Instagram hit the ground running when it debuted last month, amassing more than 10 million downloads and $1 billion in the process . To celebrate the launch, Androinica.com partnered with CanvasPop to give Android users a chance to turn those filtered digital photos into tangible canvas prints that they can place on their wall. After a month of giveaways, we decided to check it out up close and personal. CanvasPop agreed to send me a 12 x 12 print of an Instagram photo to review how it looks. After going through my 15 photos, I settled on an image of a local performing arts center. The original photo taken with a Samsung Infuse featured a greenish-blue tone because of reflective glass, and by the time I applied the Walden filter in Instagram, the resulting image just made me feel peaceful. The 12 x 12 print arrived a few days later. My photo was printed smoothly on a nice canvas and surprised me. I expected the image to be blurry, grainy, or pixelated because Instagram by nature diminishes photo quality. It pretty much has to when you force a square resolution on a picture taken with a smartphone designed to share photos online. Then common sense kicks in and says, “Hey, an image meant for phones probably won’t scale that great when printed.” That’s not exactly the case. Yes, the print does look like you’re zoomed in when you’re up close, but how often will you be a foot away from something hanging on your wall? The print has clarity as long as it’s held from a distance of two feet or farther, which you will be most of the time. An Instagram print might not be the best solution if you plan to keep the canvas in your cubicle, but it’s perfectly fine when on the wall in an office or mounted on a wall with other images. I love my current canvas, but the 12 x 12 size is too small for the living room. I decided to place it on a smaller wall in a bedroom until I can anchor it with other prints or objects. (FYI Canvaspop has a larger 20 x 20 size for Instagram prints.) The canvas material and mounting quality were all good. A pair of plastic knobs is at the bottom to prevent scratching or unevenness, and the image bleeds nicely into the black edges. I’m pleased with the results and plan to order a couple more that will complement my current canvas. CanvasPop prints are available starting at $39.99 plus shipping. Visit Canvaspop.com to upload your image and place an order.
Read More...Posts in the "Accessories" Category
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Most people have only their beautiful faces to keep them company in the mirror. One project from a Japanese company will show your reflection, but also give you your morning updates. Seraku recently unveiled a prototype “vanity smart mirror” that can display information though a special LCD monitor placed below a semitransparent piece of reflective glass. This allows the monitor, connected to an Android tablet hidden behind the display, to relay information from select apps as you put your make-up or brushing your teeth. I’m sure your first question is simply, “Why?” Seraku say they could see this being useful for hair salon customers who want to read the news or for bar visitors to answer surveys in the restroom. I’m not so sure about that second use case. The reading news aspect might be a little awkward or helpful for the gossip and current events talk that happens in a salon, but the last thing I want to deal with when washing my hands in the bathroom is answering a questionnaire. The interesting aspect of the Seraku mirror is that it is not touch-based – wouldn’t want to get water smudges all over the mirror, would we? The monitor uses RF sensors that detect when the hand is in close proximity, and then responds to commands. So hovering over a designated spot will launch a weather forecast or open up a scale to measure how much weight you have lost or gained recently. When you think about this touch-free technology being refined and applied to something like Samsung’s Smart Window displayed at CES, the Minority Report fantasy edges closer to reality. Visit The Verge to see a demonstration of the Seraku Mirror prototype. No release date or price is set as the product is still in development.
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Smart watch in the making Pebble has shattered all kinds of records on Kickstarter, raising nearly $8 million despite originally seeking only $100,000. The most-funded project in Kickstarter history is using that extra money to produce a higher-quality watch, take on more staff, and seek partners to have apps ready when Pebble launches this fall. Pebble has announced that RunKeeper will be the first app to support its e-paper display watch that links with smartphones through Bluetooth. RunKeeper is a fitness app and platform that tracks a user’s cardio activity – running, walking, cycling, etc. – and provides information about each workout. It measures distance and time, pace, heart rate, calories burned, and stores that data so users can monitor it through the Android app or online, where they can share their results with others. RunKeeper will develop a “watchapp” for Pebble that will enable users to control the app directly from their watch. In addition to relaying stats from RunKeeper on Pebble’s outdoor-friendly e-paper display, the watchapp will be able to stop and start activities or pause and skip music tracks. “Making the RunKeeper app accessible from Pebble is another step towards making fitness tracking simple for our users. People don’t just want to track their fitness activities, they want to do so in the most convenient way possible, and you can’t beat the form factor of a smart watch.” - Jason Jacobs, CEO of RunKeeper. The partnership makes perfect sense. Of all the use cases one could imagine for a smartphone-linked watch capable of running apps, fitness monitors and controls rank near the top of the list. The Pebble product demo suggests such a function, and the RunKeeper announcement confirms at least one service will be available. Fans of other apps like CardioTrainer or Endomondo can cross the finger and hope those companies will build similar apps. Pebble will release an SDK in August so developers can prepare for a watchapp directory set to launch later this year. [ Kickstarter ]
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We’re big fans of the Sonos sound system around these parts, but we’re even bigger fans of competition. Sonos finally has some in the form of Big JAMBOX, a new portable speaker that supersizes the original Jambox. The Big Jambox is a bigger speaker with bigger sound. The device measures 10.1 inches long, 3.2 wide, and 3.7 high, and clocks in at only 2.7 lbs. The increased size doesn’t sacrifice portability because Big Jamxbox is battery-powered and Bluetooth enabled, allowing it to link with almost any phone or tablet in most locations ad pump out audio. Jawbone promises up to 15 hours of continuous playback depending on volume and connection type, but it can also stay plugged-in to the wall if you aren’t on the go. Jawbone touts its BACCH 3D LiveAudio technology that plays music “as if you’re’ on stage, in the action, hearing it live.” That may be overselling it a bit, but there should be good quality on the Big Jambox based on early reviews of some sites that were seeded the device beforehand. Aside from sounding great for music playback, the Jambox also works as a high-quality speakerphone thanks to the presence of a built-in microphone. Big Jambox is available for pre-order for $299 at Jawbone.com . Buyers can choose between red, white, and black colors and begin streaming more sound soon. Here are a few reviews to help you make your decision. The Verge Jambox Review Engadget Jambox Review SlashGear Jambox Review TechCrunch Jambox Review
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The remote is one of the greatest things to happen to home entertainment, but it hasn’t done much for mobile entertainment. That can be a bit of a problem considering how much the two are merging thanks to HDMI-out ports and media docks that can connect to a television. It’s no fun connecting a Droid 4 to a TV and then having to constantly get up to touch a phone and navigate to the next media. The Motorola Smart Controller brings the trip-saving remote concept to mobile devices, allowing users to control their Motorola Xoom, Droid Razr, and other products via Bluetooth. By pairing the remote with a device, users can switch songs on a phone hooked up to an audio system, or swipe to the next photo when displaying photos on a television. The Smart Controller is designed to make navigating through a phone’s content as seamless as using standard remotes. Motorola isn’t immediately successful in that goal. While the controller rests comfortably in the hand at first, the pressure-and-swipe trackpad doesn’t feel as seamless as one would hope. But within a few days of testing, I was moving in and out of apps without issue. Using the pinch to zoom function required a bit more delicacy than I could muster, but I was able to move to and fro, and rotate the screen. The Smart Controller is designed to enhance media options, but it also supports calling and voice commands. A user could trigger Vlingo to send texts or emails, or search for something using his or her voice. And when making or receiving a call, the phone button located on the rear of the device will enable communication through the Smart Controller. Motorola promises that the Smart Controller is compatible with any Android device supporting Bluetooth HID profile. The remote retails for $99 and is sold separately from all other products. Get more info at Motorola.com , and watch the video below to see the Smart Controller in action.
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Yesterday we wrote about the Sony SmartWatch , a new product that enables Bluetooth communication with an Android phone. The app-powered wristwatch has plenty of positive features that you can read about here, and when you do, temporarily ignore that $150 asking price. Why? At the moment, Expansys USA has the Sony SmartWatch on sale for only $117, which is even less than what Sony charges for the watch. But wait, there’s more! (Yes, I wrote that in an infomercial salesman voice in my head.) Sony isn’t the only smart watchmaker that should have your attention. A Kickstarter campaign was recently launched seeking funding for a wristwatch with an e-ink display and Bluetooth 2.1 connectivity to smartphones. The project asked for $100,000 and it made that goal within hours. It crossed the $1 million mark within 28 hours, and doubled its Day 1 funding to reach $1.87 million at the time this post was published. Backers have “thrown money at their screen” to get Pebble because it promises much of the same features as the Sony SmartWatch but with an e-paper display that will look better in direct sunlight. The device will retail for $150 when it is eventually sold, but Kickstarter backers can reserve a watch for $115 or get bulk rates the more that they order. Package options and more details can be found at Kickstarter , but here’s a quick promo video showcasing why you may want to join the herd and reserve one.
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The Sony Smartwatch was one of my favorite sites at CES 2012. Using Bluetooth connectivity, the watch links with an Android phone and enables both special features within the watch and some controls of the connected device. The SmartWatch is a big step-up from the Sony Ericsson Live View that debuted last year, and it’s available now in the United States. Sony announced today that the SmartWatch is on sale in the U.S. for $149. That Benji’ and a half will earn buyers a dust and splash proof watch capable of doing more than your average clock. The SmartWatch does what one would expect from this category: Control music playback Manage phone calls and incoming notifications for SMS or email Read Facebook or Twitter updates That’s just the basics, though; Sony cooked up a couple of other nice features. For one, the watch can remotely trigger the phone camera to take a picture (as long as you are in range of Bluetooth). The odds that you’ll ever need or care to use such a feature seems incredibly low, but it’s there. And of course, apps are the real draw here, and Sony has built a few extras for buyers to discover in Google Play. The SmartWatch features interchangeable and multi-colored bands that are sold separately. It is on sale now in Sony Stores and at Sony.com . View our previous eyes-on from the CES unveiling of the watch and check out the specs below for more info. Dimensions: 1.42 X 1.42 X 0.3 in Weight: 0.55 oz Display: 1.3” OLED display, 128 x 128 pixels Compatibility: Bluetooth™ 3.0 and Android™ 2.1 or above Connectivity: Standard USB charging Battery life: Up to 4 days Language support for: English, Spanish, French, Chinese (Traditional), Portuguese, Swedish, Russian, Danish, Polish, Japanese, Czech, German, Modern Greek, Dutch Notifications: Display notification or vibration Apps: All events (displays in chronological order), Messaging (SMS/MMS), corporate E-mail (for Sony™ and Sony Ericsson Android phones), Gmail (for all other Android smartphones) Calendar Notifications, Facebook™, Twitter™, Music Player, Call handling (call, mute, reject, or answer and send pre-defined SMS), Pre-defined SMS, e.g. missed calls – I’m busy, messaging – call me, email – ok, Battery strength,Find phone, and Weather widget. Plus lots of apps on Android™ market. Additional SmartWatch bands available in pink, white, mint, grey and blue
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Instagram for Android is finally – finally! – here. You’re probably busy putting those old-timey, hipster, retro, hippity hoppity filters on your mobile photos and sharing them online. However, don’t think your Instagram photos are limited to the digital world – you can bring them into the physical world, too. Canvas Pop is a service that prints digital photos and proofs onto canvas that can be hung on a wall. Users select an image, choose a panel style and size, and then wait to receive the canvas in the mail. Instagram users can go through the same process to have their photos printed on canvas and beautifying their homes. Canvas Pop can print a 12 x 12 photo or one that is 20 x 20. To celebrate the launch of Instagram for Android , Androinica.com and CanvasPop.com have teamed up to give away free printing vouchers. For the next 14 days, we’ll give away 1 (one) free 12 x 12 canvas of a user’s selected Instagram photo each day, with shipping included. Then we’ll give away 1 (one) free printing each week to a random winner for the next three weeks. To enter, just follow these steps: Post an Instagram image with the hashtag #CanvasPopLovesAndroid Cross your fingers and hope that you’re the lucky winner each day. There’s no requirement to follow us on any other social network, but you know that you can always find Androinica on Facebook , Twitter , Google+ , and YouTube , right? Just checking. It won’t help your chances of winning to follow us, but it will keep you up to date on more prizes and the latest Android news. Visit the CanvasPop contest landing page for official rules on the contest. And be sure to use the hashtag on Instagram to get a chance at a cool product. Best of luck everyone!
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Chevrolet has reinforced its place in the smartphone-meets-automobile world with Gogolink , an app and service that connects phones and in-car displays via Bluetooth or USB. Using the MyLink “infotainment system” – really, Chevy? – that comes standard on certain models of the Chevrolet Spark and Chevrolet Sonic, the app makes it possible to extend certain features of a smartphone to a larger screen that’s easier to operate. Gogolink has a focus on driving through 3D maps and the ability to get live traffic updates on crashes, road closures, and alternative routes. The maps can be stored for offline use if things get too hectic. And if you need directions for local emergency services or something less hectic like a restaurant, that’s available too. Incoming calls are piped through the audio system, and the app enables hands-free calling, so drivers will be able to focus on the road. Chevy drivers can expect media as well. Cars with MyLink will be able to play Pandora or Sticher Radio and play music through the car’s audio system. It will also play locally-stored music, and show a photo slideshow or play videos when the car is in park. Here’s a video demo of Gogolink. I’ve seen similar systems in Ford, Lexus, and Toyota models that were good, but we’ll have to wait until the summer to see how Gogolink compares. Chevy says the system will cost $50 a short time after the 2013 Spark goes on sale in the U.S. and Canada mid 2012. Interested parties will have to return to get “a simple update at the dealer to accommodate the app.”
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Plenty of people have had their eyes on Google’s rumored wearable glasses technology, but that won’t be the only game in town if and when it officially debuts. Epson America has announced its own Android-powered glasses that can create a unique video experience. The Epson Moverio BT-100 is more than just a pair of glasses; it’s a personal entertainment device. The Moverio uses micro-projection that makes the human eye perceive an 80-inch screen. An included pair of earphones feature Dolby Mobile surround sound, and a touch-based trackpad connected to the device serves as its remote and navigation tool. Once it’s set-up, users can watch locally-stored movies, stream Adobe Flash 11-based video, or even view side-by-side 3D video. Media options aren’t limited to video. Epson has built a system that several Android apps can take advantage of, so users can listen to music, view photos, or browse the web on the Moverio. Epson also recommends that users download the Amazon Appstore to grab more third-party apps, including Netflix, Pandora, Amazon Kindle, and even Angry Birds. (Remember that you can interact with apps through the included controller.) There are some noticeable hurdles to using the Moverio, the biggest being its $699 price tag. And the nature of the technology may present comfort issues for a small group of people. But those with the cash to burn and will to have a theatre in their pocket will get a rather unique experience. Get more information at the Epson Store . Enhanced Mobility: Rechargeable battery offers nearly six hours of battery life Removable Memory: Built-in card slot supports up to 32GB microSDHC card Download and Go: Transfer content, games and apps to the included 4GB microSDHC card or internal 1GB of user storage on the controller Adobe® Flash® 11 Support: Stream videos from popular television websites featuring Flash 11 content and content rich Flash-enabled websites Big Sound: Dolby® Mobile surround sound delivered to personal earphones or Moverio’s detachable earphones (included in-box) Innovative Navigation: Touch-enabled track pad and navigational buttons enable easy interaction of content via Android Central
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I prefer my phones as naked as the day they were born. I hate the bulk that most cases add, and I don’t like covering up the final design product either. But after dropping my HTC EVO 4G more times than I care to count, and seeing that my Galaxy Nexus has already been chipped in several areas, I decided to buy a case prevent further damage. But I had two non-negotiable rules: the case had to be thin enough to provide protection but not make the phone chunky, and it had to be able to fit the official Samsung extended battery. That eliminated several cases on the market, and led me to the Diztronic Matte Black Flexible case. The Diztronic case is one of the few that meets my criteria. The case is flexible enough to provide the extra room for the extended battery and not make the phone too much thicker. Even after using it for a month, the case still manages to provide a snug fit for when I decide to put the standard Galaxy Nexus battery back on. Cutouts exist to expose ports, speakers, buttons, and the camera, but it otherwise protects the phone fairly well. A screen protector is included, but it feels too thick and plasticky, so I opted not to use it. At only $9.99 on Amazon , the Diztronic case is a bargain. But as you can guess from that low price, the material isn’t top of the line. The matte finish has a rubbery touch that doesn’t feel very luxurious. On the bright side, the material doesn’t pick up fingerprints or moisture, and does a good job of protecting the phone from nicks and scratches. That’s about all it doesn’t because there isn’t much absorption like you’ll find with Otterbox or Casemate. Diztronic is more for people looking to protect phones from very low-impact fall. Give it a try if you need light and affordable phone protection.
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Among the 450,000-plus apps for Android phones, a growing number of them are in support for other devices. These apps make our smartphones a bit wiser and our accessories much smarter. The Jawbone Companion for Android is an example of how one little app can make a big difference. Jawbone Companion is a complementary Android app that works with a trio of Jawbone Bluetooth headsets. The Companion app keeps users aware of some important stats. The obvious features like caller ID are included, but more interesting is the ability to get notifications on upcoming calendar events. Ten minutes before a meeting or event is scheduled, Jawbone pipes in to send a reminder. Users can also tap the Talk button to hear the current time and how much talk time is left on the current charge. There’s also a meter in the notification drawer. I received a loaner Jawbone Icon HD Bluetooth headset to test out the feature. I won’t spend too much time talking about the Icon HD specifically, because the Jawbone Companion app also works with the Era and Icon models. Each has good sound quality, and gives notifications in Google Maps or Pandora streaming as easily as it receives calls. The real story here is that Jawbone can extend the features of its Bluetooth set via the Companion app and MyTalk, an online system that lets users customize certain sounds and features. I would much rather have these features available directly within Jawbone Companion, but they are still nice to have as an option. MyTalk includes the ability to change Caller ID settings, have simultaneous connections to two devices, and change what happens when long-pressing during a call. Holding down on the button can either turn on NoiseAssassin, which makes a massive difference in canceling background noise, or raising the volume. I’d recommend setting it to NoiseAssassin because even with a house full of noisy kids, I had a call without any of that getting in the way. See a video demo to hear the difference . MyTalk also offers 10 different audio profiles to change the voice used for notifications. Voices are intelligent, sexy, standard, sporty, or even with mob-affiliated. The default voice is okay, but I much preferred using The Thinker or The Bombshell because their tones were less robotic. Which ever you prefer, it’s just a sign of the improvements that Jawbone can offer Bluetooth users when they purchase a compatible device. A device compatibility list is available in Google Play, so download the app and visit Jawbone.com to decide which headset sounds best to you. The Galaxy Nexus crashed when disabling the battery meter, but a recent update has fixed that problem. Other phones may experience issues with range or compatibility, but things that was the only technical problem that I faced. I enjoyed using the Jawbone Companion and Bluetooth headset and hope that the company continues to fine-tune and find more ways to improve hands-free audio.
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Motorola’s Lapdock accessory seemed like a very interesting product last year, when it was released, but made us all look the other way because of its too ‘’premium’’ price. The Lapdock was initially made available for 500 dollars and, as you might suspect, there weren’t too many adopters. However, during the past months the accessory’s price has dropped and dropped and dropped and we can finally say today that you can get the Lapdock at or even a bit under its value. The device can therefore be picked up at 1saleaday.com today only for 49.99 bucks, so you should all hurry up and take advantage of this bargain. You should know though that the Lapdock on sale today is not the 10.1-inch model compatible with several Motorola devices, but an 11.6-inch version that can only be docked to the AT&T Motorola Atrix 4G. That being said, if you own the Atrix 4G and you want to squeeze out every bit of functionality you can from Motorola’s smartphone, there’s no excuse to pass on today’s deal. The Lapdock comes with a full-sized keyboard, a large and comfortable touchpad, stereo speakers, two USB ports and a 36 Wh three-cell battery capable of running for eight hours between charges. The Atrix 4G can be docked onto the Lapdock very easily and once you attach your smartphone to the accessory you pretty much get all the functionality and power you could want from a netbook these days. Weighing in at only 2.4 pounds, the Lapdock also offers access to a couple of useful software, like the desktop version of the Mozilla Firefox 3.6 browser. I’m not going to go through all of the Motorola Atrix’s specs and features, because I doubt that there’s anyone who still thinks of getting the smartphone these days, but as I already said, if you have it and you still use it, why not turn it into a mini-laptop with only 50 bucks? Hit the source link below if you are interested in getting the lapdock and check out all of the deal’s details and terms. Via
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A tablet resting on the desk? That’s cool. A tablet propped-up at angles more conducive to you viewing on your desk? That’s much more desirable. That’s also what you’ll get with the Satechi R1 ARM Series , a metal stand that can keep a tablet at just the right angle. The R1 ARM Series is made of aluminum, so you’ll get a well-built and premium-looking material stand to place on your desk, countertop, or other surface. Smooth rubber pads are on the front surface and bottom hooks that keep the tablet in place, so your device will be secure and unscratched during use. Rubber pads on the bottom also protect the stand from being damaged or ruining the surface below it. Pretty much any Android tablet will fit comfortably in the R1. I tested it with a light Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1, but heavier devices like the Motorola Xoom are supported as well. Satechi designed the R1 to evenly distribute weight to stability. Both the rear hinge that keep balance and the top hinge that holds the tablet are adjustable, so users have plenty of viewing angles to choose from. That includes what a tablet is in portrait, landscape, or even flat. The R1 stand is foldable and light, so it can be portable (Satechi even includes a black travel pouch). So you pretty much have to love everything…except the price. The R1 sells for $49 USD, which can be pretty expensive if you aren’t someone who would see a consistent benefit for this kind of accessory. There are plastic tablet stands that cost half as much. Granted, those stands are not nearly as nice, they are still more affordable. At the same time, all tablet stands are unnecessary, so if you can afford to spend an extra $20 and get a much better product in the process, the Satechi R1 Arm is a good buy.
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Anyone in the market for a new phone case? You might want to sign-up for Google Offers if the answer is yes. Today’s offer is essentially a 52 percent discount towards any purchase made at Case-Mate.com, one of the better mobile phone case sellers that we’ve come across. There’s currently a Google Offer, set to expire on February 4, 2012, that gives $25 credit towards any purchase made at Case-Mate.com. Interested buyers would only have to pay $12 to get the credit, so you’re doubling your buying power and getting free shipping in the process. This deal requires membership with Google Offers (free and US only), and would have to be redeemed by July 28, 2012. Case-Mate.com has its largest selection mostly in iPhone cases, but the company has been introducing limited case options for Android phones and tablets. Among the support devices from HTC are the Rezound, Sensation, Evo Design, Amaze, Rhyme, Inspire, and Thunderbolt. Motorola has the Droid 3 and Droid RAZR, Samsung has the Galaxy S II (all variants), and Galaxy Nexus. There are also cases for the Amazon Kindle Fire, HTC Flyer, Motorola Xoom, and Samsung Galaxy Tab. Most cases at the site cost about $25, so the Google Offer should see you covered. There’s also a custom case creator that uses personal photos or art licensed to Case-Mate that costs more, but I’m not sure if this deal supports those as well. (The Case-Mate website has been failing frequently for me all morning.) I recommend the Barely There series of cases because they are thinner and still protect the phone from scratches and low-impact falls. Get more information on deal requirements at Google Offers
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Bluetooth and app-supported watches are a big trend here at CES, with little guys like IM Watch and MIMM taking on the big boys in Motorola and Sony. The Sony Smart Watch, announced at CES, hopes that a combination of function and style will make the Android accessory stand out. The Smart Watch is a Bluetooth device that links with an Android phone to perform certain functions. It’s a follow-up to the Sony Ericsson Live View, only this version is a little more stylish and comes with fashionable bands. The standard band is black, but five more colors are sold separately and are interchangeable to go better with what you’re wearing or what you prefer. Phones link with the Smart Watch and send notifications about missed calls, incoming texts, Twitter updates, and the local weather. There are apps made specifically to work with the watch, including third party developers. So someone who jogs can load Endomondo and track stats on their workout. Oh, and it tells you the time, obviously. I like the look of the Smart Watch – standard black, I’m too shy to wear the flashier colors – and look forward to testing one out long-term. Sony says that the device is compatible with “most Android phones,” including those made by other manufacturers. Here’s a demo from a Sony rep.
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You know how everyone loves taking panoramic shots with their mobile devices? Well, how’d you like to upgrade those snapshots to moving photos and record panoramic video with your Android phone? You will be able to soon with the Kogeto Iconic. Previously available only for the iPhone as Dot, Kogeto has announced that it is bringing the Kickstarter-originating device to Android. Using an attachment mounted near the camera lens and a companion app that records the video, the Iconic can create a video file that takes 360 degrees of viewing and puts them together for a format viewable on mobile devices or computers. The results can capture a lot more than one can with a standard camera. Once video is recorded, iConic lets users do other things like swipe on screen to focus on different areas, or share the video of their preferred social network. There’s even a social feature made for users who want to show off their video among other users. An app named Lookr will soon debut on the Android Market that enables those users to share with one another. You can visit Kogeto.com/dotspots to see examples of panoramic videos shot with the iPhone version. Expect to see the Galaxy Nexus to get IConic in February, with other phone models likely to follow. The device will cost $79 when it hits stores.
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Android’s poor battery life is a common complaint from heavy users and critics alike. I even ran into a tech friend who made the shift to Windows Phone 7 of all things – shudder – and that was a major factor in his decision. But fear not, Android fans, because PowerBag has solved the problem. Well, not directly, but it can be incredibly useful for the tech-savvy and gadget-happy traveler. PowerBag is a company that develops specialized backpacks and messenger bags that have a battery built into the accessory. It houses multiple ports that can then charge your phone or tablet while resting in the bag, allowing you to use your tech without fear that the Battery Trolls will secretly suck out all the juice and leave you powerless while on the go. PowerBag has a removable, rechargeable battery that ranges from 3,000 mAh to 9,000 mAh depending on the model selected. It also has a range of options that are all appealing. I’ve been lugging around a giant military bag to house my gadgets that, while large enough to hold my stuff and take a beating, doesn’t offer the same level of convenience. Powerbag counters with several options that offer more style and function. The Urban Collection supports pockets specifically designed to house tablets, cell phones, and MP3 players. It’s available as one of two backpacks or a messenger bag. The Executive Collection has backpacks, messenger bags, cases, and rolling bags that are geared for frequent travelers looking to move quickly through TSA and need a larger battery. The F?l Collection is the premium and fashion-forward branch available as a backpack, sling, messenger, or wheeled briefcase. The bags start at $139.99 and are sold at Best Buy, OfficeMax, QVC, F.Y.E., WirelessZone, Amazon.com, select college and airport stores, and at www.myPowerbag.com .
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…Going to be announced in this thread. First of all, I want to thank everyone who participated in the contest. It was one of the most consistently-entered contest that we’ve run on Twitter in quite some time. I’d also like to thank the folks at Toshiba USA for sponsoring the contest by donating a free Toshiba Wireless Keyboard – Android Optimized to be given away to one lucky reader. After counting all the entries from recent weeks and selecting a random number from people who followed all the rules outlined in our original post, the winner is… Andrew @akoestel of Ohio. Andrew, please check your DM shortly and respond to my message from the official Androinica account so you can claim your prize. For everyone who didn’t win, thanks for participating. I will soon have some good news that I can’t share just yet, but there will be more contests arriving shortly that I think you will be very pleased with. Be sure to continue following Androinica on Facebook , Google+ and Twitter to get more information. Those are also great ways to stay up to date on the articles that we publish every day. Thanks again, everyone, and I hope you continue to have a great Android Holiday! Comments Comments Related Stories Toshiba keyboard makes typing much easier on Android. WIN A FREE ONE from Androinica.com [Contests] tokidoki gives fashionable makeover to MetroPCS Huawei M835. We’re giving away 3 for FREE Cobra Car Mini-mount – A dashboard mount that sets itself apart [Accessory Review]
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Virtual keyboards have come a long way. Far enough to be so powerful that you don’t really need a physical keyboard. But don’t be surprised if there comes a time when tapping relentlessly on screen and making mistakes or moving slower than your typical pace is no longer good enough. For those occasions, it wouldn’t hurt to have a physical keyboard to go along with your Android tablet. The Toshiba Wireless Keyboard – Android Optimized is a device to have for those times that you want the benefits of physical keys to press, increasing speed and accuracy in the process. As the name implies, this a tablet-friendly Bluetooth keyboard built specifically with Android in mind (USB cable also available). Optimization for Honeycomb (3.0 or higher) means that this device isn’t simply a Bluetooth keyboard that connects to your tablet; it has a set of “Hotkeys” tailor-made for Android. There are buttons for accessing back, home, menu, or search, so common functions don’t require actually reaching over to touch the tablet. You can also control audio levels and playback settings, get shortcuts for email, and jump directly to the calendar. The TWK-AO, available for $69.99, adds a jolt of productivity to anyone with an Android tablet. Androinica.com and Toshiba USA are teaming up to give a free keyboard to one lucky reader – consider it a late holiday present. The rules for entering are very simple Follow both @androinica and @ToshibaUSA on Twitter Send BOTH handles a tweet with the tag #AndroidHoliday. For example: “Happy #AndroidHoliday from @androinica and @toshibaUSA, who are giving away a keyboard optimized for Android tablets” Limit yourself to ONE entry PER DAY. The contest runs from now until December 26th, 2011. Open to all legal residents of the United States Good luck! Comments Comments by Toshiba keyboard makes typing much easier on Android. WIN A FREE ONE from Androinica.com [Contests]
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