Google releases Android stock email app as standalone app for Nexus and Google Play Edition devices

If you’ve been wanting to get your hands on Android’s stock email app and own a Nexus or Google Play Edition device (including HTC One M7 and Samsung Galaxy S4 Google Play Editions), you can now download the app from Google Play Store. Google has previously released its Google Calendar and keyboard apps so we’re not as surprised that this app is turned into a standalone app. This email app comes preinstalled with Android 4.4 KitKat.

Source: Ubergizmo

Google starts Android 4.4.3 KitKat rollout

Google has finally begun rolling out the latest iteration of its mobile operating system to Nexus devices and a few Google Play versions of some OEMs. It’s no surprise the update arrives first to Google-owned or -managed devices. The update has shown up on Nexus 5, Nexus 7 (Wi-Fi version), Play editions of the Samsung Galaxy S4, HTC One M7 and M8, and Sony Z Ultra. The Moto X for T-Mobile is also getting the update first, the Moto G bought online in the US and in retail stores in Brazil, and the Moto E bought online in the US.

This minor update will have a new interface for the dialer, new colors, as well as additional bug fixes, security patches, and overall stability improvements. It will also reportedly fix the battery drain that happens when the camera is used.

Source: CNet

Acer debuts budget Android KitKat smartphone Liquid Z200

Acer is debuting a new smartphone they consider to belong in the budget range but it will carry Android’s latest operating system inside. The Liquid Z200 comes with a 4-inch WVGA display, DTS Studio Sound, and 2-megapixel rear camera. It also has Quick Mode feature that customizes the user experience depending on who is handling the device. The Z200 has a Basic Mode for children; Easy Senior Mode for the elderly; Classic Mode for smartphone newbies; and Keypad Mode for those who need their smartphones mostly for calls.

It will be available in five colors and will come with an optional flip cover. Acer did not specify the price yet but the phone will be available in the third quarter of the year.

Source: Slash Gear

Samsung Galaxy S3 to reportedly receive Android KitKat update

The Galaxy S3 wasn’t included in the official list released by Samsung to receive the Android 4.4.2 KitKat update. But according to a leaked document shown by Android Headlines, the older Galaxy device will receive the update sometime around April or May. The Galaxy S3 was not included in the list because it had low memory, which was said to be unsuitable for the 4.4.2 update. But seems Samsung had a change of heart.