We simply love wallpapers. They’re one of the first changes we make to our Android devices and often represent our moods, interests, or wicked alter egos. They’re as unique as the individuals who use them and while some people pick one and stick with it, others change them more often than a teenager’s Facebook status. Each day we’re going to feature a free wallpaper for you to download and use on your Android device. Depending on your device, you may want to use your favorite photo editing software to resize the image for a better fit. Once that’s done, apply and enjoy. Your homescreen can thank us later. Cheers!

As Apple continues to try and erect walls to keep consumers from migrating to Android, Andy stands tall and says “Take Down This Wall!” Show your support for freedom of choice and rock this mobile statement on your Android home screen wth pride. You’ll find this, as well as all our other wallpapers, over at our Google+ page.

For the full size image, simply follow the link below, click on the image and then click on “download full size,” which can be found under options.

Full Size Image

If you’re a Galaxy Nexus owner having trouble with these wallpapers, be sure to check out our How To: Set An Image As Your Wallpaper On The Samsung Galaxy Nexus.

One of the first things you’ll want to set up on your new Android device is your email. Whether you only use one email account or several, being able to receive your email while mobile is one of the most important features of a smartphone. Since not everyone is a smartphone veteran, we’re going to show you the basics and get you started. Now, depending on which version of Android you’re running, things may look a bit different, but the concept is the same.

When you first set up your Android device, you’ll be asked to either set up a new Google account or use an existing account log in. Whatever Google account you end up using will be the default for your Gmail. On an Android device, your Gmail remains separate from all other email. We’ll show you how to add additional email accounts other than Gmail to your Android phone.

1. Open up your app drawer
2. Choose the Email app
3. Input your email address and password, hit next

With most email accounts such as Yahoo, Hotmail, etc., your phone should easily be able to set things up and begin syncing your mail after you give the account a name. After your phone is done loading all of your email messages, you can then change any email settings you’d like by going into the settings menu within the email page.

For custom email clients or when your Android phone simply can’t figure things out, you’ll have to manually input the email settings.

1. Type in your email address and password, hit manual
2. Choose the type of account: POP3, IMAP, or Exchange.
3. Fill out server settings (check with your server provider for correct settings)
4. Choose Next

If everything is correct, your email account should sync and be ready to use. If it doesn’t work, double check to make sure all the settings are correct.

That’s it, that’s how to set up a new email account on your Android phone. For a hands on look, check out the video below and feel free to contact me with any questions you may have.

We simply love wallpapers. They’re one of the first changes we make to our Android devices and often represent our moods, interests, or wicked alter egos. They’re as unique as the individuals who use them and while some people pick one and stick with it, others change them more often than a teenager’s Facebook status. Each day we’re going to feature a free wallpaper for you to download and use on your Android device. Depending on your device, you may want to use your favorite photo editing software to resize the image for a better fit. Once that’s done, apply and enjoy. Your homescreen can thank us later. Cheers!

This Ace In The Hole wallpaper will ensure your Android home screen always has something up its sleeve when going all-in. You’ll find this, as well as all our other wallpapers, over at our Google+ page.

For the full size image, simply follow the link below, click on the image and then click on “download full size,” which can be found under options.

Full Size Image

If you’re a Galaxy Nexus owner having trouble with these wallpapers, be sure to check out our How To: Set An Image As Your Wallpaper On The Samsung Galaxy Nexus.

Unless you have an ASUS device, you’re probably waiting to be updated to Android 4.0. While Motorola did manage to bring Ice Cream Sandwich to the XOOM, they’ve left the rest of their devices in update limbo. In an effort to calm user frustration, Motorola has updated their Ice Cream Sandwich schedule — as if that helps. It appears the RAZR brand will see Android 4.0 sometime in Q2, while the DROID 4 won’t be seeing Ice Cream Sandwich until Q3.

Take a look at the list and see where your device stands, then remember to send Motorola a break-up letter and switch over to a Nexus device the next chance you get. Seriously, can we get these devices updated already? I feel for you guys, I really do.

Source: Motorola

Are you a frequent patron of Chili’s Bar & Grill? Are you looking for a cheap Android phone? Well then you’re in luck because Chili’s is offering a free Android phone to anyone who orders $25 or more from chilistogo.com. Naturally, this isn’t as good of a deal as it sounds but it’s not the worst.

First off, I found that you can get the deal even without ordering anything so it’s up to you whether or not you want to order any food. Secondly, you won’t be choosing any Galaxy Nexus or HTC One X devices. But if you could care less about having the latest and greatest and don’t mind signing up for a two-year contract, you can choose from a variety of mediocre phones from the carrier of your choice.

To get started, follow the link below and then place and order or click directly on the “Already Ordered” option to go straight to the phones.

Source: Chili’s Via: Android Central

Ever since the FXI Cotton Candy Android PC on a stick was announced, we’ve been intrigued and patiently waiting for its release. Well, looks like someone got tired of waiting and decided to release their own mini-Android PC — for $126 cheaper nonetheless.

An unnamed Chinese manufacturer has made the MK802, a 3.5 inches x 1.4 inches x 0.5 inches Android 4.0 PC on a stick. Powered by an Allwinner A10/ 1.5GHz Cortex-A8 processor, the MK802 features:

• Memory: 512MB
• Storage: 4GB
• Graphical processor: 2D/ 3D/ OpenGL ES2.0(AMD Z430)/OpenVG1.1(AMD Z160) 27M Tri/sec
• Network: Wireless 802.11b/g, WAPI(Ralink8188)
• Expand Memory: Micro TF 2-32GB
• IO/Ports: Micro 5pin USB/ USB2.0 data transfer/ OTG and host expand
• Keyboard: Support virtual keyboard, support 2.4G wireless keyboard, fly mouse

The lack of connectors and remote contribute to it being sold for less than the Cotton Candy, but for $74, I can deal without the connectors.

If you’d like to grab this little contraption, you can pick it up at the link below, and be sure to let us know if you do.

Souce: AliExpress Via: Liliputing

The Android community went cuckoo over the HP Touchpad back when HP was nearly giving them away. Since then, the dev community has managed to turn the 10-inch webOS tablet into an Ice Cream Sandwich touting workhorse. Many of you tried hard to pick one up, going store to store and looking online, but never quite managing to score one at the low $99 price. Well, we’ve got some semi-good news for you: woot’s deal of the day happens to be the HP TouchPad 32GB Wi-Fi Tablet.

These are refurbished units, and while they aren’t being offered for the original $149 fire-sale price, they’re pretty close at $194.99. This isn’t a bad deal at all considering they are going for double that on sites such as Ebay. For under $200 you can get your hands on a rootable, flashable, 10-inch tablet that features:

• Display Size: 9.7″ diagonal
• Display Type: LED Backlit Multi-Touch (capacitive)
• Resolution: 1024 x 768 (XGA)
• Color Depth: 18-bit
• Viewing Angle: IPS Wide Viewing-Angle Technology
• Screen: Multi-Touch Glass Display with a Special Coating for Easier Cleaning & Abrasion Resistance
• Processor: 1.2GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon Dual-Core APQ8060
• Memory: 32GB
• Graphics: Qualcomm Adreno 220 Core
• Video Formats: MPEG-4, H.263, H.264
• Audio:

- Internal stereo speakers and Beats Audio™
- Integrated Microphone
-3.5mm Stereo Headphone Jack
- Microphone Jack

• Wireless: Dual-band 802.11 a/b/g/n with WPA, WPA2, WEP, 802.1X Authentication
• Bluetooth: Bluetooth® 2.1 + EDR with A2DP Stereo Bluetooth Support
• Camera: Front-facing 1.3MP Camera & Digital Microphone for Live Video Calling
• Power & Battery: 6300 mAh (typical) Lithium-Polymer

If you’re considering picking one of these up, be sure to act fast, as this deal is for today only and these things are hard to come by.

Source: Woot

While Verizon is busy setting the U.S. ablaze with 4G LTE, AT&T continues their embarrassingly slow rollout. In a less than exciting announcement, AT&T has informed us that three new cities have been blessed with their 4G LTE network. Those of you living in the following cities will now have access to faster speeds thanks to good ol’ AT&T:

• New Orleans, LA
• Baton Rouge, LA
• Naples, FL

If you don’t live in the above cities, you might as well grab a movie or two thousand, because it may be a while before you see LTE in your town.

I think that brings the total number of AT&T 4G LTE markets to something like 38? Come on AT&T, you have to do better than that. Well, I guess it’s better than no 4G LTE — isn’t that right Sprint?

Source: AT&T

Image: Vedros

In the wake of more bad publicity, Verizon tried to clarify the statements made yesterday by CFO Fran Shammo regarding the end of unlimited data for grandfathered customers. Unfortunately their updated statement simply reiterated the fact that come mid-summer, you can kiss your unlimited data goodbye. Not that it will end in mid-summer, but the moment you decide to sign another contract or purchase a phone at a subsidized rate, you will have pulled the plug on good ol’ grandpa.

When the new options are introduced, Unlimited Data will no longer be available to our customers purchasing handsets and signing a new contract. Customers who choose to purchase phones at full retail price and are currently on an unlimited smartphone data plan will be able to keep that plan. The same pricing and policies will apply to all 3G and 4GLTE smartphones.

I’m not going to get upset over the change, as I have been pushing for shared data for years, however, if they nickel and dime us on these new shared-data plans, then I’ll have a bone to pick.

I don’t foresee too many people purchasing a retail smartphone to use on Verizon, especially given Verizon’s excessive need for control. Plus, the majority of people purchasing smartphones at retail are usually buying GSM phones, not CDMA. So I’m expecting the majority of grandfathered Verizon customers to either switch over to the new shared data plans, or simply leave Verizon altogether.

I’ll be making my decision after I get the specifics on these new shared data plans, how about you?

Source: Verizon Wireless

We simply love wallpapers. They’re one of the first changes we make to our Android devices and often represent our moods, interests, or wicked alter egos. They’re as unique as the individuals who use them and while some people pick one and stick with it, others change them more often than a teenager’s Facebook status. Each day we’re going to feature a free wallpaper for you to download and use on your Android device. Depending on your device, you may want to use your favorite photo editing software to resize the image for a better fit. Once that’s done, apply and enjoy. Your homescreen can thank us later. Cheers!

Power up your Android home screen with this brilliant power mushroom wallpaper. Keep a 1-up handy for those days when your health meter just can’t take it anymore. You’ll find this as well as all our other wallpapers over at our Google+ page.

For the full size image, simply follow the link below, click on the image and then click on “download full size,” which can be found under options.

Full Size Image

If you’re a Galaxy Nexus owner having trouble with these wallpapers, be sure to check out our How To: Set An Image As Your Wallpaper On The Samsung Galaxy Nexus.

By now, I’m sure you may have heard about how U.S. Customs is holding all of the HTC One X and EVO 4G LTE phones hostage as they investigate allegations over patent infringement stemming from a ruling Apple won against HTC back in December. The ban essentially went into effect in April of 2012, but what most of us don’t understand is why the investigation at Customs? HTC has already created a work around for the infringement and even responded back in December about it:

Apple’s patent covers only a small UI experience and it will be completely removed from HTC phones soon.

So if this is a non-issue, why the Customs investigation? It wreaks of Apple’s doing and naturally has many Android users (especially those waiting on the device) upset. While most Android users simply shake their heads and wait for things to sort themselves out, one particular Android user just couldn’t hold it in any longer.

XDA contributor EGZTHUNDER1 decided to write Apple a not so thankful letter and was quite adamant about his distaste for Apple’s antics going as far as to say:

Your ENTIRE organization lacks morals and free market competition basics, and as such, you are not worthy of having the glory that you now posses.

Your last innovation and only major contribution to the world of mobile technology was the inclusion of an accelerometer in mobile devices, and this was with the original iPhone back in 2007.

It is because of companies like yours that technology is not further today than where it currently is. You are so adamant in protecting something that you didn’t even invent that you are holding back future innovation.

It’s a lengthy rant so I’ll post it at the end of this article for those of you with the patience to read it.

So what do you think? Legitimate complaints or simply the ramblings of a whiny Android fanboi? One thing’s for sure, he’s not happy about it and neither are the thousands of customers waiting on their new HTC Android phones.

This is nothing more than an annoying speedbump, which HTC will be over in no time, and in the end it will have accomplished nothing more than making Apple look less respectable and more childish.

Do most of us care about this corporate pissing match? No, not really. We just want to see more tech, more phones, more tablets, more toys. Now give them to us NOW! (j/k)

Have patience young Android padawans, your phones will be here in no time, don’t feed the darkside with your hate.

Full Rant:

Dear Apple,

Your ENTIRE organization lacks morals and free market competition basics, and as such, you are not worthy of having the glory that you now posses. While you may have revolutionized the world as we know it with very well crafted marketing campaigns and some good ideas, you are far from being a true innovator in the field of… anything. Just think for one second about the LEAPS in technology that you would have accomplished, should you have invested in R&D a quarter of the money you spend into advertising and marketing. Then, you would have something worth portraying as a technological wonder, something that would likely be untouchable by others. Something truly genuine that you can call your own, and at the end of the day you could look at with pride. What you have right now is a bunch of reinvented wheels, most of which don’t do much more than other wheels out there.

Redefining concepts and ideas is not what makes a company great; coming up with new concepts is. HTC and other major OEMS have often been in the vanguard by innovating with their products, adding new features, rethinking, and just putting concepts out there to imagine their possibilities. Your last innovation and only major contribution to the world of mobile technology was the inclusion of an accelerometer in mobile devices, and this was with the original iPhone back in 2007. For that and only that, I give you credit. All the newer models of virtually every product you sell have been remakes of previous technology—perhaps a little thinner and a little faster, but all in all, minor changes.

It is because of companies like yours that technology is not further today than where it currently is. You are so adamant in protecting something that you didn’t even invent that you are holding back future innovation. The spirit and basic concepts of engineering are completely missing from your business models. Courtesy of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology:

Engineering is the profession in which a knowledge of the mathematical and natural sciences gained by experience, study, and practice is applied with judgement to develop ways to utilize economically, the materials and forces of nature for the benefit of mankind.

Notice the importance of the concept that you are no longer following. Engineering practices are used for the betterment of mankind. What have you done for this purpose? Rebrand an existing technology (MP3 players) and sell them for twice the price? Trying to cripple your competitors by claiming that you invented something that was previously invented, when you simply adapted the technology and closed off any other use of this by others? This can be compared to using a Linux kernel (if it weren’t under GPL license), patenting it, and closing it off so that no one else can use it.

Apple, you are simply a disgrace to the world of technology and to engineering in general. I feel ashamed of being called an engineer in a world where your company roams around freely without even following the most basic of the field’s concepts—a world where the law and justice are blind to the fact that your actions are hindering humanity’s advancement. While I understand that there is nothing wrong with making money, there is something very wrong with replacing engineering with greed.Dear Apple,

Your ENTIRE organization lacks morals and free market competition basics, and as such, you are not worthy of having the glory that you now posses. While you may have revolutionized the world as we know it with very well crafted marketing campaigns and some good ideas, you are far from being a true innovator in the field of… anything. Just think for one second about the LEAPS in technology that you would have accomplished, should you have invested in R&D a quarter of the money you spend into advertising and marketing. Then, you would have something worth portraying as a technological wonder, something that would likely be untouchable by others. Something truly genuine that you can call your own, and at the end of the day you could look at with pride. What you have right now is a bunch of reinvented wheels, most of which don’t do much more than other wheels out there.

Redefining concepts and ideas is not what makes a company great; coming up with new concepts is. HTC and other major OEMS have often been in the vanguard by innovating with their products, adding new features, rethinking, and just putting concepts out there to imagine their possibilities. Your last innovation and only major contribution to the world of mobile technology was the inclusion of an accelerometer in mobile devices, and this was with the original iPhone back in 2007. For that and only that, I give you credit. All the newer models of virtually every product you sell have been remakes of previous technology—perhaps a little thinner and a little faster, but all in all, minor changes.

It is because of companies like yours that technology is not further today than where it currently is. You are so adamant in protecting something that you didn’t even invent that you are holding back future innovation. The spirit and basic concepts of engineering are completely missing from your business models. Courtesy of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology:

Engineering is the profession in which a knowledge of the mathematical and natural sciences gained by experience, study, and practice is applied with judgement to develop ways to utilize economically, the materials and forces of nature for the benefit of mankind.

Notice the importance of the concept that you are no longer following. Engineering practices are used for the betterment of mankind. What have you done for this purpose? Rebrand an existing technology (MP3 players) and sell them for twice the price? Trying to cripple your competitors by claiming that you invented something that was previously invented, when you simply adapted the technology and closed off any other use of this by others? This can be compared to using a Linux kernel (if it weren’t under GPL license), patenting it, and closing it off so that no one else can use it.

Apple, you are simply a disgrace to the world of technology and to engineering in general. I feel ashamed of being called an engineer in a world where your company roams around freely without even following the most basic of the field’s concepts—a world where the law and justice are blind to the fact that your actions are hindering humanity’s advancement. While I understand that there is nothing wrong with making money, there is something very wrong with replacing engineering with greed.

-

Dear HTC,

We have said this in the past, but please, we beg this of you: Allow us to help you grow and make your products better and smarter through REAL innovation. Our site and communities like ours harbor some of the brightest minds in the world of engineering and computing that this world has ever seen. We are willing to help you. Not because we like what you do (read: stop closing off bootloaders) but because we believe that you still have your core principles intact and are willing to work on things that truly revolutionize and improve technology for the betterment of mankind. Please allow us to help you.

Thank you for reading.

Source: XDA

If you’ve been looking to grab an Ice Cream Sandwich toting Android tablet for cheap and don’t have the patience to wait for Google to announce their own, BJ’s Wholesale has a pretty good deal on a 7-inch Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 FGT-P3113TSS. For a limited time, you can pick one up in-store or online for $229.99. This is a great price for a tablet that features:

• A dual core processor
• 7″ TFT WSVGA touchscreen display boasts 1024 x 600 resolution
• 8GB memory is expandable to 32GB via the microSD card slot (microSD card not included)
• Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct and Bluetooth 3.0 keep you connected at home and on the go
• Front-facing VGA and rear-facing 3MP digital cameras are perfect for video chats and capturing video and pictures wherever you roam
• Built-in stereo speakers enhance the multimedia experience
• USB 2.0 port and microSD card reader let you connect and share content
• Built-in IR Blaster lets you watch and control TV content
• Striking titanium silver finish is accented by bold black
• Includes Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich operating system
• Inputs/outputs: USB 2.0 port, microSD card slot, ear jack and IF connector
• 4,000mAh lithium-polymer battery fuels hours of run time
• Includes tablet, charger and leather pouch
• Warranty: 1 year

If this sounds like the perfect deal for you, head over to the BJ’s website before it’s gone.

Source: BJ’s

As we approach the UK launch of the Samsung Galaxy S III, T-Mobile UK has gone ahead an started taking pre-orders, as well as outlining all of their available plans. The majority of you out there will probably want to go with the “Full Monty” plan, which includes unlimited texts, data, Tmo-to-Tmo calls and 2000 minutes for £36 per month. Users who sign up for the “Full Monty” will be able to score a Samsung Galaxy S III for the low price of £49.99.

Of course if that’s overkill, you can always sign up for one of the less expensive plans, but you’ll end up paying a bit more for the phone. Pre-orders look like they won’t get shipped until after May 30th, so you may actually be better off grabbing one in-store, depending on availability.

The Samsung Galaxy S III will be the talk of the town for the next couple months so if you’re due for an upgrade or want the latest device out, this is the one to get.

For a full look at specs, plans, and pricing, head over to the T-Mobile UK site by following the link below.

Source: T-Mobile UK Via: Android Central

If you were a sports fan growing up, chances are you stopped by your local fair or amusement park to have your photo superimposed onto the cover of Sports Illustrated. Our desire to join the ranks of sports celebrities hasn’t changed much over the years, but the technology used for sports photo novelties has. For the first time ever in the NFL, the New York Giants invite fans to try on their Super Bowl ring using augmented reality.

Augmented reality allows computer generated content to be superimposed and viewed live in a real world environment. To celebrate the unveiling of their Super Bowl XLVI championship ring, the New York Giants are inviting fans to share in the moment by using an augmented reality app on their Android or iOS device to virtually “try on” and take photos with the newly revealed Tiffany & Co.-designed ring. Fans can then upload their photos to Facebook, Twitter or by Email for a chance to have their photos showcased on Giants.com and Facebook.com/NewYorkGiants.

Any fan who uploads a photo will also have access to an array of limited-edition Tiffany & Co. Super Bowl XVLI commemoratives, that they can purchase instantly from their mobile device.

In order to get in on the fun, fans will have to:

• Download the GoldRun app for iOS or Android.
• After downloading the app to your mobile device, log in using Facebook connect or Twitter.
• Click on the New York Giants featured image, click the camera icon on the Featured Screen.
• Once in the camera view, snap away.
• You can share your pictures directly from the app.

To download the GoldRun app and for more information, follow the source links below. Have fun.

Fan Photos

Google Play Store Link | GoldRun

App Store Link | GoldRun

Source: NY Giants

Google I/O is a little over a month away and as we get ready for the onslaught of rumors and ticket scalpers, Google has posted the Sessions Calendar for you to start planning your 3-day boot camp. If you’re part of the Android infantry, you’ll find plenty of drills to participate in, with 20 events already scheduled and more sure to come.

The 3-day San Francisco event starts on June 27, and will include everything from “Monetizing Android Apps,” to “Security And Privacy In Android Apps.” If you’re as excited as we are, we encourage you to head over to the I/O site and start marking your calendars.

Source: Google I/O 2012

After a brief beta, Steam has made the ability to remotely manage your library of games as well as initiate a download via the web or mobile app a reality for all. Steam users who download the latest client for their PC or Mac will be able to log into the Steam web site or mobile app to access and manage their downloading pre-loads, new releases, or latest purchases.

As long as you’re logged into the Steam client on a PC or Mac, starting a remote download is as simple as visiting your Games list on the Steam Community site via a web browser or the Steam mobile app on Android or iOS. Start a game download while out and about, and when you get home, it’ll be there waiting for you to get your game on.

This won’t help your storage capacity, or your wallet, but damn it if I’m not excited.

Source: Steam Via: The Verge

We simply love wallpapers. They’re one of the first changes we make to our Android devices and often represent our moods, interests, or wicked alter egos. They’re as unique as the individuals who use them and while some people pick one and stick with it, others change them more often than a teenager’s Facebook status. Each day we’re going to feature a free wallpaper for you to download and use on your Android device. Depending on your device, you may want to use your favorite photo editing software to resize the image for a better fit. Once that’s done, apply and enjoy. Your homescreen can thank us later. Cheers!

Since most of the intranet is talking about Diablo III, I figured I’d horrify Android home screens across the land with this wicked wallpaper. You’ll find this as well as all our other wallpapers over at our Google+ page.

For the full size image, simply follow the link below, click on the image and then click on “download full size,” which can be found under options.

Full Size Image

If you’re a Galaxy Nexus owner having trouble with these wallpapers, be sure to check out our How To: Set An Image As Your Wallpaper On The Samsung Galaxy Nexus.

Earlier in the month, Google announced they would allow additional Google Play content such as books and movies to be purchased using carrier billing. Today, that feature has gone live for Sprint customers who originally could only purchase apps via carrier billing. As it stands, every major carrier other than Verizon appears to have support for carrier billing.

Carrier billing allows a user to purchase goods and services and have them charged to their phone bill rather than using Google Wallet/Google Checkout. Some people find carrier billing to be a convenience but I’m personally more comfortable using my credit card because of the fraud protection I’m afforded. Plus, my phone bill is already high enough to put me into cardiac arrest, and although I’m still paying the same amount for apps, etc., for some reason having two bills makes me feel better. That, and the fact that if I’m tight on cash one month, I can always make a payment on my credit card, something you can’t do with carriers (unless you want your phone shut off).

Either way, it’s another option for consumers and since everyone is different, it’s nice to have options. So if you’re on Sprint, you should now see the carrier billing option when purchasing Google Play content beyond just apps.

Source: Google+ Via: Android Police

Well, it was good while it lasted… Verizon Communications CFO Fran Shammo pretty much dug the graves for grandfathered unlimited plans today, announcing that come mid-summer, all customers will be taken off their unlimited data life support and moved to a new data-share plan in the sky.

“Everyone will be on data share”, according to Shammo

We all knew this day would come, I just wasn’t expecting it so soon. These new data-share plans are supposed to be more beneficial for both carriers and consumers, but I’m guessing the benefit really leans towards the former rather than the latter. I am, however, interested to see what kind of pricing and data allotments these new data-share plans are going to have — only then will I be able to see whether or not there’s a benefit.

I believe nothing has been set in stone, as Fran Shammo goes on to say while this is the design, it’s still only on paper:

Well, the way we have designed this and of course, it is paper, not actual and we will see how this comes out, but the way we have designed this is we really shouldn’t see a short-term decline. And really the theory behind this is LTE is our anchor point for data share. So as you come through an upgrade cycle and you upgrade in the future, you will have to go onto the data share plan. And moving away from, if you will, the unlimited world and moving everybody into a tiered structure data share-type plan.

So when you think about our 3G base, a lot of our 3G base is unlimited. As they start to migrate into 4G, they will have to come off of unlimitedand go into the data share plan. And that is beneficial for us for many reasons, obviously. So as you pick what tier you want to be and we think that there will be some price up in those tiers.

I’ve recently dropped the data plan on both my wife and daughter’s phones because my monthly bill is simply outrageous. Hopefully these new data-share plans will allow me to bump their phones back up, because we really would like to use all the features of a smartphone, unfortunately they’re just too expensive at this point.

If you’re still on an unlimited grandfathered plan, you might as well suck up as much data as you can in the coming months, because come summer, they’ll most likely go the way of the dinosaur.

Source: Verizon

Nielsen, global leader in measurement and information, takes a look back at the State Of Appnation and how much has changed over the past year. Since Nielsen’s 2011 summary, the number of U.S. smartphone users has increased by 12.4%, with one in two mobile subscribers now owning a smartphone. With the rise in smartphone users, comes a rise in the number of apps being downloaded, as well as the amount of time users spend engaged with them.

Android and iOS users continue to dominate app downloads, accounting for 88 percent of those who have downloaded an app in the past 30 days — up 14% since last year. In fact, the number of Android and iOS users has more than doubled since last year, attracting an astonishing 84 million U.S. mobile subscribers (that’s more than the entire population of the U.K.).

According to Nielsen, the average number of apps per smartphone has jumped 28 percent since last year, from 32 apps to 41. I thought that number seemed high until I counted the number of apps I have on my smartphone: 67.

The amount of time users spend engaged per day has only risen slightly, however, the amount of time users spend in apps vs. the mobile web is now up to 81 percent. It also looks like users are exploring more unconventional apps, as the amount of time they spend within the top 50 apps has actually decreased since last year.

In case you were wondering, the top 5 apps have not changed since last year and include: Facebook, YouTube, Google Play Store, Google Search, and Gmail.

The mobile ecosystem is certainly thriving and it doesn’t look to be slowing down anytime soon — which is good news for developers. So, how many apps do you have on your smartphone?

Source: Nielsen Via: TechCrunch

The unfortunate reality of trying to replace cable with video subscription services such as Netflix or Hulu is that, well… they kind of suck. Okay, so that’s my opinion and it’s completely possible that you’re happy with the Walmart bargain bin selection of movies Netflix has to offer, or being last to find out that The Island was just purgatory and the whole point of LOST was, well… pointless. There’s many reasons why I’ve been unable to cut cable out of my life, and if I’m going to be paying for it every month — I might as well get my money’s worth. That’s where the Slingbox SOLO comes in.

Sling Media and their Slingboxes have actually been around for quite some time, and in my opinion, remain the best solution for watching TV while on-the-go. If you haven’t heard of a Slingbox, it’s a TV streaming media device (although it can stream much more than TV) that allows you to watch and control your cable or satellite service via an internet or mobile connection.

I’ll be showing you a Slingbox SOLO which is the cheaper of the two Slingboxes offered by Sling Media and costs anywhere between $149 to $200 — depending on where you purchase it. While the Slingbox SOLO only offers a Standard Definition viewing experience, it gets the job done, and does it quite well. Anyone interested in the HD Pro model can expect to pay upwards of $300, but if you can swing the cash, it definitely has its advantages over the SOLO.

The Slingbox SOLO comes with:

• AC adapter (100-240V, 50-60Hz)
• Ethernet cable
• Quick Start Guide
• Composite A/V cable
• Remote control IR cable

Setting up the Slingbox is fairly easy and requires that you:

1. Connect your TV or video source to the Slingbox.
2. Attach the remote control IR cable so you can control your TV from your computer or mobile device.
3. Connect the Slingbox to your network router.
4. Connect the Slingbox to a power outlet.
5. Configure your Slingbox at www.slingbox.com/getstarted. If you wish to watch on a smartphone, install the SlingPlayer software on your compatible smartphone. To watch on a connected device such as a TV, you need a Boxee Box.

Once you have everything set up, you can begin watching your TV at www.slingbox.com or by using the SlingPlayer app for your mobile device. The SlingPlayer app costs $29.99 in both the Google Play and App Store. It may very well be the most expensive app you’ll purchase, but it’s worth it to have your full cable channel lineup available to you wherever you go.

The viewing experience online via a computer is the most optimal of the two and gives you a larger screen view than with a mobile device. I experienced no lag and a quality picture over a broadband connection via Comcast. Viewing on my mobile device was great due to mobility and the picture quality was good enough to enjoy what I was watching. The SlingPlayer app takes a little getting used to and using the on screen controls can cause a bit of a lag. Other than that, streaming was smooth over WiFi and 4G, not so much over 3G.

If you simply can’t get away from cable, the Slingbox SOLO and SlingPlayer app will allow you to take all of your on-demand and cable content along with you when you can’t be at home. You’ll never miss a game or finale as long as you have an internet or mobile connection, and sometimes you just need to experience a media moment as it’s happening — not days, weeks, or even months later.

Product: Slingbox SOLO, SlingPlayer App (Android, iOS)

Price: $149 to $200 (Slingbox SOLO), $29.99 (SlingPlayer App)

Pros: The Slingbox looks sleek and compliments any home entertainment center, it’s fairly easy to set up and gives you access to all of the TV content you already subscribe to. Viewing quality is more than sufficient over WiFi and having your cable box in the palm of your hands is simply priceless.

Cons: The Slingbox and SlingPlayer are a bit pricier than I would like. You’ll also have to purchase a separate app for both your phone and tablet which is absolutely ridiculous at $30 a pop. Customer service is non-existent unless you pay extra, and viewing quality over 3G or limited areas can be a frustrating experience.

Verdict: If you already have a cable subscription, this is a kick-ass combo that will give you what others crave: live television in the palm of your hand. Even if your goal is to cut cable out of your life, the Slingbox can make for a great relay to a security camera or other video monitoring device. All-in-all, an investment I’m more than pleased with.

For a hands on look at the Slingbox SOLO and SlingPlayer app for Android, check out the semi-lengthy video below. Cheers!

Announced back in December, Sonic The Hedgehog 4 Episode II is finally ready for prime time. The next iteration in the Sonic series includes our favorite blue mammal along with his furry friend Tails. The game launched on the PlayStation Network and Steam today but will hit the Google Play Store tomorrow and the App Store on Thursday.

Android support for STH 4 Episode II seems to be a bit of a mystery as it was reported back in December to feature support for mobile devices powered by the NVIDIA Tegra mobile processor, however, in today’s Sega blogpost, they only state support for Tegra 3 devices. Hopefully this isn’t the case as there aren’t that many Tegra 3 devices available — I guess we’ll find out tomorrow.

Episode II was hugely influenced by user feedback and will reward players who have purchased Sonic the Hedgehog 4 Episode I and II (on the same platform) with the exclusive chance to experience Episode Metal, a special unlockable story that features one of Sonic’s greatest foes.

You can check out the trailer below for a sneak peek at what you can expect from the next great chapter in the Sonic story. Be sure to keep an eye on your respective app store just in case Sega lets the game slip out a bit early — you never know. SAYYYYY——GAAAA!

Source: Sega Blog Via: Android Police

In two days, hundreds of thousands of Verizon customers will be able to experience the blazing speeds of 4G LTE thanks to another major rollout. Verizon continues to leave its competitors in the dust and come May 17, Verizon will have blanketed 258 markets with its 4G LTE network. This week’s expansion lists a few areas we’ve already told you about, and includes 28 new markets as well as 11 expansion markets. If you live in any of the following areas, get ready for a nice speed boost:

New Markets:

• Thibodaux and Lake Charles, La.
• Hyannis/Mid-Cape, Mass
• Benton Harbor/St. Joseph, Mich
• Biloxi/Gulfport/Pascagoula and Oxford, Miss
• Atlantic City/Toms River, N.J.
• Dickinson and Williston, N.D.
• Ashtabula, Bucyrus and Defiance, Ohio
• Eugene/Springfield, Ore.
• Lancaster, New Castle, Northern Cambria County, Oil City/Franklin, Somerset and York, Pa.
• Myrtle Beach, S.C.
• Mitchell, S.D.
• Paris, Texas
• Burlington/Northern, Vt.
• Fredericksburg, Harrisonburg, Martinsville and Staunton/Waynesboro, Va.
• Sheridan, Wyo.

Expansions:

• Denver, Colo
• Dover, Del.
• Fort Myers and Lakeland, Fla.
• Hagerstown, Md.
• Canton, Lima, Mansfield, Toledo and Youngstown/Warren, Ohio
• Erie, Pa.

There’s been some reports of some of these areas already being live so if you live in one of the above new markets and are seeing 4G LTE, sound off in the comments to let others know. Keep up the good work Verizon, I like to see my money at work.

Source: Verizon Wireless

We simply love wallpapers. They’re one of the first changes we make to our Android devices and often represent our moods, interests, or wicked alter egos. They’re as unique as the individuals who use them and while some people pick one and stick with it, others change them more often than a teenager’s Facebook status. Each day we’re going to feature a free wallpaper for you to download and use on your Android device. Depending on your device, you may want to use your favorite photo editing software to resize the image for a better fit. Once that’s done, apply and enjoy. Your homescreen can thank us later. Cheers!

Anyone in the mood for some Apple slices? Let Jedi Android serve you up some fruit salad with part 3 of our Android vs. Apple wallpaper. You’ll find this as well as all our other wallpapers over at our Google+ page.

For the full size image, simply follow the link below, click on the image and then click on “download full size,” which can be found under options.

Full Size Image

If you’re a Galaxy Nexus owner having trouble with these wallpapers, be sure to check out our How To: Set An Image As Your Wallpaper On The Samsung Galaxy Nexus.

Today Google updated its Chrome browser and introduced the ability to sync tabs across multiple devices. The update, along with the tab sync feature will be rolling out over the next couple weeks so you may or may not see it right away. I was able to update Chrome on both my laptop and desktop, however, only my laptop received the tab sync feature. I was hoping to give you a hands on across all of my devices but since my desktop lacks the tab sync, I’ll be showing you how it works across my laptop and Samsung Galaxy Nexus using Chrome Beta for Android.

The first thing you’ll need to do is update all of your Chrome browsers to version 19 (with the exception of Chrome Beta for Android). You can download Chrome 19 by following this link or you can update your current version by clicking on the wrench icon in Chrome and clicking on “About Google Chrome.”

If the tab sync feature is available to you, you’ll see it when you open a New Tab page. In the bottom right hand side you’ll see a new “Other Devices” menu. This is were you’ll be able to see the tabs you’ve recently opened on another device. You can then continue browsing those tabs on your current device and will even have the ability to use the back and forward browsing functions.

This is how syncing tabs will work across the majority of Chrome browsers. To access tab syncing from your Android device using Chrome Beta for Android, simply choose the menu icon (three vertical dots) within the browser and choose “Other devices.” You’ll then see a list of other devices and the recent tabs from those devices.

That’s the new tab sync feature in Chrome 19, for a quick hands-on look, be sure to watch the video below. Cheers!