Dustin EarleycloseAuthor Information: Name: Dustin Earley About: A self proclaimed foodie and technology enthusiast, Dustin Earley is never far from his desktop, laptop, or phone. Currently attending college for a degree in digital media production, when Dustin isn't posting in forums and tweeting online he can be found relaxing, playing video games, and cooking for his family. Follow this DroidDog Contributing Editor on Twitter.See Authors Posts (355)

The first day of IFA Germany has been huge for Android. We got to see some amazing stuff today, but nothing can compare to the Samsung Tab. Clearly, the device is going to be huge (and I’m not talking screen size here). What have we been able to gather up on the the Galaxy Tab? Here’s a quick rundown. Oh and don’t worry, there’s a little non-Tab news for those burnt out on it later on.

The first thing on everyone’s mind, at least when it comes to sales and specs, is how the Tab competes with the iPad. Below, you will find a handy chart that takes care of the specs. When I look at the chart, I see one thing: It comes down to personal preference. As far as sales go, that will settle itself out once the holiday season is in full swing. Now I know the iPad is making a killing right now, but I’d venture to guess the Tab will do pretty well itself.

– Android Central

So how much will the Samsung Galaxy Tab cost? For the WiFi non-carrier branded version of the device, you’re looking at €699 ($900) for the 16GB model and €799 ($1000) for the 32GB version. The suggested retail price in Sweden is SEK 9,000 or $1,240 including 20% tax. At eXpansys, you can pre-order the device now for £679.99 (16GB), with a release date of 10/11. By the time the Tab makes it America and carriers get their plans involved, it should be a lot cheaper. Of course, for a Wifi only tablet… $1000 is a lot of money to just fork out. Hopefully we see a price break in that model as well.

- Phandroid

Now for a little news that’s not Tab related, but still from Samsung. Amongst the hype of the Tab, a far less known PMP made it’s way onto the scene by the name of the Galaxy Player 50. The GP50 is an Android 2.1 device with a 3.2″ screen, WiFi, and 8GB or 16GB of internal storage. It also features a microSD slot for expandable memory of up to 32GB. Look for the DivX, ThinkFree office, Google services, Android Market bundled device to hit the shelves in Europe this October for 229 (8GB) and 299 (16GB) Euros.

- Samsung Hub

So what do you guys think? Is Samsung proving itself a worthy opponent? Or are you still fixated on the Behold II of yesteryear? If you ask me, I’d say Samsung is becoming the name to beat.

• Samsung Mobile event, 9/16
• Samsung announces Galaxy Tab
• Samsung Tab is headed for multiple carriers: GSM/CDMA
• Samsung Tab definitely headed for Verizon
• Samsung Tab headed for multiple carriers?

Dustin EarleycloseAuthor Information: Name: Dustin Earley About: A self proclaimed foodie and technology enthusiast, Dustin Earley is never far from his desktop, laptop, or phone. Currently attending college for a degree in digital media production, when Dustin isn't posting in forums and tweeting online he can be found relaxing, playing video games, and cooking for his family. Follow this DroidDog Contributing Editor on Twitter.See Authors Posts (355)

Take this with the normal grain of salt you do leaks and rumors, but according to screen shots from the guys over at AndroidDoes, Verizon is releasing a new prepaid service that allows you to use Android devices. Pricing on the handsets themselves is still unknown, but unlimited data is going to run you $30 (with a qualifying voice plan); A very fair price for no contract. The list of known DROID devices that will work include the DROID, DROID 2, DROID X, Devour, Samsung Fascinate, Incredible, and Ally.

The new plans are rumored to go active the starting September 2nd. Look for more information then. PDF reading material can be found here

.
Via Engadget

• New Verizon HTC device looks hawt
• New Verizon leak confirms phones, adds enTourage
• Verizon Moto leak bomb
• DROID 2 [Verizon] preview and initial thoughts
• QWERTY-rockin’ Verizon world phone

Dustin EarleycloseAuthor Information: Name: Dustin Earley About: A self proclaimed foodie and technology enthusiast, Dustin Earley is never far from his desktop, laptop, or phone. Currently attending college for a degree in digital media production, when Dustin isn't posting in forums and tweeting online he can be found relaxing, playing video games, and cooking for his family. Follow this DroidDog Contributing Editor on Twitter.See Authors Posts (355)

Word is coming in today that Samsung is sending out invites to a special mobile event planned for the 16th of September. Exactly what will be discussed at said event is still a mystery. Considering that the Fascinate is due out by the 9th, and that’s the only known high-end Sammy headed State-side, we are inclined to believe this may be the US reveal of the Samsung Tab. In fact, it could even be the Verizon version of the Samsung Tab for which we may (or may not) have seen picture evidence of already. Then again… well let’s not get to ahead of ourselves here. Whatever the event entails, we are sure to know a maximum of 16 days from now. Until then, let the speculation begin!

*

Via Androinica

* The blurred text in the image does not relate to what the event pertains to.

• Samsung Galaxy Tab roundup: Whole lotta’ Tab
• Samsung announces Galaxy Tab
• Samsung Tab is headed for multiple carriers: GSM/CDMA
• Samsung Tab definitely headed for Verizon
• Samsung Tab headed for multiple carriers?

Dustin EarleycloseAuthor Information: Name: Dustin Earley About: A self proclaimed foodie and technology enthusiast, Dustin Earley is never far from his desktop, laptop, or phone. Currently attending college for a degree in digital media production, when Dustin isn't posting in forums and tweeting online he can be found relaxing, playing video games, and cooking for his family. Follow this DroidDog Contributing Editor on Twitter.See Authors Posts (355)

While we have all seen our fair share of the upcoming T-Mobile G2 (inside and out), nothing does a device justice like a some official render goodness. The guys from over at CellPhoneSignal claim that’s exactly what they have:

Take that gorgeous keyboard, that sleek profile, and those stark colors… throw in a new Qualcomm MSM7×30 with a 3.7″ screen… you’ve got one amazing follow up to the grand daddy of all Android devices.

On an interesting note, CellPhoneSignal not only claims the G2 will be shipping with Sense, which we know isn’t true, but they also say it’s coming with an AMOLED screen. That would almost surely set T-Mobile up for massive shortages just as soon as the device is available. Of course, keep in mind that none of the specs on the G2 are positive until T-Mobile says they are. With the rumored release only a month away, that shouldn’t be long now.

Via Android Central

• G2 clocked at 800MHz, still blazing
• T-Mobile G2: $499 outright, $199 w/ contract/rebate
• G2 almost certainly dropping 9/29
• What’s inside the GAPPS for the T-Mobile G2? Google Voice.
• G2 is going to be really fast, features Snapdragon/Adreno

Dustin EarleycloseAuthor Information: Name: Dustin Earley About: A self proclaimed foodie and technology enthusiast, Dustin Earley is never far from his desktop, laptop, or phone. Currently attending college for a degree in digital media production, when Dustin isn't posting in forums and tweeting online he can be found relaxing, playing video games, and cooking for his family. Follow this DroidDog Contributing Editor on Twitter.See Authors Posts (355)

The fine folks from Verizon and @DroidLanding are at it again everyone, and this time, your very own astromech droid is on the line. Today the DroidLanding Twitter account tweeted out for the first time since July 26th with the hashtag #AttackPatternAlpha, and this corresponding link. To quote the account:

“The Droid R2-D2 schematics are scattered across the web. Standby for clues from Artoo. Join the search. www.droiddoes.com/r2d2″

No details have been released on how the hunt will play out, but you better believe that if they come to my town, you’ll be going up against some fierce competition. Look for more information as soon as it’s available.

Via @DroidLanding

• DROID 2 rooted
• DROID 2 update
• DROID 2 commercial
• DROID 2 [Verizon] preview and initial thoughts
• R2-DROID2 out and about

Dustin EarleycloseAuthor Information: Name: Dustin Earley About: A self proclaimed foodie and technology enthusiast, Dustin Earley is never far from his desktop, laptop, or phone. Currently attending college for a degree in digital media production, when Dustin isn't posting in forums and tweeting online he can be found relaxing, playing video games, and cooking for his family. Follow this DroidDog Contributing Editor on Twitter.See Authors Posts (355)

Shortly before January 5th, 2010, when the internet first heard whispers that Google would be putting out a device bearing their name, everyone already knew the manufacturer: HTC. Sometime after that, it was rumored that the next device to be launched with Google branding would be manufactured by Motorola. Fast forward several months to now. Google has already said they will not be releasing any more devices in the same manor the Nexus One was, however, that doesn’t mean that they won’t be working with manufacturers in some fashion.

Just earlier today, the Wall Street Journal announced that electronics manufacturer Huawei’s newest Android device was “jointly planned and developed with Google.” The device is going to include Froyo right off the bat, and will be “highly competitive price-wise.” As you can probably gather, this news is intriguing to say the least. Unfortunately, more specs and release/pricing information is still unavailable at this time. Considering that the device will be unveiled at IFA this Thursday, we will known more any minute now. It will be very interesting to see how exactly what kind of device Hauwei and Google have been working on considering Huawei’s track record. The era of cheapy dumb-downed Android devices is at an end. If Huawei really wants to compete, then they are gonna have some major catching up to do.

Via Phandroid

• Huawei 2.8″ wonder
• Huawei S7 hanging out with eXpansys
• T-Mobile Pulse to see Android 2.1?
• Canvas: the face of Pulse
• The skinny on Pulse

Dustin EarleycloseAuthor Information: Name: Dustin Earley About: A self proclaimed foodie and technology enthusiast, Dustin Earley is never far from his desktop, laptop, or phone. Currently attending college for a degree in digital media production, when Dustin isn't posting in forums and tweeting online he can be found relaxing, playing video games, and cooking for his family. Follow this DroidDog Contributing Editor on Twitter.See Authors Posts (355)

ViewSonic put out a press release today about a new Android tablet they plan on showing off at IFA. At first glance, the ViewPad 7 seems like every other Android tablet leak and press release you’ve seen in the last couple weeks: Android 2.2, back/front facing camera, 7″ screen, 3G data capability, Bluetooth. Then it starts to get really interesting: Full phone functionality, VOIP, SMS, and MMS.

Now before you go saying anything, yes, holding a 7″ tablet up to your face for your everyday phone is overboard. However using a Bluetooth headset paired with a 7″ tablet for your everyday phone isn’t such a stretch. Not much else is known right now except for an early October review unit release date and a price range that “will be no more than £350 ($538) Inc Vat.” Look for more information on the ViewPad 7 to come.

Via Android and Me

Press release below:

31st August 2010 – ViewSonic Europe ushers in a new product category to its portfolio with the introduction of a premium capacitive multi-touch screen 7″ tablet.

Viewpad 7

The ViewPad 7 is a world’s first 7″ Android 2.2 (Froyo) tablet with phone functionality, multi-tasking capabilities and front and back-facing cameras, VGA and 3MP, resolutions respectively.

Within a lightweight, pocket-sized design, this device is ideal for anyone who needs a mobile connection to the world via email and video and wants to enjoy a wide-range of applications.

With full 3G and phone functionality, a full size SIM card slot and integrated Bluetooth connectivity the ViewPad 7 will support instant messaging, text/mms messaging, VOIP and standard voice calls all in a single device.

It features an easy to use familiar interface with a G-sensor that reorients the screen depending on how the device is held and access to the Google Android app store featuring over 100,000 applications.

Additional features includes a Micro SD slot for up to 32GB of storage; Wi-Fi and 3G functionality for web browsing and USB connectivity. It also boasts advanced features including Assisted GPS and an office document reader, along with the capability for hand-written note taking. There is also an e-book reader, when combined with the crystal clear LED screen, makes the ViewPad 7 an invaluable travelling companion.

Superior to other tablet offerings with resistive touch technology the ViewPad 7 incorporates a capacitive multi-touch screen and is a portable, easy-to-use and competitively priced device that will transform the way that consumers read, watch, listen to and interact with media in a mobile environment.

“We are proud to announce another world first at Viewsonic. 3G phone functionality combined with dual cameras gives the ability for use of Android apps to use augmented reality or video calling on the move with the benefit of an excellent 7″ screen” says Derek Wright, European Product Marketing Manager. “The ViewPad 7 is aimed at users who require the ‘always on’ connectivity they are used to from a mobile phone with a more agreeable screen size for longer term use.”

ViewSonic will be showing the ViewPad 7 at its stand at IFA 2010, in Berlin, Hall 14.1 stand 107.

For details on the Viewpad 7 please visit http://www.viewsoniceurope.com/uk/.

Pricing and availability

The Viewpad 7 will be available from approved resellers. Pricing will be subject to the supplier’s method of sale, but is anticipated that the estimated SRP will be no more than £350 Inc Vat.

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Dustin EarleycloseAuthor Information: Name: Dustin Earley About: A self proclaimed foodie and technology enthusiast, Dustin Earley is never far from his desktop, laptop, or phone. Currently attending college for a degree in digital media production, when Dustin isn't posting in forums and tweeting online he can be found relaxing, playing video games, and cooking for his family. Follow this DroidDog Contributing Editor on Twitter.See Authors Posts (355)

Thanks to the bright minds over at XDA Developers, and a select brave few, it’s now been confirmed that the Motorola Charm can be rooted via Universal Androot. If I’m not mistaken, NAND isn’t unlocked during the process, so reverting back to stock is as easy as pie. Of course that also means no custom ROMs yet, but Super User permissions are better then nothing. For instructions on how to root your Charm, as well as download links, visit the original XDA thread here. As usual, you are the only one responsible for what happens to your device.

Via Android Community

• Motorola Charm launches without UMA
• Motorola Charm preview
• Motorola Charm on Telus now
• Motorola Charm demo turns up in T-Mobile stores
• Motorola Charm shows up at T-Mobile.com

Dustin EarleycloseAuthor Information: Name: Dustin Earley About: A self proclaimed foodie and technology enthusiast, Dustin Earley is never far from his desktop, laptop, or phone. Currently attending college for a degree in digital media production, when Dustin isn't posting in forums and tweeting online he can be found relaxing, playing video games, and cooking for his family. Follow this DroidDog Contributing Editor on Twitter.See Authors Posts (355)

The update to finally get the Sony Ericsson XPERIA X10 onto Android 2.1 is long long overdue. Froyo, 2.2, has officially made it’s way to several devices now. The next iteration of Android, Gingerbread, has already been rumored to drop as soon as this fall. Meanwhile, the XPERIA X10, Sony Ericsson’s pride and joy, is still stuck on 1.6. According to Sony Ericsson UK’s Twitter account, that’s about to change… sooner than later:

Considering the fact the the X10 has been out for months now, if the update doesn’t hit soon the device will be all but obsolete in the fast paced world of Android. The original update schedule for the X10 family was set to finish by the end of Q4. The initiative to change that date to the end of September just may be the smartest thing SE has ever done. Of course, it goes without saying that deadlines change and things fall apart, so don’t hold your breath.

Via Android and Me

• Smarter is here: the US launch of “all new” X10
• X10 pegged for AT&T by mid-September (Really?)

Dustin EarleycloseAuthor Information: Name: Dustin Earley About: A self proclaimed foodie and technology enthusiast, Dustin Earley is never far from his desktop, laptop, or phone. Currently attending college for a degree in digital media production, when Dustin isn't posting in forums and tweeting online he can be found relaxing, playing video games, and cooking for his family. Follow this DroidDog Contributing Editor on Twitter.See Authors Posts (355)

In a recent DROID X related post by a Motorola Support Forums moderator, several “things to know” have gone live today including some pretty interesting news regarding those of you applying that leaked 2.2 upgrade that hit the web a little over a week ago.

“There is currently no upgrade path from that load to the official 2.2 load that will be released by early September. Unless you have some plan to flash your phone back to the current official load, you could be stuck on the leaked version.”

This should come as no surprise to anyone familiar with the matter. It does need to be said though, Motorola already warned against problems arising by flashing the leak as soon as it was made available. Fortunately, those of you who did flash the upgrade to Froyo shouldn’t worry too much. Flashing your device back to the “current official load” has always been surprisingly easy. While a method to do so may not exist at this very moment, the fact that custom ROMs for the device are already surfacing is a good sign. We’ll be sure to keep you updated on the situation as it evolves.

Via Engadget

• “Real HDMI” fix for DROID X
• DROID X running Android 2.2 Sapphire AOSP ROM
• Froyo running on the DROID X UPDATE
• Motorola to fix DROID X volume woes
• Froyo running on the DROID X? Video proof

Dustin EarleycloseAuthor Information: Name: Dustin Earley About: A self proclaimed foodie and technology enthusiast, Dustin Earley is never far from his desktop, laptop, or phone. Currently attending college for a degree in digital media production, when Dustin isn't posting in forums and tweeting online he can be found relaxing, playing video games, and cooking for his family. Follow this DroidDog Contributing Editor on Twitter.See Authors Posts (355)

Microsoft announced today the official release of their Bing app for Android OS. The only problem is that it’s only available for Verizon devices (it shouldn’t take long to get that out of the way). The Bing search app for Android is very similar to the desktop version in that everyday you get a new featured picture, plus the ability to look through previous featured pics. The app also features endless scrolling search with the ability to “swipe through image previews straight to the host site.” Best of all, Bing will work with Android’s speech to text, even allowing you to use Bing Maps navigation. Microsoft really pulled out all the stops today.

If you’re using a Verizon branded device, don’t forget to download now. If you do, be sure to let us know what you think. You know what they say, first impressions are everything.

Via Android Central

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Dustin EarleycloseAuthor Information: Name: Dustin Earley About: A self proclaimed foodie and technology enthusiast, Dustin Earley is never far from his desktop, laptop, or phone. Currently attending college for a degree in digital media production, when Dustin isn't posting in forums and tweeting online he can be found relaxing, playing video games, and cooking for his family. Follow this DroidDog Contributing Editor on Twitter.See Authors Posts (355)

The Toshiba Smartpad, to be shown off at IFA this year, shall now be known as the Folio 100. Not the best of names, but I’d like to think it’s an improvement over the bland Smartpad title the device used to bear. Of course, with a new title also comes more new information. What else do we now know about the Folio? Quite a few high-end specs will be backing this device up:

Android 2.2
10.1″ 1024×600 display
16GB internal storage
NVIDIA Tegra 2 processor
1.3MP camera
HDMI
USB 2.0 standard and mini
audio jack
Opera Mobile with Flash 10.1
1020mAh battery

As you can see, the Folio 100 is looking to battle the top contenders in the Android tablet race. So far, the leader of that race appears to be the Samsung Tab. There are still two major differences between the two that, in my mind, really set these devices apart. Number one being carrier availability. If the Tab makes it’s way onto multiple carriers, like it’s rumored, it may well be over for other Android tablets. Of course, there is still those pesky rumors of a carrier branded Motorola and HTC tablet, but only time will tell on those devices.

The other big difference is the processor. While the Samsung Tab has that amazingly fast Hummingbird under the hood, the Nvidia Tegra 2 in the Folio may make a big difference. A Nvidia Tegra 2 running on Android 2.1 via netbook recently scored 1911 in a Quadrant benchmark. A Nexus One on 2.2 runs at about 1500. If the Folio really does receive JIT injected 2.2 like it’s supposed to… this will be one power-house of a device. Look for more information on the Folio 100 during IFA, starting September 2nd.

Via Phandroid

• Toshiba Smartpad to be shown at IFA
• Toshiba Folio 100 announced
• Toshiba tablet coming soon

Dustin EarleycloseAuthor Information: Name: Dustin Earley About: A self proclaimed foodie and technology enthusiast, Dustin Earley is never far from his desktop, laptop, or phone. Currently attending college for a degree in digital media production, when Dustin isn't posting in forums and tweeting online he can be found relaxing, playing video games, and cooking for his family. Follow this DroidDog Contributing Editor on Twitter.See Authors Posts (355)

This is it Sprint users. Your time to shine has finally arrived. Starting tomorrow at 8 AM, Sprint stores will be opening early to bring you their second ever 4G enabled Android handset: The Samsung Epic 4G.

The Samsung Epic 4G comes complete with a 1GHz Hummingbird processor, 4 inch Super AMOLED screen, 5 megapixel camera with 720p video recording, front-facing VGA camera, and of course, that beautiful slide out 5 row physical QWERTY keyboard. Hubba hubba. If you haven’t pre-ordered the Epic yet, good luck grabbing the device. The HTC EVO 4G has flown off the shelves since it’s release. In fact, the EVO hasn’t been fully available in stock until just today. If you did get a chance to pre-order, or you’re lucky enough to waltz into a store and find one, you’ll be able to grab your Epic for $249 on a 2 year contract after mail in rebate.

So how about you, are you going to be up bright and early, ready to grab your (debatable) king of the Android universe? Let us know in the comments!

Via PhoneDog

• ADB root exploit EPICly strikes again
• Samsung Epic 4G; $199 Amazon pre-order now
• Epic 4G manual leaked
• Samsung Epic 4G commercial
• Sprint Premier customers can reserve the Epic 4G now