This week in your world of Android: the OnePlus One landed with a bang, Hangouts got smarter, a Nexus 8 rumor made the rounds, Plus boss Vic Gundotra announced he’s leaving Google, the Tab 4 line got a release date, and more LG G3 specs leaked out.
These are the essential stories, the summary of an entire week in just a few words. It’s Android Weekly.
The OnePlus One is here
Few phones have been so hyped ahead of their launch, especially when it comes to brand new devices like the OnePlus One. Overhyped or not, the self-proclaimed flagship killer’s $299 price tag is sure to keep it in the spotlight.
- OnePlus One officially announced: here’s what you need to know
- OnePlus One hands-on: first look at the $299 “flagship killer”
- OnePlus One vs Galaxy Note 3 first look
- Interview: Steve Kondik talks about new CM 11S features and the OnePlus One
SMS, meet chat
One of the qualms many users had with Google’s Hangouts messaging app was the fact that it didn’t unify SMS and chat conversations into one thread. That’s no longer the case, since the latest update brought Hangouts this much awaited capability.
That Nexus 8 rumor again
Talk about a Nexus 8 tablet rekindled this week, following a Digitimes report claiming HTC won the right to fabricate an 8.9-inch Nexus device for Google.
Bye, Vic
The father of Google Plus, Vic Gundotra, one of Google’s top executives and public figures, announced he would be leaving the company after a 7-year tenure. Gundotra’s departure sparked talk about upheaval at Google Plus, though rumors of the social network’s demise have been greatly exaggerated.
- Vic Gundotra, the Father of Google+, announces his departure from the company
- Google is winding down Google Plus, says report. But does it make sense?
At least the Tab 4 series is cheap
They are not the most exciting Android devices out there, but at least they won’t cost you an arm and a leg. Samsung’s three Tab 4 devices will release on May 1 in the US, starting from $200.
More G3 leaks
The last big flagship phone of the season will be the LG G3. This week, we learned a few more details about it, including alleged screenshots of its revamped user interface.
- Leaked screenshots indicate LG G3 will feature revamped UI, Google Now-like ‘concierge’ service
- LG-LS990 (LG G3) specs detailed in Sprint UA profile, QHD display appears again (Updated)
What was the biggest Android news this week?