The 2015 Hyundai Sonata will be the first Android Auto car

We’ve been waiting for an official Android Auto vehicle to become available ever since Google announced it last year, and although some aftermarket manufacturers have created ways to turn your current vehicle into an Android Auto-capable vehicle, no car manufacturer was in a hurry to get Android Auto integrated out of the factory.

Looks like that’ll change this year, though, with Hyundai leading the pack. Its 2015 Sonata will be equipped with Android Auto on board, allowing drivers to link up their smartphones to their car to take advantage of Google’s smart car OS with all of the voice navigation and music playing you could want.

Current owners of the 2015 Sonata with Navigation can drive to their Hyundai dealer to have their in-car software updated to Android Auto. If you’d rather wait, customers should be able to do the upgrade themselves later this summer by putting the upgrade onto a USB drive, then updating the car manually.

source: Hyundai

All-New Integration Available on Best-Selling Sonata  

• First car company to launch Android Auto on production vehicles, starting with the 2015 Sonata with Navigation


• Free Android Auto software update available for current owners of 2015 Sonatas with Navigation


• Android Auto reduces driver distraction by integrating the driver’s smartphone with the vehicle’s screen and controls 

Fountain Valley, Calif., May 26, 2015 – Today, Hyundai becomes the first car company to launch Android Auto™ on production vehicles. Android Auto is premiering on the 2015 Sonata with Navigation at dealerships nationwide, and will later become available on other Hyundai models.

“Android Auto aligns with Hyundai’s core interior design principles of safety, intuitiveness and simplicity,” said Dave Zuchowski, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor America. “We launched this highly anticipated feature on our best-selling Sonata, adding to our promise of value. With the launch of Android Auto, we provide more owners with the experience of cutting-edge technology.”

Android Auto not only brings a high technology experience to Hyundai owners, but also improves safety. For example, at any given daylight moment across America, approximately 660,000 drivers are using cell phones or manipulating electronic devices while driving, a number that has held steady since 2010.¹ Android Auto helps keep drivers’ eyes and attention on the road by integrating the advanced driving-related functions of the user’s smartphone with the familiar centralized screen, physical controls and microphone of their car. Furthermore, the smartphone’s screen becomes “locked,” so drivers are not tempted to look down and interact with their phones directly while Android Auto is in use.

AVAILABILITY FOR EXISTING OWNERS
Owners of existing 2015 Sonata with Navigation can get the Android Auto software update free of charge at Hyundai dealers starting today. Later this summer, owners can visit www.hyundaiusa.com/myhyundai and download the Android Auto software onto a USB memory drive. Owners will need a MyHyundai account to start the Android Auto download. A MyHyundai account requires name, address and a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Once the USB with the Android Auto software is inserted into their Sonata’s USB port, it will automatically update the vehicle’s Navigation system to make it Android Auto compatible. The Android Auto compatible Navigation system with an eight-inch touchscreen display is available on the Sonata Sport, Eco, Limited, Sport 2.0T and Limited 2.0T models.
ANDROID AUTO
Owners will need the Android 5.0 “Lollipop” operating system or later, and the Android Auto companion app on their compatible phone to integrate Android Auto into Sonata’s screen and controls. A micro USB cable is required to connect the phone to the car’s USB port. The first time an owner plugs his or her phone into their parked Sonata, the phone will prompt the download of the Android Auto companion app from the Google Play. Users of Android Auto will instantly recognize familiar Android phone applications, such as Google Maps, Google Now, messaging, phone calling and Google Play Music upon connecting their Android phone to their Hyundai vehicle. These applications can be controlled by voice, steering wheel controls and touchscreen. Android Auto also will offer many popular third-party audio apps that owners have on their phones, including iHeartRadio, Spotify, TuneIn, NPR, Stitcher, Skype, TextMe and many more. Owners can find out up-to-date information about phone compatibility at https://support.google.com/androidauto.
Advantages of Android Auto

• The Google Now card-based experience provides suggested locations and travel times based on the user’s searches, calendar entries and home and office locations, as well as weather information and “now playing” information for music streamed via the phone


• App software (navigation, streaming music, etc.) is automatically updated because the apps live on the phone


• Natural voice recognition with Google voice actions


• Owners can easily bring their personal reminders, suggested destinations, calendar appointments and music preferences with them when they get in their car


• Android Auto automatically pairs with the Sonata for phone calls through Bluetooth when connected for the first time via USB


• Android Auto has familiar interfaces that are easy to use and have almost no learning curve

2015 HYUNDAI SONATA
The all-new seventh-generation 2015 Sonata offers a more refined look through a new Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design language, stiffer body structure, better ride quality, reduced noise, vibration and harshness, and advanced safety and convenience features. Sonata truly democratizes the premium design and convenient technology of the Genesis sedan for the mid-size class. The new 2015 Hyundai Sonata is built at the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama plant in Montgomery, Ala.
HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA
Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through more than 820 dealerships nationwide. All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by the Hyundai Assurance program, which includes the 5-year/60,000-mile fully transferable new vehicle limited warranty, Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty and five years of complimentary Roadside Assistance. Hyundai Blue Link Connected Care provides owners of Hyundai models equipped with the Blue Link telematics system with proactive safety and car care services complimentary for one year with enrollment. These services include Automatic Collision Notification, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Vehicle Diagnostic Alert, Monthly Vehicle Health Report and in-vehicle service scheduling.

________________________
¹ Driver Electronic Device Use in 2012. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. February 2014.

For more details on Hyundai Assurance, please visit www.HyundaiAssurance.com

Please visit our media website at www.hyundainews.com and our blog at www.hyundailikesunday.com

Hyundai Motor America on Twitter | YouTube | Facebook

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Born in southern Alabama, Jared spends his working time selling phones and his spare time writing about them. The Android enthusiasm started with the original Motorola Droid and an unhealthy obsession with fixing things that aren’t broken. This accidentally led to being the go-to guy for anything more complicated than a toaster, which he considers more of a curse than a blessing. Jared is enrolled in online classes at the University of Phoenix, and spends his spare time on video games and listening to music.

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Source = talkandroid

Tags = 2015, Android, auto, first, Hyundai, Sonata

Facebook to begin showing critics’ reviews on restaurant pages

Facebook is testing out a new program that will add critic reviews to restaurant pages that appear while users search for somewhere to eat, putting the reviews next to comments left by friends on the social media site. It’s a small change, but it might help Facebook stay competitive in the local search market, especially against the likes of Google and Yelp.

Currently, the service is only going to roll out for five partner sites, including Bon Appetit, Conde Nast Traveler, Eater, New York Magazine, and the San Francisco Chronicle. This should encompass thousands of restaurants, but depending on where you live or travel, you may not see this have much of an impact just yet. If it goes well, though, you’ll likely see the list of partners and included restaurants grow.

Do any of you use Facebook to track down somewhere to eat? Google and Foursquare are usually my go-to services, but it’s nice to see Facebook try to heat up the competition.

source: The Verge

Source = talkandroid

Tags = begin, critics’, Facebook, pages, restaurant, reviews, showing

IKEA’s wireless charging embedded furniture now showing up in stores

IKEA announced earlier this year that they were planning on selling a wireless charging line of furniture. It’s definitely an odd concept, but if you’re invested in making all of your devices completely wireless, it’s arguably one of the most futuristic accessories you can buy for your smartphone.

The furniture in this lineup includes things like standing lamps and end tablets with a small wireless charging pad embedded right into the surface of the objects. You’ll obviously have to plug it into a wall socket, but after that simply dropping your wireless charging compatible phone on the pad should get things started. Having things integrated right into a table certainly keeps things looking clean, instead of running wires and ugly black pads across tabletops.

IKEA said the entire line of furniture was supposed to be available in store and online by the end of spring. It looks like the stuff is showing up in store, but from my quick searches I haven’t been able to place an order for anything online just yet.

If you’ve got an IKEA store in your area, you may want to go check it out.

source: Droid Life

Source = talkandroid

Tags = charging, embedded, furniture, IKEA’s, showing, stores, Wireless

OnePlus schedules announcement for June 1st, plans to ‘shake up the tech industry’

OnePlus has just released a teaser on Google+, stating that it has an announcement for us on Monday, June 1st. The company says that it’s “always looking for ways to shake up the tech industry”, and that it thinks “it’s time for a change.” No more details were given about the announcement, aside from the image that you can see above. Could this be alluding to the launch of the OnePlus Two? What about the possibility of new software features? A price cut for the OnePlus One?

We’ve already gotten some hints that the OnePlus Two will make its way to consumers via an invite system sometime in Q3 (July-September) of this year, but June unfortunately doesn’t fall into that category. Of course, things may have changed since we first heard the tentative release date news, but as of right now, we can only speculate.

Additional OnePlus Two reports hint at a possible price tag of around $ 400, that it will be powered by a Snapdragon 810, it will run OnePlus’ own OxygenOS, and that it won’t be the only OnePlus phone to launch this year.

What do you think the announcement will entail? The OnePlus Two? Another ‘game changing’ drone? Let us know what you think!

Source : androidauthority

Tags = announcement, industry’, June, OnePlus, plans, schedules, tech, ‘shake

OnePlus teases the release of a new product on June 1

OnePlus took to its Twitter account earlier today to tease the release of an upcoming smartphone, which we believe is the much-anticipated OnePlus 2.

Unfortunately, the company doesn’t give much away in the tweet. It merely claims that it’s “always looking for ways to shake up the tech industry” and that it “thinks it’s time for a change.”

With regards to specifications, the OnePlus 2 is expected to pack a 5.5-inch Full HD display, a 2GHz quad-core Cortex-A57 processor, 2GB of RAM, an Adreno 430 GPU and a 16MP shooter.

Thankfully, we don’t have to wait too much longer to find out what the company has planned as it has scheduled an event for June 1.

What do you think OnePlus has up its sleeve for its next flagship? Be sure to let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.

Source: Twitter

Source = talkandroid

Tags = June, OnePlus, product, release, teases

Samsung’s working on a refresh of the Galaxy J1

The folks over at SamMobile have leaked some information on an upcoming Samsung-branded budget-friendly smartphone, which has been dubbed the Galaxy J1 Pop. Although we are not sure at this stage if this is a codename or the actual name of the device.

Unfortunately, no details or specifications were published, but we do know that the handset will receive a worldwide launch, starting off in Brazil, India and Russia.

This leads us to believe that the Pop will follow in the footsteps of its predecessor, the Galaxy J1, packing a 4.3-inch WVGA display, a dual-core Spectrum processor, 512MB of RAM and a 2MP front-facing shooter.

What do you think of Samsung’s latest budget-friendly smartphone? Let us know in the comments.

Source: SamMobile

Source = talkandroid

Tags = Galaxy, refresh, Samsung’s, working

Google exec confirms Android M will be released this year

It wasn’t too long ago that we first heard whispers of the next version of Android, thanks to an error on the official Google I/O 2015 schedule. We have a strong suspicion that Google will introduce Android M at this year’s developer conference, but we haven’t actually received any confirmed information regarding the next release. However, thanks to a recent interview with a Google exec, it’s now confirmed that Android M will be released to the public before the year’s end.

Read more: What will Android M bring?

In an interview with Fast Company, Android’s Vice President of Engineering Hiroshi Lockheimer spills some details regarding Android M, and what Google’s plan is for future releases:

As we’ve grown as a platform, we realize that to some extent predictability is important for the whole industry: developers, manufacturers, operators, and consumers, frankly. So we’ve landed with sort of a yearly cadence of big releases, so, for instance, one year we release J, the next year we release K, and then the year after that L, and then this year we’ll launch M, and so you can predict what will happen next year.

This certainly isn’t any groundbreaking news, as we were already assuming that Google would release Android M the same way it released Android L – launching a developer preview at Google I/O, then releasing the final build to the public before the end of the year, likely with some new hardware. Even so, the interview does provide some helpful information, since we now know that Google is planning for yearly release cycles for bigger versions of Android. Lockheimer didn’t make any more comments on Android M in the interview.

We’ve already heard that the next version of Android may feature native fingerprint authentication and new voice controls, but what else do you hope Android M will bring? Let us know in the comments below!

Source : androidauthority

Tags = Android, confirms, exec, Google, released, this, year

Chip production battle heats up as Samsung announces 10nm plans

Although we all see the fruits of the chip manufacturing battle in the form of sleeker, faster, longer running mobile devices, not many people are aware of just how intense the competition in the industry has become. Two of the biggest rivals, Samsung and TSMC, recently moved to 14nm/16nm production for newer devices, with Samsung leading the way. The ability of Samsung to jump ahead in shrinking the manufacturing process let it move the Samsung Galaxy S6 to its own Exynos chips and has it in the lead to produce chips for the Apple iPhone 7. Samsung hopes to retain that position by moving to a 10nm production method by the end of 2016.

Amidst the clamor of these two players, Intel is quietly sitting on the side where industry analysts believe the company is “ahead of everyone” when it comes to 10nm development. Whether Intel can capitalize on that development lead with some commercial success remains to be seen. Intel has not made any public statements about their 10nm plans, possibly in an effort to keep buyers interested in their 14nm processes.

Against Samsung’s announcement, TSMC has indicated they expect to start shipping 16nm chips later this year and will start testing 10nm chips by the end of this year and they too will have 10nm chips ready for production by the end of 2016.

With everyone targeting the end of 2016 for 10nm production, one big question will be manufacturing capacity. Besides speed to market, part of Samsung’s recent success was driven by their ability to meet expected demand. Samsung says they now have four facilities ramped up and producing 14nm wafers – two in Korea, one in Texas, and one in New York. Demand for new chips primarily comes from Apple and Qualcomm, the two largest buyers in the market.

Industry analysts point to high definition video demands, especially real-time live streaming, as a big factor in the recent drive for more powerful chips that consume less space and power. This has introduced some volatility to the manufacturers who are now racing to meet these new targets, which require significant capital investments, and looking for buyers with enough volume to justify the investments. The shorter life cycles between these changes is going to limit opportunities.

source: EE Times

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Raised in North Carolina, Jeff Causey is a chief financial officer and licensed CPA in Durham, North Carolina. Jeff has owned an HTC EVO, a Samsung Note II, and a Samsung Galaxy Tablet 10.1. He currently uses an LG G3 and a Nexus 7 (2013). Recently Jeff added Google Glass to his stable of tech gadgets. Unfortunately, his wife and kids have all drunk the Apple Kool-Aid and have i-devices. Life at home often includes demonstrations of the superiority of his Android based devices. In his free time, Jeff is active in his church, a local MINI Cooper car club, and his daughter’s soccer club. Jeff is married, has three kids, and a golden retriever.

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Source = talkandroid

Tags = 10nm, Announces, Chip, heats, plans, production, Samsung, ‘Battle

2015 Hyundai Sonata is the first car with Android Auto

It took more than a year, but cars running Android Auto are finally hitting the road and Hyundai has the honor of being first.

Hyundai announced today that it’s the first automaker to ship Android Wear on production vehicles, starting with the 2015 model of the Sonata with Navigation. Current owners of the popular midsize car can get a free upgrade to Android Wear by visiting a Hyundai dealership or, starting “later this summer,” by downloading Android Wear, copying it to an USB stick, and plugging it into the Sonata’s USB port. Note that you will need to have the compatible Navigation system in your car (Sonata Sport, Eco, Limited, Sport 2.0T and Limited 2.0T models)

To get started with Android Wear, owners will need to connect their Android phone to the car via a microUSB cable. This will prompt the downloading of the corresponding companion app form Google Play.

Check out a demonstration of Hyundai’s Android Auto system from CES 2015.

Hyundai has embraced Android and mobile tech, offering features like Blue Link or a dedicated Android Wear app that can start Hyundai vehicles remotely. But the Korean manufacturer is just one of many carmakers adopting Android Auto starting this year. These include Audi, Volvo, GM, Ford and many others. Aftermarket head units are also available from Pioneer and other companies.

At Google I/O on Thursday, Google will likely announce some updates to Android Auto. One rumor suggests Google is going to bring more functionality directly to cars, as opposed to the current model, which sees the phone providing most functions.

Show Press Release

Hyundai Is The First Automaker To Launch Android AutoAll-New Integration Available on Best-Selling Sonata

– First car company to launch Android Auto on production vehicles, starting with the 2015 Sonata with Navigation

– Free Android Auto software update available for current owners of 2015 Sonatas with Navigation

– Android Auto reduces driver distraction by integrating the driver’s smartphone with the vehicle’s screen and controls

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., May 26, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Hyundai becomes the first car company to launch Android Auto™ on production vehicles. Android Auto is premiering on the 2015 Sonata with Navigation at dealerships nationwide, and will later become available on other Hyundai models.

“Android Auto aligns with Hyundai’s core interior design principles of safety, intuitiveness and simplicity,” said Dave Zuchowski, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor America. “We launched this highly anticipated feature on our best-selling Sonata, adding to our promise of value. With the launch of Android Auto, we provide more owners with the experience of cutting-edge technology.”

Android Auto not only brings a high technology experience to Hyundai owners, but also improves safety. For example, at any given daylight moment across America, approximately 660,000 drivers are using cell phones or manipulating electronic devices while driving, a number that has held steady since 2010.¹Android Auto helps keep drivers’ eyes and attention on the road by integrating the advanced driving-related functions of the user’s smartphone with the familiar centralized screen, physical controls and microphone of their car. Furthermore, the smartphone’s screen becomes “locked,” so drivers are not tempted to look down and interact with their phones directly while Android Auto is in use.

AVAILABILITY FOR EXISTING OWNERS
Owners of existing 2015 Sonata with Navigation can get the Android Auto software update free of charge at Hyundai dealers starting today. Later this summer, owners can visit www.hyundaiusa.com/myhyundai and download the Android Auto software onto a USB memory drive. Owners will need a MyHyundai account to start the Android Auto download. A MyHyundai account requires name, address and a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Once the USB with the Android Auto software is inserted into their Sonata’s USB port, it will automatically update the vehicle’s Navigation system to make it Android Auto compatible. The Android Auto compatible Navigation system with an eight-inch touchscreen display is available on the Sonata Sport, Eco, Limited, Sport 2.0T and Limited 2.0T models.

ANDROID AUTO
Owners will need the Android 5.0 “Lollipop” operating system or later, and the Android Auto companion app on their compatible phone to integrate Android Auto into Sonata’s screen and controls. A micro USB cable is required to connect the phone to the car’s USB port.The first time an owner plugs his or her phone into their parked Sonata, the phone will prompt the download of the Android Auto companion app from the Google Play. Users of Android Auto will instantly recognize familiar Android phone applications, such as Google Maps, Google Now, messaging, phone calling and Google Play Music upon connecting their Android phone to their Hyundai vehicle. These applications can be controlled by voice, steering wheel controls and touchscreen. Android Auto also will offer many popular third-party audio apps that owners have on their phones, including iHeartRadio, Spotify, TuneIn, NPR, Stitcher, Skype, TextMe and many more. Owners can find out up-to-date information about phone compatibility at https://support.google.com/androidauto.

Advantages of Android Auto

• The Google Now card-based experience provides suggested locations and travel times based on the user’s searches, calendar entries and home and office locations, as well as weather information and “now playing” information for music streamed via the phone


• App software (navigation, streaming music, etc.) is automatically updated because the apps live on the phone


• Natural voice recognition with Google voice actions


• Owners can easily bring their personal reminders, suggested destinations, calendar appointments and music preferences with them when they get in their car


• Android Auto automatically pairs with the Sonata for phone calls through Bluetooth when connected for the first time via USB


• Android Auto has familiar interfaces that are easy to use and have almost no learning curve

2015 HYUNDAI SONATA
The all-new seventh-generation 2015 Sonata offers a more refined look through a new Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design language, stiffer body structure, better ride quality, reduced noise, vibration and harshness, and advanced safety and convenience features. Sonata truly democratizes the premium design and convenient technology of the Genesis sedan for the mid-size class. The new 2015 Hyundai Sonata is built at the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama plant in Montgomery, Ala.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA
Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through more than 830 dealerships nationwide. All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by the Hyundai Assurance program, which includes the 5-year/60,000-mile fully transferable new vehicle limited warranty, Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty and five years of complimentary Roadside Assistance. Hyundai Blue Link Connected Care provides owners of Hyundai models equipped with the Blue Link telematics system with proactive safety and car care services complimentary for one year with enrollment. These services include Automatic Collision Notification, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Vehicle Diagnostic Alert, Monthly Vehicle Health Report and in-vehicle service scheduling.

Source : androidauthority

Tags = 2015, Android, auto, first, Hyundai, Sonata

Get the LG G4 from T-Mobile, starting tomorrow

T-Mobile’s LG G4 will be launching through their online store tomorrow, May 26. If you can wait, T-Mobile should have the LG G4 in-stores come June 3. In either option, T-Mobile will be the first carrier in the US to offer the LG G4.

Pre-orders should begin shipping tomorrow, as well. If you’re just looking at getting the device through T-Mobile, you can pick up LG’s new flagship for $ 0 down, on a $ 25/mo payment plan for 24 months. There’s always the option of buying it outright for $ 599, too.

T-Mobile is making buying the LG G4 from them even sweeter, though. Purchasers will receive a free 128GB microSD card, while supplies last. This is a drastic upgrade from the 32GB solution LG is offering to US buyers. Not sure about the LG G4 just yet? Be sure to check out our hands-on video below.

Is anyone picking up the new LG G4 from T-Mobile tomorrow? Let us know in the comments.

source: T-Mobile

Source = talkandroid

Tags = from, starting, TMobile, tomorrow

Twitter finally brings Periscope to the Google Play Store

After months of being an iOS exclusive, Twitter has finally brought its streaming application Periscope to the Google Play Store. The app lets you broadcast live streams directly to your Twitter account, notifying your followers when your broadcast begins. The Android version is very similar to its iOS counterpart, but with a few added features. More detailed notification settings are present on the Android version, as well as a ‘Return to Broadcasts’ feature that easily lets you return to the broadcast you were currently viewing if it gets interrupted by a phone call or text.

Overall, the app is pretty intuitive and basic. With the app, you can both stream and watch live video, replay feeds, chat with other viewers, create private streams, and much more. In the short time I’ve been using it I’ve experienced a ton of bugs and crashes, so you might want to keep that in mind before you download.

Over a week ago, Periscope’s rival streaming app Meerkat came to the Google Play Store, so we knew Periscope’s Android launch wasn’t too far off. Meerkat has some nice features, but now that Twitter’s own streaming app is on Android, we’re not sure how long Meerkat will be around. In any case, Periscope is now available for all devices running Android 4.4 KitKat and above. Be sure to head to the download link below if you’re interested.

Source : androidauthority

Tags = brings, finally, Google, Periscope, Play, store, Twitter

Microsoft bringing digital assistant Cortana to Android and iOS

Microsoft is announcing that Phone Companion will be bringing Cortana to iOS and Android. The Redmond-based company plans on releasing separate apps for each mobile operating system, moving away from the digital assistant’s exclusivity to Microsoft products.

Cortana won’t be available on Android and iOS just yet, as Microsoft is only offering a sneak peak at the new apps today. But, we’ll see an official Android release come late June and an iOS release set for later this year.

Microsoft is attempting to make Cortana as seamless as possible on all mobile operating systems–you should be able to give it the same requests, whether you’re on Android or iOS. However, Microsoft does note that it won’t be nearly as powerful as it is on Windows because of the various integrations. Despite that, you will still be able to get notifications for all of your favorite content–sports, flights, weather, and more.

You can check out the full breakdown in the video below.

It’ll be interesting to see what Google brings to I/O this year in terms of Google Now, as this is a big shift from Microsoft. The real problem company’s are going to face is getting people to actively use these digital assistants. As of right now, people outside of the tech crowd aren’t “sold” that they need a digital assistant.

What do you think of Microsoft making Cortana cross-platform? It’s certainly one of the better moves Microsoft has made for its software. Let us know in the comments.

source: Windows Blog

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Born and raised in Lapeer, MI, Brad is a student at Baker College, studying Mobile Application Software Engineering. He loves all sorts of technology–even Apple–but has gone through a crazy amount of smartphones, starting with the Motorola Atrix 2, Samsung Galaxy Note 2, iPhone 5S, and finally the LG G3. Some of his favorite pastimes are, movies, working out, camping, and playing with new tech.

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Source = talkandroid

Tags = Android, assistant, bringing, Cortana, Digital, Microsoft

T-Mobile shipping LG G4 online orders from tomorrow, with free 128GB card for early buyers

Whoomp, there it is. The LG G4™ smartphone will be available for purchase online at T-Mobile.com beginning Wed., May 27 at 6 a.m. PDT for $ 0 down and $ 24.99 x 24 months. And, customers that order early could be among the first to get LG’s hot new superphone as the Un-carrier™ will begin shipping the G4 to customers before it’s on sale in stores Wed., June 3.What’s more, anyone that buys the LG G4 from T-Mobile starting Wed., May 27 is eligible to receive a memory upgrade —actually, five times more memory—for FREE. The Un-carrier has partnered with LG to give customers a 128GB SD memory card for their new LG G4, while supplies last. So now you’ll have plenty of space for all the incredible pictures taken on your LG G4’s powerful new 16MP OIS 2.0 rear-facing camera and 8MP front-facing camera.T-Mobile is the ONLY place U.S. customers can get the new LG G4 with the stylish, leather brown rear-cover along with unmatched Un-carrier™  benefits  including unlimited talk, text and data Simple Choice™ plans with no domestic overages on the nation’s fastest 4G LTE network – plus Music Freedom, Wi-Fi Calling, Data Stash and more.T-Mobile has also partnered with LG to give customers a hands-on look at LG’s new smartphone as a part of the national LG G4 Preview Tour that will make stops in Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Philadelphia and Seattle over the next week. Additional details on the schedule and tour stops can be found at https://explore.t-mobile.com/lg-g4.html.

128GB SD Card Offer Details: Ltd offer; expires 6/21/15. Subject to change. Participating locations; while supplies last. Card, redeem online by 7/6/15 at www.lgg4t-mobilepromo.com and enter the required information. Allow 4–6 weeks for fulfillment. Limit one (1) 128 GB SD card per person/per household. Sponsor: LG Electronics.

Device pricing for well-qualified customers. LG G4 $ 0 down + $ 24.99/mo x 24, Total: $ 599.76; if you cancel wireless service remaining balance on phone becomes due. 0% APR; O.A.C. Taxes & fees additional; total device tax due at sale.

Qualifying postpaid Simple Choice plan required.  Music Freedom; song downloads, video content, and non-music audio content excluded. Operating system and preloaded content use a portion of the internal memory. Wi-Fi Calling: Capable phone & Wi-Fi connection req’d; may decrement plan minutes. Most devices will not transition between Wi-Fi and the wireless network. See your device’s User Manual &T-Mobile.com for service and device details.  Data Stash: Unused high-speed data rolls up to 12 months. See T-Mobile.com for service and device details.  T-Mobile and the magenta color are registered trademarks of Deutsche Telekom AG. Un-carrier, Music Freedom, and Data Stash are trademarks of T-Mobile USA, Inc. © 2015 T-Mobile USA, Inc.

Source : androidauthority

Tags = 128GB, buyers, card, early, free, from, online, orders, shipping, TMobile, tomorrow

Microsoft announces Cortana app for Android

Confirming long running rumors, Microsoft announced today its plans to bring its Cortana virtual assistant to devices running Android and iOS.

Think of Cortana as the Microsoft equivalent of Google Now. The app is currently only available on Windows Phone devices and Windows 10 preview PCs, but Microsoft acknowledged that, in order to make it truly competitive, Cortana needs to work on the two mobile platforms that people actually use in significant numbers, Android and iOS.

Cortana for Android will do “most of the things Cortana does on your PC or on a Windows phone.”

Because Cortana for Android will be just another app, it will lack features that require deep system integration, like access to toggling settings. But Microsoft insists in a blog post that Cortana for Android will be able to do “most of the things Cortana does on your PC or on a Windows phone.” That includes, for instance, reminders based on location, updates from websites you visited, and updates based on flight status or parcel tracking emails. In short, Cortana’s functionality will be familiar to any Google Now user, though Google’s implementation has a clear lead in terms of depth and breadth of features. Cortana for Android will not be accessible through a voice command, due to the aforementioned lack of a system access. That means you won’t get to wake up your device by uttering “Hey, Cortana” which sounds a little cooler than “Ok, Google.”

The first version of Cortana for Android will be hitting Android in late June.

While there’s no mention of it in Microsoft’s announcement, Cortana will be probably one of the apps that are pre-installed on future devices running Cyanogen OS, thanks to the partnership between Microsoft and Steve Kondik’s company. Because Cyanogen has prided itself on providing developers deeper access to Android compared to what Google’s Android allows, Cortana for Cyanogen will probably have more features than Cortana for Android, including hotword recognition.

This is the latest move in Microsoft’s strategy of embracing competing platforms and making its products and services widely accessible, regardless of who makes the platform. What do you think of this move? Is Google Now all you need or is Microsoft welcome to try to shake things up?

Source : androidauthority

Tags = Android, Announces, Cortana, Microsoft

Google rumoured to be concentrating on Battery Life and RAM optimisations in Android M

It isn’t long to go until its May 28th, the opening day of Google I/O 2015, and that means that we are getting closer to finding out what Android M will bring, and the surprises Google has in store for us.

Until then though, we have a new rumour to consider  courtesy of AndroidPolice, who have heard that Google will (once again) be focusing on battery life and RAM usage in Android M (or Macadamia Nut Cookie or MNC). This is hardly a new focus, as Google has previously attempted to tackle battery life issues with Project Volta in the Android 5.0 Lollipop edition. Still, no one will ever say no to getting more efficient use of their smartphones battery life.

Google has apparently told its teams to concentrate on reducing location check-ins, cutting off-charger activities and optimising RAM usage. Google’s own Play Services app often heads the list of guilty parties when it comes to battery usage, so hopefully it will receive a check-up along the way as well.

The other part of the rumour is that Google plan to release a developer build of Android M, just like they did with Lollipop before it. Android M is alleged scheduled for a final release sometime in August. This date should be taken as a provisional date, rather than being set in stone due to possible delays in developing this latest version of Android.

Source: AndroidPolice

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I’ve been an Android fan ever since owning an HTC Hero, with the Dell Streak being my first phablet. I currently carry a Samsung Galaxy S5 and a Tab S 8.4 LTE. When not immersed in the world of Android and gadgets, I’m an avid sports fan, enjoy traveling (currently living in the UK), and like all South Africans, I love a good BBQ (Braai).

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Source = talkandroid

Tags = Android, battery, concentrating, Google, life, optimisations, rumoured

Sony launches the Xperia M4 Aqua with Dual SIM’s in India for Rs. 24,990

It was just the other day that Valerie wrote about the possibility of Sony’s Xperia M4 Aqua smartphone being launched in India this week, and now it’s confirmed. The Xperia M4 Aqua will support Dual-SIMs and is priced at Rs. 24,990 ($ 390).

Specifications:

• 5-inch HD IPS display with 1280 x 720 resolution


• Qualcomm Snapdragon 615 Octa-core 64-bit processor (Quad-core 1.5GHz + Quad-core 1GHz)


• Adreno 405 GPU


• 2GB RAM


• 16GB internal storage


• MicroSD card support (up to 32GB)


• 13MP Rear camera with flash with image stabiliser


• 5MP Front camera with wide angle lens


• 4G/


• A-GPS/ Bluetooth/ NFC/ WiFi/ USB 2.0


• Dimensions: 145.5 x 72.6 x 7.3mm


• IP65/68 rating (Water and dust tight)


• Weight: 140grams


• 2,400mAh battery


• Android 5.0 Lollipop

Let us know your thoughts on Sony’s Xperia M4 Aqua smartphone in the comments below.

Source: Sony India

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I’ve been an Android fan ever since owning an HTC Hero, with the Dell Streak being my first phablet. I currently carry a Samsung Galaxy S5 and a Tab S 8.4 LTE. When not immersed in the world of Android and gadgets, I’m an avid sports fan, enjoy traveling (currently living in the UK), and like all South Africans, I love a good BBQ (Braai).

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Source = talkandroid

Tags = 24990, Aqua, dual, India, Launches, SIM’s, Sony, Xperia

Sony’s Xperia Z3+ to launch globally from June 15th

When Sony announced the Xperia Z4 in Japan last month, many of us were sceptical as to whether the minimal upgrade in specifications merited using the Z4 moniker. More recently it was rumoured that this ‘Z4‘ handset would be marketed to the rest of the world as the Z3+. And so this has come to pass, with Sony releasing a press release announcing that the Xperia Z3+ will be globally available from June 15th.

So, if it isn’t the Z4, what does the Xperia Z3+ have to offer over its Z3 predecessor? Apart from changing from the Snapdragon 801 CPU to the much-maligned Snapdragon 810 Octa-core processor with 64-bit capability, the rest of the changes aren’t going to rock your world.

Externally, the Z3+ looks the same as the outgoing model, carrying the same 146mm height and 72mm width although its 6.9mm thinness means the Z3+ is 0.4mm slimmer. Weighing just 144 grams, the Z3+ is also 8g lighter.

One difference you will notice is that the MicroUSB port has been moved to the bottom of the device, where it should be. Sony has also managed to do away with the annoying flap that used to protect the Z3 from water and dust ingress. Unlike Samsung with the Galaxy S6 handsets, the Xperia Z3+ carries on the tradition of boasting  XPX5/8, IP6X protection.

The Xperia Z3+ is available with 32GB of internal storage with MicroSD card support, there is no 16GB version this time round.

Another small change you may or may not notice is that while the Z3’s battery had a 3,100mAh capacity, the Z3+’s battery has been trimmed down to 2.900mAh. Sony claims that the Z3+ has an ‘up to 2-day battery life’, so perhaps the phone has been optimised for frugal power consumption, something that the Xperia Z2 was renowned for.

The Z3+ has the same 20.7MP rear camera that was on the Z3, but the front camera has been upgraded from a 2.2MP sensor to a 5MP sensor with a wide-angle lens for taking better quality selfies.

The Xperia Z3+ will be available in 4 colours – black, white, aqua green and copper. No doubt the Xperia Z3+ will be a little more expensive than the outgoing Z3 handset, is the minimal upgrade worth the cost? Or are you better off sticking with the original Xperia Z3 and waiting for the Z4 to arrive with (hopefully) all-round better specifications?

Specifications:

• 5.2-Inch TRILUMINOS™ Display with 1920 x 1080 resolution (Full HD)


• Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 Octa-Core processor 4 x cores @2.0GHz + 4 x cores @ 1.5GHz (64-bit)


• 3GB RAM


• 32GB Internal storage


• 20.7MP Rear-camera, Exmor RS for mobile, Flash


• 5.1MP Front-facing camera with wide angle lens


• MicroSD card support (up to 128GB)


• Bluetooth 4.1, NFC, WiFi


• Dimensions: 146 x 72 x 6.9mm


• Weight: 144 grams


• Battery: 2,900mAh


• Waterproof/Dustproof: XPX5/8, IP6X


• Cap-less MicroUSB port

Full Press Release

London, 26th May 2015 – Sony Mobile Communications (“Sony Mobile”) today introduces a premium addition to the Xperia™ Z3 series flagship smartphones with Xperia Z3+, a slim, sleek and stylish high-performing premium smartphone.

Xperia Z3+ helps you get the best pictures with Sony’s superior camera technology that is now packed into both the main and front cameras. Impressive smartphone battery stamina and performance keeps you connected faster and longer, whether for work or play. And Sony’s unique signature waterproof1 design ensures you can do it, whatever the weather.

Beautiful design, better than ever

Slimmer (6.9mm), lighter (144g) and expertly crafted, Xperia Z3+ continues the Sony design story with discreet, but impressive improvements. Not only is it waterproof and dust-tight (IP65/68) ideal for use in all situations, as a further design refinement Z3+ features a capless USB port making it easier and more convenient to charge your phone. In addition the magnetic charging pin has been removed, resulting in an overall more seamless and minimalist design. With a shiny finish on the metal frames, tempered glass and rounded edges, Xperia Z3+ is beautiful to look at from any angle and comfortable to hold.

Z3+ comes available in a choice of four sophisticated colour options to meet your individual taste and style – classic Black and White are joined by a new interpretation of Copper and Aqua Green.

Great pictures anywhere

Z3+ continues to offer the best of Sony’s Cyber-shot & Handycam technologies, to ensure a superior camera performance, and extends the camera evolution not just to the main camera, but the front camera too. Now you can enjoy superior photos, even in low light, with both the front and rear camera. From sceneries to selfies, capture the best shots in any light.

The main camera features the 20.7MP camera with Exmor RS™ for mobile image sensor, BIONZ™ for mobile processing engine, and a 25mm wide-angle G lens. Create the best shots first time, every time with improved Superior Auto – it automatically optimises settings to give you the best possible picture and can recognize up to 52 different scenes. And with new Gourmet mode, even your food pictures will be looking their very best. Add some fun and creativity to your photos with the latest Xperia camera apps including Style portrait and AR mask. Capture impressive detail even in low light conditions, thanks to the ISO12800 sensitivity and large 1/ 2.3 image sensor. Get great shots even when there is strong backlight, with HDR for photos and videos. Preserve and enjoy your precious moments in high quality with 4K video recording and output.

The new 5MP front camera with Exmor R™ for mobile image sensor means you can now get better selfies in any light. And the 25mm wide-angle lens is perfect for group selfies. Superior Auto analyses the photographic environment and automatically adjusts settings to make you look great every time. Full HD 1080p is ideal for video chat and when you are shooting selfie videos, SteadyShot™ with Intelligent Active Mode estimates movements to produce smoother videos.

Powerful performance and up to two-day battery life

Xperia Z3+ comes packed with the ultra fast Snapdragon 810 octa-core 64 bit processor² that lets you browse faster than ever and get the optimal graphics experience. Whether you’re multi-tasking over Wi-Fi or the latest 4G network, Xperia Z3+ delivers the speed you need. LTE Cat 6 and Wi-Fi MIMO support enable faster connection speeds for a rich, connected experience with up to 300 Mbps LTE data download speeds on the move (actual speed may differ according to operator networks) ³. Download email with attachments in seconds and enjoy video streaming with no delays or unwanted buffering.

Powerful smartphone features demand smart power management. Xperia Z3+ is equipped to let you enjoy whatever you like doing for as long as you want. Sony’s incredible up to two-day battery stamina and innovative power-saving technology combine to give you superior long-lasting battery performance. And now you can get one day usage with just 45 minutes of charging when using a Qualcomm® Quick Charge™ 2.0 certified charger, such as the UCH10(Single SIM variant only).

Keeping you entertained

Xperia Z3+ features an ultra-bright 5.2” Full HD smart adaptive display that provides increased brightness and contrast, without losing stamina. Sony’s TRILUMINOS™ Display for mobile with Live Colour LED and X-Reality for mobile ensure sharper and more vivid colours. Intuitive contrast enhancement delivers the most optimized viewing experience, even in bright sunlight.

Sony’s rich expertise in audio technologies lets you enjoy sound in incredible detail and clarity. High-Res Audio reproduces high frequency sound for a studio quality experience. DSEE HX^TMupscales the audio fidelity of your existing MP3 or AAC tracks to near High-Res Audio quality. And for high quality wireless music listening, Sony’s new LDAC^TM codec transmits data three times more efficiently than legacy codec over Bluetooth.

For those times when you need to block out background noise, Xperia Z3+ supports digital noise cancelling and pairs with the MDR-NC31EM headset, reducing ambient noise by up to 98%. And now you can enjoy optimal audio settings when connecting any headphones, as Z3+ senses both the type and style of headset and automatically adjusts the audio settings accordingly for best sound experience.

Keep playing your favourite PlayStation®4 (PS4™) games wherever you are in the home with PS4 Remote Play². Simply connect your Xperia Z3+ to your PS4 via home Wi-Fi and use the DUALSHOCK®4 Wireless Controller to ensure you never miss a minute of the action – whatever room you are in.

And to ensure you continue to enjoy the best experiences that Sony has to offer, all Xperia Z3+ users will benefit from access to Xperia Lounge Gold – delivering the world of Sony entertainment at your fingertips. Get access to exclusive competitions and offers; be among the first to try out new apps; and enjoy the latest movies, TV episodes and music included with your device.

Availability and specifications

Xperia Z3+ will launch globally from June 2015 in both Single SIM and Dual SIM³ variants.

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I’ve been an Android fan ever since owning an HTC Hero, with the Dell Streak being my first phablet. I currently carry a Samsung Galaxy S5 and a Tab S 8.4 LTE. When not immersed in the world of Android and gadgets, I’m an avid sports fan, enjoy traveling (currently living in the UK), and like all South Africans, I love a good BBQ (Braai).

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Source = talkandroid

Tags = 15th, from, globally, June, launch, Sony’s, Xperia

Sony launches Xperia Z3+: same as Japan’s Xperia Z4, almost the same as Xperia Z3

Sony’s Xperia Z4 may make a lot of sense for Japan, but the company received a ton of flak over the questionable decision to release a new generation of the Xperia series with just token upgrades compared to the Z3. Some suggested Sony should have pulled an Apple and kept the Z3 name a bit longer, and that’s exactly what the Japanese company is doing with the new Xperia Z3+.

Launched today without fanfare, and set for a June release, the Xperia Z3+ is, put simply, the Xperia Z4 by another name. A more modest name, in line with the minimal changes that the device brings compared to the Xperia Z3.

The Xperia Z3+ is smaller than the previous gen, with a 6.9 millimeter profile, though the slimdown comes at the cost of reduced battery capacity, from 3,100 to 2,900 mAh. The hit in battery life may be offset by the Snapdragon 810 processor, which is, in theory, less thirsty than the Snapdragon 801 powering the Z3.

The screen remains the same great 5.2-inch Full HD LCD, while Sony relocated the USB port down to the bottom of the device and did away with the magnetic charging pins. That should make for a cleaner design, thanks to the absence of the plastic flap, though the Z3+ preserves the IP65/68-rated water and dust resistance.

The camera remains the same great 20.7MP we loved on the Xperia Z3, but the front shooter was upgraded to 5MP, in line with what the selfie-loving crowd demands from current smartphones.

The Xperia Z3+ runs Android 5.0 Lollipop, a version that should be familiar to Xperia Z series device owners who have been receiving the same update over the last couple of months.

The Xperia Z3+ is coming this summer, but we don’t have an official price tag yet. We’d be very surprised if there was any difference compared to the Z3.

There you have it: with the Xperia Z3+, Sony appears to be trying to placate critics and fans upset disappointed by the Xperia Z4. It’s not clear if Sony chose the Z3+ moniker after the Z4’s chilly reception, though we wouldn’t be surprised.

There’s nothing new or exciting about the new Xperia Z3+, and that amps up the expectation for the next generation of the series. Hopefully, the Xperia Z3+ is just a stopgap meant to keep the Xperia line in the spotlight while Sony works on the real upgrade coming – we hope – this autumn. Thoughts?

Source : androidauthority

Tags = almost, Japan’s, Launches, same, Sony, Xperia

Samsung unveils 10nm FinFET manufacturing plans

Samsung may have only recently rolled out its own 14nm chips in its new Galaxy S6 smartphone, but now the growing semiconductor company has revealed a few details about its plans to shrink processor manufacturing down to 10nm.

Samsung says that the processing node will be in full production by the end of 2016 and will offer “significant power, area and performance advantages” over existing nodes. No other specs, details, or product plans were given.

TSMC, the largest player in the industry, is also planning to have its own 10nm manufacturing ready late next year, and is likely keen to edge out any advantage it can gain after been beaten by Samsung to 16/14nm this year. Intel is also in the race to 10nm and is expected to be ahead of the rest in development, but has remained silent about its plans.

As well as producing smaller versions of its Exynos mobile SoC line-up, Samsung may also pick up large 14nm orders from other companies later this year. By beating TSMC to market this year, both Apple and Qualcomm are rumored to be turning to Samsung’s foundries for their new chips. Similar orders could carry over to 10nm too, so long as Samsung has the capacity to cater for multiple major device launches.

“Samsung made a big gamble on 14nm FinFet… they’ve closed the gap significantly with TSMC,” – International Business Strategies CEO Handel Jones

Just last month Samsung gave out further details about its 14nm roadmap. Samsung now has two fabs in South Korea, one in Austin Texas, and a Global Foundries fab in New York State up and running using its 14nm process. Although the company still hasn’t given out any numbers on yields, volumes or the number of designs planning to use the process.

The time spent on 14nm and 16nm nodes is expected to be relatively short, as foundries look set to move over to the cheaper, more efficient 10nm process so quickly.

Source : androidauthority

Tags = 10nm, FinFET, manufacturing, plans, Samsung, unveils

Samsung’s latest patent describes a dual-booting machine (again)

Despite the best of intentions, often times intellectual property laws may get in the way of potential products. Such was the sad fate that befell the Samsung Ativ Q, a device from 2013 that turned many heads for its high resolution screen and dual-booting of Windows 8 and Android. While this promising pipe-dream might be yesterday’s listful lament, it would appear Samsung is not done with the convertible form factor. Thanks to the team at Patently Mobile, the following is now upon us:

Patently Mobile

The schematic seen here is supposedly for a dual booting device. The premise is quite simple in theory: the computer runs Windows, but if you place a compatible Samsung mobile phone (the “phablet”) into the docking area, the OS would switch to Android. Interestingly enough, this is far from the first attempt at such a product, as Asus had the Transformer Book V last year, and a similar idea was employed way back in 2011 with the Moto Atrix 4G Lapdock (minus the inclusion of Windows of course).

As Patently Mobile rightly mentions, the potential gain for Samsung here would be quite high, all the more so if Apple will truly bring a 12 inch+ ‘iPad Pro” to market this year. By developing a product like this, the company could instantly be established in the business productivity segment, something that it arguably tried last year with the release of the Galaxy Tab PRO series. This would be a much more aggressive take however, when you factor in the presence of Windows in-and-of-itself, as well as Samsung’s recent partnership with Microsoft to pre-install Office apps onto Galaxy phones and tablets in key markets. Microsoft would, in turn, also stand to benefit as well as it could potentially be selling Windows licenses to every single Galaxy Note owner.

While a patent application might be nothing more than an idea put down on paper to protect, Samsung’s commitment to reinvent itself this year is clear (see the Galaxy S6/TouchWiz) and there is the aforementioned fact that it has already sought to release a dual-booting device to begin with.

With all this said, there’s a rumored reason dual-booting Android/Windows were announced, but not actually released. Both Google and Microsoft were reportedly unhappy with the idea, and that may be the biggest obstacle in transforming this patent into a commercial product.

Source : androidauthority

Tags = again, describes, dualbooting, latest, machine, patent, Samsung’s

Two Nexus phones in 2015, but no Nexus tablet according to rumor

As Google I/O draws near, just two days away now, the rumor and expectation mills are churning at full force. The latest expectation is that Google will bring two new Nexus phones to market this year, but no new tablet is on the immediate horizon.

These rumors sound fairly plausible, we have already heard that Huawei is building a Nexus phone, a 5.7-inch monster with code name Bullhead. I’ll leave you with the previous coverage for more details, but we expect to see the device later in the fall with the Snapdragon 810 SoC and a nice big 3,500mAh battery.

The new phone rumor is for another LG built Nexus device. Clocking in with a 5.2-inch display, the LG Angler looks like it may be fairly similar to the LG G4 with the Snapdragon 808 SoC. Speculation is early on this one though, specs are bound to change, and many components have not been chosen yet. With the general idea being that this LG phone is the proper successor to the Nexus 5, we do not expect top rung specs, just an overall solid experience.

Finally, do you like your Nexus 7 or Nexus 9? I hope so, since you may be stuck with it for another year before another Nexus tablet is introduced. We can always hope for a surprise, but at this point, there are no Nexus tablets in the rumor mill. Although the Nexus 7 has been removed from the Google Store, the Nexus 9 is still up for sale, offering you a solid Android tablet experience and the latest version of the Android OS (finally.)

I think I’ve mentioned this, these are purely rumor at this stage. We can’t help but send you over to Android Police where this new rumor of an LG Nexus phone comes from.

Stay tuned for more to come, we will be on the ground at Google I/O 2015, May 28-29, that’s Thursday and Friday in San Francisco. We hope you are as excited as we are to see the next chapters in the history of Nexus.

What do you think about a new smaller form factor Nexus phone? Is a 5.2-inch display the right size for you?

Source : androidauthority

Tags = 2015, According, Nexus, phones, Rumor, tablet

The Galaxy S6 Edge Iron Man edition has landed, check out the unboxing video

After a brief teasing, the Iron Man edition of the Galaxy S6 Edge has arrived, and it’s every bit as flashy as we expected it to be.

The Iron Man Galaxy S6 Edge features a Tony Stark approved red and gold paint scheme, complete with the likeness of the titular hero on its back. Other than the new colors, this limited edition appears to be identical to the regular version of the S6 Edge (64GB), while the device comes preloaded with the Iron Man theme from the Samsung store (you can switch to the default one if you think it’s too much).

The Galaxy S6 Iron Man limited edition comes in a red box that looks nice enough to keep around as decoration, and the box includes an “arc reactor” wireless charger and a clear plastic case.

Now for the bad news: Samsung only mentioned South Korea, China, and Hong Kong in its official announcement. The limited edition Galaxy S6 Edge Iron Man will land in South Korea tomorrow, May 27, and in the other two markets next month. It’s possible that the lack of info on other countries is just an omission, but it’s more likely that Samsung hasn’t planned for a wide release for the Iron Mad-themed device. No details on the price yet.

So, now that it’s here, what do you think of the Iron Man Galaxy S6 Edge? What other Avengers would you like to get their own limited edition?

Show Press Release

Samsung Electronics announced the Galaxy S6 edge Iron Man Limited Edition in collaboration with Marvel. Samsung and Marvel have come together in celebration of the technological innovation and creative visual storytelling in Marvel’s Avengers: Age of Ultron to introduce this limited edition of the Galaxy S6 edge.

“We are excited to be able to offer our world-class Galaxy S6 edge smartphone designed especially for Iron Man fans through our continued collaboration with Marvel,” said Younghee Lee, Executive Vice President of Global Marketing, IT & Mobile Division at Samsung Electronics. “The limited edition Iron Man Galaxy S6 edge embodies the power of the iconic Avenger with a dual-curved edge design and advanced features that will provide Marvel fans with the ultimate entertainment experience.”

The Galaxy S6 edge Iron Man Limited Edition package is equipped with a vibrant red and gold Iron Man-themed Galaxy S6 edge including 64GB of storage and matching wireless charger, as well as a clear cover that enhances the device’s exclusive design.

The Galaxy S6 edge Iron Man Limited Edition will be available in Korea on May 27, 2015, with China and Hong Kong in June.

Full details and product images are available at www.samsungmobilepress.com or www.samsung.com/global/galaxy/avengers/

Source : androidauthority

Tags = Check, Edge, edition, Galaxy, Iron, landed, unboxing, Video

FDP 017: Ask us Anything!

The team gets together to respond to your burning questions for us! Instead of the usual poll that we put up on the Google+ page, we simply requested any and all of your questions that you wanted us to answer. And in this episode, we go through a number of different topics, not the least of which include Cyanogen and what we think the future of Android looks like.

It is the first of hopefully many Ask us Anything episodes that we want to make available on the FDP!

The FDP by Android Authority – discussing topics in Android every week.

Links to Podcast

RSS Feed
iTunes
Stitcher
SoundCloud
Direct Download

Relevant Links

Cyanogen
LG G4 Review

Follow our Hosts

Joshua Vergara
Twitter | Google+

Joseph Hindy
Twitter | Google+

Andrew Grush
Google+

Jonathan Feist
Twitter | Google+

Nirave Gondhia
Twitter | Google+

Recorded on May 15, 2015 – Hosted and Produced by Joshua Vergara

Source : androidauthority

Tags = Anything

FDP 018: Oppo R7 Launch with Guests!

Darcy and Josh found themselves in China for the launch of a couple new Oppo smartphones, the R7 and R7 Plus. After seeing the phones and getting their content out, the guys also got to see the Oppo factory! But in a quiet, outdoor setting with smooth jazz in the background, Josh got Darcy and special guests Jaime Rivera (@jaime_rivera) of Pocketnow (@pocketnow) and James Pickham (@jamesrwp) of TechRadar (@techradar) together to talk about the very event past couple of days. Reactions to the new Oppo phones and the factory are accompanied by thoughts on camera software and drinks!

Enjoy this special China-live episode of the FDP!

The FDP by Android Authority – discussing topics in Android every week.

Links to Podcast

RSS Feed
iTunes
Stitcher
SoundCloud
Direct Download

Relevant Links

Oppo R7 First Look
Oppo R7 Plus First Look
Launch Event Rundown

Follow our Hosts

Joshua Vergara
Twitter | Google+

Joseph Hindy
Twitter | Google+

Andrew Grush
Google+

Jonathan Feist
Twitter | Google+

Nirave Gondhia
Twitter | Google+

Recorded on May 22, 2015 – Hosted and Produced by Joshua Vergara

Source : androidauthority

Tags = Guests, launch, Oppo

Twitter engaged in talks to purchase Flipboard

The next major acquisition for Twitter could be in a social aggregator. The company is reportedly engaged in talks with Flipboard that could result in a deal worth more than $ 1 billion. Negotiations have been ongoing since the start of the year and Twitter’s CFO, Anthony Noto, has led the way. The deal, if closed, would allow increased synergy for two services thata are all about content consumption.

A Twitter spokesperson responded to the report by saying “We don’t comment on rumor or speculation.”

Source: Re/code

Source = talkandroid

Tags = engaged, Flipboard, Purchase, talks, Twitter

[Deal] Google Play offering twelve free episodes from Comedy Central shows

Right now, people in the United States can grab twelve free episodes from television shows aired on Comedy Central. Then, on top of the free content, there are full seasons available at discounted prices.

Free episodes:

• Key & Peele – Alien Monsters


• Big Time in Hollywood, FL – Severance


• Nathan For You – Yogurt Shop/Pizzeria


• Kroll Show – Gigolo H-O-R-S-E


• Drunk History – Washington D.C.


• Workaholics – Piss & S**t


• This Is Not Happening – Brain on Drugs


• RENO 911! – Training Day


• Tosh.0 – Tosh.0 601


• Adam Devine’s House Party – King Cake, Baby!


• Chappelle’s Show – Episode 1


• Strangers with Candy – Old Habits, New Beginnings

Discounted seasons:

• Key & Peele – Season 4 ($ 19.99)


• Big Time in Holly Wood, FL – Season 1 ($ 9.99)


• Nathan For You – Season 1 ($ 8.99)


• Kroll Show – Season 3 ($ 9.99)


• Drunk History – Season 1 ($ 9.99)


• Workaholics – Season 1 ($ 9.99)


• This Is Not Happening – Season 1 ($ 6.99)


• RENO 911! – Season 6 ($ 19.99)


• Tosh.0 – Season 6 ($ 9.99)


• Adam Devine’s House Party – Season 2 ($ 8.99)


• Chappelle’s Show – Season 2 ($ 14.99)


• Strangers with Candy – Season 1 ($ 9.99)

Binging on this @ComedyCentral collection like it’s 🍕 🍕 https://t.co/f1rVk6lKLl pic.twitter.com/1aLbiaEP1Y

— Google Play (@GooglePlay) May 25, 2015

[Comedy Central Sale]

Source: Google Play (Twitter)

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Born and raised in New Jersey, Justin Herrick is a student at Fairleigh Dickinson University where he is a marketing major with a focus on digital marketing. He’s very talkative and enjoys discussing anything from technology and sports to video games and television. Justin is a huge Cincinnati Bengals and Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim fan. As for his current device rotation, he has the HTC One (M8) on Verizon. He chose it because of its stunning hardware and Sense’s visual presentation. Justin carries a Nexus 9 while wearing an LG G Watch on his wrist.

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Source = talkandroid

Tags = Central, Comedy, Deal, episodes, free, from, Google, offering, Play, shows, twelve

Two Nexus phones coming from LG and Huawei while the Nexus 9 sticks around

This year, the Nexus lineup from Google could look slightly different. The company is allegedly preparing to offer two Nexus phones in the Google Store while an existing device remains available.

LG and Huawei will each produce their own Nexus phone, according to Android Police. The code names attached to the phones are Angler and Bullhead, respectively. The LG Angler is set to have a 5.2-inch display, Snapdragon 808 processor, and 2700mAh battery. The Huawei Bullhead raises the size with a 5.7-inch display, Snapdragon 810 processor, and 3500mAh battery. The LG Angler would be closer to the Nexus 5 while the Huawei Bullhead resembles a newer Nexus 6. Rather than changing its gameplan entirely, Google is going for a refreshed lineup.

They are to be joined by the Nexus 9 that was released in late 2014. Google seems to find their flagship tablet in no need of change.

The two phones are expected to be released around October, the usual time for Nexus devices to arrive. All of this could change, of course, as we progress into the summer.

Source: Android Police

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Born and raised in New Jersey, Justin Herrick is a student at Fairleigh Dickinson University where he is a marketing major with a focus on digital marketing. He’s very talkative and enjoys discussing anything from technology and sports to video games and television. Justin is a huge Cincinnati Bengals and Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim fan. As for his current device rotation, he has the HTC One (M8) on Verizon. He chose it because of its stunning hardware and Sense’s visual presentation. Justin carries a Nexus 9 while wearing an LG G Watch on his wrist.

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Source = talkandroid

Tags = around, coming, from, Huawei, Nexus, phones, sticks

Best budget smartphones under $200 (summer 2015)

Just a few years ago it was near impossible to find a capable smartphone for a decent price. Most of the high-end offerings used to cost anywhere from $ 600 to $ 900, and most low-end devices were somewhataffordable, though they couldn’t keep up with simple day-to-day tasks. Luckily a few manufacturers have made great strides in the budget-friendly market, and now it’s easier than ever to find a perfectly capable device for under $ 200.

In a budget-friendly market that’s increasing rapidly in size, you might find it challenging to find a device that best suits your needs. With that said, let’s take a look at the best budget smartphones for under $ 200!

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#1 – Asus ZenFone 2

 The recently-announced Asus ZenFone 2 offers flagship-level specifications, a premium build and a smooth software experience, which is why we name this device the best all-around smartphone you can buy right now for under $ 200. The device caught headlines when it launched at CES 2015, mainly for it being the first smartphone that came with 4GB of RAM. While that’s certainly an impressive feature, there’s a lot more to the story. In our full review, we took a look at the higher-end model, which features 4GB of RAM, a quad-core 2.3GHz Intel Atom Z3580 processor and 64GB of on-board storage. However, since that model is available for $ 299, today we’re taking a look at the lower-end option. The base model features a quad-core 1.8GHz Intel Atom Z3560 processor, 2GB of RAM and 16GB of on-board storage.

It also comes with a vivid 5.5-inch 1080p LCD display, which we understand might be a bit too large for some users. Even so, the phone’s curved design makes one-handed use easier and the rear-mounted volume keys are an excellent departure from the norm. Placed on the very top, the power button can be difficult to reach much of the time, but thankfully the phone supports double tap to wake. And despite the phone’s chassis being made entirely of plastic, it still feels plenty premium. Even though the device only comes with 16GB of internal storage, Asus has provided a microSD card slot for expandable memory – a feature many users have come to appreciate over the past year or so, despite Samsung ditching the port with its latest Galaxy S6 flagship. The ZenFone 2 also has a 13MP rear-facing camera and a 5MP front-facing camera that will take sufficient pictures for most users out there.

On the software front, the phone ships with Android 5.0 Lollipop running underneath Asus’ ZenUI software overlay, which some users may not like. That said, this most recent build of ZenUI is much-improved over past versions, and many of the UI elements are very similar to “vanilla” Android. Asus has been diligent about updating its devices’ software in a timely fashion over the past few years, so folks who buy this device will probably have a positive software experience for (hopefully) two full years.

The ZenFone 2 is available for use on AT&T and T-Mobile in the U.S., among many other carriers and markets throughout the world. It also has dual SIM card support, which is a feature we’re always happy to see on low-cost smartphones.

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#2 – Motorola Moto G (2nd Gen.)

 The followup to the original Moto G holds a lot in common with its predecessor, though in this case, that’s not a bad thing in the slightest. For just $ 180, Motorola’s Moto G (2nd Gen.) offers its users very impressive specifications, a high-end build and an incredible software experience. For those who think the ZenFone 2 is too big, the Moto G (2nd Gen.) is the next best device. It has a 5.0-inch LCD display with 1280 x 720 resolution, making the device very easy to hold in the hand. Although it doesn’t feel as premium as the ZenFone 2 in terms of build quality, a few features stand out that make this a very well-rounded device.

Since the overall size of the chassis is much smaller, the power button on the Moto G is much easier to reach than the one on our first pick. Additionally, the front-facing speakers on this device are much louder and clearer than the ZenFone 2’s single rear-facing speaker. Unfortunately, the Moto G isn’t nearly as fast as the Zenfone 2, but it’s still more than capable of handling everyday tasks. The power-efficient quad-core Snapdragon 400 processor clocked at 1.2GHz is enough for basic tasks, but the 1GB of RAM makes the Moto G feel sluggish at times. Luckily, the near-vanilla build of Android helps manage RAM usage pretty well, but it still can be a problem when opening more than a few apps at once. The jump from 1 to 2 GB of RAM is a major one, at least right now, and that’s where I think the Zenfone 2 really has an edge over the Moto G.

The Moto G also comes with just 8GB of internal storage, though you have the option to add an extra 64GB via the microSD card slot. Also present on this device is an 8MP rear-facing camera and a 2MP front camera, which is nothing to get excited about. The phone also has a non-removable 2070mAh battery, which should be able to get most light users through the day on a single charge.

When purchasing a Motorola device, one thing is for certain – you’ll likely receive timely updates for two full years. Motorola has been very good about updating its devices as of late, and the Moto G (2nd Gen.) is no exception. The phone comes with a near-vanilla build of Android with a few of Motorola’s software enhancements on top. Most Motorola phones feature a great software experience, so we think you’ll be pretty happy with this offering if you’re looking for a simple, functional software experience.

There is a Moto G variant that supports 4G LTE connectivity, though it will run you more than $ 200. The model we’re looking at today only supports speeds up to HSPA+, so keep that in mind before you choose this device over the 4G-capable ZenFone 2.

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#3 – Xiaomi Redmi 2

Announced January 2015, one of the latest products from Xiaomi continues to surprise us when it comes to specs, build quality and software experience. The Redmi 2 is a great option for folks who want to experience Xiaomi’s MIUI while still maintaining a tight budget. There are two models available, the first of which featuring 1GB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage. While the attractive $ 150 price point may entice you, we’d wager to say that the higher-end Redmi 2 Pro is more worth your time. Featuring 2GB of RAM and 16GB of internal storage, the Redmi 2 Pro costs around $ 20 more than the Redmi 2 proper, which may be a good option for those who don’t mind spending a little closer to $ 200.

Today, though, we’re looking at the $ 150 Redmi 2, which is surprisingly solid and very comfortable in the hand. It has a 4.7-inch 720p LCD display, with quality coming really close to that of the Moto G and viewing angles being just as good or slightly better than those on the Zenfone 2. The rear-facing speaker on the Redmi 2 seems to be louder than the speakers on both the ZenFone 2 and Moto G, although the Moto G still has the least amount of audio distortion overall.

On the performance front, the Redmi 2 is just about as fast as (if not faster than) the Moto G, though both devices are still a tad slower than the ZenFone 2. Both the base and pro models of the Redmi 2 have quad-core 1.2GHz Snapdragon 410 processors, which are still perfectly capable CPUs. The Pro model should be faster and much better with multitasking, however, since it has 2GB of RAM compared to the 1GB found on the base model.

You’ll get 8GB of internal storage with the Redmi 2 (16GB with the Pro model) with expandable memory up to 64GB, though MIUI doesn’t allow applications to be moved or installed on the microSD card. This is both a positive and a negative for the end user. On one hand, installing apps externally can free up a ton of space on your device. But much of the time, apps installed on the microSD card can act up, which is obviously something that should be avoided. The Redmi 2’s 8MP rear camera is overall pretty good. Featuring a higher dynamic range than on the ZenFone 2, the Xiaomi offering produces much more noise in low-light environments. It also has a removable 2200mAh battery that should get most users through a full day on a single charge with roughly three hours of screen-on time.The

The Redmi 2’s 8MP rear camera is overall pretty good. Featuring a higher dynamic range than on the ZenFone 2, the Xiaomi offering produces much more noise in low-light environments. It also has a removable 2200mAh battery that should get most users through a full day on a single charge with roughly three hours of screen-on time.

The Redmi 2 runs Xiaomi’s MIUI V6 atop Android 4.4 KitKat, which will likely turn some users off from this device. MIUI is a pretty heavy Android skin, and it has been criticized for taking some inspiration from a certain fruity tech company, but the experience is truly unique and different compared to vanilla Android. Xiaomi releases occasional updates for the Redmi 2, and if you flash the developer ROM, you can even receive an update every Friday. The company is pretty optimistic with its release timelines, so hopefully we’ll get to see Android 5.0 Lollipop make its way to the device in the coming months. The ZenFone 2 and Moto G are likely to receive Android updates much faster than the Redmi 2, so keep that in mind if quick updates are important to you.

While the Redmi 2 is slightly better than the Moto G overall, availability is a major challenge with this device. You can’t officially buy the phone in the U.S., which means you’ll have to import it. Importing the device won’t get you the standard one-year warranty that many people expect, and the models available for import are not intended for the U.S. market either, meaning that carrier support isn’t always what you may expect.

The Redmi 2 has dual SIM card support. But unlike the Moto G, which fully supports both AT&T and T-Mobile HSPA+, the Redmi 2 has limited support for U.S. carriers, depending on the specific variant. There is a variant that supports WCDMA 850 / 1900 / 2100MHz, which is fully compatible with AT&T and partially compatible with T-Mobile, depending on your specific coverage area. I wouldn’t recommend buying the Redmi 2 unless you’re on AT&T, and even then, please make sure to confirm that you’re getting the right variant.

I like to think of the Redmi 2 as being the option for users wanting something different – it’s a great phone, but it is difficult to get and carrier support can be complicated.

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So, there you have it – our top three picks for the best budget smartphones under $ 200! We understand that there are dozens of other viable options that fit into this category, but we kept our list exclusive to the phones we thought gave the user the best bang for their buck. What are your thoughts? Do you feel another smartphone should take the top spot? Be sure to let us know in the comment section below!

Source : androidauthority

Tags = $200, 2015, best, budget, smartphones, summer, under