Samsung’s budget Galaxy J5 2016 and J7 2016 debut in India

Samsung has launched the Galaxy J5 2016 and the Galaxy J7 2016 in India. The Galaxy J5 is available in the country for ₹13,990, with the Galaxy J7 debuting at ₹15,990. Both come with Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow out of the box, offer 13MP cameras at the back and 5MP front shooters, and feature a metal frame around the sides. The phones will be up for sale starting later today on Flipkart.

The Galaxy J5 2016 offers a 5.2-inch 720p Super AMOLED display, 1.2GHz quad-core Snapdragon 410 SoC, 2GB of RAM, 16GB internal memory, microSD slot (up to 128GB), and a 3100mAh battery. The Galaxy J7 2016 comes with a larger 5.5-inch 720p display, and is powered by a 1.6GHz octa-core Exynos 7870 SoC with 3GB of RAM and 16GB storage along with a 3300mAh battery. The phones also come with LTE connectivity, and feature the S Bike Mode that debuted on the Galaxy J3.

Based on the specs, the Galaxy J7 sounds like a better bet as you get a larger screen and more RAM, as well as a larger battery for just ₹2,000 more. What do you guys think of the phones on offer?

Watch a parachute rescue a drone in free fall

Drone operators dread the thought of their vehicle losing power mid-flight, and not just because of the expensive crash that’s likely to follow — it’s that the drone might hit something or someone on its way down. ParaZero thinks it can set those pilots’ minds at ease, however. It recently unveiled a reusable parachute system, SafeAir, that slows drones when they’re in free fall. The concept isn’t completely novel, but it promises extremely quick reactions that could avoid accidents. As you’ll see in the clips below, the chute deploys within milliseconds and can rescue a craft even if it’s at very low altitudes. A lightweight drone (under 4.4 pounds) should be relatively safe even if it drops from 6.6 feet above the ground.

The technology isn’t perfect; a drone won’t fall any more slowly than 9.8 feet per second, so the odds are that it’ll still take damage. However, the parachute could mean the difference between a total loss and recovering camera footage, and could give bystanders more time to get out of the way. The main concerns are simply availability and cost. The first version in development isn’t meant for the 3D Robotics Solo, which isn’t as common, and it’s not clear how much you’ll have to pay when the system arrives. Right now, this is primarily for movie makers and adventurers whose robotic flyers are likely to run into trouble.

Via: The Verge

Source: ParaZero

India’s proposed mapping bill is an attempt to rein in Google

The Indian government is working on a new mapping bill that will have serious consequences for companies providing mapping services in the country. Dubbed the Geospatial Information Regulation Bill, the ruling aims to regulate mapping vendors like Google by forcing them to seek out a license from the newly-created Security Vetting Authority.

Here’s the crux of the bill:

Any person who wants to acquire, disseminate, publish or distribute any geospatial information of India, may make an application alongwith requisite fees to the Security Vetting Authority for security vetting of such geospatial information and licence thereof to acquire, disseminate, publish or distribute such Geospatial Information in any electronic or physical form.

The bill comes on the heels of the terrorist attack on Pathankot airbase earlier this year. Speaking to Economic Times, unnamed government officials said:

Pathankot air base, which was recently attacked, can be seen on Google Maps. Terrorists plot strikes on sensitive targets studying Google Maps. Our plea to black out sensitive installations do not yield results. This Bill is now sending a strong message that US companies cannot be running roughshod over Indian security interests.

We are not banning anyone from mapping India – only that the mapping has to be in line with Indian security considerations regarding sensitive installations and correct boundaries being depicted like not showing PoK and Arunachal Pradesh as out of India.

Under the new bill, the vetting authority will supply “security-vetted geospatial information” to all licensees, with any incorrect depiction by companies culminating to a fine of up to ₹100 crore ($15 million) and imprisonment for up to seven years.

As an alternative, BJP MP Tarun Vijay said that “patriotic Indians” should use the country’s own Bhuvan mapping solution:

Why do we need Google? We should stop becoming Google’s instruments. The patriotic government of Narendra Modi has taken a right step in a big relief to the security establishment. UPA did not take any action despite my pleas to the then Defence Minister AK Antony. I congratulate the Modi government for showing spine in face of arrogance of these IT giants. Google has been behaving as if it were above Indian law.

The reasoning behind the bill — to show “India’s true borders” and prevent listing of sensitive government installations — makes sense, but the government is failing to see the big picture. Even if the ruling were to go into effect in India, it would only prevent citizens in the country from accessing the data, as there would be no way for the government to enforce the bill outside the country’s borders. That doesn’t mean it’s not trying:

No person shall in any manner make use of, disseminate, publish or distribute any geospatial information of India, outside India, without prior permission from the Security Vetting Authority.

So, if Google Maps had to show India’s geospatial data outside the country, it would still need a license from the Security Vetting Authority. The bill also does not take into account the millions of apps that leverage geospatial information. Every time you check in to Facebook, send your location on WhatsApp, or call an Uber to your address, you’re acquiring geospatial data. There’s no mention as to how the government would enforce the ruling in these scenarios.

Thankfully, the bill is currently in a draft stage, and the government is seeking comments. If you’re an Indian resident, head to the link below to read more on the subject and share your thoughts.

See at SaveTheMap

Scientists hope to save near-extinct rhinos by transforming cells

The northern white rhinoceros is in far worse straits than most rhinos. There are just three members of the species left, and they can’t breed normally — if nothing happens, extinction is guaranteed. And that’s leading researchers to try a dramatic technological solution to keep the northern white rhino around. They’re planning to transform both frozen and living rhino cells into stem cells that could grow into eggs and sperm for the in vitro fertilization of a surrogate southern white rhino. This would not only resurrect the species, but create enough diversity that the new population should survive in the wild.

Of course, planning a revival and achieving it aren’t one and the same. The technique might require growing the cells alongside tissue from other animals, and there’s no guarantee that you’d get a healthy rhino on the other end. Also, zoos don’t always have the many millions of dollars needed to make this project happen. If everything comes together, though, it could prove that science has what it takes to bring a species back from the brink.

Via: Nature

Source: Wiley Online Library

Best armband cases for the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge

Take your phone with you wherever and however you work out.

If you’re a fitness freak who loves to have their music with them as they work out, or simply looking to take up jogging as the summer warms up, an armband case is a smart way to keep your phone comfortably secure as you move.

There’s a number of options out there that purport to support a number of different phone styles. We’ll touch on some of the best of that bunch, but first we’ll focus on the ones specifically designed for use with the Galaxy S7 or Galaxy S7 edge.

• SUPCASE Easy Fitting Sport Armband
• J&D Sport Armband
• MoKo Sports Armband
• Danforce Sports Armband
• Belkin Sport-Fit Plus

SUPCASE Easy Fitting Sport Armband

There’s something to like about an armband case that seems to really provide actual protection. This option from Supcase does just that, giving you a silicon case specifically designed for the Samsung Galaxy S7 (as well as an option for the S7 edge), so you’ll have easy access to the buttons and headphone jack The case is flexible and easy to put on and take off, but will keep its shape. It also allows you to use the fingerprint scanner, which most armbands render unusable with their screen protector.

The armband itself uses Velcro to be adjustable and able to accommodate biceps from 9 to 21 inches. The material is lightweight and breathable which is good for comfort, and also can be separated from the case portion for easy handwashing. It also features reflective markings so you’ll stay safe when running at night.

For Samsung Galaxy S7
See at Amazon

For Samsung Galaxy S7 edge
See at Amazon

J&D Sport Armband

This all-in-one armband case will keep your phone snug to your arm, while also adding convenient storage for other items you’ll probably want to have on you just in case. This includes a slot for a key on the outside, and another hidden pocket on the inside that’s wide enough to hold a credit card or some cash for emergency situations. The case protects your phone’s display with a touchable screen that allows you to still use your phone while it’s on your arm. It’s also available in four colors: black, blue, red, and white.

The band uses Velcro and is 18.5 inches from end to end, so it should fit comfortably for biceps 15 inches or smaller. It also includes a wire holder for wrapping your headphones when you’re done, because tangled earbuds are basically the worst thing ever. Speaking of headphones, the hole for the headphone jack is kind of awkwardly placed on the back, due to the stitching, so it’s not as convenient as it could have been. But for under $10, it’s a great deal for all the features included.

For Samsung Galaxy S7
See at Amazon

For Samsung Galaxy S7 edge
See at Amazon

MoKo Sports Armband

This is the first of several arm bands that will work with a whole bunch of different phones. It’s Amazon page includes sizing options for both the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge. This one is available in a bunch of bright colors, on top of the standard black, and features a reflective strip around the edge of the phone display.

It’s made with a sweat-resistant material for a comfortable feel that also keeps the moisture away from the open ports, and also features a handy pocket on the inside for storing your ID, credit card or cash. It also comes with a lifetime warranty.

See at Amazon

Danforce Sports Armband

This one is worth the mention due to its stylish appearance. As has been a recurring theme when looking at these armband cases, this one features a slim design with a secret pocket on the inside for storing your house key, ID, and credit card. It’s made from a polyvinyl chloride material and features a Lycra Velcro strip that they’re really proud of.

This one is also advertised to come with two e-books — one for nutrition tips and another with training programs for beginners. Might not be worth your time at all, but hey, it’s free.

Do note that while it works with the Samsung S7 as well as the S6, S6 edge and even that old Galaxy S5 you still may have kicking around, it won’t fit the Galaxy S7 edge. Bummer.

See at Amazon

Belkin Sport-Fit Plus

Belkin is one of the most trusted brands for tech accessories, so you know that they have their own sports armband for the Galaxy S7. Theirs lacks the secret pocket for storing and ID or credit card, but has a good build otherwise and is quite comfortable and lightweight.

They also have a couple other options on their website — the Sport-Fit and Slim-Fit models — but they’re not currently available for whatever reason. You can still check them out on their website if you think they might be a better fit for you. The prices are also way higher than the Amazon route, but as they say, you do typically get what you pay for.

See at Belkin

How ’bout you?

Any of these armband cases catch your eye? If you also need an everyday case for your phone, check out our guide to the best cases for the Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 edge. Did your favorite armband case not make it on our list? Drop us a line below in the comments!

Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 edge

• Galaxy S7 review
• Galaxy S7 edge review
• Here are all four Galaxy S7 colors
• Should you upgrade to the Galaxy S7?
• Learn about the Galaxy S7’s SD card slot
• Join our Galaxy S7 forums

AT&T
Sprint
T-Mobile
Verizon

Watch Mercury cross the Sun starting at 7AM Eastern

Mercury might orbit the Sun every 88 days, but seeing it cross in front of the Sun is much rarer. That only happens roughly 13 times each century, and the technology to safely watch this happen hasn’t been widely available until recently. However, you’re in for a treat this time around. Mercury is poised to transit across the Sun on May 9th starting at about 7:12AM Eastern, and numerous sites (including NASA and Slooh) are offering live footage of the crossing until it finishes at around 2:42PM. Given that you probably don’t have a telescope and the solar filter needed to protect your eyes, this is likely the best way to watch.

The passage should be useful for researchers. While astronomers already know a lot about Mercury, the Washington Post notes that the transit will help them study the planet’s extremely thin atmosphere and calibrate instruments on both Earth as well as spacecraft around the Solar System. In short, this cosmic alignment should result in a lot more than some pretty pictures.

Via: Washington Post, Space.com

Source: NASA, Slooh

AC editors’ apps of the week: Distiller, 5217, Tripit and more

It’s Appday Sunday and that means we’re back with more of our favorites to share. Every week we bring a handful of great apps to the table and share them with everyone. Sometimes they are new apps, sometimes old standards, but every time they are apps we love to use.

Give these a look and then take a minute to tell us all about the apps you are using and love so we can give them a try. We all find some of our favorites right in the comments on these posts!

Ara Wagoner — Tasker

It’s been a while since we’ve mentioned Tasker, I know. In fact for most of the last six months I haven’t even had it installed on my daily driver, but back in late March I decided I was tired of manually enacting silent mode during showtimes, and that I missed my favorite alarm in the world: Tasker + Google Play Music. Kinda like root, some of the things I use Tasker for are getting replaced by Android system functions (like Do Not Disturb, which I apparently seem to be the only Android nerd that likes it) or made unnecessary by system improvements (like Doze).

It’s fun playing with Tasker again, and I’ll get into some of the fun ways Tasker figures into theming and home screen customization soon. While IFTTT has gotten a lot more attention in recent months, Tasker still has a lot to offer. Like letting me automagically start my Disney playlist when my phone re-connects to the car stereo.

Download: Tasker($2.99)

Russell Holly — 5217

It’s super easy for me to sit down at my desk, throw on a pair of headphones, and write for hours. Unfortunately, that’s not particularly healthy. There’s a ton of research that suggests breaking up your work day with movement is good for personal health and productivity, but forcing myself to do it is often a challenge.

5217 does exactly this, and looks really nice in the process. You get 52 minutes of productivity, and then a notification tells you to take a break for 17 minutes. Repeat as necessary, and in theory your day will be better and more productive. As is often the case with these things, your mileage may vary.

Download: 5217 ($1.14)

Jen Karner — Waze

When it comes to getting where I need to go, I am forever using a navigation app to help me get there. While I love using Google Maps for the most part, I’ve had some issues with it when driving in the city. Namely Google Maps like to take me the most circuitous route to get me where I’m going. So I figured I’d give Waze a shot, and see if I had a better experience.

I did. Waze gets me around within the city limits in a much easier, and overall faster. It’s got some nifty features you won’t find on Google Maps, namely choosing who is giving you directions, which can be a lot of fun. If you’re looking for a navigation app that will help you get around the city, then Waze is definitely worth a download.

Download: Waze (Free)

Alex Dobie — Tripit

Although Google Calendar and Gmail do a decent job of tracking flights, hotel reservations and other travel-related essentials, there’s no substitute for a dedicated service, especially when planning a complex, multi-leg journey. Tripit is my journey planner of choice, and the Android app for the service is pretty full-featured, giving you one easy place to track your entire itinerary, any related info you might need (light delays or gate changes) and what’s going on with others in your network.

As for Tripit the service, it easily integrates with Gmail to pick up details of flights, train journeys, hotels, AirBNB reservations and other stuff as it arrives, which saves you manually setting things up. The basic service (and app) is free, and there’s a paid Tripit Pro option available for a $49 annual subscription. (Similarly, a payment of just a dollar gets you an ad-free experience in the Android app.)

Download: Tripit

Download: Tripit (paid, no ads)

Daniel Bader — Distiller

Once you enter the seemingly-endless world of scotch, bourbon, Irish, Canadian, American and Japanese whiskey varieties, it’s difficult to wrap your head around — and unkind to your wallet.

Distiller is an app that attempts to curate some of the best whiskeys from around the world, filtered by geography, taste profile and, most importantly, price. The company behind the app employs a number of full-time whiskey critics, offering a full flavor profile, tasting notes, and a rating out of 100. But perhaps more important is the ability to keep track of your own purchases, building a personal list of bottles and their unique traits.

Distiller divides your personal shelf into three tiers: Top Shelf, for the cream of the crop; Collection, for the everyday tipples; and Wishlist, for the bottles too expensive, or too rare, to acquire just yet.

If you’re into whiskey (or whisky!) and don’t know where to start building your collection, Distiller is a great first step.

Download: Distiller (free)

Andrew Martonik — Square Cash

I’m a huge proponent of Google Wallet when it comes to transferring money among friends and family, especially when it comes to being able to quickly attach money to a Gmail message. But unfortunately, it just hasn’t caught on with most of my friends in the way Square Cash has.

The idea behind Square Cash is simple … and basically the same as Google Wallet. Connect your debit card to the app, and you can then send and receive money instantly with anyone by using their email, phone number or $cashtag (basically a Square Cash username). Money you receive is available instantly for deposit to your bank, or you can keep it in Square Cash to quickly send back out to someone else in the future. You can also see a history of money transfers so you know where the money has gone.

The interface just couldn’t be simpler, and it’s pretty incredible how many people are using it on a regular basis to send money around. Whether you’re trying to pay someone back for dinner last night, giving someone money in advance for a favor or whatever, Square Cash is increasingly the way to go for the service.

Download: Square Cash (Free)

Jerry Hildenbrand — Toca Kitchen 2

A friend’s kids were playing this crazy looking game on their Samsung Tablet, so I had them show it to me for a few minutes. Toca Kitchen 2 is one of the best kids games I’ve seen. Invite goofy looking characters into your kitchen, make stuff for them to eat and watch the reaction. It’s funny, it’s fun and it was engaging to the 6 year old and 8 year old in the room. And the 40-something kid in the room. Kids have a lot of fun both pleasing the diners and cooking awful concoctions so they can watch a yeti freak out because you put too much hot sauce on his deep-fried broccoli. They explained to me that this was one of their favorite games because it was cool to cook food and fun to watch the people eat it.

There are no ads, there are no in-app purchases and the permissions don’t touch anything like contacts or messages — something very important for a kids app. If you have kids who like to play on Android, Install this one and give it a look. If it meets your approval (I don’t see any red flags, but they’re your kids and my discretion doesn’t count) let them see if they like it as much as these two (OK, three) rascals do.

Download: Toca Kitchen 2 (Free)

New 2016 Moto X and Droid leak reveals potential dock connector

We’ve already seen what a potential 2016 refresh of the Moto G and its reported Plus counterpart will look like, and thanks to a weekend leak from HelloMotoHK, we could now be looking at this year’s Moto X and Droid refreshes.

While a summer announcement is all but a sure thing, this is the first good look we’ve seen of the 2016 Moto X and its Verizon-only Droid counterpart, which are, year after year, increasingly losing their differentiating features. What we see here is a new rear camera module, with a Moto 360-like “flat tire” that houses the phone’s dual-LED flash. Around the side, separate buttons for the volume nubs and power can be distinguished, along with a front-facing fingerprint sensor that — well, it’s about time.

Perhaps the most interesting part of the render is on the opposite side of the camera bump: a series of 16 gold dots that, to our eyes, comprise a dock connector of sorts, similar to Apple’s Smart Connector that began shipping with the iPad Pro. Whether Lenovo, Motorola’s new parent company, has grand plans for a Continuum-like platform — a throwback of sorts for Motorola — remains to be seen, but it could spark the beginning of yet another set of accessories powered by a smartphone.

As with previous years, it appears Motorola will offer both the Moto X and Droid lineups with the choice of custom colors and designs, courtesy of its popular Moto Maker system. Being Canadian, I’m hoping the customization options move north this year, but either way, it’s looking probably Motorola will continue the proliferation of funky and unorthodox back cover materials such as wood, leather, silicon and denim.

We likely only have a few short weeks to wait for an official announcement, so stay tuned to Android Central for all the details.