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20
Oct

Professional ‘StarCraft 2’ players, coach accused of match-fixing


South Korean authorities have arrested nine people, including two professional players and their coach, on charges of fixing professional StarCraft 2 matches, according to translated reports on the Team Liquid forums. The site says PRIME head coach Park Wae-Sik (“Gerrard”), and professional players Choi Byeong-Heon (“YoDA”) and Choi Jong-Hyuk (“BBoongBBoong”) have been arrested and charged with manipulating the outcomes of five matches throughout 2015. They’re suspected of receiving between 5 million and 20 million won ($4,400 and $17,600) for fixing the games. At least three other people have been arrested and charged with match-fixing in the same sting, and two additional people have been indicted but not arrested. One other is at large, the report says. The Korean eSports Association plans to ban Gerrard and YoDA from the organization for life, a statement translated on TeamLiquid reads.

In 2010, 11 professional StarCraft players were banned from the Korean eSports Association and received fines for fixing games. Professional gaming is serious business around the world, with 134 million viewers in 2015 and revenue valued at $612 million worldwide. This year, the world championships for Dota 2 featured an $18 million prize pool thanks to crowd-sourced financing.

Via: Polygon

Source: TeamLiquid

20
Oct

Volkswagen had ‘several’ emissions cheating devices


Italy Volkswagen

Those suspicions that Volkswagen cooked up more than one defeat device to cheat on emissions tests? They may be well-founded. Reuters tipsters claim that the car maker produced “several versions” of the gadget to suit different diesel engines. VW isn’t confirming anything (it’s still in the midst of an internal investigation), although it makes sense. The company has had different variants of TDI engines over the years, and different regional emissions standards would have required at least modified software.

So long as it’s accurate, the scoop could prove damning. It suggests that this was a sustained effort with a significant team, since VW had to repeatedly modify software and make sure that the devices fooled inspections across the globe. If so, it’ll be harder for execs to argue that this was just the product of a few misbehaving engineers — at least some higher-ups would have known what was going on.

[Image credit: AP Photo/Luca Bruno]

Via: Autoblog

Source: Reuters

20
Oct

Watch the White House’s Astronomy Night live at 7:35PM ET


US President Barack Obama with his wife

In 2009, the White House held an Astronomy Night to get students dreaming big and pursuing careers in science. Well, that event is back — and this time, you can tune in. The White House will livestream parts of its second-ever Astronomy Night starting at 7:35PM ET, including President Obama’s statements. It won’t be the same as stargazing on the South Lawn, but it might inspire you (or your kids) to learn more about space. Importantly, the government is backing up this event with action. NASA is teaming with students and enthusiasts to find targets for the James Webb Space Telescope, and there are projects underway to foster math and science education beyond the classroom.

[Image credit: Tim Sloan/AFP/Getty Images]

Source: White House (1), (2)

20
Oct

Latest Humble Bundle brings 6 popular KEMCO games to your Android device


Screen Shot 2015-10-19 at 2.45.18 PM

The latest Humble Bundle has just arrived, and this one is for all the RPG fans out there. With the Humble KEMCO Mobile Bundle, you’ll be able to grab six premium RPGs from the popular Japanese video game developer for an extremely low price point. Normally these games would cost a massive $49 (or $72 with in-game content), but today you can get them for just a few bucks.

If you donate $1 or more, you’ll get:

  • Symphony of the Origin
  • Eclipse of Illusion
  • Eve of the Genesis HD

If you’d like access to the next three games, you’ll need to beat the average price (currently hovering around $5.64):

  • Silver Nornir
  • Fortuna Magus
  • Legend of Ixtona


Order & Chaos best Android MMOMRPGsRelated: 32 Best RPGs for Android103

Normally the Humble Bundle team adds a handful of extra games to the Bundle in a week’s time, but that’s not the case here. With this Humble Bundle, you can unlock more games when the total donation number reaches $100K, $150K or $200K. The first game that will be unlocked when the total reaches $100K is called Knight of the Earthends. The other two games have yet to be revealed, so be sure to check back in a few days.

This is also a great way to donate to charity! With this Bundle, you can choose to donate your proceeds to the American Red Cross, or pick whatever charity you’d like. As always, all games listed here are DRM-free. Interested? Be sure to head to the source link attached below to get started.

20
Oct

What’s going on with Saygus?


Saygus-v2-1-aa

Rewinding back all the way to CES in January, I remember first stumbling upon the Saygus V2 and instantly I was excited by the phone. Top-shelf specs, a unique design, tons of expandable storage, and a company that seemed refreshingly different. At the same time, I was also instantly wary. I remember discussing the phone, as well as my misgivings, with my peers. After all, the phone made some pretty big promises, all from a very small company we knew very little about.

Fast-forwarding to today, it seems there was good reason to be a bit leery of the Saygus V2’s ambitions.

After an initial pre-order period in early February, the Saygus V2 should have hit customers’ hands shortly after this but due to “delays caused by manufacturing issues”, Saygus ended up postponing the official release until May 22nd. As we all know, it didn’t meet that date either, stating that “some quality assurance and network testing” was still required before the device could ship, with Saygus setting no new date.


saygus v2 4See also: Hands-on with the feature-filled Saygus V234

It seems there was good reason to be a bit leery of the Saygus V2’s ambitions.

Finally in June, it said that the phone was still coming, and the company opened up a new Indiegogo campaign, hoping to get additional funds and support in order to overcome some “further manufacturing issues”. Saygus still didn’t have a release date in mind though, but it did promise that it was planning to release the phone sometime in the fall. As a “reward” for those that stuck with Saygus and hadn’t asked for refunds, Saygus revealed it was at least upgrading the phone a bit, adding two SIM card slots, Android 5.1 Lollipop out of the box (originally it had KitKat), and the addition of a USB type-C port.

Now it’s fall, and still no Saygus V2 just yet. Those that are still hanging on to the promise of the V2 might wonder “what’s going on with Saygus?” In fact, one of our readers recently asked us this question and hoped that we could get to the bottom of the situation. Here’s what we found out.

What’s going on with Saygus?

saygus v2 6

After reaching out to Saygus, we finally received a response, but unfortunately it was pretty much the typical canned response you’d expect. In the Saygus representative’s own words:

Nobody has attempted to construct a phone of this caliber; it is a challenging undertaking- but in the end, the phone will speak for itself.

Saygus does not have an official timeframe to announce at the moment, but I am told they are very close (possibly a matter of weeks) to being able to do so. One of the main challenges has been due to procuring and then integrating and tuning the high end cameras.

We appreciate your interest in the Saygus V-squared and will work to provide any solid updates and information when we have them.

So in a nutshell, they are still claiming to be “close”, with most of their communication on Twitter pointing to a launch in late-October. That said, many of its backers are rightfully getting pretty anxious, due to the fact that Saygus has continually missed deadlines, but really it goes further than that.

Delays are expected, but so is communication

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Frankly speaking, when dealing with a smaller company that is aiming big, you expect delays. It’s happened many times before, with famous examples such as the Pebble or the YotaPhone, both of which not only eventually surfaced, but have continued to develop new products since. Most of the people who back this kind of project understand they are taking a risk, they do it anyway because they believe in the company’s end goal and hope they’ll be treated with respect and open communication along the way. Unfortunately, Saygus has been particularly bad here.

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A quick look at their Twitter account shows that they have a history of making promises, or at least alluding to a possible timeframe, and then they not only miss the date – they don’t issue a tweet explaining the delay for days, weeks, or longer.

Saygus has done this all before…

Saygus-v1

The way that Saygus has handled its communication about the V2’s delays is nothing short of disastrous, but what is even worse is that they have played this game before. While most of us had forgotten or never heard of the Saygus V Phone, the handset was first shown off around 2009 and promised – for the time – high-end specs and support for Verizon’s network (it went so far as to get certification even).

Reportedly, after several changes to its promised spec sheet, the phone would have been powered by a 806MHz processor with 512MB RAM, 16GB storage with microSD, Android 1.5, and other specs that were reasonably decent for its era. The phone was seen in some tech-demos but ultimately never surfaced. Of course, Saygus has done well to avoid mentioning the V Phone and so many of their customers are probably completely unaware that Saygus has dreamt big and failed to deliver in the past.

To be honest, it’s really hard to find solid details about that phone or what happened to it. From what we gather, they didn’t get into the advanced funding stage like they did with the V2, but its vaporware status, and the company’s failure to deliver on its goals for the V2, certainly don’t paint a pretty picture.

Will it be worth the wait in the end?

Providing that Saygus really does get the V2 out this fall, October or otherwise, is the self-dubbed “superphone” still all that super? While it has some cool features, honestly, we’d say no.

In early 2015, or even up to this summer, the Saygus V2 still held its own pretty well. But in an age where there are now flagship-like devices at around or below $400 (Moto X Style / Pure, Nexus 5x, Nexus 6p, OnePlus 2), the Saygus V2’s pricing and features aren’t nearly as compelling.

  Saygus V2 Nexus 6P Nexus 5X Galaxy S6 Edge+ Moto X Style Xperia Z5 Premium
Display 5-inch 1920×1080 dipslay (445ppi) with Corning Gorilla Glass 4 5.7-inch AMOLED
QHD (2560×1440)
5.2-inch LCD
FullHD (1920×1080)
5.7-inch AMOLED
QHD (2560×1440)
5.7-inch
QHD (2560×1440)
5.5-inch LCD
4K (3840×2160)
SoC 2.5GHz Snapdragon 801 Snapdragon 810 Snapdragon 808 Exynos 7420 Snapdragon 808 Snapdragon 810
RAM 3GB 3GB 2GB 4GB 3GB 3GB
Storage 64GB storage 32/64/128GB 16/32GB 32/64/128GB 16/32/64GB 32GB
MicroSD Yes, dual slots for up to 256GB expandable storage No No No Yes, up to 128GB Yes, up to 200GB
Cameras 21MP rear facing cam with OIS, 13MP front cam with OIS 12.3MP rear
8MP front
12.3MP rear
5MP front
16MP rear
5MP front
21MP rear
5MP front
23MP rear
5MP front
Battery 3100 mAh removable battery, wireless Qi-charging built-in 3,450mAh 2,700mAh 3,000mAh 3,000mAh 3,430mAh
Fast charge Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Wireless charge Yes No No Yes Yes Yes
Fingerprint Scan Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes
Waterproof Yes, IPX7 Rating No No No No Yes, IP68
Type C USB Yes Yes Yes No No No
Price $650 $500 $379 $700 or less $400 Around $700

Sure, the Saygus still has some cool extras like dual SIM, dual microSD, a super strong build, and some high-quality speakers. But there are already a lot of phones out there that offer many of the V2’s other ‘special features’ like waterproofing, fingerprint scanners, type-C, and high-end camera, all while either being cheaper or only marginally more expensive, while packing a much more modern processor and displays with resolutions as high as 4K. Most of these products are also easily available right now, save for the OnePlus 2 and the Xperia Z5 Premium.

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Let us also remember that once (or maybe better to say if) the Saygus V2 ships, it has to first get out to its original pre-order customers, then it has the Indiegogo folks too. That means those that came later in line probably aren’t just waiting until “this fall”, and could easily still be waiting into 2016. At Android Authority, we applaud when a little guy comes out of the woodwork to challenge the status quo, but we honestly would say that you are probably better off looking elsewhere for your next phone.

Are you someone who planned on getting the V2? Are you still waiting, or did you cancel? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

20
Oct

Jump on the beta bandwagon with the Google Search App


Chances are, you love being on the cutting edge when it comes to devices. Even more so, you love the freedom that Android allows when it comes to testing out new features for applications and such. Well, Google has released started rolling out something that will definitely pique your interest.

If you love trying out the alpha’s or beta’s for apps, then you’ll want to jump on this train. Google has started rolling out a way for you to beta test the latest features that will be found in the Google Search app. Signing up is free and easy. Simply hit the link below, head over to the Beta Opt-in page, and you’ll see an update available in the Play Store within the hour or so.

Screenshot_2015-10-19-18-51-59

Google is also showing off the ability to join the beta, through the existing Google search app on your phone. One of those Google Now Cards, will pop up, encouraging you to “Join the Google app beta program to play with experimental features before they’re released.”

This is a great way to test drive what Google is playing around with. You can already do this with the Chrome Beta, but the nice thing about the Google Search beta is, there’s no extra app to download, and nothing extra to enable. Essentially, once you’ve opted in, you’ll receive the update and be home free to test out whatever Google has up its sleeve.

If you want to stay ahead of the curve, hit the Beta Opt-in link below, and get that update rolling out to your devices.

Google App Beta Opt-in
Source: Droid Life

The post Jump on the beta bandwagon with the Google Search App appeared first on AndroidGuys.

20
Oct

Privacy Wizard is an all-new security app available for free in the Play Store


Play Store_newapp_privacywizard_applock_101915_1Privacy Wizard isn’t the first application providing an overlay of security to your Android apps. There are many apps that already provide these functionalities, but Privacy Wizard take things one notch further

Ever give your friend or a child your phone and find them looking through something private? We’ve all been there. Privacy Wizard not only allows users to lock certain applications but also secure emails and photos. With the app, you’ll never feel embarrassed to say “no” when someone asks to use your phone. Users have the option to do this in a few ways. These include setting a password, a pin code, a fake fingerprint cover or a voice authentication cover. You can even set up a fake error message prompting users to take action thus fooling your friend that an error has occurred. A weird way of going about security, but it’s cool to have the option.

Privacy Wizard is available for free in the Play Store today and can be downloaded at the link down below.

Play Store Download Link

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Come comment on this article: Privacy Wizard is an all-new security app available for free in the Play Store

20
Oct

LG G Vista 2 will soon hit AT&T and Verizon stores


LG_Logo_01_TA_CES_2014PhoneArena recently stated that the LG G Vista 2 will be heading to AT&T and Verizon stores in the near future.

Just announced today, the LG G Vista 2 will seek to replace its predecessor from last year’s original LG G Vista. This year’s handset features a similar design language and a majority of the same specifications, however includes an upgrade on the software front.

The LG G Vista 2 will have a 5.7-inch display with an upgraded full-HD resolution, a 13MP rear camera and 16GB of internal storage space. It will also include 2GB of RAM, a 1 W speaker for loud and high-quality audio and an upgraded processor (not specified) in replacement of last year’s included Snapdragon 400.

The device should launch in time for the holidays and will be available via U.S. carriers AT&T and Verizon. The price tag is currently unknown, but it shouldn’t break the bank.

The embedded video below shows off some of the device’s newest features and specifications.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Via: PhoneArena

Come comment on this article: LG G Vista 2 will soon hit AT&T and Verizon stores

20
Oct

US transportation department confirms drone registration program


Flying drone is filming video in the blue sky

You might call your remote-controlled, quad-copter flying toy a “drone,” but to the US government it’s an “unmanned aircraft system”, and it needs some red tape. Yes, the rumors were true: the Department of Transportation is creating a mandatory registration process for drones and unmanned aircraft. Today, it officially announced the program and the task force that will recommend policies and safety standards.

It’s an issue of safety, says FAA Administrator Michael Huerta — the Federal Aviation Administration receives complaints detailing the unsafe operation of drones on daily basis. It’s dangerous sounding stuff: near-misses with manned aircraft, interference with firefighter operation and more. “These reports signal a troubling trend,” Huerta says. “Registration will make sure that operator know the rules and remain accountable to the public for flying their unmanned aircraft responsibly.”

It’s still early in the process — the DOT hasn’t yet figured out what kind drones will need to be registered or what will be exempt. The task force announced today (made up of about 25 representative from manned aircraft industries and the federal government) plans to deliver recommendations on the matter by November 20th. Check out the DOT’s official announcement at the source link below.

[Image credit: Getty Images]

Via: Ars Technica

Source: Department of Transportation

20
Oct

‘Metal Gear’ creator Hideo Kojima leaves Konami after 29 years


Hideo Kojima, creator of the wildly successful Metal Gear franchise, has officially left Konami, the studio that defined his career — though it could be argued that, over 29 years, Kojima instead defined Konami. Confirmation of his departure comes via The New Yorker, which notes that Kojima’s final day was October 9th. Kojima’s resignation also means that he’s no longer with Kojima Productions, the Konami-owned studio that he started in 2005. It’s been long-rumored that Kojima would leave Konami after the launch of Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain. Earlier this year, Konami canceled Silent Hills, a hotly anticipated project from Kojima and horror director Guillermo del Toro, and in July, Kojima’s name quietly disappeared from the Metal Gear Solid V box art. We’ve reached out to Konami for comment on today’s report.

There’s no word on Kojima’s next move, though he’ll likely stay quiet during a non-compete period. Konami is mixing up its business model for the near future, vowing to focus on mobile games rather than expensive (yet potentially incredibly lucrative) AAA projects. In September, French site Gameblog reported that Konami was shutting down production on all AAA franchises aside from Metal Gear Online and Pro Evolution Soccer 2016. Though Konami didn’t respond to our request for clarification, the studio told Nintendo Life that it would continue to develop console franchises, including Metal Gear, Silent Hill and Castlevania — without Kojima, apparently.

[Image: Georges Seguin]

Source: The New Yorker