Category: Android Lollipop

Google has released an update to the Google Device Assist app for Nexus, Google Play edition and Android One devices running Android Lollipop.  The new 1.2 version for those keeping score at home, brings several new tips as well as rich media content for more engaging tips for users.  If you are not familiar with the Google Device Assist app, it is designed for beginners, intermediate and advanced users of Google devices that gives you tips and tricks as well as a great resource of information on how to get the most out of your device.  There are also a issue detector built into the app that can proactively inform you of issues so they can be addressed.  You can also get live tech support (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain, UK and USA) through the app to help you troubleshoot issues or get help with something.

Google Device Assist (Google Nexus, Play Edition and Android One Devices required) – Free – Download Now

A day after T-Mobile announced they were releasing security updates for the Nexus devices on their network, Google has now published the Factory Images for the Nexus 4, Nexus 5, Nexus 6, Nexus 7 (2013) Wi-Fi and Nexus 9 on the Android developer site.  The images are available for anyone to download and install assuming they have root access to their device and are familiar with the procedure.  Those who had rather not go through the process can simply wait and the update will be coming to the devices in the coming days via OTA.   The build number, for those keeping score at home, is LMY48M and is an update to Android Lollipop as you would expect.

Google has released the all new Google Street View app today for both Android and iOS.  Previously, Street View was embedded into Google Maps and when you tapped on a location, you could then enter into Street View.  This new Google Street View app is a standalone app that allows you to explore 360-degree views of places all over the world plus gives you the ability to add your own 360-degree photospheres right from within the app.  Think of it as making your own personal street view and if you happen to have a spherical camera, support for it is there as well.

Google Street View – Free – Download Now

Today in Berlin at IFA 2015, Acer took the stage and made some great announcements.  In total they announced 6 new smartphones, four of which will be running Android 5.1.  The lineup ranges from a top-of-the-line Acer Liquid Z630 to the budget friendly Z530 that will be around $200 when it is available later this month.  Both the Z630 and Z530 line up will come with two versions, a standard model and a “S” version which will have slightly better specifications.