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ZTE WARNS OF SECURITY VULNERABILITY IN SCORE ANDROID PHONE

AndroidNerds Andrew — Fri, 18 May 2012 17:16:22 +0000

ZTE confirmed that a backdoor security vulnerability is present in the Score. The could allow cyberattackers to gain access to the phone using the password that is readily available online. This is bad since it enables anyone with the device’s hardwired password to access its root directory, allowing cyberattackers to add, remove or copy data. It’s good because I think it makes for a quick root of the phone.

Hit the break for more…..

ZTE is actively working on a security patch and expects to send the update over-the-air to affected users in the very near future,”

ZTE also says:

We strongly urge affected users to download and install the patch as soon as it is rolled out to their devices.”

Dmitri Alperovitch, co-founder of cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike said it was “very unusual” and “I’ve never seen anything like it before”. From his research it looks like the flaw was put in deliberately. He says either they aren’t good developers or they are using it as an updating method.

ZTE and fellow Chinese manufacturer Huawei have struggled to expand their business into the U.S. market in the face of concerns they are linked to the Chinese government. Both firms have denied the claims.

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Verizon sees revenue increase from shared data plans

AndroidNerds Andrew — Fri, 18 May 2012 03:18:58 +0000

So this is an interesting idea and concept. Verizon seeks to increase revenue by allowing multiple devices to share one data plan. The way it is now is that Verizon has tiered data plans for each device. For a power user who drinks data that may not work, however, if you just have data cause you must have it then one data plan can last between smartphone and tablet. Verizon says that the tiered data plans and each device needing its own plan could be the reason tablets are not selling quite as they wanted to, that all could change if this works out. One of their hopes is to see higher cost data plans being purchased to cover the data need for all devices. I can see that happening. As it stands some phones don’t need data to run, so why pay for a data plan? If you just buy a higher plan on one phone and you can share that would certainly be more cost effective.

Hit the break to read more about this….

“We’re fairly confident we’ll start to see people uptick in the tiers, which is where we’ll see the revenue accretion.” Shammo said in a webcast of an investor conference.

“I think the industry is going to look hard at these types of models going forward,” he said.

Once the plans are out and are in motion the company says they will not be reporting data per user as they will be reporting data per account.

This is a very interesting concept and likely a well received one. It leaves us wondering when and how will this all happen…when it does we’ll let you know!

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MetroPCS signs handset supplier Yulong Talks cheap smartphones coming

AndroidNerds Andrew — Fri, 18 May 2012 03:05:14 +0000

When it comes to budget handsets that can run LTE, MetroPCS is top of that list. Having a supplier than can handle that and accomidate that is not an easy task. Chinese supplier Yulong has stepped up and offered to bring inexpensive LTE ready handsets to them. MetroPCS (NYSE:PCS) expects to cover between 102 million and 104 million POPs with its LTE network by the end of the third quarter when it finishes its network buildout, a senior executive said.

Hit the break for more about this….

Interestingly, Keys also discussed the company’s handset strategy. He discussed two of the company’s forthcoming LTE devices, which MetroPCS hopes to sell for below $150. One, he said, is a phone from LG Electronics with a 3.5-inch screen and 1.2 GHz processor. Another is from the Chinese vendor Yulong, and will have a 4-inch screen and 1 GHz processor. The phone, which Keys said will be Yulong’s first handset for the U.S. market, will be sold under the “Coolpad” brand.

Wait? A new phone from LG and another new phone…both LTE? Yeah, you can bet your behind we’ll be on top of that!

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Apple and HTC court ordered to make settlement talks on 8/28/12

AndroidNerds Andrew — Fri, 18 May 2012 00:20:20 +0000

Settlement talks? What’s there to settle…in the previous statement by HTC they said they are confident that they are in compliance with the ITC ruling. Seems to me that if there are to be settlements something went tragically wrong. Are they not in compliance or was there a different patent that they are infringing on? The fact remains that Apple won’t be happy till they are the only smartphone left on earth…. inquisitive minds want to know what’s up. Earlier we tried to get in contact with HTC for a statement, so far we have not heard back.

Hit the break for more information……

FOSS Patents reports

Today the United States District for the District of Delaware ordered the lawyers as well unspecified decision makers of Apple and HTC to meet in Delaware on August 28, 2012, to discuss a possible settlement. The talks will be moderated by Magistrate Judge Sherry R. Fallon.

This orders comes a day after two HTC product launch dates had to be postponed because of issues resulting from an ITC import ban Apple won last year over a “data tapping” patent, and a few days before the CEOs of Apple and Samsung will meet for the same kind of purpose in San Francisco (on Monday and Tuesday).

If we hear anything new we will update as we go.

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New Launch Date 5/23? Maybe…Maybe not

AndroidNerds Andrew — Fri, 18 May 2012 00:06:22 +0000

With the launch date being delayed due to Apple making sure the phones didn’t infringe on there patents will the HTC One X be as popular? Or will people not want to wait and explore other options? No way to know right now but if you are going to wait this is the date to look for!

**UPDATE 1:18 PM** – Still unofficial, but the plan is that items will be shipped out to pre-orders first, in time for them to get them before the new launch date of 5/23. Trying to get a lock down on when first shipments will go out. NOTE – this is VERY preliminary, and happened within the last hour. There are more details, and a couple of things that could change it.. I’ll be able to post a more definitive post by late afternoon with details. hang tight as I’m having to post this from my phone.

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Motorola ATRIX™ 2 with EA™ Games Available Is Saudi Arabia and Jordan [Press Release]

AndroidNerds Andrew — Wed, 16 May 2012 12:50:52 +0000

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – May 16, 2012 – Down time just got way more fun with the brand new Motorola ATRIX™ 2 from Motorola Mobility. Offering the ultimate boredom-blitzing gaming experience, Motorola ATRIX 2 serves up a dizzy mix of action, fantasy and adventure straight from your phone thanks to a package from EA games.

Ht the break for the rest of the press release……

Enjoy those games on an Android™-powered smartphone that delivers blazingly fast connectivity and packs a 1GHz dual-core processor for faster browsing and video. A stunning 4.3 inch qHD screen offers the perfect stage for photos and videos, advanced 3D graphics and smooth, crystal-clear game play.

A total of ten EA titles will be available for Motorola ATRIX 2¹, including Need for Speed™ Hot Pursuit, Need for Speed™ Shift, Dead Space™, EA SPORTS™ FIFA 10, THE GAME OF LIFE, MONOPOLY, The Sims™ 3, Tetris®, Worms™ and Bejeweled® 2.

Along with everything else this powerful smartphone offers, you may never be bored again. But if you still want more, you can browse over 450,000 games and apps available on Google Play™ and store them on 4GB of on-board memory or up to 32GB of optional MicroSD card storage².

“Loaded with the full-throttle technical specs needed to get the most out of the mobile multiverse on the go, Motorola ATRIX2 goes above and beyond typical smartphone functionality to offer stunning performance,” said Raed Hafez, managing director for Motorola Mobility, Middle East & Africa.

“Smartphone users in Saudi Arabia crave power, versatility and style. Motorola ATRIX2 is ready to emphatically deliver on all fronts – a world-class device for work and play with incredible, entertaining content from EA Games that puts your down-time to the test,” Hafez said. “Whether it’s achieving high scores, watching movies, web surfing or sharing pictures, the phone offers a range of features and capabilities ready to challenge you and banish boredom for good.”

With Motorola ATRIX 2 your entertainment is large and in charge. Use the 1080p HDMI output to bombard your senses with your videos, games and apps on your home HDTV for all those times when even a generous phone screen isn’t enough. Command the gaming, browsing and media action on your TV by simply connecting via an HDMI cable.

Still thinking it over? Here’s why else you want the Motorola ATRIX 2:

Access All Areas

Access all your personal content from anywhere with Motorola’s included MotoCast³app. Stream music, pictures and video files straight from your home computer’s hard drive. You can even access your work documents…if you must. MotoCast ensures you have all your important files to hand 24/7, wherever you are.

Digital Backstage Pass

With a fully connected music player, Motorola ATRIX 2 gives you the power to play whatever you’re craving. With super-quick downloads and a high-resolution screen, the Motorola ATRIX 2 gives you front row seats to your favourite videos and web pages. Whether it’s a hot new remix, a TV clip you can’t miss, or that bonus level you’re going to beat any day now (promise), you’ll experience entertainment at its best.

The Big Stage

With Motorola’s unique webtop application⁴, connect your Motorola ATRIX 2 to the Motorola HD Dock⁵ with HDMI cable to instantly launch a full version of the Firefox browser on any size HD monitor or TV. Browse the web on full-size televisions or monitors using the optional wireless keyboard and mouse⁵. Read web pages faster, scan folders easier and view images in their full, uncondensed glory.

Additional features include an 8-megapixel camera to take pictures crisp enough for a poster, full 1080p HD video capture and GoogleTalk™ to make sure you always stay connected. A 1735 mAh battery means your game will be finished way before your handset is.

Motorola ATRIX 2 Features and Specifications

Form Factor: Touch Screen
Software: Android 2.3 (Gingerbread)
Dimensions: 66 x 126 x 10.4 (mm)
Display: 4.3-inch qHD
Weight: 147g
Processor: Dual-core 1GHz
Battery: 1735 mAh
Talk and Standby Time⁶: Up to 8.5 hours of talk time and 15.9 days in standby
Bands/Modes: UMTS 850/9001900/2100, GSM 850/900/1800/1900, HSDPA 21.1Mbps, HSUPA 5.76Mbps
Wi-Fi: 802.11 b/g/n
Bluetooth®: Version 2.1+EDR, Stereo Bluetooth
Connectivity: 3.5mm headset jack, Micro USB 2.0 HDMI, 3G Mobile HotSpot capabilities⁷ – Allows customers to connect up to five other Wi-Fi-enabled devices and laptops
Messaging/Web/Apps: MMS, SMS, Email (Corporate Sync, Gmail^™, POP3/IMAP embedded, Push Email) IM (Google Talk™), WebKit w/ Flash
Cameras: 8MP auto focus with LED flash, VGA Front Camera
Audio Codec: AAC, AAC+, AAC+ Enhanced, AMR NB, AMR WB, MIDI, MP3, WAV, WMA v10, WMA v
Video: Capture/Playback/Streaming 1080p, H.263, H.264, MPEG4
Storage & Memory¹: 1GB RAM, 4GB on board, microSD slot with support for up to 32GB, 8GB microSD card in box
Location Services: aGPS (assisted), eCompass
Pre-loaded Applications: Access to Google Maps™ for Android, Google Talk and Web browsing; Quick Office Editor, Quick Notes
Sensors eCompass, Accelerometer, Light and Proximity Sensor

Availability

Motorola ATRIX 2 is available now from selected leading mobile phone retailers in Saudi Arabia.

About Electronic Arts

Electronic Arts (NASDAQ:EA) is a global leader in digital interactive entertainment. The Company’s game franchises are offered as both packaged goods products and online services delivered through Internet-connected consoles, personal computers, mobile phones and tablets. EA has more than 100 million registered players and operates in 75 countries.

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Sprint HTC EVO 4G LTE – Full Launch Delay

AndroidNerds Andrew — Wed, 16 May 2012 12:28:54 +0000

We have gotten word that the Evo is at a standstill in US Customs. As reported last night Apple cried foul and now we are here. Internal Sprint conversations indicate that the launch date will be at lease 10 days out, however, that could change due with Customs and the courts.

We’ll update more as we get more information…

Hit the break to read Sprint’s official responses to your questions….

If customers inquire about the delay, share the following reactively:

Q: What response do we provide customers about HTC EVO 4G LTE availability?
A: The U.S. availability of the HTC EVO 4G LTE has been delayed. HTC is working to resolve this issue and appreciates your patience as they work to get products into Sprint channels.

Q: What impact does this have to on the HTC EVO 4G LTE that I’ve already purchased through pre-order?
A: The arrival of your HTC EVO 4G LTE will be delayed until HTC is able to resolve this issue.

Q: What is the status of pre-order and when will pre-order devices be delivered?
A: HTC is working with U.S. Customs for a speedy resolution and your pre-order fee still holds the device. We will provide a ship date as soon as possible. We maintain the promise for the preorder customers that they will be among the first to receive their HTC EVO 4G LTE units.

Q: When will HTC EVO 4G LTE be available to consumers?
A: We can’t provide specific timing for product availability at this time and we appreciate your patience as HTC works to get products on store shelves as soon as possible. Educate the customer to chek the HTC EVO LTE microsite (http://www.sprint.com/evo4glte) for the availability date.

Q: What happens if I break or need to return my HTC EVO 4G LTE? Will I be able to get a replacement?
A: The delay in availability does not currently impact pre-ordered product returned for repair or replacement.

Remember: We appreciate our customers enthusiastic support and appreciate their patience as we work to get HTC EVO 4G LTE in to their hands as soon as possible.

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Sprint HTC EVO 4G LTE and AT&T HTC One X Delayed – Apple To Blame

AndroidNerds Andrew — Wed, 16 May 2012 03:46:01 +0000

Here is a real shocker…Apple is being blamed for the shipment of HTC One X and HTC Evo 4G LTE phones by US Customs for investigation. Apparently, both devices are being examined to ensure they aren’t in violation of an International Trade Commission exclusion order over Apple patent #5,946,647 (having to do with clickable links inside messaging and browser apps). This includes a large number of pre-order stock as well.

Hit the break to see HTC statement of the matter…..

The US availability of the HTC One X and HTC EVO 4G LTE has been delayed due to a standard U.S. Customs review of shipments that is required after an ITC exclusion order. We believe we are in compliance with the ruling and HTC is working closely with Customs to secure approval. The HTC One X and HTC EVO 4G LTE have been received enthusiastically by customers and we appreciate their patience as we work to get these products into their hands as soon as possible.

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AT&T, Leap talked merger in recent months

AndroidNerds Andrew — Tue, 15 May 2012 15:38:23 +0000

Looks like AT&T is still on the hunt for more spectrum. With their extensive line of bandwidth hungry phones they need it more now than ever. According to Reuters, Leap Mobile hired bankers to advise on a potential deal. They were unsuccessful in learning if these deals were still ongoing or not.

Hit the break for more….

Leap Wireless has a market value of roughly $400 million and $3.2 billion of long-term debt. Representatives for AT&T (Dallas, Texas, USA) and Leap Wireless declined to comment.

AT&T has said that it urgently needs access to additional wireless spectrum and will explore every possible way to achieve that. Last year, the company struck a deal to buy T-Mobile USA for $39 billion, but U.S. regulators blocked the attempt by the second and fourth largest U.S. wireless carriers to merge. Just like a T-Mo and Metro deal, Leap and Big Blue use incompatible GSM and CDMA technology so it would be very hard to incorporate the two of them. I guess we will just have to see what happens over time.

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This is a test of the Commercial Mobile Alert System. This is only a test.

AndroidNerds Andrew — Tue, 15 May 2012 15:13:43 +0000

CMAS – what is it? Well simply put it’s the mobile version of the EAS (Emergency Alert System) that comes on your tv once a week. When I read this article I was a bit concerned about this system and the way they have it setup. Hit the break to read more about it.

One of the things I found disturbing about this is the fact that these alerts can’t be silenced – meaning no matter where you are, what situation you’re in (no matter how serious) you WILL receive this test every 3rd Wednesday of the month….starting tommorow. Such alerts may come from the President of the United States; the National Weather Service, state or county public safety officials. Amber Alerts are also included, and you can (supposedly) opt-out of all of them except the messages from the Commander-In-Chief aka Presidential Alerts.

A Spring Internal document says:

FEMA, the FCC and wireless carriers have partnered to enhance public safety.
As a result a required monthly test of the Commercial Mobile Alerts System (CMAS) will be sent to all connected carriers.
Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are sent via text message at 12:00 p.m. Central time every 3rd Wednesday of the month.
The alerts are sent nationwide and expire after 24 hours.
Alerts include: This is a test of the Commercial Mobile Alert System. This is only a test.

Why you need to know it:

Customer may call asking about the messages and the cost; they may also want to know how to stop the messages.

Tell our customers:
- The message is part of a required monthly test of Wireless Emergency Alerts.
- Tests are conducted every month on the 3rd Wednesday.
It is only a test, and they can ignore the message.

Stay tuned for more information about this service as we hear about it.