The Android NZ Apps of the Week 31/10/2011 [AOTW]

Jump in for the apps that took our attention this week!

ShadowGun Review

ShadowGun is a brand spanking new game from the Czech Republic based Madfinger Games. With amazing graphics it threatens to push the boundaries of mobile devices as gaming consoles. While currently a Tegra 2 exclusive, I expect that this title will become more widely available eventually. The game is currently a single player narrative only; however the studio plans on eventually introducing cross-platform multi-player between iOS and Android.

Shadowgun's Title Screen

AndroidNZ's Week in Android News for 30th October 2011

It's roundup time again on the AndroidNZ range and the last week delivered some really excellent new tidbits for our collective consumption - hardware, software, industry news and views - from the usual suspects. Since there's a fair bit to re-cap, best we get started.

Shadowgun with a PS3 controller - Transformer and Galaxy S II video demo [+ bonus guide on how to set up the PS3 controller to work in bluetooth mode with Shadowgun!]

So here we are again, with another gaming video (I told you any excuse would do). Although I've just done one of these illustrating using a PS3 controller with a Galaxy S II, I thought showing off Shadowgun control with a PS3 controller deserved its own video too.

Now if you want to use the PS3 controller with the Transformer it's very straightforward; plug it in and map some buttons within Shadowgun itself and you're good to go. If however you want to use the PS3 controller in bluetooth mode, that's another story. Disappointingly only directional keys will work that way by default, and it won't allow you to map the rest.

Fortunately jbuggydroid, resident genius at Androidcentral, showed some dedication to the cause - exhaustively going through all the possible button mappings in Sixaxis Controller to find out which ones worked. Make the jump to get the instructions for how to make it so.

Video demo: PS3 controllers and the Galaxy S II

You know I like nothing more than a good gaming demonstration with MHL, any excuse will do me. Naturally then I thought the news that PS3 remotes working with Galaxy S II's definitely  deserved a video showcase, so here it is:

[At Your Own Risk] How to use a PS3 controller with your Rooted Galaxy S II

Regular followers of the blog here may well have seen some of my videos showcasing bluetooth controllers in Android emulator gaming using the excellent Phonejoy controller. As good as the Phonejoy is, it's just not that accessible given it's small production numbers. Fortunately I stumbled upon an excellent piece of news today: PS3 controllers now work with the Galaxy S II.

Here at AndroidNZ we love making guides to help you all maximise your phones potential, so naturally we'll tell you how to get this running on your phone after the jump. Catch you there.

[UPDATED GUIDE] New Superuser version breaks Chainfire 3D - guide updated to show you how to fix it!

Trust me, you want this on your Android handset

So a few of you may have noticed a certain "Tegra-only" game release on the Market in the last few days - the utterly epic Shadowgun. If you're like me your first thought would have been "I wonder if I can play that on my non-Tegra device with Chainfire 3D?" If you tried to get it you may have run into a problem Chainfire 3D appears to have completely stopped working. Motivated by the need to get it working again, so I could enjoy me some Shadowgun on my Galaxy S II, I spent some time troubleshooting the problem today. I can happily report that I seem to have cracked the problem, and another editor has verified my fix works (he is currently missing, presumed fragging mutants in Shadowgun on his SGSII).

If Chainfire 3D is no longer working, or possibly never worked for you, read on to find the solution!

[Hint: head to the bottom of the guide if you only need the Superuser fix]

Samsung On Its Way To Number One

According to Strategy Analytics, while Nokia's third quarter share of the global cellphone market continued its slide from 32.3% to 27.3%, Samsung increased its market share from 20.9% to 22.6%, in a market that itself increased 14%.

LG also dipped in share, dropping from 8.3% to 5.4%, while Apple picked up a meagre 0.3% improvement to fall one place with 4.4%, behind late bloomer ZTE's 4.7%.

So the order for the five top handset makers for Q3 2011 is:
Nokia - 27.3%
Samsung - 22.6%*
LG - 5.4%
ZTE - 4.7%
Apple - 4.4%

In summary then, Apple's decision to delay its iPhone 4S has resulted in a reversal for the company during calendar quarter three. Whether Apple can make up the shortfall remains to be seen, but Android's game-changing Ice Cream Sandwich OS release may well prove an insurmountable barrier to the Cupertino handset maker's aspirations for global cellphone dominance.

Quarter four should be an interesting trend setter...

*27.8 million of 88 million Samsung handsets sold are reported to be smartphones, suggesting that Samsung smartphones have 7.14% of the market, beating Apple by a large margin.

A Brief History Of Android - Part 2: Just Desserts

SDK emulator for Android 1.0

The beta version of Android saw the light of day at the beginning of November 2007, followed a week later by a software development kit (SDK), marking the first faltering steps of the fledgling OS out into the world of smartphones. The lack of dedicated hardware on which to run the OS meant that the release was only suited to hardware manufacturers and software developers, ensuring a somewhat lackluster reception in the media and most everywhere else.

But it was a significant beginning nonetheless, albeit following the release of Apple's first proper smartphone effort, the predictably-named iPhone with its stripped-down version of the Mac's OS X. Handset manufacturers took an immediate interest in the early Android effort, especially given that the price was right. It's hard to improve on “free”. However, although significant progress was being made behind the scenes, Android remained an obscure sideshow to the main event; the pent-up demand for the much-hyped iPhone resulting in it becoming an immediate media and consumer success.

[Update] Galaxy Note release date may be slipping?

As release dates are want to do the Galaxy Note release date has now slipped from a firm November 1st, to "to be confirmed" at Clove following communications from Samsung advising the date is now less certain.

The most up to date information we have is that while it is still hoped to ship early November, it may drop back a little closer to the original projected release date in mid-November. Obviously there will be updates here as we have more information to hand. Alternately you could keep an eye on the comments section in the Clove Blog post about the November 1st release date, where the most up to the minute information seems to be getting conveyed to customers.

This has fuelled speculation from optimistic quarters that the Note has been delayed in order to have it release with ICS. Setting optimism aside for a few moments, and instead looking at the situation with cold rationalism, I think it's fair to say that this seems an unlikely outcome. If you're out there somewhere Samsung: I'd love to be surprised!

Source: Clove.

Oh, and just to cheer you up a bit in the face of the delay - check out this cool little teaser video:

[Update] PowerAMP 2.0 beta quietly updated to version 3

As you may recall, we covered the release of the PowerAMP 2.0 beta two weeks back, including a video walkthrough. Well, the app's creator, MaxMP, has been busy in that short time, pushing out a second and third version of the 2.0 beta. These two updates bring bugfixes and additional features, including the return of the smaller widgets and the ability to configure their transparency. Check out the full changelog after the jump  - both from the 1.4 version on the market right now, and between the beta releases - and hit the links to get beta testing.

The Motorola Razr, Samsung Galaxy Note, Samsung Galaxy Nexus: Pre-review question time

Pretty soon we're going to be entering one of the hottest months on record as far as Android handset releases go, and here at AndroidNZ we're getting the handsets of November at release - that includes the Motorola Razr, and the Samsung Galaxy Note and Galaxy Nexus.

It goes without saying that we're going to be giving you ridiculously detailed "real-user reviews" here at AndroidNZ, something that's increasingly difficult to find out there as sites race to push out a review after only a day or two of use.

It doesn't end there though. Apart from offering reviews from folks who are actually using the handsets as their daily drivers for a couple of weeks, we can offer something else that is pretty unique - real 1:1 attention to the questions you want answered in the reviews.

That's what this post is all about: what you want to know.

If you've got burning questions that need answering let us know, it doesn't matter how idiosyncratic your needs, we'll strive to answer your query - because we understand that no matter how many bells and whistles a handset has, its how it relates to you that's important.

Balls in your court; join us after the break and drop a comment if there is something you've just gotta know.

The Android NZ Apps of the Week 24/10/2011 [AOTW]

Our latest round of apps recommendations from the editorial team here at AndroidNZ, because everyone loves apps right?

A Brief History Of Android - Part 1: Beginnings

Andy Rubin - Android founder and Senior VP
Mobile at Google. Image: Stephen Shankland/CNET

Android Inc was born in October 2003, the offspring of four developer/ entrepreneurs – Andy Rubin, Nick Sears, Chris White and Rich Miner – whose mission in so doing was to make the 'smartphones' of the day even smarter.

That date, long before the release of the first Android-packing handset or the announcement of Apple's iPhone, shows a certain prescience by the startup's founders about the direction smartphones were destined to take.

[At your own risk] How to get ICS bar buttons on the ASUS eee Pad Transformer

Pre-requisites:

• Rooted device
• CWM recovery
• External storage (Micro SD card)

More and more ICS "stuff" is becoming available, and today I found the guys (and girls) at XDA had found a way to get ICS bar buttons on the ASUS eee Pad Transformer. Reportedly for every 3.x iteration of Honeycomb.

The following image might be what you have right now, depending on whether you've reverted to the Xoom buttons or have a different ROM:

So what's involved you ask? Follow along for the instructions, it's fairly easy and painless.

AndroidNZ's Week in Android News for 23th October 2011

If you read this blog then I have no doubt you're aware that this was a fairly momentous week in Android news. So big in fact, that I wouldn't be at all surprised if a few things had crept past you amidst all the hoopla surrounding the announcement of Ice Cream Sandwich (ICS), and it's flag-bearing handset the Galaxy Nexus.

I drew the short straw this week and got tasked with trying to summarise it all for you and provide links to everything you need to know about what occurred in the Android world... here goes...

[At your own risk] How to get Gmail for ICS on your Honeycomb device

If you saw our coverage of the Galaxy Nexus with Ice Cream Sandwich, Android 4.0 and you were wondering how you can get that fancy new Gmail app on your Honeycomb tablet, you've come to the right place.


Thanks to some folks over at XDA you can now get the brand spanking new Gmail app which allows you to swipe between emails as well as sync up to 30 days of emails to make it available for searching offline.

If you want to install this bad boy on your tablet then keep reading.

[Video review] Sony Ericsson Xperia Play

When it comes to phones, I tend to favor Samsung products because their high-quality screens have won me over. However with my love being so strong, I find I don't give myself the chance to try out products from other companies, usually because I am hesitant to spend money on something that might be decent.

Last month I was given the chance to use a Sony Ericsson Xperia Play 4G (fancy american marketing, really just HSPA+ speeds) - to which I joyously accepted. The folks at Sony's PR agency sent out the test device quickly, and a couple of days later I had the phone in my hands. Was it good enough to take me away from Samsung? Answers past the jump...

[App Review] Endomondo

Endomondo is the second Workout app that I've reviewed. The first was Cardio Trainer.

Like my review for Cardio Trainer, Endomondo's recorded data will be compared to that of my Garmin 310XT watch. Nothing like a base line, and consistency.

Can Endomondo stack up where Cardio Trainer fell over?

Swype updates to 3.26 – and [How To] get it on your Galaxy S II

Ah, Swype. Some swear by it, others hate it with a passion. It’s been in the news lately, what with being acquired by Nuance for over 100 million US dollars and all  and today the beta program made the jump to version 3.26. If a run-down of new features and a how-to for the you-too sound like your bag, read on after the jump.

The Great Little 'Great Little War Game' Giveaway! WINNERS INSIDE!

[At your own risk] Ice Cream Sandwich cravings?

So you saw our live blog coverage of the Galaxy Nexus running the awesome new Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich (ICS) ? Did it leave you craving a tasty treat? While we can't sate your hunger, we can give you some crumbs to help you survive another day.

Check out some of our ideas for how you can get a small taste of ICS lovin' on your device now!

[Breaking News] Galaxy Note release date and price confirmed!

Great news for lovers of 
VERY large screen devices - 
details after the break!

The ASUS Transformer 2 - the first Quad-core Android Tablet [early details and video teaser]

... and the ASUS Transformer - the first Android tablet to get ICS!

Second time round it looks as if ASUS is bringing the sexy to the
Transformer tablet, should make good bed fellows with the
unparalleled functionality the form factor affords

Some great news today for Android tablet lovers, ASUS Chairman Johnny Shih today spilled the beans on the date for the official announcement of the Transformer 2.

The ASUS Transformer - Android's best tablet [and why the Transformer 2 will be my next tablet too]

The unassuming ASUS Transformer, immediately
recognisable for looking nothing like an iPad

Sometimes posts just change on you. You strike out with a clear purpose, and then part way through realise your unalloyed vision has been muddied with irrelevant diversion. Those diversions are usually just a self-reproaching highlight-delete away from oblivion, but sometimes your finger pauses over the delete key, and you wonder if you've just typed something that deserves expressing. In all honesty I'm not really sure whether this post belongs to the former category or the latter, but I'm feeling self-indulgent, and this is my blog.

I started out writing a straightfoward post about the Transformer news today, and then this sentence emerged from my fingertips: "I don't know if I've mentioned it before here on the blog, but the ASUS Transformer is my Android tablet of choice". Fast forward a few minutes and I had expended a few hundred words on what was meant to be an aside about why I like the Transformer above all others in the current generation of Android tablets. Since the Transformer has been largely unlauded by the rest of the blogging world, who have tended instead to be entranced by the undeniable aesthetics of the Galaxy Tab 10.1, I thought why not post my retort on behalf of the Transformer?

If  my esoteric musings on the writing process haven't already left you cold, let me make a case for the Transformer as the top of the Android tablet pile over the break (and if you're eyes have already glazed over, head onto my next post instead to catch up with the great news today in relation to the Transformer, and the Transformer 2).

First video preview of the Galaxy Nexus - out now for your viewing pleasure!

Check out the new Android OS version 4.0 in all of its considerable glory in the wee taster below:

The Galaxy Nexus and Ice Cream Sandwich announcement live blog

Well, the phone itself may have been slightly disappointing, but
the OS announcement was spectacular!

All the details of this amazing new Android OS version over the break friends!

[Review] Official Samsung Desktop Dock for Google Nexus S

So as some of you know, I post accessory and case reviews on my YouTube channel. Over the past couple of months I've made my switch over to Android from iOS and what I've found is that the community is much more closely knit and people seem to appreciate help and effort.

The folks over at MobileFun.co.uk were kind enough to send out a sample of Samsung's official Desktop Dock for the Google Nexus S. This is a stylish alternative charging method for your device, allowing you to dock your device and launch 'dock mode' - where you can quickly access time, weather and date settings.

Below you'll find the full review, let us know what you think in the comments below!

Galaxy Nexus/Ice Cream Sandwich Announcement - Liveblog incoming!

Galaxy Nexus first real press shot?

Quick heads up that like any good Android geek we've arranged for the day off work today, and we'll be covering the announcements live as they happen at 15:00NZT. Catch you here later for one of the biggest news days of the year for Android!

In the meantime feast your eyes on the NTT Docomo leaked advertising shot of the Galaxy Nexus to the right, and the apparent confirmation of the specs as they were initially reported by BGR:

• 1.2GHz dual-core TI OMAP processor
• 4.65” 720×1280 Super AMOLED HD display
• 5MP camera and a 1.3MP front-facing camera
• NFC
• 16GB or 32GB internal storage

Catch you all here in a few short hours for the big reveal!

[How To] Use a mail forwarding service to have electronics shipped to you anywhere in the world

Strep throat sucks. Especially man-strep throat. I couldn't get to sleep because of a fever, so I thought I would post something. Fingers crossed what follows is coherent, and not just febrile raving.

I know this piece is really only peripherally Android related, but I thought a guide on how to circumvent US shipping restrictions by online retailers might be appreciated by our readership, given that those restrictions most often apply to electronics. 

I tend to do this quite a bit, for example it's how I got my Sandisk 64GB micro SDXC card from their US online store. It's also how I made a tidy profit selling an N900 that I'd purchased from Amazon at a crazily cheap pre-order price. Bottom line: sometimes it's cheaper to get things from the States, and sometimes you can only get things from the States. When either of these circumstances is the case, it's nice to have the option.

Everything you need to know is past the break.

The Android NZ Apps of the Week 17/10/2011 [AOTW]

Well here we are again, seems like it's come around quickly, but we doubt any of you will complain at getting a fresh bunch of app recommendations. We've got some really great ones lined up for you, so be sure to make the jump over the break to get the low down.

[Homegrown] Telecom NZ finally release HTC Sensation firmware update

This is our first piece featuring some content relevant specifically to developments here in our home market in New Zealand. If you're part of our growing overseas readership you'll be able to recognise this content by the [Homegrown] tag in the title, that way you don't have to waste any of your precious time reading content that is related only to New Zealand.

Some of you might know that I have an HTC Sensation handset that I was testing for Telecom NZ. What you might not know is that my Fiancée also has an HTC Sensation - and she won't let me root/ROM it. This means that it's stuck with whatever updates Telecom deems reliable enough to deploy.

I have been checking for updates nearly daily (much to my Fiancee's dismay) and today I finally got lucky! Yes, that's right there is a new version of official HTC Sensation firmware for Telecom XT handsets.

AndroidNZ's Week in Android News for 16th October 2011

Welcome to another Week in Android News. If this is your first time we cover what's been going on in the world of technology, and more specifically in the world of Android over the last week. If keeping up with your RSS reader has gotten away from you this week, you can rest easy knowing we'll bring you up to speed after the break.

[At Your Own Risk] How to backup your Rooted 'Droid - NANDROID & Titanium Backup

We're back with the second piece in our ongoing quest to help you wring the most out of your Android device.

If you followed the guide in the first part you may this very minute be staring at a newly Rooted Galaxy S II, and wondering what the heck to do with your newly acquired Root privileges (if instead you're staring at your Galaxy S II and wishing it were Rooted, but don't know where to start, try starting here). Or it may be that you're on another Rooted Android device, but still aren't entirely clear what to do with Root privileges, and why they were worth voiding your warranty to obtain. Whatever the case, this article has you covered.

Today we're going to cover backing up your Android device, which we reckon should be the first step any user takes on a newly Rooted Android device.

[App Review] Cardio Trainer

I imagine that a pretty significant part of our readership is of the more sedentary persuasion, if that describes you then that isn't something you and AndroidNZ staffer Anita Paling share in common. If you're amongst the active, or contemplating joining their ranks soon, then this article is definitely up your alley. Make the leap over the break to find out if this app should be your exercise companion of choice [Ed].

ASUS Transformer: the future of computing, today?

Image courtesy of Tony McNeil at FlickR

First off, I'd like to say thanks to Dr. Murray Winiata, the creator and Editor-in-Chief of AndroidNZ. I have previously written for the TelecomTech blog at Geekzone.co.nz, and a very small amount on my own personal blog.

My most recent post was several months ago and shared some of my ideas on where I think we are headed with computing in this supposedly "post-PC" era. Since that post, I have actually purchased an Asus Transformer tablet, along with the keyboard dock. I have been using it at work for the past few weeks and intend to continue using it in the future. While tablets have so far been relegated to being media and web-consumption devices, I believe that that is going to change.

Great Little War Game updated to support HTC Sensation - and don't forget to get in the draw for our competition to win a free copy!

Just a quick update to Sensation owners to let them know that Rubicon Development have fixed the issues with your device - nothing to stop you getting your hands on the best new game to hit the Market in quite some time!

If you haven't heard what all the fuss is about check out our review and interview with the awesome folk at Rubicon here.

...and finally, check out how you can win yourself a free copy, and exclusive invite to beta test Rubicon's future projects here!

PowerAMP 2.0 Beta Video Walkthrough

I was so impressed by the new PowerAMP beta I thought I'd make a quick video walkthrough to show it off, without further ado here it is:

PowerAMP 2.0 Beta Quietly Released

Android's one true, must-have, music
player has a new beta!

I’ve long been a fan of PowerAMP. One of the best-selling applications on the Android Market, it offers a useful, beautiful alternative music experience for users who really care about portable audio on their phones.

Its wide variety of equalizer tweaks, crossfading, support for many alternative file formats and folder hierarchy view have earned it a strong following, establishing it as the must-have premium music player. The app has now received a beta release of a major version change, updating from market-release 1.4 to 2.0, and bringing with it an extensive overhaul.

Just past the break we have an early breakdown on the new build, and of course the all-important download link!

[At Your Own Risk] How to Root your Samsung Galaxy S II

We're starting a new run of serialised content today at AndroidNZ, you'll be able to recognise it from here on out by its 'At Your Own Risk' tag.

It's going to focus on how to Root, hack, and mod your Android handset, and as the very name itself implies there is an element of risk involved in all of this. If the disclaimer-in-a-title isn't clear enough: if you try these mods you might turn your shiny cellphone into a paperweight. If that or any other problem does eventuate, it's all on you. We take no responsibility whatsoever for any problems you might experience.

If that isn't bad enough, we're not even going to give you troubleshooting support. OK, that's a little harsh, we will be able to give very limited troubleshooting advice. It's not that we don't care, it's just that a blog isn't really set up to allow the level of 1:1 interaction required to meaningfully
troubleshoot anything more than basic problems.

...now that you've had time to really digest just how alone you will be if it does all go pear-shaped, we can pledge that we will never run a piece on anything that we haven't tried first. We can also assure you that a Rooted Android device has many advantages over it's stock brethren - so many advantages that even with the dire warnings above we think you'll probably still want to Root your Android device at some point.

The Great Little 'Great Little War Game' Giveaway!

10 free copies to give away with exclusive invites to beta-test future
Rubicon Development projects!

We're especially excited today to announce a promotion we're running in conjunction with Rubicon Development, producers of the excellent 'Great Little War Game' (GLWG) - a current favourite amongst AndroidNZ staffers.

All the details follow after the break, so be sure to make the jump so you can find out how easy is it to get in the draw for one of ten free copies of the game, and also an exclusive invite to be a part of closed beta-tests for Rubicon's future projects!

The Android NZ Apps of the Week (AOTW)

Here we go; our take on some great Android apps that are worth looking into. We'll be running this one weekly, with each editor contributing an app they can't live without. 


Jump past the break to check out our picks:

AndroidNZ's Week in Android News

This is the first in our weekly series aggregating some of the most significant news in the Android world over the last seven days. Hit us up after the break to make sure nothing passed you by in a rather momentous week in the world of mobility.

HTC announce Sensation XL, disappointment ensues

Earlier today HTC announced two new 'Beats' branded handsets that will be available from Vodafone UK sometime in November.

The HTC Sensation XE had already been announced as a slightly upgraded Sensation with faster processor and 'Beats' technology. The new handset on display was the Sensation XL - an oversized device with some very mediocre and disappointing specs. GSMarena, as per usual, has the full tale of the tape here.

Previously codenamed Runnymede, the Sensation XL is a 4.7" device with an 800x480 WVGA display. This means the pixel density is only 198 PPI  and unless you have a serious visual impairment you are going to be plagued by the blocky oversized display [even worse, a keen Twitter follower has just pointed out that this is a music oriented handset without an SD slot -someone at HTC needs to stop drinking the Kool-Aid, Ed].

Nevertheless, if the XL's big screen has you reaching for your wallet, despite a certain large screen device with a 720p resolution just around the corner, check out the hands-on at Android Central here.

Great Little War Game; the greatest little Android game you've never heard of, but should have! [Game review & developer interview]

Another quality iOS developer comes to Android, worth the wait?

Today I thought I'd clue you all into a truly brilliant Android game that just arrived on the Market - Great Little War Game (GLWG). Like many of the most polished Android game titles of late, this one comes via a successful iOS company, now trying their hand in the Android realm. Read on after the break to find out why you want this game, and how their experience of developing for Android has been.

RIP Steve Jobs; visionary

I would imagine this isn't news to anyone reading AndroidNZ, as no doubt you've already seen it's shadow cast over the whole of the internet . Nevertheless, I felt compelled to also acknowledge the passing of Steve Jobs.

Regardless of how you feel about Apple, Steve Job's was a luminary of our times. His vision for Apple, and of course the iconic product that will forever be associated with him, the iPhone, is what propelled them to where they stand today.

No matter where your tastes in tech may run, his passing should elicit sadness.

While you could make a case for Google's expansion into the mobile space being inevitable, the reality is that you're enjoying your Android device (or WP7 device, or Symbian touchscreen device) because of Steve Jobs.

To Steve Jobs; thank you for your visionary contribution to the technology that is so much a part of our daily lives. You will be missed.

Samsung teases the Nexus Prime ahead of announcement

In a case of interesting timing, here is a very brief teaser video from Samsung for the Nexus Prime announcement:

...and here is a still frame of the handset itself (full size image here):

What you can see is a repeat of the curved screen design language of the Nexus S, but improved here by what appears to be a rather svelte waistline. As to what those three buttons/dots on the side are, I have no idea, but their position is where a camera shutter key would normally reside... Let the speculation begin!

I don't know about anyone else, but the still image cranks my gadget lust up to 11. How about you? In particular, if you're an iOS fan with the taste of ashes in your mouth following the iPhone 4S announcement earlier today, does this turn your head?

Let us know in the comments below, especially if you've got any good theories on what those three metallic buttons are for!

Announcing new talent at AndroidNZ

This post marks exciting developments for AndroidNZ; the announcement of the first batch of new contributors to the blog. 

First up is Nick Monrad (Lokhor), a Lower Hutt born and bred geek, and now Associate Editor-in-Chief for AndroidNZ. He works at IRD as a Business Analyst [no doubt hoping that blogging can replace his day job -Ed]. He lives with his fiancee who gracefully puts up with his geeky hobbies. He loves gadgets; playing with them, hacking them, breaking and fixing them - he loves it all. Ever since he was young he enjoyed building computers and over clocking them. His first real Smartphone was the i9000 Galaxy S which he has thoroughly enjoyed despite any apparent flaws. He now uses an HTC Sensation phone and an Asus Transformer tablet. Nick also enjoys gaming on PC, console and Android device. You can follow Nick via his twitter account @lokhor

Next up is Editor Anita Paling (Neets). She didn't trust me to write about her, and instead offered the following about herself: I'm keen to learn and keen to share what I've learnt. I've been working for a NZ Software company since March 2000. I'm not afraid of technology and love to try new things. I really like Android development and happy to tinker with my smartphones and tablet. Open development suits me. I'm not a conformist. I like to test boundaries. Aside from my love of Android, I'm a keen outdoors person and enjoy both running and cycling. I'm more an endurance sportsperson. Longer distances means I have an excuse for being slow.

Editor Gianpy Belaunde (Gianpy) is the American connection at AndroidNZ - he was born in Miami, Florida but now resides in Las Vegas, Nevada - where he is currently studying at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. His love affair for gadgets began early in 2003, with the release of the first iPod mini. An average consumer for the larger part of 5 years, his inner geek was reborn with the announcement of the iPhone 3G, his first smartphone. Throughout the following years he slowly turned into a so called 'fanboy' of Apple products, but it wasn't until late 2010 when he thought about breaking the barrier and taking a leap into the world of android, with the purchase of a Nexus S. Now an owner of a Galaxy S II and iPhone 4 - Gianpy no longer chooses sides in the never-ending smartphone argument, but rather embraces both sides for what they bring to the table. You can also find him reviewing cases and accessories on his YouTube page and on FIFA 12 for the Xbox 360. 

Finally the team is lucky enough to also have Andy Carruthers (ArtooDetoo) onboard as an Editor. Like Murray, Nick, and Anita, Andy is a kiwi (via Scotland) and longtime member of Geekzone (one of the nicest tech communities to be found anywhere on the net). Unfortunately everyone's favourite droid has a fairly heavy workload this week, so couldn't provide any witty self-commentary for the introductions piece. He'll be along next week and letting some content do the talking for himself.

So that's the team. 

I'm stoked to be working with such a great group of people, and really look forward to what we'll produce together going forward. 

...of course there are still a few spots available for talented and literate enthusiasts - if you think you've got what it takes drop us a line on Twitter @Android_NZ

N64oid updates to 2.4 - multiple bluetooth controller support in tow!

This is definitely one for the emulator gaming fans out there - N64oid has updated to version 2.4. In addition to adding 0.1 to the version number, it also added support for multiple bluetooth gamepad connections, and true analog support (FWIW I'm not actually knocking arbitrarily adding 0.1, at least it makes more sense than most handset naming conventions - right Samsung?).

What does that mean? It means multiplayer Nintendo 64 gaming sessions. If you ever indulged in some 2-4 player Mario Kart or Goldeneye back in the day you'll know just how good this news is. If you missed that era in multiplayer gaming, you've just been thrown a retro gaming lifeline.

Adding extra controllers is easy - pair as normal with Bluez IME and then add them in N64oid and map the keys

Phonejoy controllers are available here

To get the most from this you'll ideally need two or more bluetooth controllers, and some way to output your devices display to an external monitor or television (although a tablet with a stand might do pretty good stand-in duty at a push). If you own an Android tablet with either Honeycomb 3.1 or 3.2, and any current games console, your chances of meeting all these requirements are pretty good. Most of these tablets have a method for outputting to HDMI, and in addition will support PS3, Xbox, and Wii controllers. Similarly if you own a stock Android handset, or flash a Cyanogenmod or MIUI ROM, then your chance at achieving emulator gaming nirvana are very reasonable. 

The big question of course is whether the experience is good enough to make all of this worthwhile? Can your phone even run a two player splitscreen at more than two frames per second? 

The answer? It's all in the YouTube video above...





N64oid can be purchased from an Slideme here (Slideme is an alternative to the Android Market).

...and here is my very own video demonstrating how to pair a Phonejoy with Bluez IME, the process is essentially the same for Zeemotes, BGP100, and iControlPad controllers also: