Periscope now lets you fast-forward replays
Popular live streaming service Periscope is in the midst of rolling out a rather nifty update for its official Android application via the Play Store. In terms of added functionality, this upgrade brings users the much-requested ability to fast-forward whilst watching replays, a brand new maps engine, which enables viewers to see live scopes from around the World on an interactive map, as well as video stability improvements and bug fixes.
The full changelog can be seen below:
- Maps: See live scopes from around the globe with the new map! The map is available to devices with Google Play Services.
- International Support: We’ve translated the app in 32 languages, including right-to-left languages.
- Share Info: You’ll now see who has shared a broadcast to you on the main list.
- Video stability improvements and bug fixes.
To install the update on your Android-powered smartphone or tablet, simply open up the Play Store, toggle the hamburger menu by swiping in from the left-hand side of the screen, select ‘My Apps’ and click on ‘Pinterest’, then hit the update button. Alternatively, you can hit the link below to initiate the download on your smartphone from the Web.
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You can now try Firefox OS on your Android phone
Mozilla has dropped the latest version of Firefox OS into everybody’s lap, and there’s a special treat tucked inside for brave Android users. A new developer preview of the software can be downloaded and tried as an alternative home screen on your phone that, thankfully, doesn’t require you to wipe your device beforehand. Just install the APK and it’ll appear as an app that, with a single press of your device, will transform the handset into a Firefox OS phone. Naturally, in order to play nice with Android, there’s a few futzes and workarounds tucked inside, but it’s hoped that the move will enable more people — and developers — to engage with the burgeoning operating system.
Via: Android Central
Source: Mozilla
Google may build their own phone that isn’t a Nexus
We recently reported on a story about Google trying to end fragmentation in Android. However, it now looks like Google may be going a little farther and making their own Google made phone.
If they make their own Google phone, not a new Nexus as that is made by other companies, they would be able to control literally everything just like Apple does. The chips, the software, and the hardware would all be made by Google.
Currently, this is just a rumour, but it would be awesome to have an Android phone that is totally made by Google as it would be the smoothest Android device ever. The only problem with this idea is the Nexus already receives updates quickly and is pretty smooth. Plus, a Google made phone would only make other manufactures who run Android look bad. They would always release the newest version of Android even later and considering Google wants manufactures to use Android, probably not a good idea. However, share your thoughts on if you want a Google made phone in the comments?
Source: The Information
Come comment on this article: Google may build their own phone that isn’t a Nexus
Apple Music is live on Android devices today
Apple Music launches in beta form today on Android, cementing it as the second Apple program to hit Google’s mobile platform (following the “move to iOS” app). Apple offers a three-month trial to Android users, as it does to Apple customers. Since the Android version is still in beta, it’s missing a few features and upgrades: Apple promises music videos are on their way and the sign-up process will be optimized for Android. To sign up for a family membership, you’ll need a Mac or iOS device for now. Apple Music on Android requires version 4.3 or better, and it’s a 29M download. After the trial period, Apple Music is a $10-per-month service. We gave the iOS version a spin when it launched on June 30th and found it to be heavy on features but a little disjointed. Apple announced the Android version of Music back in June, alongside a promised launch on Apple TV this fall.
Via: TechCrunch
Source: Google
Samsung’s improved Gear VR is available for pre-order
Samsung said its improved, cheaper Gear VR would arrive sometime in November, and it’s clearly making good on its promise. Best Buy has started taking pre-orders for the virtual reality headset — plunk down $100 and you should get your Gear VR on November 20th. It’s not quite as low-cost as it sounds, since you’ll need one of Samsung’s 2015 flagship phones (such as a Galaxy S6 variant or the Galaxy Note 5) to make it work. Still, it might be worth the investment if you’ve been itching to try modern VR at home.
Via: I4U News
Source: Best Buy
Check out these full featured GSM smartwatches for less than $35 at Gearbest.com
If you haven’t tried a smartwatch yet, now may be the best time to try one out. Gearbest.com has a few sweet offerings for less than $35. All of these smartwatches can support an independent SIM card which means they can actually take phone calls. Sometimes you might not want to carry a big phone and with the swap of your SIM card you can carry your phone on your wrist. The watch roundup includes watches that are warehoused in the United States which means you should receive your order within 5-7 business days. All orders qualify for free shipping and a 100% satisfaction guarantee so return it if you don’t like it.
These would also make a great stocking stuffer or present for a friend of family member.
Check out the GSM smartwatches below:
ZGPAX S29 SmartWatch phone ($25.99) –LINK
Model Number: ZGPAX S29
Sim Card: Single Micro SIM Card
Service Provide Unlocked
Waist size: min 17.5cm, max 23cm
Total strap length: 25cm
Style: Watch style
Shell Material: Silicon + plastic
Resolution: 240 x 240 pixels
Display Size: 1.54 Inch
Bluetooth version: Bluetooth V3.0
Type: TFT, Resistive touch screen
Note: This phone will only work with GSM networks: GSM 850/900/1800/1900MHz
GV18 Aplus SmartWatch phone ($27.99) – LINK
Main Features:
SIM card / Bluetooth phone call (Bluetooth V3.0)
Text Messaging
Phonebook / call log / message/ music sync
NFC connection
Music player
0.3MP camera
1.54 inch TFT HD LCD touch screen,240×240 pixels
Sleep monitoring
Pedometer
Sedentary reminder
Camera remote control phone
Stainless steel watch case
Super soft rubber band
Pin buckle design
Compatibility: Compatible with Android smartphones
This phone will only work with GSM networks: GSM850/900/1800/1900MHz
GV08S SmartWatch phone ($32.99) – LINK
Main Features:
SIM card / Bluetooth phone call(Bluetooth v3.0)
Text messaging
Phonebook / call log / message/ music sync
Music player
0.3MP camera
1.5 inch HD IPS OGS LCD touch screen, 240×240 pixels
Sleep monitoring
Pedometer
Sedentary reminder
Anti-loss /phone finder ( Only compatible with cellphones under Android 4.3 system
Camera remote control
Stainless steel watch case
Super soft rubber band
Pin buckle design
Compatibility: Compatible with Android smart phones
This phone will only work with GSM networks: GSM850/900/1800/1900MHz
If you want to check out other hot deals, head on over to gearbest.com.
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Fallout 4’s Pip-Boy is a glorified smartphone case
“The Pip-Boy is an important part of Fallout and we love it so much we made a real one.” Those words, delivered by game director Todd Howard at developer Bethesda Softworks’ first-ever E3 media briefing this year, triggered cheers around the world. And thus, the Fallout 4 Pip-Boy Edition was born: a $120 special edition peripheral bundled with Fallout 4 that aims to mimic the game’s wrist-bound menu and stat-tracking system. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the premium version of the game proved insanely popular, prompting Bethesda to apologize when it couldn’t make any more units to meet demand. Not bad for a rather awkward looking piece of light brown plastic that sits on your arm and holds your cellphone. But is it actually worth the hype and high price?
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Syllable A6 Bluetooth Earbuds: Great sound and design for less than $40 (Review)
Wired headphones have been mainstream for over fifty years, with wireless headphones having only recently becoming more popular. Battery technology and streaming rates simply could not match the quality and ease of a wired set. In the last few quick years you can now find wireless headsets at very affordable prices. The Syllable A6 Bluetooth earbuds separate themselves from from the rest of the pack with a magnetic clasp to keep your headset available and safe around your neck even when not in use.
Design
The Syllable A6 Bluetooth earbuds employ a magnetic clasp to create an almost necklace-like earbud experience. The volume, play/pause, and track controls hang comfortably from the earbuds like a tiny pendant just below your neck. This unique necklace design makes it very easy to find and use the controls and also find the earbuds to put them in your ear if you have taken them out. By moving the battery to the center cable, the earbuds are designed to be much smaller than the competition.
Usage
I spent a good week using these bad boys on a daily basis, and my only complaint is the battery life is rated over three hours. That works great for the length of my exercise routine and nightly walks with my dog, but falls short for all-day listening. These earbuds are so convenient that I wouldn’t take them off at all. The Syllable A6 headphones are super light-weight and the necklace style neck band makes them really easy to leave on without bothering my neck.
They stayed comfortably in my ears throughout my workout with the clasp only becoming undone when I would take off or put on my hoodie. The clasp really is a game changer, making it nearly impossible to have the entire headset fall off/get lost. As battery life continues to improve in the headset field I really do hope that more earbuds elect to mimic this clasping design.
The sound of these earbuds was surprisingly good. Considering the Syllable A6 Bluetooth earbuds cost less than $40, the sound quality and features easily outperform the price tag. These aren’t reference style earbuds for enthusiasts, but the music that came through was very “fun”. The bass wasn’t too strong, but the mids and highs were very clear giving these earbuds a nice and balanced sound signature.
The Syllable A6 Bluetooth earbuds also have a built-in inline mic for taking calls. I found this feature to be very useful when I was working in my lab and had to take a conference call. The sound came through loud and clear and the recipient on the other end heard me equally as well.
A nice benefit from having a magnetic clasp is I found myself sticking my A6 earbuds to the fridge to help prevent loss. Earbuds are really easy to misplace and I loved this side benefit.
Specs
Driver: 10mm Copper collar horn
Impedance: 32Ω
Bluetooth Version：V4.1
Power Level: CLASS II
Working Voltage Range: 2.8V-4.2V
Microphone Sensitivity: -43db±2db
Bluetooth Frequency Range: 2.4-2.48GHz
Bluetooth Range: 10 meters without obstacles
Distortion: ≦0.1%
Output power: ≧1.4mW
Signal to Noise Ratio: ≧75 db
ShutDown Current: ≦0.7uA
Play time: ≧3h
Audio Transmission and Remote Control Protocol: A2DP/AVRCP
Power Indicator: Red light on when charging, and blue light on when charging is completed
Summary
With a unique clasping design and accessible controls, the Syllable A6 Bluetooth earbuds are an easy choice over standard wired earbuds. The clasp makes keeping track of the controls a breeze and the battery being in the center makes for super comfy earbuds. If you’re in the market for a nice pair of Bluetooth earbuds, that won’t break the bank, the Syllable A6 should be given strong consideration.
Head on over to Amazon.com by clicking this link if you want to learn more.
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Check if your Android device is vulnerable with this new tool – VTS for Android
When it comes to mobile security, this year has been somewhat of a dilemma for Android users.
The big scare is the security hole Stagefright, where all it took to install malicious code was a simple text message. Fortunately, Google and other manufacturers of Android devices have taken steps to patch these holes and release them quickly as possible to users.
However, with so many different Android devices and versions out in the wild, along with the varying carriers that have to approve such fixes, it can be difficult to know if your devices are vulnerable to malware or not.
NowSecure, a mobile security firm, have released a new open-source tool that can quickly and easily show if your device is open to attack or not. The Android Vulnerability Test Suite (VTS) searches for more than a dozen security holes, including Stagefright, so that users can easily determine whether their devices are vulnerable and to what.
The starting page of the tool also provides information regarding your Android device
“In implementing these checks we attempt to minimize or eliminate both false positives/false negatives without negatively affecting system stability,” says NowSecure on the tool’s Google Play listing.
After its search, VTS will show what security vulnerabilities are patched on your device
As VTS is open-source, users can file bugs or other issues on their GitHub repository. Let’s hope this new tool will help Android users stay vigilant when it comes to mobile security, and that Google, OEMs and carriers do their part in releasing patches as quickly as possible.
Google Play Store link to VTS for Android
The post Check if your Android device is vulnerable with this new tool – VTS for Android appeared first on AndroidGuys.
BlackBerry’s Android phone is coming to Verizon, too
You won’t have to jump to AT&T or get an unlocked phone just to give the BlackBerry Priv a try in the States. Verizon has teased that BlackBerry’s first Android smartphone is “coming soon,” and it’s taking sign-ups if you want to know just when the slider will be available on its network. There’s no mention of a release date or pricing, but AT&T is selling the Priv for $250 on a 2-year contract, or $25 per month on a similarly lengthy installment plan. We’d expect something comparable with Big Red.
Via: 9to5Google
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