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HTC Evo 4G to get Froyo next?

As previously reported, we all know that the Google Nexus One will be the first to get the Android 2.2 update OTA. Our guess was that Motorola Droid and HTC Incredible would be next but now new information has come to light that shows another contender.Bill from Android Forum has just informed us that his contact at Sprint has revealed that the HTC Evo 4G will be second to receive the Android 2.2 update. So basically Sprint will be rolling out the update in the same month of the Evo 4G's release ( release date rumored to be Labor day or after speculations that the HTC Evo 4G will come with 5GB to 8GB ROM OZCAR will be attending the Google I/O event this year and will report back on Android 2.2's ong list of goodies. At the moment, we know that it includes Flash support and will free up additional RAM. Furthermore there is now news that since Google bought BumpTop, Android 2.2 could even bring your phone a 3D home screen!
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http://www.ozcarguide.com/technology/cellphone-pda/2961-htc-evo-4g-android-22-nexus-one
Credible source, or random speculation?
What do Nexus owner's have now? Sexiness, developer support? We still get Froyo first - but not as "first" as people thought.

I'm trying to figure out why you're upset? Because EVO is going to get 2.2?
Exactly what OS would you propose the EVO get? Are all devices supposed to sit at 2.1 and the Nexus only get upgrades?
The Nexus gets it first, I'm thrilled, and it's all a Nexus owner can hope for.
I'm glad the EVO will launch with 2.2. I want to see Android do well, HTC too.
Oh, and what do I have now? The best mobile device I've ever owned, that's what.

Old MuckenMire said:
I'm trying to figure out why you're upset? Because EVO is going to get 2.2?
Exactly what OS would you propose the EVO get? Are all devices supposed to sit at 2.1 and the Nexus only get upgrades?
The Nexus gets it first, I'm thrilled, and it's all a Nexus owner can hope for.
I'm glad the EVO will launch with 2.2. I want to see Android do well, HTC too.
Oh, and what do I have now? The best mobile device I've ever owned, that's what.
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I'm not upset lol, I included the last part in order to cause frustration among people who thought the Nexus was going to get updated months before the Incredible, Evo, and other Android devices. Google is slowly stopping fragmentation though, and we only know that the Evo is possibly getting it so soon.
In order to start conversation, you must include controversial, irritable, or suspicious questions. People start to talk then..
People were using Froyo coming to us quickly as an excuse to not get the Incredible, or Evo - that can't be used for long.

very sad.... rooted nexus one can't get update for froyo even if u revert back to original stock rom ... right ?? i am very sad lol

xzr3b0rnzx said:
very sad.... rooted nexus one can't get update for froyo even if u revert back to original stock rom ... right ?? i am very sad lol
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dont be sad because even though you wont get the actual OTA someone who did might be kind enough to post it. root or not rooted users will both end up with the update. the only difference will be how you get it.

Nah, the stock 2.2 rom may very well be available to flash before the unmodded guys get the ota. You're not going to miss out on anything so no worries.

XDA will see it before EVO

A) No, ozcarguide is NOT a credible source. I have my news Widget set to check for "Android" and ozcarguide often pops up with news posts that are totally garbage.
Basic rule of thumb: don't trust lesser-known websites that post articles and don't have comments. If they don't have comments, that means the site isn't popular enough and may just be filled with BS in order to get page views. Also, don't trust news "articles" that are 2-3 paragraphs long.
B) I too don't understand why you're upset. Android has been absolutely blasted by every news source on the internet for fragmentation issues.
Google's goal is now (or should be to quiet people down) to have every SINGLE device running 2.2 the day it's released.
C) Stock Android devices will get 2.2 working MUCH earlier than Sense UI devices. Even if the article is true (which I'm betting it's not), it only says the Evo 4G will receive 2.2 "second". Nowhere does it give a specific time frame aside from "the same month" it's released.
2.2 could come out June 1st for the N1 and hit the Evo on June 30th. And remember, the June release for the Evo is still rumor at best.
D) Like galaxys posted, the N1 will be running 2.2 within minutes of it being released (or leaked)

Paul22000 said:
A) No, ozcarguide is NOT a credible source. I have my news Widget set to check for "Android" and ozcarguide often pops up with news posts that are totally garbage.
Basic rule of thumb: don't trust lesser-known websites that post articles and don't have comments. If they don't have comments, that means the site isn't popular enough and may just be filled with BS in order to get page views. Also, don't trust news "articles" that are 2-3 paragraphs long.
B) I too don't understand why you're upset. Android has been absolutely blasted by every news source on the internet for fragmentation issues.
Google's goal is now (or should be to quiet people down) to have every SINGLE device running 2.2 the day it's released.
C) Stock Android devices will get 2.2 working MUCH earlier than Sense UI devices. Even if the article is true (which I'm betting it's not), it only says the Evo 4G will receive 2.2 "second". Nowhere does it give a specific time frame aside from "the same month" it's released.
2.2 could come out June 1st for the N1 and hit the Evo on June 30th. And remember, the June release for the Evo is still rumor at best.
D) Like galaxys posted, the N1 will be running 2.2 within minutes of it being released (or leaked)
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You did notice I said I wasn't upset it like the third post?
I know that Stock Google Experience devices (as I have started calling then instead of Vanilla) will get Android first, that is obvious.. it kinda irritates me when people explain things that are already blatantly obvious to me in the first place, I honestly don't know why I posted this myself considering how sad the site looks.
Though, if it was true (which I think was my point), then the Nexus having Froyo quicker than other devices won't matter regardless since they will be getting it hypothetically in the same time frame. Even if we get it a few weeks earlier than everyone else, I wanted to make it known that the Nexus will not be necessarily the only "next gen" Android device that will feature Froyo in a timely manner. Putting statements such as "I will be laughing at you as you're waiting months for the Incredible to be finally updated" to shame. Which I have heard, here as well, trying to make it as if he Nexus is better the other Android devices because it can get updates more quickly. This is all hypothetical of course.

xzr3b0rnzx said:
very sad.... rooted nexus one can't get update for froyo even if u revert back to original stock rom ... right ?? i am very sad lol
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guys, cant believe you never checked this Sticky Thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=614850

I don't understand why people get upset when more devices come out. my nexus is just as solidly built and beautiful looking no matter what comes out next. incredible? looks worse, same specs. this is Google's phone until Google releases the next "Google phone", and that isn't the evo or incredible or desire. nexus one is the top dog, flagship phone until the nexus 2 is released. so enjoy your phone in the present!

Its an operating system update on a mobile phone. No one is getting laid because they got froyo first. Supermodels will not fall all over themselves when you show them your about screen. If others else gets it soon or at the same time, I say more power to them.

Eclair~ said:
In order to start conversation, you must include controversial, irritable, or suspicious questions. People start to talk then..
People were using Froyo coming to us quickly as an excuse to not get the Incredible, or Evo - that can't be used for long.
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No, sweetie, that's called trolling. Adults don't start discussions that way.

Not a reliable source and just speculation. I would say Droid gets 2.2 same time as N1 since Google is using both as dev phones and they both run stock.

I was confused as to why you said that in the OP, and then later on said otherwise.
grainysand said:
No, sweetie, that's called trolling. Adults don't start discussions that way.
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I tend to agree...

krabman said:
No one is getting laid because they got froyo first.
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That's not true. My wife gets all hot and bothered when I geek out on her.

Labor day is sept isnt ?
That evo is taking that long to launch ?? Good lord.
Im glad Android experiences will be similar across all devices. Stupid sense UI slowing things down for other phones.
Only thing to be excited about is flash though. Ram and Colorballs etc is already on custom ROMS. I did like the "always update" on market apps.

xManMythLegend said:
Only thing to be excited about is flash though. Ram and Colorballs etc is already on custom ROMS. I did like the "always update" on market apps.
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Yeah but those of us who haven't rooted yet get lots of goodies. Colorball will be new for me
I personally will not use the always update option. Some of my apps work perfect and I've been burned before by updating and it either breaking the app, or it takes a feature I love away. Now I backup using astro and wait to see what the update entails.

[Q] Epic w/ Android 2.2 [misinformed or real]?

So I saw an article here: http://www.i4u.com/41725/samsung-epic-4g-sale-amazon-14999
Are they dreaming or is the Epic really coming with Android 2.2 now?
[EDIT] It seems somebody is playing with that site. The link is valid, however every once in a while you'll get a coding error message.

Unicorns. Oh, and wrong forum ;p

Seems like it is just an error or a typo
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA App

panthar said:
Unicorns. Oh, and wrong forum ;p
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Whoops I spend so much time in this part of the forum that I forgot the other parts existed. Hey, it's kind of about development... 2.2?

why not check out amazon before asking us if its real?
Running the Android 2.1 operating system, the Epic 4G brings one-touch access to the popular Google mobile services millions use every day, including Google Search by Voice, YouTube, and Picasa. The Epic 4G also provides easy access to both personal and corporate e-mail, calendars, and contacts supported by Exchange Server and Gmail. And through Android Market, you'll get access to thousands of useful applications, widgets, and fun games to download and install on your phone, with many more apps being added every day.
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http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-Epic-...O2H6/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1288387656&sr=8-6

Because ....
Because amazon.com still lists the Canon 30d for over $1000 (its original MSRP in 2006 or so) http://www.amazon.com/Canon-30D-Digital-18-55mm-3-5-5-6/dp/B000DZFPKC
Amazon isnt going to have the latest info, and good luck trying to get any good info from Sprint. As far as my local Sprint store is concerned, the Epic shipped with 2.2, but then I do live in North Dakota

But the last info I saw on froyo for the SGS was that the source was just released in the middle east and perhaps Europe. Last week I saw a forum of some SGS (i9000 i think) guys who had gotten ahold of the source but were still having problems getting their phones to boot. Somewhere last week I also saw a post/message/press release I believe from Samsung saying that all SGS's should have Froyo available from their carriers. So for us, Sprint might have it out around Super Bowl time!

its correct on the "actual" amazon site

A friend at work has froyo on his captivate. Its readily available at xda. Guess that's why I was hoping for an Epic froyo leak.

When do you expect Froyo for Epic will be released?

Let's poll!

acegolfer said:
Let's poll!
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January!
We are talking about sprint and samsung here. Tha'ts like a double whammy!

If its not out by end of this month, my epic is going to be sold on craigslist, or ill ***** at sprint until they call the cops or switch the phone out. Samsung is really getting on my last nerve. I don't give a **** if its the fastest phone out if it doesn't have the os that is about to be old again in a month. Its like running windows xp on a bad ass computer when windows 7 is out, but you can't get the update, no direct x 10 for you.
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA App

I have been hearing about this, but what makes this so great?

lol ive been through this before with sprint..took forever to release the 2.1 update for the hero..by the time the epic gets froyo the next version will probably be out..that really sucks to have such a high end device and always be one and two steps behind the lead os version

IN general no matter what OEM, it will take forever to get the update. Kind of the crappy thing about Android phones with so many consecutive releases. Google said they would slow down after this next release....

Kcarpenter said:
IN general no matter what OEM, it will take forever to get the update. Kind of the crappy thing about Android phones with so many consecutive releases. Google said they would slow down after this next release....
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They better, this is getting out of hand.

I just wish Sprint/Verizon/etc all just used a standardized Android, that way Google could roll out updates like any other Linux distribution. But NO, that'd be WAY too easy, it'd put tons of programmers out of a job because of how simple it would be.

Its all google fault for being too fast trying to achieve the best OS in the world.
Shame on you google!!
Sent from Maxwell's shoe

Honestly i dont really care, it will come when it comes. Im not really in need of it anyway i mean then ill have to wait for a new root for 2.2 and all my mods being able to work on 2.2 especially mobile ap. I mean all froyo is giving us is apps2sd and flash and i hardly use my phone for flash and apps2sd will be nice but not like im running out of room.
But i say late November.

mynewepic10 said:
I have been hearing about this, but what makes this so great?
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Maybe people missed this.

Soon™
Sent from my bathroom, with toilet paper.

I wouldn't expect it until December 1st at the earliest.
The November 11th is just the date it'll get released to carriers from Samsung.
Sprint still has to add their software, gimp it up, add a few bugs, and test it for weeks.
I like the Epic, but the 2.2 delay is a bit irritating.

Why is this so great?

mynewepic10 said:
Why is this so great?
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Reasons:
1. Android Market Applications - As applications begin to adopt 2.2-only features, and Devs don't support 2.1, applications won't show up on Epics anymore. The reason Android fragmentation is dreaded.
2. Apps2SD - The Epic only has 512Mb of app storage. My phone is getting full....
3. ROM ports - Most ROMs are developed on 2.2 in other platforms. With a 2.2-supported kernel, ROM ports from other phones will be easier to create (as well as CM ROM, since CM is 2.2).
4. Adobe Flash support.
5. YouTube HD (2.2 only)
6. Dalvik JIT Compiler (speeds up applications _a lot_... this probably belongs at #1). We had 2.2 on the HTC Touch xv6900 since about June, huge performance boost.

So far this poll has a very small sample return. Nevertheless it is disconcerting to see that, as of this writing, well over 50 percent think Froyo will be deployed on the Epic in November.
This is amazing, since Samsung has only promised that Froyo would come to U.S. Galaxy S variants in general sometime before the end of the year, and Sprint has made no more optimistic a prediction.
If this poll shows anything, it is that many or most readers here are setting themselves up for a bitter disappointment. Expect a lot of rants around Nov. 30, when we probably will still be waiting.

We will get it when other phones start getting 2.3

Froyo's going to slow the browser down, just wait!
On the other hand, I am looking forward to some of the other features it brings... but it's really not going to make that much difference in the performance of the device. It'll get here eventually. Just because it's taking a while is not an excuse to sell your phone.

Meh. I can wait.
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA App

I have the YouTube from Froyo.. came with mah ROM. :shrug:
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA App

All Things Gingerbread (aka Android 2.3 [not 3.0])

I thought it might be good to have a central place to post information about Gingerbread for the Dinc. I am thinking we can use this thread primarily as a clearinghouse for "news", speculation, rumors, etc.
I remember the way Verizon and HTC left us twisting in the wind for months with Froyo, forcing users into wild speculation and a lot of useless "inside information". Use this thread as you see fit. I would ask, however, that you do your best to include a citation and/or weblink for information you provide here to help users decide the value of your information.
I imagine the devs will have their own ROM/Theme/Kernel-specific information regarding Gingerbread in those threads so obviously check there also.

Senior Member "DS36" posted some information this morning regarding Gingerbread in a thread I started yesterday asking if we should start a Gingerbread. Here is his comment from that other thread:
"Yes start the thread
The .32 source codes for has just been released"
Thank you, DS36, for providing this information. Apologies in advance for cutting and pasting from your original post.

ptgay49 said:
Senior Member "DS36" posted some information this morning regarding Gingerbread in a thread I started yesterday asking if we should start a Gingerbread. Here is his comment from that other thread:
"Yes start the thread
The .32 source codes for has just been released"
Thank you, DS36, for providing this information. Apologies in advance for cutting and pasting from your original post.
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Click to collapse
not a problem thanks for the new thread
lets all get excited and hungry mmm mmm gingerbread

DS36 said:
not a problem thanks for the new thread
lets all get excited and hungry mmm mmm gingerbread
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drooling already

Posted on Android Community Website on 11-15-2010
Eric Schmidt Demos Nexus S Running Gingerbread
15 November 2010 by Dylan Bailey
Google CEO Eric Schmidt was on stage at the Web 2.0 Summit and then all of the sudden he pulled out one of the most talked about phones of the last few weeks: The Nexus S. He didn’t go into much detail, he even left out which manufacturer is making the Nexus S, even though it’s very obvious.
While he was on stage he also mentioned that Android 2.3 should be out in the “next few weeks” and Google TV integration with major networks is going well.

I believe I'm excited
ptgay49 said:
Eric Schmidt Demos Nexus S Running Gingerbread
15 November 2010 by Dylan Bailey
Google CEO Eric Schmidt was on stage at the Web 2.0 Summit and then all of the sudden he pulled out one of the most talked about phones of the last few weeks: The Nexus S. He didn’t go into much detail, he even left out which manufacturer is making the Nexus S, even though it’s very obvious.
While he was on stage he also mentioned that Android 2.3 should be out in the “next few weeks” and Google TV integration with major networks is going well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my Incredible using XDA App

I just realized the minimum requirements for gingerbread are what our phones have do you think this may mean well miss updates after 2.3?
Sent from my Incredible using XDA App

Gahh Its Lee said:
I just realized the minimum requirements for gingerbread are what our phones have do you think this may mean well miss updates after 2.3?
Sent from my Incredible using XDA App
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The hero and Eris have froyo....
Sent from my ADR6300 using XDA App

@Lee Like any great phone, this one is becoming obsolete. Some time after 2.3, our contracts will start to be up for renewal and we will get the next latest, greatest phone just like this one once was. It's a vicious cycle that never ends. But with advances in operating systems, there will always be advances in hardware. Who knows, our next phone may have a quad core processor. Let's just hope battery technology advances lol.
sent from my Incredible running cyanogenmod 6.1 with a quadrant score of 1453.

^
Good point. Since the Dinc is my first smart phone, it seems like I'll want to use it "forever". But with electronic gadgets changing and, for the most part, improving so rapidly, I guess that is not realistic.
My goal is to brick my Dinc exactly 730 days after I bought it.

jbrowning37 said:
@Lee Like any great phone, this one is becoming obsolete. Some time after 2.3, our contracts will start to be up for renewal and we will get the next latest, greatest phone just like this one once was. It's a vicious cycle that never ends. But with advances in operating systems, there will always be advances in hardware. Who knows, our next phone may have a quad core processor. Let's just hope battery technology advances lol.
sent from my Incredible running cyanogenmod 6.1 with a quadrant score of 1453.
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Personally, I believe the DINC will still be able to handle a couple more updates with ease. If you look at lower end phones like the G1, Hero, Eris, etc, there will always be those awesome devs tweaking the code to make certain phones work, even if the update wasn't specifically made for a particular model( i.e ERIS and the froyo uodate.)

I just love my dinc. I actually got mine rather recently and I doubt ill ever wanna give it up. Although I will throw it off the bridge if I can get a quad core lol.
Random extra thought... What is the word of dual core phones? I remember reading something about some phones possibly being made with dual core.
Sent from my Incredible using XDA App

Gahh Its Lee said:
I just love my dinc. I actually got mine rather recently and I doubt ill ever wanna give it up. Although I will throw it off the bridge if I can get a quad core lol.
Random extra thought... What is the word of dual core phones? I remember reading something about some phones possibly being made with dual core.
Sent from my Incredible using XDA App
Click to expand...
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Chips go on market in 2011
Dual 1.3 and 1.5s
Plus most high end phones should sports samoled in 2011
Sent from my ADR6300 using XDA App

I want a new phone now...

Looks like Google won't be waiting for the Nexus S to debut GB..
Now that the Google Nexus S has been delayed, the reasons for which are still unknown, could Android 2.3 Gingerbread make its debut on the Google Nexus One instead — the handset that also intro’d Android 2.1 and 2.2?
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I think in the next couple weeks, Gingerbread droid should be dancing around on phones. Just in time for the holidays!

News Article from the Pop Herald dated 11-21-2010
Windows Phone 7 and Android (Gingerbread preparation) Marketplace updates
November 21, 2010 By Joan Lee
Android’s upcoming update with codename “gingerbread” still unavailable, but report says Android marketplace will get few tweaks before the launch. Plus, Windows Phone 7 catching up with new apps.
Google’s mobile OS, the Android 2.3 with codename “Gingerbread,” is just around the corner. And before its launch, reports say few changes on Android’s marketplace interface for developers were seen.
This only means one thing, more “cool” apps for Gingerbread are possible.
There were improvements last week called ”Recent changes” for applications. In this new section, users can now see the details of every changes made with the app. For example, if the developer creates one new feature like “share,” the update log made will be visible to the user who wants to download it.
In the Android developers interface, a 325 characters of space is now available, where app creators can mention bug fixes, support for additional languages, new options, and more.
Users can also feel the application “more” with the developer requirement of 1024×500-pixel graphic, plus a YouTube video link. With a bigger resolution, users can see a bigger screenshot of the app, plus developers can now add videos to give users more insights like how-to and preview. Perfect for game apps.
These updates are expected to give the Android apps more purchases, more profits and more fun (for the buyers).

News Article from slashgear.com 11-24-2010
Andy Rubin to release Android 2.3 Gingerbread on Dec 6?
By Chris Davies on Wed Nov 24th, 2010
Speculation is mounting that Google will launch Android 2.3 Gingerbread on December 6, when project mastermind Andy Rubin is expected to take the stage at the “D: Dive Into Mobile” show in San Francisco. The prediction, says IntoMobile, fits in with Google CEO’s Eric Schmidt’s suggestion that Gingerbread would see a release in the next few weeks; Rubin’s appearance will be three weeks from Schmidt’s confirmation earlier this month.
Android 2.3 Gingerbread will roll out to the Google Nexus One initially, and then it will be up to individual manufacturers to put their development money where their mouths have been and deliver updates to their handsets. As we’ve seen with previous Android updates, however, the timescale for that will likely vary from weeks through to months.
NOTE BY POSTER ptgay49: That last sentence is a buzz kill.

What new features are in 2.3?

Not much worried about it.. owning a incredible with the developers in xda 's forums it won't be long after release to having it running on my phone..super pumped about it though
Sent from my ADR6300 using XDA App

Gingerbread Features
dpwhitty11 said:
What new features are in 2.3?
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Article found on androidandme.com dated 11-25-2010
Now Andy Rubin, the godfather of Android, is scheduled to speak at D: Dive Into Mobile on December 6th and everyone is speculating that might be the magic day for the Android 2.3 announcement.
We can’t say for sure what he will talk about or possibly announce, but as we get closer to the launch of Gingerbread more and more features are starting to leak out. Read on after the jump for 12 features that could be appearing in the next release of Android.
1. Tweaked UI
It doesn’t sound like the Android UI is getting a complete overhaul till Honeycomb, but Gingerbread will include some small tweaks. The notification bar at the top of the screen has gone from white to black, the launcher buttons are now green instead of translucent, and many of the native app icons have received a makeover.
Most of the existing native apps will also look slightly updated thanks to tweaks with the styling of menus, check boxes, and radio buttons as leaked in the last Google Maps update. Other small tweaks include new animations when you swipe across the desktop and when you power off the display (as reported by Phandroid).
2. Near Field Communications (NFC)
We first reported back in October that Samsung’s Google experience phone would support MasterCard PayPass, and then last week Eric Schmidt confirmed that Gingerbread would support Near Field Communication (NFC).
NFC is a short-range, high frequency wireless communication technology that only operates when two devices are about 4 inches apart. It is basically just another form of electronic identification except the ID is tied to a bank or credit card company. All the user needs to do is just setup their account then tap their phone to a wireless payment pad and complete the transaction.
Eric Schmidt said that in the future your phone could replace your credit card, so you can see how important this is to Google and their partners.
Opponents of NFC say it might fail because it is too complex and big companies will fight over who owns the point of control for the transaction, but if Google is going to make this a standard feature on all future Gingerbread phones then we think that ensures it will at least move the mobile payment standard forward.
MasterCard has not been confirmed as a NFC partner, but I think there is a good chance they are on board in addition to some other payment companies like PayPal.
3. New Motion Control APIs
True 1:1 motion processing is coming to Gingerbread thanks to InvenSense, the company behind the MEMS gyroscope sensor found in the Nintendo Wii MotionPlus controller.
Gyroscope sensors have already appeared in some phones like the Samsung Galaxy S, but Android 2.3 will add new sensor fusion APIs including quaternion, rotation matrix, linear acceleration and gravity. These new tools will open the door to all kinds of motion controls for augmented reality apps, games, navigation systems, and camera improvements like image stabilization.
See our previous post for a video with several real-world demos.
4. Native Video Chat
In his last interview, Andy Rubin hinted that native video chat was coming to the next version of Android. “We support video chat today, with Google Talk Video. It works on the desktop. Whether that can be repurposed and made appropriate for sipping bandwidth for mobile, it’s an exercise that’s underway.”
If Mr. Rubin is willing to admit that it’s underway, that tells me the project could be nearing completion and already in the testing phases.
It looks like all the high-end phones coming in the next few months will include front-facing cameras so this is another sign that Android is ready for a native video sharing app to connect all these devices.
5. New Android Market
Google has been telling us for awhile that a new Android Market was coming and recently said new features could appear in the next few weeks. The Android Market can be updated separately from the operating system, but the timing tells us the new Market could be tied to the release of Gingerbread.
Confirmed features for the new Android Market include YouTube video previews, parental controls, PayPal payments, and new high-res promotion graphics that sound like they will be used on the desktop browser version of the Market.
At the Google I/O Developer Conference we attended back in May, Vic Gundotra demonstrated the browser version of the Market that was being tested. See the video below for an idea of what to expect.
6. Google Music
As you can see from the video above, Google is also working on a music streaming service for Android. They launched a music search service earlier this year and hoped to get their music store opened before Christmas, but the latest reports say it might be delayed till 2011. Apparently the music labels are still negotiating with Google on how their “digital locker” will store purchased music, but maybe they come to an agreement this year.
This is coming sooner or later so if it doesn’t make it into Gingerbread then I expect we will see it early next year when Honeycomb tablets are revealed.
7. Support For More Large Screen Devices
On the Android Device Dashboard there is a report where Google displays the different screen sizes and densities of devices that access the Android Market. The Large category is currently blank, but look for more big screen devices like tablets to be officially supported in Android 2.3. This means we could see more 7-inch tablets like the Galaxy Tab (1024 x 600) get certified and maybe a few other resolutions for the new smartphone displays that are rumored to be coming.
We have also heard that Google might relax the rules of their Compatibility Definition Document and allow non-3G devices to be certified. No WiFi-only devices have been certified to use the Android Market yet, but Android 2.3 should hopefully change that.
In a somewhat related note, I believe this is the reason the WiFi-only Galaxy Tab was delayed till next year so that Samsung could make sure that Google allowed them to ship it with the Android Market.
8. Virtual Keyboard Enhancements
Google recently acquired hot startup BlindType to improve their virtual keyboard and we are hearing the enhancements might be coming as soon as Gingerbread. The old company website is now down, but you can still see a demo of their technology on YouTube.
What is BlindType? It is a revolutionary system that:
Eliminates touch typing frustrations
Allows for super sloppy typing
Helps you type easier and faster
Constantly adjusts to the user’s “perceived” keyboard and typing style
Just type the way you are used to – no gestures, nothing new to learn!
9. Support for WebM and VP8
We know that support for WebM and the VP8 video format are coming to Gingerbread because Google and the WebM team have told us this.
WebM is defined on the official project page as, “An open media file format designed for the web. WebM files consist of video streams compressed with the VP8 video codec and audio streams compressed with the Vorbis audio codec. The WebM file structure is based on the Matroska media container. Though video is also now core to the web experience, there is unfortunately no open and free video format that is on par with the leading commercial choices. To that end, we started the WebM project, a broadly-backed community effort to develop an open web media format.”
YouTube now offers WebM videos as part of its HTML5 player experiment. Logitech and Skype are also working with the format for future video calling services.
10. New YouTube With Broadcasting
As we get near the end of the list some of these possible features might be a stretch, but there are still hints that new YouTube features are coming. Phandroid reported that Gingerbread will have a new YouTube app and we know that they are also testing their new live broadcasting platform.
If you look at how important video will be to the upcoming Gingerbread experience, then it is not too hard to imagine that YouTube will allow live broadcasting from your phone similar to Qik or Ustream.
The next generation of superphones will include dual-core processors that support 1080p video streaming and also have speedy 4G connections, so the hardware is definitely going to be there to make it happen.
11. Google Me or Social Gaming Network
Google recently denied the reports they were working on a Facebook competitor called Google Me, but all the signs are there that Google is working on a way to bring together all their social services. TechCrunch reported that Google’s master pitchman Vic Gundotra was being placed in charge of the project, so we expect big things from him.
Andy Rubin hinted that Gingerbread would include improvements for gaming in a previous interview. “I think gaming is an area that I think is underserved right now. If we were to carefully look at what new features and functionalities in the platform that we would need to support all forms of gaming across the entire spectrum, I think that would probably be an interesting thing to pay attention to.”
A number of recent acquisitions and partner agreements might also play a role in this social gaming platform. In the last year Google acquired LabPixies for $25 million (an Israeli startup that made web games), Jambool for $70 million (makers of a virtual currenty platform), Slide for $182 million (Facebook games developer), and invested $100-200 million in Zynga (makers of Farmville).
Apple’s Game Center and platforms like Open Feint have really raised the bar for social gaming, so Google will have to release something soon if they want to catch up.
12. Flagship Phone – Nexus S
Finally, what good is a brand new operating system unless you have a flagship product that can show off all the new features. That device is the Samsung Nexus S which is widely expected to be released alongside Android 2.3. Google’s CEO recently demoed the phone to show off its NFC capabilities, so hopefully we see the device soon.
The Nexus S was originally planned to launch at Best Buy on November 11th, but then TechCrunch reported a serious hardware issue had caused a delay. One of our tipsters said the original Samsung Nexus S was scrapped for a newer dual-core version, which shocked many people because they did not expect Samsung to have a dual-core phone this year, but another trusted source also confirmed that Samsung had such a device in testing.
Conclusion
In the next few weeks we should hopefully get an official list of new Android 2.3 features from Google, but don’t be surprised if Andy Rubin doesn’t announce anything on December 6th.
Google and Samsung already missed the rumored launch date, so they could delay this project till next year in order to iron out all the launch details. Some would say that Samsung has rushed their recent Android products to market without properly testing them (aka GPS issues), so I have no problem with them taking as long as they need.
I would love a taste of Gingerbread for Christmas, but if waiting till next year gets me a fully functional dual-core Nexus S then I’m all for waiting.
How do you think Android 2.3 is shaping up so far? Does this sound like a worthy update, or do you hope that Google is packing in even more exciting features? What other types of improvements would you like to see included with Android 2.3?

he Samsung/ Android Update Debacle Now Hear This!

Seith Weintraub over at Fortune Magazine published a really great article today in response to Apple Fan Boy MG Siegler’s article about IOS updates. Now of course most of you know even though Mr. Paris Lemon is a deep mac boy we have a overall Tech Crunch Fans. However, MG or (Lemon if that’s what you prefer to call him) said that 90% of IOS users were on the most updated version of IOS and Android users, aboud .4% had a chance of being on the latest version. Seth, quick to help us out, pointed out that 90% of Android users are on 2.XX while 52% are on 2.2, yes we know that 2.3 is out now.
Everyone is also very aware of all the name calling, insult throwing, accusations and blowback Samsung is receiving because they are holding back an Android 2.2 upgrade on all 4 US major carrier Galaxy S devices just because they have the Samsung Vibrant 4G coming out in a few weeks on T-Mobile. That’s right the Verizon Fascinate, the Sprint Epic 4G and the AT&T Captivate are all being held back simply because of the T-Mobile device.. right? OF COURSE NOT!
Most of the other Galaxy S variants in every other country in the world have already received an upgrade to 2.2 via KIES or by way of an OTA through their carrier. The first thing we need to know in America is that Kies is not readily available to us. This is by way of the CARRIER and not Samsung.
The second thing you need to take into consideration, kind of like Android as a whole, is that a lot of the Samsung Galaxy S’ were acutally sold OUTSIDE of the United States. So to me the logic that Samsung only cares about the bottom line can be debated by the argument than why did all the other countries get the update quicker.
Hopefully you’re following me so far and the rest of this will just end up pissing people off.
- Many of the people whining about Samsung updates and bashing Samsung in general don’t own a Samsung phone. Or don’t use one on a regular basis. Remeber according to Andy Ruben we are activating 300,000 Android devices per day. A lot of those are for normal consumer people. The bulk of the readers of the tech blog readers, writers and community aren’t normal “consumers”. The normal consumers get upset when they start hearing about these updates through their tech savvy friends and then feel slighted.
- Most of the Samsung Galaxy S variants came with Android 2.1 in a modified form with touchwiz on top, couple that with the hardware (superAMOLED screen, 1ghz hummingbird processor) etc and the proprietary social hub, media hub etc, that actual normal consumers are taking advantage of you still have a pretty darn good, up to date device. We aren’t talking Sony Xperia here that released with 1.6 we’re talking about a version of 2.1 that was fancy schmancy at the time. Add to that the fact that both the Fascinate and the Epic 4G included Mobile Hotspot (one of the key features from 2.2) and what out of this world, oh my god my phone is so outdated, feature are the general public Samsung customers missing?
- The next thing we have to realize is the way America works. There is a lot more bureacracy from the government and carrier politics from our wireless carriers than most other countries. There is a lot of red tape for everything that happens in the wireless industry on the carrier/manufacturer side than any other country in the world. Take kies for instance if America had access to kies everyone with a Samsung Galaxy S phone would be upgraded.
Now take your active Android Evangelists, ones with a passionate heart and a vested interest in Android who actually own a Samsung Galaxy S phone. Your @theandroidgirl and @raywalters for instance, these people, among countless others who are on twitter and podcasts and were big enough believers to purchase a Samsung Galaxy S variant, and who may have partially based their decision on the fact that Samsung did say (at least at IFA) that we would see Froyo by the end of 2010, these people have legitimate complaints to the source.
Of course its also very disheartening that Samsung obviously has the source code for 2.3 as it’s running on the Nexus S today. And Gingerbread is a whole different issue.
For our followers on Samsung Galaxy S US Variants, we feel for you but have a challenge:
In the comments below, tell us what you are looking for out of Froyo that you aren’t getting out of the modified version of 2.1 that’s on your Galaxy S now?
Why should you do this? Take a trip over to samsung.com and you will see that thedroidguy is one of the twitter accounts featured on Samsung’s website. Trust me comments here will be seen by people that matter at Samsung. And for the record, even as someone who genuinely suports Samsung, we are very disappointed in this whole Samsung upgrade mess and definitely feel let down that US users didnt get a Froyo update in 2010. And also for the record as far as the phones I am currently using, my 1st use phone is a Droid Pro, 2nd is a Samsung Nexus S and 3rd is an HTC Desire.
Source: http://thedroidguy.com/2011/01/the-samsung-android-update-debacle-now-hear-this/

heathmcabee said:
In the comments below, tell us what you are looking for out of Froyo that you aren’t getting out of the modified version of 2.1 that’s on your Galaxy S now?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
JIT Compiler
Flash Support
Honeycomb Media Player Leak
Better Exchange Support
GPS Fix (hopefully)
...just a few things I can think of off the top of my head

JIT compiler
Flash support
Apps on SD card
Gps fixes
Bluetooth voice dialing
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA App

Include on that list:
- latest google apps and several other apps we can't use or upgrade to because we need 2.2.
Also, how about Samsung's own docks that require 2.2 in order to use certain functions.

crajee16 said:
Include on that list:
- latest google apps and several other apps we can't use or upgrade to because we need 2.2.
Also, how about Samsung's own docks that require 2.2 in order to use certain functions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dock still doesn't work on 2.2 DK28. Sound only came from my left speaker in the DK17 build.
-Roger

I want my About Phone page to have the number 2.2 on it. Thats my only reason.

ryno502 said:
jit compiler
flash support
apps on sd card
gps fixes
bluetooth voice dialing
sent from my sph-d700 using xda app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1. .

Mostly the 2.2 apps like Chrome to Phone, GPS fix, and apps to SD Card.
Almost forgot Flash, that's a pretty big one. I honestly don't care about 2.3 all that much.
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA App

Cloud 2 mobile device too right?

The source of 2.2 for the Epic. Then we will have some great roms.
Also:
Jit and other speed enhancements
Support for the latest apps
Touchwiz 3

I want the hardware keyboard to keep up with my typing. The reason I bought the phone over the EVO was the slideout keyboard. I use it but find myself hitting the backspace far too often because a letter was missed.
Flash is a nice addition as well.

ryno502 said:
JIT compiler
Flash support
Apps on SD card
Gps fixes
Bluetooth voice dialing
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1
AND source code! Our developers are handicapped without it.
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA App

FYI all, the OP post was taken from the link provided which is: http://thedroidguy.com/2011/01/the-samsung-android-update-debacle-now-hear-this/.
pretty sure the indication was to put your comments on THAT article, not in this thread if you want the peeps at sammy to see it. just trying to help you out, lol

amosher13 said:
FYI all, the OP post was taken from the link provided which is: http://thedroidguy.com/2011/01/the-samsung-android-update-debacle-now-hear-this/.
pretty sure the indication was to put your comments on THAT article, not in this thread if you want the peeps at sammy to see it. just trying to help you out, lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ohhhhhhh! You're so smart!!! Lol thanks!
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA App

socos25 said:
I want the hardware keyboard to keep up with my typing. The reason I bought the phone over the EVO was the slideout keyboard.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Big fuggin +1. At least the gingerbread keyboard works really well.

I'm on DK28 so the only thing I'm still lacking is audio out functionality with the car/desk dock.
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA App

stir fry a lot said:
Big fuggin +1. At least the gingerbread keyboard works really well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I type fast on the keyboard and it works very well. Although i did turn off the stupid software keyboards since they annoy me when they pop up. Turned off the autocorrect on the hardware keyboard too.

How about skipping 2.2 and giving us some gingerbread love with 2.3 since it is already out.
1. GPS fix
2. Bluetooth voice dialing.
3. Flash
4. Saving apps to sd card.
5. JIT compiler

hmmm let's see, how about...
bluetooth voice command.... ever used "Vlingo"??
with almost all states banning texting and operating a mobile device while driving, bluetooth voice command is a MUST!!

My question to any qualified attorney and in general is at what point does the failure to meet an annouced release date become false advertisment particularly when said annoucement is just as advertisement material to coerce comsumers into purchasing one product over another one?
http://thedroidguy.com/2011/01/the-samsung-android-update-debacle-now-hear-this/#dsq-form-area
Stock DI18 to Stock DK28