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Splashtop Remote Desktop – The Marriage of Computer and Android
Tested version: 1.6.0.4
Latest version: 1.6.6.4
Requires Android: from 2.2
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Summary
Ever thought about what Windows or OS X might look like on an Android device? A lot of Android users were fantasising about having Windows 8 on their tablets, after the Windows 8 launch, that is. Well, stop dreaming and smell the, erm, window cleaner? Just kidding… But still, check out Splashtop Remote Desktop, it will make your Windows 8-meets-Android dreams come true!
Features & Use
Test device: LG Optimus Speed / 2x
Android version: 2.3.4
Mods: Root
Let me backstep a bit: some of your Windows 8-meets-Android dreams may partially come true, the condition being that you have a PC or Mac that runs Windows OS X with the installed Splashtop Streamer. The streamer programme is free of charge.
Once it’s set up on your computer (doesn’t take more than a few minutes to do so), and you’ve chosen a password you can pretty much get going!
As long as the Android device is in the same network as the computer, the latter will be regocnised within seconds. After you’ve selected the computer, the app will ask you for the security code.
Once this has been entered it takes but a few seconds to connect. Then come some instructions; for this app tapping on the screen is the same as a mouse click.
There’s a pinch-to-zoom option in case you wish to enlarge or reduce the screen.
I was quite impressed by how easy it is to scroll through the web browser: rather than having to run your finger along the scroll bar, you can simply scroll through the display using two fingers.
Accessing the keyboard is also an option: just hit the small symbol in the lower right corner of the display and special keys pop up at the top of the display, whereas the regular keyboard takes over the lower part.
The display doesn’t get covered up, but rather shifted to the top, meaning you have to scroll—ah, the limitations of small screen devices.
Splashtop Streamer changes the computer’s resolution so that most of the text can be read without having to zoom. This is contingent on having a device with a relatively large screen.
I found the telecontrols to be top notch: fast, efficient and quick to react. You can even watch videos, seeing as audio is also broadcasted, in sync! (This works best when using your own network.)
So now you can lie on your sofa and watch all the films you’ve got saved to your computer—ah, bliss.
The same goes for playing (not too big) games, accessing your music and editing documents.
There’s an HD version for tablets that can stream 1280x720, though unfortunately this version is quite pricey and only runs on tablets.
Splashtop runs not only via your own network, but also the internet. In order to do so, enter you Google account data in the streamer and the app. Keep in mind that the performance will depend on the internet connection. HSDPA is sufficient in most cases, UMTS being the meekest connection you need and Wi-Fi the best. The performance will also depend on your computer’s connectivity.
Bottom line:
Splashtop Remote Desktop runs very well, even via a mobile connection—but do keep in mind that the data consumption is very high.
I’ve been used this app almost on a daily basis—I’m very impressed by the app’s speed!
Screen & Controls
Setting the app up is easy, and the same goes for controls. I love the scrolling gesture in particular. The system software is basically transformed into a touch-system, which is a good thing. Really great controls, Splashtop Remote Desktop!
Speed & Stability
The developers have clearly done an amazing job when it comes to the application’s speed: yes, it is contingent on the connection, but it performs beautifully even when using a normal 3G connection. Brilliant!
Splashtop Remote Desktop has not crashed on me once, and I’ve been using it very regularly.
Price/Performance Ratio
Splashtop Remote Desktop is currently available for 0,73 €, which is an absolute steal and truly worthy of a five star rating—however, I’m rating the usual price, which is 9,99 US$. Now, that’s a lot if you ask me – too much, some might say. That said, I bought the app at the full price and haven’t regretted it, so I’m awarding it four stars in this category. It's 90% off at the moment though, so get it while it's hot!
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the google market have a update verision 1.6.6.4.but app center no this update.if i only use my paid version with no update?