Microsoft to sink Windows Mobile 6.x support on July 15th

As news around the Windows Phone Mango update erupted and kept a steady flow this week, slightly under the radar went Microsoft’s official announcement about the death of Windows Mobile 6.x. The date for the inevitable halt of all support is set for July 15th, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that you won’t be able to download apps from the Marketplace. While certainly expected, the quick halt of support has angered some developers who pointed out that leaves virtually no motivation for users to download applications on their Windows Mobile 6.x devices.

Strangely enough, latest reports showed that handsets running the abandoned ship WM 6.x have outnumbered WP7 devices in terms of sales, so could the move be just a bit premature?

There has been no information on how long users will be able to purchase applications for the descending platform. Developers like Richard Foster from software house Edgeway, however, points out: “I am expecting the marketplace to be taken down sooner rather than later.” As Microsoft will no longer accept applications after July 15th, it seems that developers will do best to jump ship if for some reason they haven’t already done so. Check out Microsoft’s statement below for all the details:

• “App Submission and Management. On July 15, 2011, we will no longer be accepting new Windows Mobile 6.x applications or application updates. In addition, it will no longer be possible to modify prices, metadata, or other information. However, you will still be able to remove your apps by contacting support.
• App Distribution. Even though app submission will stop on July 15, users will still be able to purchase and download your Windows Mobile 6.x applications through the Windows Marketplace for Mobile.
• App Reporting. Sales and download reports will continue to be available for your Windows Mobile 6.x applications through the App Hub after July 15.
• Developer Payouts. Developer payouts will continue to be processed in accordance with the provisions of the Windows Phone Marketplace Application Provider Agreement."

source: FierceDeveloper

Samsung Ch@t 335 Review

This is a global GSM phone. It can be used with T-Mobile USA and AT&T.

Introduction:

The Samsung Ch@t 335, also known as the Samsung S3350, is a candybar portrait QWERTY handset, designed with heavy texters in mind. You not only get a BlackBerry-esque keyboard, but to suit your web needs, the phone comes with Wi-Fi on board, as suggested by the proud “WiFi” logo at the front.

Its most lovable feature, however, is that it is a very affordable handset that might end up in the pockets of many people, who type a lot on their phones. Is it well-equipped for thumb gymnastics? Read on to find out...

HTC Flyer Review

Introduction:

Strangely, some might be scratching their heads wondering as to why in the world HTC decided to launch their very first tablet, the HTC Flyer, knowing that it’s going to be flaunting Gingerbread as opposed to the tablet-optimized experience of Honeycomb? Being aware that HTC is renowned throughout the world as a top notch smartphone maker, you really can’t doubt their decision just yet, because time after time, we’ve seen them being able to churn out devices that provide an unparalleled customized experience – thus, making you forget what’s supposed to be taking precedence over others. Granted that this Wi-Fi only tablet is sporting a $500 price tag, it might initially turn off some people, but its unique offerings on the software and hardware side just might justify the hefty premium for this 7-inch Gingerbread flavored tablet. Without further hesitation, let’s find out if the HTC Flyer can grow a pair of wings and fly above some of its Honeycomb inspired brethren.

The package contains:

• HTC Flyer
• microUSB cable
• Wall Charger
• Quick Start Guide

T-Mobile denies removing G2x from shelves, says high demand has created shortages

What a day it was for the T-Mobile G2x. One of the hottest Android devices now available, the phone was the subject of rumors earlier in the day that problems with the phone had caused the carrier to pull the model from the shelf. Users have been complaining that the dual-core processor powered model had suffered from random re-boots, leakage of light around the display and minor control issues.

Gas was poured on the fire when T-Mobile replaced the G2x as one of its two phones being featured on tonight's after-hours sale, with the Sidekick 4G. That sale begins at 12 midnight tonight, eastern daylight time.

As it turned out, the only thing that the T-Mobile G2x was suffering from was heavy demand. T-Mobile sent out a tweet today that read, "The T-Mobile G2x has been very popular and high demand has resulted in inventory constraints, which we are working to address." As for those owners of the device who have been having problems with the phone, a trip back to the place of purchase might be in order.

source: TmoNews

How to set a custom ringtone or notification sound on Android

You may have noticed that since the Music app for Android updated to version 3.0, it has gained the power of Google Music (for those lucky few in the beta), but it doesn't have an important feature: setting a song as a ringtone or notification sound. Luckily, Android has an easy way to do this manually.

Granted, there are third party music apps which have the option of setting a song as a ringtone, but setting it up manually will make it easier when upgrading to a new phone because it will follow you on your SD card, without having to install a specific app. It's quite easy, here's how:

1. Connect your phone to your computer and mount the storage card, or grab a file explorer from the Market like ASTRO or ES File Explorer.
2. Create a folder in the root directory of your SD card named "ringtones" (no quotes) or "notifications"
3. Place songs or sound files in the appropriate directory

Once that is done, when you go to the "Sound" option in the Settings menu of your Android device, the song or sound file will appear in the list of options for ringtones or notification sounds. And, best of all, as long as you keep the same SD card when you upgrade your phone your ringtone follows with you!

Sprint employees get trained to become experts on the Motorola XPRT

With the Motorola XPRT about to launch on Sprint June 6th, it is about time for the carrier to teach its reps and technical crew all about the handset. So sure enough, a leaked screenshot of a page from the online training lesson was revealed. To pass the test, a Sprint employee needs to score a grade of 80% or better, according to the picture.

For those who have forgotten all about this device, the Motorola XPRT is Sprint's version of the DROID Pro which in turn is the DROID version of a BlackBerry style handset. With a 3.1 inch display and a physical portrait-facing QWERTY keyboard, the comparisons to a BlackBerry are obvious. A 1GHz single-core processor is under the hood and Android 2.2 is aboard. Like the DROID Pro, the XPRT is a world phone with GSM/CDMA capabilities. As we told you when we first reported on the introduction of the model, the XPRT will cost $129.99 with a (all together now) signed 2-year contract.

source: AndroidCentral

Sprint employees are training to become an expert on the Motorola XPRT

Google Maps updated to 5.5 and crosses 200 million mobile users

Rejoice, Android users! Google Maps has been updated to 5.5 and it brings a slew of updates Place pages by adding a button for check-ins and one for rating that place. It also improves home/work location tracking in Latitude, and public transit Place pages. These updates come on the heels of the news that Google Maps has passed 200 million mobile users across all platforms. Of course, not all platforms get the same features, and, being Google's baby, Android gets all the best tricks first.

This Maps update is all about making existing features more prominent and easier to find. It adds easy access to a check-in button on the Place page, so you can check-in or check-out of your favorite places. It also adds easy access to the rate and review button. The tweaks to Latitude make it easier to edit your home and work addresses if you use Latitude's cool location history feature. This feature was released last month, and gives users a dashboard to track how much time they spend at home, at work, or out. This location history is completely private unless you choose to share it.

The last change is to the public transit Place pages, which adds information about upcoming departures for lines at that station. Google Maps transit information is a wonderful resource available in 440 cities worldwide, and this update makes it easier to find information from a nearby station without having to search for directions.

You can grab the update in the Android Market.