Google Android Gadgets Guide

U.S. Cellular has just announced their fourth Android handset, the LG Apex, will arrive later this week.  The smart phone runs Android 2.1 and features a 3.2-inch touch screen, a sliding QWERTY keyboard, and a 3-megapixel camera with flash and autofocus.  At $79.99 after an $80 mail-in rebate, the LG Apex rounds out the carrier’s Android lineup quite nicely.  Other handsets in the U.S. Cellular repertoire include the HTC Desire, Samsung Acclaim, and Samsung Mesmerize.  The little carrier that could recently began offering their version of the Galaxy Tab and plan to release their iteration in the Optimus series Optimus U next month (December).

For those of you using the Motorola Cliq or the Backflip, we have some great news for you!  Motorola is confirming that Android 2.1 is now officially available.  Now, you can enjoy the goodies that come with Eclair like the Navigation of Google Maps (my personal favorite.)  Motorola released this info today on their facebook page giving a link on how to download the new update. They are also giving a disclaimer about the benefits and potential drawbacks of downloading on the page.

What do you say Cliq and Backflip owners?  You gonna download this today or do you really love cupcakes that much?

The Samsung Mesmerize has launched on U.S. Cellular today.  The phone is available at both stores and online for the price of $199.99 on a two-year contract after an $80 dollar rebate.  Like every other version of the Galaxy S on the market, the Mesmerize features a 4-inch Super AMOLED display and 1GHz Hummingbird processor.  This is basically a Samsung Fascinate without the Bing folks.  If you are on U.S. Cellular, you should definitely consider this handset.  Hit the source link to pick one up.

Source: U.S. Cellular

Fusion Garage revealed earlier this week that a follow-up is in the works for their JooJoo tablet.  This time around, the developers have opted to use Android for the backbone with hopes of full Android Market support. It’s being reported that the original JooJoo would go away entirely once the new model arrives, which should be early next year, 2011.

Samsung wants Android developers to start writing for their new Galaxy Tab so they are making things easier.  To help create the best user experience for games and applications, Samsung has set up a new developer forum.

If you’re using the Android SDK and want to make sure your app scales properly for a larger screen, you can download the Add-On package and/or check out some of the quick guide.

Respect knuckles to Jeff for the tip.

We first learned about the Motorola Defy from a leaked Tmobile roadmap that popped up back in July. The Defy was (officially) announced by Moto last month as a device that’s made to “withstand all that life throws your way”. Well, we’ve finally got a launch date and pricing for you, and not a moment too soon! T-Mobile tweeted this today, announcing that the Defy will be launching on November 3rd, with a $99.99 price tag. So, if you’re looking to pick up this ruggedized device, hit up your local Tmobile store (or Tmobile.com) next month to grab one. And to be honest, a tough Android phone with 2.1 at $100 is a steal.

Just for reference, the Defy has a 3.7-inch, 480×854 resolution touch screen, MotoBlur™, an 800MHz processor, Kindle for Android and Blockbuster preloaded, a 1540 mAh battery, and of course, an autofocus 5MP camera with an LED flash. Not too shabby, huh?

Is that black Samsung Fascinate just not cutting it for you? No fear, Best Buy is here. The electronics super-store will release a white version of the device on October 24th. As you all may know, the Samsung Fascinate has received some criticism due to the fact that the device uses Bing services, like Search and Maps, instead of Google. The Fascinate is just one of a few devices to receive the special-edition white version, just like the HTC EVO and Droid Incredible before it. Also available in the same color, and the same date, the Sony Ericsson Xperia 10.

Is anyone going to pick one up, now that Best Buy has it in white? Anyone trading in their black Fascinate for a white one?

Source: DroidLife

Sony is currently in the midst of a Google TV keynote in New York , but the hardware maker began making developer-friendly moves earlier today.  The company has opened up their registration page for developing apps on their Bravia GT1, dedicated set-top boxes, and/or other television models.  We’re waiting for the event to unfold to be certain, but look for the GT1 to range from 24-46 inches.  If you’re considering developing apps for Google TV, this would be a great place to start!

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