Download Squad http://downloadsquad.switched.com Download Squad http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/media/feedlogo.gif Download Squad http://downloadsquad.switched.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Ultrasn0w 1.2.1 carrier unlock now available for jailbroken iPhones running iOS 4.3.1]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/ultrasn0w-1-2-1-carrier-unlock-now-available-for-jailbroken-ipho/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/ultrasn0w-1-2-1-carrier-unlock-now-available-for-jailbroken-ipho/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/ultrasn0w-1-2-1-carrier-unlock-now-available-for-jailbroken-ipho/#commentsultrasn0w 1.2.1Anyone who relies on a carrier unlock to use their iPhone on another GSM carrier, can now take the iOS 4.3.1 plunge thanks to ultrasn0w 1.2.1. The iPhone Dev-Team have worked their magic to make ultrasn0w functional once again for the iPhone 4 (GSM), 3GS and 3G, and to correct a signal bar issue for anyone maintaining an older baseband but not using an unlock.

It's important to note that this isn't a new carrier unlock, and still requires an older baseband. Therefore if you're intending to upgrade to iOS 4.3.1 make sure you use something like Pwnage Tool to maintain your existing baseband, and do not just upgrade using iTunes in the hope of using redsn0w to jailbreak, as that will result in ultrasn0w being locked out.

Once you've jailbroken your iPhone using Pwnage Tool, fire up Cydia and search for ultrasn0w to get your carrier unlock installed, then just reboot your phone. Voila! Carrier unlocked.

Download SquadUltrasn0w 1.2.1 carrier unlock now available for jailbroken iPhones running iOS 4.3.1 originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appscarrier unlockCarrierUnlockcellphonesiOSiPhoneiPhone dev teamIphoneDevTeamultrasn0wutilitiesMon, 11 Apr 2011 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CyanogenMod 7.0 now stable, released for over 30 Android devices]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/cyanogenmod-7-stable-released-for-over-30-android-devices/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/cyanogenmod-7-stable-released-for-over-30-android-devices/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/cyanogenmod-7-stable-released-for-over-30-android-devices/#comments It's official, folks! CyanogenMod 7 is now deemed stable enough to be called, well, stable. The ROM is available now for your flashing pleasure on over 30 devices -- including some tablets. Don't worry, it doesn't disappoint; I've been using it through the development process for months and it's well worth the wait.

If you haven't been following the updates on its progress, here's a quick recap: It's based on Android 2.3.3 Gingerbread, it's got built-in root access with all the command-line goodies, Apps2SD capability (built-in), Incognito Mode for the Android Browser, built-in CPU frequency adjustment and scaling (including overclock and choice of governor), loads of UI improvements and interface tweaks, OpenVPN and SIP calling settings, USB/WiFi/Bluetooth tethering, FLAC support, an FM Radio player, and loads of other features and enhancements.

It's even got a one-click UI theme-switcher that T-Mobile helped develop (open-source, no less).

Even if you aren't into flashing custom ROMs on your expensive new smartphone, you have to admit that this release is a pretty great thing... After all, it means a fully-functional version of Android 2.3.3 is now running, with loads of bells and whistles, on about 30 devices whose manufacturers and carriers are simply too lazy to update.

Alright, enough jabbering. You can learn more about the ROM at CyanogenMod.com, or jump straight to the download mirror if you already know what you're doing!

Download SquadCyanogenMod 7.0 now stable, released for over 30 Android devices originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidcellphonescustom ROMCustomRomcyanogenmodgingerbreadmobileopen-sourcetabletsMon, 11 Apr 2011 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Hotpot finally (and fully) merged into Places]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/google-hotpot-finally-and-fully-merged-into-places/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/google-hotpot-finally-and-fully-merged-into-places/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/google-hotpot-finally-and-fully-merged-into-places/#comments It's taken months of confused looks, but Google's finally seen the light. Hotpot, which has been a universally scorned moniker for a service that just about everyone called Places, is now simply lumped in with Places.

The actual differences between Hotpot and Places were nearly non-existent, especially when dealing with the mobile aspect (which was even worse, since finding and rating restaurants and other venues is typically done on a smartphone, not a desktop). When it came down to it, Hotpot was basically just the rating/reviewing system for Places -- so while it probably started off as a separate project, it was destined to be gobbled up by the bigger app from the get go.

So, now that the hideous name is over and done with, Places can go on to gain popularity alongside its older sibling, Latitude -- and we can definitely expect both of them to get a major boost now that check-in deals have been brought into the mix.

Download SquadGoogle Hotpot finally (and fully) merged into Places originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 19:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cellphonesgooglehyperlocallocalmobileratingrestaurantssocialvenuesFri, 08 Apr 2011 19:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Maps for Android updated to bring Latitude home, keywords to Hotpot ratings]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/05/google-maps-for-android-updated-to-bring-latitude-home-keywords/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/05/google-maps-for-android-updated-to-bring-latitude-home-keywords/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/05/google-maps-for-android-updated-to-bring-latitude-home-keywords/#commentsGoogle Maps for Android Barely one month after an update that brought Latitude and Hotpot closer than ever, Google's updated Maps for Android again to further sweeten the deal.

This time around, Latitude seems to have gotten the most attention, but Places a.k.a. Hotpot hasn't been left entirely out of the mix. For Latitude, Google's added a feature for setting a "home" location, as well as the ability to check into it. For the folks who chose to enable it, they can now view their Location History dashboard straight from the app.

As for Places/Hotpot, you can now add keywords of your own choosing for places when you rate them, like food, music or entertainment. Google calls these "aspects," but hey, it's a search company, and these things are bound to count for something (so let's call them what they are). Sarcasm aside, adding little descriptive keywords for places makes perfect sense, and may actually end up being the most useful thing to come out of this update -- if only more people used Places. I mean Hotpot.

The only potentially bad thing here is that the option to check in at home is a public act. Very public, in fact. When you go to add a "home" location in Latitude, you're warned right up front that the address is going to be visible to anybody who can see your check-ins (so buyer beware). You do have to love Google for at least including the warning, though.

The update's live now and available in the Android Market.

Download SquadGoogle Maps for Android updated to bring Latitude home, keywords to Hotpot ratings originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 03:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappscellphonescheck-ingooglemapsmobilesearchutilitiesTue, 05 Apr 2011 03:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Shush! for Android quiets your phone for as long as you need silence]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/18/shush-for-android-quiets-your-phone-for-as-long-as-you-need-sil/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/18/shush-for-android-quiets-your-phone-for-as-long-as-you-need-sil/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/18/shush-for-android-quiets-your-phone-for-as-long-as-you-need-sil/#comments Shush! for Android is an extremely tiny app that's making a lot of waves for doing one thing, and doing it well.

Just as its name implies, it quickly silences your phone -- but it's the fact that it turns the ringer back on for you that makes this app so special. That, along with a sleek and simple interface and a price tag of "free" have caused over 100,000 people to download it in the short time that it's been available.

Along with silencing the ringer, Shush! can also set the volume upon its return, which I honestly didn't expect since that's the sort of thing that developers tend to leave out, especially in a free app. System-wise, the app itself is so small and light at 28 KB that it won't have to hog valuable space in either your phone's storage or active memory, which is definitely more than can be said for the dozens of other ringer-toggling widgets floating around out there.

As for its effectiveness, well let's just say that it's actually somewhat entertaining to read through user reviews. Several people were thrilled that it allowed them to go see a movie or go to class without forgetting to turn their ringer back on for a day and a half afterwards, while one guy went as far as to say that it "saved his marriage." So if you're the type who constantly forgets to switch the ringer back on, this app may be what you're looking for.

You can download Shush! now at the Android Market.

Download SquadShush! for Android quiets your phone for as long as you need silence originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 18 Mar 2011 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappscellphonesmobileproductivityring tonesRingTonessilencesilentutilitiesFri, 18 Mar 2011 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Kongregate Arcade for Android gets a new UI, Honeycomb tablet compatibility]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/16/kongregate-arcade-for-android-gets-a-new-ui-honeycomb-tablet-co/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/16/kongregate-arcade-for-android-gets-a-new-ui-honeycomb-tablet-co/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/16/kongregate-arcade-for-android-gets-a-new-ui-honeycomb-tablet-co/#comments Kongregate Arcade, the one-stop shop for Flash games on Android, has been updated with a new welcome screen and Android 3.0 Honeycomb compatibility.

Every screen in the updated app supports landscape-mode, the welcome screen sports a "hot new games" carousel and huge buttons that allow quick access to just about every part of the Arcade, and users can now earn badges in games without signing in (and save them once they do sign in). Other changes in the update include bug fixes, performance increases, and notifications for new badges or games.

A cleaner look and easier access to sections of a somewhat sprawling app are nice, but the biggest news here is Honeycomb compatibility. Android tablets are quickly rising in popularity, but most apps have been slow to update for the new UI guidelines. With the impending release of a Honeycomb-compatible Flash player, Kongregate Arcade is about to become one hot item for Android-loving, slate-happy early adopters.

You can update or download Kongregate Arcade right now at the Android Market.

Download SquadKongregate Arcade for Android gets a new UI, Honeycomb tablet compatibility originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 16 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adobe flashAdobeFlashandroidappscellphonesflashgamesgaminghoneycombkongregatemobiletabletWed, 16 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Facebook for Android update improves images, security (in theory)]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/16/facebook-app-android-update-improves-images-security-in-theory/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/16/facebook-app-android-update-improves-images-security-in-theory/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/16/facebook-app-android-update-improves-images-security-in-theory/#comments Facebook updated its official app for Android devices last night, bringing significant image-posting improvements, bug fixes, and a promise of "improved security using SSL."

Changes for the app's handling of images include users now being able to upload photos to their friends' walls and also to groups. Photos are now supposed to always maintain their correct orientation when uploaded, but that won't help the people who are notorious for knocked-over portraits (we all know one).

As for the bolstered usage of SSL, it wouldn't normally be a big deal. You may, nowever, remember recent rumblings about the app sending huge amounts of data in the clear. That news caused plenty of users to be more than slightly perturbed -- and rightly so, given the importance of a secure connection in the world of social networking. It's good to see the devs at Facebook working to correct this problem, but nothing's really final until the updated app has been run over a packet-sniffed network.

Now the bad news. Within an hour of the update's release, over 10 pages of shriekingly bad reviews were posted, reporting that images (which were supposed to be a plus) weren't showing up at all, and that the app was crashing almost immediately upon opening it. Several reviewers noted that they were using older versions of Android, so it could simply be an issue of OS fragmentation since it works for me on Gingerbread (2.3.3).

So, as usual, buyer beware, and if you're not scared off by the reviews then you can grab the update at the Android Market.

Download SquadFacebook for Android update improves images, security (in theory) originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 16 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappscellphonesfacebookmobilephotographysecuritysocial networkingSocialNetworkingsslWed, 16 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Maps for Android updated, Latitude and Hotpot now cozier than ever]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/03/google-maps-for-android-updated-latitude-and-hotpot-now-cozier/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/03/google-maps-for-android-updated-latitude-and-hotpot-now-cozier/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/03/google-maps-for-android-updated-latitude-and-hotpot-now-cozier/#comments Google Maps for Android got a small but worthwhile update today, which seems to be part of an effort to socialize Latitude while tying it in closer to Hotpot.

Hotpot, which most people just call "Places" at this point since it's never referenced by name in the app itself, now allows users to post their reviews of establishments to Twitter. It's also now meshed in with Latitude much more tightly than ever before, since users checking in at places with Latitude can now "earn status" by doing so. No further information is given up front, so it's probably going to take a while to find out what kind of "status" is given for high check-in numbers.

You can now also invite Latitude friends to check in at Hotpot locales by sending them a request directly from the app. In other words, if you don't feel like actually texting or calling somebody to ask them to meet you at Starbucks, you can just check in there with Latitude and have the app start nagging them for you. As silly as it sounds, I'll admit that this is something I'd probably do.

Last but not least, in an effort to make Latitude more usable users can now search for places to check into when the location they happen to be at inevitably fails to show up on the check-in list.

It's a small update with no visual bells or whistles, but every step forward in Google's quest to make both Hotpot and Latitude viable social tools is a step in the right direction. The update is live now, so be sure to grab it at the Android Market.

Download SquadGoogle Maps for Android updated, Latitude and Hotpot now cozier than ever originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 03 Mar 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappscellphonesgooglegoogle mapsgoogle placesGoogleMapsGooglePlaceshotpotlatitudemobileplacessearchsocial networkingSocialNetworkingutilitiesThu, 03 Mar 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Android 2.3.3 hits latest CyanogenMod 7 builds, expands NFC capabilities]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/02/android-2-3-3-hits-latest-cyanogenmod-7-builds-expands-nfc-capa/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/02/android-2-3-3-hits-latest-cyanogenmod-7-builds-expands-nfc-capa/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/02/android-2-3-3-hits-latest-cyanogenmod-7-builds-expands-nfc-capa/#comments As if getting Android 2.3 Gingerbread out to the public months (or years) ahead of carriers and manufacturers wasn't enough, the CyanogenMod team just upped the ante. The latest nightly builds of CyanogenMod 7 now come packing Android 2.3.3 heat, less than a month after Google announced the update itself.

At this point, most users wouldn't notice the difference between Android 2.3.3 and earlier iterations of Gingerbread as it's primarily meant to expand near field communication (NFC) capabilities. Those lucky few who do own an NFC-toting device, however, can rest assured in the knowledge that there is a full-featured custom ROM out there that can take advantage of it.

New NFC tech wasn't the only thing that got upgraded in 2.3.3, though. Bluetooth also got some added functionality, allowing capable devices to use it in more ways than was previously possible due to the addition of nonsecure socket connections.

As always, you can see how well CyanogenMod 7 plays with your specific device by checking out the XDA Developers forums. We should also note that flashing custom ROMs on your expensive handheld device is risky business, so buyer beware!

If you're sure you know what you're doing, head on over to the nightly build repository and grab a copy.

Download SquadAndroid 2.3.3 hits latest CyanogenMod 7 builds, expands NFC capabilities originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 02 Mar 2011 13:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.3.3Android2.3.3bluetoothcellphonescustom ROMCustomRomcyanogenmodgingerbreadgooglemobilenear field communicationNearFieldCommunicationNFCWed, 02 Mar 2011 13:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Fix Google Voice broken after Nexus One Android 2.3.3 update]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/01/fix-google-voice-broken-after-nexus-one-android-2-3-3-update/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/01/fix-google-voice-broken-after-nexus-one-android-2-3-3-update/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/01/fix-google-voice-broken-after-nexus-one-android-2-3-3-update/#comments Google Voice Broken Reports are coming in that the latest Android update for the Nexus One is breaking Google Voice for some users. The over-the-air update brings the Nexus One in line with the Nexus S with Android 2.3.3, and is currently rolling out to users across the globe.

If you happen to be affected by Google Voice disruption after the update, there's a hacky, but swift way to get things working again. You have to download and install an old version of the Google Voice application onto your Nexus One, and then update to the latest version via the Android Market. That should solve your problem.

Head on over to the Google Support for the files and more information.

Download SquadFix Google Voice broken after Nexus One Android 2.3.3 update originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 01 Mar 2011 04:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AndroidappscellphonesGoogleGoogle VoiceGoogleVoiceNexus OneNexusOneproductivitytroubleshootingutilitiesTue, 01 Mar 2011 04:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Android 3.0 Honeycomb SDK now available for all]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/23/android-3-0-honeycomb-sdk-now-available-for-all/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/23/android-3-0-honeycomb-sdk-now-available-for-all/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/23/android-3-0-honeycomb-sdk-now-available-for-all/#comments Right now's a pretty exciting time for Android users, but even more so for tablet-lovers. Google's finally released Android 3.0 Honeycomb's SDK, which means that not only will we soon see a whole new round of slab-centric apps make their way to the Android Market, but also that the toolset used by Android developers and enthusiasts alike has been updated with a few goodies and improvements as well.

Basically, the SDK has all the nifty new tidbits needed to make apps fit into Honeycomb's sexy new UI, and to take full advantage of the ridiculously-overpowered devices that it targets. It's now just a matter of time before existing smartphone apps get the Honeycomb treatment from their loving devs, too.

Then there's this; the API level has now been bumped to 11. If that doesn't mean anything to you, just know that Gingerbread began as Android 2.3 with an API level of 9, spent a few weeks becoming Android 2.3.3, then somehow earned the API level of 10. What does that mean for future phone-sized Android version numbers? Schmidt only knows, but I hope they find a way to bring some of that Honeycomb UI fluidity to the smaller, handheld devices. That stuff is hot.

Download SquadAndroid 3.0 Honeycomb SDK now available for all originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 23 Feb 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 3.0Android3.0cellphonesdevdevelopergingerbreadgooglehoneycombmobilesdkuiWed, 23 Feb 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BlackBerry Messenger 6.0 leaked and available now for devices running BB OS 6]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/21/blackberry-messenger-6-0-leaked-and-available-now-for-devices-ru/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/21/blackberry-messenger-6-0-leaked-and-available-now-for-devices-ru/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/21/blackberry-messenger-6-0-leaked-and-available-now-for-devices-ru/#commentsBlackBerry Messenger 6BlackBerry Messenger 6.0 has been leaked and is now available for download. If you simply can't wait for BlackBerry Messenger 6 and you're running a BlackBerry OS 6 device, then you don't have to. Simply delete your current installation of BlackBerry Messenger, download BBM 6.0 from here, and install. There is one small caveat however, and that's the need for a BlackBerry Beta Zone BBM key, which seems to be required on some devices.

BBM 6.0 brings with it integration with Twitter among other social networks, plus the ability to chat with contacts while playing a game, and enhanced file sharing.

While this leak appears to have come from RIM, you're on your own if something goes wrong. So best make sure you have a solid backup before trying anything. Head on over to the BBH-Plus forums for more information.

Download SquadBlackBerry Messenger 6.0 leaked and available now for devices running BB OS 6 originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 21 Feb 2011 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsBBMBBM 6.0Bbm6.0BlackBerryBlackBerry MessengerBlackBerry Messenger 6.0BlackberryMessengerBlackberryMessenger6.0CellphonesleakproductivityRIMMon, 21 Feb 2011 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[IMDb Android app update brings major redesign, trailers, global showtimes, and more]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/18/imdb-android-app-update-brings-major-redesign-trailers-global/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/18/imdb-android-app-update-brings-major-redesign-trailers-global/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/18/imdb-android-app-update-brings-major-redesign-trailers-global/#commentsIMDb Android app The official IMDb app for Android just got a big update, and it does not disappoint. Along with a complete design-overhaul, the app has been stuffed full of IMDb goodness to the point that it's now more enjoyable to use than the actual website itself.

The redesign is very sleek. They've basically taken the original palette and layout, expanded it all, and turned up the sexy. As nice as it looks though, the biggest thing I noticed was that everything about the app is blazingly fast. It's so fast that it's a bit off-putting, because using IMDb.com has always felt to me like an exercise in extreme patience.

Movie trailers now take center stage, literally, which makes sense since they're one of the big reasons that people like going to IMDb in the first place. The fully revamped app makes trailers, and other media, a priority now with the very first screen you see a springboard for viewing trailers of upcoming and top new movies. The trailers themselves play better than I had anticipated, and like the rest of the app, they load quickly.

Between the design and the new features, including international movie showtimes, the app is extremely functional. I was able to sprint through several movies, TV shows, actors, and news stories in seconds -- which is far more than I can say for trying to load the website in a mobile browser.

Gallery: IMDb for Android - Updated February 2011

Main Screen/MoviesTVCelebritiesShowtimesShowtimes/Location Settings

Continue reading IMDb Android app update brings major redesign, trailers, global showtimes, and more

Download SquadIMDb Android app update brings major redesign, trailers, global showtimes, and more originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 18 Feb 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AmazonAndroidAppsCelebritiesCellphonesHandsonImdbMobileMoviesNewsReviewsTvFri, 18 Feb 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Reader for Android updated to include widgets, more syncing]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/16/google-reader-android-update-widgets-sync-feeds/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/16/google-reader-android-update-widgets-sync-feeds/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/16/google-reader-android-update-widgets-sync-feeds/#commentsIt's now been a couple of months since Google Reader hit Android, which didn't quite live up to expectations. Luckily, developers at Google seem to have been listening to the innumerable complaints, and the app received its first big update today, bringing with it a choice of widgets, more syncing, and more overall functionality.

The widgets are probably the first thing that users may be interested in, and they're not disappointing. There are two options available; one is a small, single-icon widget that simply displays the unread count for a particular feed or folder, and the other is a larger widget that acts as a news ticker for any feed or folder. Using multiples of either widget can make for an extremely informative homescreen, to be sure.

Looks-wise, it's still the same minimalist Reader, but it's now much more useful than it used to be. Hitting up the app settings is sure to put a smile on your face, because along with choosing to always use HTTPS, you can have the app synchronize your most-read feeds on an hourly basis for offline viewing, and you can also opt to have the app make use of multimedia plug-ins like Flash.

Gallery: Google Reader for Android - February 2011 Update

Continue reading Google Reader for Android updated to include widgets, more syncing

Download SquadGoogle Reader for Android updated to include widgets, more syncing originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 16 Feb 2011 18:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappscellphonesfeed readerFeedReadergooglehome screenHomeScreenmobileproductivitywidgetsWed, 16 Feb 2011 18:35:00 EST<![CDATA[VMware put an Android in your Android, so you can VM while you VM]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/15/android-dalvik-vmware-virtualization/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/15/android-dalvik-vmware-virtualization/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/15/android-dalvik-vmware-virtualization/#comments So apparently VMware heard you like virtualization (or at least, that corporations do), so it made an Android virtual machine that can run inside Android's own Dalvik VM. The idea being, of course, that busy corporate types could play all night on their nifty new Android superphones, but still be able to dive into a minimalist, business-first environment with one tap when it's time to go to work. Judging from the video that our cohorts at Engadget posted earlier today, the whole thing seems to be pretty awesome, even if it is only working on an LG phone for the time being.

Continue reading VMware put an Android in your Android, so you can VM while you VM

Download SquadVMware put an Android in your Android, so you can VM while you VM originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappscellphonesmobileproductivitysecurityutilitiesvirtual machineVirtualMachinevmvmwareTue, 15 Feb 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft shows off Windows Phone 7 Kinect integration at MWC]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/15/microsoft-shows-off-windows-phone-7-kinect-integration-at-mwc/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/15/microsoft-shows-off-windows-phone-7-kinect-integration-at-mwc/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/15/microsoft-shows-off-windows-phone-7-kinect-integration-at-mwc/#commentsWindows Phone 7 Kinect integration Windows Phone 7 is set to combine with Kinect for some novel control elements for Xbox gaming. Microsoft has been pushing greater and greater device integration ever since the success of the Xbox platform. Windows Phone 7 has already been bestowed with Xbox Live integration, but now it seems as if Microsoft is trying to leverage its two newest technologies to bring together some intriguing gaming possibilities.

Microsoft executive Joe Belfiore, who heads Windows Phone Program Management, unveiled a technical demonstration of WP7 Kinect integration at MWC. The video (included after the break) showed off a WP7 device being used to control some elements of the gaming action. While the video is showing real code and something Microsoft is genuinely working on in the lab, don't get your hopes up for an imminent release; according to Cnet, it's not something that's going to be delivered within 2011.

An exciting prospect indeed, and while what we saw in the video isn't coming to a WP7 device near you any time soon, that doesn't mean we won't see more device and service hook-ups coming out of Redmond in the near future.

Continue reading Microsoft shows off Windows Phone 7 Kinect integration at MWC

Download SquadMicrosoft shows off Windows Phone 7 Kinect integration at MWC originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cellphonesgamingKinectMicrosoftWindows Phone 7WindowsPhone7WP7XboxTue, 15 Feb 2011 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[FPse PlayStation emulator debuts on the Android Market]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/14/fpse-playstation-emulator-debuts-on-the-android-market/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/14/fpse-playstation-emulator-debuts-on-the-android-market/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/14/fpse-playstation-emulator-debuts-on-the-android-market/#commentsAndroid FPseWhile we wait for the official Sony-created PlayStation emulator to hit the Android platform, one of the best mobile PlayStation emulators, FPSeCe, has made the jump from Windows Mobile to Android.

Available for just under $5, and having dropped the CE (for Windows CE), FPse brings another PSOne emulation option to your Android smartphone. It's able to take ISO backups from your PSOne discs, something Sony's own PlayStation app for Android is very unlikely to let you do, and supports Android 2.2 and up.

So if you've been dying to get in on some Tony Hawk Pro Skater-action on the move, but haven't found other options to your liking, then check out FPse in the Android Market. Just make sure to have a look at the compatibility list before plunking down your hard-earned cash, just in case your favorite game isn't supported yet.

Download SquadFPse PlayStation emulator debuts on the Android Market originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappscellphonesemulationFPsePlayStationPSOneMon, 14 Feb 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 5 free BlackBerry Messenger-style cross-platform chat apps]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/14/top-5-free-blackberry-messenger-style-chat-apps/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/14/top-5-free-blackberry-messenger-style-chat-apps/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/14/top-5-free-blackberry-messenger-style-chat-apps/#comments Ever since early in the evolution of the BlackBerry, RIM's BlackBerry Messenger has been the envy of all other smartphone users. By creating an always-on Instant Messaging platform that linked phones to phones, RIM managed to provide a service that not only replaced the need for text and multimedia messaging, but also didn't interfere with any desktop IM protocol that you might use. OK, some desktop IM services like Gtalk let you take the 'focus' from your desktop when you log-on using your smartphone, having all messages directed there; but it's not the same as having a dedicated always-on, always-mobile IM service.

Up until recently, BBM was about the only application to provide this kind of phone-to-phone messaging service over data, but with the dawn of the App Stores, a whole host of BBM-clones have sprung up. Today we're going to be taking a look at five of the best free and, for the most part, cross-platform solutions. It's important to note that none of these apps will connect you with the BBM service, nor are they capable of connecting to any other messaging service than their own.

Continue reading Top 5 free BlackBerry Messenger-style cross-platform chat apps

Download SquadTop 5 free BlackBerry Messenger-style cross-platform chat apps originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AndroidappsBelugaBlackBerryCellphonesChatPlusfeaturesHands-oniOSkik messengerKikMessengerLiveProfilePingChatreviewssocial networkingSocialNetworkingMon, 14 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia will be allowed to customize every part of Windows Phone 7]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/11/nokia-will-be-allowed-to-customize-every-part-of-windows-phone-7/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/11/nokia-will-be-allowed-to-customize-every-part-of-windows-phone-7/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/11/nokia-will-be-allowed-to-customize-every-part-of-windows-phone-7/#commentsIn a bit of an about-turn, Microsoft will allow Nokia to "customize everything" in Windows Phone 7 in order to both differentiate it from handsets made by current WP7 OEMs, such as HTC and Samsung, and presumably to ensure smooth integration with Nokia's existing services.

Microsoft had, until now, kept a draconian grip on the look and feel of Windows Phone 7. In fact, other than being allowed to customize a couple of tiles on the home screen, OEMs aren't allowed to change anything on WP7! This change not only means that we'll see distinctively unique Nokia-Microsoft phones, but also that Nokia will retain more of its identity than just an embossed logo on its handsets.

The big question, though, is whether this represents an exclusive deal for Nokia, or a complete shift in Microsoft's WP7 strategy. You can be sure, however, that HTC, who was forbidden from installing its Sense UI on its WP7 phones, will be quick to question Microsoft's new stance.

Download SquadNokia will be allowed to customize every part of Windows Phone 7 originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 11 Feb 2011 08:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftmobilenokianokia windows phoneNokiaWindowsPhonewindows phone 7WindowsPhone7wp7Fri, 11 Feb 2011 08:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia Windows Phone will not support Qt, Symbian developers left high and dry]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/11/nokia-windows-phone-will-not-support-qt-symbian-developers-left/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/11/nokia-windows-phone-will-not-support-qt-symbian-developers-left/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/11/nokia-windows-phone-will-not-support-qt-symbian-developers-left/#commentsFollowing news of the Nokia-Microsoft strategic partnership, Nokia has sent a letter to its beleaguered developers to say that Qt will continue to be the development framework for its Symbian phones -- but as far as Nokia Windows Phone 7 devices go, Qt will not be supported. Silverlight and the XNA framework will be the only options for Nokia WP7 developers.

In the letter, Nokia says that it plans to sell 150 million more Symbian phones -- but presumably, after that, the transition to Windows Phone will be complete and Symbian will die a quiet and ignoble death. MeeGo, the open-source smartphone OS, will still make an appearance later this year -- and yes, it will run Qt apps.

While this doesn't come as a surprise -- porting Qt to WP7 would be a massive and time consuming undertaking -- we have to wonder what this will do to the already-runty Windows Phone 7 app ecosystem. Will Symbian Qt app developers embrace the new platform and learn an entirely new set of programming skills? Or will they jump ship to a stable platform that's proven to work, like iOS or Android?

With Windows Phone 7's complete dearth of features, will Nokia developers even want to write apps for the new Nokia-Microsoft platform?

Download SquadNokia Windows Phone will not support Qt, Symbian developers left high and dry originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 11 Feb 2011 06:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cellphonecellphonesmicrosoftmobilenokianokia windows phonenokia-microsoftNokiaWindowsPhonewindows phone 7WindowsPhone7wp7Fri, 11 Feb 2011 06:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia gets Windows Phone 7, Bing, Xbox Live and Office in partnership with Microsoft]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/11/nokia-gets-windows-phone-7-bing-xbox-live-and-office-in-partne/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/11/nokia-gets-windows-phone-7-bing-xbox-live-and-office-in-partne/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/11/nokia-gets-windows-phone-7-bing-xbox-live-and-office-in-partne/#commentsMicrosoft Nokia Windows Phone 7
 It's finally happened, Nokia's just announced that it'll be partnering Microsoft in a 'Broad Strategic Partnership' to not only take on Windows Phone 7 for future smartphones, but trade existing software technologies. Nokia CEO Stephen Elop, a former Microsoft executive himself, announced that he has managed to push through a union that'll see not only Windows Phone 7 taking primary duty on Nokia's smartphones going forward, but integration of Bing services for search, maps, and ads, plus Xbox Live and Office. Nokia Maps will also be integrated into Microsoft's mapping services, while the Nokia content store will be absorbed into Microsoft Marketplace.

Is this the right move for Nokia? They make decent hardware for the most part, but in recent years their operating system of choice, Symbian, has failed to keep up with the rapid evolution of other modern smartphone platforms. It just goes to show, that more and more, it's the software that can make or break modern gadgets. Whether Windows Phone 7 will make or break Nokia, we'll have to wait to find out.

Hit the source link for the full press release or make the jump for the announcement video embedded after the break.

Continue reading Nokia gets Windows Phone 7, Bing, Xbox Live and Office in partnership with Microsoft

Download SquadNokia gets Windows Phone 7, Bing, Xbox Live and Office in partnership with Microsoft originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 11 Feb 2011 03:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BingcellphonesMicrosoftNokiaWindowsPhone7WP7Xbox LiveXboxLiveFri, 11 Feb 2011 03:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Twitter for Android hands on: Voyeur mode and a sleeker interface await you]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/10/twitter-for-android-hands-on-voyeur-mode-and-a-sleeker-interface/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/10/twitter-for-android-hands-on-voyeur-mode-and-a-sleeker-interface/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/10/twitter-for-android-hands-on-voyeur-mode-and-a-sleeker-interface/#comments Twitter's official Android app got a pretty hefty update today, which brought some added features along with a complete makeover. All in all, the update is a positive move for Twitter, since it brings the app into a more current style of design while giving Twitter Search a bit more prominence and functionality.

For one, the app now bears a striking resemblance to Twitter for Mac, which makes it one of the most visually polished apps to be found on Android today (sorry folks, I love Android too, but the apps tend to be a bit on the fugly side). Not only is it a surprisingly good look for the app, but the minimalistic style does tend to make things easier on smaller touchscreens. Tablets may be the future, but most of us use phones when it comes to tweeting on the go, after all.

Aside from the new look, the first thing you may notice is that the app's start page now puts functionality ahead of fluffy animated clouds. It's now a bit more like Twitter.com, in that users don't have to log into the service to use its search functionality (immediately dubbed "voyeur mode").

On that note, Twitter Search has also been revamped, making it much quicker to find what you're looking for on the fly. Depending on what you type, intelligent options are made available to make the search a general one, a username search, a search by proximity to your location, or to simply go directly to the profile of an @name (if what you entered is a term that matches a username).

Gallery: Twitter for Android - Updated (Feb. 2011)

Intuitive searchClean resultsWhat's new?

Continue reading Twitter for Android hands on: Voyeur mode and a sleeker interface await you

Download SquadTwitter for Android hands on: Voyeur mode and a sleeker interface await you originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 10 Feb 2011 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappscellphoneshands-onhandsonmobilesocialnetworkingtweettwittertwitter for androidTwitterForAndroidThu, 10 Feb 2011 19:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Opera now used by over 100 million mobile surfers, dominates iOS browser]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/10/opera-now-used-by-over-100-million-mobile-surfers-dominates-ios/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/10/opera-now-used-by-over-100-million-mobile-surfers-dominates-ios/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/10/opera-now-used-by-over-100-million-mobile-surfers-dominates-ios/#comments
Opera, now with a combined total of over 100 million Mini and Mobile users, dominates the mobile browser market. While Mobile has a very valiant 15 million users, it is Opera Mini with over 90 million users and 52 billion page views in January 2011 that really steals the show. Those figures don't include phones that come with Opera pre-installed, incidentally.

The maths are more complicated than they first look, though. There's no doubt that Opera's share of the mobile browser share is shrinking -- in direct correlation with Android's growth -- but at the same time, there's no doubt in terms of platforms that iOS dominates the mobile surfing market. One conclusion, which is suggested by Opera's own figures, is that iOS users are using Opera Mini over the stock browser -- and in the U.K. and U.S., the iPhone is actually Opera Mini's most-used platform.

There's no avoiding the fact that Opera's stronghold is on Nokia phones, though. If you leaf through Opera's State of the Mobile Web, it's rare to find less than 9 Nokia phones in each country's top 10 handsets. There's also no Android phones to be found -- but that's more to do with the sheer variety of Android phones than anything else. Still, despite the much-belabored and over-blogged Rise of the Smartphone, Opera's growth doesn't look like it's slowing down.

Smartphones might be set for massive growth in the West, but Opera looks set to dominate every territory east of the EU -- and with over 4 billion people on that side of the world, we don't think you'll hear Opera complaining.

Download SquadOpera now used by over 100 million mobile surfers, dominates iOS browser originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 10 Feb 2011 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidcellphoneiphonenokiaopera miniopera mobileOperaMiniOperaMobilesmartphoneThu, 10 Feb 2011 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Verizon iPhone 4 jailbroken with greenpois0n moments after release]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/08/verizon-iphone-4-jailbroken-with-greenpois0n-moments-after-relea/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/08/verizon-iphone-4-jailbroken-with-greenpois0n-moments-after-relea/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/08/verizon-iphone-4-jailbroken-with-greenpois0n-moments-after-relea/#commentsgreenpois0n Well that didn't take long: the Verizon iPhone has been jailbroken. After a little hiccup requiring a quick fix, greenpois0n RC5.4 is now capable of jailbreaking your shiny new CDMA iPhone running iOS 4.2.6. Available for both Windows and Mac OS X, greenpois0n from the Chronic Dev Team, allows you to break free from Apple's draconian vice-like grip and embrace the goods and evils of the jailbreak underworld: Cydia.

It's a pretty straightforward affair like most other iPhone jailbreaks, but if you need a helping hand, BlogsDNA has a nice little tutorial you can turn to. Time to unshackle your Verizon iPhone and embrace the warranty-breaking, yet apparently legal, jailbreaking scene.

Download SquadVerizon iPhone 4 jailbroken with greenpois0n moments after release originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 08 Feb 2011 04:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Appleappscellphonesgreenpois0niOSiPhonejailbreakOS XOsXutilitiesVerizon iPhoneVerizonIphoneWindowsTue, 08 Feb 2011 04:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Angry Birds flies in with new levels, hidden Super Bowl special and Rio premiere competition]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/07/angry-birds-flys-in-with-new-levels-hidden-super-bowl-special-a/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/07/angry-birds-flys-in-with-new-levels-hidden-super-bowl-special-a/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/07/angry-birds-flys-in-with-new-levels-hidden-super-bowl-special-a/#comments While you were watching the Super Bowl, Rovio's been busy. First up, Angry Birds for iOS was updated with 15 more Western-styled levels, while the Android version got 30 more levels to bring the two platforms more or less into line. The Android version also got a low-res graphics switch, which should address any gameplay slowdown on lower powered handsets. It wasn't all good news on Android however, as Rovio somehow added a errant requirement for SMS access, which revolved around the addition of in-app SMS payments for Android users in Finland.

True to their word, the Super Bowl saw an Angry Birds cameo in an advert for Fox's incoming animated film, Rio (embedded after the break). In the cameo we were shown how to get a special hidden golden egg, cunninly shaped like a football, which would unlock a hidden Super Bowl-themed level. For those of you who missed the fleeting instructions, see the image above for the clue. All you have to do is go to level 13-12, fire a white bird backwards and drop a bomb. This will present you with the fabled golden football, which gives you access to the hidden level. Complete the hidden level to unlock the opportunity to enter a contest to win tickets to the Rio movie premiere in March.

If that wasn't enough Angry Birds action for you, you've not got long to wait for the two previously reported special editions of Angry Birds that are right around the corner. First up we've got a Valentine's Day update to Angry Birds Seasons, which will be taking flight sometime in the next week for both iOS and Android. And of course that movie tie-in, Angry Birds Rio, which should be crash-landing around the end of March.

Continue reading Angry Birds flies in with new levels, hidden Super Bowl special and Rio premiere competition

Download SquadAngry Birds flies in with new levels, hidden Super Bowl special and Rio premiere competition originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 07 Feb 2011 04:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AndroidAngry BirdsAngryBirdsappscellphonesgamingiOSRioRoviovalentines dayValentinesDayMon, 07 Feb 2011 04:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Five great photo sharing apps for your iPhone]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/04/best-iphone-photo-sharing-apps/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/04/best-iphone-photo-sharing-apps/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/04/best-iphone-photo-sharing-apps/#commentsPhoto sharing apps for iPhone Ever since the introduction of cameras to mobile phones people have been snapping photos of just about everything on their daily travels. The dawn of the smartphone brought the ability to share things to a wider audience than MMS could reach, and when the smartphone collided with decent-enough camera modules, the social photo sharing craze kicked off.

The iPhone hasn't escaped the deluge of photo sharing apps -- in fact you could say that the hotbed of social photo sharing has focused somewhat around Apple's idea of the perfect phone, with more and more apps and services cropping up each day. So it's about time we had a little round up of the best photo sharing apps and services available for the iPhone, to cut through the tripe and show you the goods.

Continue reading Five great photo sharing apps for your iPhone

Download SquadFive great photo sharing apps for your iPhone originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 04 Feb 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsburstncellphonesfeaturesflickrinstagramiOSiPhonelistspathphoto sharingphotographyPhotoSharingpicplzsocial networkingSocialNetworkingFri, 04 Feb 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Shopper for iPhone: fast, accurate product search and price comparison on the go]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/02/google-shopper-for-iphone/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/02/google-shopper-for-iphone/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/02/google-shopper-for-iphone/#commentsGoogle Shopper for iPhone Google Shopper has made the jump from Android to the iPhone and is now available as a free download in the iOS App Store. Currently only available to US and UK-based shoppers, Google Shopper brings the best bits from the Google Mobile app and blends it with price comparison. You can scan barcodes, take photos of cover art, or voice search for what you want. Then all you have to do is select the product you're after and hey-presto you've got product details, reviews, and not only online price comparison and stock check, but local too. You can even browse the site of your online merchant of choice from within the app, or locate the nearest brick and mortar store that's selling your item using Google Maps.

Gallery: Google Shopper for iPhone

StartScanningProduct resultsProduct detailsOnline shopping comparison

The product cover art scanning seems to work a lot better for books than video game boxes, but the barcode scanning worked incredibly fast and accurately. The voice search is also up to Google's usual standards, but isn't activated by placing the phone to your face like the Google Mobile app for iOS.

It's strange that Google Shopper wasn't just built straight into the original Google Mobile app like Google Goggles was, but it's fast, free and handy, so there's no reason not to have this on your iPhone next time you go shopping.

Google Shopper for iPhone [iTunes] - Free

Download SquadGoogle Shopper for iPhone: fast, accurate product search and price comparison on the go originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 02 Feb 2011 04:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appscellphonesGoogleiOSiPhonereviewssearchWed, 02 Feb 2011 04:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony announces PlayStation Suite Android gaming store for Gingerbread devices]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/27/sony-announces-playstation-suite-android-gaming-store/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/27/sony-announces-playstation-suite-android-gaming-store/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/27/sony-announces-playstation-suite-android-gaming-store/#commentsSony PlayStation Suite for Android At an event in Tokyo, Sony has just unveiled its plans to introduce an Android gaming store called PlayStation Suite. More than just a store for an Android-based PlayStation Phone, or the newly announced PSP2, the PS Suite will be 'hardware-neutral' and offer games for any Android phones or tablets running at least Android 2.3 Gingerbread. Of course your average Android device doesn't come packing dual sticks, a D-pad, and shoulder buttons, but the PS Suite looks to be able to provide emulated touchscreen controls instead.

First out the gate will be a PS1 classics emulator, but Sony is promising an Android game store later this year. The Japanese powerhouse is taking a more traditional game publishing route too, with a licensing and quality-assurance scheme called PlayStation Certified, and will sell games through its own store. Sony is hoping to attract big name game developers to the platform, and of course, take its cut of the game sales.

Considering Apple's currently winning the mobile gaming war with a plethora of top-tier and time waster titles on the App Store, something big like this was the only way to balance the playing field. Whether this will actually work, and work well, time will tell. Mobile World Congress next month is certainly going to be interesting, but in the mean time, head on over to our sister blog Engadget, for the full skinny and press release.

Download SquadSony announces PlayStation Suite Android gaming store for Gingerbread devices originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 27 Jan 2011 03:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AndroidcellphonesgamingPlayStationPlayStation PhonePlayStation SuitePlaystationPhonePlaystationSuiteSonyThu, 27 Jan 2011 03:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Voice now lets you port your existing phone number for $20]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/25/google-voice-now-lets-you-port-your-existing-phone-number-for-20/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/25/google-voice-now-lets-you-port-your-existing-phone-number-for-20/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/25/google-voice-now-lets-you-port-your-existing-phone-number-for-20/#commentsgoogle voice number porting Google has just officially announced the availability of phone number porting for Google Voice. From now on, you will be able to port your existing phone number to Google Voice, for a one-time fee of $20, paid via Google Checkout -- exactly as anticipated a few days ago, when word of the new feature first got out.

Number porting is available right now for all existing Google Voice users, and will become an option for new users over the next few weeks. To port a number to Google Voice, go to the Settings page and click on Change/Port next to your Google Voice number. The porting procedure is usually completed within 24 hours of your request.

After porting a mobile phone number to Google Voice, your existing mobile subscription will be automatically terminated, and you might incur an early termination fee from your carrier. Since Google Voice is not a mobile phone service provider, you will still need a mobile service plan, and another mobile phone number, if you'll want to use Google Voice with your mobile phone. Also be aware that you may experience issues with sending and receiving text messages for up to three business days after your number has been successfully ported.

If you already have a free Google Voice number on your account, the ported number will replace your old Google Voice number (once the porting is complete).

For more information on porting a phone number to Google Voice, see Google's FAQ on the matter. There's also a demo video waiting after the break.

Continue reading Google Voice now lets you port your existing phone number for $20

Download SquadGoogle Voice now lets you port your existing phone number for $20 originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 25 Jan 2011 13:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingcellphonesgooglegoogle voiceGoogleVoicenumber portingNumberPortingvoipwebTue, 25 Jan 2011 13:52:00 EST<![CDATA[CyanogenMod 7 is testing in the wild, bringing Gingerbread to 14 more Android devices]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/20/cyanogenmod-android-7-gingerbread-beta-available/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/20/cyanogenmod-android-7-gingerbread-beta-available/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/20/cyanogenmod-android-7-gingerbread-beta-available/#comments It's no secret that Android users are getting a bit testy these days when it comes to OS updates for their phones -- but who can blame them? Only half of them are running recent versions, and Gingerbread is only officially running on one phone.

It sounds pretty dire at first, but where the carriers fail, the Android community tends to pick up the slack. CyanogenMod, one of the most popular alternative Android ROMs out there, has crossed deep into Gingerbread territory with version 7. That means your seemingly ancient 6-month-old phone may actually be able to keep up with the times after all.

CyanogenMod 7 hasn't been fully released yet, but nightly builds are freely available for intrepid users to test to their hearts' content. At the moment, a total of 15 phones have working builds, with one of them being the Nexus S. I've been running it myself for about 2 weeks now on a T-Mobile G2, and I can honestly say that it doesn't feel or act like something that's technically RC0 (usually thought of as there be dragons) status.

Continue reading CyanogenMod 7 is testing in the wild, bringing Gingerbread to 14 more Android devices

Download SquadCyanogenMod 7 is testing in the wild, bringing Gingerbread to 14 more Android devices originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 20 Jan 2011 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidcellphonescyanogencyanogenmodCyanogenMod 7Cyanogenmod7gingerbreadmobile phonesMobilePhonesROMThu, 20 Jan 2011 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft blames third party for Windows Phone 7 3G data issue]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/20/microsoft-blames-third-party-for-windows-phone-7-3g-data-issue/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/20/microsoft-blames-third-party-for-windows-phone-7-3g-data-issue/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/20/microsoft-blames-third-party-for-windows-phone-7-3g-data-issue/#commentsWindows Phone 7Last week, Microsoft launched an investigation into an apparent Windows Phone 7 bug that caused some users to experience mysterious, unexplainable data transmission over 3G (up to 50 GB of data in some cases) even when connected to Wi-Fi. Yesterday, the results of that enquiry were divulged to the Seattle PI and as it turns out, it's someone else's fault:
"We have determined that a third-party solution commonly accessed from Windows Phones is configured in a manner that potentially causes larger than expected data downloads. We are in contact with the third party to assist them in making the necessary fixes, and are also pursuing potential workarounds to address the configuration issue in case those are needed."
Microsoft won't say which third-party application is the culprit, and its also not ruling out other potential sources, as they are "continuing to investigate this issue." According to Microsoft, only a small percentage of WP7 users were affected by this potentially costly issue, which is probably why it took this long to come to light. Let's hope this brings a swift end to WP7's data issues, and that networks take a lenient view on those who have been caught out by this bug.

Download SquadMicrosoft blames third party for Windows Phone 7 3G data issue originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 20 Jan 2011 03:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cellphonesMicrosoftWindows Phone 7WindowsPhone7WP7Thu, 20 Jan 2011 03:25:00 EST<![CDATA[MegaReader: an iPhone e-book reader with a live head-up display]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/19/megareader-an-iphone-e-book-reader-with-a-live-head-up-display/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/19/megareader-an-iphone-e-book-reader-with-a-live-head-up-display/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/19/megareader-an-iphone-e-book-reader-with-a-live-head-up-display/#commentsMegaReader
Have you ever walked into a lamppost, or tripped over a small wall, because you've been so engrossed in a book you simply can't put it down? Well it's time to stop hurting yourself -- introducing MegaReader 2.1 and its new 'heads up display.' Using any Apple device equipped with a camera and running iOS4, MegaReader now gives you the option of displaying the text of your favorite book as an overlay on top of a live view from your iDevice's camera.

OK, this isn't the first time we've seen a live view from an iPhone's camera used to steer people around obstacles while glued to their phone, but it is the first e-book reader to implement it. It'll also let you import any DRM-free e-books you might have over Wi-Fi from Calibre, provides you with 26 free books out of the box, and is optimized for the iPhone 4's Retina Display.

So if you're looking for a new e-book reader for your iPhone, and want to walk and read as you go, then give MegaReader a shot at $1.99. But before you go, make sure you check out the hilarious promo video we've included after the break.

MegaReader [iTunes] - $1.99

Continue reading MegaReader: an iPhone e-book reader with a live head-up display

Download SquadMegaReader: an iPhone e-book reader with a live head-up display originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 19 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appscellphonese-bookshead-up displayHead-upDisplayHUDiOSiPhoneMegaReaderread and walkReadAndWalkutilitiesWed, 19 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The average iOS user has downloaded 60 apps]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/17/the-average-ios-user-has-downloaded-60-apps/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/17/the-average-ios-user-has-downloaded-60-apps/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/17/the-average-ios-user-has-downloaded-60-apps/#comments60 app per iOS device It's clear that apps are the new black. Mobile operating systems seem to strive or die by the number of apps their platform boasts, with some going to extraordinary lengths to get app developers on board. Asmyco, an app developer come industry analyst firm, recently put out a post essentially stating that for each iDevice sold, 60 apps have been downloaded. They worked out this magical number from the number of iOS apps downloaded, which is approaching 10 billion total downloads, dividing it by the total number of iOS devices sold.

Continue reading The average iOS user has downloaded 60 apps

Download SquadThe average iOS user has downloaded 60 apps originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 17 Jan 2011 05:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppleappscellphonecellphonesiOSiPadiPhoneiPod touchIpodTouchmobileMon, 17 Jan 2011 05:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Android 2.4 Ice Cream coming in Summer 2011?]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/11/android-2-4-ice-cream-coming-in-summer-2011/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/11/android-2-4-ice-cream-coming-in-summer-2011/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/11/android-2-4-ice-cream-coming-in-summer-2011/#commentsAndroid 2.4 Ice Cream We saw a 'misconfiguration' expose something suspiciously like Android 2.4 on a Sony Ericsson Experia Arc at CES last week, but now Pocket-Lint has come right out and declared Android 2.4 Ice Cream on the way and set for a Summer 2011 release. Sources told the British gadget site that 2.4 would be announced at Google's I/O conference at the beginning of May and that it would land on devices around June/July this year.

This makes for a very Google-like confusion around mobile OS versions (Chrome OS vs. Android anyone?), with Honeycomb to be Android 3.0 resulting in a possible backtrack to 2.4 Ice Cream. Google has stated that Honeycomb, at least initially, is going to be purely for tablets and not smartphones -- perhaps this indicates that Android versions destined for smartphones, such as Ice Cream, will be limited to 2.x version numbers. With Google supposedly slowing down to two Android releases a year, and version numbers being pretty arbitrary for the most part, this seems fairly plausible. Of course, until Google comes out and states on record, or we get some hands on time with unreleased code, treat this as rumor.

Head on over to Pocket-Lint for the full skinny.

Download SquadRumor: Android 2.4 Ice Cream coming in Summer 2011? originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 11 Jan 2011 03:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AndroidAndroid 2.4Android2.4cellphonesGoogleIce CreamIceCreamTue, 11 Jan 2011 03:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Enable tethering on your Palm Pre or Pixi with FreeTether]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/06/enable-tethering-on-your-palm-pre-or-pixi-with-freetether/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/06/enable-tethering-on-your-palm-pre-or-pixi-with-freetether/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/06/enable-tethering-on-your-palm-pre-or-pixi-with-freetether/#commentsIf you've been waiting for an easier way to tether your webOS phone and share its mobile data connection, the webOS Internals team has some good news for you. FreeTether has gone into beta, and that's exactly what the app is designed to do.

Once installed, you simply fire up FreeTether, select which interface(s) you want to enable, and configure its options. After that, all you've got to worry about is keeping an eye on your data usage so you don't get dinged by your carrier.

PreCentral reports that the tethered connection feels a bit slow at this point, but this is just the first release. webOS Internals has developed plenty of other great apps for the platform, so expect to see FreeTether improve dramatically in coming updates.

FreeTether is homebrew, so you'll need to make yourself familiar with how to install non-Catalog apps on your device via PreWare. It's a simple process, and there's no risk of bricking your phone -- so head on over to PreCentral for step-by-step instructions. You'll also need to add the testing feed to PreWare.

Download SquadEnable tethering on your Palm Pre or Pixi with FreeTether originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3gappscellphonesdatanetworkingpalmpalm prePalmPretethertetheringutilitiesweboswifiThu, 06 Jan 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Flickr for Windows Phone 7 and Windows 7 tablets shown off in promo video]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/06/flickr-for-windows-phone-7-and-windows-7-tablets-shown-off-in-pr/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/06/flickr-for-windows-phone-7-and-windows-7-tablets-shown-off-in-pr/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/06/flickr-for-windows-phone-7-and-windows-7-tablets-shown-off-in-pr/#commentsFlickr Windows Phone 7Windows Phone 7 may have 5,500 apps, but Flickr isn't one of them -- yet. The Yahoo-owned photo sharing service has released a preview video of its up-and-coming app for Windows Phone 7 and Windows 7 tablet devices. All the expected features seem to be there, with photo viewing, uploading, and sharing mixed together with Metro-styling on WP7. Sideways scrolling panes take president, and WP7 devices even thumbnails on their home screen icon. The Windows 7 tablet experience resembles that of some recent iPad apps, with sliding panes and tap-to-expand images. Flickr's even built-in some sort of sync solution into both apps meaning you can transition from your WP7 device to your Windows 7 tablet and still keep your place in the photos you were viewing.

Check out the brief run-through in the video we've included after the break, or check out the Flickr Windows 7 page for more details and a chance to win a Windows 7 tablet.

Continue reading Flickr for Windows Phone 7 and Windows 7 tablets shown off in promo video

Download SquadFlickr for Windows Phone 7 and Windows 7 tablets shown off in promo video originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 05:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appscellphonesFlickrphotographyWindows Phone 7WindowsPhone7WP7YahooThu, 06 Jan 2011 05:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Android text messaging bugs acknowledged, fixes in the works]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/06/android-text-messaging-bugs-acknowledged-fixes-in-the-works/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/06/android-text-messaging-bugs-acknowledged-fixes-in-the-works/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/06/android-text-messaging-bugs-acknowledged-fixes-in-the-works/#commentsGoogle has come out and officially acknowledged that Android has two SMS messaging problems, but that a fix is in the works. The bug, which can take two forms, essentially revolves around the miss co-ordination of contact-to-message linking. While the first issue -- opening a text message from one contact and getting an entirely different message being displayed -- is annoying, the second one -- sending a message to a contact and having it delivered to a totally separate one -- is much more critical. Imagine sending intimate text messages to your spouse only to have them routed to your boss -- how are you going to explain that one?

While Google works on a fix, we're advising caution when messaging for all Android users -- because you never know who's actually going to receive that saucy sext.

Download SquadAndroid text messaging bugs acknowledged, fixes in the works originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 04:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AndroidappsbugscellphonesGooglesmstext messagingTextMessagingThu, 06 Jan 2011 04:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Google considering NFC mobile payment system]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/04/google-NFC-mobile-payment/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/04/google-NFC-mobile-payment/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/04/google-NFC-mobile-payment/#commentsGoogle may jump into the mobile payment arena with a service that would let you check out at brick-and-mortar stores by waving your phone at the register, according to a report from Businessweek. The service could launch in 2011, and it would use near-field communication (NFC) technology to let customers pay by waving their phones up to 4 inches away from a checkout station.

Google chief Eric Schmidt suggested in November that NFC would eventually replace credit cards. Android 2.3 Gingerbread already includes some minor NFC functionality: it can read NFC tags, but not broadcast them to other devices (like registers). Buried in the Businessweek story is the information that Samsung's Nexus S handset already has the hardware to support NFC, and it will likely be the test device for Google's payment system.

eBay-owned PayPal is also readying an NFC-based payment service, says Businessweek. This one would allow transactions between PayPal users, not just between customers and businesses.

Download SquadGoogle considering NFC mobile payment system originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 04 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbump-to-paycellphonesebayfuturegooglemobilenear-field communicationNear-fieldCommunicationNFCpaymentspaypalTue, 04 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[McAfee: Smartphones, Apple devices to be top malware targets in 2011]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/29/mcafee-smartphones-apple-devices-to-be-top-malware-targets-in/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/29/mcafee-smartphones-apple-devices-to-be-top-malware-targets-in/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/29/mcafee-smartphones-apple-devices-to-be-top-malware-targets-in/#comments Traditionally, Windows' massive user base has made it a juicy target for malware authors, but a new report from McAfee suggests there could be a major shift in 2011. The security company is predicting that attacks on the exploding smartphone segment and Apple devices will increase significantly.

Mac trojans have already become increasingly common in 2010, and McAfee finds that "lack of user understanding of proper security for these devices, will increase the risk for data and identity exposure." This lack of understanding, coupled with the increased presence of iOS devices in business environments, will make Apple users a prime target for malware.

The report also finds smartphone users will face increased danger in 2011. With hundreds of millions of new users purchasing more powerful phones and spending more time browsing on them, increased attention from malware authors is a natural (albeit unwelcome) side effect. If the app store for your phone offers security applications, there's no time like the present to read some reviews and get one installed.

Apart from smartphones and Apple devices, social engineering attacks (e.g. scams via Facebook, Twitter, e-mail and social networks) will continue to be big in 2011. McAfee asserts that personal information made available via geolocation apps and privacy lapses will allow attackers to better craft their attacks on individuals. There's also no sign of viral attacks on social sites like Facebook and Twitter slowing down, and short URL services will continue to be used to hide malicious links. Here's hoping more URL shorteners will look into pre-scanning their links to ensure our safety.

Download SquadMcAfee: Smartphones, Apple devices to be top malware targets in 2011 originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 29 Dec 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applecellphonesemergingiOSmalwaremcafeemobilesecuritysmartphonethreatthreatstrojanvirusWed, 29 Dec 2010 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Redsn0w iOS 4.2.1 untethered Jailbreak goes beta]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/27/redsn0w-ios-4-2-1-untethered-jailbreak-goes-beta/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/27/redsn0w-ios-4-2-1-untethered-jailbreak-goes-beta/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/27/redsn0w-ios-4-2-1-untethered-jailbreak-goes-beta/#commentsredsn0w betaGood news jailbreaking fans -- the iPhone Dev Team is up to their old tricks with an untethered jailbreak entering 'beta' for the iPhone 4, iPad and fourth generation iPod touch running iOS 4.2.1. The beta version of redsn0w uses a new 'backup method,' which is referred to as 'Jailbreak Monte' within the program. However, It is strictly for those who don't rely on their iDevice and don't need ultrasn0w carrier unlock according to the Dev Team.

Brave testers who want to join the program will need access to the iOS 4.2 beta 3 firmware for their iDevice of choice, a Mac (sorry Windows users: redsn0w beta is OS X-only for now), and have their iOS 4.2b3 SHSH blobs saved on file with Cydia. If you fulfill the criteria, then head on over to the iPhone Dev Team blog and get in on the action. As of writing the redsn0w jailbreak had seen its third update released in rapid succession, bringing redsn0w to 0.9.7b3.

Once the beta cycle is finished, the iPhone Dev Team intends to make redsn0w 0.9.7 a general release and remove some of the more complicated restrictions, as well as provide a Windows version of the program. God's speed and good luck to the Dev Team and their courageous beta testers. May jailbreaking come easy and custom apps flow forthwith, because we all know how annoying it is to rely on a tethered jailbreak reboot process, especially when playing with unstable apps and system hacks.

Download SquadRedsn0w iOS 4.2.1 untethered Jailbreak goes beta originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 27 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleappscellphonesiOSiPadiPhoneiPhone Dev TeamIphoneDevTeamiPod touchIpodTouchjailbreakRedsn0wutilitiesMon, 27 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST