Android v/s Windows !

[Raja]

Android 4.3 update causing problems with Nexus 4 handsets, rendering some unusable

While Android 4.3 is a relatively minor upgrade in the grand scheme of things -- bringing restricted profiles and some added graphical grunt to the platform -- it seems that the new OS version is wreaking havoc on some Nexus 4 devices. On Google's Product Forums, most people having problems report that after the update is downloaded and installed, their handsets either freeze on the 'X' splash screen or get stuck in a never-ending boot loop. For now, folks report that the only fix is to factory reset their handsets or flash to an older version of Android, and lose all of their saved data in the process. While there are no shortage of people apparently stuck in update purgatory, it's unclear exactly how widespread the problem is; our own in-house Nexus 4 received 4.3 without issue.

Additionally, the new Android version isn't playing nice with Netflix on Nexus 4's, either. After upgrading, launching the Netflix app is causing some handsets to freeze up -- and only resetting the phone with a long press of the power button will get the phone working again. Android engineer Dan Morrill has said that Google is aware of the Netflix issue, however, and that its working on a fix. Regardless, Nexus 4 owners might want to think twice before upgrading. We've reached out to Google for an official comment on these problems, and will update this post should we receive one.

 

[Raja]

Both Motorola and Google have steadfastly maintained that, even though it's owned by Google, the phone maker is treated just like any other Android manufacturer. That sentiment apparently undersells some of the divisions between the two, according to a report at The Wall Street Journal. As we learned earlier today, the Moto X doesn't ship with the latest version of Android, and the WSJ cites the usual "people familiar with the matter" who claim that a chilly relationship was part of the reason. "It's not like we were equally disadvantaged—we were more disadvantaged," an ex-Motorola employee told the publication.

Some of the tensions reportedly centered on ex-Android chief Andy Rubin, who is said to have "opposed embracing Motorola more closely." Other tensions apparently fell along fault-lines within Google that we've heard about before, namely that Motorola was reportedly concerned that it wouldn't be able to ship with the Chrome web browser preinstalled. The Android team is said to have not returned Motorola emails and generally kept a chilly distance that apparently wasn't fully resolved until Sundar Pichai took over the Android division.

Motorola CEO Dennis Woodside denied that a culture clash caused any problems in the development of the Moto X, "I don't believe there were any issues there." There are signs that the relationship is now on better footing. Woodside told the WSJ that the company has been assisting its parent company with manufacturing issues for Google Glass and could one day actually take over production directly.

Culture clashes between Google and Motorola reportedly hindered Moto X development | The Verge

Despite stealing from Windows Phone, Motorola may have produced the most mediocre handset ever | WMPoweruser

Many were expecting to be wowed by the Moto X, Motorola’s first handset which was free from all pre-Google legacy influence.

Instead we have a typical Google product – a mishmash of ideas stolen from others.

The handset has a low-DPI 720P screen and a fake “Octa-core processor” (since when do we count graphics cores?) and its stand out surprise feature is… wait for it…. multiple colours.

In fact so many colour combinations that buyers will probably give up on the handset before actually coming to a decision. Or of course they could always just settle on making their device look like one of the numerous very colourful Windows Phones that adorn carrier shelves.

We can seen Windows Phone influence on other features too, such as their Glance screen implementation or their Zune-like engravings.

The fact is, from the front the handset is rather ugly, and if this is the handset that was going to redeem Google’s $12 billion purchase then Google better start cutting prices right now.

Motorola Moto X unboxing

http://www.phonearena.com/news/Motorola-Moto-X-first-camera-samples-showdown_id45966#16-Moto-X

 

[Vishwas]

Guys a request, please shall we limit the discussions limited to Android VS Windows software only?

 

[nitin_k]

Guys a request, please shall we limit the discussions limited to Android VS Windows software only?

no issues, be free to open another thread to discuss handsets , new, existing and coming soon :)

 

[Raja]

Experiencing bugs with Android 4.3? You are not alone, here’s a list of some issues

We have already shared the news about issues some users are having with Android 4.3 and the Netflix application. The problem seems to be with a device’s inability to “wake up” if it goes to sleep with the app open.

We are not sure how widespread the problem is or if it affects specific Nexus devices. We encountered no problems using Netflix on one of our new Nexus 7 units in conjunction with Chromecast. Though, we do not recall specifically if we left the Netflix app open when the tablet went to sleep either.

That said, a number of other issues seem to be creeping into view with Android 4.3 as well. We are reading sporadic complaints about slow user experiences on the Nexus 4 and Nexus 7. However, with Android 4.3 there is now support for “fstrim” which is supposed to fix sluggishness in first generation Nexus 7 tablets. There have also been some reports of Nexus 4 devices getting hung-up on the boot screen, but again, this does not seem to be affecting every device out there.

Now, it is looking like Android 4.3 may have compatibility issues with some Bluetooth keyboards. Keyboards like ZAGGkeys FLEX, Spider, and Kensington will pair, but typing actions do not register on the Nexus devices.

Google and Netflix have acknowledged the problem they are having and working on a fix. These other issues are still awaiting a response, though the bugs have been noted in the Android Open Source Project Issue Tracker.

Since Android 4.3 updates were rolled out in phases, it is possible you have not updated your Nexus gear yet. If you use third-party Bluetooth keyboards or like to watch Netflix a lot, you might want to hold off on your update until things are on track for a fix.

If you have already upgraded, are you experiencing these issues or something as yet not widely reported?

Experiencing bugs with Android 4.3? You are not alone, here?s a list of some issues

WSJ: FBI able to remotely turn-on Android and laptop microphones

Using tactics and techniques that are commonly attributed to hackers, the FBI and other federal agencies tap into Android powered smartphones and computers.

The effort has grown to respond to the increased use of new technology and services by those that venture on the wrong side of the law, such as various online chats and the myriad of encryption products available to all consumers.

The methodology is familiar to many of us who read about technology in the mobile sector and the feds either develop the solution in-house, or buy products from third party vendors. The FBI in particular also “hires people who have hacking skill, and they purchase tools that are capable of doing these things. When you do, it’s because you don’t have any other choice.”


In an era where we are not likely to escape such news in the wake of the NSA surveillance program, programs like this are going to be under increased scrutiny, even though the FBI focuses its efforts on the use of this technology in the investigations of organized crime, child pornography and counterterrorism. Perhaps not ironically, the FBI tries not to use these techniques when investigating other hackers out of fear that its tactics, techniques and procedures might be revealed by said hackers to the world.

There are advocates and opponents on the issue as you might expect. However, using common sense makes some of the methods ineffective, as one of them involves sending an email to a suspect’s computer with an attachment that would install software (malware) to gather information. Take it for what it is, but this kind of discrete surveillance is reportedly used very sparingly and with a warrant, not like a dragnet of bulk data that the NSA farms through.

WSJ: FBI able to remotely turn-on Android and laptop microphones

 

[Vishwas]

Note:Please share the news on the upcoming mobiles and mobile software in this thread:
http://www.theautomotiveindia.com/forums/gadgets-more/13813-whats-hot-our-mobile-industry.html

 

[Raja]

Microsoft is committed to Windows RT

There was no shortage of armchair quarterbacking amongst our loyal readership when Microsoft announced a write down of $900 million due to poor sales of the Surface RT and other shortcomings that were revealed during that earnings call. They were not alone, Wall Street had a field day with Microsoft’s stock the following day.

That begged the legitimate question as to whether Microsoft was really going to devote resources and talent toward this vestigial operating system that looks like, but is different from Windows 8. The landscape indicates that Windows RT is not going anywhere anytime soon.

Microsoft is on the record that Windows RT was a “necessary disruption” to bring a version of Windows to ARM based processors thus providing a solution that is arguably competitive with the iPad. Brian Hall, Surface General Manager said that Microsoft is planning to continue developing both the Surface RT and Windows RT, “no ifs ands or buts.”

Then there are the “hints” about what Microsoft has up its sleeve. Getting full blown Windows 8 on a tablet is not a problem, but for smaller tablets, Windows RT makes sense because running a “desktop” in that environment is not very productive. Still, the modern-UI needs more applications to back its play. Microsoft is doing everything it can to woo developers to build more apps. Microsoft itself is developing an Office suite that has been “metro-fied” and it may be available as soon as the holidays (or early 2014).

Finally there is the glaring reality of Windows Phone. Windows Phone, like RT, also runs on ARM based processors and use a common NT core. The current environments exist separately, but it is no secret that Microsoft wants to unify the experience. With some of the concessions that are being made with Windows 8.1 for desktop computing, it is reasonable to think that we might actually see a blurring of the lines between Windows Phone and Windows RT on tablets down the road.

Microsoft is committed to Windows RT

 

[Raja]

Android Device Manager apparently already starting to be pushed out through Google Play services


While Google announced that Android Device Manager would be available “later this month” for devices running Android 2.2 or later, it looks like some devices are already having the feature pushed over-the-air to them courtesy of Google Play services.

To see if your Android device has received the feature, go to Settings >> Security >> Device Administrators. You should then see an option for a checkbox next to “Android Device Manager.”


If you have not received the feature update (very likely), and are wondering when you will get it, do not be in too much of a hurry. Android Device Manager will not be very useful since the web-based portal and Android applications are not yet available. It is those two components that are a rather important piece of the puzzle to make use of Android Device Manager. We expect they will be available, “later this month.”

source:

Android Device Manager apparently already starting to be pushed out through Google Play services

 

[Raja]

Lumia 1020 vs galaxy s4 windows vs android

Nokia Lumia 1020 vs Samsung Galaxy S 4 - YouTube

 

[Raja]

Flipkart eBooks App Available For Windows Phone 8 Devices | WMPoweruser


Flipkart has released their ebooks app for Windows Phone 8 devices in Windows Phone Store. As expected, this app allows you to buy books from Flipkart eBooks store and download them for offline reading experience.

App Description:

Your reading experience just got a whole lot better with the Flipkart eBooks app. Purchase your favourite eBooks from the extensive catalogue at the Flipkart eBooks store and read them on the go through the app, even when you’re offline.
You can buy Flipkart eBooks directly through the app or by visiting Flipkart - Download eBooks Online at India's Largest eBooks Store: Huge Collection of Free eBooks at Flipkart.com
The Flipkart eBooks app lets you:
Read 10% of the book for free before buying it
Purchase ebooks from massive catalog of flipkart eBooks, add to your library and access from any device
Flip through pages effortlessly with a simple tap or swipe
Read thousands of free eBooks

 

[Raja]

Auto Speed is the GPS gauge for Windows Phone that displays the speed of a car, calculates the distance and alerts when your speed exceeds the limit.

There are many situations when knowing the exact value of actual speed is essential, for example, while driving in a town or on a motorway under the speed cameras. Quite often, you need to drive at high speed without being infracted. Is it possible? Yes, it really is. Automobile speedometers indicate the current speed with some error. The readings can be 5-10 km/h higher than the actual speed, especially when the car moves fast. Sometimes it is difficult for a driver to evaluate the correct speed of the vehicle that is not equipped with a digital speedometer. Auto Speed helps you here.

Auto Speed is an automobile speedometer for Windows Phone designed for analogue and digital car speed indication. Windows Phone is an excellent environment to do that and it is quite handy because a smartphone stays always with you.

Auto Speed helps to avoid traffic infraction by continuously providing your actual speed. It is obviously the best way to keep calm and to save money by driving everywhere without exceeding a permitted limit. Regularly, it is also useful to evaluate the distance of one or several trips. Additional counters are provided to accomplish that.

The features:

Gauge with digital speed indication.
Alert if speed exceeds the specified limit.
Trip distance measurement.
Total distance calculation.
Adjustable gauge position on the screen.
Supports both vertical and horizontal orientation.
Various units of measurement (km/h, MPH)
The indicator of directions.
Download the Auto Speed Application from Windows Phone Store.

Auto Speed

 

[Raja]

Give your smartphone a makeover with these 10 Android customization apps


When it comes to personalizing an Android smartphone, sky's the limit as to what can be altered. The platform allows for deep customization of pretty much everything, both under the hood and on the visual side. And if you've also grown tired of the stock look and feel of your Android handset, then you've come to the right place. Here we've put together a selection of Android personalization apps – apps that can modify the way one interacts with their phone or change the way Android's UI looks. Best of all, many of them are free or have a free version that can be tested before purchasing the full app. Give them a try and tell us what you think down in the comments!

 

[Raja]

A quick look at Windows Phone 8 Datasense | WMPoweruser

One on the best features coming with GDR 2 is Datasense, which is not only a simple data counter but also a very intelligent “assistant”. It helps you consuming less data from your data plan in two simple but very smart ways:

First, it can reduce data consumption by sending URLs to the Datesense servers which compress the data, so what your phone downloads is smaller. It’s as simple as zipping files. Compressing and extracting the data takes time but because the download is smaller there is not really a difference in speed – sometimes the connection even seems faster.
However, this seems to work only when you almost consumed your data plan as I haven’t found an option to set this to “always on” (only in Internet Explorer there is an option so that at least the browser consumes always less – and it seems to work quite well as I have used less data than I usually do).




Second, it shows you nearby WiFi hotspots. This means you can see where you can use free WiFi instead of needing to use your data plan to check your daily neews feed, watching YouTube videos or updating your status. This is great especially when you are somewhere where you are not really familiar.

However, Datasense is not only an assistant but lets you also manage your data plan. It shows you how much data you consumed over WiFi and how much over your cellular network and it also shows how much data several apps consumed. What I found a bit annoying was that uninstalled apps were named as such which means you don’t know which app it was; you can only guess which already uninstalled app consumed 3 gig of data.

 

[Raja]

August 10, 2013 | By Surur
After Nokia’s VP of App development, Bryan Biniak expressed some dissatisfaction with Microsoft now UK’s largest carrier EE has also expressed some frustration with the software giant.

Speaking to MobileToday, EE’s CEO Olaf Swantee said Microsoft needed to provide more marketing support for handsets running their operating system.

‘What’s concerning is we still see such a significant demand for iOS and Android. While Microsoft has seen some increases to the popularity of its platform, it’s still very small compared to the other two. It still has to do work to support it. It’s a different operating system, a good product and exciting, but it needs to offer more support.’

UK has in fact been one of Windows Phone’s better performing markets, with market share recently nearly doubling to close to 9%, according to Kantar WordPanel.


A Microsoft spokesperson said: ‘Windows Phone is the fastest growing platform in the UK. Our focus is on building this constantly growing customer base and driving user satisfaction. Working closely with all our operator partners in the UK and across the globe is key to driving growth and satisfaction.’

Responding somewhat to Bryan Biniak’s original criticism, Joe Belfiore recently tweeted:



It does sound pretty much as if Microsoft understands the issues and are doing what they can, and it may very well be that the critics underestimate how hard it is to be the challenger platform with two very well funded and resourced incumbents, with Windows Phone head and shoulders over other equally well resources competitors such as Bada (backed by Samsung), Blackberry 10 , Tizen (backed by Intel) and others like Firefox and Ubuntu OS.
EE complains Microsoft not doing enough for WP8 | WMPoweruser

 

[Raja]

Some Google Nexus 7 (2013) units are having touchscreen issues


Last week, we told you about issues that some Google Nexus 7 (2013) users were having with the GPS system on the tablet. With this problem, the GPS signal would stop working as fast as 2 minutes after it was turned on. Owners of the problem slates were told that Google was hard at work trying to get a fix out, but apparently some Google Nexus 7 (2013) owners received a replacement unit. That, you might think, would be the end of the story. But as it turned out, it was just the beginning.

According to the tipster that originally brought the story to our attention, he was able to procure a replacement tablet. But it turns out that this tablet, like a host of others, is having problems with the touchscreen. Complaints include double taps, ghost taps and erratic behavior from the glass. And one Nexus 7 (2013) owner had the same problem with the 16GB model, which he returned to the store and replaced with the 32GB variant. The new tablet is giving him the same problems.

A response in Google's product forum from a Googler named Paul suggested that those with the touchscreen problem start their tablet in safe mode to see if any apps are causing the problem. Starting safe mode temporarily disables third party apps, so you can test to see if that indeed is causing the problem. To go to safe mode, make sure that the screen on your Nexus 7 (2013) is on, then press & hold the Power button. Touch & hold the Power off option in the dialog box and then touch OK in the following dialog to start safe mode. Use the touchscreen to see if the same problems are occurring. If they are, you need to remove your third party apps one-by-one until you find the culprit. If you are still having problems in safe mode, you need to contact Google.