Lazyworm the developers of the MetroTube app for Windows Phone 7 that we gave a raving review on will no longer be available for download in the Windows Phone Marketplace starting January 1, 2012. The reason stated is the difficulty in getting high quality video to stream into the app. They had a work around for it but they stated it’s not suitable for the long-term. The app should work for people who now have it installed. Hopefully there will be a way to pick it elsewhere once it leaves the market.  LazyWorm will have some newer apps coming down the line. Check out the letter from them below and our video review of the app.

22nd December 2011

 

Dear Customers,

 

We are extremely saddened to announce that as of the 1st of January 2012, our
applications ‘Metrotube’ and ‘YouTube’ will no longer be available for download from the
Windows Phone Marketplace.

YouTube’s current API does not have any documented methods for obtaining high quality video
content. We have been using a workaround to obtain this content and it has recently come to our
attention that this may not be sustainable in the long term, hence our decision to stop
distributing the apps.

The apps should remain functional for those who have already installed them however we will be
unable to push out any further updates. Of course, you can also continue accessing YouTube videos
directly through your web browser.

Not being able to distribute our YouTube apps is unfortunate. Having said that, we urge everyone to
continue following our progress as we have a few amazing projects in the pipeline we think you’ll
love.

We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and we’d like to take this
opportunity to thank every single one of you for showing us your continued support.
Regards,

Mike & Atta

LazyWorm
APPS

Rumors have now become true as Blackberry has officially stated that they will support Android apps on the Blackberry Playbook. The Playbook which is a QNX based system called Blackberry Tablet OS will be one of the most app friendly and cross compatible devices in the market. The Blackberry Playbook will Support now Blackberry Java, Android,  C/C++, HTML 5, Flash and AIR apps which is a smart move by RIM to allow you to take advantage of all the major apps store outside minute Apple and good leverage move for RIM as well even though it may cost them a few dollars out of their own app store.

Full Press release:

RIM Expands Application Ecosystem for BlackBerry PlayBook
· BlackBerry PlayBook to support BlackBerry Java and Android apps
· Native C/C++ development support added, in addition to HTML5, Flash and AIR support
· Support from leading game engines: Ideaworks Labs (AirPlay) and Unity Technologies (Unity 3)
· BlackBerry PlayBook becomes a new market opportunity for all the developers who have already created over 25,000 BlackBerry Java apps and more than 200,000 Android apps

Waterloo, ON – Developers wanting to bring their new and existing apps to the highly anticipated BlackBerry® PlayBook™ tablet will soon have additional tools and options to enhance and expand their commercial opportunities. Research In Motion (RIM) (Nasdaq: RIMM; TSX: RIM) today announced plans to greatly expand the application ecosystem for the BlackBerry PlayBook. The BlackBerry PlayBook is scheduled to launch in the U.S. and Canada on April 19.

RIM will launch two optional “app players” that provide an application run-time environment for BlackBerry Java® apps and Android v2.3 apps. These new app players will allow users to download BlackBerry Java apps and Android apps from BlackBerry App World and run them on their BlackBerry PlayBook.

In addition, RIM will shortly release the native SDK for the BlackBerry PlayBook enabling C/C++ application development on the BlackBerry® Tablet OS. For game-specific developers, RIM is also announcing that it has gained support from two leading game development tooling companies, allowing developers to use the cross-platform game engines from Ideaworks Labs and Unity Technologies to bring their games to the BlackBerry PlayBook.

Support for BlackBerry Java and Android Apps

“The BlackBerry PlayBook is an amazing tablet. The power that we have embedded creates one of the most compelling app experiences available in a mobile computing device today,” said Mike Lazaridis, President and Co-CEO at Research In Motion. “The upcoming addition of BlackBerry Java and Android apps for the BlackBerry PlayBook on BlackBerry App World will provide our users with an even greater choice of apps and will also showcase the versatility of the platform.”

Developers currently building for the BlackBerry or Android platforms will be able to quickly and easily port their apps to run on the BlackBerry Tablet OS thanks to a high degree of API compatibility. The new optional app players will be available for download from BlackBerry App World and will be placed in a secure “sandbox” on the BlackBerry PlayBook where the BlackBerry Java or Android apps can be run.

Developers will simply repackage, code sign and submit their BlackBerry Java and Android apps to BlackBerry App World. Once approved, the apps will be distributed through BlackBerry App World, providing a new opportunity for many developers to reach BlackBerry PlayBook users. Users will be able to download both the app players and the BlackBerry Java and Android apps from BlackBerry App World.

The BlackBerry PlayBook and BlackBerry Tablet OS are built on the QNX® Neutrino® microkernel architecture with a 1GHz dual core processor and a leading OpenGL solution, which allows RIM to make this incredibly broad platform support possible.

BlackBerry PlayBook users and developers who are interested in seeing the new app players for BlackBerry Java and Android apps can see demos at BlackBerry World in Orlando, Florida (May 3 to 5, 2011) (www.blackberryworld.com).

BlackBerry Tablet OS Development Tools

The BlackBerry Tablet OS already supports an incredibly robust platform with support for Web development standard HTML5, through the BlackBerry® WebWorks™ SDK for Tablet OS, and Adobe® AIR®, through the BlackBerry Tablet OS SDK for Adobe AIR. The BlackBerry Tablet OS is built from the ground up to run WebKit and Adobe® Flash® as well, giving developers a fast and true Web experience to leverage.

RIM is also announcing today that the BlackBerry Tablet OS Native Development Kit (NDK), which is currently in limited alpha release, will go into open Beta by this summer and be demonstrated at BlackBerry World. The BlackBerry Tablet OS NDK will allow developers to build high-performance, multi-threaded, native C/C++ applications with industry standard GNU toolchains. Developers can create advanced 2D and 3D applications and special effects by leveraging programmable shaders available in hardware-accelerated OpenGL ES 2.0.

Other features of the BlackBerry Tablet OS NDK will allow developers to:

* Take advantage of the QNX POSIX library support and C/C++ compliance for quick and easy application porting and for creating native extensions for both BlackBerry and Android applications
* Easily integrate device events like gesture swipes and touch screen inputs
* Integrate the BlackBerry Tablet OS environment into existing code management and build systems using industry standard Eclipse CDT (C/C++ Development Tools)
* Leverage work done in standard C/C++ to make it easier to bring applications to the BlackBerry Tablet OS
* Find and fix bugs quickly with provided debug and analysis tools

“The response to the BlackBerry PlayBook from the developer community has been exceptional. Our commitment to supporting HTML5 and Adobe AIR development has resonated and spurred developers to create fun and innovative applications for BlackBerry PlayBook users,” said David Yach, Chief Technology Officer, Software at Research In Motion. “The upcoming BlackBerry Tablet OS NDK beta will add C/C++ tools to our repertoire and gives developers one of the broadest and deepest platforms to develop on.”

Gaming Engines

Building on the power of the BlackBerry Tablet OS NDK, RIM is working with leading gaming and application development technology providers such as Ideaworks Labs and Unity Technologies to implement their native engines and application development platforms. Developers will be able to take advantage of these engines when building games and other applications for the BlackBerry PlayBook.

The Ideaworks Labs Airplay SDK is expected to include support for the BlackBerry Tablet OS soon, making it easy for publishers and developers to use their existing code to bring their games and apps to the BlackBerry PlayBook.

“Supporting a new OS can be a challenge for developers,” says Alex Caccia, President of Ideaworks Labs, “however, integration of the BlackBerry Tablet OS with the Airplay SDK makes this a non-issue. We think this is a far-sighted move by RIM: the BlackBerry PlayBook is a great device for games and applications, and combining this with content distribution via BlackBerry App World brings an exciting new ecosystem for developers.”

RIM has also been working closely with Unity Technologies, providers of the highly popular, multi-platform Unity development platform and Union, the firm’s games distribution service. Through Union, dozens of high-quality Unity-authored games are slated to make their way to BlackBerry App World for the BlackBerry Playbook.
“With a sharp focus on the multimedia experience, very powerful hardware, and fantastic games in the pipeline, the BlackBerry Playbook has all the right ingredients to be a mainstream hit,” said Brett Seyler, GM of Union at Unity Technologies. “Through Union, Unity developers have an opportunity to reach a new audience and grow with another great new platform.”

Availability
The new app players for the BlackBerry PlayBook are expected to be available from BlackBerry App World this summer. More information and demonstrations of the new app players will be shared at BlackBerry World. The BlackBerry Tablet OS NDK will be available in beta later this year and will also be showcased at BlackBerry World.

Useful Links
For more information on the BlackBerry Tablet OS and BlackBerry PlayBook developing, visit http://us.blackberry.com/developers/tablet/

To see the BlackBerry Tablet OS in action running conceptual applications from The Astonishing Tribe, please visit http://www.youtube.com/blackberry#p/c/8D8C3A23664E6761/5/uH7NKhNyygw andhttp://www.youtube.com/blackberry#p/c/8D8C3A23664E6761/0/mWJG-sB7H4Y

For RIM insights into developing for the BlackBerry Platform, visit http://devblog.blackberry.com or follow @BlackBerryDev on Twitter.

Visit the BlackBerry Developer Zone at www.blackberry.com/developers for the latest news, information and updates for BlackBerry developers.

Visit the BlackBerry Developer Video Library at
www.blackberry.com/go/developervideolibrary to view a variety of instructional videos.
Sign up for the BlackBerry Developer Newsletter at
http://na.blackberry.com/eng/developers/resources/newsletter.jsp.

For the latest news and information about the BlackBerry Developer Conference visit www.blackberrydeveloperconference.com.

About Research In Motion
Research In Motion (RIM), a global leader in wireless innovation, revolutionized the mobile industry with the introduction of the BlackBerry® solution in 1999. Today, BlackBerry products and services are used by millions of customers around the world to stay connected to the people and content that matter most throughout their day. Founded in 1984 and based in Waterloo, Ontario, RIM operates offices in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and Latin America. RIM is listed on the NASDAQ Stock Market (NASDAQ: RIMM) and the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: RIM). For more information, visit www.rim.com orwww.blackberry.com

Well, it’s here. The boys in Cupertino released the highly-anticipated iPad 2 last Friday at 5:00pm. Like any Starbucks-drinking metrosexual urbanite worth his salt, I took a half day at work in order to play a few hours of Call of Duty get my ass to a Best Buy, hop in line, and ensure I copped the shiny, new piece of gadgetry. Two hours later, I had my hands on the next iteration of Apple’s tablet. So is it worth the hype? That, my friends, is up for you to decide.

Let’s get the specs out of the way. The iPad 2 features:

• dual-core, 1 GHz A5 processors
• 512 MB of RAM
• 2 cameras (“VGA quality” front-facing, 720p rear-facing)
• Gyroscope
• 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB storage configurations

To put this in perspective, the original iPad touted a single core, 1 Ghz A4 processor, half the amount of RAM, no cameras, no gyroscope, and same storage configuration. With these appreciable upgrades, Apple still managed to squeeze all those components into a 33% thinner, lighter, form factor than the original. In other words, it’s pretty much a Jessica Simpson vs. Megan Fox battle going on here; one’s a tad thicker and slower than the other, but you wouldn’t feel embarrassed holding either.

Perhaps the most impressive feat of all is retaining the same phenomenal battery life. While Apple claims 10 hours of battery life, most reviewers found that during normal usage, battery life exceeded expectations.

Still, spec whores will be spec whores. Detractors will groan about the lack of USB ports, SD card slot, and flash support. I don’t find these omissions too concerning, but your mileage may vary. The biggest complaint bouncing ’round the blogosphere, and one that I can empathize with, is the fairly poor quality of still shots taken with the built-in cameras. Unless you’re snapping photos in an obscenely well-lit area (like, say, the surface of the sun), you’re going to get grainy-ass photos. True, video quality is much better than the still shots on this thing, but I was hoping for something a little more substantial.  As it stands, the iPhone 4 holds the crown for the best photos on an iOS device.  That being said, I doubt any amateur or professional photographers were planning on replacing their DSLRs with an iPad anyway. It’s clear that the Apple’s primary reason for including these cameras is for usage in FaceTime video calls, and with those expectations, the cameras get the job done.  Those gripes aside, the iPad 2 is clearly a superior device to its predecessor.

But hardware means nothing without decent software to run on it. And that, ladies and gentlemen, is where this thing really shines. On the iPad 2, most apps feel snappier than on the 1st generation device. News apps, like CNN and The Daily, flood the senses with text, audio, video, and interactive content almost instantaneously. The excellent Reeder app makes keeping up with your favorite RSS feeds feel less like a chore and reminds you why you even signed up for them in the first place. I’m currently 75 pages into an e-book I purchased in iBooks and, contrary to my expectations, I’ve found reading for pleasure on the iPad actually enjoyable. (Just be sure to set the background color to sepia and adjust the brightness as desired to make things easier on the eyes for prolonged reading.)  I can only speak for the WiFi model, but web-browsing is quicker and thus more enjoyable, partly due to the Nitro JavaScript engine implemented in iOS 4.3, but also in part to the improved tech found within the tablet.  And let’s not forget the best part: developers will continue to enhance and create software to leverage the power of the iPad 2 as they’ve done for the iPhone.  With 9x the graphics capabilities of the 1st generation, I can only imagine how good some games are going to look on this thing.

To cut to the chase, this is a perfect example of a product whose whole is greater than the sum of its parts. On their own, the components found within this device may not be up to snuff with those found in dedicated devices, like e-readers, cameras, camcorders and so on. But the iPad is not supposed to be the best at any of those things.  It, like the iPhone, is  a solid, well-designed product that empowers consumers to get stay connected, have fun, and get things done without a lot of fuss or headache.  Skeptics have dismissed the iPad as an oversized iPod touch, and the iPad 2 is unlikely to make believers out of any of them.  But for those who’ve held out for the next generation and appreciate the Apple philosophy–the marriage of hardware and software to create a superior, enjoyable user experience–you won’t be disappointed.

Today AT&T announce two brand new high end android and windows phone coming to their lineup.  The LG Thrill 4G is better know by many as the Optimus 3D. The phone will be the first phone in the US to have glasses free 3D screen on a phone. The HD7S has the same specs as the HD7 on T-Mobile but has a Sony Super LCD screen on it.  The LG Thrill 4G will be available in the coming months and the HD7S in the coming weeks.

Key Specs:

LG Thrill

• Android 2.2
• 4.3 inch glasses free 3D touchscreen display
• 1 Ghz dual core processor
• 5 Megapixel 3D camera
• 16GB of storage
• 4G data speeds

HTC HD7S

• Windows Phone 7 OS
• 4.3 inch touch screen display with a Sony SuperLCD
• 5 Megapixel camera with Dual LED flash
• 16 GB of storage

Press Release:

AT&T Takes Smartphone Customers into a New Dimension

Pair of 4.3-inch Smartphones For Best-in-Class Portfolio Include the LG Thrill 4G With Glasses-free 3D Experience, in Addition to the HTC HD7S, an Exciting Addition to the Windows Phone Portfolio

Dallas, Texas, March 21, 2011

Key Facts

• AT&T* announced two new leading-edge smartphones, the LG Thrill 4G and the HTC HD7S, will be added to the industry’s best portfolio of mobile phones.
• The LG Thrill 4G is the first U.S. smartphone that will feature a ”glasses-free” 4.3-inch stereoscopic 3D display plus 4G speed capability on the nation’s fastest mobile broadband network.
• Beyond its 3D screen, the LG Thrill 4G features a dual-core, 1 GHz processor, and a 5-megapixel dual-camera that allows you to shoot and share high definition videos and images in 3D.
• The HTC HD7S adds to the best portfolio of Windows Phones with its 4.3-inch, WVGA, super LCD display, 1 GHz processor and 5-megapixel camera with dual-LED flash.

LG Thrill 4G

The LG Thrill 4G will be exclusive to AT&T customers and reach AT&T stores in the coming months.  Running the first dual-core, dual-channel 1 GHz processor in the U.S. and based on the Android 2.2 platform, LG Thrill 4G will be among the first to deliver a glasses-free 3D experience to U.S. customers and will allow users to shoot 3D video and 3D stills with the dual 5-megapixel stereoscopic camera.  In addition to apps and games from Android Market, LG Thrill 4G will offer 3D content via the “LG 3D Space,” which houses 3D games, video clips and images for quick, convenient access.

Preloaded with 16 GB of memory (8 GB onboard plus an 8 GB MicroSD card), the LG Thrill 4G will record 3D video at 720p resolution and 2D at 1080p quality.  The smartphone will be able to play video back in high definition through the HDMI-out port on the device or stream content wirelessly through DLNA technology.

HTC HD7S

The HTC HD7S will be the largest screen on a Windows Phone from AT&T and will include the latest version of Windows Phone software that offers many new benefits including the ability to copy and paste text.  A powerful 1 GHz processor will power the unique Windows Phone experience and any of the more than 10,000 applications available for download or purchase from Windows Marketplace. In addition, with the preloaded U-verse® Mobile application, qualifying AT&T U-verse customers can download and watch hit TV shows on their Windows Phone.  Non-U-verse customers can subscribe to U-verse Mobile for $9.99 a month and choose from a broad selection of programming to watch on their Windows Phone.  This new AT&T smartphone will be the first HD7 model from HTC in the U.S. with an improved super LCD high resolution display. The HTC HD7S will be available in company-owned AT&T retail locations and online at www.wireless.att.com in the coming weeks.

Quotes         

“AT&T customers know that we offer the best lineup of cutting-edge smartphones in the country.  Our first 3D phone plus a new, leading Windows Phone underscore our commitment to continue to offer the best,” said Jeff Bradley, senior vice president, Devices, AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets. “2011 is going to be another landmark year for us with more best-in-class devices.”

AT&T Smartphone Portfolio         

AT&T is the leader in smartphones and expects to widen that lead in 2011. The LG Thrill 4G is the latest proof point in AT&T’s commitment to an industry-leading Android portfolio in the U.S., including 12 new Android smartphones in 2011.  For further details please visit www.att.com/thrill4g.  AT&T is the leader in Windows Phones, offering the only portfolio of Windows Phone 7 devices, now including the HTC HD7S with its 4.3-inch screen.   For further details visit www.att.com/htchd7s.

The LG Thrill 4G is one of more than 20 4G devices AT&T plans to deliver in 2011. AT&T has completed the deployment of HSPA+ to virtually 100 percent of its mobile broadband network, which enables 4G speeds when combined with Ethernet or fiber backhaul.

4G speeds delivered by HSPA+ with enhanced backhaul. Available in limited areas. Availability increasing with ongoing backhaul deployment. Requires 4G device. Learn more at att.com/network. Actual speeds experienced will vary and depend on several factors, including device, location, capacity, facilities, and other conditions.

Important Information about 3D. Response to viewing 3D content varies by individual. Some viewers may experience discomfort (such as eye strain, eye fatigue, dizziness or nausea) while watching 3D content. If you experience any such symptoms, immediately discontinue use of the 3D function and do not resume until the symptoms have subsided. Viewing 3D content for an extended period of time may increase the likelihood of the above symptoms. Frequent breaks are recommended when using 3D functions. Parents should speak to a physician before allowing children under the age of 5 to view 3D content.

*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

Geographic and service restrictions apply to AT&T U-verse services. Call or go to www.att.com/u-verse to see if you qualify. U-verse Mobile: Download and watch capability available for select content and requires select devices, Wi-Fi connection, and qualifying U-verse TV plan or monthly subscription fee. Standard data charges may apply.

About AT&T
AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates – AT&T operating companies – are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation’s fastest mobile broadband network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet and voice services. A leader in mobile broadband, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse^® and AT&T | DIRECTV brands. The company’s suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world. In domestic markets, AT&T Advertising Solutions and AT&T Interactive are known for their leadership in local search and advertising.

Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com. This AT&T news release and other announcements are available at http://www.att.com/newsroom and as part of an RSS feed at www.att.com/rss. Or follow our news on Twitter at @ATT. Find us on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/ATT to discover more about our consumer and wireless services or atwww.Facebook.com/ATTSmallBiz to discover more about our small business services.

^© 2011 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. Mobile broadband not available in all areas. AT&T, the AT&T logo and all other marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
Information set forth in this press release contains financial estimates and other forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results might differ materially. A discussion of factors that may affect future results is contained in AT&T’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. AT&T disclaims any obligation to update and revise statements contained in this news release based on new information or otherwise.

Samsung announced this morning that starting this week Epic 4G and Galaxy Tab owners will receive an update to their devices. The Epic 4G update will include Android 2.2 (Froyo) finally and both the Epic 4G and the Galaxy Tab will include Sprint ID packs which were seen on the Samsung Transform which the Sprint ID packs we were not to fond of but hopefully they have gone back and improved on it since.

Full Press Release:

Samsung Epic 4G and Samsung Galaxy Tab Now Sprint ID-Enabled, Bringing Unique Mobile Experience to 4G and Tablets for First Time

Sprint ID quickly customizes device with apps, widgets, ringtones and more in a single download, based on customers’ interests or favorite brands; Most popular Sprint ID pack downloads include Yahoo!, MTV Music ID and ESPN ID

Software update delivering Sprint ID will also include Android 2.2 (Froyo)

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – March 21, 2011 – Sprint (NYSE: S) today announced that its award-winning Samsung Epic™ 4G* and Samsung Galaxy Tab™ will be Sprint ID-enabled, beginning March 21, allowing customers who own these devices to download a complete mobile experience, called an “ID pack” – including apps, widgets, ringtones, wallpapers, shortcuts and more – tailored to their specific interests, business needs or favorite brands in a single download.

All existing Samsung Epic 4G and Samsung Galaxy Tab owners will be prompted this week to accept the over-the-air software update in their device’s notification tab. Once the update is installed, the user can find the Sprint ID icon in their Applications Menu and begin experiencing Sprint ID. All users should have access to this new software update by March 24.

The software update for Samsung Epic 4G will also include the Android 2.2 (Froyo) operating system update.  This update will add numerous capabilities, including Adobe Flash Player 10.1, Bluetooth dialing and allows app installation to external storage.

Customers who purchase a new Samsung Epic 4G or Samsung Galaxy Tab can access Sprint ID from their Applications Menu when they turn it on for the first time. Customers can learn more about how to use Sprint ID on their device by visiting www.sprint.com/epicsupport or www.sprint.com/galaxytabsupport.

Sprint ID launched in October 2010 on three devices – LG Optimus S™, Sanyo Zio™ and Samsung Transform™ – with 16 consumer lifestyle ID packs targeting specific interests including Home Base, Health & Fitness, Fashion & Beauty, Socially Connected, Business Pro, Golf Enthusiast, Auto Enthusiast, The Big Apple and Entertainment, as well as branded ID packs from Yahoo!, WHERE and Lo2Yo by LatCel. Since launch, brands that have deployed Sprint ID packs include MTV, ESPN and HSN. Select ID packs will be available for download onto Samsung Galaxy Tab.

Customers with Sprint ID-capable devices can download up to five ID packs onto their phone and easily switch back and forth between them or swap them out for new ones. Sprint customers currently are downloading an average of two ID packs per device. Sprint ID packs are free to download with an Everything Data plan.

“We are very pleased with the success of Sprint ID and excited to expand this rich mobile experience to customers with these two popular devices – Samsung Epic 4G and Samsung Galaxy Tab,” said John Carney, senior vice president consumer marketing at Sprint. “Sprint ID handset sales have exceeded our expectations, which is proof that customers, especially those new to smartphones, want an easier way to get apps they’ll enjoy rather than searching through thousands of apps in Android Market™. As this data about ID pack downloads shows, customers are passionate about certain brands, such as MTV, Yahoo! and ESPN, and are eager to download a complete mobile experience developed by that brand. We expect to see the same excitement from our customers about recently launched ID packs as well as branded packs from other partners we have in the pipeline.”

Since Sprint ID launched, the most popular Sprint ID packs include:

· Entertainment: Features games, music, photo and celebrity news apps to keep users entertained no matter where they go. Apps include Shazam (identify any song), WikiMobile (mobile encyclopedia) and Poynt(local search app that lets users connect with businesses, restaurants and people near them).

· Yahoo!: Gives users access to their favorite Yahoo! services in one simple download including Yahoo! Finance, Mail, News, Sports, Messenger, Fantasy Football and Flickr.

· MTV Music ID: MTV Music ID allows fans to quickly download a package of apps, widgets and other content, including MTV News, MTV Photos, MTV Twitter and streaming music apps. 

· Socially Connected: Delivers a customized experience for keeping users connected with friends while on the go. Features Facebook, TweetCaster and more, creating the ultimate starting point for their own multi-tasking, socially connected mobile package.

· ESPN ID: Instant access to scores right on the device’s home screen, as well as one-tap access to sports news, fantasy teams and the user’s favorite ESPN programs, including more than 900 live events per year on ESPN Mobile TV.

· WHERE: Enables people to discover the world around them by recommending local information, places and events; also helps people save money by providing location based coupons and cheapest gas stations. Allows users to find everything from weather, news and restaurant reviews to the closest coffee shop, traffic updates, movie show times and offers from local merchants.

· Fashion & Beauty: Delivers a customized experience for keeping users connected and up-to-date on the latest fashion trends, celebrity gossip, beauty and style. Apps include TrendTracker (keep track of the latest runway looks, fashion news, trend ideas); TMZ & E! Online (breaking celeb news); and ShopSavvy (scan the barcode of any product and it will search for all the best prices from local and online retailers).

· Health & Fitness: Healthy eating on the go is made easier with the Health & Fitness ID Pack. Apps include Fast Food Calorie Counter; Cardio Trainer (training partner for running, cycling, hiking, and other fitness activities); Yoga Trainer Lite; and iTriage (find closest health care providers and more).

· Home Base: A great solution for those running a modern household. Apps include Big Oven (featuring 170,000+ recipes); E! Online (get celebrity gossip fix); Pandora (listen to your favorite tunes wherever you are);Grocery Smart (create shopping lists); and Springpad (save notes, tasks or lists).

· Lo2yo Latino:  Lo2Yo Latino ID brings users the best of their Latino world from news and entertainment to sports, soap operas and much more, all in Spanish.

For more information about Sprint ID and to see all Sprint ID packs, visit www.sprint.com/sprintid.

Samsung and Sprint have announced this morning that they will be brining the Nexus S line to Sprint with the new Nexus S 4G that will be the firs pure Google 4G device in the market.

The phone will come with the same specs as the original Nexus S but will take advantage of Sprints 4G WiMax network, mobile hot spot ready and will have tight Google Voice integrated service as you will be able to use your Sprint number as your Google Voice number without have to port the number over. Sweet stuff here and a great announce from Samsung and Sprint just before CTIA in Orlando. Read key features and press release below.

Additional key features include:

• 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot capability, supporting up to six Wi-Fi enabled devices simultaneously
• Android Market™ for access to more than 150,000 applications, widgets and games available for download to customize the experience
• Google mobile services such as Google Search™, Gmail™, Google Maps™ with Navigation, syncing with Google Calendar™, Voice Actions and YouTube™
• Corporate email (Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync^®), personal (POP & IMAP) email and instant messaging
• Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, which allows the device to read information from everyday objects, like stickers and posters embedded with NFC chips
• 16GB Internal Memory (ROM)/512MB (RAM)
• Wi-Fi^® – 802.11 b/g/n
• Bluetooth^® 2.1 + EDR
• Integrated GPS
• 1500 mAh Lithium-ion battery

Full Press Release:

First Pure Google 4G Device with Android 2.3 in the U.S., Nexus S 4G from Google and Samsung, Coming to Sprint this Spring


First 4G device powered by Android 2.3 boasts pure Google experience, Google Voice integration, Super AMOLED display and Mobile Hotspot capability is Sprint’s 20^th 4G device and fourth 4G phone announced to date

Visit www.sprint.com/nexus to register to receive more information


OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – March 21, 2011 – Sprint (NYSE: S) extends its 4G device innovation lead once again with the upcoming availability of the 20^th 4G device and fourth 4G phone, Nexus S™ 4G¹ from Google™.  Coming to Sprint this spring, it will also be able to take advantage of the unprecedented controls and services enabled by Google Voice™ integration built into the Sprint Network.

Manufactured by Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile), a leading global mobile phone provider and the No. 1 mobile phone provider in the United States², Nexus S 4G comes packed with a pure Google experience using Android™ 2.3, Gingerbread, the fastest version of Android available for smartphones.  It is powered by a 1GHz Samsung application processor that produces rich 3D-like graphics, faster upload and download times and supports HD-like multimedia content along with a dedicated Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) to make playing mobile games, browsing the Web and watching videos a fast, fluid and smooth experience.

“Nexus S 4G shows the strong commitment Sprint has to Android, and when combined with our 4G network capabilities, it gives customers the option of a pure Google experience,” said Fared Adib, vice president – Product Development, Sprint.  “As the first 4G smartphone with Android 2.3, Nexus S 4G delivers on the promise of the advanced data capabilities of 4G to deliver an incredible Web browsing experience, offers quick and easy access to future Android updates and access to the services built into Google Voice.”

It is designed with Samsung’s brilliant Super AMOLED™ touchscreen technology providing a premium viewing experience.  The 4-inch Contour Display features a curved design for a more comfortable look and feel in the user’s hand or along the side of the face.  It also offers a screen that is bright with higher color contrast, meaning colors are incredibly vibrant and text is crisp at any size and produces less glare than on other smartphone displays when outdoors, so videos, pictures and games look their best and the sun won’t wash them out.

Sprint Nexus S 4G customers will be among the first to receive Android software upgrades and new Google mobile apps.  In many cases, the device will get the updates and new apps as soon as they are available.

"We’re excited to partner with Sprint on Nexus S 4G, which brings innovative hardware by Samsung and innovations on the Android platform, to create a powerful smartphone experience,” said Andy Rubin, vice president of Engineering at Google.

Nexus S 4G features a 5 megapixel rear-facing camera and camcorder and front-facing VGA camera.  In addition, Nexus S 4G features a gyroscope sensor to provide a smooth, fluid gaming experience when the user tilts the device up or down or pans the phone to the left or right.

Additional key features include:

• 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot capability, supporting up to six Wi-Fi enabled devices simultaneously
• Android Market™ for access to more than 150,000 applications, widgets and games available for download to customize the experience
• Google mobile services such as Google Search™, Gmail™, Google Maps™ with Navigation, syncing with Google Calendar™, Voice Actions and YouTube™
• Corporate email (Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync^®), personal (POP & IMAP) email and instant messaging
• Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, which allows the device to read information from everyday objects, like stickers and posters embedded with NFC chips
• 16GB Internal Memory (ROM)/512MB (RAM)
• Wi-Fi^® – 802.11 b/g/n
• Bluetooth^® 2.1 + EDR
• Integrated GPS
• 1500 mAh Lithium-ion battery

“Samsung is thrilled to work with Google and Sprint to create the next generation Nexus S. Adding 4G capabilities takes this iconic device to the next level,” said Dale Sohn, president of Samsung Mobile.  “Nexus S 4G integrates Samsung’s best-in-class hardware and the exciting features of the Android 2.3 platform with the impressive speed and connectivity of Sprint’s 4G network.”

Nexus S 4G from Google will be available exclusively from Sprint this spring for $199.99 with a new two-year service agreement or eligible upgrade (taxes not included) in all Sprint retail channels, including the Web (www.sprint.com) and Telesales (1-800-SPRINT1), as well as select national retailers.

Sprint Nexus S customers also will be able to easily use their current Sprint wireless phone number as their Google Voice number without having to port their number, avoiding porting charges and potential service disruptions.  Google Voice makes it easy for people to manage and access most of their voice-based communication. It lets users manage up to six different phones through one number with intelligent call routing and advanced features like call screening, blocking and recording.

Now Sprint subscribers can use their Sprint number across their office, home and wireless phones, and personalize settings so calls from friends ring their wireless device and home phone, while calls from the boss only ring at the office.  Google Voice users can receive transcribed voicemails and read or listen to them online.  They can also read, send and search text messages and call logs online at www.google.com/voice.

Nexus S 4G requires activation on one of Sprint’s Everything Data plans, plus a required $10 Premium Data add-on charge for smartphones. Sprint’s Everything Data plan with Any Mobile, Anytime^SM includes unlimited Web, texting and calling to and from any mobile in America while on the Sprint Network, starting at just $69.99 per month plus required $10 Premium Data add-on charge – a savings of $39.99 per month versus Verizon’s comparable plan with unlimited talk, text and Web (excluding Verizon’s Southern California plan; pricing excludes surcharges and taxes).

Sprint customers get more with unlimited data plans on the Sprint Network. Sprint offers real simplicity, value and savings versus competitors, making it easy for customers to get the most out of their phones without using a calculator to tally up costs or worrying about how much data they’ve used.

Sprint Everything Data plans qualify for automatic enrollment in the Sprint Premier^SM loyalty program³.  Existing Sprint customers can switch to an Everything Data plan without extending their service agreement. New lines of service require a two-year service agreement.

As the first national wireless carrier to test, launch and market 4G technology, Sprint made history by launching 4G in Baltimore in September 2008. As the first national wireless carrier to test, launch and market 4G technology, Sprint is America’s Favorite 4G Network⁴.  Sprint currently offers 4G service in 71 markets in 28 states.  For more information, visit www.sprint.com/4G.

About Sprint Nextel

Sprint Nextel offers a comprehensive range of wireless and wireline communications services bringing the freedom of mobility to consumers, businesses and government users. Sprint Nextel served more than 49.9 million customers at the end of 2010 and is widely recognized for developing, engineering and deploying innovative technologies, including the first wireless 4G service from a national carrier in the United States; offering industry-leading mobile data services, leading prepaid brands including Virgin Mobile USA, Boost Mobile, and Assurance Wireless; instant national and international push-to-talk capabilities; and a global Tier 1 Internet backbone. Newsweek ranked Sprint No. 6 in its 2010 Green Rankings, listing it as one of the nation’s greenest companies, the highest of any telecommunications company. You can learn more and visit Sprint at www.sprint.com orwww.facebook.com/sprint and www.twitter.com/sprint.

About Samsung Telecommunications America, LLC

Samsung Telecommunications America, LLC, a Dallas-based subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., researches, develops and markets wireless handsets and telecommunications products throughout North America. For more information, please visit www.samsungwireless.com.

About Samsung Electronics

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is a global leader in semiconductor, telecommunication, digital media and digital convergence technologies with 2008 consolidated sales of US$96 billion. Employing approximately 164,600 people in 179 offices across 61 countries, the company is recognized as one of the fastest growing global brands. Samsung Electronics is a leading producer of digital TVs, memory chips, mobile phones and TFT-LCDs. For more information, please visit www.samsung.com.

Finally Verizon has made it official the HTC Thunderbolt will be the first 4G LTE smartphone on the Verizon network. Read on for more.

Thunderbolt specs:

• 4G LTE
• 4.3” WVGA display
• 8-megapixel rear facing camera and HD (720p) video recording
• 1.3-megapixel front facing camera with video chatting capabilities
• 1GHz Snapdragon processor
• Mobile Hotspot capability
• 8 GB of onboard memory and a pre-installed 32 GB microSD card
• Built-in kickstand for easy media viewing

The Thunderbolt is looking pretty nice and powerful and with 4G LTE this may be the most powerful phone in Verizon current lineup. its available for $249.99Press Release:


03/15/2011

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Verizon Wireless and HTC today announced that the ThunderBolt by HTC, exclusively from Verizon Wireless, is available on March 17 in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores and online at www.verizonwireless.com for $249.99 with a new two-year customer agreement.

Powered by Android™ 2.2, the ThunderBolt by HTC is the first smartphone to take advantage of Verizon Wireless’ 4G LTE network. The ThunderBolt by HTC features the latest version of the HTC Sense™ experience, which offers enhancements including new personalization options, a consolidated e-mail inbox, and unique camera effects and filters. The ThunderBolt by HTC is equipped with support for Google Mobile Services, including Gmail™, YouTube™ and Android Market™ with thousands of free apps. Additionally, the ThunderBolt by HTC will feature 4G LTE optimized apps such as EA’s Rock Band, Gameloft’s Let’s Golf! 2, Tunewiki and Bitbop.

Additional features:

• 4G LTE – customers can expect download speeds of 5 to 12 Mbps and upload speeds of 2 to 5 Mbps in 4G Mobile Broadband coverage area
• 4.3” WVGA display
• 8-megapixel rear facing camera and HD (720p) video recording
• 1.3-megapixel front facing camera with video chatting capabilities
• Newest generation of the 1GHz Snapdragon processor
• Mobile Hotspot capability – share 4G connection with up to eight Wi-Fi-enabled devices
• 8 GB of onboard memory and a pre-installed 32 GB microSD card (Actual formatted capacity will be less)
• Built-in kickstand for easy media viewing

With the ThunderBolt by HTC, customers will need to subscribe to a Verizon Wireless Nationwide Talk plan and a 4G LTE data package. Nationwide Talk plans begin at $39.99 monthly access and an unlimited 4G LTE data plan start is $29.99 monthly access.

Mobile Hotspot allows users to connect up to eight Wi-Fi-enabled devices to the nation’s fastest wireless network via an application available on the ThunderBolt by HTC. Mobile Hotspot will be included through May 15 for no additional charge. Customers can track their data usage by downloading the My Verizon app available in Android Market or by logging on to their My Verizon accounts online atwww.verizonwireless.com/myverizon.

For additional information on Verizon Wireless 4G LTE visitwww.verizonwireless.com/4glte. For more information about the ThunderBolt by HTC please visitwww.verizonwireless.com/thunderbolt. For additional information on Verizon Wireless products and services, visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or go towww.verizonwireless.com. 

About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation’s fastest and most advanced 4G network and largest and most reliable 3G network, and serves more than 94 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 82,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE, NASDAQ: VZ) and Vodafone (LSE, NASDAQ: VOD). For more information, visitwww.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library atwww.verizonwireless.com/multimedia. 

About HTC
HTC Corporation (HTC) is one of the fastest growing companies in the mobile phone industry. By putting people at the center of everything it does, HTC creates innovative smartphones that better serve the lives and needs of individuals. The company is listed on the Taiwan Stock Exchange under ticker 2498. For more information about HTC, please visit www.htc.com. 

Thunderbolt Page

Apple iOS 4.3 for the iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad iis now available a couple of days earlier that the original announced date of March 11th which is the same day as the iPad 2 release.  All you need to do is plug in your iPod and iTunes should automatically check. If it doesn’t you can go into the iPod section of iTunes and click on update.  The download is about 653 MB in size and may take a bit of time to download for Apple’s services. Give yourself about an hour or so for the update. New updates is person a hotspot for iPhone 4 (AT&T as Verizon already had this), Faster Safari performance, new iPad side switch settings, New Airplay features and more. See the full list below.

iOS 4.3 Software Update:

This update contains new features and improvements, including the following:

• Personal Hotspot*
  – Share iPhone 4 cellular data connection with up to 5
     devices (combination of up to 3 Wi-Fi, 3 Bluetooth,
     and 1 USB)
• iTunes Home Sharing
  – Play music, movies and TV shows from a shared iTunes
     library on a Mac or PC (requires iTunes 10.2)
• New AirPlay features**
  – Play videos from the Photos app including the Camera
     Roll album, iTunes previews, enabled third-party apps
     and websites on Apple TV
  – Play slideshows from Photos on Apple TV using
     transitions available on Apple TV
• Faster Safari performance with Apple Nitro JavaScript
   engine
• HD video out using the Apple Digital AV Adapter***
  – View 720p HD videos from Videos app, iPod app,
     Photos, YouTube, Safari, Keynote, and enabled
     third-party apps on an HDMI display
• Ping features
  – Push notifications for comments and follow requests
  – Post and Like songs directly from the Now Playing
     screen
  – Parental controls
• New Settings
  – Messages setting for number of times to repeat an
     alert
  – iPad side switch setting to lock screen rotation or mute
     audio notifications and sound effects
• Single tap conference call dialing with a pause to send
   a passcode
• Bug fixes

Products compatible with this software update:
• iPhone 4 (GSM model)
• iPhone 3GS
• iPad
• iPod touch (4th generation)
• iPod touch (3rd generation)

*Requires iPhone 4 with tethering data plan
**Requires Apple TV (2nd generation) running software
   version 4.2 or later
***iPhone 4, iPad, iPod touch (4th generation)

Vizio showed us their new Cinema HD LEC LCD televisions. The TVs have a 21:9 aspect ratio for true cinema feel and experience They are also 3D ready, 240 Mhz refresh rate and have Bluetooth capabilities. They also support apps to enhance the entertainment experience and also stay connected while watching television.   They come in 50 inch, 58 inch and 71 inch.  Very nice TVs which we don’t have a price point on or release time just yet.

Software & Usability

Android 3.0 is all about tablets and you definitely see they put some work in this OS to make sure it works well on tablets and it really does.The OS feels smooth to navigate thought and didn’t notice any slow downs and there are some great improvements to key features in android.

Customization is one of the biggest selling point for Android and they have kept that top notch in Android 3.0. Holding down on the desktop opens up the new shortcut and widget manager that has plenty of widget and enhanced shortcuts to greatly enhance your experience.

The bottom bar is where your navigation is. Instead of hardware or touch sensitive buttons your back, home and new app manager button are all on screen which is a bit different since when using android I’m used a touch sensitive button. On the right side of that bar is where your clock and notifications are. The notifications will line up side to side like on Android 2.x device but you can click on each icon to read each notification or you can hit the clock will will line up all the notifications on the side and you can go through each of them. This will also open up the settings for screen brightness, volume and clock. The bottom bar is very functional for the tablet. I do wish there was an option to put notifications on the top because for me it would be a bit more noticeable.

The Music app has drastically been changed for the better and honestly is now actually useful. Navigating through your music is now much easier and on par with other players and is much more visually appealing. It would be nice to have a store or desktop app linked directly to this for syncing your content and also wish they would make the same update to the video player and possible combine the music and video player into one improved and usable app.

Gaming is also had a huge overall and games with 3D graphics run smoother and look sharper. 2D games look about the same as before just a bit sharper and seem to run a bit faster. Android 3.0 makes the Android platform finally be on part with iOS when it comes to gaming and you can check out our post that has a more extensive look at Gaming on the Motorola XOOM and Android 3.0.

The Camera has also taken a huge step for the better and actually a decent camera app.  You have all the controls on the right that surrounds the snap button and its easy to navigate. You have several options of filters and effects which will work in both video and still modes. I do wish you were able to take widescreen still but hopefully they will update it so you can. Check out the same pictures below and sample video.

Speaking of the camera Google Talk was another app updated to include video chat and when I look at that earlier I found it to be easy to connect and quality was decent but there were some blurriness from the camera on the XOOM to the other caller on the other end.

Movie Studio which is the video editing app is another new addition to Android 3.0 and we took at deep look at it earlier  and for now its a usable app but still has a few bugs in it and a bit slow that prevent it from being a top notch application. If it expect to compete with iMovie they will need step there game up on this one .Web browsing is fast as expected with the browser. Pages that don’t have flash rendered properly and you now have tabs that work like the desktop version of chrome and there is private browsing. You can also sync your browser with the desktop version of chrome. No flash support at launch but it suppose to come in the next few weeks.With all the multimedia features you can easily forget that you can read books which look great on the device. You get 3 free books to start off including Alice In Wonderland.  I like the page turn animation which is cool and you have the option to choose to read in text or in scan mode which will make the pages look like the actual book.

While you have a improved Gmail experience which looks great you don’t have much in the way of productivity apps outside of your standard calendar and contacts. There is no Google Docs app and a dedicated app would have been great to see and introduce more people to Google Docs even though you can still do it through the browser. These days app push services and this is a big miss and can be combined into the lack of many tablet apps at launch. You can install mobile apps as well but they won’t look as good and some will not work as well because its not tablet optimized.  We all know the Android Market will get more tablet optimized apps but with only 16 app to start off with its highly disappointing.

Overall

The Motorola XOOM and Android 3.0 provides the best Android tablet experience out there.  The hardware is solid and the software is the best for any Android tablet. You will have a blast using this on a vacation where you can take pictures and video and edit and share it on the go and and use Google Maps to find your way around and discover new things.. Taking with you on a day trip to the city would be great as you can read your favorite books in a coffee shop while browsing the web listing to your favorite music.  If you are market for a tablet this which seems to be more and more people the Motorola XOOM is definitely one to consider.

Buy Motorola XOOM From:

Amazon.com