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8 reasons why I want the Samsung Galaxy S II (Video)

Edgar Cervantes — Sat, 14 May 2011 16:10:43 +0000

The next generation of smartphones is on its way, and one of Android’s advantages is definitely the wide selection of handsets that its open platform provides. After writing about the main features of the HTC Sensation, it came to my attention that most of you were comparing that device to the Samsung Galaxy S II, mentioning the reasons why you were more inclined to purchase one more than the other. It goes without saying that Samsung’s new flagship device is one of the most anticipated of the year, and it definitely has its advantages over the competition.

Like many of you, I have been studying the latest high-end devices and checking out my options, and the Samsung Galaxy S II is definitely among the top competitors in my personal list. Why?

Design: Though it may look a bit fragile to some, it is undeniable that this device is simply beautiful. The metallic finish is very attractive, and its thinness is impressive.
Dual-core/Graphics: Great speed, multi-tasking, and overall performance. Also optimized for gaming and multimedia.
Super AMOLED Plus display: Definition, colors, and saturation are amazing on the Samsung Galaxy S II. Remember the Galaxy S displays? Well, imagine that, but even better.
Touchwiz: While Stock Android is the best way to go, Touchwiz is among the best manufacturer UI’s out there, along with Sense (in my humble opinion).
Improved Web Browsing and Email: Very snappy browsing, as well as other cool additions, like zooming in/out by moving the device (using the gyrosensor). Samsung has also added a Honeycomb-like email client, making it very unique and much easier to navigate.
Camera: Stunning 8 MP camera, able to record at full 1080p HD quality. It also has a 2 MP front-facing camera, which is something we will begin to use with more frequency as it becomes more available.
MHL connection with TV: Watching all your content on a big screen is something that we could often take advantage of. With the Samsung Galaxy S II, you can do it at full-HD 1080p resolution (with up to 30 fps).
Unlocked Bootloader: Last but not least… The main reason why this device is better for many of you. Being able to play around with your device, and customize it at will, is one of the most fun abilities that Android gives you. If you are one to root and take the Android experience to its fullest, an unlocked bootloader is a must.

It so happens that Samsung has also released a “closer look” video of the Samsung Galaxy S II. Though it roughly follows the same pattern as the Sensation’s video, this one is much more detailed. Samsung’s demo is about 12.5 minutes long (around twice the length, compared to HTC’s). While the Samsung Galaxy S II has not been released in the U.S. yet, it has made its debut in Korea, and it is currently on its quest here. In the meanwhile, check out the video after the break, and let us know why you are choosing (or not) the Samsung Galaxy S II. Which will be your next device, and why?

Radiant: Exclusive Android game demo

Taylor Wimberly — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 22:57:32 +0000

Hexage is quickly becoming one of our favorite Android game developers because they always deliver the goods. Their first two games (Buka and Totemo) are some of the most polished titles available for the Android platform. Not only do they produce quality games, but they also provide great support. Hexage continues to update their games after they are released to add new gameplay features and extend the replay value.

For their third game, Hexage decided to go retro.

Radiant is an old school shooter that plays tribute to classics like Space Invaders and Asteroids. The controls are ultra simple and the game is all about action. Hexage plans to release the game next Thursday October, 1 2009, but they gave us an exclusive demo to share with our readers.

Download Radiant Lite

Click the link above to download the apk file. You can grab it on your PC and copy it to your SD card or download it directly to your phone. If you need a file manager to install the apk file, we suggest Linda File Manager. If you have any issues downloading the apk file, grab Linda File Manager first and it will get the file correctly.

Radiant (along with Totemo) is entered in the second Android Developers challenge. Get the ADC2 judging application and be on the look out.

For the latest information on Hexage visit their official site or follow them on Twitter @hexage.

Telenav GPS launches 30-Day Trial for Android

Admin — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 16:29:30 +0000

Turn-by-turn navigation, has been one of the most requested applications for Google Android since launch. Today, TeleNav has finally answered the call and released their GPS software for Android. The normal subscription rate is $9.99 per month or you can save money by getting the $99 annual plan.

To sign up for the 30-Day demo, just visit TeleNav’s website. You are required to enter a credit card information and will be charged if you do not cancel within 30 days. They will then send you a link that allows you to download the application from their website. TeleNav provides instructions on how to allow non-market applications to be installed on your phone.

Over the next few weeks I plan to compare TeleNav for Android against my TomTom One 3rd Edition. I’ve owned the TomTom for several years and I’m quite happy with the purchase, but it is lacking in features such as traffic updates and weather. I am an avid GPS user and I log over 50k miles a year for work, so I will report shortly with my expert opinion. I have seen many say $9 a month is too expensive, but if you use a GPS for work it might justify the cost. You could also just purchase a 30 day subscription for when you plan to travel and not pay for it when you don’t need it.

The only thing I am missing is a car mount for my phone. I’m thinking about ordering this window mount from Amazon. If I get the product in time, I will include it with my TeleNav evaluation. In the mean time please share your experiences with TeleNav if you happen to download the demo.

Twitter fans can follow TeleNav here.