Chinese manufacturer OPPO has just released a new device called the Ulike 2. This beast features a 4.5-inch 960 x 540 LCD screen, 16GB of on-board storage and is powered by Ice Cream Sandwich. While the device doesn’t sound like anything too exciting, here’s the kicker– the device features a full-fledged 5MP front-facing camera complimented by items like a countdown timer and face slimming among other things. Pretty freakin’ impressive indeed, right?
In case you’re wondering— no, the device won’t break the bank too much. The device is available in Chinese markets for a mere $370 USD. It’s a fairly small price to pay for a device with a better FFC than most other devices, right?
Moveover ASUS PadFone 2, it appears that you have a new competitor in the smartphone/tablet hybrid market. A device called the TransPhone has recently been announced and brings a modest smartphone and tablet dock into an affordable package. The new TransPhone is a “Pro” model that features a 3.5-inch 960 x 540 display, a dual-core 1GHz MediaTek dual-core processor and Android 4.0 among the noteworthy features— while the tablet dock features a display of 1024 x 600 7-inch display. Not the prettiest or glamourous features, but hey— at least the device comes with a not too shabby $240 price tag when you pre-order.
Most of us by now are a little spoiled having enjoyed at least Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich for a while now. However, there are still numerous owners with devices that still haven’t been officially upgraded to the newer Android OS. You can now put a check beside the 3G version of Samsung’sGalaxy Tab 8.9 (GT-P7300) as being officially on the list of devices with Android 4.0. Updates are beginning to roll out via OTA and reportedly are available through Samsung Kies. The update should definitely make your tablet run more efficiently, quicker, and also boost battery life.
It may be the start of the holiday season, but there are always great deals available for prospective smartphone shoppers looking to grab a sweet phone that won’t break the bank. In fact, there used to be the notion that in order to grab a phone under $100 on-contract, you’d have to settle for an outdated or budget-level device. However that notion is no longer the case as customers across all carriers can easily find a decent (if not great) device for a reasonable price. Of course figuring out which device may be a bit difficult, but don’t fret— Talk Android has you covered as we’ve come up with a solid guide with our recommendations of the best devices for under $100 on-contract for your respective wireless carrier. So without further ado, head on past the break to see our picks of the best devices that won’t break the bank.
Those of you who have been hankering for a white version of the PadFone 2 are in luck as ASUS has finally delivered on its promise to bring the white PadFone 2 to the masses. Thanks to VR-Zone, we now see a clear view of what the white PadFone 2 and its tablet dock looks like. As you can see, everything retains its sleek and simple design— the only difference is its almost pure white finish. What’s even more impressive is the fact the device is almost completely white not just on the back, but on the front too.
So now that the phone has officially been outed, all we need now is for ASUS to break down and give up the details on when we can expect the device to hit retailers worldwide. Hopefully prospective customers won’t have to wait too long.
While the Sony Xperia Tablet S may just be getting over its physical defects, it is now getting some love thanks to a minor OTA update that is being pushed out to the tablet. This minor update dubbed “release6a” brings a major VPN fix to users who encountered issues trying to log onto corporate or enterprise networks. Sure the minor update still keeps the tablet on Android 4.0.3, but any update is better than no update, right?
If you own the tablet, be sure to head on down to your Settings and System Updates in order to grab the latest update immediately.
We know there’s more than a few of you out there who have been patiently waiting for the Sony Xperia V smartphone and now it appears as if your patience will now pay off. Sony Mobile France has confirmed the elusive device will not arrive at the end of the year, but rather the end of January 2013 instead. While some of you may be disappointed, there is a positive twist— The device will launch with Jelly Bean loaded up instead of the now seemingly outdated Ice Cream Sandwich.
It is worth noting the Xperia V is already out in Japan through several wireless carriers as of the time of this writing, though the expectation is that the version of the Xperia V due next year will be the international version.
ZTE, whose website proclaims is the world’s 4th largest manufacturer, announced the cheapest quad-core smartphone yet. The ZTE U950 packs a 1.3GHz NVIDIA Tegra 3 quad-core processor and 1GB of RAM but its most impressive spec is the 999 yuan price (approximately $160 USD).
The low-priced Android device comes with a 4.3-inch display and is only 9mm-thick. It will have Ice Cream Sandwich at launch but appears to have the specs to support Jelly Bean. It has a 2,000 mAh battery, 5 megapixel rear camera and VGA front facing camera. No word on expandable storage or if the battery is removable.
The first 100,000 people to register on the U950 sign-up page will get to order the device starting November 11th. This is a China release only but might be precursor of what ZTE is planning for other markets. It hasn’t exactly set the US market on fire but an unlocked sub $200 quad-core device would certainly make a splash.
Starting tomorrow owners of the LG Spectrum will be able to upgrade to Ice Cream Sandwich and I think the only thing that can come to mind for these owners is FINALLY. From the original leak of the update back in May to finding out Saturday that Verizon has finally approved the update, Spectrum owners have been patiently waiting for the Ice Cream Sandwich experience. Well starting tomorrow the wait will be over and owners can rejoice in the improvement that is Ice Cream Sandwich. It may sting to know that they are getting this update well after Jelly Bean has been released and with the anticipation of Android 4.2 growing, but better late than never right?
If you haven’t been living under a rock for the past few days, you’re probably well-aware of the upcoming Microsoft Surface tablet. Dubbed as one of the saviors for Microsoft’s rapidly degrading brand, the Surface tablet has already been identified as the true iPad and Android tablet challenger. With its thin profile and abundant storage space (comes in 32GB or 64GB configurations with an expandable storage slot), the Surface tablet will have at least the physical features to make it an interesting product. However, the hardware is just one aspect of the tablet— the real kicker is Microsoft’s brand-new OS: Surface for Windows RT technology. The OS will essentially mirror its upcoming Windows 8 OS, while having exclusive offerings like Microsoft Office 2013 and a special version of Netflix included with the tablet. So in essence, upcoming Surface tablet seems to be a true productivity workhorse— at least on the surface (no pun intended folks).
After countless leaks and much speculation, the next great phablet phone/tablet hybrid is here. ASUS has formally announced the PadFone 2 and it will come jam-packed with lots of sweet features. Packed inside, the PadFone will have a 1.5GHz quad-core Snapdragon processor matched with 2GB of RAM, a stunning 4.7-inch Super IPS display for the smartphone (10.1-inches for the tablet add-on), a beefy 2,140mAh battery and of course, Ice Cream Sandwich. Oh and least we forget the device will have up to 64GB of on-board storage.
Naturally, the successor has to look even more appealing visually than the original, and the PadFone 2 does just that. For starters, the smartphone itself will weigh just 135 grams and come in at 9mm thickness. In addition, despite the larger display and hefty internals, the combination of the tablet and station comes in at just 649 grams in total weight. In fact– what’s even more stunning is the fact the the PadFone 2 and PadFone 2 Station can actually combine together and still weigh less than most tablets available in the market today.
For those of you abroad, the PadFone 2 will be launched before the end of 2012 in Europe and Asia. While the PadFone 2 won’t be available in the States (for now), fear not— because availability in other countries will be announced at a later date. Hit the break for the full presser.
The LG Optimus G smartphone is no doubt going to be the single device that will turn the LG brand around and give it some much-needed credibility among Android fans. With that in mind, in order for LG to show off its new superphone to the world, it has to develop a unique advertising campaign— and let’s just say that LG has successfully gotten this started by releasing an ummm… “unique” video highlighting the device’s features. In the product movie below, you will find a spokesmodel using some fancy hand gestures and moves as part of the simulation of the Optimus G’s features. You’ll see everything from the slimness of the device to the wonderful graphics to the impressive Q Slide function– which allows for simultaneous video watching and texting á la Samsung. Whether it’s better implemented than Sammy’s multitasking feature remains to be seen, though it’s nice to see other manufacturers incorporating this into their products as well.
All in all, the video does succeed in creating additional buzz of the Optimus G smartphone– albeit in an incredibly bizarre and unusual way. You can check out the full video below.
In what seems like ages, there’s finally good news for owners of the DROID Bionic. Motorola has purportedly invited Bionic owners to test out a new software update. It’s been reported that we would see Ice Cream Sandwich in the 4th quarter of this year for the Bionic, save for a few leaks. So naturally, we can’t see this being anything other than Ice Cream Sandwich, at long last. As a reminder, a soak test is usually the last phase of testing software. If responses are mostly positive, then it’ll be good to go to the masses soon thereafter. What do you say, Bionic owners? I know, when does Jelly Bean arrive?
Those of you in the UK who went ahead and splurged on the Orange San Diego smartphone may want to listen up to this tidbit of news. It’s no secret that while the Intel-powered smartphone has a fast chip that resulted in a generally stellar performance, the phone was held back because of its software. So after seeing a few teases before, owners of the Orange San Diego can now scream utter joy. Yes– the smartphone was launched with none other than Gingerbread 2.3, which definitely caused more than a few individuals to scratch their heads or sigh disappointment. So Intel has finally made things right and reports are surfacing that the device has finally begun receiving the much-needed Android 4.0 update. Sure it’s not Jelly Bean, but we’re sure owners of the smartphone will be happy. I’m sure they can attest to the fact that anything is better than Gingerbread.
Motorola Atrix 2 owners are rejoicing today because AT&T started rolling out the Ice Cream Sandwich update. We were expecting this but there is no doubt Atrix 2 owners will be happy to ditch Gingerbread. This update brings ICS favorites like Face Unlock, swipe away notifications and tabbed browsing. The update also brings Motorola’s quick-launch lock screen which allows users to unlock their phone directly to the camera, phone dialer, text messaging or home screen. It is still unlikely that the Motorola Atrix 4G will get ICS despite the protests, but at least Motorola is making a step in the right direction with other phones.
All of you Android parents out there will need to get ready to open up your wallets as there’s yet another Android tablet available for children. Just in time before the start of the holiday season, Ematic has released its 7-inch FunTab Ice Cream Sandwich tablet. While it’s no screamer like some powerhouse tablets, it should more than suffice for the kiddies as it will have a snappy 1GHz processor, 1GB of RAM, 8GB of expandable storage and both front/rear cameras. The unique thing about the Ematic tablet is the fact that it will have a customized kid-friendly skin and features including the ability for parents to record themselves reading books that the child can watch.
Oh and in case you are wondering, all of this costs only a mere $149.99, which is not too shabby at all. Hit the source link for additional details.
ZTEhas announced its newest smartphone called the Blade III— yes that same Blade III we mentioned to youwe 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 ofIce Cream Sandwichonboard. 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
Yesterday a new AT&T phone was leaked, and that phone has officially been announced by AT&T as the LG Escape. The Escape is a 4G LTE budget phone, that packs a punch. Boasting a 1.2 GHz Dual-Core Processor, 2150 mAh battery and a 4.3 inch IPS screen, the Escape looks to be one of the better mid-range phones on the market.
The Escape also introduces the new Browser Toolbar which allows for easier functionality while browsing the web. It also has the ability to leave personal memos on any screen shot that can be shared with friends and family. The Escape is running Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich out of the box and will be available on September 16th for a very competitive price of $50. Hit the break for a quick demo video and the full presser
Full press release
Get Away to an Adventure Every Day with New LG Escape(TM) for AT&T Customers Available September 16
$50 4G LTE Smartphone Features Innovative New Browser Toolbar, Long-life Battery With LG QuickMemo(TM), Write Personal Memos on any Screen Capture for Expressive Communication with Friends and Family
Starting Sept. 16, AT&T* will expand its 4G LTE product portfolio by offering an unparalleled combination of premium performance and value. The LG Escape™ is perfect for consumers on a budget looking to transition into a powerful smartphone and pairs well with AT&T’s recently announced shared data plans creating a great combination of low- cost hardware and service for data-minded families. The LG Escape is a 4G LTE Android smartphone with high-performance connectivity, processing and camera features with a vibrant qHD display. It will be available in AT&T company-owned retail storesand online for $49.99 with a two-year agreement**.
The LG Escape features the Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) platform and 4 GB onboard memory with the option to add up to 32 GB with a microSD card. A 1.2 GHz dual-core processor delivers seamless multitasking agility. The crisp 4.3-inch qHD IPS display gives users enhanced image clarity with true-to-life color rendering. Near-Field Communication enabled and equipped with the QuickMemoTM feature lets users instantly capture a screen image, add notes or decorate using just a finger, then share with friends. The LG Escape has full HD video recording capabilities, and users can even create customized videos by adding themes, music and text to videos or a series of photos with the Video Wiz editing application, played back in crisp cinematic Dolby® Mobile surround sound. To see more of the Escape’s features in action, check out this video.
Because timing is everything when taking photos on the go, the LG Escape 5-megapixel auto-focus camera offers features to help users tap into their inner photographer. With the Continuous Shot feature, users can capture multiple images in a row to create that perfect panoramic photo or choose the best photo from an impromptu photo shoot to share with all their friends. Time Catch Shot eliminates shutter lag by taking several pictures before the shutter button is pushed to make sure users get the right shot every time.
Escape also features the Browser Bar powered by Skyfire’s Horizon Browser Extension, a newly created browser toolbar extension that allows users to access their favorite social media pages while surfing the internet. Available on the LG Escape and future AT&T Android smartphones, it provides customers with quick and easy access to popular consumer utilities like Facebook, Twitter, Share URL, and more.
AT&T customers have access to the nation’s largest 4G network***, covering 275 million people. AT&T has two 4G networks that work together for customers, LTE and HSPA+ with enhanced backhaul. That means AT&T customers are able to enjoy a widespread, ultra-fast and consistent 4G experience on their compatible device as they move in and out of LTE areas. With other carriers, when you travel outside of their LTE coverage area, you may be on a much slower 3G network.
“This is an impressive smartphone for $49.99,” said Jeff Bradley, senior vice president, Devices, AT&T Mobility. “Running Android 4.0 and packing a 1.2 GHz dual-core processor, a qHD true-color IPS screen and cool features like our new browser bar, customers looking for incredible value will quickly select the Escape.”
“LG Escape allows users to capture and share whatever life sends their way with its powerful dual-core processor, true-to-life screen and smart camera features,” said James Fishler, senior vice president of marketing and go-to-market operations, LG Electronics USA. “And on AT&T’s expansive network consumers can get the best possible experience with Escape by using its LTE capabilities to the fullest.”
Limited-time offer. Discounted pricing on smartphones requires a new two year agreement with qualifying voice and data plans. Subject to Wireless Customer Agreement. Credit approval required. Activation fee $36 per line. Geographic, usage and other terms, conditions and restrictions apply, and may result in svc termination. Coverage, and svcs not available everywhere. Taxes and other charges apply. Data (att.com/dataplans): If usage exceeds your monthly data allowance, you will automatically be charged overage for additional data provided. Early Termination Fee (att.com/equipmentETF): After 14 days, ETF up to $325. Restocking fee up to $25. Other monthly charges/line may include a Regulatory Cost Recovery Charge (up to $1.25), a gross receipts surcharge, federal and state universal svc charges. Visit store or att.com/wireless to learn more about wireless devices and services from AT&T.
Key Features:
An advanced 5 MP camera with time catch shot, “cheese shutter,” and different shot modes including Normal, HDR, Continuous and Panorama
Android™ 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich)
AT&T’s 4G LTE Network
The innovative and convenient QuickMemo™ to create and share personalized memos by writing messages or drawings on screen captures
A 1.2 GHz Dual-Core Processor
True-to-Life 1080p HD recording
Long-lasting 2,150mAh battery
Bluetooth® Version 4.0
A crisp 4.3” qHD true-color IPS Touch Screen with Gorilla® Glass durability
Google™ Integration with Google Play, Google Maps™ Navigation and other preloaded Google apps
Add music and themes to videos and photos with Video Wiz
Data sharing with Android Beam and NFC Technology
Additional Features:
1.3 MP front-facing camera and camcorder
Video resolutions up to 1920 x 1080 full-HD
Zoom up to 4x
Simultaneous GPS for Enhanced Location Accuracy
*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.
** International roaming data rates apply outside the U.S., Puerto Rico, and U.S.V.I. Visit att.com/worldpackages and select Data Plans/Packages to view rates and available discount plans.
*** 4G speeds not available everywhere. Limited 4G LTE availability in select markets. LTE is a trademark of ETSI. Learn more at att.com/network.
About AT&T
AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) is a premier communications holding company and one of the most honored companies in the world. Its subsidiaries and affiliates – AT&T operating companies – are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation’s largest 4G network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet, voice and cloud-based services. A leader in mobile Internet, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide of any U.S. carrier, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse® and AT&T | DIRECTV brands. The company’s suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world.
Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com. This AT&T news release and other announcements are available at http://www.att.com/newsroom and as part of an RSS feed at www.att.com/rss. Or follow our news on Twitter at@ATT.
ABOUT LG ELECTRONICS USA
LG Electronics USA, Inc., based in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., is the North American subsidiary of LG Electronics, Inc., a $49 billion global force and technology leader in consumer electronics, home appliances and mobile communications. In the United States, LG Electronics sells a range of stylish and innovative mobile phones, home entertainment products, home appliances, and air conditioning systems and energy solutions, all under LG’s “Life’s Good” marketing theme. LG Electronics is a 2012 ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year. For more information, please visit www.lg.com.
ABOUT SKYFIRE
Skyfire is dedicated to leveraging the power of cloud computing to improve radically the mobile Internet experience for both Operators and Consumers. Skyfire’s solutions include the Rocket Optimizer for video and traffic optimization, and Skyfire Horizon extension framework for augmenting mobile browsers. Skyfire products provide game-changing cost savings, better end-user experiences, and compelling incremental revenue opportunities. Skyfire was recognized as no. 4 on Light Reading’s 2011 Startups to Watch list; was honored by Red Herring as a top 100 private company in America; and won 1st place in the first-ever TIA Venture Network Challenge. As both a laboratory and showcase for new capabilities, Skyfire has honed its technology through a variety of consumer apps, which have more than 15 million downloads to date.
NOTE: Skyfire and Skyfire Horizon are trademarks of Skyfire Labs, Inc. All other registered or unregistered trademarks are the sole property of their respective owners.
Looks like we see Ma Bell has a nice little mid-range phone on the way, thanks to serial leakerevleaks. The device in question is the LG Escape and features a 4.3-inch qHD IPS display, a 1.2 GHz dual-core processor, 5MP camera + 1.3MP front-facing camera, NFC, a 2150 mAh battery and Android 4.0. Oh and in case you’re wondering– the upcoming smartphone will indeed be a 4G LTE smartphone operating on AT&T’s ever-growing 4G LTE network.
Now that the cat’s been let out of the bag, it shouldn’t be too long for LG & AT&T to make a formal announcement and introduce the phone to the world.
With the launch of the Galaxy Note II just around the corner, the last thing we’d expect for the original Samsung Galaxy Note – besides a full 4.1 Jelly Bean upgrade – is feature-rich update. However, an update is indeed rolling out today for the international version of the Galaxy Note (GT-N7000) packing a host of features and UI enhancements plucked straight from the Galaxy S III and Note II. The update is still based on Android 4.0.4 (Ice Cream Sandwich), however the updated features themselves are the stars of the show here.
International Note owners will now get to enjoy features like “Pop up Play” (mentioned in the Galaxy Note II link above), a Note II-style 3D gallery, the Galaxy S III launcher, and S Cloud contact backup just to highlight a few. This official update to version XXLRQ can be grabbed either over-the-air or through Kies for unlocked Galaxy Note devices in Germany. Other territories should follow suit with the update in the coming weeks.
