Motorola RAZR HD appears in some new images sporting Vodafone software

Better known as the Droid RAZR HD from previous images, some new photos of the Motorola RAZR HD have now turned up sporting some Vodafone software. Looking at them it's kind of hard to tell where in the RAZR HD timeline this particular device is. It could be an earlier engineering unit that was made available before the Verizon branded versions were handed out or it could be a later revision but either way, we may never know, as the person who posted the photos doesn't have the device. We know the FCC has this one already, awaiting approval so it's only a matter of time before this one fully lands. Some more images can be found below for your viewing pleasure.

Source: XDA

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HTC: Desire HD to stay on current software, no ICS update

After all the confusion surrounding the status of the HTC Desire HD's Android 4.0 update, we have confirmation from HTC that it's completed its analysis of the software and reached a decision. Unfortunately, it's disappointing news for Desire HD owners -- the manufacturer has decided not to update the phone to Ice Cream Sandwich, saying it has the best software experience possible for its hardware on the current Android 2.3/Sense 3 ROM.

Here's the company's statement in full --

"After extensive testing, HTC has determined that the current version of HTC Sense with Android provides customers with the best experience on the HTC Desire HD.  When we consider new versions of software, we weigh a number of factors, but ultimately the customer experience on the product is the deciding factor. We apologize for any confusion this change may have caused our customers."

So it's sad pandas all around this evening. It looks like Desire HD owners will need to rely on the custom ROM community if they want a taste of Ice Cream Sandwich or Jelly Bean. In any case, the device already has several unofficial Android 4.x ROMs available, so at least those brave enough to root won't be short of options.

HTC ThunderBolt software update v2.11.605.19 710RD now available OTA

HTC Thunderbolt owners have had a bit of a rough ride thus far when it comes to software updates. Now though, Verizon is pushing out the latest non Ice Cream Sandwich update to address some issues that have long been bothering folks. The update shows as v2.11.605.19 710RD and here's what Verizon states is corrected:

• Device is enabled with the Wireless Alerting System.


• Device now supports Cisco Any for better VPN functionality.


• Improved data connectivity.


• Improved device stability will decrease device resets.


• Improvements to default mail application allows Yahoo! Mail accounts to receive messages properly.


• Resolved issues with Mobile Hotspot connectivity. + Incoming calls now display the correct state, when applicable.

This particular update appeared in RUU format back in April so you may already have it if you were adventurous and loaded it up. If not, go ahead and check for system updates. It'll either be there waiting or it will be along shortly for you. Need to know more? Folks in the Android Central forums have already gone through it so head on into the forums below to discuss it some more.

Discuss the v2.11.605.19 710RD update in the Android Central Forums, Thanks, Steve!

TELUS sets up new site to keep customers informed about software update release dates

Sometimes getting information from the carriers on device software updates is a painful process. They either don't know, won't tell or ignore the concerns altogether. TELUS in Canada is looking to change that just a little by adding some transparency to their device update process. TELUS has now launched a new site that highlights all the most recent and known upcoming device updates for not only Android devices but also their complete lineup as a whole. Sure, some slots still just simply say "Coming Soon" but clearly, TELUS is committed to at least acknowledging when updates are coming and that folks, is better than saying nothing at all. You can check out the new site via the link below.

Source: TELUS

International HTC One S gets first software update - v1.78 now rolling out

If you've got an unlocked international (non-carrier branded) HTC One S, it's time to start hitting that "Check for updates" button, as a new firmware version is being pushed out over-the-air. The update to v1.78 weighs in at just under 60MB, and remains based on Android 4.0.3. The only obvious change we're noticing so far is the removal of the three-dot menu software menu button in certain Google apps. YouTube, for example, used to show an ICS-style overflow button up to and down below before, and now the unsightly bottom bar has gone. It's also likely this latest OTA includes a fix for the Wifi disconnection bug that's been plaguing some One S owners since day one, though as it's an intermittent issue we haven't been able to confirm this just yet.

It's worth noting that today's update is for unbranded One S models only, so if you bought yours through a carrier, you may have to wait an extra few weeks for a network-approved version to be pushed out. But those running an unlocked, unbranded One S can head head to Settings > About phone > Software updates to grab the latest OTA. When you're done, be sure to keep us posted of any changes or fixes down in the comments.

Samsung Galaxy S III software hands-on

AppId is over the quota
AppId is over the quota

As you may have heard, Samsung’s just taken the wraps off the new Galaxy S III, a 4.8-inch quad-core beast powered by Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich and a brand new version of TouchWiz. Samsung’s UX has been given a minor facelift on the Galaxy S III, bringing in visual and audio elements from the device’s new “inspired by nature” design choices. And there are a few exciting new features to boot, incorporating NFC, face recognition and Wifi Direct.

Join us after the break for our full walkthrough of the Samsung Galaxy S III's software, along with more videos!

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First software update now rolling out for European HTC One X

AppId is over the quota
AppId is over the quota

The first official new software update is now rolling out for unbranded HTC One X retail units in Europe, bringing HTC's new flagship phone up to version 1.28.401.9. The 30MB update is being delivered over-the-air, so head to 'Settings > About > Software Updates' to grab the new version. Note that if your One X is network-branded, you'll likely have to wait a little longer for your carrier to approve this update before it's pushed out. And for what it's worth, the new software version is still based on Android 4.0.3 rather than the slightly newer 4.0.4 that's running on some Nexus devices.

So far we're only seeing a few minor changes on our One X -- the phone no longer incorrectly displays the on-screen menu key in certain Google apps, like YouTube, and automatic brightness levels seem to have been pared back somewhat, too. This version is also supposed to fix the battery life issues many One X owners have been reporting in the two weeks since the phone's launch. In addition, we're hearing that the bug which occasionally resulted in garbled text and icons in the notification bar has also been squished.

One X owners, be sure to shout out in the comments if you've noticed any other changes or fixes.

LG Spectrum software update docs live, look for an OTA 'soon'

AppId is over the quota
AppId is over the quota

Verizon has published the support documents for an upcoming LG Spectrum update, and going on the history of such matters, we expect an over-the-air update rather soon. It's not the Ice Cream Sandwich update many users are wanting, but it does address some issues and bring newer versions of the bundled applications along for the ride. The details:

• EAS password follows security policy, requiring an 8-digit password minimum.
• Application launch will not cause force close when the device is scanning for available Wi-Fi networks.
• Improved outline for multiple calendar view.
• Calendar reminders send notification at accurate time.
• Successfully sync Optimum Online accounts using POP3.
• Pinch zoom in Camera Preview mode to select zoom level.
• Sync and Connect email maximum count is 500 regardless of server settings.
• Browser launches immediately upon selection.
• Added ‘Select Search Engine’ option in browser settings.
• Google Search is now set as default search for a better user experience.
• Google GMS (Google Mobile Services) is upgraded to Gingerbread R9.
• Updated Google Play (v3.3.12) with enhanced user experiences.
• Updated Gmail (v2.3.5.2) with a series of security fixes.
• Talk2 (v1.3) includes updated video chat capabilities.
• Updated YouTube (v2.3.4) includes enhanced editing functionalities.
• Visual Voice Mail connection has been updated for a better user experience when syncing email.
• NFL v4.0
• VZ Navigator (v7.5.1.54)
• Amazon Kindle (v3.3.2.3)
• SmartShare (R2.0)
• Verizon Video (v6.1.34)
• My Verizon (v10.0.7)
• V CAST Apps (v3.03.41)

As you can see, it's a fairly big update. It also brings the Spectrum up to the Android version 2.3.6 code-base, which includes various security fixes and enhancements to the Android system from Google. For more details, and instructions on how to apply the update when it goes live, visit the source link.

Source: Verizon

Amazon Kindle Fire version 6.3 software update now available

The Amazon Kindle Fire has seemingly done quite well for itself since its release and behind the scenes Amazon has been working on the next update for the device. Currently the Amazon Kindle Fire is sitting at version 6.2.2 but Amazon has just released version 6.3 they've highlighted some of the forthcoming changes:

• Sharing: Customers will be able to easily share favorite passages and notes from their books directly from Kindle Fire, without even leaving the book. Customers simply highlight a passage and select "Share" or choose the "Share" option from the toolbar within a book, write a note if they choose, and select which social network to share with. Passages or notes a customer chooses to share will be displayed to other Kindle readers viewing the same book, and customers can also choose to share via Facebook and Twitter. Amazon already has a vibrant community of readers who choose to share favorite passages and notes from their reading through Kindle.amazon.com. This update brings these notes and highlights to Kindle Fire, so a reader can easily see what other readers are saying about their books.


• Book Extras: Powered by Shelfari, Amazon's community of book lovers, Book Extras make it easy for customers to see supplemental material about the book they are reading, without even leaving the book. Customers can view descriptions of characters, a glossary of common terms used in the book, information on the authors and common locations referenced in the book, and more. To view Book Extras from within a book, customers simply tap the top of the screen to bring up the toolbar, tap the menu button and select "Book Extras."


• Archive of Personal Documents: Customers' personal documents will be stored in the Amazon Cloud and available for re-download at any time from the Documents tab on Kindle Fire. Just as with Kindle books, Whispersync will automatically sync notes, highlights and last page read for personal documents.


• Print Replica Textbooks: Students can buy thousands of print replica textbooks to read on their Kindle Fire and save up to 60% off the list price of the print textbook. Print replica textbooks maintain the rich formatting, color and layout of the print editions, with features including notes and highlights, zoom and pan, linked table of contents, real page numbers and whispersync of notes, highlights and last page read.


• Reading View for Amazon Silk: There is a seemingly endless array of interesting and engaging content available on the Internet. Sometimes, unfortunately, that business article, blog post, or sports recap you clicked on is surrounded by a host of competing material. With Reading View on Silk, the content that you're interested in is elevated above the clutter. When invoked by the customer, Silk will load the body of the page in a reading-optimized, single screen view (even for multi-page articles). The full page is still available in the background, allowing the reader to easily toggle back to a traditional view to see other interesting features on the page.


• Movie Rentals: The rental period for movie rentals that are downloaded to Kindle Fire now starts when a customer starts watching the movie, rather than when a customer starts downloading the movie.


• Additional Enhancements: This update will also bring some of the features customers have requested, including faster re-connect of Wi-Fi after Kindle Fire has been asleep, and general performance enhancements.

The update is currently available from Amazon, but if you're rooted you'll be pleased to know you can maintain root if you follow directions at the XDA link below. For the rest of us, hit the jump for installation instructions.

Source: Amazon, XDA

Amazon Kindle Fire version 6.3 software update now available

The Amazon Kindle Fire has seemingly done quite well for itself since its release and behind the scenes Amazon has been working on the next update for the device. Currently the Amazon Kindle Fire is sitting at version 6.2.2 but Amazon has just released version 6.3 they've highlighted some of the forthcoming changes:

• Sharing: Customers will be able to easily share favorite passages and notes from their books directly from Kindle Fire, without even leaving the book. Customers simply highlight a passage and select "Share" or choose the "Share" option from the toolbar within a book, write a note if they choose, and select which social network to share with. Passages or notes a customer chooses to share will be displayed to other Kindle readers viewing the same book, and customers can also choose to share via Facebook and Twitter. Amazon already has a vibrant community of readers who choose to share favorite passages and notes from their reading through Kindle.amazon.com. This update brings these notes and highlights to Kindle Fire, so a reader can easily see what other readers are saying about their books.


• Book Extras: Powered by Shelfari, Amazon's community of book lovers, Book Extras make it easy for customers to see supplemental material about the book they are reading, without even leaving the book. Customers can view descriptions of characters, a glossary of common terms used in the book, information on the authors and common locations referenced in the book, and more. To view Book Extras from within a book, customers simply tap the top of the screen to bring up the toolbar, tap the menu button and select "Book Extras."


• Archive of Personal Documents: Customers' personal documents will be stored in the Amazon Cloud and available for re-download at any time from the Documents tab on Kindle Fire. Just as with Kindle books, Whispersync will automatically sync notes, highlights and last page read for personal documents.


• Print Replica Textbooks: Students can buy thousands of print replica textbooks to read on their Kindle Fire and save up to 60% off the list price of the print textbook. Print replica textbooks maintain the rich formatting, color and layout of the print editions, with features including notes and highlights, zoom and pan, linked table of contents, real page numbers and whispersync of notes, highlights and last page read.


• Reading View for Amazon Silk: There is a seemingly endless array of interesting and engaging content available on the Internet. Sometimes, unfortunately, that business article, blog post, or sports recap you clicked on is surrounded by a host of competing material. With Reading View on Silk, the content that you're interested in is elevated above the clutter. When invoked by the customer, Silk will load the body of the page in a reading-optimized, single screen view (even for multi-page articles). The full page is still available in the background, allowing the reader to easily toggle back to a traditional view to see other interesting features on the page.


• Movie Rentals: The rental period for movie rentals that are downloaded to Kindle Fire now starts when a customer starts watching the movie, rather than when a customer starts downloading the movie.


• Additional Enhancements: This update will also bring some of the features customers have requested, including faster re-connect of Wi-Fi after Kindle Fire has been asleep, and general performance enhancements.

The update is currently available from Amazon, but if you're rooted you'll be pleased to know you can maintain root if you follow directions at the XDA link below. For the rest of us, hit the jump for installation instructions.

Source: Amazon, XDA

• Download the 6.3 update directly from Amazon and save it to your computer.


• Turn on your Kindle Fire, and connect via USB to your computer


• Copy the file you downloaded into the kindleupdates folder on your Fire. When the transfer is finished, tap the disconnect button on your Kindle Fire and unplug the USB cable.


• Make sure your battery is fully charged, then start the update by tapping the Quick Settings icon in the top right corner of your screen, then tap "More...", then "Device". Select "Update your Kindle". If the option is greyed out, that means your either up-to-date already or the file did not transfer properly.


• Your Kindle Fire will restart twice during the update, and when finished you'll be on version 6.3

Archos show shipping G9 Turbo "CSI" Edition with the latest version of the preloaded software

In addition to update its line of Tablet current G9 of Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, Archos made his debut for two new "CSI" Edition G9 Turbo tablets, storage configurations is slightly different, slightly adjusted prices. As a result, Archos ' first line of Tablet Android certified Google wins three new SKUs.

First up is the Archos 80 G9 Turbo ICS, that comes with a 1.5 GHz CPU, a screen of 8 inches and Android 4.0. It ' available for £ 200 s (~$ 310) with 8 GB of storage flash or £ 240 (~$ 380) for 16 GB. He ' s also the sounding ill-considered Archos 101 G9 Turbo ICS, which offers similar specifications on a 10 inch screen - which ' s yours for £ 270 (~ $ 425) with 16 GB of storage.

So then that all tablets of G9 should upgrade to ICS out of the box, at least you won ' t do any downloading or if you take Archos pending ' tabs news. If you ' ve declined all relying on Archos ' last tablets, don't forget to hit the comments and let know us how you ' re on.

Source: Archos; by: Eurodroid

First Sony Xperia S software update now available through PC Companion app

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AppId is over the quota

If you were one of the lucky few able to grab an Sony Xperia S in Barcelona during MWC, today you'll be able to pick up a new software update to version 6.0.A.3.67. The update isn't yet going out over the air, but it is available through Sony's PC Companion app for Windows.

Unfortunately the package doesn't include the sorely-needed Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich update -- that's due sometime during the second quarter. However, we're hoping the update fixes a few niggling issues we've been noticing with our review unit, including some radio wonkiness and difficulty automatically disconnecting from Wifi routers when out of range. If you've picked up the new software on your Xperia S, be sure to point out any changes or fixes over in the comments.

For more on the Xperia S, check out our initial review and hands-on video.