Samsung posts Q1 earnings, show $6,400,000,000 profit Sales are up, and we haven't even counted the Galaxy S4 yet -- look for Samsung to have another record quarter come JulyI'm no financial wizard, but I know big numbers when i see them. And Samsung, as expected, is turning them out. They've just posted their Q1 2013 earnings, and the big news is that they have turned in net profits of 7.15 Trillion Won (that's 6.4 Billion US dollars), with total sales of 52.9 Trillion Won, up from 45.3 Trillion last quarter.Phones make up a big portion of these numbers. About $358 Billion worth, though it's worth noting that not all the phones sold are Android-powered, or even smart phones. The Mobile unit's operating profit was 6.51 Trillion Won on the back of 68 million units. And they expect things to get even better in Q2, suggesting that Samsung will ship 78 Million handsets out of their mobile division. I have a feeling millions of them will be the Galaxy S4. You Wall Street types will want to check out the links below for the big picture, while the rest of us try to wrap our heads around these numbers.
Source: Bloomberg. More: Samsung's earning s release (pdf)
       
A quick look at the OPPO Find 5 Amazingly high quality and design that you just don't get in your every day smart phoneWell look what we have here? It's the OPPO Find 5. As we get ready to put it through its paces for a full review, we wanted to give you a quick look at the new device.HardwareIf the name wasn't any indication, we're looking at a 5-inch 1080P display here, and it is quite a substantial device all around. That display is surrounded by a couple different textures and colors of metal -- one to frame the glass of the screen, another as a complete rim around the device, and a final one as a solid back plate. The surround and back plate are the same material, which feels like a hefty metal with a light soft touch coating over it. Inside we're looking at a Snapdragon S4 Pro processor at 1.5GHz, 2GB of RAM, a 2500mAh battery, 13MP camera and 32GB of storage. To top it all off, the phone is pentaband, and compatible with both AT&T and T-Mobile HSPA+.The phone feels nice in the hand from a materials standpoint, but at first impression isn't the most ergonomic ever. 5-inches for a phone is pushing the boundaries of one-handed use, and the angular design combined with very smooth materials make this a bit of a slippery phone to hold onto. The Find 5 feels like its built like a tank, and feels both denser and heavier than comparably sized devices SoftwareWe still have a whole bunch of time to spend with the software, but we're looking at a generously customized version of Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean. The software reminds us a lot of MIUI, with lots of reflections, borders around apps and a bright, friendly color scheme. Our first impression is that a lot of the customizations OPPO have done are very user friendly, and there's an overall consistent design language. Some of the features of the launcher are just a bit too overboard for our tastes though.Stick around after the break to check out several close-ups of the hardware on the device, and be sure to keep an eye on the site for our upcoming complete review. read more 
    Here's your chance to try out App.net for free; we've got 200 invitations to hand out. Update: here's 200 more! 200 invitations won't last long, so if you're interested grab one quickly!The good people at App.net have been trying something new by offering limited, invitation-only free tier accounts. It's a great way to try out the services App.net has to offer, like the Twitter-style social blogging, cloud storage, and messaging services before they decide to spend any money. Everyone likes to try before they buy, and it leads to more satisfied customers who know what to expect. It's a great idea, but invites aren't exactly the easiest thing to get.We can alleviate that a little bit, as ADN has reached out to us and given us 200 invites to hand out. They know readers of sites like Android Central are the type who want to try out these sort of services, and can provide feedback to make everything as good as it can be. 200 invites won't last long, though, so if you're interested you'll need to jump on it. Update: The first 200 went quickly, so here's 200 more from the fine folks at App.net! Join App.net from AndroidCentral If you use the invitation, you'll be automatically following Android Central, so you'll have some content in your stream while you look for others to follow and talk with. You don't have to keep following us though, there are no strings attached here. This is a great way to try out the App.net service, so be sure to give it a look. We'll see you there! 
   
Vine coming to Android 'soon' say creators Vine creators to bring their social video app to Android "soon"Vine is going to come to Google Play "soon", according the the folks who created the popular iOS app. Speaking to The Verge, there was no timeline or any further details given about the Android version, and we're not even going to guess.If you're not familiar with Vine, think of it as YouTube for folks with very short attention spans. It captures six seconds of video, letting you stop and start as many times as you like, then assembling everything up ready to post to Twitter. There is no secret sauce or other magic at work -- just a six second video clip. Have a look at it here, where Phil breaks it down. The app itself allows you to follow users and view their Vines, and there's an unofficial website to follow along for those who don't have the app at VinePeek. Warning -- this is exactly what you would expect to see when you give everyone an uncensored arena to post six second clips. If you find wieners and teenagers using foul language offensive, you have been warned. When Vine does come to Android, we'll give it a good look. I'm calling in sick that day. 
    Amazon posts Q1 2013 earnings: $16.07 billion in sales net just $82 million in income Net sales and operating cash flow up considerably; net and operating income still taking big hitsEveryone's favorite online retailer turned tablet maker and content aggregator, Amazon, has just posted its Q1 2013 financial report. There's a whole lot of numbers to jump into here, so let's get to the quick breakdown first:
Amazon is continually boosting its Prime Instant Video catalog, bringing TV shows from A&E, FX, PBS, HGTV and many more. It also debuted pilots for 14 original series, which are coming out of Amazon Studios. Aside from touting increased availability of the Kindle Fire HD 8.9" in several new countries, in typical Amazon fashion it didn't break out any sales or earnings for the devices. Rest assured that Amazon is likely selling a boatload of Kindles every quarter.
Source: Amazon (BusinessWire)
   
Chrome Beta updated with better rendering and bug fixes Page rendering performance and frequently occurring crashes addressed in today's updateChrome Beta has been updated in Google Play this afternoon, and along with the usual (and often cryptic) fixes and enhancements, this version was specifically updated with an "Improvement to page rendering performance." Here's the full list of changes, because we know some of you are into that sort of thing.
Source: Google Chrome blog
    T-Mobile quickly gives in to WA Attorney General, agrees 'UNcarrier' is misleading to consumers Device financing terms to be clarified going forward; some customers can leave without penaltyT-Mobile has been making some big steps towards what it calls an "UNcarrier" strategy, which clarifies device pricing, ends phone contracts and gives customers more choice in the wireless industry. In trying to reinvent its strategy, however, T-Mobile has apparently ruffled some feathers at the Washington State Attorney General's office. Attorney General Bob Ferguson claims that T-Mobile's new plan structure is deceptive, leaves unfulfilled promises, and has "duped" consumers.Ferguson specifically takes issue with the way T-Mobile now finances devices -- with a small down payment and monthly installments -- claiming that although the carrier claims there is no commitment to the service, customers will have to stay for 24 months or "face an unanticipated balloon payment for the phone equipment". Specifically, the AG had this to say: “My office identified that T-Mobile was failing to disclose a critical component of their new plan to consumers, and we acted quickly to stop this practice and protect consumers across the country from harm.”Ferguson has filed a court order, which has been signed and agreed upon by T-Mobile, that will force the carrier to clarify its terms of service and stop what Ferguson calls "deceptive advertising". Under the terms of the order, T-Mobile has created a document called the "an Assurance of Discontinuance (AOD)", better laying out the terms of the new Simple Choice plans. Inside, the carrier agrees not to:
Source: TmoNews; WA Attorney General
    iBomber: The popular game comes to Android Take a time machine back to 1943 to make bombing runs in the PacificA popular iOS game for years (yes, years) has finally made its way over to Android, and is packing many gameplay features that took two full game releases to hit the other platform. iBomber is a top-down plane bombing game set in the WWII era, with quality graphics and gameplay that won't blow you away but will certainly leave you satisfied. The game mechanics itself are simple to pick up, but are deceptively hard to master.iBomber is a great game to spend some time on, so stick around after the break and learn a little more about the title before you give it a shot for yourself. read more 
    LG Optimus G Pro with AT&T branding leaks out Familiar styling and minimalist branding essentially confirm the launch of this new deviceFrequent and accurate device leaker @evleaks has just dropped this little gem on our hands -- the LG Optimus G Pro for AT&T. Just a few days before we're set to see what LG has to unveil at a press conference on May 1st, we are likely looking at one of the devices set to be unveiled. The hardware looks very similar to what we found in our review of the international version, complete with a home button LED, brushed silver camera pod and plastic back with textured design. The only difference here looks to be in terms of a small AT&T logo on the back, and the usual AT&T, NFC and 4G LTE logos up in the status bar of the phone.If you need to refresh your memory on the merits of the Optimus G Pro, we've got a whole lot of content for you to take a look at. Be sure to take a look back at our review of the international device, a deeper look at the new "VR Panorama" photosphere feature, and of course check out our hands-on video below. Naturally, we'll be in New York to see for sure what LG has to unveil on May 1st as well. read more 
    Sprint Photon Q Jelly Bean update starts its roll out today Jelly Bean and a long list of bug fixes highlight the OTA that begins todayFans of the Motorola Photon Q have a reason to celebrate today, as Sprint and Motorola have released the Jelly Bean update for the slider. The 9.8.2Q-122_XT897_FFW-5 update brings the Photon Q to platform version Android 4.1, brings the Jelly Bean goodies like Project Butter and Google Now, and has a laundry list of fixes and patches. Here's that list:
Source: Sprint
    Droid DNA clone HTC Deluxe coming to Cellcom The HTC Deluxe shows up again, this time in WisconsinCellcom, the regional carrier from Wisconsin, has unveiled their next marquee device -- the HTC Deluxe. It's basically the HTC Droid DNA repackaged for the small network, which means it's a pretty damn good piece of equipment. If you need a refresher, that means it has a quad-core Snapdragon Pro CPU, a 5-inch 1080p display, 2GB of RAM, and an LTE radio to keep the data flowing.No word on when it will arrive, just that it's coming "soon" for $199 with a new contract or $570 if you buy it outright. If you're a Cellcom subscriber, this is definitely worth a second look. See the source link for more details.
Source: Cellcom. Thanks, Aaron!
    HTC Rezound finally gets global roaming, Jelly Bean nowhere to be seen Numerous fixes and improvements are also included in build 4.05.605.14 710RDNo luck this time around for HTC Rezound users hoping to receive Jelly Bean, but the update still has a pretty cool feature nonetheless. As promised -- although not exactly timely -- the Rezound is finally getting Global Roaming Support. This enables roaming on networks previously inaccessible to the phone, which covers over 205 countries.A couple pre-installed apps have gotten updates, while a handful of others have been removed. Mobile Hotspot and Visual Voicemail get bug fixes, and improvements were made to Skype, Backup Assistant, and overall data connectivity. Users that have been experiencing freezes and random reboots should see system stability improve as well. There is no word yet on when the update rollout will begin. If notifications start popping up, let our other Rezound owners know in the comments. For the complete change log, check out the source link below.
Source: Verizon
    Google adds tablet optimization tips to Google Play Developer Console Google proactively scanning apps uploaded to Google Play for tablet compatibility, provides feedback to developers in real-timeGoogle has added a new tablet optimization tips page to the developer console in order to provide feedback about apps and how they fare against the Tablet App Quality Checklist. When developers upload their apps, the Developer Console now runs a "series of checks to verify basic criteria" against the list, and displays the results in a new page. Android was built with application scalability in mind, meaning there is no need to build multiple apps designed for different device types, and instead use tools and assets designed for each under the umbrella of one app. It sounds great on paper, and works great when developers take the time to build out apps with this in mind.Taking time is the key part. It's not easy to build mobile apps, especially ones that look good and take advantage of each device screen size and dimensions. Starting today, Google can help a little more by analyzing an app when it's uploaded, then placing some tips how it can be done "better" for tablets in the new optimization tips page. While this is one of those things most of us will never see, having it in place means better apps -- something we can all get behind.
Source: Google
    Samsung Galaxy S4 sees first complete firmware leak Firmware version I9500ZCUAMDG comes complete with all Odin filesWith every big phone release comes a software leak just ahead of launch day. Today, it's the Samsung Galaxy S4's turn to show us the software. AdamLange of XDA Developers has been kind enough to post the first leaked version of Galaxy S4 firmware, in its complete form.Samsung users that have installed custom firmware on their devices before are already familiar with Odin, a Windows application that allows firmware to be flashed on Samsung phones via USB. This Galaxy S4 leak comes complete with all the Odin files, namely the CSC, PDA and modem. This particular software is intended for the Chinese market; as time goes on and more leaks are obtained, they will be posted in AdamLange's thread. Flashing stock firmware via Odin is a sure bet for getting Samsung phones back to factory condition and fixing any problems that may arise from installing custom firmware. Those that like to root and flash ROMs and kernels on their phones should definitely have a stock Odin package ready to go -- just in case. Keep an eye on the forums for the latest how-to guides and lists of flashable goodies, as them become available.
Source: XDA Developers
    Iron Man 3 now available in Google Play Iron Man 3 flies his way to Android, grab it for free from Google PlayGameloft has published Iron Man 3 to Google Play this morning, bringing the Marvel hero to life on your Android phone or tablet. Fly your way through this endless runner meets on-rails shooter, fighting against A.I.M. forces in Malibu Shores, New York city, and China. You can even fight some of your favorite bad guys from Iron Man comics, with boss battles against the likes of Crimson Dynamo, Ezekiel Stane, Living Laser and the mighty M.O.D.O.K. All while trying to manage Stark Industries and develop 18 new suits and keep your armor and super powers updated.At 768MB it's a fairly big install, but the graphics and sound are pretty awesome. And of course, there are in-app purchases at every turn, but hopefully the game can be played without nickel-and-diming its way through your wallet. We'll be taking a good long look at this one, but in the meantime you can check out Simon's hands-on from GDC after the break. The game requires Android 2.3 or higher, and you can grab it from the Google Play link above. read more 
    Samsung KNOX security suite for Galaxy S4 reportedly delayed Launch reportedly pushed back to July, expected to ship pre-installed on select devicesAccording to sources of The New York Times, Samsung's latest BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) security software, called KNOX, has had its launched delayed. The software suite, which was expected to ship in early Q2 2013 coinciding with availability of the Galaxy S4, provides users and enterprises with secure solutions to separate user and company data, applications, and network traffic. The launch of the KNOX software has reportedly been pushed back to at least July, due to more internal and carrier testing time is needed before it can be made available.Going forward after the software is officially available, it is expected to ship on select Samsung devices right out of the box. Samsung has seen an opportunity to grow its footprint in the enterprise since the launch of the Galaxy S3, first with SAFE (Samsung Approved For Enterprise) and now continuing to full BYOD solutions like KNOX. It's surely working to get this software out there as fast as possible.
Source: NYT
    Deal of the Day: Seidio Innocell 4500mAh Extended Battery for Galaxy Note 2 The April 25 ShopAndroid.com Deal of the Day is the Seidio Innocell 4500 Extended Battery for Galaxy Note 2. Tired of running out of battery life when you need it the most? When you can’t get to an outlet, the 4500mAh Extended Battery will keep you moving forward. This extended battery utilizes a premium Japanese cell to ensure the highest level of safety and performance, offering up to 100% more battery life than your stock battery. Includes replacement battery door.The Seidio Innocell 4500mAh Extended Battery is available for just $58.00, 23% off today only. Grab yours while supplies last! Deal also available in the Canada store Never miss a deal. Sign up for Daily Deal alerts 
    T-Mobile's HTC One S finally gets its Jelly Bean update For those who were worried the day would never come -- the T-Mobile (U.S.) HTC One S is finally getting Android 4.1.1. As confirmed in our HTC One S forums, the sizable (675-megabyte) update brings Jelly Bean, with all its bells and whistles, along with any number of bugfixes. (As of this writing, we're waiting on T-Mobile to post the full changelog.) The update's a Wifi-only deal, so fire up the router and get downloading.
More: HTC One S forums
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