Android 4.4.1 Source Code Released to the AOSP

Earlier today, we saw the release of Android 4.4.1 for the Google Nexus 4, Nexus 5, and Nexus 7 (2013) LTE. Outside of a few significant Nexus 5-specific camera improvements covered earlier, not much is known yet about what exactly has been changed. But as indicated by its minor point revision status, not much is expected to be changed in this new version.

Now, Google has updated the AOSP servers with the source code to Android 4.4.1. This means that your favorite aftermarket developers can start merging the new commits over from Google's repos into their own builds.

Curiously, the revised factory images still have not yet appeared on the Nexus Factory Images page. That said, we can't imagine it will be too long before the complete set of images are available on Google's servers.

Developers looking to start building with the new Android 4.4.1 code can do so by browsing the KitKat MR1 (KOT49E) source  directly on Google's Git. And of course, end users of the aforementioned Nexus devices can download the OTAs directly from Google's update servers by visiting the links below:

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Android 4.4.1 Update for the Google Nexus 5 Now Live, OTA Captured

Just two days ago, we talked about how Android 4.4.1 was undergoing internal testing at Google. Then earlier today, we received word of some of the new camera improvements that would be coming with the latest version.

Now, the official Android 4.4.1 OTA has started making its way to the Google Nexus 5 in the form of an incremental OTA update. The incremental OTA takes you from the previous Android 4.4 (KRT16M) build to Android 4.4.1 (KOT49E).

Naturally, the OTA will be rolling out over the course of the next few days or weeks, so don't be alarmed if it hasn't yet shown up on your Nexus 5. However, those tired of waiting can get cracking a bit early by manually downloading the incremental OTA update directly from Google's Update Servers. Once downloaded, reboot your device to stock recovery and execute the adb sideload [OTA filename] command to get started.

Naturally, your device must be stock and with stock recovery for this incremental OTA to work. The update is still not yet live on the Nexus Factory Images page, but we can't imagine that it will be too long before the full factory image is posted there as well.

For those of you who have already updated (either manually or via official OTA), how do you like the improved camera performance? Does the camera now live up to your expectations? Feel free to let us know your thoughts in the comments section below!

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Major Update to Google Play Music Brings SD Card Offline Media Storage Support

Today, Google released a rather significant update to its Google Play Music app for Android. The update brings a few usability improvements such as the ability to shuffle all songs by an artist in Play Music All Access and an easier method of sharing links to your favorite songs, artists, and albums. While important, these new features pale in comparison to the other new feature that this update brings: SD Card support for offline music storage.

Ever since the arrival of the Nexus S, Google has shown its distaste for external SD cards. While having an external storage expansion slot gives users a bit more flexibility when it comes to managing storage limitations, these card slots also add complexity to casual users who aren't well versed with file management. The removal of Apps2SD support in recent versions of Android also reinforces Google's apparent view on such functionality. This makes it incredibly curious that today's update to 5.3.136M brings external SD card support for offline music storage.

Google Play Store Listing Change Log:

v5.3.1316M

* SD card support for offline music on KitKat (Experimental support on some older devices)

* Added ability to shuffle all songs from an artist in All Access

* Made it easy to share links of songs, artists and albums to your favorite social networks

Make your way over to the Google Play Store listing to get the latest update. But since this is a staged rollout, the update may not be officially available to your device. Luckily, those looking to get in on the update a little early can do so thanks to XDA Senior Member androiduser44 who posted the APK for anyone to download. And for those looking for a themed version with a transparent widget, XDA Senior Member ecs1984 has you covered with his modified offering.

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Android App Review: MacroDroid Automation – XDA Developer TV

Here at XDA, we like to make things easier in life with the use of technology. That's why we've had numerous videos on automation. We've shown you how to use Tasker, Llama, WEMO switches, and more. However, sometimes you just want a simple and easy-to-use app.

XDA Forum Member UndeadCretin offers an easy-to-use macro automation app. In this video, XDA Developer TV Producer TK reviews MacroDroid. TK shows off the application and gives his thoughts, so check out this app review.

Be sure to check out other great XDA Developer TV Videos

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Themer Adds XDA Theme, Available Now

For those who want a themed Android phone without all the work of configuring widgets, wallpapers, and icons, our friends at MyColorScreen offer a terrific option with their Themer app (available on Google Play). And as of today, those looking to show their love for XDA can do so by applying the XDA theme, which can be found under the "Newest" category in Themer.

This theme features a card-style UI style homescreen design, as well as a direct link to the XDA forums. It also contains clock and battery stats, weather information, music controls, and access to common apps. There's also a slide-out panel with missed message notifications, quick access to search, and even a link to the XDA Portal.

If you want to know more about Themer, here are some helpful videos:

And of course, XDA is home to the official Themer forums where you can exchange themes you've made, offer tips and tricks, and get support.

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Android 4.4.1 to Bring Massive Upgrade to Nexus 5 Camera

Ever since the release of the highly anticipated Google Nexus 5, the device has earned nearly unanimous praise from the tech industry. Much of this has been well deserved, as the Nexus 5 features bleeding-edge internals at a wallet-friendly price. Unfortunately the camera quality, while much improved over its predecessor Nexus devices, still leaves much to be desired. Luckily, however, this is being actively worked on and tested, with a fix right around the corner.

A few days ago, we reported that Android 4.4.1 was undergoing active testing. At the time, there was no indication as to what the update would bring. At the time, we were hopeful that the update would bring some of the new camera modes promised earlier. Unfortunately, it appears as if these features won't be making their way into production builds quite that quickly. However, there's still quite a bit of good news on the Nexus camera front. In a recent interview with The Verge, Director of Engineering for Android Dave Burke detailed several improvements to the Nexus 5′s camera that will make their way to consumer devices with Android 4.4.1.

The update is intended to fix the Nexus 5′s camera performance in five categories. The most immediately noticeable will perhaps be autofocus speed. Due to the added optical image stabilization in the Nexus 5′s camera module, the current camera software allowed itself to take slow shutter shots, even when in good lighting conditions. While this is quite beneficial in lower light conditions, it quickly proves frustrating in good lighting.

In addition to the speed increases thanks to the higher frame rate and image detection, the update will also aim to bring picture quality increases. These will come in the form of changes to the device's autofocus, exposure, and white balance, as well as reduced motion blur. The menu interface will also see a slight streamlining, including a new progress indicator for the HDR+ mode.

As for timing, Burke stated that the update will be rolling out over the next few days. Be sure to check back here at the XDA Portal for captured OTA update links and images. What are your thoughts on these new camera improvements? What do you think of the Nexus 5′s camera overall? Be sure to share your thoughts in the comments below.

[Source: The Verge]

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Android 4.3 (Now XXUGMK6) Update Resumes for the International Galaxy S III

No, it's not Android 4.4 KitKat, but it's a step in the right direction—one that was started a little over a month ago. You may remember that not too long ago Samsung pulled the Android 4.3 that was rolling out to the International Galaxy S III. This was the same XXUGMMJ9 firmware that was initially shared as a leaked build, and then became official two days later. Unfortunately, the previous build had quite a few bugs, including wake up lag, random freezing, battery drain, Bluetooth audio issues, stuttering music playback, freezes, poor multitasking, and WiFi issues. In other words, it was a clear demonstration of Murphy's Law.

Now, the next chapter in the Android 4.3 update saga for the Galaxy S III is here, thanks to the new XXUGMK6 update for the device. The update brings several key improvements such as reduced lag, camera enhancements, improved battery life, and support for Galaxy Gear. And for those wondering, just like the previous official XXUGMJ9 build, this appears to not feature Samsung's KNOX technology.

The update should arrive OTA to stock devices, but it can also be manually installed via Kies. To learn more, visit the Android 4.3 Discussion Thread for the Galaxy S III. The fun starts around page 181, with users sharing their (largely positive) experiences with the new firmware.

[Photo courtesy of Neil Carless on Facebook]

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