Some Google Home Mini users report crashing when playing music

It seems as though nothing Google launched on October 4th has arrived without its fair share of issues. Shortly after the Google Home Mini arrived on consumers doorsteps, it was discovered the cloth laid over the top of the unit was making the device listen 24/7. After that, Google made it so the Google Home Mini is voice-activated only.

Now a new report on reddit has highlighted an issue some Home Mini users are having when playing certain songs at a high volume. The crash appears five to ten seconds after the song starts playing and only when the Google Home Mini itself is at its maximum volume setting. The issue was also reported on Google's Product Forums, where the company responded asking for more details.

Our team would like to investigate this further. Below are a couple things we'll need from you. Please recreate the issue then immediately submit feedback report from the Google Home app and include the following information in the description:

1. The keyword: "GHT3 – Google Home Mini reboot at high volume".
2. Brief detailed description of the exact events you're experiencing.
3. Be sure to check the box for Include screenshot and logs

Google also notes that you should only be using the included power cable that came with the Google Home Mini instead of any other cord you may have had lying around the house. Have you experienced this issue with your Home Mini unit? Someone on the Product Forums says they returned theirs to Best Buy only to get a replacement that did the same thing.

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2AsQRu6
via IFTTT

New Samsung patent appears to show fully curved screen edges

Samsung's curved edge displays have been somewhat contentious among Android enthusiasts, though they continue to sell well to the general public. The Galaxy S6 Edge made these curved displays popular and now two generations later, you can't find a flagship Samsung device with a flat screen.

Now it looks like Samsung is taking its curved screen one step further with new patents that were recently uncovered by LetsGoDigital.

Found in the World International Property Office database, these patents appear to showcase a device that has a curved display on both sides that appears to wrap around the entire device instead of stopping halfway through the curve. This is something we've never seen done before on smartphones, though I'm not sure I buy Samsung's "better grip experience" with a fully curved display.

I can't even imagine what happens when you drop the device. What do you think?

[source: LetsGoDigital | via: XDA]

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2As2wcG
via IFTTT

Google Home Max could arrive on December 11 according to Best Buy

Google introduced the world to the Google Home Max back at its Pixel 2 launch event in October, but since then the company has been pretty quiet about the pricy device since then. The Google Home Max features two 4.50-inch subwoofers for bringing the bass, along with far-field microphones so the device can hear you from across the room.

Chalk and Charcoal are the only two colors you can nab the $399 speaker in and when it announced the product, Google only mentioned they planned on bringing the device to consumers in December. Now a new listing on Best Buy has suggested the official release date will be December 11th. While it's possible this could be a placeholder since it's a retailer listing and not an official announcement, Google is running out of time to meet their end of 2017 launch date.

Google Home Max @ BEST BUY

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2zGlNmQ
via IFTTT

Huawei’s unannounced Daydream controller passes through the FCC

While Google I/O 2017, we heard about the possibility of non-Google Daydream View headset coming to the market at some point in time, but haven't heard much since then. It was revealed that HTC was backing out of plans to provide one of these headsets, but it seems Huawei is picking up the reigns.

A new FCC filing shows a controller for a Daydream-like headset and actually looks pretty similar to the controller found with Google's Daydream View headset. The top of the controller provides a touchpad experience, with various control buttons placed below and an indicator light at the bottom.

There's also a trigger on the very top of the controller, and a battery compartment made available if you need repairs. What makes this so interesting is that we have yet to hear of any type of device coming from Huawei along with the fact that the brand-new Huawei Mate 10 Pro is not Daydream-compatible.

While the Huawei Mate 9 Pro and Mate 9 Porsche Design devices are compatible, it's a bit odd that Huawei's 2017 options are not compatible with a new Daydream headset. This is due to the type of display being used in the Mate 10 Pro, which "only" features a Full HD+ display, versus the QHD option found in the 2016 devices.

Since the FCC filing has been made, we can safely assume that some type of announcement will be made in the coming days or weeks. Maybe we'll even see this made official at CES 2018, where Huawei had a rather large presence last year.

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2i3lJ9J
via IFTTT

Google is finally banning apps from the Play Store that serve lockscreen ads

Ads are a great way for developers to monetize their apps and games in the Google Play Store but occasionally — because of the freedoms the Android OS provides — things can go awry. You've probably come across an ad in your time with Android that you felt was taking things a bit too far.

But Android is no longer the Wild West it once was. Google has some very strict guidelines on how developers can use ads inside their apps. Deceptive ads that mimic an app's UI or system notification, full screen ads without a dismiss button, ads that display outside the app serving them  — these are just a few of the practices strictly forbidden by Google.

Like a cat-and-mouse game, Google has to add new categories for companies who try to get creative their ads. A relatively new method of serving ads is the lockscreen ad. Apparently a handful of apps (ES File Explorer, Peel, and others) started including their own special lock screen overlays that are little more than one giant ad on top of your lockscreen. Google has had enough. According to the newly updated Google Play Developer Policy Center:

"Unless the exclusive purpose of the app is that of a lockscreen, apps may not introduce ads or features that monetize the locked display of a device."

Google will begin banning apps that have these types of ads, so developers using them have officially been put on notice. To be clear, this doesn't include actual lockscreen apps or even those whose sole purpose is to pay you in exchange for showing you ads on the lockscreen. Those are perfectly fine. It's all about ensuring Android apps aren't being deceptive and we applaud Google for making an effort to keep devs honest. Let's just see how well this is actually enforced.

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2Ame8vi
via IFTTT

Google Home can now understand multiple commands at once

Google has slowly been improving its suite of Google Home devices this year by adding the ability to recognize multiple users, but if you want to perform multiple actions it's been a pain to say them one at a time while you wait for the Home to respond. That appears to be a thing of the past now, as you can chain commands and Google Home will execute them.

For example, I can say "Hey Google, set the Tall Light to steel blue and give me the weather report" to have my light change colors, followed by a quick update on the weather outside. There are still a few quirks though, since Assistant will affirm actions after giving you the second request, so the response is kinda garbled. Assistant replied with my local weather report, but then added afterward, "Sure, changing the Tall Light to steel blue." after the action had already been performed and the weather report recited.

Some other examples include setting a timer and then opening a workout video on YouTube on your TV, or setting a reminder for tomorrow while asking for the news. It's definitely a step in the right direction and it makes interacting with Google Assistant a bit more fluid than Alexa.

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2jzwUax
via IFTTT

Cricket is offering 4 lines of unlimited data for just $100 per month

Cricket is doing something pretty cool this year. Instead of dropping prices on hardware, Cricket is offering deals on their data plans. They're launching a deal that will get you four lines of unlimited data, calling, and texting for just $100 per month.

The deal will start tomorrow (December 1st). The plan included in this deal is the Cricket Unlimited 2 plan, which normally costs $55 per month for one line. The catch in this deal is the plan itself, which has some serious limits.

The Unlimited 2 plan throttles download speed to 3Mbps. All the time. If you manage to use over 22GB of data, it gets throttled even slower. Video streams are limited to 480p when streaming while mobile. So you're saving a lot of money for four lines, but it might not be worth it if you value a speedy connection.

Cricket Plans

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2kdxvCT
via IFTTT

OnePlus still hasn’t made insurance available to OnePlus 5T owners

The OnePlus 5T launched a bit over a week ago and yet those who purchased the phone are still not being offered the ability to purchase insurance with the device. OnePlus was asked before the phone launched if insurance for the OnePlus 5T would be available in North America as it was for the OnePlus 5, but they answered, "Insurance for North America is not available at the moment."

This led some buyers to believe they'd be able to get insurance on the device after purchase and was seemingly confirmed when contacting support who reassured buyers they would offer insurance soon, but that it must be added within the first 15 days of purchase. The device has been available for 10 days now, so those who bought the phone when it launched are running out of time if they want to add insurance.

Our tipster Justin contacted support to ask what the company plans on doing about the situation and it seems as though OnePlus is relying on internal memos to document launch buyers reaching out for insurance.

Justin: I bought a 5T last Tuesday, and was told by support that an insurance coverage plan similar to what was available for the 5 would be available for the 5T as well. It has been over a week, and I still see no indication of any insurance coverage being offered for the 5T. Is there a reason for this? The previous support representative said that I would need to add coverage within 15 days of purchase, and it is now day 10, and I am worried that I will miss the window for adding coverage.

*** Genevie joined the chat ***

Genevie: Thank you for contacting OnePlus Customer Support, my name is Genevie , I'd be more than happy to assist you!

Genevie: Thank you for your recent purchase of our OnePlus 5T device. Genevie: I understand that you wanted to add an insurance for the same device.

Genevie: For that, I am really sorry however the insurance is still unavailable right now. We received a lot of feedback regarding this already.

Justin: So, since this was unavailable at the time of launch, will people be given the option to retroactively add it if it becomes available in the future?

Genevie: For the insurance since you constantly make a follow up regarding this we will take note of this here on our end so the next time once it will be available there is a proof that you contacted us regarding this within the 15 days timeframe.

Genevie: Yes, I will take note of that feedback and suggestion.

Justin: Alright. Has there been any indication of the time frame for when insurance will become available?

Genevie: As of now, we still do not have a specific time as it is still unavailable.

It's worth noting that the conversation with the support representative says she's only making a note "since you constantly make a follow up regarding this." So it seems sort of like a half measure to get him to stop asking about insurance. This is unfortunate and no way to treat new buyers if the company has no intention of offering additional insurance. Hopefully, OnePlus will rectify this situation for their early adopters.

Thanks, Justin!

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2AJyJfX
via IFTTT

The Essential Phone now includes a new Portrait Mode and more

Essential has been in the news for all of the wrong reasons over the past couple of days thanks to the abrupt leave of absence taken by CEO Andy Rubin. However, the company itself is continuing to chug along as if nothing's going on and have pushed a new update to the camera app on the Play Store.

Along with the normal bug fixes and such, the new Essential Camera application also gives users the ability to take photos in Portrait Mode, along with a new JPEG compression. This was actually announced during Essential's Bi-Weekly Reddit AMA, but the update has officially been pushed to the Play Store and is available for download now.

WHAT'S NEW

• Portrait Mode enabled
• Added exposure compensation for all regular camera modes
• Reduced JPEG compression to improve image quality
• Stability fixes

It will be interesting to see how well Essential's camera can handle Portrait Mode photos, but I wouldn't hold my breath after all of the other issues we've seen to date. Nonetheless, the update is available for download now, and you can hit the button below to ensure that your camera app is updated.

Let us know how Portrait Mode is working for you, and if you notice any new improvements to images thanks to the JPEG compression.

Download Essential Camera

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2AJDYfV
via IFTTT

Google’s latest app gives you more control over your mobile data

Android has included a way to see your overall data usage for years now, but there's never really been a way to break it down granularly by looking at per-app usage and times unless you were willing to install a third-party app. Now Google is providing a solution in the form of a new app called Datally.

The app helps you understand where your mobile data goes by seeing your hourly, daily, weekly, or monthly data usage so you can see where most of your data is going. The app also gives you granular control of which apps on your phone can use your data connection by establishing a VPN to block the apps that you don't authorize.

Finally, the app will help you cut down on data usage by notifying you when there's a nearby public WiFi connection so you don't have to rely on your mobile data if WiFi is available. You can even get directions to the WiFi hotspot and Google Maps will open with the location pinned to give you the ability to select directions depending on your mode of transport.

It's worth noting that the Data Saver component of the app is pretty aggressive when you first start using it and it blocks all apps that have used data except for essential processes like Android and Google Play Services. You'll have to fine-tune the app permit Gmail and other essential apps to have data access.

GET DATALLY

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2AJxSvL
via IFTTT

The Nokia 2 lands on Amazon for just $99

At the end of October, HMD Global announced the Nokia 2 at an event in India. The device marked the latest in the 2017 lineup of Nokia devices, but this option was by far the cheapest.

Fast forward to a couple of weeks ago and we saw a listing for the Nokia 2 pop-up on Amazon, but you couldn't actually purchase the device. That has all changed as the Nokia 2 is now available from Amazon and is priced at just $99.

As a reminder, the Nokia 2 features a 5-inch HD display, with the new Snapdragon 212 SoC and 1GB of RAM. The device also comes equipped with 8GB of storage, which can be expanded up to 128GB via a microSD card.

The front facing camera measures in at 5MP, while the rear-camera features an 8MP autofocus sensor with an LED flash. As for the battery, HMD Global has packed a massive 4,100mAh battery which is being claimed as being able to last for at least 2-days before the device needs to be recharged.

This is quite a feat nowadays for any smartphone, but this budget option seems to hit the nail on the head for its price point. If you want to pick one up for yourself, you can do so via the button below. So let us know if you've decided to pick one up to tinker around with, or if you've picked one up to give your little one a starter smartphone.

Buy the Nokia 2

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2BxIdIm
via IFTTT

Best OnePlus 5T Official Cases [VIDEO]

One of the things I love about OnePlus are their high-quality accessories. Take their cases for instance. Manufactured by Evutec, they're sleek, stylish, and perfectly compliment the look of the OnePlus 5T. By far some of the best cases you can buy for the phone.

OnePlus was nice enough to supply us with a handful of their cases and since they vary so much in pricing, look, and finish, I figured I've give you guys a quick hands-on so you can see what you're dealing with. Honestly, it's hard to choose a favorite. I've been switching between almost of all of them since I've had the 5T in my possession, changing them out on the daily to suit my mood.

Even the TPU case that comes in the box is particularly stellar, it's slimmer than the generic ones you'll find on Amazon/eBay, has a nice dual-finish (matte sides, glossy back) and the smokey color looks great on the 5T. There's not much of a lip around the sides (which I love), but the corners are subtly raised to keep the display from touching surfaces in the event of a fall or if you want to lay your phone face down somewhere. The best part? It's complimentary and already comes inside the box, giving the OnePlus 5T a little added value.

OnePlus 5T Protective Case

If you're looking for something a little more stylish, there are plenty of additional options to choose from. OnePlus' snap-on Protective Case comes in as their most affordable. The hard shell case is extremely thin and comes in either Karbon ($25) which is carbon fiber covered in a soft touch silicone finish, or Sandstone ($20) which has a rubbery, rough texture to it. These are perfect if you're just looking to add grip without all the bulk.

OnePlus 5T Silicone Protective Case

The official OnePlus 5T Silicone Protective Case is a premium case that protects 3 sides of the device, while leaving the bottom exposed. The interior of the case is covered in felt and provides a hypothetically, could provide a little extra cushion in the event of a fall. Silicone cases feel great, but I'm not totally sold on them as the constant friction in your pocket and oils from your hand can wear down the matte exterior, making it the edges look shiny and cheap. It's also a tad bit bulkier than some of OnePlus' thinner cases, so I'm not a fan.

OnePlus 5T Bumper Case

Moving up in protection you have OnePlus' Bumper Case which comes in either Karbon, Ebony Wood, or Rosewood finishes. It seems this is the only option for those who prefer the wood look (at least for now) and will run you $30. These cases completely cover all sides of the phone with a fused TPU border lip. Keep in mind that lip is still pretty minimal — again, something I love about these cases — and although they're thicker than the included TPU case around the sides of the phone, the back is incredibly thin and doesn't add much bulk.

The OnePlus 5T is already a beautiful looking device. The ability to outfit the phone with OnePlus' wonderfully well-designed cases doesn't feel like you're sh*tting all over that design, more like you're dressing the phone with a hip new outfit. I can't possibly recommend these cases enough and if you're keen picking these up, you can use our referral link below to get $20 off when you buy them with a shiny new OnePlus 5T.

$20-Off Accessories w/ OnePlus 5T Purchase

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2isMb0x
via IFTTT

Latest Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ update may have broken fast charging

Samsung's latest software update for the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ may have broken fast charging. Some users are reporting that the feature simply does not work after installing the October security patch — not even if you use an official Samsung charger.

If you own one of Samsung's latest flagships, chances are you're not too happy with the way in which the South Korean company has been handling software updates lately. Not only are they late to arrive, but they appear to be bringing pesky and unwelcome bugs.

Users on social media and the Samsung community forum are reporting that fast charging is broken after installing the latest available security patch, while wireless charging is temperamental with third-party charging pads. It's not yet clear if the issue is fixed in Samsung's November update.

The fact that not even official Samsung fast chargers work indicates this is merely a bug, rather than a controversial attempt to force users to buy another Samsung product. Nevertheless, it's still incredibly frustrating for users. As of writing this story, Samsung is yet to acknowledge the issue.

Are you experiencing this problem with your Galaxy S8 or Galaxy S8+? And if so, have you contacted Samsung for help? Let us know down in the comments.

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2it2pqs
via IFTTT

Android Oreo comes to the unlocked HTC U11 Life

Back in November, the HTC U11 Life was announced alongside the HTC U11 Plus, but the unlocked version of the device was "stuck" on Android Nougat, while the Android One version shipped with Android Oreo. According to VP of Product Management at HTC, Mo Versi, Android Oreo has started rolling out to owners of the unlocked U11 Life.

HTC U11 life unlocked customers! You're next with Oreo! It's available to download starting today! Thank you!

— Mo Versi (@moversi) November 30, 2017

This rollout comes just a few days after the Oreo rollout began for owners of the HTC U11, so it's great to see HTC on top of its software updates. This is something that we normally don't see, as there are still owners of the HTC 10 who have not received any major updates, and there have been no announcements made as to when Oreo will be coming to the 2016 flagship.

Unfortunately, we don't know exactly when the update will be rolling out other than the fact that it's expected to hit devices starting today. In the meantime, you can keep tapping the "Check for Updates" button until something pops up. Be sure to let us know when the update hits your device and how it's running on your U11 Life!

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2AJ8w1o
via IFTTT

A new leak for Sony’s bezel-less flagship reveal interesting specs

Back in September, Sony confirmed that a new design language for its Xperia lineup of devices was in the works, and now we have an idea of what specs may be found under the hood. The design language change is likely to be one that features a bezel-less design and moves away from the cookie-cutter design that Sony has released for the last few years.

While we don't have an exact idea of what this device will look like, it seems that the specs for the device have leaked. The phone will feature a model number of "H8541" and will come with a 5.7-inch 4K HDR Display, with Corning Gorilla Glass 5 keeping things protected. Powering the H8541 will be the Snapdragon 835  and 4GB of RAM, along with 64GB of onboard storage.

Other specs include a rather large 3,420mAh battery which comes with Sony's Qnovo Adaptive Charging, as well as Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0. Finally, the H8541 will come equipped with Android 8.0 Oreo, likely with some of Sony's overlay placed on top of stock Android. It's also possible that we're going to be seeing a water-proof rating of either IP65 or IP68, but this also may be an indication of two different variants of the same device.

At first glance, the inclusion of the Snapdragon 835 SoC may leave you scratching your head a bit, but we saw something similar when specs were leaked ahead of the LG G6 launch. This new Sony device is expected to make its debut at Mobile World Congress 2018, and it's unlikely that Snapdragon 845 will be readily available for everyone. Instead, this will leave OEM's looking for the flagship SoC from the year prior, which happens to be the Snapdragon 835.

By opting for the SD835, this will make it so that Sony won't have to alter its release schedule for this new device and will still be able to make a grand showcase at MWC. Nonetheless, these are still pretty 'run of the mill' specs, and not something that you would really see in the conversation for a game-changer.

We'll just have to wait until MWC 2018 to see what Sony has been working on and if this new device actually features an all-new design from Sony.

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2irCsXZ
via IFTTT

The Essential Phone won’t be forgotten just because of Rubin’s absence

Yesterday, it was announced that Andy Rubin would be taking a leave of absence from his post at Essential amidst claims of "inappropriate" musings while he was at Google. It seems that Rubin is being accused entering into a relationship with a subordinate – which is against Google's rules – before the relationship itself took a turn for the worst.

Without skipping a beat, Essential's Bi-weekly AMA on Reddit took place, where Rubin was understandably the center of many conversations. While some were asking questions regarding the next Oreo beta update for the Essential Phone, there were plenty of questions asked about the future of the company itself, as well as what lies ahead for device support.

There you have it. If there was any concern about whether Essential would be "lost" without Rubin at the helm, it seems that everything will continue to be business as usual. In fact, not only did the company confirm that the next Oreo beta would be dropping next week, it was also announced that a new portrait mode is making its way to owners of the PH-1.

So it seems that there is plenty of work left to be done while Rubin has taken his leave of absence, but it would definitely be a more comfortable situation of there was some type of statement from Rubin himself. Nonetheless, if you want to check out the full thread of comments, questions, and answers, you can hit the link here to see what Essential had to say in its latest AMA.

Be sure to let us know what you make of this whole situation in the comments below.

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2iqk8id
via IFTTT

Verizon is launching 5G in five cities by the end of next year

The next buzz word you're going to be hearing a lot from carriers is "5G." AT&T has already started talking about it, but their "5G Evolution" network is not really true 5G. Verizon is planning to roll out their own 5G network. We don't know all the details yet, but Verizon has named the first city to get it.

Verizon plans to bring 5G service to three to five cities in 2018. The first city will be Sacremento, California. We don't know when in 2018 that will happen or the other cities on the list. Sacremento was one of the first cities Verizon used for testing earlier in 2017. The other cities were Ann Arbor, Atlanta, Bernardsville, Brockton, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Miami, Sacramento, Seattle, and Washington, DC.

Are you ready for 5G?

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2AosxJL
via IFTTT

Instagram begins testing repost button, GIF search, Story archiving, and more

Instagram is easily one of my favorite apps around, but there's still plenty the Facebook-owned social network can do to further improve the user experience. Instagram was late to the game after introducing Stories only last year and while the copycat feature turned out to be more popular than its Snapchat rival, it hasn't really matched it in terms of features.

But Instagram isn't resting on their laurels and has already begun testing new features that include several new enhancements for stories. Users could soon have the ability to search and post animated GIFs stickers inside of Stories, as well as the option to archive their favorite stories. Currently your only option for saving Stories is either directly to your device, or by posting it publicly to your page. Archiving lets users save memories to their account, without posting them on your page for all to see and mirrors Snapchat Memories.

Other general Instagram features include a repost button (making apps like Regram obsolete), the ability to follow specific hashtags, and native story sharing to WhatsApp which makes sense considering they recently added native sharing to Facebook Stories a few weeks ago.

Instagram is also still toying around with Close Friends (formerly "Favorites"), a feature we told you about back in June that allows you to share posts with a select group of people and not the general public. Privacy features like this have long been a staple on social networks like Facebook and Google+, so it's high time Instagram finally get on the ball.

It's worth noting that there's no guarantee that any of these features will make it past the chopping block but it's entirely possible we could see some, all, or even none launch in the near future. You'll have to sign up for the Instagram beta on Android and iOS to take features like this for a spin, even then only a small group of users get to play around with fun new features like this.

via The Next Web

Download on Google Play

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2imaQn8
via IFTTT

The OnePlus 5T looks stunning in its new Lava Red color coming to China

The OnePlus 5T is a stunning phone for the price, but it seems as though red is the new black for 2017. The Honor 7X is coming in a stunning red color and yesterday OnePlus announced the new Lava Red edition phone in China. Right now the color seems to be exclusive to China, but if you want to see it available globally it wouldn't hurt to let OnePlus know.

Aside from that, the Lava Red color also appears to be exclusive to the more expensive $569 version of the phone that features 8GB RAM and 128GB of storage. The OnePlus 5T itself is a 6.01-inch FHD AMOLED device with 18:9 aspect ratio, Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor, dual rear cameras featuring 16MP + 20MP with f/1.7 aperture, 3,300mAh battery, and Dash Charge.

It's also unfortunate that OnePlus launched the device with Android 7.1.1 Nougat, but given that the Android Oreo beta for the OnePlus 5 has already started it probably won't take the company long to get the Oreo upgrade ready.

What do you think of this new color?

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2insabn
via IFTTT

Say hello to Reels: YouTube’s Stories feature for content creators

In an effort to help "expand communities" on YouTube, the video platform is announcing a handful of new features creators can use to better engage with their audience outside of the usual video uploads.

Remember how impossible stories were to escape awhile back? We saw Facebook put them in just about every app they owned (whether it made sense or not) to see what would stick. Now it seems YouTube is following suit with their own feature dubbed "Reels."

Content creators with 10,000+ subscribers will unlock the feature which allows them to post short video clips in the stories format we're all used to. Where as stories on other services usually expire after 24 hours, YouTube says creators can keep multiple Reels from expiring along with other helpful options. Don't worry about Reels clogging up your home feed. It seems that for now, you'll have to visit a YouTube creator's channel to watch their Reels.

The beta version is still being tested before it goes live to more creators along with other tools for creators like the ability to post polls, pictures, text, GIFs and more, directly to their Community tab (and your home feed). It's a way for YouTube to sort of mirror social networks like Facebook's News Feed, only with posts from the creators you care about.

via YouTube

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2BzJUFx
via IFTTT

Apple files countersuit against Qualcomm for battery patent infringement

Apple and Qualcomm have been duking it out in an extended legal battle against one another for the better part of a year over licensing fee disputes between the two companies. Apple says that Qualcomm charges ridiculous licensing fees and Qualcomm has done everything they can in retaliation. Back in July, Qualcomm filed a complaint with the ITC over sales of the iPhone in the US, which the regulatory body agreed to investigate.

Apple denies that it has infringed on Qualcomm's patents, alleging that such patents were invalid. Now the company has revised the original answer to the suit with a U.S. District Court in San Diego. Apple says that at least of its own battery life patents have been violated by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 800 and 820 processors, which were used to power most popular flagship Android devices in 2015 and 2016.

Apple says its patents surrounding ensuring that the processor in a device only draws minimum power and turns off parts when not needed were violated.

"Apple began seeking those patents years before Qualcomm began seeking the patents it asserts against Apple in this case."

Qualcomm filed its original battery countersuit back in July before it made the official complaints to the ITC in an attempt to get iPhone sales halted in the US. Since then, they've spent a considerable amount of time highlighting Android firsts in an effort to undermine Apple's iPhone X marketing.

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2imWXoU
via IFTTT

Everyone can now download the new Microsoft Edge browser for Android

As if Android didn't have enough internet browsers, another option has just exited its beta program and is now available for everyone to download. Back in October, Microsoft Edge was announced as coming to Android, and then a couple of weeks later the preview version of the application made its way to the Play Store.

Microsoft Edge, now available on Android, 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. 

The biggest feature that Microsoft Edge offers is for those who use Windows 10 and want to continue viewing content from their mobile device to their computer, and vice-versa. Additionally, and as expected, the new Microsoft Edge Android browser also comes equipped with the ability to work seamlessly with other Microsoft applications, such as Outlook, Bing, and the new Microsoft Launcher.

Here are some of the other features included with the new Microsoft Edge browser:

• Continue on PC: Go anywhere and pick up where you left off by seamlessly moving content between your mobile device and PC (requires Windows 10 Fall Creator's Update).
• Data Sync: Your favorites and reading list are synced across your devices, so no matter the device, your browser is always personalized to you. 
• Hub View: With your favorites, reading list, history and books all in one place, finding and managing your content is made simple.
• Reading View: Reorganize the content on a webpage to make it easier to focus on what you're reading.
• QR Code Reader: Easily read QR codes at the touch of a button. Microsoft Edge will pull up the reading and information right onto your screen. 
• Voice Search: You can now use your voice to search the web. Ask a question or speak a prompt to use the web in more natural, familiar ways. 
• InPrivate: When you browse with InPrivate mode, your browsing data (like your history, temporary internet files, and cookies) isn't saved on your PC once you're done.

I've given the Microsoft Edge browser a spin for a few days and it seems to work pretty well for a browser, but since my main PC is not a Windows 10 computer, I haven't been able to truly test these new features out just yet. Hit the button below to download it for yourself, and let us know how everything is working for you so far.

Download Microsoft Edge

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2zO3joD
via IFTTT

Samsung acquires a startup to improve Bixby’s conversation skills

Bixby was one of Samsung's biggest projects in 2017. It's so important that they added physical Bixby buttons to the Samsung Galaxy S8 and Samsung Galaxy Note 8. Bixby isn't nearly as good as Google Assistant, but it's clear that Samsung is serious about it. They just acquired a South Korean startup to help boost Bixby's intelligence.

The startup is called "Fluently" and it specializes in text-based conversational artificial intelligence. The Fluently app has been around since 2015 and works with other services, such as Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp. The app performs a similar function as Google Assistant. It will recommend responses based on received messages.

The Fluently app has already been removed from the Play Store. We don't know how much Samsung paid for it or when we'll see the features in Bixby. What do you think of Bixby now that it's been out for a while? Do you use it?

[via SamMobile]

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2AnCMy0
via IFTTT

40+ Best Android Apps of the Month [December 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

Amazon Key

Amazon Key is a new service that allows delivery drivers to unlock your door and put Amazon packages inside your house. Amazon Key works with a smart door lock and a security camera. The app allows you to monitor all of these things and makes sure deliveries are made.

Cerberus Personal Safety

This is a new app from Cerberus that focuses on personal safety. If you find yourself in a dangerous situation, you can use this app to quickly share your location with loved ones and contact people with one tap. They can track you by easily clicking the link that gets automatically sent.

Clarity Money

Clarity Money uses data science and machine learning to analyze your finances and help you make decisions that will improve your money situation. It can help you cancel unwanted subscriptions and set up a saving plan to help you put some money aside.

Files Go

Files Go is a file manager app from Google. Besides being a place to access your files, it also helps you clean up space by getting rid of the rarely used app and duplicate media. You can easily share your files offline and the whole up is under 6MB.

Finice

Finice helps you track all of your finances in one place. Whenever you make a purchase, simply add the expense to the app. This allows you to choose a category every time you make a purchase, instead of relying on automation that can make things messy.

Focus Go

There are a lot of bloated gallery apps out there that require too many permissions. Focus Go is a dead simple, barebones gallery apps. The app is only 1.4Mb in size. It has all the basic features of a gallery and none of the extra gimmicks.

Granular Immersive Mode

Immersive Mode is what happens when apps go full screen and hide the status and navigation bars. This app allows you to choose exactly which apps you want to use immersive mode. You can choose to hide the status bar, nav bar, or both.

Library

Library is like a virtual bookshelf for all of your books. You can scan the barcode to automatically add your book with all the information. It's a lot like Goodreads, but without the social network features. Just a simple place for all your books.

LOOrank

A good, clean restroom can be hard to find sometimes. You're stuck in the middle of a city and you don't know where to go. LOOrank is an app that allows people to rate public restrooms. You can open the app and find the best toilet in town.

Open Garden

Open Garden allows you to share your internet connection with other people in exchange for "OG Coins." You can then use those coins to access the internet from others. It's like a network of hotspots that you can use and share with others.

PS4 Second Screen

This app allows you to use your phone as a second screen with your PS4. Use your phone to get in-game information, enter text on the screen, and control the PS4. It's a must-have for PS4 owners.

PUFnPOW Food

PUFnPOW is an app for people that have trouble picking a meal to eat for dinner. First, you select a type of meal, such as dinner or dessert. The app narrows down your options through a process of elimination.

RetroBrowser

Let's browse the web like it's 2005! No, literally. RetroBrowser is a web browser that allows you to pick a year and then browse the web as it would look in that time. Just browse the web like you would with any other browser and marvel at how far we've come.

Squarespace Analytics

If you have a website with Squarespace, you need to monitor it closely. This analytics app makes it easy for your to check your website's numbers from your phone. See your revenue, page views, orders, traffic sources, and much more. Right from the app.

Trickl

Trickl is an open source torrent client. It has features like the ability to Chromecast torrents directly to your TV, download individual files from a torrent, stream torrents, magnet link support, and share stream to network devices.

Unroll.Me

Unroll.Me is a service that aims to declutter your inbox by collecting everything and putting it into easier to digest bundles. It also helps you unsubscribe from unwanted emails and spam. Unroll.Me has been caught selling data in the past, so keep that in mind.

Viewster

Viewster is a service full of free TV shows and movies. You don't have to sign up for an account or anything. Just open the app and start watching for free. The catelog isn't the same as Netflix or Hulu, but it's all free.

Wall Bucket

Wall Bucket features over 50,000 wallpapers to fit your device's resolution. New wallpapers are added every day. You can set wallpapers without even downloading them first. All the wallpapers have been categorized to make them easy to find.

YouTube TV

YouTube TV is a traditional TV service with live channels, but also the power of YouTube. For $35 a month you get broadcast channels, ESPN channels, AMC, FX, SyFy, MSNBC, and many other channels. The app brings the service to your phone.

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!

• 100 Best Android Apps
• 10 Best Music Apps for Android
• 10 Best Weather Apps for Android
• 11 Best Dating Apps for Android
• 10 Best Camera apps for Android

from Phandroid http://ift.tt/2BmcGIP
via IFTTT