New Smartphone Release: April 2017

Sunday, 30 April 2017

Samsung Uploads Galaxy S8 Tutorial Videos To Help Users Understand Basic Features Of The New Smartphone

Samsung's Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ released a week ago and users all over the world are pleased with the performance, design, and efficiency of the latest flagships from the South Korean company.

However, one of the major issues that owners may encounter is effectively accessing and utilizing the functionalities the two handsets support. For new users, the experience may be overwhelming and, therefore, Samsung Mobile uploaded a series of tutorial videos on YouTube, which are targeted toward Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ owners.

Tutorial Videos: What They Reveal About Smartphones' Functions

On Thursday, April 27, Samsung Mobile uploaded 11 such tutorial videos on its YouTube channel, each of them dealing the different features and functions the Galaxy S8 series owners can take advantage of.

The first couple of videos primarily deal with the design aspect of both the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+. They highlight the revolutionary bezel-less display of the phones along with the positioning of the fingerprint sensor, iris scanner, volume button, and the brand new Bixby button. The first video also elaborates on what the owners will receive in the box on buying either of the handsets.

The next video is targeted toward addressing how certain features of Bixby can be accessed and used. Particularly, the video outlines how a Galaxy S8 or Galaxy S8+ user can find information on an image by performing a search through the Bixby Vision functionality. It also shows how clicking the picture of a landmark with the smartphones will provide the user with information about a particular structure. It also shows off the translation functionality using Bixby.

Functionality Tutorial Videos

One of the videos details how the finger gestures work on the devices and familiarizes users on how to customize their Home Screen. It then goes on to elaborate on the multi-window and multi-tasking functionalities.

The next two videos detail how the iris scanner operates and how to set it up, along with the reminder functionality. Reminders have received some improvements since the last-gen models. Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ users will be able to use Bixby to set voice reminders.

The secure folder option is elaborated in one of the Samsung tutorial videos. It showcases how users can secure their apps and other personal data using both the pattern lock and fingerprint security feature.

The last four videos are completely dedicated to the use of Samsung's Gear VR with the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+. It gives users a detailed look into setting up the VR headsets with the phones. The video also details the settings that need to be modified to use this functionality.

Check out some of the tutorial videos below.

Source: Samsung Uploads Galaxy S8 Tutorial Videos To Help Users Understand Basic Features Of The New Smartphone

LG Escape 4 â€“ Unlocked Android Nougat Phone for US Market

LG Escape 4 : Find out latest details like LG Escape 4 price, LG Escape 4 specs and LG Escape 4 release date in USA.

Saturday, 29 April 2017

John McAfee says his new smartphone will be 'as hack-proof as humanly possible'

Cybersecurity pioneer John McAfee has revealed more information about his plans to create an ultra-secure smartphone. It will cost roughly $1,100 (£850), be geared towards enterprise customers and, he claims, will be the most "hack-proof" mobile handset on the market.

McAfee said it will be the "world's first truly private smartphone" and is set to be released later this year through MGT Capital Investments Inc, his cybersecurity and cryptocurrency company that made waves earlier this year for its bitcoin-mining capabilities.

In a blog post published this week (27 April), McAfee wrote: "We have given the keys to the kingdom, blindly and willingly, to the world's hackers.

"Pleas from the cybersecurity community to smartphone manufacturers to fix this this horrific problem by returning to the less 'cool' air gapped physical switches have fallen on deaf ears.

"In desperation, I decided to do it myself.

"It is version one. It is not hack proof. But it does give the user enormous power over his or her privacy and it is light years ahead of the Blackphone or any other phone claiming to be secure. Version two will be available in early 2018.

"It will be as hack proof as humanly possible."

He added: "The [smartphone has] switches on the back cover that allow the user to physically disconnect the battery, the antennas for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and geolocation, the camera and microphone, etc. It also will not allow the phone to connect to a Stingray or any other IMSI catcher."

"Enormous investment in hardware costs have gone into this," McAfee also told Newsweek.

Breaking the news on Twitter this week, McAfee addressed concerns about the device using a version of the Android operating system by saying: "Hardware has everything to do with security. Software has everything to do with insecurity."

On 14 March, MGT announced it had signed a "non-binding letter of intent" with the Nordic IT Sourcing Association to develop a secure smartphone. "We strongly believe that such a device will be the centre of attention," said Alexander Reay, Nordic IT's president, at the time.

"Smartphones are a huge target for attackers," Tim Erlin, vice president at Tripwire, said in a statement via email. "The more of our business that we conduct through that high powered computer in our pocket or purse, the more attractive a target it makes for cybercriminals."

Stephen Coty, chief cybersecurity expert at AlertLogic, added: "Securing smartphones is critical for day-to-day business for most enterprises as they can contain corporate chats, email, contacts and notes related to projects or corporate meetings.

"There is absolutely a need for a privacy-focused smartphone, or at least corporate controlled phones like the Blackberry Enterprise Server, where [the firm] has full control to remotely wipe, remove malicious applications, and insure patches are deployed.

"They can also make sure anti-virus, encryption, adware and malware finding software is installed. You can also install Tor browsers for safe, secure and untraceable browsing, and a VPN client to encrypt all communication originating from your mobile phone.

"This phone is a great concept, but until you lock it down to stop the actual user from being able to compromise themselves, there'll always be potential vulnerabilities."

Earlier this year, McAfee, in an address to MGT's shareholders, admitted the first iteration of his latest anti-hacking platform, dubbed Sentinel, was found to be vulnerable to hacking.

"I did what I always do, I designed the best product in the world, I gave it to the best hackers in the world and unfortunately they beat me," he said. "It was pretty darn good but that's not good enough for me," he added.

Source: John McAfee says his new smartphone will be 'as hack-proof as humanly possible'

Total Antivirus Defender for Android: new release 2.3.7 to block virus on smartphone and tablets!

Total Antivirus Defender - main screen

A new version 2.3.7 of the popular Total Antivirus Defender for Android is available! Do you want to get the latest antivirus solution for your Android device? This is the right app for you! And it's free! Some days ago the new version 2.3.7 was released, with many new features and improvements. Do you want to check in a simple way if a virus (trojan, backdoor, spyware, ecc.) has owned your Android device? Over 500,000 users have already enjoyed this security solution.

PR-Inside.com: 2017-04-29 17:30:55

New version 2.3.7 of the popular Total Antivirus Defender for Android is available!

Do you want to get the latest antivirus solution for your Android device? This is the right app for you! And it's free!

Some days ago a new version was released, with many new features and improvements. Do you want to check in a simple way if a virus (trojan, backdoor, spyware, ecc.) has owned your Android device?

Over 500,000 users have already downloaded Total Antivirus Defender and enjoyed its security and antivirus protection for Android. Now, you too can get this application to protect your device, both on your smartphone and tablet. FOR FREE!

So, what are you waiting for? Download Total Antivirus Defender Free Now!

Total Antivirus Defender will give you:

1) a complete security solution for your Android;

2) an easy to use software to find malware of all kinds (virus, trojan, backdoor, spyware, and other);

3) a simple way to obtain security for your apps, documents and files.

And now, Total Antivirus Defender come also with the innovative "Real Time Agent", that protect your Android device against infected apps and package, keeping it safe!!!

Why do you need Total Antivirus Defender? Because, if your device is infected by a virus:

1) you can compromise security of your data, and your privacy;

2) you can waste your money, sending SMS from yo ur mobile device that have their cost;

3) your activity can be tracked by malicious attackers;

4) your accounts and passwords can be stolen;

What about battery life of Android device?

Unlike other similar products, Total Antivirus Defender will grant to you security and protection without consuming your battery. You are free to choose when you want to perform scanning and real time agent is optimized and save your battery life.

Total Antivirus Defender is the most complete solution you can get on Android! It is easy to use, fast and light!

Note also that currently Total Antivirus Defender included support for several languages! And many others coming soon...

What's new in this version 2.3.7?

- improved Real Time Agent (real time virus scan)

- improved Scanning Engine (for apps and files)

- updated Virus Definitions

- optimized code

- improved translations and added support for new languages (Currently supported: English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, Portuguese, Chinese Simplified and Traditional, Indonesian, Russian, Japanese, Arabic, Hindi, Punjabi, and so on…)

- minor bugfix

For further information, visit website (See link below).

So, what are you waiting for? Download Total Antivirus Defender Free Now! And keep your device safe!

Available for download on Google Play: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.securitydefend.totalvi ..

Website: www.totalantivirusdefender.com

Promo video (Youtube): youtu.be/f5mRlk0T1FY

Source: Total Antivirus Defender for Android: new release 2.3.7 to block virus on smartphone and tablets!

Friday, 28 April 2017

Smartphone price hike shock - Is your contract one of those being hit by lofty increases?

Vodafone price hike GETTY

COST CREATING: Vodafone is increasing its prices for the second time in as many months

There's bad news for Vodafone customers, with the network announcing a new wave of price hikes.

The quietly introduced price rise marks the second increase in charges the company has forced upon consumers in a matter of weeks.

Affecting out-of-contract customers, fees are set to increase by as much as £3.50 per month.

That's an additional charge of a huge £42 per year, all for exactly the same service.

Samsung Galaxy S8 REVEALED - First pictures of new flagship smartphone Wednesday, 29th March 2017

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Vodafone has yet to explain the cause of the latest monthly price increases.

Those still tied in to a contract will remain unaffected by the increased charges, however.

They're not getting away without forking out any additional funds though, with Vodafone having last month announced inflation-based price rises for all.

For those who signed up to their latest deal after May 5, 2016, Vodafone has whacked up prices by a lofty 3.2% per month.

GETTY

Customers have been warned about the latest price "adjustment" via out of the blue text messages.

"We can confirm that some pay monthly customers, who are out of contract, will see an increase of between 50p and £3.50 per month depending on their price plan," a Vodafone spokesperson confirmed.

"They can move at any time to one of our new plans which give them unlimited texts, more or unlimited calls, far more data as well as our new roaming offers.

"All they need to do is call us on 191 or visit our website."

The new pricing structure will come into affect in June.

Although is customers won't be happy about a second price rise in as many months, Vodafone is far from the only network to hike its prices in recent weeks.

Rival network providers EE, O2 and Three have all announced price increases in recent weeks.

None have come close to Vodafone's 3.2% increases, however, with EE raising fees by 2.5% while O2 and Three have each added 2.6% to peoples' bills.

It's not all doom and gloom for Vodafone customers though.

The smartphone seller recently announced that it is in the process of scrapping roaming charges in 40 countries in a similar move to Three's brilliant Feel at Home service.

The company claims there is no link between its latest increase in fees and this data-opening giveaway, however.

"There is absolutely no link between the price adjustment for some out of contract Pay Monthly customers and our new roaming offers," a spokesperson said.

MovingImage launches VideoManager Pro App to Manage Video Anywhere, Anytime from Your Smartphone

As the use of video content continues to grow, employees can easily share live video from events to social media channels and corporate websites

NEW YORK, NY(4/28/2017) -

MovingImage, the leading secure enterprise video platform (EVP) provider, today announced availability of VideoManager Pro App, the first end-to-end EVP video manager application available for the iOS platform. This innovative mobile application allows users to easily upload video from their smartphone to the movingimage Enterprise Video Platform and share the video on corporate intranet and internet sites, online stores or to any social media sites. Designed to adhere to the European Union's strict security guidelines, VideoManager Pro App is the most secure end-to-end video solution available today.

"The most successful companies are the ones that incorporate video into their internet and intranet best practices, but the ability to post video via a mobile device is what separates the leader from the rest of the pack," said Rainer Zugehoer, founder and CEO, MovingImage. "Unlike competitors who don't offer mobile capabilities, VideoManager Pro App allows users who are at an event or out in the field to upload and publish video in real-time to their company's intranet, website, online store or to social media channels without having anyone back in the IT department having to prepare the content for publishing. Nobody in the industry can offer this complete package of capabilities."

Video has grown into the most significant form of communication, whether it's on a corporate intranet, website or on online video portals. Employees and customers have an expectation that uploading and sharing video should be fast and easy and using a mobile app is the only way to ensure that video is distributed in real-time.

VideoManager Pro App offers the highest security features since the technology is based on European data protection regulations, offers encrypted SSL technology, and adaptive bitrate streaming. VideoManager Pro App resides on the user's smartphone. Because the movingimage Enterprise Video Platform is hosted in the cloud, users can playback video on any device in any browser and, depending on the quality of the network being used, the file can be compressed before it is uploaded which saves the user a great deal of time.

The use of video in the enterprise continues to grow at a rapid rate based on its effectiveness for communications such as employee training and sharing information throughout the company. As noted by Wainhouse Research in its State of Enterprise Streaming and Webcasting - 2017 report, 25 percent of organizations use live online video at least weekly and 45 percent of viewers watch live video weekly. Using video reduces the costs associated with corporate travel and improves the level of employee and customer engagement. Whether used for real-time streaming, delivery of content to mobile devices, corporate video conferencing or in wearable technology devices that leverage the Internet of Things, enterprise video platforms offer enormous growth potential.

About MovingImage

As the leading global secure Enterprise Video Platform provider, MovingImage's mission is to revolutionize how enterprises and organizations use video. The company offers cutting edge software-as-a-service and proudly touts an extensive customer portfolio of over 500 companies, including blue chip corporations like the Volkswagen Group and Deutsche Telekom.

Source: MovingImage launches VideoManager Pro App to Manage Video Anywhere, Anytime from Your Smartphone

Thursday, 27 April 2017

Using a smartphone and engineered cells to control diabetes in mice

Diabetic mouse with engineered cells that produce hormones to help maintain blood sugar levels implanted beneath the skin along with bio-compatible LED lights. Far-red light triggers the cells to produce hormones that help maintain blood sugar levels, and the lights can be turned on or off with a smartphone. Credit: Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology

(Medical Xpress)—A team of researchers affiliated with several institutions in China has developed a way to combine a smartphone with a glucose monitor and engineered cells to automatically control insulin levels in test mice. In their paper published in the journal Science Translational Medicine the team describes their technique and how well it worked in the mice. Mark Gomelsk with the University of Wyoming offers a Focus piece in the same issue highlighting the work done by the team.

Millions of people around the world have diabetes, and many of them have to inject insulin to keep their glucose levels in check. This generally involves taking periodic blood samples for testing to determine whether and when shots are needed. While this approach works, it is not optimal, because testing and injecting can be inconvenient and because unanticipated glucose spikes or drops can occur due to a variety of factors such as types or amount of food eaten or engaging in exercise. In this new effort, the researchers report the development of a closed loop system that offers a way to produce insulin in the body and distribute it on an as-needed basis.

The new system by the team in China involved engineering insulin-producing cells to do their work when illuminated with infrared light. The researchers placed the cells in an insulated sheath that also contained red LED lights—then, they placed the sheath under the skin of test mice. They controlled the lights remotely via smartphone app, sending signals to a control box containing a coil that activated the lights. The smartphone received data from an embedded blood glucose meter. The result was a closed-loop system in which the glucose meter automatically conducted glucose testing on a periodic basis. The smartphone app analyzed the data to determine when and how much insulin needed to be produced. It then sent a signal to the control box, activating the LED lights, causing the cells to produce and release insulin into the bodies of the mice.

Researchers created biocompatible combinations of engineered cells and LED lights. Far-red light from the LEDs triggered the cells to produce hormones for maintaining blood sugar levels. Credit: Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology

The researchers tested their system with mice over a period of several weeks and report that it successfully maintained insulin levels. They note that their work represents an important step toward creating such devices for use in humans.

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Video demonstrating smartphone control system for genetically engineered cells that produce hormones to help maintain blood sugar levels. Credit: Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology Schematic showing the use of a smartphone to control genetically engineered cells as a diabetes treatment in mice. Credit: J. Shao et al., Science Translational Medicine (2017)

Explore further: Post-biotics may help shield obese from diabetes

More information: Jiawei Shao et al. Smartphone-controlled optogenetically engineered cells enable semiautomatic glucose homeostasis in diabetic mice, Science Translational Medicine (2017). DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aal2298

AbstractWith the increasingly dominant role of smartphones in our lives, mobile health care systems integrating advanced point-of-care technologies to manage chronic diseases are gaining attention. Using a multidisciplinary design principle coupling electrical engineering, software development, and synthetic biology, we have engineered a technological infrastructure enabling the smartphone-assisted semiautomatic treatment of diabetes in mice. A custom-designed home server SmartController was programmed to process wireless signals, enabling a smartphone to regulate hormone production by optically engineered cells implanted in diabetic mice via a far-red light (FRL)–responsive optogenetic interface. To develop this wireless controller network, we designed and implanted hydrogel capsules carrying both engineered cells and wirelessly powered FRL LEDs (light-emitting diodes). In vivo production of a short variant of human glucagon-like peptide 1 (shGLP-1) or mouse insulin by the engi neered cells in the hydrogel could be remotely controlled by smartphone programs or a custom-engineered Bluetooth-active glucometer in a semiautomatic, glucose-dependent manner. By combining electronic device–generated digital signals with optogenetically engineered cells, this study provides a step toward translating cell-based therapies into the clinic.

Source: Using a smartphone and engineered cells to control diabetes in mice

BlackBerry KEYone smartphone price and release date confirmed at Selfridges launch in London

BlackBerry is finally back in the limelight as the famed business brand launched its latest smartphone at Selfridges in London today.

First revealed back at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona , the BlackBerry KEYone features the customary physical keyboard and uses Google's Android operating system.

It's the first BlackBerry handset to be manufactured by Chinese company TCL Communication, which licenced the BlackBerry brand name from the Canadian company.

The phone is on sale in Selfridges from today and will be made available to the rest of the UK on May 5 from Carphone Warehouse.BlackBerry has confirmed that the SIM-free price of the phone will be £499. Which makes it cheaper than both the lowest-price iPhone 7 (£599) and Samsung Galaxy S8 (£689) .

"We are delighted to launch the BlackBerry KEYone first in the UK with Selfridges. Selfridges, voted world's best department store three times consecutively have been a longtime supporter of BlackBerry," said Johnathan Young, UK Country Manager for BlackBerry Mobile.

"Our retail strategy is to be where our customers are and, as a multichannel retailer dealing in the premium end of the market, Selfridges reflects BlackBerry KEYone's identity in the smartphone market."

The KeyOne packs its physical QWERTY keyboard beneath a 4.5-inch touchscreen. It includes a Snapdragon 625 processor, 3GB of RAM and a 12MP rear-facing camera backed up by a 3,505mAh battery.

Although the phone isn't made by BlackBerry, the company is providing bespoke security software that it hopes will appeal to its core fans.

BlackBerry was the first smartphone success story. And despite recent failure to reignite enthusiasm among mainstream phone users, it still has a vocal fan base.

The company is no doubt hoping that combining its security heritage with the accessibility of Google's android system will be the start of a turnaround.

Source: BlackBerry KEYone smartphone price and release date confirmed at Selfridges launch in London

Wednesday, 26 April 2017

New self-charging battery tech could lead to solar-powered smartphones

Scientists have taken a step toward creating a self-charging battery that could eventually put an end to one of smartphone users' biggest bugbears. Researchers from Canada's McGill University in Montreal were able to charge a lithium-ion battery by applying molecules coated in photosensitive dye to a cathode.

The battery was then able to harvest solar power and generate a small amount of energy, reports The Telegraph. The researchers believe that the breakthrough could eventually lead to the development of new "hybrid solar" batteries capable of charging themselves, although they first face a number of significant hurdles.

For example, at present the technology only allows the battery to draw power and not release it back into a device, meaning any energy drawn is essentially useless. The researchers also noted that smartphones would need to be redesigned in a way that would allow sunlight into the handsets to power the batteries – a fairly tall order, to say the least.

With smartphones getting ever more power-intensive, the technology would need to offer a far better sunlight-to-energy conversion than current external solar-charging systems for mobile devices, which tend to deliver meagre pay-offs.

Still, even if smartphones couldn't run off solar power alone, giving them sun-harvesting abilities would at least cut the time we spend milling around power sockets and let us top up our phones simply by leaving them out in the sun. In which case, the angst-inducing quandary of leaving the house with less than 50% charge could eventually be a thing of the past.

Source: New self-charging battery tech could lead to solar-powered smartphones

Motorola Solutions and RapidSOS Introduce Precise Location for 9-1-1 Smartphone Calls

CHICAGO – April 26, 2017 – Motorola Solutions (NYSE:MSI) and RapidSOS today announced a new solution for getting emergency help to people who need it most—faster and more efficiently.

Motorola Solutions and RapidSOS, an emergency technology startup, will soon begin delivering precise location information for U.S. 911 calls made from smartphones. The solution creates end-to-end data connectivity by sharing precise location across the emergency call, from citizens in need to dispatchers to first responders.

About 70 percent of U.S. 911 calls are made from mobile phones, and knowing the precise location of an emergency caller can accelerate time to resolution. According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), 911 calls from mobile phones may provide a general indication of the caller's location, but that information is not always specific enough to quickly deploy first responders.

In the coming weeks, precise location information enabled by RapidSOS will be available on Emergency CallWorks CallStation, Motorola Solutions' software for emergency call-taking and mapping. Precise location also will be delivered to first responders in the field through Motorola Solutions' Messaging and Mapping public safety mobile applications that will be released later this year. Precise location will be estimated based on the location of the device, using sensors on the device and WiFi access points, Bluetooth transmitters and other technology that detects indoor and outdoor location.

"This solution has the power to get emergency help to citizens more quickly and efficiently," said Tom Guthrie, vice president, Smart Public Safety Solutions, Motorola Solutions. "It enables precise location to be shared across the end-to-end workflow of an emergency call, ensuring personnel at every stage have the critical information they need. The expansion of public safety broadband enables us to create solutions like this one, which allow for more information-sharing among first responders, public safety command centers and citizens."

"RapidSOS' technology transmits rich data from wearables, connected cars, consumer IoT, and mobile devices," said Michael Martin, chief executive officer, RapidSOS. "Working with Motorola Solutions, we can provide unprecedented information to first responders in an emergency—having a profound impact on emergency response."

Motorola Solutions Venture Capital, the company's strategic investment group, recently made an investment in RapidSOS. In addition to delivering precise location for emergency calls from smartphones, the companies are also exploring how third-party data collected by smartphones, connected cars, wearables and other connected devices can flow through Motorola Solutions' integrated suite of command center software, from 911 call-takers and dispatchers to police officers and emergency medical personnel in the field.

About Motorola Solutions

Motorola Solutions (NYSE: MSI) creates innovative, mission-critical communication solutions and services that help public safety and commercial customers build safer cities and thriving communities.

Source: Motorola Solutions and RapidSOS Introduce Precise Location for 9-1-1 Smartphone Calls

Tuesday, 25 April 2017

New smartphone brands emerge through online channels

TrendZ1

Johannesburg - The economic downturn has caused the smartphone market to enter a recession and the demand for affordable higher-quality devices has had a huge impact on the local market.

The smartphone market is witnessing a significant change with a range of new brands being introduced through various online channels.

Fast out of the starting blocks, FastMobile has launched its TrendZ1 model.

It is a superb all-round smartphone, extremely powerful with all the features found in today's high-end phones. This device has entered the market at less than 25% of the price of other major brands.

READ: Your guide to the biggest smartphones heading to SA

The FastMobile TrendZ1 is equipped with a 13-Megapixel Sony camera on the back and OmniVision's 13-Megapixel camera on the front.

The cameras offer plenty of detail, colours are vivid, contrast and white balance are on par with the best phones on the market today.

It has a 5.5-inch IPS JDI screen with the resolution of 1280×720, offering a great colour reproduction, good viewing angles and decent sunlight readability.

The device comes with Android 5.1 Lollipop on-board and it boasts a MediaTek's 64-bit MT6753 Octa-Core processor clocked at 1.3GHz, coupled with Mali-T720 GPU for visual tasks.

FastMobile's TrendZ1 is equipped with a large 3500mAh lithium-ion battery.

That much power coupled with a lower resolution screen and efficient CPU means that one doesn't have to worry about battery and charging the phone too often.

READ: Apple overtakes Samsung in smartphone wars

The phone also offers dual SIM connectivity and network support of up to 4G LTE.

More importantly, it comes with a storage capacity of 16GB but can be upgraded by applying an additional 64GB of storage via micro SD card.

The fingerprint scanner is a great security feature on the phone, it can be used to unlock the device or to lock and unlock certain apps.

The FastMobile TrendZ1 is a great looking, affordable phone that offers great user experience.

It comes standard with a Gorilla Glass 3 screen protector and a plastic cover.

Read Fin24's top stories trending on Twitter:

Source: New smartphone brands emerge through online channels

Xiaomi might release a Mi phone in the U.S., but not until 2019

When Xiaomi unveiled the Mi6 last week, notably absent was any mention of a U.S. release. While the China-based company launched its first stateside product late last year, the Android TV-based Mi Box, it has yet to debut a handset for the U.S. market. But Xiaomi isn't giving up on the dream.

Xiaomi's senior vice president of strategic cooperation Wang Xiang said in an interview with CNet that the company is taking its time with its global expansion, despite recent hints that it was attempting to break into the U.S. sooner than later. He told the publication that Xiaomi is hoping to launch its first handset "in two years, if not sooner," so it would seem that U.S. buyers will have to wait until the Mi8 to get their hands on one.

Xiaomi's former global head, Hugo Barra, had teased a more ambitious plan for the company's expansion, but after a splashy event at CES this year, Xiaomi still found itself on the outside of the U.S. market looking in. Other Chinese companies such as Huawei and ZTE have had limited success with U.S. releases, but partnering with carriers has proven to be a big barrier to availability.

However, Xiaomi may be further along than they are letting on. Last year, Barra suggested that the Mi5 was already being tested on U.S. networks, but it's unclear how official they were. Overseas phones operate on a different band than U.S. carriers, so manufacturers need to pass a series of lab tests before they can be offered for sale through AT&T or T-Mobile stores.

At any rate, Xiaomi is clearly interested in becoming a larger player in the increasingly crowded smartphone game. As Wang said, "We don't want to make a random decision, oh say, here's the Mi 6, let's try the US market, if it doesn't work let's just leave," Wang said. "No, we want to be well prepared and make a boom in those markets."

Xiaomi, don't tell me: The U.S. market is the toughest nut to crack for China-based phone makers, so we won't be surprised if we never see a Xiaomi handset. While the company is taking the right approach by biding its time and exploring all options, the fact remains that none of its mainland competitors have been able to hit on a winning formula for success, especially for higher-end handsets. Part of it is the tremendous competition from Apple and Samsung, but there's also the carrier compliance. Unlocked phones may be nice, but if they aren't being sold by the major carriers, adoption is that much more difficult. Still, we'd love to see a Xiaomi phone work on U.S. networks, even if we have to wait until the Mi8.

To comment on this article and other Greenbot content, visit our Facebook page or our Twitter feed.
Source: Xiaomi might release a Mi phone in the U.S., but not until 2019

Monday, 24 April 2017

Urban Armor Gear reveals new cases for Huaweiâ€™s two smartphones

by Edwin - on April 24th, 2017

Owning a brand new smartphone often evokes a feeling of pride — and rightfully so, I might add. However, to make sure that your spanking new device remains well protected from unwanted knocks and drops, there is the compulsory smartphone case which you ought to look into. Not all smartphone cases are created equal though, as certain cases are simply run-of-the-mill stuff which are nice to look at, but not too functional. Urban Armor Gear has something that is not only functional, but it is also aesthetically pleasing, targeting the Huawei Mate 9 and P10 smartphones with rugged cases of their own.

These new rugged cases are not only lightweight and slim, they are also touted to deliver unmatched protection when it comes to Huawei's high end smartphones. Urban Armor Gear has already made a name for themselves in terms of delivering rugged, lightweight mobile accessories. Hence, the latest announcement of the new range of MIL-SPEC drop-tested cases which have been specially designed for Huawei's latest Mate 9, Mate 9 Pro, P10 and P10 Plus devices are certainly worth looking into.

Released in UAG's signature Plasma Series, the cases will bring together an impact-resistant soft core with durable rubberized edges in order to provide the right kind of protection against drops and shocks. These have been specially engineered to deliver maximum protection without adding any kind of extra bulk to the device. To sweeten the deal, the striking yet translucent designs will enable the underlying color of the phone to show through, all the while ensuring that the ruggedized style for which UAG is famous for is maintained. It does not matter whether the abuse to your smartphones happen at the office or when you are out on a nature trail, UAG's latest cases will be able to handle them both with aplomb.

Sporting feather-light composite construction in an armor shell and impact resistant soft core, the non-slip ruggedized grip makes sure you will always be able to get a grasp of it regardless of how sweaty your palms are. There are also scratch resistant skid pads and screen surround, and plays nice with the smartphone's fingerprint sensor to boot. It will be available for $39.95 a pop in Ice (transparent) and Ash (gray transparent) shades.

Press Release

Source: Urban Armor Gear reveals new cases for Huawei's two smartphones

Spreadtrum LTE SoC platform powers Bharat 2, the latest smartphone from Micromax

Powered by Spreadtrum's SC9832 LTE SoC platform, Micromax's Bharat 2 enables smoother customer transition to the next wave of technology

New Delhi, India- April 24, 2017-In a testimony to its growing market dominance, the SC9832 processor from Spreadtrum Communications ("Spreadtrum"), a leading fabless semiconductor company, has been adopted for Micromax's newly launched smartphone, Bharat 2. The latest integration underlines Spreadtrum's vision of leveraging innovative mobile technologies to enable high-performance digital connectivity for Indian consumers at extremely affordable price points.

Based on ARM Cortex-A7 configuration, Spreadtrum SC9832 is a 28nm quad-core processor with five modes - TDD-LTE, FDD-LTE, WCDMA/HSPA(+), GSM and GPRS. The LTE SoC chip platform clocks at 1.3GHz and supports 4G with VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0 and GPS.

Dr. Leo Li, Chairman and CEO, Spreadtrum, said, "Spreadtrum's world-class innovations have been making high-performance mobile connectivity more accessible and within-the-means for aspiring smartphone owners across the globe. We are delighted to partner with Micromax, one of the leading mobile phone manufacturers in India, for its smartphone, Bharat 2. Equipped with Spreadtrum's SC9832 chipset, Bharat 2 will make high-speed, affordable 4G VoLTE connectivity a tangible reality for Indian consumers and will give the vision of inclusive digital empowerment beyond geographical and socioeconomic boundaries a big boost."

"Spreadtrum and Micromax have been close strategic partners since 2012 and together, we co-develop and customise solutions for the Indian consumer and take the leading Spreadtrum innovations to the market. We are delighted to partner with Spreadtrum for Bharat 2 that will bring the next set of meaningful innovations to the masses", said Vikas Jain, Co-Founder, Micromax Informatics Ltd.

Powered by Spreadtrum's SC9832 Micromax Bharat 2 is a Google certified smartphone and features 512MB of RAM, 4GB of internal storage (expandable to 32GB via a microSD card), and a 2MP rear camera with LED flash, along with a 4-inch WVGA display and a VGA front camera for video calling and selfies. The affordable smartphone has been launched at an extremely cost-effective price point, driving the adoption of Internet for the next set of Indian consumers.

About Spreadtrum Communications

As an affiliate of Tsinghua Unigroup, Ltd, Spreadtrum Communications is a fabless semiconductor company that develops mobile chipset platforms for smartphones, feature phones and other consumer electronics products, supporting 2G, 3G and 4G wireless communications standards. Spreadtrum's solutions combine its highly integrated, power-efficient chipsets with customizable software and reference designs in a complete turnkey platform, enabling customers to achieve faster design cycles with a lower development cost. Spreadtrum's customers include global and China-based manufacturers developing mobile products for consumers in China and emerging markets around the world. For more information, please visit www.spreadtrum.com

About Micromax

Micromax Informatics Limited is the 10th largest mobile brand in the world (Counterpoint Research) and one of the leading consumer electronics company. Over the past decade, Micromax has pioneered the democratization of technology for masses by offering affordable innovations through their products and removing barriers for large scale adoption of advanced technologies. The brand embraces innovative product portfolio ranging from feature rich, dual – SIM phones, 4G Android smartphones, tablets, Smart televisions, Air Conditioners and Laptops. With successful operations across India, Russia and other SAARC markets, Micromax sells more than 3 million Mobility Devices every month.

For more information, please visitwww.micromaxinfo.com

Source: Spreadtrum LTE SoC platform powers Bharat 2, the latest smartphone from Micromax

Sunday, 23 April 2017

Smartphone program SMS4dads helps new fathers manage mental health risks

The text message raised suspicions when she saw it pop up on her husband's phone: "When you look into my eyes, I know that you're really thinking about me."

But the man explained to his wife it was not from another woman but from SMS4dads, a smartphone program for first-time fathers. The message was written from the perspective of the couple's new baby, to encourage father-child bonding.

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OceanaGold fights Philippines mining crackdown

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Blokes don't talk about that Blokes don't talk about that

The suicide rate among construction workers is alarming, but organisations and programs are out to change that.

OceanaGold fights Philippines mining crackdown

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The Australian mining company has appealed directly to Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte against the suspension of its contract.

Many arrested in Melbourne clubs' drug sweep

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Victoria police sweep Melbourne's popular clubs and bars, arresting 20 people for drug possession.

Abbott challenged to charity boxing match

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Tony Abbott, the one time Oxford university boxing champion, is challenged by a Labor senator from Queensland to put up his dukes for charity.

Massive brawl erupts in West Sydney

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Two young men are stabbed in the back during a brawl at a party in Sydney's west.

Thousands of Australian join 'March for Science'

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Thousands of Australians marched in support of science and evidence-based policy as part of world-wide demonstration around the world for Earth Day on Saturday.

Dutton on Manus shooting: 'I have facts you don't'

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In a fiery interview on ABC television on Sunday, Immigration Minister Peter Dutton declared 'there are facts that I have that you don't' as he refused to resile from his assertions that appeared to blame asylum seekers for last week's violent outburst on Manus Island. Vision: ABC TV/Insiders.

Arthur 'Neddy' Smith attempts hospital escape: reports

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Notorious Sydney crime figure Arthur 'Neddy' Smith, who is serving a life sentence for murder, reportedly attempted to escape hospital after a guard fell asleep and the other was using a laptop. Vision: Channel 7.

Blokes don't talk about that

The suicide rate among construction workers is alarming, but organisations and programs are out to change that.

Developed by the University of Newcastle with beyondblue and the Movember Foundation, the world-first service sends men regular messages with advice and information – synchronised to their baby's development – and a mood tracker to help them care for themselves while caring for their family.

"It's like a mate looking after you," said the SMS4dads project leader, Associate Professor Richard Fletcher.

First-time father Stephen Donohue says he appreciated the information and advice sent to him by SMS4dads. Photo: Wolter Peeters

Sydney father Stephen Donohue, 31, signed up for SMS4dads when his son was born last year. "I appreciated information coming to me via text, offering support if and when needed," he said.

Mr Donohue said it was not just society that expected more of fathers these days "but dads themselves, because we have seen and heard about the importance of the role dads play".

"It's really hard finding the balance – of work, of recreation, of family time, of making sure that I'm playing my part as dad and not just sitting on the sidelines," he said. "There's a lot of pressure ... to be doing everything."

Becoming a father is a high-risk time for mental distress for men, adjusting to major lifestyle changes and juggling the responsibilities caring for a newborn while working harder than ever to make up for their partner's lost income.

Research shows one in 10 first-time dads develop postnatal depression and one in seven experience a high level of psychological distress. But according to beyondblue, 44 per cent do not seek information or support while under stress and 43 per cent see anxiety and depression after having a baby as a sign of weakness.

SMS4dads makes it easy for fathers to find support; those who consistently register a low mood receive assistance and follow-up from the PANDA helpline.

The project manager for beyondblue, Dr Luke Martin, said men could be "reluctant to seek help because they want to be the one supporting their family, not the one needing support".

"They feel they have to be the rock," he said. But men needed to know that "one of the best things you can do to support your family is to get some support yourself".

Dr Fletcher, from the Family Action Centre at the University of Newcastle's faculty of health and medicine, said "the evidence is much clearer now that if the father is depressed and not getting help, the children are going to be affected". His research has found that children are three times more likely to have behaviour problems if, in their first year of life, their father had symptoms of depression.

Ninety-two per cent of fathers trialling SMS4dads found it helpful. There are hopes it will become an ongoing national program and Dr Fletcher has been in discussions about expanding it internationally.

He expects trial results will show the program helps to reduce the symptoms of anxiety, stress and depression for first-time dads. There would be economic benefits as well - in 2012, an Australian study found depression in new fathers cost almost $18 million in healthcare costs and $224 million in lost productivity.

"We would like to see it widely used, helping health departments save money," Dr Fletcher said.

New fathers and fathers-to-be can register at sms4dads.com.

Source: Smartphone program SMS4dads helps new fathers manage mental health risks

Apple Testing Numerous Features On iPhone 8, Smartphone Release Date Could Be Delayed

Apple is reportedly testing numerous technologies for its iPhone 8, sources told Bloomberg.

Information from sources back previous rumored features expected on the 10th anniversary device this fall. However, the new technology could possibly delay the iPhone 8's release date by one or two months after it is revealed because of supply constraints, the report said.

Read: Apple's Gift Suggestions For Mother's Day Include The iPad Pro And BeatsX Earphones

Here are some features the iPhone 8 could come with, according to the Bloomberg report:

iPhone 8 Rumored Design Features

Apple is apparently testing a "revamped iPhone with an all-screen front, curved glass and a stainless steel frame," the report said.

The design features of the iPhone 8 mentioned by the sources are similar to previous rumors. On Monday, Japanese blog Mac Otakara said the iPhone 8 would come with stainless steel frame to hold together the front and back glass panels of the device.

iPhone 8 Rumors: OLED Display And Screen Size

The iPhone 7S and 7S Plus are expected to have LCD displays, like previous rumors have indicated. For the iPhone 8, the sources said Apple will use an edge-to-edge OLED screen display provided by Samsung, backing a recent Nikkei report which said Apple placed orders for 70 million OLED panels from Samsung. However, the Bloomberg report said Apple ordered around 100 million panels from Samsung. The DigiTimes reported recently Apple signed a $9 billion two-year contract with Samsung for OLED displays.

Read: iPhone 7 Vs Galaxy S8: Speed Test Video Shows Apple Still Ahead of Samsung

The display is said to be larger than that of the iPhone 7 Plus, released last year, but will have an overall size closer to the iPhone 7, sources told Bloomberg.

Embedded Touch ID

Apple will reportedly reduce the smartphone's size by embedding the home button into the screen via software like the in the Samsung Galaxy S8, people close to the matter said. However, this week, Pacific Crest Securities equity research analyst recently said Apple will likely ditch its plan of embedding the Touch ID into the iPhone 8 display. A note to investors from an analyst at Cowen and Company last week said Apple's biggest trouble among iPhone 8 features was embedding the Touch ID. He also said Apple could ditch the idea or delay the production of the iPhone 8.

New Camera Technology

The Bloomberg report said Apple is testing more advanced cameras for the iPhone 8. For the back camera, Apple is reportedly testing versions of the iPhone for better photos by positioning the dual-camera system vertically instead of horizontally like on the iPhone 7 Plus. Apple is apparently testing dual-lenses for the front camera, an upgrade from the current iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus, which have single cameras. The company has explored adding augmented reality-based features and depth-of-field enhancements to its iPhone camera system, it was learned earlier this year.

The iPhones this year will run iOS 11 that will "include a refreshed user-interface," the report said. The software update is expected to be announced at the Worldwide Developers Conference in San Jose, Calif. this June.

Source: Apple Testing Numerous Features On iPhone 8, Smartphone Release Date Could Be Delayed

Saturday, 22 April 2017

Google accidentally leaks new update for its Pixel smartphone

According to a report by TechCrunch, US tech giant Google accidentally rolled out a confidential Android update to the users of its Pixel XL smartphones, a month ahead before its official release. The security update includes bug fixes and other improvements for internal testing. An alert before installing the update read, "This is a confidential Googlers-only OTA. Do not discuss or comment on this update externally."

By Varun Vasudevan | Apr 22, 2017 8:26 PM #google #GooglePixel

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Accessories and Peripherals Global Market for Smartphones and Tablets, Trends, Analysis and Forecasts to 2019

(EMAILWIRE.COM, April 22, 2017 )Global Accessories and Peripherals Market for Smartphones and Tablets 2015-2019Covering: This market study segments the global accessories and peripherals market for smartphones and tablets by product ( cases, screen guards, headsets, and chargers) and by geography (APAC, EMEA, and the Americas). Leading vendors in this market are Belkin, Logitech, Otter Products, Targus, and Zagg.Market outlook of the global accessories and peripherals market for smartphones and tablets

For more information http://www.reportsweb.com/global-accessories-and-peripherals-market-for-smartphones-and-tablets-2015-2019

Accessories and peripherals are devices that are connected externally or internally to smart devices to enhance their performance. The market for accessories and peripherals for smartphones is expected to post a modest market growth rate of more than 6% by 2019, whereas the accessories market for tablets is envisaged to post an impressive market growth rate of more than 40% during the forecast period. The increasing sale of smartphones and tablets coupled with the ability of peripherals to enhance customer experience are expected to account for this market's high growth rate during the forecast period.Publisher's analyst has estimated eminent factors, such as the increasing smartphones and tablets market, to impel market growth during the forecast period. The extensive use of smart devices in day-to-day activities results in their rough handling. Consequently, the demand for accessories and peripherals that protect devices from the harsh environmental conditions and rough handling is increasing.Product-based segmentation of the accessories and peripherals market for smartphones and tablets- Cases- Screen guards- Headsets- ChargersThe cases segment is estimated to account for the highest market share during the forecast period. This segment is envisaged to account for more than 66% of the total market share by 2019 due to the avail ability of cases in a wide array of designs and colors.Geographical segmentation of the accessories and peripherals market for smartphones- APAC- EMEA- Americas

Request Sample Copy http://www.reportsweb.com/inquiry&RW0001232601/sample

In this market research report, analysts have estimated the APAC region to account for a revenue share of approximately 57% by 2019. Factors like the high adoption of smartphones and the augmented disposable income of consumers in this region are responsible for this region's high revenue generating capacity during the forecast period.Competitive landscape and key vendorsThis market is characterized by the presence of numerous vendors since it has high potential for growth in emerging nations like China and India. Additionally, as this market has low entry barriers, new global and regional players can easily establish themselves as prominent players during the forecast period.Leading vendors in this market are -- Belkin International In c.- Logitech International SA- Otter Products LLC- Targus Group International Inc.- Zagg IncOther prominent vendors in this market are Case Logic, Griffin Technology, Incase Design Corp., and Kensington.Key questions answered in the report include

Companies Mentioned:

Belkin International Inc.Logitech International SAOtter Products LLCTargus Group International IncZagg IncCase LogicGriffin TechnologyIncase Design Corp.Kensington.

Make an enquiry: http://www.reportsweb.com/inquiry&RW0001232601/buying

Source: Accessories and Peripherals Global Market for Smartphones and Tablets, Trends, Analysis and Forecasts to 2019

Friday, 21 April 2017

Your Smartphone Is Neither a Cancer nor a Cure-All

I remember the day I got my first smartphone. Upgrading from a "dumb phone," I was dazzled. Crisp and clear pictures. Email and calendar in one place. Ready access to Twitter, Facebook, and any search engine I wanted. In the words of the AT&T ad, I could now "move at the speed of instantly."

But as the months went on, I realized my smartphone was not a neutral tool that would leave my life unaffected. My days started to change—sometimes drastically. It began with email. I started checking it almost obsessively. Wake up, turn over, check email. Get coffee, check email. My daughter would ask a question. "Hold on, honey, I'm just finishing this email."

Then came social media. I could now post pictures directly to Facebook. Yet rarely did I consider whether my 300 "friends" needed to see my weekend family adventures. Twitter became my news source. Even though I clicked on dozens of articles, I noticed I never read them through. My thoughts started to fragment into smaller and smaller pieces. Oddly enough, even though I now held in my hand the key to unparalleled productivity, at the end of the work day I felt a new level of exhaustion.

Tony Reinke's new book, 12 Ways Your Phone Is Changing You, makes explicit what many of us feel bubbling under the surface: quietly, subtly, our phones are changing us.

Reinke catalogues the quiet catastrophe he believes our phones are causing. For instance:

We're distracted. We check our smartphone 85,000 times a year, or once every 4.3 minutes.

We're a hazard to others. Texting and driving makes us 23 times more likely to get in a car accident.

We crave approval. Each social media moment is another scene in our "incessant autobiography."

We idolize celebrity. Our attention drifts from the eternal toward the latest headlines and gossip.

We become lonely. "Technology is drawing us apart, by design. We feel the sting of loneliness in the middle of online connectedness," Reinke says.

We get lost in the digital noise. The average daily social media and email output is larger than the Library of Congress.

We lose track of time. The wonder of people, plants, nature, and art—even God himself—gets lost in the whirl of "urgent" notifications.

All in all, Reinke makes an admirable attempt at bringing theology to bear on our digital devices. Snarky remarks on Facebook proliferate, but Scripture calls us to steer clear of slander and honor others with our words (James 4:11–12; Eph. 4:29). We seek approval from social media, but true approval comes from God (Rom. 2:29). We struggle with "fear of missing out," or "FOMO," yet the scope of eternity dramatically reframes our perspective (Luke 16:19–31).

After reading the book, I felt like I had a digital cancer growing in my pocket. Each chapter builds on what smartphones are allegedly doing to us: creating isolation, distraction, addiction, idolatry, and a host of other ills. Less-than-inspiring subtitles abound: "FOMO in the Grave," "Junk Food for the Soul," "Technology and Isolation."

Source: Your Smartphone Is Neither a Cancer nor a Cure-All

Moto X (2017) release date, news and rumors

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Source: Moto X (2017) release date, news and rumors

Thursday, 20 April 2017

7 Ways to Keep Your Smartphone Running Like New

When you buy a new smartphone, it often runs quickly for a few months, and then seems to slow down inexplicably. But it turns out that it's pretty easy for you to keep your smartphone — either an iPhone or an Android phone — running like new. Read on for seven easy ways to speed up your phone and keep everything running smoothly.

The first step in keeping your smartphone running like new is to keep the software up-to-date. | Apple.com

The latest version of your phone's operating system, whether iOS or Android, often contains updates and bug fixes to make your phone run more smoothly and more quickly. On an Android smartphone or an iPhone, you can check for updates via the Settings app. While you're at it, also make sure that you're keeping up with updates for the apps installed on your phone. When you're running the latest version of all of the software, things are more likely to keep running smoothly and quickly.

Source: 7 Ways to Keep Your Smartphone Running Like New

HTC To Release Squeezable Brilliant U Phone On May 16

(Photo : HTCTaiwan/You Tube Screenshot) HTC has sent out invites for a media event on 16 May 2017 to take place at 2 pm in Taipei, 2 am in New York and 7 am in London.

HTC has recently announced that the HTC U will arrive on May 16. The company's reputed HTC U flagship will come one month from now, and the company released an official teaser image for its launching, as should be obvious from the article. In that picture, HTC plainly affirms that the HTC U is coming, the smartphone is obscured out of sight, and the company further says that the smartphone's launch event will start at 2 AM EST/7AM CET.

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In their teaser image, HTC included the 'Squeeze For The Brilliant' caption, which looks like their slogan for the HTC U's launch. Presently, the HTC U has been leaking out for some time now, and it appears like the smartphone will resemble a smaller form of the HTC U Ultra, as per AndroidUltra.

However, it won't sport that secondary display up top, at any rate, if speculation and leaks are to be accepted. Presently, not long ago, many shared exclusive leaks of the HTC U, otherwise called the HTC Ocean. It appears like the smartphone will be made out of metal and glass, while it will wear a unique fingerprint scanner/home button underneath the display and two capacitive buttons on its sides, much the same as the HTC U Ultra.

The HTC U will likely sport a 5.5-inch WQHD display with Corning's Gorilla Glass 5 security or protection on top of it. The smartphone will pack in 4GB/6GB of RAM and 64GB/128GB of internal storage, while a 3,000mAh battery will be incorporated into this bundle also. Talking about the battery. Qualcomm's Quick Charge 3.0 quick charging tech will be a piece of this bundle too, thus will Bluetooth 4.2 it appears. Qualcomm's Snapdragon 835 64-bit octa-core processor will fuel the HTC U, alongside the Adreno 540 GPU, and the smartphone will send with Android 7.1 Nougat out of the box, while HTC's custom Sense UI will be set on top of it, TheVerge cited.

On top of all that, one can also anticipate that BoomSound speakers will be a part of the experience, and the greatest addition to the entire bundle are presumably 'Edge Sensors'. These sensors will be put close to the base of the gadget, and they will allow the user to communicate with the HTC U's edges to finish certain tasks. This sounds like an interesting feature, and it will be nice to perceive in what capacity will HTC execute that, assuming it's true, obviously. The public will witness everything on May 16, so stay tuned.

Wednesday, 19 April 2017

ZTE announces new Axon 7s flagship smartphone

Gets Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 SoC

ZTE has unveiled an improved version of its earlier flagship Axon 7 smartphone, the Axon 7s.

Featuring the same 5.5-inch AMOLED screen with QHD (2560x1440) resolution, the new ZTE Axon 7s should get a decent performance boost from the upgraded Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 SoC. While not specifically detailed, it is believed that it will have 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage.

Unfortunately, it appears that nothing else has changed, which is not necessarily a bad thing since Axon 7 already had some decent features. It still comes with a 20-megapixel rear camera and most likely the same stereo speaker with Dolby Atmos. It runs on Android 7.1 OS with ZTE's own MiFavor UI on top of it and will probably use the same 3250mAh battery.

ZTE also briefly mentioned an upgraded version of the Axon 7 Max as well as cut the price of the older Axon 7 down to US $329.99, at least in some regions.

Hopefully, we will get more details about the ZTE Axon 7s soon, as it certainly looks like a decent smartphone at that price point.

zte axon7s 1

Source: ZTE announces new Axon 7s flagship smartphone

SL Interphase Crowd Funds Its Dual Machine Smartphone Trinity on Indiegogo

SL Interphase is crowd-funding a new smartphone on Indiegogo that runs both Windows 10 (desktop edition) and Android on the same device simultaneously.

Chandler, AZ, April 19, 2017 --(PR.com)-- SL Interphase's new smartphone "Trinity" is equipped with both and Intel x86 processor and an ARM processor allowing both operating systems to operate simultaneously. Trinity is an all-in-one Dual Machine Windows PC and Android smartphone which was created by SL Interphase.

Trinity is a first of its kind smartphone to bridge the gap between Windows based PCs and Android smartphones allowing the enterprise business user to carry only one device rather than both a laptop and a smartphone separately. Trinity has both an optional Intel Pentium N3710 processor and separate 128GB SSD for its Windows 10 OS and is compatible with standard Windows 10 applications. It also has an NXP iMX-6 Quad Core ARM processor with separate storage to run Android and is compatible with traditional Android apps. Both systems can be run simultaneously allowing the user to switch between the two, or put one system to sleep to extend battery life. Trinity also has mul tiple HDMI and USB ports. The dual HDMI ports allow dual monitor setup for extending either Android or Windows 10 to an external monitor for desktop use.

If funding is successful, SL Interphase will begin shipping smartphones by the end of the year.

For more information, See the Trinity landing page here:www.sl-interphase.com/trinity/

Source: SL Interphase Crowd Funds Its Dual Machine Smartphone Trinity on Indiegogo

Tuesday, 18 April 2017

New Samsung Galaxy S8 puts the smart in smartphone

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Source: New Samsung Galaxy S8 puts the smart in smartphone

Samsung Galaxy S8 price, specs, release date & features: Read our review of the Galaxy S8

Samsung's smartphone launches are always highly anticipated events, but this year's Galaxy S8 launch is set to be even more interesting. The company has a lot to prove with its newest product, as it's the first device to be launched since the exploding Galaxy Note 7 grabbed headlines last year.

Initial indications look very good; the S8 was well-received when it was initially unveiled, with the virtually edgeless screen and slim profile impressing critics and consumers alike. Here's everything we know about the device so far.

Read our review of the Samsung Galaxy S8 here

Picture credit: Samsung

Monday, 17 April 2017

China's Transsion to launch Tecno smartphones in India

NEW DELHI: Chinese handset maker Transsion Holdings will introduce its smartphone brand 'Tecno' in India this month, further intensifying competition in one of the world's largest mobile phone markets.

"India is our top priority market across the group and the 58 countries that we operate in, including Middle East and Africa," Transsion Holdings Vice President Arif Chowdhury told PTI.

He added that the company is examining prospects of setting up local manufacturing and a research and development team in India to tap into the opportunity here.

Chowdhury, however, declined to comment on investment details and market share that the company was aiming for in the Indian market.

Transsion had launched its 'itel' brand in India last year and is now exploring the potential of launching its third brand -- Infinix -- in the country.

In the past few months, India has seen Chinese mobile phone brands like Lenovo, Vivo and Oppo swarming the market and gain market share.

With a new player coming in, competition in the multi- billion Indian handset market is set to intensify further.

According to research firm IDC, 25.8 million smartphones were shipped to India in October-December quarter of 2016. Of this, the share of China-based vendors stood at 46 per cent.

Apart from Korean player Samsung that led the market in the said quarter, others in the top 5 tally -- Xiaomi, Lenovo, Oppo and Vivo -- were all Chinese players.

Transsion's 'itel' brand stood at the second spot in the overall mobile phone market in the last quarter of 2016.

"We will launch four smartphones – i3, i3 Pro, i5 and i5 Pro in the Indian market and then, our flagship in May, in the Rs 8,000–15,000 price range," Chowdhury said.

Except for the entry-level model, all other devices will have a fingerprint scanner and improved selfie technology with front and back LED flashes.

"These products have been developed exclusively for India, these are not available in any other country," he said.

While these devices will initially be available in Rajasthan, Punjab and Gujarat, the company will go pan-India by the end of the year.

"We have a complete 'offline' focus. In the three states where we are starting, we have partnered about 10,000 retailers through 129 local distributors," he said.

Chowdhury added that the company would also look at setting up its own service centres in India, a model it has followed in other parts of the world.

Source: China's Transsion to launch Tecno smartphones in India