Amazon Wireless is one of the best sources for deals on new Android devices  as you’ve no doubt noticed if you follow the Android and Me Deals page.

Typically the best deals are contingent on your signing up for a brand new contract rather than just upgrading, but I’ve often found [...]]]>

Amazon Wireless is one of the best sources for deals on new Android devices  as you’ve no doubt noticed if you follow the Android and Me Deals page.

Typically the best deals are contingent on your signing up for a brand new contract rather than just upgrading, but I’ve often found their upgrade pricing to be $80-$100 off what you would shell out direct from your carrier so it’s almost always worth at least taking a look.

In transitioning from the beta to a fully fledged service they are adding a couple new features to go along with the existing list of free two-day shipping, risk-free returns (30 days AT&T/14 days Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon) and of course the instant discount.

The first new feature is a best price guarantee that they will match a competitors (or their own) lower price within 14 days of your purchase. As usual with such things there are quite a few catches, not the least of which is that you have to notify them even if they change their own pricing, but it’s a nice addition regardless.

The other new feature is a collection of free “premium apps” worth approximately $25. This one may sound familiar as they have had this offer associated with specific devices from time to time in the past. It seems that you will have some choice regarding these apps, but you will be selecting from a list and not simply receiving $25 to spend however you wish in the Amazon App Store.

As always I’ll add the warning that Amazon Wireless buyers need to be wary of the extra early termination fees if they would decide to back out of their contract after a couple months, but if you are comfortable that you will stick with the contract this isn’t a real concern.

Amazon Wireless has turned itself into a very compelling option in the mobile space over the last year and I’m glad to see Amazon is apparently going to stick with it.

If you have been thinking about making a switch to Sprint’s unlimited data and awesome prices, now might just be the right time to do it. Amazon is holding a special sale this month, offering all Sprint 4G devices for a mere penny.

The offers starts today, and extends until March 26th. You [...]]]>

If you have been thinking about making a switch to Sprint’s unlimited data and awesome prices, now might just be the right time to do it. Amazon is holding a special sale this month, offering all Sprint 4G devices for a mere penny.

The offers starts today, and extends until March 26th. You might not want to wait too long before taking advantage of this, though. Those that sign up before the 19th will get their activation fee waived, saving you a cool $36. As expected, this offer is only available for new customers. Upgrades and added lines will add some cash to your device’s price tag.

But if you are near the end of your contract or plan on switching to Sprint, this is a great chance to get a good deal on some of those high-end devices. Options include the Samsung Galaxy S II Epic 4G Touch (black and white versions), the HTC EVO Design 4G, the HTC EVO 3D, the Samsung Nexus S 4G, the HTC EVO Shift 4G and the Motorola Photon 4G, as well as a bunch of other devices that are not worth getting when all of these bad boys are going for the same price.

If interested, just check out the links below and sign up for your free phone!

Get your free phone

Link: Samsung Galaxy S II Epic Touch 4G
Link: Samsung Galaxy S II Epic Touch 4G (White)
Link: Samsung Nexus S 4G
Link: HTC EVO 3D
Link: HTC EVO Shift 4G
Link: HTC EVO Design 4G
Link: Motorola Photon 4G

Welcome to our regular buyer’s guide column where we break down each carrier to let you know about current promotions and pick the best devices. Each week we will rotate between the big four US carriers, so that each buyer’s guide gets refreshed every month. Read on for Verizon’s best devices and deals.

Who says Leap Days are not special? They only come once every four years, and the best way to celebrate it just may be by purchasing a new phone or tablet. If you’re in the market for a new device, Verizon is holding a very good deal tomorrow, allowing you to save $100 on the [...]]]>

Who says Leap Days are not special? They only come once every four years, and the best way to celebrate it just may be by purchasing a new phone or tablet. If you’re in the market for a new device, Verizon is holding a very good deal tomorrow, allowing you to save $100 on the best 4G LTE devices available.

The image includes the best smartphones, like the Samsung Galaxy Nexus, Motorola Droid RAZR and the HTC Rezound, among others. The Leap Day sale website also includes an image of the Motorola Droid Xyboard, if you want to get your hands on an LTE tablet. If you have been looking to get one of these devices tomorrow might just be the day.

Some of these devices are currently listed at prices lower than $100, so they might very well be completely free, but we will have to wait until tomorrow to find out for sure. But you could get a Galaxy Nexus for $200, instead of $300, which is a great deal.

If you prefer working straight with Verizon, this might be something to consider. But do remember that other retailers have awesome discounts, as well. For example, Amazon has the Samsung Galaxy Nexus for $99, as well as the Motorola Droid RAZR. So shop carefully.

If you have been saving that upgrade for a good day, tomorrow might just be it! You can go ahead and set a reminder straight from Verizon’s site. Are any of you taking advantage of this sale?

After nearly four years with T-Mobile, I switched to Verizon last year on December 15th when the Galaxy Nexus was released. I’ve only been a customer for a little over two months, but Verizon has quickly become my favorite wireless carrier and I would recommend them to any of my family or friends.

In our [...]]]>

After nearly four years with T-Mobile, I switched to Verizon last year on December 15th when the Galaxy Nexus was released. I’ve only been a customer for a little over two months, but Verizon has quickly become my favorite wireless carrier and I would recommend them to any of my family or friends.

In our last Verizon buyer’s guide, we shared some current promotions which are set to expire soon. We only refresh our buyer’s guides once per month, so I wanted to make a special post to remind people that these deals are about to end.

Double Data Promotion – Expires February 29th

Last time when we mentioned Double Data we weren’t sure how long the promo would last, but we now know it expires on February 29th. With the special promotion, subscribers will get 4 gigabytes for $30, 10 gigabytes for $50 and 20 gigabytes for $80. Double Data also applies to mobile hotspot plans where subscribers can now get 6 gigabytes for $50 and 12 gigabytes for $70 a month.

I signed up for this deal back in December and I’ve found that 4 GB of data is enough for the average Android user. New tools in Android 4.0 let you easily monitor your data usage and there are also apps like Onavo to help with older phones still on Android 2.x.

Most 4G LTE smartphones are still $99 for new subscribers

When I purchased my Galaxy Nexus, it was retailing for $299 with 2-year agreement. Now that price is all the way down to $99. In fact, most of Verizon’s latest 4G LTE phones are on sale at Amazon.com and Verizon’s online store.

Amazon Wireless

• Samsung Galaxy Nexus: $99 for new subscribers and add a line ($229 upgrades)
• Motorola Droid RAZR 16 GB: $69 for new subscribers and add a line ($199 upgrades)
• Motorola Droid RAZR 32 GB: $99 for new subscribers and add a line ($199 upgrades)
• Motorola Droid 4: $99 for new subscribers and add a line ($149 upgrades)
• HTC Rezound: $79 for new subscribers and add a line ($179 upgrades)
• LG Spectrum: $79 for new subscribers and add a line ($129 for upgrades)

Verizon Online Store

• HTC Rezound: $99 for new subscribers
• LG Spectrum: $99 for new subscribers

Both online stores include free shipping and a $35 activation fee per line. Seeing that Amazon has slightly cheaper prices and a wider selection of deals, I’d suggest them over Verizon.

Final Notes

Let’s state the obvious first. Verizon is not a value carrier and their plans will never meet the prices that Sprint and T-Mobile offer. As a long time fan of the smaller carriers, I can’t believe I’m rooting for Verizon but the size and speed of their 3G/4G network cannot be matched.

If you are looking for premium Android phones on a premium 4G LTE network, then Verizon should be your choice in 2012. According to our first Android Bowl, our hardcore audience agrees that Verizon is their favorite carrier.

Questions or concerns about switching? Leave a comment below and our readers will respond. For questions about shopping with Amazon, check out their FAQ.

Welcome to a new weekly column where we break down each carrier to let you know the best devices and current promotions. Verizon Wireless was voted the top carrier in our Android Bowl (and it’s my personal carrier), so we thought that would be a good place to start. Each week we will rotate [...]]]>

Welcome to a new weekly column where we break down each carrier to let you know the best devices and current promotions. Verizon Wireless was voted the top carrier in our Android Bowl (and it’s my personal carrier), so we thought that would be a good place to start. Each week we will rotate between the big four US carriers, so that each buyer’s guide gets refreshed every month. Read on for Verizon’s best devices and deals.

Current Promotions and News

Double Data: As we expected, Verizon just brought back their Double Data promotion that gives users double the data allowance for the same price. With the special promotion, subscribers will get 4 gigabytes for $30, 10 gigabytes for $50 and 20 gigabytes for $80. Double Data also applies to mobile hotspot plans where subscribers can now get 6 gigabytes for $50 and 12 gigabytes for $70 a month. We don’t know how long this promotion will last, so take advantage of it while you still can.

VDayConfessions: From February 13-14, tweet a creative V-Day confession to @VDayConfessions and you could win a colored Droid Razr. Tweet poems, pics, etc with #tweetheart.

BOGO: Verizon has a current Valentine’s Day promotion that allows you to purchase the 16 GB Droid RAZR at $199 and get one free. We think there are some better options for devices (see below), but if you love the thin form factor of the RAZR then this is a good deal.

Usage Controls: Do you have a family plan? Verizon just added a new feature called Usage Controls that allows you to control the amount of data that each line uses. For $4.95 per month, users can limit the amount of data consumed by lines, block ringtone purchases, and manage which apps and games are accessed.

Expanded 4G LTE Coverage: Don’t have 4G LTE in your city yet? Verizon announced this month that they are investing millions in Ohio, Western Pennsylvania, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota, Iowa, Illinois, North Dakota, Minnesota, and Michigan to expand their network.

Even more deals: If you are not quite ready to buy yet, make sure you follow @VZWDeals for the latest Verizon offers.

Best Android Phone: Galaxy Nexus

Galaxy Nexus

This was a pretty easy pick and will likely remain the best Android phone on Verizon for awhile. Google’s Samsung Galaxy Nexus is the best Android phone on any carrier and that’s why I picked one up on launch day. I’ve been extremely satisfied with my purchase and so have many others.

Verizon normally sells the phone for $299 with 2-year agreement, but Amazon has it on sale at $99 for new customers, and $259 for upgrades.

The main selling point of this phone is Android 4.0 and the promise of speedy software updates from Google. Their Nexus line of phones are always the first devices to receive the latest version of Android, which has many benefits. For example, Google just rolled out their Chrome Beta browser that is only available on Android 4.0.

Even though this is my favorite phone, there are still some weak areas that we should point out incluidng camera quality, battery life, and the external speaker. I’m quite happy with the 5 megapixel camera, but I have noticed it is not quite as good as some other Android phones, like the 8 megapixel shooter on the Galaxy S II. For the battery life, I would suggest picking up the official 2100 mAh  extended battery. Verizon had it on sale for $25, so shop around and see what offers are available. Leaked details also show that Google will improve the sound volume in their Android 4.0.4 update.

Check out Anthony’s full review of the Galaxy Nexus for more details.

Runner up: It’s worth nothing that the Droid RAZR MAXX is also an awesome device, but it still runs Android 2.3.x at this time. We reviewed the original RAZR last year and found it to be a quality purchase, and Motorola has improved upon that with the new model that has a 3300 mAh battery with all day battery life.

Comparison of top Verizon phones: To see a complete comparison of the Samsung Galaxy Nexus, Motorola RAZR MAXX, HTC Rezound, and LG Spectrum head over to gdgt.com.

Best Android Phone with Keyboard: Droid 4

Droid 4

Once again, this was a pretty easy choice. Many Verizon customers consider the original Droid one of their all time favorite devices, and Motorola has continued to innovate with each new model. Our very own Sean Riley will be posting his full review of the device soon, but we are confident enough in the Droid series to go ahead and recommend this device now.

The Droid 4 just launched today on Verizon, where it is being sold in stores for $199 with 2-year agreement. Like always, Amazon has it priced cheaper at $99 for new customers, and $149 for upgrades.

The most notable features of the Droid 4 include support for Verizon’s 4G LTE network, LED edge-lit 5-row QWERTY keyboard, 4 inch qHD display protected with Gorilla Glass, and Motorola’s new Smart Actions app.

Verizon is shipping the Droid 4 with Android 2.3.5, but Motorola already announced that the Droid Bionic, RAZR, and Xyboard would be receiving Android 4.0. We expect the same treatment for the Droid 4. Motorola just delivered on their promise to upgrade the Xoom tablet to Android 4.0, and if their merger with Google goes through we should see improved software updates.

About the only negative thing we can say about the Droid 4 is its locked bootloader, something that is comment with Motorola phones. If you want a fully unlocked phone, then go with the Galaxy Nexus.

Best Android Tablet: Droid Xyboard

Droid Xyboard 8.2

Because of the current data plans, I’m not a huge fan of carrier branded Android tablets. However, if you need an Android tablet with 4G LTE connectivity, then the Droid Xyboard should be your pick.

Verizon currently offers five different Xyboard models with different sizes and storage options to fit multiple budgets. The 8.2 inch Xyboard is selling at $429 for the 16 GB model and $529 for the 32 GB model. The 10.1 inch Xyboard is priced at $529 for 16 GB, $629 for 32 GB, and $729 for 64 GB. All prices are with a 2-year contract and require a data plan.

As you can see these tablets are some of the most expensive around, but they are the best tablets on the largest and fastest 4G LTE network.

If you would rather purchase a WiFi-only tablet and tether it to you phone, then I’d suggest the Asus Transformer Prime 32 GB model (available at $499 from multiple retailers).

Best Android Phone on a Budget: Incredible 2

Droid Incredible 2

Now that online stores offer high-end devices for $99 with new 2-year agreement, it is becoming harder and harder to suggest a budget phone. The lower priced devices generally don’t receive major software updates to newer versions of Android and are outdated as soon as you buy them.

However, if I’m forced to pick a budget phone on Verizon then I’ll go with the HTC Droid Incredible 2. Verizon sells it in stores for only $99, but Amazon has it on sale for $0.01.

Highlights of the Droid Incredible 2 include 4-inch WVGA display, 1 GHz Snapdragon S2 processor, 8 MP rear camera, 1.3 MP front camera, 16 GB internal storage, and support for Verizon’s 3G network.

HTC recently announced that they were updating the Incredible S to Android 4.0, which happens to be the international version of the Droid Incredible 2. There is no guarantee that Verizon will also upgrade their model, but it’s a good sign that it could be possible.

What’s Coming Next

Not many leaks have appeared for Verizon phones launching in the next 1-2 months. The only thing on our radar is the HTC Fireball, which is likely to be a high-end 4G LTE phone with slide-out QWERTY keyboard.

Mobile World Congress is taking place at the end of February, which happens to be one of the largest wireless trade shows. We expect every handset maker to announce new phones, so keep an eye on our MWC 2012 coverage. Most of the specific models that get announced will be headed to the European market, but it’s a good indication of what’s next for the US carriers.

Feedback

We have long wanted to maintain buyer’s guides for every carrier, but it’s just something we have failed to produce. As one of the most influential sources of Android information on the web, we realize that our opinions are valuable and the average consumer just wants to know what phone they should buy without having to do all the research.

Our hardcore audience lives and breaths Android, so most of them already know what device they want to buy next. However, I realize that for most of the public, reading our blog is like trying to read Swahili  or some other foreign language. The purpose of these guides is to try and help the average consumer.

Having said all that, consider this first guide as a rough draft that will continually be updated and improved over time. We would love to hear your feedback on what other sections or information should be added to the next version. Our lead developer Clark has some amazing site features that are coming down the pipe, and we are 100% committed to this community. I ask for your help by sharing this guide with your friends on Verizon and leaving suggestions in the comments below.

The Motorola Droid Bionic was easily one of the most hyped devices of 2011. Unfortunately, when the Bionic was finally released almost three months ago, the sales did not match the hype. So what’s Verizon to do? How about chip a hundred dollars off the on-contract price?

When the Bionic first released on September [...]]]>

The Motorola Droid Bionic was easily one of the most hyped devices of 2011. Unfortunately, when the Bionic was finally released almost three months ago, the sales did not match the hype. So what’s Verizon to do? How about chip a hundred dollars off the on-contract price?

When the Bionic first released on September 8, 2011, it cost a hefty $299.99 on-contract. Not that the Bionic isn’t worth $300 along with two years of your mobile freedom, but up until this year, $200 with a two-year contract was the industry standard for a high-end smartphone. Which is exactly what Verizon has officially moved the Bionic to if purchased with a two-year contract.

The original high price, competing phones that launched around the same time, and the threat of bigger and better phones on the horizon all undoubtedly attributed to the $100 price drop. It’s not unusual to see a device go down in price once it’s been out for awhile, but three months seems slightly early. At the absolute most, early adopters have had their Bionic for under three months now, and all they have to show for it is an extra $100 dent in their pocketbook.

Still, it’s nice to see yet another one of Verizon’s amazing devices become a little bit more affordable. Now that the Bionic has gone down in price, will you consider picking one up?

Black Friday, the biggest shopping day of the year in the United States, has come and gone, leaving many victors and losers in its aftermath. Waffle maker riots may have been the hot topic of the weekend, but now that things have calmed down, manufacturers and retailers are starting to talk turkey.

While they won’t [...]]]>

Black Friday, the biggest shopping day of the year in the United States, has come and gone, leaving many victors and losers in its aftermath. Waffle maker riots may have been the hot topic of the weekend, but now that things have calmed down, manufacturers and retailers are starting to talk turkey.

While they won’t release any specific numbers, Amazon has made it abundantly clear that their Kindle family of devices was a huge winner this weekend, with the Kindle Fire leading the charge. According to a press release put out by Amazon, the online retailer sold four times as many Kindles this Black Friday compared to last year. When it comes to the Kindle Fire alone, Amazon says the device has been their best selling product across all of Amazon for eight weeks running.

The Kindle Fire is also doing well in retail stores like Target and Walmart. Target, who sells a wide variety of tablets including the Apple iPad, said that the Kindle Fire was their best selling tablet this Black Friday. (Unadvertised deals could have certainly helped atribute to those sales, but apparently they’re few and far between).

Once some official sales numbers are released, we’ll really be able to put the success of the Kindle Fire into context. Until then, let us know if you bought a Kindle Fire this Black Friday in the comments below.

Looking for a new Android phone this holiday season? You could wake up early on Black Friday and fight the traffic to score some sweet deals or you could avoid the craziness and head over to one of the 4,600+ RadioShack locations right now. Through Wednesday, November 23rd, RadioShack has over 20 different phones from Verizon [...]]]>

Looking for a new Android phone this holiday season? You could wake up early on Black Friday and fight the traffic to score some sweet deals or you could avoid the craziness and head over to one of the 4,600+ RadioShack locations right now. Through Wednesday, November 23rd, RadioShack has over 20 different phones from Verizon Wireless, AT&T, and Sprint, all available for free with upgraded or new 2-year contract.

Not sure if you are eligible for a free Android phone? Just head over to the RadioShack Upgrade Checker and see if you qualify. Check out the chart below to see which phones are free and then keep your eyes peeled for a special device giveaway later this week.

Amazon Wireless is definitely playing hardball of late in the sales department, and today’s deal is probably the best yet. Every smartphone that they have available for AT&T, Verizon and Sprint is on sale for just a penny with a new 2-year contract.

Obviously that last bit is the catch as you can’t take advantage [...]]]>

Amazon Wireless is definitely playing hardball of late in the sales department, and today’s deal is probably the best yet. Every smartphone that they have available for AT&T, Verizon and Sprint is on sale for just a penny with a new 2-year contract.

Obviously that last bit is the catch as you can’t take advantage of this deal if you are just looking to upgrade, although I’d still recommend you take a look as they often have better pricing than the carriers even on an upgrade.

You can also get a $100 Amazon.com gift card if you buy a phone with hotspot and activate that feature, which is a nice deal if you need to do tethering and aren’t willing to go the root route.

I’ll do a quick rundown of the best available handsets through this deal on each carrier.

Verizon

• HTC Rezound
• Motorola DROID RAZR

Sprint

• Samsung Galaxy S II Epic Touch 4G
• HTC EVO 3D 4G
• HTC EVO 3D 4G, Plum

AT&T

• Samsung Galaxy S II Skyrocket 4G

These are the highlights for each carrier in my opinion, but there are a grand total of 97 devices that are included in the sale, so if I didn’t name the device that you have your heart set on above just hit the source link below to peruse the full catalog.

Happy saving!