Why you must upgrade your Galaxy S3 to Android 4.3 ASAP?

I have to say that Samsung has made a huge mess regarding Samsung Galaxy S3 post Android 4.1.2 upgrade. Google released Android 4.2, Android 4.3 then even Android 4.4 KitKat but Galaxy S3 owners simply stuck on Android 4.1.2 jelly Bean for a long time. After that Samsung announced Galaxy S3 will not receive Android 4.2 Jelly Bean because they will push Android 4.3 directly. Well no problem but after that announcement Samsung took a long time to give Android 4.3 OTA upgrade and started the proceedings back in November 2013. But alas! Customers all around the world were seeing horrible issues on their phones and the problem is so severe that Samsung forced to pull the update from online. Users raising a stink about everything from battery issues to keyboard problems to connectivity problems. One user claims that his phone has started to use LTE, even when connected to Wi-Fi!



After so much drama they again pushed the update in December to Galaxy S3. This time almost everything has gone smoothly for Samsung. Almost everything is being used here because there are always lots of noises regarding any smartphone firmware upgrade. So I am saying that it’s alright. But as a Galaxy S3 owner I don’t feel any rush to upgrade my device. Because I was too much comfortable with Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean because of system and stability and battery life. My Galaxy S3 battery life increased significantly when I upgrade my device from Android 4.1.1 to Android 4.1.2. But last week after a long month after Galaxy S3 Android 4.3 release I choose to read all the forums for any complaints regarding Android 4.3. And I can see that there is not too much question about the performance improvements. So I have decided to move forward.



I downloaded Indian ROM of Galaxy S3 as because Bangladeshi ROM is yet to release by Samsung. I installed the upgrade by using ODIN 3.07 (ODIN 3.09 is not worked perfectly). It has been four days since the upgrade. So now I think it’s not a bad time to judge my device’s experience with you.

Firmware information:
Device Name: Samsung Galaxy S3
Model Number: GT-I9300
Android Version: Android 4.3 Jelly Bean
Build Number: I9300XWUGML4
Baseband Version: I9300DUGMK1
CSC: I9300ODDGML4
Country: India (INU)

My experience after using Android 4.3 on my Samsung Galaxy S3:

1. For the first two days my device hangs a lot. It happened with earlier Android 4.1.1 and Android 4.1.2 upgrade as well. So it is not a big issue with me. After that now everything is smooth. As TRIM is included in this firmware I hope it is working under my nose.
2. I am saying that my device is now faster than before. It is OK. But battery life is the game changer for me. Just check the screenshot. Earlier my device ran only for 16-20 hours on a single charge. I am a heavy user. Now as you clearly see its one day+ and still 29% charge left.
3. I love the lockscreen widgets. They are really useful and time saver. I am already using it a lot.
4. Overall RAM usage is higher than before in device idle state but it is not causing any problems.
5. I love the new File Manager. Though it is not a big change but the changes are nice.
6. Move-to-SD-card feature. It is always appreciable to remove less used apps in the SD card to clear internal memory.

It’s all for now. Why i am asking you to upgrade your Galaxy S3 ASAP? Why not? Just improved battery life performance is enough for any smartphone owners to upgrade their devices. So i am suggesting to upgrade your Galaxy S3 to Android 4.3. And i will write about the update more if I find anything new in future.

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AT&T start rolling Android 4.3 to the Samsung Galaxy S4 Active

Good news for the Samsung Galaxy S4 Active owners in AT&T US network. Android 4.3 is starting to roll out in the form of an over-the-air update by AT&T boys. As you're probably aware by now, the update keeps the phone in Jelly Bean territory with baseband version I537UCUBML2. Last week AT&T posted then removed the Galaxy S4 Active 4.3 update changelog, which details nearly everything users can expect. This update includes Galaxy gear support with other improvements like OpenGL ES 3.0 support, Bluetooth Smart technology, enhanced notifications and 1080p Netflix streaming. AT&T is also adding a few pre-installed apps with this update. They are billing these are “AT&T Signature Experience preloads” and they will be arriving as Kindle, Lookout, City ID, Password Keeper, Games and AT&T Mobile Protection. You may like it or not but it will be there after Android 4.3 update! Drag and drop to uninstall apps from the app drawer has been integrated, and plenty other features Samsung Galaxy S4 owners have been enjoying for months.



Samsung Galax S4 Active Android 4.3 OTA update size is 772MB, so it’s wise to use home Wi-Fi for that and also ensure full charge before continue. Once that arrives you will simply need to follow the prompts. Otherwise, those with a Galaxy S4 Active in their hand can navigate to Settings -> More (tab) -> About device -> Software update -> Check for updates to try and get the process started. And after that let us know how it works. Because Android 4.4 for AT&T Galaxy S4 Active is a long dream now. If you want to buy new Galaxy S4 Active from AT&T you have to spend @200 under 2-yr contract and $595 in no contract mode.
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Sony announces new WALKMAN Android – Xperia E1

Right after the end of CES 2014, Sony has decided to announce two new distinctive Android phones to WoW us all. One is Xperia E1, proud member of WALKMAN family and another is mid-range phablet Xperia T2 Ultra. Both phones have dual-SIM variant for easy call handling. The Xperia E1 is a budget Android phone with focus on the audio playback aspect. Sony claims the loudspeaker on the back is capable of hitting 100dB, which should drown out practically every other sound around you.



Another main attraction point of Xperia E1 is the dedicated Walkman button which we haven't seen in a while, shake to shuffle and hardware buttons for controlling audio playback.

Other features include a 4.0-inch, 800x480 resolution 2 touch display, dual-core 1.2GHz processor with 512MB of RAM and 4GB of storage space and microSD card slot. The Xperia E1 camera is only 3.2 megapixel with WVGA 30fps video recording and no flash at the back. Android 4.3 Jelly Bean is installed inside Xperia E1 which is rather disappointing. The battery is 1750mAh rated up to 8 hours of 2G/3G talk time.



There will be two variants of the E1, with single and dual-SIM options. The phone will be available in black, white and purple. The initial price of Sony Xperia E1 will be around $250, which is my guess at this point. We hope that Sony will release it soon, before MWC is my bet. Read the full PR for details.

Update: Sony Xperia E1 will be priced $190 (15.04.14)


Introducing Xperia™ E1 – simply the best smartphone in its class

January 2014, London, UK – Sony Mobile Communications (“Sony Mobile”) today introduces Xperia E1, a new Android smartphone that brings Sony’s leading audio technologies together with expertise in display, design, performance and content to create a smartphone independently recognised as the “best smartphone in its class”1.

“Xperia E1 combines the best of Sony’s audio technologies with a premium design and great hardware to create a smartphone for people who want to express themselves out loud.” said Calum MacDougall, Director of Xperia Marketing at Sony Mobile Communications. “It’s a new, music focused player in our Xperia line-up that is underpinned by the best of Sony’s design, display and content offers.”

The best in its class
Xperia E1 is mid-tier smartphone with seriously premium credentials. A solid feel, fast processor and vivid 4” display combined with fast data speeds provides an all round performance that is unrivalled by any other phone in its class, whilst its audio experience and content offer provides real differentiation.

Great music everywhere
Sony’s audio heritage can be clearly heard in Xperia E1 as key technologies come together with the 100Db (with 100Db on your Xperia™ E1, even a motorcycle won’t interrupt your music), speaker to produce a louder, cleaner sound that can hold its own in any environment. With ClearAudio+ mode, instantly enhance your listening experience and optimise the balance of frequencies whilst xLOUD ensures that your tracks sound as good as they should – loud and crystal clear.

Intuitive WalkmanTM controls
Sony’s WalkmanTM technology hails from more than 30 years of premium audio experiences and Xperia E1 builds on this. Shake-to-shuffle controls and a dedicated “long press to launch” WalkmanTM button ensure that loading and navigating your tracks couldn’t be easier, whilst the latest generation of Sony’s “WALKMAN” App makes short work of combining on and offline music, creating playlists, as well as playing and sharing tracks. To top it all off, Xperia E1 comes pre-loaded with a 30 day pass for Sony’s Entertainment Network2 music streaming service so that you can explore the full functionality of the “WALKMAN” App and enjoy almost any song, almost anywhere.

Crystal clear 4” display
All of this is controlled from the vivid 4” touchscreen. Drawing on Sony’s background in TV technology, Xperia E1 incorporates expertise from across Sony’s digital display technologies to provide an immersive visual experience. Whether watching movies or viewing photos, the display looks both vibrant and clear.

The heart of your Sony experience
Xperia E1 connects via Bluetooth™ to Sony’s extended eco system so whether it’s through the SBH20 Stereo Bluetooth™ Headset for those who prefer to keep their music to themselves or the Bluetooth™ music receiver BM10 for those who need an even louder experience, Xperia E1 remains at the heart of your connected Sony music experience.

Dual SIM, no compromise
Also available is a new dual SIM smartphone, a variant of Xperia E1 which offers a new experience through the incorporation of Sony’s latest generation of dual SIM technology. You can set up both SIM cards independently with custom ring tones and instant, simple switching between SIMs before making calls or sending texts, whilst Sony’s dual SIM management technology means that you can keep both SIMs active, never missing a call, even when talking on one of them.

Xperia E1 features (& Xperia E1dual)

1. 4” WVGA (800 x 480) display
2. Fast 1.2 GHz dual core processor with 512 MB RAM and 4GB storage
3. WalkmanTM key, shake to shuffle and hardware controls for easy music control
4. Fast data speeds with Cat 14 HSPA+
5. Available in white, black and purple

For more information about Sony media apps, please visit: http://www.sonymobile.com/global-en/apps-services/sony-media-apps/.

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Sony announces smaller Xperia Z1 flagship device with same 20.7MP camera

Sony has just announced the Xperia Z1 Compact at CES 2014. What is notable in this release unlike most mini flagship variants, it features a specs sheet that doesn't compromise, and has almost identical specs to the Xperia Z1 flagship. The Xperia Z1 Compact packs the same waterproof, metal and glass design, supercharged quad-core processor, 4G LTE connectivity and 20-megapixel camera as the top-end Xperia Z1. The Compact packs a 4.3-inch 720p display, which is a step down from the Full HD of its brother, but the smaller screen size means it doesn't need as many pixels to remain sharp. Indeed, it has a pixel density of 340 pixels per inch,



While the HTC One Mini and Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini both bear the names of their elitist brethren, both models actually come with considerably watered down specs that won't keep hardcore tech fans happy. The Z1 Compact provides cutting-edge tech without forcing you to have a phone so big you can camp under it. Size aside, the Z1 compact is almost identical to its bigger brother. It has the same all-glass front and back, with the one-piece aluminium band running around the edge.



It'll arrive sporting the last but one version of Android, known as 4.3 Jelly Bean. At the time of writing, Sony wasn't able to give a firm word on when the compact, or indeed the full-sized Z1 would see an update to the latest 4.4 KitKat, but suggested that it will be coming at some point. The Z1 Compact comes with the same supercharged processor as its larger sibling, rather than a weaker, cheaper chip. It's a 2.2GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor.

The Sony Xperia Z1 Compact is due to go on sale in the UK and wider Europe in the middle of February. It also hasn't said how much it will be, but did suggest that its similar specs to the Z1 indicates a similar price - expect it to be somewhere between £400-£450 ($650-740). The phone will be available on four colors - Black, White, Yellow and Pink. Look at this official Sony Xperia Z1 Compact video to see the beauty and power of this little monster.

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Samsung announces Galaxy Camera 2 with 16.3MP sensor

Ahead of CES 2014, Samsung has just unveiled the successor of the Galaxy Camera - the Galaxy Camera 2. The Galaxy Camera 2 comes with a 1/2.3" BSI sensor with 16.3 MP with 21x optical zoom lens with and optical image stabilization. It has a pop-up xenon flash and a dedicated AF light. Galaxy Camera 2 has the same sensor used in the first generation Galaxy Camera. You can shoot 1080p@30fps, 720p@60fps and 512p@120fps video in Galaxy Camera 2 just like the past. The Galaxy Camera 2 employs the same 4.8-inch Super Clear 720p LCD display with 306ppi as the one we saw on the Galaxy Camera.



There are also few software and hardware upgrade in Galaxy Camera 2. It comes with a faster quad-core processor clocked at 1.6GHz, doubled 2GB of RAM and doubled 8GB internal storage. A microSD card slot of up to 64GB capacity is there in place. It weighs 283 grams. Samsung galaxy Camera 2 will be available in black and white initially. It has the same leather like plastic at front like Samsung Galaxy Note 3.



The last of the upgrades brought by the Galaxy Camera 2 are the NFC connectivity, the bigger 2000mAh battery and the newer Android 4.3 Jelly Bean version. Since the Galaxy Camera 2 runs on Android 4.3 and the latest TouchWiz UI, it’s safe to assume that it has Samsung Galaxy Gear compatibility. We hope Samsung develops some kind of a remote shutter app for the Gear to make the two work better together.



Unlike the first Galaxy Camera, the new one does not come with a SIM slot, so there is no 3G/LTE network support. There is still no information on pricing and availability, but Samsung will be showcasing the device on CES, so you will know more in a few days.

Source | Via

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Samsung rolls out Android 4.3 for Galaxy S3 again

The Jelly Bean update test for Galaxy S3 owners has now started again. The Samsung Galaxy S3 had started receiving the Android 4.3 update in some parts of the world but then Samsung pulled the update and then sent another 4.1.2 update in its place instead. Because the update has so many problems in its core that are not even fixable with bug fixes. Now the 4.3 update is rolling out once again in several parts of the world. In the US, both Verizon and Cricket have pushed the update for their devices. Internationally, the update is now being pushed to some devices in Europe and should be out in other regions as well in some time.



We hope that this time Samsung did everything right to satisfy its customers. Earlier Android 4.3 has battery drain and lots of freezing issues. If that happens again it will surely sealed a bitter taste of those users for a long time regarding the name Samsung.

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HTC One mini gets Android 4.3 update

HTC begins Android 4.3 Jelly Bean update roll out for HTC One mini smartphone which include HTC Sense 5.5. It is almost 50 days after the start of HTC One Android 4.3 update. The update is 630MB in size. It brings a host of improvements and tweaks to the HTC One mini. HTC include the ability create custom feeds in BlinkFeed from new sources, as well as the option to disable the service altogether. The Video Highlights section has been improved as well. It features new interface, as well as the ability to add soundtracks to videos.

HTC One mini's music interface has been updated too. Users of unlocked HTC One mini devices can check for the update manually by going into the handset’s settings. As always HTC might be rolling out the new OS version in stages, so you don’t need to worry if you don’t see an update available.
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Google unveils new quad-core Krait Nexus 7

As expected Google unveils their new Nexus 7 tablet at the Google event a few days ago. It's a $230 tab with 7" 1920 X 1200 pixel display running Android 4.3. It's the highest resolution 7" display on a tablet. The screen also promises a 30% wider color gamut. Asus made Nexus 7 has a Snapdragon S4 Pro with quad-core Krait processor at 1.5GHz, 2GB RAM and Adreno 320 inside.

The main camera is 5 megapixel shooter capable of handling 1080p video. At the front it has a 1.2MP front-facing camera. It also has a SlimPort, which means you can get HD video out of the microUSB port. Other connectivity features are dual-band Wi-Fi a/b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0 (Android 4.3 adds native support for 4.0 + LE) and NFC. Wireless charging is also supported.

While the display size was kept the same, the new Nexus 7 is smaller. Google and Asus shaved off 1.8mm off the thickness, 2.8mm of the bezels on either sides and reduced the weight by 50g. Google kept well-liked the soft touch back.

For storage, there's 16GB for the base model, $230, and 32GB for $270. Those prices are for the Wi-Fi only model, the 4G LTE model comes in 32GB only and costs $350.

Google announced the Wi-Fi and 4G LTE models of the Nexus 7 from the get go this time around. One device will be able to use 4G from AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon, no different versions required.

The Nexus 7 2 will be available starting July 30 through the Google Play store and a number of retailers including Best Buy, GameStop, Walmart, Staples, Amazon.com. In the coming weeks, Google will expand availability for the 2nd generation Nexus 7 to Canada, the UK, Germany, France, Spain, Australia, Japan and South Korea.
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