A compact, clip-on microphone designed to be used with Android gadgets facilitates clear audio recording and transmission. These microphones usually join by way of the system’s 3.5mm audio jack or USB-C port, providing enhanced sound high quality in comparison with built-in smartphone microphones. Use circumstances embody interviews, shows, vlogging, and cellular journalism the place improved audio constancy is essential.
The utilization of exterior microphones addresses limitations inherent in cellular system audio seize. They enhance signal-to-noise ratio, scale back ambient sounds, and supply constant audio ranges, thereby enhancing the general listening expertise. Traditionally, skilled audio recording relied on cumbersome tools. The appearance of compact, device-compatible microphones democratized audio manufacturing, enabling high-quality recording on the go.
The following dialogue will deal with key components to think about when deciding on an acceptable microphone, together with connection kind, polar sample, construct high quality, and compatibility. Moreover, the evaluation will embody optimum utilization practices to maximise audio recording efficiency and decrease potential points.
1. Connectivity
The “Connectivity” of a lapel microphone profoundly impacts its usability and audio high quality when used with Android gadgets. The connection kind dictates compatibility and sign switch methodology, instantly affecting the benefit of use and the potential for audio constancy. Principal connection choices embody the three.5mm TRRS (Tip-Ring-Ring-Sleeve) audio jack and the USB-C port. Microphones using the three.5mm jack are extensively suitable throughout older and a few newer Android gadgets; nonetheless, the analog sign is prone to electromagnetic interference. Microphones that use the USB-C port leverage digital audio switch, decreasing the probability of sign degradation and sometimes providing enhanced options equivalent to acquire management and monitoring capabilities. For example, high-quality digital microphones designed for broadcast usually make the most of USB-C to make sure clear, uncompromised audio seize from suitable Android telephones.
The number of a particular connectivity methodology additionally includes pragmatic issues. Many modern Android telephones have omitted the three.5mm audio jack, rendering these microphones unusable with out an adapter, introducing an additional level of failure and potential audio high quality loss. In distinction, USB-C microphones are instantly suitable with these gadgets, although older telephones could require an adapter for performance. Energy supply can also be a pertinent side. Microphones with USB-C connectivity can doubtlessly draw energy from the Android system, eliminating the necessity for an inner battery. Nevertheless, this may affect the cellphone’s battery life. Conversely, 3.5mm microphones usually require a separate energy supply. An actual-world instance illustrating that is the sphere reporter who wants dependable audio in varied environments; deciding on a USB-C microphone paired with an influence financial institution supplies each assured connectivity and steady energy, whatever the location.
In abstract, the selection of connection kind, whether or not 3.5mm or USB-C, represents a pivotal think about figuring out the general efficiency and practicality of a lapel microphone system when used with Android gadgets. A cautious analysis of system compatibility, audio high quality necessities, and energy administration is crucial for attaining optimum audio recording outcomes. Moreover, the market developments strongly counsel a continued shift in the direction of USB-C because the prevalent connectivity commonplace, encouraging customers to issue future system compatibility into their buying choices.
2. Polar Sample
The polar sample of a microphone defines its sensitivity to sound from completely different instructions. Within the context of microphones for Android gadgets, the polar sample considerably impacts the standard and readability of recorded audio, particularly in assorted acoustic environments. Collection of the suitable polar sample enhances give attention to the specified sound supply whereas minimizing undesirable background noise.
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Omnidirectional Polar Sample
An omnidirectional microphone captures sound equally from all instructions. Whereas helpful for capturing ambient sound or a number of audio system, it’s usually unsuitable for environments with vital background noise when paired with Android gadgets. For example, recording an interview in a busy road would end in distinguished ambient noise ranges, negating the benefit of a close-proximity lapel microphone.
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Cardioid Polar Sample
A cardioid microphone is most delicate to sound originating from the entrance, with diminished sensitivity to sounds from the edges and rear. This sample successfully isolates the speaker’s voice, minimizing undesirable background noise, making it advantageous to be used with Android gadgets in reasonably noisy settings. Instance functions embody recording shows or voiceovers the place a give attention to the topic’s speech is paramount.
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Hypercardioid and Supercardioid Polar Patterns
Hypercardioid and supercardioid microphones provide even narrower pickup patterns than cardioid, additional isolating the sound supply. These are fitted to Android-based recording in significantly noisy environments, requiring exact microphone placement. For instance, in a commerce present setting, a hypercardioid microphone minimizes surrounding conversations, focusing solely on the speaker instantly in entrance of the Android system’s digital camera.
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Bidirectional Polar Sample
A bidirectional microphone picks up sound from the entrance and rear whereas rejecting sound from the edges. Whereas much less widespread with lapel microphones for Android, it might be helpful in interview settings the place two people are going through one another, although cautious positioning is crucial to take care of balanced audio ranges.
The selection of polar sample is a important resolution level when deciding on a lapel microphone for Android gadgets. An atmosphere evaluation is crucial; quieter, managed environments could allow omnidirectional microphones, whereas louder, uncontrolled settings necessitate cardioid, hypercardioid, or supercardioid patterns to realize acceptable audio constancy. The person should take into account the atmosphere the place the audio can be recorded and decide the optimum directionality to isolate the specified sound supply, thereby maximizing the audio high quality captured on the Android system.
3. Cable Size
Cable size is a important specification for lapel microphones utilized with Android gadgets, instantly influencing person mobility and the sensible software of the recording setup. An inadequately brief cable restricts motion, doubtlessly hindering the speaker or interviewer. Conversely, an excessively lengthy cable introduces the chance of entanglement, obstruction, and sign degradation as a result of elevated electrical resistance. For instance, a journalist conducting an interview in a crowded atmosphere with a microphone cable that’s too brief could also be unable to take care of optimum proximity to the interviewee, compromising audio readability. A cable that’s too lengthy, nonetheless, would possibly snag on objects or change into a tripping hazard, disrupting the recording course of.
Optimum cable size is contingent on the meant use case. Displays from a set podium require much less cable size than cellular interviews or video blogs performed in assorted places. The bodily distance between the Android system (usually held or mounted on a tripod) and the speaker/topic dictates the suitable size. Wi-fi microphone methods circumvent the cable size limitation, however introduce considerations concerning battery life, potential interference, and elevated price. A content material creator recording strolling excursions utilizing an Android cellphone requires a balanced cable size, lengthy sufficient to permit for comfy motion and cellphone dealing with, but brief sufficient to keep away from extreme cable slack and potential entanglement.
In abstract, cable size represents a vital design parameter in lapel microphones for Android gadgets, influencing usability, comfort, and recording high quality. Collection of an applicable cable size necessitates cautious consideration of the meant recording atmosphere and the diploma of mobility required. Compromises between cable size and potential drawbacks, equivalent to entanglement or sign degradation, should be weighed to make sure optimum efficiency and a streamlined person expertise. The rising development of wi-fi methods affords a mitigation technique for cable size limitations, though these include their very own set of trade-offs.
4. Construct High quality
The construct high quality of a lapel microphone considerably influences its sturdiness, reliability, and total efficiency when used with Android gadgets. Sturdy development ensures the microphone can stand up to the pains of subject use, together with potential impacts, publicity to environmental components, and repeated connection/disconnection. Conversely, subpar supplies and meeting strategies result in untimely failure, compromised audio high quality, and a diminished return on funding. For example, a microphone with a poorly shielded cable is prone to electromagnetic interference, leading to undesirable noise in recordings. A flimsy clip could break simply, rendering the microphone unusable. A microphone meant for cellular journalism requires a better degree of construct high quality in comparison with one used solely in a managed studio atmosphere. The correlation between construct high quality and product lifespan is especially important in skilled contexts the place tools failure can disrupt workflow and incur monetary losses.
Past primary sturdiness, construct high quality impacts the consistency of audio efficiency. Microphones with well-engineered capsules and circuitry preserve their frequency response and sensitivity over time, delivering dependable and predictable outcomes. This consistency is paramount for professionals who depend on correct audio seize for duties equivalent to voiceovers, podcasting, and subject recordings. A microphone constructed with high-quality parts is much less susceptible to growing points like distortion, dropouts, or uneven frequency response, all of which might necessitate pricey post-production enhancing and even re-recording. For instance, a documentary filmmaker counting on a strong microphone avoids the chance of capturing unusable audio throughout essential interviews or environmental recordings, saving time and assets.
In abstract, the construct high quality of a lapel microphone is just not merely an aesthetic consideration however a basic determinant of its performance, lifespan, and worth. Prioritizing microphones constructed with sturdy supplies, strong connectors, and dependable inner parts ensures constant audio efficiency, minimizes the chance of kit failure, and in the end contributes to higher-quality audio recordings on Android gadgets. The preliminary funding in a well-built microphone pays dividends by way of its longevity, reliability, and professional-grade audio output, making it a worthwhile consideration for each novice {and professional} customers alike.
5. Sound High quality
Sound high quality constitutes a paramount attribute of a lapel microphone designed for Android gadgets. The effectiveness of such a microphone hinges on its capability to seize audio with readability, constancy, and minimal distortion. Poor sound high quality undermines the aim of utilizing an exterior microphone, negating the benefits over the built-in microphone throughout the Android system itself. Components influencing sound high quality embody frequency response, signal-to-noise ratio, complete harmonic distortion (THD), and sensitivity. A microphone with a flat frequency response precisely reproduces the audio spectrum, whereas a excessive signal-to-noise ratio ensures that the specified audio sign predominates over background noise. Low THD signifies minimal added distortion, preserving the integrity of the unique sound. Excessive sensitivity permits the microphone to seize refined audio nuances. For example, an interviewer utilizing a low-quality microphone on an Android system could seize muffled speech obscured by ambient noise, rendering the recording unusable. The sound high quality is the defining parameter of any audio enter system.
Conversely, a high-quality lapel microphone enhances the audio expertise significantly. Clear audio is important for actions equivalent to vlogging, cellular journalism, on-line conferencing, and voice recording. In vlogging, the place visible content material is paired with narration, superior sound high quality enhances viewer engagement and professionalism. A journalist utilizing a directional lapel microphone captures centered audio amidst background noise, enhancing the readability of interviews and reviews. On-line conferencing advantages from clear audio transmission, enabling individuals to speak successfully with out misunderstandings. In voice recording functions, exact audio seize permits for correct transcription and voice recognition. A concrete instance includes a scholar utilizing a lapel microphone for lecture recording. A high-quality microphone ensures that the lecturer’s phrases are captured distinctly, facilitating efficient note-taking and evaluation. Sound high quality is the deciding issue of high quality manufacturing.
In abstract, the sound high quality of a lapel microphone for Android gadgets instantly impacts its usefulness and worth. Prioritizing microphones with superior sound traits ensures optimum audio seize, resulting in enhanced communication, improved content material creation, and better person satisfaction. Though a number of components contribute to total microphone efficiency, sound high quality stays essentially the most important consideration. Challenges embody precisely assessing microphone specs, understanding the interaction between microphone traits and recording environments, and deciding on a microphone that successfully balances sound high quality, options, and value. The underlying function of the microphone is enhanced high quality.
6. Gadget Compatibility
Gadget compatibility constitutes a major constraint within the efficient software of lapel microphones for Android gadgets. Disparities in {hardware} and software program architectures amongst Android gadgets instantly affect the flexibility to seamlessly combine with exterior audio enter peripherals. The bodily connection interface, whether or not a 3.5mm TRRS jack or a USB-C port, dictates the preliminary degree of compatibility. An Android system missing a suitable port necessitates the usage of adapters, which might introduce latency, sign degradation, and extra factors of failure. Moreover, the Android working system model and the system producer’s implementation of audio drivers can have an effect on the popularity and performance of the linked microphone. For instance, sure older Android gadgets could not absolutely assist exterior microphones, limiting their use to recording solely by way of the built-in microphone regardless of the exterior microphone being bodily linked. Consequently, understanding the system’s particular audio enter capabilities is important earlier than deciding on a lapel microphone.
Software program functions put in on the Android system additionally play a job in figuring out microphone compatibility. Some recording functions could not acknowledge or correctly make the most of exterior microphones, defaulting as an alternative to the system’s inner microphone. This limitation is steadily encountered with functions that haven’t been up to date to assist exterior audio enter gadgets or that prioritize proprietary audio processing algorithms. Actual-world eventualities highlighting this challenge embody cellular journalists trying to make use of an exterior microphone with a information reporting software that doesn’t adequately assist exterior audio sources, ensuing within the inadvertent seize of low-quality audio. Equally, video bloggers using digital camera functions with restricted audio enter choices could discover their exterior microphone rendered ineffective. The dearth of compatibility also can lengthen to particular microphone options, equivalent to acquire management or directional settings, which is probably not accessible or useful throughout the Android system’s software program atmosphere.
In abstract, system compatibility represents a multifaceted problem when utilizing lapel microphones with Android gadgets. Bodily connection compatibility is a prerequisite, however software program compatibility and driver assist are equally essential. Android customers should confirm their system’s specs and check the meant microphone with their most popular recording functions to make sure seamless integration and optimum audio seize. The rising prevalence of USB-C ports in newer Android gadgets indicators a shift in the direction of improved compatibility, however ongoing fragmentation throughout the Android ecosystem necessitates diligent compatibility checks earlier than buying and deploying exterior audio enter gadgets. This proactive strategy avoids potential frustrations and ensures the belief of the anticipated audio high quality enhancements.
7. Energy Supply
The ability supply represents a important, and sometimes neglected, side of lapel microphones meant to be used with Android gadgets. The operational capabilities and reliability of such microphones hinge instantly upon the provision of a constant and applicable energy provide. Understanding the assorted energy supply choices and their implications is crucial for optimizing audio recording efficiency and guaranteeing seamless integration with Android gadgets.
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Plug-in Energy (PiP)
Many lapel microphones designed for Android gadgets depend on Plug-in Energy (PiP), often known as bias energy, equipped by the Android system itself by way of the three.5mm TRRS audio jack. Whereas handy, PiP has limitations. The voltage offered is commonly low and inconsistent throughout completely different Android gadgets, doubtlessly affecting microphone sensitivity and frequency response. Moreover, draining energy from the system can negatively affect its battery life. For example, extended recording classes utilizing a PiP-powered microphone could end in untimely battery depletion of the Android cellphone, interrupting the recording course of. Microphones that depend on PiP could not perform appropriately with gadgets that present inadequate voltage.
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Battery Energy
Some lapel microphones incorporate an inner battery (usually button cell or AA/AAA) to offer their very own energy supply. This strategy affords better consistency in efficiency, because the microphone is just not reliant on the Android system’s energy provide. Battery-powered microphones usually ship a stronger, cleaner sign in comparison with PiP microphones. Nevertheless, they introduce the inconvenience of battery alternative or recharging and add to the microphone’s total measurement and weight. A reporter utilizing a battery-powered microphone for a subject interview should be certain that the battery is satisfactorily charged earlier than commencing the recording to keep away from shedding essential audio information. The inclusion of battery energy usually comes at a slight improve in worth and measurement.
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USB Energy
Lapel microphones connecting to Android gadgets by way of USB-C can doubtlessly draw energy instantly from the system by way of the USB port. This affords a steady and constant energy provide, avoiding the constraints of PiP. Moreover, USB-C microphones can usually incorporate superior options equivalent to acquire management and real-time monitoring, which require further energy. The first downside is the drain on the Android system’s battery life, significantly throughout prolonged recording classes. Connecting a USB-powered microphone to an Android pill for a number of hours of voice recording would possibly considerably scale back the pill’s operational time. Nevertheless, some USB-C microphones might also provide the choice to be powered by an exterior USB energy supply, mitigating the affect on the Android system’s battery.
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Exterior Energy Adapter
In sure specialised eventualities, a lapel microphone could also be powered by way of an exterior energy adapter linked in-line between the microphone and the Android system. This configuration is usually employed when the microphone requires a better voltage than the Android system can present or when minimizing battery drain is paramount. Nevertheless, this strategy will increase the complexity of the setup and reduces portability, making it much less appropriate for cellular recording functions. For example, knowledgeable audio engineer recording voiceovers in a managed atmosphere could go for an exterior energy adapter to make sure optimum microphone efficiency and decrease interference with the Android system’s operation.
The selection of energy supply for a lapel microphone basically shapes its usability and efficiency when paired with Android gadgets. PiP affords comfort however may be unreliable. Battery energy supplies independence however necessitates upkeep. USB energy affords stability at the price of system battery life. An exterior adapter supplies final management however sacrifices portability. Finally, the optimum energy supply is determined by the precise recording software, the Android system’s capabilities, and the person’s priorities concerning comfort, reliability, and energy administration.
8. Wind Noise
Wind noise presents a big obstacle to audio seize when utilizing lapel microphones with Android gadgets, particularly in out of doors environments. Its mitigation is essential for acquiring clear and usable recordings.
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Aerodynamic Interference
Wind impacting the microphone diaphragm instantly generates undesirable low-frequency rumble and hiss. This interference overwhelms the meant audio sign, decreasing intelligibility. For example, out of doors interviews performed with unprotected microphones change into unusable as a result of extreme wind noise. The issue is exacerbated by the small measurement and uncovered nature of lapel microphones.
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Protecting Measures: Windscreens and Windshields
Windscreens, usually constructed from open-cell foam, and windshields, usually using furry or artificial supplies, bodily impede airflow throughout the microphone. These equipment attenuate wind noise whereas preserving the specified audio frequencies. A journalist utilizing a furry windshield on a windy day considerably improves the audio high quality of their report.
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Microphone Placement and Orientation
Strategic microphone placement can decrease wind publicity. Positioning the microphone underneath clothes or behind a pure barrier reduces direct wind affect. Orienting the microphone away from the prevailing wind route additionally mitigates noise. A videographer concealing a lapel microphone underneath a shirt reduces wind noise with out compromising audio readability.
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Digital Noise Discount Strategies
Put up-processing strategies, equivalent to equalization and noise discount algorithms, can scale back wind noise in recorded audio. Nevertheless, these strategies usually introduce artifacts and might degrade total audio high quality. Whereas digital noise discount can salvage marginally affected recordings, it isn’t an alternative to correct wind safety throughout seize. Over-reliance on digital noise discount could render the audio unnatural or distorted.
The interaction of those components dictates the success of audio recording with lapel microphones on Android gadgets in windy situations. Implementing bodily boundaries and using cautious microphone placement symbolize preventative methods. Though digital post-processing affords corrective choices, it’s best used as a supplementary measure slightly than a major resolution. Efficient administration of wind noise ensures the supply of high-quality audio recordings.
Ceaselessly Requested Questions
The next questions deal with widespread considerations and misconceptions concerning the choice, use, and troubleshooting of lapel microphones with Android gadgets. These insights goal to offer readability and help in optimizing audio recording efficiency.
Query 1: Is a devoted lapel microphone really vital for Android gadgets, given their built-in microphones?
A devoted lapel microphone affords superior audio high quality in comparison with built-in microphones. It improves the signal-to-noise ratio, reduces ambient noise, and supplies constant audio ranges, particularly helpful in environments the place readability is paramount.
Query 2: What connection kind, 3.5mm or USB-C, is preferable for lapel microphones used with Android gadgets?
USB-C is usually preferable as a result of its digital audio switch capabilities, diminished susceptibility to interference, and potential for enhanced options. Nevertheless, compatibility is contingent on the Android system possessing a USB-C port. 3.5mm affords broader compatibility, however depends on an analog sign doubtlessly susceptible to interference.
Query 3: Does the polar sample of a lapel microphone considerably affect its efficiency with an Android system?
Sure, the polar sample basically shapes the microphone’s sensitivity to sound from completely different instructions. Cardioid or hypercardioid patterns are really useful for noisy environments to isolate the specified audio supply, whereas omnidirectional patterns are appropriate for managed, quieter settings.
Query 4: How can wind noise be successfully minimized when utilizing a lapel microphone with an Android system outside?
Using a windscreen or windshield is important. These equipment bodily block wind from impacting the microphone diaphragm. Strategic microphone placement underneath clothes or behind pure boundaries additionally helps mitigate wind noise.
Query 5: Is it potential to enhance audio recorded with a lapel microphone on an Android system by way of post-processing?
Put up-processing strategies, equivalent to noise discount and equalization, can enhance marginally affected audio. Nevertheless, these strategies shouldn’t be thought-about an alternative to correct recording strategies and applicable tools. Over-reliance on post-processing can degrade total audio high quality.
Query 6: What position does the Android system’s working system play in lapel microphone compatibility?
The Android working system, together with the system producer’s audio drivers, impacts the popularity and performance of the linked microphone. Older gadgets could not absolutely assist exterior microphones or superior options. It’s advisable to check the microphone with the meant recording software.
In abstract, optimizing the efficiency of lapel microphones with Android gadgets requires a complete understanding of things starting from connection kind and polar sample to wind noise mitigation and system compatibility. Adherence to finest practices ensures the seize of high-quality audio.
The following article part will discover superior audio recording strategies for Android gadgets, together with acquire staging, monitoring, and the usage of exterior audio interfaces.
Optimizing Lapel Microphone Utilization on Android Units
The following ideas are designed to maximise audio seize high quality when using lapel microphones with Android gadgets. Cautious adherence to those practices enhances the constancy and readability of recorded audio.
Tip 1: Prioritize Correct Microphone Placement:
Exact positioning of the microphone is paramount. Safe the microphone roughly six to eight inches under the speaker’s chin, guaranteeing it’s centered to seize clear and balanced audio. Keep away from placement close to clothes that will trigger friction and introduce undesirable noise.
Tip 2: Choose the Acceptable Polar Sample:
The polar sample ought to align with the recording atmosphere. Cardioid or hypercardioid microphones are fitted to environments with ambient noise, specializing in the first sound supply. Omnidirectional microphones are applicable for managed environments with minimal background noise.
Tip 3: Implement Wind Noise Mitigation Methods:
When recording outside, make use of a windscreen or windshield to reduce wind-induced interference. These equipment bodily impede airflow throughout the microphone diaphragm, decreasing undesirable low-frequency noise.
Tip 4: Monitor Audio Ranges Throughout Recording:
Make the most of headphones to watch audio ranges in actual time. This enables for changes to microphone acquire or speaker positioning, stopping clipping and guaranteeing optimum audio ranges all through the recording.
Tip 5: Guarantee Safe Cable Administration:
Correctly handle the microphone cable to stop entanglement and unintentional disconnection. Safe the cable to clothes or a steady floor to reduce motion and potential disruptions.
Tip 6: Confirm Gadget Compatibility:
Affirm that the Android system and recording software absolutely assist the exterior microphone. Check the microphone earlier than commencing important recordings to make sure correct performance and optimum audio seize.
Tip 7: Tackle Potential Energy Supply Points:
When utilizing microphones counting on plug-in energy, make sure the Android system supplies sufficient voltage. Battery-powered microphones necessitate charged batteries. USB-powered microphones could affect the Android system’s battery life.
By implementing these strategies, customers can successfully improve the audio high quality of lapel microphones when employed with Android gadgets, leading to professional-grade recordings.
The concluding part will synthesize the important thing insights offered all through this dialogue, offering a complete overview of optimizing the usage of lapel microphones for Android gadgets.
Conclusion
The previous dialogue explored important issues for efficient utilization of a lapel microphone for Android gadgets. Key areas of focus included connectivity choices, polar patterns, construct high quality, energy supply necessities, and mitigation methods for wind noise. The evaluation additionally underscored the significance of guaranteeing system compatibility and implementing optimum utilization strategies to maximise audio constancy.
Choice and applicable deployment of a lapel microphone instantly influences the standard and professionalism of audio recordings made on Android platforms. It’s incumbent upon customers to carefully consider their recording atmosphere, system capabilities, and particular audio wants to pick the optimum microphone resolution. Additional analysis into superior audio recording strategies and evolving microphone applied sciences will undoubtedly yield continued enhancements in audio seize on Android gadgets.
