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Google Nexus 4 Android 4.3 Jelly Bean Update – Manual Downloads Available

July 27, 2013 By David Crozier Leave a Comment

Google’s Android head, Sunder Pichai had stated the Android 4.3 Jelly Bean update for the Nexus devices will be out the same day the latest Android build was released. It was on Wednesday last and three days later, things obviously have not turned out the way it should have been. Instead, Google has resorted to using the ‘coming soon’ tag and has revised the schedule of the coming of the Android 4.3 to the Nexus 4 to the next few days. Other devices that are also awaiting the coming of the Android 4.3 update are the Nexus 7, Nexus 10 as well as the Google Nexus.

However, before it gets too disappointing, the above applies to the update being pushed over the air since the update has already emerged online and can be downloaded manually.

However, before beginning with the download process, users will have to ensure they have Android Android 4.2.2 (JDQ39) build running on their devices. Also of course, the usual pre installation guideline of creating a backup of the device is extremely necessary to prevent nasty surprises later on. The official intimation of the update is still being sent out and it be a couple of days more for the same to make it to every Nexus device out there.

As for the update itself, Android 4.3 Jelly Bean version might not be anything to get too excited about as it marks a rather small improvement over Android 4.2.2. Among the new features to look out for include better parental controls who can now restrict the usage of app or games they deem unfit for this kid’s use and so on. The Android 4.3 build will however be faster than the current version.

Android Jelly Bean 4.3 Update Confirmed for Verizon Galaxy Nexus, Nexus 4, Nexus 7, Nexus 10

July 26, 2013 By Nicholas Anderton Leave a Comment

Google may not have explicitly stated when Android 4.3 Jelly Bean will be introduced to the Verizon Galaxy Nexus though it stands confirmed the update is well in the pipeline for a future release. The Google developer page which includes the binaries of the Android 4.3 update for the Verizon Galaxy Nexus is a dead giveaway of it.

Meanwhile, Google has announced the arrival of the arrival of Android 4.3 Jelly Bean version and has also mentioned the devices that are to be the immediate beneficiaries if the latest Android iteration. This includes the old Nexus 7, Nexus 4, Nexus 10 as well as the previously launched flagship device, Samsung Galaxy Nexus, which was released in 2011 December. The Samsung Galaxy Nexus had started out with Android Ice Cream Sandwich 4.0 and it is really nice for the device to be provided with a fresh lease of life. However, it is the unlocked model of the Galaxy Nexus that might benefit from Android 4.3 update earlier.

However Google has made no confirmation regarding the update for the carrier versions of Google Nexus including the same for Sprint as well as Verizon. Thanks to the binaries that got listed though, one can at least conclude that the Verizon Galaxy Nexus running Android 4.3 is going to be a reality sometime in the future. Verizon usually follows a very strict certification process for all software updates it makes available and is usually among the last to release the updates. So committing to any time frame could be a waste of time here though the months of August or September can well be used as a benchmark.

One can expect the update to come with all features of the Android version 4.3 including OpenGL and Bluetooth LE. The update is also expected to include bug fixes that has been bothering users so far while also ensure better performance, particularly for the gaming enthusiasts given the amount of effort that has gone into enhancing graphics performance of the new Android version.

White Nexus 4 Release Date Subdue Possibilities of Verizon Nexus 4 LTE

June 18, 2013 By Micheal Baptiste Leave a Comment

For Nexus fans, who have been looking for variations and next versions of the Nexus 4 smartphone, LG has announced a white variant of Nexus 4, which will be made available from May 29^th, hitting Hong Kong markets first before a global roll out. However, rumors of a possible LTE capable version have been subdued.

In its official announcement LG said that the white variant will offer the same Google experience, so it is only an additional color option. The device features a 4.7-inch 1280 x 768 True HD IPS Plus display facilitated by Zerogap Touch technology. It is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro processor with 2GB of RAM.

Android Police recently revealed press photos of the white Nexus 4, signaling an official launch. Earlier rumors suggested that the device will make it to Google Play store on June 10^th, along with the Android 4.3, which was spotted at a Thailand Expo. But, LG’s announcement said nothing about the availability of the white variant at Google Play Store. It did not mention the pricing either, but the expected pricing is $299 for the 8GB version and $349 for the 16GB version.

A close look at the press photos reveals that the white version of Nexus 4 has a white rear panel, but is black in the front, so it combines two color tones. The model number has been changed to E960W – the original number was E960. The white Nexus 4 was first revealed in January and later spotted at Google’s I/O event, and now LG has confirmed its existence.

Nexus 4 “set the standard for Android 4.2 smartphones” as LG CEO put it. But, users have expressed concerns about lack of LTE support, 32GB version and expandable storage option.

White Nexus 4 Released – More Details on it

May 29, 2013 By Micheal Baptiste Leave a Comment

After several months of speculation regarding the next Nexus device, Google finally unveiled a white variant of the Nexus 4. Press photographs and other convincing details led to many to expect the device shortly, but LG officially released the device on May 29^th starting in Hong Kong.

Specifications-wise, the black and white variants are identical and pricing details are likely the same. Nexus 4 has a 4.7-inch screen with a resolution of 1280 x 768 pixels. It runs on Android 4.2 and is powered by 1.5GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro plus 2GB RAM. The pricing is most probably $299 and $349 for the 8GB and 16GB versions respectively.

When the Nexus 4 was first launched in November last year, Google offered it through unlocked sales for US consumers. In other words, the device can be purchased direct from Google without contracts and subsidies. The usual method was also offered, with T-Mobile selling Nexus 4 for $200 after a mail-in rebate of $50 and a two-year subscription.

Nexus 4, being a GSM/HSPA+ phone, works with T-Mobile and AT&T. Even without a contract, users can simply get a micro-SIM from a preferred carrier and get it activated. Current customers can easily swap their regular-sized SIM for a micro-SIM.

Google’s direct method seems a better option as users can select a compatible service provider of their choice. With no contracts, users are not under any obligation, so it is easy to jump between services without penalties. An unlocked purchase allows better access to native Android features, such as Wi-Fi hotspot without additional payments.

Nexus 4, be it black or white, is basically a Google phone rather than a carrier phone and offers a pure Google experience, so no interfering from carriers.

Google Nexus 4 White, Android Jelly Bean 4.3 Release dated for June 10

May 20, 2013 By Micheal Baptiste Leave a Comment

Google I/O Conference was held on May 15. Alongside, a number of rumors regarding the unveiling of Google Nexus 7 2, announcement of Android Key Lime Pie v.5.0 and a lot more were simply shattered. Google hinted nothing over a white variant of Nexus 4 and Android 4.3. However, it is almost unfeasible for some rumors to cool down. Rumors on the white variant of Nexus 4 and Android v.4.3 are still swirling in the pool.

The white variant of Nexus 4 will obviously be a ditto of the black one, with a light upgrade in its OS. Rumors reveal that white Nexus 4 will be available at Google Play Store from June 10 onwards. A tech forum says that it was able to lay hands on the white Nexus 4 at I/O. Nexus 4 originally runs on Android v.4.2. It seems that Android 4.3 will just be a minor update with slight specifications.

Possibly, the developer AVI plane would be augmented to version 18, enabling sturdy support for Bluetooth Smart and likely OpenGL ES 3.0 as well. It is also highly probable that Android v.4.3 Jelly Bean will be rolled out to rest of the Nexus devices like Nexus 10 and 7. White variant of Nexus 4 would be available at a commencing price of $299.

Meanwhile, Nexus 4 endorses a 4.7 inches display with a screen resolution of 768*1280 p at a pixel density of 318 ppi. An 8 MP camera and 2 GB RAM are other notable specs of the Nexus 4. It is available in two variants of 8 and 16 GB. Nexus 4 operates on a Qualcomm APQ8064 Snapdragon, Quad Core Krait 1.5 GHz and Adreno 320. Recently, Nexus 4’s Android v.4.2 was upgraded to v.4.2.2. If the white variant of Nexus 4 runs on Android 4.3, most likely, the black model would be upgraded to the same.

Samsung Galaxy S4 Nexus vs. Google Nexus 4 – The Best Android Phones Specs, Features, Price Comparison

May 18, 2013 By Micheal Baptiste Leave a Comment

The much-awaited Google’s 2013 I/O event surprised Nexus fans by announcing a new Samsung Galaxy S4 Nexus, instead of an updated Nexus 4 or a new Nexus 7 2 that analysts predicted. The Nexus 4, announced in November 2012, was well-received because of its favorable price tag and exceptional software and hardware features.

Though it made it to the market only in February 2013, it gained prominence as Google’s premier smartphone equipped enough to compete with 2013 devices – Samsung Galaxy S4, HTC One and iPhone 5 – released in close succession. The new Galaxy S4 Nexus edition, which will be available at the Google Play Store from June 26^th, is packed with some exciting features to stand out in the competition. How does it compare with the original Nexus 4, with regard to hardware, software, price and other features? Let’s explore.

Design

Nexus 4 is built of a durable plastic frame measuring 9.1 mm thick and weighing 139g. However, it has a glass back that must be secured in a bumper case to prevent damages from drops. The front features the scratch-resistant Gorilla Glass 2.

Samsung Galaxy S4 Nexus features a thinner and lighter build with a thickness of 7.1mm and a weight of 130g. It flaunts a solid plastic design with the front featuring Gorilla Glass 3, which has thrice the scratch-resistance of Gorilla Glass 2, according to Corning.

Display

Nexus 4 has a 4.7-inch screen with 720p HD resolution and 320 ppi, featuring 2012’s specs, yet good enough for great videos and photos.

Galaxy S4 Nexus boasts a 5-inch full HD Super AMOLED display with 1080p resolution and 440ppi, outshining the latest devices. It means richer text, crisper colors and more fluid videos.

However, we need to consider the size difference before judging the resolution, meaning that Nexus 4 has a decent resolution proportionate to its screen size.

Camera

Nexus 4 has an 8 MP camera while Galaxy S4 Nexus will come with a 13 MP camera. Both will use the stock Android camera application. Galaxy S4 Nexus will not feature the Samsung camera app, which is actually better than the stock camera app. Front cameras on either device are likely to have similar performance features for video-chatting.

Processor

Nexus 4 is powered by the Quad-Core Snapdragon S4 Pro Processor which clocks at 1.5 GHz.

Galaxy S4 Nexus outshines Nexus 4 with a Snapdragon 600 Quad-Core Processor clocking at 1.9 GHz.

Both have 2 GB RAM and Adreno 320 GPU.

Software

When it comes to software, Nexus devices do not feature the manufacturer’s UI loaded with Android OS. Instead, they provide a pure Google experience. Nexus 4 runs on the latest Android 4.2 Jelly Bean vanilla version. Galaxy S4 Nexus is also loaded with the vanilla version of the latest Android 4.2 Jelly Bean without any of Samsung’s software features. By comparison, even the recent Galaxy S4 features Samsung’s TouchWiz UI over the Android OS.

Storage and battery

Nexus 4 comes in two versions – 8 GB and 16 GB – based on storage capability. However, it has no microSD card slot for additional memory. Galaxy S4 Nexus has 16 GB storage and bears a microSD card slot for expandable memory up to 64 GB.

Nexus 4 has a non-removable 2,100 mAh battery, whereas Galaxy S4 Nexus has a 2,600 mAh battery that is removable. Both support wireless charging and NFC. The wireless charging feature in Nexus 4 is built-in, whereas Galaxy S4 Nexus, with its removable battery, will be compatible with Samsung’s charging kit.

Connectivity

Nexus 4 runs on HSPA network and lacks 4G LTE support, a disadvantage that many have taken note of. Galaxy S4 Nexus overcomes this drawback by providing LTE support, so users can avail the best data speeds equivalent to home Wi-Fi networks.

Pricing

Nexus 4 has enjoyed widespread demand mainly because of its price tag. Google Play Store offers the 8 GB version for $299 and the 16 GB version for $350. Compared with iPhone 5‘s $650 price tag, Nexus is amazingly cheap for a smartphone of its kind.

But, the Galaxy S4 Nexus will bear an astounding price tag of $649 comparable with that of iPhone. Considering the added features, such as high-end hardware, better display, microSD, 4G LTE connectivity, etc. the price tag may well be justified.

Conclusion

Google has yet to reveal more of the internal features of Galaxy S4 Nexus, but among the notable non-Nexus features are the microSD slot for expanded memory and the removable battery. The new device is likely to retain the specifications of Galaxy S4. Though both Galaxy S4 Nexus and Nexus 4 are powered by quad-core processors, Galaxy S4 Nexus will be a step ahead of Nexus 4, which uses the previous generation chip.

Though the Nexus 4 has a comparatively smaller battery, it is relevant for the display features, given that display resolutions consume most of the battery charge. So, Galaxy S4 Nexus’ bigger battery is not a bonus, but a necessity considering its larger display with higher resolution.

Nexus 4 is likely to retain its relevance for several months with prospects of software updates from Google to keep it fresh. The new Galaxy S4 Nexus will definitely draw the attention of Android enthusiasts, with many looking to weigh its features against the Nexus 4.

The Samsung Galaxy S4 Nexus, though expensive, provides far more features well worth the price. However, Nexus 4 offers a lot despite its low price tag.

Google Nexus 4 vs Samsung Galaxy S4 Features after Release Date Expectations

February 27, 2013 By David Crozier Leave a Comment

Google and Samsung, the two major names in technology are again set for a collision course when the recently released Nexus 4 meets Samsung Galaxy S4 in the near future. With Google’s fourth Nexus-branded smartphone released on November 13, 2012, its competitor Samsung has been rumored to release its latest smartphone in the month of March, 2013.

The Samsung Galaxy S4 release date is almost confirmed to be announced on March 14, 2013.

We have compared their earlier products time and again only to see a fierce competition. Sometimes it has been Google that has had a healthy advantage over its nemesis, whereas on other occasions it has been the complete opposite.

What needs to be seen is whether Samsung Galaxy S4 has the potential to match the prowess of Google Nexus 4. Reviewers as well as ardent Samsung technology lovers have set their hopes and only wish for their likable brand to rule the market all over again.

We review both the devices and help you come to a conclusion as to which one among the two will dominate the other. With one of the high-end smartphones already launched in the market, it is just a short wait before Samsung releases Galaxy S4.

Google Nexus 4

Google Nexus is a smartphone designed and manufactured by LG Electronics. It was released on November 13, 2012. In the United States and some parts of Europe and Australia, the phone was made available for purchase on Google Play. Since its release, the reviews have been extremely positive from the reviewers as well as users.

Samsung Galaxy S4

As mentioned earlier, Samsung Galaxy S4 will be released in the later part of March 2013. This highly anticipated device is already being considered as a strong competitor for Google Nexus 4 and several other smartphones in the market. The Android-based phone will be shipped with a Stylus, otherwise known as an S pen.

Design

When it comes to the appearance of Google Nexus 4, the only term which fits here is elegant. If you look at this device, you will find no complexities in grasping its appearance. It has an excellent screen which makes it perfect for viewing videos or even printing documents. On the other hand, the sleek design of Samsung Galaxy S4 differentiates it from its predecessors. This flagship phone has a remarkable physical design which you would just love to flaunt.

Display

In terms of display, Samsung Galaxy S4 is said to have an advantage over its rival Google Nexus 4. Where the former has the display of 5-inch OLED screen, the latter offers a display size of 4.7 inches. One of the disadvantages that S4 carries is that pixels can be seen clearly if the user really strains at the screen. There were rumors about Samsung launching its latest model with a flexible screen, but in terms of S4, it seems out of the question. Maybe this is something we will see in the future versions of the handsets released by the Korean brand.

CPU and GPU

When it comes to installed processors, Nexus 4 is powered by 1.5 GHz quad-core Krait processor and GPU supported with Adreno 320. On the other hand, Samsung Galaxy S4 will comprise the next generation Exynos 5450 processor with four Cortex-A 15 core. It will be functioning at a speed of 2 GHz with 2 GB of RAM to successfully ensure multitasking and flexible usability.

Operating System

Google Nexus 4 functions on Anrdoid 4.2.1 Jelly Bean to ensure that users receive high quality performance. Samsung Galaxy S4 runs on an advanced and more mature version of Android 4.2 Jelly Bean. There are also rumors that the device will function on a different OS known as Tinzen, since other Samsung phones are working with this operating system. Unfortunately, as far as this version of Samsung phone is concerned, it is a good possibility that we might see Jelly Bean installed in it.

Disk Space

The storage space for Google Nexus 4 can be either 8 GB or 16 GB depending on the version that you purchase. The downside here is that the memory storage is not expandable. Samsung Galaxy S4, on the other hand boasts 32 GB of internal storage memory for accommodating pictures, videos applications and other data.

Camera

Google Nexus 4 includes front camera as well as one in the rear. The front camera offers 1.3 MP and 720p recording. In contrast, the rear camera of the phone features 8 MP back-side illuminated sensor with LED flash. It also offers 1080p video recording at 30 frames per second. Since the camera details of Samsung Galaxy S4 are unknown, it has been projected that the phone offers at least 10 MP camera.

This projection has been made after an image snap was showcased on Picasa. However, it is important for you to know that images on the internet can be tampered, which is why we would recommend confirmation before jumping on the Galaxy S4 bandwagon.

Battery

Google Nexus 4 has a 3.8 V 2100 mAh, 8 Wh rechargeable Lithium polymer non-removable battery. It offers talk time duration of 15 hours. Unfortunately, at the present moment, the battery life of Samsung Galaxy 4 is unknown. However, consumers are definitely expecting it to come up with something close to 3, 300 mAh that was released by Motorola in its RAZR Maxx. Some battery life of that sort would definitely be one of the added advantages for Samsung to pinpoint as a USP.

Conclusion

We would not like to conclude as such on the review, for one of the smartphones is yet to be released. However, if someone would question whether it would be worth purchasing Google Nexus 4, we would recommend a short waiting period till March 2013. We definitely do not discourage its potential, but Samsung Galaxy 4 promises to come out with a lot of surprises in terms of features as well as price.

Google Nexus 4 free on T-Mobile for a limited time

February 23, 2013 By Micheal Baptiste Leave a Comment

Google’s Nexus 4 built by LG has been a huge hit, with both critics and consumers falling in love with the smartphone with quality specs but a budget price tag. So much so that the Nexus 4 has been all but impossible to buy, aside for a few shorts days when it arrives back in stock. The demand is easing and production lines are moving faster, so the Nexus 4 is now becoming more readily available.

When the handset was released, American carrier T-Mobile offered the Nexus 4 for $199.99 which is the standard for the device across all major US based carriers. Earlier this month T-Mobile had a special offer where we could pick up the Nexus 4 contracted for just $50, but now T-Mobile has gone one better.

Now it is possible to go onto the company’s website and get a Nexus 4 for free, at least for the limited time of the offer. T-Mobile is pretty clear that this deal is not permanent and that it is an online only deal, so make sure if you want your free Nexus 4 that you are quick and get it through T-Mobile online.

The deal runs out at midnight on Monday 25^th February, and of course it is worth reiterating that the free device is based on taking out a 24-month contract. We cannot say how much we rate this deal, it is an absolute bargain, allowing us to get one of the most sought after and best Android smartphones for free.

Obviously you will need to be or become a customer with T-Mobile to get the Nexus 4 for free as T-Mobile sells a locked version and not the open version sold through the Google Play store. T-Mobile has also announced this week that it will be carrying the HTC One within days of the phones launch next week.

Google Nexus 4 Android 4.2.2 Installation Guide

February 22, 2013 By Brandi McCants Leave a Comment

It is what the Nexus 4 users have been waiting for a long time. Android 4.2.2 is all ready to be downloaded and installed on Google’s Nexus 4. It has already made its presence felt on Galaxy Nexus, Nexus 7 and Nexus 10 for a while. The Nexus devices do not usually get the intimation on time, so if you do not want to wait, you can go through a series of steps to obtain the Android on your Nexus 4 by manually downloading OTA from Google.

To avoid irreparable damage to your device, you have to follow the given instructions carefully. First make sure that your phone works on build JOP4OD and has 54MB. You can begin the download of OTA files after which you can start installing the update with the help of custom recovery or sideloading. Go through these steps carefully to install the Android 4.2.2 on your device.

Switch off and start your device again by lowering the volume and power switch. Find the menu with the help of the volume keys. Now press ‘recovery’ with the help of the power switch. Once the red exclamation flashes, you need to press the volume key a few times while holding on to the power switch. You need to select “apply update from adb” which is now displayed.

With the help of a USB cable you can connect your PC to the Nexus 4. To get the latest version of adb which supports sideload you can download “Android SDK.” While in the same directory, you can make the following command and type: adb sideload de8b8d101614.signed-occam-JDQ39-from-JOP4OD.de8b8d10.zip . At this point, a bar will indicate the progress which will soon reach 100%. This completes the successful installation of Android 4.2.2.

Google’s Nexus 4 Now Available in 8GB, Shipping Time Slashed

February 19, 2013 By Micheal Baptiste Leave a Comment

The shipping times for Google’s Nexus 4 range are easing. The 16GB version of the smartphone has had its estimated waiting time slashed to one to two weeks, and now the 8GB version is also seeing its shipping demands ease. The Google Nexus 4 8GB is now available to buy.

When Google launched the LG built Nexus 4 last year it was met with much excitement and rave reviews from the tech press. The high-end smartphone specs for a mid-range price hit a chord, and the Nexus became one of the most in demand phones currently available. Except the problem has been that the device has not been available.

Shortly after launch the Nexus 4 sold out, it made a reappearance 2 months later and the sold out again. The latest availability is the third time the handset has gone on sale. The lack of availability has caused some issue within Google, and does not entirely point to a device that is selling by the millions.

The Nexus 4 has sold in huge numbers, but it could have been the phone hit of last year if Google and LG had sorted out its supply chain. Google has blamed LG for simply not building enough devices, while LG has hit back by saying it built the exact amount that Google asked it too.

The two companies claim they have sorted the problem out and that for the most part the Nexus 4 is here to stay. The 8GB version of the smartphone is following its 16GB sibling into the Google Play Store and also packs a shipping time of around one to two weeks. Google has done a pretty could job of bettering its shipping estimates, so if you do buy a Nexus 4 then you will likely get it slightly before the estimated shipping time.