Best of Android 2010!

Another year is coming to an end and I think it's safe to say it's been a big year for android.

• The launch of 2.2 aka. Froyo

• More than a dozen Android devices launched this year. To US. carriers alone.

• New android devices taking advantage of new 4G networks.

• Several android tablets both hit the market and in the works. 

• Adobe Flash launched on Android devices

And that's just to name a few of this years headlines.  What do you think was the big android story of 2010?  Let us know below.

The Survey Closes December 1st 2010! To end out the year I wanted to survey the readers and android users in general. Only 3 of 8 questions are marked required to submit the survey. No personal information will be gathered and you do not need to sign up to participate. Simply visit the following link and answer the questions if you'd like you can use the share links provided to spread the word about the survey. Thanks in advance. The survey can be found at: http://twtpoll.com/9hayti


The questions on the survey are:
Favorite android device of 2010?
Most used function/feature?
Favorite social network app?
Best twitter app?
Best Homescreen replacement?
Favorite game?
Favorite android news site/blog?
Feature you most want in future versions of Android?


*Also be sure to 'Like" us on Facebook for a chance to win a free "Team Android" shirt from our store. details to come soon.*

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Android Tip #1 - Market Alternatives

Tip #1 Market Alternatives

The mobile world is full of apps. That's the way the game is played now.  And I don't think that's going to change anytime soon. And i'm pretty sure most people reading this, like it that way.  There is of course a slight downside to the app utopia we've live in.  On the android market alone there are currently 100,000+ apps. Which is amazing when you look back. The G1; the first android powered device,  launched in late 2008. And the app pickings were slim my friends. But now with so many apps available the task of not only finding apps that do what you want but finding quality apps; can be all that more difficult.

Now the android market has seen some upgrades in the latests versions but shifting through countless lists of
apps is still very much apart of the experience. Which works, but there are alternatives.

Cyrket

http://www.cyrket.com/

With Cyrket you can browse the android market from your PC or Mac browser. Searching for apps is simple but what I really like is the inclusion of QR-codes, ratings and comments/reviews.  Once you find an app you want it's as simple as scanning the QR-code with your device and being sent directly to said app within the android market.  This is a very convenient and helpful alternatives to surfing the android market from your phone.

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AppAware

http://appaware.org/

"The Social Android Market"
When I got my first android device I was a market junkie.  I was checking it constantly throughout the day.  A task that has become far to daunting and time consuming. Who has time to scroll through that many new apps every day?  With AppAware you can view live, all the apps that are being installed, uninstalled and even updated by other android users. Taking it a step further you can see the Top apps of the last hour, the last day or week. As well as applying a filter and only seeing apps that are installed to user with your particular device. You can find AppAware in the android market.

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doubleTwist

www.doubletwist.com

" iTunes for Android"
I've been talking and tweeting and posting about doubletwist for a long time now.
It is hands down the best sync option for android users.  And the latest versions support browsing the android market.  Apps are displayed with; summary, screen caps, reviews, rating, price and QR-codes. Making it pretty simple to both find and download application to your android handset.  And if you're interested doubletwist launched it's own media player to the market.

got a market alternative that we didn't mention leave us a message in the link below.

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Got Froyo? Now you need Chrome-to-Phone!

So your already awesome android device just got a blast of Froyo (android 2.2). You've checked out all the new features.  You've shown the live wallpaper to all your iPhone totting buddies. And you can't get enough of Flash in the browser. Now what?

If that's as far as you've gone with your Froyo exploration you're not done yet. Back at Google I/O one of the things they showed off that really excited me was a cloud to device service.  Enter: Chrome-to-Phone!
If you're like me you've been surfing on your computer and had to leave for one reason or another. And you wanted to continue reading or checking out that page. Only a few options were readily available to you as you went on your merry way. You could simply bookmark the page for later or you could email the page to your phone.  Simple enough I suppose, but there is a better option.

With Chrome-to-Phone you can simply hit the browser extension and the open page in your browser will be sent directly to your android device. This works with youtube videos and maps as well! You can even select text and phone numbers in the browser and send them to your phone's clipboard or directly to the dialer.
If you want to try chrome-to-phone for yourself head to the code page and install the extension and the apk for your phone.

Check out this video of Chrome-to-Phone from TechCrunch.




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6 Android Apps to control your PC and Mac

I don't know about you. But my idea of the perfect gadget consists of a piece of tech that works together seamlessly with all my other gadgets. Maybe I was ruined after years of Star Trek. Either way, one of the first things I did when I joined team android; was look for ways to connect my android phone to my PC. Right on the tail of our 13 Must Have Apps - Essential Android Apps List comes our list of apps that let you control your PC and Mac.

 Click to download from device.

Gmote 2.0 - I had a lot of use with this one personally in the past. It was my original Android - PC remote. This one is pretty simple to setup and use. Though it's worth noting that I often had to completely restart my PC when I decided to run Gmote to get it running. This may just be my system. Download the app and then follow the directions to head over to the website and download the gmote server. *Stream music from your PC to your device, control the screen on your pc, launch and navigate webpages, built-in file browser, standard play - pause - rewind controls and virtual keyboard to type on your PC from across the room. This app works with Macs as well and Gmote is free on the Android market. http://www.gmote.org/

Click to download on device.

PhoneMyPC - I recently checked out PhoneMyPC to review it. And it ended up being one of those apps that I just had to hang on to. It is currently the only remote app I use. With PhoneMyPC you can actually see the desktop on your device. You can access all your files at home while at work or in class. You can check out the review for details but I'll give you the run down. *control the mouse and keys, view a snapshot of your desktop, control processes, see a live view of your desktop. (devs working on sound) PhoneMyPC is a bit on the pricey side at $9.99 (price may be going up in the future) But it is the hands down best remote app I've used on android!  http://www.softwareforme.com/

Click to download on device.

VLC Remote - I tried VLC remote out not long ago. As I've been using VLC almost exclusively for my media playback lately. The rundown: Automatic configuration is very helpful, Full browsing control (play any file from your computer), Full DVD controls, control volume, position and track, fullscreen on and off, control subtitles, aspect ratio, audio track, access external drives. This app is very snappy and quick to respond. Works on both Mac and PC. Free on the market but full features will cost you £0.60 - $0.97 http://www.HobbyistSoftware.com

Click to download on device.

RemoteDroid - I tried a while back and it was a pretty solid app. Like others on this list you'll need to download the app from the market along with a server application to your PC. RemoteDroid turns your phone into a wireless keyboard and mouse with touchpad, using your own wireless network. Updates have seen an improved keyboard and integration of multi-touch gestures. This one is compatible with Windows, Mac and Linux systems. Free on the market.

http://www.remotedroid.net/

Click to download on device.

GRemotePro - This one was actually recommended by a friend. And it didn't disappoint. The UI looks great, the layout is easy to navigate and overall is smooth and responsive. There has been confusion however because the app is listed as "Free" but users should be aware that while the 'app' is free, the server client you need to download is listed at $15. (Currently $9.95 for April 2010) GRemotePro turns your PDA into wireless keyboard, mouse, touchpad and analogue game controller to PC. Play favorite racing games with your phone.Control any application you want. This one is only for Windows users unfortunately.  Works via WiFi or Bluetooth .

gbmsoftware.com/

Click to download on device.


Andremote - Last and maybe kind of least is AndRemote. This one isn't the best of the bunch for certain. Getting the PC server up and running is a task for a lot of people, myself included. The UI is decent but buggy and the application was pretty laggy itself at times.  The cool thing is that you can download different layouts to support the different apps you want to control or create your own. The app is really simple and works despite having a few bugs. It's worth checking out for sure if you have a particular app that doesn't work well with other remote apps.
http://andremote.anddev.org/

Know of a good remote app that I missed? Let me know in the comments.
If you've used any of these apps or try them out be sure to let me know what you think!

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Tablets Anyone? - Android Tablet Roundup part 1

It's safe to say at this point in the game that Tablet Fever has officially struck. If you're looking for any further truth to that statement perhaps the fact that the iPad sold over 300,000 units on launch day, will suffice. Or that fact that many major manufactures are rushing to push out there own tablet iterations. HP, Sony, Dell, and Toshiba just to name a few. For many readers a tablet may be of little interest. You want a full featured high powered device. But for some of us nerds a well designed tablet is a dream gadget. Whatever side of the equation you find yourself on the android enthusiast in you will want to continue. I've put together a small list of some up and coming Android Tablets. Enjoy.

Dell Mini 5

The Dell Mini will feature a 5 inch screen. Only time will tell if there is a market for a device slightly larger than most phones but smaller than the iPad. In it's favor the Dell Mini will feature a camera and will make phone calls. For some this will seem more like a smartphone in comparison to the 9.7 inch screen packing iPad. Reports from CES have stated the device was light, smooth, responsive and comfortable. In a bit of recent news the Dell Mini aka the Dell Streak was just received FCC approval. And the FCC application give us a little hint that this Device will most likely end up on T-mobile's network. Though Dell has stated that this device will have multiple carriers. And is in fact already confirmed for AT&T. This one is expected to ship this summer.

• multitouch 5-inch LCD display
• 1GHz Snapdragon processor
• Wi-Fi, 3G and Bluetooth connectivity.
• 5MP camera
• Ability to make Phone Calls.

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Notion Ink Adam

This one comes from the fairly new in the US; Notion Ink. And there has been a lot of talk about the Adam's promised 16-hour battery life. This device is impressive in a number of ways, one of which is it's 1080p output on it's 10 inch display. A display capable of 1024x600 resolution, something the iPad is not. And while we're mentioning it the Notion Ink Adam has HDMI and USB ports, as well as Flash support. All things that are missing on Apple's device. And if all that isn't enough the Notion's Pixel Qi screen is amazing. This is where the dual display comes into play. What we're talking about is Pixel Qi's transflective screen which can switch from backlit LCD mode to low-power "electrophoretic reflective mode", which is similar to E Ink and is easier to see in direct sunlight. It's definitely worth noting that the device eats even less battery power when in this mode. In fact it's speculated to leap to around 160 hours of battery life in this low power display mode. More on the Pixel Qi at Gizmodo.com

• 10 inch transflective LCD
• 180 degree 3MP Swivel Camera
• Dual-Core ARM® CORTEX
• -A9 MPCORE™ Processor
• Long Battery Life
• Dual Display
• Ebook Client
• 3G and WiFi Connectivity
• Multi-touch Support.
• Flash compatibility

[www.notionink.in]

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Archos 7

If you can recall the Archos 5 was found to be a bit lacking. Or may be you can't, for that reason.

The Archos 7 recently received FCC approval. This "Home tablet" features a 7 inch touch screen, is 0.5 inch thick and weights in at 0.8 lbs. Getting right down to business; the Archos 7 doesn't have the fastest processor, sporting a 600 MHz Rockchip RK2808. The draw for these devices is clearly the low price range. Coming in at around $179 and $200 for the 2GB and 8GB models respectively. This device isn't exactly a powerhouse but on the flip side of the average specs you get a device that is comparable to just about any smartphone on the market, has a 7 inch screen, runs android and it's apps and is half the price of an iPad.

• 600 MHz Rockchip processor
• 2GB or 8GB of storage
• 128MB RAM
• 802.11b/g WiFi
• 7" LCD, 800x480, resistive touchscreen
• 7 hour battery life on video playback, 44 hours on music playback.

[www.archos.com]

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[image via engadget]

ICD Gemini

This device is in place to seemingly become the flagship of the android tablet armada. Of course it's still in the works unfortunately. But for those who are looking for a solid android alternative to the iPad this just might be it. The ICD Gemini spec list reads like it was purposely put together to house everything Apple's device doesn't. Of course that's just our imagination but lets get down to business. This device sports a

1GHz Tegra 2 SOC which is comparable to Apple's A4. The 11.2 inch device is capable of 1080p video. It has a 3G connection that allows cellular voice calls (nice!) A replaceable battery, SD card reader, FM radio, GPS and lots more! See the spec rundown for more. All in all it's easy to see why this device is being talked about so much.

• 11.2-inch
• 1080p video
• 1366x768 resolution
• Multitouch screen, resistive and capacitive versions
• 512MB of DDR RAM - expandable to 32GB
• 4GM of Flash ROM
• 3G connection that allows cellular voice calls
• 40Wh
• user-replaceable
• battery,
• SD card reader, FM radio, GPS,
• 802.11n WiFi, Bluetooth,
• MicroUSB connectivity to PCs and USB peripherals,
• stereo speakers
• 3.5mm headphone jack
• dual microphones? supposedly noise canceling. (think nexus one)
• dual webcams -- 2 megapixel front - 5 megapixel autofocus back.
• Flash support

Check out this Engadget post for some more Gemini goodness.

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And in case you missed it we featured a post on a budget Android tablet, that priced under $100. Click here. Also there is a rumor that the HP Slate will feature a Android version of the device.(crosses fingers) And of course the big news is that Google and HTC are working on a Tablet together. This is the same join venture that brought us the Nexus One so I have high hopes for this device. Let us know in the comments, what you think of the devices and if you plan to purchase an Android powered tablet.

T-mobile stores get Nexus One accessories.

Reports are popping up all over that T-mobile stores are indeed receiving shipments of Nexus One accessories. Now if you look closely you can see that the labeling reads "designed to fit the HTC Nexus One" instead of Google Nexus One. This further leads some to think that we may eventually be able to purchase the Nexus One in store. Something that a lot of Android fans and the curious a like will appreciate. The Nexus One has been taking a back seat as of late as several new devices soak up the spotlight. A new push of in store Nexus devices would be a great move to further sales.

Let us know: For those who have held out, would you be more likely to consider the Nexus One if you could buy it in store?

The Breakdown: 3G, Super 3G and 4G. Take your pick.

When it comes to 3G and 4G I could start out talking about latency and sever requests but I digress. If you're the average costumer you will more than likely find yourself confused when I say that T-mobiles new 3G network is twice as fast as Sprint's 4G network.

The interesting thing is; that while Verizon and AT&T are gearing up to release new 4G networks; meaning massive nationwide hardware upgrades. And Sprint is already moving with their 4G network and a new 4G capable handset.

T-mobile is simply upgrading their already in place 3G network to reach it's full potential. That means a faster network, sooner. T-mobile has opted for HSPA+ 21 which is named such for it's maximum speed of 21 mbps. This as with all wireless speeds is a theoretical or "best-case" maximum. The general rule is to consider half of whatever the top speed is the average speed you will experience which is still not too shabby at 10.5 mbps. Also this technology is backwards compatible. Users and technology already set to use T-mobile's 3G network will be able to utilize the HSPA+, no need for brand new devices specifically marked for the faster network. For example MyTouch users will see an increase in download speeds as well. Though t-mobile has plans for a HSPA+ device in the 2nd half of 2010.

This network speed is seemingly as good or better than Verizon has stated will be average for it's LTE (4G ) network: at 8-12mbs. Verizon plans to open 20-30 LTE markets in 2010 with full nationwide coverage shooting for 2015 completion. This network will also not be as open as AT&T and T-mobile's current network's. Devices that are LTE capable will be required to be registered for use on Verizon's network and have to pass a level of hardware certification. (simply need SIM card for AT&T and T-mobile's current networks.) AT&T is also building an LTE network. More on that - here. [via pcmag.com]

Sprint's WiMAX (4G) network average is reported to be around 3-6 mbps (I'm hearing 4.7). Theoretically you could hit up to 13mbps. Also some will be shocked to here that apparently Sprint's new Evo 4G device can't use voice and data simultaneously. The word from HTC -
"If you're using 4g for data, you can't use CDMA for voice. Currently the only way to do simultaneous voice and data would be through a third-party VOIP solution. However, this is not do to strict hardware limitations, so it's possible this could change with future updates."
More on that - here. [via androidcentral.com]

For the moment Sprint and T-mobile are seemingly your best bet for faster mobile connections. With AT&T and Verizon's 4G networks set to hit markets in the future (likely a few years) One down side that you may see is a data cap for T-mobile's HSPA+. 3G networks are already pretty clogged as it is. And a easy way to deter people from tethering or as using them as their home wireless connection is to set a data cap. Only time will tell. On the flip side T-mobile stands to be in a great position to offer a relatively cheap and fast wireless connection. Long before some of their competitors are up and running. Also t-mobile has said it does plan to make the jump to 4G in the future.

All in all it comes down to coverage, plan cost and compatible devices. All of these need to be considered if you're ready to make the jump to a different carrier to get your hands on a faster network. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook to keep up with the latest from AndroidAppInspection.

What are your feelings about 4g?

13 Must Have Apps - The Essential Android App list!

Ever run into someone else with the same phone? Of course you have. What's one of the first things that you start talking about? The apps! Lets face it android is cool and all and as a geek I could go on and on about why I pick android over other mobile systems but take away the apps and android wouldn't be the platform it is today.

The following list of apps is what I consider to be a group of apps that everyone should have on their device or at least checkout. I'd like to point out that I'm looking at this from the point of new android users and introducing them to some cool and useful apps. But I think this list holds up for newbie android users and veterans alike. There will be some apps that have alternatives that others may think are better or more useful. If so, leave us a comment or hit us on twitter. Http://twitter.com/androidinspect Don't forget to join us on facebook as well.

*I've included Qrcodes that can be scanned to download the apps as well as links that can be used from the device to send you to the app within the market.

Click to download on device.

Shazam - "Shazam can identify music anywhere: from the TV, radio, or in a bar." I use this in my car a lot. My radio can ID songs itself but I like to Shazam them so i can remember to grab them online later. And it's so useful to grab that catchy song that's playing in a Tv show or movie.

You can find out more about Shazam and how it works at http://www.shazam.com/

Click to download on device.

Twidroid Pro - "Twidroid PRO is the leading full-featured Twitter client for Android. The PRO version features extended functionality like multi-accounts, video posting or themes." - I mentioned Twidroid back in our review of Tweetcaster. It's still my fave twitter app. Fully functional and I can work with multiple accounts. Can't go wrong. There is a free version as well. More info at http://twidroid.com

Click to download on device.

Pandora Radio - "Start with the name of one of your favorite artists, songs or classical composers and Pandora will create a "station" that plays their music and more music like it." Having your favorite Mp3s loaded on your device is great and being able to grab new ones from the amazon store or other apps on the go is useful. The ability to discover a new favorite is even better. Checkout Pandora.com for their internet radio site.

Click to download on device.

MyBackup Pro - "Backup (schedule option) to our online secure servers, or SD card, your Applications, Contacts, Call log, Bookmarks, SMS\MMS, Calendar, Settings, Home Shortcuts, Alarms, Dictionary, Music Playlists, and more. Restore on existing\new phone." - This app can be a life saver. The best thing is it integrates with other apps. I have a note app, with plenty of info i'd like to hang onto and it backsup the info within that as well. There is a free version available. http://Reware.com

Click to download on device.

ShopSavvy - "The original barcode scanner on Android. Aim the camera at any barcode, wait for the beep and ShopSavvy will provide you with a list of online and local prices." - This is the first scanner app I tried out on Android and it manages to stay my go to app for shopping assistance. Checkout our post about Google Shopper and it's competition to see how ShopSavvy stacked up.

Click to download on device.

Astro File Manager - "The ASTRO File Manager helps you get the most out of your Android smart phone. ASTRO helps your phone reach its full potential by giving you the tools to manage your phone." - For some maybe you have no use for a file manager. But when you can store everything from music and photos to apps and APKs on your SDcard. A file manager is a very useful tool. http://www.metago.net/astro/fm/

Click to download on device.

PdaNet - PdaNet allows your computer to go online through the Android phone's data connection. Supports USB Tether and Bluetooth DUN. No root access needed. Works on ALL Android phones. Mac&PC." - This app is very useful. If you travel with your laptop or netbook you can tether to your android device. Using your phones data plan to surf the internet on your laptop.

Click to download on device.

Babbler - "Babbler is the first full-featured native Android application on Facebook Platform.

See/post on walls, comment on posts, share photos and videos straight from your phone" - I've been using this for a long while now. It's been around a lot longer then the official facebook app. That being said i prefer Babbler over the stock app, which isn't much better than the mobile site. Make sure to check out this app to stay connected with facebook. There is a free version as well. http://www.babblerforandroid.com/

Click to download on device.

Handcent SMS - "Handcent SMS is a free sms tools for android,unleash the full power of your phone: Full support SMS & MMS, great customize options ,different style and power function (search sms, sms popup, speak sms & T9)" - This little app is one I use to improve upon the stock sms app, which is a little a little bland. You can add your own image to the background of every text message and speak your text to be sent. http://www.handcent.com

Click to download on device.

Beautiful Widgets - "This is a set of beautiful widgets, containing two skinned clock + weather with access to forecast and beautiful weather animations (rain, storm, clouds, etc). Also come with a few nice toggle widgets for Wifi, Bluetooth, etc." - If you are unaware of this particular widget or don't have the Sense UI already, you will thank me. This attractive little widget has a ...beautiful display. Clicking the weather display pops up a animated forecast window. You can also access the alarm clock and calendar from the widget as well. http://levelupstudio.com/widgets/weather

Click to download on device.

Google Voice - "Google Voice for Android lets you place calls and send SMS showing your Google number. Listen to voicemail and/or read transcripts from the Google Voice inbox." - I get so much use out of this app. I use my Google Voice account for all my business related stuff. The best part is when I need to I can have my GV number automatically forward to any phone or phones. Auto transcription of voice mails and he ability to check my inbox from any computer.

Click to download on device.

Qik - "Qik lets you record and share videos with your friends, family and the world!" - This is an app to keep handy. I use it a lot. Qik not only records video but lets you stream live to the internet from your phone. Friends can watch and even chat live with you while you stream. Better than posting pics from that concert you went to is streaming the event live to friends.

Swype - "Swype provides a faster and easier way to input text on any screen. With one continuous finger or stylus motion across the screen keyboard, the patented technology enables users to input words faster and easier..." - This one is still in beta and thus not released for all devices yet. So be sure to remember the name and keep an eye out. Check out our review of Swype. For more info and/or to enter the beta. http://www.swypeinc.com/index.html

*Other suggested apps.*

Weatherchannel

Phonemypc - Our review Here

Streamfurious

RingDroid

Evernote

Movies (formely movies by flixster)

Tv.com this one was almost in the must have section. Watch full tv shows from the CBS network.

Join the conversation over at Android Community.

Agree? disagree? Let us know below.