You have to give it to Sony Ericsson, they really want you to know that they care about updating their Android phones. The company has been bombarding us with new information about its Ice Cream Sandwich rollout ever since Google dropped the source code a few weeks ago — from giving us a detailed

You have to give it to Sony Ericsson, they really want you to know that they care about updating their Android phones. The company has been bombarding us with new information about its Ice Cream Sandwich rollout ever since Google dropped the source code a few weeks ago — from giving us a detailed description of how the updating process works to even releasing an alpha ROM based on Ice Cream Sandwich.

Today, the device manufacturer has dropped yet another piece of information related to Android 4.0. The company has narrowed down its update schedule from “in the future” to “between March and May”. More specifically, Sony Ericsson will split its ICS rollout into two groups, with the first group receiving the update around late March or early April. The devices included in the first group are:

• Xperia Arc S
• Xperia Neo V
• Xperia Ray

Then between the end of April and beginning of May, the following devices will receive the update:

• Xperia Arc
• Xperia Play
• Xperia Neo
• Xperia Mini
• Xperia Mini Pro
• Xperia Active
• Live with Walkman

Sony Ericsson has also said that not all devices of the same model will receive the update at the same time. Since the actual OTA update to the device is up to the carriers, and we all know how fast those are. The update will be available via 3G and WiFi — says Sony Ericsson — and also via a tethered option. Lastly, the company has promised to keep its users up to date on the progress they make by uploading videos of the new version as they work on it. So keep an eye out for those in the near future.

Even though March is still a few months away, all you Xperia owners out there are now lucky enough to know exactly when your ICS update will arrive. Which is more than we can say about most Android users out there.

After all the hype and waiting, the Samsung Galaxy Nexus has finally been released in the US and is available for purchase straight from Verizon. We know many of our readers have been waiting for this moment and probably have this device in their hands right now, or are about to. There are [...]]]>

After all the hype and waiting, the Samsung Galaxy Nexus has finally been released in the US and is available for purchase straight from Verizon. We know many of our readers have been waiting for this moment and probably have this device in their hands right now, or are about to. There are many reasons to want this device, but one of the biggest incentives is the fact that a Nexus phone is known to have a more open ecosystem, meaning it is much easier to unlock the bootloader.

The Samsung Galaxy Nexus is a bit different, though. It comes with Ice Cream Sandwich, one of the most (if not the most) revolutionary updates the Android OS has received. Android 4.0 has much to be excited about, and even the CyanogenMod team has mentioned that some of their “extra” features have been taken off the custom ROM, since Ice Cream Sandwich is now incorporating them. This means that, more so than before, users are considering not installing any custom ROMs on their devices in favor of the Stock ICS UI.

We’re reaching out to our readers to see what their opinion is on this matter. We’d like to see how many of you are going to stick with stock, or if you’re loyal to the custom ROMs developer community. One of the main advantages of following the developer community is that updates come out much faster, but this wouldn’t be an issue with a Nexus device. (They are the first to get updated). At the same time, many of you may like the extra juice that some developers add to your device.

Unlocking the bootloader will allow you start messing with your smartphone as you please (rooting, flashing custom ROMs and kernels, etc.), and it’s very easy to do with the Samsung Galaxy Nexus. Our friends from Droid-Life have posted a video that demonstrates how this is done, as well as a detailed step-by-step guide. The process is very simple; the bulk of the process is setting up the SDK, ADB and drivers.

As always, there’s a disclaimer. Before doing this, you should realize that customizing your device (this includes unlocking the bootloader) may void your warranty and/or brick your device if not done carefully. If you choose to do so, the responsibility is solely yours, and you may be on your own if something goes wrong.

Check out Droid-Life’s video to see how to go about unlocking the Samsung Galaxy Nexus bootloader, and let us know what you think. Will you be unlocking the bootloader to play around with your phone, or would you rather stick with stock this time? If you’re doing it, is it mainly for rooting? Do you think installing custom ROMs is necessary with Ice Cream Sandwich already on your device and updates coming in a timely fashion?

It may seem like a distant memory at this point, as every day waiting for the Galaxy Nexus to launch feels like a week, but at the end of October we found out that the Galaxy Nexus wouldn’t be using the Corning Gorilla Glass that has been protecting so many of [...]]]>

It may seem like a distant memory at this point, as every day waiting for the Galaxy Nexus to launch feels like a week, but at the end of October we found out that the Galaxy Nexus wouldn’t be using the Corning Gorilla Glass that has been protecting so many of our phones from tragic run ins with keys and whatever other various and sundry items we keep in our pockets or bags.

This caused a minor outbreak of doom and gloom hysteria from some who apparently assumed Samsung had decided to go with Priscilla Glass, which is another little-known product from Corning that scratches in a light breeze. Samsung tried to assuage these concerns at the time, but all they really had to say was that they were using another fortified glass.

Well now that the lucky bastards folks over in the UK have their hands on the Galaxy Nexus, we can finally see whether the fortified glass that Samsung used can hold a set of keys at bay.

As you can see in the video, it does indeed survive a vicious keying at the hands of its new owner. So the pitch forks and torches can be put away for the time being, and Samsung can be forgiven for going with this mystery glass.

Since Samsung still isn’t fessing up to what they used, can we come up with a name for the Galaxy Nexus’ glass? I’m slightly partial to Megaunbreakableadamantium Glass, but that might be a little too lengthy for print ads.

At their event in New York City this morning, HTC announced the mid-range HTC Rhyme, which will launch on Verizon Wireless September 29 for $199. The HTC Rhyme is the official name for the HTC Bliss, and the Rhyme is largely targeting the ladies out there. The Rhyme comes in a Plum color, inspired by a [...]]]>

At their event in New York City this morning, HTC announced the mid-range HTC Rhyme, which will launch on Verizon Wireless September 29 for $199. The HTC Rhyme is the official name for the HTC Bliss, and the Rhyme is largely targeting the ladies out there. The Rhyme comes in a Plum color, inspired by a suite of applications and wallpapers designed by the HTC team.

Specs for the HTC Rhyme include:

• 1 GHz Qualcomm MSM 8655 processor
• Android 2.3.4 with the latest version of HTC Sense (3.5)
• 3.7-inch Super LCD display
• 4 GB internal memory, 8 GB external SD card
• 5 MP rear camera with 720p video capture, VGA front facing camera
• Charm indicator (more below)
• 3G speeds (read: No LTE)

Where HTC is attempting to differentiate this device is in the included and available accessories. In the box, you’ll find a charm indicator (basically a small charm with a built-in notification light) to let you know when you have a new notification. Since the charm glows, it will allow you to locate the device in your backpack, purse, handbag, satchel or whatever else you might need to rummage through to find your phone. Also included in the box is a set of tangle-free earphones.

The Rhyme also has a couple of accessories available for purchase, the most promising of which is the docking station. It essentially turns your phone into an alarm clock/multimedia device. You can also pick up a sports armband, bluetooth headset and bluetooth car speaker–all manufactured to match the style of the HTC Rhyme.

If you’re interested in picking up the Rhyme, you won’t have to wait long. The device will be available on Verizon on September 29, and will set you back $199 with a 2-year contract. You can preorder the device at Target starting September 21.

Pictures and videos of the Rhyme in action can be found below. Who out there plans to pick up the Rhyme when it launches next week?

Promo Video

Accessory Video

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Modders rejoice!

Just days after the release of the unlock tool for the European Sensation, HTC has announced via it’s Facebook page that the latest OTA firmware update for the EVO 3D will allow users to utilize HTC’s unlock tool to unlock your bootloader. In order to unlock your bootloader, you will need to be [...]]]>

Modders rejoice!

Just days after the release of the unlock tool for the European Sensation, HTC has announced via it’s Facebook page that the latest OTA firmware update for the EVO 3D will allow users to utilize HTC’s unlock tool to unlock your bootloader. In order to unlock your bootloader, you will need to be on the latest software version (2.08.651.2). If you’re on any other software version, be sure to update by going to Settings –> System Updates –> Firmware Update.

Once you have the latest update, head over to HTC’s Dev website and follow the instructions there to unlock the bootloader on your EVO 3D. Do so at your own discretion, however, as unlocking your bootloader will void all or parts of your warranty.

If you do decide to unlock your device via HTCDev, let us know how the process went for you by leaving a comment below.

Oh Droid Bionic, you haven’t even managed to make it out of the starting gate yet and already some uppity youngster is parading around trying to show you up in front of your fans.

The Droid HD name has shown up at least once before in some flickr images snapped around the Motorola [...]]]>

Oh Droid Bionic, you haven’t even managed to make it out of the starting gate yet and already some uppity youngster is parading around trying to show you up in front of your fans.

The Droid HD name has shown up at least once before in some flickr images snapped around the Motorola campus, but it’s finally getting out from behind the lens for a little modeling session of its own courtesy of an Engadget tipster.

Based on these pictures alone, the Droid HD should have a 4.5-inch screen at either 960 x 540 or 1280 x 720. It is approximately the same thickness as the Galaxy S II and has capacitive buttons, a 1080p capable rear-camera, a front-facing camera, 4G LTE, externally accessible sim and micro-sd slots, micro-HDMI and micro-USB ports.

These specs line up closely with the Motorola Dinara we told you about last month. If you’ll recall, the rumored specs for the Dinara included a TI-OMAP4430 or 4460, a 13 MP rear camera, VGA front-facing camera, an HD screen,  1 GB of RAM, a non-removable battery and a lock button on the side.

Now I’m sure you’ll be quick to point out that there’s a fairly substantial red tag that says “battery removal” on the back of the phone. But that doesn’t necessarily mean users are going to have access to that compartment; just a squeeze of glue and that door gets slammed shut to most users.

The rumored release for the Dinara is “Winter,” which could place this beauty in your hands anywhere from December to February if the Droid HD is indeed what the Dinara has become.

So what are your thoughts on the as-of-yet unreleased Droid Bionic’s successor?

Update: Droid Life’s tipsters are telling them that this isn’t the Dinara, although that doesn’t rule out this being a variant of the Dinara for Verizon with the actual Dinara going to AT&T. I’m sure we’ll have more information soon enough.

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Another week, another OTA update gone bad.

Over the past few weeks, Samsung has been rolling out an over-the-air update for their Galaxy Tab 10.1, which brings along their TouchWiz UI overlay to the Honeycomb platform. According to reports over at XDA, the update has caused some owners of the Tab 10.1 to encounter [...]]]>

Another week, another OTA update gone bad.

Over the past few weeks, Samsung has been rolling out an over-the-air update for their Galaxy Tab 10.1, which brings along their TouchWiz UI overlay to the Honeycomb platform. According to reports over at XDA, the update has caused some owners of the Tab 10.1 to encounter graphical errors that render the tablet basically unusable.

The folks over at AndroidPolice reached out to Samsung about this error and received the following statement via Twitter:

(The update has) been temporarily halted to assess progress and ensure it's a positive experience for customers. The update will resume shortly and we'll let you know as soon as we have a confirmed date.Carla SaavedraSamsung

For Samsung to officially halt an over-the-air update they had already started rolling out, there clearly had to be quite a good number of users that experienced this issue. Though I was able to update my personal Tab 10.1 without a hitch, we’re sure there are many users out there with inoperable tablets.

Are you a Tab 10.1 owner who applied the Touchwiz update? Did it screw up your tablet? Or did the update go off without a hitch? Let us know in the comments.

Now that Samsung has that whole Galaxy S II in space thing all locked up, they’ve finally turned their attentions back to those of us in the troposphere and realized that the U.S. launch still hadn’t happened.

On August 29th in New York, the company will be making a major product announcement that [...]]]>

Now that Samsung has that whole Galaxy S II in space thing all locked up, they’ve finally turned their attentions back to those of us in the troposphere and realized that the U.S. launch still hadn’t happened.

On August 29th in New York, the company will be making a major product announcement that will prominently feature the roman numeral II. Now, unless they’re real gluttons for punishment, we’re going to assume it’s our beloved–if somewhat belated–Galaxy S II.

Hopefully we’re looking at a faster turnaround time from announcement to launch with the Galaxy S II than we saw with the original Galaxy S last year; the clock is ticking and the specs on the Galaxy S II aren’t exactly as out of this world as they once seemed. (If it’s any consolation that pun caused me some slight physical pain).

Question remain regarding what minor variations we’ll see from carrier to carrier–such as whether the Galaxy S II will offer each carriers version of 4G or “fauxG.” But in just seventeen days we’ll finally have our answers.

I know the Galaxy S II has had a rabid following at times, and it certainly hasn’t had any trouble selling worldwide. But with a September launch (at the earliest) are you still on the SGS2 bandwagon?

As the story goes over on Howard Forums this Motorola rep was paying a visit to the local Verizon shop and showing off his wares when out came the Droid Bionic. A budding young blurrycam was able to snap these shots of the phone and laptop dock in action.

While there isn’t any new [...]]]>

As the story goes over on Howard Forums this Motorola rep was paying a visit to the local Verizon shop and showing off his wares when out came the Droid Bionic. A budding young blurrycam was able to snap these shots of the phone and laptop dock in action.

While there isn’t any new information to go off of here it does point to the inexorable march to the launch of the Droid Bionic drawing ever nearer. Another post this morning by a reliable regular over on Howard Forums asserted that he had it from a solid source that the Bionic has at last hit final testing making that September 8th launch date more than just a nice story you tell yourself before you go to bed at night.

The image above is certainly the most informative, displaying the screen with the new “don’t call me Blur” interface, but below we’ve got a shot of the back and the intriguing but questionably useful laptop dock for good measure.

Do rumors of 720p screens and ever faster dual-core processors have you ready to move on after the long wait? Or does the prospect of 15 hour battery life coupled with the Droid Bionic’s impressive if not world beating specs still do something for you?

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It’s been almost 3 months since the Samsung Galaxy S II was released in South Korea. Though this has been one of the most anticipated devices of the year and has been popping up all over the world, the US remains an exception. In the midst of rage and fury from North [...]]]>

It’s been almost 3 months since the Samsung Galaxy S II was released in South Korea. Though this has been one of the most anticipated devices of the year and has been popping up all over the world, the US remains an exception. In the midst of rage and fury from North American techies, there shines a little spark of hope:  leaked images of the Galaxy S II variant for AT&T.

We know it’s hard to believe the phone is just around the corner. But Samsung did mention the Galaxy S II would be here next month (August). We discussed this device yesterday, but now BGR has managed to get more details about the device–and photographic evidence. One of the images shows this as the model SGH-I927, the Samsung device everybody has been waiting for. The images also show the device comes with Android 2.3.4 Gingerbread and an 8 MP camera. And with a Quadrant score above 3000 and 58.5 MFLOPS on Linpack, this device is definitely a contender.

Gallery

It’s definitely interesting that AT&T’s Galaxy S II will come with a QWERTY keyboard. This should be great for physical keyboard fans; however, those who value aesthetics would probably want the thinner body. But as BGR mentions, the device is still quite slim compared to other physical slide-out keyboard smartphones.

There it is, guys! We finally know something about a US Samsung Galaxy S II, and we should be getting this bad boy soon. All we need to do now is wait for it to be announced and released! Other carriers should get their stuff together soon. What do you guys think? Like the idea of the slide-out keyboard, or do you prefer the “black slab” form-factor? Liking those benchmarks?

Update/Rumor: Verizon to be the first U.S. carrier to offer Samsung Galaxy S II^[1]

According to Los Angeles industry analyst Paul Mueller, Verizon is also getting its Samsung Galaxy S II variant soon. Actually, he mentions Verizon will be the first U.S. carrier to release this highly anticipated device.

I’m not sure about the exact date, but I’ve been told that August 12 is a possibility. It will arrive first on Verizon and then the rest of the carriers within a month. Samsung will market this directly against the iPhone 5.Paul MuellerLos Angeles Industry analyst

As it has been rumored before, it seems the device will be called the Samsung Function. It will come with all the specs we’ve already been expecting (a dual-core 1.2 GHz processor, 1 GB of RAM, an 8 MP camera and that beautiful Super AMOLED Plus display).

Let’s wait and see which carrier gets it out there first. Some who commented on this article are on Verizon, so you should be happy to see this update! What do you guys think? Will Verizon get the Samsung Galaxy S II before AT&T? If so, where are our leaked images?! Make it happen, Mr. Blurrycam!

Update: This device is not the Samsung Galaxy S II [2.Via BGR]

It is always sad when your hopes are put down, isn’t it? It seems like the Samsung Galaxy S II variant for AT&T will not be this bad boy. According to BGR, their sources indicate that the code SGH-i927 seems to be recycled, and Samsung is using it for test models. Also, the kernel code 2.6.36.3 seems to belong to Honeycomb devices. This is quite confusing, and we do not know what the deal with Samsung (or this device) is.

You should still expect Samsung Galaxy S II devices to show up relatively soon, though (hopefully!). In either case, you might want to consider this device if/when it comes to AT&T. It will surely be a good option for keyboard lovers.