T-Mobile LG G Flex getting Android 4.4.2 KitKat OTA Update
Tmonews is reporting that the T-Mobile LG G Flex is finally picking up Android 4.4 KitKat today. The update is currently rolling out to owners of the flexible device by way of a typical OTA fashion. The update will bring in the LG Knock Code feature, the one that lets you knock on your screen in a pattern to unlock it. Along with various bug fixes and battery life improvements. The file size is said to be 150MB’s, so Wi-Fi and some time to kill with over 50% battery is a good idea.
Interestingly enough, the update information isn’t finding its way to T-Mobiles Support page just yet. AC must have seen it and I assume TMo pulled it to fix their typo in the Android version number. Either way, it is out there in the wild for some users. Head into Settings > General > About phone > System Updates > Check Now to give it a go. let us know if it pulls down.
Source: ToNews / AndroidCentral / TMo LG G Flex Support
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ESPN makes it easy for you to watch the World Cup anytime, anywhere
With the world’s biggest sporting event, the FIFA World Cup, set to kick off in roughly 37 days, ESPN has now revealed how it plans to deliver coverage to you. At a recent media event in New York City, ESPN President John Skipper and Co. announced that all 64 World Cup matches from Brazil would be streamed live via WatchESPN and ESPN3. Naturally, you’ll need a cable subscription to have access to the feeds, but the good news is that, since ESPN has full rights to the tournament in the US, you won’t be subject to any tedious blackout restrictions. And that includes games broadcasted on ABC. But the sports channel isn’t stopping there: ESPN is throwing everything but the kitchen sink at this year’s World Cup, with things like 24/7 news coverage and expert analysis, as well as second-screen features for smartphones and tablets.
For The Worldwide Leader in Sports, it is all about setting the bar extremely high for future broadcasts, as it won’t have the rights to the next two World Cups; back in 2011, Fox bested other US networks to lock down the rights to the 2018 World Cup in Russia and 2022 in Qatar. As Skipper puts it, “We’re going to treat it as the event it is, not really thinking about 2018 or 2022. Our goal here is to leave with a very, very high bar. I think we’ll do that.”
By live streaming the entire tournament, ESPN’s making it really easy for folks to watch the games regardless of where they may be — whether it’s at home or work (don’t worry, we won’t tell anyone). “We’ve modified our very simple mission to serve sports fans anytime anywhere. People have the expectation that wherever they are, on whatever screen or device they have available, they ought to be able get the same quality experience. We’ve been leaders in that and we’ll continue to be,” said Skipper during the ESPN event in NYC. Of course, it also helps that the matches will be played at decent times in the US, since Brazil is in a similar time zone. For those of you who tuned in to the 2010 South Africa World Cup, this will come as a welcome improvement, as some of those games came on as early as 7:30 AM ET.
So, if you have a device with the WatchESPN or WatchABC apps, you should have no trouble watching your favorite national team, both live and on-demand, as they try to make a deep run in the tournament. Speaking of which, ESPN is also going to have ESPN3 Surround, which is set to offer broadcasts in different languages, including Portuguese and Korean — Spanish isn’t an option, however, given that Univision holds those rights. In addition to this, Surround will let your smartphone or tablet act as a second screen, allowing you to control different cameras and angles, get an in-stadium perspective and check out real-time highlights, among other interactive tidbits.
For those times when you might not be able to watch games live, ESPN is launching a completely redesigned ESPN FC on mobile and desktop, with up-to-the-minute scores and endless news coverage coming out of Brazil. What’s more, the app is available in a number of different languages. Bimal Kapadia, ESPN FC’s senior director of global business and brand development, told me that the goal of overhauling the everything-football property was to make it an all-in-one hub for soccer fans, not just for the World Cup, but also after the tournament is over.
On the web, ESPN FC now takes on a more mosaic-style layout, focusing on large images and putting a solid amount of video content at your fingertips. On smartphones and tablets, ESPN FC is based on the same code as the SportsCenter app, meaning that you can expect it to work in a similar fashion. The application is now deeply integrated with WatchESPN, too, so you can quickly jump into a live game right from ESPN FC. You can also expect to see 30 for 30 content populated, as that’s going to play a huge part in bringing you featured video pieces as part of the overhauled ESPN FC experience. The newly minted ESPN FC app is coming to iOS (iPhone-optimized) and Android later today, while the website should welcome the fresh design by June 1st.
[Image credit: Getty Images Europe]
Filed under: Home Entertainment, Internet, HD
Source: ESPN, App Store, Google Play
Xbox handheld game console isn’t in the books, says Xbox lead Phil Spencer
Microsoft’s new Xbox head Phil Spencer doesn’t think an Xbox gaming handheld makes sense. Spencer took to Twitter yesterday afternoon in a surprisingly candid conversation with fans, one of whom asked if Microsoft is pursuing, “a handheld Xbox One-like gaming device at E3 or in the future.” Spencer responded with a frank, “I don’t think we’ll do a dedicated handheld gaming device.” To him, Windows Phone and tablets make more sense. “Maybe with controller support someday,” he said. That should put to bed rumors of an “Xbox Surface” for now.
Spencer also offered a taste of what his team is showing at this June’s gaming trade show, though it shouldn’t be a big surprise: games, lots of games. That’s new IP, sequels to existing franchises, and, apparently, throwbacks to “neglected” franchises that Microsoft owns. Also not a huge surprise considering the recent relaunch of Killer Instinct, but we’re fascinated to see what else could get the reboot treatment. Crimson Skies, perhaps?
[Image credit: Ben Heck]
Filed under: Gaming, Handhelds, Software, HD, Microsoft
Source: Twitter
Meet the Teenage Engineering PO-12: a $49 card-sized drum machine
Tucked neatly into a panel discussion at last week’s Moogfest, Teenage Engineering outed its latest synthesizer effort. The unit, labeled the PO-12, was intended to be a giveaway during the festivities (“moogfest special” is printed on the built-in hang tag), but the units got caught up in a customs delay, so we’re left with details nabbed by attendee Robert Pluma. Here’s a quick rundown of some of the reported specs: a Silicon Labs 32-bit ARM microcontroller, wire stand that doubles as a pitch bender, 23 switches, two optimization knobs, beats per minute LED and 1/8-inch audio jacks. There also appears to options for hip-hop, disco, and techno options on the gadget that’s said to be priced at $49. While Teenage Engineering isn’t confirming the details, it did tell Synthtopia that Mr. Pluma “more or less nailed it regarding the details of this product.” The folks at Create Digital Music report that the device will also harness parameter lock, just like the original Machinedrum. We’ll have to wait a bit longer for formal availability info, but these tease is certainly enough to wet the ol’ appetite… for now.
[Image credit: Robert Pluma]
Filed under: Misc
Source: Synthtopia
Early details leak for Samsung GALAXY Tab S
Hey, look! Samsung has yet another new line of products to unveil, or so says SamMobile. This time we’re looking at what’s being billed as the Samsung Galaxy Tab S.
Specifications obtained by the blog suggest the tablet could come in on the higher end of things. Details are said to include an AMOLED display at 2560 x 1600 pixel resolution and a Samsung Exynos 5 Octa (quad-core 1.9GHz Cortex-A15 with a quad-core 1.3GHz Cortex-A7) processor. Other features listed are an 8-megapixel rear camera, 3GB RAM, a 2.1-megapixel front-facing camera, and a fingerprint scanner.
Samsung will also be introducing a new feature, which will be unique to the Galaxy Tab S, it’s called Multi-User login. This feature uses Android’s native multi-user functionality but enhances it further by allowing the user to log in to his/her account simply by swiping a finger on the home button from the lock screen.
In terms of displays, it appears the Galaxy Tab S could be offered in 8.4-inch and 10.5-inch sizes. Colors include Shimmer White and Titanium Grey; 4G LTE and Wi-Fi versions are expected.
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4-inch Wi-Fi (SM-T700)
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4-inch LTE (SM-T705)
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S 10.5-inch Wi-Fi (SM-T800)
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S 10.5-inch LTE (SM-T805)
The post Early details leak for Samsung GALAXY Tab S appeared first on AndroidGuys.
Canadians Rejoice! Google Play Music All Access is Rolling Out
Hooray! Google’s official blog for Canadian users has pushed out some great news today for our friends to the north. Google has finally brought Google Play Music and the accompanying All Access service, to Canada.
Looks like Google is also giving you guys the same introductory pricing for All Access as well. You get the first 30 days free and then be charged $7.99 month there after. If you dilly-dally on the sign up though you can expect to start off at the $9.99 a month price tag. You have some time though as that won’t be the case until after June 30th
Source: Google Canada via AndroidPolice
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New Waterproof Kyocera Hydro Vibe splashes its way to Sprint and Virgin Mobile
A new waterproof Android powered device is headed to consumers on Sprint and Virgin Mobile. Meet the new Kyocera Hydro Vibe. The Hydro Vibe specs aren’t to terribly bad, for a lower-end entry-level waterproof offering.
- 4.5-inch qHD screen (960 x 540)
- 8MP rear camera with flash
- 2MP front shooter
- NFC
- 1.2GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon Processor
- 2,000 mah battery
- 8GB on-board storage with a 32GB with MicroSd slot
- Android 4.3
- IP57 rated
- Sprint Spark Enabled
“The demand for waterproof smartphones has only increased since Kyocera introduced the original Hydro in the U.S. in 2012,” said David Owens, senior vice president-Product, Sprint. “Hydro Vibe is the third generation of waterproof Kyocera devices Sprint has brought to our prepaid and postpaid customers. Vibe eliminates the worries of liquid damage during a day at the beach or a day on the job without having to invest in a waterproof case or sacrificing the sleek style and functionality we expect from smartphones.”
The Kyocer Hydro Vibe will be landing at Sprint on May 9th for $0 down and $9.59 a month if you qualify of course. If you are looking for an affordable waterprro option for Virgin Mobile USA, the device will be splashing at Virgin Mobile’s website for $149.99. Additional details about the Hydro Vibe can be found at Kyocera-Wireless.com
Via Sprint Newsroom
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Nokia Refocusing on HERE Maps Integration for iOS and Android [iOS Blog]
A pair of LinkedIn job listings spotted by Nokia Power User is being interpreted as a sign that Nokia’s HERE mapping and location services may be returning to iOS, but Nokia’s Pino Bonetti points out that the company is simply focused on delivering SDK tools to allow third-party developers to incorporate HERE maps into their apps.
Hi guys, just to clarify, a mobile SDK is not an app. We are providing tools to our partners so that they can build apps with our maps. We already announced this on our blog (HERE Three Sixty) and you can already see some action: Amazon is using our maps in their Kindle Fire, Deutsche Telekom is using our maps for their Arrival Control app on iOS and Android.
With Microsoft having closed its purchase of Nokia’s devices unit late last month, a scaled-down Nokia will need to focus on other areas where it holds a leadership advantage, and HERE is one way Nokia can leverage its NAVTEQ mapping expertise.
As for a standalone HERE app for iOS, it does not appear that Nokia has any public plans to return to the platform. Nokia’s HERE Maps app was previously available to iOS owners, but the app was pulled by Nokia last December due to compatibility problems with iOS 7. The company put the blame for the removal on Apple, claiming that changes in iOS 7 “harm the user experience.”
The job listings seek experienced developers to work on the company’s mobile engineering team as they assist in the building of “advanced location-based services applications for the Android and iOS platforms.”
As an Android / iOS developer you will be a key member of our growing mobile engineering team, developing industry-leading mobile SDKs / applications. This is an experienced position that requires fluency in the latest Java capabilities and improvements in the Android and iOS SDK. The ideal candidate is motivated to explore and deliver the best possible solutions to our customers.
Formerly known as Nokia Maps and Ovi Maps, the HERE service uses the Nokia-owned NAVTEQ mapping database to provide navigation services, transit maps and points-of-interest information. Nokia HERE is one of three business units remaining after Microsoft acquired Nokia’s mobile devices and services business.
HERE is attempting to gain traction in a crowded iOS marketplace dominated by rival Google Maps, iOS Maps and other third-party apps from Navigon and TomTom. After a rocky start in iOS 6 and some improvements and visual changes in iOS 7, Apple is rumored to be bolstering its Maps application in iOS 8 with new transit information, expanded points of interest, and improved cartography.
Norway’s VR test helps soldiers see through armored vehicles
There’s a good reason why games like Battlefield rarely offer a realistic view of what it’s like to steer armored vehicles: actual drivers have to either look through tiny portholes or risk getting shot. The Norwegian Army may not be so restricted in the future, though. It’s testing a system from MakingView that uses Oculus Rift VR helmets to help soldiers glimpse through a vehicle’s protective plating. The headset is linked to a set of cameras that, like a recent drone experiment, lets drivers simply look in a given direction to see what’s outside.
The technology isn’t always as effective as poking your head out of the cupola, at least not right now; the army is still using low-resolution Oculus hardware that can make you dizzy. However, it’s good enough that drivers can already get around without much help, letting the commander focus on the mission at hand. It also provides the overlays you’d expect from a video game, such as maps. The VR system could enter service within five years, so long as the military can afford it. Thankfully, there’s a good chance of that happening — a complete Oculus Rift setup costs just a fraction of what the government would pay for custom hardware.
[Thanks, Stein]
IBM’s Watson supercomputer can help settle your debates
IBM’s Watson supercomputer is already good at finding answers to tough questions, but it’s going one step further: it can now argue an issue when there’s no clear answer. A new Debater feature lets the machine take a given topic, scan for relevant articles, and automatically deduce the pros and cons based on the context and language of any claims. In a demo, Watson took 45 seconds to scour millions of Wikipedia articles and make cases both for and against limiting access to violent video games. It’s likely that many people would take much longer, even if they’re well-informed on the subject.
The Debater technology isn’t so sophisticated that Watson will make a judgment call — much to the relief of some, that’s still up to humans. However, it should be useful for organizations that want to make decisions based on impartial reasoning. IBM noted in its demo (at the 45:25 mark in the video below) that doctors could use the artificial intelligence to shape policies on sensitive topics, for example. While it’s doubtful that we’ll see many institutions using a computer as their sole guide, the breakthrough could avoid quite a few unnecessary shouting matches.
Via: Yahoo Finance
AIVAnet 