Unlock Nexus S 4G Bootloader

Brandon Orndorff
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2
Unlock Nexus S 4G Bootloader

Unlock your Nexus S 4G Bootloader so that you can install ClockWorkMod and other custom Bootloaders using the following instructions.  Please make sure you read all steps and take your time to be sure its done correctly.

Instructions to Unlock the Bootloader on the Nexus S 4G

  1. Install the Android SDK on the root Drive of your computer (C:/android/)
  2. Run the SDK Manager and update everything
  3. Reboot your Computer
  4. Put your Nexus S 4G in Debugging Mode (Settings -> Applications -> Development -> USB Debugging)
  5. Plug your phone into the computer via USB
  6. Download the PdaNet Desktop Client and install it
  7. When it asks if you need the driver reinstalled select that
  8. Choose Samsung and click OK
  9. Reboot your phone into the bootloader (hold Volume Up)
  10. Navigate to the platform-tools folder of the android SDK and type “fastboot oem unlock” (of course without the quotes)
  11. Congrats your Bootloader is now unlocked

This was found to work for others but never tested by us.  This being said you follow these instructions at your own risk.

 

FIX for HTC Thunderbolt Reset Issue

Brandon Orndorff
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0

Verizon and HTC released an update for the HTC Thunderbolt last month to fix GPS and 3G connection issues.  A bug in this update now causes Thunderbolt users to have their phones randomly reboot.  Verizon and HTC both say they are working on this issue and we have came across confidential document within Verizon that states the following:

Issue Description
Some Customers may experience occasional device power cycling/resetting after upgrading to the latest SW maintenance release (1.13.605.7).
Short Term Resolution
There is no known short term resolution at this time.  If the severity of the issue is unacceptable from a customer perspective, then a CLNR device should be provided.  However, if the issue only occurs infrequently, then the customer should be informed that the issue will be addressed shortly in the next SW maintenance release.
Resolution Plan
The issue is expected to be addressed in MR2, scheduled to be released in the second half of June 2011.

Notice: Proprietary and confidential.  Not for disclosure outside Verizon Wireless.

According to Verizons “internal memo” users are to be told that the fix will be in the next update although if you want to get a replacement just tell them its happening all the time and you cannot use the phone like that.  They will replace it for you.

 

Unlocked Bootloader for HTC Sensation

Brandon Orndorff
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0

HTC will be sending out an OTA Update to the HTC Sensation soon.  This update will unlock the HTC Sensation Bootloader.  Since HTC announced that they will no longer be locking bootloaders on their devices these updates have been in the works.

When contacting HTC about the Sensation’s bootloader being unlocked the following response is sent:

“We are currently developing new bootloader unlocked software for your phone. HTC is still committed to allowing our customers to unlock the bootloaders if they wish, however we are still implementing the policy and many updates were already finalized prior to our change in policy. We apologize for the inconvenience, but be assured that we are working on a solution for our customers and our commitment has not changed. Please stay tuned to our official channels for ongoing updates on how we will be implementing this policy. Thank you for your patience.”

We are all excited that not only an Android manufacturer is listening to the community but they are actually following through in a timely manner.

Viewsonic ViewBook 730 Tablet

Brandon Orndorff
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1
Viewsonic ViewBook 730 Tablet

Viewsonic has announced the release of the Viewbook 730 7 inch Android Tablet their most cost effective 7 inch Android tablet to date.  This is more of a  multi-purpose eReader and will compete with the Nook Color more so than the Flyer or Galaxy Tab.

The ViewBook 730 tablet features:

  • Android 2.2
  • 1GHz CPU
  • 8 GB internal memory
  • microSD card support
  • 1080p playback via an HDMI out port
  • VGA front facing camera
  • uses a stylus
  • Amazon Appstore and Adobe Flash 10 preinstalled

The ViewBook will be available the end of June with an MSRP of $249.99.

Press Release Below:

ViewSonic Changes the Face of Tablets

New ViewBook® 730 Tablet Is a Fully-Featured Low-Cost Powerhouse

WALNUT, CA–(Marketwire – Jun 6, 2011) – ViewSonic Corp., a leading global provider of computing, consumer electronics and communications solutions, today expanded its tablet offerings with the launch of the ViewBook tablet line and new ViewBook 730.

Designed for the value seeker who doesn’t want to compromise on features, the ViewBook 730 makes it easy for anyone to make multimedia mobile. This Android™ 2.2 OS tablet combines a fast and powerful ARM® Cortex-A8 1Ghz processor with Wi-Fi® and Bluetooth® support in a convenient 7″ form factor. Whether experiencing 1080p video playback via the HDMI connection, or engaging in video chat and conference calls using the integrated front VGA camera, the ViewBook 730 is the ideal tablet for staying connected and enjoying all the exciting possibilities of digital media content on the move.

With its RiteTouch technology, the ViewBook 730’s high-resolution 800×480 LED backlit screen serves as a great tool for pen writing. Whether taking notes in the classroom, highlighting excerpts within a novel or textbook, or working on art projects with the pre-installed Sketcher® app, the included stylus and RiteTouch make it easy to write directly on the screen of the device, swipe across content and scroll through emails.

Fully integrated with the Amazon Appstore, the most popular games and entertainment have already been installed: from Twitter, to Amazon’s MP3 music downloader, shopping on Amazon.com, plus YouTube and Mediafly, along with Amazon® Kindle™ software for industry-leading eBook reading.

“In the tablet marketplace, there are plenty of solutions to choose from,” said Michael Holstein, vice president of business development, ViewSonic. “We recognized a need for a tablet device that offers users an excellent multimedia experience with a very affordable value proposition. From the pre-installed Amazon Kindle eReader to full Amazon app integration and Flash 10.1 support, our new ViewBook 730 enables consumers to do all the fun things that they want to do on a tablet without the added cost for features they don’t need.”

In addition to an ample 8GB of memory, the ViewBook 730 offers up to an additional 32GB of storage capacity via the microSD card slot. Teamed with a long-lasting battery for up to 8 hours of use per charge, consumers can bring all their favorite multimedia content with them wherever they go. For added convenience and functionality, the ViewBook 730 offers ViewSonic’s AirSync technology to ensure that tablet owners will receive over-the-air device updates as they are rolled out, from feature add-ons to software updates. The ViewBook 730 will be available at the end of June 2011 for an ESP of $249.99.

 

Rooting the HTC Wildfire

Brandon Orndorff
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2
Rooting the HTC Wildfire

Rooting the HTC Wildfire is a very easy process.  We have only done this using Windows (which requires HBoot) and have had a flawless experience.  Anyone with an HTC Wildfire knows that rooting it will unlock its full potential and it is easily one of the top 10 phones on the market to date.  Thanks to Unrevoked rooting the HTC Wildfire is a very easy process.

If you are a Windows User you must install HBoot Drivers before running Unrevoked.

  1. Download the unrEVOked modified USB driver and unzip it where you can find it.
  2. Turn off your phone, then boot it into the HBOOT menu (hold power and volume down button).
  3. On your phone, you will have to select HBOOT USB at that menu (press volume down four times then power).
  4. Wait for the screen to flash a “SD Checking” message before pressing buttons; otherwise, the phone will ignore keystrokes.
  5. Connect the phone to your computer via USB and wait for the phone to say HBOOT USB PLUG on screen.
  6. Open Device Manager (Start -> right click on Computer -> Properties ->click Device Manager).
  7. Under Other devices, you should now see the Android 1.0 device.
  8. Right click on Android 1.0 and click Update Driver Software.
  9. Click on Browse
  10. Select the Android USB Driver folder on on your computer
  11. Click ok
  12. Click Next
  13. You should get a status bar indicating that the driver is installing
  14. If you get any warnings, just click Ok.
  15. Your driver should install.
  16. Click Close (make sure Android Bootloader Interface is listed under Android Phone)

Root Instructions for the HTC Wildfire or HTC Buzz (same thing)(if you are running windows be sure to follow the above HBoot instructions first)

  1. Download Unrevoked3 for your OS.
  2. If you’re on Windows, make sure you “uninstall HTC Sync or any other program that might talk to the phone over USB.
  3. Plug your phone into your computer via USB.
  4. Drag down from the notification bar on your phone and select “Charge Only” and “Remember this”
  5. Make sure your phone is in USB Debugging mode (Settings -> Applications -> Development -> check USB debugging)
  6. Run the Reflash application that you downloaded.
  7. Unrevoked will run its processes. Follow the few instructions it gives and thats it!

Congratulations you have root access to your HTC Wildfire (Buzz).  Enjoy 🙂

How to Root Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc

Brandon Orndorff
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0
How to Root Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc

The Sony Ericsson Xperia ARC is one of the top five phones currently available running Android (so of course it can easily be rooted).  We have the easiest way to root your phone here.

Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc Root Instructions:

  1. Enable USB Debugging mode on your phone (settings … applications … development … check USB Debugging mode)
  2. Make sure USB debugging is enabled
  3. Make sure you have an SD card formatted and in the phone
  4. Transfer the APK on the phone and install it (download the apk here)
  5. Open the APK and press the root button
  6. Wait a few minutes and the device will reboot, be patient it can take a few minutes
  7. Make sure the Superuser app is installed and working
  8. You now have your Sony Ericsson Xperia ARC rooted Using the Gingerbreak method.

 

As always Android Advice is in no way responsable for the use of this information or apk file.  You root your phone at your own risk.

 

How to Root Samsung Galaxy S2

Brandon Orndorff
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2
How to Root Samsung Galaxy S2

If you do not have Samsung’s KIES 2.0 installed, download and install it. Correct USB drivers must be installed, so that programs can communicate with the device. Reboot computer after KIES installation.

Root Instructions

  1. Make sure that your phone is in USB debugging mode (Settings -> Applications -> Development -> USB debugging)
  2. Reboot your phone into download mode (Turn the phone off, then power it on again by pressing and holding VolumeDown + Home + Power simultaneously)
  3. Download ODIN and then extract the .zip file. (download link)
  4. Start ODIN
  5. Connect the device to your computer via USB.
  6. Wait a few seconds, the ODIN screen will show that a device is now connected
  7. Make sure that in ODIN nothing is checked, except the “Auto reboot” and “F. Reset Time” checkboxes.
  8. Download the XWKDD tar file (NOT extract the .tar file). (download link)
  9. Press the “PDA” button, and select the “XWKDD_insecure.tar” file.
  10. Press “Start” and ODIN will now flash the kernel, and the device will reboot.
  11. Download and extract SuperOneClick
  12. Once the phone reboots (still plugged in) start SuperOneClick
  13. press ROOT.
  14. Reboot the phone
  15. Congrats you have a rooted Samsung Galaxy S2!

While this is a nearly flawless device without having to root it of course we all like the total control and freedom of no restraints.  As always this is completely educational and you take all risks associated with following these instructions.  We like to help you get root access on your phone but don’t need you knocking down our door if you get bricked somehow.

 

Smartwatches – Android Wrist Watches

Brandon Orndorff
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0
Smartwatches – Android Wrist Watches

Manuel Zanella and Massimiliano Bertolini have invented the I’mWatch and I’mColor which are wristwatches that supplement your Android phone. They are dubbing it the first smartwatches in the world.

What can you do with these watches?

  • visualise the watch both in the analogue and digital format: as you prefer.
  • receive calls showing name and number of caller: and see who is calling you at a glance. You can decide whether to answer or decline a call. All this while keeping your smartphone silent in your pocket.
  • call by entering the number or by using the address book: to make a call, all you need to do is enter a number or touch a name. As simple as that. And you can do it just about anywhere: simply touch a name in your address book.
  • use speakerphone: that’s going hands free. For example, avoid distractions while driving.
  • receive text messages with preview: from today, reading a text message is as easy as checking the time.
  • receive emails showing the sender and the subject: your emails straight on your i’mWatch: sender and subject are sufficient to understand importance of the email and therefore decide whether to read it immediately or later on your smartphone.
  • check the weather forecast of your city: you are updated in real time and wherever you go. Under any circumstance, weather forecast for the next hours is useful.
  • receive notifications from Facebook™, Twitter™, Foursquare™, etc.: i’mWatch is more social than you can even imagine. Keep in touch with the world.
  • download all the music you want from i’music: and then listen to it whenever. What about incoming calls? Music is paused when i’mWatch rings and to answer just click the button on your headphones.
  • download apps from i’m store: each downloaded app offers new functions to your i’mWatch, making it more and more fun and capable of doing extraordinary things.
  • view the photo and image gallery: on i’mWatch your photos sparkle and shine in all their splendour With a touch you can enlarge them and with another restore them to their original size. Just swipe the display and you can slide through unforgettable moments and instants. Always with you, all on your wrist.
  • view stock market data and receive notifications: follow and keep up-to-date on all your interests, wherever you are. It is sufficient to personalise notifications you want to receive.
  • receive appointment notifications and consult the same: with only a touch you can check on your next appointment and with a quick glance read a notification.
  • you can transform an idea into an app. There are no limits to your fantasy. The world of i’mWatch is open to all developers who, just like ourselves, believe that we are about to write the history of smartwatches.
  • Use the apps you prefer and pass from one to another in just seconds without slowing down performances of the app in the foreground or discharging the battery uselessly. i’mWatch is multitasking.

I’mWatch is made of more pricier materials and starts at $863. It can can cost as much as $21,610 with diamonds.

Pre-orders for the I’mWatch are doing very well, but due to demand, they developed I’mColor which is a lower cost version. It comes in 7 different colors (white, yellow, pink, light blue, green, red and black). It is priced at $863, but if pre-ordered before June 30, it will be $358. These watches will become available at the end of September 2011.

 

Original Article can be found at: http://www.talkandroid.com/42271-imcolor-and-imwatch-brings-android-to-your-wrist

 

ASUS Eee Pad Transformer 3.1 Update

Brandon Orndorff
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0
ASUS Eee Pad Transformer 3.1 Update

ASUS promised Android 3.1 this month and already started rolling out today for United States Eee Pad Owners. Google Movies is currently not included and is currently only available to XOOM 3G owners right now.

What is included in this update:

  • Build number: 8.4.4.5-20110527
  • MobileDock version: 0209 (No update occurs, unless your dock was out of date from before)
  • Kernel changed.
  • Updated wifi driver.
  • Updated bluetooth driver.
  • Updated GPS driver.
  • General CPU optimisation, improved loading times performance.
  • General GPU optimisation, improved graphics performance.
  • Smoother UI experience.
  • Greater stability.
  • More responsive multitasking.
  • Re-sizable widgets.
  • Decreased app loading times.
  • Added more USB device support (gamepads, etc).
  • Added more Bluetooth device support.
  • Added one click USB importing of files from external devices (cameras, etc).
  • Wifi icon shows data activity.
  • Debug mode icon changed.
  • Task manager list now scrollable.
  • Browser ‘quick controls’ updated.
  • Browser speed improvements.
  • Full flash support (720p).
  • Embedded HTML5 video normal size enabled.
  • Browser now supports saving webpages to web archives (saves as .webarchivexml filetype to Downloads directory).
  • Scrolling tab for easier page navigation.
  • Browser pinch to zoom improvements.
  • Tapping the home button now takes you back to the last screen you were on, not always the centre screen.
  • Mouse tracking improved (using dock).
  • Mobile network signal battery bar removed.
  • Movie Studio app added.
  • Zinio Reader app added.

 

Qualcomm’s Second Generation Snapdragon Processor

Brandon Orndorff
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0
Qualcomm’s Second Generation Snapdragon Processor

Today Qualcomm uploaded a nice little video on their YouTube channel showing off the speed improvements of their 2nd generation single-core Snapdragon processor over Nvidia’s dual-core Tegra 2.  We would assume with the announcement of the Tegra 3 that this would be no big news but this single-core processor is one to hold up to the competition.

Qualcomm demonstrates the connectivity speeds of these CPU’s via the HTC Thuderbolt on Verizon and the Motorola Atrix on AT&T. Both devices connected to their respective 4G networks. Qualcomm wants you to believe that the technology found in their chipsets offer greater connectivity and are better built to handle all the new 4G networks hitting carriers. Verizon’s LTE network is about 3X times faster than anything AT&T can offer right now. This being said the HTC Thunderbolt killed the Atrix in these Qualcomm “speed tests.”

With all these dual-core phones hitting the market soon, the only thing really holding back the “speed” of your phone is the network it’s connected to. A single-core device will give the user an all around greater sense of speed with less things loading, less videos buffering and pics uploading faster than even a quad-core on another carrier’s slower networks.

 

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