Hasta La Gadget!

While we enjoyed our time with the TiVo Mini multiroom DVR extender when we reviewed it, we noted several drawbacks including missing apps for Netflix and Amazon Instant Video (Hulu Plus has been present since launch). Both have been supported on standalone TiVos for a long time, but according to user reports Mini owners may finally have access to them. Zatz Not Funny posted the picture above and points out a TiVo Community post where users report icons for both are suddenly appearing on their Minis, although currently only Netflix is working. Forum poster and Engadget reader sbiller reports 1080p streams currently cause the Mini to reboot, so even that app may not be quite ready for prime time. Whatever the case, it should be active so if that’s been stopping you from adding a Mini to your setup it may be time to reconsider, or re-reconsider.

Filed under: HD

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Source: TiVo Community, Zatz Not Funny

Right around a month ago, Google opened up the flood gates and let any US-based Android user download its One Today app — a program that makes it wildly simple to donate a dollar (or more, of course) to a different charity each day. Now, Google is officially releasing the entire project from pilot mode, inviting the masses to both download the app (still US-only, unfortunately) and get their charities into the ‘Google for Nonprofits’ database.

Signing up for One Today is completely free, and Google has provided resources for those looking to get their charity authorized for inclusion. Be aware, however, that Google charges a 1.9 percent processing fee when taking in payments; in other words, each $10 donated translates to $9.81 in usable funds for charities. The real kicker, we’re surmising, is the social tie-in. The more people who donate and then share to various social networks, the more likely their friends and peers are to follow suit. And, ideally, we all join to solve all of the world’s problems.

Filed under: Software, Mobile, Google

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Via: TechCrunch

Source: Google Nonprofits Blog, Google One Today, Google Play Store

Samsung’s Wallet app, launched in Beta in the US a few months ago, is now available for wider consumption on Google Play in the US. Despite the name, it doesn’t have Google Wallet-like powers of NFC payment, but works more like Apple’s Passbook app to let you store and categorize tickets, membership cards, coupons and the like. Other functions include time and location-based ticket reminders, a “create my ticket” feature and the ability to receive co-marketing and loyalty card coupons. As you may expect, it’s limited to Samsung devices, and for now the app only runs on the Galaxies S III, S 4, Note and Note II. You may also have trouble finding retailers accepting it, though Samsung said at launch that it would be supported by Walgreens, MLB, Expedia.com, Booking.com, Hotels.com and Lufthansa in the US. If the stars line up and you need something from one of those outfits, are in the US and have the right device, check the source.

Filed under: Cellphones, Mobile, Samsung

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Via: Sammy Hub

Source: Google Play

Google promised us that it would offer textbooks through Google Play Books this month, and it’s living up to its word. American students can now buy educational titles or rent them for six months, with prices frequently undercutting paper editions. Appropriately, Google has updated its Google Play Books app for iOS to support rentals like its Android and web counterparts. The launch is a painful reminder that the fall semester is just around the corner, but college-goers who want to be prepared can check out the source links.

Filed under: Cellphones, Tablets, Google

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Source: Google Play, App Store

Isis is gearing up to expand its Mobile Wallet service nationwide in the coming months, but its plans don’t end there. The company has just announced that it’s teaming up with American Express to bring the latter’s Serve platform to Isis Mobile Wallet. Serve account holders will be able to make use of most of the features they already expect from Amex, like loading cash to their accounts, paying bills electronically and adding funds via direct deposit. By joining up with Isis, Serve is now unlocking the Mobile Wallet’s capabilities, like NFC-powered payments at participating retail locations. Though Isis is currently limited to Austin and Salt Lake City, the company — now with Amex on its side — hopes to reach customers coast to coast before the year is out, though we don’t have a specific date for availability just yet. For more info, check out the press release after the break.

Filed under: Software, Mobile

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