Showing posts with label Android Apps. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Android Apps. Show all posts

Saturday, August 20, 2011

UNO for Android Updated with HD Graphics for tablets

Remember as a child playing UNO and screaming it out at the end when you finally win? I do, and today Gameloft has updated the popular card game UNO on the Android Market to support even more devices as well as tablets. UNO was always one of the few card games I actually enjoyed, that and poker. Gameloft has fixed up the graphics claiming they are HD and now we should be ready to go for tablets.



You can’t go wrong with UNO. Everyone loves the game right? It’s a classic that is for sure. Gameloft has some new rules, online gameplay and tournament mode integrated into the Android version and really makes you test your skills when you play online.




I know this isn’t anything new and exciting, plus the app has been around for a while. I didn’t think it would be all that fun but I gave it a download on my Android 3.1 Honeycomb tablet just to see the new HD graphics and the game does look pretty good. Brought me back to the good ol times and should do the same for a few of our readers so give it a try.
Download UNO
[via Android Market]

Friday, August 19, 2011

Amazon Free App of the Day: App 2 SD Pro

Today Amazon has another awesome app running for the excellent price of free. Today the Amazon “free app of the day” is App 2 SD Pro. If you have a slightly older Android device say around the Nexus One era this is the perfect application for you. When you install too many awesome games, or all three Angry Birds are taking up all that internal storage you can use this to move apps to the SD card rather than internal 512mb or whatever your specific device has.



I wont preach about this much as most phones these days have enough storage that users don’t need apps2sd features anymore but many still do. Many users delete games, or wont install Adobe Flash and things of that sort to save space on their phones. You’ll no longer have to delete that awesome game you rarely play to make room for something else. Just move all the large apps and games to the SD card and you’re good to go. Today the paid version is free thanks to Amazon.
Paid Features:
-View all SD card capable apps and move them seamlessly
-Efficiently manage apps with a shortcut to Manage Applications screen
-Keep track of total and available storage space
-Sort through apps stored on phone and SD card
-Enable notification when installing an SD card capable app
Newer versions of Android like 2.2 FroYo and above do offer this as a stock feature and you can simple enter the manage applications tab and choose move to SD card. For many users this is still not an option, especially if you’re still rocking Android 1.6 or something ancient. If so get this free app of the day and free up some storage on your device. Remember moving widgets to the SD card is a bad idea because they wont work, just a tip.
[via Amazon]

Thursday, August 18, 2011

Most Android apps sit idle, top-50 apps make up 61% of all usage, Nielsen finds


When consumers use their mobile phones to check the news, weather, email, or their social networks, they often have a choice between the mobile web version or a specially-created mobile app. But which do they prefer? Mobile apps – at least in terms of time spent.
According to first-reported data from Nielsen Smartphone Analytics, a new effort that tracks and analyzes data from on-device meters installed on thousands of iOS and Android smartphones, the average Android consumer in the U.S. spends 56 minutes per day actively interacting with the web and apps on their phone. Of that time, two-thirds is spent on mobile apps while one-third is spent on the mobile web.

Perhaps more surprising, despite the hundreds of thousands of apps available for Android, a very small proportion of apps make up the vast majority of time spent. In fact, the top 10 Android apps account for 43 percent of all the time spent by Android consumers on mobile apps. The top 50 apps account for 61 percent of all time spent. With 250,000+ Android apps available at the time of this writing, that means the remaining 249,950+ apps have to compete for the remaining 39 percent of the pie.

Inverted Twitter App, Socialize with a Black Color Theme


We all love Twitter right? Well those of you that haven’t fully migrated to Google+ of course. Today I have another Android app that has been inverted with a black color theme for you all to enjoy. Now you can tweet, twit, or do whatever it is you do in style with the “Black n Bold” Theme for Twitter. This adds style to Twitter while saving battery life at the same time.



This isn’t the first Inverted app I’ve posted as of late. Recently I showed you all the Google+ Inverted App and everyone seemed to love that although a few had issues with getting it going at first. Last week we featured Gmail getting the same treatment but today is all about the little birds of Twitter (and the wales).

See for yourself with the picture above. It looks sharp right? I’ve been using this for the past few hours this morning and I’ve yet to experience any issues. Make sure to uninstall the original Twitter app first, and back it up if you’d like although it’s always available from the market. This does not require root so you can just go ahead and check out the details at the source link, and download the modded APK and install like any other application. If you have any questions before continuing make sure to ask over at the RootzWiki thread.
Twitter Black Theme Download
[via RootzWiki]

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Fake Google+ app floating around hides Android malware



Android users that are fans of Google+ need to be aware that a new malware app is circulating right now. Earlier this month I mentioned that Android users were twice as likely to get malware as they were six months ago. One of the reasons is apps like Google++ that looks like an official Google+ app and hides a malicious app inside.

The malicious app inside the fake Google offering is called ANDROIDOS_NICKISPY.C .The nefarious app can actually intercept and record your phone calls. The app loads at boot up and runs services that monitor messages, phone calls, and the user’s location. This allows the malware to steal all sorts of data from users.
The app sends the stolen data to a remote site where criminals can grab the data and try to use it to steal from you. The malware app was discovered by Trend Micro. If your phone is infected you can uninstall it via Settings – Applications – Manage applications, and then uninstall the Google++ app. Trend Micro gives this app a low risk rating.
[via CNET]

Google Maps updated with bubble buttons, Transit Notifications and more

Google has just updated the Google Maps Application for Android to version 5.9.0 and with it comes many improvements to transit navigation, new labs features and more. One that may be really helpful to many in the big cities is transit navigation notifications but that is still in beta with this latest update.



Google has been updating many of their apps as of late and Google Maps just keeps getting better and better. Here is the small but nice list of new features you can expect with the new Google Maps.
-Voice and ring tone notifications for Transit Navigation (Beta)
-Tablet support for Transit Navigation (Beta)
-’Bubble Buttons’ Lab to add call and navigate buttons to results on the map (see above)
I know the transit navigation BETA is a great feature and relied on it heavily in my recent trips to NYC, being able to have notifications alert me so I never miss another subway is a huge additional and I can’t wait to try it out. In case you haven’t tried any of the “Labs” in the settings menu I suggest you give it a look. The “Bubble Buttons” are convenient popups that will show when you select a store or a location on a map. The bubble gives you instant access to navigation or even to call the store and more. I’ve been using that for months but now its officially included.
There are a few new features to play with in the Labs too so be sure to check those out, report anything fun in the comments below, and be sure to head over to the market and get this latest update if it didn’t already update automatically.
[via Android Market]

Firefox 6 Browser Beta Now in Android Market

Firefox was updated to version 6.0 today for many users on desktop and laptops everywhere, today they’ve also pushed the latest 6.0 out to the BETA version on the Android Market. Just as a reminder the standard Firefox in the market is still on 5.0 and the beta app has been updated to 6.0 so you can keep your original should you run into problems. We love updates and Mozilla just keeps rolling them out. From once being a laggy and buggy terrible mobile browser Firefox is now one of the most popular and secure 3rd party browsers for Android.



One change I really like is the “Awesome Screen” that basically instantly brings you to a page of everything you browse most often, like a shortcut to your bookmarks only better. They’ve also added a new look, I love the Gingerbread theme they provide for users on Android 2.3 Gingerbread. Mozilla also mentions plenty of “under the hood” changes but that is expected with a large update like this.
Firefox for Android offers tons of options and add-ons and developers should have some exciting new API’s to try out with the latest Firefox v6.0 released today. For all the details for users and developers alike be sure to check out Firefox 6.0 release notes to see what’s new and exciting from Mozilla. It is available now in the Android Market so head on over via the source link below.
[via Android Market]

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

20 Best Entertainment and Media Apps for Android Honeycomb Tablets

Honeycomb tablets are designed for stunning visuals, there’s no doubt about that. The powerful graphics chipsets, large HD-capable screens and even surround sound capability make them ideal for watching trailers, videos and shows. Not only that, it’s handy enough to be used as an ebook reader and then some.
Here are a few of the best media and entertainment apps for your Android tablet.
Featured image from Pyronixcore

Videos

1. MoboPlayer (free)


Plays everything and anything you can throw it. It’s the best media player for Android, and for Honeycomb as well. Definitely something you need to install on your tablet.

2. Ustream (free)

 











Watch live video anywhere, any time with Ustream. Everything from live radio shows to sports events, it’s like TV and then some.

Movies and TV

3. Movies by Flixster (free)


Watch trailers, read reviews and catch showtimes. It’s the app you need to enhance your theatre going experience.

4. IMDb (free)


Your all-access pass to everything and everything shown on the big screen (and small screen too). Get celebrity info, TV recaps, awards and trivia about the newest movies and hottest stars.

Music

5. QELLO for Tablet (free app, 30 Day rental for $4.99)


Missed that concert? Don’t fret, Qello has it in full HD glory. Now you don’t need to be groupie to get that backstage pass.

6. Hive Player (lite, $1.99 to buy)

If you’re looking for a new media player for your Android tablet, look no further. Hive brings all the things your stock player can do, and then some. It even has a widget so you can play music right from your homescreen. It’s sort of new so be kind to the dev.

7. SoundHound (free)


What’s that song again? It’s by whatzizface right? With Soundhound, you can search for music just by having it listen to it. You can even buy the song right there or share it with friends.

8. doubleTwist (free)


It’s dubbed the iTunes for Android and for good reason. It allows you to easily sync music and other media onto your device with its companion app. The Honeycomb music player brings nothing exciting and new but it does let you easily control your music and view HD album art.

Books

9. Kindle (free)


Turn your tablet into a stunning ebook reader and grab your Kindle book straight from Amazon using this app. You can also buy new books and browse them as well. Honorary mention: Nook for Android by B&N (it’s free as well).

10. Aldiko (free, $2.99 for premium version)


If your ebook collection is more of the ePub and PDF kind, there’s also Aldiko for that. You can load both your own bestsellers or browse its online library to get more.

Photos

11. Just Pictures (free)


Browse your photos on your favorite sharing sites like Flickr, Facebook, Imgur and Picasa. It even lets you do some minor photo editing. And unlike other apps, it’s Honeycomb-optimized!

12. PicSay (free, $3.99 to buy)


Talking vehicles aside, this app adds a bit of whimsy to your boring stills. Add stickers, effects and captions to make your photos come alive. Then share it to everyone!

13. FlickFolio for Flickr ($2.99)


If Flickr is where you send your photos, then this app should definitely be on your tablet. It not only allows for batch uploads, it also downloads your favorite photos for offline viewing. Check out the dev’s other photo apps as well.

Comics

14. Komik (free, $1.99 to donate)


It’s the first comic reader that’s specially made for Android tablets. Supports all the usual format and I head it will have PDF support too soon, which makes it good for ebooks as well. Honorable mention:

15. Comics (free)


Comixology partners with the biggest names in comics to bring you all the best title and collections to your Android tablet. The comics themselves are not free of course but there’s a lot of free stuff to browse and buying is easy. Of course, you should still support your local comic book store.

Magazines

16. Sports Illustrated Tablet (free)


If you need your football fix on your tablet, SI is the way to go. It’s the digital edition of the popular sports magazine and includes such features as live scores, classic articles and video.


17. Zinio (free)


Get your favorite magazines straight on your tablet. Almost every popular title is in here and you can buy both single issues and full subscriptions.

Drawing

18. PaintBox for Tablets (free, $1.99 for Pro version)


This app bring realistic and natural brushes to your tablet, so you can be free to create your work of art anywhere you go. It even reacts to pressure and the speed of a stroke.

19. SketchBook Express (free)


Autodesk brings their SketchBook to Honeycomb, bringing with it all the tools you need to create a professional masterpiece.

20. Drawing Pad ($1.99)


This app is obviously for the kids. It features stickers, crayons, markers and other creative tools that your child would love.

Monday, August 15, 2011

Rumor: Rovio to Receive $1.2 Billion in Funding


Angry Birds or its creator Rovio Entertainment, and today is no exception. Rumor has it that the Finnish game company is in talks with an unknown investor to receive funding in the realm of $1.2 billion. Possibilities regarding the investors include Electronic Arts, Zyngia, and Walt Disney, all of which stand to gain from a collaboration with Rovio. Rovio themselves could use the money for a planned movie adaptation of Angry Birds, pushing its offices out beyond Finland, or creating toys and other products to capitalize on its already existing popularity. Of course, there are other things to spend a large amount of money on.

Sunday, August 14, 2011

5 Android 3.0+ Apps For Honeycomb Tablets From The Last 2 Weeks (8/1/11 - 8/13/11)

Welcome to the weekly roundup of the best new Android applications, games, and live wallpapers that went live in the Market or were spotted by us in the previous 2 weeks or so.
This edition focuses only on new tablet apps or ones that added Honeycomb support. Regular apps and games are coming soon.

Please wait for this page to load in full in order to see the AppBrain widgets, which include ratings and pricing info.


Box.net

Box.net is one of the largest Dropbox competitors, and while I personally don't use it, it apparently has over 6 million users. Box has far more features than Dropbox and gives you 5GB for free, so it definitely has its market. The app itself isn't new, but its Honeycomb support is.
--
Box for Android and Android Tablet gives you 5 GB FREE to:
- Upload, access and view content on your Honeycomb tablet or Android phone
- SSO for simple login process
- Easily share files and folders with links
- Find files fast with built-in search
- Save files you create in other Android apps to your Box account
image image image

Box.net



Download Box.net from the Android Market
Download Box.net from AppBrain
QR code for market://details?id=com.box.android



50,000 downloads, 894 ratings (4.0 avg)


Moxier Mail for Tablet – Trial


Probably the best Exchange app that combines email, calendar, contacts, tasks, and notes and includes handy widgets that I've seen.
--
Moxier Mail with Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync for Corporate Email on the Go. Moxier Mail is the second to none EAS mail application that you can enjoy Mail, Calendar, Contacts, Tasks, and Notes in Mobile circumstance with advanced and state-of-the-art features such as Category, Mailbox search, Local wipe, Data encryption, S/MIME and 57 languages in the world.
Moxier Mail has been maintaining the perfect EAS Push mail application that Emtrace technologies made ever since 2008. Would you take Moxier Mail as the most latest and advanced EAS mail? You bet. Trial is good for 2 weeks and on Honeycomb or higher. For details, please visit our website at http://www.moxier.com/mail
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image image 

Moxier Mail for Tablet – Trial



Download Moxier Mail for Tablet – Trial from the Android Market
Download Moxier Mail for Tablet – Trial from AppBrain
QR code for market://details?id=com.moxier.mail.tablet.trial





Syfy for Android Tablets


While Syfy fans will certainly appreciate this app, even those who have nothing to do with it may want to check out its beautiful tablet UI. If you're looking for some tablet design inspiration, definitely check out Syfy for Tablets.
Oh, and sorry - no full episodes are available in this app.
image image image

Syfy for Android Tablets



Download Syfy for Android Tablets from the Android Market
Download Syfy for Android Tablets from AppBrain
QR code for market://details?id=com.nbcuni.syfy.syfyforandroidtablet





Bord


Bord, a new very well designed chalkboard/drawing app, supports Android 2.1+, but because its UI on tablets is specifically optimized for Honeycomb, and drawing apps are perfect for devices with large screens, I am including it in the tablet roundup.
--
Bord app turns your Android device into a beautiful and unique chalkboard simulator. Bord is designed for children and their parents who wants to use Android device as an excellent educational device.
Bord unique features:
- Realistic chalk - Create drawings using six colors and three thicknesses of chalk. You can draw even with 10 fingers at once!
- Realistic sponge - Clean drawings with a sponge which left subtle traces of chalk. To completely erase the drawing shake device!
- Playback drawing - Load your saved drawings with playback of drawing in realtime or in different speeds!
- Email & Facebook - Send your drawings on e-mail and make your grandma happy! Post your creations directly on Facebook!
- Tablets - Bord fully supports tablets with Android Honeycomb 3.0 (ex. Motorola Xoom, Samsung Galaxy Tab, HTC Flyer)
image image image

Bord



Download Bord from the Android Market
Download Bord from AppBrain
QR code for market://details?id=com.pixle.bord



5,000 downloads, 40 ratings (4.2 avg)


Platinum Air Hockey (Free) for Honeycomb tablets


This game didn't make it to our last tablet roundup by a day or 2 (I later featured it in the game roundup), so here it is. There are many air hockey games on the Market already, but Platinum Air Hockey for Honeycomb deserves a mention because of these reasons:
  • it's made specifically for Honeycomb

  • it has Wi-Fi 2-player mode, which I haven't seen in any other air hockey game

  • you can switch up the looks to make it look like soccer, basketball, etc

  • it has the most over-the-top video preview any other air hockey game has ever been accompanied with (and I don't mean it in a bad way at all - real hockey games would be lucky to have some awesome trailers)

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Platinum Air Hockey (Free) for Honeycomb tablets



Download Platinum Air Hockey (Free) for Honeycomb tablets from the Android Market
Download Platinum Air Hockey (Free) for Honeycomb tablets from AppBrain
QR code for market://details?id=com.platinumapps.platinumairhockeyfree