Talking it out: Why I’m switching from Verizon to Google Fi
I’ve been a loyal Verizon customer since the mid-1990s when I got my first StarTac. Heck, I even work for them, technically. And for the duration of that two-decade relationship, despite the company’s excruciatingly lackluster customer service, my fealty to Big Red never wavered — even as my bill monthly slowly bloated. It was a gradual increase, barely noticeable with the company’s auto-pay feature. In fact, it wasn’t until I recently renewed my two-year contract and found myself conscripted into Verizon’s EDGE program that things got out of hand.
Suddenly, I found myself paying just north of $130 a month for a single line and 6GB of data (even though I rarely use more than 3GB) on last year’s Nexus 6. Even with my 25-percent Verizon employee discount I was still shelling out $113 every billing cycle. That’s absurd. Even crazier, if I reduced my data allowance from 6GB to 4GB — you know, to save some cash — I would somehow end up spending $2.50 more each month. It was clearly time to show Verizon the door, but who was I to use instead?
After looking into the alternative services, I zeroed in on Google’s Project Fi. Its coverage is strong in San Francisco, Fi works on the same phone that I already have, and it’s far less pricey than Verizon. By my calculations, I’d only spend around $40 to $50 a month for Fi’s basic service and 2-3GB of data — saving me $60 to $70 monthly. Also, my colleague Nicole swears by it and she’s way more competent at this sort of thing than I am.
Unfortunately, Verizon is not about to let me switch that easily; I would have to pay off the $432.64 balance of my Nexus 6 first (because that’s how the EDGE program works) if I wanted to take it with me, plus zero out my remaining service bill before leaving. Here’s how the math broke down:
Verizon says I owe $545.64 in total ($113 for the December billing cycle plus $432.64 for the phone balance) if I want to keep my Nexus 6. My initial thought was to simply pay that amount and wash my hands of Verizon in one fell swoop. Bad call. Why would I spend $432 to buy out a phone that is already a year old when I can get the new Nexus 6P for the same price? Seriously, Google just trimmed $50 off the 6P as part of a holiday promotion, bringing the price of the 32GB model that I was eyeing down to $450.
That means if I give Verizon back the Nexus 6 and buy a Nexus 6P from Google, I’m basically getting a model upgrade for $18. I’d still have to shell out a couple hundred bucks for the handset but at least it’s for a new phone.
Wait, no I wouldn’t. Because I’m a proper, financially responsible adult, Google will let me to pay for the phone in 24 monthly installments. It’s just like Verizon’s EDGE program but, you know, less expensive and for a superior product. Whereas I was paying $27 a month for the Nexus 6, I’d only have to give Google $18 for the 6P. Best of all, I don’t have to put any money down which means I won’t have to raid my savings account or give Verizon any more cash than I absolutely have to.
So, in the end, I figure I’ll have to shell out just $154 initially ($113 to Verizon for December and around $40 to Google for the taxes on the 6P purchase) and, at most, $60 a month for service, data and paying off the handset itself. That’s still half (half) what I’ve been paying Big Red. I just wish I’d thought to do it sooner.
Thimble wants to ship you tinkering kits every month
A Kickstarter project aims to be the perfect solution for the DIY crowd. Thimble, which has already beat its pledged goal of $25,000, says it wants to deliver different electronic kits to tinkerers every month, with the first of the series being a WiFi robot. Those of you who are interested can use these do-it-yourself care packages to learn to code, build and hack, helped by guided tutorials and a community Thimble hopes to grow over time.
Thimble’s currently offering up to 12-month subscriptions for backers, or there’s also an option to pledge $59 for the lootcrate that includes the parts to build the aforementioned WiFi robot. If you’re into it, you may want to get in on it as soon as possible, as most of the Early Bird Specials seem to be flying off the shelves.
Source: Thimble (Kickstarter)
Lawsuit demands the right to resell Steam games
One of the biggest gripes about downloadable games (unless you’re a developer) is that you can’t typically resell them — that title is yours forever, even if you’ll never play it again. French consumer group UFC-Que Choisir is doing something about it, though. It’s suing Valve to demand resales for Steam games. Its policy violates the European Union’s right to resell legally purchased software, according to the group. As proof, it points to a 2012 Oracle case where a judge ruled that there was no difference between reselling disc-based copies and their downloaded equivalents.
The outfit also blasts Valve’s self-given right to reuse user-made Steam content, and argues that it should refund any leftover credit if you close your Steam account.
Whether or not Que Choisir wins the day is far from clear. A German group didn’t have any success trying a similar feat. And even if the French lawsuit leads to an EU-wide resale policy, you shouldn’t expect it to spread to the US. Downloads are typically considered licenses in the country, not sales, and wouldn’t be subject to the same scrutiny. Even so, this is a step forward for anyone hoping to thin down a massive Steam library… and make some spare cash in the process.
Via: Ars Technica
Source: UFC-Que Choisir (translated)
Cortana for Android update removes “Hey Cortana” feature
Microsoft yesterday updated Cortana for Android, removing the “Hey Cortana” feature from the version available in the US market. This comes just a few days after bringing Cortana for Android out of beta and officially launching the full product.
The Redmond-based company hasn’t released an official statement yet, but initial reports indicate that the “Hey Cortana” feature was having conflicts with the device’s microphone.
There was already hints that the “Hey Cortana” feature wouldn’t work properly on Android, which is largely because of developer restrictions.
Microsoft is partnering with Cyanogen to offer Cortana for Android in its fullest form on Cyanogen-powered smartphones, which is as close as Android will get to seeing this function, for now.
This update to Cortana for Android also brings some stability enhancements as well as improved call and text features.
Cortana for Android is available to download for free from the Play Store.
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Pinball Labs wants to bring classic gaming tables to VR
Pinball Labs is a Kickstarter project that marries old school cool with cutting edge tech. The project is attempting to release a true-to-physics pinball simulator for PC, a variety of virtual reality platforms such as Oculus Rift and HTC Vive, and multi-screen virtual cabinets.
The project is banking on support from the already vibrant communities associated with keeping the pinball flame alight in the modern world. Virtual pinball enthusiasts have designed and shared simulated pinball games to play on computers, and homebrew pinball fans are using tech like 3D printing and laser cutting to build their own custom pinball machines. Pinball Labs hopes to win over both audiences by letting users have an unprecedented level of immersion with VR as well as giving them the tools to design and share their own virtual tables with ease.
See also: 7 best Google Cardboard VR apps and games
Pinball Labs is being built with the Unreal Engine 4 and hopes to be complete by July 2016. The Kickstarter has reached $5,000 of its $18,500 goal. Supporters pledging $20 or more (in limited amounts per donation tier) will receive a digital download of the final game.
With VR technology looming over the commercial market, it’s looking like more immersive gaming is going to be the Next Big Thing. However, Oculus Rift and other VR platforms still have a relatively small library of games available. 2016 looks like it may be a turning point for VR gaming, so it’s no surprise that software developers are looking to get into the action.
What are your thoughts of Pinball Labs? Does it excite the pinball wizard inside you or just evoke a shrug? Let us know in the comments below!
Marshmallow hits NVIDIA Shield Tablet K1
Shield Tablet K1 owners rejoice! Marshmallow is finally available on your favorite NVIDIA tablet. NVIDIA had promised that Android 6.0 Marshmallow would be arriving on the device before New Year’s, and today they’ve made good on that promise.
At its core, Marshmallow is more an array of tweaks and improvements on Lollipop than it is an overhaul. Marshmallow’s UI streamlines a lot of Android’s basic functions, and the update offers a set of features that are designed to improve battery life on devices across the board: good news for Shield Tablet K1 power users.
See also: NVIDIA Shield Tablet Review (Update: back in stock as Tablet K1)
However, the thing that has most users excited about Marshmallow is Google’s Now on Tap function. Now on Tap expands on Google Now, an Android feature that brought a whole new deck of cards to the table back in KitKat. The location and context-sensitive launcher provides users with information and shortcuts before they even ask for it.
Google Now on Tap makes this functionality even more relevant by finding content and anticipating your needs based on which app and what information is currently on the screen. For instance, if you’re reading an article about Kevin Bacon, launching Google Now on Tap might show you some more information about Kevin Bacon.
If you’re ready to update to Marshmallow on your NVIDIA Shield Tablet K1, head over to Settings > About > Check for Updates. Once you’re updated, be sure to come back around to gloat about your new Marshmallowy operating system.
Are you a Shield Tablet K1 owner? Are you the owner of a different tablet, and you’re still stuck waiting around for Android 6.0 Marshmallow? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
Customizing your icons is easier than ever with the latest Action Launcher 3 update
Action Launcher 3 has been one of our favorite third-party launchers on Android for some time now, and today it’s getting even better. In the latest update that’s rolling out as we speak, developer Chris Lacy has added a few new features that will make customizing your smartphone a breeze.
The headline feature here is called Quickedit, which is a much simpler way to edit shortcuts. On your home screen, simply long press on the icon of your choosing, release, and a little menu will show up with suggestions for icon alternatives based on the icon packs you currently have installed on your device. If you don’t have any icon packs installed, you can quickly jump to Google Photos, Dropbox and more to create your own icons, or quickly jump to the Play Store for more information on that particular app.
Also in this update is a feature called Smartsize (currently in beta). Smartsize will automatically resize your icons to fit the Material Design icon grid. Trust me, your home screen will look a lot better after this feature has been turned on. Take a look:
There’s also a handy new addition that will correctly display the current day of the month for the Google Calendar icon. Pretty cool, right? That’s not all. There are a ton of additional fixes and features in this update, all of which you can check out in Chris Lacy’s Google+ post. For a full rundown of all the new features in this big update, you’ll want to watch the promotional video for this update:
The update is now live in Google Play, so hit the Play Store link below to grab the latest version. How are you liking the new Quickedit and Smartsize features? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!
App Store Holiday Sales: Final Fantasy VII, Lara Croft GO, Notability and More
Ahead of Apple’s annual iTunes Connect winter shutdown starting tomorrow, a number of developers have discounted their paid apps and games on the App Store for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch this week.
The holiday savings should be locked in place until Apple resumes accepting app submissions and updates on December 29. Apps on sale include Final Fantasy VII, Lara Croft GO, Scanner Pro, This War of Mine and more.
Apps on Sale
– Alto’s Adventure ($2.99 → 99¢)
– Bastion ($4.99 → 99¢)
– Blek ($2.99 → 99¢)
– Civilization Revolution 2 ($9.99 → $4.99)
– Day One ($4.99 → 99¢)
– Don’t Starve: Pocket Edition ($4.99 → $2.99)
– DuckTales: Remastered ($9.99 → 99¢)
– FlightTrack 5 ($4.99 → 99¢)
– Leo’s Fortune ($4.99 → 99¢)
– NBA 2K16 ($7.99 → $3.99)
– Notability ($5.99 → 99¢)
– Fantastical 2 ($4.99 → $2.99)
– FINAL FANTASY VI ($15.99 → $7.99)
– FINAL FANTASY VII ($15.99 → $10.99)
– Grim Fandango Remastered ($4.99 → $2.99)
– Heroes of Might & Magic III ($9.99 → $4.99)
– Hitman GO ($4.99 → 99¢)
– I Am Bread ($4.99 → 99¢)
– Infinity Blade III ($6.99 → 99¢)
– Lara Croft GO ($4.99 → $1.99)
– Oceanhorn ($8.99 → $4.99)
– Procreate Pocket ($2.99 → 99¢)
– Rogue Star ($4.99 → 99¢)
– Scanner Pro ($2.99 → 99¢)
– Ski Safari 2 ($1.99 → 99¢)
– Splendor ($6.99 → 99¢)
– Tetrobot and Co. ($2.99 → 99¢)
– Tiny Guardians ($3.99 → 99¢)
– This War of Mine ($14.99 → $4.99)
– Thomas Was Alone ($4.99 → 99¢)
– Transistor ($9.99 → $2.99)
– Trick Shot ($1.99 → 99¢)
– Wizards and Wagons ($4.99 → $1.99)
– XCOM: Enemy Within ($9.99 → $4.99)
There are dozens of other iOS apps discounted for the holidays beyond those listed above. Keep track on our sister website AppShopper.
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ZTE Axon Max goes official in China
The ZTE Axon Max is a new 6-inch phone that’s headed to China. The device was unveiled this past week and will make its way to China Telecom sooner rather than later.
The ZTE Axon Max features a 6-inch display with a full-HD resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels. Powering the device is a Qualcomm Snapdragon 617 processor backed with 3GB of RAM. As for the device’s cameras, this one includes a 16MP snapper on the rear side and a 13MP shooter on the front for taking selfies and video chats. 32GB of internal storage is onboard as well as a beefy 4,140mAh battery sealed at the back. Other key specs include LTE connectivity, a rear-mounted fingerprint scanner, Quick Charge 2.0, and dual SIM support. The device’s design is another standout feature which looks to be all metal.
The ZTE Axon Max will run Android 5.1 Lollipop straight out of the box, with Marshmallow possible for the future via a software update. However, ZTE has made no promises. The device will be available to purchase in China for 2,999 CNY or approximately $460 USD off contract. For all the remaining details and specifics, check out the official press release included down below.
ZTE Launches 6-Inch AXON MAX and Global VIP Passport Service for Chinese Users
BEIJING–(BUSINESS WIRE)–ZTE Mobile Devices today announced the launch of the newest and final model of its high-powered AXON flagship series, the AXON MAX. At the same time, the company has announced its special “Global VIP Passport” service catering to owners of its AXON phones. ZTE is now offering this high-end after-sales service to pair with its high-end phone series based on the continued focus on user insight that has driven the AXON line since inception.
The AXON MAX is designed for those who not only work hard, but play hard too. Its 6-inch, 2.5D Super AMOLED FHD screen and ultra-slim bezels deliver maximum value for visual entertainment. Users can also enjoy a top-of-the-line Hi-Fi audio playback and recording experience pumped out by an independent flagship audio chipset. Equipped with astoundingly powerful cameras—16 megapixels on the rear and 13 megapixels on the front—the AXON MAX is ready to capture any moment. The ultra large 4140mAh battery should power an entire day’s worth of business, fun, and more. For the cautious, the phone has five energy-saving modes, extending battery life up to 50%. It also supports Quick Charge 2.0, allowing rapid replenish from 0 to 60% in 30 minutes of charge time. For a mix of work or pleasure, the AXON MAX is a premium phablet for seizing the most of what the day has to offer. It is competitively priced at 2,799RMB.
ZTE’s new “Global VIP Passport” service includes a number of high-powered service items aimed at high-powered, globe-trotting AXON users embarking from China. Emergency assistance enjoyed by Global VIP Passport members include:
1. 24-hour online Chinese-language emergency consultation for 8 popular travel destinations initially
2. A secure repair service guaranteeing secure back-up and restoration of files, even if the phone cannot turn on
3. A business travel service offering customers preferential ZTE rates on flights worldwide
4. A subsidy on the purchase of a new ZTE phone should there be a problem with the original while traveling to any country
- For customers whose phones experience problems while traveling to the U.S., they are also provided a temporary back-up service
5. 1 RMB insurance covering damaged screens (50 days) and mobile bank accounts (3 months, insuring up to 50,000 RMB)
Adam Zeng, CEO of ZTE Mobile Devices, commented that “Our flagship series is the core of ZTE’s strategy. The AXON MAX may be the final building block of this bold line of devices, but it is really just the next step in what we believe will be a far-reaching dynasty of premium products with vision for what tomorrow’s users need.”
ZTE has put users at the heart of everything in order to develop the high-end and affordable premium products they truly need. The AXON flagship series is the direct result of this user-centric approach. Designed based on the expertise of partners and customer feedback, AXON leverages ZTE’s powerful technology to provide a more intuitive user experience. The high-end line of products represents the company’s vision of the future of mobile and its focus on core technologies aimed at more a more convenient user experience. The bodies of all of AXON models are made from Boeing 787 aircraft-grade aluminum-titanium alloy, and they feature Hi-Fi audio, stunning screens, powerful cameras with impressive focus time, and expandable memory. The devices can be unlocked with three different biometric authentication options – fingerprint, voice control, and eye-scan.
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Marshmallow update makes its way to the SHIELD Tablet K1
An update has been pushed out to owners of the SHIELD Tablet K1. This software update brings Google’s latest in Marshmallow to your NVIDIA device.
Marshmallow will bring a slew of improvements to the operating system on the SHIELD Tablet K1. Starting with the device’s camera, which will get a design refresh and new options such as real-time HD image effects and an improved burst photo functionality. Owners of the tablet will also get Google’s famous Now On Tap feature, which seems to be a favorite among the majority. The update also brings simplified app permissions, better power consumption and some system wide improvements such as optimized preloaded apps and a memory usage monitor.
Adoptable storage has also been made easier with the latest update. MicroSD cards can be integrated with the device’s main internal storage, and can be easily managed by the system. A few interface tools have also been added allowing owners to better fit their device to their personal needs.
Notably, the Marshmallow update changes how storage expansion operates. The portable way keeps previously stored external data and the internal way will wipe current user data. Please be sure to check with NVIDIA on the details as well as back up your information prior to beginning the update process.
Source: NVIDIA
Come comment on this article: Marshmallow update makes its way to the SHIELD Tablet K1
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