When Nintendo first launched in 1996 on the original Gameboy, it took the world by storm. Since then it has become one of the most successful video game franchise in the world and have sold over 200 million copies of the various games.

At long last Nintendo have clicked on that mobile gaming is the future and you will be able to catch em all on your Android or iOS based device. Although no specific details about the games have been released, they will be available this year. It would be interesting to see some kind of mobile Pokémon MMORPG taking advantage of geo location, social networking and the other sensors found in modern smartphones.

Nintendo have recently launched their latest handheld console the 3DS. However sales of the device have been slow in comparison to that of the original DS and DS lite. I imagine a big reason for this is people don’t see the need to shell out £250 on a handheld gaming device when they could just use the phone they already have.

Releasing exclusive titles onto other platforms though, could spell the end for Nintendo’s mobile hardware business. Many people would buy a Nintendo console just to play games such as Mario, Pokémon and Zelda. Sega suffered a similar fate with the Dreamcast in March 2001 when they withdrew from the console hardware business to focus on making great games.

Whatever happens, Pokémon is coming to Android and iOS later this year!!!

Pokemon Coming To Android and iOS Devices This Year was originally posted on the Sim-Mobile.co.uk Mobile Phone blog.

Back then, Google were activating around 275,000 Android devices every day. Now though, Google are activating over 500,000 devices on a daily basis which is a huge increase! This was confirmed in a tweet by Andy Rubin SVP of mobile at Google.

Andy also states that this number is growing by 4.4% every single week! By the end of the year it is more than possible that Google will be activating over 1 million devices a day!

While we don’t know how many of those devices are phones and how many are tablets, you can safely assume that the vast majority of those activations are handsets. Android has failed to penetrate the tablet market which is completely dominated by the iPad. Android handset sales have shown constant growth over the years and it doesn’t look like its going to slow down any time soon.

Google now has control over 36.4% of the US market and that growth looks set to continue as they roll out Android Honeycomb and Ice Cream Sandwich.

Google Activate 500,000 Android Devices Every Day was originally posted on the Sim-Mobile.co.uk Mobile Phone blog.

Let me explain things a little back. Microsoft owns a number of patents that HTC use in their phones. City analyst Walter Pritchard has worked out that HTC pays Microsoft $5 for every Android smartphone that it creates.

HTC have now shipped over 30 million Android based smartphones which in turn means Microsoft are earning $150 million. Not bad eh? But it doesn’t stop there, Microsoft are also in legal disputes with other handset manufacturers which could see it getting even more pieces of the pie. Although it’s not known exactly which patents are been licensed to HTC its commonly thought that the patents are used in other manufacturers technology.

What I find really funny about the whole situation is that Microsoft has only managed to generate $30 million with its Windows Phone 7 platform so far, making Android the most profitable mobile platform for Microsoft. Perhaps Microsoft will reinvest the money into making the Windows Phone 7 platform a decent contender in the smartphone market?

If you can’t beat them, get your finger in their pie!

Microsoft Earns $150 Million From Google Android was originally posted on the Sim-Mobile.co.uk Mobile Phone blog.

Google have officially acknowledged the security flaw and is currently working on an instant fix for the problem.

German researches uncovered the flaw and were able to get access to peoples calendars, contacts and galleries. Not only that but they could also edit/delete what they wanted without restriction. The bug affects nearly every Android user except those running 2.3.4 which is not many.

Google officially responded with the following statement-

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. This fix requires no action from users and will roll out globally over the next few days.

Google are going to start rolling out the server side patch today which should be completed for all affected devices worldwide by the end of the week. There is no need for users to do anything; the update will be applied automatically without you even knowing!

Google Responds To Android Security Flaw was originally posted on the Sim-Mobile.co.uk Mobile Phone blog.

It is possible to gain full access to a range of areas on the phone including contacts, albums and the calendar. It is also possible to edit or delete any of these.

How they are doing this is relatively simple, Google relies on an authentication token when you access any of its services. The problem is this token is often sent via WiFi networks completely unencrypted making it very easy for one to catch and then use the token. The token is only valid for 2 weeks; however 2 weeks is more than enough for someone to damage.

‘ClientLogin is meant to be used for authentication by installed applications and Android apps. Basically, to use ClientLogin, an application needs to request an authentication token (authToken) from the Google service by passing an account name and password via a https connection,’ University of Ulm researchers Bastian Könings, Jens Nickels, and Florian Schaub explain.

They have tested the attack against a range of Android devices and versions, and all devices using Android 2.3.3 or below are exposed to the threat. The calendar and contacts app in 2.3.4 however are now using an SSL connection which fixes the flaw.

It will be interesting to see how Google respond to this after the recent report of increasing levels of Android malware. Smartphone security has been big news in the past few weeks.

99.7% Of Android Users Leaking Private Data was originally posted on the Sim-Mobile.co.uk Mobile Phone blog.

Juniper went on to say that the Android Market was the biggest distribution for malware on smartphones seeing a 400% increase since summer 2010. It’s not that surprising there is an increase level of malware been distributed given how quickly Android has grown and there have been over 1 billion applications installed in just 2 months.

What makes matters worse is that only 6% of Android users have any form of antivirus installed on their handsets. I would recommend you take a look at the free lookout app if you don’t have antivirus on your handset at the moment.

Jeff Wilson, Principal Analyst of Security at Infonetics Research went on to say-

The last 18 months have produced a non-stop barrage of newsworthy threat events and while most had been aimed at traditional desktop computers, hackers are now setting their sights on mobile devices.

Operating system consolidation and the massive and growing installed base of powerful mobile devices is tempting profit-motivated hackers to target these devices.

Mobile phone security has been overlooked by many as we have catapulted into the smartphone way of life, now is the time to take action to protect yourself!

Android Malware See’s 400% Increase was originally posted on the Sim-Mobile.co.uk Mobile Phone blog.

In fact, over the last 3 years Android has grown rapidly on every front, from the number of handsets sold right through to the number of applications been developed and downloaded. The figures are extremely impressive!

Here’s what Android has achieved in the last 3 years-

• 100,000,000 (100 million) handsets sold and activated in 2011
• 400,000 new handsets are sold everyday
• Over 200,000 apps available in the market
• Over 4.5 billion apps have been downloaded from the market
• 310 different Android handsets available in 112 different countries

Android In Numbers – Impressive! was originally posted on the Sim-Mobile.co.uk Mobile Phone blog.

Google have announced Android @ Home and the Google I/O conference this week. Android @ Home is a suite of open source libraries for developers to create home automation applications for any Android device.

Simply plug any electronic device into the Android @ Home reciever and you will be able to control it directly from your phone. Whether thats lights, heater, cooker, washing machine or any other electronic device you can think of in your home. It will also integrate with Google Music allowing you to stream music from the cloud and push it to any room in the house at the click of a button.

Previously home automation has always been a bit of a clunky experience and nothing was integrated. Google @ Home changes all of this bringing full control to devices we already carry around in our pocket on a daily basis.

With the open source nature of Android @ Home it will be interesting to see what developers can do with the technology, I’m sure we’ll be seeing some pretty impressive apps in the coming months.

Control Your Home With Your Android Device was originally posted on the Sim-Mobile.co.uk Mobile Phone blog.

The Google Music service will be available to Android 3.1 (tablets) and Android 2.2+. Accessing all of your music is as easy as logging into your Google account. If you get a new computer / phone / tablet in the future all you will have to do to access your collection is login. No matter where you are, as long as you have a compatible device and a web connection you will have full access to all of your music!

The service is 100% free at the moment but currently only available to the USA, some people are speculating that it will become a paid service in the future. However much of Google’s growth and high up take of its products has been down to them been free and I wouldn’t be surprised if Google adopted the same strategy to push out the competition.

You can download Google Music beta from the market right now! Stay tuned for updates on availability for other countries.

Store 20,000 MP3′s In The Cloud FREE With Google Music was originally posted on the Sim-Mobile.co.uk Mobile Phone blog.

So far, partners include HTC, Samsung, Sony Ericsson, Motorola, AT&T, Sprint and Verizon.

The deal should mean that Android updates will be available to all within days of them been released. It all sounds too good to be true but there’s no doubt that Google wants have 1 OS version across all devices to make things easier and simple for manufacturers, networks and developers.

The UK networks have a bad reputation when it comes to rolling out new Android updates so it would be nice to see Google apply some pressure this side of the pond to get things moving a bit quicker. I’m sure there are already discussions with the likes of O2, Orange & Vodafone in progress!

Google are taking a big step in the right direction

Faster Android Updates For Everyone was originally posted on the Sim-Mobile.co.uk Mobile Phone blog.

The reason been is there is an issue with the update which has been temporarily suspended by Google. Unfortunately we don’t know any more than that, neither Google or Samsung have given any specific details around the ‘issue’ nor do we know if people who have already upgraded have been affected by the rogue issue.

There’s no word on when this will be fixed, but we will be keeping a close eye on things for you!

Samsung Pull Galaxy S Android 2.3 Update was originally posted on the Sim-Mobile.co.uk Mobile Phone blog.

It seems that some people are already seeing the update but the vast majority aren’t as of yet. It seems that people who have bought or were supplied with a sim free version of the handset are getting the update now. People who have network branded handsets will have to wait for the networks to play catch up but Three have confirmed it will be available to their customers in April.

If you don’t know what Android 2.3 does, it brings a whole new set of features to the handsets including a new interface, keyboard, better power management/battery life and a host of other new features.

So keep your eyes peeled over the next couple of weeks and grab your Android 2.3 update!

Samsung Galaxy S Gets Android 2.3 was originally posted on the Sim-Mobile.co.uk Mobile Phone blog.

The Android success doesn’t stop there though! Google have just announced that over 3 billion apps have been downloaded from the marketplace since it first opened. However, even though Android has the most users worldwide Apple’s download count is over 10 billion, 3 times that of Android.

It initially took Android just under 20 months to break the 1 billion download checkpoint, but then only a further 5 months to reach 2 billion. Give Google another 12 months and im sure they will make Apples 10 billion download figure look amateur!

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3 Billion Android Apps Downloaded was originally posted on the Sim-Mobile.co.uk Mobile Phone blog.

But they finally managed to push out the update to Desire owners!! The only problem is they withdrew it shortly after as people started to complain their phones were freezing or getting stuck in a crash loop!

So not only are customers frustrated with the long delay to the update, when they finally get it…. their phones are unusable!

O2 made a comment in their forums-

“Hi all As some of you will have noticed the Android 2.2 Froyo update for HTC Desire on O2 went live this morning. While we’re pleased that so many of you have been able to download it successfully and are enjoying the benefits of 2.2, we have seen that a small number of people are having problems installing the update.

While we check out these issues we’re putting the 2.2 update on hold. We’ll update you as soon as possible and would like to thank our HTC Desire customers for their patience.

Thanks JP”

Another one bites the dust, why not unlock your HTC Desire and install your own virgin updates?

O2 HTC Desire Customers Finally Get Froyo Update…. was originally posted on the Sim-Mobile.co.uk Mobile Phone blog.

The Motorola Milestone sim free is the first device to feature Android 2.0 and has the most advanced web browser powered by a powerful processor. On top of been one of the most powerful devices of its kind, it is also the thinnest slider to feature a full QWERTY keyboard at only 13.7mm thick.

The Milestone also features a glorious multi touch 3.7inch screen capable of displaying 16 million colours. The high resolution display is rich and crisp and sets the perfect stage for your mobile multimedia experience, whether your watching video or browsing the web.

Motorola Milestone Sim Free

Built in satellite navigation provides turn by turn directions and a 5 megapixel camera with flash and DVD quality video recording really help set the Motorola Milestone sim free apart from its competition.

The handset runs on Googles open mobile platform, Android. The Motorola Milestone sim free features the latest Android 2.0 software and is the first handset to do so.

Due to the open source nature of Android, there are thousands of free applications available to expand and personalise your mobile experience. All of these are easily accessibly via the Android Market on the Motorola Milestone sim free.

Motorola Milestone Sim Free Reviewed by Richard Steele Feb 10th 2010

Motorola Milestone Sim Free Specifications

• Glorious 3.7inch multi touch display
• Powerful fast processor
• Runs the latest Google Android 2.0
• 5 megapixel camera with autofocus and flash
• WiFi 802.11b/g and Bluetooth 2.0 with A2DP
• Expandable memory via MicroSD
• 3.5mm headphone socket
• Quad Band GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
• 115.8 x 60 x 13.7 mm / 165 grams

Buy Motorola Milestone Sim Free

	Motorola Milestone 2 Vodafone Internet Sim-free	£Check!
	Motorola Milestone 2 Android / Sim Free / Unlocked / 5 Megapixel / Touch Screen Mobile Phone	£199.99

Motorola Milestone Sim Free Video

More Motorola Milestone Information: Official Motorola Milestone Homepage Guardian Review

Motorola Milestone Sim Free – Android Part Deux was originally posted on the Sim-Mobile.co.uk Mobile Phone blog.

Google Nexus One

But how did Google come up with the design of the handset? It just so happens Google have released a short film about the Nexus One called The Story.

The short films explore how the Nexus One came about and the technology inside the handset. There are 4 videos available and each focuses on a different area such as concept and design.

Its not often mobile phone manufactures give you an insight like this!

Buy Google Nexus One Sim Free

	Samsung Google Nexus S / Android / Sim Free / Unlocked Mobile Phone	£299.99

Concept & Design

Display & 3D Framework

Testing

Manufacturing

Day One

Visit The Google Nexus One Youtube Channel

How The Google Nexus One Was Born was originally posted on the Sim-Mobile.co.uk Mobile Phone blog.

Unfortunately many networks have chosen not to range the handset as part of their contract offerings before Christmas, and O2 and T-Mobile both tested and rejected the handset earlier this year.   However Expansys have secured an exclusive on the Motorola Milestone Sim Free and will recieve stock on the 4th December and make it available to customers on the 7th at a price of £449.99.  It is already listed on the expansys site for pre-order

However, ElectricPig have reported that the first Motorola Milestone Contract has already shown its face at expansys as well with T-Mobile.  It comes with 700 minutes, unlimited text and data across 18 months for £35 per month with a handset cost of just £49.99

Stay tuned because im sure availability will increase over the coming weeks!

Update: More retailers are beginning to make this available, please see the price compare below

Update 2: Check out the Motorola Milestone Sim Free Review

Buy Motorola Milestone Sim Free

	Motorola Milestone 2 Vodafone Internet Sim-free	£Check!
	Motorola Milestone 2 Android / Sim Free / Unlocked / 5 Megapixel / Touch Screen Mobile Phone	£199.99

Motorola Milestone UK Release Information was originally posted on the Sim-Mobile.co.uk Mobile Phone blog.

Aliph Jawbone PRIME Bluetooth Headset

Aliph revolutionized the Bluetooth headset industry with the release of the award winning original Jawbone. Yet again they have exceeded themselves with the release of the Jawbone PRIME Bluetooth headset with the latest NoiseAssasin 2.0 technology.

Jawbone Bluetooth headsets have been notorious for their ability to separate speech from ambient noise. The Jawbone PRIME takes this a step further reducing background noise by a further 6 to 9db.

A special Voice Activity Sensor (VAS) on the rear side of the headset boosts the performance of the NoiseAssasin 2.0 technology significantly. If the VAS is not in contact with your face, the Acoustic Voice Activity Detector (AVAD) will take over to deliver perfect noise cancelling performance.

Using twin microphones the Jawbone PRIME digitally fuses the best audio from each microphone seamlessly to create a clear and natural conversation. A newly created Digital Signal Processor eliminates the impact wind has on your conversation.

The Best Noise Cancellation In The Industry

The Jawbone PRIME headset also has the ability to connect to more than one phone with Bluetooth multipoint, if either phone rings the headset will switch to the phone automatically.

The Jawbone PRIME is perfect for personal and business use, in all conditions.

Jawbone PRIME Reviewed by Richard Steele Oct 12th 2009

You can conduct clear and concise conversations without the worry of background noise. Ideal for use in the city or in outdoor work, the Jawbone PRIME will exceed your expectations.

Jawbone PRIME Bluetooth Headset Features

• Weight: 10 grams
• Talk Time: 4.5 Hours
• Standby Time: Over 8 Days
• 80% charge in 35 minutes
• 100% charge in 1 hour

Pick Your Colour Below To Get The Best Price

Buy Jawbone PRIME Black Bluetooth Headset

	227708: Aliph Jawbone Prime Bluetooth Headset (black) (jbt03-uk)	£25.48
	Jawbone Aliph Prime (earcandy Edition) Bluetooth Headset - Blah Blah Black	£28.99

Buy Jawbone PRIME Platinum Bluetooth Headset

	Aliph Jbt01uk Jawbone Prime Bluetooth Headset 'going Platinum'	£29.99

Buy Jawbone PRIME Green Bluetooth Headset

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Buy Jawbone PRIME Red Bluetooth Headset

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Buy Jawbone PRIME Purple Bluetooth Headset

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Buy Jawbone PRIME Yellow Bluetooth Headset

	Jawbone Aliph Prime (earcandy Edition) Bluetooth Headset - Yellow	£28.39

Further Information

Jawbone Homepage

About Aliph (Jawbones parent company)

Jawbone PRIME Bluetooth Headset Why You Need It was originally posted on the Sim-Mobile.co.uk Mobile Phone blog.

A sliding keyboard, High speed 3G, WiFi and 5 megapixel camera will certainly pack a punch. The Motorola DEXT Sim Free will be much more than a phone, and more like your personal pocket sized computer.

Motorola DEXT Sim Free Mobile Phone

Motorola has put some work into an exclusive interface for the Motorola DEXT dubbed MOTOBLUR. This helps bring all of your communications to one place, for example Twitter and Facebook updates blend seamlessly into the interface.

The Motorola DEXT sim free will treat all correspondence in the same way. If someone sends you a direct message on Twitter, writes on your Facebook wall or sends you a text it will all be shown to you in one place. Motorola are focusing on what people have to say and not how they have sent it.

If you browse through the phonebook you will see all of your friend’s social activity as well as their contact details. The phonebook will automatically collect information about your friends including profile pictures, birthdays, website addresses and postal address.

The large 3.1 inch touch screen sets the perfect stage for web browsing and watching Youtube videos. Pictures and video do not do the screen justice as it is bursting with colour and vibrancy.

You can greatly extend the functionality of the Motorola DEXT sim free thanks to the recent launch of the Android App store, much like that of the Apple iPhone.

Motorola DEXT Features Summary-

• Powered by Google Android
Motorola DEXT Sim Free Reviewed by Richard Steele Sep 30th 2009

• Exclusive MOTOBLUR interface (this is truly stunning)
• 3.1 inch capacitive touch screen
• Full slide out QWERTY keyboard
• 5 Megapixel camera with geotagging
• Built in GPS
• Digital compass (like the iPhone 3GS)
• 7.2 Mbps 3G
• 802.11 b/g Wi-Fi
• Bluetooth with streaming support
• MicroSD memory card slot
• Also known as the Motorola DEXT Sim Free

Buy Sim Free Motorola DEXT

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Motorola DEXT Sim Free Video-

This handset is known as the Motorola CLIQ in the States

Other Information:

More about the Motorola DEXT

Google Android

Motorola DEXT Sim Free Android Mobile Phone (Motorola CLIQ) was originally posted on the Sim-Mobile.co.uk Mobile Phone blog.