Tuesday, October 31, 2017

Google announces Fast Pair for dead simple Bluetooth pairing on Android

Easily one of the best features on iOS is the ability to quickly pair with Bluetooth devices using Apple's W1 chip. We've seen Google introduce similar functionality with their upcoming wireless earbuds but that doesn't mean this feature is exclusive to only Pixel Buds.

Google announced today that they're bringing their Fast Pair feature to all Android devices dating all the way back to Android 6.0 Marshmallow and the latest version of Google Play services (11.7). So, anything running newer versions of Android and Google Play services will be able to take advantage of this new feature — no special hardware necessary.

Fast Pair makes discovery and pairing of Bluetooth devices stupid easy. It works using Google's Nearby technology and BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) to broadcast a connection to nearby devices and there's absolutely no fiddling around inside your connection settings — it just works. Bringing a compatible device near your phone will show a popup on your screen asking if you'd like to pair. Just tap it and boom. You're done. Here's how effortless the entire process is:

  1. Turn on a Fast Pair-enabled device and put it in pairing mode.
  2. Android scans for BLE broadcasts in close proximity of the user's phone and discovers a Fast Pair packet (provided Bluetooth and Location is turned on).
  3. This packet is sent to our servers to get back the device's product image, product name and companion app (if there is one).
  4. The user receives a high priority notification asking them to "Tap to pair" to the device. The notification contains the product name and image.
  5. When the user taps on the notification, we use classic Bluetooth to establish a connection.
  6. A success notification is shown which contains a link to download the companion app (if there is one).

Now, the catch is that it's up to Bluetooth accessory manufacturers to adopt Fast Pair on their headsets/speakers and is something that Google says they'd be more than happy to work with anyone interested. They need only to reach out to Google here.

You can find this feature on the upcoming Google Pixel Buds, as well as Libratone's Q Adapt On-Ear headphones, and is coming soon to the Plantronics Voyager 8200 series wireless headset. Keep an eye out.



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Save 20% off these RAVPower USB-C cables & power banks [DEAL]

Before I started writing full-time for Phandroid, I used to spend most of my time covering the Nintendo Switch launch over at NintendoToday.com. During the launch, I wanted to test the battery life of the Switch and how long it would go when connected to a portable external source like the RAVPower power bank, which offers a whopping 26,800mAh extra juice for any USB-C device like the Nintendo Switch or your smartphone in your pocket.

I've been pleased with the 10 extra hours I can get on my Nintendo Switch or to keep my phone charged while traveling, which is why I always try to keep an eye out for good deals. You can snag several RAVPower accessories for 20% off using the coupon USBCPHAD so if you recently switched from a micro USB device and you're looking for replacement cables, this is a pretty good deal.



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Morphite is like No Man’s Sky for Android and it’s arriving this year

Crescent Moon Games has been promoting its sci-fi action adventure game Morphite for the PlayStation 4, PC, and the Nintendo Switch, but the game is headed to mobile platforms this year, too. The Nintendo Switch version is set to debut in just a few days, but Crescent Moon Games has answered a fan on their official Instagram page saying we can expect to see an Android version of the game 'before Xmas.'

If you're unfamiliar with the game, it resembles a low-poly No Man's Sky with vibrant flora and fauna you can encounter on various planets and a story that you piece together as you go along. Here's a peek at the PC launch trailer from earlier this year.

This is poised to be an interesting addition to Android gaming, since Crescent Moon Games have published a wide variety of content in the Google Play Store, with some games garnering a definite interest from those who enjoy traditional gaming. The Deer God, Monolithic, and MicRogue are just a handful of their games that I've enjoyed on Android so I'm definitely looking forward to it. How about you?



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Google Docs accidentally locked people out for violating the ToS

Google Docs has become an important tool in the age of always online collaboration and cloud storage, so it was very disconcerting when some users began reporting this morning that they were unable to access their documents because they were "violating the terms of service."

Here's a quick example of the screen some people saw when trying to access their stuff.

To their credit, Google quickly realized the error when everyone began complaining on Twitter and Facebook and issued a fix. According to them, "we made a code push that incorrectly flagged a small percentage of Google Docs as abusive, which caused those documents to be automatically blocked."

Google says that a fix is in place and that people who were previously having trouble accessing their documents should be able to see them now. They apologized to those who were affected by the bug and said they're working on keeping it from happening again. However, it's a pretty stunning reality check that everything you have stored online isn't really yours.



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Samsung made record revenue despite decline in mobile profit

Samsung has revealed its Q3 2017 earnings for this year, showing that the company saw an 89% jump in net profit from the same quarter last year. Samsung's net profit jumped from $4.05 billion during the June through September quarter in 2016 up to $10 billion in the same period of this year. That's an amazing amount of growth, but it's mostly due to Samsung's semiconductor business.

Despite an increase in premium smartphone shipments like the Galaxy Note 8, overall revenue and earnings for Samsung's Mobile division saw an 18.9% decrease in revenue this quarter compared to the same quarter last year. Samsung attributes this mostly to the growth in sales of mid and low tier smartphone models, which don't have the same profit margins as premium devices.

Another loser on Samsung's balance sheet this quarter is its display panel division, which saw an earnings decline despite more smartphones debuting with OLED Samsung panels. Samsung also attributes the cost of its new OLED panel production line for the decrease in revenue from its OLED division for this quarter.

SEE PRESS RELEASE


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25+ Best Android Games [November 2017]

Hundreds of great games arrive in the Play Store each month. Some are from big-name gaming studios, others are from small indie developers. It can be hard to keep up with them all. Here is our list of some of the best games to launch in the last month. Check it out and you may just find your new favorite game.

New Android Games

Diamo XL

The goal of this game is to survive the constant onslaught of obstacles by moving your character to all five zones within a diamond. Collect points before the enemies smash them and keep moving to keep your multiplier high.

Die Haie

In Die Haie the user controls the shark of his choice and struggles to survive, eat all fishes in different locations and eventually defeat the evil boss. The game is simple, fast and hard to master.

Digimon Links

Lead your Digimon to victory as you make use of their Leader Skills, Signature Skills, and Legacy Skills. Take a break from battles as you create facilities that enable you to power up your Digimon. Make use of various added effects, return to battle and seize victory.

Dotowheel

Dotowheel is addictive simple game. All you do is put dots on the wheel. Put dots on the circle in a way that at least three of them have the same number and aren't blocked by dots with another number.

Drag & Dodge

Drag & Dodge is an addictive, ultra-fast and brilliantly fun single touch arcade game. Touch and hold the screen as long as you can and avoid colliding with your enemies.

Dungeon Tails

Save the Lizard Kingdom by embarking on a dangerous journey into caverns full of cute monsters, traps, loot, and surprises. Packs of monsters are trying to stop you from rummaging through the dungeon and taking their gold. During your adventure, you'll meet an imaginative horde of enemies that are ready and prepared to stop you in your tracks.

Into the Dead 2

Journey through the zombie apocalypse in a race to save your family. Arm yourself with an arsenal of powerful weapons and do whatever it takes to survive. Maim, mow down, and massacre the Dead.

Kickass Commandos

The enemy has grown bold in spreading across the globe, which is turning everyone into mindless, zombie-like hordes. If the enemy is not stopped soon, the world as we know it will be no more. You have been chosen to lead the ultimate mission across the globe to rescue your comrades, wipe out all of the enemy's bases, and kill everyone else you encounter.

Love You to Bits

Explore the strangest worlds and planets, full of fantastic aliens, space-time puzzles, and hidden objects to collect. You will follow the journey of Kosmo, a clumsy, rookie space explorer in search of Nova, his robot girlfriend.

OPUS: Rocket of Whispers

Travel across a world of ice and snow, through burned down ruins and treacherous peaks, to launch a rocket that will reach the stars. Throughout the game, you will play as two survivors of an apocalyptic plague. Help them achieve the unimaginable of building a rocket, so they can return the deceased.

Panther Online

This visually stunning RPG will let you develop your character and upgrade your skills to become the strongest cat out there. Try your skills in one of two modes: CO-OP or PVP – everything in Online Real-Time Multiplayer.

Portal Walk

Portal Walk is an adventure and relaxing platform game about Eugene. Eugene stuck between worlds and trying to find way back home. Enter the portal and join to awesome adventures during worlds.

PUSH

PUSH is a relaxing puzzle game. There are no points, stars, tutorials or move counters. Your goal is to simply push all of the buttons. The puzzle is to figure out how to do that.

Save the Dodos

We're all familiar with the sad tale of the charming, yet unintelligent Dodo. But now you can prevent their heart-breaking tale of extinction! Guide the dodos through 100 challenging levels and save this avian dullard from extinction.

Seeing Stars

Looking for a game with dazzling graphics and classic arcade excitement? Then connect the stars and protect your planet in Seeing Stars! No pay-to-win schemes. No viral gimmicks. Just timeless fun that will test out your skills.

Short Fused

Avoid enemies, collect puzzle pieces, and race against time in this explosive action puzzle game. Each of the Short Fused runners have their own unusual and quirky look. Collect the cast of characters with their unique themes as you conquer your way through the infinite and hectic mazes.

Stranger Things: The Game

Stranger Things are afoot again in Hawkins, Indiana. Join Hopper and the kids on a new, action-packed adventure! The Game is an action adventure game true to the games our heroes would have played back in the day.

Swish Ball

Swish Ball is a new and exciting take on the game that we all know and love. Tap hit, shoot, and swish before the 24s shot clock runs out. Challenge your friends for the big baller crown.

Thimbleweed Park

A haunted hotel, an abandoned circus, a burnt-out pillow factory, a dead body pixelating under the bridge, toilets that run on vacuum tubes. In a town like Thimbleweed Park, a dead body is the least of your problems.

Word Select

Word Select is simple to play. Search, swipe, and connect the letters to guess the scrambled puzzle words. Can you find the right words hidden inside each puzzle? Try now and improve your spelling and train your brain daily!

Weekly Game Roundups

Best of the Best

The Google Play Store has hundreds of thousands of great games to choose from. This list only scratches the surface. We've published numerous lists to highlight some of our favorites. Check out the lists below to explore even more!



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Samsung demoing a Genius Bar-style kiosk with a twist in the United States

Walking into any carrier store these days will usually give you two kiosks of phones to play with; the iPhones and the Samsungs. That's something that's been true for a few years now and it looks like Samsung is looking to take their branding domination one step further by demoing some Genius Bar-style kiosks with a twist at locations across the United States.

Samsung's partner in the effort is the startup WeWork, which helps large companies get collaborative workspaces set up across the United States. Samsung is starting with three service centers that it's dubbing Care Centers in Detroit, Miami, and Williamsburg, New York. The idea is that you can go into a Care Center to get your Galaxy S8 serviced, but you'll have access to a workspace so you can get work done. Here's how Samsung VP Mick McConnell describes the Care Centers.

"Service is a hassle. I know I'm going to have to take time out of my day to do it. The concept was, if I take time out of my day, at least I can sit in a conference room, make phone calls, and do work, as opposed to sitting in a busy room with a bunch of angry people."

This isn't the first time the company has partnered with startup WeWork, either. Samsung used the company for a VR setup with tablet stations in Austin in order to showcase their hardware. If this arrangement goes well for both WeWork and Samsung, it could be the first baby steps toward Samsung tackling Apple's 500 stores across the US.

 



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The new Echo and Echo Plus are now available for purchase

If you've been patiently waiting for Amazon to launch the new Amazon Echo and Amazon Echo Plus, the wait is now over. The 2nd generation Echo is now available for $99.99 with Prime shipping, while the Echo Plus is available for $149.99.

The Amazon Echo 2017 is a bit smaller and cheaper than the original Amazon Echo, but features some welcome improvements. Mainly, the Echo 2017 includes Dolby Digital sound, increased listening distance, as well as the ability to connect multiple devices for multi-room audio.

As for the Amazon Echo Plus, this one looks more like the original Echo, but is still priced less than the first-generation product. For a limited time, Amazon is throwing in a Philips Hue Bulb to get you started on the path to smart home domination.

Both Echo devices offer 7 seven microphones, which should make it much easier for Alexa to hear your commands, even if the music bumping. And as expected, these products also feature new-and-improved speakers for a better overall listening experience.

You can hit the button below to snag one for yourself today, and let us know whether you'll be doing so.

Buy the Amazon Echo 2nd Gen


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The translucent HTC U11 Plus just got leaked in a hands-on video

The HTC U11 Plus is fixin' to become official real soon. HTC already has already scheduled a big unveiling event for this Thursday, where they'll finally be taking the wraps off the phone, but it appears a few people may have gotten a hold of the device a bit early.

A video on Facebook popped up this morning, showing off the new phone in all its glory — including that rumored "translucent" color option. It seems the video wasn't supposed to be made public and once word spread on Reddit, the video was quickly taken down. But because this is the internet, someone was able to download the video and upload elsewhere. Here's your first look:

For our English speakers, the fella in the video confirms many of the HTC U11 Plus' features, even pricing. You have 6-inch display on the front with respectable bezels (although they don't appear as small as what we've seen from other manufacturers).

As seen in the teaser, the phone will have wireless charging, a rotary dial software feature for quick shortcuts, water resistance, and contextually away Edge Sense features. The battery is apparently close to 4,000mAh and the phone will come in a 128GB storage option. Pricing is set at around $730€ (around $850) when it launches later this year.

Another new smartphone HTC plans to announce at the event, is the HTC U11 Life, something that was leaked almost in its entirety just earlier today. The U11 Life will feature much more modest specs — and likely a price tag to match — than the U11 Plus. Both devices will be made official on Thursday, so we wont have to hold our breath for too much longer.



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You can now buy the Nokia 6 from Best Buy for $230

HMD Global put the Android world on notice when the company re-introduced the Nokia brand into the fray, with the Nokia 6 leading the way (at the time). The Nokia 6 has been around since February, and was brought to the US in June, but you could only purchase the device from Amazon.

Starting today, that is no longer the case as you can now head over to your local Best Buy and pick up the Nokia 6 for just $229.99. Sure, you don't get the $60 savings offered for Amazon Prime Exclusive version, but if you want a no-frills experience, then you can get the carrier-unlocked model from Best Buy today.

As a reminder, the Nokia 6 features a 5.5-inch display, while being powered by the Snapdragon 430 SoC, 3GB of RAM, and 32GB of storage. The device also comes equipped with a 16MP rear-facing camera, 8MP selfie camera, and a 3,000mAh battery.

I mean, for just $230, the Nokia 6 definitely seems like a great option for those who need a solid mid-range phone. But I'll probably be hanging on for the Nokia 8 to come to the States, or whatever is happening with the new OnePlus device. Regardless, let us know whether you'll be picking one up for yourself.

Buy the Nokia 6


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Nintendo announces 200 million downloads for Super Mario Run, but it isn’t profitable

I'm like the rest of the world and automatically downloaded Super Mario Run on both iOS and Android as soon as it was made available. Oh, and yeah, I paid the $10 for each version since Nintendo won't let the purchase transfer despite linking the Nintendo accounts.

Today, Nintendo announced its operating profits for Q3 2017, and stated that Super Mario Run has been downloaded more than 200 million times. However, the game hasn't quite taken off the way Nintendo expected, likely due to the rather large $9.99 price tag needed to unlock the full game.

According to Tatsumi Kimishima, president of Nintendo, the company has "not yet reached an acceptable profit point" for the game. Of course, this was just the start for Nintendo's venture into the mobile world, so there is a lot to learn from in this regard.

In fact, Kimishima confirmed that Nintendo is still planning to release a few games for mobile platforms over the next year or so. One such game is the upcoming Animal Crossing game, which was confirmed to be coming to Android and iOS in November.

Let us know whether you still play Super Mario Run and if you ended up paying the $10 to unlock the full game.

[Engadget]



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Samsung teams up with iFixit to launch Galaxy Upcycling program

Samsung is joining forces with iFixit to ensure old Galaxy smartphones don't die an environmentally-unfriendly death. The new Galaxy Upcycling program, announced at the Samsung Developer Conference in San Francisco today, turns old devices into useful tools for all kinds of projects.

Some device manufacturers offer recycling programs that typically see old phones and tablets pulled apart so that the valuable materials inside them can be reused. But Samsung's is a little different. Rather than scrapping old Galaxy gadgets, it helps find creative new uses for them.

The Galaxy Upcycling program includes an online hub where users can share ideas for repurposing old devices. These include things like the Internet of Things control centers, CCTV systems, desktop computers, and even Bitcoin mining clusters.

The hub will also offer community code that can be used to bring these ideas to life, and any additional accessories that might be required for certain projects, such as sensors and LED lights. Samsung hasn't provided a launch date for the Galaxy Upcycling program just yet, but you can register your email address on its website to get a notification as soon as it goes public.



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Google fixes Android 8.1 Oreo beta installation issues

Google has rolled out a new Android 8.1 Oreo beta that fixes an installation issue with the first release. The update will be available to those who were forced to revert back to Android 8.0.

Google first made Android 8.1 available to developers last week. However, many were unable to try out the release because it would not install on their devices. "Couldn't install system update," read the error message, before users were reverted back to Android 8.0.

Now a Google Community Manager has confirmed that another Android 8.1 beta update is rolling out now. You should be able to download the new OTA if you were one of the users affected. "Thanks to all of those that sent up reports, and helped us get to the bottom of this," Google says.

Because this is an early Android 8.1 release, you should expect some bugs and instabilities. We don't recommend that you install it on a primary device you rely on every day.



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Misfit Vapor pre-orders live, ships on November 7th

The Misfit Vapor was announced at CES back in January, and it was met with quite a bit of fanfare. However, the smartwatch/fitness tracker was delayed multiple times, leaving everyone wondering if this was going to turn into "Vaporware".

Last week, we finally got word that the Vapor would be launching on October 31st, which happens to be today! However, it seems that "launch" and "pre-order" are two different things, and the Vapor is only available for pre-order from the Misfit website.

There's another catch, and that comes to those who were looking to pick up any of the Rose Gold color combinations, as those are "Out of Stock" and won't be shipping until December. However, if you want either the "Jet" or "Stainless Steel" models, you can place your pre-order today for $199.99.

Misfit Vapor Specs

  • 1.39-inch AMOLED Display
  • Qualcomm Snapdragon 2100 SoC
  • 4GB Storage
  • Heart Rate Monitor
  • Android Wear 2.0
  • Virtual Touch Bezel

The Jet Misfit Vapor is said to be shipping on November 7th, while the Stainless Steel variant is said to be shipping on November 10th. Plus, the landing page claims "limited quantities available" for both models, so it seems that Misfit is running out of stock already, or didn't have enough, to begin with.

Nonetheless, you can hit the button below to place your pre-order for the Misfit Vapor, and hopefully, we'll see it begin landing on doorsteps sometime within the next week or two.

Buy the Misfit Vapor


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The HTC U11 Plus could come in a ‘Transparent’ color option

November 2nd is likely the date that we'll see the HTC U11 Life and HTC U11 Plus announced, we are getting more and more details regarding the latter. Yesterday afternoon, @evleaks shared the three color options that the U11 Plus is expected to come in – Black, Silver, Translucent.

Obviously, the most interesting color option is "Translucent" as this would very likely make JerryRigEverything extremely happy. While it's unlikely that you'll be able to see all of the internals of the device, HTC has likely made it possible to at least see some portions of what is held beneath the case.

As for specs that we're expecting see with the U11 Plus, we are expecting to see the Snapdragon 835 SoC powering the device, coupled with either 4GB or 6GB of RAM along with 64GB or 128GB of storage. The display itself should measure in at 6-inches and feature a WQHD+ resolution, which would be gorgeous alongside the bezel-less design.

Let us know what you think about the U11 Plus and if you would be interested in seeing a new smartphone released with a "translucent" covering.



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Essential Phone gets updated with new fingerprint gestures

The last few months have been interesting for Essential as the PH-1 has been dealing with some subpar camera performance and then was permanently discounted by $200. Now, the company is looking right some of the wrongs with a rather substantial software update that is rolling out to owners of the device.

The update, which weighs in at 75MB, features the October Android security patch, which includes the patch for the KRACK exploit. Additionally, the update includes "improved touch scrolling" and the biggest inclusion is the addition of fingerprint gestures.

Once the update has been installed, users will now be able to swipe down on the fingerprint scanner to show your notifications. This will obviously remove the need to try and perform finger gymnastics to reach the top of the display to swipe down.

As we mentioned before, the PH-1 was discounted to just $499, down from the release price of $699, and there's even a way to save an extra $200 if you happened to purchase the PH-1 before the permanent discount. If the new price has you intrigued enough to pick one up for yourself, be sure to let us know and check out the Essential Phone Forums!



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Rumors suggest the Galaxy S9’s back will “change a lot”

The Samsung Galaxy S8 isn't that old yet, but the Galaxy S9 is already being talked about. Samsung did a great job with the Galaxy S8, which would lead you to believe the Galaxy S9 will be more of an iterative update with a few small changes. That doesn't appear to be the case if a new rumor is to be believed.

According to a semi-reliable source out of China, the Galaxy S9 back is going to "change a lot." No further details were given. Just that the back will look different. Now, "a lot" could mean simply the fingerprint scanner is moved or it has the dual-camera setup. We don't know yet.

What do you think the rumor means? Will the Galaxy S9 look a lot different?



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HMD Global announces the Nokia 2 with its 4,100mAh battery

At an event in New Delhi, India, HMD Global took to the stage to announce its latest device with the Nokia 2. The device is nestled quite nicely in the budget market, as pricing for the device starts at just €99 ($115). 

Specs for the Nokia 2 include a 5-inch HD display, while Qualcomm's new Snapdragon 212 SoC has been coupled with 1GB of RAM to power the device. Also included is 8GB of expandable storage, which can take advantage of a microSD card up to 128GB.

The front-facing camera features a 5MP "fixed-focus" sensor, while the rear camera comes equipped with an 8MP autofocus sensor with an LED flash. However, the biggest piece of information regarding the Nokia 2 comes down to the battery.

HMD Global has packed a 4,100mAh battery into the Nokia 2, while claiming that the device will last for at least 2-days before needing a charge. It will be interesting to see if the device can actually follow through on those claims, but we'll have to wait and see.

As we mentioned previously, the Nokia 2 is priced at €99 ($115) and comes in three color options:

  • Pewter/Black
  • Pewter/White
  • Copper/Black

The Nokia 2 will go on sale sometime in "mid-November" but there's no mention of which countries the device will be launching in. Let us know what you think about the Nokia 2 in the comments below.

[Android Authority]



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Razer Phone’s impressive specifications leak out early

Impressive specifications for the upcoming Razer Phone have been revealed early by a U.K. smartphone retailer. They hint at a device designed with gaming and multimedia in mind, with features that you won't find in other Android-powered flagships.

The official unveiling of the Razer Phone is just 24 hours away, but Razer has done a great job of keeping the device under wraps until now. That was until U.K. retailer 3G listed the device on its website prematurely, confirming many of its specifications and its design.

Unsurprisingly, the Razer Phone looks a lot like the Robin from Nextbit, the smartphone maker Razer acquired back in January. That means it has fairly large bezels above and below its display that won't go down well in late 2017, but its internals will help some fans look beyond them.

The device is expected to pack a 5.72-inch IGZO display with a 120GHz refresh rate, and support for the wide color gamut. That means it should look terrific — unlike the Pixel 2 — and will be incredibly responsive, which is important when playing fast-paced games.

The Razer Phone will also feature Dolby ATMOS sound through front-facing stereo speakers and amplifiers certified by THX. It will have dual cameras on its back — one 12-megapixel sensor with a wide-angle lens and f/1.7 aperture and one 13-megapixel zoom sensor.

The handset will be powered by a 4,000mAh battery that supports Qualcomm Quick Charge 4.0, and a whopping 8GB of RAM. It will also support 4G Super Voice technology. Although it isn't mentioned in the listing, we're also expecting the Razer Phone to have a Snapdragon 835 processor.

It's worth noting that this listing could be inaccurate as nothing is confirmed just yet, but those specifications seem too obscure to be mere placeholders. 120Hz displays and features like Dolby ATMOS aren't commonplace.

We'll find out for certain tomorrow, November 1, when Razer makes its first smartphone official.



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Monday, October 30, 2017

T-Mobile support page leaks upcoming HTC U11 Life in full glory

It looks like the HTC U11 Life has been unwittingly confirmed by T-Mobile, as a support page for the device went live giving us our first real look outside of leaks. The device appears to feature a fingerprint reader directly below the display and a single camera on the rear of the device.

Support pages for the HTC U11 Life have since been taken down, but you can see the archived versions to get a peep at the specs.

HTC U11 Life Specs – Leaked

  • 5.2-inch 1080P display
  • Launches with Android 7.1.1
  • IP67-rated for dust and water resistance
  • Octa-core Snapdragon 630 processor
  • 3GB RAM
  • 32GB storage with microSD card slot
  • 2,600mAh battery
  • USB-C port
  • Edge Sense
  • Fingerprint reader

HTC has an event planned later this week where the HTC U11 Life is expected to be unveiled. Thanks to this leak, it's already obvious the phone will be available at T-Mobile at the least. What do you think of the specs and design? Are you interested in an HTC mid-range device?



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Some Android apps found mining cryptocurrencies via code injection

It seems like every week we're writing a new story about Android malware. A new report from Trend Micro suggests several apps on Google Play have been using native code injection to load dynamic JavaScript script in order to mine cryptocurrency. Two apps in particular were discovered using this method which can increase the wear and tear on your device, reduce battery life,  and it can lead to a significant decrease in performance for your device.

Trend Micro detected the malicious code being used in two apps, both of which have over 50,000 downloads on the Google Play Store. One is a rosary app, while the other is designed to help you find discounts from various sites.

Both apps work the same way by loading a JavaScript library from Coinhive and begin mining using the attacker's Coinhive site key. Trend Micro was able to analyze some of the samples of code to determine that these malicious apps are generating a profit for their users. In one example, the attacker made over $170 USD over an unknown period.

Trend Micro has alerted Google to the offending apps and they've since been removed from the Google Play Store, but this is just more evidence that you shouldn't install some of the shadier apps without knowing fully what they do.



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Moto X4 is now available starting at $329

In September, details surrounding the phone's US release — which included an Android One release on Project Fi — were made known and after making its debut at IFA 2017, the Moto X4 is now officially available to purchase from Motorola, Amazon, and Project Fi. The Motorola version is priced at $400, while the Prime-exclusive model gives you $70-off the total asking price in exchange for lock screen ads.

The Moto X4 rounds out Motorola's mid-range offerings by offering an interesting blend of affordable and premium, combining the two into a well-spec'd, water resistant Android phone. If you're curious about the rest of the hardware, here's a quick spec list:

Moto X4 Specs

  • 5.2-inch FHD Display
  • Qualcomm Snapdragon 630 SoC
  • 3GB/4GB RAM
  • 32GB/64GB Storage
  • 16MP Front Camera
  • 8MP/12MP Dual Rear Cameras
  • 3,000mAh Battery
  • IP68 Water Resistance

Like most of Motorola's unlocked offerings, the Moto X4 is compatible with all networks here in the US, allowing you to use the phone on your carrier of choice. T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon, Sprint — they're all game. If receiving the occasional deal/ad on your lock screen doesn't sound like a huge issue, you can also save a pretty penny by going the version powered by Amazon Alexa. Can't beat that deal with a stick. Buy link provided below.

Buy on Amazon


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Grab an Amazon Echo Dot for only $40 bucks for today only [DEAL]

If you're on the fence about the future of virtual assistants, Amazon has made the choice a bit easier by discounting the Echo Dot by $10 bucks so you can snag one for only $40. This probably isn't the best deal we'll see on Echo Dot devices with Black Friday so close, but it's pretty tempting to nab one to try it out next to Google Home.

If you've already got Amazon Echo integrated into your home, you can snag a few of these on the cheap to integrate the rest of your house. Alexa is much more robust than Google Home currently, despite Google recently releasing the Google Home Mini that serves as a direct competitor to the Amazon Echo Dot.

Get Amazon Echo Dot Deal


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Pick up the ZTE Axon M from AT&T’s website starting November 1

ZTE showcased its take on a foldable smartphone earlier this month, but the device won't go on sale until November 1st and then only on AT&T's online store. If you want to swing by your local AT&T store and play with one, you'll have to wait until November 17 to get your hands on the new foldable device.

You can purchase the device outright for $725, or get it through AT&T Next with 30 monthly payments of $24.17. That puts the foldable ZTE Axon M into the same competition category with the Galaxy S8, LG V30, and the LG G6 which is a hard sell when those flagship phones feature the same (or better) specs.

If a phone featuring two screens is a definite novelty that you have to have though, you don't have to wait long to get the device. Here's a quick spec reminder in case you missed the ZTE Axon M reveal and coverage we did a few weeks back. Don't miss our 7 things to love or hate about the ZTE Axon M.

ZTE Axon M Specs

  • 5.2-inch 1080p display x2
  • Snapdragon 821 processor
  • 4GB RAM
  • 20MP camera (acts as front and rear facing)
  • 3,180mAh battery
  • Headphone jack
  • 12.1mm thick, 230g

Launching with last year's Snapdragon 821 setup is the thing that hurt the LG G6 this year and it's sure to hurt the Axon M among those who prefer fresh specs on their devices. What do you think? Would you be interested in this if the price were lower?



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Carl Pei teases OnePlus 5T’s Portrait Mode with a flawless camera sample

Earlier today @evleaks tweeted out a high-res render of the upcoming OnePlus 5T. It was only the top half of the device, but it partly confirms the existence of a larger — read: longer — 18:9 display inside the same footprint. Is a new display enough to warrant the T moniker? Well, OnePlus founder Carl Pei has been teasing another big upgrade

On this Twitter profile, Pei posted a photo of a young woman with the caption "What phone is he taking that photo with?…" It's obvious that the OnePlus 5T is being teased, showing off a pretty damn impressive Portrait Mode photo on the phone. It's not that the original 5's Portrait Mode was lacking, but the photo definitely looks as if OnePlus has been able to refine the feature which creates a shallow depth of field using software tricks.

Word has it, the OnePlus 5T might feature slightly updated camera hardware, most notably dual-20MP cameras on the back vs the OnePlus 5's 16MP+20MP setup. It's also worth mentioning that last year's OnePlus 3 > 3T upgrade saw a boost in battery capacity, so it's possible the 5T could squeeze in a few extra mAhs.

Twitter | via DroidHolic



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YouTube TV app finally rolling out to TV set-top boxes

It's hard to believe that YouTube TV, a service for watching TV, hasn't been available on TVs until now. After being available for over 6 months, YouTube TV is finally coming to devices including the Apple TV, Xbox One, Roku, and Android TV. Previously, you had to use Chromecast or AirPlay to watch on your TV.

The new YouTube TV app for TV for start rolling out to set-top boxes in the coming weeks, starting with Google's own Android TV platform. The interface has been reimagined with big screens in mind, but it's still very simple to use. There's a "home page" that will recommend content for you and let you easily pick up with DVR'd content.

The Live tab is where you'll find a more traditional list of what's on right now. Of course, since this is a Google product, earch plays a big role in finding stuff to watch. Be on the lookout for YouTube TV on your TV box of choice.

[via youtube]



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30+ Best Android Apps of the Month [November 2017]

A lot of apps are released in the span of one month. It can be near impossible to keep track of them all. In order to help you find only the best apps that have been released in the last month, we have assembled this list. Below you will find the best apps from the last month. Check it out and see what apps you missed!

New Android Apps

AMC VR

AMC VR is a new virtual reality app from the channel that created The Walking Dead. You can experience scenes in 360 degrees and feel what it's really like to live with walkers. Get in the middle of Hong Kong-style martial arts training with Into the Badlands' Fight Camp and stay tuned for new experiences coming soon.

Be My Eyes

This app allows you to be the eyes for the blind or vision impaired. You can assist the person through a live video connection. All you have to do is explain to the person what they're seeing. Maybe they can't quite make out the expiration date on the milk jug. Be their eyes.

DigiLux

Ever wondered why there are physical buttons for volume but not screen brightness? This app lets you use your fingerprint sensor as dedicated brightness control hardware. Swipe your fingers from left to right to adjust the brightness easily and quickly.

DVD Netflix

Did you know Netflix still rents out DVDs? With this app, you can do it from your phone. DVDs and Blu-ray discs are delivered to you with free shipping. Don't worry about kiosks, due dates, or late fees. Just update your Queue and Netflix does the work.

ElsiePic

ElsiePic is an app for people who are photographers and people who need photographers. You can make money taking photos or find someone to take some photos for you. It's like Uber for photography.

FANDOM

Whether you're someone who's into everything entertainment or someone who wants to keep up with the latest on just The Walking Dead, Destiny 2 or Star Wars, the FANDOM app makes it quick and easy to be in the know.

Icon Pack Mixer

This simple app lets you mix all of your installed icon packs with ease in a few simple steps. Select which icons do you want to have, confirm your selection and voilà! Your new icon pack is ready to use.

Lawnchair Launcher

An open-source project developed by volunteers, Lawnchair has quickly become the de-facto choice for Android enthusiasts everywhere. New features are being added regularly with the promise that Lawnchair will always be free and open-source.

lockIO

The first thing someone does when they steal a phone is power it off. This instantly blocks all of the tracking abilities you might be able to do. lockIO is an app that blocks the ability to turn off your phone, as well as other apps a theif might want to access.

Micasso

Micasso transforms your photos into artworks using the styles of most famous artists: Picasso, van Gogh and more. Using neural networks and artificial intelligence helps you bring the most famous artists to your mobile to repaint your memorable moments.

Microsoft Edge

Microsoft Edge is Microsoft's new and much-improved browser. Now, it's available on Android. It creates one continuous browsing experience for Windows 10 users across their devices. Content and data sync seamlessly in the background, so users can browse across devices, without skipping a beat.

Movies Anywhere

Seamlessly store the movies you've collected in one place—so you can watch them when and where you want. Movies you buy on any platform will be available in the Movies Anywhere app at no extra charge. Also, your movies will be available across platforms.

Shop It To Me

Shop It To Me is the leading free personal sale shopping assistant for Women's and Men's clothing. Shop It To Me will search hundreds of online stores like Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdales, Neiman Marcus, Shopbop, J.Crew, and Anthropologie.

Soundparty

Soundparty is a musical toy anyone can use to easily create songs by assembling and arranging musical building blocks. Absolutely no musical experience is required. What's more, songs are sent and received as small blocks of text (not audio files), so you can easily share the songs you've created.

StreetComplete

This app finds incomplete and extendable data from OpenStreetMaps in your vicinity and displays it on a map as markers. Each of those is solvable by answering a simple question to complete the info on site. You can easily help update maps.

Weekly App Roundups

Best of the Best

The Google Play Store has hundreds of thousands of apps to choose from. This list only scratches the surface. We've published numerous Best Android Apps lists for everything from dating to education. Check out the lists below to explore even more!



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