Android phones and tablets on sale at Expansys this weekend (December 5)
Save big on LG, Motorola, Samsung, Sony, and HTC
Shopping around for a smartphone this holiday season? Have you ever considered picking up something that’s unlocked right out of the box? Yes, this freedom means you can take your phone to other carriers without having to give up your favorite device. Unlocked phones are a big deal and they’re only going to get bigger over time.
We’ve looked through Expansys to put together a number of deals that you ought to check out. Some of what you’ll find is pretty significant stuff; most of these prices are for a limited time only. Nevertheless, we figured you’d be interested in learning about the discounts. In addition to phones, you’ll find some tablet sales, too.
- Motorola Moto X Style (32GB) Black – $429.99 (Save $70)
- Motorola Moto X Style (32GB) White – $429.99 (Save $70)
- LG Nexus 5 (32GB) White – $199.99 (Save $150)
- LG Nexus 5 (32GB) w/ Refurb LG Tone+ Bluetooth headphones) – $219.99 (Save $160)
- Samsung Galaxy S6 (32GB) Black – $469.99 (Save $50)
- HTC Nexus 9 LTE (32GB) Black – $349.99 (Save $50)
- Sony Xperia Z3 Tablet Compact (16GB) Black – $319.99 (Save $70)
- Sony Xperia Z3 Tablet Compact (16GB) White – $319.99 (Save $70)
The post Android phones and tablets on sale at Expansys this weekend (December 5) appeared first on AndroidGuys.
Moto X Pure Edition (2015) Marshmallow soak test has begun, full launch possibly in 1 week
After it was discovered that Moto X Style users in Brazil and India were already on Android 6.0 Marshmallow, users in other parts of the world, including the USA where the device is known as the Moto X Pure Edition, have been wondering when their time will come. Today Motorola’s David Schuster took to Google Plus to give an update:
I’m pleased to announce that today we are starting the soak test period of Android 6.0 Marshmallow upgrade for the 2015 Moto X Pure Edition (3rd Gen) in the US. We will monitor the soak for next week and with good results, proceed to full launch.
A soak test essentially involves distribution of new software to a small group of users in order to monitor the performance and test for any bugs or major problems. Typically it is seen as the last hurdle before wide-scale deployment to the public at-large.
More on Motorola
The move to Marshmallow comes at a critical time for Motorola, now owned by Lenovo. Some have been skeptical of the company’s commitment to standards established during its tenure at Google, during which time the Moto X line was introduced. In light of new ownership, critics have questioned if Motorola will continue placing priority and focus on timely updates and support.
Last year, for example, Motorola began to update the Moto X Pure Edition (2014) as early as November 12th, which makes this roll out significantly protracted in comparison. This assumes there will be no hiccups with the soak test, less it could be several days, weeks, or at worst even months of additional waiting.
This news also raises two additional questions, namely when the Moto X Style (the international variant of the Pure Edition) will receive Android 6.0, an issue that numerous Google Plus users can be seen asking Mr. Schuster in the lead image for this piece. The other of course, is when the other new Motorola devices will be updated: the Moto G (2015), the Moto X Force, the Moto X Play, the Droid Turbo 2 and so on.
Wrap Up
Owners of the Moto X Pure Edition will no doubt be excited by today’s news, and eagerly await the time when their smartphone can be updated to Android 6.0. We would like to hear your thoughts: is Motorola still in your “good books” as long as Marshmallow hits your device by the end of December, or has the company already disappointed you with the several months it has taken to get this far? If anyone is part of the soak test we also want to hear your thoughts on the new update!
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Evolution of the Moto X: a look at how the series has changed over the years
Since its inception, the Moto X series has always stood out from the rest of the pack. Whether it be user customization, its exceptional personal assistant capabilities, or just its incredible value, the Moto X line has always been different.
In a world where the spec race ran rampant, the original Moto X introduced the concept of user experience over pure muscle
In a world where the spec race ran rampant, the original Moto X introduced the concept of user experience over pure muscle and — at least for fans of the series — it’s (mostly) been uphill from there. While not every aspect of the Moto X line has been perfect, some of Motorola’s features (such as Moto Assist and Moto Display), have become fan-favorites.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at how the Moto X has evolved over the past three years.
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The Original Moto X
Ah, the OG Moto X. The original Moto X told the world that you could have an amazing experience without top-end specs. While the standard in flagship devices launched in 2013 was either the Qualcomm Snapdragon 600 or 800 (depending on what part of the year the phone arrived), the Moto X launched with a much more modest Snapdragon S4 Pro packed inside. While the spec hungry looked on at the Moto X with skepticism, the S4 Pro proved to be more than enough to power the Moto X, aided by the fact that the Moto X did not have a 1080p display . Instead, the Moto X came with a 720p, 4.7 inch display that still had impressive color saturation and solid viewing angles.
One of the key factors that led to the smooth performance of the Moto X was the almost-stock Android experience, with Motorola’s extra features mostly present in the form of applications, rather than a complete UI overhaul, which was the norm among Android’s top manufacturers (Samsung, LG, HTC, etc). While more toned-down customizations of Android may be more common now, Motorola was one of the first to deliver an almost-stock Android experience outside of the Nexus family.
The other big selling point for the Moto X was user-customizability. Motorola introduced Moto Maker, which has since become a staple for Motorola devices. Customers could change the color of the side buttons, the ring around the rear camera, decide between a white or black front panel, and even change the material of the back cover. Up until that point, users had the choice of a few different colors and storage options, if at all. Motorola didn’t focus on specs, and instead focussed on giving the customer a top-notch, personalized smartphone experience. And it certainly paid off.
The Moto X (2014): Growing Up
The 2014 edition of the Moto X was less about shifting the paradigm and more about refining everything that users already loved about the series, while adding a few new tricks. The original Moto X was smaller than its peers, but the 2014 edition beefed up the screen size to 5.2” and bumped up the resolution to 1080p. It also added an aluminum frame, giving the device a more premium feel, which is a decision carried forward to this year’s Moto X Pure (aka Style). In terms of specs, the Moto X (2014) might not have been quite as “bleeding edge” as other flagships released around the same time, but the spec gap was much smaller this time around when compared to the OG Moto X and its peers.
Overall, the Moto X 2014 wasn’t a revolutionary smartphone like its predecessor, though it was still a great one.
On the software side, Moto Voice gained more functionality, adding support for actions involving third party apps (such as sending a Facebook message). It also added the ability to customize the voice activation message, making Moto Voice just a little bit more personalized. Motorola also added multiple sensors to the device, which helped make use of Moto Display, which could now be activated by waving your hand over the device.
Overall, the Moto X 2014 wasn’t a revolutionary smartphone like its predecessor, though it was still a great one. Not only did it up the spec ante, it also fixed a looming flaw in the original Moto X: a poor camera. While the Moto X 2014’s camera wasn’t exceptional, it certainly was world’s better than the original.
See also: Best Android phones (November 2015)
The Moto X Style/Pure Edition: The King of Value
2015 has seen drastic changes for Motorola, now owned by Chinese electronics giant Lenovo. Notably, there were two Moto X devices released at the same time this year, but we’ll be focussing on the more powerful “true flagship”, the Moto X Style (which is called the Moto X Pure Edition in the United States). For those interested in the mid-range Moto X family member, you can always check out our review of the Moto X Play.
While some have raised questions about broken promises, Motorola has been able to deliver an incredible device this year – at just $399. The Moto X Style’s 16GB storage option prices at $20 more than the 16GB Nexus 5X, but features expandable storage and a more impressive QHD display, arguably making it a much better value to buy the 16GB version of the Moto X for those that don’t have their hearts firmly set on nabbing a Nexus.
The camera is much, much improved with the Moto X Pure, now able to compete with (but not kill) the cameras on flagships from Samsung and LG. Speaking of competing with Samsung and LG, the Moto X Style also features a 1440p 5.7” display — adopting both the trend of QHD and big screens. Yes, Motorola has entered phablet territory, but the signature curved design of the Moto X has helped with handling quite a bit. The Moto X no longer has any glaring flaws, providing everything you could ask for out of a 2015 flagship, except maybe a fingerprint scanner. With an incredible price, the Moto X Style is hard to beat.
Moto X Force: Shattering the expectations with a Shatterproof display
The Moto X Force, known as the Droid Turbo 2 for Verizon Customers and those in the states, may not be a “primary” member of the Moto X family per say, but it is a very interesting device. It’s main selling point is a “shatterproof” display, which is largely shatterproof due to the fact that much of the display is plastic, not glass. In exchange for plastic being far less likely to shatter than glass, it’s also far more likely to get scratched up. Even so, the Moto X Force could be an amazing device for those who frequently drop smartphones, potentially saving hundreds of dollars in repair costs.
The Droid Turbo 2 (aka Force) also features a bunch of extra layers, including a bendible component, which is further explained here.
Aside from the display, the Moto X Force doesn’t bring much different to the table when compared to the Moto X Pure. The Moto X Force does feature a Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 instead of an 808, but the difference in day-to-day performance is probably negligible. It costs $624.00 unlocked, over 1.5x the cost of the 16GB Moto X Style. The device is still solid, but with the incredible value of the Moto X Style, you’d really have to love the shatterproof display to purchase this phone.
None the less, we are excited about Shatter Shield technology and what it means for Motorola and the X series, going forward.
The Identity of the Moto X Line: going forward
Motorola has certainly come a long way since the days of the original Moto X. So what’s next? Honestly, the future of the Moto X, and by extension, the future of Motorola, is somewhat uncertain. When first introduced, we thought that the Moto X meant the best of Motorola and Google, a marriage of Google’s stock software and Motorola’s powerful features. It meant an amazing experience coupled with fast updates, only second to the Nexus line.
Now, what the Moto X represents is unclear.
Now, what the Moto X represents is unclear. Updates have been called into question as Motorola has decided not to update the 2015 Moto E, despite promising two years of software updates. The Moto X (2014) also is being left out of Marshmallow, at least for US carrier versions. Motorola has also traditionally released one Moto X device per year, but 2015 has brought three. The Moto X Play came alongside the Moto X Style, but not as another flagship, but as a mid range device. It packed an incredible battery and the same great camera, but with choppy performance that isn’t as good as the 2014 Moto X. Late in 2015, Motorola released the Moto X Force, packing a shatterproof display, but not much else.
Next up:
All of this paints a picture of Motorola in transit, and it’s obvious that Lenovo is behind the wheel. Where the Moto X family will end up? It’s impossible to tell, but we can only hope that — despite some minor hiccups this year — it’ll be great.
What do you think of the Moto X family? Which was your favorite? Are you excited to see what’s next for the Moto X and other Motorola product lines? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
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*Post written by Oscar Wong*
Motorola running soak test for Marshmallow on the Moto X Pure Edition
Motorola has been teasing that Marshmallow is on the way for Moto X Pure Edition owners, and it looks like that’s finally about to happen. Last week, users could sign up for a soak test for the carrier-free Moto X, which is turning out to be Android 6.0.
The update should bring all of the new features that Google introduced in the latest version of Android, including things like Doze that are designed to extend battery life. Motorola isn’t one to tamper with Android too much, so the official update shouldn’t be too far off from this soak test.
Anyone gotten an update yet?
Come comment on this article: Motorola running soak test for Marshmallow on the Moto X Pure Edition
Best tech gifts under $250 (2015 holiday guide)
Finding a good gift for that special someone with a tech inclination is no easy feat. And it’s not only a matter of preference; there’s plenty of lackluster gadgets out there you really don’t want to buy. Then there are the obviously good gifts that happen to cost a fortune. Where are the options that won’t necessarily break the bank and are worth your cash?
We already gave you a list of our favorite gifts under $50 and $100. Now it’s time to step up the game and curate a list of products under $250 for those who have a higher budget or want to treat a special someone to a nicer gift. This post includes smartphones, wearables, tablet, media streamers, Chromebooks, headphones, cameras, speakers and more. Pretty exciting stuff, right? Let’s get right to the goods!
Smartphones
Moto G
Motorola may no longer be the only one making affordable handsets that are actually good, but they sure started a trend and the Moto G series continues to offer some of the best value around. The latest version (3rd generation/2015) Moto G is currently only $219 off-contract and unlocked. That would be for the higher-end version, by the way.
And it’s no weakling. This phone can handle most casual tasks thanks to its modest, yet very capable specs. This little phone sports a 5-inch 720p display, a 1.4 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 processor, 2 GB of RAM, 16 GB of internal storage, a 13 MP rear-facing camera, a 5 MP front shooter and a 2470 mAh battery. You could also opt for the cheaper $176.85 version, which has half the RAM and internal storage.
Buy the Moto G (2015) for $219.99!
ASUS ZenFone 2
We told you the Moto G was no longer alone in the battle for the best affordable handset, and one of its closest competitors is definitely the ASUS ZenFone 2. Be sure this is no bad contender. It’s actually a favorite among Android fans, thanks to its accessible price, good size, awesome build quality, vivid screen and more. To be honest, this is the affordable handset I recommend the most, these days.
The only things we complained about during our review were battery life, average camera quality and a weak speaker. But come on, the phone is only $199, and it makes up for those caveats in plenty other areas.
Buy the ASUS ZenFone 2 for $199!
See also: Best cheap Android phones (October 2015)
Alcatel OneTouch Idol 3
The Alcatel OneTouch Idol 3 is more expensive than the smartphones listed above, but it’s for good reasons. This phone is worth every penny you will spend on it! Especially for those of you who like larger handsets, as this big guy’s screen measures in at 5.5 inches. It’s also more powerful thanks to its Snapdragon 615 processor.
Other specs include 2 GB of RAM, 16 GB of internal storage, a 13 MP rear camera, an 8 MP front camera and a nice 2910 mAh battery. By the way, I happen to love this phone’s attractive, slim and strong design. It will take care of all casual tasks and even some gaming. Furthermore, those front-facing speakers make it sound much better than many other devices (even more expensive ones).
Buy the Alcatel OneTouch Idol 3 for $249.99!
See also: Best Android phones (November 2015)
Smartwatches and fitness trackers
LG Watch Urbane
Once we hit the $250 price point much better wearables start showing up on the list. Of course we will list Android Wear devices here, and the LG Watch Urbane is one of our favorites. This thing is beautiful, has a great battery life, good performance and a classic look that will match even the most elegant suits. It’s one of the best Android wear devices around, and that price point really shows it.
Customers will have to pay $242.79 right now, but it’s worth it for the user who wants a high tech smartwatch without sacrificing on looks. Whoever said high-tech watches had to be ugly?
Buy the LG Watch Urbane for $242.79!
ASUS ZenWatch 2
LG’s smartwatch may be better looking to some, but the ASUS ZenWatch 2 is definitely not ugly. And considering it’s about $100 less, we know many of you will much rather go with ASUS for your wearable needs.
The ASUS ZenWatch 2 has a great battery life, a fast magnetic charger, different sizes and good performance. Our only complaint is that its bezels are pretty large, just like its predecessor’s. Otherwise, it’s one hell of an Android Wear product!
Buy the ASUS ZenWatch 2 for $149.99!
Pebble Time
I am a loyal Pebble user, and it’s mainly for one reason – battery life. Thanks to its e-paper display, these wearables are able to last nearly a week on a single charge! That’s simply unheard of in the Android Wear world, at least so far. I also happen to like that the UI is simpler and does less things. This is mostly a notification device, and though it can do a few other things, it doesn’t go overboard with fancy animations and gimmicks. What it does, it does very well. And it just so happens to do everything I need it to.
The newer Pebble Time happens to come with a color display, too, which is definitely a plus. The team has also included voice input, new software, more app storage and performance improvements.
Pebble Time Steel
And if you want to get fancy, you can also go for a Pebble Time Steel. This is pretty much a Pebble Time made with quality materials. It’s also worth more, though.
Buy the Pebble Time Steel for $249.99!
Fitbit Surge
Fitbit‘s activity trackers are very popular, but only those who really care about their performance will go for the Fitbit Surge. This wearable can track your steps, monitor your sleep and display call & text notifications. It has even been upgraded with a heart-rate monitor and GPS. Not to mention that 5-day battery life, which will also keep you active without being tethered to an outlet all the time.
Buy the Fitbit Surge for $240.99!
Fitbit Charge HR
We know the Fitbit Surge can be a bit of an overkill, but some of you still want a good activity tracker from the same manufacturer. The Fitbit Charge HR costs only $139.97, only sacrificing the heart-rate monitor and GPS. It also has a smaller screen, but does manage to take care of all the other features. Yes, even call & text notifications. Oh, and it does last a little longer (7-day battery life).
Buy the Fitbit Charge HR for $139.97!
Withings Activite Pop
What I love about the Withings Activite Pop is that it has this classic look that will match any style. Its appearance is just like that of a regular watch, and it even has the classic clock hands we all know so well. But don’t mistake this for your typical dumb watch; it can count your steps, measure distance, keep record of your runs and even monitor burned calories. Your inactive time will also be recorded, as the Activite Pop monitors your sleep.
Worried about battery life? Don’t even! This thing will last about 8 months between battery replacements!
Buy the Withings Activite Pop for $149.95!
See also: Best Android Wear watches
Tablets
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8-inch
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A may not be the cheapest tablet around, but it is below the $250 threshold we have set ourselves here. It has a low resolution display and performance could be improved, but it makes up for those downsides by offering great audio quality and a battery life that won’t disappoint.
Specs include an 8-inch 1024×768 display, a 1.2 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 processor, 1.5 GB of RAM, 16 GB of internal storage, a 5 MP main camera, a 2 MP front shooter and a 4200 mAh battery.
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8-inch for $229.99!
Amazon Fire HD 10
Frequent users of Amazon’s services should really look into getting a Fire HD 10. This device harnesses all that’s good about Amazon’s ecosystems and puts all that content right at your fingertips. And even though it is only $229.99, it shouldn’t leave many of you disappointed. Some sacrifices were definitely made, though.
Specs include a 10-inch 1280x800p display, a quad-core MediaTek processor, 1 GB of RAM and 16/32 GB of internal storage.
Buy the Amazon Fire HD 10 for $229.99!
Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4
When it comes to compact, affordable tablets, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4 is actually still among my favorites. This pad is super thin, light and has really small bezels. Factor in the good specs, solid battery life and high-res display and you truly have a winner.
The tablet comes with an 8.4-inch 2560x1600p display, a Samsung Exynos 5 Octa processor, 3 GB of RAM, 16/32 GB of internal storage, an 8 MP camera, a 2.1 MP front shooter and a sizable 4900 mAh battery. Not bad at all, especially starting at $204.22 from Amazon. Honestly, I would say this is the best deal out of the 3 tablets listed here.
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4 for as low as $204.22!
See also: Best Android tablets (November 2015)
Media streamers
NVIDIA Shield Android TV + Remote
Whoever said Android TV devices weren’t good for gaming? The average set-top boxes do casual gaming pretty well, but if you want to get serious you go for something like the NVIDIA Shield Android TV. This beast may not look intimidating, but it packs an NVIDIA Tegra X1 processor, 3 GB of RAM, 16/250 GB of internal storage and more. It is 4K-ready and will take care of all your playing needs. And we really mean all… it can even do console games via NVIDIA GeForce NOW and NVIDIA GameStream. It is the ultimate gaming Android TV.
Buy the NVIDIA Shield Android TV for $249.98!
Amazon Fire TV Gaming Edition
Don’t need too much gaming power and would rather take advantage of Amazon’s platform? The Fire TV is a great little device that will connect you to all the apps and content the popular retailer has to offer. Not to mention, that controller will help you dominate your favorite mobile games (over 800 available titles). You can also use voice commands to navigate and access your favorite content.
Buy the Amazon Fire TV Gaming Edition for $139.99!
Roku 4
We are huge fans of Android here, but we also understand you don’t need to have this complex OS in every single device you own. Some users prefer Roku’s UI and ecosystem, and the Roku 4 is definitely a viable option. This set-top box gives access to over 2500 channels with plenty of content. It also includes features like voice search, and the remote can also work as a Wii-like controller. Or simply plug in your headphones to turn it into your audio device.
Buy the Roku 4 for $129!
See also: Best media players and streamers (September 2015)
Chromebooks
ASUS Chromebook Flip 10.1
Guess what? You can buy a perfectly good computer for under $250 nowadays! The ASUS Chromebook Flip takes advantage of Chrome OS to bring a simple and fast experience without breaking the bank. Packed inside you can find a 10.1-inch 1280x800p screen, a 1.8 GHz quad-core processor, 4 GB of RAM and 16 GB of internal storage. You can also opt for a version with 2 GB of RAM for $30 less.
But all those specs are standard for Chromebooks nowadays. ASUS manages to differentiate itself in another way – the screen flips over a la Lenovo, giving you flexibility and portability all around.
Buy the ASUS Chromebook Flip 10.1 for $249!
ASUS Chromebook C201
Maybe you don’t need your laptop to bend over backwards for you. In which case the ASUS Chromebook C201 may be a better option, as well as cheaper. Like the Chromebook Flip, this PC comes in two flavors, one with 2 GB at $154.99 and another with 4 GB at $184. Other specs include a Rockchip 3288 processor, 16 GB of internal storage and an 11.6-inch 1366x768p display.
Buy the ASUS Chromebook C201 for $184!
Acer Chromebook 15
One thing that keeps the average user from switching to Chrome OS is the fact that Chromebooks tend to have tiny screen. It’s just not convenient for those who actually want to get some work done, which is the audience Acer had in mind when creating the Chromebook 15.
This bad boy comes with a large 15.6-inch HD screen, 2/4 GB of RAM, 16/32 GB of internal storage and your choice between a Celeron, Core i3 or Core i5 processor. The price for a decked out one can go all the way up to $469.99, though. Not exactly within our limit.
Buy the Acer Chromebook 15 for as low as $229.99!
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x headphones are a favorite pick among audiophiles. They cost only $168 and offer better quality than many headphones that double this price. These are very comfortable, solidly made, portable and offer sound quality we can’t really complain about. Our friends over at Sound Guys did a more complete review, just in case you are interested in catching all the details.
Buy the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x headphones for $168!
Audio-Technica ATH-MSR7BK
Those who want something a little nicer can pay up and get the Audio-Technica ATH-MSR7BK headset, which can be had for $192.31 right now. These are also amazingly comfortable and offer 45 mm True Motion drivers for better audio reproduction.
Buy the Audio-Technica ATH-MSR7BK headphones for $192.31!
Sennheiser Momentum headphones
Sennheiser is known for its good quality headphones. Considering their large follower base, we would say you can’t go wrong with the Sennheiser Momentum headset at $189.99. These closed back, over-the-ear headphones are made with premium leather pads and metal. They are also fancy, as you can see in the image above. And if you are always on-the-go, its gorgeous case will definitely turn some heads.
Buy the Sennheiser Momentum headphones for $189.99!
Jaybird X2 Sport Wireless Bluetooth Headphones
While the other headphones listed above try to please audiophiles, Jaybird targets the general consumer with the X2 in-ear headphones. These are super user-friendly, wireless, small and great performers. The X2 headset also happens to be super comfortable, thanks to the foam tips that keep the earbuds in place. They also come with a nifty case. Our only complaint is that we wish it had better battery life, but we must keep in mind these headphones are tiny. Considering this, almost 8 hours of playback is really not bad at all.
Buy the Jaybird X2 headphones for $179.95
Plantronics Backbeat Sense SE headphones
While there are definitely better Plantronics headsets out there, these offer quite a bit for the price. Because these are on-ear headphones, this makes them much lighter and more portable. Not to mention the fact that they are gorgeous!
And these do come with some neat capabilities. For starters, they will pause your music if you remove them from your ears. Another cool feature is its active noise cancellation. Sound is well-balanced and battery life averages at about 18 whopping hours!
Buy the Plantronics Backbeat Sense SE headphones for $199.99!
Read also: Best headphones of 2015 (via SoundGuys)
Action cameras
Sony HDRAS100V/W video camera
I swear I can’t think of a worse name for a consumer camera, but that doesn’t take away from its quality. This little guy happens to be quite an awesome action camera for adventure seekers. It is splash-proof and compact, making it the perfect companion for your active lifestyle. Its optical image stabilization will keep your clips clear and smooth, all while the stereo microphones capture quality sound you will love when viewing your clips in other devices.
There’s very little to dislike about this camera (aside from the name), which can be controlled trough your smartphone or a Sony-made wrist-worn remote.
Buy the Sony HDRAS100V/W for $169.95!
Garmin Virb Elite Action Camera
You know what I hate about action cameras? They usually don’t have screens; and if they do, you have to buy it separately. That’s not the case with the Garmin Virb Elite. It has a 1.4-inch Chroma display, which means it also doesn’t take a ton of energy to operate. This convenient action camera is rugged (IPX7 rating) and can shoot at up to 1080p resolution. It’s 2000 mAh battery provides up to 3 hours of shooting. Other features include WiFi, GPS, digital stabilization and more.
Buy the Garmin Virb Elite for $195.43!
GoPro Hero+
This entry level GoPro+ includes WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, which makes it a breeze to control through your app, as well as editing and sharing your clips. And though it’s cheaper than other GoPro cameras, it doesn’t skimp out on much. This camera can still shoot at 1080p60. It’s also built directly into a rugged housing that makes it resistant to dirt, sand and water. It’s all the beauty of a GoPro in a more affordable iteration.
Buy the GoPro Hero+ for $199.99!
Bluetooth speakers
Amazon Echo
Have you seen this thing before? Let me tell you it’s totally awesome. It pretty much works as a wireless speaker, digital assistant, book reader, weather reporter and more. The Echo even works with some smart home platforms, such as Belkin WeMo, Phillips Hue, SmartThings, Insteon and Wink.
All you have to do is talk to it and request your needs! The best part is it doesn’t really need another device. It actually works by connecting to the cloud, so everything is done through Amazon’s servers.
Buy the Amazon Echo for $179.99!
UE Boom 2
UE can’t be missing on any list of best wireless speakers. Their products are solid, and the Boom 2 is no exception. Its loud 360-degree sound will fill any room. It’s also super portable and fits in any bag (and some pockets). And don’t even worry about it not being able to keep your pace. UE’s speaker is waterproof, shockproof, and has an IPX7 rating. Factor in 15 hours of battery life and you have a winner.
Buy the UE Boom 2 for $199.99!
Bose SoundLink Mini Bluetooth Speaker II
Bose is synonymous with quality – there’s no doubt about that. You can not go wrong with the SoundLink Mini II. It may not look the coolest, but does provide a deep bass and full-range listening experience. Bluetooth connectivity will keep a connection with your smartphone, and you can even use it as a speakerphone for calls. Its battery also lasts up to 10 hours, which is definitely not bad.
Buy the SoundLink Mini Bluetooth Speaker II for $199!
JBL Charge 2+
Here’s another Bluetooth speaker you can get wet (as long as you don’t submerge it). The JBL Charge 2+ gets its name from the large 6,000 mAh battery packed inside, which allows it to stay alive for 12 hours of continuous playback. Powerful sound, resistant body and many hours of playback – what else can you ask for?
Buy JBL Charge 2+ for $141.11!
Fluance Fi50
Have you heard of Fluance? Probably not, but they happen to make some amazing products. This speaker provides pristine sound, undistorted bass and natural highs at any volume. It is made with dual full-range 5-inch woven woofers, ultra high-end tweeters and a 40 watt amplifier. The thing is some serious stuff, guys.
Buy the Fluance Fi50 for $199.99!
Read also: Best Bluetooth speakers of 2015 (via SoundGuys)
Smart home
Nest thermostat
Times are changing. No longer do you have to get up and change your temperature like a caveman, interacting directly with the device. Nest can be controlled through your smartphone. It can also schedule itself to optimize both comfort and energy efficiency. And since Nest knows when you are away, it can stop working when you leave the house.
Buy the Nest thermostat for $249!
Nest Cam
Nest is working hard to control all areas of your home. They have a thermostat, a smoke detector and now even a camera. The Nest Cam allows customers to see their home from anywhere at Full HD 1080p resolution. But you don’t have to be looking at all times. The camera will send you alerts if it senses movements while you are not there, and its night vision will ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Gift cards
Google Play Store
Of course, no solid shopping guide is complete without the beloved gift cards. And since here at Android Authority we are all about Google’s mobile OS, we would like to remind you there’s plenty of options under $100 to be had from the Google Play Store.
Learn about Google Play Store giftcards!
Amazon
You can also get Amazon Gift cards in plenty of increments, ranging from $10 to the thousands. These can be used for all your tech and content, so go grab them!
Wrapping up
Did you find any good gifts for that special loved one? We are almost sure this list has at least one awesome thing your beloved tech geek will love. If not, those gift cards are always perfect! What do you guys think? Are there any cool ideas you can think of for gifts under $250? We are sure you can come up with some other great gadgets, these just happen to be our favorite.
Motorola’s Moto 360 Sport is coming to the U.S. on January 7 for $299
Alongside the second-generation Moto 360 at IFA 2015, Motorola announced a variant of the hit smartwatch for the fitness-minded folks out there. It was called the Moto 360 Sport, and up until now, the wearable has been completely MIA. But today, thanks to a new posting on Motorola’s Official Blog, the company has finally given us pricing and availability details on the new watch.
The Moto 360 Sport will be available in the U.K. and France on Friday, December 18th. U.S. customers will need to wait a bit longer, as the watch won’t be available on Motorola’s website until Thursday, January 7th starting at $299. On Sunday, December 10th, the 360 Sport will be available in Best Buy stores across the nation and in the new Moto Shop in downtown Chicago. The company says the watch will also launch in Brazil, Canada, China, Mexico and Spain sometime in the new year.
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The Moto 360 Sport has essentially the same specs as the Moto 360 proper, with a few added features thrown in. It comes with a silicone band, a built-in GPS that works with Motorola’s Moto Body application, and a new feature called AnyLight which will allow you to see things much more clearly both indoors and out. The company says the display works just like a normal LCD display when using it indoors. But outdoors, it will reflect natural sunlight, making the screen much easier to read.
If you’d like more information or to sign up for updates, head to Motorola’s website for all the details.
Moto 360 Sport set to launch later this month in the UK with the US shortly after
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The fitness centric variant of the Moto
Instead, the Moto 360 Sport is constructed of a durable silicone which doesn’t absorb sweat and is resistant to fading and staining. It carriers a IP67 water-resistant rating which clears it as being completely protected against dust and protected against immersion between 15cm and 1 meter. Although, Motorola is quick to note that it is not water proof. The Sport carriers a 1.37-inch LCD-based round AnyLight display that is designed to give you optimal viewing indoors and outdoors. It carries a pixel density of 263ppi with a resolution of 360 x 325. You will also find built-in GPS to track your workouts along with the usual accelerometer, gyroscopes, ambient light sensor, and vibration motor.
Official additional spec details:
•AnyLight Hybrid Display with Corning Gorilla Glass 3
•45mm diameter case, 11.5mm thick
•Weighs 54g
•300mAh battery (full day life with mixed ambient use)
•Snapdragon 400 1.2GHz quad-core processor
•Adreno 305 graphics with 450MHz GPU
•4GB storage
•512MB RAM
•Bluetooth 4.0
•Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g
•Heart rate monitor
•Dual digital mics
The Moto 360 Sport will launch in Black, White and Flame Orange. As for pricing and availability, well, those in the US wanting to put one on their Christmas wish list will miss out. The Moto 360 Sport is set to launch in the UK and France on December 18th. The US will be seeing the device live on January 7th through Motorola.com with a price tag of $299. On January 10th is goes to other locations such as Best Buy and the Moto store in Chicago. Motorola will be pushing the device to Brazil, Canada, China and Mexico later next year.
Source: Motorola
The post Moto 360 Sport set to launch later this month in the UK with the US shortly after appeared first on AndroidSPIN.
10 Android phones you should consider for Verizon (December 2015)
It’s the holiday shopping season and discounts and promos are in full swing. If you’re like a lot of consumers, now is the time to consider a smartphone upgrade. Buying a new device can be a fun endeavor, especially if you’ve got previous experience. For some, however, the thought of selecting a new handset may trigger some trepidation.
Which is the newest phone? What is the best phone? Which is the one that’s going to give me exactly what I need? We’re here to help you dig through the clutter.
We’ve put together a list of the top 10 Android smartphones you should consider for Verizon this December. Here, in no particular order, are ten Android handsets that you should consider for Verizon if you’re currently shopping around.
Droid Turbo 2
As the first phone to feature a shatterproof display, much can be said about the new Droid Turbo 2. Not only does this one give you peace of mind in knowing that it can fall out of your pocket or desk without shattering, the phone also features some pretty impressive hardware.
Powered by Android 5.1 Lollipop, the Turbo 2 features a 5.4-inch display at 2560×1440 resolution and a 21-megapixel camera. Quick charging ensures that the phone never runs low on juice; moreover, the 3760mAh battery gets you two days of use. In other words it’s built to be used and somewhat abused.
In a first for the Droid series, buyers can head to the Moto Maker tool to design their own unique version of the phone. There are more than 1,000 combinations of colors and materials to choose from.
Motorola Droid Turbo 2 at Verizon
Customized Droid Turbo 2 at Verizon
LG V10
The newest phone of the bunch, this LG features two displays. Indeed, there is the 5.7-inch quad HD screen which looks gorgeous on its own. However, up at the top you will find a small secondary display which offers quick access to favourite contacts, apps, media player buttons , or an at-a-glance view of your schedule.
But, as if that were not enough, you will also find 64 gigabytes of internal storage with a microSD card that allows for another 200GB of space. The removable 3,000mAh battery is more than enough to get you a day or two of life. The rear offers up a 16-megapixel camera while the front houses a pair of 5-megapixel shooters. One works for close-ups while the other has a wide angle lens for group shots.
Motorola Droid Maxx 2
Another relative newbie, this Motorola packs a 5.5-inch 1080p HD display, 21-megapixel rear camera, and 16GB internal storage. Toss in the 3630mAh battery with Turbo Charging and you’ve got a device that should never run low on power. Other specifications include Android 5.1.1 Lollipop, microSD expansion card slot for more storage, and a water-repellent coating.
Motorola Droid Maxx 2 at Verizon
Samsung Galaxy Note 5
The fifth generation of Samsung’s plus-sized smartphone experience boasts a gorgeous metal and glass design. The S Pen digital stylus is smarter than ever and works without even powering on the display. Up from previous models, storage options are now 32GB and 64GB. The battery, which comes in at a commendable 3000mAh capacity, allows for fast charging, wireless charging, and even fast wireless charging.
Samsung Galaxy Note 5 at Verizon
Samsung Galaxy Note 5 at Amazon
Samsung Galaxy S6
Announced in the spring, it’s hard to beat the annual Samsung flagship smartphone. The 5.1-inch Quad HD screen is a stunner and feels oh-so-right in our hands and the premium design includes glass and metal. It’s the first Galaxy S model we’ve wanted to coddle and protect in a long time. It doesn’t hurt that it runs Android 5.0 Lollipop (with an expected 6.0 update), comes with at least 32GB storage, and has 3GB RAM to boost performance.
Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge+
An almost identical sibling to the aforementioned Galaxy Note 5, this one trades out the stylus for the dual curved display. If you don’t need to jot down notes or mark up documents, consider grabbing the more sexy counterpart.
Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge+ at Verizon
LG G4
LG continues to impress with a steady stream of flagship models that demand attention. We long ago fell in love with the rear button layout and this year’s version has one of the best camera experiences we’ve ever seen on a smartphone. The specs are top-notch and the screen is a real looker.
Google Nexus 6
Running an untouched version of Android Lollipop, the Nexus 6 is among the first to receive an update to the 6.0 Marshmallow build. The 6-inch screen might be a little bigger than you’re familiar with but the reviews and feedback have been solid. Internal storage is tapped at 32GB with no microSD expansion card slot but it should be enough for those who live in the cloud.
HTC One M9
The lone HTC model here is also one of the oldest flagship models to make this list. Don’t let that concern you, though, it’s still a kick-ass phone with a great build. The 5-inch screen looks great and fits well in the hand while the 20-megapixel camera snaps excellent photos. The microSD card keeps media lovers content with room for up to 200GB of external storage.
Motorola Moto X (2nd Generation)
As an ancestor to the Droid Turbo 2 and Droid Maxx 2, the Moto X (2nd Generation) doesn’t have a ton of Verizon customization. In other words, it’s closer to a stock Android experience than most other phones with only a few added touches. We love what Motorola adds to the user interface: twist to open camera, chop to activate flashlight, and voice actions. Pick yours up in Black, White Bamboo, or Football Leather.
Motorola Moto X (2nd Generation) at Verizon
Motorola Moto X (2nd Generation) at Amazon
The post 10 Android phones you should consider for Verizon (December 2015) appeared first on AndroidGuys.
10 Android phones you should consider for AT&T (December 2015)
It’s the most wonderful time of the year – to buy a smartphone. With Black Friday behind us and the holiday shopping season off and running, it’s the time of year where many consider a new handset. If you’re a seasoned smartphone owner, picking out an upgrade is a simple process. But, for some folks, the idea of purchasing a new handset generates a touch of anxiety.
Which is the newest phone? What is the best phone? Which is the one that’s going to give me exactly what I need? We’re here to help you dig through the clutter.
We’ve put together a list of the top 10 Android smartphones you should consider for AT&T this December. Here, in no particular order, are ten Android handsets that you should consider for AT&T if you’re currently contemplating a new device.
LG G Flex 2
Introduced early in the year, this phone was among the first to boast a Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 processor. It’s powerful enough to contend with most Androids and features a 13-megapixel rear camera with laser focus and optical image stabilization. What it also offers, is a self-healing protective coating, which means your keys and general wear won’t ruin the finish. Also, the phone is curved in multiple ways and allows for one of the most comfortable experiences around.
LG V10
The newest phone of the bunch, this LG features two displays. Indeed, there is the 5.7-inch quad HD screen which looks gorgeous on its own. However, up at the top you will find a small secondary display which offers quick access to favourite contacts, apps, media player buttons , or an at-a-glance view of your schedule.
But, as if that were not enough, you will also find 64 gigabytes of internal storage with a microSD card that allows for another 200GB of space. The removable 3,000mAh battery is more than enough to get you a day or two of life. The rear offers up a 16-megapixel camera while the front houses a pair of 5-megapixel shooters. One works for close-ups while the other has a wide angle lens for group shots.
Samsung Galaxy Note 5
The fifth generation of Samsung’s plus-sized smartphone experience boasts a gorgeous metal and glass design. The S Pen digital stylus is smarter than ever and works without even powering on the display. Up from previous models, storage options are now 32GB and 64GB. The battery, which comes in at a commendable 3000mAh capacity, allows for fast charging, wireless charging, and even fast wireless charging.
Samsung Galaxy Note 5 at Amazon
Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge+
An almost identical sibling to the aforementioned Galaxy Note 5, this one trades out the stylus for the dual curved display. If you don’t need to jot down notes or mark up documents, consider grabbing the more sexy counterpart.
Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge+ at AT&T
BlackBerry Priv
The newest of the bunch, this is also the first BlackBerry handset to run Android out of the box. Not only is this one big and powerful, but it’s also extra secure, too. Standout features include an 19-megapixel rear camera and 3410mAh battery. Oh, and did we mention the Priv also has a physical keyboard? Indeed, tucked under the gorgeous 5.4-inch curved display is a 4-row QWERTY keyboard. Blast through emails and messages without breaking a sweat. It’s 2015 and once again it’s cool to own a BlackBerry.
Samsung Galaxy S6
Announced in the spring, it’s hard to beat the annual Samsung flagship smartphone. The 5.1-inch Quad HD screen is a stunner and feels oh-so-right in our hands and the premium design includes glass and metal. It’s the first Galaxy S model we’ve wanted to coddle and protect in a long time. It doesn’t hurt that it runs Android 5.0 Lollipop (with an expected 6.0 update), comes with at least 32GB storage, and has 3GB RAM to boost performance.
Samsung Galaxy S6 Active
Take the 2015 flagship smartphone and add in water and dust resistance with shock resistance and you end up with the Samsung Galaxy S6 Active. Still present are the 5.1-inch display, 16-megapixel camera, and octa-core processor; however, the device greatly benefits with the addition of a 3500mAh battery. In short, this is a tremendous phone that’s built to last all day and can take just about anything you will throw its way.
Samsung Galaxy S6 Active at AT&T
LG G4
LG continues to impress with a steady stream of flagship models that demand attention. We long ago fell in love with the rear button layout and this year’s version has one of the best camera experiences we’ve ever seen on a smartphone. The specs are top-notch and the screen is a real looker.
HTC One A9
As the only HTC model on this list, we’re big fans of the new design cues and direction. It’s not necessarily a powerful smartphone, but it’s more than enough for first time buyers with plenty left over. It’s the first non-Nexus handset to run Android 6.0 Marshmallow and enjoys features such as Doze, Android Pay, and Android on Tap. For the first time in a few years we are excited about HTC again and can’t recommend this phone enough for its target demographic. The 5-inch screen feels terrific in hand and the fingerprint scanner is highly responsive. Check out our review of the HTC One A9.
HTC One A9 (unlocked) at Amazon
Motorola Moto X (2nd Generation)
The Moto X (2nd Generation) doesn’t have a ton of AT&T customization which means it’s closer to a stock Android experience than most other phones. What is added by Motorola, however, is worth it and only adds to the phone’s value. It’s a little over a year old now, sure, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth your attention. If you’re looking for a great Android handset that won’t break the bank, you’ll be wise to consider this one.
Motorola Moto X (2nd Generation) at AT&T
The post 10 Android phones you should consider for AT&T (December 2015) appeared first on AndroidGuys.
Motorola announces availability of Moto 360 Sport smartwatch
Back in September, Motorola announced they would be releasing a special version of their Moto 360 smartwatch geared toward people focused on fitness. Since then, things have been quiet and no updates were released concerning availability. Motorola changed that today by releasing information on when the device will be available in select markets along with pricing information.
Motorola says the Moto 360 Sport will be available in the U.K. and France starting on December 18th and will be released to the U.S. market on January 7th. In the U.S., the Moto 360 Sport will initially be sold online through Motorola.com and other retailers followed by bricks-and-mortar retail availability on January 10th in Best Buy stores. The device will eventually hit markets in Brazil, Canada, China, Mexico and Spain during 2016. Pricing has been set at $299 for the Moto 360 Sport.
The Moto 360 Sport will come with built-in GPS so people exercising can leave their phones behind and is constructed with a special silicone band that won’t absorb sweat and is resistant to fading and staining. Motorola is also equipping the smartwatch with a special display called AnyLight. This is described as a hybrid display that functions like an LCD screen when inside or in low light situations, but switches to a reflective mode in sunlight to make it easier to read, especially during quick glances in the middle of a workout.
Motorola says the display will be 1.37 inches in diameter, which puts it at a 35mm size as compared to the regular Moto 360 that comes in 42mm or 46mm sizes. The smartwatch will be powered by a 300mAh battery supporting a Snapdragon 400 processor with 512MB of RAM and 4GB of onboard storage. It will support both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections. The device will have an altimeter, accelerometer, ambient light sensor, and gyroscope built in to go with the optical heart rate monitor.
source: Motorola
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