How the Android Fooducate App. Works

The Android Fooducate app is one of the simplest apps to use, especially considering the benefits that come with its use. Many people already know that they can use their Android smartphones to scan QR codes, but fewer realize that with the Fooducate app they can also scan barcodes. And the information that is provided upon scanning food label barcodes is priceless. Simply pick up an item, any item, scan the bar code and choose which type of information you would like to review. Making the right food choices is getting more and more difficult these days, due mostly to the vast amount of information that is on the food labels. In addition, product companies do not make the nutritional information all that easy to understand, which brings me to the number one benefit of using the Fooducate Android application. When you scan a specific products’ bar code, Fooducate will provide you with easy to understand nutritional information, so that you can make the best choice. The app. goes beyond describing ingredients and nutritional content, though, and also grades the item on a letter grade scale and even suggests healthier options when a product gets a lower nutritional grade. This application not only lets you know what you are eating, but it also really takes the guesswork out of maintaining a healthier diet.

Pros of Using the Fooducate App. for Your Android

• Easy to understand information.

• Instant alternative food suggestions.

• Application is free.

Cons of Using the Fooducate App. for Your Android

• Using the app lengthens grocery store trips.

• Some products not listed.

• Substitutions sometimes highly unsimilar.

Alternatives not always that much different in regards to nutrients and ingredients. To be sure, there are many useful Android applications that are designed to make our lives easier, but it is important to remember that if we become overloaded with applications many activities will take much longer. With the Android Fooducate app. the good weighs against the bad though, as it can help you to make important changes in your eating habits, not an easy thing for most people to do.

Louis Namon is an android fan and guest blogger, interested in video products, registry cleaner and software.

If you’re looking for a fast 4G phone and you’re sick of waiting for Verizon to get their act together with their LTE phones and you get good T-Mobile coverage in your area, the Samsung Galaxy S 4G might just be the phone for you.

If you’re familiar with the Samsung Vibrant, this phone will look familiar as it’s nearly identical on the outside and still has that pretty 4” Super AMOLED display.

The big changes have all been “under the hood” changes.

What’s New

Since this phone was built off the Samsung Vibrant, I thought we’d take a look at what’s new or different on this device compared to the Vibrant.

Fast 4G Speeds

The Samsung Galaxy S 4G For T-Mobile - Best 4G Phone for T-Mobile

While both T-Mobile and AT&T have upgraded their 3G networks with HSPA+ overhauls, the T-Mobile version is much faster and approaches the 4G speeds you’d get with Verizon LTE or Sprint WiMAX coverage.

While you’ll never get close to the theoretical 21 Mbps download speeds, real world testing has shown you that data speeds are a huge improvement over current 3G networks so if you your phone for a lot of multimedia and videos, this will be a very welcome upgrade.

Also, to sweeten the pot, T-Mobile is currently offering unlimited data plans for just $10 a month while the competition charges $30 a month for the same thing and both AT&T and Verizon are switching to tiered data plans making that perhaps the best reason to switch to T-Mobile.

Bigger Battery

The Samsung Galaxy S 4G also comes with a bigger battery – a 1650 mAh battery vs the 1500 mAh battery found in the Vibrant.

Less Internal Memory

While Google has been trying to get manufacturers to go with more internal memory for performance reasons, for some reason Samsung opted to go the MicroSD route with this phone.  While the Vibrant had 16GB of internal memory and no microSD card included, the Galaxy S 4G has a mere 185mb of internal memory and comes with a 16 GB microSD card instead.  It’s not a super big deal but it does mean slightly lower performance.

Mobile Hotspot

If you want to share those blazing 4G speeds with up to 5 devices, you can.  You don’t even need to download and app to do it, you just enable it in the settings.  However, it will run you an additional $15 a month to use the service – less than most other carriers charge but an additional charge nonetheless.

Media Hub

Right now, T-Mobile is including the movie Inception preloaded on the device plus the device can also use the T-Mobile TV and Samsung Media hub which lets you rent or buy movies and TV shows and to make it easy, those purchases can be charged to your monthly phone bill.

Front Facing Camera

For those of you who like video chat, Samsung packed in a front facing camera for the task using Qik.

Samsung Galaxy S 4G Specs

• 4G – HSPA+ with 21 Mbps Theoretical Max (real world  avg – 5 Mbps)
• 4” Super AMOLED Display – 480×800 resolution
• 1 Ghz Cortex A8 Processor
• GPS (assisted GPS chip – aGPS) – Free GPS Navigation via Google Maps App
• Digital Compass
• Quad Band – Can be used outside the United States / International Roaming
• Adobe Flash 10.1
• Touchwiz 3.0 Interface
• Accelerometer
• Swype Keyboard
• 512 B RAM
• 16GB storage with included microSD card
• 802.11n Wifi
• 5 Megapixel Camera and 720p @ 30 frames per second video recording
• Front Facing Camera for Video Chat
• Weight 118 grams
• Price – $149 with 2 year contract ($599 off contract)

Bottom Line

The Samsung Galaxy S is a great choice if you have to have 4G speeds on T-Mobile and is our highest recommended 4G device on the carrier.  However, since it isn’t much of an upgrade over the Vibrant, we’d hold off on upgrading for the moment if you can wait a little longer for a 4G phone.

However, Blackberry is looking to make waves in the tablet industry and is aiming this 7″ tablet computer to business users – keep in mind that Blackberry still has about 50% of the enterprise market, they’re definitely aiming this device at their bread and butter.

As far as operating sytem, Blackberry is using QNX (Blackberry Tablet OS) which is from a company that RIM purchased last year.

The first Playbooks, much like the first iPads were, will likely be WiFi only but 4G devices are expected this year.

Blackberry Playbook Specs

• QNX OS (operating system)
• 7 Inch Display – 1024 x 600 (170ppi)
• 5 Megapixel Camera
• 1 GHZ Dual Core TI OMAP 4430 Processor
• 1 GB RAM
• 16, 32, 64 GB Storages
• 802.11N WiFI (4G expected later)
• 3 Megapixel Front Facing Camera
• 5300 mAh Battery
• Blutooth 2.1 + EDR
• Weight – .9lbs (408 grams) (a lot lighter than an iPad but also a much smaller screen)

Blackberry Playbook - 7 Inch Tablet Computer

So now that the cat’s out of the bag officially, let’s get down to the reviewing of the phone and cover the important stuff you want to know.

First things first.

The Verizon iPhone 4 is essentially the same phone as the AT&T iPhone 4 (here’s my iPhone 4 Review from June – just about everything still applies) which means no 4G.

However, you still get the same Retina Display, 1GHZ processor, Facetime, Gyroscope, access to the Apple App Store, and all the other goodies you may have been coveting.    Heck, Apple is using the same page for both the Verizon and AT&T iPhone on their website so yeah, the phone itself really isn’t any different from a user standpoint.

The pricing is $199 for the 16GB version and $299 for the 32GB version with two year contract though Verizon isn’t offering early upgrades like AT&T does for users wanted to switch from a Blackberry or Android phone or upgrade to their first smartphone.

The phone will be running iOS 4.2.5 (AT&T users will get it too) though it is unclear what’s new from iOS 4.2 other than some likely security and bug fixes.

One cool feature that’s new (for now) is the addition of a mobile hotspot for the Verizon version which will allow you phone to be a wifi hotspot for up to 5 devices.  The AT&T version also has this capability though, but up until now AT&T has prevented users from using it though they’ll likely be getting similar functionality with iOS 4.3 .

If you’re already a Verizon customer, you can preorder the Verizon iPhone 4 on February 3rd, and everybody can get in on the action on February 10th.

Should you get it?  Well, that’s up to you – it’s a nice, responsive, easy to use smartphone.  The iPhone does have a bit less of a learning curve than Android phones but keep in mind your phone will be trumped by the iPhone 5 when it’s released in June 2011 – personally I’d wait, but if you’ve been dying to get the iPhone on Verizon, then go ahead – it’s still a great phone, it’ll just be pretty dated when you get to upgrade again.

White iPhone 4 Status Watch

I told my sister about the Verizon iPhone yesterday (she can upgrade in March with Verizon) and her first question to me was if the white iPhone 4 was going to be available.   At this point, I wouldn’t count on it… maybe when the iPhone 5 comes out in June, but until then don’t get your hopes up as there was nary a hint of a white version being available during the official release yesterday.

Updated 2/25

Being billed as the world’s most powerful smartphone by AT&T, the Motorola Atrix certainly comes with a fair bit of hype.  However, after looking at the specs and seeing a demo of the phone, we’re not going to argue.

It seems like AT&T is definitely getting ready for life after it no longer has the iPhone exclusive and the Android powered, 4G ,  Motorola Atrix certainly appears to be one of the early cornerstones of the strategy.

Motorola Atrix - Dual Core 4G Phone For AT&T

It will be launched with Android 2.2 Froyo with an Android 2.3 Gingerbread update to follow shortly after launch.

While the “4G” is actually HSPA+, which is the same as T-Mobile uses, it’s not real 4G though it’s still much faster than current 3G speeds.

Motorola and AT&T certainly crammed in a lot of bells and whistles into the phone and there will be an optional HD Multimedia Dock and a Laptop Dock (more on this in a sec).

Motorola Atrix Specs

• 1 GHZ Dual Core Nvidia Tegra 2 Processor
• 1 GB RAM
• 4″ qHD display (qHD stands for quarter HD, which means 960×540 resolution)
• 1930 mAh battery for 9 hours of talk time (this is an absolutely huge battery!)
• Android 2.2 Froyo with a Gingerbread update expected
• 5 Megapixel Rear Camera / VGA Front Facing Camera
• Dual Microphones for better voice clarity… you know, for those times when you actually use your phone as a phone
• 4.8 ounces weight
• 16GB Internal Storage (Google wants manufacturers to have on board storage as it will perform better on Android 2.3 Gingerbread and beyond) (Supports additional 32GB MicroSD card for a total capacity of 48GB)
• Fingerprint Reader (not kidding – it’s on the power button)
• Price – $199 with 2 year contract.

Motorola Atrix Laptop Dock

The most unique feature of the Atrix, however, is the Motorola Lapdock.   Basically, it allows you to use your phone on a laptop size screen (11.6 inch) with a computer.  The laptop dock uses the phone’s processor, RAM, and memory.  I think it’s a cool feature but I’m not so sure how useful it’ll actually be as most people with smartphones already have laptops – it will likely be a niche accessory but nonetheless I think it’s pretty cool since as smarthphones get more powerful, they’ll be able to run just like laptops, heck my old Droid already has more processing power than the laptop I had throughout college.

Here’s the commercial showing off the $300 Motorola Lapdock accessory (after $100 mail in rebate).

httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sc1N7__UQsg

Benchmarks

And if you’re into benchmarks and the like, here’s a video covering that so you can see just how fast this thing really is.

httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aDRYJrCd7O4

Bottom Line

While we still have some reservations about AT&T’s so called 4G network, the Atrix itself is a fantastically fast phone and I would say “the” must have phone right now for AT&T – yes, we like it better than the iPhone 4.

Description & User Reviews

Purchasing information and official product description are below as well as a few user reviews – you can always purchase directly from AT&T if you prefer but sometimes the price below is cheaper (just click the “more information”) button as is fluctuates often.

Enjoy the power of mobile computing in the palm of your hand with the Motorola ATRIX 4G for AT&T, which offers a 1 GHz dual-core processor and the ability to connect to AT&T's ultra-fast 4G mobile broadband network. Powered by the Android 2.2 platform (learn more below), it also features Motorola's webtop application, which offers a PC-like experience and runs a full Mozilla Firefox 3.6 browser with support for Adobe Flash Player (requires optional dock).

The world's first smartphone qHD display, offering high resolution and 24-bit color larger image.

With AT&T's 4G network, you'll enjoy mobile broadband speeds up to 4x faster than AT&T's already fast mobile broadband network (learn more below). You also get the optional AT&T Mobile Hotspot service built right into the smartphone--enabling you to connect additional Wi-Fi-enabled devices to the phone's mobile broadband signal.

The NVIDIA Tegra 2 dual-core processor (2 x 1 GHz) allows you to multi-task quickly, while the 1 GB of RAM provides PC-like power and performance. The 4-inch qHD touchscreen display offers a rich 24-bit color depth and a 960 x 540-pixel resolution for extremely sharp images.

Other features include a 5-megapixel camera/camcorder that can capture video at HD 720p resolution, ultra-fast Wireless-N Wi-Fi networking, Bluetooth for stereo music streaming and connecting to peripherals, 16 GB internal memory, microSD expansion (up to 32 GB), MOTOBLUR for integrated social networking, GPS for location-based services and navigation using Google Maps, HDMI audio/video output, and up to 9 hours of talk time.

Powered by a dual core processor with each core running at 1 GHz larger image.

It's complemented by optional accessories that include a super-thin laptop dock--for which ATRIX 4G is the "engine"--and an HD media dock that uses ATRIX 4G's HDMI video output capabilities and processing power to enable a revolutionary browsing, application, productivity, and media experience (learn more below).

Your Digital Hub

The Motorola ATRIX 4G is the only smartphone that allows you to carry the power and performance of mobile computing inside your pocket. Motorola ATRIX 4G is built around a 1 GHz dual-core processor and 1 GB of RAM for the horsepower you need to keep pace with all aspects of your life. Web pages open twice as fast as non-dual-core smartphones and Adobe Flash Player makes it possible to view a full range of online animations and video.

PC Power from Your Smartphone

You'll be able to create, edit, and interact with all your documents, media, and content using Motorola's webtop application (when connected to an optional dock). The ATRIX 4G can be used to browse your favorite web sites with a full Firefox desktop browser, view social networking sites, and use HTML5 web-based applications and supported cloud computing services while running your Android applications in a window. And you'll also be able to send instant messages and make phone calls--all at the same time. Calls continue uninterrupted even if the ATRIX 4G is removed from the dock.

To access the webtop application, with the Laptop Dock, simply dock the phone to the Laptop Dock and webtop launches automatically. Or, dock your phone in the HD Multimedia Dock and choose between webtop and Entertainment Center mode.

Empower Your Fun

The dual-core processor lets the ATRIX 4G render graphics and games faster, and everything you see on the ATRIX 4G screen is in crisp, rich 24-bit color with the world's first qHD (Quarter High Definition) smartphone display. With the U-verse mobile app from AT&T, U-verse subscribers can browse a library of shows for streaming to the ATRIX 4G, and remotely schedule recordings on their DVRs at home.

And the ATRIX 4G offers up to 48 GB of memory--16 GB on board and an optional 32 GB microSD card--giving you space to store thousands of songs, photos, and files to keep you entertained wherever your life takes you.

Enhanced MOTOBLUR

MOTOBLUR is Motorola's exclusive experience that syncs contacts, posts, messages, photos and much more--from your favorite social media sites, work and personal e-mail, and last.fm--and automatically delivers them to your home screen.

The 5-megapixel camera also captures HD 720p video larger image.

• Filter social networking and messages widgets: Filter by social networking account, by contact(s) or by contact group to only see the information you want.
• Improved social networking functionality: Retweet, like Facebook comments, and more.
• Screen customization: Move and resize preloaded widgets on up to three home screens.
• Battery manager: Manage battery consumption by operating in one of three performance modes.
• Personal and corporate e-mail: Pushed directly to the device.

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Connectivity

• Ultra-fast 4G connectivity via AT&T's HSPA+ network (with enhanced backhaul). See more about AT&T's 4G service below.
• Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g) for accessing home and corporate networks as well as hotspots while on the go.
• Optional AT&T Mobile Hotspot service enabling you to connect multiple devices--from tablets to gaming devices--to the phone's 3G/4G cellular connection via Wi-Fi.
• Onboard GPS for navigation and location services
• Integrated Google Maps with turn-by-turn navigation, street and satellite views
• Optional AT&T Navigator service includes audible turn-by-turn directions, real-time traffic updates, and re-routing options.
• Bluetooth connectivity (version 2.1) includes profiles for communication headset, hands-free car kits, A2DP audio streaming, and for connecting to peripherals like a wireless keyboard.

OS & Software Android 2.2 operating system (Froyo) (learn more below) BLOCKBUSTER app enables you to discover and download the latest movie rentals on the go. Quick Office 3.0 for viewing, editing, and creating Microsoft Office files right on your phone. Need for Speed Shift racing game (demo version) DLNA capabilities enables you to share your photo albums, videos and movies wirelessly with a compatible HDTV or other DLNA device. Design and Hardware Dual-core 1 GHz processor capable of opening web pages twice as fast as most other smartphones. 4-inch qHD touchscreen display (Quarter High Definition; 960 x 540 pixels) made of ultra-durable Corning Gorilla Glass with accelerometer plus proximity and ambient light sensors. Onscreen keyboard Swype input system allows you to input text faster and easier by gliding your finger around the onscreen keyboard, moving from letter to letter in one continuous motion. Removable battery Communications & Internet Full messaging capabilities including SMS text, MMS picture/video and IM instant messaging (via popular services including AOL, Yahoo!, Windows Live Messenger, and Google Talk). Access to personal and corporate e-mail (including support for Exchange and push Gmail). Easy access to social networks including Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter. Photo uploading capabilities to Facebook, MySpace, Photobucket, and Picasa. Full HTML web browsing via Android HTML Webkit browser; Mozilla Firefox 3.6 browser (when using optional dock).

Camera 5-megapixel rear-facing camera with LED flash and auto focus HD 720p video capture capabilities at 30 frames per second (fps) Front-facing camera for video chats (VGA resolution) Multimedia Music player compatible with MP3, WMA9, and AAC/AAC+/eAAC+ Video player compatible with MPEG4, H.264 Memory 16 GB internal memory Memory expansion via microSD card slot with support for optional cards up to 32 GB. 1 GB of DDR2 RAM is twice the RAM of most smartphones and delivers effortless multi-tasking. More Features 3.5mm headphone jack HDMI audio/video port enables you to output pictures, slides and videos in HD quality (720p) via included HDMI cable (future software upgrade to 1080p video output). Micro USB 2.0 port with mass storage capabilities. Text-to-speech capabilities including read-out of text and e-mail messages. Voice commands Organizer tools including calendar and alarm clock. Speakerphone for hands-free communication. Fingerprint sensor for added security built in on the rear of the device. Set your screen lock to Fingerprints, and you can unlock your phone by swiping your finger over that sensor.

Vital Statistics

The Motorola ATRIX 4G weighs 4.76 ounces and measures 4.64 x 2.5 x 0.43 inches. Its 1930 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 9 hours of talk time, and up to 250 hours (10+ days) of standby time. It runs on the 850/900/1800/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS/EDGE frequencies as well as AT&T's dual-band 4G network (850/1900 MHz; HSPA+/HSDPA/UMTS).

What's in the Box

Motorola ATRIX 4G handset, removable battery, charger, USB cable, HDMI cable, quick start guide

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Accessories That Make The ATRIX Smartphone Smarter

Motorola complements the ATRIX 4G with two unique companion docks that enable you to have an enhanced and more interactive computer-like experience.

Laptop dock (see larger).

The Motorola Laptop Dock has an incredibly thin design with an 11.6-inch screen, full keyboard, stereo speakers, 36Wh three-cell battery that delivers up to 8 hours of battery life and weighs just 2.4 pounds. Simply dock your Motorola ATRIX 4G into the back of the Laptop Dock to turn it into an active, connected machine to experience true mobility at work, home, and playing on-the-go in a form factor that's lighter and smaller than most laptops on the market.

Multimedia dock (see larger).

The Motorola HD Multimedia Dock has three USB ports and an HDMI port enabling connections to a keyboard, mouse, speakers, and HDMI-compatible monitor for working at your desk/office, or connecting to an HDMI-compatible television and home theater audio system for interacting with content and enjoying video, music, games, and more in your living room.

AT&T 4G Network

This phone runs on AT&T's dual-band 850/1900 MHz 4G network (UMTS/HSDPA/HSPA+), and with HSPA+ you'll experience mobile data speeds up to 4x faster than ordinary mobile broadband--up to approximately 6 Mbps (download). AT&T has deployed HSPA+ to virtually 100 percent of its mobile broadband network, which enables 4G speeds when combined with enhanced backhaul (via Ethernet or fiber).

Backhaul is one of the major pieces of a telecommunications network. Think of it as the limbs connecting AT&T's cell towers with AT&T's backbone network that provides access to the Internet.

Coming later in 2011, AT&T will deliver a second layer of 4G network called LTE (Long Term Evolution) that is even faster than HSPA+ speeds.

In areas where either AT&T's 3G or 4G network is not available, you'll continue to receive service on the AT&T EDGE network, which offers availability in more than 13,000 US cities and along some 40,000 miles of major highways.

Note: AT&T's 4G mobile broadband coverage is not available in all areas. 4G speeds delivered by HSPA+ with enhanced backhaul; availability increasing with ongoing backhaul deployment.

Android Operating System

The ATRIX 4G runs the latest Android operating system--OS 2.2 (aka, Froyo)--which provides a faster overall Android experience as well as greater multitasking capabilities. You'll be able to receive notifications, listen to music, and even record GPS data without keeping the application open. And it features a plethora of new enhancements, including an improved onscreen QWERTY keyboard, full push corporate e-mail, and support for Adobe Flash Player 10.1 for access to the full Web. It also offers enhanced Exchange support, with Calendar syncing, Global Address Lookup, improved security, auto-discovery, and more.

With integrated Google technology, the ATRIX 4G brings one-touch access to the popular Google mobile services millions use every day, including Google Search by voice, Google Maps with Street View, GTalk instant messaging (with presence capabilities), YouTube, and Picasa. The ATRIX 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.

Also Available for This Android Device

Kindle App for Android Read more than 700,000 Kindle books with our free application.

MP3 for Android Find, buy and play the music you love wherever you are.

Amazon App for Android Shop for millions of products wherever you go.

IMDB App for Android Connect to the world's largest collection of movie, TV and celebrity information.

Finally, a new 4G Smartphone for Verizon that packs a dual core processor! I was getting a little disappointed that none of the new 4G phones for Verizon’s LTE network would pack a dual core processor, but Motorola picked up the slack where LG, Samsung, and HTC dropped the ball and packed a dual core 1GHZ processor into the new Droid Bionic, making this smartphone the fastest 4G phone for Verizon (and one of the fastest period).

Unlike most of the other recently announced 4G phones, this one is a clear upgrade from a specs perspective and will be sure to impress even when it’s not on a 4G network.

Motorola Droid Bionic - Dual Core 4G Phone For Verizon

Of all the smartphones on the market or soon to be released, this is the one I personally want to own(and probably will as soon as it’s released).

Motorola Droid Bionic Specs

• 4.3″ qHD Screen (960×540 resolution – the iPhone 4 has 960×640 resolution on a 3.5″ screen as a comparison)
• Dual Core 1GHZ Processor (so far unspecified but likely a Texas Instruments processor as all previous Droids have featured TI microprocessors)
• 512 MB RAM
• 4G / LTE Connectivity
• 8 Megapixel Rear Camera / VGA Front Facing Camera
• HDMI Connectivity Featuring Mirror Mode which allows for simultaneous streams of video to the TV and on the device
• Quickoffice (document reading and editing, calendar, conference calling, and other Google apps and services)

Release date and pricing unknown, but it is expected to be released between March 2011 and June 2011.

Motorola Droid Bionic Demo Video

httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oSg0CH9qTGI

Updated 3/15

If you want to be the first to have a 4G phone from Verizon, then you’ll want to get the HTC Thunderbolt.  With an official launch date of March 17th 2011 and with a price tag of $249.99 (with 2 year contract), the Thunderbolt is slated to be the first smartphone released on Verizon capable of 4G/LTE though the LG Revolution, Samsung Inspiration, and Motorola Droid Bionic are all expected out by June.

Update: You Can Save $50 on the phone and get it for $199.99 by ordering through Wirefly or get it for $180 through Amazon.com.

HTC Thunderbolt - First 4G Phone for Verizon LTE Network

The HTC Thunderbolt is quite similar to all the other 4G phones just announced by Verizon at CES. Just like the LG Revolution and Samsung Inspiration it features a 1GHZ processor and a 4.3″ Screen.

Here are HTC Thunderbolt Specs

• 1 GHZ Snapdragon Processor
• 4.3″ WVGA Screen
• 32 GB SD Card
• Android 2.2 Froyo (Android 2.3 Gingerbread Availability Unknown)
• Kickstand (actually really convenient for watching videos)
• 8 Megapixel Rear Facing Camera / Front Facing Camera For Video Chat
• Dolby Surround Sound

HTC Thunderbolt Firsts

The HTC Thunderbolt will not only be the answer to the trivia question: “What was the first 4G phone on Verizon?” but it also brings with it another important first for Verizon – simultaneous voice & data.  You’ve probably seen the AT&T iPhone commercials showing someone talking on the phone and surfing the web at the same time and then telling you that Verizon can’t do that.

Well, starting with the HTC Thunderbolt, now Verizon can too.  I’m not sure how many phones will be offering this feature as I doubt it’ll be all of them, at least not at first but only time will tell I guess.

httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q77ncYFWs9c

As far as pricing goes, its $249 with 2 yr contract from Verizon.  The price makes this phone one of the most expensive Android phones and considering it’s a bit underpowered for a 2011 phone, I was hoping for a $149 or $199 price point.  Update: I just learned you can get it for just $180 by ordering through Amazon.com or you can buy the phone for $199.99 if you order through Wirefly.

4G Data Pricing

I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised at the 4G Pricing.  Unlike with Sprint which charges you an extra $10 a month for 4G, with Verizon, it’s included in the $29.99 data plan.  While I wouldn’t call $30 a month for data a bargain, it’s nice to know that at least for the moment Verizon isn’t charging extra for its 4G Network.  The plan is also unlimited (though expect soft 5GB caps to still be in place).

And last but not least, here’s the current commercial for the HTC Thunderbolt if you’d like to learn more about it.

httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9h_Klwueks

HTC Thunderbolt Product Description & Customer Reviews

One of the world's first 4G LTE Android smartphones, the HTC ThunderBolt 4G for Verizon Wireless takes advantage of the fastest, most advanced 4G network in America. It's powered by a lightning-quick 1 GHz Snapdragon processor and offers a vibrantly colorful 4.3-inch Super LCD multi-touch display. Capture brilliant photos and HD 720p video with the 8-megapixel camera on the rear, and enjoy video call capabilities with the front-facing camera. And with the Android 2.2 OS, you'll be able to experience the full Internet thanks to its support for Adobe Flash 10.1--enabling you to play games, watch videos, and more.

The HTC ThunderBolt, enabled for the ultra-fast Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network (see larger image).

The Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network provides speeds up to 10 times faster than Verizon Wireless' 3G network. With 4G LTE, you'll enjoy simultaneous voice and data capabilities, allowing you to check e-mail, browse the web, download an app, and check directions on Google Maps while on a call. Verizon Wireless' 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network currently reaches one-third of all Americans, with plans to expand the network to the company's entire 3G coverage area over the next three years.

Includes ROCK BAND Mobile.

In addition to Android, the ThunderBolt 4G also offers the next-generation HTC Sense user interface experience, which includes quicker startup times from hibernation mode as well as a consolidated view of your favorite social networking sites. The ThunderBolt 4G also comes with ROCK BAND Mobile pre-loaded, so you can shred on the go with multiple levels of difficulty from dozens of classic songs.

Other features include an 8 GB internal memory, pre-loaded 32 GB microSD memory card, Wireless-N Wi-Fi networking with Mobile Hotspot capabilities, Bluetooth for hands-free devices and stereo music streaming, integrated speakers with Dolby Mobile + SRS WOW HD surround sound, DLNA certification for wireless media streaming to other devices, built-in kickstand for easy media viewing, and a 1400 mAh battery for extra-long talk time.

Android Operating System

The ThunderBolt 4G runs the latest Android operating system--OS 2.2 (aka, Froyo)--which provides a faster overall Android experience as well as greater multitasking capabilities. You'll be able to receive notifications, listen to music, and even record GPS data without keeping the application open. And it features a plethora of new enhancements, including an improved onscreen QWERTY keyboard, full push corporate e-mail, and support for Adobe Flash Player 10.1 for access to the full Web. It also offers enhanced Exchange support, with Calendar syncing, Global Address Lookup, improved security, auto-discovery, and more.

With integrated Google technology, the ThunderBolt 4G brings one-touch access to the popular Google mobile services millions use every day, including Google Search by voice, Google Maps with Street View, GTalk instant messaging (with presence capabilities), YouTube, and Picasa. The ThunderBolt 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.

HTC Sense Mobile Experience

With the next generation of the popular HTC Sense mobile experience, the HTC ThunderBolt 4G automatically delivers your most-wanted information to your screen. It offers even more ways to stay connected--including FriendStream, which delivers Facebook, Twitter, and Flickr updates in a consolidated view. And you'll be able to pinpoint the location of a lost phone on a map, send a command to make the phone sound an alert--even while on "silent" mode--through the htcsense.com web site. If needed, you can also remotely wipe all of the phone's data with a single command in addition to forwarding calls and text messages to a different number.

Video chat capable over 4G LTE and Wi-Fi (see larger image).

Connectivity

• Ultra-fast 4G LTE connectivity via the Verizon Wireless 4G Mobile Broadband network, with expected download speeds of 5 to 12 Mbps and upload speeds of 2 to 5 Mbps. See more about 4G LTE below.
• Easy access to social networking via HTC Sense including updates from Facebook, Twitter, and Flickr.
• Onboard GPS for navigation and location services
• Integrated Google Maps with turn-by-turn navigation, street and satellite views
• Ultra-fast Wireless-N Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g/n) for accessing home and corporate networks as well as hotspots while on the go.
• 4G Mobile Hotspot capability allows you to create a Wi-Fi hotspot using your Verizon Wireless 4G LTE connection, which can then be shared among up to 8 Wi-Fi-capable devices. (Note: Mobile Hotspot capability will not be available at device launch.)
• Bluetooth connectivity (version 2.1) includes profiles for communication headset, hands-free car kits, and the A2DP audio streaming Bluetooth profiles.

OS & Software Android 2.2 operating system (Froyo) with over-the-air upgrade capability for future OS releases. ROCK BAND Mobile with multiple levels of difficulty, dozens of classic songs, and multiplayer mode to challenge your friends over Bluetooth. DLNA capabilities enables you to share your photo albums, videos and movies wirelessly with a compatible HDTV or other DLNA device. Communications & Internet Full messaging capabilities including SMS text, MMS picture/video and IM instant messaging (via popular services including AOL, Yahoo!, Windows Live Messenger, and Google Talk). Access to personal and corporate e-mail (including support for Exchange and push Gmail). HTML Web browser (WebKit-based) with support for Adobe Flash Player 10.1 for accessing Flash-enabled websites, watching video and playing games. Multimedia Music player compatible with MP3, WMA, and AAC Video player compatible with MPEG4, WMV, XviD Built-in stereo speakers Dolby Mobile + SRS WOW HD surround sound enhancement

Memory 32 GB pre-loaded microSD memory card with support for other optional cards up to 32 GB. 8 GB internal memory Camera 1.3-megapixel front-facing camera for video chat capabilities. 8-megapixel camera with dual LED flash plus auto focus, face detection, and geo-tagging. HD 720p video capture capabilities (1280 x 720 pixels) Design and Hardware 1 GHz Snapdragon processor speeds up everything--from playing games to watching shows to opening files from work. 4.3-inch Super LCD display with capacitive multi-touch capabilities, proximity sensor, and light sensor (480 x 800 pixels). Onscreen QWERTY keyboard Dual microphones and noise canceling technology for clearer calls. More Features 3.5mm headphone jack Micro USB 2.0 port with mass storage capabilities. Speakerphone for hands-free communication. Hearing Aid Compatibility: M3 and T3

Vital Statistics

The HTC ThunderBolt weighs 5.78 ounces and measures 4.8 x 2.6 x 0.52 inches. It comes with a long-life 1400 mAh lithium-ion battery. It runs on the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network, as well as EV-DO, Rev A 3G and CDMA 800/1900 frequencies where 4G LTE is not available.

HTC ThunderBolt handset, rechargeable battery, charger, 32 GB microSD memory card, quick start guide

Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Network

The Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network allows you to download photos, apps, and games in seconds and entire movies in minutes. LTE (or Long Term Evolution provides significantly increased upload and download speeds over 3G networks, as well as significantly reduced latency (or lag time). Verizon Wireless expects 4G LTE average data rates to be 5-12 megabits per second (Mbps) on the downlink and 2-5 Mbps on the uplink in real-world, loaded network environments.

With these blazing fast speeds, you'll be able to stream HD movies without the annoyance of constant pauses to buffer the video stream--as well as quickly download HD-quality movies right to your phone in minutes. Additionally, you'll be able to download a new song file in about 4 seconds or upload a photo to your favorite social networking site in about 6 seconds.

And with video chat capabilities via the 4G LTE network, you'll see callers face-to-face while you're on the go. In addition to chatting with other compatible smartphones, you'll be able to video conference to users on PCs.

The Verizon Wireless 4G LTE mobile broadband network will also redefine the mobile office for business users. Business applications that used to require wired networks will be untethered forever, allowing you maximized productivity and efficiency while you're out of the confines of your office. Enhanced security lets you tap into most VPN networks with less waiting, and faster responsiveness enables you to upload 10 MB presentations back to your team in less than 25 seconds.

 

Also Available for This Android Device

Kindle App for Android Read more than 700,000 Kindle books with our free application.

MP3 for Android Find, buy and play the music you love wherever you are.

Amazon App for Android Shop for millions of products wherever you go.

IMDB App for Android Connect to the world's largest collection of movie, TV and celebrity information.

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