Samsung Releases The Jelly Bean Source Code For Verizon Galaxy S III Smartphone

Many of you Verizon Galaxy S III owners are just recently enjoying that awesome Jelly Bean goodness, but there is additional good at hand. Samsung has quietly dropped the latest Jelly Bean source code (version LK3) for Verizon’s popular device– so this brings all of you developers and fiddlers one giant step closer to custom mod glory. Interested parties can find all the juicy deets once they hit the source link below.

source: Samsung Open Source

Samsung Pushes Jelly Bean Update To The Korean Variants Of The Galaxy S III Smartphone

News has surfaced that Samsung has (finally) pushed the coveted Jelly Bean update to the Korean variants of the Galaxy S III smartphone. According to the gang at SamMobile, the update is now up for owners of the different Korean versions of the smartphone and can be downloaded via Kies Desktop Software or through OTA. The massive update will bring the Android software version to 4.1.2 and the build to JZO54K, while bringing the usual goodies like Multi-View, Smart Rotation and revamped Notification Panel.

As exciting as this news is— the rest of the world is still waiting for the other versions of the Galaxy S III getting the Jelly Bean update. At least we’re seeing the devices get the update— one step at a time.

source: SamMobile

T-Mobile Samsung Galaxy S III $98 at Walmart on contract

For those still holding out for a deal on the Galaxy S III, Wal-Mart seems like the place to be as it looks like they’re offering the device for $98 for new contracts as well as qualifying upgrades. This doesn’t look like it’s any sort of promo either as we may see this price for a while. It must be noted however that Wal-Mart only offers Classic plans through T-Mobile so you’ll have to crunch some numbers and see if this deal is right for you since Classic plans are typically more than Value plans, yet you don’t have to pay the extra $20 per month on Classic. Decisions, Decisions… Let us know if you’re jumping on this deal as it’s always intriguing regarding the ‘numbers game’ when we’re discussing T-Mobile.

source: TmoNews

Samsung releases second video showcasing additional features of the Galaxy S III premium suite upgrade

Last week Samsung released a video highlighting many of the features that will be on the upcoming premium suite upgrade for the Galaxy S III. There’s still more features as they just released part two. This one shows you Paper Artist, Low Light Shot, Best Face, Easy Mode, Sound Balance, Setup Wizard, and Camera Easy Snap. Just hit the break to check it out.

Samsung Galaxy S III To Get Premium Suite Upgrade, Makes The Jelly Bean Update A Whole Lot Tastier

So you own a Galaxy S III, but haven’t gotten that coveted Jelly Bean update yet— but are itching to get an idea of what to look forward to in the imminent update? Well great you’re in luck as Samsung recently posted a video highlighting its Premium Suite upgrade found in a special update. Similar to what is seen on other Samsung devices, Galaxy S III owners who are likely to be due for the update can look forward to items such as Contextual Awareness actions like Page Buddy which allows your Galaxy S III to predict your intentions based off your actions (think of when you plug in your earphones, the device automatically opens the music player) or Enhanced Features like the coveted Multi-Window multitasking feature.

While it is cool to get an idea of what users could potentially look forward to– unfortunately Samsung highlights the Premium Suite “availability and timing will vary depending on the country and mobile carrier”, so it’s uncertain of if most Galaxy S III owners will see the update. However, we’re holding out hope that most (if not all) Galaxy S III users will get to utilize all the cool features. Hit the break to get an idea of what the Premium Suite entails exactly.

source: Samsung Tomorrow

Jelly Bean Rollout Beginning For Unlocked Samsung Galaxy S III (GT-I9300) Smartphone

Fresh off other variants getting some Jelly Bean lovin’, Sammy has begun to push the coveted Android 4.1.2 update to the international variant of the Samsung Galaxy S III smartphone. It is confirmed that the official rollout has begun worldwide, though it’s currently being pushed out in phases— so it’s unclear which GT-I9300 models will get the update first for now. The update will bring the Jelly Bean build to JZO54K and will bring the usual goodies like Google Now, Multi-View capabilities, Smart Rotation and a customizable Notification Panel among other things.

Owners of the unlocked model can check for the update through Kies Desktop software or OTA through their device’s Settings. If it’s not available don’t fret— the update will certainly be here before you know it.

source: SamMobile

Jelly Bean update available for AT&T Galaxy S III via Kies

I know this comes as welcome news this morning for AT&T owners of the Samsung Galaxy S III after reading about the T-Mobile version receiving Jelly Bean in mid-November. It looks multiple users have reported today that you can grab the  Jelly Bean update for the AT&T Galaxy S III via Kies Desktop Software. Give it a shot and let us know if you’re able to grab the update.

source:  Android Central

Canadian Samsung Galaxy S III Smartphones Starting To Get Jelly Bean Update

Right on cue, the Canadian variant of the Samsung Galaxy S III has begun receiving a heavy scoop of Jelly Bean across the major carriers. The latest update brings the Canadian builds toI747MVLDLK4 and will bring the usual Jelly Bean goodies like Google Now and Project Butter, as well as custom items like a sizable pop-up screen and additional home screen modes. All in all, the official update being launched should make those already awesome devices just a wee bit better.

The update is available now and can be found using Kies Desktop software or if you are the impatient type— you can always go to your Settings and manually grab the update OTA. Happy updating!

source: SamMobile

Samsung to introduce 3 new colors for the Galaxy S III Mini and Note 2, as well as a La Fleur edition of the Galaxy S III

There’s nothing better in life than variety, right? Samsung also seems to think so and is planning on doing just that to make their most successful device to date even better. Starting “around” January (just in time for Valentine’s day) Samsung is planning on releasing a La Fleur edition to the Galaxy S III, Galaxy Ace 2, Galaxy Ace DUOS and Galaxy S DUOS. These devices will essentially have a flower print on both the front and back of the device. Certainly a nice touch and gift to give to a girlfriend or wife.

In other news, Samsung also plans on release 3 new colors for the Galaxy S Mini and Galaxy Note 2. The new colors for the Galaxy S III mini are: Titan Gray, Garnet Red and Onyx Black. Samsung expects these new colors sometime in December. As for the Note 2: Amber Brown, Topaz Blue and Ruby Wine. These colors won’t be available till early 2013.

So what do you all think about these new colors and La Fleur edition of Samsung devices? Certainly, variety can’t hurt right?

source: SamMobile & SamMobile

Vodafone Red Hot offers new pricing twist for smartphone buyers

Vodafone UK has come up with a new twist for potential buyers of smartphones on their network. Dubbed Vodafone Red Hot, users sign up for a pair of 12-month contracts. The first is for a typical data plan that includes unlimited voice and text and up to 2GB of data. The second contract is to “hire” the device you select. Effectively, the plan is like an auto lease as you have to turn the phone back in to Vodafone at the end of the year unless you decide to pony up and pay for the device or switch to a month to month plan with continuing “lease” payments.

The main benefit for some buyers is that the upfront cost to get a new device can be avoided. The downside is that you don’t own the device and you need to return it at the end of the term in good condition to avoid a charge for wear or damage. You would also have to make sure you had a way to export any data, like contacts, pictures, videos, and other files off the device before turning it back in. Customizing the device via ROM installs or such will also be a problem unless you plan ahead to return it to stock.

Only a few devices are available, but they are current “red hot” devices. Pricing for the devices, including the data plan, is:

• iPhone 5 16GB for £59 per month (about $94 USD)
• Samsung Galaxy S III 16GB for £47 per month (about $75 USD)
• Samsung Galaxy Note II for £52 per month (about $82 USD)

Devices with additional memory are available for a small upfront fee of £29 ($46 USD) for 32GB or £49 for 64GB ($78 USD) versions.

Do you think leasing a smartphone is a good idea? Is it something you would be interested in pursuing if your preferred carrier made it available?

source: Vodafone UK

Samsung Galaxy S III Becomes Top-Selling Phone Of Q3 2012

This year has been very good for Samsung, but Q3 has been a very good period of time especially as Samsung as it can proudly proclaim it offered the top smartphone of Q3 2012. According to Strategy Analytics, Samsung sold 18 million units of its Galaxy S III, while Apple sold 16.2 million units of its iPhone 4S. One thing to note is that the iPhone 5 was released during the quarter as well and accounted for 6 million sales— a number that should increase exponentially when we see the Q4 results. Still, it is mighty nice to see Samsung hold a big-time trump card across all its competitors… for now at least.

Leaked Sam’s Club Black Friday ad shows Galaxy S III price at $0.96

As we move further into the holiday season, we’re going to start hearing more rumors about phones, tablets, and the occasional Black Friday ad. Sam’s Club has recently leaked an ad for November 23rd with a few interesting deals, especially if you’re interested in picking up a new Android phone or tablet at a great price.

Samsung’s flagship phone, the Galaxy S III, will be available for only $0.96. That’s probably only the 16GB model, but for less than a dollar, who would really complain about that? So far, we know it will be available in blue and white, but there’s no word on carrier availability yet. It’s also worth mentioning that this deal is in-club only, so if you’re a primarily online shopper, you’ll have to do a little extra work to snag this deal.

If you’re not in the market for a new phone, Sam’s Club is also offering two models of Samsung’s Galaxy Tab 2 as well. The 7 inch and 16GB 10 inch WiFi model will be on sale for $179 and $299, respectively. This deal, unlike the Galaxy S III, will be available online, so it’ll be a little more flexible to work with.

Anyone planning on upgrading their devices after seeing these discounts?

source: Android Authority

Samsung Rumored To Create A “More Vibrant International Brand Image” As Early As 2013

Samsung might very well be known as a brand that happens to love pushing out devices to the masses, but despite all that— it certainly has some successful devices out there such as the Galaxy S III and Galaxy Note II smartphones. Knowing that it has great devices and a solid sales’ figure to back it up, Sammy is potentially looking to take its brand to another level, as soon as next year. According to Channel News in Australia, anonymous sources claim that Sammy is planning a “more vibrant international brand image” of its company. As part of this upcoming change, the familiar blue Samsung logo will be changed, while each part of Samsung’s business will get its own individual color that will be used in its advertising— meaning we should expect to see a new Samsung Mobile advertising logo for example. The overall hope is that Samsung will move its brand from being identified around features and benefits to a focus instead on “lifestyle activities”.

Whatever it is that Samsung is trying to do, the technology world is eagerly awaiting and will see everything soon enough— by CES 2013 perhaps?

source: Digital Trends

DIY: Custom comic book case for Samsung Galaxy S III

Is that boring solid-color or ubiquitously-designed plastic case just not cutting it anymore? Well, perhaps it’s time to recycle and outfit it with a custom comic book theme.

This do it yourself project stems from the same style of paper mache-like tactics you used in elementary art class. The process is fairly straightforward. Simply cut out your desired pieces of reading material and attach them to your case via Mod Podge application finish. After it sets, just apply some matte or glossy sealer (hair spray works) and, when dry, the end product is a beautiful super-hero themed case not like anything you’d find at an accessory retailer.

For an in-depth guide explaining how to DIY or to order your own customized case, hit the source links below.

Via: Phandroid
Source: Etsy

Samsung Galaxy S III reaches 30 million sales worldwide

Samsung has repeatedly made it clear that its flagship Galaxy S III has proven to be one of the company’s most successful ventures in the mobile space. Even the Korean manufacturer’s oversized Galaxy Note II has managed to make a significant dent in the mobile market.

Just two months ago, sales figures for the GSIII were pegged at 20 million total units. Today however, the company announced that it has moved an astronomical 30 million Galaxy S IIIs worldwide. Undoubtedly, the device will continue to be a prominent player in the market for many months to come, but with the LG Optimus G already available and Google’s very own Nexus 4 looming on the horizon, other non-Sammy options may just be more enticing.

Via: The Verge
Source: Samsung Poland

Mophie releases first non-iOS smartphone case for the Samsung Galaxy S III

Smartphone cases are one of those things that folks either love or hate. I prefer my phone to roll naked. I just don’t like cases whatsoever. I don’t like the feel of them, the added bulk, weight, the look of them… I could go on and on.  I know, I know. You’re crazy to spend the money on a high-end device and not protect it with a case. Fact is, in owning three different smartphones over the span of the last three years, I’ve dropped my device a grand total of three times. Yes, I’m careful with my phones as one should be. It’s just not worth it for me to attach something to my phone that I don’t like in the first place. This new case might change all that for me however.

You may have heard of Mophie cases before. Up until now, they’ve dealt solely with iOS devices, and what makes this case different than others is that not only does it provide protection for your device, it boosts battery life also. I’m not talking about a few extra hours either. This case boosts battery life on the Galaxy S III by over 100% delivering over 2300 mAh worth of additional juice. That’s obviously a pretty big deal. Getting the additional juice will come at a price though, to the tune of $100. It will definitely make for a sweet stocking stuffer this holiday. Hit the break for the full presser.

International Samsung Galaxy S III Jelly Bean updates continue to roll out to more countries

Looks like the Jelly Bean update for the international Samsung Galaxy S III (I9300) is finally in full force. The update has expanded to France, Spain, Romania and Australia with many more countries to follow in the next couple of days.

If you’re interested, you can grab the ROM via Samsung Kies. Other than that, wait patiently and you should receive your update soon enough! Let us know if you’re received your update in newer areas!

Samsung Galaxy S III now as low as $99 on Amazon for a limited time only

Widely regarded as the best Android phone currently out, the Samsung Galaxy S III has been nothing short of amazing ever since its release. Still salivating over the S III but unable to purchase one due to the high price? Well now may be your chance as you can snag this bad boy up for as low as $99 through Amazon! This limited-time sale puts the Android powerhouse in your possession if you sign up for a new individual or family plan with Verizon or Sprint. The AT&T model is also on sale, but for $129.99.

This promotion is for both the Pebble Blue and White 16GB versions. Remember, you have to be a new customer in order to take advantage of this deal. Links will be provided below!

source: Verizon | Sprint | AT&T

Verizon Galaxy S III gets small update, no it’s not Jelly Bean

It looks as if owners of the Verizon Galaxy S III are beginning to see a 62MB-sized update pushed to their devices at this time. We aren’t sure if this is Verizon’s version of the AT&T update that was pushed out about a month ago since it comes in at 20GB less than the 82MB AT&T update. But we do know that it’s not Jelly Bean per Verizon’s release notes, as you’ll still be on 4.0.4 after the update. The update is also said to bring a fix to random reboots as well as better stability in the Play Store. Hopefully this is just the next step in getting that highly anticipated, Jelly Bean update. Be on the lookout for the update notification, or you can always go to About Phone to manually try to grab the update. If you do download it, let us know how noticeable the changes are.

Samsung Officially Reveals the Mid-Range Galaxy S III Mini

We gave you a heads up yesterday that today would be the day Samsung reveals the Samsung Galaxy S III mini. Sure enough, the supposed mini version of Samsung’s flagship device is now official with Samsung making the announcement today in Germany. As a refresher from yesterday’s leak, the specs are now official for the pint-sized device. We’ll be looking at a 4-inch 800×480 Super AMOLED display, 5MP camera, 1GHz dual-core processor, 1GB of RAM, and will run on Android 4.1 Jelly Bean.

Like some of you (based on yesterday’s comments), I’m guilty of setting my expectations too high initially for this device. When I first heard the name, I instantly assumed somewhere in the neighborhood of the Galaxy S III innards, only in a smaller package. I falsely assumed Samsung wanted to capture that market that isn’t crazy about the larger displays. However, it looks like all they’re doing is releasing a Galaxy device to compete in the mid-range market. I guess I can’t really blame them after all. I just wish they would’ve come up with a different name. Let’s face it; the only thing this device has in common with the Galaxy S III is the design and that “inspired by nature” moniker. There’s no word yet on pricing or an LTE version but keep checking here for details. Hit the break for the full press release.