Facebook finally lets Android users upload high-resolution photos – CNET

Your Facebook photos are about to look a whole lot crisper. Facebook is rolling out an update that finally lets Android users upload high-resolution photos to Facebook.

The effects of compression aren’t really noticable in the Newsfeed area where images are small, but once a photo is expanded, the low-quality compression becomes obvious.

With a recent server-side switch, Facebook has added an option for uploading photos in HD from Android, which matches their efforts on the Web and iOS. No app update is required to get the new option, but you’ll need to wait until Facebook makes it available on your account.

Enlarge Image

Screenshots by Nicole Cozma/CNET

How to enable HD photo uploads

To check if you can upload photos in HD, head to the Facebook app menu (three lines) > App Settings. There will be a new toggle titled “Upload HD photos.”

For Facebook, uploading in HD still doesn’t mean original quality, but it does allow images to be a maximum of 2048 pixels wide. If you’re not connected to WiFi when uploading, it’s also worth noting that you’ll use more data to upload these larger photos to Facebook.

B&H lists the CAM Plus ‘Friend’ for the LG G5 at $69

Pricing was never officially revealed for the Friend modules for the LG G5, but now a new listing at B&H suggests that the CAM Plus will be priced at $69. When they were first announced, LG didn’t reveal how much they would cost, and then a Korean press release suggested that the pricing may have been closer to the $90 mark.

The CAM Plus module acts similar to a camera grip, as it adds physical camera buttons, a zoom wheel and a bit of additional battery to the phone. As noted on the listing, it features:

• Camera Grip and Controls
• Power, Shutter, Record, Zoom Buttons
• LED Indicator
• Autofocus
• Exposure Lock
• 1200mAh Additional Battery

If the LG G5 is going to be your next phone, you may want to pre-order one of these now to have it when the phone is officially available.

See at B&H Photo

LG G5

• LG G5 hands-on
• LG G5 complete specs
• LG G5 CAM Plus module
• LG G5 B&O Hi-Fi audio module
• The G5 has an always-on display
• LG G5 keeps the SD card, shuns adoptable storage
• Join the LG G5 discussion

Where to buy the LG G5 in the United States

The LG G5 unofficially goes on sale in the U.S. on April 1. (That’s the informal date everyone’s working off of, anyway.) You’re already able to preorder it at some retailers and carriers, and others will announce their intentions in the days ahead.

We’ll update this list of where you can purchase the LG G5 as the carriers update their sites.

Buy the LG G5 on AT&T

AT&T’s got it’s usual bevy of options when it comes to purchasing the LG G5. And currently it’s the only place we have proper pricing. You can buy it outright, off contract, which will cost you the most. Or you can pay for it monthly as a part of your total bill. Here’s how it all breaks down:

• Off-contract: $688 before taxes.
• $23 a month on Next 24 for 30 months
• $29 a month on Next 18 for 24 months
• $34 a month on Next 12 for 20 months
• $17 a month for 28 months, and $200 down

That’s all in addition to services and fees and taxes and what not.

See at AT&T

Buy the LG G5 unlocked at B&H

B&H Photo is a longtime retailer in New York City. It’ll be selling the LG G5 unlocked, in silver only. It’ll have radio bands for GSM and CDMA carriers, B&H says, as well as 4G LTE.

In addition, B&H already has the CAM Plus module — it’s an attachment that adds some physical buttons for photography, as well as an extended battery — listed at $69.

See at B&H

Still to come …

We’re still waiting on the other U.S. carriers to announce pricing and specific availability for the LG G5. Each has information pages, however, and Verizon is said to be opening preorders on March 24. (At least according to Best Buy.) You can learn more here:

• Verizon Wireless
• T-Mobile
• Sprint

LG G5 at Best Buy

Finally, Best Buy has the LG G5 listed at $99, if you sign up for a 2-year contract with a carrier. (Specifically, that’s Sprint or AT&T.) Best Buy also is throwing in a free replacement battery, charging cradle and USB-C to micro-USB adapter.

Best Buy also is listing the LG G5 at $799 outright, but seeing as how that price is a good bit more than what AT&T is selling the G5 for off-contract, it’s possible it’s just a placeholder. In any event, that’s not an avenue we’d really recommend at this point.

See at Best Buy

LG G5

• LG G5 hands-on
• LG G5 complete specs
• LG G5 CAM Plus module
• LG G5 B&O Hi-Fi audio module
• The G5 has an always-on display
• LG G5 keeps the SD card, shuns adoptable storage
• Join the LG G5 discussion

Samsung Galaxy Note Edge on Verizon updated with March security patch

Verizon has started pushing an update with the latest Android platform security patches to the Samsung Galaxy Note Edge. Once the update is installed, Galaxy Note Edge users should find themselves current with the March security patch and on software version LRX22C.N915VVRU2BPA4.

As the update has just begun rolling out, it may not show as available for everyone right away. If you haven’t yet received a notification to update your Verizon Galaxy Note Edge, you can go ahead and manually check for the update via the Settings menu.

Discuss the update in the forums

These are the top Samsung phones you need to know

In the world of smartphones, it’s impossible to ignore the influence of Samsung. Since its explosion into Android with the launch of the Galaxy S2 globally, Samsung has firmly held on to the top spot in Android devices sold — and though the playing field has leveled off some in recent years the Korean manufacturer still has one of the most recognizable lines of phones out there today.

The “Galaxy” name gets spread around to its entire lineup of Android phones, but when it really comes down to it there are just a handful of Samsung’s high-end devices that you need to know about. Let us introduce you to the top phones from Samsung.

Article updated March 2016

Samsung Galaxy S7

Released March 2016 If you weren’t yet convinced that Samsung makes some of the best phones money can buy, the Galaxy S7 should help that. Part of a one-two punch from Samsung for early 2016, the Galaxy S7 shares a lot with its larger, edgier sibling, but in a smaller form factor.

It’s an iterative design for the new model, with much that was so good about the Galaxy S6 making a comeback. It’s a harmony of glass and metal, with this year’s phone getting a slight curve on its rear panel to make it just a little less slab-like.

Samsung also heard its customers. The microSD card slot is back for 2016 and the Galaxy S7 is a little thicker than last year’s phone to accommodate a larger battery. There’s also a lot of business as usual for Samsung. Great screen, great camera, and while the software still may not suit all tastes, it’s better than it’s ever been.

• Read more on the Samsung Galaxy S7
• Discuss the Galaxy S7 in our forums

See at Amazon See at Verizon See at Sprint See at T-Mobile See at AT&T

Samsung Galaxy S7 edge

Released March 2016 The second part of the two-pronged Galaxy assault on the early 2016 smartphone market is the Galaxy S7 edge. Once again, the edge moniker refers to Samsung’s dual-curved display, rolling off on both sides of the front of the phone. They’re now met with gentle curves on the rear glass, too, making for an all around much more pleasant experience in the hand.

Most of the hardware is the same as the smaller, ‘regular’ Galaxy S7, with a larger battery inside and of course, the display. But to say this is a 5.5-inch phone, Samsung did a phenomenal job with making it feel smaller than it actually is. It costs more, too, which is to be expected.

What Samsung did with this year’s edge phone that impresses the most is by actually adding more useful software features to those curved parts of the display. Now you can customize a whole bunch of things to display when you swipe in from the edge of the display. You can see such treats as app shortcuts, news, sports scores, even a compass if you wish, and much more.

• Read more on the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge
• Discuss the Galaxy S7 in our forums

See at Amazon See at Verizon See at Sprint See at T-Mobile See at AT&T

Samsung Galaxy Note 5

Released August 2015 Samsung’s fall refresh typically follows the design language of the year’s Galaxy S smartphone, and the same rings true with the Note 5. You basically can think of this is a 5.7-inch GS6 edge+, with, only flipped upside so the back is curved instead of the front, and with an improved S Pen thrown in for good measure. The camera again looks to be excellent, and the software has been further updated for pen input.

Missing this time around, however, are the removable battery and expandable storage — again, just like the rest of 2015’s Samsung phones. That’ll be a deal-breaker for some folks, for sure.

• Read more on the Samsung Galaxy Note 5
• Discuss the Galaxy Note 5 in our forums

See at Amazon See at Verizon See at Sprint See at T-Mobile See at AT&T

Samsung Galaxy S6

Released April 2015 The Galaxy S6 was Samsung’s flagship device for 2015, following up in numeric succession to previous Galaxy S devices that are updated at a yearly pace. And it’s fair to say that the GS6 has had a pretty major reboot. It’s traded plastic for glass on both the front and the back. The software has been even more refined (and, yes, gained a few Microsoft apps along the way).

Instead of the standard removable battery and microSD card of previous Galaxy S devices, the GS6 has a slightly smaller internal battery (2550mAh) and non-expandable storage. That’s going to be a big deal for a lot of folks, but wireless charging and quick charging help alleviate the battery woes and a standard 32GB of internal storage could make you forget about SD cards.

• Read more on the Samsung Galaxy S6
• Discuss the Galaxy S6 in our forums

See at Amazon See at Verizon See at Sprint See at T-Mobile See at AT&T

Samsung Galaxy S6 edge

Released April 2015 Cousin to the Galaxy S6 is the “edge” model. (And, yes, it’s lowercase, according to Samsung.) This takes what started with the Galaxy Note 4 Edge and and simultaneously goes a bit further while stepping back a bit. The display curves on both the left and right edges, making the sides of the phone extremely thin. And you know what? It works.

That also lets Samsung do some interesting visual things. You get a cool desk clock mode when the phone is just sitting around. And new notification alerts if you leave the phone face-down. Plus you can park your favorite contacts in an easy pull-out feature on the edge of the phone. You’re going want to try this. Especially in the deep green and teal colors.

Other than the edge screens and the physical differences they bring about, you’re looking at the same phone as the GS6. You’ll pay an extra $100 over the standard GS6, so we’d always recommend checking them out side-by-side in person before you choose.

• Read more on the Samsung Galaxy S6 edge
• Discuss the Galaxy S6 edge in our forums

Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+

Released August 2015 Love the Galaxy S6 edge but wish it were just … bigger? Then this is the phone for you. It’s the GS6 edge in every way, just bigger, with about 7 percent more battery capacity.

• Read more on the Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+
• Discuss the Galaxy S6 edge+ in our forums

Samsung Galaxy A7 2016

Released February 2016 Think of the Galaxy A7 2016 as the Galaxy S6 Lite. Featuring a metal frame and a glass back, the Galaxy A7 is similar in design to Samsung’s flagship offerings, with the key difference being toned-down specs, making the phone accessible to a wider audience. The Galaxy A7 offers a Full HD Super AMOLED display, and is paired with an Exynos 7580 SoC and 3GB of RAM, which ensure that things are running smoothly under load. Pair all that with a 3300mAh battery and you have a phone that lasts a day and a half on a full charge.

You also get 32GB of internal storage, and unlike Samsung’s recent flagships, the Galaxy A7 comes with a microSD slot. There’s LTE connectivity as well, along with Dual-SIM functionality, a key feature considering the phone’s target markets. The Galaxy A7 is not going to make its debut in Western countries anytime soon, but Samsung is aggressively marketing the device in Asia, where it’s available for the equivalent of $450 unlocked.

• Read more on the Samsung Galaxy A7 2016

See at Samsung India

Giveaway: Win a Makerbot Replicator 3D printer

The rise of 3D printing in recent years has given flight to an industry where the only limitations are our own imaginations.

The technology of 3D printers like the Makerbot Replicator Mini can create toys and gadgets before our very eyes, like some sci-fi childhood dream. Manufacturers are producing 3D printers of varying sizes and complexity, but most quality devices are just too costly for hobbyists to own.

If you’ve wanted to dip your toe into the field but without handing over a lot of cash for your own 3D printer, the latest giveaway on Pocket-lint Deals has your name all over it, with the prize of a Makerbot Replicator Mini up for grabs.

If you can dream it, you can make it. Capable of producing an image up to 4.9 inches in height with a layer resolution of 200 microns, the Replicator Mini can create any small object you desire out of extruded PLA filament, in a few hours.

Printable items can be designed by the user themselves in 3D modeling software, as well as bought from the Makerbot Digital Store or acquired from other online repositories, with the 3D file able to be sent over Wi-Fi or USB. There is even an onboard camera that you can use to monitor the progress of your prints via the companion app.

Winning is simple – Pocket-lint readers can just head to the contest page and fill out the online entry form with a valid email address, and you’re automatically entered. Share the giveaway on Twitter, and once you get some friends to enter, you’ll receive additional entries to win.

One registration per person please!

Learn programming with the Ultimate Python Coding Bundle

Many of your favorite websites are driven by Python, a widely-used general purpose programming language found everywhere on the web.

If the field of programming interests you as a career or just a hobby, the Ultimate Python Coding Bundle is the complete package to prepare you for success. Seven courses on Git, D3.js, Flask & more are available for a limited time to Pocket-lint readers at a full 88 per cent off.

Your instruction begins with the most basic fundamentals, then moves progressively into intermediate and advanced concepts to prepare you for complete success. You’ll conquer essential Python concepts that are extremely relevant in any tech career, regardless of your ambition. Learn to set up your development environment as you gain an understanding as to why engineers at startups like Dropbox rely on Python.

You’ll master use of the D3.js library in conjunction with responsive design principles and technologies, such as Bootstrap and Pym.js, and build your skills as you construct a responsive website to test your newfound knowledge.

From there, you’ll sharpen your development skills with Git, a distributed version control system which allows you to batch track the history of your file edits, and to identify when and where your code has changed.

Get the Ultimate Python Coding Bundle on Pocket-lint Deals for £33.86 ($49).

Vizio’s new TV and speaker lineup come with Google Cast and an Android tablet

Vizio is known in the US for making affordable televisions, and it’s just launched a new series that not only continues legacy but also packs all the latest tech inside, including built-in support for Google’s Chromecast.

The new 2016 P Series starts at $1,000, and they aren’t just 4K TVs but rather HDR 4K TVs that can display bright highlights, inky blacks, and life-like imagery with plenty of detail to make even the dimmest scene standout. They also support both Dolby Vision and HDR10, so you won’t have to worry about whether it’ll handle one format over the other, and each set comes with a 6-inch Android tablet that wirelessly charges via a stand.

This tablet doubles as a remote, but you also get a standard remote for those who prefer physical buttons. You’ll likely want to use the Wi-Fi-enabled tablet however, as it powers the smarts behind the TV and its streaming features, which notably includes Chromecast. Just install any Chromecast-compatible app onto the slate, and then cast its contents to your P Series screen.

READ: Google Chromecast tips and tricks

This P Series ditched Vizio’s smart ecosystem of menus and apps and smarts in favour of sole support of Chromecast and the full-fledged Android tablet remote. Keep in mind the tablet isn’t required for streaming video to the TV. You can cast from any Chromecast-compatible app on your Android or iOS device. There’s also the Vizio SmartCast app, which is preinstalled on the tablet.

It’s a standalone app for Android and iOS that’ll let you search for content across several streaming services while also serving up access to your television’s settings. The app will even group soundbars and other home-audio equipment. Alongside this functionality, Vizio revealed that it’s working on a few wireless speakers and a wireless home theater system that’ll work with Chromecast-enabled apps.

You’ll be able to cast music to the speakers and manage the speakers themselves via the SmartCast app. Vizio hasn’t revealed too many details about the speakers yet, but they are coming and we should know more by summer. Going back to the P Series for a moment, Vizio said each set features an eight-core processor, 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth LE, five HDMI ports, a component-in array, a USB 3.0 port, and a USB 2.0 port.

READ: What is Google Cast for audio?

As for pricing, the $1,000 50-inch model packs a 120Hz refresh rate, while the $1,300 55-inch model offers 240Hz. There’s also 65-inch and 75-inch versions of that set for $2,000 and $3,700, respectively.

Also, Google is making a small change to complement Vizio’s lineup: it’s renaming the Chromecast app. The app will now be called Google Cast.

READ: Google Chromecast 2 review

‘Minecraft: Story Mode’ gets three extra episodes in 2016

The first four episodes of Minecraft: Story Mode came out in quick succession, giving players a tightly crafted tale before Christmas. But with one episode remaining, developer Telltale suddenly went quiet about when its adventure would be wrapping up. Today, we have a date — and it’s not quite what we were expecting. Episode five will launch on March 29th, followed by a further three episodes later this year. These are being described as “additional escapades” and won’t form part of the season pass, so you’ll need to pay a little extra if you want the complete story.

“We’re not going into detail about the content of those yet, but we can confirm that they’ll be great, and maybe come with a slightly different flavour to the previous season,” Mojang’s Owen Hill explained in a blog post. If you’re up to date with Minecraft: Story Mode, you’ll know why the team might be interested in developing further episodes — the world undergoes a significant shift at the end of episode four, setting up a whole new batch of adventures for Jesse and the Order of the Stone.

Source: Mojang (Blog Post)

Sony closes ‘Driveclub’ creator Evolution Studios

You likely saw this coming, but it’s still sad to say: Sony has confirmed that it’s closing Evolution Studios, the developer behind both the MotorStorm series and the troubled Driveclub. The tech giant isn’t saying exactly what prompted the closure (we’ve published its full statement below). However, it tells us that the shutdown followed reviews of “short and medium term” plans, and that it’s devoting attention to studios that will be in a “stronger position going forward.” In essence, it didn’t see Evolution’s work leading to a bona fide hit in the near future.

The move will unfortunately lead to job losses, although Sony is promising that it will try to place employees in other companies when it can. Evolution had already lost 55 people almost exactly one year earlier as it tried to refocus on Driveclub as a service.

The closure represents a classic instance of betting the farm on a single project and failing spectacularly. Both Evolution and Sony hyped Driveclub to the extreme, portraying the social racing game as if it was the next Gran Turismo. It was supposed to be a highlight of the PlayStation 4 launch lineup, in fact. Numerous delays pushed it out by nearly a year, however, and the initial release was a total mess. Its staple online features just didn’t work properly, and the core game was nothing to write home about even when things ran perfectly. Combine those problems with the massively delayed free PS Plus Edition and having to give away add-ons as a peace offering, and you can see why Sony wasn’t so enthusiastic — a studio that had promised the Moon only ended up delivering a few broken rocks.

“Regular reviews take place throughout SCE Worldwide Studios, ensuring that the resources that we have in such a competitive landscape can create and produce high quality, innovative and commercially viable projects.

As part of this process we have reviewed and assessed all current projects and plans for the short and medium term and have decided to make some changes to the European studios structure.

As a result, It has been decided that Evolution Studio will close.

It is regrettable that this decision will lead to compulsory redundancies. We accept that this decision will mean that we risk losing high calibre staff but by focusing on other Studios that already have exciting new projects in development we believe we will be in a stronger position going forward and able to offer the best possible content of the highest quality for our consumers

Where possible we will try to reallocate people onto other projects. If appropriate opportunities are not possible within the company, we will assist staff in any way we can, including speaking with local employers and with other development companies.

Evolution has been an important part of SCE Worldwide Studios for over 10 years – working on ground-breaking racing titles like WRC, Motorstorm and DRIVECLUB.

This decision should not take anything away from the great work that Evolution has produced.”

Source: Gamesindustry.biz