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Android 1.5 update available today gives users video filming

Posted by Katherine Hannaford on Wed 6 May 2009

The latest software upgrade packs an Android-shaped punch for Google

Any of the 100,000 people in the UK who have bought an Android G1 handset are in for a big surprise today, with update 1.5 offering video filming, a newly-redesigned messaging service, and a sparkling new Gmail to name just a few features.

 

- Android G1 review

 

It takes a minute to update, with most G1 phones doing it automatically. The video filming feature is called 'camcorder', and is extremely easy to use, with a little film logo in the bottom right corner, which once touched, will start recording. The previously-shot footage will be displayed in a little window in the top right corner.

 

Videos can now be played in MPEG-4 and 3GP format, and uploaded quickly with the new 'share' button, which will let you send your videos via Gmail, SMS (though we wouldn't recommend it), and YouTube. You can add a title, description and tags to the YouTube file before uploading.

 

Google is also pushing its Picasa photo sharing website on Android users, with all photos now able to be uploaded to Picasa with a caption, and can be added to specific albums if needed.

 

Messaging has been given an overhaul, with a cleaner feel, and the addition of an on-screen keyboard, so you don't have to yank the qwerty keyboard out. It works well, with predictive text options being offered. Gmail's 'archive', 'labels' and 'delete' tabs are permanent floating fixtures on the email screen now, instead of residing down the bottom like the previous update offered.

 

Update 1.5 for Android G1 handsets is available from today, and is being rolled out on handsets over the next few weeks. HTC Magic mobiles, which went on sale last Friday, have all these features out of the box.

 

Link: T-Mobile Android G1

 

 

HTC Magic review

The second generation Android phone is here minus the slide out QWERTY keyboard, but is it any good?

- Find out in our full review and video here