Jelly Bean is on twice as many Android devices now than it was two months ago.
The Jelly Bean build of Google's Android platform is finally making its way to devices. According to Google's Android Developers Dashboard, versions 4.1 and 4.2 now account for 13% of Android-powered devices.
This figure is up from 6.7% in December of last year, a doubling of installs in the last 60-days. This sharp increase is attributable to several high profile devices receiving the Jelly Bean update over Christmas, including the Samsung Galaxy S3.
Jelly Bean graph
Slowly but surely
Google first announced Jelly Build back in June of 2012, alongside the Nexus 7 tablet. The upgrade included major performance enhancements and the new Google Now predictive search tool.
The largest fragment of the Android pie still belongs to Gingerbread, with 45% of devices still running version 2.3. This number is shrinking though, down 9% since November.
The rule of 3 - something about being cheap we think
The ZTE Blade 3 has been officially announced by the Chinese firm and promises big value and a big screen experience.
ZTE is best known as a budget smartphone manufacturer, and while it's trying to shift that reputation with flagship products such as the Grand S there's no question where the Blade 3 sits in the market.
The Blade 3 will only set you back £69.99 plus £10 PAYG top up, or if you prefer you can have it for free on contact starting from £13 per month (as long as you are a Virgin Media customer).
Bargain?
For your £80 outlay you'll get a 4-inch 800 x 480 TFT display, 1GHz single-core processor, 512MB of RAM, 4GB of internal storage (of which 2.5GB is available), 5MP rear camera, 1,600mAh battery a Android 4.0.4 Ice Cream Sandwich.
That's a decent set of specs for the money and puts the Blade 3 up against the more expensive Sony Xperia Miro and HTC Desire C which are both almost £100 dearer.
We were pretty impressed during our hands on ZTE Blade 3 review but we'll reserve proper judgement for our full in-depth review.
9to5Mac reported late on Monday that it had discovered some files deep within the bowels of an iOS 6.1-running iPad that hint at the existence of such a service.
The .png files are labeled "transport radio buy button" with several variations, and they reveal a pair of buttons, in grey and green, that resemble the radio icon used in older versions of iTunes.
The presence of the word "buy" in the icons' file names seems significant. Could Apple be planning to charge for its rumored streaming music service?
The streaming music blues
The buttons currently have no purpose in the OS, and they don't appear on iPhones, according to the site - just on iPads with the .1 update of iOS 6.
But it's unclear when Apple plans to launch its streaming radio service, if at all, and the relevant files could be added in a subsequent iOS update for iPhones if necessary.
Rumors of the planned Apple radio service appeared in September, when the Wall Street Journal reported that the Cupertino company was preparing to launch a bonafide Pandora rival.
Those preparations supposedly hit a snag in October, when Sony and Apple were said to be having disputes over the terms.
Then, in December, CNET reported that Warner and Universal, who together with Sony comprise three of the largest music labels in the industry, had joined in making Apple's life difficult.
What a coincidence
Rumors pegged the Apple music streaming service with a Q1 2013 launch, and the arrival of these mysterious "radio buy" files in iOS 6.1 could indicate that Apple is indeed preparing for the radio service launch.
Channel 4's 4oD catch-up app has finally been released for Android smartphones and tablets long after its launch on Apple's iOS platform.
The free, on-demand service brings access to the last 30 days of programming from Channel 4, More 4 and E4, which includes The Undateables, Peep Show, Utopia and Embarrassing Fat Bodies.
There's also an A-Z library featuring a host of classic Channel 4 archive content like Father Ted, The IT Crowd and The Inbetweeners for fans of the old school.
The app offers unlimited, free streaming over Wi-Fi, but doesn't accommodate playback over mobile networks at present.
No Live TV...yet
However, the app doesn't facilitate the Live TV functionality promised by Channel 4 late last year, but we suppose it's important for C4 to walk on Android before it starts to run.
"We're pleased to be able to extend our successful video-on-demand service to this range of modern Android devices with a dedicated 4oD app," said Sarah Milton, head of video on demand at Channel 4.
"Users will now be able to catch up on their favourite Channel 4 shows and enjoy many more classics from the Channel 4 archive via their smartphones and tablets," she added.
To use the app you'll need to be running Android 4.0 and above, while C4 claims it has been specially optimised for the Google Nexus 7, Google Nexus 4, the Samsung Galaxy S3, Galaxy Tab 10.1 and, curiously, the ancient HTC Desire S.
What good is a tool like Android runtime if it's not even up to date?
Thankfully, BlackBerry announced on Tuesday at the BlackBerry Jam Europe event in Amsterdam that the Android runtime environment will eventually be updated to Android 4.1: Jelly Bean.
Android runtime allows developers to re-package Android apps for use on BlackBerry, but it's currently stuck at Android 2.3.3: Gingerbread.
The newly renamed company reportedly announced that Jelly Bean is in the works for Android runtime at the developer-oriented event, later confirming the news with Engadget, though it provided no time frame for when Jelly Bean might arrive.
Jelly Bean apps on the Z10
BlackBerry Z10 owners will certainly benefit from an update Android runtime environment, as it ushers more up-to-date Android apps through a shortcut onto the BlackBerry 10 platform.
Good on BlackBerry for bothering to upgrade Android runtime - no doubt the Canadian phone maker would rather see developers port their apps to run natively on BB10, but runtime provides an easy (if imperfect) alternative.
As it stands, Android runtime is like a version of Wine for Mac, which allows Windows apps to be packaged individually for use on Apple's OS without need for a Windows OS license, that's only compatible with Windows XP software.
It's true that some emulators, like those for retro video game systems, are meant to preserve old software, but when it comes to Android runtime we'd rather have it as current as possible.
In a nice little infographic it created earlier today, HTC is promising to bring "a new sound and camera experience in 2013". All eyes are naturally turning to the upcoming M7 1080p flagship.
This aligns nicely with yesterday's rumors of the M7 featuring a new type of stacked image sensor with what HTC calls ultrapixels. This means the senor will have three layers of pixels stacked on top of each other - combining into one ultrapixel and saving the need for interpolation.
As for the sound experience we're guessing some kind of Beats Audio amplifier inside the soon-to-be M7 flagship but we can't be sure.
If what we heard so far is true, the HTC M7 should be announced on February 19 and go on sale on March 8. So we won't have to wait that long to find out.
And here's the infographic by HTC on the history of photography.
Nokia's 41-megapixel sensor, which was showcased for the first time at MWC 2012, bought a whole new dimension to the cameraphone game. After its recent success with the 808 PureView, Nokia will be bringing its class-leading 41-megapixel sensor to its Lumia lineup.
New reports from The Guardian back up previous rumors that the 41-megapixel Lumia device will be dubbed EOS, and the smartphone is expected to launch in the summer in the US. Unfortunately, there are no confirmations on the specifications of the device yet.
The Lumia EOS is expected to capture images with about 5 megapixel resolution, using oversampling, just like the 808 PureView did in its default Auto mode.
The latest Nokia Lumia 920 comes out with a floating lens technology, which is actual optical image stabilization - a first for a smartphone.
Combining the two technologies could result in a smartphone too tempting for cameraphone lovers to resist, regardless of their opinion on WP8.
Design wise, both handsets borrow heavily from the Samsung Galaxy S3, as do all the new Galaxy handsets - probably in an attempt to get away from any potential law suits with Apple.
The Galaxy Frame sports slightly better features than the Young with a 3.5-inch 480 x 320 display, 1GHz processor, 512MB of RAM, 4GB internal storage, 5MP camera, VGA front snapper, NFC, 1,300mAh battery and Android Jelly Bean (version 4.1).
Jelly Bean for all
Probably coming in slightly cheaper than the Frame, the Samsung Galaxy Young has a smaller 3.27-inch display, the same 1GHz processor and Jelly Bean OS - but surprisingly more RAM at 768MB.
NFC doesn't feature on the handset and you only get a 3MP camera round the back, while the Bluetooth technology is version 3.0 instead of the Galaxy Frame's 4.0 offering.
TechRadar spoke to Samsung regarding pricing and availability of the Galaxy Frame and Galaxy Young, with the manufacturer confirming that "availability for the UK will be week commencing March 25."
Both handsets will likely be knocking around MWC 2013 at the end of February, and we'll be there to get hands on with both of them, so stay tuned for our early findings.
So you bought an iPhone 5. That's a valuable piece of tech in your back pocket, especially if you plumped for maximum capacity.
Now imagine dropping it. Apple's new baby stands up to knocks fairly well, but even a scuff or a scratch on a half-grand device is going to grate. Isn't it time you put an iPhone case on it?
Here's our pick of the best iPhone 5 cases available now.
1. Griffin Protector - $14.99 (£9.50)
The Griffin Protector case acts as a middle ground for those wanting increased protection without the military-spec and bulk of the Griffin Survivor. The reinforced silicone iPhone 5 case boasts extra thickness at the edges, providing added assurance that your device is safe from mid-grade knocks, while the matte finish ensures a decent grip.
This more elegant iPhone 5 case marries a lush fascia with a clear polycarbonate, bevel-edged surround that offers decent covering for the edges of your phone. The QDOS case feels rigid enough to stand up to at least mild abuse, but steers well clear of the camera lens and doesn't impede access to buttons.
Griffin's über-protective technology is already renowned for its Defense Standard specification, and this iPhone 5 version doesn't buck the trend. Shatter-resistant polycarbonate as well as hinged button and dock plugs cloak the phone, while a built-in screen protector seals in your device, keeping it safe from dirt, sand, rain, shock – pretty much anything the world can throw at it. The equivalent of wrapping your phone in cotton wool.
Suave yet simple, the rawHIDE is cut from hard black polycarbonate and wrapped in a layer of genuine leather. The iPhone 5 case's shell is stiff enough, but those wanting added protection with a little give on the rim and corners may want to look elsewhere.
Soft and durable grippiness defines the PixelSkin HD. Its rubbery, flexible casing pops on and off with ease, but only when you need it to. The raised bevel of this case protects the front panel well, and shields the buttons from dings without impeding access.
If you've got it, flaunt it. Griffin Reveal stays true to the maxim with what at first appears to be a classic bumper. Closer inspection of this iPhone 5 case, though, reveals a transparent polycarbonate shell lined with a rubberised edge, providing fair-to-middling protection without veiling the machined beauty of your superior tech.
If toughness isn't your thing and you can live with faux-leather then this Proporta iPhone case is a decent enough take on the 'c-clip' style cover. It's lightweight, soft to the touch and covers the front and rear completely without interfering with button access or camera operability.
This snug-fitting hard iPhone 5 case from Proporta really looks the part without smothering the iPhone's sleek aesthetic. The logo of outdoor sports fashion brand Quiksilver sits front and centre in its blue check design, although the protection on offer can't be said to match such ideals. It'll keep knocks and scratches at bay no problem, just keep it far from the surf.
Scosche doubles down on protection with its latest sports cover, combining a textured polycarbonate outer case with a rubberized interior to absorb shock. The open design ensures connections and controls remain accessible, while an integrated kickstand only adds to the slick feel. The screen and chamfer do feel a little over-exposed for active lifestyles though.
If you're looking for a cute and crazy iPhone 5 case you could do a lot worse than this Griffin case. Thick silicone encases the handset, while a lovely round rim envelopes the display, which also serves to protect the screen from falls. The goofy design is perfect for kids – if you can trust them with a £500+ device…
If you're willing to spend a little more to protect your iPhone 5 then definitely check out this case from Piel Frama. The Spanish company's handmade cases only use the highest quality cow skin leather, and it really shows. The inner lining is as luxuriant as the outer cover, which folds over the screen and stays there, secured by hidden magnets. It even comes with a removable belt clip.
The close-fit and smooth bevelled edges of the UrbanShield emphasize the solid protection it gives your iPhone against keys and coins in your pocket. Meanwhile the rubber rim around the front panel of the case protects the glass from falls, and dips into a nice carbon weave detail on the aluminium rear. A screen protector seals the look.
The Otterbox weds industrial protection with style in its multi-layer defence against heavy knocks and falls. A candy-coloured polycarbonate skeleton houses a solid inner shell with built-in screen protector, and a large belt clip holsters the entire unit for a third layer of protection. Not too slim then, but a very secure iPhone case.
Rocking an oblong rear window and polka-dot fabric, X-Doria's Dash looks straight off the haute couture fashion line. It's not delicate either, thanks to its hard polycarbonate shell and rimmed edges, offering good resistance against everyday impacts.
The Snugg Squared is made of rubberized silicone that stands up well against drops and shocks and feels grippy in the hand. The rounded rim puts ample space between the display and the floor to protect the glass and limit impact shock. Mould size has been known to vary on this range, so try before you buy if possible.
The Samsung Galaxy S II is soon to be replaced by the recently announced Galaxy S II Plus model. The new mid-range smartphone is based on a different (and as we found out way more efficient) chipset and has a new finish, but offers similar performance and overall experience to its predecessor. The good news is that the Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean smartphone is already available for purchase and the most impatient among you will be able go get it very soon.
The Samsung Galaxy S II Plus is expected to become available worldwide until the end of Q1 this year and Finland seems to be the first European country to get it as the smartphone's Dark Blue version is now on sale there, while the Chic White will be coming on March 1.
The Galaxy S II Plus costs €378, which seems a bit steep, but that's not usually the case with those early launches. The price will probably go down a bit once availability expands and Samsung catches up with the production.
We already got to spend some quality time with the Galaxy S II Plus and you can read all about it in our detailed review.
We can't go a day, or even an hour, without some sort of HTC M7 related news at the moment, with the flagship smartphone now apparently showing up on retailer's databases.
According to Pocket-Lint, it has been handed an image showing the inventory for UK retailer Carphone Warehouse where the HTC M7 is listed in both black and silver along with a screen protector and hard case.
It's not just the British firm which has apparently let slip its inventory: German site HTC Inside also claims to have received a snap of Vodafone's system showing the HTC M7.
It's coming
There's no doubt that the HTC M7 will arrive soon with the Taiwanese firm's February 19 event the likely stage for the new flagship handset to be announced.
Although specifications and the final launch name are still unconfirmed, the M7 looks set to pack a 1.7GHz quad-core processor, 2GB of RAM, 4.7-inch full HD display, 13MP camera with ultrapixel smarts and Android Jelly Bean.
TechRadar will be at the HTC event to bring you the latest from the Taiwanese firm and a hands-on review of the M7, if it does indeed arrive then.
BlackBerry knows how important a rich app store is and it has been hard at work courting developers to bring their apps to BlackBerry World. The latest treat it offers is a special, limited edition of the BlackBerry Z10 – with a cool red paint job.
The BlackBerry Z10 units for regular users are either Black or White, but if you submit a BlackBerry 10 OS app by the end of this month you can get one of the 12,000 limited edition ones.
BlackBerry is mum on plans to sell red Z10s to users in the future – for now the color is reserved for a special “thank you” to developers. It is pretty certain that at least a few hundreds of those will end up on eBay, though, so you will have your chance at snatching one. Pricing will be a whole different matter, of course.
Anyway, if you are a BB10 OS dev, check out this post at BlackBerry's DevBlog for more info on how you can snag one.
The much anticipated HTC M7 has been brought into sharper focus by a small hint on HTC's website, promising big image quality.
The Taiwanese firm has just launched an infographic on "The Brief History of Photography", and while that may sound pretty innocuous, things take a teasing turn towards the end.
The final section, which falls under the 2013 banner, reads: "HTC kicks off a new sound and camera experience in 2013."
Say cheese
A trusted TechRadar source has confirmed that this refers to the event on February 19, where we expect to see the HTC M7 launch.
Yesterday we heard reports that HTC was apparently looking to drop megapixels from the M7 handset in favour of ultrapixels to provide higher resolution images in a similar way to Nokia's PureView technology.
Coupled with today's news, it looks pretty likely that we will see the HTC M7 sporting fancy new camera tech later this month, with previous reports suggesting it will also feature a quad-core processor, full HD 4.7-inch display and Android Jelly Bean.
Samsung has announced two new Android smartphones aimed at the lower end of the smartphone market. Called the Galaxy Young and the Galaxy Fame, neither of these phones are going to set benchmark tests on fire but then again, they aren't meant to.
The Galaxy Young has a 3.27-inch, 480 x 320 resolution LCD, 1GHz processor, 768MB of RAM, 4GB internal memory with microSD card slot, 3 megapixel fixed focus camera, VGA video recording at 24fps, Bluetooth 3.0, Wi-Fi, A-GPS, digital compass, Android 4.1 Jelly Bean and a 1,300mAh battery.
The Galaxy Fame has similar specs but a slightly bigger 3.5-inch display of the same resolution, 5 megapixel rear camera with auto-focus, VGA front facing camera, 512MB of RAM (yes, it's less for some reason) and optional NFC.
Both devices will offer an option of a dual-SIM model depending upon the region.
No word yet on the pricing and availability of both the handsets.
