Android distribution still sad, some Samsung 2013 rumors and more

By RyanKamauff

This Google drawing shows the next evolution of Android, Key Lime Pie

Here are the top mobile news and stories of the day.

• Android Distribution Numbers Updated for December – Same Gingerbread Story, Just Another Month – The most recent Android Developers numbers show just over 33% of all Android devices at the 4.x level of operating system. 10% are still on Froyo (2.2.x) and over 50 still on Gingerbread (2.3.x). This would be similar to the same number of iPhones on iOS 4 or 5 (which they are most certainly not). As Android continues to get better, only the top percentage is receiving the benefits of these updates. Via Droid-Life, more here.
• Apple opens iTunes Music Store in 56 new countries, four get movies too – As Apple’s iTunes gets larger, it can greatly increase Apple’s revenues. As iDevices are available in more and more countries, it will be interesting to see how Apple changes pricing schemes. Via Engadget, more here.
• Fresh rumors from Korea confirms new devices! – SamMobile has been tipped off to some new rumors. They include the Galaxy S4, which would have a 1080p 5.0″ screen. They might create a basic, Note II, and a 13.3″ tablet with QWERTY dock. Via SamMobile, more here.
• ComScore: As ‘dumbphones’ fade away, Apple is now the #2 phone manufacturer in the US – In the past quarter, Apple has taken over as the #2 phone manufacturer. This is indicative of more users ditching ‘dumbphones’ for smartphones. Samsung is still #1 with over 25% of total sales. Apple is now up to 17.8%. Via 9to5Mac, more here.
• Nokia Siemens Networks sells off its optical business, swings focus to LTE – Nokia Siemens Networks is selling all of its fiber business to Marlin Equity Partners. NSN is moving to focus on LTE networks instead. Via Engadget, more here.
• Gmail improves for recent Android devices; old versions need not apply – Gmail has been updated for Android 4.x. The biggest improvement is pinch-to-zoom on any device. This feature is excellent, yet the OS is just getting more and more fragmented. Via GigaOM, more here.

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