Is Jump! On Demand the solution for your smartphone love?
When T-Mobile announced the Jump! On Demand program back in June, I was stoked. Like many Android fans, I have a new phone addiction. Leasing phones just makes sense when you switch so often. But does T-Mobile’s radical idea follow through in practice?
Despite my reservations of being “locked in” with a carrier again (yes, JoD does involve an 18-month contract – more on that later), I jumped in anyways. After making two Jumps, I thought that sharing my experience may be valuable to anyone who is curious about the program. Do I regret jumping in, or have I affirmed that JoD is the best thing ever?
Firstly, let’s quickly recap what the program is about. The basis of JoD is phone financing (monthly payments until the full price is paid off). Only, with the program, you don’t have the intention to pay the phone off. You’re on it because you want to easily upgrade (Jump) to the latest and greatest. T-Mobile allows you to upgrade 3 times in a 12-month period.
Oh, and before I go on…one question you may have is if the first phone you get upon joining JoD considered your first upgrade (thus leaving only two more for the next 12 months)? Fortunately, no. After joining, your first upgrade is the next phone you switch to. Phew.
So then, what’s the catch? This is the fun part. Your commitment to the program is the same as committing to financing a phone. More specifically, the monthly payment for each phone on JoD is based on an 18-month period. Each phone has a different monthly payment, because each phone has a different full retail price.
What’s cool is that if you feel like saving a few bucks over a period, you can choose to upgrade to a phone that has a lower cost. Your monthly payment fluctuates depending which phone you have.
What’s also cool is that the service side of things is independent. It remains unaffected by the whole switcheroo. T-Mobile’s only requirement here is that you are in fact on a post-paid service (aka Simple Choice plan) before you can be on JoD.
In case you’re still waiting for the catch, here it is: Each time you upgrade to another phone, you’re essentially restarting that 18-month payment plan commitment. Therefore, T-Mobile continually has you locked in (which is more important to them than anything) and you can’t simply walk away. It’s more of a lease-to-buy thing. You’re done when the phone is paid off.
But as long as they keep up their end of the bargain, why would you want to leave? That was precisely my reasoning. I mean, how else can you so simply walk into a store, give them your current phone, and then walk out a couple minutes later with a newer phone without paying anything?
It is in fact this simple. You don’t even need to bring back the phone’s packaging, T-Mobile only takes the phone back (not even the charger). And also from my experience, the store representatives don’t put priority on new customers. Hence, if you’re in line on a phone launch day, your position to get that phone is honored.
At this point you’re probably like, come on Josh, it can’t all be unicorns and rainbows. You’re right. Here is the biggest con about the program: Phone choices. T-Mobile has to greenlight which phones become available on JoD. This is the current list of Android phones available on the program:
- Samsung Galaxy S6
- Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge
- Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge+
- Samsung Galaxy Note 4
- Samsung Galaxy Note 5
- LG G4
- LG V10
Aside from the list being a Samsung-fest, you must notice some other issues. One of these is: Where the heck is the HTC One M9? I mean, it wasn’t the most popular flagship, but “flagship” it was. How about the newly launched One A9?
I also asked T-Mobile on that one, via Twitter, and got a fairly canned response:
Another concern with that list is from knowing that there’s more OEMs in the Android world. This year may not have been the best year to launch JoD. There’s an industry shift towards unlocked phones. You won’t find a Motorola phone (with the exception of the Droid Turbo 2 and Maxx 2) or Nexus in carrier stores anymore. Sony sort of dropped out of the US, so T-Mobile isn’t renewing its Xperia offering from last year. And the OnePlus 2? Forget about it.
This is quite a problem, as it is likely that those who would be enticed by a program like JoD are also aware of other offerings in the market.
Lastly, what if you wanted a cheaper phone in T-Mobile’s inventory? Why couldn’t you be someone who wants to keep up with the latest and greatest of mid-end phones? If T-Mobile’s ideal is to be less restrictive, why is the JoD availability list so limited?
So do I regret jumping into JoD? Not yet at least. Starting with an S6 Edge and then jumping to a Note5 and V10 has been very entertaining. I hadn’t previously had a Samsung or LG phone, so it gave me a chance to see what they’re all about. And the process of switching is as easy as I lead to believe.
Would I recommend it to other Android addicts? I would, but with a strong caution about phone availability. T-Mobile can bolster all it wants about the opportunity with JoD, but without a wide range of phone choices, the purpose is somewhat defeated.
The post Is Jump! On Demand the solution for your smartphone love? appeared first on AndroidGuys.
Lumsing’s 10,400mAh power bank nails energy and size
Accessories maker Lumsing recently sent me one of their power banks to check out, specifically the 10400mAh model. Now, you’re probably thinking a battery that big makes the size of this power bank massive; however, it’s not “massive” nor is it large. Lumsing isn’t asking you to walk around with extra weight in your bag or to place a brick on your desk. This power bank is light and compact while maintaining a big amount of power.
Here’s a rundown its specifications:
- 12.5oz
- 138 x 59 x 21mm
- 10,400mAh battery (made by Samsung)
- Input: micro-USB 5V 1.5A
- Ouput: USB 5V 1A, USB 5V 2.1A
The overall design of this power bank from Lumsing is meant to resemble a harmonica. Shiny black plastic wraps around most of it, with the top of the power bank having a metallic accent with Lumsing’s logo. That metallic accent and the sides are both a bit more premium. It’s also where the buttons, ports, and lights are. The primary side of the power bank has a power button, four lights each indicating 25% of energy, and two USB ports. The micro-USB port can be found on the left side. So what’s the benefit of the harmonica-inspired design? This power bank is comfortable to hold in your hand and store anywhere. It easily slides into tight spaces on a desk or in a pocket.
Even better is the its price which also includes a short cable and a traveling sack. Lumsing is currently selling its 10,400mAh power bank for $19.
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[Deal] You can now pick up a Xperia M4 Aqua for just $199.99
If you’ve been looking for a budget-friendly waterproof smartphone that wont break the bank, then we may just have the perfect deal for you. In an effort to clear inventory, Amazon has just slashed $100 off the 16GB, GSM/LTE variant of the Sony Xperia M4 Aqua’s price tag — so you can now pick one up for $199.99. The handset is only available in its traditional black colorway and comes with a 12-month warranty.
It’s important to note that as this is an unlocked variant of the device, it will only work on T-Mobile and AT&T in the United States, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take it abroad. A full list of supported carrier bands can be seen below:
- 2G : 850/900/1800/1900
- 3G : 850/900/1900/2100
- 4G LTE : 1(2100), 2(1900), 3(1800), 4(1700/2100), 5(850), 7(2600), 8(900), 17(700), 20(800), 28(700)
If you like the sound of the Xperia M4 Aqua and would like to take advantage of this deal – hit the source link below.
Source: Amazon
Come comment on this article: [Deal] You can now pick up a Xperia M4 Aqua for just $199.99
BlackBerry’s Priv should have timely updates
Most hardware manufacturers producing Android devices drop the ball when it comes to keeping their devices’ software up-to-date. That’s why Motorola and HTC are often favorites among consumers looking to get a device with software that will be updated and in a timely fashion. Both companies have promises that can be broken, but that’s better than those that decide to say nothing about the status of software updates for their devices. BlackBerry, which is entering the world of Android with the Priv, wants to be up there with Motorola and HTC as a company getting software updates with security patches and bug fixes to its users faster than anyone else.
BlackBerry is putting its security research team to work to ensure that its Priv’s firmware and software is invulnerable. This will be done by delivering quick security updates (with Google’s help) and hotfixes.
Android Monthly Security Updates
BlackBerry will release these monthly updates to users that have purchased PRIV through shopblackberry.com and to PRIV resellers (carriers and other authorized dealers) that have agreed to participate in our regular monthly update program and facilitate rapid approval of our monthly updates for over-the-air (OTA) to subscribers.
Hotfix
Depending on the severity of the problem, complexity of the fix, and timing relative to the monthly update cycle, BlackBerry will opt to perform a hotfix, where the code to address only the specific critical problem is pushed to customers. Because a hotfix is typically limited in scope, the balance between a longer testing and approval process and the risk from the critical flaw makes this approach an important addition to helping keep users safe and secure. While BlackBerry will work with its go-to-market partners on approval and delivery of hotfixes, BlackBerry has the ability to directly patch all PRIV variants and will do so when necessary to protect users and enterprises.
Enterprise-Managed Updates
By controlling when and to which devices and users that patches are delivered, IT can avoid expensive software incompatibilities and ensure that the security issues most important to the business are mitigated. In the mobile world, enterprises have lost this control. BlackBerry aims to bring back this control through BlackBerry Enterprise Server (BES) and OTA management systems.
All of this will help to make the Priv one of the most secure mobile devices in the world. If that advantage and the inclusion of BlackBerry’s signature physical keyboard don’t resonate well with consumers, don’t expect the company to stick around in the hardware business much longer.
We’ve already seen HTC fall short of its promise multiple times, and they’ve been working with Android for years now. Do you think BlackBerry will fare a bit better and execute on pushing timely software updates?
Source: BlackBerry
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Samsung sells 180,000 Gear S2 smartwatches in under eight hours, report says
Samsung’s Gear S2 is proving to be an exciting smartwatch, as a new report is saying that over 180,000 Gear S2’s have been sold in China. All of these sales were said to have taken place within a period of eight hours, proving that the Gear S2 is a big hit among Chinese fans.
All of these sales were made through http://www.JD.com, a major online retailer in the People’s Republic. When you boil the numbers down, JD was selling a whopping 22,500 units per hour. The online retailer isn’t the only avenue for buying the Gear S2 in China, though. It can be bought via many retail stores in the country, but the demand for Samsung’s new smartwatch is so high that stores are running out of stock and complaining of shortages.
The Gear S2 and Gear S2 Classic are being sold for 2198 yuan ($350USD) and 2398 yuan ($390USD), respectively.
One thing to keep in mind about these high numbers is that, while Samsung may have made the initial sale, there’s no telling how many of these people will return their Gear S2 after using for it a couple of days. With that in mind, it’d be interesting to see a final report on the actual sales after about 30 days instead of just seeing the hype.
Have you picked up a Gear S2?
source: Tizen Indonesia
via: SamMobile
Come comment on this article: Samsung sells 180,000 Gear S2 smartwatches in under eight hours, report says
Korg’s OK Go Volca Sample is pre-loaded with sounds from ‘Hungry Ghosts’
Last fall, OK Go released their latest album Hungry Ghosts. If you happen to enjoy the samples the band used on it, you can employ those sounds yourself thanks to Korg. The audio company revealed a limited-edition of its Volca Sample emblazoned with OK Go art and loaded with clips the band used to make the aforementioned release. In fact, there’s 100 different sounds total that are all available for use. This version of the Volca Sample features the same multi-touch keyboard, 16-step sequencer and can run on six AA batteries for mobile music making. It’s part of the larger Volca line that includes the Volca Keys, Volca Bass and Volca Beat compact synths. And the original Volca Sample, of course. If all of that sounds too good to pass up, you’ll be able to sang one for yourself this month after parting with $160. Slideshow-339045
Source: Korg
Maker Camp becomes the after-school program you wish you had as a kid
“One thing we can bet on is that ‘making’ engages kids,” Dale Dougherty, Maker Media founder told Engadget. Anyone that’s ever been to a Maker Faire knows that’s a solid wager. Children routinely crowd around booths and attractions at the event peppering proprietors with questions about how their devices work. They drag their parents to the marketplace to buy Arduinos, soldering guns, and DIY kits. Getting littles ones excited about science and crafts is easy when it’s right in their faces, but then what? That was the question on Dougherty’s mind, “what happens on the Monday following a Faire?”
Source: Maker Camp
6 world-changing innovations by teenage geniuses
By Cat DiStasio
Solutions to some of the world’s most challenging problems are coming from an unlikely place: teenagers. Around the world, young inventors are developing gadgets and techniques that address issues ranging from ocean pollution to biofuels to food production. These incredible inventions are just a few highlights from teens who bring a fresh perspective and a hunger for real-life problem-solving. Hopefully, we’ll be reading about these young geniuses again years down the road, as they become stars of their own STEM careers.Slideshow-338762
[TA Deals] Pick up the Panther Air HD Camera Drone for just $109.99
Drones can be great fun, and drones with built-in camera’s can be both fun and useful, capturing great shots from previously impossible angles. With Christmas fast-approaching, it’s a great time to pick up the Panther Air HD Camera Drone with its built-in 720p camera from Talk Android Deals for just $109.99.
As you can see from the image above, the Panther Air Drone is a largish size, which allows for more stability in flight. It can capture high-definition shots and video footage from high in the air, as well as performing stunts such as 360-degree flips from up to 150 feet away.
Features:
- 2.4GHz transmitter allows incredible range without radio interference
- 4.5 channel radio control allows full 3D flight capabilities
- LCD display on transmitter shows signal strength, battery level, channel display and trim display data
- Bottom mounted adjustable camera captures 720p HD imagery/ video footage to MicroSD card
- Built-in gyro-stabilization provides stability and agility
- 360-degree flip stunt mode
Besides the quadcopter itself, you will also receive the 2.4GHz transmitter, the 850mAh rechargeable battery, wall charger, 1GB MicroSD card and reader, as well as four spare blades for the quadcopter’s motors. With a price tag of just $109.99, representing a saving of 55% over its RRP of $250, the Panther Air Drone is going to fly off the shelf.
Come comment on this article: [TA Deals] Pick up the Panther Air HD Camera Drone for just $109.99
Outerwall acquires online electronics recycler Gazelle
Shoring up their existing ecoATM business, Outerwall announced that they have acquired much of online electronics recycler Gazelle for $18 million in cash. Gazelle operates an online site where consumers can buy and sell pre-owned electronics including smartphones, tablets, desktop computers and laptops. The Gazelle online presence will join Outerwall’s existing ecoATM business which puts self-serve kiosks out in retail locations where consumers can trade in their used electronic devices for cash. The items collected at those kiosks are sold to third parties by Outerwall.
By adding Gazelle into their mix, Outerwall CEO Erik Prusch thinks the company will “enable ecoATM to gain critical mass, provide margin revenue uplift opportunities and leverage a direct-to-consumer channel for collected devices.” That last bit suggests Outerwall may start using some of the devices collected through ecoATM to sell on the Gazelle.com site, keeping the revenues within the overall company.
Gazelle’s headquarters are located in Boston with operational facilities in Kentucky and around 100 employees. In 2013 Gazelle reported they reached the $100 million in annual revenue level. That would seem to imply things have cooled off considerably if they sold the business for only $18 million.
Besides ecoATM and now Gazelle, Outerwall also owns and operates Redbox, the self-serve video kiosks, and coin redemption business Coinstar. Redbox is the heavyweight for Outerwall, generating 77 percent of the company’s revenue in the third quarter with Coinstar pulling in almost 17 percent.
source: Outerwall (MarketWatch)
Come comment on this article: Outerwall acquires online electronics recycler Gazelle
AIVAnet 