BlackBerry Messenger for iOS and Android Is Here

With its first effort to make BlackBerry Messenger available to users of Android and iPhone foiled by technical issues, BlackBerry is taking another run at making the service cross-platform.

On Monday afternoon, the company said BBM will soon be available on the world’s leading mobile platforms. But folks who want it may have to wait a bit. To avoid any further cock-ups, BlackBerry is managing the service’s rollout with a registration queue. In order to use the service, you must first download the app and reserve a spot in line by registering with an email address. When you reach the head of the queue, BlackBerry will activate your account and send you a notification.

According to BlackBerry, six million people have signed up for information about the launch since September. “If you didn’t sign up in advance, don’t worry – we are focused on moving millions of customers through the line as fast as possible,” the company said in a blog post.

The launch of BBM for iOS and Android comes as BlackBerry struggles to save itself from a prolonged decline so debilitating that the company was recently forced to publish an open letter assuring customers of its longevity.

Source: allthingsd

Backup and Restore Chat History in WhatsApp Messenger for Windows Phone, Android, and iPhone

Backing up your messages in WhatsApp is arguably one of the most crucial parts of keeping your messaging life in motion. Without backups, when you reset your device (which does happen quite frequently) or uninstall the app and then attempt to reinstall it later, you won’t have access to messages your friends sent and will have to start over from scratch.

Luckily, though, the process to backup your message history is extremely simple for all three major mobile operating systems. We’ll be looking at each operating system individually on both the backing up and then the restoration of your messages in today’s TruTorial.

The process for iPhone users is a little more involved than the other operating systems and requires the use of either iTunes or iCloud. For those using iOS 5 or later, iCloud automatically backs up the most important data, assuming you have it turned on and you’re connected to WiFi, an external power source, and your screen is locked. To enable iCloud backup, access your iPhone’s Settings menu, then tap on iCloud and then select Backup & Storage.

If you choose to go the iTunes route (shown below) in lieu of the iCloud one, you’ll first want to connect your device to your computer with the latest version of iTunes installed. Access the File menu, select Devices, and then click on Back up. You can verify that the backup finished successfully by opening iTunes Preferences and select the Devices tab. The name of the device will appear along with the date and time the backup was created, as shown below.

The steps for Android are less involved than iPhone. Simply open your WhatsApp Messenger application, press the Menu button, and tap Settings. From there, select Chat Settings and then select [Backup Conversations].

Windows Phone users also have a very simple process to follow. From the main conversations screen, tap the three dots in the bottom right hand corner of the screen to access the app’s menu, then tap Settings. From there, simply select Backup, shown in the screenshot below.

Now that we’ve got everything backed up, we’ll also want to be able to restore it at a later date.

iPhone users using iCloud will have a simple process to follow indeed. While going through Setup Assistant when you’re setting up a new device using iOS 5 or later, choose Restore from iCloud Backup and enter your iCloud account and password. You will see the three most recent backups for each of the devices on which you enabled Backup. Choose from which backup to restore.

iTunes users can use one of two processes. Either way, you’ll want your device connected to your computer with the latest version of iTunes installed. The first way is incredibly simple: access the File menu and select Devices and then Restore from Back up. The other way can be done through the iOS device’s Summary tab. Open this tab by clicking the device button in the upper right hand corner or from any view in iTunes, click the View menu, select Show Sidebar and then select your iOS device in iTunes under Devices. Finally, click the Restore Backup button.

On Android, WhatsApp automatically makes backups every day at 4 AM and stores them on the microSD memory card of your Android phone in the /sdcard/WhatsApp/Databases/ folder. To restore the most recent back up, you will need to uninstall WhatsApp. Decide which backup file you want to restore and rename that file from “msgstore-YYYY-MM-DD.1.db.crypt” to “msgstore.db.crypt”. Reinstall WhatsApp. During setup, click Restore when prompted to restore your message history and you should see your messages reappear.

On Windows Phone, you’ll again want to uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp to start with a clean slate. When you reopen WhatsApp, you will be asked if you want to restore a chat history backup that was found. Simply choose Yes to restore your messages.

Source: trutower

LG G2 first take: Best LG smartphone raises the Android bar

AT&T LG G2 retail package

LG continues to impress me with their latest Android devices and after a few days with the new LG G2 one of my biggest decisions at the moment is to figure out which carrier version I want to purchase. I have been testing the AT&T and T-Mobile models, but am leaning towards the Verizon model for the Qi wireless charging functionality.

The LG G2 is available on all four major US wireless carriers for $199.99 with a 2-year subsidy. On T-Mobile the full price is $603.99 ($99.99 up front and $21/month for 24 months). The device specifications are the same on all carriers, with the exception of the radios and the fact that the Verizon Wireless one supports Qi wireless charging. Once you try wireless charging it is tough to go back to plugging in a cable to charge up your device and I just don’t get why this capability has to be a carrier exclusive option.

Initial hardware thoughts

The LG G2 is the first device in the US to launch with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 quad-core processor and so far performance has been flawless. I have loaded up many of my apps and haven’t seen any lag at all on the device.

The G2 also has a unique rear button design where the power button and two volume buttons are placed below the camera while all other sides remain void of buttons. It takes a bit to get used to the new button placement, but I think LG is on to something here as my fingers do naturally tend to rest on the back. It is nice not to have to reach all the way across a device to control the device. Even better is the “knock” function that allows you to double-tap on the display to turn the screen on and off. Nokia has had this for a while, but it sure is nice to finally see it coming to Android.

I took photos at the local fair with both the G2 and the Nokia Lumia 1020 and was very pleased by the accuracy of the colors in photos captured with the G2. The G2 has optical image stabilization, 13 megapixel resolution, and more.

The 5.2 inch 1080p display looks awesome with a minimal side bezel helping to keep the device to a comfortable size. I’m not a real fan of the glossy plastic back, it reminds me of a Samsung device and lately I have been spoiled by the fantastic HTC One design.

After using the IR port on my HTC One for my bedroom TV and while traveling for work, I have now elevated this functionality to a level where I need to see it on my new devices or I won’t consider the device. The G2 has an IR port and remote control software included.

The G2 also has a stacked battery design that provides 3,000 mAh of capacity, which is one of the highest for a device of this size. So far battery life has been excellent, but more testing is required.

Initial software thoughts

I know it is kind of gimmicky, but it is fun to tap and slowly move your finger across the display to see your last app appear under the lock screen. As you can see in my screenshot gallery, there are a TON of customization options on the LG G2. After several days I am still discovering new settings and options that I will cover later in a full review.

LG includes a bit too much in the notification area, but some of these options can be toggled on and off. There are all sorts of LG utilities, such as QSlide 2.0, Quick Remote, Slide Aside, VuTalk, and more.

To be tested

I would love to know if a Nexus 5 based on the LG G2 is actually coming as that may influence my purchase decision. If I can’t wait and go with a G2, I want to test out the cool looking QuickWindow Folio case too.

I plan to test out the camera in more scenarios, see how long the battery can go, and try using the G2 as my primary device for a week or so. Please let me know if there is anything specific you wish for me to try out as I continue using the device.

Source: zdnet

How to Keep Your Smartphone Safe-2

4. Keep an eye on app permissions

When you download a new app–even one from a trusted app store–make sure to check out what permissions it asks for, and that they’re appropriate to its stated functions. For instance, a note-taking application might need permission to use the microphone if it also stores voice notes, but it’s doubtful that it would have a good reason to access your camera, or read your phone’s contacts. Innocuous apps can be used for plenty of things apps which might not rise to the level of “malicious software,” but could still endanger your privacy, such as rifling through your contacts, or connecting to your Facebook account. If an app doesn’t provide a good reason for any permissions it requires, think twice about whether you really need it or if there’s an alternative.

5. Avoid public WiFi and chargers whenever possible

Although they can be tempting if you’re suffering with limited or slow data service, public WiFi hotspots are also prime places for ill-intentioned people to get access to others’ data. Even something as simple as checking your email could expose passwords that could be used to get access to many of your other online activities. Use the mobile data network if possible; when it isn’t, consider either using a VPN, or making sure that all of your apps and accounts are set to use only encrypted connections. Similarly, public charging stations can be used to access data on your device, or plant malicious software. By connecting your phone via USB to an unknown source, you’re exposing a lot of your phone’s internal workings without protection. Instead, carry your own charger, or a spare battery if that works for your phone.

6. Investigate alternate security apps

If you need or demand even more serious security, there are other apps besides anti-virus which can help, although some of them may require “rooting” your phone in order to use. DroidWall is one of these, a firewall app for your Android device, allowing you to control what applications are allowed to connect to the internet, and when. For example, blocking apps that handle private information from connecting over WiFi hotspots. Or blocking certain apps from communicating at all, to close off potential leaks from apps which really don’t need to be connected. Permissions Denied is another “root” app, which lets you control what permissions apps are actually given, allowing you to “turn off” potential privacy problems, such as blocking an app from using your device’s camera, or accessing other data. Last but not least there are encryption apps available without rooting that can secure your files, photos, even your web browsing, against potential loss or theft of your device.

7. If the need is drastic enough, get a different phone

If you really, absolutely need more security than you can get using an ordinary smartphone, there are options for “hardened” smartphones more secure than the average. One such example is Fortress Fone, a customized Samsung smartphone sold by a company called Ziklag Systems which has been rebuilt with added security features, call encryption, and other protections. Granted, these sorts of devices are overkill for average people, even those who have good reason to need security. Such devices are mostly designed for government and industry, in order to guarantee the security of classified or company-proprietary information. However, if you fall in or near that category, you may find the peace of mind of a “hardened” smartphone to be worth the cost.

Source: Brighthand

How to Keep Your Smartphone Safe-1

With recent news about Android security issues, there’s no question that there are plenty of dangers out there for you and your mobile device. So we’re here to help with six tips on how to keep your smartphone or tablet away from hacking attempts, malware, or general mischief.

1. Download apps only from trusted sources

By far the most important thing you can do for the safety of your smartphone is avoid apps that aren’t from major app stores, the ones which are responsible for the content they supply. Google Play routinely scans the apps its developers offer for malicious code, providing you with a first line of defense against either bad apps or bad developers. While it’s not stated, Amazon and the major carriers likely do the same with their stores. “Cleaning out” malicious apps protects the people using that store from any number of bugs that might get transmitted in otherwise innocuous software.

Apps downloaded from untested sites, however, could contain just about anything. Even well respected developer sites like “XDA-Developers” aren’t immune to the possibility of someone taking advantage of their community to spread malicious code. And sites which offer pirated or altered software are particularly dangerous, thanks to the already illegal nature of what they offer; seeing the difference between an app which has been “cracked” to run for unpaid users, and one modified to include malicious code, is even more difficult than it sounds. This also includes accepting apps sent to you in other ways: by email, text message, etcetera. Even if they’re well known apps, anything coming from a link that isn’t a trusted store has to be suspect. Even if they’re from your friends, your friends’ email accounts or phone messages could have been compromised along with the rest of their smartphone. Downloading only from trusted sources saves infinite headaches.

2. Get an anti-virus program

Still, despite the risks, maybe you have to download apps from all over the internet. Or maybe you just want to be extra sure that nothing slips by Google or Amazon, even for a few days. If that’s the case, your best defense might be one of the many anti-malware apps available for Android. AVG, Avast, Norton, and other well trusted names in anti-malware protection for PCs are also available for Android tablets and smartphones. AVG is the highest rated, with more than 417,000 five star reviews, and an average rating of 4.6. And as a bonus, many anti-malware apps also feature anti-loss/theft options for your device, such as being able to remotely locate it via GPS, lock or wipe the device, etcetera.

3. Keep informed on the latest malware trends

Knowing what kind of malicious software is out there can save you lots of headaches if you accidentally run into it. For instance, one of the more popular scams–one which can’t necessarily be detected by Google Play, even–is “one click billing” fraud. A malicious app directs you to a web page claiming that you’ve just agreed to pay them money via “one click billing.” Usually this scam is associated with adult content, hoping that the user will be too embarassed to dispute that they didn’t actually agree to buy anything. And since it’s only a referral to a web page, it’s invisible to apps which scan for malicious code.

Another common type of attack is actually based on the user’s desire for security. The user is informed by a malicious website or advertisement that they have a virus, and given a link to an “antivirus” app. Once installed, the app takes over your smartphone and demands a “registration fee” to let you use your phone again. Once again, only download known names in antivirus, and only from trusted app stores.

Read more on the next page

Source: Brighthand

Update Samsung Galaxy S4 I9505 to latest Official Jelly Bean 4.2.2 XXUBMG5 Firmware

A new officially update is now available for Samsung Galaxy S4 I9505 device is about the new Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean firmware which is coming to solve some bugs and to add new features and applications. So, if you want to learn how manually flash this latest update named XXUBMG5 firmware on the Samsung Galaxy S4  I9505 device then you should follow the next step by step tutorial.

This latest XXUBMG5 firmware has been released by Samsung for Galaxy S4 model number I9505 from Asia and Europe, and it is available like an automatically notification by OTA or using the KIES app. This step by step guide also will teach you how manually install the same for users who didn’t receive this latest update. Also, the present tutorial is for the Galaxy S4 devices have been previously rooted and they didn’t apply the automatically update.

This is an official firmware, and that’s reason after you have installed this on the device your warranty will be restored and all the factory restrictions will be restored. This firmware can be used also for install the latest official OS in case the S4 device is running a custom ROM. So, a conclusion you can use this step by step tutorial if you need a reliable alternative than can be used when an automatically installation procedure isn’t available for the S4 device.

Before you move to the step by step flashing guide, some prerequisites are required to be followed first from below:

• So, this Jelly Bean 4.2.2 XXUBMG5 is an official firmware and by installing on the Galaxy S4 device the warranty of it will not get void.
• Backup all data stored in the internal device’s memory, in rare cases some issues can appear and can corrupt or erase the data stored in internal device’s storage. So, for avoiding that unpleasant situations, first make sure you back-up all your personal data, personal info, applications and accounts. You have to save all data from the internal storage memory of the S4 device; the information stored on the device’s SD card won’t be affected.
• The XXUBMG5 firmware is a stock platform and has been rolled out officially by Samsung, and in case you have a rooted device, the root rights will be revoked, the bootloader relocked after the same will be installed.
• This step by step guide will use the ODIN software which is an especially flashing tool developed by Samsung. The Odin software have to be installed on  Windows based PC, and that’s reason a Windows based PC need to be near of you along with the USB cable for the S4 device and of course the S4 device.
• Enable the USB debugging option from the Developed menu, and make sure that the antivirus, firewall and other security tools are deactivated or uninstalled.Make sure that the device’s battery status is indicating more than 70 % power left, if not please charge the device.
• This presented firmware, Android 4.2.2 XXUBMG5 Jelly Bean update works only for Samsung Galaxy S4 model number I9505. So, knowing that do not apply this firmware for other incorrectly devices, you can end up the installation in damage your Android based smartphone or tablet.
• This information is provided by us only for training and to learn the necessary steps for in order to install the present firmware, so our team is not responsible if something unfortunate happens to your smartphone or you’ll lose any data during or after the installation process. So, apply this guide only on your own responsibility.

How to manually install latest Stock Jelly Bean 4.2.2 XXUBMG5 Firmware on Galaxy S4 I9505 :

1. Download from here the update file and save it on your PC.
2. Now, unzip the file on desktop.
3. Download and install the suitable USB drivers on the same PC, you can use the Samsung KIES app for install the USB drivers.
4. After installing the drivers, download ODIN app in your computer and install it.
5. Run ODIN, after its installation is successfully done.
6. Power off the S4 device.
7. Boot it into Download Mode, to do that press and keep holding the Volume Down, Home and Power buttons in the same time.
8. Connect the S4 device to the PC using its USB cable.
9. Next, look in ODIN window and an “added” message should be displayed together with the ID:COM section colored on yellow or blue. When these notifications are done the ODIN successfully recognized the device, and you can move to the next step.
10. If not, you have to close Odin, disconnect the S4 device from the PC by removing the USB cable and reinstall the drivers once again; after that, repeat all the steps from beginning.
11. Now, form Odin app select “PDA”.
12. Browse and select the extracted downloaded file and Pick it from the desktop.
13. Important: Don’t perform other changes on Odin – make sure that the re-partition box must be unchecked.
14. Now, when you want to start the installation process click on “start”.
15. The flashing process will start immediately, and you need wait while the new firmware is being applied.
16. The end of the installation process is showed by the “pass” message which is displayed on Odin.
17. After the “pass” message is displayed you can disconnect the Galaxy S4 device from the PC computer.
18. Now, reboot the S4 device.

That’s all; you’ve successfully learned how manually flash official Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean XXUBMG5 firmware on Samsung Galaxy S4 I9505 device

Source

These HTC Smartphones Will Get Android 4.2 And Android 4.3 Updates!

Though Android 4.2 Jelly Bean was announced last year, the update has been pretty sluggish as numerous smartphones are still hanging on to Android 4.1 Jelly Bean. And with Google’s new Android 4.3 Jelly Bean update rolling out, things have become more complicated for phone owners, especially for the owners of an HTC smartphones.

Google announced Android 4.1 Jelly Bean in July last year, and last November, Google introduced Android 4.2 Jelly Bean, which is an incremental yet incredible update that introduced various new features to the table such as lock screen widgets, an innovative quick settings function integrated in the notification bar and much more. This update has also been slow to roll out to several devices, especially those launched last year.

Though Android 4.3 is there, companies such as HTC are not discussing their plans about Android updates. In fact, HTC now doesn’t share much with regards to their plans for Android updates, which leaves customers looking for information.

Though HTC has shared negligible information in regards to Android 4.2, Sense 5 and Android 4.3 but considering the history and HTC itself, we’ve managed to piece together information about which HTC phones are likely to get updates? Have a look:

* HTC One: Android 4.3

* HTC One Mini: Android 4.3 Jelly Bean.

* HTC One X+: Android 4.2 Jelly Bean.

* HTC One X: Android 4.2.

* HTC One XL: Android 4.2 Jelly Bean

* HTC One S: Android 4.2

* HTC One SV: Android 4.2 with Sense 5.

* HTC Butterfly: Android 4.3

* Droid DNA: Android 4.2 and Sense 5.

* HTC EVO 4G LTE: Android 4.2 Jelly Bean and Sense 5.

* Droid Incredible 4G LTE: Android 4.2 and Sense 5

Source

How To Root Samsung Galaxy S3 LTE (GT-I9305) On Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean Official Firmware

If you have Galaxy S3 GT-I9305 and have already updated your device to the latest firmware version, you may want to root it to gain full control over the phone. Here is an easy step by step guide to help you How To Root Samsung Galaxy S3 LTE (GT-I9305) On Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean Official Firmware.

Important Points To Remember

Rooting your device may erase personal data and settings on it. Hence, it is advisable to back up apps, important data and settings before you proceed.

Warranty on the device will be void after rooting it. Just reinstall the official firmware update to reclaim the hardware warranty.

Download and install Root Checker app from Google Play Store to verify if your Galaxy S3 is rooted successfully or not.

The instructions provided in this guide are meant for reference purpose only and do not cover any warranty claims with device damage or issues arising out of rooting the official Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean firmware on Galaxy S3 I9305. Users are advised to proceed at their own risk.

Pre-requisites

Verify that your phone has at least 80 percent battery power before you proceed, to prevent unexpected device shutdown (due to battery drain) while flashing the CF-Auto-Root tool using ODIN on your Galaxy S3 I9305

Ensure that the correct USB drivers are installed for your Galaxy S3 on the computer (download USB drivers)

Make sure that your Galaxy S3 phone is running on the official Android 4.1.2 XXBLL3 Jelly Bean firmware before you begin the rooting process

Enable USB Debugging mode on your phone by navigating to Settings > Applications > Development

How to root samsung galaxy s3 I9305 on Official Android 4.1.2  XXBLL3 Jelly Bean Firmware

 Step 1: Download CF-Auto-Root to root I9305XXBLL3 firmware (Filename: CF-Auto-Root-m3-m3zh-gti9305.zip) and extract the zip file.

 Step 2: Download Odin3 v1.85.

 Step 3: Power off the phone and put it on Download Mode by pressing Volume Down, Home and Power buttons together. Once you see a warning message on the screen, press Power button again to enter Download Mode.

 Step 4: Run Odin3 v1.85.exe as an Administrator.

 Step 5: Connect the Galaxy S3 I9305 with your PC using USB cable. A message will appear saying “Added” under the Odin’s message box. In addition, if the device is connected properly, you will see COM port with a number in Yellow.

 Step 6: Click the PDA tab in Odin and select the CF-Auto-Root-m3-m3zh-gti9305.tar.md5 file.

 In Odin window, make sure that Auto Reboot and F. Reset Time checkboxes are selected.

 Step 7: Click on the Start button in Odin to begin the installation.

 Step 8: When flashing is completed, you will see a PASS message with green background at the top of Odin. Your device will now reboot automatically.

 After you see the Samsung logo, you can then unplug the USB cable to disconnect your phone from the computer.

Source:

5 Ways to Blog On The Go with Android

While the blogging craze has passed us, there are still plenty of good reasons to start a blog, whether it be to keep a personal record of your life, update your family, or keep your fans informed. There are a large number of different ways for you to get started with blogging, all of which are completely free and easy to use. Best of all, you can access many of these services right from your Android device via their respective apps. Here are five apps you can use to blog with Android.

WordPress

For many people, the blogging platform of choice is still WordPress, because it’s simple to use, good-looking, and highly configurable. Best of all, it’s highly accessible via the WordPress app, which can access both blogs hosted on WordPress.com as well as a self-hosted location. You can type up whatever you’d like via the app, apply some basic formatting, and even add pictures and videos. Finally, the app allows you to choose tags, categories, post status, post format, and publishing date. It definitely offers enough features to get a new post up and running, as well as edit an existing post for a quick fix.

Blogger

As a competitor to WordPress, you can also easily access a Blogger blog via the official Android app. Similarly to the WordPress app, you can log into your Blogger account (which doesn’t offer self-hosted solutions) and view and edit existing posts as well as create new ones. The options for new posts are a little limited, as you can only insert simple formatting, images, labels, and a geotag in addition to your regular post text. However, it simplifies the blogging experience on Android even further, and I have to say that the app seems to run very smoothly — which made me want to use it more. You can check out a comparison between WordPress and Blogger to see which one is the better platform.

Twitter

Another hot topic in the blogging craze was the term microblogging — a way to share your experiences or other share-worthy content in very short and quick messages. A fantastic service which can be used for quick and easy microblogging is Twitter, whose Android app has become quite enjoyable to use over the past few major updates. This makes the need for using alternative Twitter clients such as Hootsuite, Seesmic, and others virtually unnecessary if you only have a single Twitter account that you use. Of course, another great thing about the Twitter app is that it’s easy to share media, as well as find other people and posts within the Twitter community. In other words, the Twitter app is highly functional so that the full website is not needed.

Tumblr

If Twitter isn’t quite for you and you want a flexible microblogging platform, creating a Tumblr blog is another great option which you can easily access from your Android device. With Tumblr, you also have the option of sharing other people’s content that you find interesting, as well as choose between posting short messages and writing your heart out in a more traditional length blog post. The app itself is very visually pleasing, which makes it easier to remember to keep up with your (micro)blog. I know that some of you may have concerns with Tumblr’s future now that Yahoo has bought the company, but the service and its Android app are still high quality products that are worth checking out.

Weebly

Finally, if you want complete control over your blog, you may wish to use the Weebly website builder and its respective Android app. Along with whatever other pages you’d like to add to your page, you can also add a blog to your website and submit posts to it via the Weebly app. However, out of these five options, I find Weebly to be the most confusing to use. Although you can add text with formatting as well as images, these functions are separate and therefore unintuitive. Also, you don’t have a large community to tap into with Weebly for other great content that you can share. However, if you run a Weebly website and want all of your stuff to be on Weebly, this is a viable and accessible choice. For some inspiration, check out some Weebly websites that don’t suck.

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Acer Liquid S1 Preview: Almost Stock Android

Everyone is getting in on the phablet game, including Acer, which announced its 5.7-inch Liquid S1 at Computex Taipei.

Brighthand scored some hands-on time with the large smartphone and came away reasonably impressed considering that, unlike Samsung and its market-defining Galaxy Note II, Acer is not a mobile smartphone powerhouse, at least not in the US.

Almost Stock

As such, it’s not likely the Liquid S1 will see a Stateside release, and that’s too bad. Similar to past Acer smartphones, the Liquid S1 sports such a light UI skin, that it’s almost running stock Android 4.2.

Almost running stock Android. The key difference between the Acer Liquid S1 and Nexus line is the Liquid S1 has a unique multitasking feature. Dubbed the”Acer Float UI,” the multitasking revolves around mini apps that can open and function simultaneously over each other, other traditional apps, and even phone calls. It’s very reminiscent of the Samsung Mini Apps found on the Galaxy Note 10.1.

Float also extends to Float Caller, which pops open a mini window with answer options, when a call comes inbound, rather than take over the whole display, as many smartphones do today.

The mini apps BH noticed included a calculator, online map, note-taker, and email client; all of which could prove quite useful on the large screen.

Specs

The Liquid S1 specs include a 1,280 x 720 resolution, quad-core 1.5 GHz processor, and a “day’s worth of battery,” which translates into a user-replaceable 2,400mAh unit. The display didn’t impress much, especially compared with the beauties on the HTC One and Galaxy S4. Colors were slightly dull, and the viewing angles average.

The build is decidedly plastic, with a removable back cover, that hides a dual SIM card slot, again suggesting that this phablet is bound for Asia and Europe. It also does not support 4G LTE. Also on board is 8GB of storage and a microSD slot for up to 32GB more.

The Liquid S1 sports an 8-megapixel rear-facing, and 2-megapixel front-facing camera, that Acer claims has an 88-degree viewing angle.

The Acer Liquid S1 is slated to ship in Q3, with a retail price of €349, or about $455 US.

Source: