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Top 7 Android stories this week: Android 4.4.3, Project Ara, and new Google Camera
This week in your world of Android: clues of Android 4.4.3 emerged, the G3 broke cover, a phone kill switch initiative was announced, we learned more Project Ara details, Google released a new stock Android camera and updated other apps, and the OnePlus One’s design finally leaked.
These are the essential stories, the summary of an entire week in just a few words. It’s Android Weekly.
Where’s Android 4.4.3?
First, Android 4.4.3 appeared in a Sprint Nexus 5 update support page. Then in a Bluetooth certification doc. Then in the changelog of a Google app. There’s only one thing missing – the actual rollout!
- Android 4.4.3 for the Nexus 5 may be coming today, according to Sprint
- Android 4.4.3 update spotted a couple more times
LG G3 details build up
LG is due to refresh its flagship device, and this week we got a bunch of details about the G3, including screen resolution – Quad HD!, a color option, and, potentially, the SoC.
- LG Electronics to enter the mobile processor market
- LG-LS990 (LG G3) specs detailed in Sprint UA profile, QHD display appears again
- Leaked packaging image confirms LG G3 name, hints at gold color option
Finally, a killswitch agreement
Some of the world’s top smartphone makers and carriers have agreed to implement kill switches in devices starting with July 2015. From that point, everyone will be given the option to remotely wipe or lock down their phones in case they lost them.
Juicy Project Ara details
Google held the first ever Project Ara developer conference this week, in an effort to attract software and hardware makers to the innovative modular phone project. We got to learn more about how Ara works and when we will be able to actually buy the first modular devices.
- Project Ara is coming in January 2015, at least in limited form
- In hopes of generating more developer interest, Google announces $100k Project Ara challenge
Brand new Google camera
Google revamped its Camera app and released it to the Play Store. Compatible with Android 4.4 and higher, the app brings a new Lens BLUr mode, better Photo Spheres and panoramas, and a refreshed user interface.
Google apps updates
Besides Camera, Google also released a brand new Remote Desktop app and updated Calendar and YouTube with some nifty new features.
- Chrome Remote Desktop for Android arrives to Google Play
- Google Calendar now suggests nearby locations when you add an event
OnePlus One breaks cover
The OnePlus team revealed lots of details about the upcoming One, but until this week, we didn’t have a clue about its appearance. The bad news? You will need an invitation to buy it.
- Want a OnePlus One? You will need an invitation to buy one
- Leaked images show off OnePlus One, StyleSwap covers too
What’s the biggest Android news this week? Tell us in the comments.