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Working on something big May 31, 2010

Posted by David in : Technology , add a comment

I have always wanted to be a blogger, but have always had issues with the idea of not fully owning my blog. WordPress is great and something I plan to use for some time to come, I am currently in the process of taking this to the next level and moving my blog (still word press) to my own domain.

I am currently waiting for the DNS to propagate and then I will be doing some set up, but look for this blog to be moved to BrainSparks.net

Sushi – An Android app review May 3, 2010

Posted by David in : Android, App Reviews , add a comment

Main ScreenSushi from Amazing Droid says it is designed for sushi lovers and first timers alike. And frankly I have no reason to disagree. The has a simple designed meant to help the user learn more about what they are about to put in their mouth.

For the sushi lovers it gives you some background on the dishes that you may not have known and for first time it gives you an idea of what you can expect when tasting the item.

The app boosts a large number of the items having pictures to go along with the information. As well as the ability to search for certain rolls which is invaluable when you sushi partner is trying to get you to try something new. You can also add the rolls to your own favorites list so next time you goto your favorite sushi bar you can order exactly what you want.

Pro:

Cons:

Final verdict:

If you have been talked into eating sushi for the first time or if you are a hard core sushi fan this app is good, but if you are more of a casual sushi eater this app wont help you find something new and often times will leave with the feeling that you are missing something. For now I will uninstall.

Handcent: The replacement message app you have been looking for May 2, 2010

Posted by David in : Android, App Reviews , 1 comment so far

Handcent: The replacement message app you have been looking for.

Handcent is a powerful SMS and MMS app that replaces the lack luster stock messaging client. It offers an impressive array of customization options not found anywhere else. With feature ranging from the choice of over 20 notification icons and the option to set custom ringtones for each contact, to some of the best privacy options I have seen. You can also blacklist people so that any message they send you is not sent to notifications or even make it so it is not even seen in your message list.

By default Handcent comes with three font choices; Big, Normal (default) and small. However if you want more choice they do offer four addition font packages you can download for free in the market place, each adding a number of different font styles to choose from.

One feature that I found extremely useful was popup notification with quick reply. This feature makes it possible to read and reply to a text message you receive without opening up Handcent. As with the rest of the app this option is fully customizable and can be turn off completely if you want. Sadly you cannot turn this feature on or off based on each contact without turn notifications for that contact off all together.

Handcent is free but does have ads in the various setting menus.

Pros:

Needs improvements

Final Verdict: Handcent is what the stock message app should have been, highly customizable and nice to look at. With the price point of free and small ads limited to only the menu, you owe it to yourself to give Handcent a try.