Twitterrific 5.2 brings push notifications, one handful of testers at a time

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div class="copy post-body" dir="ltr" itemprop="text" style="text-align: left;"> <div class="image-container" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Twitterrific 52 brings push notifications, one handful of testers at a time" data-src-height="340" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/03/twitterrific-5-iphone-5.jpg" /></div>More than a few iOS-based Twitter users were happy to see Twitterrific 5 appear late last year with a fresh design, but were less than thrilled to go without the push notifications that many take for granted in other apps. Equality has come through Twitterrific 5.2 -- for some, at least. The upgrade at last pops up interactions as they happen, with a symbol to indicate whether it's a conversation, favorite or retweet. Push delivery isn't guaranteed at this point, however. Iconfactory is currently rolling out the beta-level feature to users in batches of 1,000 to avoid oversaturating its servers; you may have to wait awhile. The impatient still get some upgrades to sate their appetite, though, including user banners on profiles, discussion sharing through email and Droplr content thumbnails. If you're willing to pay $6 ($3 on sale) for more than what Twitter gives away for free, the new version may be a good excuse to try something new.<br /> </div></div>

Twitterrific 5.2 brings push notifications, one handful of testers at a time

More than a few iOS-based Twitter users were happy to see Twitterrific 5 appear late last year with a fresh design, but were less than th...

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Addappt goes public, gives iOS users group contact control and messaging

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div class="copy post-body" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <div class="image-container" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Addappt goes public, gives iOS users group contacts and messaging" data-src-height="450" data-src-width="491" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/03/addappt-iphone5.jpg" /></div>While Addappt has been teasing painless contact syncing between iOS-using friends and colleagues since its December launch, its invitation-only nature has kept most of us on the sidelines. It may be time to try Addappt now that an update opens the doors to the public. On top of widening the app's audience for its update once, share everywhere approach, the 1.3 release brings group management that easily lets us lump coworkers or social circles together. Messaging is appropriately easier as well -- it's possible to quickly text or email everyone in a given group, including the option to share more photos at once than the five that iOS usually allows. A port to Android isn't yet on the cards, but iPhone and iPod touch owners tired of missing phone number changes can give Addappt a whirl today.<br /> </div></div>

Addappt goes public, gives iOS users group contact control and messaging

While Addappt has been teasing painless contact syncing between iOS-using friends and colleagues since its December launch, its invitati...

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NTT DoCoMo trials Tap-de-Concier service with a Google Now flair

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div class="copy post-body" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <div class="image-container" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="NTT DoCoMo trials TapdeConcier app with a distinct Google Now vibe" data-src-height="340" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/03/ntt-docomo-tap-de-concier.jpg" /></div>Japan's NTT DoCoMo isn't content waiting for Google Now to become commonplace before it gives customers a taste of predictive search. The carrier is near launching a trial for Tap-de-Concier, an Android-based service that will pop up maps, media, games and more depending on both the user's own habits, as well as usage and trends from DoCoMo's other portals. The result is a service that theoretically knows what you want, when you want it: Tap-de-Concier can tell that you're looking for train schedules before work on a Monday morning, and restaurants on Friday night. We imagine that some will like the alternative just because it won't be confined to Jelly Bean -- any DoCoMo-offered phone or tablet with at least Android 2.3 can run the service, including Raku-Raku phones. Locals will have between March 26th and September 30th to decide whether or not Tap-de-Concier is more helpful than its Google parallel.<br /> </div></div>

NTT DoCoMo trials Tap-de-Concier service with a Google Now flair

Japan's NTT DoCoMo isn't content waiting for Google Now to become commonplace before it gives customers a taste of predictive se...

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ZTE partnering with Intrepidus to secure future smartphones

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <img alt="ZTE partnering with Intrepidus to secure future smartphones" data-src-height="412" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/03/3-19-2013grandmemoagaindsc08060mat800.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">ZTE<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=7080182682816192337"> is building up quite a name for itself here in the US and as its market share grows, so too do the concerns about the company and its wares. Though the Chinese manufacturer isn't saying as much, its new partnership with Intrepidus feels partially like an effort to assuage the fears of the American consumer and its government. How the New York-based security firm fits into ZTE's broader plans isn't exactly clear, but the vague press release (after the break) does say that Intrepidus will "investigate the security mechanisms of ZTE-manufactured smartphones," -- phrasing that feels very purposefully chosen. Obviously the ultimate goal is make your personal data safer, and we assume that means both from individual criminal ne'er-do-wells and state actors.</a></div><div dir="ltr" id="pr_box_button" style="text-align: left;">Hide Press Release</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <strong>ZTE and Intrepidus Announce Partnership to Ensure Smartphone Security</strong></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> RICHARDSON, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--ZTE Corporation ("ZTE") (H share stock code: 0763.HK / A share stock code: 000063.SZ), a publicly-listed global provider of mobile handsets, telecommunications equipment and network solutions, today announced a partnership with leading provider of mobile application and device security services, Intrepidus, an NCC Group company.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> ZTE is the world's fourth largest smartphone manufacturer and partners with all of the major US carriers. The company has seen tremendous growth in the United States in the past few years and continues to invest heavily in the US market. ZTE has long been regarded as a leader in international standards; in partnering with Intrepidus, ZTE now seeks to become a leader in smartphone security.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> As part of the agreement, Intrepidus will evaluate the security mechanisms of ZTE-manufactured smartphones. This evaluation includes identifying potential vulnerabilities; conducting penetration testing of ZTE device management interfaces and ZTE device features; and performing reverse engineering and source code review. The security testing will enable ZTE to deliver a wide range of smart, stylish choices for smartphone users with the added peace of mind that their device is secure.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> "Our work with Intrepidus stands as an important milestone in handset security," said Lixin Cheng, CEO, ZTE USA, and President, North America Region, ZTE. "With the increasing number of transactions carried out on smartphones, the need to protect personal information becomes more important each day. At ZTE, we have always been committed to making world-class technology accessible to everyone; now our work with Intrepidus will ensure that our customers can continue to connect in meaningful, innovative and affordable ways without questioning the security of their smartphones."</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> This is the first step in a series of actions the company plans to take regarding smartphone security. ZTE hopes to work closely with carriers, app developers, policymakers and industry organizations to raise awareness among consumers about best practices and guidelines for handset security.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> About ZTE USA</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> ZTE USA is a subsidiary of ZTE Corporation (H share stock code: 0763.HK / A share stock code: 000063.SZ), a leading global provider of mobile handsets, telecommunications equipment and network solutions. ZTE USA is dedicated to making quality communications technology accessible to all. The company draws on more than 25 years of experience and research investment to deliver smart, affordable, quality choices for infrastructure and mobile data device customers nationwide. For more information, visit www.zteusa.com.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> About ZTE</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> ZTE is a publicly-listed global provider of mobile handsets, telecommunications equipment and network solutions with the most comprehensive product range covering virtually every sector of the wireline, wireless, service and terminals markets. The company delivers innovative, custom-made products and services to over 500 operators in more than 140 countries, helping them to meet the changing needs of their customers while achieving continued revenue growth. ZTE's 2010 revenue led the industry with a 21% increase to USD10.609 billion. ZTE commits 10 percent of its revenue to research and development and takes a leading role in a wide range of international bodies developing emerging telecoms standards. A company with sound corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, ZTE is a member of the UN Global Compact. ZTE is China's only listed telecom manufacturer, publicly traded on both the Hong Kong and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges (H share stock code: 0763.HK / A share stock code: 000063.SZ). For more information, please visit www.zte.com.cn.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> About Intrepidus Group</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Expert US security testing company Intrepidus Group, works with organizations to pinpoint and eradicate security flaws in mobile devices, applications, systems and networks.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> A leader in the field of mobile security research, testing & advice, Intrepidus assesses mobile applications, trains developers to code defensively, and evaluates the security mechanisms of cutting edge telecommunications products and smart phone devices.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Intrepidus was established in 2006 and is part of leading global information assurance organization NCC Group plc.</div></div>

ZTE partnering with Intrepidus to secure future smartphones

  ZTE is building up quite a name for itself here in the US and as its market share grows, so too do the concerns about the company and its...

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Samsung Galaxy S III leaked in purple, pegged for April release on Sprint

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <img alt="Samsung Galaxy S III leaked in purple, pegged for April release on Sprint" data-src-height="489" data-src-width="540" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/03/gsiii-purple-sprint.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Starting next month, Sprint loyalists will likely be able to get their paws around the Galaxy S 4. Or, if the budget has been a bit tight, a brand new Galaxy S III. The image above has been posted by the typically-reliable <i>evleaks</i>, showing off a heretofore unannounced purple edition of one of Samsung's cash cows. We aren't given too many details beyond a proposed April ship date, but one can only expect it to be offered for a song given the imminent arrival of its successor. To date, the GS III has been issued in red, white, grey, brown and black -- <i>clearly</i>, the only thing missing is a version that Willy Wonka himself would endorse.</div></div>

Samsung Galaxy S III leaked in purple, pegged for April release on Sprint

  Starting next month, Sprint loyalists will likely be able to get their paws around the Galaxy S 4. Or, if the budget has been a bit tight,...

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HP and Samsung offer setup-free printing on the Galaxy S 4, with others to follow

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <img alt="Samsung Galaxy S 4 top crop" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/03/engadget001es.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">As ubiquitous as wireless printing has become, there remains the occasional hoop to jump through for printing from mobile devices if you don't happen to have either a special app or iOS gear that supports AirPrint. HP and Samsung are teaming up to remove many of the headaches for the Galaxy S 4: when the phone launches in April, it should have setup-free WiFi printing to almost 200 HP inkjets and LaserJets, as long as any given printer is either on the same network or is otherwise accessible through direct printing. Don't expect ubiquitous support, though. Beyond being limited to the one phone, you'll have to stick to some of its preloaded apps, including the browser, contacts, email client, photo gallery, Polaris Office and S Note. It's far from a truly universal solution, then, but the two partners are at least promising zero-setup printing on both the Galaxy S III and the Galaxy Note II through firmware updates coming later in 2013. We'll take the approach if it saves time snagging an old-fashioned boarding pass or some concert tickets.</div><div class="open" dir="ltr" id="pr_box" style="text-align: left;"> <div id="pr_box_button">Hide Press Release</div><div id="pr_text"> <em><strong>HP and Samsung Launch New Mobile Print Offering</strong></em><br /> <em>PALO ALTO, CA--(Marketwire - Mar 14, 2013) - HP (HPQ) today unveiled a new print offering built within select Samsung devices to provide users an easy way to print directly to more than 180 HP network printer models across the HP inkjet and HP LaserJet portfolios.</em><br /> <em>The collaboration demonstrates HP's continued investment and leadership in the mobile printing space by satisfying a common need for today's mobile user -- on-demand, customized printing from virtually anywhere.</em><br /> <em>Different from current mobile printing apps on the market, the new embedded solution from HP and Samsung requires no setup, tools, drivers or network configurations to adjust on the phone, making mobile printing effortless and convenient. In addition, the print offering is one of the only solutions to offer sophisticated printer settings and options that include duplex printing, color, orientation and paper type. By offering these capabilities and much more, this new mobile print enablement will make printing on the go easier, saving time for the mobile worker and beyond.</em><br /> <em>Print functionality will be supported with the upcoming release of the Samsung GALAXY S 4 and will be available later this year as a firmware upgrade to the Samsung GALAXY S III and Note II, enabling built-in, wireless printing compatibility.</em><br /> <em>Users can print in two ways: by automatically connecting their Samsung mobile device and HP printer on the same local network via Wi-Fi, or by using HP technology via wireless direct print.(1)</em><br /> <em>"Customers continue to look for ways to print from their smartphones and tablets," said Stephen Nigro, senior vice president, Inkjet and Printing Solutions and Graphics Solutions Business, Printing and Personal Systems Group, HP. "This partnership with Samsung is the latest example of how HP is making it easy to print what you want from wherever you are."</em><br /> <em>The Samsung print solution is HP's latest feature for its mobile print portfolio that also includes HP ePrint.</em><br /> <em>The built-in print solution works in three simple steps: choose a document, photo or web page(2); select a printer (either on Wi-Fi or directly); and hit print. The embedded solution also offers additional, convenient print options for the user, including number of copies, paper size, orientation, paper type, color mode, double-sided printing and job completion status.</em><br /> <em>Availability and support</em><br /> <em>The print solution is compatible with nearly 200 HP printer models across the HP inkjet and HP LaserJet printer portfolios.(3)</em><br /> <em>The built-in print button will be available on many applications of the Samsung mobile devices, including: Email Client, Android Browser, Photo Gallery, Contacts, S Note and Polaris Office.</em><br /> </div></div></div>

HP and Samsung offer setup-free printing on the Galaxy S 4, with others to follow

  As ubiquitous as wireless printing has become, there remains the occasional hoop to jump through for printing from mobile devices if you...

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Google My Tracks update brings Drive integration and a lock screen widget

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <img alt="Google gives My Tracks athletes Drive integration and a lock screen widget" data-src-height="340" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/03/google-my-tracks-lock-screen-1363287004.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Cyclists and runners with Android phones have had a rare first-party option for keeping tabs on their performance through Google's My Tracks, but the app hasn't been entirely in step with those who upgrade their OS as quickly as they barrel down the street. It's back on pace with a quiet update: My Tracks now has a customizable lock screen widget for Android 4.2 users who want to know their distance or speed details at a glance. Whether or not you're running the latest and greatest Android version, the upgrade will sync finished tracks with Google Drive for safekeeping and sharing; extra-competitive types can also import KML files and view others' tracks for comparisons. Hit the source link if time (or simple oneupmanship) is of the essence.</div></div>

Google My Tracks update brings Drive integration and a lock screen widget

  Cyclists and runners with Android phones have had a rare first-party option for keeping tabs on their performance through Google's My...

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Microsoft updates its Windows Phone web demo for WP8, hopes you'll update your phone too

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <img alt="Microsoft updates its Windows Phone web demo for WP8" data-src-height="465" data-src-width="510" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/03/windows-phone-8-web-demo.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Microsoft remains convinced that you'll like Windows Phone if you only give it a try. Accordingly, it just recently updated its web-based demo to reflect all the changes in Windows Phone 8. If you let the web app access Facebook, you'll get a personalized sample of the OS on your desktop or mobile browser that includes resizable home tiles, Kid's Corner and other newer additions. No, it's not a full-fledged simulator, but it does give about as good a taste as you'll get without the real hardware in your hands. We also can't say that everyone will be sold on the concept -- still, it's worth a spin for anyone keeping their smartphone options open.</div></div>

Microsoft updates its Windows Phone web demo for WP8, hopes you'll update your phone too

  Microsoft remains convinced that you'll like Windows Phone if you only give it a try. Accordingly, it just recently updated its web-ba...

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Goophone i5S KIRFs the iPhone 5S early, gives the iPhone 4S a run for its money (video)

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Goophone i5S KIRFs the iPhone 5S early, gives the iPhone 4S a run for its money video" data-src-height="340" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/03/goophone-i5s-teaser.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Ah, Goophone. The company that made its name keepin' it real fake with eerily similar clones of other companies' devices, sometimes before the originals have even launched. It's clearly not dropping that tradition anytime soon, as it just previewed the i5S, an attempt to preempt the supposed iPhone 5S before even the rumor mill has produced anything tangible. As you'd almost expect, it's really a not-very-subtle imitation of the current iPhone 5 body and software that does its best to mask the use of Android (this time Jelly Bean) rather than iOS. Don't think that Goophone has learned any more about shadowing Apple on the technology front, however. The i5S is running hardware that would sometimes be trounced by a 2011-era iPhone 4S, including a dual-core 1GHz MediaTek processor, 512MB of RAM, an 854 x 480 screen and a 5-megapixel rear camera. The firm is mostly banking on absurdly low pricing to make up for the sleight-of-hand -- at its $150 launch price, the i5S costs a fraction of the real iPhone 5's price while undercutting the older yet somehow more sophisticated Goophone i5. Catch a video demo of the uncanny facsimile after the break.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/82Xj-cfjuGU?feature=player_embedded" width="640"></iframe></div>

Goophone i5S KIRFs the iPhone 5S early, gives the iPhone 4S a run for its money (video)

Ah, Goophone. The company that made its name keepin' it real fake with eerily similar clones of other companies' devices, sometimes ...

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BlackBerry Q10 prototype caught in the wild with a rubberized back

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><br /><div dir="ltr" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: left;"> <img alt="BlackBerry Q10 prototype caught in the wild, shows a rubber back that might have been" data-src-height="465" data-src-width="310" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/03/blackberry-q10-prototype.jpg" /></div><br /><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">When we put our mitts on the official BlackBerry Q10 design in January, it carried a "glass weave" back that was meant to convey a premium feel, not to mention give Bold 9900 series owners a sense of continuity. The crew at <em>Genk</em> have snagged a pre-production example that teases what could have been. Their black device has the same grippy, rubberized back as the Z10, suggesting that BlackBerry was at least experimenting with using the same extra-practical (if less refined) material up until the unveiling. What else do we learn? While we wouldn't want to judge the user experience from a prototype, the look reminds us that there should be a 2,100mAh battery inside -- a big boost over the Z10's 1,800mAh pack, especially when there's a smaller screen involved. If only we didn't have to wait until later in spring to try the finished product.</div></div>

BlackBerry Q10 prototype caught in the wild with a rubberized back

  When we put our mitts on the official BlackBerry Q10 design in January, it carried a "glass weave" back that was meant to convey...

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Neo N003 may deliver a 1080p smartphone for $145, but don't expect miracles

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <img alt="Neo N003 may deliver a 1080p smartphone for $145, we wouldn't expect miracles" data-src-height="450" data-src-width="570" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/03/neo-n003-render.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Neo is known for building smartphones with price tags so low that a Nexus 4 would seem like a luxury. If <em>GizChina</em>'s contact (and convenient product render) is accurate, that bang-for-the-buck ratio may grow especially wide in the near future. The N003 will supposedly include a 5-inch, 1080p display and a quad-core processor for a target price of ¥899 ($145) in China for a basic Youth version, and ¥1,499 ($241) for a Premium model -- both big deals for the size, we'd reckon. However, there's little doubt that the N003 at those prices would be slower than a truly high-end phone like the HTC Butterfly, especially considering its pedigree. The N002 uses a MediaTek chip and just 4GB of storage, and earlier rumors have the N003 using MediaTek's frugal MT6589 alongside either 8GB or 32GB of space for its respective trim levels. Neo hasn't confirmed the details as of yet, let alone set expectations. Any alignment between the claims and reality could nonetheless see the N003 punching well above its weight, even if most Americans would never feel the impact.</div></div>

Neo N003 may deliver a 1080p smartphone for $145, but don't expect miracles

  Neo is known for building smartphones with price tags so low that a Nexus 4 would seem like a luxury. If GizChina 's contact (and con...

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Lenovo S920 and S820 leak, could pack Android 4.2.1, quad-core CPUs and dual-SIM slots

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <img alt="Lenovo's S920 and S820 leak out in blurrycam shots, could pack Android Jelly Bean, quadcore CPUs and dualSIM slots" data-src-height="374" data-src-width="600" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/03/lenovoandroidjb.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Lenovo's still far from a boldfaced name when it comes to Android smartphones. Its Clover Trail+-packing K900 aside, the company's mobile focus tends to skew towards the lower-end. And so it seems the company's prepping two new Jelly Bean handsets for the Asian market, the purported S920 and S820, judging by a few leaked blurrycam shots over on <i>MyDrivers.com</i>. From what we can see, the devices appear to share a similar slim, rounded edge design language with a rear-facing camera protruding prominently on back. According to the rumored specs, both are tipped to rely on MediaTek's quad-core Cortex-A7 SoC, include dual-SIM support and run Android 4.2.1 (skinned, of course). It's not clear what resolution Lenovo has in store for the phones, but if the S920's 5.3-inch screen size proves true, it's likely to be of the 720p variety. The S820 is more of an unknown, but the Chinese site maintains it's meant for a more fashionable, female demo. Here's to hoping it launches with a charm dongle. Remember that?</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2><a href="http://gdgt.com/google/android/4-1/" itemprop="url" target="_blank">Google <b>Android 4.1</b></a></h2></div>

Lenovo S920 and S820 leak, could pack Android 4.2.1, quad-core CPUs and dual-SIM slots

  Lenovo's still far from a boldfaced name when it comes to Android smartphones. Its Clover Trail+-packing K900 aside, the company's...

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Solavei starts carrying nano-SIMs for iPhone 5 nomads

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <img alt="Solavei starts carrying nanoSIMs for iPhone 5 nomads" data-src-height="340" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/03/iphone-5-side-340.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Those who want to use an unlocked iPhone 5 in the US beyond AT&T have had relatively few places to go for an exodus, T-Mobile and Straight Talk usually being the two carriers on the short list. It's time to add a third: Solavei is now carrying nano-SIMs for its T-Mobile-based virtual network. There's not much mystery to what's involved after that, since you're still getting the singular, all-unlimited $49 plan and no guarantee of 3G when even T-Mobile's own spectrum refarming is still young. If you can live with those potential caveats for the sake of network and contract independence, Solavei is waiting.</div><div dir="ltr" id="pr_box_button" style="text-align: left;">Hide Press Release</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <em><strong>SOLAVEI INTRODUCES NANO SIM CARDS FOR IPHONE 5, OFFERS UNLIMITED VOICE, TEXT AND DATA FOR JUST $49 PER MONTH</strong></em></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <em>Solavei's Low-cost, Unlimited Mobile Service is Now Compatible with all Popular Smartphones</em></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <em>BELLEVUE, Wash. (March 6, 2013) – Solavei®, an affordable contract-free mobile service provider, today announces the availability of nano SIM cards, compatible with the iPhone 5, and widening the company's phone compatibility to include all major smartphones. For $49 per month, members can now bring popular phones such as Apple's iPhone 5, Samsung's Galaxy SIII or Google's Nexus 4 to Solavei and enjoy unlimited voice, text and data mobile service.</em></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <em>Anyone using an iPhone 5 can simply purchase a Solavei nano SIM Card for $9 and sign up for unlimited voice, text and data for only $49 per month. For members looking to switch to Apple's latest iPhone, Solavei's mobile phone partner, GSM Nation, offers a range of unlocked pre-configured phones with six month no interest, no payment financing. Members with iPhones on Solavei service in the newly HSPA+ expanded areas will receive the highest data speeds, and unlike some other no-contract wireless providers, Solavei offers 4GB of high-speed data.</em></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <em>Launched September 2012, Solavei has become one of the fastest growing mobile services companies and, in just five months, has paid out more than $6.5 million to its members for sharing great mobile service with others.</em></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <em>"We created Solavei to make commerce less expensive for our members while allowing the flexibility to use the mobile phone they love," said Ryan Wuerch, founder and CEO of Solavei. "Solavei is the first company to create an economic linkage between mobile service, social commerce, and social sharing. We believe it's important to give our members great value for unlimited mobile service while using their favorite mobile phone and enable them to earn recurring monthly income for sharing Solavei with their friends and family."</em></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <em>How Solavei Works</em></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <em>Solavei is a cost-effective mobile phone service with no obligation to share or sign up others. Members who choose to use Solavei's powerful social commerce platform to share the Solavei opportunity with their friends and family can use the money to offset their monthly mobile bill and even have the opportunity to generate recurring monthly income. At its simplest, the plan allows members to earn $20 per month for every three members (called a "Trio") they or someone directly connected to them signs up for mobile service. When members have three Trios, the income generated is greater than their monthly plan cost of $49, essentially making their mobile service free. The more members in a person's network, the more income earned.</em></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <em>"As a teacher, I'm always looking for additional streams of income to get ahead and help pay bills," said Jason Reeves, Solavei member from Atlanta. "With Solavei, I'm able to use my iPhone at a much better price than before – free. By simply sharing Solavei with my friends, I've positively impacted their lives and mine."</em></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><em>To learn more about Solavei and signup for great mobile service, visit </em></div></div>

Solavei starts carrying nano-SIMs for iPhone 5 nomads

  Those who want to use an unlocked iPhone 5 in the US beyond AT&T have had relatively few places to go for an exodus, T-Mobile and St...

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HTC says One's dual-membrane microphones block bad vibes

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <img alt="HTC says One's dualmembrane microphone blocks bad vibes" data-src-height="340" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/03/dual-membranemics-3-6-13-02.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Nobody expects studio quality recording from a smartphone, but the technology in HTC's recently launched One at least allows distortion free audio to be nabbed in the quietest or loudest environments, according to the company's blog. Describing BoomSound tech, HTC says the system brings two dual-membrane MEMS microphones to the handset, one of which is focused on sensitivity and the other on high decibel sources. The two signals are then combined electronically, resulting in whisper-level tones that are free of hiss along with concert level blasting that won't clip or distort. By HTC's reckoning, that means the audio that goes along with those UltraPixels will be clear whether you're capturing a physics lecture or death metal concert.</div></div>

HTC says One's dual-membrane microphones block bad vibes

  Nobody expects studio quality recording from a smartphone, but the technology in HTC's recently launched One at least allows distorti...

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Tegra 4 reference tablets use SanDisk iNAND Extreme, mate a fast CPU with fast storage

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><hr dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" /> <div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Tegra 4 reference tablets use SanDisk's iNAND Extreme, match fast chips with fast storage" data-src-height="340" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/sandisk-inand-extreme-32gb.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> It's well established that NVIDIA's Tegra 4 is at least reasonably quick. It's only quick when the storage isn't a bottleneck, however, which is why SanDisk has negotiated a repeat partnership as the official storage supplier for reference Tegra 4 tablets. Pop open one of the designs and you'll find either 16GB or 32GB of SanDisk's iNAND Extreme keeping pace with the quad-core processor. The reference deal may be more than just a publicity grab: it raises the chance that companies will use the speedier flash memory in their own Tegra 4 slates. Whether or not SanDisk makes it to shipping devices, the deal could lead to balanced tablet hardware that seldom leaves us waiting.</div><div class="open" dir="ltr" id="pr_box" style="text-align: left;"> <div id="pr_box_button">Hide Press Release</div><div id="pr_text"> <em>SanDisk iNAND Extreme Optimized to Provide 'Extreme' Speed and Responsiveness for Next-Generation Tablets</em><br /> <em>MOBILE WORLD CONGRESS 2013, Barcelona, February 25, 2013 – SanDisk Corporation (NASDAQ: SNDK), a global leader in flash memory storage solutions, today announced that the iNAND Extreme™ Embedded Flash Drive (EFD) supports tablet reference designs based on the NVIDIA® Tegra® 4 – the world's fastest mobile processor1. Optimized for use in the tablets powered by Tegra 4, iNAND Extreme delivers an outstanding user experience by enhancing processing performance and providing reliable, high-quality digital storage.</em><br /> <em>Tegra 4-based tablet reference designs offer a technical "recipe" for mobile device developers using the new mobile processor from NVIDIA, significantly accelerating the process of developing powerful new tablets.</em><br /> <em>With tens of millions of mobile applications downloaded every day worldwide2, smartphones and tablets are increasingly an essential part of today's smart digital lifestyle. The demand for mobile platforms with more computing capability, responsiveness and reliability continues to skyrocket.</em><br /> <em>"We knew we needed to offer an outstanding SanDisk flash memory storage solution to match up to NVIDIA's impressive Tegra 4 processor," said Drew Henry, senior vice president, OEM marketing, SanDisk. "Our iNAND Extreme product provides tremendous storage performance and high reliability to the NVIDIA Tegra 4 platform, drawing on SanDisk's 25-year legacy of enabling the industry's most innovative digital devices."</em><br /> <em>Incorporating 72 custom NVIDIA GeForce GPU cores and the first quad-core ARM Cortex-A15 CPU, Tegra 4 delivers record-level performance, outstanding graphics, and great battery life to mobile devices. Featuring an advanced controller, the iNAND Extreme EFD dramatically enhances the sequential and random performance for applications running on Tegra 4, enabling users to load web pages faster, launch and enjoy applications at blazing fast speeds, and store more digital content. For shutterbugs, iNAND Extreme improves photography application performance on mobile devices with Tegra 4, allowing even quicker multi-shot and faster image capture and store. The innovative iNAND Extreme EFD is included in Tegra 4 tablet reference designs in capacities ranging from 16GB to 32GB3.</em><br /> <em>"By pairing Tegra 4 with the iNAND Extreme, smartphone and tablet makers can create faster, quicker mobile devices with an even better consumer experience," said Phil Carmack, senior vice president, mobile business unit, NVIDIA.</em><br /> <em>iNAND Extreme is built on SanDisk's 19 nanometer (nm) process technology, the world's most advanced semiconductor manufacturing process4, and is designed for use in next-generation tablets, smartphones and other mobile devices. iNAND Extreme significantly improves multimedia synchronization speeds, file-transfer rates, and operating-system responsiveness.</em><br /> </div></div></div>

Tegra 4 reference tablets use SanDisk iNAND Extreme, mate a fast CPU with fast storage

It's well established that NVIDIA's Tegra 4 is at least reasonably quick. It's only quick...

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ZTE exec: Grand S won't carry a grand price, at least in China

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><hr dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" /> <div class="copy post-body" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <div class="image-container" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="ZTE exec Grand S won't carry a grand price, at least in China" data-src-height="411" data-src-width="619" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/zte-grand-s-hands-on-619.jpg" /></div>A cursory look at the ZTE Grand S might leave you worrying that it will fetch quite the premium for that 5-inch screen, LTE and quad-core performance. Not so, according to mobile division lead He Shiyou. He estimates that the smartphone's price in mainland China will hover between ¥3,000 to ¥3,500 ($481 to $561), depending on market conditions -- a reasonable bargain for a high-end model expected to ship before the first quarter of the year is out. We're just left wondering whether the value-minded pricing will hold if and when the Grand S goes on a world tour.<br /> </div></div>

ZTE exec: Grand S won't carry a grand price, at least in China

A cursory look at the ZTE Grand S might leave you worrying that it will fetch quite the premium for th...

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T-Mobile Sonic 2.0 LTE hotspot reportedly poses for a press image

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><hr dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" /> <div class="copy post-body" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <div class="image-container" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="TMobile's Sonic 20 LTE hotspot poses for a press image" data-src-height="340" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/t-mobile-sonic-2-lte-hotspot-leak-1361073471.jpg" /></div>We've previously had just a smattering of text to hint that T-Mobile might kick off its formal LTE launch with a Sonic 2.0 Mobile Hotspot. Things just got more tangible this weekend through an apparent <em>TmoNews</em> leak. The really-truly-4G pocket router has surfaced in a supposed press render that's fairly plain looking, but suggests a little sophistication through a color screen. We're still missing the rather important details of the Sonic 2.0's performance and price; if prior tips are on the mark, though, we'll have our answers (and more devices) in about six weeks.<br /> </div></div>

T-Mobile Sonic 2.0 LTE hotspot reportedly poses for a press image

We've previously had just a smattering of text to hint that T-Mobile might kick off its formal LTE ...

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Sony Xperia ZL coming to a swath of Canadian carriers in April

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><hr dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" /><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Sony Xperia ZL hands-on" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/01/xperiazl.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><!-- adsense -->It's not quite a US launch, but it's close: Sony is bringing the more compact of its two 5-inch smartphones, the Xperia ZL, to Canada in April. While that's already good news for locals who like their Xperias extra-large, the real perk will be a change in Sony's tendency toward limited launches in North America. The release will put the ZL on several of the more significant Canadian networks, including heavyweights Bell and Rogers as small-but-significant carriers like Mobilicity, MTS, Videotron and Wind Mobile -- the only major exceptions appear to be Telus and the big providers' budget brands. There's no word on pricing, although we're not expecting a radical break from the norm. We're mostly just left wondering whether the Xperia Z will appear as well, and just which if any of Sony's 1080p flagships will cross the border to the States.</div></div>

Sony Xperia ZL coming to a swath of Canadian carriers in April

It's not quite a US launch, but it's close: Sony is bringing the more compact of its two 5-inch smartphones, the Xperia ZL, to Cana...

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Mophie ships Juice Pack Helium, gives iPhone 5 a 6-hour shot in the arm

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><hr dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" /> <div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Mophie ships Juice Pack Helium, gives iPhone 5 a shot in the arm" data-src-height="340" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/02/mophie-juice-pack-helium-iphone-5.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Although Mophie isn't the first to have an iPhone 5 battery case, there's no doubt that some have been waiting for the company's take -- and it might justify the patience. The just-launched Juice Pack Helium slides a 1,500mAh secondary battery on to the back of Apple's flagship in a protective frame that's 13 percent thinner than earlier Mophie cases, but still promises a hefty amount of extra runtime. Mophie estimates another six hours of cellular calling and data (seven on WiFi), or about enough to push through an all-nighter or a long airport layover. Color-coordinating black and silver versions of the Helium are shipping from the 14th onwards for about $80. That's lot for something so model-specific, but it's possibly the sleekest way to extend an iPhone 5's charge.</div></div>

Mophie ships Juice Pack Helium, gives iPhone 5 a 6-hour shot in the arm

Although Mophie isn't the first to have an iPhone 5 battery case, there's no doubt that som...

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Verizon offers another way to pick up a Square reader

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><hr dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" /> <div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2012/11/square-reader-iphone-5.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Not that there's been a lack of ways to pickup a Square credit card reader, but if you happen to find yourself in a Verizon Wireless store with a few extra bucks and the burning desire to open your own boutique business (and you're not craving coffee or a MacBook), you're in luck. As of today, VZW stores will be offering up the commerce device nationally for $9.97 a pop -- a price that comes with a $10 Square credit. Ka-ching. With $10 billion a year in payments at last count, that pricing structure seems to be working out for the company after all.</div><div class="open" dir="ltr" id="pr_box" style="text-align: left;"> <div id="pr_box_button">Hide Press Release</div><div id="pr_text"> <em><strong>Accepting Mobile Payments Comes Full Circle for Small Businesses: Rounding Out a Business with Square</strong></em><br /> <em>For some small businesses, accepting credit or debit cards can be an expensive, time-consuming and complicated process.</em><br /> <em>Fortunately for small business owners, wireless technology can provide a simple solution to allow businesses of any size to expand payment options for customers. Using a mobile payment tool such as Square, businesses from boutique shops, to plumbers, to professional services, to salon professionals and independent contractors can accept credit or debit card payments using their smartphone or tablet.</em><br /> <em>Beginning on Jan. 31, the Square Card Reader will be available nationally at Verizon Wireless stores. Running on Android and iOS platforms, Square will sell for $9.97 and comes with $10 credit to a Square account. There are no contracts, minimums or set-up fees.</em><br /> <em>It takes just a few minutes for a merchant to set up Square. After the Square app is downloaded, the user completes a few quick sign-up steps, links the service to their bank account, and within moments, is up and running.</em><br /> <em>Transactions are completed with a swipe of the card on the Square Card Reader followed by the buyer's signature. The seller can email or text the receipt to the buyer. The seller pays a fee of 2.75 percent for swiped transactions and 3.5 percent plus 15 cents for sales that are manually keyed in. The funds are deposited in customers' bank accounts generally within 24 hours. Customers can also manage their Square account online at www.squareup.com.</em><br /> <em>Now merchants have a better chance to close the sale when a prospective customer doesn't have enough cash on hand, but truly wants the product or service.</em><br /> </div></div></div>

Verizon offers another way to pick up a Square reader

Not that there's been a lack of ways to pickup a Square credit card reader, but if you happen to ...

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