10-micron-wide flowers can bloom just like the real thing
A team of researchers from the RMIT-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology Research Centre has developed a technique to create 10-micron-wide flower-like structures that bloom like the real thing. The group mixed two ingredients in water to make that happen: NDI-bearing phosphonic acid and melamine. As the water evaporates, the components undergo a chemical reaction that resembles a flower blooming. It takes three hours for the combination to fully form, which you can see below the fold. Note that each “flower” is so small, the researchers say you can fit ten along the width of a single human hair strand.
Now, if you’re thinking “So, what do we do with a microflower?” According to lead scientist Dr. Sheshanath Boshanale, microscopic flower structures could “break frontiers in a range of scientific fields.” The team’s creation might be tiny, but it could lead to advancements in biotech, nanotech and organic electronics, among other fields.
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Via: Forbes
Galaxy Note 5 – OnePlus 2 – Moto X Pure International Giveaway!
Welcome to the Sunday Giveaway, the place where we giveaway a new Android phone or tablet each and every Sunday.
A big congratulations to last week’s winner of the Moto X Pure Giveaway: Aris R. from Greece.
This week’s giveaway is sponsored by nPerf and we are giving away 3 hot smartphones: (1) Galaxy Note 5, (1) OnePlus 2, (1) Moto X Pure!
More than a simple speed test, nPerf brings you the best and the fullest mobile connection quality measurement tool up to 1 Gb/s speeds!
- Full QoS test: In few seconds, test your bitrate speed, latency, browsing speed and video streaming quality on your mobile device.
- Comparison function: Compare your results with those of others users and for each provider with a real time barometer.
- Interactive map: Check network coverage and carriers performances in your area.
- Network monitor: Stay informed on data speed in real time on the top of your mobile screen (status bar). Reports your data plan usage (in notifications).
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How to earn tickets into the giveaway:
- Download nPerf from the Google Play Store [1 ticket]
- Tweet your full speed test (Use the function in the app) and add this hashtag : #nPerfgame [5 tickets]
- Follow @nperf on Twitter [1 ticket]
- Tweet giveaway on Twitter [1 ticket/Daily Entry]
- Visit nPerf on Facebook [1 ticket]
- Share the giveaway with your friends [1 ticket – they must join giveaway to earn ticket]
Join Now!
Galaxy Note 5 – OnePlus 2 – Moto X Pure International Giveaway
https://js.gleam.io/e.js
More Giveaways:
Winners Gallery
Winners Gallery on Google+
Terms & Conditions
- The giveaway is an international giveaway (Except when we can not ship to your Country.)
- If we can not ship to your country, you will be compensated with an online gift card of equal MSRP value to the prize.
- We are not responsible for lost shipments.
- You must be age of majority in your Country of residence.
- We are not responsible for any duties, import taxes that you may incur.
- Only 1 entry per person, do not enter multiple email addresses. We will verify all winners and if we detect multiple email addresses by the same person you will not be eligible to win.
- We reserve all rights to make any changes to this giveaway.
- This giveaway is operated by Android Authority.
- The prize will ship when it is available to purchase.
Here are the videos you don’t want to miss this week – October 3, 2015
If you consider yourself an Android fan, this was probably one of the most exciting weeks of the year for you.
Google finally unveiled the heavily-rumored Nexus 6P and Nexus 5X smartphones, and we even got a first hand look at the new Pixel C tablet. Just because Google took the wraps off two smartphones, though, doesn’t mean the rest of the Android world stopped for a breather. LG announced the brand new V10 smartphone, which actually seems to be getting some great feedback so far. We’ve also managed to bring you full reviews of the Moto X Play and ASUS ZenWatch 2, and pit the Huawei Mate S up against some fierce competition.
Our video team has been hard at work to bring you the best Android-related video coverage this week, so let’s take a quick look at some of the videos you may have missed.
Hands-on with Google’s newest devices
Nexus 6P first look
Want to see just what Google’s flagship Nexus device, the Nexus 6P, is all about? We go hands on with the brand new Huawei-made device.
Nexus 5X first look
Everyone loved 2013’s Nexus 5, so it’s no surprise that Google would want to bring it back in an even better iteration. Let’s take a quick look at the new Nexus 5X.
Nexus 6P vs Nexus 6 – quick look
The battle of the two giant Nexus phones – Josh takes a quick look at the newly-announced Nexus 6P and 2014’s Nexus 6.
Nexus 5X vs Nexus 5 – quick look
The Nexus 5 was arguably the most loved Nexus device Google has ever built. So how does the successor compare to 2013’s inexpensive Nexus smartphone? Josh goes hands-on to find out.
Pixel C first look
Google surprised us with the announcement of the Pixel C tablet. What does this new Android-powered tablet have to offer? Let’s find out in this quick hands-on video.
Everything you need to know about the latest from LG
LG V10 hands-on
LG’s latest flagship smartphone, the V10, is one hell of a smartphone. With its durable design, awesome video features and unique Second Screen, this may be LG’s best smartphone to date.
LG V10 vs LG G4 quick look
Wondering how the brand new LG V10 fares against the LG G4? Lanh goes hands-on to give you that answer.
LG V10 durability drop test
The LG V10 is incredibly durable. Just how durable, you ask? Lanh puts it through a realistic drop and durability test to find out.
LG Watch Urbane 2nd Edition first look
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LG’s Watch Urbane has been one of our favorite Android Wear smartwatches so far. Can the cellular-connected Watch Urbane 2nd Edition do the same? Krystal goes hands-on to find out.
Reviews
Motorola Moto X Play review
The Moto X Play is Motorola’s most recent mid-range offering. Is this the budget-friendly handset we’ve all been waiting for? Check out Ash’s full review for more info.
ASUS ZenWatch 2 review
This could be the best entry-level Android Wear smartwatch ever. Check out Krystal’s full review of the ASUS ZenWatch 2.
Google Now on Tap quick look
We got the chance to go hands-on with Now on Tap at Google I/O 2015, but now the feature has finally rolled out to devices running the Android 6.0 Marshmallow preview. What can you expect from this new feature? Joe takes a quick look.
Apps, games and more!
Android Apps Weekly
GeForce NOW, Need for Speed: No Limits, Legend of the Brofist – you don’t want to miss Joe’s newest episode of Android Apps Weekly!
The very best Android apps – September 2015 edition
Wondering what new and notable applications and games you should try out? Check out Joe’s big app roundup for September 2015!
More videos you don’t want to miss!
- Huawei Mate S vs Samsung Galaxy Note 5
- Huawei Mate S vs Huawei Mate 7
- Wove Band flexible display wearable first look
- Wove Band flexible display wearable first details
- Someone bought Google.com?!
So that wraps up our video coverage for this week. Out of all the devices that were announced, which is your favorite? One of Google’s Nexus phones, or the new LG V10? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
Shooty Skies for Android is “in the works”
Crossing roads? That’s old news! Times are changing and all the cool kids (and adults) are taking off with Shooty Skies. But the issue is that Android users have been getting no love, as the new title was released this week and we have only heard news of the iOS version… until today.
The highly anticipated news comes from indie games studio Mighty Games. The team has taken it to Twitter to share that an Android version of Shooty skies is “in the works”. This was but a quick answer to a fan’s question, so sadly there is not much more info coming from the developer. We hope the game hits the Google Play Store sooner than later, though.
@aMaG1CaLMaNg1Na An Android version is in the works.
— Mighty Games (@Mighty_Games) October 2, 2015
http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js
Some would say Shooty Skies is a successor to Crossy Road; mostly because it was made by the same team. And though there are some similarities, such as the pixelated 3D graphics, cute characters and overall feel, these games are quite different. Shooty Skies takes you to the skies, where you can pilot an airplane using colorful animals, “adorable enemies”, loot crates and more.
Videos of other awesome games
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Just think of the classic airplane shooter games, in which the player can simply control an airplane in a linear map that leaves you surrounded by enemies, which you have to dodge and try to defeat. It really is a fun game. And seeing that Crossy Road was such a huge success, we can only expect Shooty Skies to follow the same road… or sky… you get it!
Who’s waiting on this one?
Samsung Gear S2 unboxing and first impressions
Every manufacturer is jumping into the wearable market with both feet in. Needless to say competition is really heating up by the end of 2015, and while most smart watch makers are betting on Android wear, Samsung continues pushing its own Tizen platform. Can they really make the in-house OS mainstream? We are not sure, but their new Samsung Gear S2 sure looks promising.
This device has finally hit my doorstep, so let’s waste no time to give you an unboxing and tell you all about my very first impressions on the Samsung Gear S2.
Buy Now: Available on Best Buy for $299
We already took a look at the Gear S2 during IFA. One of our main points then was that Samsung did do a great job at making this a particularly unique product. It’s nothing like the Android Wear devices we are used to; and it shouldn’t be, as the company is using a whole different operating system.
The box is circular and reminiscent of the watch’s shape, which gives it a very elegant and minimalist nature. This is why it’s no surprise to see that the unboxing process is also very simple. Just pull out the top section of the box and you will be presented with the product.
This is definitely going to be more of a sporty smartwatch, unlike the S2 Classic, which is much more of a formal accessory. I do like that the silicon bands give you more protection against liquids. Not to mention the smooth rotating bezel, as opposed to touting those rivets in the more formal iterations.
The box also includes the wireless charging dock, which you can just rest the watch on top of to juice up. And we can’t forget that glorious literature we always get with all devices (and pretty much never read). What you will enjoy seeing is a set of replacement straps for those of you with smaller wrists.
Removing the straps is a little weird at first, as there is an odd sliding mechanism you have to get used to. It takes a few tries, but you should be fine after that.
Let’s just get back to the device, which is actually very interesting in that it has that rotating bezel. This is no gimmick, and actually works great as a dial – it’s one way of navigating through your watch without having to swipe around.
Other awesome smart watches!
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Furthermore, the stainless steel body is gorgeous, and we also love the fact that it comes with an AMOLED panel. This is no surprise, knowing that it’s a Samsung product, but we are still excited about the battery life improvements this screen technology can offer. AMOLED displays only turn on the pixels that are needed. Pixels displaying the color black are simply turned off, which should spare some precious mAh bits in the process.
Let’s talk about software, which is the part of this watch that we are most unfamiliar with. Tizen is completely different, but it’s definitely intuitive, so you can get the hang of it pretty quickly. As you can see in the video, it’s easy to navigate around, add quick dials, include more widgets, and add more applications through the Gear Manager. Honestly, though – that dial! This new form of input is really the most exciting part of this device.
We took a look at the Gear Manager and found a good list of applications, but we are not sure yet if the platform is mature enough to really say it is well supported. We certainly do wish there was more stuff in there. At least we know the Gear S2 is compatible with a lot of different Android devices, losing the Samsung exclusivity we are so used to seeing. However, going through the set-up does require installing a bevy of apps for everything to work properly.
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That’s it for today’s unboxing and first impressions, guys. Keep it tuned to Android Authority to check out the full review, which is coming soon. We will also be comparing the Samsung Gear S2 with all the hottest smart watches out there, as well as alternate Tizen options.
What do you guys think so far, though? Is this a watch you could see yourself rocking? Hit the comments and share your thoughts!
Also read:
Is Google Maps draining your battery? Here’s how to fix it
Battery life – it’s one of those things every single one of us wants more of. And while it’s understandable apps will make that juice trickle out of your phone little by little, it seems some are just punching a whole through the battery and letting all the goods stream out.
Even more annoying is when you check your energy stats and find out Google Maps can be one of the biggest battery hogs around, as it’s not only a very important application, but it’s one that comes stock with every Android handset out there!
It’s true that Maps is a pretty heavy piece of software. It uses a significant amounts of data, processing power and battery. It’s always rendering new maps, grabbing business information, looking for your location and more. Is there even a way to fight this necessary evil? Not completely, but there are some tricks for improving the situation, and we are here to give you all those valuable tips!
Related: How to use your Google Maps offline
Turn GPS off!
One of the biggest battery hogs in your phone is GPS. That thing will kill your battery so quick you won’t even notice! But that is only if you let it. Of course, one can limit the use of apps that require GPS access… or one could just turn the thing off when not in use!
Most Android devices will have a GPS toggle in the notification area. Alternatively, you can just go to the Location options in the Settings and turn it off.
Disable Google Access Location
If turning GPS off is not enough, you can really kill location features. The only issue is that this will affect other services that may need this information to function, but some of you obviously don’t see much worth in that anyways.
If you fall within this pool of users, just head over to your Settings, select “Location” and turn off the feature.
Clear the cache and data for Google Maps
App cache is usually a good thing. It stores data locally so your phone won’t have to load it from the internet every single time it’s needed. Cache can also misbehave or get old, though. It’s a good thing to clear it from time to time.
To do this, simply head over to your Settings app and hit on the “Apps” option. After accessing the App Manager, just look for the Google Maps app and tap on it. Inside you will find options to clear the cache and data.
Downgrade Google Maps
We are not very sure about this one, but plenty of online reports claim that Google Maps became an even bigger battery drainer recently. It might be worth a try, even if only to see if this works. Even if you will end up with an older version of Maps. Just keep in mind that when using an older version of Maps, the service probably won’t be as reliable as it would be if you were to use the latest version.
To do this, simply head over to the App Manager, find Google Maps and select it. There will be an option to “Uninstall updates”.
Disable Google Maps
If all else fails, and you really think Google Maps is the main cause of your battery woes, there’s always a last resort – disable Google Maps. In essence, this will make it as if the app is not even installed in your phone. Now, this is a stock application, so it can’t really be deleted. Google Maps will still be there, it just won’t be active. The icon, along with all its functionality, will disappear. This also means some other services that depend on Maps will fail to work.
Are you taking this step? Just head over to the App Manager and find Google Maps. Within the options there will be a “Disable” button. Tap on it and be on your way.
Wrapping up
Sadly, Google Maps is one of those apps that we simply have to learn to live with (at least to a minimal degree). Hopefully these tips will help you keep it in check, though. Do hit the comments and tell us if you have tried any of these methods. Which one worked best for you?
Ankway Home & Office Super Charger (review)
Chargers, chargers, chargers. They’re boring. But they are essential to our lives almost as much as the food we eat. Without chargers we don’t have our smartphones. Without our smartphones we don’t have access to the phone, texting, Instagram, Facebook, camera, and everything else our we need our device for. So yeah chargers are boring, but you might as well get the best one you can to simplify your life.
Ankway Super Charger x 5 USB Smart Ports
Ankway sent me a charger to review and to be honest, these things can be boring. I mean, who really wants to read about a charger? Well, you probably do because you actually want to spend your money wisely while making sure your devices get the best charge. Chargers in store can easily cost 30 dollars these days and that is just for a single port charger. But for less than 30 dollars, you can get the Ankway Home & Office Super Charger which has five USB ports and two surge protected power outlets. It is perfect for setting on your desk or nightstand if you have more than one device to charge. And with today’s gadgets, smartphones, smartwatches, pedometers, tablets, and so on having five ports can be a blessing. It gets old moving individual chargers from outlet to outlet.
Design
The Ankway charger has two three pronged standard outlets with five USB smart ports for charging your portable devices. If you are using an iPhone, Moto X, or FitBit pedometer, the Ankway charger will make sure to charge your devices at the optimal speeds without over-charging your devices. It doesn’t have quick-charge built-in, but if you need that, you can use your quick charger like I have set up in the picture below. I also have my laptop charger plugged in which is perfect for your desk or table.
Ankway also put a power switch on the side so you can turn the power strip off and eliminating phantom electricity usage keeping your energy bills down.
The power strip also comes built in plastic that is sure to last a long time.
Specs
- Technical Parameters: AC 100~250V
- Surge Protector Energy: 1700Joule
- Peak Current: 15000A
- Power Capacity: 1250W
- Response Time: 1NS
- USB Charger Power Rating: 5V/8A 40W
- USB Charger Output : 5 USB ports (Max: 5V 2.4A)
- Outlet quantity: 2 universal outlets+ 5 USB ports
- Material: Fireproof ABS plastic, PVC copper cord
- Product Dimensions: 3.9 x 2.8 x 3.9 inches ; 10.6 ounces
Summary
Chargers are essential to our daily lives as we rely on our electronics more each day. Every device we get comes with a charger but individual chargers can consume your wall outlets quickly. For less than $30, I suggest you pick up this Ankway power strip as it is highly functional and well-built and will make charging your plethora of devices much simpler.
Check it out on Amazon.com
The post Ankway Home & Office Super Charger (review) appeared first on AndroidGuys.
Google wants Glass-like headsets with holographic displays
Google Glass (aka Project Aura), as cool as it is, isn’t very immersive: you’re still looking at flat pictures superimposed on a 3D world. You may see some added depth in the future, though. Google has filed for a patent on a “head wearable display” that would show holograms. The hope is that this would create an augmented reality experience that’s more involving than what you get today, including a wider field of view a more efficient, easier-to-wear headset.
There’s no certainty that Google will do something with the technology, assuming the patent is granted. Microsoft’s HoloLens may not get fresh competition any time soon. However, it’s no secret that Google is not only working on the next version of Glass, but has poured lots of cash into augmented reality efforts like Magic Leap’s still-mysterious project. Don’t be surprised if you’re one day playing games against opponents who seem like they’re in the room, or driving a car where traffic alerts float above the road itself.
[Image credit: Sean Gallup/Getty Images]
Via: TechCrunch, Enterpreneur
Source: USPTO
DxOMark gives its final review on the Nexus 6P camera, puts it 3rd among all smartphones
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A lot has been made about the Nexus 6P camera, but knowing how good it is on paper is one thing; seeing how it performs in an objective, scientific environment is quite another. For this, we have the clever chaps at DxOMark, who review all cameras in the categories of exposure and contrast, noise, colour, autofocus – just to name a few – in both photography and video capture. By far the most glowing commendation of the review was the Nexus 6P camera’s “impressive detail preservation in low light conditions, by far the best tested to date and good detail preservation in outdoor conditions”. Similarly, the video capture was very good, with the comment “good global exposure, white balance and color rendering, the fast and accurate AF and the low noise levels in all conditions”.
Naturally, not everything was perfect – when taking photos, HDR+ occassionally caused irregularities in low light, highlights were affected in high-contrast environments and apparently it’s possible for a photo to be taken before the autofocus has even locked onto something. Video had issues too with refocusing when lighting changes and detail in low light was poor. Overall, however, DxOMark awarded the Nexus 6P camera a score of 84/100, which puts it 3rd on DxOMark’s smartphone ladder – only the Sony Xperia Z5 and Samsung Galaxy S6 cameras are better than the Nexus 6P with the LG G4 a hair behind it on 83. For the full review, be sure to hit the source link below.
What do you think about DxOMark’s review of the Nexus 6P camera? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
The post DxOMark gives its final review on the Nexus 6P camera, puts it 3rd among all smartphones appeared first on AndroidSPIN.
Disney Research app turns colored drawings into 3D characters
A new Disney Research project can make coloring books more exciting for those of us with limited art skills. The team has built an interactive Android and iOS coloring book app using the Unity game engine that can take a colored drawing and turn it into an augmented reality object on screen — and, yes, as you can see above, it retains the original artwork’s texture. In fact, the app can generate parts of the object in the same texture even if you only color a 2D picture. For example, if you fill in the front-facing line drawing of the elephant above, the app will show you a backside that resembles your masterpiece. It’s definitely not perfect, but it works.
The app does that by copying pixels from your piece and adapting them for use on the object’s other regions. It also transforms your drawing into a 3D object in real time, so you can actually watch it getting colored on screen. We hope the researchers expand the app’s capabilities in time — it could, for instance, use the characters in interactive games. Unfortunately, you can’t download the app or buy the accompanying coloring book for now, but you can read more about the study on the lab’s website and watch the tech in action below.
Source: Disney Research
AIVAnet 