Features and new additions will invariably come and go as new technology catapults to the forefront of our minds, but no matter what happens, there will always be some aspects of this software that will remain extremely important to users. Security and privacy are undoubtedly two extremely important areas of concern. Just as the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) started to wax lyrical about Google's new focus on user privacy, it turns out that they have actually recently removed the biggest privacy feature that has been added to Android over the years.
The iOS vs. Android supremacy debate is almost as old as both the platforms’ own age, and it never ceases to be. In some areas, Android takes the top spot, while others see Apple’s offering outshine its Mountain View competitor. One area, however, where iOS has always maintained the upper hand, is fragmentation - the word that causes Android fans to hide faces and come up with other allegations against the fruity OS.
Back in August, we featured Google's then-new Android Device Manager, allowing users to remote-wipe and locate their device in a similar vein to Apple's Find My iPhone service. It was apparent at the time that a dedicated Android app was imminent, and now, it has finally arrived over at the Google Play Store. More details as well as the direct download link can be found right after the break.
The joys of owning a Nexus device, besides from the fact that it's both cheap and great value for that low cost, is that you get the full, uninhibited Android experience as Google intended. As such, when the Big G decides to throw out updates, you're always among the first in line, and those OEM / carrier complications won't leave you waiting for months on end for the latest version. Today, Google has begun releasing Android 4.4.2 KitKat (build number KOT49H) for certain Nexus devices, bringing a bunch of bug fixes and general performance enhancements. More after the break.
Rumors that there may be some new Google Play Edition hardware on the horizon have turned out to be absolutely spot on, with Google announcing that not only are we going to be treated to a new, stock Android smartphone, but that the first Google Play Edition tablet is also here.
Earlier on in the year, Google made a move which some people deemed clever, some foolish. With the expertise that comes with being one of the world's largest software companies, Google doesn’t have the best credentials when it comes to hardware production. The answer? Purchase an already existing, well thought of, manufacturer. In this case, Google purchased the then-struggling Motorola Mobility to head their mobile device production.
Although we're relatively well informed as to the progress of Google Glass's development, we haven't had much of an insight into the numerous different designs we've already been promised by the Big G and its partners. The current Explorer Edition, for example, does not work with prescription lenses, leaving those in requirement of visual aids unable to fully use the wearable tech - if at all. As such, designs to facilitate the specialized lenses are being worked on, and one Google manager looks to have accidentally leaked snaps of one pair of prescription Glasses for the world to see. The shots were hastily removed from sight, although not before the Web could grab and share them for the rest of us to ogle over.
Those folks over at Google seem determined to get their claws into our living rooms, and it's becoming clear that the monumental failure of the Google TV initiative hasn't dampened the company's resolve. Rather than skulking off with its tail between its legs, Google is reported to be hard at work on bringing a new piece of kit to market that it hopes will continue its march towards its goal of having a presence in every aspect of our lives.
Starting with Glass XE9 update, Google added the ability for Glass Explorers to take screenshots, or make vignette as Google is calling it, of what you are seeing on the Glass display. Vignettes basically attaches a screenshot of what you are seeing on the Glass display over the picture you are taking using the camera, making it easier for you to show people what you see on Glass.
Google Glass is not just a significant product for the company behind it, but for several other manufacturers looking to get in on the smart glasses act. We've already taken a look at the Vuzix M100s, which were made available to pre-order just a couple of days back, and now, Lumus has taken the wraps off its own, very slick-looking effort. Check out its stylish frame and intriguing list of specs after the break!
