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OnePlus One invite system is a thing of the past now

Oneplus-one-003

Launched just a year ago, the OnePlus One, marketed as the “flagship killer,” could only be purchased if you had an invite. Today, OnePlus announced via their social media outlets and blog that the invite system in a thing of the past. You can now buy a OnePlus One without having to wait to get invited.

In our first big celebration of the One’s successful year, we are opening up sales globally for everyone, every day of the week. We have always wanted to put great products into the hands of more people. And, we now feel confident that we have matured enough to handle the increased complexity that comes along with opening up sales completely.

If you were expecting to hear something about the successor of the OPO aka the OnePlus 2, you’re probably disappointed as you’re reading this. But don’t get discouraged yet. The Chinese startup spilled some details about the OnePlus One 2. It will launch sometimes during the 3rd quarter of this year. Here is their statement:

we will be far more prepared to make the same transition with the OnePlus 2. Yes, the 2 will initially launch with invites. We’re committed to maintaining razor-thin margins in order to give as much value as possible back to our users, and this drastically increases our risk. The OnePlus 2 will bring the challenges that come along with a brand new product, and initially, our invite system will help us to manage that risk. It also helps us to be sure that every OnePlus 2 user gets the amazing experience that they deserve.

To celebrate the abolishment of the invite system, OnePlus is holding a 75% off sales on accessories like flip covers, screen protectors and more – the bamboo StyleSwap cover can now be bought without an invite.

via OnePlus

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HTC One M9 “Camera Update” roll out begins April 20 for T-Mobile, and April 21 for AT&T

htc-one-m9-back

You probably read it all over the news outlets. The HTC One M9 has a weak camera. HTC obviously wants to change that. They’re rolling out an update over the air to address some of the bugs that were affecting picture quality.

The Sprint and Verizon models of the M9 were first to get update which was included in their launch software. T-Mobile will follow to get the update on April 20. The AT&T M9 will get it a day later on April 21.

On top of reducing blur, HTC improved the sharpness in photos, reduced image noise and more. Here is the full changelog:

  • Reduced blur in photos thanks to enhanced exposure times
  • Increased sharpness in photos making them clear but with a less artificial feeling.
  • Reduced image noise
  • Improved low light performance and HDR processing
  • Better Auto Exposure interface performance when tapping the screen

The software version of the T-Mobile update should be 1.32.531.33 (AT&T’s is not available). Be on the look out starting tomorrow and hit up that “about’ section then software update. check out the pictures below to see the difference (top is before and bottom is after). What do you guys think?

htc-one-m9-image-update-2

 

htc-one-m9-image-update-1

Thanks Joey

 

 

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News Phones

Alcatel OneTouch Idol 3 pre-order is live for only $199

alcatel-onetouch-idol-3

Alcatel announced the affordable OneTouch Idol 3 back in Barcelona at the Mobile World Congress. Those of you who in the market for a good phone and don’t want to break the bank, can get one unlocked for $279 (MSRP). As of today, it can be yours for $200 if you pre-prder it from Amazon with free 2-day shipping if you have prime.

The Idol 3 packs a 5.5-inch 1920 x 1080 IPS display (443 ppi), 1.5GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 615 processor, 2GB of RAM, 16GB of internal memory (10GB available), microSD support (up to 128GB), 13MP rear camera, 8MP front camera and Android Lollipop. As far as carrier compatibility is concerned, here is the list:

  • AT&T
  • T-Mobile
  • MetroPCS
  • Straight Talk
  • Walmart Family Mobile
  • Net10
  • Univision
  • Many US GSM Regionals

The Alcatel OneTOuch Idol 3 will release on May 21. We’re not sure how long it will remain at this discounted price but we suggest you move fast. You can also take a look at the Amazon Fire Phone deal if your price range is around $200.

Pre-order

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Applications News

DashClock returns with Material Design update

Screenshot_2015-04-19-10-26-31 Screenshot_2015-04-19-10-21-37 Screenshot_2015-04-19-10-21-22

Roman Nurik, a design advocate at Google, launched DashClock Widget a couple of years ago. He hasn’t updated it since December of 2013. The cool thing about this widget is that it not only let you keep an eye on your emails, weather or time but it also allows you to add custom extensions for specific apps like Facebook, Twitter, flashlight and more.

We’re happy to report that Mr. Nurik has released a new version of DashClock, with Material Design in mind, dubbed 1.7 and is currently in beta. Once you add the widget to your homescreen, you can resize it or change the padding. If you have used it before, you will feel right at home. Popular apps like PushBullet are already supported in DashClock. So far only the Settings menu has been update dot Material Design.

In order to get DashClock 1.7, you need to be a part of the beta community. It is easy to join. Go this Google+ page, click on “become a tester for DashClock” and follow the instructions.

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News

NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV Console Specs

nvidia-shield-console-1

The NVIDIA SHIELD console was announced a couple of hours ago promising to set the standard as the first 4K-capable Android TV set-top box. In addition to watching TV, you can stream high quality games using the game-streaming service GRID which will be available in May when the console launches. In the meantime, here is the list of what’s powering the NVIDIA Shield.

  • Processor: NVIDIA® Tegra® X1 processor – 256-core Maxwell™ GPU with 3GB RAM
  • Video Features: 4K Ultra-HD ready with 4K playback and capture up to 60 fps (VP9, H265, H264)
  • Audio: 7.1 and 5.1 surround sound pass through over HDMI – High-resolution audio playback up to 24-bit/192 kHz over HDMI and USB – High-resolution audio up-sample to 24-bit/192 kHz over USB
  • Storage: 16 GB
  • Wireless: 802.11ac 2×2 MIMO 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi – Bluetooth 4.1/BLE
  • Interfaces: Gigabit Ethernet – HDMI 2.0 – Two USB 3.0 (Type A) – Micro-USB 2.0 – MicroSD slot – IR Receiver (compatible with Logitech Harmony)
  • Software Updates: SHIELD software upgrades directly from NVIDIA
  • Gaming Features: NVIDIA GRID™ game streaming service – NVIDIA Share – NVIDIA GameStream™
  • Power: 40 W power adapter
  • Weight: 23 oz / 654 g
  • Height: 5.1 in / 130 mm
  • Width: 8.3 in / 210 mm
  • Depth: 1.0 in / 25 mm
  • Operating System: Android TV™, Google Cast™ Ready
  • Included Apps: PLEX

via NVIDIA

nvidia-shield-console01

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[Official] NVIDIA will invade living rooms with $200 Set-Top gaming box NVIDIA SHIELD in May

nvidia-shield-box

Tonight, NVIDIA announced a new member to their SHIELD product line. It’s called the NVIDIA SHIELD.

The NVIDIA SHIELD is a set-top box à-la Fire TV or Razer Forge but with a little more juice and content thanks the new Tegra X1 supership and NVIDIA’s game streaming service GRID. The SHIELD box runs on Android TV and is actually the first ever to support 4K. It will come with with a bluetooth remoter dubbed the SHIELD Remote which can has a mic that can be used for voice search.

NVIDIA’s CEO promised that there will be “more than 50 Android games at launch” including titles like Crysis 3, Resident Evil and Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel. The Chip-maker is also launching the GRID game-streaming service which will follow the subscription model of Netflix and Spotify (pricing is up in the air at the moment). Spec-wise here is the list:

The NVIDIA SHIELD is set to launch in May for $199. To sweeten things up, you will get the SHIELD Controller for free ($60 value). You can sign up here to get notified when it becomes available.

My wallet is ready!

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News Phones

Watch the official introduction of the Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge

In case you missed the official unveiling of the Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge. Samsung published a video giving us a glimpse of both devices. For the record, These aren’t the Galaxy phones we’re accustomed. There will be a non-removable battery and no microSD support. Samsung decided to make wireless charging standard on both. The plastic body is also gone and is replaced with glass and metal. Touchwiz has some Material Design flair and it does look good. I for one cannot wait to get my hands on the Galaxy S6.

How about you?

via YouTube

galaxy-s6-gold

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The Samsung Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 Edge are here, launch in April 10

Samsung-Galaxy-S6

Samsung took the stage at MWC and announced the release of the Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge. Although some of leaks seemed to be the real thing, Samsung has done a really good job keeping the best for today.

If you’re a fan of removable batteries, you will probably be disappointed. The Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge will include non-removable batteries (2,550 and 2,600 mAh). However, they will both have wireless charging along with a “quick charge” feature which is said to give the handset 4 hours of juice in less than 10 minutes of charging.

Spec-wise, here is what the S6 offers:

  • Android 5.0.2 Lollipop with TouchWiz
  • 5.1-inch QHD (2560×1440) 577ppi Super AMOLED (S6) – 5.1-inch QHD (2560×1440) 577ppi Super AMOLED with dual curved edges (S6 Edge)
  • Octa-core 4×2.1GHz + 4×1.5GHz 64-bit 14nm Samsung Exynos processor
  • 3GB of RAM
  • 32GB, 64GB or 128GB storage options
  • NO MicroSD slot
  • 16-megapixel rear camera with f/1.9, real-time HDR
  • 5-megapixel front camera
  • LTE Category 6
  • 2,550 mAh battery (S6), 2,600 mAh battery (S6 Edge)
  • Qi Wireless charging
  • S6: white, black, gold, blue – S6 edge: white, black, gold, dark green

So not only Samsung opted for non-removable batteries but they also didn’t include microSD support with its new devices. Along with these changes, the back is made out glass surrounded with metal – Gorilla Glass 4 is also there.

The Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 Edge will launch in April 10 across the globe. Hit the press release below for more info.

Beautifully Crafted from Metal and Glass, Samsung Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge Define What’s Next in Mobility

March 2, 2015. Equipped with first-of-its-kind technology, Samsung Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge are the most advanced smartphones on the market

Barcelona, Spain, March 1 2015 – Samsung Electronics today announced its entirely redefined smartphones, the Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge. Creating a new standard for design, craftsmanship and performance, the Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge seamlessly blend premium materials with the most advanced Samsung technology to offer consumers an unmatched mobile experience.

“With the all new Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge, Samsung is offering what’s next in mobility, along with a new standard to drive the global mobile agenda,” said JK Shin, CEO and Head of IT & Mobile Communications Division at Samsung Electronics. “By listening to our customers, and learning from both our success and missteps, we continuously push forward new technologies and ideas. With a reimagined design, robust partner network and novel services, the Samsung Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge offer users the ultimate experience in smartphone options.”

Beauty Meets Purpose
Carefully crafted from metal and glass, the Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge blend purposeful design with powerful features. The Galaxy S6 edge, particularly, shows unique and outstanding beauty while also providing a solid grip and an immersive viewing experience with the world’s first curved display on both sides. Its glass body, made from the toughest glass to date, Corning® Gorilla Glass® 4, is available in an array of colorful jewel tones, including White Pearl, Black Sapphire, Gold Platinum, Blue Topaz and Green Emerald, which elicit a unique visual texture as it reflects natural light. This timeless design required first-of-its-kind glass crafting technology and unmatched quality control, setting the Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge apart from every other mobile device on the market. The premium device aesthetics deliver true value and are complemented by a totally new and lighter interface that greatly enhances usability and functionality. A refined and fully optimized user experience simplifies applications and offers features and settings in a more intuitive way.

Vivid Images with a Fast, Bright Camera
The Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge are equipped with an incredibly vivid, bright and fast front and rear camera. The F1.9 lenses and high resolution sensors on both front (5MP) and rear (16MP) cameras provide the most superior image quality in a smartphone, even in the dark. In addition, Auto Real-time High Dynamic Range (HDR), Smart Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) and IR Detect White Balance provide advanced light sensitivities and crisp camera solutions. Furthermore, a new “Quick Launch” feature give users fast, direct access to the camera from any screen in just 0.7 seconds* by simply double clicking the home key button. These advanced camera functions enable users to capture their most precious and personal moments in uncompromising quality, however and wherever they want.

Super Charging and Cord Free
With fully embedded WPC and PMA certified wireless charging technology, the Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge are setting a new industry standard for universal wireless charging. The devices work with any wireless pad available in the market that supports WPC and PMA standards. They also sport incredibly fast wired charging, 1.5 times faster than the Galaxy S5, providing about 4 hours of usage after only 10 minutes of charging.*

Cutting-edge Core Technology
The thin (6.8 mm/7.0mm edge) and lightweight (138g /132g edge) Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge integrate the most advanced, cutting-edge, Samsung core technology available today. The world’s first 14nm mobile processor with 64-bit platform, new LPDDR4 memory system and UFS 2.0 flash memory provides higher performance and enhanced memory speed with lower power consumption. Moreover, the world’s first 1440P/VP9 hardware based codec enables users to enjoy high resolution streaming video while also using less power. In addition, the 5.1-inch Quad HD Super AMOLED screen offers users the highest pixel density of 577ppi. Enhanced outdoor visibility with a brighter display (600cd/mm) lets consumers experience content without compromise – anywhere, at any time.

Easy and Protected Mobile Payment
Samsung Pay, a new, easy-to-use mobile payment service that will be compatible with more locations than any competing offering in a single application, will launch on Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge in the United States during the second half of this year. Protected by Samsung KNOX, fingerprint scanning, and advanced tokenization, Samsung Pay works with both Near Field Communication (NFC) and Magnetic Secure Transmission (MST) technology to make it device, merchant and card issuer agnostic.

Enhanced Security
The Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge are built on the upgraded Samsung KNOX, end-to-end secure mobile platform, offering defense-grade features for real-time protection from potential malicious attacks. Both of these new devices are also ready for immediate enterprise adoption, with market leading MDMs and KNOX enhancements enabled at launch to simplify and improve mobile device management. Additionally, the Find My Mobile feature secures lost devices and protects personal information through a number of services, including the all new remotely controlled “Reactivation lock.” With an enhanced touch-type fingerprint scanner, it also provides quick authentication and saves encrypted data in secure device storage.

The Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge will be available globally starting from April 10, 2015 with 32/64/128GB storage options available in White Pearl, Black Sapphire, Gold Platinum, Blue Topaz (Galaxy S6 only) and Green Emerald (Galaxy S6 edge only).

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News Phones

[Official] HTC launches the HTC One M9, will be available “early Spring”

HTC-One-M9-gunmertal

Live from Barcelona, HTC announced the heavily leaked HTC One M9 along with a smartband called the HTC Grip and VR headset called the HTC Vive. There are pretty much no surprises as to what to expect from the M9. All of the leaked specs have been confirmed by HTC. Here is the list:

  • 5-inch FHD LCD3 display
  • Android 5.0 Lollipop
  • HTC Sense 7
  • Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 processor
  • 3GB of RAM
  • 32GB of internal storage
  • MicroSD expansion (up to 128GB)
  • 20-megapixel front camera
  • 4 UltraPixel front camera
  • 2,840 mAh battery
  • Front-facing speakers with BoomSound technology
  • Colors: Gunmetal Grey, Gold/Silver, Gold and Silver
  • IR Blaster, micro USB port

Sure it sounds like an incremental update if you’re coming from the M8. But it is worth the upgrade because of the new rear camera, Snapdragon 810 and the 3GB of RAM. HTC also mentions a new and easy to customize home screen which is packed with Sense 7. I do however wish they included wireless charging.

According to HTC, the One M9 will be available in the U.S. in the beginning of Spring . It will be offered by AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon. Retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, Costco, Target and HTC’s online store will also carry the handset. For more info, hit the press release below.

Bring Your World To Life With The New HTC One
Get more out of every experience with the beautifully crafted HTC One M9’s unique combination of elegance and performance

BARCELONA, Spain, March 1, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — Mobile World Congress — HTC today unveiled its most personal, beautiful and powerful smartphone yet, the HTC One M9. The newest flagship in the globally acclaimed HTC One family, the HTC One M9 is a classic yet timeless celebration of beauty and elegance that combines high style and performance, enabling you to get the most from your mobile phone.

“HTC has built its reputation on challenging expectations in the mobile industry,” said Cher Wang, Chairwoman, HTC. “The HTC One M9 accomplishes this once again with stunning elegance and design, combined with smart features that help bring your world to life, connecting you in a deeper way to the things you consider most important. So much more than just a phone, the HTC One M9 is an extension of who you are.”

A complete celebration of design
Building on a three-year pursuit of excellence, the HTC One M9 melds the best of the award-winning HTC One M7 and HTC One M8 into a stunning, iconic design. Distinct metal edges combine perfectly with graceful curves for a jewellery-grade look. Small and easy to hold, the crafted, all-metal unibody design is highlighted by an exquisite dual-tone silver and rose gold¹ finish that is as distinctive, as it is durable. Mirror-polished gold sides cascade effortlessly into a hairline brushed silver back panel, encasing a bright and vivid display.

HTC Sense 7: An extension of you
Your phone should make a statement about who you are, and the new HTC Sense™ 7 experience puts you in control of everything. Highly customizable and intuitively you, Themes puts you at the center of the smartphone experience, intelligently analyzing your favorite photos to modify the look and feel of your apps, color scheme and backgrounds.

As your always-on travel companion, your smartphone is perfectly placed to enrich your mobile life. Sense 7 reinvents the home screen to deliver the most useful apps to the homepage based on your location. Whether at home, work, or play, you’re never more than a click away from the features you need with this contextual, customizable widget. A more intelligent HTC BlinkFeed™ also makes it easier to uncover the hidden gems that surround you by using location data to recommend points of interest, news and information.

Incredible imaging: Helping you create your best memories
With the best camera being the one you carry in your pocket, your smartphone should make it a breeze to take brilliant, creative and fun images. The HTC One M9’s cameras are designed to capture every moment in amazing quality, allowing you to relive those moments again and again. The main camera features an incredible 20 megapixels that accentuate every crisp, intricate detail, and a sapphire cover lens that protects from scratches. For vivid video that looks like the latest blockbuster, the camera also shoots movies in 4K resolution.

The best moments take you by surprise, and spontaneity often doesn’t come fully lit. The ultimate companion of the impulsive snapper, the HTC One M9 addresses low-light shots with a powerful UltraPixel™ front-facing camera. Dynamic auto exposure and UltraPixels that capture 300% more light than standard cameras deliver sharper, more natural and balanced self-portraits in any lighting conditions.

HTC Sense 7 with HTC’s EYE™ Experience software makes taking creative pictures easy. A host of new editing effects including Shapes, Prismatic, Elements and Bokeh allow you to add a little bit of individual artistry into every shot, with the Zoe™ app automatically editing them, putting them to your choice of music² and letting friends remix the collection with their own shots to create a shared celebration from every moment.

With so many incredible images, quickly showing your friends those brilliant shots could become an issue. Wherever they’re stored, the new One Gallery makes it easy to search through your entire photo library, viewing images saved on the phone, on social media and on select cloud platforms. The gallery puts your whole image library at your fingertips, searching by date, location, event, album or even the images themselves with Image Match.

Exhilarating audio: Hear the difference
A truly great viewing experience deserves sound that puts you on the front row. The HTC One M9 guarantees a larger-than-life soundtrack courtesy of HTC BoomSound™. The HTC One family’s iconic dual front-facing speakers, now combined with 5.1 channel Dolby® Surround sound3 simulation, get you even closer to the action, delivering extraordinary, cinema-style surround sound. Uniting HTC BoomSound and Dolby Audio™ creates immersion vibrant audio experience, so you can enjoy movies with rich, clear and powerful sound even without connecting headphones or external speakers. Whether listening via the stereo speakers or headphones, even the most discerning music fans will be blown away by the phone’s support for perfect, 24-bit high-definition sound that surpasses even CD quality. HTC’s unique combination of HTC BoomSound, Dolby Audio™, a finely tuned sound profile, and Qualcomm® Immersive Audio gives all of your music and movies an unmistakable HTC One M9 flavor.

Connecting your world
Smartphones are fast becoming the central hub for home entertainment, and HTC Connect™ makes it easy to enjoy your multimedia experience beyond your phone. A three-finger swipe on the screen connects the phone to compatible TVs or external speakers from leading manufacturers including Harman Kardon. HTC Connect’s integration with Qualcomm® AllPlay™ smart media platform and Blackfire Research™ wireless media technology, allows you and your friends to stream high-quality content from your smartphones to multiple home entertainment devices around the house. The playlist feature also allows multiple smartphones to share a speaker with Qualcomm AllPlay. For the ultimate connected smartphone-powered TV experience, the HTC One M9 comes exclusively preloaded with the Peel® Smart Remote app. Instantly connecting you to the shows you love, the app even learns from your viewing habits, transforming your phone into a personal TV guide and remote control.

Accessories and availability
For a standout look, the HTC One M9 will be available with a range of unique and customizable accessories including the second-generation HTC Dot View case, which adds more retro personalization thanks to a host of new features and color options. A transparent back keeps your smartphone pristine without hiding it from the world with the case injecting fun into even the most tedious commute by transforming into a mini games arcade. The new HTC Dot View case won’t even get in the way of apps such as Instagram, Snapchat and Badoo with through-the-case notifications alerting you to the latest photos, messages and check-ins.

Life has no limits, and when your adventurous side takes you into the unknown, an IP68 water-resistant Active Case and Active Headset means that your phone can boldly follow wherever the action takes you, keeping up with the pace of the most epic adventures.

The new HTC One will be available in the U.S. on AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon early Spring. It will also be available through HTC.com, Amazon, Best Buy, Best Buy Mobile specialty stores, Costco Wholesale and Target. An unlocked version will be available on www.htc.com. More information on availability will be shared in the coming weeks. Follow @HTCUSA and visit www.htc.com/one for more information.

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[CES 2015] Hands On with the LG G Flex 2, what the G Flex should have been

g-flex-2-0

Following the LG conference, I had the chance to spend a couple of minutes with the newly announced G Flex 2. It felt nicer and easier to hold than its predecessor. It looks a lot like the LG G3 in a curved chassis.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

One of the first things you will notice is that the G Flex 2 is smaller than the original G Flex. It has a similar screen size of 5.5 inches as the the LG G3 with a 1080 x 1920 resolution and 403 ppi – much better than the 720p OG G Flex. The display looks stunning and I am actually happy that LG didn’t go for 2K display to help with battery life.

With the G Flex 2, LG wanted to be the first OEM to bring an Android device packed with Qualcomm’s latest 64-bit processor, the Snapdragon 810. On paper, it will be a beast of a phone but I do not think that it matters at this point in time. The average consumer will not notice or care about the processor as long as the phone performs well.

If the self-healing feature of the original Flex phone impressed you, you will probably like how the G Flex 2 can heal in 10 seconds. It will basically resist light and minor scratches at best. I will spend some more time with it tomorrow at the Convention and report back with a scratch test. Spec Wise, here is the list:

  • Chipset: Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 810 processor with 2.0GHz 64-bit Octa-Core CPU
  • Display: 5.5-inch Full HD Curved P-OLED (1080 x 1920 pixels / 403 ppi)
  • Memory: 16/32MB eMMC ROM / 2GB DDR4 RAM / microSD slot (up to 2TB)
  • Camera: Rear 13.0MP with OIS+ with Laser Auto Focus / Front 2.1MP
  • Battery: 3,000mAh (embedded)
  • Operating System: Android 5.0 Lollipop
  • Size: 149.1 x 75.3 x 7.1-9.4mm
  • Weight: 152g
  • Network: 4G / LTE / HSPA+ 21/42 Mbps
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth Smart Ready (Apt-X) 4.1, NFC, SlimPort, A-GPS / Glonass, USB 2.0
  • Color: Platinum Silver, Flamenco Red
  • Other: Gesture Shot, Gesture View, Glance View etc.

Unlike any other phone in the market, this is a curved phone. The question is will you consider the G Flex 2 as your main driver? Let us know down below.

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News Phones

[Press Release] The LG G Flex 2 is official, packs 5.5-inch 1080p display, 64-bit Snapdragon 810 processor

g-flex-2-1

LG announced today the release of the LG G Flex 2, the second generation of last year’s curvy Flex phone. LG made sure that to take your feedback on how to improve the previous model and has made some design improvements to make it more attractive to the masses.

The G Flex 2 packs a 5.5-inch 1080p OLED display, 2.0 GHZ Snapdragon 810 (64-bit) processor, 2GB (or 3GB) of RAM, 13-megapixel rear camera with OIS, 2.1-megapixel front camera, 16GB of internal storage, microSD slot, 3000 mAh non-removable battery and Android 5.0 Lollipop. LG says that they improved the self-healing feature. The G Flex 2 can heal in less than 10 seconds. The handset weighs about 152 grams and measures 49.1 x 75.3 x 7.1-9.4mm.

The G Flex 2 becomes the first Android phone to sport the 64-bit Snapdragon 810 processor. As to when it will launch, LG says “very soon.’

EVOLUTION OF LG’s CURVED SMARTPHONE UNVEILED AT CES 2015

LG G Flex2 Features Dynamically Curved Design Optimized with Sharper Display, Powerful Hardware, Intuitive Software

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 5, 2015 — LG Electronics (LG) continues to push the industry boundaries with the unveiling of the new G Flex2 at the 2015 International CES® in Las Vegas. The original G Flex earned positive reviews for its innovative design and outside-the-box thinking. One year later, the G Flex2 improves upon its predecessor in every way possible with a more advanced design, faster performance and most importantly, greater convenience.

The LG G Flex2 boasts sleeker, more stylish curves and a powerful Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 810 processor with octa-core 64-bit capable CPUs for a nimbler and smoother performance. Its 5.5-inch display gets a bump up to Full HD, while the updated software offers even more conveniences through all-new features such as Gesture View and Glance View. The unique “Self Healing” back cover from the original G Flex carries over to the G Flex2 and is now faster and more effective than before.

**Beauty In The Details

The G Flex2 goes beyond its predecessor’s groundbreaking 700mm radius curved profile. The new smartphone harmoniously incorporates a symphony of curves ranging from a radius of 400mm to 700mm across the front, back, sides and top-to-bottom edges. The dynamically curved layers deliver a sleeker and more dynamic look to G Flex2.

However, the G Flex2’s curves are for more than looks. The phone’s ergonomic design brings the microphone closer to the mouth, for better sound pickup compared to conventional smartphones which allow much more outside noise to enter the phone through the microphone. The slimmed down 5.5 inches screen with curvatures makes the perfect fit for eyes and the grip. The display’s 700mm radius curvature delivers a truly immersive viewing experience from any angle, while the steeper 650mm radius curvature of the back is more comfortable to grip and fits easier in the pocket. The display’s resolution has also been bumped up to 1080p Full HD, which makes every UI detail appear crisp and alive. The P-OLED display, which gives the G Flex2 its unique shape and durability, is even more precise than in the original G Flex.

Turning the phone over reveals handcrafted details such as the Spin Hairline Pattern on the G Flex2’s curved rear, which showcases the subtle yet brilliant polish of the surface from every angle.

Most Advanced Technology To Date

The G Flex2 is the first smartphone officially announced to come equipped with the Snapdragon 810 processor, featuring octa-core 64-bit capable CPUs optimized for Android 5.0 and the advanced Qualcomm® Adreno™ 430 GPU for stunning graphics performance. This makes the smartphone incredibly fast and efficient for multimedia and multi-tasking. The Snapdragon 810 also features fully integrated 3x20MHz Carrier Aggregation support for faster, more efficient connectivity.

What’s more, the G Flex2’s cover glass is approximately 20 percent more durable, thanks to a special chemical treatment technology developed by LG.

The Self Healing back, which keeps the phone looking new even through the nicks and scratches from normal everyday use, has also been improved with significantly faster healing time. LG reduced the healing time from about three minutes to just within ten seconds at room temperature.

Another innovative technology only available in LG smartphones is the amazingly fast Laser Auto Focus camera, first introduced in the popular LG G3. This technology enables the G Flex2 to capture the best moment — even in low light — by measuring the distance between the subject and the camera using a laser beam. Combined with LG’s proven OIS+ technology and dual LED flash, the G Flex2 delivers images that rival most standalone point and shoot cameras.

Practical Solutions for User Convenience

The G Flex2’s curve-enhanced user experience carries over to software as well. It comes fully loaded with the best of LG’s unique software features optimized for its curved form factor:

  • Gesture Shot makes it easy to capture the perfect selfie with a simple hand gesture recognizable from up to 1.5 meters away.
  • Gesture View makes it easy to check your last shot immediately after taking a photo or selfie.
  • Glance View displays key information such as time, recent messages or missed calls with a downward swipe of the curved screen even while the display is off.
  • Fast Charge allows the embedded 3,000mAh battery in the G Flex2 — the only curved mobile battery in the world to be charged up to 50 percent in under 40 minutes.

“The original G Flex demonstrated LG’s pioneering spirit and with the G Flex2 we have refined the curved form factor, staying true to our philosophy of innovation for a better life,” said Juno Cho, president and CEO of the LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. “The G Flex2 not only has the stunning looks, it also has the powerful guts to be at the cutting edge of current smartphone technology. Simply put, it’s a true head-turner in every sense of the word.”

The LG G Flex2 will be available starting at the end of the month in Korea to be followed by additional global markets. The device will initially be available in two colors: Platinum Silver and Flamenco Red.

Visitors to LG’s booth at CES 2015 (Las Vegas Convention Center, Central Hall #8204) can experience LG’s newest mobile devices, including the G Flex2, for themselves. For more information, visit LG’s online press room at www.LGnewsroom.com/ces2015.

Key Specifications (may vary depending on market):

  • Chipset: Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 810 processor with 2.0GHz 64-bit Octa-Core CPU
  • Display: 5.5-inch Full HD Curved P-OLED (1080 x 1920 pixels / 403 ppi)
  • Memory: 16/32MB eMMC ROM / 2GB DDR4 RAM / microSD slot (up to 2TB)
  • Camera: Rear 13.0MP with OIS+ with Laser Auto Focus / Front 2.1MP
  • Battery: 3,000mAh (embedded)
  • Operating System: Android 5.0 Lollipop
  • Size: 149.1 x 75.3 x 7.1-9.4mm
  • Weight: 152g
  • Network: 4G / LTE / HSPA+ 21/42 Mbps
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth Smart Ready (Apt-X) 4.1, NFC, SlimPort, A-GPS / Glonass, USB 2.0
  • Color: Platinum Silver, Flamenco Red
  • Other: Gesture Shot, Gesture View, Glance View etc.
Categories
Accessories News

Kwikset launches Kevo Android Beta app for its Bluetooth deadbolt

Kevo_3Finishes

The Kiwkset Kevo is a Bluetooth enabled deadbolt which you can control with your phone using a proprietary app. It launched last year offering compatibility to iOS devices only. Thankfully, the folks at Kwikset wanted to share the love with Android users.

kevo-app-2 kevo-app-1

Today, they introduced the Kevo Android app which is still in beta and only compatible with devices running Android 5.0 Lollipop and higher. You can head to the Play Store and grab it. Of course you need to buy the hardware which you can get at your local Home Depot, Amazon or from Kwikset.

Once you have it installed and with the help of the Kevo app, you can tap the lock and send eKeys to guests to gain access to your home. In addition, Kevo sports a positioning technology which “detects whether an authorized user is inside or outside of the home before granting access, to help prevent unauthorized entry.” For more information, hit the Play Store link and press release below.

[pb-app-box pname=’com.unikey.kevo’ name=’Kevo Beta’ theme=’discover’ lang=’en’]


Kwikset Expands Kevo Compatibility To Android Users With Beta App
Android Lollipop users can download the beta Kevo app today on Google Play

LAKE FOREST, Calif., Dec. 18, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Kwikset®, the leader in residential door hardware, introduces Android™ compatibility to the breakthrough Kevo™ smart lock. Consumers with Android 5.0 Lollipop (L) software on supported devices can download the beta Kevo app on the Google Play store to experience Kevo’s functionality.

Android L customers can now download and use the beta Kevo app to experience Kevo, while Kwikset continues to enhance the performance and functionality of the official app. Android L devices are the first from Android that fully support Bluetooth® Smart peripheral mode, which is needed for Kevo compatibility. Bluetooth Smart technology ensures a low energy, seamless connection from the Kevo deadbolt to authorized devices. Since Kevo’s launch, Kwikset and technology partner, UniKey Technologies, Inc., have worked to develop a compatible app that gives Android users the complete smart lock experience.

“We’re excited to expand Kevo smart lock compatibility to the large Android fan base with the public beta program,” said Greg Williamson, chief marketing officer, Hardware and Home Improvement, Spectrum Brands.

All Android customers with Google’s new Android L devices, Nexus 6 phone and Nexus 9 tablet, can download the beta Kevo app today on the Google Play store. Android L users can experience key features of Kevo, including:

  • Touch-to-open convenience – No more fumbling for keys, simply touch the lock to open with your authorized Android device in your purse or pocket to open the door.
  • eKey management – Send or delete electronic keys (eKeys) from the beta Kevo app to grant or revoke access from your smartphone at any time.
  • Guest, Anytime and Scheduled eKeys – Guest eKeys allow users to give recipients access to the home for a 24-hour period, while Anytime eKeys give guests unrestricted access and Scheduled eKeys let users set day and time restraints for someone who needs regular, pre-determined access.
  • History Log – A history of the lock’s activity may be viewed through the Kevo mobile app. The history log provides the times and dates that eKeys were sent and received as we as well eKey holders locked and unlocked the door for ultimate peace of mind.
  • Inside / Outside technology – Kevo offers patent-pending positioning technology that detects whether an authorized user is inside or outside of the home before granting access, to help prevent unauthorized entry.

Through customer feedback to the beta experience, Kwikset will be able to implement all Kevo app features for the official Android app launch.

“As more devices become Bluetooth Smart compatible, Kwikset is committed to giving all consumers the chance to enjoy Kevo’s convenience and ability to manage home security from their smartphones,” said Williamson.

Visit Kwikset at International CES at Tech West, Sands Expo booth #71021 to demonstrate the beta Kevo app on Nexus 6 devices. For more information about the beta Kevo app testing program and compatible devices, please visit http://kwikset.com/kevo.

Categories
Accessories Deals News

[Deal] All Rearth Ringke cases are 50%, including the Nexus 6 ones

ringke-amazon-sale

If you ask me what is my favorite phone case, I’d tell you that it is the Ringke slim. It offers great all around protection from my phones and it usually comes with good quality screen protector. I recently purchased one for my Nexus 6 and have been using it for a couple of weeks. I paid $11 with free shipping.

Today, the folks at Rearth are running a 50% off sale on all of their cases including the Nexus 6, Nexus 5, Galaxy Note 4 LG 3, Galaxy S5 and more. Shipping is free and prices starts at $5 for most cases (up to $10). To get the discount you MUST pick Rearth as the seller. You can do so by going to the ‘Buying Options” and picking the option where the shipping is not free (not the one fulfilled by Amazon). When you do that enter code 77NURQFG for 50% off and then code BCADI5CV for free shipping. Here is the list of cases:

Keep in mind that all of these cases come with a free screen protector. The sale should go until the end of the day. Happy shopping!

Categories
Deals News

[Cyber Monday] Here are today’s best tech deals (updating)

cyber-monday

Need help locating the best Cyber Monday Deals? No worries. We have gathered a list of the best that we could find around the net. It includes phones, tablets, accessories and more. Most retailers offers free shipping to attract buyers like you an me. Going over the Black Friday deals, I’d say today’s deals are at least the same if not better. The best thing about today is that you do not have to leave your house or office to buy all the things.

Let’s start. Shall we?

Phones

Tablets

Wearables

Accessories

We’ll be updating this list throughout the day. Let us know if you see any good deals out there.

Categories
News Opinions

So what did you get this Black Friday?

Black-friday

Many of who may or may not shopped this Black Friday. To be honest, I was not planning to but ended up getting a few things. First, I wanted to get HTC’s RE Camera which was/is on sale for $99 (50% off) for review purposes, and maybe keep to tape by kid soccer games. I ordered it from Best Buy and went to pick it up yesterday with my son to get some air after our Thanksgiving dinner. I ended up getting a Call Of Duty Xbox One controller (because it looks cool) and the Samsung Level On Ear headphones which are $99 ($79 off) for my wife.

Online, I picked up the TYLT VU Wireless charger (50% off) and the Pure Gear Extreme USB car charger (Quick Charge 2.0) at 50% off as well. Finally, I purchased a 64GB Samsung Pro Class microSD card to use with my camcorder. And that’s it for me.

This is nuts because I was not planning to buy anything except the RE Camera. Your turn now. What did you get this Black Friday? Let us know in the comments section below.

Categories
Deals News Wearables

[Deal] Buy an Android Wear smartwatch from Best Buy, get a $50 Google Play credit

best-buy-android-wear-promo

Thinking about picking up aan Android Wear powered smartwatch? Best Buy is offering a $50 Google Play credit when you purchase any of them including the Moto 360, Asus Zenwatch, LG G watch and the Gear Live. This offer is set to end on January 31, 2015. The credit (has to be added to your Google Wallet) must be used by January 31, 2016.

$50 worth of Google Play credit can go long ways in buying apps, movies, songs and more. I’d say this a nice deal if you were planning to get any the smartwatches above. The credit should be applied when you pick up your watch or have it delivered to your house. Here is the fine print:

moto-360-google-play-credit

The links to all of the Android Wear watches:

W’re not sure if this promotion applies to in-store purchases. Unless you want to try to buy a watch at your local Best Buy, you can always use their site to guarantee yourself the $50 credit.

via Best Buy

Categories
Accessories Deals News

[Black Friday] Save 50% on all of TYLT products, VU Qi Wireless charger $35

tylt-black-friday

I hope you guys had a great Thanksgiving. I wanted to bring to your attention that TYLT is currently running a Black Friday sale on all of its products. You can see the discount during checkout when enter code CYBER2014. Not all deals are per-say hot but some of them are really good. On top of this, you get free shipping as long as you live in the Continental United States.

As an example, they have the VÜ Qi Wireless Charger on sale for $35 (reg. $35). I recently reviewed the Energi 2K travel charger and for a mere $20, it is a bargain. Here is a little list of what I recommend:

TYLT makes quality accessories and I recommend you check out their sale. Drop a comment below and let us know what you’re getting. This sale is good from Friday 11/28 through Monday 12/1 (Cyber Monday)..

Buy

Categories
Accessories Deals News

[Deal] Amazon has the the Samsung Pro Class microSD cards on sale – 64GB $30 (90MB/s)

 

samsung-microsd-pro-class-amazon

These Samsung Pro Class memory cards are probably the best you could buy. They offer very fast reading speed up to 90 MB/s and writing up to 80 MB/s. Amazon is offering a really good deal on them. You can get a 64GB micsroSD for $35 shipped with a discount of $25 off the original price of $60 (32GB is $18.99, 16GB is $12.99).

If you’re into photography or video-making, the Samsung Pro Class cards are what you’re looking for. You can also use them with your cellphones as well. Here are its main features:

  • Up to 90MB/s read speed, 80MB/s write speed
    Great for Action Cams, Smartphones, Android Tablets, Tablet PCs.
  • Optimal for high definition video content such as movies, HD videos, action cam video recording, 3D videos, aps and more.
  • Water proof, Temperature Proof, X-Ray proof, Magnetic proof
  • Compatible with devices with SDxC slots.

Hit the link below to take advantage of this great sale.

via Amazon

Categories
Accessories Deals News

[Black Friday] The HTC RE Camera now available at Best Buy for $99 (50% OFF)

re-camera-best-buy

We’re not sure if this is a mistake or not but Best Buy is now offering the HTC RE Camera for $99 which 50% off the normal price of $199. The sale is supposed to start at 9 PM later on today as per HTC. Best Buy probably didn’t get the memo. This gives you first dibs at this deal. Just a heads up, the price is still showing $199 over HTC’s own online store.

I just bought one to review and hopefully to use during my son’s soccer games. It is very portable and I already played with it during an HTC event a couple of months back. Spec-wise, it has a 16MP camera with ultra wide angle (1080p recording), has a microSD slot (comes with an 8GB card), Bluetooth 4.0, WiFi, 820 mAh battery and is IP57 (dust & water resistant) certified.

Best Buy currently only has the white and an exclusive blue/navy colors

Buy The RE Camera

Navy | White

Categories
Applications News

Twitter Android app will track your installed apps for more ad revenue

Twitter for Android

Twitter, Oh Twitter. The giant social media outlet is planning to “help you build a more personal Twitter experience” in an upcoming update for the Android app. They will so do so thanks to what they call the “App Graph.” This will allow them to track your downloaded apps to learn about your interests. Don’t get alarmed though because they will not access personal information.

Twitter says that they want to “build a more tailored experience” on their network. These are some examples of what they’ll be doing:

  • Improved “who to follow” suggestions that share similar interests.
  • Adding Tweets, accounts, or other content to your timeline that we think you’ll find especially interesting.
  • Showing you more relevant promoted content.

You get it. Twitter depends on advertising, specially targeted advertising. Knowing what apps you use, will help them adjust their criteria when targeting their users.

Thankfully, you can opt-out of participating in this ‘experiment.” All you have to do is follow these steps:

  1. Tap the overflow icon
  2. Tap Settings.
  3. Tap the account you’d like to adjust.
  4. Under Other, you can adjust the setting to Tailor Twitter based on my apps.

via Recode