Google Currents: News made Beautiful

Google recently announced their new news-aggregation application, called Google Currents. Currents allows users to browse many content providers (magazines, blogs, etc.), and add them to their Currents, where they would have easy access to their articles, as well as a beautiful way to browse what might interest you. Currents is available as a free app for iPhone and iPad, as well as both Android phones and tablets.

To add a publication, called by currents an "edition", you simply search for the content you want, or find it using the "featured" section, or from any of the categories, and add it to your currents. However, as this is a fairly new service, don't expect to find every publication that you read. Once you have added all of your desired editions, you can tap on any of them to view the content in a beautiful, minimalist design. 

Publishers can add content via a simple webpage, and can choose to add more than just simple articles. Publishers can add an updating section based on an RSS feed, a photo section that pulls in from Flickr, a video section hooked up with YouTube, and even a social update section, with updates pulled in from Google+ or any other RSS or Atom feed.

Google Currents already has many great publishers using the service, including PBS, The Guardian, and Zagat, as well as many well-known online blogs. There is no cost to subscribing to any of the editions associated with Currents. Users can also import any RSS feed, as well as easily import their Google Reader subscriptions, to quickly fill the application with relevant content. 

The one thing that makes Currents stand out the most from any other news service is the design. Google Currents' design is simple and elegant, making things easy to see, and making using the app an overall enjoyable experience. The one slightly disconcerting thing about the design and user interface is that, once in an edition, you can basically scroll sideways endlessly, as each article in an edition is laid out one after another, with the only thing distinguishing one article from another being the article's title. Although this works if you think of the content as a magazine, it can be confusing if you think as each article being a separate post. 

Google Currents is currently not available outside the United States. It would make sense for Google to have plans to roll the service out elsewhere, but no such plans are released at this point, so those outside the United States will just have to wait and see. 

Google Currents is free, so what is there to lose by trying it out? Download Google Currents for your iPhone, iPad, Android phone, or Android tablet, and, while you're at it, add Gadgetator to your list of followed editions by searching for us.

Watch the video below for more information about Google Currents.

Chrome OS: One Year Later

I never really imagined this day coming. But it's here. It's one year after Gadgetator's first post ever. So much has happened since them, and a big thanks goes out to Leo Laporte, host of the nationally syndicated Tech Guy radio show, on which Gadgetator got it's big boost. But enough about my blog. Let's get right to what this post's really about.

One year ago, on this day, I posted an article talking about Google's announcement of the Cr48, one of the major advancements in Google's Chrome OS operating system. If you are unfamiliar with what Chrome OS is, read the article here. In that article, I promised I would post a follow up after playing a bit with Chrome OS. I never did. Until now.

A lot has happened with Chrome OS in the past year. For example, a Chrome OS screenshot one year ago (see figure 1), as apposed to a Chrome OS screenshot today (see figure 2). After actually using a device running solely Chrome OS for close to half-a-year, I have developed a new opinion, and I'm here to share that. I guess this article is an overview of Chrome OS: one year later.

Figure 1

In a short recap of what was said in Gadgetator's first ever article, Chrome OS is basically a computer that only has a web browser. When you first open it up, you get your homepage, opening a new tab brings you to a page that basically contains a grid of glorified bookmarks. To a bunch of web pages. This all sounds great and all, but there's one major disadvantage. You lose all of your native applications. No more Photoshop, Microsoft Word, or iTunes. Everything you do has to be done online. Some might say that's impossible. That this'll never work. On first sight, one year ago, that's what I said. I quote myself saying, "There are great web apps out there, but I believe that for this to be a success, there need to be more great web apps. And until we get some of the most widely used native applications online, Chrome OS will be for the very light computer user."

Figure 2

After using Chrome OS almost exclusively for half-a-year, it's apparent I've changed my mind. You see, I was kind of pushed into using Chrome OS. Google offered its Cr48 to a limited number of beta testers to get feedback for the final product. I was one of those lucky recipients. 

Not wanting to just toss aside something  I received for free, plus taking into account what Google actually intended for me to do with the device, I decided to give it a fair try. I never really went back.

I was already stuck in the Google Universe. I used Gmail, Google Docs, Google Reader, and many other online alternatives to native desktop apps. As soon as I switched to Chrome OS, I found it surprisingly easy to find great online alternatives to any desktop apps that I need. Because I have a "real" computer, I could even print directly from Chrome OS using Cloud Print. Of course, I gave up some conveniences, but I believe that was a fair price to pay for the simplicity I now gained. No complex files, programs messing up your system, virus issues, or any other junk that comes along with a Windows or Mac computer. I couldn't have used this as my only computer, I still use iTunes regularly, but it definitely works a great, simple replacement.

The Samsung Chromebook

Google now licences Chrome OS to manufacturers, who created their own 'Chromebooks'. Currently, both Samsung and Acer have a few models, which run from about $300-$450. At that price, it might be smarter to get a low-end Windows machine, but if you're willing to pay that price for simplicity's sake, it may be worth it. I think that, at this point, Chrome OS and the Chromebooks are great for either simple-computer users who don't want to be confused by the complexities of a "real" operating system, or to be used as a companion to a "real" computer, as Chrome OS has a clean interface, amazing boot time, and easy access to the web.  

Have you played with Chrome OS or the Cr48? Did you take the plunge and buy a Chromebook? What are your experiences with Google's Chrome OS? Like it? Drop a comment below with your experiences.

iPod Nano Watchbands

The latest version of the iPod Nano, the 6th generation, is a pretty cool and sleek device, but from almost the day it came out, people have been using it as a watch face. The device is the right shape and size, and has a perfect clock feature built in. But you can't use a Nano as a watch without a watchband.

The original Nano watch band was made out of a cheap rubber material, and was more like a wristband than a watchband. Soon, more and more watchbands were being sold, and the iPod Nano watch evolved from a rubber bracelet, to something you'd expect to find on a regular watch.

If you have a 6th generation iPod Nano, and want to use it as a watch, we'll go through the best bands at the best deals.

The HEX Original Watch Band

1. The HEX Original Watch Band

This is the simple, but high quality watch band. Available in nine different colors, there's sure to be one that matches your taste. The HEX features a silicone strap, an easy pop-in, pop-out design, and even has built in button controls. At $29.99, the HEX isn't the cheapest option out there, but it looks cool, functions well, and is an all-around good deal. You can pick one up at shophex.com or at Amazon.

2. The iWatchz Timepiece Leather Watch Band

The iWatchz Timepiece is a more high end watchband model, and features a beautiful leather band, unlike the HEX, the iWatchz itself doesn't cover the iPod's buttons and use buttons of it's own, rather it uses a "unique patent-pending clip system that uses the iPod Nano's own built-in clip". This makes the watch look a lot more elegant, especially if you have a Nano with a not-so-colorful color. The beautiful design, however, does not come without a price tag, and this band will set you back $89.95. The iWatchz Timepiece is sold at iWatchz.com, or at Amazon.

3. The LunaTik Lynk

Probably the most high end watchband out there, the LunaTik Lynk is an extremely elegant watchband that would easily pass for a regular watch. Made of aerospace grade aluminum, this watch band is both sturdy and beautiful. The Lynk is available in silver and blackout, at $129.95 and $139.95 respectively. The beautiful design will match even the nicest, most elaborate clothing. It is not available immediately, but can be picked up for pre-order at LunaTik.com.

In this article, we cover three great watchbands in three different price ranges. However, there are many more great watchbands that may fit your needs better. Before making your purchase decision, please check out the websites of the companies we covered in the article, to view their wide selection of watchbands. The websites are shophex.com, iwatchz.com, and lunatik.com.

Have any other watchbands you've tried and like? Tried any of the bands we covered? Like them? Hate them? Leave a comment below with feedback.

Guest Post: Choosing Home Broadband

Getting home broadband can be relatively easy to achieve just as long as you know what sort of deal or package you’re going to need in order to match it to what you like to do online. While there are seemingly a million and one different deals and offers out there in broadband-land, it’s not always that obvious which one is going to be right for your requirements. So, in order to simplify things, all you need to do is remember the following three pointers:

1. Before you sign up to any kind of high-speed internet deal it’s a great idea to do your research. The easiest way to do this is get online and compare and contrast the many different packages that are on the market. Don’t sign up for a deal that is bigger than what you need. So, for example, if you’re happy to do a bit of surfing, check emails and so on, then a smaller ‘lite’ style deal will be more than adequate. People who need to download lots of content, such as movies, meanwhile, should look for the beefier deals out there.

2. Read the small print associated with any of the deals or offers that you like the look of. You may find that the advertising blurb sells the package to you easily, but it’s not until you check the hidden details that you might spot stuff that will ruin the enjoyment of your new home broadband package. Limitations on the amount of data that you can download (and upload) is a common issue with some of the less powerful packages. If you’re going to be online and downloading a lot then this is a key issue to look out for.

3. Finally, explore what is involved in the package that you like the look of. Find out if all of the hardware and software comes included as part of the deal and if anyone will need to come to your house to set things up. If they do, ask if this is included in the price. Also keep an eye out for the sort of technology that is being used in your area, as some internet service providers  have a better infrastructure than others. Asking around your neighborhood, reading real consumer reviews and doing that homework before you sign on the dotted line can pay real dividends in the long run.

So, just as long as you pick through these three suggestions as you explore the available home broadband options in your area, then you will soon be on the right track to getting a high-speed broadband internet supply in your house. Remember that, at the end of the day, you are the customer, and any internet service provider that’s worth signing a contract for should, ideally, do everything they can to help you get set up as quickly and as cost effectively as possible.

Author Bio: Rob Clymo writes for www.broadbandgenie.co.uk and www.mobilephonegenie.co.uk, the online consumer advice portals for broadband, mobile broadband and mobile phones.

Guest Post: Top Smartphones of 2011

Guest post by Chris Pentago. Find Chris on Twitter and Google+.

With every passing year, mobile phones become more advanced. With the current smartphone craze, a newer and more powerful device is always right around the corner. As the year begins to wind down, we take a look at the best new mobile phones available.

Motorola Droid RAZR

The Droid RAZR represents a merging of two of the most iconic brands in the history of mobile phones. Many will recall Motorola's 2004 RAZR, the thinnest phone of its era. The Droid RAZR follows in its footsteps, measuring an incredibly thin 7.1 millimeters.The Droid RAZR runs Android 3.0 Gingerbread and is powered by the latest hardware. It has specs that tech fans drool over. The device features a 4.3 Super AMOLED Advanced display and dual-core processor. The phone also has a front-facing camera for video chat, and can shoot HD video. On top of all of this, Motorola coated the Droid RAZR with Kevlar and a splash guard, making the Droid RAZR resistant to spills.

Samsung Galaxy S2

 The international version of the Galaxy S2 has been available for some time overseas, but it just recently made its way to US carriers. The specs vary between carrier, but the theme remains the same: A massive screen that's around 4.5 inches, a dual-core processor, front and back cameras, and a thin build that's extremely sleek. The phone runs Android 3.0 with Samsung's TouchWiz skin and custom widgets, making the experience of using the device just a bit more friendly for the casual crowd. For anyone who's not on Verizon and can't get the Droid RAZR, the Galaxy S2 is their best bet for a thin phone with a beautiful screen and slim build.

Google and Samsung Galaxy Nexus

Google and Samsung have teamed up once more for the latest Nexus device from Google. The Galaxy Nexus sports the features everyone would expect, such as a dual-core processor and front-facing and rear-facing cameras. A few things set it apart from the rest, though. For starters, it has a 4.6" Super AMOLED screen capable of displaying HD video. It has what Google calls a contour display, meaning the screen is slightly curved allowing for easier use. Perhaps most importantly, it is the first device to run what Google calls Ice Cream Sandwich, otherwise known as Android 4.0. Android 4.0 features an overhauled user experience that is faster and sleeker, and requires no physical buttons on the device. Because of this, the Galaxy Nexus is going to be on the cutting edge of both hardware and software.

Apple iPhone 4S


The latest iPhone continues to help set the standard when it comes to ease of use, speed and form factor. The device builds on the beautiful design standards established by the iPhone 4 but throws a faster, dual-core processor into the mix along with a much improved camera. The iPhone 4S also includes Apple's proprietary voice recognition software, Siri. Siri lets users operate the device with their voices instead of fingers. Those looking for a reliable and simple smartphone experience can't go wrong with the iPhone 4S.

There are new mobile phones being released constantly. None will last forever before the next great thing comes out, however, these devices are among those with specs that will last for the long haul. All of these devices are available now or will be by the end of November, making them a great pick for the holiday season. Which one would you pick? Tell us in the comments below.

Steve Jobs' Biography is Out

So much has happened as far as Steve Jobs news in the past few months. First, the much talked-about news about his resignation as CEO of Apple, and later, unfortunately, the news about his death. Now, although we no longer have the amazing visionary that was Steve Jobs, we do have many of his secrets that he revealed in his official biography, entitled, simply, Steve Jobs.

This 656 page biography, written by biographer Walter Isaacson, opens a window into Steve's mind, as Isaacson conducted over forty interviews with Jobs, up until his death. Issacson also interviewed more than 100 other family members, friends, colleagues, and even adversaries, to try to bring out the entire story.

Walter Issacson is also the author of Einstein: His Life and Universe and Benjamin Franklin: An American Life, so he seems to be an experienced enough biographer for this book.

The book is available on Amazon.com as a Kindle book, in hardcover, and even in CD and Audible.com audio-book versions. It's also available on iBooks, Barnes and Noble Nook, and many other e-Book and paper book retailers.

Guest Post: Caring For your Smartphone

Guest post by Vanessa Burke

When you're ready to make the commitment to your first smartphone, it's a good idea to learn how to care for it properly to make your investment last as long as possible. Smartphones like the Galaxy S2 cell phone, for instance, may be crafted of different material than you're used to which can require a different type of care than a standard phone. 

Many cell phones are housed in traditional metal casings, but some like the Galaxy S2 are made of a more cost-effecient plastic, chosen for its light weight and thin size. Because of this difference in design, these phones require additional measures to keep them free from damage. Here are some tips to help ensure your phone lasts a long time and keeps looking good while you have it. 

Use a case or belt clip to prevent scratches and scuffs. While the material used for cell phones is much more resilient than it may look, it's still a good idea to protect the surface by placing your phone in a case or keeping it secure on your belt. Dropping it in a purse, or carrying it in a pocket along with keys, nail clippers, a knife and other gadgets, can cause unnecessary damage and mar the housing. 

To clean your smartphone, use a soft lint-free cloth like you would use to clean your eyeglasses. Never use household cleaners or harsh cleansers as they can scratch your phone. Instead, spritz some distilled water on your cloth, not directly on the phone, and gently wipe away the dirt. Use a Q-tip to get into the crevices and isopropyl alcohol, if needed, for the keyboard or casing. 

Guard your phone as you would your computer, your iPod, or any other device that can be easily damaged. Tossing it around, frequently dropping it, or abusing it in other ways can shorten the life of your phone and damage it beyond repair. 

Remember the Geico commercial that shows a Humphrey Bogart wannabe who asks the question, "Can switching to Geico really save you 15 percent or more on car insurance?" The actor then asks, "Do people use smartphones to do dumb things?" And of course, since the answer is yes, we see three guys who look like idiots doing just that in a variety of ways. 

While we can laugh at the commercial, there is a lesson to be learned. Be smart about protecting your smartphone. Protect it like you would any other investment you've made. 

iPhone 4S + More

Apple recently hosted a keynote announcement , announcing its new iPhone, as well as a few minor updates to the iPod line.

Siri on the iPhone 4S

iPhone 4S:


Although some were expecting a completely new and redesigned iPhone 5, Apple will probably wait for 2012 to announce the iPhone 5. Until then, we will have to live with the more minor updates of the new iPhone 4S.

The 4S keeps the same beautiful and elegant design as the iPhone 4, but now comes packed with the same Apple A5 processor found in the iPad 2. This new chip allows for a much snappier experience, along with the ability to carry out more powerful tasks on the iPhone. Although the 4S has a much more powerful processor, battery life is still great, with up to eight hours of talk time on a single charge.

Another major update in the iPhone 4S is the camera. The iPhone 4's camera was always known as a great one, especially for a cell phone camera. The 4S's camera is even greater than its predecessor, with an 8 megapixel sensor, as well as many other improvements to the picture quality. The camera can also now provide 1080p video recording.

The iPhone 4S will also come pre-loaded with Apple's newest mobile operating system, iOS 5. Click here for an overview of iOS 5.

The most talked about feature on the new iPhone 4S is most probably Siri. In April of 2010, Apple bought the voice-command recognition company Siri. Apple is now integrating Siri into it's newest iPhone. To activate Siri, one just holds down the home button on the iPhone, and the Siri window pops up. Users can ask Siri almost anything, and it will answer. It can be used to schedule tasks, play music, dictate emails, look up facts, and much more.

The new iPhone 4S will cost $199 with a two year contract, and will be available on AT&T, Verizon, and now Sprint.

iPods:

The iPod Nano

There really weren't many major updates to the iPod line. The two devices they changed slightly are the iPod Nano, and the iPod Touch.

The Nano has a few new features, including a new, simpler user interface, a built in sensor for exercising right out of the box, and many new clock face options. The Nano's price was lowered to $129 for the 8GB model, and $149 for the 16GB model. The Nano keeps it's same design.

The iPod Touch also got a price decrease, starting now at $199 for 8GB, and is now available in white.

Steve Jobs: 1955-2011

Steve Jobs, former CEO and founder of Apple Inc., has passed away earlier today. Steve was the spark of the success of Apple, and the one who changed the technology industry for all of us. Rest in peace, Steve Jobs.

Read about Steve on Wikipedia, and hear what president Barack Obama said about the great visionary.

Amazon Updates the Kindle Lineup

In a recent press event, Amazon, the makers of the popular Kindle e-reading device, announced the next generation of Kindle devices.

Kindle:

The good old Kindle we all know and love, right? Wrong. Although it keeps the simple, one word name, the new Kindle is a very different looking device. With the same 6 inch screen size as its predecessor, the new Kindle weighs 30% lighter (6 ounces), most likely due to the most noticeable difference: the new Kindle has no keyboard. Instead of using the keyboard, one navigates the device using the new five way controller, as well as four other small buttons.

The New Kindle

Download books over Wi-Fi (no 3G option this time around), and read them wherever you go, with up to a month of battery life on a single charge. Also, as Amazon is marketing strongly, the Kindle can be used even in bright sunlight, because of its black and white e-ink display.

The most compelling aspect of the new Kindle is it's price. The new device is the cheapest Kindle ever, at $79 if you choose "special offers" (click here to get an overview of what special offers is). If you choose not to go for the special offers, you'll pay $109 for this new e-reader.




Kindle Touch:

The Kindle Touch

At first glance, the Kindle Touch looks almost identical to the Kindle. The main noticeable difference is the Touch's lack of buttons. However, no buttons are needed, due to the Kindle Touch's 6 inch, e-ink, thouchscreen display.

Other than the touchscreen display, the Kindle Touch is almost identical to the regular Kindle. Another big difference is the 3G capabilities. The Touch is the only new Kindle that is available with a 3G model. With the always connected convenience of a cell phone, without any monthly fees or yearly contracts. The Wi-Fi version costs only $99, while 3G capabilities will cost you $149.


Kindle Fire:

The Kindle Fire

Probably the most anticipated update to the Kindle family is a color tablet device, called the Kindle Fire. The fire comes packed with a 7 inch color screen (something completely new to the Kindle brand), a 14.6 ounce weight (about the weight of a can of beans), a dual-core processor, and 8GB of storage. The body of the device is simplistic yet pretty, with no visible buttons.

The Fire runs Android, with an Amazon skin that makes it look like a completely new OS. Amazon is marketing the Fire as more of a multimedia player than a tablet computer, and, since it doesn't run the Android Market, that's really what it is. You can, however, download apps from the Amazon Appstore, which has, as Amazon says, "thousands of apps and games". You can download this content via the built in Wi-Fi, as this device has no 3G built in.

The Fire seems to revolve almost solely on Amazon's content. You download music from the Amazon MP3 store, apps from Amazon's Appstore, and movies from it's own video store. As always, books are also downloaded from Amazon's own service. This is an Apple-like strategy (with Apple's iTunes store), and is probably one of the reasons that Amazon can sell this device for only $199.

The new Kindle Fire is available for pre-order now, and will ship on November 15.

5 Android Apps you Need: App 5

This is the final post of a five part series. Read the fourth post here.

So we've been pretty productive with our first four apps, and it's time to have some fun. If you follow sports of any kind, this free app from ESPN.com, is a great download. Called ESPN ScoreCenter, the app puts sports news, videos, scores, and more, in the hand of the user.

The app allows you to what's going on in tens of different leagues, including the big ones like NFL, MLB, and NBA, and the smaller ones, like Formula 1, NCAA Water polo, and Cricket. The app offers live scores, news, videos, and more for free, ad-free, from ESPN.

LauncherPro for Android

Although the design's not the prettiest, it's definitely a lot better than many other apps, making this sports-lover's app a sure download. It can be downloaded for free from the Android Market, or ESPN.com.

Now, I promised in the App 2 post that App 5 would contain a special bonus app. So, here goes.

Everyone knows that User Interface design isn't one of Android's strong points. It may be a powerful system, but iOS leaves Android in the dirt as far as UI. The good thing about Android, is that you're not stuck, and here's an app that'll make your phone just a little more pretty.

A free app from a developer named Federico Carnales, LauncherPro completely changes the look of your Android device, hopefully for the better. It is also extremely customizable, so check out the pics below, and see if you like it. If you do, it's a free download from the Android Market.


Hope you enjoyed this series, bye for now.

5 Android Apps you Need: App 4

This is the fourth part of a five part series. Read the third post here. Check back next Monday for the last part of the series.

The only thing you really can't live without is food, and grocery shopping is never such a fun experience. Make it easier with Grocery iQ, a free app from Coupons.com, which allows you to create personalized shopping lists, get free coupons, and much more.

Coupons on Grocery iQ

When starting with Grocery iQ, you make a list of all of the stores you shop at, and then personalize the aisles in each store, so you know which store has which aisles. Although this is a slightly tedious process, when you're done with it, it's worth it.

You then add grocery items to your list, and add each item to one or more of the stores on your list, and specify which aisle each item is located in. When you then go shopping, you simply click the name of the store, and you see the list of all of the items you need at that store, and which specific aisle it's located in, making your shopping experience a lot more enjoyable.

A great feature of this app is the syncing feature. Grocery iQ also has apps available online and for iOS, so if you have any other device with Grocery iQ, your lists can be automatically shared, and when anyone else with Grocery iQ buys an item, it gets automatically synced with any other users using the same account as you. This makes it great for families, as both a mother and father can share a list on different devices.

Since Grocery iQ comes from Coupons.com, free coupons are integrated to the app, also an extremely convenient feature.

If you eat food, (and I know you do), you need Grocery iQ, so download it for free today, from groceryiq.com or the Android Market.

Hey Twitter users! If you're on Android, check out Plume for Twitter!

5 Android Apps you Need: App 3

This is the second part of a five part series. Read the second post here. Look out for more every Monday and Thursday.

Welcome back to 5 Android Apps you Need. Now that you're reading and chatting, it's time to get some watching done. Netflix, a free app from Netflix.com, allows users to stream thousands of movies and TV shows, with a small monthly fee.

We've talking about Netflix a few times before, but never really in detail. Also, we've never talked about the mobile app, so here goes.

With a $7.99 a month Netflix subscription, users can choose from thousands of movies and TV shows to stream, ad-free, immediately. Although Netflix has a lot of movies for those who like less popular stuff, it also has it's fair share of the more popular content as well, including Mad Men, Super 8, and Secretariat. There's also plenty of stuff for the kids, including, SpongeBob SquarePants, Toy Story 3, and Blue's Clues.

Netflix is also available on, well, almost any device you can think of (Click here for a complete list). A $7.99 subscription gives you access to the Android app, as well as all of the other devices Netflix is available on, and with Netflix's huge collection of content, it's definitely a good deal.

With Netflix's great Android app, huge collection, and free 30 day trial (available at Netflix.com), there's no reason not to try it. The app's free, so give it a download.   

5 Android Apps You Need: App 2

This is the second part of a five part series. Read the first post here. Look out for more every Monday and Thursday (Hopefully).

First off, I'd like to apologize. I had written "Look out for more every Monday and Thursday." in my first post on Monday. Come Thursday, and my next post isn't up. Today is Friday. This is the post that was supposed to be published on Thursday. I plan on being on time, next Monday and next Thursday. Also, to make up for it, App 5 will contain a special bonus app. (If I don't forget.)

Now that that has been taken care of, we can proceed. The second Android app I'm covering in this series is called Skype. Available for free from Skype.com, the Skype Android app allows users to chat with audio or video to any other Skype user. Skype can also be used to any phone number for a small fee. 

To use Skype, you must have a Skype account, also free from Skype.com. Skype is also available on many other platforms, including iOS, Mac OS X, and Windows. This means that you can chat with users from your phone, even if they are at their computer. 

Skype is a great download, as it allows you to video-chat from anywhere, stay connected on the go, and even have meeting while you are away, allowing for more vacation. 

Skype is great for business, great for personal use, and great for you. Also, since it's free, you have nothing to lose. Download the Skype Android app today.

5 Android Apps you Need: App 1

This is the first part of a five part series. Check back every Monday and Thursday for more.

If you've been reading Gadgetator regularly, you probably know about the 5 iPhone Apps you Need series we did a while back. Although iPhone may be slightly more popular than Android, I never like to be biased, so here's... 5 Android Apps you Need.


iOS, the operating system behind the iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch, has always been known for it's large number of apps available. However, with Android's success over the past few years, it's app numbers have been slowly creeping up, and it's getting hard to choose the great apps from the not so great ones. Here's a little  bit of help, as I, over the next few weeks, will highlight 5 of the best apps for your Android device.

The first app in this series, called Kindle, is available for free from Amazon.com, as well as a free download from Google's Android Market.

Many people enjoy reading for different reasons. Be it to relax, laugh, or soak up information, Kindle strives to help get that reading done without having to lug around heavy books. All you need is your Android phone and the Kindle app (iOS, Windows Phone, and BlackBerry apps also available), and you're set. You can now read wherever you are without carrying heavy books around.

Now, you get that you can read with the Kindle app, but there is much more to it. Kindle allows you to browse over 950,000 books, as well as newspapers and magazines, and read them on your device. Although some books are free, most cost close to $10.

The reading experience is also great, as you can change font size, search inside the book, and instantly look up hard words with the built in dictionary. The Kindle app's Whispersync technology means that the page you are on, any notes you took, and bookmarks are automatically synced with any other Kindle apps you have on other devices, as well as on the actual Kindle device itself, so you never miss a word.

So, if you're running Android and enjoy reading, the Kindle app is a great, free download.

Samsung introduces ChatON Instant Message Service

Samsung is getting into the market that Apple, the maker of the iPhone, RIM, the maker of the BlackBerry, and Facebook are already in. Samsung, the maker of many popular mobile phones, "smart" and otherwise, introduced it's ChatON instant messaging service.

The ChatON service will allow users to send short messages to each other for free, including texts, photos, contacts, and calendar. The service will be available at first on Samsung devices running their "semi-smart" mobile operating system, called Bada.

A Samsung
device running Bada.

The service will later come as an app on Android and iOS devices. While the users of the Bada version will get the basic capabilities mentioned above, the users of the Android and iOS app will get some more advanced features, such as commenting on their friends profile pages, create special "animation messages", and keep track of how often they instant message.

Ho Soo Lee, Head of Media Solution Center at Samsung Electronics, said in a statement, "With ChatON, Samsung has vastly simplified mobile communication by allowing users to connect to our upcoming feature phones and all major smartphones in the market. Users around the world can now enjoy easier and richer interactivity with whoever they want, in the format they want."

While the ChatON service seems like a pretty good idea, like I mentioned at the beginning of the post, Samsung is competing with some pretty big contenders. RIM's BlackBerry Messenger was recently revamped to become more "social", Apple has a similar service coming out soon on all iOS devices, called iMessage, and of course Facebook, with more than 750 million users, recently launched it's Facebook Messenger app for iOS, so Samsung's app will have to be pretty good to compete.

Samsung's ChatON service will make it's official debut later this week at Berlin's IFA Conference, and will be available in over 120 countries with 62 languages.

So, the ChatON service has a lot to compete with, but it's one of the only services available on more than one platform, with it's Bada, iOS, and Android apps. Overall, it seems like a great service, and I wish it luck in succeeding in the large world of IM services.

More information available in the below video.

Fusion Garage's Latest Creation (Update)

Fusion Garage is a company founded in 2008 with a vision to revolutionize mobile computing. At first, the company's idea was to use the browser as an operating system, similar to Google's Chrome OS. The difference between Fusion Garage's idea and Chrome OS. Is that Fusion Garage wanted to implement their idea on a tablet computer. They did.

The JooJoo tablet was created, a $499 tablet that ran an OS similar to a browser. All the apps you one were merely websites, and, although there are some extremely powerful and productive web apps, it just wasn't enough to keep Fusion Garage's JooJoo tab afloat.

The Grid 10 Tablet

As JooJoo died off, Fusion Garage was quietly planning something else. Something they thought would be big.
Something they call Grid.

The company recently introduced the Grid brand of products. The two devices that are currently up on their  website, the Grid 10 tablet and the Grid 4 phone, run Fusion Garage's new, Android based operating system, GridOS. GridOS is an individual operating system built on top of Android that provides a completely different user interface.

Although there is not much info about GridOS on the Fusion Garage website. The folks over at Engadget got a sneak peek preview, and we got to see a little more about the operating system. Firstly, the UI is very much based on the clean, simple grid-based style. It's a style that looks nothing like Apple's iOS or Google's Android. However, it does very slightly resemble the clean and simple look of Windows Phone 7. Also, the operating system comes with an emulator that allows it to run Android apps, although you'll have to download the apps from somewhere besides for the Android Market, as GridOS does not support.

The Grid 10 tablet device is available for pre-order now, but, at $499 for the 16GB WiFi only version, it's not cheap. However, you will get some great features such as data sync between any Grid devices, as well as the Grid desktop app for your desktop or laptop computer. The 10 inch tablet sports a sleek design, a high resolution display, and a front facing camera.

The Grid 4 Smartphone

The Grid 4 smartphone, not yet available to order, also will run Grid OS, and, like the tablet, sports a sleek and attractive design. The 4 inch phone has a 800 x 430 resolution, as well as a front and rear facing cameras. It will go for $399 unlocked. Carriers will be announced closer to the fourth quarter release date.

Overall, these two devices are sleek and simple, and, running an OS that is also sleek and simple, they may have a chance in the tablet and smartphone market. The problem with any tablet is the lack of apps, and, although Grid will have a native app store later this year, the fact that Android apps are supported is a great advantage.


(UPDATE: FusionGarage has lowered the price of the Grid10 by $200, making the entry-level version only $299)

Google to Buy Motorola Mobility

Motorola is known by many for it's numerous advancements in the technology of the cellular phone. For one thing, it was the creator of the first cell phone ever made. That two pound "brick" didn't last too long, and now, after Motorola created some of the most popular Android phones, Google feels the need to buy them.

In a press release put out earlier today, Google said that they were going to buy Motorola Mobility Holdings, Inc. for $40 a share, adding up to about $12.5 billion. $12.5 billion is quite a lot of money, however, Google does have some really deep pockets.

The deal will be made official at an announcement later today.

Now that the facts have been said, one would have to think about the reasoning that Google would want to make such a purchase.

Larry Page, Google's CEO, said the following about the purchase:

      "Motorola Mobility's total commitment to Android has created a natural fit for our two companies. Together, we will create amazing user experiences that supercharge the entire Android ecosystem for the benefit of consumers, partners and developers. I look forward to welcoming Motorolans to our family of Googlers."

From Page's statement, it seems that this deal has something to do with the people working at Motorola, as well as the partnership that Google and Motorola already have.

From the press conference, it doesn't seem like Android will see many changes because of this buy. Also, Google says they will continue to run Motorola as a separate business. 

So, although it seems the end user won't be too affected by this, we really won't know for a while. We'll just have to wait and see what happens. And hope for the best.

Read the full press release here.

Apple TV, Entertainment made Simple

When looking for a device that hooks up to your TV that streams movies and other content to the big screen, there are quite a few choices. These devices are called set-top boxes, and there are at least 10 well know and popular devices, with prices ranging from $55 to $299.

So if you're looking for a good set-top box, one that combines a pretty good price with a slick interface and great content selection, Apple thinks they have the device for you.

The Apple TV is a $99 device that allows you to stream content directly from the Internet. Unlike some of the other options, the Apple TV has no built in storage, so, while you can connect via a network to iTunes on your computer and stream content from there, everything else is just streaming it directly from the "cloud".

The Apple TV can access and stream movies and TV shows from the iTunes store. However, there is no way to purchase movies, only to rent them. An update out today allows users to buy TV shows directly, and stream them on demand from wherever they are. Users can also access and listen to or watch free podcasts, as well as access Apple's "Radio" feature.

Besides for Apple's own iTunes content, users can access content from Netflix, YouTube, and with this latest update, Vimeo. Netflix, which we have mentioned in the past, allows instant streaming of thousands of movies and TV shows, for a price that, at $7.99 a month, is probably cheaper than consuming all of your content via iTunes. YouTube and Vimeo, however, are free to use, and deliver a seemingly never-ending flow of great (and not so great) content.

And, if you aren't already watching way too much stuff, you can also watch every MLB or NBA game live with a subscription to MLB.tv or NBA.com League Pass Broadband. Both of these services are a little pricey, and you might run into blackout restrictions if the game you are trying to watch is available on "real TV" in your area.

Apple TV's Small Size

But of course, there's more. Connecting your Apple TV to your computer running iTunes over WiFi will allow you to stream your entire music collection through your home theater setup. Pictures from your computer can also be viewed on your big screen TV.

To top it all off, the Apple TV can stream content playing on any iOS device (iPhone, iPad, iPod touch). To stream this content on the big screen, all you have to do is tap the "AirPlay" button, and, after initial setup, the content will suddenly be playing on the big screen.

At $99, and a 3.9 inch square size, the Apple TV seems like a great buy, and the recent update that adds Vimeo and TV show purchasing definitely makes it even more compelling. If you're in the market for a set-top box, and you have 100 bucks to spare, the Apple TV is a great choice for you.

Ask Gadgetator: 3D on Tablets

Ever had something you wanted an extra opinion on. Or maybe you just want some help getting along in this ever complex world of technology. Here's your chance to Ask Gadgetator. Send any tech related questions to gadgetatorblog@gmail.com, and type "Ask Gadgetator" in the subject line, and your question may be featured in a Ask Gadgetator post.

This question comes from "technologyftw" and deals with 3D on phones and tablets.

Question: What do you think of 3D on the G-Slate? Should tablets move towards head-tracking 3D or the kind of 3D on the Evo 3D and Thrill 4G. -technologyftw

Answer: 3D itself seems sort of gimmicky. It’s great in theaters, and okay on a 50 or 60 inch television. Smaller than that, just doesn't really work well. The most obvious reason that 3D gets better as it the picture gets bigger, is because 3D really needs to fill your field of view.

In real life, your entire vision is seen in 3D. This seems natural. Once you get it down even to a theater size, It seems less natural, because the 3D you are seeing onscreen is different that the 3D that the chair in front of you is. “Artificial 3D” is more 3D seeming than what you see in real life. Therefore the sudden change from artificial to natural 3D can look unnatural.

Television 3D is worse. With a theater, at least it fills up the majority of your field of view. With a TV, it only fills up a small part of your field of view, so the transition between artificial and natural 3D is less natural looking.

Once you get down to the 3 or 4 inch screens on a phone, or even the 9 or 10 inch screens on a tablet, the 3D just won’t look as good. It barely fills your field of view, and therefore just doesn’t look natural.

Movie theaters, 3D is good, TV’s, it’s okay, but on a phone or tablet, 3D is just a gimmick to make you buy the product.

My answer to your question is that tablets should not move towards head tracking or any other kind of 3D, and should stick with the good old two dimensions that we have grown to know and love.

Mac OS X Lion is Out: How to Get It

Click here to see why you'd even want Mac OS X Lion.

After many rumors, Mac OS X Lion, Apple's latest edition of their Mac operating system, is finally out. And if you have a Mac computer of any kind, you probably want to upgrade to the newer, better OS. The good thing is, it's never been easier. Or cheaper. Unlike previous versions of Mac OS X, Lion is only a $29.99 download, and you basically get licenses for as many computers as you want.

Firstly, you must make sure that your Mac is compatible with Lion. To do this, click on the small Apple logo in the top left corner of your screen, a menu will come down, and select "About This Mac". A box will appear. Look under the "Software Update" button where it says "Processor". If the processor you have is a Core 2 Duo, Core i3, Core i5, Core i7, or Xeon, then your Mac is ready to Lion it up. Almost.

About This Mac

Next, while staying on that same About This Mac screen, is to check if your operating system is ready to upgrade. Immediately above the "Software Update" button it will show a version number. If your version is 10.6.8, you can skip to the next paragraph, if not, read on. If the version number is starts in 10.6. but is not 10.6.8, click the "Software Update" button below. This will update your Mac to the latest version of OS X Snow Leopard. If your version number starts with anything besides for 10.6, you have to get Snow Leopard, (Version 10.6) by buying it for $29.99 here. Once you've upgraded to Snow Leopard, you are ready to go.

Click here to open up the Mac OS X Lion page, and click "View in App Store". If you are running the latest version of Snow Leopard, that should bring up the Mac App Store, in which you can simply click "Buy". Mac OS X Lion is a pretty large download, so it could take a few hours, or even more. When done downloading, follow the instructions shown on the screen, which should be pretty straightforward. When you are done, you'll have Lion.

Hoped you enjoy. Any problems with the install? Have any other questions? Pop me a comment below, and I'll get back to you ASAP.

Amazon Announces Kindle Textbook Rentals

One of the major things that is keeping students around the world paper-free, is the fact that textbooks just aren't available on electronic devices. Well, weren't. Amazon, the creator of the popular Kindle eReader device, announced today that they would be launching a textbook rental service, and claims that students can save up to 80% on their textbooks.

"Today, Amazon.com announced the launch of Kindle Textbook Rental," Said the Amazon.com press release, "Now students can save up to 80% off textbook list prices by renting from the Kindle Store. Tens of thousands of textbooks are available for the 2011 school year from leading textbook publishers such as John Wiley & Sons, Elsevier and Taylor & Francis. Students can find details about the program at www.amazon.com/kindletextbooks"

The Kindle textbooks can be rented anywhere from 30 to 360 days, so students really have flexibility. Also, like other Kindle books, these are, as Amazon.com calls it, "Rent once, read anywhere". This means that you can read a Kindle textbook on, of course, the Kindle device, as well as the Kindle app for iPhone, Android, and even for the Mac and PC.

This seems extremely convenient, however, although Amazon is claiming prices up to 80% than hardcover books, that is not countering in the fact that many people can sell used textbooks after using them, and earn back a percentage of what they paid originally.

Do you think it's worth the convenience to lose the reselling value? Are you going to be using this new Kindle feature? Let me know by simply commenting below. Thank you.