HTC U: How ‘Edge Sense’ will work on HTC’s next flagship

The HTC U may have a seriously cool, unique feature, and this is how it will work.

HTC is still dealing with tepid reviews of its latest device, the U Ultra, but the company has more tricks up its sleeve in 2017. We’re expecting a proper flagship to debut sometime this month, likely called the HTC U, which is expected to possess one particularly noteworthy gimmick feature that will be interesting to see in person.

We’ve heard about the feature before, but according to Android Headlines, which received an internal document from HTC, the HTC U will sport side bezels that detect force: a short squeeze for one action and a long squeeze for another. The feature is called ‘Edge Sense’ and, used right, has the potential to be quite interesting — as long as app developers support it.

As you can see from a leaked on-device setup page, the idea is to program the device to be able to accept your “power of grip” so as to prevent misfires, since, well, you actually have to hold the phone on those same metal bezels. The concept isn’t entirely new, but it’s new to Android and to HTC, and done right has the potential to do some interesting things.

Other than Edge Sense, the HTC U looks like a pretty typical 2017 flagship at this point.

The leaked documents also talk about some camera features, including auto scene detection and the choice between super-accurate and super-3D audio recording. And the specs seem downright quotidian given what we’ve seen from the likes of the Galaxy S8 and LG G6 this year: a 5.5-inch 2560×1440 IPS display; a Snapdragon 835 platform, 4GB of RAM in most markets, with 6GB in China; 64GB internal storage in most markets except China which gets 128GB; a 12MP rear UltraPixel camera, a 3,000mAh battery with Quick Charge 3.0; Android 7.1 Nougat; and a front fingerprint sensor/home button combo.

It’s unclear why HTC is shying away from removing the capacitive home button, since it was one of the first companies to go all-in on virtual buttons with the HTC One M8, but as a result the HTC U will likely be a little chunkier than other flagships this year. We’ll have to wait a few weeks longer to find out, though.

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These are the Oculus Rift games launching in April

What Rift games are coming out in April?

The library of Oculus Rift games continues to grow each month, both on the Oculus store and on Steam. To help you decide what to save up for, or just to give you something to look forward to, here are the Rift games confirmed to be coming April 2017.

See the full list of April Oculus Rift games at VR Heads!

Samsung to launch huge flagship store in Toronto’s Eaton Centre mall

Samsung is launching a massive retail store in Toronto’s downtown.

Samsung is set to launch an enormous 21,000 square-foot retail space in one of the most-visited malls in Canada, Toronto’s Eaton Centre. The company has announced that the “innovative space” will look out onto Toronto’s Yonge-Dundas Square, the city’s equivalent (in importance, not size) to New York City’s Times Square, and span two storeys.

“Our new Samsung Experience Store at CF Toronto Eaton Centre is, simply, unlike anything we’ve ever launched before in Canada. From the moment our guests join us, they will experience the Samsung Galaxy Life connected ecosystem. The dynamic and innovative space will bring our guests closer to the Samsung brand and our latest innovation, enabling them to get closer to what they are passionate about and reach their full potential” said Patricia Heath, vice president of retail at Samsung Canada.

The store will have more than just Galaxy S8s and Galaxy Tab S3s on display, though: there will be a “Canadian-first, fully functioning Samsung demo kitchen,” along with a Gear VR and Gear 360 zone to test virtual reality and 360-degree photography and video, and a Samsung Smart Service area where people can get their devices repaired on-site and have their new ones set up with the help of so-called “Galaxy Consultants.”

The site will open this summer and will be four times the size of the equivalent Apple Store in the same mall.

Samsung

Samsung is a massive South Korea-based multinational company that makes some of the best-selling phones, tablets and mobile accessories, but also spans industries such as televisions, appliances and semiconductors (like memory and processors). Samsung is the largest Android device manufacturer worldwide.

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Best microSD Cards for Galaxy S8

What are the best microSD cards for the Galaxy S8?

Following in the footsteps of the Galaxy S7, the Galaxy S8 offers support for microSD cards so you can increase the storage of the phone. This time around, however, Samsung has increased the onboard storage from 32GB up to 64GB, so many people may find that more than enough. But if you’re worried about filling that 64GB up with music, video or pictures, you should grab a microSD card and put it all there so you can easily access it.

Here are some of the best options to put in your new Galaxy S8.

Lexar 32GB microSD

If the 64GB that Samsung gives you inside the Galaxy S8 isn’t enough for your daily needs, adding a bit more doesn’t have to cost a ton. Lexar’s high-performance card offers transfer speeds of up to 95MB/s and is capable of handling 4K video. To make syncing files to and from your computer easy, Lexar includes a USB 3.0 reader in the packaging.

Adding 32GB of storage to a 64GB phone may seem a bit weird, but if you aren’t looking to spend a lot this may be the way to go at under $20 for the card.

See at Amazon

SanDisk Ultra 128GB microSD

SanDisk is a well-known company when it comes to memory cards and storage products, and cards like this show you why. It comes with a 10-year warranty and has quick transfer speeds (up to 80MB/s), so it should check many of the boxes that you look for in a microSD card. The price is great as well at just over $40 most of the time.

See at Amazon

Samsung EVO 128GB microSD

This is not Samsung’s top-end offering but it comes with decent speeds and a price tag to match. With up to 48MB/s for read and write you can keep the card updated easily, and it can handle 1080p video without a problem. If you want a Samsung-branded card that doesn’t break the bank, this is the one to go with.

See at Amazon

PNY Elite 128GB microSD

If you’re not looking to spend a ton but don’t want a poor quality card, this is a great option. With read speeds of up to 85Mb/s this card is no slouch, and with a price of around $35 it is hard to beat for the price. For those thinking of grabbing a smaller capacity card, this is worth the couple of extra bucks to gain the additional space.

See at Amazon

SanDisk Ultra 200GB microSD

If you’re looking to add a ton of extra storage at a relatively low cost, SanDisk’s 200GB microSD card is the way to go. This card from SanDisk provides transfer speeds of up to 90MB/s and can record Full HD video. If you like to keep your digital library with you at all times, you’ll want one of these.

We’ve seen the price drop significantly over the past year, and most of the times you can find it for under $80.

See at Amazon

Samsung 256GB EVO+ microSD

Samsung’s own 256GB option is one of the best to go for if you are ready to just go all out on storage. With read speeds of up to 95MB/s and write speeds of up to 90MB/s you can quickly and easily transfer files to and from the phone. With the speed and storage capacity comes a larger price tag on this card, but if you want the biggest on the market this is the way to go.

See at Amazon

Your favorite?

Do you have a favorite microSD card that isn’t listed here? Be sure to drop a comment below and let us know which card it is, and why you like it!

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Nokia 9 to feature QHD OLED display, iris scanner and OZO Audio

Nokia Power User has obtained new information about the Nokia 9, HMD’s 2017 flagship, relating to various features and specs. We’re running with the name of Nokia 9 on this story, because that’s what the source claims.

• Nokia 8 flagship Android phone: Release date, rumours and specs

However, rumours and leaks up until now have largely pointed to a Nokia 8 name, following the Nokia 3, Nokia 5, Nokia 6 and possible Nokia 7. A contradictory rumour has also said the Nokia 8 would be a top-end mid-ranger instead, and that the Nokia 9 will in fact be HMD’s flagship.

Nokia Power User says the information is from a new source, but the claims it makes are certainly worth covering. It says the Nokia 9 may come with iris scanning technology, similar to that on the Samsung Galaxy S8, which uses it as a security measure. There will also be a fingerprint scanner and IP68 dust- and waterproof capabilities.

It also goes on to say it will feature a 5.5-inch Quad HD OLED display with 2560 x 1440 resolution, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor with 6GB of RAM and 64GB or 128GB storage options. There’s no mention of a microSD card slot, which could allude to a unibody design. 

The rear camera is expected to be a 22-megapixel sensor with Carl Zeiss optics and a 12MP camera on the front. The 3800mAh battery will feature Quick Charge 4.0 technology, and because of the possible unibody design, it won’t be removable. 

• Nokia 8 said to be mid-ranger, will be joined by Nokia 7 but flagship yet to come
• Nokia 8 tipped for June, flagship said to come with Snapdragon 835
• Nokia 6 Android phone: Specs, release date and everything you need to know
• Nokia 6 vs Nokia 5 vs Nokia 3: What’s the difference?

Finally, the Nokia 9 is said to come with OZO Audio, which is “an advanced spatial audio technology with 3D capture and playback capabilities”. OZO is also the name of Nokia’s virtual reality headset, so it’s logical to assume the Nokia 9 will be a VR-enabled phone. 

More people use the internet on Android than Windows

It’s a milestone day for the mobile world: Android’s internet use has overtaken that on Windows PCs for the first time. According to StatCounter, Google’s phone platform represented 37.93 percent of tracked internet activity in March, just barely edging out Windows’ 37.91 percent. You could see this coming for a while, of course. Smartphone shipments overtook PCs roughly 6 years ago, and people have been spending more time on their phones than their computers. Still, it’s a sign of just how important smartphones have become to many people — and when you see where Android is the front runner, you’ll understand why.

StatCounter notes that Android was helped in no small part by a surging Asian market. When smartphones dominate in countries like China and India, that’s going to have a dramatic effect on worldwide data. And in both Asia and Africa, many people don’t have the luxury of owning both a smartphone and a PC — their phone may be their only consistent gateway to the internet. When smartphone shipments eclipse those of PCs (1.5 billion phones in 2016 versus 270 million PCs), though, it’s clear that smartphones are democratizing internet access in a way that isn’t practical for (typically) pricier, less essential computers.

Source: BusinessWire, StatCounter

‘Batman Arkham VR’ finally comes to Oculus Rift and Vive

Your chance to don Batman’s suit in the comfort of your own home is coming very soon. That is, if you have the Oculus Rift or HTC Vive VR headset hooked up to a PC. Batman Arkham VR, previously available on PlayStation VR since October 2016, will be available for PC players on April 25th, and pre-ordering via the game’s official website is “coming soon.”

As a recap, the game we’re talking about here is the Rocksteady Studios version that gives you a first-person view of what it’s like to be Gotham’s caped crusader, not the Telltale edition. You’ll scour your surroundings for clues to solve crimes and fight villains using each system’s hand-held controller. In addition to giving players the joy of being in Batman’s shoes, the game is also an exciting peek at what future VR games could be like.

We don’t know how much the game will cost yet, but it will likely be in the same range as the $20 PSVR version.

Source: Batman Arkham VR

ESPN Updates Apple TV App With New Interface, Live Streaming Auto-Play, and On Demand Videos

ESPN today announced a redesign of its Apple TV app that brings live streaming auto-play and ESPN Video On Demand to Apple’s fourth-generation set-top box. In addition, the app has been rebranded from WatchESPN to simply “the ESPN app.”

With live streaming auto-play, users will be able to jump right into the network’s stream of sports content with a live video playing immediately when authenticated users launch the app. The new Video On Demand feature will stockpile a collection of user-specific, curated videos that can be browsed and watched at any time, including content from World Series of Poker, X Games, Outside the Lines, and more.

• Live Streaming Auto-Play: Upon launching the app, a live stream of one of ESPN’s networks will now automatically play for authenticated users.
• ESPN Video On Demand: A new collection of curated on-demand videos including hundreds of hours of additional content from 30 for 30, E:60, Outside the Lines, SC Featured, World Series of Poker, X Games and more.
• Sleeker, Simpler User Interface: In addition to visual graphic enhancements to Featured content, users can also browse videos by Sports & Events or Channels.

All of the new features are housed in a new UI that boasts “graphic enhancements” to the app’s featured content, as well as tweaks to the way videos can be browsed, including search by sport, event, or channel.

“From replays to full episodes of on-demand content prior to their telecast premieres, ESPN’s tvOS app is now so much more than our live streaming networks,” said Ryan Spoon, senior vice president of digital product, design and audience development, ESPN. “With this latest update, authenticated users now have the full benefit of engaging with a wide range of live and on-demand video content from the very first click into what is now the ESPN App on Apple TV.”

ESPN is launching the new app today, ahead of the premiere of its new multiplatform original series “We the Fans.” On April 9, four episodes of the eight-episode show will stream exclusively on ESPN’s suite of mobile and tv-based apps two days before premiering on cable.

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Best Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus cases: Protect your new Samsung smartphone

Samsung’s Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus have finally been officially announced, offering stunning designs, huge displays and plenty of power. They come with IP68 waterproofing, super slim bezels, a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor and 18.5:9 ratio curved screens.

As with all smartphones though, they won’t stay looking new and shiny forever, picking up unavoidable scratches and dents as time goes on. Admittedly, it’s always a shame to cover up fabulous designs, but it’s better to protect them as much as you can than see that amazing display crack, or your keys scratch the rear.

With that in mind, we have rounded up some of the best Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus cases that we have found so far. No doubt there will be more as the launch date gets closer so keep checking back as we will update this feature whenever we find another great one.

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Jack Spade

The Jack Spade Colour Block case for the Galaxy S8 Plus comes in Tech Oxford Grey and Black, which the company says are its signature colours and materials. Delivering slim and bulk free protection, the Colour Block case has an easy-grip design and it is lightweight.

Price: £34.99 from Amazon.co.uk

Amazon

Samsung

Samsung offers numerous official cases for the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8 Plus, including the Clear View case. This particular case comes in several colour options and it provides full screen protection, scratch recovery technology and a fingerprint and anti-scratch resistant finish. It is also Qi wireless charging compatible.

Price: £45.30 from Amazon.co.uk

Amazon

Spigen

The Spigen Rugged Armor case for the Galaxy S8 has glossy accents and carbon fibre textures. There is air cushion technology on board for shock absorption, while a raised lip protects the screen. Tactile buttons provide solid feedback, and there is a spider-web pattern inside for further shock absorption.

Price: £6.99 from Amazon.co.uk

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Samsung

Another of the official Samsung cases is the Alcantara cover, which comes in a range of colours. It offers easy access to all ports, controls and connectors, is Qi wireless charging compatible and it offers a soft-to-touch finish. This case will protect your Galaxy S8 without adding too much bulk.

Price: £34.99 from Amazon.co.uk

Peli

PELI

PELI’s Adventurer case is available for the Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus, said to offer 23 per cent more impact absorption over competitors. It is super slim and has a clear back to allow you to see the design of the smartphone, while also offering a dual-layer structural design and military standard drop protection. The PELI Adventurer comes in Black and Aqua Clear colour options.

Price: From £29.99 at Amazon.co.uk

Amazon

Caseology

The Caseology Parallex Series Geometric case comes in burgandy and black for the Galaxy S8 Plus and it features a geometric pattern with a textured anti-slip grip. It offers a polycarbonate frame, corner cushion design and responsive button covers with cutouts for features.

Price: £15.99 from Amazon.co.uk  

Amazon

CM4

The CM4 Q Card case for Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus fits three cards and cash, while also offering protection for your new device. It has a soft-touch rubber grip, air cushioned corners and a fabric construction in order to disperse shock. The CM4 Q Card case comes in black oynx.

Price: $24.99 from Amazon.com

Amazon

Samsung 

The Samsung Silicone Cover offers a simple but stylish design that keeps your device slim and light. It features easy access to all ports, controls and connectors and like the other official Samsung accessories, it is Qi wireless charging compatible.

Price: £24.99 from Amazon.co.uk

Amazon

Silk Innovation

The Silk Innovation Base Grip Case comes with textured edges, air cushioned corners for shock absorption and a lay-flat screen guard to protect your screen. It is available for both the S8 and S8 Plus and it comes in black onyx and blue jade colour options.

Price: $11.99 from Amazon.com

Amazon

Samsung

For those that like us, would rather not cover up a beautiful device with a case, Samsung offers the Clear Cover for both the Galaxy S8 and the S8 Plus. It has a bumper-style design, access to all ports and features and Qi wireless charging compatibility. The great thing about this case is you can still see the design of the S8 and S8 Plus.

Price: £14.99 from Amazon.co.uk

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Sparin

Sparin offers several cases for the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8 Plus, with the above specifically for the smaller model. It has precise cut outs for easy access to features and functions, while protection against drops, knocks and scratches comes from the polycarbonate exterior and TPU interior.

Price: £6.99 from Amazon.co.uk

Tech21

Tech21

Tech21 offers a range of cases for the Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus, including the Evo Wallet Case. This particular case only comes in black, but it offers drop protection up to three metres, storage for two cards and access to all ports and functions. The front is also detachable, making it two cases in one.

Price: £39.95 from Tech21

Speck

Speck

Speck has few cases for the Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus, including the Presidio Clear + Print and the Presidio Clear + Glitter cases. Both come with a lifetime warranty, bezel screen protection, resistance to UV yellowing and a scratch-resistant finish.

Price: From £24.95 at Speck

X-Doria

X-Doria

There are several options available for the Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus from X-Doria, including the Defense Lux case, which comes in three colour options. It features military-grade drop protection, machine metal over plastic and a soft rubber interior.

Price: $34.99 from X-Doria

‘Reverse Prisma’ AI turns Monet paintings into photos

Impressionist art is more about feelings than realism, but have you ever wondered what Monet actually saw when he created pieces like Low Tide at Varengeville (above)? Thanks to researchers from UC Berkeley, you don’t need to go to Normandy and wait for the perfect light. Using “image style transfer” they converted his impressionist paintings into a more realistic photo style, the exact opposite of what apps like Prisma do. The team also used the same AI to transform a drab landscape photo into a pastel-inflected painting that Monet himself may have executed.

Style transfer has suddenly become a hot thing, apparently, as Adobe recently showed off an experimental app that lets you apply one photo style (’90s stoner landscapes) to another (your crappy smartphone photo).

UC Berkely researchers have taken that idea in another direction. You can take, for instance, a regular photo and transform it into a Monet, Van Gogh, Cezanne or Ukiyo-e painting. The team was also able to use the technique to change winter Yosemite photos into summer ones, apples into (really weird) oranges and even horses into zebras. The technique also allowed them to do photo tricks like creating a shallow depth of field behind flowers and other objects.

The most interesting aspect of the research is the fact that the team used what’s called “unpaired data.” In other words, they don’t have a photo taken at the scene at the exact moment Monet did his painting. “Instead, we have knowledge of the set of Monet paintings of of the set of landscape photographs. We can reason about the stylistic differences between those two sets, and thereby imagine what a scene might look like if we were to translate it from one set into another.”

That’s easier said than done though. First, they needed to figure out the relationships between similar styles in a way that a machine can understand. Then they trained so-called “adversarial networks” using a large number of photos (from Flickr and other sources) and refined them by having both people and machines check the quality of the results.

Ideally, the system would be “cycle consistent.” Just as you hope to have the original sentence when you translate English to French and back again, you want roughly the same painting when you translate a Monet to a photo and back again. In many cases, other than a loss of pixel resolution, the team succeeded in that regard (above).

All is not perfect, of course. Since the algorithms have to deal with a lot of different styles for both paintings and photos, they often fail completely to transfer one to another. As with other systems, one of the main issues is with geometric transformations — changing an apple into an orange is one thing, but attempting to transform a cat into a dog instead produces a very disturbing cat.

The team adds that its methods still aren’t as good as using paired training data either — ie, photos that exactly match paintings. Nevertheless, left on its own accord, the AI is surprisingly good at transferring one image style to another, so you’ll no doubt see the results of their work soon in your Instagram feed. If you want to try it for yourself and are comfortable with Linux, you can grab the code here.

Via: Prosthetic Knowledge

Source: UC Berkeley (Github)