UPDATE: The Android Team’s Dan Morrill has posted an explanation for the removal of the Galaxy Nexus and other CDMA devices from the official developer support page. This has nothing to do with Google Wallet (we never thought it did) and everything to do with the way the Android code is compiled for CDMA devices. In short, if a dev were to simply compile the pure AOSP source code for the Verizon Galaxy Nexus the build would be lacking in full telephony functionality. Google still plans to support the devices directly via software updates.

A quick visit to the Android developer support page reveals some startling news. It appears as if Google is dropping the “developer device” tag of once-listed CDMA models. The Samsung Nexus S 4G, Verizon’s Motorola XOOM, and even the LTE Galaxy Nexus have disappeared from the site, leaving us with a note explaining exactly which versions of these devices will be supported moving forward. For the XOOM, only the “wingray” WiFi-only version of the slate gets developer designation. The GSM “crespo” version of the Nexus S also retains support. For the Galaxy Nexus, the GSM/HSPA+ “maguro” build is supported, but only if it originally shipped with the “yakju” build of Android 4.0.

We can speculate as to exactly why Google has decided against the inclusion of CDMA developer devices, but the fact that Sprint’s Nexus S 4G didn’t make the cut should silence those ready to blame Verizon and Google’s past disagreements about Google Wallet. In reality, Google is likely looking to simply streamline support and GSM tends to be the more global-ready network technology. CDMA devices function on a very limited portion of the globe’s cellular networks (despite Verizon and Sprint, two of the world’s largest carriers, both utilizing CDMA).

Does the removal of these devices from the developer support page mean they won’t be treated to the quick Android software version updates typically associated with the Nexus line? We get the feeling OS updates will still reach these devices just as quickly, if only due to their stock user interfaces. It’s hard to imagine Google neglecting any member of their Nexus family, lest they want to send mixed signals. And we’re not looking to have our hearts toyed with like that.

[via DroidLife]

Android Phone Fans

The Nexus site has been updated to add a sign-up page for Sprint’s version of the Galaxy Nexus. Sprint confirmed the existence of their LTE-carrying Galaxy Nexus during CES time but didn’t give much as far as a release date goes. We are inching ever closer, however, as sign-up pages usually mean that a launch is right around the corner.

It’s hard to pinpoint what Sprint will do in this instance, though, considering the uniqueness of this launch compared to other phones of theirs. The uniqueness comes with their LTE radio, technology that users wouldn’t be able to take advantage of until Sprint begins rolling out their 4G LTE network in the middle of this year.

They could very well wait for their network to go live before releasing the device. It remains to be seen if they’d be willing to sell a 4G phone before the network is ready but I don’t see why they couldn’t. It’s all speculation, anyway, so we’ll just wait and see what happens. Sign up for more info here. [via Engadget]

Android Phone Fans

If our Happy Holidroid contest didn’t fare too well for you and you were still looking for a shot to win a free Galaxy Nexus, you may wanna listen up. Starting tomorrow (10AM ET), for the next 4 days, Verizon Wireless will be throwing a Twitter contest giving away a free Galaxy Nexus each day.

If you want to get a head start — first, make sure you are following @VerizonWireless on Twitter — and for the next 4 days, the rest of the contest rules can be found below.

For the rest of the eligibility requirements, I’ve gone ahead and provided those for you below. Best of luck, everyone!

Eligibility: Open to legal residents of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia, 18 years of age and older as of January 24, 2012, who follow @VerizonWireless on Twitter as of date of entry.

a. Users must use the hashtag #GalaxyNexus4X4 to enter the Giveaway.

b. Limit 10 entries per Twitter Account per Entry Period.

c. Subject to Twitter character limitations of 140 characters per tweet.

Entries must be in English. For any photos submitted, you, as entrant must be the only person depicted in photo. Any Tweet or portion thereof that, in the Sponsor’s sole discretion, is obscene, profane, lewd or defamatory; contains any third party materials, or otherwise displays, violates or infringes (or may infringe) any copyright, trademark, logo, mark that identifies a brand (other than Sponsor) or other proprietary right of any person living or deceased (including but not limited to rights of privacy or publicity or portrayal in a false light) or entity; includes anti-social, political or religious groups, a commercial solicitation or address, phone number, or URL address; is otherwise objectionable; or does not meet the Tweet requirements outlined in these Official Rules will not be considered and may disqualify the Tweet. If you do not have a Twitter account, you may create one, by visiting www.Twitter.com. Creation of multiple Twitter accounts in order to enter the Giveaway will result in disqualification. In the event of a dispute as to any entry, the authorized account holder of the email address used to set up the Twitter account will be deemed to be the entrant. Potential winner may be required to show proof of being the authorized account holder of the email address/Twitter account associated with the entry. Entrants and winners acknowledge and agree that their Tweets become the property of the Sponsor, which thereby has the right to edit, adapt, modify, reproduce, promote and otherwise use Tweets/entries in any way it sees fit. Normal Internet access and usage charges imposed by your Internet service provider may apply. Entries must be received by 11:59:59 pm ET each day during the Giveaway Period based upon the time Twitter displays as the time at which it received each Tweet on each day to be included in that corresponding Entry Period’s drawing. Any user who, in Sponsor’s sole discretion, posts profanity, pornography or other objectionable content on Twitter may be removed by Sponsor from being an @VerizonWireless follower and from participating in the Giveaway.

Random Drawings: Daily Prize Winners will be selected in each of four (4) separate random drawings, one for each Entry Period, from among all eligible entries received during each daily Entry Period. Entries will not be carried forward for any subsequent drawings. Drawings will take place on or about January 31, 2012. Odds of winning will depend upon the total number of eligible entries received during each Entry Period. Drawings will be conducted by Don Jagoda Associates, Inc. an independent judging organization whose decisions will be final on all matters relating to this Giveaway.

Android Phone Fans

To add insult to injury, after a German court ruled against Samsung’s claims of patent infringement on the part of Apple, the Cupertino-based company has decided to drag the Galaxy Nexus into court. Apple is alleging that the use of a slide-to-unlock feature in the Android 4.0 flagship device infringes upon their intellectual property. While Samsung is the name filed on the court documents, it is clear that the attack also targets Google, as the handset was developed as part of a close partnership between the two companies. There is also the fact that the Galaxy Nexus serves as Google’s reference design for their latest version of Android, Ice Cream Sandwich. Slide-to-unlock is entirely on the software side — the element of the Galaxy Nexus most closely controlled by Google.

Though the Galaxy Nexus does use a slide-to-unlock feature by default to progress from the handset’s lock screen, the method deployed by Google and Samsung does differ from Apple’s implementation. We’re not sure how a court will see it, but the ability to slide in multiple directions and launch various tasks directly from the home screen shows how fundamentally different the unlock methods of Google and Apple are. It will be interesting to see which way the court leans, but if Apple wins this one we may all have to get used to unlocking our phones with a quick scan of our smiling faces.

[via AllThingsD]

Android Phone Fans

The white Galaxy Nexus was announced for release in just a few weeks, but other than a few renders we weren’t treated to a good look at the all-vanilla vanilla Android 4.0 phone. HDBlog.it got their hands on one and snapped off a few photos for our viewing pleasure. Looking pretty nice with the white back, we must say. For now the phone is only slated for the UK, but we’re sure other locations will see it soon enough.

[via HDBlog.it]

Android Phone Fans

Telus is finally ready to be part of the Galaxy Nexus hype train as they are ready to bring the Galaxy Nexus to store shelves on January 13th. That’s tomorrow if you aren’t  keeping up. Prices start at $ 160 (three-year contract) with a huge leap (about $ 400-450) depending on contract length. We’re always glad to hear another set of customers will be able to enjoy the sweet goodness that is the Galaxy Nexus and Ice Cream Sandwich. [Telus via Android Central]

Android Phone Fans

The Galaxy Nexus has direct-to-camera screen unlock and zero shutter delay. The Sony Xperia Ion (and the Xperia S, too) has “fast capture” which let’s you hold down the camera button while the phone is sleeping, instantly enabling the camera and automatically capturing. But which has the quicker camera? We put them head-to-head to find out:

As you can see, the Xperia Ion is the clear winner. Both phones are incredibly quick compared to the competition and 5-seconds or so could mean the difference between capturing a great picture or having it destined for your distant memory. The zero shutter delay is a feature of Android 4.0, so I’m hoping the Xperia Ion will get an update and add this asset to its arsenal. But even without Android 4.0, the Xperia Ion’s 12MP camera has a dangerous combination of power and speed.

I love when companies think of, design, and implement features that have a real and immediate impact on the consumer’s enjoyment and usability of a phone. We spoke with the Product Manager who had a leading hand in the user experience, user interface, and development who said the concept of “dynamic simplicty” was at the heart of Sony’s vision for the Xperia Ion and Xperia S. It seems to be working out very well.

I’m extremely excited about Sony’s acquisition of Sony Ericsson and the Ion and S illustrate why: direct incorporation of top-of-the-line cameras could catapult Sony above several others in the Android crowd. The 12MP camera seen on these new Xperia devices is more than we’ve seen on any American Android to hit the market and while megapixels don’t tell the full story, we know Sony will be bringing their A-game when it comes to sensors and camera quality across the board.

While I’m on the topic, I’ve been wanting an Android Phone with Optical Zoom for a LONG time, and I’m thinking/hoping that Sony could be the manufacturer to make that dream come true. Digital cameras and mobile phones have been converging towards one device for several years, but for the most part, phone cameras haven’t been powerful enough to replace the point-and-shoot. For me, optical zoom is one element preventing that, but Sony looks to have a good start on everything else.

Android Phone Fans

UK retailer Clove has posted a few more “official” press shots of the white version of the Galaxy Nexus hitting overseas in February. You’ll notice unlike the white G-Nex which was previously posted, showing an all white face plate (similar to the white Epic 4G Touch hitting Sprint in a few days), the updated images actually show an all black front of the device now with side moldings and battery cover receiving the new white paint job. Have to say, I’m kinda feeling this new version a little better but beauty is in the eye of the beholder. What do you guys think?

[Clove]

Android Phone Fans

Sometimes an almost-square frame just isn’t enough. Google has released a new ad for the Galaxy Nexus highlighting its ability to take panoramic photos with its camera. No more having to move back until everything fits in the frame – just pan across the vast landscapes or whatever you’re shooting a photo of and you’ll get to take it all in. Check out the quick 30 second spot above. [via]

Android Phone Fans

Someone at CNET will be in a wee bit of trouble soon, it seems. An ad popped up on their site showing off the Galaxy Nexus, “the first 4G LTE phone from Sprint.” And there goes the beans.

Not only do we know they’re bound to get it, we know that it’ll be the first phone available for an LTE network that will be up in four initial cities sometime in the middle of this year. It will also have a 1.5GHz dual-core chip – I wonder what that’s all about.

Sprint has a big showing at CES this year and they were so close to keeping the lid on whatever announcement they were going to make. They still are, really. But there’s a high possibility that this could be the reason Sprint’s setting up in a big way in Las Vegas next Monday.

The fact that CNET has advertising campaign materials ready does lead us to believe that any announcement will be made sooner rather than later but that’s all just speculation. As for you AT&T and T-Mobile users, we’re sure something will come along in due time. Hang in there, k? [via Engadget]

Android Phone Fans