Music Transfers

  Hi everyone! I hope you are enjoying your Labor Day weekend with an Android device from US Cellular!
  I know you all are using your Android devices in a multitude of ways. But are you tired of carrying your phone and your iPod just for music? There is a way to sync your iTunes to your Android device painlessly.
  First is iSyncer for iTunes, I personally use this for my devices. Here are a few of the features of this app.

Go beyond just music syncing with these additional features:
 Works with your existing iTunes playlists for fast setup
 Sync with a cord over USB or sync wirelessly with a WiFi connection
 Also works over MTP, unlike other top solutions
 Include album art with your music to enjoy on your phone
 Sync your ratings, play counts, skip counts, last played date, and last skipped date between iTunes and your phone to keep your smart playlists up to date
 Have a device with internal and external memory? Choose which drive each playlist syncs to
 Sync with multiple iTunes Libraries
 Create smart playlists on your phone using the Live Lists feature
 Sync your MP3 downloads on your phone back to your iTunes library
 Sync your video and podcasts for a complete iPod replacement
 Sync Android playlists back to your computer
 Automate wireless syncing of your music and videos on a schedule

Combine iSyncr with our free Rocket Player music player to take advantage of these additional features:
 Sync new playlists and playlist changes back to iTunes
 Sync podcast bookmarks to and from iTunes
 iSyncr Live Lists dynamically update while playing
 Sync video play counts

  Another good app to sync your iTunes is called Doubletwist. This one even comes with it's own music player. Here are some features.

 Enjoy Magic Radio, the personalized streaming service that seamlessly blends music from your music library with new music uniquely tailored to your musical taste from a catalog of over 13 million songs.
 Sync music (including iTunes playlists) to your phone from your laptop over USB or AirSync over WiFi.
 Download legal, high-quality album artwork for your music.
 Smart Playlists for easy access to your Top Rated and Most Played songs.
 Subscribe to podcasts and get new episodes downloaded automatically over 3G or WiFi.
 Stream music, videos and photos to the Xbox 360, PS3, Sonos, and AirPlay to Apple TV (black model; AirPort Express not yet supported).

I hope this will help some of you with your syncing issues. 

If you have questions about switching to US Cellular, these apps, or Android in general contact me in the comments, on G Plus.

John USCC Customer Crew Member

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Finding your Phone

  Hey everyone! This week I want to talk about something that happens to all of us. We all misplace our US Cellular devices, or they get stolen. Well there is help in the form of apps.
  My personal choices for this problem are Seekdroid, with the following features:

Find your phone or tablet anywhere in the world. See your device on a map, set off an audible alarm, wipe the device, and more.

Control the following from our secure website:

- Control Multiple devices under one account (*)
- Locate your device
- Remotely Enable GPS
- Display its location on a map with history! (*)
- Track the device using breadcrumbs (*)
- Get notified if the device has left a fenced-
in area (*)
- Audible alarm (even on silent)
w/ custom message
- Text Messaging support
- Setup SeekDroid Remotely via SMS
- Lock device w/ custom code
- Retrieve recent calls
- Remotely wipe entire phone
- Remotely wipe SD Card
- Hide from app drawer
- Disable App from being
uninstalled
- Virtually no battery drain
- Works without a SIM Card
- Retrieve SIM ID, IMEI,
active phone number, and battery remaining
- More features coming soon!

Setup is easy! Install the application on your device and create a username and password when the application launches. Make sure GPS is enabled for more accurate results, and your Google account is setup on your device. That's all! You can do everything else from our secure website at seekdroid.com

  Next up is the late entry into the race from Google, maker of the Android OS with Android Device Manager. If you own an Android device running the Android OS of 4.0 or above this has probably already been loaded on your device (phone and/or tablet). It is very simple and direct app without a lot of bells and whistles. It just works! 

Now, you can locate and ring your phone or tablet remotely.P

If you've misplaced your device in the house, you can use this service from the web to ring your phone. This function will override any silent or vibrate settings, so you won't have to worry about not hearing it. Additionally, it will show you exactly where on a map that your device is hiding. You can also elect to enable remote wipes, though this needs to be set up on your phone or tablet first before you can trigger it remotely. Here is a video showing the wipe feature of this app. P

  Now go forth and never fear losing your device again!

John USCC Customer Crew Member

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More Weather Apps

  Hi everyone! If you know me or are a regular reader of this blog you know I am a weather fanatic! At anytime I may have 4-5 different weather apps on my US Cellular device of the moment, ( I switch phones alot)!
  So with that in mind I have found a new weather app I like a lot, Yahoo! Weather. It comes highly rated and has a 4.4 star rating in the Google Play Store.
  A few of the features are:

The highly-acclaimed Yahoo! Weather app is now available on Android, featuring stunning photos that match current weather conditions and an ALL new design with a ton of new features. See the weather like never before. Easily swipe for the most accurate weather forecasts or add a home screen widget for the latest weather information. Wherever you go, the forecast is beautiful.

Favorite features: Highly acclaimed design with beautiful photos that match your location, time of day, and current weather condition Detailed weather information, including 10-day and 24-hour temperature forecasts Interactive radar, satellite, heat, and wind maps Severe weather alerts Animated sunrise & sunset times and wind & pressure modules Humidity sensor, UV index, and chance of precipitation New home screen widgets

  Enjoy the short video attached. 

  So load up this app and go exploring through the settings and make it yours!!

If you have questions or need help switching to US Cellular, this app, or Android in general ask away in the comments, on G+, or on Twitter.

John USCC Customer Crew Member

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New Devices

  Hello everyone! Is anyone as excited as I am about the first Motorola smartphone released since Google bought Motorola? Well I am, and I can hardly wait for it to be released and it is coming to my carrier, US Cellular soon!

  

  Let me know what you think about this new device in the comments. 

  

  If you have questions regarding switching to US Cellular, the Moto X, or Android in general shoot me a line in the comments, on Google+, or on Twitter. 

John USCC Customer Crew Member

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Help Groups

  Hello all, I have missed a week or two and I apologize for that, but it is a busy summer so far!
  So this week I am going to simply post a few links to various help groups on Facebook and Google+. I belong to several of these and have learned a lot about the various devices I have owned as well as developed some ongoing relationships which extend beyond the technology addiction!
  First up is the oldest that I belong to which is Tablet & Tech on Facebook, this group like the name implies is for various tablet support and general tech issues and news.
  Next is the Samsung Galaxy SII, then the Samsung Galaxy SIII, the Samsung Galaxy Note 2.
  Now for the Google+ groups or communities as they are called. First is the Samsung Galaxy S4 community, the Samsung Galaxy SIII community, and TeamUSCellular community.
  All of the above mentioned groups and  communities are for US Cellular customers, but most do allow customers from other carriers to join.
  Now most if not all of these groups and communities are "closed" meaning you must request admittance and be approved by an administrator or moderator, and most have specific rules and they will ban you if you do not follow them! Just a word of warning.
  If you don't see anything on this list that interest you, just do a search of Google+ communities or Facebook groups to find one you like.
 So the next time you need help with your US Cellular smartphone, (or even a dumb phone!) just ask your question in one of the groups or communities and wait for the answers to pour in!!!

Until next time if you have questions about switching to US Cellular, or Android questions in general reply in the comments or hit me up on Google+ or Twitter.

John USCC Customer Crew Member

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Pie Controls

  Hello everyone! To start this weeks blog, I am going to say if you know me you know I love my Pie controls on my US Cellular Samsung Galaxy S4. Now don't ask how I got this coolness on my phone!!! ;)
  If you haven't heard of Pie, it is a custom application that requires you to modify your device to use it, but it is really cool in that it gives you quick access to several of your most used apps.
  But fear not, good news is here! Now you too can have a form of Pie Control with Floating Toucher, (Play store link will be at the bottom of this post). This spin off of the Pie control does not require you to modify your device, is highly customizable and gives you the features of Pie. Here is a short video of the app in action. Give it a watch and see if this app is for you!  

  Here is the link to Floating Touch in the Play Store.
http://goo.gl/9XsdXz
  If you like the app and have any questions feel free to hit me up in the comments on on G+.
  Also hit me up if you have questions or need assistance switching your service to US Cellular.

John USCC Customer Crew Member

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Road Trip

  Hey everyone summer is here and that means road trip! So with that being said I am going to try to give you some must have apps to install on your US Cellular device.
  The first must have road trip app is Google Maps. Download the latest release of Google Maps, and never carry a paper map again. Google Maps for Android with Navigation (Beta) has:

* Detailed maps with 3D buildings
* Voice guided turn-by-turn GPS navigation
* Driving, public transit, biking, and walking directions
* Live traffic information to avoid congestion
* Local search and business reviews
* Google Maps Street View
* Indoor maps for select airports, hotels, retail stores, and more

Whether you need directions to your destination, the closest good place for a bite to eat, or just a sense of where you are, Google Maps for Android can help.

  Next up is the Holiday Inn app for Android. The Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts App makes it easier than ever to research, book and manage your stay at Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts and the entire IHG family of brands.

  From within the app you can also enroll in IHG® Rewards Club to earn Reward Nights and other extras. We are now the only hotel company that rewards you when you explore more of our family of brands. When you stay at multiple IHG brands, you can fast track to Gold Elite or Platinum Elite status. Gold Elite members will be offered free internet in 2013 and in 2014 we will also be the only program to offer free Internet to all members at every one of our hotels.

App Features:
- Book stays at any IHG hotel
- Manage upcoming stays with easy contact and directions to hotel
- Receive special offers and discounts from IHG
- Be secure with our Best Price Guarantee – our promise that the best hotel room prices for any IHG property can be found here or on our website(s) or your first night is free.
- Get special rates using your corporate ID
- Learn about the unique services and hallmarks for each of the IHG's eleven brands
- Use IHG® Rewards Club Points to redeem free Reward Night stays
-Use GPS and interactive maps to easily find hotels near you
-View and cancel upcoming reservations
-View photo galleries and amenities for each hotel
-Click-to-call for each hotel
-View points balance and membership status
-Get access to special offers
-Update your IHG® Rewards Club profile information.

  There is also a Holiday Inn Express app if you prefer. 

  Now what is a road trip with out games? My personal favorites are Angry Birds Rio and Bad Piggies. 

  Also worth mentioning is Google Search to find all of those interesting places while on the road!

  So load up some of these apps and hit the road!

  As always if you need assistance with switching your service to US Cellular, have questions about Android in general, or any of the apps mentioned in this blog feel free to contact me through the comments section or on Google Plus at https://plus.google.com/u/0/103434089999451438835/posts 

John USCC Customer Crew Member

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Keyboards

Hey everyone what's up? Did you recently get a new Android device from US Cellular? Or are you looking for a quick change?
  If so I have a few suggestions for you.
  One of the hardest things to find is the perfect keyboard for your device, so I am going to try to give you some insight into keyboards in this weeks edition. I will start with my favorite (remember I like the "pure" Android experiance)!

  First up is the Google Keyboard. This one is straight from Nexus version of Android (and now the Google edition of the Samsung Galaxy S4). Here is the discription from the Google Play Store.

  Google Keyboard makes text input smart and easy. Glide through letters with Gesture Typing – just lift to finish a word, no spacebar required. Compose notes on-the-go with Voice Typing. With amazing word recognition and next-word prediction, Google Keyboard helps you type faster and more accurately on all your Android devices.

Key features:
• Gesture Typing with dynamic floating preview
• Voice Typing
• Next-word suggestions and current-word completions
• Dictionaries for 26 languages
• Advanced keyboard layouts
• Works across your Android devices (tablets and phones)

  Next on my personal list is Swiftkey Keyboard. This one has a free version also but it will lack a few features. 

 This is the #1 selling app in 57 countries, over 150,000 ✮✮✮✮✮ reviews

“Shockingly accurate, making for a creepy-fast typing experience.” - TIME Magazine

SMART & EASY
- SwiftKey replaces your phone’s keyboard with one that understands you.
- It predicts your next word before you’ve even pressed a key.
- It provides the world’s most accurate autocorrect in 60 languages.
SwiftKey makes touchscreen typing faster, easier and more personalized no matter what app you’re typing in!

LEARNING
- SwiftKey learns as you type, adapting to you and your way of writing.
- Train SwiftKey on your message archives from Gmail, Facebook and Twitter, or your blog.
- SwiftKey doesn’t just learn your popular words, it learns how you use them together.

TAP OR FLOW YOUR WORDS
- Switch between tapping and gesture-typing with SwiftKey Flow.
- Flow combines the mind-reading capabilities of SwiftKey with the speed and ease of gliding your fingers across the screen.
- Flow gives word predictions in real-time as you gesture.
- Type entire sentences without lifting your finger from the screen, simply by sliding to the space bar between words -- what we call ‘Flow through Space’.

MULTI-LINGUAL
- SwiftKey supports contextual prediction in 60 languages and counting.
- Enable up to three languages at once.
- Naturally combine languages without having to change a setting.
See http://www.swiftkey.net/en/#features for full list of supported languages.

VIDEO TIPS & SUPPORT COMMUNITY
Visit our awesome website for tips, videos, support and much more: http://www.swiftkey.net/

  Enjoy the short Swiftkey video below.

  For my tablet use I like to use Thumb Keyboard. And here is why!

Thumb Keyboard for Android™ is a keyboard with many, advanced customization options that allows the user to adjust it to his or her preferences. This groundbreaking keyboard introduces a lot of innovations. Besides a standard layout it has a new (patent pending) "split" layout for tablets and phones that makes thumb typing more natural and comfortable. It also introduces a lot of useful and advanced functions that will improve your productivity and makes typing on your mobile device more fun and comfortable.

  Here are some of the features I like about Thumb Keyboard.

FLEXIBLE KEYBOARD LAYOUTS
• Full featured standard layouts
• Split layouts for tablets and large screen devices: Better accessible keys for thumb-typing on large and small tablets and 4"+ phones
• Special tailored layouts for phones, 5" 'phablets', 7" tablets and 9-10" tablets
• Option to select separate layouts for portrait and landscape
• One-handed operation mode for large-screen phones

No more unnatural stretching or juggling with your tablet or phone…

STATE OF THE ART KEYBOARD TECHNOLOGY
• Continuous Voice Recognition (Android 4.x): real time voice recognition using the latest Google Voice typing service
• Multi-touch
• Variable key spacing
• Long press symbols and characters (customizable)
• Auto-correction
• Auto-correction feedback in text to reduce errors caused by unnoticed auto corrections (Android 4.x)
• Keyboard shortcuts
• Text to speech feedback
• Voice input (Non Continuous for Android 2.2 and higher)
• Bigram word prediction (predict word based on previous word - for Android 2.3 and higher.)
• Swipe gesture support
• Adjustable keyclick volume
• User dictionary
• 3D "coverflow" theme browser with 25+ themes

FULLY CUSTOMIZABLE
• Option to change the long press symbols on the letter keys!
• Save much used phrases and enter with a touch of a button
• 25+ Themes
• User definable auto text substitutions (For example: thx -> thanks etc)
• Optional user customizable key row
• Change colors and size of keys, font etc.
• Customizable background (choose your own image)
• Full color customization!

LANGUAGE SUPPORT:
English
German (with special QWERTZ keyboard ánd special german keyboard)
French (with support AZERTY)
Spanish (with modern Spanish keyboard layout)
Russian (with cyrillic keyboard)
Italian
Portuguese
Dutch
Norwegian
Swedish
Finnish
Danish
Polish

• All special keyboards are also available as special (split) keyboards.
• Possibility to change the long press symbols by special international characters!! Directly enter your typical language letters with a simple long press. 

  

  Enjoy this short video of some of the features of Thumb Keyboard.  http://goo.gl/lqSK4

  So this is just a couple of my favorite keyboards. Visit the Google Play Store to find the one that is right for you!

  As always if you have questions about switching to US Cellular, any of the apps mentioned in this blog or Android in general, feel free to hit me up in the comments or on G+! 

John USCC Customer Crew Member

  

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Google Now

Hello everyone! Hope you all are staying cool in the summer heat! And what else is hot? Google Now (also known as Google Search) on your Android phone from US Cellular!
  This is a very direct competitor with SIRI from Apple, and according to some even better.
Here are a few of the features and it is constantly being updated.

Google Search app for Android: The fastest, easiest way to find what you need on the web and on your device.

* Quickly search the web and your phone or tablet
* Use your voice to search and more
* Get personalized results based on your location

Plus: *Google Now* gets you just the right information at just the right time. It tells you today’s weather before you start your day, how much traffic to expect before you leave for work, and more (Google Now is currently available on Android 4.1, Jelly Bean).

  Here is the introduction video from the Play store.

And here is another video of how to use Google now from one of my favorite YouTube channels.

Now go try Google Now and see how it can simplify your life. 

If you have any questions regarding Google Now, Android in general or if you have questions about switching to US Cellular just hit me up in the comments or on Google +.

John USCC Customer Crew Member

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Update

Hello out there to all of you who have the Samsung Galaxy S3 from US Cellular. Have you gotten the latest update for your S3? Check out what has been added with this update. It includes some camera upgrades, and several software upgrades. Also in this update is the much awaited multi screen mode! Download it here. Be sure to come back and let us know what you like best about the upgrade from Samsung and US Cellular!

John USCC Customer Crew Member

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iOS 7

  Hello everyone! Did you hear the exciting news last week? iOS 7 for the iPhone was announced! Also did you know that US Cellular will be carrying the iPhone later this year? Are you excited about that news? Will you be getting the iPhone from US Cellular? Will you be staying with the Android operating system? Or are you waiting on the new Windows8 phones? Whichever you choose you can count on award winning customer service and excellent coverage from US Cellular!


John USCC Customer Crew Member

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New products

Hi everyone. There has been some exciting news recently from US Cellular. Soon they will be carrying the widely popular iPhone. No assurances yet but hopefully it will be the iPhone 5. Also there is a possibility io7 will be released by then. More to come on this later.

John USCC Customer Crew Member

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Severe Storms

  Good morning, ( where I am). We have gone through a pretty intense week of severe storms in my area in the last week. Here is hoping you are safe and unaffected by any inclimate weather where you are.
  One bright spot I have found, besides being safe, is that my wireless phone provider US Cellular, provides severe thunderstorm warnings, flood warnings, and tornado warnings set to my personal "comfort" level. Also available is local Amber Alerts. All of these are available on my Android powered smartphone!
  If your provider doesn't offer these services and they are important to you think about switching to US Cellular!


 If you have any questions, or need assistance switching feel free to contact me through the comments, or through Google Plus.

John USCC Customer Crew Member

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NFC VS. Tasker

  Hello in Android land! I hope everyone is enjoying the Memorial Day weekend and using your US Cellular phone for lots of different things! If you have a fairly new smartphone you have the new capability called "NFC" or Near Field Communication. This technology allows you to "write" NFC tags to make your phone perform different functions that you set. I have one on my bed table which turns off WIFI, mobile data, volume to silent, and sets my alarm the next morning, all by passing my phone over a wafer thin tag!
  This is a short video highlighting the newest update to NFC Task Launcher, the best NFC writing app (IMHO) give it a watch.

  Now if NFC is not for you there is an alternative to NFC called Tasker. This is an app which will control your phone using different "triggers". I have one set to turn on WIFI, and turn off mobile data, when I get close to my home cell tower. Here is the first part of a three video guide on this great app. 

  Now you decide which of these great apps is your favorite. Let us know in the comments.

  As always feel free to contact me if you have questions about switching to US Cellular, these apps, or about Android in general! 

  Circle me on G+ http://goo.gl/FeQ3w

  Follow me on Twitter  http://goo.gl/10jRY

John USCC Customer Crew Member

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Google I/O 13

  Hi folks, this week we are going to write a summary of the biggest Google event of the year, Google I/O 13! What did you think about the Google event? To me one of the biggest things announce at Google I/O was the creation of "Hangouts" which will combine Google Talk, Google+ messenger, and the Google+ Hangout apps into one app. Also very exciting to me is the announcement of the Google experience Galaxy S4 from Samsung. Will US Cellular carry this device? Check here often to find out!
  Here is a short video from Marques Brownlee stating the top 10 announcements from the conference.

Now if you need more information here is a video of the entire keynote address.

  As always if you have questions about switching to US Cellular, an app, or Android in general hit me up in the comments or on G+.

John USCC Customer Crew Member

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Further thoughts on the Samsung Galaxy S4

  Hello again. Have you gotten your Samsung Galaxy S4 from US Cellular yet? If you keep up with my blog you know I have had mine about 2 weeks now and here are some further thoughts on this device.
  I am a big fan of NFC, and on this device Samsung has opted to incorporate some new technology which is not compatible with my current NFC tags, so if you too are a fan of NFC keep this in mind.
  Now on to the "value added" software from Samsung. Most if not all of the new Samsung software is just gimmicks and not useful in everyday life, IMHO. While I do use the air gestures and air previews, the whole smartstay options in my opinion are worthless and I have disabled them. I do not care if a video pauses when I look away, or if the page scrolls with my eye movement, but that is just me.
  There is a new addition which I do like and will definitely take advantage of, the infrared sensor which allows me to use my GS4 as a remote control for my TV and satellite receiver.

  Also the lockscreen on Touchwiz is not to my liking. The shortcuts do not interest me, but it does have the ability to add widgets much like stock AOSP 4.2 Jellybean.
  The camera seems to be excellent with 13 megapixel, several photo editing options, dual camera option and more. I have had a little time to play with this camera and it does take very nice pictures. And one of the cool and useful options is the ability to use the front and rear facing camera at the same time, so you can take a photo and be in it also!
  Another useful feature is the Shealth app., this has options from tracking calorie intake, calorie burn, walking steps taken, exercise tracker, and it works with some add on equipment (I have seen scales and a couple of other things that will communicate with this feature).
  A few other neat things loaded on this device is STravel which suggest different travel destinations, SVoice which has been surpassed by many third party apps and Google Now, STranslator which is nothing more than Google Translate with a new UI and renamed.
  Now I have found ways around most of the things I don't like about this device by installing custom launchers, and lockscreens so there are workarounds.
  More to come on this device later!

  If you have any questions about the  Samsung Galaxy S4, Android in general, or need help in switching to US Cellular hit me up on G+ or ask in the comments.

John USCC Customer Crew Member

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This is the Droid you are looking for!

Here we go! I am going to do a short review of the new Samsung Galaxy S4 from US Cellular. I am upgrading from the Samsung Galaxy SIII using my reward points. Did you know US Cellular is the only wireless company to offer rewards just for being a customer and paying your bill on time?
  I am going to start with some specs on this monster. It has a 5" Super Amoled screen, not  too big, not too small in my opinion, a quad core 1.9 GHz. Snapdragon processor, 2600 MAh battery to power all of the features.
  One of the things I like best is the air gesture control, without even touching the screen I can scroll web pages etc. Also I can hover over a photo in my gallery with my finger and get a preview. Of course the normal features are still here, Smart Stay, Smart Rotation, etc.
  One thing I do not like about this device is the "bloatware" from Samsung. I do not care for the Samsung Hub, Samsung Music, Samsung books, Samsung app store, Samsung Games, Chaton, you get the picture. This seems to take away from some of the Android experience of being able to customize your phone to your liking. Luckily these (and some others) can be disabled. The one good thing I have found in the bloat is Samsung Watchon, this will turn your device into a remote for your tv and receiver box. Also with the 16 GB version you only get about 8 GB free space before adding anything at all! I personally like the more pure Android experience, in other words give me the phone with the basic apps and OS I will put what I want on it. Even with the added bloat, the phone has very little to no lag.
  The camera is a monster 13 megapixel with full 1080 p video recording and playback, so if the camera is an important feature to you this phone is for you! The camera comes with some interesting features such as Drama shot, Best face, Beauty face, Night mode, Sports mode, Eraser mode which lets you remove moving objects from photos. Also it has several special effects.
  Now to the more mundane things, the signal strength (which was questionable by some standards on the SIII) seems great so far. Maybe an antenna placement issue? Call quality is very good along with the external speakerphone option. The i call volume is excellent on this device as well. The device comes with the standard Samsung keyboard and Swype Keyboard, both with the numbers on the main keyboard. Texting is the standard Samsung skin, so you may want to consider installing your favorite third party texting app.
  Over all I give this device a strong 4.7 star rating.

  If there is anything you would like to know about this phone or Android in general feel free to hit me up on G+ or in the comments.


John USCC Customer Crew Member.

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Samsung Galaxy S4

  Hello again everyone! In case you haven't heard the Samsung Galaxy S4 has arrived at my wireless service provider US Cellular right along with the Big 4!
  In case you have been hiding under a rock the S4 is the newest, best, "next big thing" from Samsung. This phone is blessed with a 5" super Amoled 441 ppi screen, a 13 Megapixal camera, 1.9 quad core Snapdragon processor, 16 GB internal storage with up to 64 GB external micro SD card storage, 1080 P video recording and playback, WIFI/ 3G-4G compatible and so many software options I can't mention them all here!
  I will report back when I get my pre-ordered phone in my hand and can do a review.

  So go get yours next week at US Cellular or order online only right now!

John USCC Customer Crew Member

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Weather

  Hello again! I hope this posting finds everyone healthy and safe. Speaking of safe, did you know you can get Emergency alerts on your US Cellular Android powered smartphone?
  While on the emergency theme, it is spring time which means (in my area) severe weather. To stay on top of the situation I use several weather apps. My daily driver is Notification Weather. Some options are as listed.

Weather Provider

Manual or GPS locationMetric or imperial unitsUpdate intervalOptional 4-day forecast
Refresh button in notification (no need to open settings)
Progress bar in notification
No notification icon
Transparent notification icon
Swipe notification to dismiss
12/24 hour switch

Pro version features:

Refresh button in notification (no need to open settings)
Progress bar in notification
No notification icon
Transparent notification icon
Swipe notification to dismiss
12/24 hour switch

This app runs in the background and is only visible when you open the notification bar, I have mine set to open to 1Weather.
  1Weather is not your normal weather app. Here are a few of the features.
· Real-time local weather and forecasts for virtually any location around the world (Current + 48-hour)
· 7-day extended forecast and precipitation info
· Hourly forecast and precipitation info
· Follow my location - Updated weather when you are on the move
· LIVE animated radar and extreme weather warnings (US only) with layers
. Added Enhanced Cloud Layer for International locations on Radar Screen 
· Animated sunrise, sunset, and Lunar phase (Phones only)
· Save multiple locations to access quickly and easily
· Gorgeous widgets (3) you can add to your home screen
· Share weather information with friends and family via email, text, Twitter, Facebook, etc.
   I also have a local weather app from WSI Corporation.
  So go find your favorite weather app and stay safe during this severe season!

John USCC Customer Crew Member

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Tax Day

   Hi everyone! Once again it is everyone's favorite day, the day Uncle Sam expects his share of your money! However if you have a US Cellular Android phone there is an app to help you do your taxes with your busy schedule.
  Try Turbo Tax Snaptax. Some features are:

IT’S SO SIMPLE:

1 - Snap a photo of your W-2
2 - Answer simple questions
3 - File with the app, or finish on the web

START FOR FREE - PAY WHEN YOU’RE DONE

File your federal and state taxes with the app for only $24.99! (Prices vary if you finish on the web)

See more at www.snaptaxvideo.com

___________________________
From the makers of TurboTax

Maximum (Biggest) Refund Guaranteed: turbotax.intuit.com/corp/guarantees.jsp

100% Accurate Guaranteed: turbotax.intuit.com/corp/guarantees.jsp

And to keep track of your refund try My Tax Refund by TurboTax. 

And if your refund is a little short this year take a look at the web only deals from US Cellular! 

John USCC Customer Crew Member

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Mobile Security

Hey everyone hope you have had a great week with enjoying your US Cellular Android power smartphone!
  This week I am going to talk about something everyone should be concerned with, Mobile Security. You have anti-virus on your computer so why not your hand-held computer (your smartphone, and/or tablet)? Here is a new security app in case you lose your phone.
Some features are:

-- Locate and track your phone if it goes missing or is stolen by receiving sms updates of its location.
-- Remotely lock your device with a password or pin number.
-- Remotely wipe your device.
-- Remotely backup up call logs or sms logs(or both) to either Dropbox or Google Drive.
-- Remotely enable sound on device and make it scream.


Check it out and read more here!

Here is a short video review. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.decad3nce.aegis

Now go get your phone secure!

John USCC Customer Crew Member

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New note app

Hey everyone! Spring is supposed to be here but I am getting snow! I hope things are going great where you are, and you are enjoying your US Cellular Android phone. 

 I have found a new note taking app I want to introduce you to. It is called Google Keep and was only released Thursday.  Here are a few of the unique features it brings.

• Keep track of your thoughts via notes, lists and photos
• Have voice notes transcribed automatically
• Use homescreen widgets to capture thoughts quickly
• Color-code your notes to help find them later
• Swipe to archive things you no longer need
• Turn a note into a checklist by adding checkboxes
• Use your notes from anywhere - they are safely stored in the cloud and available on the web at http://drive.google.com/keep

Also here is a video tutorial. I will be back in a week or two to give you a review. 

In the meantime checkout the complete line up of Android phones at US Cellular. And remember if you have any questions about switching to US Cellular or Android in general hit me up in G+ or in the comments section.

John USCC Customer Crew Member

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Samsung Galaxy S IV

 Hey how are you doing? I just want to talk a little about the Big Announcement last week.
  If you don't know what I am talking about it is the announcement that the new Samsung Galaxy S IV will be released shortly and it is coming to US Cellular! Now if you haven't heard about the Galaxy S IV it is the newest, hottest phone around, sporting a whopping 13 Mega pixel camera! It also has some new Touchwiz UI software like "eye scrolling" web pages etc. Also it has a slightly larger, more vibrant screen than the hugely popular Samsung Galaxy SIII. All of this along with an octa (yes 8!) core processor for the international version, and a 1.9 GHz quad core processor for the U.S. variants. Both the international version and the U. S. versions should come in three internal storage sizes, 16 GB, 32 GB, and 64 GB. All will also accept up to 64 GB external storage in the form of a micro SD card.
  Check out the video for a comparison to the Samsung Galaxy SIII.

As always feel free to hit me up on Google+ or in the comments for help or questions about switching to US Cellular, or Android in general.

John USCC Customer Crew Member

 

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Spring Time

  Hello all! Have you noticed the longer days and warmer temperatures (for some of us at least!)? That means Spring has arrived!!!! Now for me that means golf! And I can even use my US Cellular Samsung Galaxy SIII as a Golf GPS unit with an app!! How cool is that? (This phone is also currently on sale for only $129.00).
  Skydroid-Golf GPS is the one I use most and here are some of the features.

When you're out on the golf course, it helps to know exactly where and how far you need to hit the ball. SkyDroid uses GPS technology to map the golf course you're playing on, giving you instant, helpful information as you walk the links. This app for your Android device features aerial views of entire golf courses, reveals distances to the front, center, and back of every green, lets you track the distance of your most recent shot, and more.

Accurate and reliable, SkyDroid - Golf GPS is the perfect Golf GPS Range Finder and Scorecard for your Android phone. Our simple to use design is used world wide helping golfers get their distances and lower their golf scores.

#1 Golf GPS Range Finder app in the Sports Category!

★★★★
Now with Scoring and Statistics.
Get Single Player Scoring and Stats in the latest version.
★★★★

You'll get a full-featured Golf GPS rangefinder that shows your distance to the front, center and back of every green of every golf course. Plus distances to many hazards and targets. You can find your distance to any point on the golf course with a finger press. Satellite view of every golf course, plus Scoring and Statistics!!

Over 180,000 golfers have installed our Golf GPS app and love its features. No course download charges. No subscription charges.

★★★★
Over 22,000 Golf Courses Mapped !!
★★★★

Features
★ GPS Distance to every green
★ New: Scoring and Statistics
★ Distances to water hazards, bunkers, and more
★ Satellite view of every course!
★ Distance to ANY point on the map!
★ Shot Tracking!
★ Download unlimited courses
★ Map ANY course online!

Visit www.skydroid.net to see our Course list, or use our new Course Finder web page to find golf courses near you that are ready for downloading for free to your SkyDroid - Golf GPS app.

SkyDroid - Golf GPS gives you your range finder distance to every green on the golf course and more. It's easy to use, has a beautiful design, and there are no subscription or course download fees.

Get a satellite view of every course and green. Zoom into any location or get a rangefinder distance to any point on the map just by holding your finger on it.

GPS Distances to the Front, Center and Back of every green (not just the center location like some apps).

★ Starting with version 2.0 we now have scoring and statistics available. Score your round and keep track of stats like putts per round, hit fairway% and more.

Distances to course features (water hazards, bunkers, target points) are available for most courses. If you don't see a feature you need you can add it to the course mapping using our website.

GPS Range Finder Accuracy indicator lets you know exactly how accurate the distances are at any time (GPS accuracy can fluctuate, but SkyDroid keeps you informed).

Track the distance of your last shot with our shot tracker.

Automatic hole advance will have you clicking less buttons.

★★★★
Add New Courses
★★★★

Can't find your golf course in the system? No problem, our online Course Mapper web page let's you add new courses in as little as 10 minutes. We get new golf courses added by our users every single day of the year.

You can also edit existing courses using the website, to add features or make adjustments (add target points, etc.) as needed. Then just re-download the course to the app to see the changes.

★ Works Internationally

Change distance measurement to yards or meters.

★ Visit www.skydroid.net to learn more.

*** Usage Notes ***
Use your Menu button on the Course List screen to access Settings.
Long press on the "Score" button to see the full scorecard.

There are others of course, so pick one and hit the links!!!

If you have any questions about switching to US Cellular, the Galaxy SIII or Android in general hit me up on Google+, or in the comments. (If I am not on the coruse!)

John USCC Customer Crew Member

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Smartphone Maintenance

  Hello! Some of you may know that I recently made a short video outlining a few basic phone maintenance tips. For those of you who didn't see my video here are a few tips to keep your US Cellular Android phone running like new!

1. Turn your device off for a few minutes each day or two. This is such a simple thing that most don't even think it can cause problems. Now consider that a few years ago we had a great laptop if it had a 1.5 dual core processor and 2 GB of RAM! So you basically have as much computing power in your hand as you did on your laptop!
2. Clear cache and data regularly. I usually do mine on Sunday morning. There are several apps to do this but I personally use "History Eraser", this app clears browser history (stock only), call log, text messages, Google play Store search, Google map search, Gmail search, YouTube search, Clip board contents, Google search, and clears all app caches with one click. There is also a paid version so as always if you like the app, support the dev and get the paid version!
3. If the first two tips don't remedy the problem, backup your device with "My Backup". I will make a video of this app soon but until then here is a short tutorial. After preforming the backup go to settings>Backup & restore and select factory reset. This will basically wipe all of the data from the phone and and reset it to factory condition. Before attempting this action be sure you know your gmail address and password associated with the account!!!! Your contacts will be backed up to your google account so don't worry about that. Remember this is a last resort!
4. If none of the tips above work call 611 from your US Cellular phone or 888-944-9400 from another line. 

  As always feel free to contact me if you have questions about switching to US Cellular, any of the apps mentioned in this blog or Android in general. Until next week keep those phones cleaned out and running like new!

John USCC Customer Crew Member

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March Madness

  Hi everyone. Are you ready for some basketball?! It is almost March Madness time! So to help you keep up with your favorite teams even while on the go, I have found this app in the Google Play Store for your US Cellular Android smartphone! 

  Here are a few of the features!

  College Basketball Scoreboard gives you up to the minute college basketball scores, schedules and news stories for the following conferences: ACC, Big 12, Big East, Big Ten, Conference USA, Mountain West, Pac-10 and SEC- plus Top 25 schools. Includes schedules and scores for Conference tournaments and the NCAA Tournament (March Madness).

Also includes schedules, news and scores for the following conferences: America East, American Midwest, Atlantic 10, Big Sky, Big South, Big West, Colonial Athletic (CAA), Great West, Horizon, Ivy League, Mid-American (MAC), Mid-Eastern Athletic, Metro Atlantic (MAAC), Missouri Valley, North Coast Athletic, Northeast, Ohio Valley, Patriot League, Sun Belt, Southern, Southland, Summit, West Coast & Western Athletic. Scores for these conferences are not updated every minute- scores are updated periodically throughout the games.

Scores, Schedules and News are displayed by conference. Keep track of your favorite teams and your rivals all at a glance. Real time scores are officially licensed from Sports Direct. This free version is ad supported. If you don't want to see the ads, check out College Basketball Scoreboard Plus.

- Custom scores feeds by conference. The ticker now shows scores from your selected conference first, then other Top 25 games.

- Trash talk you rivals! Share scores and news stories via Facebook, Twitter and Email from within the app.

  So now go out and cheer on your favorite collage teams!!

If you have any questions or concerns about switching to US Cellular, apps, or Android in general feel free to contact me via Google+ or in the comments.

John USCC Customer Crew Member  

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My Wireless Provider

  Hello everyone. I hope it is sunshine and roses where you are! I am going to write a little about my wireless phone provider this week. My provider is US Cellular, and they have a very nice selection of Android powered smartphones from Samsung, Motorola and HTC. Before you ask, no they do not carry the iPhone! US Cellular is concentrating on expanding their 4G LTE data network, and in their infinite wisdom Apple did not include US Cellular's 4G LTE frequencies in there newest phone, so it would be pointless to carry a phone that will not work on the US Cellular network!
  But back to US Cellular! One of the perks of being a customer is the points they award to my account every month for just paying my bill on time! What other carrier does that? These points can be redeemed for early phone upgrades at 1300 points = one month early upgrade. Also I can get accessories for my phone with the points, or if I have enough points I can upgrade at no cost to me! Just use the points!
  If the points aren't enough US Cellular has also been awarded the JD Powers "Best in Customer Service" award for wireless providers!
  On top of that nights and weekends start at 7:00 PM and all incoming text and voice calls are free! If you are out and your battery is dead, stop into a US Cellular store and get a free battery replacement.
 
  So go to your nearest US Cellular store and see if they are right for you!

As always if you have questions about switching to US Cellular, Android in general or even apps, feel free to contact me through Google+ or in the comments.

 John USCC Customer Crew Member

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Multi-Tasking

  Hello again. Are you getting overwhelmed with work and life in this New Year? If so get yourself to your nearest US Cellular location and pick up an Android powered smartphone to help you multi-task to your hearts content!
  In this weeks edition I am going to show you some new apps I have found to help you with your multi-tasking needs.
  First is Floating Browser Flux!, this is a floating web browser which can be re-sized at will, reduced to just an address bar, and launched from the notification bar just to name a few! Here are a few other features;
1. Wide range support of Android platform from Android 1.5 ~ Android 4.0.3, the screen will be supported from 240x320 to 1920x1080.
2. Floating window, allowing users to change the size and location; it can support up to two ~ ten independent windows at same.(Professional Edition)
3. Tab pages, Each window has its own tab group.
4. Integrated system bookmarks.
5. Independent history feature. (Professional Edition)
6. Web page screenshot. (Professional Edition)
7. Quick search, start with the clipboard monitoring function.
  Next is Super Video Floating & Popup, this is a neat video player to watch your movies Etc. which is also fully re-sizable at will, below are a few other features of this video player;
Popup Video Player.
1 Simple Widget
2 Multi-Window Video Player.
3 Full Subtitle Support for Video Playback.
4 Friendly and Simply User Inferface with Grid, List and 3D Gallery.
5 100% NO AD, Made in Taiwan.
6 Support Vitamio Software Decoder to view the more format (like MPG, RM, RMVB, FLV, MKV ... etc) video file with floating player. (Android 2.3 later)
NOTE: This app does not support YouTube videos at this time.

  
  Next is Floating Notes, this like all of the others floats and is completely re-sizable. 
A few of the features are;
1 floating windows hover above any other app
2 resize, move and shrink windows
3 save, delete, rename, share, scramble notes
4 change the window's transparency

  Floating Notes also has a paid version which includes the following features;
1 open notes in another window
2 append notes
3 up to four windows instead of two
4 all settings enabled:
5 activate bulletpoints to make lists (press ENTER to add a new bulletpoint)!
6 persistent notification in your phone's statusbar to open a new note quickly
7 change font, textcolor and textsize!
8 stop windows from going beyond screenboundaries
9 hide the closebutton to prevent misclicks

 And now this just in! I am downloading this as I write this Floating YouTube Pop up Viewer! More to come on this at in a later blog. 

  So if you have the need to multi-task or just want cool apps. give these a try and let me know what you think!

  As always if you have questions about switching to US Cellular service, feel free to contact me via Google+ or through the comments. 

John USCC Customer Crew Member

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