and a lack of bells and whistles. I still had a blast playing it though.
Posted on 16 May 2012 | 5:52 pm
Android App Video Review: Radiant Defense
This game seems to be a continuation of Radiant HD, in terms of story. You seem to be on the defense against the same invading alien forces as that title. The conversations held between the general, scientist, and alien overlord characters in between waves are humorous and bring a bit of levity to a genre that is usually very straightforward. You use resources to place and upgrade towers around the map, yadda yadda, you know the drill.
Posted on 16 May 2012 | 4:50 pm
Android Jelly Bean on at least five devices by Thanksgiving
Just as commentary heightens around Google’s seemingly lackadaisical approach to Android fragmentation, the company pulled back the curtain a little bit more on its plans for Ice Cream Sandwich’s successor, Jelly Bean. According to unnamed sources, The Wall Street Journal reports that Google will give multiple mobile device makers early access to Jelly Bean in order to create a more robust ecosystem once it launches. This will minimize staggered device releases and updates, and enable Android to better compete with Apple’s linear approach.
Posted on 16 May 2012 | 4:17 pm
Fresh Android Apps for May 16: Someecards Free, Ninja Chicken Ooga Booga, Pyramid Rising
Who says apps have to be serious? The fresh Someecards app turns the e-card phenomenon up to 11 on the funny scale with jokes you can send to those you love (or just tolerate).
Posted on 16 May 2012 | 2:20 pm
Jazz: Trump's Journey is a pleasing platformer
When it comes to quality free platformers on your phone, there aren't many good options, but Jazz: Trump's Journey is certainly one of them. Jazz tells the story of a kid in New Orleans (based on Louis Armstrong) who dreams of being a jazz musician, and his quest to become one.
Posted on 16 May 2012 | 12:30 am
Color me SNL! Color for Facebook to show backstage footage of season finale
While Color’s first attempt in the app arena was deemed not ready for prime time, the company is back with a distribution alliance with Verizon Wireless and cool promotion this week with Saturday Night Live.
Posted on 15 May 2012 | 10:48 pm
Start coding with Android game Light Robot
Here’s one problem with the current state of cool smartphone technology. Most people only know how to use it, not how to create it. That’s the idea behind the fun and – dare I say it – educational game, Light Robot. It teaches the very basics of computer programming, now often called “software development” or casually “coding”. Don’t worry, it’s such a good time, you won’t know you’re actually gaining knowledge.
Posted on 15 May 2012 | 10:30 pm
Facebook hiring devs from Android app developer Lightbox
Facebook’s future is mobile – more users log in to the social network from their mobile devices than through any other means - and it’s also the way by which Facebook makes the least money.
Posted on 15 May 2012 | 8:32 pm
Songify lands on Android and it’s just as fun as you expected
Songify finally made its way to Android devices today. The app, originally developed by Khush, a developer acquired by Smule last year, is already a huge success on iOS.
Posted on 15 May 2012 | 6:31 pm
Sony launches Android-powered Walkman to compete with iPod Touch
Last year, Sony saw potential in Android’s platform and launched the Xperia PLAY handset for gamers. Now, Sony is after music lovers, reviving the Walkman as a connected device. The NWZ-Z1050 is Sony’s first Android-powered mobile media player, and could be a promising gadget for the forlorn OEM. It comes with a dual-core Nvidia Tegra 2 processor, a 4.3-inch WVGA (800x400 pixels) touchscreen and an S-Master MX digital amplifier. You’ll also find the same app in the A-Series media players from Sony, and these amps reportedly deliver less noise and distortion than previous versions. The Z-series hits stores this week in Singapore.
Posted on 15 May 2012 | 4:14 pm
Fresh Android Apps for May 15: GameStop Mobile, Absolute Mayhem, Civilization War
The top of today’s fresh list empowers your home game console. GameStop drops a new Android app for customers with a lot of cool features for them. Read more about it below.
Posted on 15 May 2012 | 2:39 pm
Apps for the elderly? Why Android is not just for the cool kids any more
Despite devices from Sony and LG stealing the spotlight at CTIA 2012 this year, lesser known manufacturer, Doro, introduced an interesting Android device specifically aimed at seniors.
Posted on 15 May 2012 | 1:30 pm
Upgrade your Android’s photo album with the Scalado Album app
Want to maximize the performance and the enjoyment factor of the photo album on your Android device? The Scalado Album app for Android ($0.99) is just what the Android doctor ordered. This photography organization app makes viewing photos on your Android such a smooth process, you will wonder how you survived before you downloaded it. This photography app is super intuitive to use and the zoom function is fantastic.
Posted on 15 May 2012 | 12:30 am
Pix’n Love Rush is like catnip for retro gaming fans
Pix’n Love Rush is a love letter to classic side scrollers that were prevalent in the ’80s and ’90s. With a visual style that harkens back to handheld portable systems such as the Game Boy and Virtual Boy, to major consoles such as SNES, it’s a walk down the 8-bit memory lane. If you grew up through the early ages of gaming, or love retro graphics and games in general, Pix’n Love Rush will easily win you over. Its visual flair massages the nostalgic muscles that make 2-D games still charming to this day.
Posted on 14 May 2012 | 10:30 pm
Android App Video Reviw: Cafeteria Nipponica
You’ll start with a simple and rather empty new restaurant, very few recipes, and only two employees. Now, it’s up to you to expand your restaurant and staff, eventually turning it into an extremely popular restaurant chain. You get to choose what kind of tables and decorations go where, and you’ll constantly experiment and grow your menu. Different dishes and decorations will appeal to different demographics, such as student, business man, house wife, and even random ones, like lingerie sellers. You’ll have to make use of special events like cooking classes, food tastings, and other P.R. and marketing plans to keep interest in your restaurant high throughout the year.
Posted on 14 May 2012 | 10:19 pm
Rovio Mobile’s next game is ‘Amazing Alex’, will test if developer can create another hit
Rovio Mobile have announced that a game called Amazing Alex will be its first post-Angry Birds project.
Posted on 14 May 2012 | 7:44 pm
Leaked Flipboard app updated
If you’ve been hesitant to download the leaked APK for Flipboard’s exclusive Android app, now may be a good time to try it out. An over-the-air update from Flipboard has fixed many of the bugs reported by those anxious users that downloaded the app early. Version 1.8.4 should increase speed and stability for leaked Flipboard app users, as well as the ability to set a widget update cycle (never, weekly, hourly or daily). And articles now open in your default browser instead of a web preview window. See here for details on how to add Flipboard to your Android device ahead of the Samsung Galaxy S III launch.
Posted on 14 May 2012 | 4:20 pm
Fresh Android Apps for May 14: Turntable.fm, Machinarium, Lunar Racer
Hope every mom had a happy Mother’s Day! For those that received a new Android device, here are some fresh apps to download.
Posted on 14 May 2012 | 2:25 pm
Friendcaster for Android gives Facebook a makeover
As much as Facebook insists that the future is heavily invested on smartphones, it’s surprising to find its mobile app quite lackluster. Sure, numerous updates have fixed major issues, but I often find myself reverting to their mobile site due to faulty updates and unreliable notifications. Many third-party apps that litter the market fare no better, most are just a portal to the mobile version. What is a socialite to do? Enter Friendcaster.
Posted on 14 May 2012 | 1:30 pm
Jazz: Trump’s Journey tops Android Games of the Week
This week brought with it a slew of interesting new releases. Chief among them is the Android port of Jazz: Trump’s Journey, a brilliant and artistic platformer with some clever mechanics. Next up is Towers N’ Trolls, a new, high quality tower defense game that doesn’t do much to stand out, but is excellent nonetheless. Next is the absolutely insane and hard to classify Time Duck, which is definitely worth a look. All of that, plus a few more, can be found below. Here are this week’s top Android games!
Posted on 13 May 2012 | 7:00 pm
NBA JAM on your Android phone is the same NBA JAM you remember
NBA JAM. You like that, of course, because you played it oh so much with your friends when you were a kid. NBA JAM by EA Sports on your phone is similar to that version you played on the Super Nintendo back in the day, and I can't help but think you'll enjoy it here, too.
Posted on 12 May 2012 | 10:30 pm
LTE and ICS devices from LG and Sony light up CTIA 2012
Samsung may have gotten a head start with their Galaxy S III launch, but this past week brought plenty of action to the Android handset scene at CTIA. There’s an impressive lineup of upcoming Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich devices, as well as more LTE handsets than you can shake a stick at. CTIA has been a hotbed of gadgets for the mobile maven, including a new collection from LG, a smart TV from Lenovo and the latest Xperia devices from Sony.
Posted on 12 May 2012 | 7:00 pm
Android App Video Review: One Epic Game
So this game has a story of some kind, in which you have to stop an evil scientist from taking over the world and such, and I think time travel is involved. It’s totally over the top and ridiculous and it aims to be very funny. I thought the comedy was very hit and miss myself, but it was still mostly amusing. This is a simple two button game in which you jump and shoot while automatically running to the right. It’s essentially the same as Halfbrick Studio’s Monster Dash, but with more variety and less polish. There’s a huge variety to the locations and enemies, and you’ll have to contend with zombies, soldiers, knights, dragons, aliens, and much more.
Posted on 12 May 2012 | 3:36 pm
Read It Later grabs 2 million more users after ‘Pocket’ rebrand, updates with new features
Three weeks ago, Internet article reader app Read It Later rebranded itself as “Pocket” with a better user interface and new features. Already, the app has gained another 2 million users.
Posted on 11 May 2012 | 7:52 pm
Android App Video Review: Strike Knight
The developers describe the app as a shuffle puck bowling game. It’s just like bowling in many ways, but you’re sliding a puck towards the pins instead of hurling a ball. The game also involves a timing aspect. Depending on when you launch the puck in accordance with the scrolling lights, your hits will be worth different point values, with an 800-point strike being the highest. Each strike score is paired with a lower spare score, and if you fail to get a spare then whatever pins you did hit will make a paltry addition to your total score.
Posted on 11 May 2012 | 6:06 pm
Google+ update saving the goodies for Android
It’s no secret that Google+ is the company’s “secret weapon,” as CEO Larry Page hopes to make it the premier social network to rival Facebook. And with this not-so-subtle approach, the Google+ mobile app has been updated for iOS but not Android. The overhaul boasts a new user interface with large photos and sleek animations, though little has been updated in terms of new functionality.
Posted on 11 May 2012 | 4:15 pm
Fresh Android Apps for May 11: Color Splash FX, Parking Challenge 3D, Librarian Challenge
Take a picture of your smiling face because you’ve made it to the end of the work week. Then, use the fresh Color Splash FX to make that photo a bright and shiny masterpiece.
Posted on 11 May 2012 | 2:43 pm
Restaurant.com tops Android Apps of the Week
Take a look at your monthly budget, and I’d bet a surprising portion goes towards eating out. Now it’s easier to save on the go, with Restaurant.com’s Android app to search for local dining deals. Color for Facebook also made a splash this week with a Verizon team-up and a revamped video-sharing app that leverages the carrier’s 4G network. CNN is spreading its Android app lineup to include travel news on CNNGo, while Lowe’s offers up mobile design tips with its fresh Android app.
Posted on 11 May 2012 | 1:30 pm
Forge super hero armor in The Avengers–Iron Man Mark VII
Apps allow you to immerse yourself in movies like never before. With interactive comic app The Avengers - Iron Man Mark VII, you can dive deeper into the summer blockbuster The Avengers and the head of billionaire super hero Tony Stark in ways you and your Android never imagined. Be warned though, only die-hard fans will enjoy the “story” of Iron Man’s armor upgrades.
Posted on 11 May 2012 | 1:00 am
Gravity Project adds some interesting elements to the endless runner genre
Casual gamers everywhere rejoiced when the highly-anticipated free running Temple Run hit Android devices a few weeks ago. While we’ve all been swiping and sliding our feverish addiction, newcomer Gravity Project is looking to shake things up by introducing minor adjustments, and instead of running away from strange creatures, you’ll barrel down the inside of a spaceship.
Posted on 10 May 2012 | 11:15 pm
Google building social gaming platform similar to Apple’s Game Center, rumor says
Google is working to amplify Android as a mobile gaming platform, and according to reports it’s creating an app that will function a lot like Apple’s Game Center software for its iOS games.
Posted on 10 May 2012 | 7:58 pm
Facebook App Center good for Android game discovery?
Facebook proved to be a popular portal for games...five years ago. The massive social network has struggled, however, to convert that success to the mobile sector. But a new App Center marketplace for Android and iOS apps may do the trick. This is Facebook’s first formal platform for app and game discovery, bringing even more order to its extremely diverse catalog of integrated apps.
Posted on 10 May 2012 | 4:56 pm
Fresh Android Apps for May 10: Savored, Pair, Empress of the Deep 2
Today’s fresh list provides more proof you can’t live without your Android. Save money while dining out with Savored, bond with your beau or belle over Pair, and live out your fantasies in Empress of the Deep 2.
Posted on 10 May 2012 | 2:25 pm
Essential apps for rooted Android devices (and those about to root)
Rooting your Android device unlocks some of its inner potential. Manufacturers and carriers commonly offer their own Android skins and apps, but if you want to run a custom ROM (or skin) and perhaps even rid the device of apps you don’t want or need, rooting is the way to go. Rooting can often lead to performance updates and free your device from other limitations. Exercise caution though – every device is different and you will need a little technical knowledge and follow instructions carefully for your particular device. Before you get started, or just after you’ve gone through the unlocking/rooting process, you should make sure you have the following apps on hand.
Posted on 10 May 2012 | 1:30 pm
Action-packed retro style games for Android
I grew up running to the arcade and pumping quarters into video games. I have no idea how much I spent, but it was a lot of fun. I can still remember getting cramps in my thumbs and wrists when the track ball was first introduced.
Posted on 10 May 2012 | 1:30 pm
Pay your bar tab with the Friday’s app for Android
Do you have massive cravings for TGI Friday’s every day? Then you will definitely want to check out the free Friday’s app for Android. Now you can have Friday in the palm of your hand all the time! The best part of this delicious app is you can start a tab with the app and even settle up your bill with it.
Posted on 10 May 2012 | 12:30 am
Dead Space is an immersive horror experience
If you’ve been dismayed at the lack of scary games for your Android device, then count yourself lucky. Electronic Arts has finally brought their massively popular space themed horror fest, Dead Space, to Android and it aims to scare till you’re blue in the face. While you shouldn’t expect the same suspenseful graphics and atmosphere from your 42-inch flatscreen, it’s safe to say that EA games have perfectly captured the same shock and awe as its console brethren.
Posted on 9 May 2012 | 10:30 pm
Foursquare to add personalized offers to app in July
Location-based check-in app Foursquare lets users interact with their friends, review businesses and give tips on what food to eat at restaurants, but its real goal is to have businesses pay it to recommend their goods and services to you, the user. To do that, the developer is planning to add a new layer of special deals to its app this summer: personalized offers.
Posted on 9 May 2012 | 7:59 pm
Android App Video Review: Tiny Comet
You play as a tiny comet that gets separated from its herd, or whatever it is comets travel in, and all you want to do is reunite with your friends and family. To do that, you’ll have to soar all around the Earth, through forests and jungles and over oceans and mountains, collecting as much sun energy as possible to eventually escape the gravitational pull of the Earth. You control the game by simply tilting forwards and backwards, and you don’t even have to worry about tilting left and right. You’ll automatically fly to the right, and it’s up to you to avoid enemies and obstacles while keeping your energy up and beating the time limit.
Posted on 9 May 2012 | 7:30 pm
Android App Video Review: ADVENA
You play as a simple warrior with a power-crazy brother who I’m willing to bet a million dollars is being controlled or possessed by some greater evil force. You are foretold to come along and save everyone from all the bad things and stuff. I did not care for the trite story set-up, and the erroneous grammar and spelling mistakes definitely don’t help preserve the immersion, although it could get better down the line. What I really liked about this game was the gameplay.
Posted on 9 May 2012 | 4:38 pm
Flipboard unofficially gifted to all Android users
Flipboard appeared on its first Android device last week, with an exclusive launch on the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S III. But an .APK leak from a demo phone at Samsung’s Galaxy event has gifted Flipboard to all Android users. An XDA-Developer forum user, thought to use the name Valcho, nabbed the .APK from an S III demo phone in London last week, making it available to anyone willing to install it on their Android device. And fortunately it’s a relatively easy install.
Posted on 9 May 2012 | 4:17 pm
Fresh Android Apps for May 9: Lowe’s, Restaurant.com, Monster Park, Tractor: Farm Driver
The connections between retail stores and your Android device continue to grow. Now, your smartphone can help with home improvement projects using the fresh app from Lowe’s.
Posted on 9 May 2012 | 2:34 pm
Android apps to get your Pinterest fix
Pinterest is by far one of the most addictive new social sharing sites on the market, but it’s yet to go mobile. And while you can still pull-up Pinterest photos on a mobile web browser, it’s just not the same as being able to share photos with friends and organize your interests into personalized collections. Pinterest has made it difficult for third parties to create apps that include Pinterest feeds, significantly minimizing the number of Android apps that once specialized in Pinterest content, but there’s ways to get your fix, even beyond Pinterest.
Posted on 9 May 2012 | 1:30 pm
ZombieSmash on Android proves the undead are the life of the party
For the past few years or so, the obsession with zombie infestation has seen the genre rise from the dead (excuse the pun), and infest every inch of the American media. Thanks to books, television shows and movies such as The Walking Dead, Zombieland and World War Z, everyone’s favorite cannon fodder have also swarmed across all genres of mobile gaming. While it’s been on iOS for a while, ZombieSmash has finally limped its way onto Android. Introducing a physics-based type of game, ZombieSmash gives you the most powerful weapon in your arsenal: your fingers
Posted on 9 May 2012 | 12:30 am
Spice up Instagram and texts with the Textgram app
Unleash your inner artist to make unique creations to share on social media with the Textgram app.
Posted on 8 May 2012 | 10:30 pm
Ad network data shows Kindle Fire usage slowing down
Despite an initial influx of users and data that suggested that Amazon’s Kindle Fire had exploded onto the Android tablet scene, new data from ad network JumpTap suggests Kindle Fire usage is leveling off and iPad usage is increasing back to pre-Fire levels.
Posted on 8 May 2012 | 8:21 pm
Google found guilty of Java API infringement; new devices emerge at CTIA 2012
Google was found guilty for infringing on Oracle’s Java API copyrights, but U.S. District Judge William Alsup, who’s presiding over the case, said that Oracle won’t get the $1 billion in damages it seeks from Google at this point. This is because the jury couldn’t reach a unanimous decision on whether or not Android’s use of Java is protected under “fair use.”
Posted on 8 May 2012 | 4:14 pm
Fresh Android App for May 8: BugMe! Stickies Pro, Youda Survivor, Finger Versus Knife
Memorial Day arrives faster than you think at the end of this month. Do some prep work in advance with some fresh Android apps. Take notes of where to go and what to bring with BugMe! Stickies Pro, learn how to survive in case you get stranded using Youda Survivor, and protect your fingers from your own stupidity by downloading Fingers Versus Knife.
Posted on 8 May 2012 | 2:10 pm
Be ready for Mother’s Day with these Android apps
Even if you reassure your mother daily of your undying appreciation for all she’s done, there’s one day you just can’t skip out on: Mother’s Day. Make mom feel like the special woman she is, with the help of a few Android apps. From ordering flowers to whipping up a home-cooked meal, nothing says “I love you” like the time and thoughtfulness that goes into Mother’s Day. Keep your stress to a minimum with these Android apps to get you headed down the right path.
Posted on 8 May 2012 | 1:30 pm
Google+ Hangouts On Air in app form could have massive potential
Google announced today on its official blog that Hangouts On Air is now universally available for all Google+ users. For those unaware, Google Hangouts is a social feature of Google+ where people can video chat with one another while using the social networking service. It’s a bit like a group Skype or Apple’s FaceTime, but with the ability for multiple people to video-chat together at the same time.
Posted on 8 May 2012 | 1:30 pm
Find shelter fast with Zillow Rentals – Houses & Apts
Looking for a place to live? Zillow Rentals is a useful app which might shorten your time to shelter. For rental properties, it acts like a smart real estate agent in your pocket.
Posted on 8 May 2012 | 12:30 am
Build your own multi-use skyscraper with Dream Heights
I’m slightly embarrassed to admit this, but I’ve been building my Dream Zoo for almost two months. Zynga apps are extremely addictive. I mean who hasn’t played Words with Friends or even Scramble with Friends? Zynga app games are all the rage, kids. And now, you can build your own multi-faceted skyscraper with the free Dream Heights app by Zynga. Oh my, as if we needed another Zynga app addiction!
Posted on 7 May 2012 | 10:30 pm
Android App Video Review: Land-a Panda
Your goal in each level is to reunite the dude panda with his girlfriend panda. You do this by launching him all around the map using barrel cannons. Yep, this game takes the Donkey Kong Country barrel cannon mechanics and makes an entire game out of it. This has been done before, but here it’s done very well. All sorts of cannons are utilized, from auto-firing cannons to moving cannons and cannons that you can even aim yourself. You must avoid enemies and hazards on your way to the end of each level, and getting there is usually easy enough, but you’ll have to collect the three heart coins in any given level for a good challenge. It’s fairly tough to get them all sometimes, as one wrong move can really mess you up.
Posted on 7 May 2012 | 9:41 pm
Video-sharing app Color partners with Verizon, creates a new, more powerful app
A new deal between U.S. cellular carrier Verizon and video-sharing social networking app Color for Facebook could be just what the app needs to turn around its notorious bad luck.
Posted on 7 May 2012 | 9:18 pm
Verdict expected today in Google-Oracle case
We could reach a milestone today in the high-profile trial over Oracle’s allegations that Google illegally used its Java technology to build Android software. A verdict is expected today after the jury ended last week in unanimous agreement on all but one of the issues being covered in this first portion of the trial. U.S. District Judge William Alsup dismissed the 12 jurors Friday afternoon in hopes that the weekend would give them time to think through the evidence and reach an agreement on the remaining unsolved issue. The jury has reportedly spend over 25 hours in deliberations after the first two weeks of hearing evidence from Oracle and Google, including CEOs Larry Ellison and Larry Page.
Posted on 7 May 2012 | 4:15 pm
Fresh Android Apps for May 7: Alarm Clock Ultra Free, PicFrame, PhotoCircle, iStunt 2
Life coach Ian here with another heads-up for this year’s upcoming Mother’s Day. Set an early wake up call with Alarm Clock Ultra Free and then capture and share some photos of you and your family out with mom using PicFrame and PhotoCircle. In fresh Android games, check out iStunt 2.
Posted on 7 May 2012 | 2:38 pm
Cymera Android app delivers pro photography features to amateurs
Camera apps can make you a better photographer. I should know – my wife is a professional photographer so my ineptitude stands out regularly. Now, with Cymera I can produce some pretty cool photos without knowing a lot.
Posted on 6 May 2012 | 10:30 pm
Pix’n Love Rush tops Android Games of the Week
This week saw some really old school iOS releases get ported to the Android, and some other good stuff. The beloved arcade platformer Pix’n Love Rush finally gets an Android release, and it’s just as trippy and awesome as ever. Likewise, the classic ZombieSmash from Zynga gets a port, and it’s a smashing good time. Also, Com2Us released a clone of an Android classic, and two underground indie titles with cool ideas saw a release, though they could use some work. Here are this week’s top Android games.
Posted on 6 May 2012 | 7:00 pm
Android App Video Review: Tiny Tower
You start with a simple lobby and some cash. You are now asked to build another floor, which will house your first Bitizens, as they’re called. You continue earning money and adding new floors with a wide variety of goods and services, from restaurants to retail stores, creative outlets, and more. After employing some bitizens, each store will sell various products and bring in more money, and the whole thing starts again. Each store can employ up to three bitizens as well as sell three different products.
Posted on 6 May 2012 | 7:33 am
eMusic Android app does what it's supposed to
If there was ever an app that worked exactly how it was intended, the eMusic app is it. Every bit of the eMusic service is available in this app. You can buy, download and stream music, you can browse their entire library and sample songs, you can listen to special eMusic playlists, and you can even sign-up for the service and manage your account, all without ever entering a web browser.
Posted on 5 May 2012 | 10:30 pm
Samsung Galaxy S III official, hits international stores late May
The rumors have been realized as Samsung unveiled the latest in its popular Galaxy line on Thursday. The S III is set to begin shipping in late May, pushing out a new wave of Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich handsets. Launching with far less fanfare this week is the updated version of the mid-sized Panasonic Android tablet for mobile workers. And as far as rumored devices go, Sony may be catching up to rivals with an updated Xperia offering.
Posted on 5 May 2012 | 7:00 pm
Samsung to expand music service to include iTunes-like ‘scan and match’ feature
We’ve heard that Samsung is planning a cloud service for its Android devices that will rival Apple’s iCloud, and now Samsung has announced that it is working on a “scan and match” feature for users’ music collections.
Posted on 4 May 2012 | 9:22 pm
Android App Video Review: Imaginary Range Ep.2
From what I can gather, the story is one part The Matrix, one part The Godfather, and about three parts Final Fantasy. It involves people who are dead or sleeping or whatever inside these pod devices, which seem to take them into various imaginary dream worlds, hence the title. They seem to be the gods of their own worlds, and it’s easy for people to get lost within them, unable to tell reality from fiction. Our heroes have these pad devices which allow them to manifest weapons and other objects in each world, and they’re out to destroy each dream world. The connections between characters are very unclear at this point, and the story could really have used a better set up. I’ve played both apps to the end, and while you can figure some things out, a lot of it is quite confusing.
Posted on 4 May 2012 | 4:30 pm
Samsung Galaxy S III has its own Siri; Android lost revenue back in 2010
After weeks of speculation, Samsung finally revealed the Galaxy S III at its London event yesterday. Measuring just 8.6mm thick and weighing in at only 133 grams, the Galaxy S III has a 4.8-inch HD Super AMOLED PenTile display and is powered by an Exynos 4 Quad processor. The Galaxy S III is the latest handset to feature Android’s most recent OS version, but comes with several other Samsung-specific features that could help Ice Cream Sandwich spread beyond its 4.9 percent of the Android market.
Posted on 4 May 2012 | 4:11 pm
Fresh Android Apps for May 4: CNNGo, Woodebox Puzzle, JAZZ: Trump’s Journey
See the world from the comfort of your Android phone with the fresh CNNGo. If you’re out in the world, you’ll find the app useful as well as informative.
Posted on 4 May 2012 | 2:41 pm
Scalado Album tops Android Apps of the Week
Long-time maker of mobile imaging software, Scalado released its first consumer app this year, with the intention of replacing your stock Android gallery. GammaPix also made a splash this week, with its controversial smartphone-turned-geiger counter, while TGI Friday’s leaves you hungry for a night out. LG also launched a mobile cloud app for Android users, competing with Google Drive on its own turf.
Posted on 4 May 2012 | 1:30 pm
Shark Dash is an easy physics puzzler for Android
While one might say that Shark Dash is "inspired by Angry Birds," you can't really accuse it of being a rip-off. It takes the Angry Birds formula – you fling one animal at another animal in a physics-based game – but goes in a different and cool direction.
Posted on 4 May 2012 | 12:30 am
Take this Google cloud storage app for a Drive
It is amazing that some people still do not use Google Docs to store and edit important documents. If you are still carrying around a USB drive with all your work documents or your graduate thesis, you definitely need to check out this smart and productive app. The free Google Drive app allows you to save all your documents in one handy place that you can access from just about anywhere. It connects with Google Docs so everything you have already saved, transfers over. App users can easily share documents with co-workers, clients, teachers, etc. You get 5GB of free cloud space and it is less than $2.50 a month for an upgrade to 25GB.
Posted on 3 May 2012 | 10:30 pm
Samsung Galaxy S III launch hints at impending Flipboard Android app release
The Samsung Galaxy S III smartphone was officially announced today in London, and it’s a big deal. Boasting a gigantic 4.8-inch screen and a quad-core processor, it will arrive this month in Europe and should come to North American carriers in the summer with 4G capabilities on board.
Posted on 3 May 2012 | 8:30 pm
Sony teams with Major League Gaming for Xperia PLAY tournaments
Mobile gaming still doesn’t have quite the credibility among “hardcore” video game fans who remain loyal to consoles, PCs and handheld machines, but the mobile industry is continuing to make strides. It even has its own competitive gaming league.
Posted on 3 May 2012 | 8:06 pm
Will the Samsung Galaxy S III expand beyond Android’s ecosystem?
Any moment now we’ll hear from Samsung’s London event their plans for the latest Galaxy device, expected to be the S III. Speculation has been rampant, with high hopes for a 4.8-inch screen boasting a 720p Super AMOLED panel, likely a non-pentile Super AMOLED HD+ at that. A quad-core processor from Exynos or Qualcom would give the S III quite a boost, and a 12-megapixel rear camera would make it one of the best smartphone snappers on the market. The S III could also be another flagship phone for Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, the latest OS version from Google that’s slowly approaching just 5 percent of the Android market.
Posted on 3 May 2012 | 4:16 pm
Fresh Android Apps for May 3: The Avengers-Iron Man Mark VII, Paper Camera update, Light Robot, Push-Cars
Strap yourself down! The promotion machine for upcoming movie The Avengers just hit the turbo boost switch. Read about the new tie-in interactive comic, The Avengers – Iron Man Mark VII, below.
Posted on 3 May 2012 | 2:43 pm
Keep up with your to-do list with these Android apps
Recently, I have found myself falling behind on my work. With lots of different jobs for different people, I needed some help staying organized. I needed to keep track of all I had to do and when things were due. Since I carry my Android phone everywhere, it seemed logical to find a task management app.
Posted on 3 May 2012 | 1:15 pm
Death Rally FREE is perfectly tailored for mobile consumption
For those who have never heard of the 1996 original, it may be too easy to peg Death Rally FREE as Reckless Racing with guns. In reality it’s much more than that. While the game does share the same isometric view, its inclusion of weapons puts this vehicular combat gameplay in a class of its own. Developers Remedy Entertainment (of Max Payne fame) deliver this remake with the same explosive action they’ve always been known for.
Posted on 2 May 2012 | 11:30 pm
Android App Video Review: Tower Defense: Lost Earth
The simple set up is that the Earth’s resources have been depleted, and you’re part of a fleet seeking out a new Class-M planet for humanity to inhabit. Unfortunately, the monstrous natives of the planet are none too pleased with your presence. There’s a good variety of towers and enemies and a surprising amount of strategy involved. Too often the enemies in these games exist with few differences and mostly provide visual variety, but here there was a good amount of thought put into it, and there’s always a best strategy for each level.
Posted on 2 May 2012 | 10:56 pm
Chrome is the best browser, even on Android phones
I love Google Chrome on my desktop computer, and I also love Google Chrome on my Galaxy Nexus. Are those two facts related? Yes, yes they are.
Posted on 2 May 2012 | 10:30 pm
Analyst says next step for Amazon is an Android smartphone
The Kindle Fire is the No. 1 Android tablet in the U.S., dominating with more than 50 percent of the market under its belt.
Posted on 2 May 2012 | 7:48 pm
In-app gaming turns serious cash for developers
There are 101 million mobile gamers in the U.S., according to a recent study from Newzoo, with a whopping 91 percent of revenue coming from in-game purchases. Android plays a big role in the rising number of mobile gamers, though iOS games tend to rake in more revenue than Android titles. The success of Angry Birds Space, which recently soared past 50 million downloads, has demonstrated the potential of mobile gaming, and Google hopes to reiterate Android’s status as a game distribution platform through its Play Store and Google Wallet mobile payment tool.
Posted on 2 May 2012 | 4:36 pm
Fresh Android Apps for May 2: Notifier Pro, Run Run Bear (Doomsday), Oven Break
Don’t miss that urgent text because you’re playing a game! Get a clue with the notification turbo-charger called NotifierPro.
Posted on 2 May 2012 | 2:30 pm
Share and filter videos with these Viddy alternatives for Android
Many consider Viddy to be the “Instagram of video-sharing.” With 16 million users already on tap (including Mark Zuckerberg’s dog) and plenty of funding, perhaps it has a good shot. Already popular on iOS, we’re still awaiting its release on Android. But until Viddy comes around, here are a few alternatives for Android, ripe for video-sharing, discovery, and even one for video filters.
Posted on 2 May 2012 | 1:30 pm
Zenonia 4 is an Android action RPG that is actually kind of fun
Despite the fact that I really enjoy RPGs on my game consoles and PC, I'm not usually one to play them much on my phone, but Zenonia 4 actually seems worthwhile.
Posted on 2 May 2012 | 12:30 am
LilyPad HD helps you spend less time tapping and more time chatting
It seems that Android tablet apps are starting to pick up steam. In terms of productivity, “floating” apps, which are basically windowed programs similar to what you see on a Windows PC, are all the rage. Though Android is a multitasking OS, Google chose to omit using paned windows. As such, all apps run full screen. This might work for smartphones, but what about a tablet that have enough screen real estate? Apps like LilyPad HD picks up the slack that the folks in Mountain View left behind.
Posted on 1 May 2012 | 10:30 pm
Rumor says Nintendo considering Android for upcoming Wii U console
Nintendo is staunchly against putting its games into the mobile sphere, but that doesn’t mean it might not be considering a jump of some kind into the ever-widening world of Android.
Posted on 1 May 2012 | 9:27 pm
Android App Video Review: NBA Jam by EA Sports
Everything about a normal basketball game applies, only it’s all been simplified into a basic 2 vs. 2 match with very short-length quarters and a blatant disregard for the laws of physics. It’s great fun to furiously run the ball back and forth on the court, always pulling off inhumanly high leaps and super impactful slam dunks. Getting three baskets in a row while shutting out the other team will result in “fire mode,” which gives you unlimited turbo and increased stats. Two control methods are available, and both work well after some practice.
Posted on 1 May 2012 | 7:20 pm
Instagram hits 50M downloads; Samsung beats iPhone smartphone sales for Q1
It seems 50 million is the magic number for popular mobile apps these days. Instagram reached the 50 million download mark just hours after Angry Birds Space surpassed the same milestone. Google Play has certainly helped Instagram soar in new sign-ups, hitting the 10 million mark over the weekend.
Posted on 1 May 2012 | 4:12 pm
Fresh Android Apps for May 1: Zillow Rentals, BitStories, Last War
It’s your life, so choose where you want to live (Zillow Rentals – Houses & Apts), record your stories (BitStories), and fight to death for freedom (Last War).
Posted on 1 May 2012 | 2:38 pm
GrubHub co-founder on native vs. HTML5 and why “forcing a channel is a mistake”
As some of the smartest people in technology continue to debate whether we are living in an app-driven bubble, it might be tempting for somebody like GrubHub co-founder Mike Evans to oversell the impact mobile media has on his company.
Posted on 1 May 2012 | 1:00 pm
Radiant Defense adds color to a crowded genre
Radiant Defense debuts on Android to an already crowded genre. Facing an overwhelming amount of stiff competition, developers Hexage carries over their bright neon visuals from Robotek and Radiant HD to help it out stand from the rest. But will its quirky graphics be enough to bob up from the flood of tower defense titles?
Posted on 1 May 2012 | 12:30 am
Can the GammaPix Android app really save your life?
A new app just hit the Google Play store from Image Insights Inc. and it’s certainly unique.
Posted on 30 April 2012 | 11:30 pm
WordCam (Pro) turns your picture into a thousand words
Maybe it’s just me, but the idea of combining words and images strikes me as very cool. Obviously, both text and pictures do fine on their own, but mixing them together makes a little peanut butter and jelly-type magic. That’s why I was interested to try WordCam. Unfortunately, while worth checking out, the quality of the app’s output wasn’t all that I hoped it would be.
Posted on 30 April 2012 | 10:30 pm
Angry Birds Space is ‘fastest growing mobile game,’ warps to 50 million downloads in 35 days
This just in: people like Angry Birds Space.
Posted on 30 April 2012 | 8:03 pm
How is Android affected by the Microsoft-B&N team up?
Google’s continued success with the Android mobile operating system has only made it a target for its biggest rivals. Microsoft is hoping to kill two birds with one stone, investing $300 million into Barnes & Noble’s digital division, Newco, for a 17.6 percent stake. The end goal is to integrate Nook’s e-reader application with Microsoft’s Windows 8 platform which could eventually lead to a tablet team-up. That would be news for Android, the OS currently powering Nook tablets.
Posted on 30 April 2012 | 4:21 pm
Fresh Android Apps for Apr. 30: Friday’s, Snapfish, The Island: Castaway
Hungry? Check out what’s on the menu at T.G.I Friday’s with their new app Friday’s in today’s fresh list.
Posted on 30 April 2012 | 2:24 pm
Android App Video Review: Zombie Wonderland 2
You play as Chuck the Zombie Cleaner, a random cross between a janitor and undead fighting warrior. Armed with his trusty shotgun and mop, he defends the various establishments owned by the townsfolk for three nights each. Why the zombies give up after three nights is a mystery to me. Despite clearing out this zombie infestation once before, they've somehow returned. With the help of the quirky museum curator, Chuck travels through time, collecting mystical items to be used in the creation of a zombie doomsday weapon, ending this battle once and for all.
Posted on 30 April 2012 | 2:20 pm
Test your rhythm skills with Cytus for Android
Rhythm games are a dime a dozen. When it comes to mobile music games there’s not much you can do besides the usual combination of taps and... well, just taps. Cytus by Rayark Inc. such uninspired gameplay mechanics but adds new ways to interact with music.
Posted on 30 April 2012 | 1:30 pm
Hambo leads Android Games of the Week
This week saw a couple of solid releases and a nice variety of game types for us to enjoy. First off, popular Flash game site Miniclip.com released its latest physics-based puzzle title, and it’s pretty ham-tastic. Then Kairosoft takes us back to school with their latest colorful and pixelated simulation title, and it’s quite educational. We’ve also got platforming cheese men, turn-based ninja clan battles, and a great new FPS title for hunting enthusiasts from Glu Mobile. Here are this week’s top Android games.
Posted on 30 April 2012 | 12:30 am
Gift giving is made easy with the Karma app for Android
Do you believe in karma? Well whether you believe in it or not, I bet you believe in giving and getting birthday presents, as well as gifts for recognizing special occasions like say a new baby in the family. In fact, have you ever been angry at a loved one for forgetting to send you a birthday gift? Or even worse, have you forgotten your mother’s birthday?
Posted on 29 April 2012 | 10:30 pm
Samsung Galaxy S III expected for June launch
The buzz continues to build around the May 3 Samsung Unpacked event, taking place in London. After their Android app hinted at a Galaxy S III reveal, speculation on expected features adds to the hype. HTC is also preparing to reveal a new device, as details emerge around the Droid Incredible 4G LTE, while Asus props Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich in its latest quad-core tablet.
Posted on 28 April 2012 | 7:00 pm
Radiant Defense tops Android Games of the Week
We had some solid releases this week, including one rather unexpected development from a certain massive developer. A new, neon colored game of awesome was released by Hexage in Radiant Defense, their first tower defense title. Gameloft went ahead and released their first physics puzzler with cute animals… and it’s actually really good and original? Huh? A popular website got its own app released by EA, Gamevil launched an extremely buggy new action RPG, and more. Here are this week’s top Android games.
Posted on 28 April 2012 | 12:00 pm
Android App Video Review: DragonCraft
In this fantasy world of knights, magic, and dragons, you play as a Dragon Baron--a kind of king who hatches and raises his own dragons while building his kingdom. By fighting off enemies and completing missions, you’ll get loads of wood, gold, food, and dragon crystals as a reward. You then build new buildings, research new troop units and abilities, and basically continue in that cycle forever.
Posted on 27 April 2012 | 9:54 pm
Kindle Fire takes 54 percent of U.S. Android tablet market
Amazon’s Kindle Fire tablet, the 7-inch, $199 device that set the tablet market alight during the 2011 holiday season, seems to be continuing to command a big part of the tablet market in the U.S.
Posted on 27 April 2012 | 8:21 pm
Twitter updates Android app; Amazon’s Kindle takes over tablet market
Twitter’s always known the power of its mobile user base, so a recent update to its Android and iPhone apps makes it easier to search. The update addresses the growing number of people tweeting via mobile devices, bringing the familiar website’s “Discover” tab to their mobile app. With this you’ll see which of your tweets have been favorited or retweeted, who your followers are following and who’s being added to their lists. The Twitter search function has also been improved to display suggestions for different spellings, as well as related terms for your queries.
Posted on 27 April 2012 | 4:16 pm
Fresh Android Apps for Apr. 27: QuickOffice Pro update, Dark Meadow, Pocket Academy
Leave your office immediately! The QuickOffice Pro update described below lets you take your work on the road.
Posted on 27 April 2012 | 2:35 pm
Google Drive tops Android Apps of the Week
After months of speculation, Google Drive finally become a reality, offering cloud storage and ready access to files through a newly updated app. Also building excitement this week is Samsung’s Mobile Unpacked app, offering up details of the much-hyped event where Samsung will reveal the latest Galaxy device. 500px is trying its best to steal a bit of Instagram’s thunder, while Papyrus Beta shines with its new note-taking app for Android.
Posted on 27 April 2012 | 1:30 pm
Lights! Camera! Action! with Ultimate Special Fx
Now I know what the director of a Hollywood summer blockbuster feels like. Well, maybe only just a little. Still, it’s a thrill to add some cool special effects to your own home video with the surprising Ultimate Special Fx app.
Posted on 27 April 2012 | 12:30 am
Fancy Android app is comparable to the uber-popular Pinterest
Fancy this, fancy that, and keep it all in the free Fancy app for Android. This app is designed for curators of style and those who love to live the high life. The Fancy app is like browsing through a free magazine filled with all your heart’s desires. The app’s modern design scheme is very user friendly, simple to use, and aesthetically appealing. I would classify it as what Gowalla is to FourSquare, Fancy is to Pinterest.
Posted on 26 April 2012 | 10:30 pm
Android App Video Review: Cytus
The mechanics are a mix of Dance Dance Revolution and the popular Nintendo DS game Elite Beat Agents. You must tap on notes in accordance with a scrolling black bar, and you’re rated based on your accuracy and timing. You’ll have to deal with single notes, notes that you hold, and notes that you must follow with your finger. Every song is scored out of one million points, and you are given a grade based on your performance. There is no way to actually fail out of a song. You’ll always get to play it to completion, even if you don’t hit a single note. However, Cytus does not show how well you’re doing as you’re actually playing.
Posted on 26 April 2012 | 9:26 pm
Online help document suggests Amazon could bring Kindle to China
A Chinese online help document related to Amazon’s 7-inch Kindle e-readers has reignited rumors that the retailer could be bringing its Kindle Fire Android tablet and e-reader line to the country.
Posted on 26 April 2012 | 7:59 pm
Sony Tablet S gets Android 4.0 while more rumors of Android 5.0 surface
Last month we learned of Sony’s plans to update their Tablet S with Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, and today the update is available for users to download. It appears Sony’s pushing out a staggered roll-out for the ICS update, so all Tablet S users may not get it at the same time.
Posted on 26 April 2012 | 4:15 pm
Fresh Android Apps for Apr. 26: LimoTab, Minecraft update, Birdman Rally, Zombies Wave
Today’s fresh app includes a ticket to ride with LimoTab – Airport Greeter Sign. From there, it’s games aplenty with an update to Minecraft – Pocket Edition, the high-flying Birdman Rally, and the creepy Zombies Wave.
Posted on 26 April 2012 | 2:30 pm
Grand Theft Auto III on Android will jack your time
When Rockstar’s Grand Theft Auto III was released a decade ago, the non-gaming population decried the game a number of titles usually saved for terrorist and criminals. Here we are ten years later, and while media attention has dwindled, the game still contains the same open world sandbox that revolutionized the gaming industry. To commemorate its release 10 years ago, Rockstar Games has translated the game to our smartphones with the Grand Theft Auto III: 10th Anniversary Edition.
Posted on 26 April 2012 | 1:30 am
Get your motor running with the XLR8 Android app
There’s a reason novelty apps remain popular. As the adjective suggests, the best of the genre feel refreshing and fun and often cause a laugh-out-loud moment. XLR8 fits this bill and will likely turn what could be a dull car ride into comic relief.
Posted on 25 April 2012 | 11:30 pm
Android App Video Review: Slime vs. Mushroom2
The game still doesn’t even compare to Plants vs. Zombies, with far worse balance and pacing and a lack of variety, but it’s fairly charming and simple and mostly inoffensive, Slime vs. Mushroom 2 is a simple, lane based tower defense game. You place defensive and offensive towers in each lane, as well as resource gathering towers that allow you to continue building, and proceed to fight off an onslaught of violent and apparently angry little mushroom people. As you play, you’ll be able to pick up and earn crystals which are then used to buy new towers or upgrade your current ones. My main problem with this game is the total lack of a decent pace. Each stage takes quite a while to get through, which is fine, but then the next several stages are virtually the same. You can just employ the same basic tactics every single level and win, with new towers becoming available extremely infrequently. It’s all very repetitive and redundant.
Posted on 25 April 2012 | 10:36 pm
Facebook phone rumors resurface, supposedly partnering with HTC
Two years after the rumor originally hit the Internet that Facebook was developing its own branded smartphone with a partner (subsequently quashed by Mark Zuckerberg), the rumor that Facebook is working on an Android device of its own is back.
Posted on 25 April 2012 | 8:59 pm
Android App Video Review: Grand Theft Auto III
After a series of unfortunate events leaves you, the nameless silent protagonist, in prison, you are broken out and have to start your life anew in Liberty City, a place heavily inspired by New York City. Take low level assassination and escort missions from the mafia, triads, and various other gangs as you gain more influence and power. The entire plot, as well as the various side missions and vehicle based mini games (i.e. The Taxi, Ambulance, and Vigilante missions) are all intact here. In fact, the only thing missing are the glorious cheat codes. This game just isn’t the same without the ability to summon a massive arsenal of infinite ammunition weapons before jumping into a Rhino tank and seeing how long you can survive.
Posted on 25 April 2012 | 8:10 pm
How Google Drive and the cloud can help Android games
Google Drive launched yesterday complete with an accompanying Android app, bringing another consumer cloud service to a crowded and competitive space. What sets Google Drive apart, however, is its inclusion in the broader Google family. That means a certain level of integration with other Google products. When it comes to mobile gaming in particular, Google Drive holds promise here as well.
Posted on 25 April 2012 | 4:13 pm
Fresh Android Apps for Apr. 25: Google Drive, Basketball Shootout (3D), Bird Jump
Google would prefer you keep your files and multimedia “in the family” rather than send it off to other cloud storage like Dropbox or Evernote. Their new storage offering is called Google Drive.
Posted on 25 April 2012 | 2:41 pm
Pretty interface of 500px Android app cannot hide its issues
500px, the growing image sharing/hosting website, just released its official mobile app on Android (to accompany the company’s website), and we’ve taken it for a test run. While Instagram may be all the rage right now on mobile devices, 500px offers a great way to store and share photos on the web too.
Posted on 25 April 2012 | 1:20 pm
Moron Test 2 is like the exam that looks to fail you
Having experienced the original, I knew full well the true nature of this game. I approached The Moron Test 2 confident enough, yet still cautious. A minute into the game however, I found myself already failing the initial challenge. In bold red letters the word “FAIL!” fills the entire screen with a silhouette of a snail. This game was clearly designed to pull some nerves. That’s okay though, it didn’t bruise my ego... much. Treading more carefully this time, I re-read the instructions: Touch the tallest character who can ride (the roller coaster). Among the choices given was a turtle, bumble bee, giraffe, a monkey and a ladybug. The most obvious choice is the giraffe right? “FAIL!” Fine, alright, alright... let me just press retry one more time and choose something else – “FAIL!”
Posted on 25 April 2012 | 1:30 am
MLB.com At the Ballpark is like getting a private tour
Can a ballpark outshine the game being played inside it? Boston’s famous Fenway park turns 100 years old this season, so it was a perfect time to take a closer look via my Android device at the new MLB.com At the Ballpark app. Turns out the app provides a handy reference guide and proves to be a helpful companion for any baseball fan visiting a stadium.
Posted on 24 April 2012 | 11:30 pm
Google Drive is out in the wild – check it out
The rumored cloud storage service coming from Google is out in the wild, and you can find now on your Android devices or web browsers.
Posted on 24 April 2012 | 7:51 pm
Winners of Samsung Galaxy Note S Pen App Challenge announced
The winners of the Samsung Galaxy Note S Pen App Challenge have been announced! The competition invited software developers to create applications taking full advantage of the Galaxy Note’s S Pen capabilities.
Posted on 24 April 2012 | 6:09 pm
Samsung admits to Galaxy S3 for May 3 event
As the Samsung Unpacked event nears, the device manufacturer leaves more breadcrumbs for us to follow. The latest is an Android app found on Google Play. Called Samsung mobile UNPACKED 2012, the app features various details about the event, including the device they’ll be launching, the Galaxy S3. That confirms a few rumors that have been circling the May 3 event, but if Samsung’s willing to give up that information, perhaps there’s more to Unpacked than previously expected.
Posted on 24 April 2012 | 4:21 pm
Fresh Android Apps for Apr. 24: Conquer 3 Kingdoms, Panic Flight, Deer Hunter Reloaded
It’s another dose of wall-to-wall games in today’s fresh Android app list. We didn’t think you’d mind. For a battle royal, try Conquer 3 Kingdoms. To fly the somewhat friendly skies, take a Panic Flight. And go carnivore with Deer Hunter Reloaded.
Posted on 24 April 2012 | 2:18 pm
Android App Video Review: Battleloot Adventure
The game is set up very structurally similar to the excellent Battleheart from Mika Mobile. You face a series of pre-set challenges and stages and are rated on your performance. Gold and experience earned in those stages are used to buy new equipment, level up your character, and to hire new party members. It doesn’t really focus on the storytelling aspect of RPG’s, though a fun backstory is present, with the King of Kameloot calling all adventurers to his land to compete for fame and fortune. Where this game and Battleheart differ are in their vastly different battle mechanics.
Posted on 24 April 2012 | 1:13 pm
Train Crisis HD is on the right track to addictive gameplay
It’s not often I lose a few hours on a puzzle game. Sure, I love to make my brain sweat here and there, but I’m more of an action- and shooter-oriented type of person. So imagine my surprise after playing Train Crisis HD by U-Play Online, that an hour had already passed. Train Crisis proves that fun gameplay can beat out graphical prowess and explosive action now and again.
Posted on 23 April 2012 | 11:30 pm
Rumor says Samsung prepping to unveil new Galaxy Tab, ‘S-cloud’ service next month
Reports claim that Samsung is planning some new entries into the Android market in May, starting with a new tablet and extending to a cloud-based service called “S-cloud” to compete with Apple’s iCloud offering.
Posted on 23 April 2012 | 9:30 pm
Google-Motorola deal could power Android against Windows 8
As Google’s merger with Motorola Mobility is expected to go through any day now, speculation and expectations are on the rise for how these two companies will re-shape their respective products and strategies. It’s been debated for some time whether or not the Google-MoMo deal is worthwhile, if it’s Google’s attempt to become a hardware company, or if it will destroy Google’s open-source Android platform across OEM partners. It’s even been rumored that Google’s approached China-based Huawei for a deal to sell Motorola at a high price. With approval from the U.S. and the European Union, the Google-Motorola Mobility deal awaits only China’s regulatory board to move forward, and as political controversy and dropping stock market prices swirl around this massive acquisition, we’re still left wondering what Google is really up to.
Posted on 23 April 2012 | 4:22 pm
Fresh Android Apps for Apr. 23: Ultimate Special Fx, WordCam, 500px, Carrier Squadron
It’s all about the visual in today’s fresh Android app list. Add Hollywood effects to your own videos with Ultimate Special Fx, turn a photo into a word scramble using WordCam, and make your tablet a social digital picture frame by downloading 500px. For fun, go retro with Carrier Squadron.
Posted on 23 April 2012 | 2:49 pm
Get free daily laughs with The Daily Show Headlines app
Looking for a smart laugh? The free iPhone app, The Daily Show Headlines, is chock-full of laughs and can be found right in your pants pocket. With this app from Comedy Central, you can watch the headlines from Jon Stewart’s The Daily Show from the past two weeks. The app is great for quick viewing on-the-go when you need a good giggle now and again. The app does not includes full shows for your viewing pleasure, which is a bummer.
Posted on 22 April 2012 | 11:30 pm
Android App Video Review: Peggle
This is a simple arcade game in which you launch balls from the top of the screen. The space below you is littered with differently colored pegs, and the only way to win is to hit and eliminate every orange colored peg before running out of balls. There are also purple pegs that multiply your score, as well as green pegs which grant you special abilities to help you out. There is a helpful basket that slides along the bottom of the screen, and if you manage to sink your ball, you’ll get another ball free. The first time you complete a level and bear witness to the majestic sight that follows, you’re sure to be hooked.
Posted on 22 April 2012 | 7:32 pm
Device rumors fly as Samsung London event nears
Getting a jumpstart on device releases for the spring/summer season, Samsung has planned a Galaxy launch event for May 3, arousing plenty of speculation around a new line of smartphones and tablets, complete with a new cloud service. Asus is firm in its plans to release a new tablet to the U.S. market this weekend, while iHome brings its first line-up of connected devices to the Android platform.
Posted on 21 April 2012 | 7:00 pm
For at least one app developer, Amazon beats iTunes, Google Play in revenue per user
Traditionally, Apple’s iTunes App Store has been the big winner in terms of revenue for app developers. But for one developer, that’s not the case. It’s the Amazon Appstore that’s helping pull down more money.
Posted on 20 April 2012 | 7:52 pm
Google-Oracle case turns courtroom into a classroom
Kicking off at the start of the week, the Oracle vs. Google court case over Java brought CEOs Larry Ellison and Larry Page to the stand, and has now turned the courtroom into a classroom. On day four of the court case, both Oracle and Google offered their explanations of Java and its APIs. It was Mark Reinhold who took the stand this time around, Oracle’s architect for the Java platform. He outlined the distinction between the Java language, which is freely available for use, and the Java APIs, detailed specifically for valid uses of the Java language.
Posted on 20 April 2012 | 4:17 pm
Android App Video Review: Another World
The story is quite simple. You play as a scientist who is accidentally transported to an alien world. It's now up to you to survive all the strange and exotic flora and fauna of the world, including its very hostile natives. You are soon captured and must escape with your cell mate and the help of a laser gun. Trust me when I say that you will die a lot in this game. As you explore the landscape, you'll frequently happen upon unexpected enemies and hazards, and then must correct your approach through trial and error.
Posted on 20 April 2012 | 4:16 pm
Fresh Android Apps for Apr. 20: Papyrus Beta, TMZ for Tablets, Avadon: The Black Fortress
Turn your Android tablet into a digital notebook with Papyrus Beta, stalk celebrities with TMZ for Tablets, and uncover the secrets of a land of spells and mystery in Avadon: The Black Forest.
Posted on 20 April 2012 | 2:29 pm
Spotify Preview tops Android Apps of the Week
Spotify has been on a tear lately, adding universal Play widgets for website publishers, a slew of branded apps from partners like Coca Cola, and now an overhauled Android app preview with full support for Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich. Comedy Central’s Daily Show Headlines also caught a few headlines of its own this week, while Cubby’s free cloud storage lets you upload directly from your Android device. Here are this week’s top Android apps.
Posted on 20 April 2012 | 1:30 pm
Reckless Racing 2 runs laps around the original
Polarbit’s long-anticipated sequel has finally arrived! After taking a detour in the series with Reckless Getaway, the top-down racer drives back to its roots in Reckless Racing 2. The sequel introduces a number of refinements over the original, so newcomers and fans alike will enjoy this terrific arcade racing game. With familiar faces and a new cast of colorful characters you’ll go from one lap around the track, to a whole afternoon.
Posted on 19 April 2012 | 11:30 pm
Watch out! Fake Instagram app could add malware to your mobile device
Instagram’s huge popularity on Android has had some unfortunate consequences, namely, a knock-off app masquerading as Instagram that’s infecting some Android devices with malware.
Posted on 19 April 2012 | 8:09 pm
Draw Something, Temple Run earn millions of Android downloads
Angry Birds isn’t the only popular game in town. Zynga’s recently acquired Draw Something has surpassed 50 million downloads, while Temple Run has reached 10 million downloads on Android alone. The success of mobile gaming has inspired developers and publishers alike, and we’ve seen a great deal of investment in this space.
Posted on 19 April 2012 | 4:32 pm
Fresh Android Apps for Apr. 19: Pocket, Next Issue, Granniac
Today’s fresh Android apps list is all about reading. With Pocket, you can save items for reading later, Next Issue gives you a new magazine stand on your tablet, and Granniac shows you why you should always read the fine print.
Posted on 19 April 2012 | 2:49 pm
Lead a life of crime with these multiplayer Android games
Ever want to be the bad guy or be someone others fear? Want to make the rules and do what you want and not care about others? Well now you have a chance to become part of your own Mafia. There are many Mafia type games currently available for Android, and here are the ones I enjoyed the most.
Posted on 19 April 2012 | 1:30 pm
Honor Earth Day with these green Android apps
We used to simply plant a tree on Earth Day, but in the era of battery-zapping smartphones, increasing carbon emissions and power-hungry home electronics, it seems all the more poignant that we turn to Android apps in search of ways to cherish Mother Earth. Whether you’re looking for a way to cut down on your own energy consumption or you’d like to live more sustainably, there’s an Android app to help you honor Earth Day this year and the next.
Posted on 19 April 2012 | 1:30 pm