The Wirecutter’s best deals: Panasonic’s TS6 camera, and more!
This post was done in partnership with The Wirecutter, a buyer’s guide to the best technology. Read their continuously updated list of deals at TheWirecutter.com.
You may have already seen Engadget posting reviews from our friends at The Wirecutter. Now, from time to time, we’ll also be publishing their recommended deals on some of their top picks. Read on, and strike while the iron is hot — some of these sales could expire mighty soon.
Comcast brings personalized TV notifications to X1 users
Comcast isn’t done improving its X1 cable box. Over the past few months, the company has added a variety of new features to the device, including the ability to record extra-long events and more. Today, Comcast is keeping that trend going by adding notifications support to X1, which will let users receive personalized alerts directly on their TV. Those can be from Evernote, Gmail, Instagram, Jawbone, LinkedIn and “many” others, according to Comcast.
But since you definitely don’t want notifications to get out of control as you’re watching a show, Comcast teamed up with IFTTT, the recipe-based, if-this-then-that web service. This means there’s an option to control when you want your screen to be alerted, simply add the Comcast Labs Channel on IFTTT and you’re all set. Or, you know, you could choose not to use the feature altogether — those Instagram “likes” aren’t going anywhere.
Source: Comcast
Sign up to try ‘Doom’ on PS4, XB1 or Steam this weekend
So you didn’t buy Wolfenstein: The New Order, but you still want early access to the new Doom game? Run, don’t walk to the sign-up page and get your information in (those who bought Wolfenstein last year should just search for the download on their respective gaming platforms), because this weekend it’s taking testers for the test version on PlayStation 4, Xbox One and Steam. The website is (predictably) crushed by gamers seeking a return to demon-filled corridors of their youth, but with access promised “first-come, first-serve” it’s time to give that F5 key or auto-refresh script a workout. Good luck, but if you don’t get in then maybe this quick taste of some multiplayer footage will help.
Source: Bethesda Softworks (Twitter)
World’s first in-human gene-editing treatment will tackle hemophilia
Hemophilia B is a terrifying disease. The livers of those suffering from the genetic disorder fail to produce a key protein called Factor IX, which is responsible for clotting blood. Without this protein, they’re at constant risk of uncontrollable bleeding, including internally. However, a pair of researchers believe that their novel gene therapy could permanently cure the disease. To that end, the team of Michael Holmes and Thomas Wechsler from Richmond, California’s Sangamo biopharmaceuticals, have announced that the world’s first in-patient gene-editing therapy targeting these faulty genes will commence next week.
Source: The National Academies
Fashion brand Moschino is making a ‘Super Mario’ collection
Moschino is becoming known for sending bizarre collections down the runway, meshing interesting aspects of culture with fashion. The brand’s creative director, Jeremy Scott, has designed pieces based on fast food chain McDonald’s, cartoon character SpongeBob and, most recently, Barbie. But it’s not stopping there. Now, Moschino has partnered with Nintendo to unveil “Super Moschino,” a set of t-shirts, sweaters and leather accessories that use Super Mario characters as the subject.
Source: Moschino
Letv is a brand you need to keep an eye on. You may own one of its phones in 2016.
It’s a personal goal of mine to bring more content to you on phones outside of the typical brands you’re familiar with like Samsung, HTC, Motorola, and LG. Huawei is proof that the lesser known phone manufacturers can make devices that are better than almost every device out there. Most importantly these devices can literally save you hundreds to thousands of dollars a year. If T-Mobile is blowing up carrier pricing, the unlocked smartphone companies like Letv, Nuu Mobile, Blu, Xiaomi, etc. are blowing up the the likes of Samsung and LG. And if history provides any lesson remember how big Nokia and Blackberry were just a few years ago? The industry changes quickly and we are going to be at the forefront of bringing real and unbiased reviews to you of these up and coming devices.
The problem with the lesser known brands is we really don’t much about them except for what’s on paper from their websites and there are very few reviews of the actual devices.
Letv is a brand YOU NEED to look out for. They recently started making smartphones in the last year and have been destroying the market in China. Here are some interesting results from its recents sales:
– 1 million Le Superphones sold in November 2015 alone (including 780,000 Le 1s units), which is the fastest time by a smartphone brand in China to reach that mark
– Le Superphone users on average consume up to 1.2G of data per month (for comparison’s sake, the industry average is under 800 MB)
– 56.7% of Le Superphone users are male; 41.27% of Le Superphone users were born in the 1980s; 36.14% were born in the 1990s
I have yet to try a Letv smartphone, but plan to very soon. I have a Letv 1s on pre-order from Gearbest.com. I want to know what I am missing because Letv’s phones look great on paper. There is a major concern with unlocked phones that they may not get Android updates, but you can also make that same argument for most phones in the sub $300 category. Even with Motorola’s latest Moto E, they said they wouldn’t update it to Android 6.0 because “customers were more focused on value than software.”
Check out the specs below on a couple of Letv’s phones. They can make all metal budget devices to high-end phones that can compete with anything here in the U.S. But keep an eye on Letv. With devices like these we may be seeing them here in the U.S. sooner rather than later.
If you have tried any of these unlocked smartphones, let us know in the comments the benefits and downsides to owning an unlocked smartphone if you don’t mind. Anyways, look out for reviews of budget and mid-range devices soon.
All metal Letv 1s sub $200 unlocked.
Letv 1s 5.5 inch 4G Phablet Android 5.1 MTK6795 64bit Octa Core 2.2GHz 3GB RAM 32GB ROM 5.0MP + 13.0MP Cameras – LINK
Main Features:
Display: 5.5 inch 1920 x 1080 FHD Screen
CPU: MTK6795 64bit Octa Core 2.2GHz
GPU: PowerVR G6200
System: Android 5.1
RAM + ROM: 3GB RAM + 32GB ROM
Camera: Dual Cameras, front camera 5.0MP camera, back camera 13.0MP
Sensor: Gravity Sensor, Proximity Sensor, Ambient Light Sensor and Fingerprint Sensor
Bluetooth: 4.0
Features: GPS, A-GPS, Glonass, Beidou
SIM Card: Dual SIM dual standby, one Nano SIM Card, one Micro SIM Card
Letv One Max 2K Screen Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 64bit 4GB RAM 64GB ROM – LINK
- Display: 6.33 inch 2K screen (2560 x 1440 pixels)
- CPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 Octa core 2.0GHz
- GPU: Adreno430
- System: Android 5.0 Lollipop
- Storage: 4GB RAM + 64GB ROM
- Camera: 4.0MP + 81° wide-angle F2.0 camera, 21.0MP AF face beauty with dual flash lights F2.0 camera
- Sensor: Light sensor , G-sensor , P-sensor, Hall Sensor,Proximity sensor
- Feature: Gyroscope,Infrared Remote Control,Electronic Compass
- Bluetooth: BT4.0
- GPS: GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS
- Battery: 3000mAh Bulit-in Battery
- SIM Card: Dual SIM dual standby, Micro SIM + Nano SIM
- Network:
2G: GSM 850/900/1800/1900MHz
3G: WCDMA 850/900/1900/2100MHz
4G: LTE 1800/2100/2600MHz
The post Letv is a brand you need to keep an eye on. You may own one of its phones in 2016. appeared first on AndroidGuys.
Google Play Store is now accepting split payments for purchases
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One of the most annoying things in the world for an avid Android fan is to save up all your Google Opinion Rewards credit only to find that you’re only a few cents short of that game or app you’ve always wanted. Well, it looks like Google might be changing things up soon and rewarding your frugal spending – according to some lucky users, it would appear the Google Play Store is now accepting split payments i.e. letting you pay for things with both Play Store credit and your credit card. As you know, the current (or old) behaviour of the Play Store is to automatically suggest your credit card or PayPal when you don’t have enough Play Store credit in your account.
It’s not a huge deal for most, but it does make life a lot easier, especially with some apps getting more and more expensive. Presumably this is a change on Google’s end as only some users have reported seeing this new functionality, so don’t freak out if you don’t see this yet – hopefully they’ll turn this on sooner rather than later (because I really want to use my $3 credit towards Lara Croft GO).
What do you think about the fact the Play Store is now accepting split payments? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: Android Police
The post Google Play Store is now accepting split payments for purchases appeared first on AndroidSPIN.
Finally: you can now get a OnePlus 2 without an invite. Forever.
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There seem to be two main camps when it comes to OnePlus‘ invite system used to acquire their smartphones – those who don’t mind it, and those that hate it. One thing’s for sure: nobody seems to love it (besides OnePlus), and thankfully, it looks like it’s time for OnePlus to ditch it entirely for their latest flagship device, the OnePlus 2. Yes, you can now get the OnePlus 2 without an invite, and no, this isn’t one of OnePlus two or three day ordeals where they make the device available without an invite temporarily – this is no invites forever.
In a blog post to announce this momentous occasion, OnePlus makes no apologies for instituting their invite system, as it helped them control inventory and thus allow them to grow at a sustainable rate. Presumably it’s also helped that their devices have been insanely popular with the Android community, though we’ll never know if the invite system ever hampered that. In the post, OnePlus also mentions that you can get its new OnePlus X without an invite between December 5th-7th, or you can always just buy and invite (and an iPhone case) for $19.99 USD.
What do you think about OnePlus getting rid of invites for the OnePlus 2? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: OnePlus via Phones Review
The post Finally: you can now get a OnePlus 2 without an invite. Forever. appeared first on AndroidSPIN.
Google announces their Best of 2015 picks from the Play Store
With December now showing up on everyone’s calendars, it means we are getting ready to bring another year to a close. That means it is time for companies to start sharing the reviews and picks of what they thought was the best of 2015. Google is getting an early jump by releasing their “Best of 2015” lists of items available through the Play Store including apps, games and entertainment titles.
In both the apps and games categories, Google has selected 25 titles from each of those areas to be named as “Best” for 2015. Some of the top game titles include Agar.io, Walking Dead: Road to Survival, Fallout Shelter, Clash of Clans and Minecraft: Pocket Edition. Some of the top apps include Flipagram – Music Video Editor, Robinhood, and even stalwarts like Skype and Twitter.
In the entertainment categories, which include music, movies, TV, books and magazines, Google made selections called “Our Favorite…” as well as identifying some of the top-selling titles. Leading the way for albums is Adele’s 25, which is not a surprise, followed by Drake’s If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late and To Pimp A Butterfly by Kendrick Lamar.
Some of the top-selling movies include Interstellar, Lucy and American Sniper as well as the controversial The Interview. Possibly driven by interest in the movie, Fifty Shades of Grey and some subsequent titles in that series headline the top-selling books.
You can hit the source link to visit the Play Store and check out the full list of what Google thinks were the best titles of 2015.
source: Play Store
Come comment on this article: Google announces their Best of 2015 picks from the Play Store
Xiaomi partners with Amazon to sell the YI Action Camera in the U.S.
Did you know Xiaomi operates an imaging technology company? It’s called YI. And among its products is the YI Action Camera that rivals what we’ve seen from companies like GoPro and Activeon but costs much less. Although it has been sold internationally, the United States has never had access to the device. Xiaomi is proud to be changing that after partnering with Amazon to be the exclusive seller of the YI Action Camera in the United States.
Click here to view the embedded video.
Key specifications:
- 16MP camera (Sony-made sensor)
- Ambarella A7LS processor
- 155-degree ultra wide-angle lense
- 2.4 x 0.8 x 1.6in, 2.7oz
Ye Song, co-founder of YI, said this about the company’s action camera:
“As a technology company deeply rooted in photography and imaging, the YI action camera is just the beginning of our range of products. We are committed to providing the highest quality imaging technology that real people use for real life. With the action camera we want to make it easy and fun for everyone to unlock their creativity and share their stories.”
The YI Action Camera is available from Amazon for $99, coming in lemon lime and arctic white varieties. Xiaomi also has an abundance of accessories for this device — a waterproof case, a bike mount, a hand mount, and a selfie stick. Amazon is selling a bundle that includes the YI Action Camera, a selfie stick, and a Bluetooth remote for $139. All of these items are eligible for Amazon’s free two-day shipping with a Prime membership.
[Amazon]
YI Action Camera Now Available in U.S. via Amazon
Colorful, Powerful and Pocket-Sized Video Camera Offers Affordable Alternative in Time for Holidays
SAN FRANCISCO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–YI, the imaging technology company and maker of a successful line of action and home cameras, announced today that its YI action camera is now available for the first time in a limited release version exclusively for the United States through Amazon for $99.95. The YI action camera is a powerful and portable video camera that allows anyone to capture his or her adventures in breathtaking color and clarity. An accompanying iOS and Android app lets users control the camera and showcase their experiences via mobile devices.
“As a technology company deeply rooted in photography and imaging, the YI action camera is just the beginning of our range of products,” said Ye Song, co-founder, YI. “We are committed to providing the highest quality imaging technology that real people use for real life. With the action camera we want to make it easy and fun for everyone to unlock their creativity and share their stories.”
At just 2.7 ounces, the YI action camera is a lightweight, pocket-sized video camera packed with the world’s leading image processor and a 155° ultra-wide angle lens. It offers the ability to capture full high definition videos and 16 megapixel still photos, and record up to 90 minutes of footage on a single charge.
The action camera is also equipped with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth so it can be controlled via smartphone from up to 300 feet away and an accompanying YI Action App offers the ability to adjust camera settings and stream live footage instantly on a smartphone. Camera color options, including lime green and arctic white, let users represent their personal style.
“Given the outstanding reviews and incredible demand we have already seen for YI in the U.S., we are excited to extend its reach through our relationship with Amazon Exclusives, its invitation only program,” added Song.
Also available on Amazon are a range of YI accessories including an expandable selfie-stick, Bluetooth remote control, waterproof case, and a variety of mounts such as the hand mount, bike handlebar mount, and more.
Pricing and Availability
YI action camera: Available in arctic white and lime green in the U.S. on Amazon.com for $99.95.
YI action camera kit: Packaged with a selfie stick and Bluetooth remote; Available in arctic white and lime green in the U.S. on Amazon.com for $139.95.
The action camera comes with a one-year warranty.
About YI
YI is an imaging technology company that is committed to making cameras and accessories that real people use for real life—and all of the surprises it brings. Its products including an action camera and home camera offer high performance features and quality at an affordable price tag. In China, YI is part of the Xiaomi family, which has a history of making revolutionary technology accessible to everyone. For more information visit weareYI.com and to purchase visit www.amazon.com/shops/weareYI.
Come comment on this article: Xiaomi partners with Amazon to sell the YI Action Camera in the U.S.
AIVAnet 