Roku’s next-gen player surfaces at the FCC
The evidence that Roku is near launching a 4K-capable player just got decidedly stronger. A fresh FCC filing (spotted by Zatz Not Funny) has revealed an upcoming Roku “4400X” that looks like it should be the company’s next streaming hub. The entry doesn’t confirm the presence of 4K video playback, alas, but it does point to a big wireless upgrade: the future set-top box will support faster 802.11ac WiFi (helpful for 4K) and Bluetooth peripherals that might include headphones or remotes. Roku is reportedly shipping its new device as soon as early October, so you’ll likely get the full story in a matter of days.
Via: Zatz Not Funny
Source: FCC
Volkswagen knew about shady emissions practices years ago
Volkswagen’s recently departed CEO may have been caught off-guard by his company’s attempt to hide true diesel car emissions from regulators, but there are now signs that some VW higher-ups knew the truth. German newspaper Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagzeitung claims that technicians had warned about dodgy emissions practices in 2011, while Bild maintains that key supplier Bosch told “top circles” at VW about its emissions concerns back in 2007. It’s not clear just who knew about the issues and where the buck stops — VW is declining to comment, which isn’t surprising when it’s still in the midst of an investigation into what happened.
If the allegations are accurate, though, they’re pretty damning. They don’t necessarily prove that VW set out to cheat emissions tests, but they at least suggest that the automaker either turned a blind eye to the practice or didn’t have enough oversight to curb rogue behavior. Whatever the full story may be, it now seems likely that the scandal will cost VW more than just a big wad of cash.
[Image credit: Daniel Acker/Bloomberg via Getty Images]
Via: Reuters
Source: Bild (translated), FAZ (translated)
Samsung Galaxy Mega On receives certification from TENAA
Lately, we have been hearing about Samsung’s new o-series of smartphones that are gearing up for a launch. This week, Samsung’s Galaxy Mega On took the next step and received its certification from TENAA.
A few weeks back, the Galaxy Mega On passed through a benchmark test on GeekBench. We’re looking at a large handset with very low-end specifications, likely to be aimed at a more affordable crowd.
The newly leaked TENAA certification gives us a sneak peek at what to expect time come launch. The The SM-G6000 (Galaxy Mega On) will have a 5.5-inch 720p display, a quad-core 1.2 GHz CPU back with 1GB of RAM, a 13MP rear-facing camera, a 5MP front-facing camera, 8GB of internal storage space expandable up to an additional 128GB via a built-in micro-SD card slot and weigh in at 172g. Support for 4G LTE connectivity is on-onboard and so is Android 5.1.1. No images have been spotted revealing anything when it comes to design for the upcoming smartphone, but we are bound to get something in the coming weeks. We’ll keep you posted.
Via: Mobipicker
Come comment on this article: Samsung Galaxy Mega On receives certification from TENAA
Talk Android Apps of the Week: September 27, 2015
It’s Sunday, the time of the week when Talk Android brings you a report on some of the very best applications we’ve been using for the past seven days. Today we’re focusing our attention on an awesome third-party launcher, a renowned live-streaming application, a competitive pool game and last, but not least, a must-have travel tool.
Hola Launcher
Up first this week we have Hola Launcher, which made its way onto the Play Store back in August, 2014. I’ve been using this launcher on my LG G4 for a while now, and it’s safe to say, I don’t see myself switching back to Google’s stock alternative any time soon.
The application weights in at a mere 2.9MB, so it won’t take a huge toll on your device’s memory usage, meaning that your handset should stay clean, fast and responsive.
Don’t let its file size fool you, though. Hola is filled to the brim with the latest and greatest functionality any launcher has to offer, all of which are guaranteed to change the way you use your device. A few of my favorite features can be seen below:
- Smart Folders: Automatically scans through the applications installed on your smartphone and puts them in specific folders based on their category. For example, on my G4 I have Finance, Games, Tools and Social Media folders.
- Hola shine: An intuitive menu consisting of your most frequently used applications and settings, which can be accessed by swiping up from the bottom right-hand corner of your display.
- Unrestricted Personalisation: The ability to download and install gorgeous themes, wallpapers, icon packs, fonts and sounds from Hola’s dedicated store.
To really get to grips with Hola Launcher, it’s best to see it in action, so be sure to check out the gallery below.
Twitch
If you’re a huge gaming fan like me, you’re probably aware of the online live-streaming platform, Twitch, and since Forza Motorsport 6 launched last week, I’ve been unable to pull myself alway from the hoards of different streams showcasing the title’s insane gameplay — so I thought it only fitting to include Twitch in this week’s Apps of the Week column.
The application itself is essentially a secure portal to Twitch’s website, which gives you a direct link to broadcasts from all of your favorite streamers on your smartphone. If you happen to own a Chromecast, you can even Cast the stream to a big screen, which is great for when there’s a big tournament on, and you want to have a couple of mates over to watch it with you.
Contrary to popular belief, Twitch for Android is actually immensely stable and reliable. I’m happy to report that over the course of the past week, the app did not crash once and streams remained silky smooth in Full HD regardless of the data connection being used at the time (Wi-Fi or 4G).
To see Twitch in full swing, take a look at the demonstration video below.
Click here to view the embedded video.
8 Ball Pool
Up third, we have 8 Ball Pool, which is arguably the most entertaining game currently available for Android. The title comes from Miniclip and has been available for the past two years, during this time it has been progressively updated to be one of the best multiplayer game that I have ever played.
Whether you’re competing 1-on-1 or engaging in an eight-player tournament, you’re in for hours of fun. As you progress through the game, potting ball after ball, you’ll unlock exclusive cues, sweet add-ons and access to more prestigious tables on which you can battle for a higher stake.
To see it in 8 Ball Pool, check out the teaser video below:
Click here to view the embedded video.
CityMapper
The final app I’m looking at this week is called CityMapper, which is a must-have tool for anyone who relies on public transport to get around. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve headed into Central London only to find myself lost, unfortunately I don’t possess a very good sense of direction as you’ve probably guessed, but CityMapper has always managed to get me to my intended destination in good time.
The service grabs real-time data from a variety of different modes of transport, including trains, buses, and cabs, in order to provide you with the cheapest, fastest route to your port of call. There’s a comprehensive A-to-B journey planner, which gives you step-by-step directions on board too.
I can honestly say that CityMapper has completely changed the way I get around town. Before, I always had to rely on Google Maps and the Transport for London website to supply directions as well as train times, but this application takes an all-in-one approach and gives you access to this data. It really is fantastic.
Be sure to take a look through the gallery below to get a feel for all of CityMapper’s features.
Previous Apps of the Week editions:
Come comment on this article: Talk Android Apps of the Week: September 27, 2015
7 best Google Cardboard VR apps and games
Google Cardboard and VR in general are starting to become big news. It’s becoming the latest platform for totally immersive apps and games that show you all kinds of stuff and let you do all kinds of things. Could it be the next big thing in media entertainment? Possibly, but for now it’s rather young. Let’s look at the best VR apps and games available for Google Cardboard (and other VR headsets) right now.
Caaaaardboard!
[Price: $1.99]
Caaaaardboard! is a VR game that works perfectly with Google Cardobard. This is a custom made version of the game AaaaaAAaaaAAAaaAAAAaAAAAA!!! made specifically for VR headsets. Silly names aside, this is a fun, immersive experience that has you diving off of buildings while performing stunts. The game utilizes tilt controls so it’s totally hands free and one of the more intense gaming experiences you can get on VR. It’s a bit tedious sometimes according to user reviews, but otherwise, this is a great place to start.
Cardboard
[Price: Free]
Cardboard is the Google app that they recommend you install when you first get your cardboard. It features guided tours of places like the planet Earth, the city of Versailles, and more. It also doubles as a video player, photo viewer, and more. It doesn’t have any particular point but the stuff it has not only shows you the power of VR, but it’s also kind of fun to experience. It’s also totally free so there’s no harm in grabbing it.
Insidious VR
[Price: Free]
Insidious VR is, admittedly a promotion for the Insidious movies but the VR experience it provides is actually fairly intense and does well to show off the power of VR. You get a voice guided tour of the afterlife in horrific way. It’s a tad short but it is an entirely free application. It’s good for a temporary download and it’s definitely good for showing off to friends who are interested in seeing VR.
Titans of Space
[Price: Free with in-app purchases]
Titans of Space is a guided tour application that shows you around our solar system along with a few stars. Along with a visual experience, the app also contains fun facts and information about the various celestial bodies so it doubles as an educational experience. This is great for parents wanting to teach their kids or anyone wanting to learn a little bit about the solar system.
Vrse
[Price: Free]
Vrse is a very interesting story-telling application. It shows you sweeping landscapes and graphics while you listen to stories. It’s considered one of the best examples of VR to date and it’s totally free to use. Do keep in mind that the app is having difficulties with several devices and you cannot move it to the SD card. Other than that, it’s definitely worth giving it a shot.
WAA! VR
[Price: $1.15]
WAA! VR is a VR game where you play as a little astronaut as you go on adventures. The game mechanics use focus as controls so you just look at something in order to select it. It features a full 360-degree view and the idea is that you must defend the astronaut from incoming asteroids. It’s fairly inexpensive, easy to play, and fun to do. It’s also good for kids.
<img src="http://cdn03.androidauthority.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/YouTube-icon.jpg" alt="YouTube best android apps to help kids lea=”125″ class=”alignleft size-full wp-image-396172″ />YouTube
[Price: Free]
YouTube is a no-brainer. The video streaming service has begun adding VR-enabled videos in their data base for use with VR headsets or even with your regular device. Google has been very open about using YouTube as a hub for VR video content, including things like guided tour videos and just general VR stuff. If you have Google Coardboard, then you should also have YouTube because a lot of awesome stuff is coming.
Wrap up
This list will expand as VR becomes a bigger deal. That said, if you stumble upon this list and there’s an app you think belongs here, let us know about it in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our Apps Weekly newsletter for the latest Android apps and games news using the button below!
To see our complete list of Android apps and games lists, click here!
The After Math: That’s Show Business
This week on the After Math, we look back at the week’s entertainment news. That includes Amazon’s big night at the Emmy awards, Oculus’ new product announcements and North America’s first 1TB PS4. We also contemplate whether the new Angry Birds movie is more painful than a sharp stick in the eye. Numbers are fun!
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Pre-orders begin in Singapore for Sony’s Xperia Z5 series
Sony Singapore will be among one of the first to get any of Sony’s new Xperia Z5 handsets. Users can now pre-order any of Sony’s new handsets, the Xperia Z5, Xperia Z5 Compact and the Xperia Z5 Preimuim through the company’s website.
Pre-orders for the handsets will go through October 11. Those who pre-order from now until October 11 will receive a bonus micro-USB charging dock that holds a value of $41 USD when buying standalone. Buyers will also get a chance at buying Sony’s high-resolution audio headset for only $35, down from $70.
Some things that make Sony’s new Z5 series a hit are being promoted through infographics on Sony’s site. The company puts high emphasis on its improved 23MP camera with fast auto-focusing, the handset’s new built-in fingerprint scanner and of course the long battery life that comes with most of Sony’s smartphones. Depending on the model, color options include black, gold, white and green. Let’s see if they ever make it to the states.
Source: Sony Singapore
Come comment on this article: Pre-orders begin in Singapore for Sony’s Xperia Z5 series
Samsung Gear VR owners can attend Democratic debate courtesy CNN
You may have thought using virtual reality devices was going to be something primarily aimed at gamers to help immerse them in the worlds of their games. However, content producers are continuing to find other creative ways to use the technology. We have already seen tech companies use virtual reality for an event, but now a broader audience will be targeted and this time for a live broadcast. CNN is planning to offer the Democratic presidential debate on October 13th using virtual reality technology that Samsung Gear VR owners will be able to tap into.
Reports indicate there will be no limit on the number of viewers, so if you have a Samsung Gear VR you can hop on. CNN only had to book a single seat at the debate to use for the broadcast.
Viewers will find they do not get the close-up views and likely some other add-ons that traditional television viewers will get. However, the VR audience will be closer to the audience and will be able to pan around to see what the reaction is like to the candidates and their answers.
Would you be interested in “attending” a live event courtesy a virtual reality device?
Come comment on this article: Samsung Gear VR owners can attend Democratic debate courtesy CNN
Inhabitat’s Week in Green: Off-grid homes and fold-up planes
Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week’s most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us — it’s the Week in Green.
What does it take for a house to go completely off-grid? A diverse range of energy sources is key — and this new 3D-printed house can be powered by built-in solar panels or tethered to a hybrid car. We also love this pop-up transparent dome shelter that lets you sleep beneath the stars. In other architecture news, Apple just launched its first store under the guidance of Jonathan Ives — and it’s warmer and more curvaceous than the company’s previous brick and mortars. MAD Architects unveiled out-of-this-world plans for a futuristic George Lucas Museum in Chicago. And a team of researchers found a way to build a functional 24-foot rope bridge using drones.
The Volkswagen emissions scandal rocked the auto industry this past week — and the fallout is severe. The company is being forced to recall 500,000 vehicles and CEO Martin Winterkorn has officially resigned. Meanwhile, the rumor mill is spinning up around Apple’s top-secret electric car — new reports indicate the vehicle could launch as soon as 2019. Tesla is the king of EVs — but Taiwan-based Thunder Power is looking to steal the crown with a new electric sports car that can travel 373 miles on a single charge. A bullet-shaped super bicycle just broke a new world speed record by hitting 85.71 miles per hour on pedal power alone. And Icon launched an amphibious airplane that can fold up to fit in a camper.
Most wind turbines are gigantic — but this week a tiny portable turbine blew through nearly all of its Kickstarter goal in a single day. In other tech news, researchers just developed what could be the world’s most effective invisibility cloak. It’s made from near-microscopic pieces of gold, and it can be draped over virtually any object to conceal it. You’ve probably never heard of jellyfish leather before — but it exists, and it could offer a sustainable alternative to cowhide. And since Halloween is just a month away, we showcased the work of Magic Wheelchair — a nonprofit that creates incredible costumes for children in wheelchairs.
Android Authority this week – September 27, 2015
Android fans, this week brought us last minute details about the Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P; we’ve got the first official look at the BlackBerry Priv (formerly known as Venice); LG joined the metal club with the Class; Xiaomi introduced its new $200 flagship; we’ve got our best looks at the upcoming LG V10 and HTC’s One A9; and Samsung introduced the consumer version of the Gear VR.
Inside AA HQ
The biggest week in the Android calendar is coming. New devices, a new Android version, and perhaps some surprises? Oh my! It’s like Christmas eve, and we’re all kids trying to sneak a peek. Though, truth is, Google did a lousy job hiding the presents this year, so we already know what to expect. (If you’re curious, check out the Nexus rumor roundup.) Join us from Tuesday as we analyze everything.
This week Josh attended the Oculus Connect developer conference in LA and brought you his impressions of the Gear VR and the Oculus Touch controller. One thing is clear: VR technology is ready to break into mainstream. Between Oculus, Samsung’s Gear VR, Google’s low-fi Cardboard, Sony’s PlayStation VR, Microsoft’s HoloLens, and HTC’s Vive, the ecosystem is already growing fast. Will 2016 be the year when our VR dreams finally turn into reality? It’s about time!
Congratulations to Nishant P. from India, the lucky winner of last week’s Sunday Giveaway prize, a Galaxy Note 5. This week, we’re putting up for grabs a Moto X Pure (Style). Enter here!
The stuff you shouldn’t miss
- Tech talk: What’s new in Qualcomm’s Quick Charge 3 standard? Rob explains.
- Review: Gary reviews the excellent Huawei Mate S
- Unboxing: Josh brings you his first impressions of the elegant Huawei Watch
- Tips and tricks: Let Josh help you make the most of the Galaxy Note 5
- The big picture: What are the countries leading LTE adoption? Rob takes a look at the data
- Impressions: After two weeks with the Moto X Play, Nirave brings you his impressions
- DIY: You don’t need to pay for your Cardboard set: Taylor has a DIY guide
- Feature: The tablet market is polarizing: what are the consequences?
Top news of the week
LG shows some Class
Nexus 5X and 6P countdown
- Huawei Nexus said to feature 128GB of storage space
- Android 6.0 Marshmallow set to roll out October 5, according to Telus
- Nexus 5X & Nexus 6P packaging, Nexus 6P press image leak ahead of announcement
- Amazon India lists Nexus 5X, confirms storage, processor, color options and more
- Leaked presentation reveals the Nexus 6P will feature a big 3450mAh battery
Xiaomi Mi 4c: flagship, on the cheap
- Xiaomi launches the Mi 4c: high-end specs for less than $240
- Xiaomi launches “Mi Mobile”, offers 3GB data for under $10
LG V10: trying new things
- LG V10’s secondary “ticker” display shown off in new leak
- LG gives us a glimpse of its upcoming cutting edge smartphone
One A9: HTC’s next big bet
Gear VR is getting closer
BlackBerry focuses on Priv(acy)
- It’s official: Android-powered BlackBerry Priv (Venice) coming this year
- In his own words: BlackBerry CEO John Chen explains why his company’s Priv is all about Android
- Blackberry CEO John Chen awkwardly showcases the Blackberry Priv
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