Google Open Source Code for Wi-Fi Calling

Open-source operating systems like Android, provides developers the golden opportunity of ripping them apart from their fundamental code and rebuilding it according to their own needs and ends. A little while ago, Google, the search giant, launched Android-5.1.1_r5, the latest version of AOSP. What is the real treat is, in the latest version can be found the code which supports Wi-Fi-calling. But, don't get all pumped up. What may appear shiny from outside, might just end up being a fizz. Here we explain you why.

First of all, NOT all mobile carriers are offering Wi-Fi calling. Except T-Mobile and Sprint in the US and EE in the UK and a couple of others in other countries, most of the mobile carriers don't provide the facility of Wi-Fi calling to its customers. Further, the carriers are themselves required to support this feature. The main purpose that this code might be able to serve is for the developers, as they would get to implement it on unofficial software. It is important to note that the code is primarily devised for Nexus 6 but luckily, it can also be implemented on other AOSP based ROMs and stock. So, the phone preference really doesn't play a major hurdle.

What is getting people the most excited is the fact that they might be able to port Wi-Fi calling to devices likes Nexus 4 and Nexus 5, which officially don't support it. This is where the developers are facing the toughest challenge of their lives. Transferring Wi-Fi functionality to smartphones for which it wasn't initially designed possess a huge task for the developers as it involves modifications to the kernels, radios and at other deep software levels. On the top of it, with these modifications comes the potential risk of bricking the device on which the Wi-Fi functionality is being transferred.

So, if you think, you can do something interesting with the code, then access the code right here!

Get, set and Code!

Google Launches 'Nanodegree', A 6-12 Months Course For Android Developers

Among all the various treats that Google announced at its recently held at its Google I/O 2015 conference in San Francisco, this one takes the cake for Android Developers.

What could turn out to be a real learning opportunity for all the Android enthusiasts out there, Google, the tech giant, has partnered with Udacity to provide a six-course Android development nanodegree.

Google's aim here is to help developers learn the nuances of writing applications for the search giant's mobile operating system upto the point that they could potentially be hired by the company in the near future. Hence, the course is meant for advanced developers to horne their skills and get placed at Google.

Similar to Udacity's other degree programs, students will be able to access the videos for the Android nanodegree absolutely free of cost. They will only be required to pay a sum of $200 per month if they want to get a certificate for the degree and get help from the teaching assistants.

The student developers will be required to finish six courses and a number of projects in order to pass their program and get their degree.

The focus of the nanodegree program is to provide as much as practical knowledge regarding the field's working and concepts to the developers.

The whole program structure has been set to be completed in a period of six to nine months. While the start of the program is set, the students can finish their projects and six courses in as much as time they want, at their own pace.



In order to show it seriousness towards the whole project, the search giant has invited some fifty students to Mountain View for a three day summit by the end of 2015. The three day summit would in all its probability include a hackathon and meetings with the hiring engineers. This proves that the search giant has set plans of hiring some of the developers enrolled in the course.

In addition to all this, the search giant has also locked in a deal with the Egypt government to localise the six Android courses under nanodegree into Modern Standard Arabic. This means, for the first time in the history of Udacity, the content of the six courses would be adapted to one specific region.

The company would also provide 2000 scholarships to Egypt students and organise job fairs and sessions for them. Google considers Egypt as a great stepping stone in providing education and jobs to the students in the Arabic speaking region as it believes by providing students with alternative options, it will be able to reduce the number of wars in the area.

Google Launches Android For Workplaces

Smartphones these days have become essential tools to help us complete important work tasks like checking email, editing documents, reviewing sales pipelines and approving deals and Android is arguably the most used platform in smartphones and tablets with over a billion people today carry Android smartphones.

However, smartphones and tablets are underutilized in the workplaces or for working professionals of companies and organizations. Google thus launched Android for Work program to tap into that potential. With a group of partners, Google is trying to help businesses bring more devices to work by securing, managing and innovating on the Android platform.

In June last year, Google has announced about its plan for Android for Work program at the I/O event and it took a little more than 7 months for tech giant to fully design the program and launch it today.

Smartphones supported by the new initiative will be able to keep an employee's work and personal apps separate, and a special Android for Work app will allow businesses to oversee key tools such as email, calendar and contacts.

Google said it is partnering with more than two dozen companies including Blackberry Ltd, Citrix Systems Inc, Box Inc.



Android for Work features four key technology components:

• Work profiles – We’ve built on the default encryption, enhanced SELinux security enforcement and multi-user support in Android 5.0, Lollipop to create a dedicated work profile that isolates and protects work data. IT can deploy approved work apps right alongside their users personal apps knowing their sensitive data remains secured. People can use their personal apps knowing their employer only manages work data and won’t erase or view their personal content.


• Android for Work app – For devices running Ice Cream Sandwich through Kitkat, or that don’t run work profiles natively, we’ve created the Android for Work app. The app, which delivers secure mail, calendar, contacts, documents, browsing and access to approved work apps, can be completely managed by IT.


• Google Play for Work – It allows businesses to securely deploy and manage apps across all users running Android for Work, simplifying the process of distributing apps to employees and ensures that IT approves every deployed app.


• Built-in productivity tools – For everyday business tasks, we’ve created a suite of business apps for email, contacts and calendar, which supports both Exchange and Notes and provides document editing capabilities for documents, spreadsheets and presentations.

Gmail for Android Soon Support Other Email Services Like Yahoo & Outlook

All the Gmail users on Android have a reason to rejoice. If some sources are to be believed, Google is in midst of planning a big update for Gmail users on Android devices which would finally allow them to handle email accounts from other service providers like AOL, Yahoo and Microsoft Outlook etc. People at Android Police have apparently discovered some evidences of a redesigned Gmail Android App that is expected to launch soon in the market.

The new redesigned app is all set to follow the tech giant’s new Material Design language. The app would have a much cleaner and brighter design than the previous one and include round icons and support for third party email accounts. Google Mail famously known as Gmail always supported POP3 accounts but this new update of third party email integration will allow users to make their phone cluster free by dumping all other email applications. According to The Verge, IMAP, POP and Exchange are also supported.

The long anticipated update can be expected to be launched anytime soon in the coming weeks. This new update will surely make Android users at par with iOS users, as Apple’s iOS already supports multiple email accounts. Although Android itself has had a dedicated Email app for all services, the app is called the "email" app available as pre-loaded in all Android phones by default.

Have a look at the unified Gmail app for Android in the video tour below brought to you by Android Police.



Apple's iOS has long supported multiple email accounts, so you Android folks out there will finally get on par — although, to be honest, if you’re still using antiquated email services today, then you’ve only got what you deserve up to this point.

Top Image - Gaharoni [Flickr]

Gmail for Android Soon Support Other Email Services Like Yahoo & Outlook

All the Gmail users on Android have a reason to rejoice. If some sources are to be believed, Google is in midst of planning a big update for Gmail users on Android devices which would finally allow them to handle email accounts from other service providers like AOL, Yahoo and Microsoft Outlook etc. People at Android Police have apparently discovered some evidences of a redesigned Gmail Android App that is expected to launch soon in the market.

The new redesigned app is all set to follow the tech giant’s new Material Design language. The app would have a much cleaner and brighter design than the previous one and include round icons and support for third party email accounts. Google Mail famously known as Gmail always supported POP3 accounts but this new update of third party email integration will allow users to make their phone cluster free by dumping all other email applications. According to The Verge, IMAP, POP and Exchange are also supported.

The long anticipated update can be expected to be launched anytime soon in the coming weeks. This new update will surely make Android users at par with iOS users, as Apple’s iOS already supports multiple email accounts. Although Android itself has had a dedicated Email app for all services, the app is called the "email" app available as pre-loaded in all Android phones by default.

Have a look at the unified Gmail app for Android in the video tour below brought to you by Android Police.



Apple's iOS has long supported multiple email accounts, so you Android folks out there will finally get on par — although, to be honest, if you’re still using antiquated email services today, then you’ve only got what you deserve up to this point.

Top Image - Gaharoni [Flickr]

Google Released New Android 5.0 'Lollipop' (No Laddu or Lassi)

People in India might get little disappointed that Google released its next Android version 5.0 and named it 'Lollipop' in contrast to speculation that Head of Google's Android division Sundar Pichai who is Indian himself will give an Indian name to the next Android version such as Lassi or Laddu !

Allthewhile, on 17th October, Google announced 13th major release of Android and Notably it's the first to be fully developed under Sundar Pichai, the Google senior vice president. Along with Lollipop, Pichai is introducing three Google-designed devices, including the supersize Nexus 6 smartphone, manufactured by Motorola Mobility (MMI) with a fairly gigantic 6-inch screen. (P.S. - The iPhone 6 Plus display is 5.5 inches.)

Lollipop is Google's largest, most ambitious release on Android with over 5,000 new APIs for developers. Lollipop is designed to be flexible, to work on all your devices and to be customized for you the way you see fit. Lollipop is made for a world where moving throughout the day means interacting with a bunch of different screens—from phones and tablets to TVs.

Lollipop also gives you more control over your device. You can now adjust your settings so that only certain people and notifications can get through, for example, when you’re out to dinner or in the middle of an important meeting. And when an important notification does come through, you can see it directly from the lockscreen.

Android Lollipop also provide a new battery saver feature that extends the life of your device by up to 90 minutes—helpful if you’re far from a power outlet. The new Android version has enabled multiple user accounts and guest user mode for keeping your personal stuff private. And you can now secure your device with a PIN, password, pattern, or even by pairing your phone to a trusted device like your watch or car with Smart Lock.

Android Lollipop's New 'Kill Switch' Could Discourage Smartphone Theft

The new Android Lollipop have a new "kill switch" feature which lets its users to enable it on their phones. The feature, dubbed "factory reset protection," requires a Google ID and password before a phone can be reset, and only works when a phone passcode is enabled.

The kill switch is a great step toward making smartphone theft less tempting when a stolen phone can't be wiped clean and resold, it becomes a useless brick. However the kill switch is still opt-in feature for users.

Kill switches work on two levels: damage control and loss prevention. If your phone’s already been stolen, a kill switch can prevent your data from falling into the wrong hands by letting you remotely wipe your phone.

With this feature Android devices will more likely to be sold out comparing to its competitors like Apple which being expensive are more prone for thefts. Notably, Android runs on 85 percent of the world’s smartphones.

4 Upcoming Android Watches to look forward in wearable tech

Smartwatches are currently the hot new trend in the market and every tech company whether big or small is trying to cash on this trend by launching their Smartwatches, which are prefect combination of awesome features, looks and a decent price. We at IndianWeb2.0 want our readers to be up-to-date with the recent trends and hence bring a list of the four most anticipated Android watches to look forward in the wearable tech market.

Related Reading - Smartwatch Comparison: Samsung Galaxy Gear Vs Sony Smartwatch 2 Vs Qualcomm Toq

At first, it was Samsung who launched Smartwatch for the first time and called it Samsung Galaxy Gear and then Sony, Qualcomm followed Samsung as a Smart Watch manufactures. Most recent Apple has launched Apple Watch. However there are many more big brands who yet to launch their own branded smart watches, below are 4 upcoming Android based smartwatches that are scheduled to launch by this year-end by early 2015:

1) Moto 360

Price: $249.99 | Official Site/ More Info - moto360.motorola.com



The Moto 360 smartwatch will surely take your heart away. Its stunning looks combined with Horween leather strap and stainless steel case will make you want this Smartwatch more. But, it's not just about the looks, the Moto 360 comes packed with some solid features which makes it stand out from other Smartwatches already in the market. The smartwatch has a 1.56 inch backlit LCD display with a screen resolution of 320x290 pixels. In order to protect the watch from scratches, the display has Corning Gorilla Glass 3.

The Moto 360 is credited with being the first Android wearable with a round display. It is water resistant (IP67) and can sustain mild splashes and spills. The smartwatch runs on Texas Instruments OMAP 3 processor and has 512 MB RAM. The watch can run Google’s Android Wear OS and needs to be connected with Smartphones running Android version 4.3 or higher via Bluetooth LE. The watch comes with the "Ok Google" command which allows the user to give instructions to the watch to set a reminder, send text messages, check weather or track heart rate. The Moto 360 is now available for sale in the US and will be launched in the rest of the world later this year.

2) Asus Zen Watch

Price - $258 apprx. | Official Site/ More Info - ASUS ZenWatch (WI500Q)

The Smartwatch is the first ASUS wearable device to be powered by Android Wear. It has been produced by ASUS in partnership with Google. The Asus Zen Watch comes with the tagline "Time-honored Tradition, Smart Innovation". It is a classic example of good craftsmanship as the watch is exclusively crafted using premium metals. The watch further has a genuine stitched leather watchband and a quick release clasp design. Its sophisticated design is further enhanced by its rose gold color layering.

The smartwatch runs on Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 processor and has Android Wear as its OS. The watch has an AMOLED 1.63 inch touch display and Corning Gorilla Glass 3 for its protection. The watch allows the user to automatically unlock his/her phone. Find My phone and Tap Tap allows the user to easily locate his/her phone. The watch even allows the user to simply mute an incoming call by just covering the Smartwatch with their hand. The watch further comes with ASUS Remote Camera which allows the user to take photos from various creative angles where the viewfinder would be difficult to see. The watch further comes with Presentation Controls which enables the watch to be used as a time manager and remote control while giving lectures or business presentations.

The watch even acts as your wellness manager as by using the ASUS wellness app, it monitors and tracks a range of health related statistics. The watch also comes with a bio sensor which helps you keep a close tab on your fitness and relaxation levels throughout the day.

3) LG G Watch R

Price: $400 and $179.99 @ Google Play store | Official Site/ More Info - LG G Watch R



LG has expanded its wearable products offering by introducing its new wearable device called the LG G Watch R. The watch is the world’s first wearable device to have a circular Plastic OLED. The watch even makes 100 percent use of its watch face. It provides amazing image clarity even under bright sunlight because of its 1.3 inch full circle P-OLED display. The LG G Watch R offers a durable 410 mAh battery, 4GB storage and 512 MB RAM. It runs on 1.2 GHz Snapdragon 400 processor and has Android Wear as its Operating System. The watch can function for up to half an hour in one meter of water. It can further run all the compatible applications available in the Google Play Store and that too with an Ingress Protection Rating of IP67.



The watch comes power packed with a suite of LG fitness and health applications. Using the watch, the users can monitor their heart rate with the embedded photoplethsymography sensor.

4) Sony SmartWatch 3

Price: $249.99 | Official Site/ More Info - Sony Smartwatch 3 @Sonymobile.com



Sony has added another product to its SmartWear experience range. The SmartWatch 3 is company’s latest generation smartwatch and is credited with being the first Smartwatch specifically designed for the latest Android updates in collaboration with the tech giant, Google.

The watch has a 1.6 inch 320x320 TFT LCD Transflective display. This display allows the watch visibility even under bright sunlight.  The watch gives a premium feel and look because of its stainless steel back panel. The smartwatch charges via a standard microUSB port.  It is waterproof and comes with 4GB of inbuilt local memory. The 4GB memory allows the user to sync playlists and then simply connect with a Bluetooth device to listen to it.  The watch further comes with an inbuilt accelerator, microphone, GPS sensor technology and Compass.



So, are you planning to treat yourself with a smartwatch? Then, you definitely have a tough decision to make. And if you already have got hands on some the above mentioned smart-watches do let us know your experience in the comments below.

4 Upcoming Android Watches to look forward in wearable tech

Smartwatches are currently the hot new trend in the market and every tech company whether big or small is trying to cash on this trend by launching their Smartwatches, which are prefect combination of awesome features, looks and a decent price. We at IndianWeb2.0 want our readers to be up-to-date with the recent trends and hence bring a list of the four most anticipated Android watches to look forward in the wearable tech market.

Related Reading - Smartwatch Comparison: Samsung Galaxy Gear Vs Sony Smartwatch 2 Vs Qualcomm Toq

At first, it was Samsung who launched Smartwatch for the first time and called it Samsung Galaxy Gear and then Sony, Qualcomm followed Samsung as a Smart Watch manufactures. Most recent Apple has launched Apple Watch. However there are many more big brands who yet to launch their own branded smart watches, below are 4 upcoming Android based smartwatches that are scheduled to launch by this year-end by early 2015:

1) Moto 360

Price: $249.99 | Official Site/ More Info - moto360.motorola.com



The Moto 360 smartwatch will surely take your heart away. Its stunning looks combined with Horween leather strap and stainless steel case will make you want this Smartwatch more. But, it's not just about the looks, the Moto 360 comes packed with some solid features which makes it stand out from other Smartwatches already in the market. The smartwatch has a 1.56 inch backlit LCD display with a screen resolution of 320x290 pixels. In order to protect the watch from scratches, the display has Corning Gorilla Glass 3.

The Moto 360 is credited with being the first Android wearable with a round display. It is water resistant (IP67) and can sustain mild splashes and spills. The smartwatch runs on Texas Instruments OMAP 3 processor and has 512 MB RAM. The watch can run Google’s Android Wear OS and needs to be connected with Smartphones running Android version 4.3 or higher via Bluetooth LE. The watch comes with the "Ok Google" command which allows the user to give instructions to the watch to set a reminder, send text messages, check weather or track heart rate. The Moto 360 is now available for sale in the US and will be launched in the rest of the world later this year.

2) Asus Zen Watch

Price - $258 apprx. | Official Site/ More Info - ASUS ZenWatch (WI500Q)

The Smartwatch is the first ASUS wearable device to be powered by Android Wear. It has been produced by ASUS in partnership with Google. The Asus Zen Watch comes with the tagline "Time-honored Tradition, Smart Innovation". It is a classic example of good craftsmanship as the watch is exclusively crafted using premium metals. The watch further has a genuine stitched leather watchband and a quick release clasp design. Its sophisticated design is further enhanced by its rose gold color layering.

The smartwatch runs on Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 processor and has Android Wear as its OS. The watch has an AMOLED 1.63 inch touch display and Corning Gorilla Glass 3 for its protection. The watch allows the user to automatically unlock his/her phone. Find My phone and Tap Tap allows the user to easily locate his/her phone. The watch even allows the user to simply mute an incoming call by just covering the Smartwatch with their hand. The watch further comes with ASUS Remote Camera which allows the user to take photos from various creative angles where the viewfinder would be difficult to see. The watch further comes with Presentation Controls which enables the watch to be used as a time manager and remote control while giving lectures or business presentations.

The watch even acts as your wellness manager as by using the ASUS wellness app, it monitors and tracks a range of health related statistics. The watch also comes with a bio sensor which helps you keep a close tab on your fitness and relaxation levels throughout the day.

3) LG G Watch R

Price: $400 and $179.99 @ Google Play store | Official Site/ More Info - LG G Watch R



LG has expanded its wearable products offering by introducing its new wearable device called the LG G Watch R. The watch is the world’s first wearable device to have a circular Plastic OLED. The watch even makes 100 percent use of its watch face. It provides amazing image clarity even under bright sunlight because of its 1.3 inch full circle P-OLED display. The LG G Watch R offers a durable 410 mAh battery, 4GB storage and 512 MB RAM. It runs on 1.2 GHz Snapdragon 400 processor and has Android Wear as its Operating System. The watch can function for up to half an hour in one meter of water. It can further run all the compatible applications available in the Google Play Store and that too with an Ingress Protection Rating of IP67.



The watch comes power packed with a suite of LG fitness and health applications. Using the watch, the users can monitor their heart rate with the embedded photoplethsymography sensor.

4) Sony SmartWatch 3

Price: $249.99 | Official Site/ More Info - Sony Smartwatch 3 @Sonymobile.com



Sony has added another product to its SmartWear experience range. The SmartWatch 3 is company’s latest generation smartwatch and is credited with being the first Smartwatch specifically designed for the latest Android updates in collaboration with the tech giant, Google.

The watch has a 1.6 inch 320x320 TFT LCD Transflective display. This display allows the watch visibility even under bright sunlight.  The watch gives a premium feel and look because of its stainless steel back panel. The smartwatch charges via a standard microUSB port.  It is waterproof and comes with 4GB of inbuilt local memory. The 4GB memory allows the user to sync playlists and then simply connect with a Bluetooth device to listen to it.  The watch further comes with an inbuilt accelerator, microphone, GPS sensor technology and Compass.



So, are you planning to treat yourself with a smartwatch? Then, you definitely have a tough decision to make. And if you already have got hands on some the above mentioned smart-watches do let us know your experience in the comments below.

New Google Workshop feature for Nexus 5 users for extra customization their phones

Google has not had a much successful run when it comes to its Nexus series and in order to change this, the tech giant has come out with an innovative idea. Google is all set to offer a customized service for the users of Google Nexus 5 Smartphones.

This customized service has been named “Google Workshop” and will allow the Nexus 5 users to go the creative way with their Smartphone's design. The users will be able to create custom cases and live wallpapers using the Workshop.



The tech giant has built out most of the user experience and interface, and has come up with two tools to create live wallpapers and custom cases for the Nexus 5 Smartphone-namely Moments and MapMe.

The "Moments" tool offers the users to add that personal touch to their phones by bringing their phone to life by adding the moments they love to their wallpaper and phone case.  The tool requires users to upload pictures, choose one picture which will be used for phone case and the rest are packed into a live wallpaper.

Moments even allows users to manipulate the picture that they have uploaded. Users can add filters to an image; add a message in white or black text which can then be positioned at the top, bottom and middle of the image. The users can also add more images for the live wallpaper if they wish to.



On the other hand, the "MapMe" tool bases the user’s custom case and wallpaper on a location of their choice. Apparently, it has been rumored that the Google Workshop will offer its consumers some canned suggestions like the place they met that someone special or the user’s hometown. The live wallpaper that will come with MapMe might show location specific weather or tweets, with interactive touches included.

Since, the work on the above tools is still in progress, they may or may not have the features mentioned above when they debut.

Whether this move by Google is able to pep up its sales for the Nexus series or just fizzle out as a failure remains to be seen.

New Google Workshop feature for Nexus 5 users for extra customization their phones

Google has not had a much successful run when it comes to its Nexus series and in order to change this, the tech giant has come out with an innovative idea. Google is all set to offer a customized service for the users of Google Nexus 5 Smartphones.

This customized service has been named “Google Workshop” and will allow the Nexus 5 users to go the creative way with their Smartphone's design. The users will be able to create custom cases and live wallpapers using the Workshop.



The tech giant has built out most of the user experience and interface, and has come up with two tools to create live wallpapers and custom cases for the Nexus 5 Smartphone-namely Moments and MapMe.

The "Moments" tool offers the users to add that personal touch to their phones by bringing their phone to life by adding the moments they love to their wallpaper and phone case.  The tool requires users to upload pictures, choose one picture which will be used for phone case and the rest are packed into a live wallpaper.

Moments even allows users to manipulate the picture that they have uploaded. Users can add filters to an image; add a message in white or black text which can then be positioned at the top, bottom and middle of the image. The users can also add more images for the live wallpaper if they wish to.



On the other hand, the "MapMe" tool bases the user’s custom case and wallpaper on a location of their choice. Apparently, it has been rumored that the Google Workshop will offer its consumers some canned suggestions like the place they met that someone special or the user’s hometown. The live wallpaper that will come with MapMe might show location specific weather or tweets, with interactive touches included.

Since, the work on the above tools is still in progress, they may or may not have the features mentioned above when they debut.

Whether this move by Google is able to pep up its sales for the Nexus series or just fizzle out as a failure remains to be seen.

Google to launch cars running Android Auto software later this year

Google has come up with a great solution for all those phone lovers who can’t even put their phones down while driving. Google with its Android Auto gives you easy access to your messaging, media and navigation in a way that ensures you keep driving safely.

The first batch of cars running the Android Auto can be expected to hit the markets later this year. This was announced by the internet giant at its Google I/O event on Wednesday. The company has partnered with around 40 automobile companies so as to make this possible.

Android Auto is completely voice enabled and has been manufactured so as to help the developers. It does so by creating a seamless and safe solution for using connected devices while driving.



Android Auto works by connecting the driver’s Smartphone to a compatible car, its UI then displays on the car’s screen with quick shortcuts to location searches, navigation and suggestions. It also has a feature which enables the driver to send and receive text messages while driving by using the voice command features.

According to Google, Android Auto has been designed keeping safety in mind. Its simple and intuitive interface, integrated steering wheel controls, and powerful new voice actions minimizes distraction so that the driver can stay focused on the road. It automatically brings the user the useful information, and organizes it into simple cards that appear just when they’re needed.



With Android Auto, you can use the Google Maps on the go.  It’s easy to get to the destination with free voice-guided navigation, live traffic information, lane guidance, and more. Android Auto even lets the driver access and stream their favorite music with apps like Google Play Music, Spotify and Pandora.

Android Auto comes with the best in class speech technology which makes controlling everything with your voice easy and fast. It even lets you hit the road with your favorite apps. It lets you access your favorite apps and content in the car.

Google’s Android Auto will not have it easy. It will have to battle it out with Apple’s CarPlay for market space. Both the Android Auto and CarPlay are very similar in features and are expected to hit the market around the same time.

Google to launch cars running Android Auto software later this year

Google has come up with a great solution for all those phone lovers who can’t even put their phones down while driving. Google with its Android Auto gives you easy access to your messaging, media and navigation in a way that ensures you keep driving safely.

The first batch of cars running the Android Auto can be expected to hit the markets later this year. This was announced by the internet giant at its Google I/O event on Wednesday. The company has partnered with around 40 automobile companies so as to make this possible.

Android Auto is completely voice enabled and has been manufactured so as to help the developers. It does so by creating a seamless and safe solution for using connected devices while driving.



Android Auto works by connecting the driver’s Smartphone to a compatible car, its UI then displays on the car’s screen with quick shortcuts to location searches, navigation and suggestions. It also has a feature which enables the driver to send and receive text messages while driving by using the voice command features.

According to Google, Android Auto has been designed keeping safety in mind. Its simple and intuitive interface, integrated steering wheel controls, and powerful new voice actions minimizes distraction so that the driver can stay focused on the road. It automatically brings the user the useful information, and organizes it into simple cards that appear just when they’re needed.



With Android Auto, you can use the Google Maps on the go.  It’s easy to get to the destination with free voice-guided navigation, live traffic information, lane guidance, and more. Android Auto even lets the driver access and stream their favorite music with apps like Google Play Music, Spotify and Pandora.

Android Auto comes with the best in class speech technology which makes controlling everything with your voice easy and fast. It even lets you hit the road with your favorite apps. It lets you access your favorite apps and content in the car.

Google’s Android Auto will not have it easy. It will have to battle it out with Apple’s CarPlay for market space. Both the Android Auto and CarPlay are very similar in features and are expected to hit the market around the same time.

Google to tie up with Micromax, Karbonn and Spice to launch smartphones under $100 (Rs 6,000)

Google, the internet giant has decided to partner with Indian handset-makers Spice, Micromax and Karbonn to launch $100 (Rs.6,000) Smartphones. Some of these Smartphones are expected to be launched in early September.

This news was announced in Google’s annual developer conference on Wednesday by the company’s senior vice-president Sundar Pichai. If experts are to be believed, this move by Google will shoot up the Indian brands popularity and credibility all over the world. It will also increase the already stiff competition in the entry-level Smartphone market of the country.

This initiative by Google has been named the Android One initiative. Under this initiative, the Indian handset-makers will be provided with hardware reference models so as to create high quality Smartphones that too at low cost.

According to Sundar, the Smartphones will be first unveiled in India and then launched globally. These phones can be expected to run a standardized version of Android which will permit faster updates.

Pichai while showcasing a 4.5 inch Micromax device with dual SIM slots, FM radio and expandable memory also added that Google is also currently working with Indian carriers so as to make these Smartphone users available with affordable data packs.

The first batch of these Smartphones can be expected to hit the Indian markets in somewhere around early September. In all possibility, these phones can be co-branded as the tech giant may not want to venture into the hardware business again after no additional follow ups on Nexus and selling off Motorola.

These Smartphones will take the low end phone market competition, where Samsung and Nokia are already functioning to an all new level.

Whatever may be the case, the customers are expected to gain considerably from the tech giants this move. The customers are expected to get more value and the overall experience is set to become better and faster as with the standard Google platform, the updates will be quicker.

Google’s this initiative has not come as a surprise, as everyone wants to reap in the fruits of the booming Indian Smartphone market. According to the data made available by IDC, the Smartphone market in India tripled itself in the first quarter of this year with 17.59 million devices being shipped compared to 6.4 million during the same time interval last year.

Top Image - [Flickr]

Google to tie up with Micromax, Karbonn and Spice to launch smartphones under $100 (Rs 6,000)

Google, the internet giant has decided to partner with Indian handset-makers Spice, Micromax and Karbonn to launch $100 (Rs.6,000) Smartphones. Some of these Smartphones are expected to be launched in early September.

This news was announced in Google’s annual developer conference on Wednesday by the company’s senior vice-president Sundar Pichai. If experts are to be believed, this move by Google will shoot up the Indian brands popularity and credibility all over the world. It will also increase the already stiff competition in the entry-level Smartphone market of the country.

This initiative by Google has been named the Android One initiative. Under this initiative, the Indian handset-makers will be provided with hardware reference models so as to create high quality Smartphones that too at low cost.

According to Sundar, the Smartphones will be first unveiled in India and then launched globally. These phones can be expected to run a standardized version of Android which will permit faster updates.

Pichai while showcasing a 4.5 inch Micromax device with dual SIM slots, FM radio and expandable memory also added that Google is also currently working with Indian carriers so as to make these Smartphone users available with affordable data packs.

The first batch of these Smartphones can be expected to hit the Indian markets in somewhere around early September. In all possibility, these phones can be co-branded as the tech giant may not want to venture into the hardware business again after no additional follow ups on Nexus and selling off Motorola.

These Smartphones will take the low end phone market competition, where Samsung and Nokia are already functioning to an all new level.

Whatever may be the case, the customers are expected to gain considerably from the tech giants this move. The customers are expected to get more value and the overall experience is set to become better and faster as with the standard Google platform, the updates will be quicker.

Google’s this initiative has not come as a surprise, as everyone wants to reap in the fruits of the booming Indian Smartphone market. According to the data made available by IDC, the Smartphone market in India tripled itself in the first quarter of this year with 17.59 million devices being shipped compared to 6.4 million during the same time interval last year.

Top Image - [Flickr]

Vserv.mobi launches AppWrapper for Android Developers

Mobile advertising network Vserv.mobi has launched AppWrapper, a promising platform for Android app developers that easily helps in automatic integration of multiple software development kits (SDKs).

AppWrapper for Android enables developers to integrate SDKs popular services with one click. The developer only needs to select the services he wants to implement in the app and AppWrapper will do the rest of the things with correct settings into the app.

"The new AppWrapper.org platform is based on the business insight that developers are integrating multiple SDKs into their apps, which often takes valuable time and effort that could have been spent improving the core functionality of the app instead," said Binay Tiwari, director, Global Marketing and Product, Vserv.mobi.

The solution comes with multiple services like view of in-app purchases, premium full screen ads at the launch of the app, analytics, bug tracking, user engagement, and many more.

According to the team, AppWrapper has powered app monetization for over 20,000 apps and has won many awards, including MMA Smarties, mBillionth, Red Herring Top 100 Asia, Mobby’s and others for its technology innovation.

AppWrapper Services

AppWrapper enables the following services for global developers -

• Monetization: Enables mobile app developers to start earning from their app users through business models such as premium advertising and in-app purchases Example: Premium RTB ads, Google Play Store in-app purchases


• Analytics: Allows developers to understand and measure audience reach, engagement, retention, conversions, revenue and more Example: Google Analytics, Flurry Analytics, ApSalar


• Bug Tracking: Allows developers to collect live crash reports, get feedback from app users, distribute beta versions and provide test coverage analysis Example: BugSense, HockeyApp, Crittercism


• User Engagement: Enables developers to engage with app users to increase usage through timely notifications, App Rating reminders and more Example: AppRater, Cloud2Device Messaging

Android Lassi: Naming Pitch from IIT Students to Sundar Pichai

Kshitij, a techno-management group from premier institute IIT Kharagpur are conducting a campaign to promote Indian culture through a new technical pathway which persuading the Android top official from Google and convince them to name the next version of android to be on an Indian beverage that is "Lassi".

Students have even wrote an informal letter to Sundar Pichai who is heading Android division of Google and luckily Sundar is of India origin and from same institute these student running campaign from and who knows if he can understand the students' logic to why name the next version of Android as "Lassi".

Notably, Google had claimed in 2012 that Android adoption rate had grown by over 500% year-on-year in developing countries like India, Brazil and others. India has highest rate of growth for Android and may be its time to honour the country by name next version of Android after its popular sweet drink - 'Lassi'.

More reasons as why should "Lassi" be the next probable name of Android, students describe as:

• Lassi is the most popular drink in almost every part of India and holds to gain a ready-global acceptance.


• It gives the campaign more hope that presently Mr. Sundar Pichai, alumnus of IIT Kharagpur, senior vice-president at Google, oversees Android.

Recently, Android announced its latest version as - Kit-Kat, as usually Android has knack of naming all its version after sweet dishes so far Google Android have had versions, so far 9 versions have been released, these are:

1. Android Cupcake


2. Android Donut


3. Android Eclair


4. Android Froyo


5. Android Gingerbread


6. Android HoneyComb


7. Android Ice-Cream Sandwich


8. Android Jelly Bean


9. Android Kit-kat

Read Quote of An Informal Open Letter to Mr. Sundar Pichai on Quora

IIT Kharagpur,once ranked to be the top technical institute of Asia, and the first of all IITs in India, has always taken keen interest to promote the technical interest of the nation. We, Kshitij, hold to be the largest techno-management fest of Asia in terms of participation of over 60,000 and prize money of about INR 60 lakh.

India 2nd Country to Get Google's Android Nation Retail Stores

In order to promote Google's owned Android in emerging markets like India, Google has now chosen India to open retail store(s) in India by partnering with Spice Global, as Spice already have 850 retail stores across 172 cities/towns in India and Dubai called - 'Spice HotSpots' which offers mobile devices, airtime products ( Data Cards,new connections and mobile recharges) as well as mobile accessories. Google after partnering with Spice Global will turn chosen ones into AndroidNation retail outlets.

India’s first Android Nation store will likely to be opened in New Delhi and might open in more cities of India as companies have plans to convert around 50 Spice HotSpot retail outlets into AndroidNation stores that presently located in India and Dubai.

The AndroidNation store will be more than just a store for its customers and will act as an Android experience centre where customers can find out  latest info about Android apps, get help from experts, download software updates or check out the latest accessories for their devices.

India is now become 2nd country to get Android Nation retail outlet that will sell Android devices such as smartphones and tablets manufactured by brands including Samsung, Sony, HTC, LG, ASUS, and others. In a similar fashion Google has opened World's first AndroidNation outlets in association with mobile company EraFone in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Google is also planning to sell China's third largest smartphone brand 'CoolPad'  in India co-branded as 'Spice CoolPad'  through Android Nation outlets that will open in India.

Android penetration is relatively low in India for year 2012 but this year smartphones picked up the pace with a growth of over 500% in India over the last year. In a recent survey conducted by TCS on youth population in India which is  India’s largest survey of nearly 17,500 high school students across 14 Indian cities, it has been found that around 54% of  smarphones owned by youths are Android based smartphones.

Google Nexus 4 Launched in India from LG @ 25,999

All new Google Nexus 4 has arrived India in partnership with LG electronics with a price tag of Rs.25,999 which is a little less than Samsung Galaxy S3 which have similar specification of - 1.5GHz Qualcomm processor, 8MP Camera and similar screen size. Nexus 4 comes with the latest version of Android and gets updates directly from Google.



Nexus 4 has latest Android latest version 4.2.2 and true HD display with 4.7 inch of screen which is protected by scratch resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 2. It has also got advance feature of wireless charging and wireless display. It also comes with Nexus 4 comes with Android Beam so you can quickly share photos, videos, contacts, apps and more with a tap. Just touch two NFC-enabled Android devices back-to-back, then beam whatever's on the screen to your friend.

Nexus 4 has pre-installed Google Maps for Android. With turn by turn GPS navigation, live traffic info, and integrated driving, walking and public transit directions. It also has 3D Maps and rich satellite imagery which offer more realistic sense of what’s around you while features like Street View and indoor Maps make sure you always know what’s in front of you.

LG Nexus 4 is available for pre-order at Flipkart at same price of Rs.25,999.

More features of LG Google-Nexus 4 -

Processor	Quad Core 1.5GHz
Advance Features	Wireless Charging & Wireless Display Yes
Specification	Qualcomm SnapdragonTM S4 Pro CPU 1.5 GHz Krait Network Unlocked GSM/UMTS/HSPA+ GSM/EDGE/GPRS (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz) 3G (850, 900, 1700, 1900, 2100 MHz) HSPA+ 42 Dimension 133.9 x 68.7 x 9.1 mm Operating System Android 4.2 .2 Weight 139g
Display	Type LCD/True HD IPS+ Size 4.7” diagonal Resolution WXGA (1280 x 768) pixel resolution (320ppi) Etc Corning® Gorilla® Glass 2
Touch	Type/Handwriting Zerogap/Yes
Camera	Main Camera 8MP Flash LED 1EA Front Camera 1.3MP HD
Battery	Capacity/Type 2,100mAh/Lipolymer (Embedded) Talk Time 11.9 hours (Tx power 10dm) Standby Time 564.5 hours (DRX 8)
Audio/Video	Audio Codec MP3/AAC/AA+/eAAC+/AMR NB/ WAV/WMA/MIDI Video Codec MPEG4/H.263/H.264 Audio Jack 3.5mm 2nd Microphone Yes
Data Connectivity	Bluetooth/USB/WiFI 3.0/2.0HS/802.11 a/b/g/n (Dual Band) GPS/HDMI/NFC Yes with GLONASS Support / Yes (Slimport)/ Yes (Android Beam)
Memory	Internal RAM/ROM 2GB/16GB

Google to Start Selling its own Tablet PCs to Compete iPad

According to report published by NY Times Google is soon to launch it touch screen based Tablet PCs (iPad Killer) that will be Android based OS and will give tough competition to Apple's iPad and Amazon Kindle and moreover speculations are there if Google will launch it own tablet PCs it more likely that Google could wash away the market of tablet PCs and netbooks.

As per the hidden sources NY Times reports - "Google had been experimenting in 'stealth mode' with a few publishers to explore delivery of books, magazines and other content on a tablet".



Google with its products which already have largest user base to any other such product in the world such as Google Books (most important for tablets), Google reader, Google mail and the most importantly the search engine capabilities in all of its products makes it the right match to put on the peak of this market too.

Most importantly Google's approach in all of its inventions and discoveries is its open source development and being open to all the developers around the world to build, stretch and widen the capabilities unlike to Apple's proprietary based approach and close-development and same goes with Microsoft too which are not been open source.

Google Brings Magical Goggle to Search the Web

Imagine a situation - you are seeing a thing that you don't know anything about, say for example a restaurant menu in some foreign language or a historical monument but you know very little about it or a painting and you can't even search it on Google because you can't describe it in words than you think there needs to be a device which instantly get you all the information you need just in time when you seeing it.

It might be very futuristic like that of a sci-fi movie but Google Goggle is a new app (although a prototype) that lets you use pictures taken with your mobile phone to search the web, no need to type or speak your query all you have to do is open the app, take a picture, and wait for your search results. The best thing is its translation feature that translates the texts in picture taken into any desired language you want, right now this technology only works for German to English translations.

However, the Google Goggle is available to just Android enabled smart phones with auto focus feature and QVGA screen available in Android market also the smart app is in its early stage infact its the first prototype Google showcased in Mobile World Congress, Barcelona and Google is still keeping it in their experimental labs.

Translation demo of Google Goggle