iPhone 6S, Galaxy Note 5: Best Smartphones To Release This Year

2015 is half over, but there are still a number of exciting smartphone releases to come in the second half of the year. Here ValueWalk counts down some of the most significant mobile releases due in the remainder of 2015.

Image Credit: Kiarash Kia, Concept-Phones

Apple iPhone 6S

The monumental success of the iPhone series ensures that there will certainly be a new iPhone in 2015. The iPhone 6S will be the sequel to the phenomenally successful iPhone 6.

General expectations are that the iPhone 6s will share the basic physical design of its predecessor, with any changes implemented by Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) limited to internal specifications. Two models with 4.7-inch and 5.5-inch displays as in the previous iPhone generation is thus anticipated, but Apple could be tempted to increase the screen resolution of the devices.

Force Touch is also expected to play a central role in the iPhone 6s, with the new method of interactions that it entails. This has already been a success in the first Apple smartwatch, the Apple Watch, and it is now being widely reported that it will make its way to the new iPhone 6s and iPad tablet series.

Apple has already previewed the iOS 9 operating system at its Worldwide Developers Conference, and this software is expected to be included in the iPhone 6s as well. Other suggestions about the device are that Apple will produce it from a revolutionary form of aluminum, and that wireless charging will be included.

Samsung Galaxy Note 5

The Galaxy Note 5 will be an extremely significant release for Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (LON:BC94) (KRX:005930), as the Galaxy Note 4 was very well receivedGalaxy Note series at the IFA in Berlin, and this policy is expected to be replicated with the Galaxy Note 5 announced this year around September 2.

It is anticipated that Samsung will release a traditional Galaxy Note 5 device, and also a dual-edge curved screen variant dubbed the Galaxy Note 5 Edge. Rumors have also suggested that Samsung could release the first ever mass-market 4K resolution device. A metal and glass finish is also likely.

Considering that the Galaxy Note series is now becoming as significant as the flagship Galaxy S smartphone, Samsung is expected to arm this release with impressive specifications. A 21-megapixel rear camera along with a 6-megapixel front camera is possible, alongside a proprietary Exynos processor and 6GB of RAM.

With a Galaxy S7 release also possible this year, Samsung is likely to pull out all of the stops in order to differentiate this device from its flagship smartphone.

Next Nexus

Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) (NASDAQ:GOOGL) will already be beavering away on its next Nexus smartphone, and there are rumors that Huawei Technology Co Ltd (SHE:002502) could be manufacturing the next device in the series. Google has previously worked with Motorola and LG Electronics Inc. (KRX:066570) (OTCMKTS:LGEAF), but with Huawei occupying an ever more significant position in the consumer electronics marketplace, it is suggested that Google will pair up with the Chinese company.

Aside from this aspect of the smartphone, it is also suggested that the device will feature a 5.7-inch OLED display. A 1,440 x 2,560-pixel resolution has been mooted, making this a quad HD device.

The Nexus will probably feature a Qualcomm, Inc. (NASDAQ:QCOM) Snapdragon 810 chipset, and 4 GB of RAM is also expected. Hardware support will also probably match up with the recent Android M operating system release, which could mean a fingerprint scanner and USB Type-C support.

The smartphone will likely launch in late 2015, with October a convenient date for Google.

BlackBerry Oslo

The BlackBerry Ltd (NASDAQ:BBRY) (TSE:BB) Oslo is the latest in a long line of BlackBerry mobiles, with this latest iteration a makeover of the earlier Passport release. Specifications for this device have already been leaked, and this has incited a good deal of excitement among BlackBerry fans. Many die-hard BlackBerry devotees are completely committed to the Passport, even though its results in the consumer segment are not particularly impressive.

The Oslo has seemingly adopted a retro appearance for 2015, with a silver metal and plastic frame and rubberized grip notable. Spec leaks indicate that this device features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor, 3GB of RAM, a 13-megapixel camera and a pretty hefty 3,450mAh battery.

It is already expected that BlackBerry will release the Oslo in both Europe and North America before the year is out.

Motorola Moto X (2015)

The Moto X is the latest attempt from Motorola to break into the mainstream of the smartphone industry. The company has recently been bought out by Lenovo Group Limited (ADR) (OTCMKTS:LNVGY) (HKG:0992), and the third generation of the Moto series is already rumored to be under development.

Murmurings related to specs indicate that the smartphone will feature a 5.2-inch quad HD display, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 808 processor, 4GB of RAM, 32 / 64GB of memory, a 16-megapixel Clear Pixel camera, a 5-megapixel front-facing camera, and a 3,280mAh battery. It certainly seems that the Moto X will sit favorably among the existing smartphone elite.

Moto X is a name that has already been used by Motorola, so it is not precisely known how this smartphone will be named. But we do know that Motorola has recently slashed the price of the existing model, suggesting that it is attempting to clear out old stock ahead of a new release.

HTC One M9+

HTC Corp (TPE:2498) continues to produce critically acclaimed devices that have yet to hit the mainstream in the West in particular. This latest HTC release has already being officially confirmed and released in its native marketplaces, and it certainly appears to be a progressive device.

Construction has been a particular focus of this smartphone, but it also has extremely decent internal specifications. The octa-core MediaTek chipset is extremely impressive and will ensure that this the M9+ is a very slick operator. A 20-megapixel dual-camera will also be included in the device, and HTC has certainly armed this device with enough punch to make a serious impression in Europe and North America.

This device will be released before the end of 2015 in Europe and North America, with July a likely date.

Like this article? Sign up for our free newsletter to get articles delivered to your inbox

Source: iPhone 6S, Galaxy Note 5: Best Smartphones To Release This Year

HTC Desire 826 Dual SIM Specs, Release Date: Semi-Flagship Soon to Be Available for $423

By David Robertson , Christian Post Contributor

June 29, 2015|11:31 am

(Photo: HTC India)

The HTC Desire 826 is a midrange Android smartphone that is currently available in India

In recent reports, HTC is having difficulty penetrating the Chinese market due to the various Android phone makers that are releasing cheaper but similar quality handsets.

And so the Taiwanese manufacturer is looking toward India, the world's second largest smartphone market.

According to a report by GSM Arena, the company has just announced a brand new upper midranger device. Dubbed as the HTC Desire 826 Dual SIM, the smartphone will boast the Desire design, but will have slightly higher specs.

And so, based on this combination of above midrange specs and midrange design, the Desire 826 Dual SIM will reportedly cost $423 or about Rs. 26,900 in India, and it should be available before June ends next week.

In the report, the smartphone will boast some decent features and specs such as 5.5-inch display with a Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution, a 2GB RAM, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 615 chipset that supports 64-bit applications, and a 16GB of built-in memory.

Other specs include a 13MP primary shooter, a 4MP UltraPixel camera in front for selfies, 4G LTE connectivity, a microSD card slot, dual-SIM compatibility, and Android 5.0 Lollipop out of the box.

Completing the features list are the 2,600mAh battery, BoomSound speakers, and Dolby Audio sound effects.

While the HTC Desire 826 Dual SIM offers some solid specs at its price range, there are still cheaper handsets from local Indian brands that have similar, if not better specs.

Source: HTC Desire 826 Dual SIM Specs, Release Date: Semi-Flagship Soon to Be Available for $423

T-Mobile Amps Up Its JUMP! Device Trade-in Offer to 3 Trades a Year

T-Mobile(NYSE:TMUS) press conferences never fail to deliver.

While many companies have succeeded in pumping up these events, T-Mobile drops a bomb every time it announces something new. That is driven by its CEO John Legere who mixes savvy business acumen with the skill of a good carnie. He is part Jack Welch, part Bobby "The Brain" Heenan, and he never fails to deliver.

The company continued that track record with what it called "Un-carrier" Amped, updates to its well-known series of special offerings. The first of those, a revamp of the JUMP! program, makes it easier for customers to trade in their devices more often with no penalties.

How it worksT-Mobile, unlike rivals AT&T, Verizon, and Sprint, does not offer subsidized phones. Instead, customers can either pay the full price of the device upfront or split it into 24 monthly installments. JUMP! allows people on the installment plan to turn in their device and swap it for a new one at no extra cost. If, for example, you tire of your Apple iPhone 6 and want to exchange it for a Samsung Galaxy S6, you can do so without penalty.  

Under the old JUMP! program, customers paid $10 a month for device insurance and the right to swap phones once every two years. The new plan, dubbed JUMP! On Demand, costs the same $10 and allows for switching devices up to three times a year. It does not include device insurance, which can be purchased for an additional $8 a month.

"While the carriers are breaking every promise they've ever made with their knock-off upgrade programs, we're racing full speed ahead, making one of our most popular moves even better," said Legere in a press release. "JUMP! On Demand is the best way to get a new smartphone whenever you want. Zero out the door. Zero at upgrade. Zero fees. Zero wait. Zero BS."

Legere introduced JUMP! On Demand with his usual energy. Source: T-Mobile

Why does this matter?Under the model used by all of the other carriers, contracted customers can only upgrade their phone about once every two years. There are exceptions and alternative offers, but that is the traditional cycle for upgrades. Under that model, a devoted Apple fan would miss the annual iPhone release every other year unless he or she paid off his phone or just shelled out full retail for the new one.

T-Mobile said in its press release that "nearly half of Americans say they wish their carrier would let them upgrade their smartphone more often," though it did not cite a data source for that statistic. With JUMP! On Demand, customers could get a new phone up to six times in a two-year period.

It is important to note that getting a new device through JUMP! resets the clock on paying off your phone. If, for example, you have paid off three months of the 24-month payment plan, and you elect to turn it in for something new, you are back to month one.

Still, over 10 million people have used JUMP!, according to T-Mobile, upgrading their phones 30% faster than everyone else -- every 14 months compared to the industry average of nearly 20 months.

Follow the leader?Legere delights in pointing out the less-than-friendly practices of some of his competitors. In this case, he noted that while Verizon offered an early upgrade program, the company has quietly tweaked it to make it less attractive. He correctly noted that the carrier had originally required customers to pay off 50% of their device before they could upgrade, which they increased to 75%, then 100%. 

"Verizon's quietly turned their 'early upgrade' program back into a two-year contract -- as if nobody'll notice. And AT&T isn't much better. These guys just don't get it," added Legere. "Customers want more flexibility and freedom not less. So, while they make you wait longer and pay more, we're changing the game again with JUMP! On Demand."

This is a pretty good dealWhile it may not appeal to people hoping to pay their phone off quickly, JUMP! On Demand definitely serves a niche. Many phone customers simply go from one subsidized phone to the next every two years paying for that subsidy in higher monthly bills.

For those people, this new program gives them the opportunity to have the latest and greatest phone as often as they want it. It is an innovative offer for subscribers who are pretty much always making an installment payment on a device anyway. Now, they will keep doing that with the benefit of their preferred device.

The next billion-dollar Apple secretApple forgot to show you something at its recent event, but a few Wall Street analysts and the Fool didn't miss a beat: There's a small company that's powering Apple's brand-new gadgets and the coming revolution in technology. And its stock price has nearly unlimited room to run for early-in-the-know investors! To be one of them, just click here.

Daniel Kline owns shares of Apple. He likes having the latest phone but generally steal his wife's upgrade. The Motley Fool recommends Apple and Verizon Communications. The Motley Fool owns shares of Apple. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Source: T-Mobile Amps Up Its JUMP! Device Trade-in Offer to 3 Trades a Year

Google Nexus 5 (2015) Release Date and Price: 5 Killer Features that May Please Fans

Nexus 5 with Android 5.0.2 LollipopIBTimes India

The LG Nexus 5 was one of the best smartphones with up to date features and reasonable price when it was launched in 2013. It was discontinued after doing steady in the market for almost one-and-a-half year without even a single price cut. So, it is natural to expect big from its successor, the Google Nexus 5 (2015) aka Nexus 5 2nd Generation.

Google is tight-lipped on the release date of its upcoming smartphone but several reports have claimed that it might fall in the month of October or November. The reports sound logical, as the search giant has the tradition of releasing its Nexus devices, including the Nexus 6 just in time for the holiday season.

According to Android Police, Google might launch two Nexus devices – one to be made by LG codenamed "LG Bullhead" and believed to be the Nexus 5 (2015), and another device to be made by Huawei under codename "Huawei Angler" and believed to be the successor of the Nexus 6. 

Not much has been leaked on the device despite arriving a few months from now. Going by reports that have surfaced so far, the Nexus 5 (2015) is expected to have at least 5 killer features that will please its fans.

1) Display: The Nexus 5 (2013) sports a 4.95-inch True HD IPS+ capacitive touchscreen with 1080 x 1920 pixels (445 ppi pixel density) but its successor is expected to have a 5.2-inch screen with 1440 x 2560 pixels.

2) Iris Scanner: According to a report by TechTimes, the upcoming Nexus 5 (2015) will feature iris scanner besides fingerprint scanner which are seen in its predecessor. However, it won't come as a surprise if these features are not seen in the device when released, as it is supposed to be a handset with affordable price. 

3) Processor: There are conflicting reports on the processor to be seen in the Nexus 5 (2015) with some reports claiming that the device will be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 processor, while others say it will be Qualcomm Snapdragon 808. The Nexus 5 (2013) is powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 800.

4) Operating System: The Nexus 5 (2013) runs on Android 5.0 Lolipop, upgradable to 5.1.1 Lollipop, while its successor is expected to run on Google's upcoming software Android M.

5) Camera: The Nexus 5 (2015) is expected to house a 13 MP main camera, while its predecessor has 8 MP main camera and 1.3 MP front snapper.

Interestingly, GeekSnack has reported that Google's upcoming device might come with a price tag under $500, which means it will be much cheaper than the Nexus 6 that starts at $649 (₹44,000). The 16GB variant of Nexus 5 (2013) was priced at $350 (₹28,999), and the 32GB model at $400 (₹32,999).

Source: Google Nexus 5 (2015) Release Date and Price: 5 Killer Features that May Please Fans

Grandstream IP Phones to Work With BroadSoft Platform

PRESS RELEASE – Boston, MA (June 25, 2015) – Grandstream Networks, today announced interoperability of Grandstream's GXP1600 series of Small Business IP phones, consisting of four models, with BroadSoft's BroadWorks® platform and other SIP-based services. This announcement gives BroadSoft customers a new set of powerful IP phones from Grandstream that can seamlessly leverage the BroadWorks platform and other SIP services from BroadSoft.

The GXP1600 series, consisting of the GXP1610, GXP1620, GXP1625 and GXP1628, showcase a new hardware design, improved appearance and build quality, larger graphic LCD display and enhanced acoustic performance. These robust IP phones are extremely easy to use yet include a collection of powerful telephony features – making them ideal for small business users. Each phone has 3 XML programmable soft keys, 3-way conferencing, Electronic Hook Switch (EHS) support for Plantronics headsets, support for 20 languages, full-duplex speakerphones with advanced acoustic echo cancellation, dedicated buttons for intercom/paging and call recording and a large phonebook with up to 500 contacts and call history with up to 200 records. The GXP1625 and GXP1628 include built-in Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) while the GXP1628 also features Gigabit ports and 8 BLF/speed dial keys.

BroadWorks is BroadSoft's flagship applications platform that enables service providers to deliver enhanced multimedia services for businesses and consumers. As a leading Application Server for IP-Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) environments, BroadWorks services are network agnostic, offering carriers expanded service reach, fixed-mobile convergence (FMC), streamlined application integration, and operational cost savings. With an extensive range of features, BroadWorks enables carriers to offer a differentiated set of communication services that range from media-oriented services, such as: Voice Messaging, Conferencing, and Auto Attendant, to personal calling functions such as Selective Call Forwarding, Simultaneous Ringing, and dial-by-name.

"We're excited to once again expand our lineup of BroadSoft certified IP Phones," said David Li, CEO of Grandstream. "BroadSoft's SIP-based platforms are some of the most powerful on the market and we are thrilled to continue our relationship with BroadSoft in order to offer powerful IP Phones that can leverage BroadWork's robust features."

"To extend adoption of unified communications (UC) throughout the enterprise, it's critical to create a compelling user experience and seamless access to UC services," said Steven Kaish, vice president, partner ecosystem, BroadSoft. "Grandstream remains at the front edge of product innovation, and the interoperability of these IP Video Phones with our UC-One solution platform builds on our vision to reimagine the future of work."     

The GXP1600 series joins numerous additional Grandstream IP phones that have successfully completed interoperability testing with BroadSoft, including the GXV3240 and GXV3275 IP Video Phones for Android and the GXP2130, GXP2140 and GXP2160 color-screen Enterprise IP phones. BroadSoft customers can easily deploy and quickly provision these nine award-winning IP phones to take advantage of BroadSoft's BroadWorks. The GXV3240, GXV3275, GXP2130, GXP2140 and GXP2160 are also UC- enabled. UC-One offers a full UC experience that enhances productivity for the increasingly mobile workforce by making voice, video, business directories, call logs and instant messaging and presence available on a single application.

About Grandstream Networks

Founded in 2002, Grandstream Networks is the leading manufacturer of IP voice/video telephony and video surveillance solutions. Grandstream serves the SMB and consumer markets with innovative products that lower communication costs, increase security protection, and enhance productivity. Our open standard SIP-based products offer broad interoperability in the industry, unrivaled features, flexibility, and price-performance competitiveness. Visit www.grandstream.com for more information or connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

About BroadSoft

BroadSoft is the leading provider of software and services that enable mobile, fixed-line and cable service providers to offer Unified Communications over their Internet Protocol networks. The Company's core communications platform enables the delivery of a range of enterprise and consumer calling, messaging and collaboration communication services, including private branch exchanges, video calling, text messaging and converged mobile and fixed-line services. For additional information, visit http://www.broadsoft.com/.

Source: Grandstream IP Phones to Work With BroadSoft Platform

What Samsung hides in battery of your Galaxy smartphone

If you are quite active on a social network or instant messaging app like Facebook or WhatsApp, you may have watched a video showing a suspicious chip hidden under the battery of a Samsung Galaxy smartphone. The video just went viral and we got some queries from our readers. So here, we are trying to answer you that what Samsung has hide in battery of your Galaxy smartphone.

The video claims that the chip under the battery pack of the Samsung Galaxy smartphones transmits user data to the Web and content such as photos and videos are shared right on internet without informing users. However, the reality behind the chip is completely different.

Samsung provides NFC chip under the battery packs of its high-end smartphones to offer users Near Field Communication (NFC) technology. This technology is also available on several other smartphones and tablets to let users wirelessly exchange data between two devices at a certain distance.

Samsung battery with built-in NFC chip

While most of the manufacturers stick NFC chip on the back panel of their mobile devices, Samsung is providing the same under the battery pack since the launch of the Galaxy S3 in May 2013. It perhaps chose the battery pack instead of the back panel to make it optional for the users to change back panel.

The presence of NFC on Samsung Galaxy series smartphones makes them smarter as users can use the built-in technology even to wirelessly make mobile payments. The Korean company launched Samsung Pay earlier this year to enable native mobile payments support on its smartphones. Moreover, Android M, which Google will release as the next Android version later this year, will enhance the usability of NFC technology and will integrate Android Pay as an open-source mobile payment service.

Samsung smartphone with NFC-enable mobile payments support

So if you've tried to remove the chip from your Samsung Galaxy smartphone, it certainly means that you'll no longer be able to use NFC connectivity on your smartphone. Your smartphone will not support major mobile payment services, though these services may become quite common in the coming months.

Also, opening the battery packaging is void as per the warranty terms of the company. This means that you will lose the warranty of your smartphone after unwrapping the battery packaging and will not be able to freely reach to a service centre to make your smartphone repaired.

Therefore, you should not have to limit features of your smartphone by opening the battery or attempting anything unusual to find any odd thing.

You can reach to us on any such issues and please feel free to ask us your queries in the comment section below.

Source: What Samsung hides in battery of your Galaxy smartphone

Microsoft releases Office apps for Android phones

About a month after launching a preview of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for Android smartphones, Microsoft has removed the preview label. Now the company's mobile Office apps are available for anyone running Android 4.4 or later. You don't need to sign up as a beta tester anymore.

Microsoft designed the mobile apps to be compatible with the documents created in the desktop versions of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, but the user interface has been tweaked for smaller devices with touchscreen displays.

The company has also made some changes based on feedback from beta testers, including improved support for storing documents to cloud storage services Box and Google Drive (as well as Microsoft OneDrive).

The apps join Microsoft's OneNote app, which has been available for Android for years.

You can use Microsoft's Office apps for Android for free to view, create, and edit documents. But if you want additional features you'll need to pony up some cash for an Office 365 subscription. You'll need that subscription to create or edit documents on tablets with screens larger than 10.1 inches, for instance.

Word, Excel, and PowerPoint are all available from the Google Play Store as well as the Samsung Galaxy Store and serveral Chinese app stores including Xiaomi, Baidu, and Tencent.

Source: Microsoft releases Office apps for Android phones

ArmenTel announces start of sales of new branded smartphones and tablets

YEREVAN, June 23. / ARKA /. ArmenTel telecommunications company (trading as Beeline) has announced the start of sales of new branded smartphones and tablets. The sales will begin on July 1, 2015 at six Beeline sales and service offices in Yerevan, Vanadzor, Gyumri, Artashat and Etchmiadzin, it said in a press release.

The first 100 buyers (in each office) will receive free "nice" Beeline cellphone numbers. Those who will buy tablet will get free gift bags.

On the same day in Yerevan and regional offices Beeline will raffle  special prizes for buyers.

"Beeline's branded smartphones twice were recognized as the best-selling smartphones in Armenia. 

They are very popular with our customers due to their stylish design, good performance and competitive price. Beeline is again ready to pleasantly surprise its customers with new models of devices, including smartphone with the ability to have installed two SIM-cards and also tablet with IPS display," ArmenTel CE O Andrei Pyatakhin is quoted as saying in the press release.According to the press release, Beeline smartphones and tablets run on operating system Android 4.4 KitKat. 

ArmenTel is a %100 subsidiary of VimpelCom providing fixed and mobile telephony as well as high-speed Internet.-0-

19:39 23.06.2015

Source: ArmenTel announces start of sales of new branded smartphones and tablets

Meizu’s ready for action on June 30, may be preparing a killer smartphone for launch

Chinese smartphone maker Meizu is ready to release a new phone, and if the teaser campaign is anything to go by, it's going to be a 'killer' device. Although the name hasn't been officially confirmed yet, there are leaks which point to it being the MX5, the logical follow-up to last year's MX4.

Meizu's no stranger to unusual promo techniques, having used some cool vinyl record invitations to the MX4 Pro's launch event. This time, it has been inspired by the poster to Stanley Kubrick's classic Full Metal Jacket film, and used a military helmet with the words 'Born to Kill' scrawled on it. It adds that a product launch will take place on June 30 in Beijing, China, where we can imagine, people will be chanting, "This is my smartphone. There are many others like it, but this one is mine…"

Related: Hands-on with Meizu's Ubuntu Mobile-powered MX4 smartphone

The day after posting this on its official Facebook page, it followed the picture up with another, showing a Meizu phone taking a photo of some promo material for the event — including an actual helmet.

So what does all this mean? Is Meizu going to war with the competition, or are these all references to the mystery device itself. It's probably both, but in the case of the phone, there's a strong chance it will have a metal body, hence the Kubrick movie reference.

A leak has revealed a metal chassis which is believed to belong to the future MX5, along with a possible set of specifications. The oversized home button cutout may indicate the phone will have a fingerprint scanner, and the display may end up measuring 5.5-inches and having a 1080p resolution.

MediaTek's octa-core MT6795 processor with 3G of RAM may power the MX5, and a 20-megapixel camera may sit on the rear panel. Other possible specs include a 3150mAh battery and a MicroSD card slot.

Meizu sells its phones in China, but it's often possible to buy them through the Meizumart online store, so if the MX5 turns out to be real, and a winner, it may not be too hard to track one down internationally. We'll bring you all the news regarding the phone over the coming days.

Source: Meizu's ready for action on June 30, may be preparing a killer smartphone for launch

LG G4 Pro To Be iPhone 6S, Galaxy Note 5 Beater

The LG Electronics Inc. (KRX:066570) (OTCMKTS:LGEAF) G4 smartphone has already been released, but already reports are emerging that LG is about to release a successor. A rumor posted on a Chinese social networking site, Weibo, suggests that the Korean company is preparing to launch an updated Pro version of its well-received flagship device later this year.

LG G4 Pro rumors multiply

This is not exactly a new rumor, as it had been suggested previously that LG was considering releasing an updated version of its flagship smartphone before the year was out. It was suggested that LG was disappointed with sales of the LG G4 device, and was looking to attract more consumers by providing an even more powerful device than the existing LG G4.

It is worth bearing in mind that some publications consider last year's LG G3 to be the standout smartphone of the year. This is no mean feat when up against the juggernauts of Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) & Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (LON:BC94) (KRX:005930), but some reviewers felt that the LG G3 exceeded even the market-leading iPhone 6. This is a testimony to the quality of the LG range, yet the commercial success of the corporation has not yet matched this critical reputation.

In line with this issue, it was therefore suggested that LG would release a more powerful version of the LG G4 before the end of the year. And it seems increasingly possible that this will indeed come to fruition. The report in question is purporting to come from close to the LG supply chain, and it suggests that we could see an LG G4 Pro version of the smartphone released sometime late in Q3 or early Q4.

Camera upgrade

The leak in question suggests that the rear-facing camera in the LG G4 will be quite staggeringly increased. The 16-megapixel snapper included in the LG G4 is already noted as being one of the most powerful photographic devices in any smartphone available on the mass market. But the report suggests that LG will increase the rear-facing camera to 27-megapixels; certainly a huge shift if this rumor turns out to be correct.

Although other factors contribute to picture quality, such as sensor size, image processing software and aperture, such a massive megapixel rating would point to a potentially hugely powerful camera device. LG has previously released smartphones with a f/1.8 aperture, and if it is able to keep this specification and also nearly double the megapixel rating of the LG G4, then an incredible photographic device is in the offing.

It has also been suggested by some analysts that the particularly large pixel count could be motivated by adding a dual-camera setup. This would very much imitate the camera layout in the recent HTC Corp (TPE:2498) One M8, which was unfortunately dropped in its successor. Producing such a device for the LG G4 would undoubtedly be a significant technical undertaking, but the Korean corporation might be looking to produce something truly outstanding that really makes jaws drop.

Chip upgrade

Aside from this massive camera improvement, it is also suggested that the LG G4 Pro will feature a massive chip upgrade. This is one area where the smartphone perhaps failed to compete with its most obvious Samsung Galaxy S6 rival. It's hoped that by upgrading to Qualcomm, Inc. (NASDAQ:QCOM)'s latest 808 chip that the LG G4 will be able to compete with the Galaxy Note 5 and Galaxy S6.

LG must also consider the release of the iPhone 6S in the next few months. This latest Apple iPhone release will undoubtedly be significantly upgraded from previous iterations of the series, and the iPhone 6s has already been linked with a vast raft of new upgrades. There is little doubt that Apple will retain the lead in the smartphone marketplace with the iPhone 6s, and thus to distinguish itself from this iconic competitor, LG must produce something truly outstanding with the LG G4 Pro.

Display

With this in mind, it is suggested that LG will increase the screen size of the device from 5.5-inches to 5.8-inches. This would make it significantly larger than the existing iPhone 6 plus, and considering that it is assumed that Apple will not increase the screen size in either of its forthcoming devices, this would ensure that LG has the edge in this department. Samsung has certainly placed a premium on the quality of displays in recent device releases, and improving the quality of the LG G4 screen would enable it to compete with its native Korean arrival.

A 5.8-inch display would mean that the LG G4 Pro was larger than the Galaxy Note 4, but it is not known what upgrade Samsung has in mind for this tablet range during 2015. Rumors have not particularly centred around screen size in relation to this tablet, but Samsung may choose to increase the screen size of the galaxy Note 5 in order to stay ahead of the competition.

Advantages

The LG G4 is already considered to be an outstanding smartphone, with many obvious advantages over its most obvious smartphone rival, the Samsung Galaxy S6. LG G4 has a significantly larger screen than the Samsung device, and it produces higher resolution photographs from its front-facing camera. An 8-megapixel device is one of the most powerful in the mass-market smartphone niche.

Expandable storage and removable batteries which are included in the LG G4 range are both welcome assets to the device, and the micro-USB utilized by the LG G4 has also attractive particular praise. The laser autofocus and the color spectrum sensor which LG has included in the device have also been critically acclaimed, and this is certainly a device which has numerous advantages over some of its biggest rivals.

As LG now intends to upgrade the LG G4 Pro further still, by the end of the year LG may have a device on its hands which can truly challenge the best releases from Apple and Samsung.

Like this article? Sign up for our free newsletter to get articles delivered to your inbox

Source: LG G4 Pro To Be iPhone 6S, Galaxy Note 5 Beater

Google Nexus 5 (2015) Release Date: Is Nexus 6 Debacle the Reason for Smaller Display?

Google Nexus 6Screenshot from Google Play Store

Expectations on the Motorola Nexus 6 were huge following the stupendous success of the LG Nexus 5 but it reportedly didn't do as well as expected when it was launched last year. Now, hype has fallen on the upcoming Google Nexus 5 (2015) aka Nexus 5 2nd Generation with its release date drawing close.

The search giant is expected to launch two Nexus devices, one to be made by LG under the codename "LG Bullhead" and believed to be called Nexus 5 (2015), and the other device is believed to be Nexus 6 successor to be made by Huawei with the codename "Huawei Angler." The devices are expected to be released in October or November this year.

It seems like Google has learned its lesson from the debacle of its current flagship device, the Nexus 6. The leap from 5-inch display to 6-inch was huge considering that most smartphone makers increase the screen size of their flagship devices by .2-inch or a little more but not by 1 inch as in the case of the Nexus 6.

The Nexus 5, which sports a 5-inch display, did very well in terms of sales before it was discontinued without any price cut after going strong in the market for almost one and a half year. However, Google upgraded the screen size of its new device to 6-inch which reportedly disappointed many fans and prospective buyers. Now, several reports have suggested that the successor of the Nexus 6 will sport a 5.7-inch display, a .3-inch smaller than its predecessor which is a rare move.

It's not fair to even call the Nexus 6 as the successor of the Nexus 5 because they belong to two different categories with the former purely a phablet while the latter is a smartphone. But there must be a reason for Google to decrease the display of its upcoming phablet, and that reason could possibly be the poor sales of the Nexus 6 and the kind of feedback it received despite significant feature upgrades.

According to MobiPicker, the Nexus 5 (2015) will be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 808 processor and a 2700 mAh battery, while the Nexus 6 successor may be feature a 5.7-inch OLED screen with 1440 x 2560 pixels, Snapdragon 810 processor and 3500mAh battery. Both the devices are expected to come running Google's upcoming operating system, Android M.

Source: Google Nexus 5 (2015) Release Date: Is Nexus 6 Debacle the Reason for Smaller Display?

7 yoga stretches for smartphone users

The extensive use of smartphones for personal and professional purposes is taking a toll on your neck, back and shoulder muscles. In fact, it can lead to a health condition called Text Neck.

You can take corrective and preventive steps to tackle the posture problem with these simple yoga stretches and exercises which strengthen and relax your strained muscles.

Ear Pulls and Massage: Begin with pressing your ears from the top and right down to the lobes. Pulling them out a couple of times and rotating them clockwise and anti-clockwise will release all the pressure around them.

Stretching arms: Stretch up the arms over your head with the palms facing the sky and push them up towards the sky. As an extension of this stretch, spread your arms out on either side and pull the finger back and wave a couple of times to say bye-bye to stress in the arms and shoulders.

Shoulder rotations: Stretch out your arms on both side and touch the thumb to the base of the little finger. Keeping the arms and hands still, rotate your shoulders clockwise and anti-clockwise 5 times each.

Palm Press: Bring the base of your palms together in front of your chest. Press them hard against each other keeping your shoulders still. Press and release a couple of times. Reverse the position of the hands and repeat.

Elbow Eight: Bring your hands together in front of your chest and interlace your fingers. Keeping your palms in front of your chest, move your elbows and shoulders in a wave like motion and draw a sleeping eight.

Shoulder Stretch: Place your right hand on top of your head and with the left hand hold the left knee tight. Now Keep your left hand intact and move your right hand in and out all the way down to your hip and back up to the head a few times. Repeat on the other side.

Thumb-Squeeze: Brings your thumbs up in front of your chest and rotate them in both directions for a few times. Squeeze all your fingers together and release. Repeat a couple of times.

Practice these simple yoga stretches to keep yourself safe from any health hazards and be a smartphone yogi.

(With inputs from KamleshBarwal, Sri Sri Yoga Director. As a yoga expert for more than a decade now, she has traveled across the world and taught the benefits of yoga to people of many cultures and religions. http://www.artofliving.org/yoga)

Source: 7 yoga stretches for smartphone users

Vimeo unveils redesigned video-editing app for smartphones

Photo: Associated Press

Barry Diller is owner of Vimeo LLC's parent company IAC/InterActiveCorp

Vimeo LLC is getting back into mobile videos.

The company, owned by Barry Diller's IAC/InterActiveCorp, is reintroducing its Cameo smartphone video-editing app after spending about a year overhauling the software. The application lets users add title slides, splice clips together and add captions before sharing a video on Vimeo's platform or other social-media sites such as Facebook Inc. and Twitter Inc.

Vimeo, which has an audience of more than 160 million viewers a month, has been bolstering its catalog of videos, luring filmmakers with feature-length movies and shorter series. The push to add videos taken and edited on smartphones aims to capture a format that's popular on YouTube, which is operated by Google Inc.

"The best camera you have on you is going to be your cell phone 99% of the time," Andrew Pile, chief technology officer of Vimeo, said in an interview.

Vimeo has been looking for ways to boost sales after a reorganization at IAC lifted the profile of the video-streaming site. While Mr. Diller's company doesn't break out sales for Vimeo, revenue for the media unit that includes Vimeo has increased more than 5% in each of the past three quarters.

Vimeo has been vying for viewers' time in an increasingly crowded market. Unlike YouTube, IAC's company has stayed away from advertising, and instead makes money by charging filmmakers for subscriptions to upload high-quality video, which can be sold or rented to viewers.

Vimeo's subscription model has helped the site maintain its roots as a place for professional videographers to share their work, an identity that the company sought to keep for the revamp of Cameo.

"There's a big gap between creating and creating something that is a little more polished and a little more styled," Kerry Trainor, chief executive officer of Vimeo, said in an interview.

Source: Vimeo unveils redesigned video-editing app for smartphones

Samsung Releases Game-Recording App

Article Comments  

Today, 9:42 AM   by Eric M. Zeman   @phonescooperupdated Today, 9:45 AM

Updated: added reference to YouTube sharing

Samsung this month made available an app that smartphone owners can use to record their game play. Game Recorder+ lets users capture game play and face-cam commentary with one touch. Samsung says the app can record audio directly from the source app, negating background noise. It also includes a Game Boost feature that Samsung claims will optimize system memory for better gaming and game recording. Game Recorder+ is compatible with the Samsung Galaxy S6, S6 Edge, Note 4, S5, Note 3, S4, and Note 2 devices. Samsung said most games from the Play Store and Galaxy App store support recording. Game Recorder+ is free to download from the Google Play Store. Earlier this month, Google announced plans to launch a game-specific version of YouTube to highlight game play. Earlier this year, Amazon bought Twitch, which lets people record and share their gami ng experiences. Samsung did not say if its Game Recorder+ app will be compatible with these services, but it can upload recordings to YouTube.

more info at Play Store »more info at Engadget »

AD

Forum Options

Start a new discussion

Start a new discussion

Source: Samsung Releases Game-Recording App

Over Two-Thirds Of Smartphone Photos And Videos Are Never Shared; Magisto Has The Solution

MENLO PARK, Calif., June 16, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- A new Magisto-commissioned Nielsen custom survey of smartphone users revealed today that over two-thirds of digital photos and videos are never shared, with only 31% ever seeing the light of day. Magisto (www.magisto.com) provides the solution for its active community of 65 million users by enabling them to creatively unlock and share these vast untapped collections of life moments.

Magisto turns personal experiences into beautiful, powerful video stories that you can easily create, share and enjoy. Magisto's unique video storytelling platform is driven by patented artificial intelligence technology that automatically selects the most compelling moments from your digital Photos and videos and, like a human editing pro, weaves them together to form high-quality, uniquely-sharable movies that vividly express your personal stories with customized themes, styles, and music.

"The volume of user-generated digital content continues to skyrocket but the vast majority of it never sees the light of day because people generally lack the time or skill to turn it into something worth sharing," says Magisto CEO Oren Boiman. "Magisto was founded on the idea of helping people become amazing digital storytellers with a truly simple and powerful way to share their life experiences."

Other smartphone Nielsen custom Magisto survey findings include:

Parents took nearly as many photos and videos as millennials. Perhaps unsurprisingly, young millennials (a sampling of respondents aged 18-24) had the highest rate of digital content creation, with 84% of those surveyed taking photos and videos weekly. But parents were a surprisingly close second with 72% of those surveyed also doing so weekly.

Despite the wide availability of cloud/external storage options nearly half of smartphone users stored their photos on their computer. On average, 45% of photos and 31% of videos were stored on desktops and laptops. As a result, 39% of users reported having experienced storage problems with their computers.

Magisto CEO Oren Boiman and panelists from GoPro, Airbnb, and Engadget will discuss these and other survey findings about the future of personal digital video tonight at SF New Tech, starting at 5:30 p.m. at Mighty SF (119 Utah St, San Francisco)

Methodology

The commissioned Magisto Smartphone User custom study was conducted by Nielsen and surveyed adults aged 18+ who own a smartphone that runs either the Apple iOS or Android operating system. The survey was conducted March 10 – March 17, 2015. Respondents were recruited by email from the Nielsen Harris Poll Online panel to take the online survey.

About Magisto

With an active community of over 65 million users Magisto turns personal experiences into beautiful, powerful video stories that you can easily create, share and enjoy. Magisto's unique video storytelling platform is driven by patented artificial intelligence technology that automatically selects the most compelling moments from your digital videos and photos and, like a human editing pro, weaves them together to form high-quality, uniquely-sharable movies that vividly express your personal stories with customized themes, styles, and music. Magisto is available for iOS, Android, PC and the Web at www.magisto.com.

Media Contacts:Jason Roth917-371-5394jason@magisto.com

Lela Randall949-500-1905Lela.Randall@hkstrategies.com

Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20140402/NY96888LOGO

To view the original version on PR Newswire, visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/over-two-thirds-of-smartphone-photos-and-videos-are-never-shared-magisto-has-the-solution-300099841.html

SOURCE Magisto

Source: Over Two-Thirds Of Smartphone Photos And Videos Are Never Shared; Magisto Has The Solution

Experience the Freedom to Play with Sony's Xperia® Z4v Smartphone Coming to the United States Exclusively on Verizon Wireless

NEW YORK, June 16, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Mobile Communications ("Sony Mobile") and Verizon Wireless today announced that the SonyXperia Z4v smartphone will be available in the United States this summer exclusively from Verizon Wireless. The premium Android™ 4G LTE waterproof(1) smartphone is here to give you the freedom to play - delivering unrivaled entertainment experiences and innovative camera technologies along with powerful battery performance(2).

"The Sony Xperia Z4v continues a tradition of high-quality smartphones that have the best of entertainment with Sony movies, PlayStation gaming, and in-demand features like a powerful battery, all on the largest and most reliable 4G LTE network in the United States," said Jeff Dietel, vice president, Marketing for Verizon Wireless. "This combination of a great network and a great device makes it easy for customers to explore and enjoy what wireless connectivity can bring to them where they live, work and play."

Designed to Perform

We know life can be tough on your smartphone. Designed with durability in mind, the slim-framed Xperia Z4v is dust-tight and waterproof, featuring tempered glass panels - so you won't get held back by a slip or spill.

With impressive performance, Xperia Z4v powers through whatever life throws at it and keeps you up to speed with the latest in entertainment. From 4K recording to gaming, Xperia Z4v's powerful, ultra-fast Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 810 processor with X10 LTE and 64-bit octa-core CPU lets you enjoy a universe of your favorite entertainment in an uncompromised, fluid, and lightning-fast experience. Need to do two things at once or find something online? This impressive processor helps to enable multitasking and fast-paced web browsing while delivering a seamless UI experience. With 32GB storage and up to 128GB SD storage, enjoy unlimited entertainment possibilities in the palm of your hand.

Best-in-class entertainment in a smartphone

For gamers, the Xperia Z4v allows you to break away from your TV and continue your PlayStation®4 (PS4) gaming anywhere in your home via PS4 Remote Play(3). Simply connect your Xperia smartphone to your PS4 via home Wi-Fi® and use your DUALSHOCK®4 Wireless Controller(4) to play full versions of your favorite PS4 games directly on your phone. Additionally, users can stream Spotify while playing PS4 games without ever having to hit pause - simply control the music on your PS4 using your Xperia Z4v with Spotify Connect.

Hear the difference of the Z4v with your own ears. Discover the nuances of your favorite artists with studio quality sound captured by Hi-Res Audio and increase the sound fidelity of MP3 or AAC music tracks to near High-Resolution quality with the Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE HX). Also equipped with LDAC support, the Z4v allows you to transmit your favorite Hi-Res Audio tracks over Bluetooth. Together with the Snapdragon 810's Fluence™ technology, Sony's rich audio expertise and first-on-market Automatic Headset Optimization, your Xperia Z4v automatically adjusts audio settings according to the headset style you're using for the most immersive sound experience.

Xperia Z4v also brings movies to life in vivid detail with the 5.2-inch Full WQHD TRILUMINOS™ display for mobile featuring Live Color LED powered by X-Reality™ for mobile, creating a wider palette of rich, natural colors and enhanced color depth and gradation without the risk of oversaturation. Additionally, you can maintain increased brightness and contrast with the Z4v's power-efficient smart adaptive display.

Take your entertainment with you on-the-go with high-powered battery performance that helps you power through it all, with up to a full day of charge(2). Xperia Z4v features a high-density 3,000 mAh battery and a power efficient display with Memory on Display. Xperia Z4v also offers Battery STAMINA mode and Ultra STAMINA mode to enable efficient power consumption that maximizes battery life. For fast and easy charging, Xperia Z4v features Qualcomm® Quick Charge™ 2.0 which offers re-charging up to 75% faster(5), embedded wireless charging with the latest inductive 'Qi' and PMA technology, and a capless USB port for added convenience.

"With the coming Xperia Z4v launch, we are delivering on our commitment to bringing the latest and greatest Sony smartphones to the US," said Ravi Nookala, President, Sony Mobile Communications North America. "Our Xperia Z4v offers US customers the most fun mobile experience around with features that give them the freedom to play."

Superior Camera Technology

Whether you're snapping a group photo or taking a quick selfie, Xperia Z4v lets you take the perfect shot anytime, anywhere. Utilizing Sony Electronic's Cyber-Shot® and Handycam® technologies, Xperia Z4v offers superior camera performance on both the 20.7 MP rear and 5 MP front cameras. With the high-sensitivity Exmor RS™ image sensor and high ISO, you can capture high-quality portraits, even in low lighting. Take full advantage of the front-facing camera's 25 mm wide-angle lens to fit more into your selfie pictures - without distortion at the edges. With 4K video recording capability and SteadyShot™ with Intelligent Active Mode, you can document memories in brilliantly detailed high quality video.

Xperia Z4v continues to build on our previous generation's already impressive camera experience by expanding the ecosystem of camera capabilities and empowering users to unleash their creativity with 15 preloaded Xperia camera apps such as Timeshift burst and Video, picture-in-picture, and self-styling portraits.

Availability

Xperia Z4v will be available this summer in black and white color options and as part of the Made for Xperia offering at Verizon, customers will have a selection of protective cases from leading accessories brands like Incipio®, Tech21, OtterBox®, and Case-Mate available for purchase in-store and online. Verizon customers can sign up online for more information about Xperia Z4v smartphone. For a full list of specifications, visit www.XperiaZ4v.com.

About Verizon Wireless:

Verizon Wireless operates the nation's largest and most reliable 4G LTE network.  As the largest wireless company in the U.S., Verizon Wireless serves 108.6 million retail customers, including 102.6 million retail postpaid customers.  Verizon Wireless is wholly owned by Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq:VZ).  For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com.  For the latest news and updates about Verizon Wireless, visit our News Center at http://www.verizonwireless.com/news or follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/VZWNews. 

About Sony Mobile Communications:

Sony Mobile Communications is a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Corporation, a leading global innovator of audio, video, game, communications, key device and information technology products for both the consumer and professional markets. With its music, pictures, computer entertainment and online businesses, Sony is uniquely positioned to be the leading electronics and entertainment company in the world. Through its Xperia™ smartphone and tablet portfolio, as well as innovative SmartWear products, Sony Mobile Communications delivers the best of Sony technology, premium content and services, and easy connectivity to Sony's world of networked entertainment experiences. For more information: www.sonymobile.com

For More Information: 

Burson-Marsteller on behalf of Sony Mobile Communications 

xperia@bm.com

Verizon Wireless 

Albert Aydinalbert.aydin@verizonwireless.com

Legal

"Sony", "TRILUMINOS", "S-Force Front Surround", Music Unlimited and the Music Unlimited logo, and "Exmor RS" are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sony Corporation. "PlayStation","PS4", and "DUALSHOCK" are trademarks or registered trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment, Inc. "Xperia" is a registered trademark of Sony Mobile Communications.  Android is a trademark of Google Inc. Use of this trademark is subject to Google Permissions. "Wi-Fi" is a registered trademark of Wi-Fi Alliance.

Qualcomm,  Fluence and Snapdragon are trademarks of Qualcomm Incorporated, registered in the United States and other countries. Qualcomm Quick Charge is a trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated.  All Qualcomm Incorporated trademarks are used with permission. 

All other company and product names may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated. All other trademarks or registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Additional information regarding trademarks may be located on our website at: www.sonymobile.com/global-en/legal/trademarks-and-copyright/.

(1) Xperia Z4v is waterproof and protected against dust as long as you follow a few simple instructions: all ports and attached covers are firmly closed; you can't take the phone deeper than 1.5m of water or for longer than 30 minutes; and the water should be fresh water. Casual use in chlorinated pools is permitted provided it's rinsed in fresh water afterwards. No seawater and no salt water pools. Abuse and improper use of device will invalidate warranty. The phone has an Ingress Protection rating of IP65 and IP68. To see what this means and for more information see http://support.sonymobile.com/global-en/dm/waterproof.

(2) Based on Verizon internal tests under average use scenarios

(3) Xperia Z4v System, DUALSHOCK®4, Sony Entertainment Network and high speed internet connection required. Some games may not support this feature

(4) DUALSHOCK®4 Wireless Controller and GCM10 Game Control Mount are sold separately from Xperia Z4v.

(5) Quick Charge 2.0 charges up to 75% faster, according to Qualcomminternal test done with a 3300 mAh battery (1 Based on internal tests charging a 3300mAh battery using a [1] QC2.0 USB wall adapter (9V, 2A), [2] USB wall adapter (5V, 2A), and [3] USB wall adapter (5V, 1A), respectively. (February 2013).)

Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150616/223350

To view the original version on PR Newswire, visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/experience-the-freedom-to-play-with-sonys-xperia-z4v-smartphone-coming-to-the-united-states-exclusively-on-verizon-wireless-300099781.html

SOURCE Sony Mobile Communications

Source: Experience the Freedom to Play with Sony's Xperia® Z4v Smartphone Coming to the United States Exclusively on Verizon Wireless

India 'the new China' for smartphone makers

Just as China's long-insatiable appetite for smartphones wanes, India promises to be the next hotspot for explosive growth, a new report claims. "India presents the world's largest smartphone growth potential for the next 5 years," Mark Li, senior analyst ... Read more

All Latest Update about Smartphone - June 16, 2015

Belgian city launches 'text walking lanes' for smartphone addicts

People's apparent eagerness to stay connected at all times means we're seeing more and more folk walking the streets lost in their phones. Well, we would see them if we weren't staring at our own handsets, right? The thing is, this growing distraction ... Read more

Smartphone beacons power crowdsourced weather forecasts

A Japanese climate information company that wants to track just about every cloud in the sky in its own data cloud is handing out atmospheric sensors for smartphones that could improve forecasting. A Japanese climate information company that wants to track ... Read more

No Smartphone? Now You Can Hail An Uber Via Text Message

TextBer, a project that came out of an Uber hackathon of CodingDojo students, lets Uber users without a smartphone hail a car via text. The on-demand economy — a world of location-sensitive apps that send services right to your door — only exists for ... Read more

What Mobile Wallets And Smartphone Cameras Now Have In Common

Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) and Google (NASDAQ:GOOG) (NASDAQ:GOOGL) Android have just recast mobile wallets as smartphone utilities – putting them in the same category as cameras, maps, weather, the app store and any other app that comes preloaded on their ... Read more

Remote-control Range Rover can be driven with a smartphone app

High end cars are creeping towards full autonomy, unlocking new abilities every generation that allow them to drive themselves under certain conditions. Now, using the sensors and hardware that let the car park itself, Jaguar Land Rover has demonstrated a ... Read more

iBall to introduce Cobalt mSLR4 smartphone with 4 different lenses

BENGALURU: Since the first camera phone came to market, photography enthusiasts have wanted to get better, high resolution cameras in their smartphones. Taking note of the fancy that smartphone users have for their camera, the Indian smartphone ... Read more

LG G Flex 2 Review: A great curved screen on a smartphone that won't let you down

The LG G Flex 2 greatly improves on its slightly disappointing, and overpriced, ancestor, the LG G Flex. March 2014 seems like light-years ago; that's when we got our first brush with the G Flex at LG's Tech Show in Delhi. It was a bold, almost ... Read more

Take better smartphone pics

As well as being portable computers, music players and games consoles, smartphones are also starting to replace entry-level digital cameras. It's easy to see why – they are small, conveniently in our pockets most of the time and are so easy to use. Read more

Amazon Patents Ear-Scanning Technology to Unlock Smartphone

The Amazon patent details technology that would look at a person's ear and use it in a similar manner to a fingerprint scanner. It would do this by taking a picture of the ear with a smartphone's front-facing camera and comparing that picture to the ... Read more

Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge Green Emerald Colour Variant Launched in India

Following the introduction of the Blue Topaz and Green Emerald colours globally last month for the Samsung Galaxy S6 and the Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge respectively, Samsung India has announced the availability of the latter in the country. Specifically, the ... Read more

All Latest Review about Samsung Galaxy - June 16, 2015

Best Android phone? LG G4, Galaxy S6, HTC M9... Google's app picks it

Expect most results for power users to vary between the flagship devices such as LG G4, Samsung Galaxy S6, Note Edge and Motorola Droid. You opt for lesser features and you would get devices such as the Galaxy S5. A simple search for key features such as ... Read more

Phone Comparisons: Samsung Galaxy S6 vs ASUS ZenFone 2 (ZE551ML)

Do we have a good one for you today – the powerhouse Samsung Galaxy S6 goes up against the new ASUS ZenFone 2 (model ZE551ML). Can the new high spec, low cost device from ASUS compete against the flagship and price of Samsung? Is the Galaxy S6 worthy ... Read more

Fix Samsung Galaxy S6 Contacts has stopped error, duplicate contacts & not syncing

Hello dear readers. In this post, I will tackle one of the most common errors you may encounter if you own a Samsung Galaxy S6 smartphone–"Unfortunately, Contacts has stopped." I will also guide you through working around duplicate contacts and how ... Read more

Samsung Galaxy Update To Android 5.1 Lollipop: Features, Release Date And More

We're starting to see a lot of movement with various Samsung Galaxy Android 5.1 Lollipop updates from multiple carriers around the world. Today we wanted to focus on Samsung and talk about a few things that we should expect from their upcoming OTA roll out. Read more

Would The Samsung 'Galaxy BlackBerry' Be Loved Or Hated?

Following a resurgence in speculation and leaks over the last week, the tale of BlackBerry's 2015 portfolio has taken another twist, this time featuring Samsung. Prolific analyst Eldar Murtazin suggests that Samsung and BlackBerry will be entering a ... Read more

Samsung Galaxy Tab S 10.5 vs. Microsoft's Surface 3 specs: Microsoft device is better value for the same price

The Galaxy Tab S 10.5 from Samsung has triumphantly soared in 2014 and has also succesfully taken on powerful tablets like the iPad Air2, but now, it has to deal with the new tablet/laptop hybrid Microsoft released, called the Surface 3. Here is how the ... Read more

Samsung Galaxy S6 Android 5.1.1 Lollipop OTA Update Now Live For T-Mobile USA Users

The official Android 5.1.1 Lollipop OTA update is rolling out right now for the Galaxy S6 and the S6 edge users on T-Mobile USA network. The roll out is done OTA and through Samsung KIES software. Android 5.1.1 Lollipop update is launched in phases, which ... Read more

Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge get new features via Android 5.1.1 update that's live now

Samsung has been very swift with updates for its Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge smartphones if compared against past flagships, and it has kept this streak on by releasing the Android 5.1.1 release for the two devices now. And of all the models, it has managed to ... Read more

Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 Release Date Looming? Price, Specs, Features & What We Know So Far [Rumors]

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 may be available in the market sooner than expected as recent reports indicate that it could be released before the year ends. Ecumenical News noted that the upcoming device will soon be experienced by Samsung fans. It added that ... Read more

The Apple Watch Lets You Use Your iPhone More, But Look At It Less

The irony of the Apple Watch is that for all the hype, it is a very subtle product. The physical design is unobtrusive and, to my eye, unremarkable. It is designed, in many ways, almost to disappear. Those who bought the $17,000 18-Karat Yellow Gold ... Read more

All Top Articles about Apple Iphone - June 16, 2015

Apple posts four new 'Shot on iPhone 6' videos to World Gallery

Continuing its camera-focused iPhone 6 ad campaign, Apple added four new user films to the "Shot on iPhone 6" webpage on Monday, highlighting the handset's ability to capture stunning high contrast images. Like the first films posted to Apple's World ... Read more

Apple partners with 5th iPhone distributor in India as it aims to double sales

Apple has added a fifth partner to its list of iPhone distributors in India as it continues its sales push in the country. Optiemus Group will now begin distributing iPhones with a focus on expanding to "neighborhood cellphone stores" in India. Read more

Apple iPhone 6 Vs Samsung Galaxy S6 Active

The smartphone war between Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) and Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. (NASDAQ:SSNLF) seems never ending as both companies are vying for the position of holding the greater market share. Samsung announced its latest flagship, the Samsung ... Read more

IDC Confirms Apple Takes Samsung's Market Share Lead in Another Country

Due to strong demand for the iPhone 6 (left) and iPhone 6 Plus (right), Apple passed Samsung on Q1 2015 smartphone shipments in another Asia-Pacific market. Image Source: Flickr user Kārlis Dambrans. When discussing smartphone markets in the "Asia ... Read more

Apple Music is the Tim Cook 'One More Thing' we waited for

In 15 more, you will be able to subscribe -- three months for free. Pundits wave the Spotify flag and spit out diatribes of disgust, much as they did when Apple launched iPhone eight years ago or iPad in 2010. Wrong again is their destiny. Will they ever ... Read more

Apple just showed us the future of the iPhone — here's what app makers think of it so far

Last week, Apple took the wraps off its next big update for the iPhone and iPad: iOS 9. With iOS 9, which will be released to all current iPhones and iPads in September, Apple wants to make your iPhone more stable and easier to use and catch up with Google ... Read more

Apple's latest Shot on iPhone 6 videos are absolutely gorgeous

I've been loving Apple's shot on iPhone 6 ad campaign, if for no other reason than it gives me hope that one day, I too will be able to capture crazy beautiful images with my smartphone's camera. Apple has pushed the campaign with tons of billboards ... Read more

This won't end well: See a $10,000 Apple Watch Edition come between two very big magnets

He estimates a previous video — where an iPhone 6 was boiled in CocaCola — could have made TechRax up to $50,000 in ad revenue. That's more than enough to buy the Watch Edition, the magnets, and have plenty left over to buy a second Apple Watch Edition. Read more

Apple iPhone 6S, iPhone 7 release date, specs, features, news: New iPhone could open for preorders on September 18

In the latest round of rumors and speculations about Apple's upcoming iPhone, fresh reports claim that the new iPhone could be available for pre-order by as early as September 18 this year. According to an article by Mobile News, the telecommunications ... Read more

Belgian city launches 'text walking lanes' for smartphone addicts

People's apparent eagerness to stay connected at all times means we're seeing more and more folk walking the streets lost in their phones. Well, we would see them if we weren't staring at our own handsets, right? The thing is, this growing distraction ... Read more

All Latest Top News about Smartphone - June 15, 2015

What Mobile Wallets And Smartphone Cameras Now Have In Common

Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) and Google (NASDAQ:GOOG) (NASDAQ:GOOGL) Android have just recast mobile wallets as smartphone utilities – putting them in the same category as cameras, maps, weather, the app store and any other app that comes preloaded on their ... Read more

Smartphone Size Preference H2 2014: 5.0" Most Likely For Next Purchase; Thicker Devices Acceptable for Longer Battery Life

BOSTON, June 15, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- A recent study from the Mobile Device UX group at Strategy Analytics (www.strategyanalytics.com) surveying touchscreen smartphone consumers in the US and UK, found greatest interest in devices with display sizes ... Read more

Can Samsung Succeed With A Foldable Smartphone Gimmick?

There's no doubt that Samsung has built much of its marketing efforts this year around the 'edge' concept. This curve on the screen was first seen in a variant of the Galaxy Note 4 and was demonstrated at the IFA conference in Berlin during 2014. Read more

iBall mSLR Cobalt4 budget smartphone launched with four lenses priced at Rs 8,499

iBall has launched new smartphone 'iBall mSLR Cobalt4' bundled with four detachable mSLR lenses. The new Cobalt4 is priced at Rs 8,499. The mSLR Cobalt4 comes bundled with a zoom lens with 8x zoom, a fisheye lens with a 175-180 degree viewing angle, a ... Read more

Amazon invents an ear-scanning smartphone to take-on Touch ID

Smartphone sensors that can recognize your fingerprint and your face are already becoming commonplace, but Amazon could have an entirely fresh take on the biometrics trend. A recent patent from the e-commerce giant suggests the company is considering an ... Read more

HTC For Sale? Taiwanese Smartphone Maker Sends Mixed Messages

Once the leading producer of Android handsets, HTC in recent years has seen revenue and profit plunge as smartphones have become more commoditized, and rumors have swirled that the company might be purchased by fellow Taiwanese hardware maker Asustek. Read more

Non-creepy social networks make it to your smartphone

When logging into your favorite social-networking site, do you hear a nagging voice saying the government and advertisers are tracking your data? These worries have become part of using social networks over the past couple years, though some hear that ... Read more

Smartphone overuse will impair your hands. How!

Frequent smartphone users are more likely to have an enlarged median nerve and have their hand function and pinch strength impaired, says a new study. However, the study, published online in Muscle & Nerve, doesn't clearly link heavy smartphone use to ... Read more

LG G Flex 2 Review: A great curved screen on a smartphone that won't let you down

The LG G Flex 2 greatly improves on its slightly disappointing, and overpriced, ancestor, the LG G Flex. March 2014 seems like light-years ago; that's when we got our first brush with the G Flex at LG's Tech Show in Delhi. It was a bold, almost ... Read more

BlackBerry: An Android Phone Won't Move The Needle (And Why I'm Still Bullish)

Reports have broken out that BlackBerry (NASDAQ:BBRY) is considering launching an Android-powered device in the fall. However, I would argue that this is unlikely to have a significant impact on their device sells and there's also a small risk that this ... Read more

All Tending News about Android Smartphone - June 15, 2015

Google Launches Tool To Help You Decide Which Android Phone To Buy

Deciding which Android smartphone to buy can be a challenge since there are so many options. That's why Google launched a new tool called "Which Phone." By answering a few questions about how you want to use the Android phone, Google will recommend a ... Read more

BlackBerry May Run Android on a Future Smartphone: Report

Earlier in 2015 BlackBerry said it plans to offer much of the software that runs on its phones for use on Android, iOS and Windows smartphones and tablets. BlackBerry, which has stood fast with its own operating system for its products for years, is now ... Read more

Samsung Galaxy Update To Android 5.1 Lollipop: Features, Release Date And More

we will be right here at Android Origin to keep you up to date on the latest information as it becomes available. The last thing we wanted to talk to you about was the possibility of a brand new smartphone to be released by the company. There are rumors ... Read more

Can BlackBerry Ltd. Actually Succeed Making Android Phones?

On June 11, Reuters reported that BlackBerry Ltd. (TSX:BB) (NASDAQ:BBRY) is considering manufacturing phones that would run Google's Android operating system. Because the company's revamped line of devices failed to win mass appeal, another pivot is ... Read more

BlackBerry set for Android smartphone launch – report

BlackBerry is apparently set to offer a smartphone powered by Android, in a move that seems to acknowledge it has failed to gain traction with devices powered by its own BlackBerry 10 platform. While refusing to be drawn on the speculation, the company ... Read more

BlackBerry Thinking About Making An Android Phone

BlackBerry may release a smartphone running Android, reports say. The phone would have a physical slider keyboard along with a touch screen. "BlackBerry will probably use Android on an upcoming slider device that is likely to be released this autumn, two ... Read more

What Mobile Wallets And Smartphone Cameras Now Have In Common

Apple and Google Android have just recast mobile wallets as smartphone utilities – putting them in the same category as cameras, maps, weather, the app store and any other app that comes preloaded on their smartphones. Not every mobile wallet ... Read more

Android phone Duel

LG and Samsung have been in constant competition against one another for the last several years, but if we're to strictly base their success on sales figures, it would arguably be Samsung who would claim bragging rights. The LG G4 has launched with ... Read more

Verizon Communications Inc.: Motorola DROID Turbo Users Can Try Out Android 5.1 OS

Motorola Solutions Inc's (NYSE:MSI) DROID smartphones have almost never received Android updates on time, and same is the case with Motorola DROID Turbo, the latest DROID smartphone. For a while now, Motorola DROID Turbo has been due to receive the latest ... Read more