• CES
  • AMARTS
  • Electronic Kid
  • Useful-news
  • Forum
  • Fellowship
  • E-Library
  • All
gravatar

Android Phone Fans

Android Phone Fans


Google researchers discover POODLE, an exploit targeting Open SSL 3.0

Posted: 14 Oct 2014 05:56 PM PDT

Poodle Baxter Olea

Posted on Google’s Online Security Blog, three Google researches have published a report detailing a nasty online security bug they’re calling POODLE (“Padding Oracle On Downgraded Legacy Encryption”). This POODLE attack targets a specific vulnerability in Open SSL 3.0 which, for the most part, hasn’t been used in over a decade. Even so, it’s still widely supported and is the reason Google is urging all system admins to discontinue support for the protocol.

Also known as Poodlebleed, the attack is similar to the Heartbleed exploit we saw causing a panic around the net earlier this year and allows for hackers to potentially intercept and replace data being sent/received during a “secure” HTTPS session. By publishing the exploit Google not only gives sysadmins a head start in patching everything up, but at the same time, provides all sorts nefarious characters around the net with everything the need to exploit the newly discovered vulnerability. For more info on POODLE, check out Google’s PDF here (download).

For instructions on preventing this SSLV3 fallback in Chrome and Firefox, check out the researcher’s blog post here.

[ImperialViolet.org | via The Verge]

Google Glass gets Android Wear-like Notification Sync, update rolls out this week

Posted: 14 Oct 2014 03:59 PM PDT

Google Glass Notification Sync

During Google I/O, Google promised some kinda of Android Wear-like functionality would also be headed to their geeky, somewhat more controversial wearable, Google Glass. As Glass Explorers ourselves, we were excited at the prospect of receiving all our phone’s notifications on our headsets — not just specific Google Glass compatible Glassware (apps).

Today, the Glass team is announcing a new update headed out this week that brings “Notification Sync” to Google Glass headsets. Like Android Wear, notifications will now be displayed directly on your Google Glass headset, with very little setup required. In fact, all you need to do is update to the newest version of the MyGlass companion app for Android or iOS (launching tomorrow), and you’ll have all your smartphone notifications delivered to your face.

For a video of how to set everything up, and to see Notification Sync in action, check out the video below.

Remember Qik? It’s been repurposed as Skype Qik, a hipper, cooler, all-video group messaging app

Posted: 14 Oct 2014 03:46 PM PDT

Skype Qik new screenshots

It’s hard to believe Skype launched nearly 11 years ago and since then, they’ve grown to become a sort of household name when it comes video calls over the internet. But really, not much has changed since then. Want to video chat with someone face-to-face in real time? Skype is great for that. But in our busy day-to-day lives, not too many people have the time or energy to stop everything they’re doing and carry on a lengthy conversation (a reason why less people are making actual phone calls, choosing instead to send short, thought out SMS messages or IMs).

Skype knows this and rather than completely overhaul their current app — which could alienate your mom, grandma, and cousins — they’ve introducing a completely new one. Well, sorta. It’s called Skype Qik and if that name sounds familiar, it’s a repurposed version of the Qik app you may remember coming pre-installed on old Android devices back in the day. As you probably guessed, video is has a lot to do with the new Qik, allowing users to send short video messages back and forth, the same way you would a text message. In fact, there’s no real way to send actual text — it’s all video.

The app uses your phone number to confirm the identity of you and others (similar to WhatsApp), and taking videos is quick and easy. Just pull down form the main conversation view and press record. You can chat privately, or amongst a group and sent messages can always be deleted if need be. In the event you can’t respond right away, you can send “reaction videos” you’ve already pre-recorded (called Qik Fliks) and sent messages are automatically deleted after 2 weeks to keep things “fresh.”

As the mobile apps industry moves forward and we’re seeing hip new apps like Snapchat or WhatsApp become the go-to communication method for younger users, it’s clear Skype had to do something. And while there are a vast plethora of apps and messaging clients that allow you to send short video messages (Glyde, Hangouts for iOS), none of them have such a familiar brand name as Skype backing them. It’ll be interesting to see if the all new Skype Qik sinks or swims.

Tips & tricks every Moto 360 user should know

Posted: 14 Oct 2014 01:55 PM PDT

Moto 360 chris

The Moto 360 has been a roller coaster of emotion since it was announced back in March. First, the hype was insane as we all drooled over the round design. As the wait for official details dragged on the excitement slowly died, but then it ramped back up when the device went on sale and quickly sold out. Early reviews talked about terrible battery life, which killed the excitement once again. But now, after a big software update, all problems seem to have been fixed. There has never been a better time to buy a Moto 360.

Whether you’re just getting on the Moto 360 train, or have been riding it for a while, there are some handy tips and tricks you should know. Are you getting the most out of your Moto 360? It’s time to find out!

Quickly access the Settings

gif_640x500_c004d8

Getting to the settings menu on an Android Wear device can be tedious. If you don’t want to say “Open Settings” aloud, you have to tap the watch face and scroll down to “Settings.” Motorola has built-in a much easier shortcut. Simply press and hold the physical button found on the right side of the device and settings will open.

Swipe to mute, check battery, and hide cards

360 battery date mute

Getting notifications is the main purpose of having the Moto 360, but that doesn’t mean you always want to be bothered. For example, if you’re in a dark movie theater or a quiet church you should mute the device. To do so just swipe down from the top of the display until you feel a vibration. You’ll notice that this is also a nice way to check the date and battery level.

When the 360 is muted all of your notifications and cards are pushed below the watch face instead of overlaying. You can still swipe up to see them. If you want to show off your watch face or keep notifications private this is a handy trick.

Remotely monitor battery life

Moto Connect 360

Battery life has been a hot topic for the Moto 360, so you’re probably keeping a very close eye on it. In the previous tip we told you how to quickly check it on the watch. If you’re charging the Moto 360 you can check on the battery level from another room. Install the Motorola Connect app and pair it with your watch. Now you can see the battery level from inside the app.

Blacklist certain apps from showing notifications

mute apps

As we mentioned above, getting notifications is the main purpose of the Moto 360. Annoying notifications that you get on your phone are much more annoying when they pop up on your wrist. Luckily the official Android Wear app lets you decide what apps can display notifications on your watch. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Install Android Wear from the Play Store
  2. Pair your device
  3. Tap the setting icon in the top bar
  4. Tap “Mute app notifications”
  5. Tap the “+” button and select any app you don’t want to see notifications from

Choose default apps

360 defaul apps

One of the main ways to interact with the Moto 360 is using your voice. In order to make this experience quick and seamless Google asks you right up front to choose default apps for certain tasks. Open up the Android Wear companion app and you will see a list of commands and the corresponding app it will use.

Android Wear will automatically know if an installed app can perform one of the commands. For example, on my device I can "Take a note" with Google Keep, Wunderlist, or Trello. Go through the list and choose the apps you want to use. If there isn't an app available for a certain command you will see a grayed-out Google Play icon, which brings us to our next thing to do.

Silence phone notifications when watch is connected

With notifications popping up on your wrist you probably won’t want to keep feeling your phone vibrate in your pocket. There is nothing more annoying than all of your devices buzzing and making noises at once. The official Android Wear app has a setting that allows you to silence your phone when a watch is connected. Here’s how:

  1. Open the Android Wear app
  2. Tap the setting icon
  3. Tap “Silence connected phone”
  4. Select “Alert on watch only”

Disable lockscreen when watch is connected

Moto 360 DSC06941

A shocking amount of people don’t use any form of security to protect the contents of their phone. The only reason why is because it takes a few extra seconds to enter a pin or trace a pattern. What if your phone was smart enough to know when it should ask for a password? With a Moto 360 and an app called Delayed Lock you can do exactly that. When your watch is connected you won’t be required to enter a password or pattern to unlock.

  1. Install Delayed Lock and open it
  2. Check “Delayed Lock enabled”
  3. Check “Admin permission granted” and select “Activate” on the next screen
  4. Select which type of lock screen you are using
  5. Swipe to the right and tap “Bluetooth”
  6. Check “Any Android Wear device”
  7. Tap “add all paired devices”
  8. Swipe away any devices you don’t want

Find your phone

find my phone

Everyone loses their phone at some time or another. Find My Phone is an essential Android Wear app that allows you to use your Moto 360 to locate your lost phone. Just make sure you download the app on your phone before it gets lost. Now you can launch it from your watch whenever you can’t find your phone. It allows you to tap a giant button to make your phone ring and vibrate obnoxiously until you find it. Very simple, but very handy.

Make a custom watch face with Facer

One of the coolest things you can do with the Moto 360 is make your own watch face. An app called Facer allows you to create anything you can imagine. We put up a thorough guide for making analog and digital watch faces with Facer. Be sure to check it out for more information, or watch the video above for a quick look at what you can do.

Place hand over screen to turn off

This might be the simplest tip on our list. If you want to turn off the display on your watch just simply place your whole hand on top of the display. That’s it.

Prevent screen burn-in

360 charge

A few Moto 360 users have reported screen burn-in from the charging screen image. The burn-in leaves an outline of a circle from the charging indicator. Obviously this is something you want to avoid, and the ever-reliable Android developers have a solution. Slumber for Android Wear replaces the standard charging screen with a blank black image. You won’t be able to see the charging progress, but we already told you how to check that with your phone.

Protect against dings and scratches

Moto 360 screen

A watch is much more susceptible than a phone to dings and scratches since it lives on your wrist. All day it's out in the open with zero protection. One door jam or brush up against a wall and you could have a nasty scratch on your precious device. If you want to protect your Moto 360 against these threats you can do so for about $2 worth of screen protectors. It’s a very easy way to prevent something that could ruin your watch. Check out our quick guide.

Hide the Google Fit steps card

google fit

One thing you should do, if you're easily annoyed like me, is disable the Google Fit steps card. Within the first 10 minutes of using the Moto 360 I swiped this card away over a dozen times. It just won't go away. Checking steps is cool, but I don't need to see it all the time. Luckily you can disable the steps card, but the option is buried. Here's how to find it:

  1. Tap the watch face
  2. Scroll down and tap "Start"
  3. Tap on "Fit" from the list of apps
  4. Scroll all the way to the right
  5. Tap "Show step card" so it says "Off"

***

With these tips and tricks you will get the most out of your shiny Moto 360. Android Wear devices have a lot of hidden features, but hopefully we’ve uncovered them for you. What is your favorite tip or trick from our list? Let us know if you have found any cool tips or tricks that you use with your Moto 360!

Android 5.0 officially confirmed in Google’s new teaser, dessert name still up in the air [VIDEO]

Posted: 14 Oct 2014 01:26 PM PDT

Android 5.0 teaser video

It’s official. After Android 4.4. KitKat, the next version of Google’s mobile OS will be Android 5.0. The version number was confirmed in a new teaser video posted to the Android YouTube channel, showing Google still taking auditions for the actual dessert name.

In the video, just about all the sweet L treats can be found, with people dressed up as Lava Cake, Lemon Drop, both red and black licorice, even a Lady Finger (I think it’s safe to say Lettuce Head at 0:15 doesn’t stand a chance). The hype is most certainly real. Can you feel it? Check out Google’s new teaser video below.

 

Report: Nexus 6 and 9 will offcially be revealed tomorrow along with pre-order and launch dates

Posted: 14 Oct 2014 12:44 PM PDT

htc nexus 9 leak

You know what they say, when it rains, it pours. The typical birthing pangs of a new release, leaks have been spewing out from all around the net as Google prepares to launch the newest additions to their product portfolio: the Nexus 6 and Nexus 9.

If you needed any further confirmation that we’re nearing an official announcement, Forbes is now chiming in, confirming that tomorrow will be the day Google finally reveals, not only their new super-sized smartphone and tablet, but the latest version of their software currently known as “Android L.” They wont have an event, instead of opting for a simple blog post as they work on getting Android L up to speed (and get the jump on Apple’s iPad event).

According to sources, the Nexus 9 (aka HTC Volantis) will be available for pre-order starting this Friday October 17th, public availability (and shipping) on November 3rd. The new tablet will be available in 2 hardware configurations: 16GB for $400, or a 32GB 4G LTE model for $500.

When it comes to specs, Forbes was able to confirm the Nexus 9’s 8.9-inch 2048×1440 resolution display, 64-bit Nvidia Tegra K1 processor, 8MP rear/3MP front-facing cameras, and an approximate weight of 480 grams. As far as stylings, it appears HTC and Google decided to go with a "brushed aluminum" frame instead of “all metal.” This was an effort to help keep their costs down.

An origami-like magnetic flip case / stand will also be available tomorrow as well, and mimics a design we’ve seen before where it bend into various shapes to suit your favorite viewing angles.

Unfortunately, Forbes wasn’t able to confirm much else about the Nexus 6 (like available colors), but then again, tomorrow is only a short time away. Stay tuned!

Android Deals: Sony Smartwatch 2 for $99, metal music, and more

Posted: 14 Oct 2014 12:37 PM PDT

deals

Halloween is only a few short weeks away, and that can only mean one thing: plenty of deals on seasonal items to put you on the mood. From spooky soundtracks to holiday horror, we promise there are no tricks with these treats. Also, savings on smartwatches, tablets, and more. Act quick, these currently active deals (as of posting) won't be here forever.

Hardware & Accessories

LG G Watch Android Wear DSC06105

Join the smartwatch revolution with an LG G Watch for only $160, a savings of $70 off the retail price. The LG G Watch launched as part of the first generation of Android Wear devices, and it remains one of the best options on the market for those looking for more out of their wrist-worn timepiece. [Best Buy]

Get half off the Sony SmartWatch 2 for a different take on an Android-infused wearable. Not an Android Wear device, the Sony Smartwatch 2 is the evolution of Sony's smartwatch concept, bringing many of the same great features as competing devices with style only offered by the Japanese tech conglomerate. [CowBoom]

Go wireless with the Photive BTH3 Bluetooth headphones for $49.99. A savings of $70, these headphones boast 12 hours of battery life and include a hard travel case. Never deal with the hassle of a tangled cord again. [Amazon]

Snag the portable ASUS MeMo Pad HD for $80. This tablet has the DNA of the Nexus 7 and can be yours for a fraction of the price. Specs include an HD 7-inch display, 16GB of internal storage, and full WiFi connectivity. [eBay]

Control your lighting with the ilimi LED Smartbulb for $79 with this AndroidArea.com offer. The ilimi Smartbulb features remote control via your smartphone, allowing a range of color options in an LED bulb that will outlast your standard lighting fixture. [AndroidArea]

More deals

Apps & Games

reactionlab-2

Apps

Games

Music & Media

ghostbusters

Singles

Albums

Compliations

Movies

TV Shows

[Find any great deals not included here? Be sure to send them our way or share in the comments below!]

Google developer posts screenshot with Android Lollipop debug icon

Posted: 14 Oct 2014 11:46 AM PDT

Google_Lollipop

It’s not 100% official, but it’s now looking like “Lollipop” is a definite contender for the name of the next version of Android. A screenshot taken from the Chromium Issue Tracker site as posted by a Google developer, shows a new never-before-seen debug icon appearing in the notification tray that appears to be an Android head on a stick. Or, you know, an Android Lollipop.

Android Lollipop Chromium Issue tracker leak

Of course, as we all saw with Android 4.4 KitKat, internally it was known as Key Lime Pie. We even had a similar “leak” showing a debugging icon that appeared to be a slice of key lime pie, only to have Google turn around and strike a deal with Nestle to officially brand Android 4.4. as KitKat and the rest is history.

Right now, rumors are pointing towards an official Nexus 6, Nexus 9 and Android L announcement arriving as soon as tomorrow, so stay tuned!

[Myce]

Leak: Motorola DROID Turbo training materials talk specs, build quality and more

Posted: 14 Oct 2014 11:11 AM PDT

droidturbo2

Earlier this morning we saw Verizon begin to tease the Motorola DROID Turbo for an October 28th unveiling. They weren’t too talkative about what to expect, of course, but we’ve got more information to deliver thanks to a timely leak. A source of Phandroid’s passed along some early training materials for sales managers. The materials push their employees to sell the DROID Turbo on a few different areas:

  • Its 21 megapixel camera and Quad HD (2560 x 1440) display
  • Its 2.7GHz quad-core processor and software like Moto Voice, Intelligent Imaging and Zap Zone (for beaming photos to friends, to nearby TVs or quickly capturing screenshots using voice and sending it off to whoever you want)
  • 48 hours of battery life (thanks to a 3,900mAh battery) and the ability to get 8 hours of life with 15 minutes of charging through the Motorola Turbo Charger
  • Metalized Glass Fiber build materials coated with Kevlar fiber, water resistant repellent coating, Corning Gorilla Glass

We also finally learn that the device will come in 32GB of internal storage, though the documents don’t suggest whether there will be any other storage options to be had. We can also confirm that the DROID Turbo will be available in both Metallic Red and Metallic Black.

droidturbo1

Unfortunately the training materials didn’t reveal much else, but between the leaks we’ve seen in the past few weeks and today’s teaser we’d say we have a pretty good idea of what to expect before its coming out party later this month. Stay tuned!

What we know about the Nexus 6

Posted: 14 Oct 2014 10:37 AM PDT

nexus 6 shamu render leak

Android fans are eagerly anticipating the launch of the Nexus 6, Google's latest Nexus smartphone, which is expected to be officially announced tomorrow, October 15th. As the excitement reaches a fever pitch for this highly-anticipated handset, let's step back and take a look at what we know about the device so far and what we expect to come as part of Google's official announcement.

As the name suggests (following a pattern set by previous devices), the Nexus 6 will feature a display with a footprint bordering on 6 inches, making this the first "phablet" in the lineup. While its predecessors included devices from HTC, Samsung, and LG, the Nexus 6 will be the first Google flagship manufactured by Motorola.

Nexus 6 Specs

nexus 6 render leak

The Nexus 6 might end up as the most powerful Nexus device to date — should the rumored specs pan out. There's reason to believe they will, as leaks over the past several months have been fairly consistent in this regard. As an impending launch draws near, we're getting an even better picture of what to expect. The Nexus 6's impressive hardware is said to include:

  • 5.9-inch, 2560×1440 (QHD) display
  • Snapdragon 805 processing
  • 13MP rear camera, 2MP front-facing
  • 3GB RAM
  • 3200mAh battery

The Motorola-made device is also expected to feature a bit of technology that debuted with the new Moto X: Turbo Charge. Turbo Charge on the Nexus 6 could deliver an 8-hour charge in only 15 minutes.

The common speculation is that Motorola originally developed the phone that would become the Nexus 6 as a phablet offering to compliment the Moto G and Moto X. We might expect a device that borrows heavily in terms of design and hardware from these options, and leaked renders suggest it will bear more than a passing resemblance. This includes a set of front-facing stereo speakers (as seen on the Moto G) but likely won't extend to the customization options present in those Motorola-branded handsets.

Android L

android l devices

The most recent buzz suggests the Nexus 9 will launch alongside the Nexus 6 and feature more prominently as the flagship device of Google's next Android update. Android L will still be a major element of the Nexus 6, however, and come installed out of the box.

The launch of the Nexus 6 should coincide with the unveiling of an "official" name for the next iteration of the Android OS — signs point to Lollipop — and the handset will be privy to all that the new version will offer. We learned at this year's Google I/O that features of Android L include the new Material Design interface, improved multitasking and notifications, and under-the-hood improvements with Project Volta (for better battery life) and ART (an improved runtime that replaces Dalvik and should offer increased application performance).

Google has been slowly refining Android L as developers have had ample time to beta test the latest software. What will come installed on the Nexus 6 will be the first official public release of the operating system, but users can expect future updates to further enhance software capabilities. The Nexus 6's position as a member of the namesake Nexus line means the phone will receive these updates as soon as they are ready to ship from Google, often months before they reach other third-party Android handsets.

Low-key launch?

google nexus devices

Ever since a hurricane quashed Google's plans to launch the Nexus 4 in style we have seen the tech giant resort to the considerably more low-key launch strategy of sticking to a blog post to announce their latest Nexus advancements. All signs point to the same being the case this year, with Google expected to unveil the Nexus 6 (and Nexus 9) with Android L on their company blog this week. October 15th is the target, a date that may or may not have been influenced by Apple's decision to host an iPad-themed event on October 16th.

The announcement may not include immediate retail availability. At least for the Nexus 9, the plan appears to be a pre-order starting October 17th followed by a November 3rd  release. There is a good chance the Nexus 6 could follow the a similar or identical timeline, but we wouldn't be surprised if Google has other plans. Given rumored hardware, we might also expect the Nexus 6 to come with a higher price tag than previous Nexus devices. We might again look to the Moto X for guidance, which suggests the N6 will cost no less than $499 unlocked.

One thing is certain: if the Nexus 6 sees similar demand to what previous entries in the Nexus line have experienced, the handset could land on backorder almost immediately. Those interested in buying will want to jump early if they hope to receive their device as part of the first round of shipments.

What are you hoping for?

The Nexus 6 is no secret by any means, but Google has been known to slip in a few features undetected for a launch day surprise. What are you hoping for in the Nexus 6? Do the rumors add up to a device you are eager to get your hands on? With only mere hours to wait until our curiosities are satisfied, our attention is turned to more pressing issues: will you be buying the Nexus 6?

New Android ad videos featuring Nexus 6 and Nexus 9 revealed

Posted: 14 Oct 2014 09:52 AM PDT

google android nexus 6 ad

Looks like Google has a cool new advertisement for Android starting to hit airwaves. A total of three ads showed up during The Walking Dead’s season premier last night. The theme is “be together, not the same” which is Google’s prideful way of showing how many different Android devices there are, and how even identical devices can be completely different depending on the user.

Two of the ads give us a nice little surprise — drawings of a Nexus 6-like phone and a Nexus 9-like tablet being used by a couple of the Androidified folks in the ad. The Nexus 6 comes in the Bus Stop spot, where the tiny guy’s phone happens to be a gigantic Nexus 6. We’re not sure if everyone was laughing with him or at him after seeing how ridiculously big his phone was, but that’s the idea behind it — what may seem like a funny, weird phone to you is the perfect phone for someone else!

The Nexus 9, on the other hand, shows up in a less prominent role during the road trip ad. You’ll notice a quick shot of it being used by a blonde bearded man rocking his head to some tunes inside the Winnebago. The third and final ad doesn’t show any phone or tablet in particular — it’s just fun, cool and embodies everything Android is about.

More than just the latest Nexus devices possibly being outed here, these ads could hint toward one other big change coming out of the Googleplex — actual advertisement for Android. Since the platform launched in 2008 Google has left it up to carriers and manufacturers to advertise their Android phones and tablets however they saw fit.

But somewhere along the way, Google became conscious of branding, marketing and the need to win mind share. We’re not sure if we’ll ever see these ads on TV, but their very existence shows Google could be ready to do more to get Android’s name out there than they ever have. Be sure to watch all of them above and below.

[Reddit, Google+ via Android Authority]

Did @evleaks just leak an official render of the Nexus 6?

Posted: 14 Oct 2014 08:42 AM PDT

nexus 6 render leak

In case you haven’t heard, ex-leakster Evan Blass (also known as @evleaks) has been going through tough times, so he cheered himself up by doing the one thing that used to make him happy — leaking a hot new device! This time he gives us our first look at an official render for the Nexus 6, a Motorola-made entry into Google’s longstanding pure Android series.

The render doesn’t reveal a whole lot, though this is the first time we’ve gotten a clear look at the front-facing stereo speakers expected to be built into the device. The render also shows the lowered power and volume buttons we’ve been hearing about. The design choice was made to make the buttons easier to reach on that massive 6-inch form factor.

Nothing else about the hardware stands out, though we do see a front-facing camera on the upper right and what looks to be a microUSB port on the bottom. The bottom doesn’t show a hole for a 3.5mm headphone jack which lines up with previous rumors that the port sits on the top of the device.

For software the render shows a clean Android L home screen, though it’s nothing we haven’t already seen from the Android L developer preview loaded up onto Nexus 5 units. And that’s about all. Rumors suggest Google is going to be revealing their Nexus 6 as early as tomorrow so be sure to circle back in case those rumors turn out to be dead on.

[via @evleaks]

DroidLanding site teases October 28th reveal date for the Motorola DROID Turbo

Posted: 14 Oct 2014 07:27 AM PDT

droidlanding teaser countdown

We’ve been hearing more and more about the Motorola DROID Turbo headed for Verizon as of late, and now the company is starting to tease their own wares in a big way. The DroidLanding site has been updated to tease a smartphone announcement with a countdown that points to October 28th at 12pm eastern. That’s 14 days from now as of the time of this writing. It’s nice to know that we won’t have to wonder whether this is a trick or a treat before Halloween arrives.

The site obviously doesn’t reveal much other useful info, though we can ponder on a couple of things. For starters, some of the teaser text suggests the device could be made available the very same day it’s announced. Text below the countdown timer reads “Launch Date Set. All will be revealed. Sign up for activation information.”

The key takeaway here is “launch date,” though it’s tough to tell what Verizon means by “launch.” Some carriers and OEMs refer to a device’s official unveiling as its launch even though the phone might not be immediately available. We’ll have to wait for that day to arrive to see which definition Verizon goes by.

The other thing to take away is the shadowy figure of the device itself. It certainly looks quite close to the renders and leaks we’ve seen in terms of design, so there should be no surprises as to what it looks like once Verizon takes the wraps off.

Motorola Droid Turbo thumb wm

And if rumors of its specs are accurate, we should have a good idea of what to expect under the hood, as well:

  • Snapdragon 805 chipset
  • 5.2-inch 2560 x 1440 display
  • 21 megapixel camera with dual LED flash
  • 3,900mAh battery with Motorola’s Turbo Charge feature
  • NFC

Sounds like the makings of a great smartphone befitting of the classic DROID name, but we’ll have to wait for full details before crowning this bad boy. Thankfully we won’t have long to wait to be filled in on the rest.

Check your mailbox: Galaxy Note 4 already arriving on doorsteps [From the Forums]

Posted: 14 Oct 2014 06:27 AM PDT

galaxy-note-4-front

If you’re a T-Mobile customer who has pre-ordered their version of the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 you’ll definitely want to zoom over to your email inbox right now. Folks over at AndroidForums.com are reportedly receiving notices that the device has shipped, with some slated to arrive ahead of the device’s Friday launch date.

A couple of lucky customers have reportedly already received their units as early as yesterday. It certainly wouldn’t be hard to believe that they’ve gotten devices early considering T-Mobile is keen on shipping orders almost as soon as they’re ready to go out the door (they told Xperia Z3 pre-orderers that they might receive their shipments early, as well).

Folks are already beginning to share their impressions of the phone after the little time they’ve had with it. Lestat897 says the device looks even nicer than the Note 3 in terms of its faux leather backplate. The lack of fake stitching seems to add to its appeal and make for a much cleaner look, something we most certainly don’t have a problem agreeing with. The user also mentioned that the small gap Samsung warns about really isn’t noticeable and they don’t anticipate it being the cause of any issues.

To this point we haven’t received reports of customers from any other carrier receiving shipments or shipment notices, but that doesn’t mean they won’t be in shortly. Continue to monitor that inbox, mailbox and doorstep to make sure you get your hands on your Note 4 as soon as you can as we barrel towards Friday’s release.

In the mean time, you can head to the thread over at AndroidForums.com where generous early owners are taking on any and all questions. Be sure to make an account if you don’t already and get those questions rolling in. Let us know below if you’ve received your shipment or a shipment notice (no matter which carrier you’re with).