Sprint, Clearwire and Time Warner Cable announced on Tuesday that the current 4G WiMAX footprint in New York City has been expanded by 21%. The network now covers an additional 91,363 people across the New York metropolitan area in Alpine, Bayonne, Elizabeth, Fair Lawn, Newark, Paramus, Secaucus and Union, New Jersey; and Hartsdale, New Rochelle, New York, Rockville Centre and Yonkers, New York. Clearwire’s 4G network currently covers more than 130 million U.S. residents, including a total of 11,927,000 people in the New York City area. Read on for the full press release.

Clearwire, Time Warner Cable and Sprint Expand New York City Metro 4G Mobile Broadband Network By 21 Percent

Regional New York City 4G Network Covers 11,927,000 People

KIRKLAND, Wash., NEW YORK CITY, and OVERLAND PARK, Kan., July 12, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Clearwire (NASDAQ: CLWR), Time Warner Cable (NYSE: TWC) and Sprint (NYSE: S) today announced a significant expansion of the Clearwire 4G network footprint and key capacity upgrades for mobile broadband customers in the greater New York City metro area. The regional CLEAR^®, Time Warner Cable Mobile Internet and Sprint 4G service area have added coverage for an additional 91,363 people. Now, more than 11,927,000 people in the New York City area have access to Clearwire’s 4G mobile broadband network. This expansion represents new coverage since Clearwire’s initial launch on November 1, 2010.

Enhanced capacity and expanded coverage can be experienced in the following communities: Alpine, Bayonne, Elizabeth, Fair Lawn, Newark, Paramus, Secaucus, Union, NJ; and Hartsdale, New Rochelle, New York, Rockville Centre, Yonkers, NY.

“Across New York and New Jersey, Clearwire’s 4G speed continues to set the standard in delivering a high-speed network that businesses and consumers demand,” said Sean Reid, regional general manager for Clearwire. ”Unlimited mobile broadband usage is a product that Clearwire pioneered across the country over the last several years and is currently now in seventy-one markets across the United States.”

“Sprint 4G customers in the Greater New York area will benefit from these enhancements,” said Karen Paletta, Sprint vice president-East Region. “Our customers enjoy a wide selection of cutting-edge 4G devices – smartphones, tablets and mobile connectivity devices. Sprint 4G allows for sophisticated services such as video chat and a wide variety of applications that keep expanding every day with great new mobile devices from Sprint.”

“Time Warner Cable continues to take steps as a leader in the industry by offering our customers multiple ways to access the information and content they want at home, at work and on the go,” said Lou Lazzaro, vice president of wireless, Time Warner Cable New York City. “Mobile Internet keeps Time Warner Cable business and residential customers connected in multiple ways from multiple places so they’re never out of touch.”

4G customers in these cities will be able to increase their mobility and productivity in many ways: from instantly downloading large files to get work done on the run, browsing the Web just like at home from across the city, or watching online videos and movies while travelling in the family car around town. A variety of 4G devices are available from both service providers.

A detailed coverage map of CLEAR 4G service is available at www.clear.com/coverage.

Yahoo! Messenger for iOS has been updated to version 2.1. The chat client is now optimized for tablets screens, and Yahoo! has added support for video chat on the iPad 2, including the ability to place video chat calls to the iPhone, a Mac, or a PC. Yahoo! says it has also added improved spam management tools, and users will now be able to block one or all friend requests from a single screen. If you’ve been using the previous version, the update should also eliminate any unexpected sign-out issues. Yahoo! Messenger 2.1 is available for free from iTunes now.

[Via 9to5 Mac]

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Well that didn’t take long. Yesterday, we told you about an Android vulnerability found in ClientLogin that could have serious security ramifications. Using a dummy open access-point, a nefarious third party could passively — via Wi-Fi — collect authentication tokens to password protected services such as Facebook, Twitter, and Google Calendar stored on affected Android devices. Speaking with Mobilized’s Ina Fried, the Android-maker has stated that it is taking action, and fast. “Today we’re starting to roll out a fix which addresses a potential security flaw that could, under certain circumstances, allow a third party access to data available in calendar and contacts,” Google told the publication. “This fix requires no action from users and will roll out globally over the next few days.” The vulnerability will still be present in the company’s Picasa online photo offering, but Google stated that it is working to patch that service as well.

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If you’re on regional wireless carrier Alltel and are looking for a low-cost, Android handset, listen up. The wireless provider has just announced the addition of the Samsung Gem to its smartphone lineup. The Gem is an Android 2.1 device that features a 3.2-inch touchscreen display, 800MHz processor, 3.2 megapixel camera (complete with a Superman-logoish bezel), Wi-Fi (with hotspot capabilities), Bluetooth, GPS, micro-SD card slot (support for up to a 16GB card), and 124MB of on-board memory. The Gem will be free with a new 2-year contract after a $50 mail in rebate. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Alltel Wireless launches latest generation Android smartphone – The Samsung Gem™

More applications and additional features from Android touch screen phone free at Alltel

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Alltel Wireless and Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile), the number one mobile phone provider in the U.S. 1 today announced the availability of a new smartphone, the Samsung Gem™. . In addition to all the features you look for on an Android device and the large LCD touch display that brings it all to life, the Samsung Gem also offers new features and additional applications designed to give Alltel customers a premium Android experience.

The Samsung Gem comes equipped with Android 2.1 and provides built-in Google mobile services including Google Search™ and Google Maps™ with turn-by-turn GPS navigation. The Google™ user interface applications also allow customers to integrate their Outlook, Facebook and Gmail contacts, putting everything right where they need it on the large touch screen.

“Alltel Wireless is proud to add this advanced and versatile smartphone to our Android lineup,” said Scott Moody, Alltel Wireless Vice President of Products and Services. “The Samsung Gem offers our customers a premium smartphone experience at a great price. The Samsung Gem is now free after a $50 mail in rebate at Alltel Wireless.”

For people who like to keep in touch with their friends, the Samsung Gem also features one-touch direct-to-social site photo posting, allowing users to conveniently post photos, messages or e-mails to their favorite social network sites with a simple touch. The 3.2 megapixel camera gives customers the ability to catch every moment through phone or video.

• The smartphone is also Wi-Fi enabled, giving customers two ways to connect to the Internet – through Alltel’s fast 3G wireless network or through any available Wi-Fi hotspot.
• Bluetooth® wireless technology for a hands-free experience or to easily transfer data to a computer.

The Samsung Gem is available at Alltel Wireless for free after a $50 mail in rebate and a two year service agreement.

Alltel Wireless continues to be an industry leader, providing customers most recently with “Best Value Unlimited Plans” which offer the most affordable and flexible options for those who love to talk and remain connected. Alltel Wireless also provides customers its exclusive “My Circle” feature – unlimited calling to and from any 5, 15 or 25 numbers on any network and unlimited text to their circle on select plans – as well as the innovative “Free Fridays” feature, where all calls on Friday are free on select plans.

In addition to the advanced touchscreen display, Samsung Gem users will text, picture and video message with the Swype virtual keyboard, an innovative system that allows you to simply slide your finger from key to key, only raising it in between words. Consumers will also be able to drag and drop various widgets and icons to personalize their own unique screen.
Additional Samsung Gem key features include:

If you’re the owner of a Motorola CLIQ XT from T-Mobile, you’re not going to like this news. Via its user forums, Motorola has announced that plans to update the device to Android 2.1 have been cancelled; leaving the handset and its users stuck on Android 1.5. As the post reads: “After  comprehensive testing of the Android 2.1 upgrade for the CLIQ  XT, we  have concluded that this device will remain on Android 1.5. We  realize  many of you were anxiously awaiting this upgrade, but we aim to deliver software upgrades only when it will provide a better customer experience.” Ouch. That stings. It seems like you have to have a crystal ball when you buy an Android smartphone these days… will it get upgraded, or will it be allowed to wither on the vine? Hit the read link to see the grim news for yourself.

[Via Mobile Crunch]

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Research In Motion on Wednesday announced a new version of its on-device software store for BlackBerry smartphones, BlackBerry App World. Version 2.1 brings several changes to RIM’s app store — the most notable of which is the introduction of an in-app payment mechanism. BlackBerry app developers will now be able to offer digital and virtual goods to users from within their apps, and payments will be taken and processed by RIM’s new payment service. A related SDK has been released to developers, allowing them to build the new in-app purchase functionality into their existing apps.

According to an image obtained by blog Phone Arena, Sprint’s EPIC 4G handset will be receiving an over-the-air (OTA) update to Android 2.2 (Froyo) on December 26th. The new code adds the ability to install applications to external storage cards, improves Bluetooth support and voice dialing, and brings Flash Player 10.1 compatibility. “GPS enhancements” is also listed in the update’s change log. The update, dubbed DL11, will be rolling out in waves over a four day period with those who have the latest Android 2.1 code (DI18) getting priority. Hit the jump to check out the intel.

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In a forum post today, Sprint announced that it will begin rolling out an update to the Samsung Intercept handset. The update’s biggest payload will be an update from Eclair (Android 2.1) to Froyo (Android 2.2). Other niceties detailed by Sprint include:

Enhancements/Fixes:
- Sprint Navigation
- Dropped calls after unacknowledged call waiting
- Force Close message when opening up contacts

Important Notes:
-The software version is: S:M910.05.S.DL05
-The build version is: Froyo.DL05

The post notes that the update will be pushed in “waves” and users should be receiving it over next several days.

[Via Phone Scoop]

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Here’s a bit of good news for Android enthusiasts: as of December 1st, 83% of Android devices are now running OS version 2.1 or higher. The numbers, which come directly from Google’s developer analytics, show the progress the Big G is making in getting the wide-variety of handsets in market updated to newer code. As you can see from the above chart, the majority of handsets are now running Google’s latest mobile OS version, Android 2.2. While the nature of the mobile market will always be prohibitive to 100% of in-market devices on a single OS version, it is nice to see the lion’s share of handsets on a more recent, modern code — a favorite party-line of Android detractors is to call the platform “fragmented.” Hit the read link to check out the full article.

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This morning, in a brief press release, T-Mobile announced the expansion of its HSPA+ network to eight additional markets. The new cities include: Detroit, MI; Grand Junction, CO; Harlingen, TX; Lafayette and South Bend, IN; Montgomery, AL; Roanoke-Lynchburg, VA; and Youngstown, OH.

“With typical download speeds that are on par with or faster than competing 4G technologies, T-Mobile customers with the latest 4G devices in more than 80 metropolitan areas around the country can now enjoy blazing fast Web browsing, seamless video streaming and quicker downloads at no additional cost,” reads the press release. “Continuing the aggressive expansion of our 4G network,  T-Mobile is on pace to expand its HSPA+ footprint to reach 200 million people by the end of this year – with plans to move to faster speeds (42Mbps) in 2011.”

If you’re in the new markets, and have a G2 or myTouch 4G handset, enjoy!

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Today, regional wireless provider U.S. Cellular announced the availability of a new, mid-range, Android smartphone, the LG Apex. The Apex, which will hit sales channels on the 19th of November, sports a 3.2-inch touchscreen display, full-QWERTY slide-out keyboard, 3 megapixel camera, and Android 2.1. The device will retail for $79.99 with a signed two-year contract and $80 mail-in rebate. Hit the jump for the full press release.

LG APEX THE LATEST ANDROID-POWERED PHONE TO LAND AT U.S. CELLULAR NOVEMBER 19

CHICAGO (Nov. 17, 2010) – Riding a wave of industry recognition for wireless innovations like “no contract after the first” with faster phone upgrades and Overage Cap, U.S. Cellular continues to bolster its expanding smartphone portfolio with the LG Apex, the carrier’s latest high-performance, Android-powered device. The phone will be available in U.S. Cellular stores and at uscellular.com starting Nov. 19 for $79.99 after an $80 mail-in rebate. The LG Apex, with its vibrant 3.2” touchscreen and sleek, slide-out QWERTY keyboard, joins a string of cutting-edge products recently launched by the carrier, including the HTC Desire, Samsung Acclaim, Samsung Mesmerize (a Galaxy S smartphone) and the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Tab, slated to arrive in stores this month. The LG Optimus U will debut in December rounding out U.S. Cellular’s Android-powered offerings for 2010.

“Phones powered by Android are perfect for customers looking for high-performance devices that help them stay productive, entertained and connected on the go,” said Edward Perez, vice president of marketing and sales operations for U.S. Cellular. “The LG Apex is backed by the tremendous value of The Belief Project and our high-speed nationwide network, making it a great gift this holiday season.”

U.S. Cellular’s growing catalog of Android-powered, BlackBerry and Windows Mobile phones is a key part of its strategy to deliver cool devices while elevating the customer experience through industry-leading initiatives. Launched in October, The Belief Project is an array of innovative initiatives like “no contract after the first” with upgrades to the newest phones at promotional prices every 18 months. Customers automatically get valuable rewards just for being a customer that can be used for even faster phone upgrades in as little as 10 months depending on their Belief Plan. Rewards can also be used to get additional lines, phones, accessories, and ringtones.

U.S. Cellular’s new bundled National Single Line and Family Belief Plans offer affordable voice, text and data packages. Customers who text, e-mail and download more than they talk may prefer the new Primary Plus Plan for $69.99 per month that comes with 5GB of data, unlimited text, picture and video messaging, free GPS Navigation and 450 voice minutes with unlimited incoming calls, nights and weekends and mobile-to-mobile. Customers also can opt for the Premium Plus Family Plan for $179.99, which includes two lines with unlimited minutes and messaging, 5GB of data per line, Phone Replacement and GPS Navigation.

For more information about the LG Apex and The Belief Project, visit uscellular.com.
About the LG Apex
The LG Apex is a cool productivity tool that runs on Android 2.1 and features a 3.2-inch durable tempered glass touchscreen that responds to a feather touch with vibration feedback. The screen also boasts luminous sensors that adjust brightness depending on light conditions and shows off the dynamic, animated live wallpaper. Five customizable home screens allow customers to create shortcuts to their favorite apps and widgets.  Its stylish and functional design offers a QWERTY keyboard that slides out to make typing and texting easy.

Backed by U.S. Cellular’s high-speed nationwide network, customers can browse and download thousands of applications in Android Market that allow users to customize their phone to fit their lifestyle. Customers can also access popular Google applications, including Google Maps™ with its turn-by-turn directions and Google Voice Search™ that helps them locate anything without a single key tap. The LG Apex’s 3 megapixel autofocus, flash-ready camera/camcorder comes with a panorama mode that lets customers take up to six side-by-side shots to build a sweeping view.

The Wi-Fi enabled phone also comes with an MP3 player, and customers can easily organize their music library, repeat and shuffle their favorite songs. They can even multi-task, playing music in the background while simultaneously e-mailing, texting or downloading videos. A video player is included for WMV, MP4, 3GP and 3G2 formats.

The LG Apex will retail for $79.99 after an $80 mail-in rebate and will be available Nov. 19 at U.S. Cellular locations and at uscellular.com.

Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon Wireless have all announced a release date (or released) the Samsung Galaxy Tab, however, for the most part, AT&T has kept quiet. Perhaps it is because they are the only U.S. carrier that can natively support the cellular radio in the iPad? Maybe they are waiting for the second generation Tab? Maybe not. Engadget has been sent in some intel that seems to indicate the device will be hitting Ma’ Bell on the 21st of November for the head-scratching price of $649. The $649 no-commitment price is listed as the “HQ Recommended” price and the sheet notes that shops should “consult their local price sheet for actual pricing.” No indication of an on-contract price was listed for the tablet device.

The report also details that the Tab will be getting the same data plans as the iPad — $14.99 monthly for 250MB or $25 monthly for 2GB.

One thing is certain, if AT&T is launching the device on the 21st, an official announcement should be imminent.

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Today, Verizon Wireless announced the pricing and availability of its mid-range, full-touchscreen smartphone, the Motorola Citrus. For those that need a quick refresher, the Cirtus is and Android 2.1 handset with a 3.0-inch QVGA display, Wi-Fi b/g, Bluetooth 2.0, GPS, 3 megapixel digital camera, EV-DO Rev. 0, SWYPE keyboard, and the MOTOBLUR UI. The device will be available on Big Red starting tomorrow for $49.99 with a two-year contract and $100 mail-in rebate.

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Today, via a press release, HTC announced that it would bring its compact, Android handset — the Wildfire — to “multiple regional North American carriers beginning in Q4 2010.” The Wildfire is a mid-range Android set with a 3.2-inch QVGA touchscreen display, 528MHz processor, 512MB ROM, 384MB RAM, 5 megapixel camera, Wi-Fi b/g, Bluetooth 2.1, GPS, 1300mAh battery, and Android 2.1 with Sense. The European and Asian Wildfire variants contain both 900/2100MHz HSPA and 850/900/1800/1900MHz GSM radios. Pricing was not made public in the brief. Hit the jump for the full announcement.

HTC Brings the Compact and Powerful HTC Wildfire to the U.S.

HTC Wildfire brings speed and power to those looking for a compact, easy to use smartphone

BELLEVUE, Wash., Oct. 28 /PRNewswire/ — HTC Corporation, a global designer of smartphones, today announced that the new HTC Wildfire smartphone will be made available through multiple regional North American carriers beginning in Q4 2010. With Android 2.1, and the hallmark HTC Sense experience, the HTC Wildfire smartphone offers unsurpassed access to social networks, mobile applications and popular Google services. Combining an intuitive interface and small size, the HTC Wildfire smartphone can go anywhere with anyone.

“The HTC Sense experience has changed the way millions of people interface with their smartphone for the better, making it more fun, productive and personal than ever before,” said Jason Mackenzie, president, HTC Americas. “With the HTC Wildfire smartphone, we are bringing the people-focused HTC Sense experience to customers looking for a compact, easy-to-learn smartphone that is still powerful enough to meet the needs of even advanced smartphone users.”

HTC Wildfire
The HTC Wildfire smartphone helps “bring your friends to you” by employing the highly intuitive HTC Sense experience that makes people, rather than technology, its prime focus. The HTC Wildfire smartphone includes the Leap feature, to make accessing any of the seven home screens quick and easy, Friend Stream for bringing multiple social networking feeds into one easy-to-follow string and an improved People widget designed to easily organize multiple groups of contacts. With Android 2.1 onboard, the HTC Wildfire smartphone offers access to over 70,000 applications in the Android Market, a number that grows with every passing day. With the new App Sharing widget, users can not only let friends and family know about favorite applications, they can make it easy for them to find and download those applications as well. In addition, the HTC Wildfire has a 5 megapixel camera with auto focus and flash that captures outstanding images, while fast 3G connectivity makes sharing those moments with friends and family quick and easy. The HTC Wildfire smartphone makes it possible to go from shooting an image to sharing it online, whether via Flickr, Facebook, Twitter or e-mail, in one step.

Availability
HTC Wildfire is slated to be available on multiple North American carriers beginning in Q4 2010.

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We recently dedicated a Throwback Thursday to Winamp and, as many of you were quick to point out, the product is still alive and quite awesome. Today, via a blog post, Winamp maker Nullsoft reminded us just how awesome their product is with the release of a Winamp beta for Android. The media player, which will work on handsets running Android 2.1 or higher, offers: seamless synchronization with Winamp’s desktop suite, wireless syncing with your desktop, persistent player controls, widgets, and scrobbling with last.fm. Oh, and in case you were curious… the player still lets you know that it “really whips the llamas ass” when you first launch it. What are you waiting for? You know you’re curious. Hit up the Android Market, grab the goods, and let us know what you think.

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