Top apps for your new Android device - Part One of Three

The Play Store

If you've been lucky enough to receive a brand new Android device or two this Christmas, then you're probably trying to figure out just what apps to install. If you're new to Android – or smart devices in general – you might be struggling to find the best apps. Or perhaps you're just an old hand looking for a new toy. This is where we come in.

Here at AndroidNZ, we have researched long and hard to find a list of apps we can confidently recommend to you. These are all apps we use ourselves and recommend from experience. Some of these are free, some of them cost money; all of them are great.

If this sounds like your cup of tea, then continue reading after the break.

Video Review: Spigen Ultra Crystal Dual Screenshield for Nexus 4

Upon first hearing that the Nexus 4 would be constructed of front and rear glass panels, I immediately thought of all the issues that have plagued the iPhone - easily cracked screens, scratched glass and a slippery surface leaving little to hold on to. Don't get me wrong, the design makes the Nexus 4 look absolutely stunning, but it makes it a much more delicate phone than it should be.

That said, I contacted Spigen right away to get my hands on their Ultra Crystal Dual screenshield, which contains a set of front / rear screen protectors. Due to their ultra-thin and clear nature, you cannot tell they are installed as they function identically to the glass panels. You'll still find build ups of grease and fingerprints - but at least you will be protected from scratches.

Retailing for $13.99, there are certainly cheaper alternatives out there, but I choose to use Spigen's as I believe they provide the most 'natural' experience, since they don't distort the display. Check out the full video review below for more info;

Merry Christmas from AndroidNZ

Image credit PocketDroid.net

While some sites might like to be completely politically correct and remove any wording with religious connotation, I think to water it down is to lose some of the history and flavour.

Whether you are observing Christmas due to your faith, your culture or just because it means you get cool presents, here at AndroidNZ we wish you well and hope you have a very merry Christmas. Hopefully some of you get great new Android toys to play with and come here looking for advice (on this note feel free to contact us via Twitter or Facebook)

Have a Merry Christmas and we hope to see you all again in the New Year with great new content and more coverage of up and coming devices.

AppSales App Review - how to find great deals on Android apps

So many Gameloft titles for so cheap!

If you're keen to get in on all of the holiday deals for apps in the Play Store make sure you check out AppSales which is available for free on the Play Store. This app is great for finding apps that are currently on sale and you can even track apps in a 'Watchlist' to keep an eye out for any app you are interested in getting. Not only is this app essential for getting good deals on the Play Store, it follows Android Design guidelines so is attractive and easy to use.

Have a read after the jump if you want to know more before diving in.

Good Deal - Motorola Atrix 2 - Update $199 at The Warehouse

Motorola Atrix 2

UPDATE: News just in - The Motorola Atrix 2 will be available at The Warehouse (NZ equivalent of Walmart) for $199 NZD on Boxing Day December 26th. This is also for the Telecom NZ model which has an upgrade to Android 4.04 Ice Cream Sandwich available. 


If you're looking for a great Christmas deal to get a new Android smartphone for yourself or a loved one then look no further!

Harvey Norman currently have the Motorola Atrix 2 for Telecom NZ priced at only $268 NZD. This device has a powerful dual core processor, 8MP camera and a nicely sized 4.3" qHD display. While some might feel sorry for Motorola having their device relegated to the bargain bin, you certainly can't complain paying such a low price for such a great phone. If you're the type that needs reviews - check out this one over at The Verge.

If you're keen to grab this bargain, either head to your closest Harvey Norman store or go here to purchase online

While the device comes with Android 2.3 it should be upgradeable to 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich according to a quick search on Google. If you get stuck upgrading after purchase then check out the Atrix 2 forums over at XDA Forums. Be aware that all Motorola devices have locked bootloaders so this might be trickier than flashing a Samsung Galaxy device.

Huawei disappoint - No Jelly Bean for the Ascend G600

Telecom NZ Huawei G600

Huawei recently released the Ascend G600 (U8950D) here in New Zealand through Telecom NZ for the reasonable price of $399 NZD.