Day 4 of Google’s 25-cent app deals is now live

There’s just two days left for Google’s 25-cent app sale that’s going on in the Google Play Store. As you know, the sale started this past Wednesday to celebrate the milestone of 25 billion downloads. Hit the break for today’s action.

• Broken Sword: Director’s Cut
• Camera Zoom FX
• Cogs
• Cut the Rope
• Cut the Rope HD
• Dr. Suess’s Sleep Book
• Endomondo Sports Tracker Pro
• Farm Invasion USA – Premium
• MADDEN NFL 12 from EA Sports
• Order & Chaos Online
• Pool Break Pro
• RealCalc Plus
• Ski Safari
• Where’s My Perry

Also to note is that SwiftKey 3 Keyboard is on sale as well. It’s not at 25-cents, but at 99-cents, it’s still a great buy for easily the best replacement keyboard on Android.

If you missed out on yesterday’s sales, you can still grab those deals as they are still live. Hurry, because they probably won’t last long.

source: Google Play

Samsung Galaxy S III hits C Spire Wireless for $199

Regional carrier C Spire Wireless has finally announced availability of the Samsung Galaxy S III. The handset arrives just in time for C Spire’s major 4G LTE push, which should come as great news for those looking for faster data speeds in the southeast. The Galaxy S III is the second device on the network to take advantage of the quicker 4G speeds, though the carrier is planning to release many more LTE-capable devices in the near future.

The Galaxy S III is now available in both Marble White and Pebble Blue with 16GB of storage for $199 along with a new 2-year commitment.  For the full run-down, hit the source link below.

Source: CSpire

AT&T Android portfolio to grow with new Samsung devices including Galaxy Note II, Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 and other devices

In a joint announcement issued by AT&T and Samsung, the two shared information on some devices slated to be available “in the coming months” for AT&T’s 4G LTE network. The devices include three smartphones powered by Android and one tablet device.

Headlining the list of forthcoming devices is the Samsung Galaxy Note II, the eagerly awaited for successor to the Samsung Galaxy Note. Unveiled earlier this month, the “phablet” device will sport a 5.5-inch screen and a quad-core Exynos processor to power Android 4.1 Jelly Bean and Samsung’s S-Pen apps.

Two other smartphones will be released as well, each targeting different markets. The Samsung Galaxy Rugby Pro, designed for those with an active lifestyle, is built to military specifications. The waterproof, shock resistant, dust-proof device will probably appeal to outdoor workers as well. The device will have a 4-inch screen and access to advance push-to-talk services. The other phone is a Samsung Galaxy Express geared toward first time smartphone buyers. The Galaxy Express will have a 4.5-inch screen backed by a 1.5 GHz dual-core processor and a 2000 mAh battery powering Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich.

Rounding out the joint press release is the impending release of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 tablet for the AT&T 4G LTE network.

The specifications for the mid-range devices sound pretty decent and should offer some good choices for buyers not interested in top end devices.

Acer Iconia A110 7″, Tegra 3 Android tablet now shipping in the UK

Not to be outdone by Google and Asus, Acer has now officially joined the 7-inch tablet party by releasing the Iconia A110 in the UK. Boasting specs very similar to that of the Nexus 7, it seems like Acer’s offering may hold its own in the hot 7-inch tablet market. There’s no doubt that it’ll be tough to grab a decent size of the market share without offering something better or different. However, there isn’t much not to like about Acer’s offering. In fact, it does offer a couple of things that a certain other 7-inch tables doesn’t.  The specs on the Iconia A110 are as follows:

• quad-core NVIDIA Tegra 3 processor
• 1GB of RAM
• 8GB of storage of internal storage (expandable via SD slot)
• 7″ display
• HDMI output
• Android 4.1 Jelly Bean

Decent specs indeed, and all that for £179. Some folks may particularly like the expandable storage and HDMI out. Ebuyer is claiming to be the first UK retailer to offer this excellent option in the 7-inch tablet market, and at the time of this writing is showing as in stock. If you pick this tablet up, let us know how you like it.

Motorola RAZR i shipping in the UK on October 1

Last week, Motorola and Intel unveiled its international version of the RAZR M, the RAZR i. A British retailer has now confirmed Motorola is releasing this Intel Atom based device on October 1st in the UK. Those of you in the UK can grab this nice device for the SIM-free price of £342 ($555). That chunk of change will buy you the following:  A lightning-like Intel Atom 2GHz processor, 4.3-inch edge to edge qHD (960 x 540) display, 1GB of RAM, 8MP rear camera, VGA front camera, 8GB of storage, GPS, NFC, WiFi, Bluetooth 4.0, and Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, which is upgradeable to Android 4.1 Jelly Bean. We’re anxious to see how this 2GHz beast performs in the real world. Let us know if you jump on this device.

Possible quad-core powered HTC One XC revealed in China

HTC took the wraps off a new version of their HTC One X at the Chinese Telecommunications Fair. Going by the name HTC One XC, the phone will have a 4.7-inch 1280×720 pixel screen and 1GB of RAM. Images of the case suggest it will come in black with gold trim elements. Several sources are reporting this device will be powered by a quad-core Snapdragon S4 chip. It is unclear how accurate this may be as HTC’s page for the device on their Chinese site indicates the One XC has a dual-core processor. The bad news for most readers is that the device may never make it outside of the Chinese market. Hit the break for some additional images.

Sony brings Xperia Tipo and Xperia Tipo Dual to the US

Following the company’s Xperia acro S release, Sony has announced the impending US availability of its budget-level Xperia Tipo and Xperia Tipo Dual handsets. Currently available in Europe, the smartphones both sport an 800MHz single-core Snapdragon CPU, 512MB of RAM, a 3.2-inch HVGA (480×320) display and Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich. The Xperia Tipo Dual, however, will feature two SIM slots, which isn’t something that usually makes its way to the United States. Customers will also get a rather disappointing 3-megapixel rear camera. Unfortunately, both units will only support 3G HSPA connectivity for use with AT&T.

The Xperia Tipo and Xperia Tipo Dual are now available to purchase from Sony’s official online store for $179.99  and $189.99, respectively. Color choices include serene black, classic silver, navy blue and deep red for the Xperia Tipo, and classic black and classic white for the Xperia Tipo Dual. For more information, you can catch the full press release past the break.

Boost Mobile makes the LG Venice official, Available October 10 for $219

Last week the LG Venice was outed for Boost Mobile, and today they made it official. It’s essentially the LG Optimus L7 and the specs include:

• 4.3-inch (800 x 480) display
• 1GHz processor
• 5MP camera
• 720p video recording
• Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich

It will be available starting October 10 at a no contract price of $219.99. If you’re not familiar with Boost Mobile, they offer a no contract Android Monthly Unlimited plan for $55 with Shrinking Payments. For every six on-time payments, your monthly cost will drop by $5.00. The lowest you can go is $40 per month, which would take 18 consecutive on-time payments. The plan includes unlimited nationwide talk, text and picture messaging.

Android 4.0.4 for the T-Mobile HTC One S is rolling out!

The long-awaited update for the T-Mobile HTC One S is finally rolling out to users nationwide. Of course, the software upgrade consists of the infamous “Android 4.0.4″ alongside its companion, 4.1 Sense. There is no doubt that the One S is one of HTC’s most popular devices, leaving users very anxious for some perfomance fixes and bug tweaks. And that is exactly what the update brought! You can now expect “more smooth” transitions with performance improvements, as well as wireless tweaks, involving Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

Connectivity issues with wireless devices and networks have been a huge problem with the orginal build for the HTC One S, but we are happy to say, those are gone. Even though that the update isn’t 4.1 JellyBean, the OTA fix will help a lot of users in their daily tasks. All in all, the update will round up at about 150mb, so if you are locked into a “tiered” data plan, we recommend that you utilize your home wireless connection.

What do you think of the update? If you already installed it, are you noticing improvements? I would love to hear your comments, and… Happy Updating!

T-Mobile Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 Appears on FCC As SGH-T779

T-Mobile seems to often be late to the party when rolling out devices, or maybe it’s just my perception as an 11-year customer when they don’t offer a device I want on day-one like other carriers. However, T-Mobile seems to end up getting most of the same nice devices as the other major carriers eventually. The Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 is no exception in this case. Revealed through FCC filing, the newest tablet in T-Mobile’s stable will be released as the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 (SGH-T779). As is usually the case with device sightings on FCC, we will most likely see the Tab 2 on Magenta’s network within the next couple of months if not late next month. Is anyone looking forward to this particular tablet from T-Mobile? Let us know.

Barnes & Noble Announces New Nook HD And Nook HD+ Tablets For The U.S. And UK

Following the lead of the newly launched Kindle Fire HD tablets, Barnes & Noble has just announced two new additions to the Nook family: the 7-inch and 9-inch Nook HD+ tablets. The 7-inch Nook HD will be known as the world’s lightest and highest-resolution HD tablet, while the 9-inch Nook HD+ will be identified as the world’s lightest full HD tablet. The 7-inch Nook HD tablet will start at $199 and feature a 1.3GHz dual-core chip, 1GB of RAM, a 1440×900 243 ppi laminated display and will weigh only 11.1 ounces. The 9-inch Nook HD+ on the other hand will start at $269 and feature a zippy 1.5GHz dual-core processor, 1GB of RAM, a 1920×1280 256 ppi laminated display and will come in at a mere 18.2 ounces in heft. The best thing is that the owners of either tablet will have the ability to access three million books, a large selection of magazines and apps with the newly launched NOOK Video and NOOK Catalog content.

Each tablet will be available for pre-order starting today in the States, while pre-orders will be available in the UK starting next month. You’ll find additional details once you jump past the break.

ASUS Transformer Prime receives Android 4.1 Jelly Bean update in Sweden

ASUS has officially announced the impending rollout of Android 4.1 Jelly Bean to Transformer Prime owners in Sweden. Users should begin seeing an OTA update sometime today. As always, if the update doesn’t automatically show up, you can head into settings -> about device -> software update to pull the firmware directly from ASUS’ servers.

The company is also insistent to remind everybody that along with the update, users will lose official Adobe flash support and Wifi-Direct. Because of this, ASUS isn’t forcing Prime owners to accept or install the update. While there haven’t been any further announcements made pertaining to rollouts in other countries, users can take this news as a good sign. In fact, rumors suggest that if the update goes smoothly, other markets could expect to see Android 4.1 as early as October.

New vulnerability found in Samsung devices, TouchWiz to blame

Today a rather catastrophic exploit was found in Samsung’s TouchWiz UI. The new hack allows websites to run a USSD code commanding the device to wipe itself back to factory state, and possibly even damage the SIM card. This means that just by simply visiting a infected website could remove all your pictures, contacts, apps and most importantly: your high score on Temple Run.

Luckily this piece of malicious code will only interface with the TouchWiz interface, so if you’re running CyanogenMod or any other custom ROMs, you’re most likely safe. The current list of affected device include the aforementioned Galaxy S III, the Galaxy S II, Galaxy Beam, Galaxy Ace and Galaxy S Advance.

iPhone 5 vs. Galaxy S III in Durability Test

First there was that poster-like, anti-iPhone 5 ad that Samsung published in print ads making it look like a “tale of the tape” fittingly before a fight. Well, now we’re about to find out who wins. Only in the arbitrary world of durability tests. Granted, we all like to know how durable that expensive piece of hardware that we’re laying down hard-earned cash for really is. However, with all due respect, this “test” is more for entertainment purposes. Dropping phones from human hands with numerous variables involved is far from scientific and can only be taken as entertainment. Without further ado, check the video for your entertainment and you be the judge.  Hit the break for the video.

Motorola’s RAZR i event now available to watch online

Did you happen to miss Motorola’s unveiling of its first Intel-powered smartphone last week? Fear not. The entire event is now available to watch online. As a refresher, the RAZR i is essentially an international variant of the Droid RAZR M, and sports a 2GHz Atom CPU, as well as a 4.3-inch edge-to-edge display. We’ve embedded the full video after the break for your immediate viewing pleasure. You’re welcome.

HTC Enticing Apple iPhone Owners To Trade Their Phones In For A One X With Free urBeats Headset

 If you find that you’re sick of the Apple iPhone and are interested in grabbing yourself an Android phone instead, HTC has the incentive to entice customers to come on over to the wild side. The manufacturer has presented a solid promotion where customers can trade in their iPhone (in fully functional and good condition, of course) and buy a One X instead, with a side of $99 urBeats headsets thrown in for free. Naturally customers may not expect to get top dollar for the iPhone compared to online listings like Craigslist or eBay, but you gotta admit— the idea of having the awesome One X with a sweet headset may be too good  of a deal to pass up.

The promotion ends on October 21st, so those of you iPhone owners on the fence about switching over will have some time to think about it. Hopefully you’ll find a reason or two to help make the decision a little easier.

The Cube U9GTV sports Android 4.1 and 2048 x 1536 ‘Retina’ display

Usually when we bring up cheap, knock-off Chinese tablets, readers begin cringing with fear. However, a new slate from the land of the sleeping giant could potentially change our unyielding distrust. The Cube U9GTV is an Android 4.1-powered slate, fueled by a dual-core 1.6GHz Cortex A9 processor and 1GB of RAM. Because that wasn’t enough to separate it from the pack, the manufacturer has included a 9.7-inch display with an eye-soothing 2048 x 1536 pixels, equating to about 264 ppi — the same as Apple’s newest iPad.

Availability is slated for next month, and rumor has it that the tablet will launch for under €200, or about $260 in the US. Without having seen the device for ourselves, there’s no way to vouch for the screen quality, though it does have our undivided attention. To get a better feel for the tablet, we’ve included a set of comparison images and videos after the break.

Archos 101 XS now available in Europe

Last month, Archos announced their new Gen10 XS line of tablets which offer a sweet, built-in magnetic “Coverboard” that acts as a stand and also a protective case. Today, it looks like one of the Gen10 tablets, the 101 XS, is available for purchase online in Europe. As a little refresher, the 101 XS is the Gen10 XS lineup’s flagship model and comes with a 10.1″ (1280×800) display, a 1.2GHz dual-core OMAP 4470 processor, 16GB of storage and a near-stock Ice Cream Sandwich experience. Nothing about those specs will blow you away, but Archos is hoping that the “Coverboard” feature will set it apart from other tablets out there. The 10″ 101 XS will run you £300. If you pick one up, give us your opinion of this one-of-a-kind tablet.

LG Venice (aka Optimus L7) gets outed for Boost Mobile

@evleaks is at it again. This time it isn’t so high profile, but nevertheless Boost Mobile fans might be happy to know about the LG Venice. It’s essentially the Optimus L7, which is a mid-level phone boasting a 4.3-inch (800 x 480) display, 1 GHz CPU, 5MP rear camera, and Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich. We recently saw a leak of another version of the Optimus L7 for U.S. Cellular called the LG Splendor.

Lightest Android tablet ever launched by NTT DoCoMo

If having a super-light tablet is important to you, and if you happen to live in Japan, then you’re in luck. Today, NTT DoCoMo launched its NEC Medias Tab UL N08-D tablet in Japan. This featherweight tablet weighs in at a paltry 249 g. Compare that to the Kindle Fire HD and Nexus 7 coming in at 400 g and 345 g respectively and you can see just how light this 7″ tablet really is. That’s not just a couple of grams of difference, my friends. The tablet achieves this feat by utilizing the same carbon fiber material that’s used in modern aircraft.

The 7″ tablet  features a 1280 x 800 LCD display, a 1.5GHz dual-core processor, will run Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, and will sport an 8MP rear camera coupled with a 2MP front-shooter. It’ll also feature some nice software features as well. The tablet will allow for web browsing that will let you view two tabs at the same time. It’ll also feature what they call “HD haptics” vibration feedback element that’s applied to every on-screen element.

MetroPCS to Launch ZTE Anthem 4G

It’s been a busy morning for the budget-minded manufacturer ZTE. First they announced the Blade III‘s availability in Finland for release this month, followed by a launch in Sweden in October. They’ve now followed that up with the announcement of the Anthem 4G available from MetroPCS which will be the first 4G LTE Android smartphone from ZTE available in the United States. The device will run on Android 2.3 Gingerbread,  will sport a 4.3″ WVGA display, and feature a dual-core 1.2 GHz Snapdragon processor. The Anthem 4G from MetroPCS can be had “in the coming weeks” for $219 after rebates, while the LTE plans range from $40-$70 per month. We’ll keep you posted if a solid release date is announced. Hit the break for the full press release.

MetroPCS Adds ZTE Anthem™ 4G to its Expanding 4G LTE Smartphone Portfolio

Anthem 4G is first ZTE 4G LTE AndroidTM smartphone in the U.S.

September 20, Richardson, TX – MetroPCS Communications, Inc. (NYSE: PCS) and ZTE Corporation (H share stock code: 0763.HK / A share stock code: 000063.SZ) (“ZTE”), a publicly-listed global provider of telecommunications equipment and network solutions, today announced the availability of the ZTE Anthem™ 4G, the first 4GLTE Android™ smartphone from ZTE available in the United States. The Anthem 4G will be available at MetroPCS stores and online in the coming weeks.

The ZTE Anthem 4G features 4GLTE connectivity, a dual-core 1.2 GHz Snapdragon™ processor and a 4.3” WVGA capacitive touchscreen, making it an ideal choice for the style-conscious consumer who also demands speed, performance and ease of use. Available with any of MetroPCS’ tax and regulatory fee-inclusive 4GLTE service plans ranging from $40 – $70 per month and including the new $55 unlimited 4GLTE promotional plan, the ZTE Anthem 4G makes it possible for value-conscious customers to experience the power of MetroPCS’ 4GLTE network.

“As our first U.S. 4GLTE smartphone, we’re proud to launch the Anthem 4G with our long-time partner MetroPCS because we share their goal of providing consumers with outstanding value and a strong 4G LTE experience,” said Lixin Cheng, CEO, ZTE USA, and president, North America Region, ZTE.

The ZTE Anthem 4G offers an exceptional user experience for customers who want to do more with their smartphones, such as share multimedia content in the moment. The Anthem 4G features HD video output via a HDMI connector, which makes on-the-go HD video playback a reality. Consumers can connect the Anthem 4G to a television or computer monitor via the HDMI port to share their favorite HD videos and films on the big screen with family, friends and colleagues, and with Dolby® Surround Audio, the multimedia playback experience becomes more realistic and immersive.

The Anthem 4G also features dual microphones with noise cancellation, delivering impressive sound quality by extracting surrounding noise from the primary microphone. The smartphone runs on Android™ 2.3 (Gingerbread).

The Anthem 4G will be available in the coming weeks for $219 plus tax after mail-in-rebate for a limited time at local MetroPCS stores or online at www.metropcs.com. The ZTE Anthem 4G supports MetroPCS’ 4GLTE Mobile Hotspot service for an additional monthly charge.

Sprint Announces New Utility Update For The Samsung Galaxy S III Smartphone

Hot off the heels of AT&T Galaxy S III owners getting a minor utility update, Galaxy S III owners on Sprint’s Now Network are being treated to a new update as well. Sprint announced the new update will bring the software version to L710VPL13. Not– it’s not the addition of Jelly Bean, but it will at least include the following:

• Inclusion of SWYPE keyboard
• Improved LTE connectivity
• SMS Messaging improvements
• EAS sync improvements

As always, the updates will be released in stages. This means some users will either get the update notification pushed to their phones or will find it by manually checking for a software update; others will need wait a bit before finding the update available for their phones. Happy updating!

ZTE Officially Launches The Blade III Smartphone For The Nordic Markets

 ZTE has announced its newest smartphone called the Blade III— yes that same Blade III we mentioned to you we menitoned to you sometime last month. This smartphone will be featured as more or less a budget offering as it has a 1GHz single-core Snapdragon processor, 512MB, a 4-inch screen and 5MP camera. Not the most impressive device on the planet, but at least it will be loaded up with a heavy dose of Ice Cream Sandwich onboard. For now, the device will launch in Finland this month, followed by Sweden next month and cost a measly 1499 SEK ($230 USD).

You’ll find more details once you hit past break.

 World premiere of ZTE Blade III smartphone in Nordic markets

With a 4-inch screen, ten times more memory and upgraded operating system, mobile users can enjoy an even sharper multimedia experience – without compromising on price

Stockholm,  20 September 2012 – ZTE Corporation (“ZTE”) (H share stock code: 0763.HK / A share stock code: 000063.SZ), a publicly-listed global provider of telecommunications equipment and network solutions, today launched the ZTE Blade III, the third sequel of the ZTE Blades series. ZTE Blade III premieres on the Nordic market and once again combines high performance with a moderate price point. With an expanded storage memory, an enlarged 4- inch screen and an Android 4.0 upgraded operating system, the Blade III further improves the user experience by offering extra space to store pictures, music or apps, and providing an excellent video or gaming experience. By launching Blade III ZTE continues to deliver on its vision: better performance for money.
“With Blade III we have paid extra attention to our users. We have focused on a larger screen and expanded the storage space significantly. ZTE Blade III is the first ever smartphone in its price range with a 4-inch touch screen and Android 4.0. This enables more users to take part in an extremely sharp multimedia experience, without costing an arm and a leg,” said Mr. Ao Wen, Vice President of Europe Operations for ZTE Handsets.

The ZTE Blade III is an easy-to-use smartphone with WiFi, a 4-inch WVGA touch screen and, 2.5 GB memory which can be further expanded with a 32 GB memory card. The 5 megapixel camera with autofocus, and support for video and audio standards including MPEG4 and, AAC+ makes it easier and more fun to watch movies, use social networks and listen to music.

Blade III will be launched in black in Sweden in October and in white in Finland in September. It will have a recommended reseller price in Sweden at 1499 SEK and will launch in other key markets around Europe and the world throughout 2012.
Specifications

-  4 inch WVGA (800×480) 262K TFT Capacitive Touch Screen
–  Weight: 130 gram
–  Size: 123 mm x 63.5 mm x 10mm
–  1GHz Qualcomm MSM 7227 A processor
–  Android 4.0
–  Memory: ROM 4 GB, ca 2.5GB accessible to the user, RAM 512 MB
–  Supports Micro SD memory card up to 32 GB 
–  5.0 MP AF camera
–  HD-ljud, Dual Mic
–  Mobile standards: HSDPA (7.2Mbps) /UMTS/ GSM/GPRS/EDGE
–  Audio standards: MP3, AAC, AAC+, midi, wav, AMR-NB
–  Dolby, DLNA
–  Video standards: MPEG4, H.263, H.264
–  Wireless communications standards: Bluetooth™ 2.1, A2DP, GPS, WiFi 802.11 b/g/n
–  Battery capacity: Li-ion1600 mAh
–  FOTA (Firmware Over-the-Air) – funktion som används för att på ett smidigt sätt uppgradera smartphones
–  FM radio

T-Mobile To Begin Offering Marvel’s The Avengers For Download To Galaxy S III Owners Starting September 25th

 T-Mobile Galaxy S III owners are about to be treated to something special. The nation’s 4th-largest wireless carrier is set to make Marvel’s The Avengers available to all owners, starting September 25th. The virtual preload will be available through Samsung’s Media Hub and can be shared to a compatible TV via the AllShare Cast feature and AllShare Cast Wireless Hub. Best of all— customers won’t need to worry about any overages or data caps should they choose to stream or download content that supports the AllShare Cast feature or AllShare Cast Wireless Hubs and are on T-Mobile’s Unlimited Nationwide 4G Data plan.

In addition, there’s no better way to enjoy the blockbuster film being available than with T-Mobile making the AllShare Cast Hub accessory available to all customers starting September 24th. T-Mobile customers definitely have it pretty good sometimes, don’t they? Hit the break to see the full press release.

T-Mobile to Bring “Marvel’s The Avengers” to the Samsung Galaxy S® III
 
“Marvel’s The Avengers,” the No. 1 Movie of the Year, Will be Virtually Preloaded on All New and Existing T-Mobile Galaxy S III Smartphones Starting Sept. 25th
 
BELLEVUE, Wash. — Sept. 20, 2012 — T-Mobile USA, Inc., the No. 1 mobile operator brand in Samsung Galaxy S® sales, and Samsung Telecommunications America, LLC (Samsung Mobile),1 today announced new and enhanced features which will be added to all Samsung Galaxy S® III smartphones at T-Mobile®.
 
Expanding on the already robust entertainment and sharing features of the top-selling Galaxy S III, new and existing owners of the smartphone will receive “Marvel’s The Avengers” – the no. 1 movie of the year and 3rd biggest release of all time – as a virtual preload, available for download in the Samsung Media Hub, only at T-Mobile. In addition, T-Mobile customers will have the ability to wirelessly share licensed content, such as movies and TV shows, to a compatible TV via the AllShare Cast feature and AllShare Cast Wireless Hub. Paired with T-Mobile’s new Unlimited Nationwide 4G Data plan, the new features make it easy for customers to stream or download unlimited video content, including their favorite movies and TV shows, without having to worry about data caps, speed limits or overages.
 
With today’s on-the-go lifestyle, an overwhelming majority (91 percent) of smartphone owners are using their devices for entertainment purposes for a wide variety of content – from YouTube clips and user-generated videos to feature films, games, music and more. In fact, a recent T-Mobile survey2 found this trend to be on the rise and more than one in 10 (11 percent) surveyed smartphone users rely on their smartphones so much for entertainment that they watch more video content on their devices than on their TVs.
 
“T-Mobile is committed to bringing leading-edge smartphone experiences to our customers by offering new features, including exciting content such as ‘Marvel’s The Avengers,’” said Brad Duea, senior vice president, product management, T-Mobile USA. “Whether our customers choose to stream or download content directly to their devices or share it to the big screen, as the only nationwide 4G network that offers an unlimited 4G data plan, T-Mobile is making it easier than ever to unleash all that the Galaxy S III has to offer.”
 
The third most-popular movie of all time, “Marvel’s The Avengers,” will be virtually pre-loaded on all T-Mobile Galaxy S III smartphones with this exclusive offer. The movie will be available in HD quality beginning Sept. 25 — the same day “Marvel’s The Avengers” becomes available on Blu-ray 3D, Blue-ray, DVD, digital and on-demand across the nation. T-Mobile customers can download “Marvel’s The Avengers” movie by visiting Samsung Media Hub on their Galaxy S III.3
 
“We are excited to partner with T-Mobile on this groundbreaking promotion and provide the highest-quality film experience for ‘Marvel’s The Avengers’ to Galaxy S III smartphone owners,” commented Dan Cohen, executive vice president, pay television and digital, Disney-ABC Domestic Television.
 
In addition, with a recent software update, Galaxy S III owners will be able to share licensed content, including TV shows and movies from Samsung Media Hub, wirelessly with AllShare Cast to any HDMI-capable TV with the addition of a new accessory, the Samsung AllShare Cast Wireless Hub.  The AllShare Cast Hub accessory will cost $99.99 and will be available via http://www.T-Mobile.com and in T-Mobile retail stores beginning Sept. 24.
 
To showcase the new features of the Galaxy S III, as well as T-Mobile’s full suite of Samsung Galaxy S devices, T-Mobile will introduce the Samsung Galaxy Zone in stores around the country this fall. The new interactive fixture will be rolled out in hundreds of locations and will provide an exclusive, enhanced retail experience for T-Mobile customers. The Galaxy Zone offers customers the opportunity to demo a Samsung device while using two television screens to visually supplement demonstrated device activity, such as AllShare Play, bringing to life the amazing experiences these devices offer.

1 Samsung Mobile is the No. 1 mobile phone provider in the United States according to Strategy Analytics, North America Handset Vendor Marketshare, Q2 2012.
 
2 About The Survey The T-Mobile Smartphone Screen Survey was conducted between May 29th and June 5th, 2012 among 1,031 Americans ages 18 and over who own a smartphone, using an email invitation and an online survey. Results of any sample are subject to sampling variation. The magnitude of the variation is measurable and is affected by the number of interviews and the level of the percentages expressing the results. In this particular study, the chances are 95 in 100 that a survey result does not vary, plus or minus, by more than 3.1 percentage points from the result that would be obtained if interviews had been conducted with all persons in the universe represented by the sample. The margin of error for any subgroups will be slightly higher.
 
Kelton is a leading global insights firm serving as a partner to more than 100 of the Fortune 500 and thousands of smaller companies and organizations. Utilizing a wide range of customized, innovative research techniques and staff expertise in marketing, branding, PR, media, and business strategy; Kelton helps drive our clients’ businesses forward.
 
3 Data rates apply unless downloaded via Wi-Fi.
 
Samsung, Galaxy, Galaxy S and Super AMOLED are trademarks of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.  Other company names, product names and marks mentioned herein are the property of their respective owners and may be trademarks or registered trademarks.
 
About T-Mobile USA: 
Based in Bellevue, Wash., T-Mobile USA, Inc. is the U.S. wireless operation of Deutsche Telekom AG (OTCQX: DTEGY). By the end of the second quarter of 2012, approximately 130 million mobile customers were served by the mobile communication segments of the Deutsche Telekom group — 33.2 million by T-Mobile USA — all via a common technology platform based on GSM and UMTS and additionally HSPA+ 21/HSPA+ 42. T-Mobile USA’s innovative wireless products and services help empower people to connect to those who matter most. Multiple independent research studies continue to rank T-Mobile USA among the highest in numerous regions throughout the U.S. in wireless customer care and call quality. For more information, please visit http://www.T-Mobile.com.         T-Mobile is a federally registered trademark of Deutsche Telekom AG. For further information on Deutsche Telekom, please visit http://www.telekom.de/investor-relations.
 
About Samsung Telecommunications America:
Samsung Telecommunications America, LLC, (Samsung Mobile) a Dallas-based subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., researches, develops and markets wireless handsets, wireless infrastructure and other telecommunications products throughout North America. For more information, please visit www.samsung.com.
 
About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.:
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is a global leader in semiconductor, telecommunication, digital media and digital convergence technologies with 2011 consolidated sales of US$143.1 billion. Employing approximately 206,000 people in 197 offices across 72 countries, the company operates two separate organizations to coordinate its nine independent business units: Digital Media & Communications, comprising Visual Display, Mobile Communications, Telecommunication Systems, Digital Appliances, IT Solutions, and Digital Imaging; and Device Solutions, consisting of Memory, System LSI and LED. Recognized for its industry-leading performance across a range of economic, environmental and social criteria, Samsung Electronics was named the world’s most sustainable technology company in the 2011 Dow Jones Sustainability Index. For more information, please visit www.samsung.com.
 
Forward-Looking Statements:
This press release contains forward-looking statements that reflect the current views of Deutsche Telekom management with respect to future events. These forward-looking statements may include statements with regard to the expected development of revenue, earnings, profits from operations, depreciation and amortization, cash flows and personnel-related measures. You should consider them with caution. Such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and are generally beyond Deutsche Telekom’s control. Among the factors that might influence our ability to achieve our objectives are the progress of our workforce reduction initiative and other cost-saving measures, and the impact of other significant strategic, labor or business initiatives, including acquisitions, dispositions and business combinations, and our network upgrade and expansion initiatives. In addition, stronger than expected competition, technological change, legal proceedings and regulatory developments, among other factors, may have a material adverse effect on our costs and revenue development. Further, the economic downturn in our markets, and changes in interest and currency exchange rates, may also have an impact on our business development and the availability of financing on favorable conditions. Changes to our expectations concerning future cash flows may lead to impairment write downs of assets carried at historical cost, which may materially affect our results at the group and operating segment levels. If these or other risks and uncertainties materialize, or if the assumptions underlying any of these statements prove incorrect, our actual performance may materially differ from the performance expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. We can offer no assurance that our estimates or expectations will be achieved. Without prejudice to existing obligations under capital market law, we do not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements to take new information or future events into account or otherwise.
 
In addition to figures prepared in accordance with IFRS, Deutsche Telekom also presents non-GAAP financial performance measures, including, among others, EBITDA, EBITDA margin, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA margin, adjusted EBIT, adjusted net income, free cash flow, gross debt and net debt. These non-GAAP measures should be considered in addition to, but not as a substitute for, the information prepared in accordance with IFRS. Non-GAAP financial performance measures are not subject to IFRS or any other generally accepted accounting principles. Other companies may define these terms in different ways. 

Google Maps update now syncs searches across devices

Yesterday Google released an update to the Google Maps for Android app to make it more useful. Perhaps the biggest change involves syncing between mobile devices and the desktop browser version of Google Maps. When signed in to Google Maps with web history enabled, you will get search and directions history synced to your mobile device. On your smartphone or tablet, just go to My Places within the Google Maps app and click on the “Search” or “Directions” tab to access a history of the places you have searched for. Besides syncing with your desktop, the app saves your search history making it easier to access places and businesses for which you’ve already completed a search.

As in previous versions of Google Maps for Android, if you have established locations such as “home” or “work”, you can just type these in the search box on your mobile device to call them up. All of these changes are designed to make it easier and quicker to find directions while on the go.

SIM-free Sony Xperia T sales to be unrestricted

This past weekend we reported that customers looking to purchase a SIM-free Sony Xperia T off-contract in the UK could be in for a long wait. Today, Sony has managed to slightly clear things up, reiterating that the Xperia T will be available “within timescales previously announced through Vodafone, EE, O2, 3, Carphone Warehouse, Phones4U and Tesco.” Furthermore, Sony made it known that it would not be imposing restrictions on how the units are sold. This means the above retailers will be the ultimate deciders when it comes to whether or not SIM-free devices are actually sold.

In the past, Phones4U and Carphone Warehouse have offered SIM-free deals on the latest phones, which leads us to believe that they would do the same for Sony’s latest flagship. With the phone launching next week in the UK, it looks like we won’t have to wait much longer to find out.

LG officially launches the Optimus G: available in Korea next week, worldwide in October

While LG already announced its latest flagship last month, it was unclear when exactly the handset would be launching. Fear not, as the Korean manufacturer has just revealed that the Optimus G will be available in the company’s home country next week, followed by a full-scale launch in October.

To refresh your memory on just how powerful the Optimus G really is, the official specs are listed as:

• 1.5GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro processor Quad-Core and LTE
• Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich
• LTE, NFC, Bluetooth 4.0
• 4.7-inch WXGA True HD IPS Plus (1280 x 768 pixels)
• 32GB On Board Storage
• 2GB DDR RAM
• 13.0MP or 8.0MP rear cameras (depends on region) / 1.3MP front
• 2,100mAh Battery rated at: Talk time: 15 hours / Standby: 335 hours
• 145g, 31.9 x 68.9 x 8.45mm

That’s not all, though. LG is touting its new “creative and engaging” UX, which is supposed to allow users to “live without boundaries”. While we’re not necessarily fond of any Android skins, LG’s new user interface offers some features that could potentially be productive and useful. One of which is called QSlide, an applet that allows users to open up two separate screens on the device that work completely independent of the other. There have also been some tweaks made to the camera utility to better suit the impressive 13-megapixel camera. For the full run-down, be sure to catch the official press release after the break.

HTC’s rumored 5-inch One X 5 revealed in leaked press shots

We previously saw HTC’s elusive 5-inch Galaxy Note II competitor earlier this month in a set of leaked photos. And, just this weekend we heard about the device’s impressive specs, which include Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon S4 Pro quad-core processor. Today, however, we’ve stumbled upon actual press renders of the alleged handset, leading us to believe that an official announcement is inevitable.

The device will purportedly be known as the One X 5, though it’s entirely possible we could see Verizon’s exclusive Droid branding on the phone before it arrives. The Taiwanese manufacturer’s newest handset is expected to feature a 5-inch display with full 1080p resolution, equating to a retina-soothing 480ppi. There’s no word on a release date, but HTC does have an event planned for this Wednesday in New York City, and we’ll be there to bring you all the latest.