Asus intros the ZenFone Selfie at Computex
Whether the word “Selfie” irks you or not, the trend is here to stay. The presence of selfie sticks are increasing and we have begun seeing selfie-centric Android phone variants hit the market that focus on a strong front-facing camera, such as the HTC Desire Eye of 2014.
With the popularity of the recent Asus Zenfone 2, Asus thought it a good opportunity to jump in and give us the Asus Zenfone Selfie, announced at this year’s Computex in Taipei.
Like the HTC Desire Eye, the Zenfone Selfie takes the Zenfone 2 design and slaps in a large front-facing camera, centered on the top bezel. The front camera is almost identical to the 13 MP rear camera, being that the latter has a slighter wider aperture at F/2.0 versus the F/2.2 aperture on the front.
Interestingly, Asus broke its tie with Intel on the chipset of the Zenfone Selfie, replacing the Atom Z3580 SoC with a mid-range Qualcomm Snapdragon 615 octa-core with Adreno 405 GPU SoC.
Other than these changes, we’re seeing very similar device to the Zenfone 2, only with the drop of the 4 GB RAM option down to 3 GB.
There are also a multitude of features to help you make the most of your selfie-taking experience, dubbed the PixelMaster Selfie Experience:
- ZenMotion – Gesture of swiping “S” on the screen to launch into the selfie camera interface.
- Selfie Panorama Mode – So you can fit all your friends in the shot.
- Beautification Mode – Like artifical makeup, you can improve skin tone and smooth blemishes.
- Backlight (Super HDR) Technology – Improves light balance, such as with the undesirable dark face occurrence.
- Low Light Mode – Ability to capture clearer photos in dark environments.
- Dual-LED “Real Tone” Flash – More natural illumination.
We’ll see how useful these promises turn out to be in our real-world experience with the Zenfone Selfie. Pricing and availability have not yet been announced by Asus.
The post Asus intros the ZenFone Selfie at Computex appeared first on AndroidGuys.
ASUS rolling out Android Lollipop to mid-tier ZenFone 4, 5 and 6
ASUS has started the process of providing the Android Lollipop update to their mid-tier smartphones, including the ZenFone 4, ZenFone 5 and ZenFone 6. The updates will bring all of the devices up to Android 5.0 Lollipop.
The ZenFone 4 update is version 7.3.3 and is available both over-the-air or as a direct download. The ZenFone 5 update is also available OTA and mirrors the update for the ZenFone 4 as well as another version of the ZenFone 5, model A500KL, which received the update back in April.
Owners of the ZenFone 6 will have to do a little work or be patient as the update for that device is currently available only through a manual install. However, ASUS expects the OTA to commence in the next few days.
According to the changelog info for the updates, ASUS decided to drop a few apps that had previously been pre-installed. These include a battery widget, Google Text-to-Speech, and Magic Smoke wallpapers. According to ASUS, these apps had compatibility issues with Lollipop.
source: Android Authority
Come comment on this article: ASUS rolling out Android Lollipop to mid-tier ZenFone 4, 5 and 6
Asus Zenfone 4, 5, and 6 receive Android 5.0 Lollipop
Asus has begun rolling out Android 5.0 Lollipop updates to its budget friendly Zenfone 4, 5, and 6 smartphone ranges, bringing the collection up to date with Asus’ latest version of Android.
The Zenfone 4 (A400CG) is being updated to version 7.3.3, which is available over-the-air or through a direct download. The Zenfone 5 A500CG and A501CG are also in line for the same update, finally bringing these models up to date with the A500KL, which received its Lollipop update back in April.
The Zenfone 6 (A600CG) is a little behind the other models as it is currently without an OTA update, but this should begin rolling out in the next few days. However, a manual download link is already available for those confident enough to install the update themselves. Full instructions can be found on the Asus support page.
The full changelog for the Android 5.0 Lollipop Zenfone updates can be found alongside the manual download links. Along with the Material Design UI redesign and changes to a few apps, Asus has also had to drop some pre-installed apps, such as the Battery widget, Google Text-to-Speech, and Magic Smoke wallpapers, because of Lollipop compatibility issues.
Keep an eye out for that OTA notification in the next few days.
More details about the ASUS ZenWatch 2: promises 4 day battery and remote camera viewfinder
style=”display:block”
data-ad-client=”ca-pub-8150504804865896″
data-ad-slot=”8461248232″
data-ad-format=”auto”>
(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push();
Yesterday, the ASUS ZenWatch 2 was announced at Computex 2015, and for the most part looks like a very nice evolution over its predecessor. Keeping mostly the same form factor, the ZenWatch 2 now offers more customization options including 2 body size variants, 3 body colours and an assortment of first-party accessories to spruce up your watch band. As the event has gone on, we’ve found out about a few more features of the ZenWatch 2, in particular the fact that it boasts 4 days of battery life. Compared to a conventional watch, it seems almost ludicrous to glorify 4 days of battery, but in the Android Wear world, 4 days is almost an eternity – we’ll have to see if the production models actually do this when they are actually released.
The ZenWatch 2 also introduces a digital crown, however this only appears to operate as a power button. There are also quite a few improvements to what existed on the original ZenWatch, such as improvements to the remote camera viewfinder feature which lets you see what your camera is seeing all on your watch. We’re interested to see the verdict about the ZenWatch 2 when reviews start pouring in because it seems like ASUS has made lots of little tweaks that should make its latest smartwatch an even better companion.
What do you think about the ASUS ZenWatch 2? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: Mashable
The post More details about the ASUS ZenWatch 2: promises 4 day battery and remote camera viewfinder appeared first on AndroidSPIN.
ASUS announces the ZenFone Selfie
Hopping into the selfie-oriented market as promised earlier this year, ASUS has announced the new ZenFone Selfie smartphone for the consumer ready for a picture of themselves. The main contrast between the ZenFone Selfie and a “normal” smartphone like the ZenFone 2 is the upgraded front-facing camera. In this case, ASUS has matched the 13 MP rear-facing camera with a 13 MP front-facing camera that comes with the same dual-tone flash as well. The rear-facing camera does get laser auto-focus, but the front-facing camera gets a wider 88-degree field of view.
As far as smartphone specs go, the ZenFone Selfie comes equipped with a 5.5-inch 1080p LCD screen covered with Gorilla Glass 4 and a Snapdragon 615 processor. Like LG and ASUS’s own ZenFone 2, the ZenFone Selfie comes with volume rockers located on the back of the device and the phone has a slightly curved shape to help users grip it better.
The ZenFone Selfie also comes with an optional Swing attachment. This can be used to extend your reach a tiny bit instead of going full-bore with a selfie-stick. The Swing can also double as a kickstand to hold the device in an upright position.
ASUS has not yet announced a release date, market availability or pricing details.
source: Engadget
Come comment on this article: ASUS announces the ZenFone Selfie
ASUS announces updated, faster Chromebox on the way
In Taipei at the Computex event today, ASUS has announced they are preparing an updated model in their line of Chromebox devices. The ASUS Chromebox CN62 will come with a new fifth-generation Intel processor which is an upgrade compared to the current fourth-generation chip. ASUS is also upgrading the WiFi to support 802.11ac compared to the current b/g/n support. ASUS also claims the new CN62 will idle at only 17dB and draws just 6W of power, which will be welcome news for users bothered by noisy units.
ASUS did not release any details regarding a release date, market availability or pricing.
source: AndroidCentral
Come comment on this article: ASUS announces updated, faster Chromebox on the way
Get the low down on the new Asus ZenWatch 2
Earlier this morning, at the Computex Conference in Asia, Asus introduced the world to the latest iteration of their Android Wear smart watch. The Asus ZenWatch 2. Since it was in the wee-hours of the morning, we didn’t have all the details on the specs of the two different options of the ZenWatch 2. Now that everyone (on the East Coast) has been awake for awhile now, we have the specs for the two options.
As we noted this morning, Asus is bringing two different watches to the game with the ZenWatch 2. There will be a 49m model, and a new 45mm model. As for the specs for both, they are matching for the most part, with only two differences. The first difference is that the 49mm model will have a a 22mm strap width, while the new 45mm version will have a 18mm strap width. The other difference, one of which was briefly mentioned this morning, is that the 49mm rendition of the ZenWatch 2 will have the ability to act as a mobile power bank.
Now there are three different options for case colors for both models. The ZenWatch 2 will come in either Gunmetal, Rose Gold, or Silver. Asus has also added a metal crown to the side, which will change how users interact with and control some of the features included with the ZenWatch 2.
In regards to the straps that will be available, there is a special option through a partnership with Swarovski that will bring a diamond pattern, laden with crystals, professional leather strap. If you aren’t looking for the special order, bling-y Swarovski leather strap, Asus announced that there will be a total of 18 different watch/strap combinations.
It has been confirmed that both versions of the Asus ZenWatch 2 will run the latest version of Android Wear, version 5.1.1 Lollipop. This version was introduced, and released originally on the LG G Watch Urbane last month, but has been slowly rolling out to other Android Wear devices.
Now if you’re looking for the specific specs for each watch, here they are:
Asus ZenWatch 2 WI501Q
- Processor: Qualcomm Processor
- OS: Android Wear
- Display: 2.5D curved AMOLED Corning Gorilla Glass 3
- Charging: Magnetic Charging Cable
- Water Resistance: IP67
- Dimensions: 49mm x 41mm
Asus ZenWatch 2 WI50Q
- Processor: Qualcomm Processor
- OS: Android Wear
- Display: 2.5D curved AMOLED Corning Gorilla Glass 3
- Charging: Magnetic Charging Cable
- Water Resistance: IP67
- Dimensions: 45mm x 37mm
Something to take note of is the fact that Asus did not release the specifications for the battery, but we have seen some instances where it’s been mentioned that the ZenWatch 2 will be able to get up to 4 days of battery life. More than likely that’s just speculation, however, if that’s what ends up being the case, that’s huge for Android Wear, and puts the ZenWatch 2 at the top of the list for Android Wear devices to purchase.
Pricing and availability have yet to be announced, but we can expect there to be somewhat of a difference between the 49mm and 45mm options, as well as the option to get the Swarovski leather strap. We can also expect to hear more about the ZenWatch 2 in the third quarter of this year, more than likely around the beginning of the fall.
The post Get the low down on the new Asus ZenWatch 2 appeared first on AndroidGuys.
This transforming PC tower could be a robot in disguise
Remember that time when Hasbro got really upset with ASUS for calling its convertible laptops Transformers, only to have its request for sales injunction shot down by the court? A little over three years later, we find ourselves staring at a desktop PC tower — a collaboration between ASUS ROG and In Win — that is begging to be given the same name. At the click of a button, the tower’s outer case breaks open to reveal the core frame, which then tilts up slightly for easier access to the components (or probably just to make it look cool). Surprisingly, we heard from ASUS that it intends to mass produce this awesome machine, but there’s no word on whether it’s an Autobot or a Decepticon. Our money’s on the latter. Anyhow, we’ve got a video clip after the break.
http://www.engadget.com/embed-5min/?sid=577&playList=518858599&responsive=false
Via: Engadget Chinese
New ASUS tablet cover offers 5.1 surround sound speakers
ASUS has announced a handful of new tablet covers for their ZenPad 8.0, including a crazy 5.1 surround sound speaker system integrated into a case. The case contains 6 speakers for that full surround sound experience, and can run for up to 6 hours on a single charge.
It’s definitely a unique case, but for someone that watches tons of movies on their tablets it’s a fantastic idea.
ASUS also announced a few other cases at Computex, including a power case with a built-in battery, a Zen case that comes in multiple colors, and a fashion cover that makes the ZenPad 8.0 look like a clutch.
Too bad we never got this kind of accessory support from ASUS with the Nexus 7.
source: Engadget
Come comment on this article: New ASUS tablet cover offers 5.1 surround sound speakers
ASUS announces the ZenWatch 2 Android Wear smartwatch, comes in two sizes and three color choices
ASUS has already announced the ZenWatch 2, only 9 months after the original was unveiled. It doesn’t look all that much different, but there are some subtle differences.
The first is that you will notice a button on the side. This is actually a good thing because you now won’t always have to tap on the screen to wake it. It also provides you a quick way to get to the settings (long press) or put the watch into Theater Mode (double press).
Next up is that ASUS will offer two sizes. With most people complaining that smartwatches are too big for those with smaller wrists, this is a good move. Apple is already doing this, so it’s no surprise that one of the Android Wear manufacturers would offer the same. The larger one will measure 49 x 41 mm and will match with 22 mm bands, while the smaller one will measure 45 x 37 mm and gets paired with 18 mm bands. Speaking of bands, ASUS will offer a variety of bands consisting or rubber, leather and metal. Considering that the watch itself will be available in either Silver, Rose Gold, or Gunmetal, ASUS says there will be 18 different combinations of material and colored straps.
Click here to view the embedded video.
Another positive change is the charger, which is now magnetic, much like what LG offers for their smartwatches. Recharging time is also supposed to be much faster. Now everyone wants more battery life so they are offering something called a Chargeback battery case, which it sits under the watch to provide more battery life. This will only be available for the larger model.
Lastly, the ZenWatch 2 is more dust and waterproof than it’s predecessor. It’s now rated at IP67.
As far as the actual specs of the watch, ASUS didn’t go into much at all. It does have an AMOLED display along with 2.5D curved Gorilla Glass 3. It will have a Snapdragon processor, but we aren’t sure which one. They also didn’t show off the software since it hasn’t been finalized yet. It’s obviously Android Wear, but they will offer some enhancements that will center around their own wellness apps.
If you have your eye the ZenWatch 2, don’t pull out your wallet just yet. This one won’t get released until quarter 3, which will more than likely mean September. No pricing was mentioned, but the larger one will probably be priced about the same as the current model, which is $199.
Full Press Release:
ASUS Announces ZenWatch 2
Computex, Taipei, Taiwan (1st June, 2015) — ASUS today announced ZenWatch 2, a stylish and personalized wearable device powered by Android Wear and produced in partnership with Google. Crafted with absolute attention to detail using high-quality materials, ZenWatch 2 is a precision watch that serves as a smart companion to Android smartphones, providing wearers with timely information at a glance and letting them get things done with a simple touch or voice command.
ZenWatch 2 is designed to be a truly personal device that wearers can customize even further to express their unique sense of style. Available in two sizes and three stainless-steel case colors, with 18 different strap material and color combinations, and instantly-changeable and customized watch faces along with an app that lets wearers design their own, there is truly a ZenWatch 2 for everyone.
ZenWatch 2 builds upon the original ZenWatch, offering an even more refined design, an improved user experience, and the introduction of completely new functionality. ZenWatch 2 now includes a metal watch crown, enhancing the user experience by a providing new way to interact with the watch. It also comes with an all-new magnetic charger that features effortless attachment and dramatically improved battery recharge times.
Combining sophisticated sensors with all-day comfort, ZenWatch 2 works together with the all-new Wellness smartphone app to serve as a personal activity and fitness manager to help users keep their lives in balance and achieve personal fitness goals.
Fine watch craftsmanship
ASUS ZenWatch 2 continues the tradition of fine watch craftsmanship with its impeccable, detail-focused design and high-quality construction. ZenWatch 2 features a durable stainless-steel case available in two sizes —— and attractive Silver, Gunmetal and Rose Gold colors to comfortably fit anyone’s wrist and sense of style. A metal crown adorns the case, echoing traditional watch styling and providing a convenient new way to interact with ZenWatch 2. The watch crystal is designed with a gentle curve for an elegant look and improved usability by providing a smooth surface for easy and responsive swiping gestures. It is made from tough Corning® Gorilla® Glass 3 for protection against scratches and damage.
ZenWatch 2 is available with a wide-range of straps in a variety of materials and colors for further personalization. A tough yet supple rubber strap comes in Blue, Orange, Red, and Taupe colors, and is the perfect choice for athletes, people with active lifestyles, or those who like a more casual look. A soft, premium leather strap is available in Khaki, Brown, Gray, Blue, and Orange colors, providing an elegant look that fits any situation. A stainless-steel link bracelet comes in Silver, Gunmetal or Rose Gold colors to perfectly match ZenWatch 2’s case colors for a bold, luxury watch look and feel. ASUS has also partnered with Swarovski® Professional to produce a gorgeous leather strap with an embossed diamond pattern and tastefully accented with Swarovski crystals.
Complementing its physical design, ZenWatch 2 comes with instantly-changeable software watch faces. The variety of available designs lets users easily customize their watch to fit any style, mood, or occasion, such as using a traditional, elegant watch face for work or a night out, or changing to a more playful design for use during leisure time. Wearers can even create their own custom watch faces in the new Watch Face Land app for a truly personal and unique ZenWatch 2 experience.
Smart companion
ASUS ZenWatch 2 is powered by the latest version of Android Wear and serves as a smart companion for Android phones by extending functionality and providing wearers with a convenient window to view incoming calls, messages, notifications, and other important information, without having to remove their phone from their pocket or bag. ASUS ZenWatch introduced many exclusive features including deep ASUS ZenUI integration, FoneHelper, activity and fitness tracking, and Remote Camera. ASUS ZenWatch 2 improves upon every aspect of the original ZenWatch experience and offers completely new functionality that takes the wearable experience to the next level.
Enhanced Remote Camera — one of the most popular features of ZenWatch — lets wearers display their smartphone’s camera viewfinder remotely right on their wrist. This frees them to take photos from creative angles where the viewfinder would be difficult to see, such as when holding the phone overhead at a concert or other crowded event. Remote Camera is also useful for group photos, letting the photographer compose the photo, release the shutter, and check the final result while being included in the shot. Remote Camera has been improved for ZenWatch 2, offering faster performance, more range, the ability to switch between the phone’s front and rear cameras, and zoom capability.
In addition to software improvements, ZenWatch 2 has numerous hardware design improvements that enhance functionality and provide a more convenient user experience. With an IP67 water-resistance rating, ZenWatch 2 is designed to be worn all day, everyday, even in the shower or during exercise. An all-new magnetic charger effortlessly attaches to ZenWatch 2 and offers dramatically improved battery recharge times.
Next-gen Wellness app
Comfortable to wear all day and built with sophisticated sensors, ASUS ZenWatch 2 works together with the completely redesigned Wellness smartphone app to provide a comprehensive solution for managing fitness and overall wellness.
ZenWatch 2 is a full-featured activity tracker that provides additional tracking functionality tailored for activities such as running and cycling.
The next-gen Wellness app lets ZenWatch 2 wearers view all of their activity information in one convenient location. It displays progress towards goals as well as activity summaries with attractive graphs that are easy to interpret and analyze, and can be used to set future fitness goals.
Come comment on this article: ASUS announces the ZenWatch 2 Android Wear smartwatch, comes in two sizes and three color choices
AIVAnet 