PowerVR G6630 Announced by ImaginationTechnologies – To Be the Most Powerful GPU to Date

Imagination Technologies are behind the PowerVR series of GPU’s available in most Android and Apple devices. Direct competitors are ARM and their Mali series of GPU’s, NVIDIA and their Tegra devices and Qualcomm’s Adreno GPU’s. PowerVR has been the hardware of choice for Apple to integrate in their devices, with a new one available for every new iPad device.

The Apple tablets offer extreme performance when it comes to GPU capabilities. We should think so, especially given the large number of pixels the component has to push, because of Apple’s Retina displays. The PowerVR series has been available on the market for a long time, since integrating GPU’s into mobile devices was considered a thing of the future.

Imagination Technologies announced their newest addition to the PowerVR series of GPU’s. The PowerVR G6630 features a new manufacturing technology, including one core and six clusters and is the fifth member of the Series6 ‘Rogue’ graphics IP family. The rethought manufacturing process makes it capable of offering over 60 times the performance of the current series 5 components, while this is made possible with only one GPU. The six clusters inside the core can be used depending on the complexity of the task, to preserve energy. The new series will also be compatible with the latest Microsoft DirectX 11.1, available only in Windows 8.

Related posts:

1. The New 4th Gen iPad Features a PowerVR SGX 554 GPU
2. BlackBerry PlayBook Tablet Gets Priced, Launch Date Announced
3. iPad 2 Dominates GPUs in Benchmark Tests, Galaxy S II Left In the Dust

Source : androidtabletblog[dot]com

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Galaxy Note 10.1 LTE Gets Updated to Jelly Bean – VoLTE Included

It has become a habit for customers who own LTE devices to get the latest update from the manufacturer only weeks or even months after the International version gets it. The Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 is now one of the most popular Android tablets, featuring special features characteristic to the Korean manufacturer’s Note lineup.

Samsung has begun providind OTA files for their flagship Android tablet, the Galaxy Note 10.1, to push the software version up from 4.0.4 to 4.1 – Jelly Bean. Unfortunately we aren’t talking about quite the latest version of the OS. That would be Android 4.2, featured on another Samsung tablet, the Nexus 10.  Meanwhile, the 4G LTE variant of the Galaxy Note 10.1 will get Jelly Bean, along with lots of new features and a new performance standard.

The Jelly Bean update for the Note 10.1 also brings some manufacturer specific new functions, most already available on the new Galaxy Note 2 – smartphone/phablet. Among these there is the Multi-Window - feature that splits the display into two panes, allowing two apps to be accessed simultaneously. The update also brings the newest network standard – called VoLTE or voice over LTE - enhancement to traditional LTE, which would normally drop a data connection when a voice call was being made. Initially the new software version is to be out across three South Korean carriers.

Related posts:

1. Samsung Promises Jelly Bean Updates for 15 Phones and Tablets, Galaxy Tab 10.1 NOT Included
2. Android 4.1 Jelly Bean Update Reaches Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1, Germany’s First!
3. Android 4.1 Jelly Bean Update Available for Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 and Note 10.1 Via Leak

Source : androidtabletblog[dot]com

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Humble Bundle for Android 4 now available, pay what you want for 6 great indie games

The folks at Humble Bundle have just launched their fourth collection for Android devices. This time around the pay-what-you-want package features six great games from developers such as Omni Systems, Kloonigames, and more. If you aren’t familiar with the Humble Bundle model, buyers are asked to pay as much or as little as they want with the ability to decide how much of that payment goes towards the developers, Humble, and a selection of charities.

Always curating some of the best Android has to offer, the latest bundle will be available for two weeks only and includes Crayon Physics Deluxe, Eufloria, Splice, Superbrothers Sword & Sorcery EP, and Waking Mars. Those choosing to pay higher than the average amount will also be treated to Amanita Design’s Machinarium. It’s a great opportunity to get your hands on some of the best indie games available for Android at a great price (and a few that are only available for the first time as part of Humble’s offer). And you can guarantee you are supporting the developers who take time to craft such experiences.

In just the few hours since the latest Bundle has launched, the games have already pulled in over $20,000 (though the number is skyrocketing quickly). The average purchase is just a little over $5, which is small bucks to pay for what will amount to hours of entertainment. So go over and grab this awesome collection before time runs out!

Source : androidtabletblog[dot]com

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Samsung Galaxy Express comes to AT&T November 16th

The month of November just keeps on for AT&T and Samsung. With devices like the Galaxy Note 2 and the Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 on their way you would think the Samsung party would soon come to a halt, but alas another new devices has been announced.

Ma Bell has announced forthcoming availability of the Samsung Galaxy Express, a mid-range smartphone that should appeal to those not looking to pay the $200-300 for a Samsung Galaxy S3 or a Samsung Galaxy Note 2. It’ll cost you $100 after a new two-year contract and any rebates to walk away with the package, and the specs actually get pretty close to what the Samsung Galaxy S3 is offering.

You can look forward to a 1.5GHz dual-core processor (likely of the Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 variety), a 4.5 inch Super AMOLED Plus display, a 5 megapixel rear camera, a front-facing camera, a 2,000mAh battery, Android 4.0, LTE, NFC and more. You can also expect TouchWiz, though we’re not sure to what extent.

Samsung has done well to offer a variety of devices for a wide range of budgets, and this latest offering is one of the most powerful mid-range priced devices we’ve seen yet. Just a year ago a device like this would be considered top-of-the-line, cutting edge hardware so it’s interesting to see how far that side of the smartphone has come.

The 16th of November is a Friday so you’ll have plenty of time to play with it on the weekend should you decide to buy one. Read on for full press details.

Samsung Galaxy Express and AT&T Mobile Hotspot MiFi Liberate Arrive at AT&T Nov. 16

Dallas, Texas, November 08, 2012

Beginning Nov. 16, AT&T* customers will be able to pick up the new AT&T Mobile Hotspot MiFi® Liberate for $49.99 with a two-year agreement and the Samsung Galaxy Express™ for $99.99 with a two-year agreement. For a limited time, customers who purchase a Samsung Galaxy smartphone, including the Galaxy Express, will receive up to $100 off a second connected Samsung device (details below).†

AT&T Mobile Hotspot MiFi Liberate

Developed by Novatel Wireless (NASDAQ: NVTL), and powered by the nation’s largest 4G network, the MiFi Liberate is the first mobile hotspot device with a touchscreen display. Its vibrant 2.8″ color touchscreen display takes ease-of-use to the next level. Customers can easily connect up to 10 Wi-Fi devices. They can also view data usage, manage connected devices, change network and device settings, and more-all directly from the touchscreen.

The MiFi Liberate, which offers access to 4G LTE speeds, boasts an industry-leading, powerful battery that provides up to 11 hours of continuous use. The global-ready MiFi Liberate also offers connectivity in more than 200 countries, making it more convenient to browse the Internet, check and send email, and upload photos while abroad. Customers can also easily access and share files and media stored on the inserted microSD card** from connected Wi?Fi or DLNA capable devices.

Customers purchasing connected devices from AT&T have more options in choosing the plan that’s right for them and their mobile devices. With new AT&T Mobile Share plans, new and existing customers can share a single bucket of data across smartphones, tablets, and other compatible devices, including the MiFi Liberate. AT&T Mobile Share allows customers to build a plan to fit their devices and usage. Customers can select one of the new shared data plans or choose one of AT&T’s existing individual or family plans.***

Samsung Galaxy Express

First-time smartphone users and people looking to upgrade to a new Android smartphone will find their perfect match with the Samsung Galaxy Express, a 4G LTE smartphone that combines high performance features at a great price. The Galaxy Express is exclusive to AT&T, runs Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) and sports a clear and bright 4.5-inch Super AMOLED™ Plus screen. The 1.5 GHz dual-core processor and 2000 mAh battery helps users stay productive throughout the day; while the 5-megapixel rear facing camera lets you capture and share images easily through text messages, email and social networks.

With Samsung Galaxy Express, customers can also enjoy some of the popular sharing features introduced in the popular Samsung Galaxy S® III, like S Beam which allows content to be shared between S Beam enabled devices by simply touching them back to back.

For more information about the Samsung Galaxy Express, please visit http://www.att.com/galaxyexpress.

AT&T customers have access to the nation’s largest 4G network, covering 285 million people. AT&T has two 4G networks that work together for customers, LTE and HSPA+ with enhanced backhaul. That means AT&T customers are able to enjoy a widespread, ultra-fast and consistent 4G experience on their compatible device as they move in and out of LTE areas.**** With other carriers, when you travel outside of their LTE coverage area, you may be on a much slower 3G network.

*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

**microSD sold separately. Compatible connected devices required.

*** Smartphone required. Up to ten devices per plan. Additional monthly charge per device. $15 per GB for add’l data. Unlimited talk and text for phones only. Activation fee may apply. Additional deposits and other restrictions may apply. Access to corporate email, intranet sites and apps available for $15/mo. per device.

****4G speeds not available everywhere. Limited 4G LTE availability in select markets. LTE is a trademark of ETSI. Learn more at att.com/network. 4G when used in connection with the Galaxy Express refers to the fact that the device can operate on AT&T’s 4G network.

International roaming data rates apply outside the U.S., Puerto Rico, and U.S.V.I. Visit att.com/worldpackages and select Data Plans/Packages to view rates and available discount plans.

Samsung, Galaxy Express and Super AMOLED are trademarks of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

†Offer available for a limited time while promotional supplies last at participating AT&T locations. Offer valid on second Galaxy handset of equal or lesser value or any Samsung connected device.

2-yr agreement and voice and/or data plan may be required. Restrictions apply. See store for details.

Source : androidtabletblog[dot]com

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Sony Yuga pictured in the wild with 5-inch 1080p display and glass panel battery cover

The much rumored Sony Yuga and Odin have been a few devices shrouded in mystery. Rumored for a CES 2013 unveiling, we’ve seen the devices pop up in benchmarks and unlike Sony’s previous efforts, the Odin and Yuga are said to come decked to the nines with top of the line, high-end specs.

Up until now, we haven’t actually seen the device pictured in the wild (despite some fan’s attempts at recreating renders of the Odin). Thankfully, the folks at Android Schweiz have gotten their hands on a device they’re calling the Sony C6603, aka the “Yuga.”

Just like the Odin, the Yuga is said to carry a 1080p full HD 5-inch display along with a quad-core S4 processor, 2GB of RAM and 12MP camera, all running on Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean. Yeah, Sony’s not messin’ around anymore. While the device doesn’t feature a removable battery, Sony was nice enough to include micro SD expansion and HDMI mirroring.

Looks-wise, this is a departure from what we’ve seen from Sony in the past. But maybe there’s a reason for that. I’ve long held this theory that when manufacturers submit their top of the line devices for Google’s Nexus program and are rejected, we see ‘em pop up later with OEM UI’s slapped on instead of stock Android. Maybe that’s why the glass backing we’re seeing on the Yuga is so similar to Google/LG’s design on the Nexus. Just a hunch.

While I would love to finally get a well spec’d Sony device in my hands, I can’t say I’m a fan of this new glass back panel trend. I didn’t like it on the iPhone 4, and I sure as heck don’t like it now. How are you guys feeling about the Yuga?

[via XperiaBlog]

Source : androidtabletblog[dot]com

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Gemini Devices Prepare to Unveil New tablets: JoyTab Solo 7, Gem7008 Slate, JoyTab Duo 7 and More

Gemini Devices make some interesting tablets from the JoyTab series and they’ve just unveiled a bunch of new models: two new 7 inch tablets and two new 9.7 inch tablets, one packing a keyboard, plus a few mode units. The new models are as follows: JoyTab Solo 7, Gem7008, JoyTab Duo 7, Gem7030, JoyTab Duo 9.7, Gem10313s, JoyTab Duo 9.7 Pro and Gem10313.

The JoyTab Solo 7 tablet is an entry level 7 inch model with a 69.99 quid price tag, so it will be a very cheap Xmas gift. Then there’s the Gem7008, with an ARM Cortex A8 1.2 GHz processor, 512 MB of DDR3 memory and 8 GB of storage. It goes for 79.99 quid and runs Android 4.0, plus it supports a 800 x 480 pixel resolution. JoyTab Duo 7 is a powerful super slim dual core 7 inch tablet with Android Jelly Bean on board. No price for this one…

Gem7030 has a dual core ARM Cortex A9, 1 GB of DDR3 memory, 8 GB of storage, a 7 inch TFT LCD screen with 1024 x 600 pixel resolution and Jelly Bean as the OS. We don’t have a price for this model either, sadly. The JoyTab Duo 9.7 is a dual core 9.7 inch budget friendly slate with Jelly Bean. Finally, the Gem10313 is a dual core Cortex A9 device, with 1 GB of RAM, 16 GB of storage, Android 4.1 Jelly Bean and a TFT LCD 1024 x 768 display.

There’s also a Pro version of the JoyTab Duo 9.7, that offers an extra keyboard case.

Related posts:

1. Gemini Devices Sells Cheap Android 4.0 JoyTab Tablets
2. Gemini Joytab GEM9212 Tablet Unveiled
3. Coby Upcoming Tablets to Pack Dual Core and Quad Core CPUs (Video)

Source : androidtabletblog[dot]com

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Windows 8 Tablets To Get to 39% Market Share in Business Segment by 2016, Says Gartner

Research firm Gartner released a report this week showing that Microsoft has good odds at conquering the business market with Windows 8 devices. They predicted that 821 million smart devices, including smartphones and tablet will be purchased worldwide this year and the billion mark will be reached in 2013.

Windows 8 will be positioned in third place in the tablet market behind Apple and Android by 2016, as far as business segment goes, according to Gartner. Tablets and convertibles will be their way of taking over a portion of preferences, especially when it comes to companies and less with consumers. Estimations show a business market share of 39% 4 years from now for Win 8, which is quite big, making us wonder what shares Android and iOS will get at that time.

Frankly speaking, I’d see Android dropping to third place, since I can’t imagine companies preferring Android over Windows 8 or iOS, for its shabby security and lack of tablet optimized apps. Even business software and the likes are not that present or well adapted to Android. So, what do you think? Will Win 8 beat Android in the end?

Related posts:

1. Dell Preparing Windows 8 Tablet for Business Segment
2. Upcoming Intel Tablets Could Conquer the Enterprise Segment, Eating up PlayBook, iPad Market Share
3. Hanvon and Microsoft to Develop Business Tablets

Source : androidtabletblog[dot]com

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LG Optimus G, Sony Xperia TL now available from AT&T

The LG Optimus G and Sony Xperia TL are now available through AT&T. The devices can be found online and in stores, and pre-orders should be arriving at doorsteps today. The handsets serve as their respective manufacturer’s flagship Android devices for the second half of the year and both feature hardware that includes an HD display.

The Optimus G’s 4.7-inch screen is paired with a 1.5GHz quad-core processor and 2GB RAM. Unlike the version of the device that went on pre-order for Sprint yesterday, however, a 13MP camera has been switched out for an 8MP sensor. During testing, we found the phone to be quite impressive. The Xperia TL does feature a 13MP camera along with a 4.6-inch display, 1.5GHz dual-core processor, and 1GB RAM.

Both devices ship with Ice Cream Sandwich and feature 4G LTE connectivity. The Optimus G is available for $199.99 on a new two-year contract while the Xperia TL comes in at an affordable $99.99. If you are planning on picking up either, head over to AndroidForums and join the discussion at our Optimus G and Xperia TL sections.

Source : androidtabletblog[dot]com

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Logitech Bluetooth Android keyboard only $10 – Better hurry [DEALS]

With less than 4 hours left before it expires, the Logitech Bluetooth Keyboard Case for the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 (and other Android devices) is one helluva deal. Part protective case and part bluetooth keyboard, the Zagg-designed (caseboard? keycase?) is being offered at a staggering low $10 on 1SaleADay — but only for the next few hours.

I happened to purchase this a few weeks back on another daily deals site for around $15 and absolutely love it. It charges via micro USB (same as your phone), and works beautifully on my Samsung Galaxy S3. Yes, I know this was made specifically for the Galaxy Tab, but it can prop up most small devices and tablets with little fuss. Great for meetings, notes, or messing around. And for $10, you can’t go wrong. Better hurry!

[1SaleADay Wireless]

Source : androidtabletblog[dot]com

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There are now 700,000 Android apps in the Google Play Store

With the news of shiny new Google devices bombarding your your favorite media outlets today, I think it’s safe to say today was a huge day for Android. But, besides a slue of new Nexus devices soon making their way to your doorsteps, there’s still a few stories left unsung. Apparently, the Google Play Store has officially reached its 700,000 apps milestone. This, according to Bloomberg, and while we await an official announcement/blog post from Google HQ, this is still another big milestone for company who at one time was ridiculed for having a less than robust app market place.

By comparison, the Apple App Store hit the same 700K mark back in September of this year, at which time there were 675,000 apps in the Play Store. And while this sounds great on paper, rummaging through that many apps is a daunting task for anyone, with many quality apps getting lost in the shuffle. Don’t worry, we’ll continue letting you guys know whenever a good one comes our way. Pinky promise.

Source : androidtabletblog[dot]com

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