Top 5 eBook Apps for Android

Android phones and tablets are excellent devices for eBook reading. You can get free apps for your Android device that you can use to read your eBooks from the major sources including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Kobo. You can also read eBooks on Android that you download from any other store. Below are the top 5 most popular eBook apps for Android.

1. Amazon Kindle Android App

The Kindle App for Android lets you read all of your Kindle eBooks on an Android device, even if you don't own a Kindle eReader. If you do have a Kindle, you can read your eBooks on both the Kindle and Android device. Your reading progress will be synced between the devices with Amazon's "Whispersinc" technology. Like the Kindle itself and other Kindle apps, you can access free content and download eBooks for $9.99.

Download: Search for "Kindle" in the Android Market.

Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 1.6 or higher.

eBooks Supported: Amazon Kindle eBooks in the AZW format that are only sold at Amazon.com.

2. Barnes & Noble Nook Android App

The Android Nook App from Barnes & Noble lets you read all of the Nook eBooks on your Android device without having to own a Nook eReader. Barnes & Noble's Nook system is unique in that it will let you lend content with their "LendMe" software. You can also sample any of the Nook books for free before you buy.

Download: Search for "NOOK" in the Android Market.

Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 1.6 or higher.

eBooks Supported: If you want to read using the Nook App, then you should get eBooks from Barnes & Noble's Nook store.

3. Sony Reader Android App

The Sony Reader Android app comes pre-loaded with three classic titles and three excerpts from bestselling eBooks. You can sync your reading position, bookmarks, and highlights to Reader Daily Edition (PRS-950SC with firmware 2.0). Like the other apps, you can also read Sony Reader eBooks even if you don't have a Sony Reader.

Download: Search for "Sony Reader" in the Android Market.

Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 2.2 or higher.

eBooks Supported: If you want to read Sony Reader eBooks on your Android device, get them from Sony's "Reader Store".

4. Kobo eReader Android App

With the Kobo Android app, you can buy eBooks from inside the app and download them directly to your phone. Take your entire library with you on the go. You can find all of your favorite titles and authors in Kobo's large eBook selection.

Download: Search for "Kobo" in the Android Market.

Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 1.6 or higher.

eBooks Supported: If you want to use the Kobo Android app, you should download eBooks from the KoboBooks website.

5. Aldiko Android App

The Aldiko Android App gives eBook lovers an alternative to apps from the bigger book companies listed above. With Aldiko, you are not locked into one eBook store. Instead, you can buy eBooks from any eBook retailer that sells Adobe PDF or EPUB eBooks. You can download eBooks directly to your device without needing to use your computer. Import your own content and create your own eBook catalogs.

Download: Search "Aldiko: in the Android Market.

Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 2.1 or higher.

eBooks Supported: The Aldiko Book Reader supports Adobe-DRM ePub and PDF as well as non-encrypted ePub and PDF formats. You can get eBooks anywhere ePub and PDF eBooks are sold or available for free. You can also get eBooks from your public library (where supported).

All of these apps are solid solutions for eBook reading. Choose the one that will work best for you based on the eBook reader or mobile device that you own, and the eBooks that you've already purchased and downloaded.

Jared Scott has over ten years experience working in the eBook and e-Reader industry. His eBook Reader Software blog is updated regularly with informational posts relating to eBook software. This topic is covered in more detail at Top 5 Android eBook Apps.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jared_M._Scott

Advantages to Android Game Development

The industry of mobile game development has introduced a very important aspect to the market - the ability to conceptualize, develop, and release video games on devices with far more success and ease than ever before. And with the Android app marketplace only requiring a one-time fee for submitting an application, the cost becomes almost negligible to put the product out for millions of customers to find. Even the submission process is drastically shorter than on most other smartphones, as the app regulation is far more lenient for the Android OS.

Another drawing point for developing games on Android devices is the programming language featured- Java. Java has long been one of the most popular programming languages for video game developers, and thus makes it extremely easy for the average programmer to pick up Android development for the first time. Compared to most other mobile platforms, which usually sport modified or newly invented languages, the learning curve is decreased to nearly nothing, so a new developer can complete a game in a fraction of the time.

Another unique aspect to Android game development is the lack of standardization in the droid phone family. As the Android OS is not licensed to a single mobile phone making company, the phones themselves can vary to an extreme degree in terms of features and hardware specifications. While one device may have a fully functioning A-GPS and HDMI video compatibility, another may have a QWERTY keyboard and no GPS at all. While this is certainly appealing to some developers, as they are likely to find a phone that will meet their hardware needs precisely, it will also restrict the potential audience, as some phones will not be able to support the more complex applications.

When the game development process has finally reached the point where it can be released to the public, the developer is presented with yet another choice- which market would the game be most visible in? Unlike the iOS, there are numerous marketplaces and app stores for Android phones, each one with it's own advantages and disadvantages. From the basic Android marketplace, built to only display the apps compatible with the phone currently being used, to the Amazon app store, which offers a different free app every day, the myriad of marketing strategies can be almost daunting, which makes it all the more useful that an application can almost always be entered into multiple marketplaces without issue. However, whether it makes sense to spread attention across several different fields is another question entirely.

The Android game development process overall truly gives the most variety on the smartphone market. From start to finish, strategies can be hand-tailored to the developer's desires, making the game as close to the original concept as currently possible. While the audience may not be as large as that of iPhone users, the Android presents itself as a strong contender, purely through its accessibility. And with the largest variety of smartphones on the current market, the possibilities for development are inexhaustible, and continued releases can only add to the capabilities the platform has to offer.

Speculations on the Features of the Apple iPhone 5

Rumors about the upcoming release of the phone that will succeed the Apple iPhone 4 is spreading like wildfire. All the talk about the release of the new Apple iPhone 5 started in the first quarter of the year saying that the phone may be introduced to the market early September of this year. But up until now, there are still no sightings of the iPhone 5. Nevertheless, people continue to speculate about the features that the new mobile phone might possess.

Many speculations have come up about the mobile phones new shape. A mobile phone accessory manufacturer was alleged to have leaked out the new design that the elusive new mobile phone is going to take. Images of the accessory that was allegedly meant to be used with the iPhone 5 was published on the web for some time but now it was reportedly taken down and replaced by a different content. For this reason, many people are becoming sure that the iPhone 5 is going to be slimmer and with more rounded edges.

Although no official word has come out from Apple to confirm claims that the production of the iPhone 5 is now being escalated, many people are convinced that the iPhone 5 is going to use the iOS 5.0, a new user interface that was introduced early June. This new interface will bring more than 200 new features which will then make it the most advanced operating system ever used for a mobile phone. The iOS 5 improves default services like the notification center, iMessage, Newsstand, Reminders, and more.

The iPhone 5 is also expected to have an all-improved 8-megapixel camera with dual LED flash. More camera features are also expected from the iPhone 5 such as a preset panoramic photo-capturing feature, which lets users takes photos in sequence. Most of the high end mobiles out there are already using a 8-MP camera so the developers of iPhone 5 are expected to bring something that the market hasn't seen before.

There is also a lot of talk about the iPhone 5 having the iCloud service. The iCloud service is an advanced system of accessing music from other devices over a wireless connection. It also allows any user to access other multimedia content without having to store it in the device memory storage.

In terms of hardware, the iPhone 5 may also be using a new and more powerful processor called the A5. This type of processor is said to have twice the amount of power that the iPad 2s processor can deliver. This will make the iPhone 5 compete with all the other smartphones that have also started using a dual-core processor. A processor as powerful as the A5 will mean fast and uninterrupted browsing and more multi-tasking for the user.

Amidst all the talk about the features of the iPhone 5, people are expecting to see this new powerful device sometime in October this year. In spite of the recent resignation of former Apple CEO Steve Jobs, it's definitely safe to say that Apple is still strong and in demand by many.

Key Features of Apple iPhone 4S

Apple developers finally released another addition to its iPhone line that Apple fanatics can rave about. The new iPhone 4S is now ready to be held by consumers. Contrary to the rumors of releasing an iPhone 5, Apple came out with an improved version of the iPhone 4. Although the advancements in the new iPhone 4S may fall short for other people, the enhancements made are quite significant nonetheless.

The Apple iPhone 4S comes in black and white. Consumers can choose from 16 GB, 32 GB, and 64 GB worth of capacity. Its dimensions are almost the same as its predecessor but 4S weighs 140 grams, 3 grams heavier than the last. It also has a 3.5-inch widescreen multi-touch display. Overall, the iPhone 4S is still relatively sleek and stylish in design.

When it comes to the key features and improvements, the iPhone 4S really kicks it up a notch. Even though the new version of the iPhone is almost the same with its predecessor on a number of things, the new additions that come with the phone from Apple developers are noteworthy.

• The Dual Core A5 Chip - this enables more powerful and efficient performance from Apple iPhone 4S. It smoothens out and improves graphics for a more enhanced gaming, web browsing, and entertainment experience.
• The iOS 5 - the introduction of iOS 5 makes it easier to do a lot of things, including multitasking. It provides more than 200 features such as the notification center, iMessage, integrated Twitter, reminders, photo-editing, camera enhancements, Safari enhancements, and easy set up.
• The iCloud - this provides an easier way to manage all your files. You can sync into multiple Apple devices at once.
• Siri - this is probably one of the best improvements that Apple has done since FaceTime. Siri is your very own intelligent assistant. This feature is voice activated. You can literally ask Siri to get things done for you. You can ask it to send messages, write reminders, call people, set meetings, ask about the weather, ask for information, send an email, set an alarm, ask for a number, and a whole lot more. This innovation is certainly a great leap ahead from its predecessors and other competitors as well. Siri makes a lot of things more convenient and easy. It is a great feature that makes a smartphone really smart.
• 8-megapixel camera - the wishes of consumers have finally been heard by Apple developers. With more pixels, users can enjoy taking photos and using camera applications more. The camera is also enhanced with different features such as a larger aperture, backside illumination sensor, auto white balance, color accuracy, face detection, and reduced motion blur. Almost everything you can ask for in a camera is featured here. This is definitely a step up from its predecessor.
• Improved HD video capture - It is simply a great combination. With an 8-megapixel camera and enhanced video capturing device, iPhone 4S lets users capture moments as perfect as it can be.
• Other key improvements and features include AirPlay, FaceTime, retina display, improved antennas, and other built-in applications. All in all, the new iPhone 4S is a great smartphone that users would want to grab.

Top 5 Multiplayer Games for Android

Gaming on mobile devices is more popular than ever with the revolution of smart phones and tablet computers. You can tell by viewing the stats of the top multiplayer games for Android and iPhone that this trend is here to stay, gaming is not strictly the territory of traditional consoles and handhelds.

The ability to link up with friends and play together via mobile devices, no matter how near or far, is convenient and technologically impressive. If you haven't become addicted yet, you haven't played some of the best games out there.

Cestos

This game is played with multiple players controlling marbles. The players decide the direction and velocity of the marbles. Once all the players have locked in their route, the marbles are released all at once. The goal is to miss falling through pits or being blown up by the hidden land mines. This depends on the particular map you are using, but each game is intense, fun, and exciting. This requires a heavy amount of strategy and skill to master, but can be picked up and played by anyone.

You can customize your marble avatar, join the chat lobby and "friend" others to play. There are many avid fans of Cestos, so there is never a shortage of competition.

Parallel Kingdom

This game is a mix of strategy and role playing. You can interact with others and chat with friends.

Parallel Kingdom uses your GPS location to put you in a virtual world. This is a free game, but offers all of the fun and excitement of a paid Android app. Of course, you can buy add-ons, but the free version is exhilarating as well.

Gang Wars

Gang Wars is a fun and entertaining multiplayer game that can be used with iPhone and other Android phones. The goal is to complete jobs and each quick cash and gain experience. You can invest in properties to earn an hourly income.

Just as with any Gangsta game, you can buy weapons to gain power and fight your enemies. When you have defeated them, you can take their money and gain the respect you deserve.

Some great features are the live leaderboard rankings so you can see where you stand with other players. You can also locate other players and send shout outs to friends you play with often, although they're really your enemy when it comes to Gang Wars.

Modern Combat 2

This Call of Duty game allows up to 10 players to interact at once online in FPS action. You can choose between different player modes and move up the ranks. There are weapons to be unlocked and reward messages.

One of the best features of this game is the instant kill slow motion affect. This makes for intense gameplay with console-like effects. Modern Combat 2 is one of the most popular shooting games available.

Wordfeud

If word games are your thing, join the 130,402 (and counting) others who clicked "Like" on Facebook. Wordfeud is a kind of crossword style word game available as a free download on the Android Market.

This multiplayer word game is a challenge. Invite friends from your contact list or play against random players.

Wordfeud supports iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch, and Android 2.2, 2.1, 1.6, and 1.5.

Now that you've had a chance to review the top 5 multiplayer games for Android, go to the Android Market and download one or two to try them out. Once you start playing, it will be difficult to stop.

Top 5 eBook Apps for Android

1. Amazon Kindle Android App

The Kindle App for Android lets you read all of your Kindle eBooks on an Android device, even if you don't own a Kindle eReader. If you do have a Kindle, you can read your eBooks on both the Kindle and Android device. Your reading progress will be synced between the devices with Amazon's "Whispersinc" technology. Like the Kindle itself and other Kindle apps, you can access free content and download eBooks for $9.99.

Download: Search for "Kindle" in the Android Market.

Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 1.6 or higher.

eBooks Supported: Amazon Kindle eBooks in the AZW format that are only sold at Amazon.com.

2. Barnes & Noble Nook Android App

The Android Nook App from Barnes & Noble lets you read all of the Nook eBooks on your Android device without having to own a Nook eReader. Barnes & Noble's Nook system is unique in that it will let you lend content with their "LendMe" software. You can also sample any of the Nook books for free before you buy.

Download: Search for "NOOK" in the Android Market.

Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 1.6 or higher.

eBooks Supported: If you want to read using the Nook App, then you should get eBooks from Barnes & Noble's Nook store.

3. Sony Reader Android App

The Sony Reader Android app comes pre-loaded with three classic titles and three excerpts from bestselling eBooks. You can sync your reading position, bookmarks, and highlights to Reader Daily Edition (PRS-950SC with firmware 2.0). Like the other apps, you can also read Sony Reader eBooks even if you don't have a Sony Reader.

Download: Search for "Sony Reader" in the Android Market.

Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 2.2 or higher.

eBooks Supported: If you want to read Sony Reader eBooks on your Android device, get them from Sony's "Reader Store".

4. Kobo eReader Android App

With the Kobo Android app, you can buy eBooks from inside the app and download them directly to your phone. Take your entire library with you on the go. You can find all of your favorite titles and authors in Kobo's large eBook selection.

Download: Search for "Kobo" in the Android Market.

Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 1.6 or higher.

eBooks Supported: If you want to use the Kobo Android app, you should download eBooks from the KoboBooks website.

5. Aldiko Android App

The Aldiko Android App gives eBook lovers an alternative to apps from the bigger book companies listed above. With Aldiko, you are not locked into one eBook store. Instead, you can buy eBooks from any eBook retailer that sells Adobe PDF or EPUB eBooks. You can download eBooks directly to your device without needing to use your computer. Import your own content and create your own eBook catalogs.

Download: Search "Aldiko: in the Android Market.

Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 2.1 or higher.

eBooks Supported: The Aldiko Book Reader supports Adobe-DRM ePub and PDF as well as non-encrypted ePub and PDF formats. You can get eBooks anywhere ePub and PDF eBooks are sold or available for free. You can also get eBooks from your public library (where supported).

All of these apps are solid solutions for eBook reading. Choose the one that will work best for you based on the eBook reader or mobile device that you own, and the eBooks that you've already purchased and downloaded.