Rumour: BlackBerry and Samsung to release smartphone with Android Lollipop and BlackBerry services later this year
Last week’s rumour that BlackBerry was considering the idea of using the Android operating system for an upcoming smartphone might not be so far-fetched after all, at least according to a tweet from Eldar Murtazin.
Samsung + Blackberry = Android Smartphone with Lollipop + BB services
— Eldar Murtazin (@eldarmurtazin) June 15, 2015
As you can see from the tweet above, he alludes to a joint venture between Samsung and Blackberry, with the device running Android Lollipop and having BlackBerry services baked in. This joint venture is believed to be released later this year.
After rumours of both Samsung and Microsoft making offers to buy the Canadian company, it seems that BlackBerry has chosen instead to strengthen its ties with Samsung. Firstly by teaming up to improve Knox security on Android and now apparently with an upcoming device running Android firmware with BlackBerry services baked in. It has to be said that BlackBerry aren’t in a great position financially, barely holding on to a 1% share of the smartphone market and having to cut jobs.
It’s an interesting rumour for sure. If true, what traditional BlackBerry features would you like to see included? Would you like to see an Android smartphone with a physical keyboard? Let us know in the comments.
Source: Eldar Murtazin (Twitter)
Come comment on this article: Rumour: BlackBerry and Samsung to release smartphone with Android Lollipop and BlackBerry services later this year
Android 5.1.1 OTA is rolling out to Galaxy S6 and S6 edge on T-Mobile
If you are the proud owner of a T-Mobile Galaxy S6 or S6 edge smartphone, it would seem you are about to receive a second helping of Lollipop goodness in the form of an update to Android 5.1.1. It’s an Over-The-Air (OTA) update and you should be receiving the notification anytime soon.
The OTA’s have a build date of June 11th and changelog number 90673209. The Galaxy S6 (SM-G925T) firmware will be bumped to G925TUVU2COF6 while the Galaxy S6 edge’s firmware will become G920TUVU2COF6.
Besides the usual bug fixes, the update is said to improve performance, give you the option to remove the S-Finder and Quick Connect buttons from the notifications shade, the wallpaper parallax effect and a new exposure control system for the camera. So it’s worth your while to see if Android 5.1.1 is available for your device.
As usual, you can either choose to wait for the update to reach your device or you can move things along by connecting your compatible handset to Samsung’s Kies software on your computer to download and install the firmware. Let us know in the comments if the Android 5.1.1 update has reached your Galaxy S6 or S6 edge yet, and if there are any bugs or unexpected features.
Source: SamMobile
Come comment on this article: Android 5.1.1 OTA is rolling out to Galaxy S6 and S6 edge on T-Mobile
LG and Samsung smartwatches leave data unencrypted
University of New Haven researchers have been able to uncover what they call sensitive information from the LG G Watch and the Samsung Gear 2 Neo. On the LG G Watch, researches were able to get contacts, pedometer and calendar data. The G Watch also gave up the owners email address, but let’s be honest, everyone has your email address. The Samsung Gear 2 Neo yielded health, email, messages and contacts data.
They found all of this information, and none of it was encrypted. Your data is being left out in the open by Samsung and LG.
““It was not very difficult to get the data, but expertise and research was required,” said Ibrahim Baggili, director of the university’s Cyber Forensics Research and Education Group (UNHCFREG). He and co-authors Jeff Oduru, Kyle Anthony, Frank Breitinger and Glenn McGee plan to present their findings in a paper for a digital forensics conference in August.“
Both companies had a statement to share with CNET stating that they both take “security very seriously” (direct quote found in both statements). I mean, who doesn’t take “security very seriously”? Gosh, I have yet to find a company that just takes security seriously, they all take it very seriously.
Both companies also say that they look into all reported security flaws promptly in order to find a solution immediately.
Security is becoming a bigger and bigger issue with each new electronic in our lives. Electronics have snaked their way to our pockets, on our wrists, even on our faces. Google even wants to put them directly into your cloths.
The more electronics around, the more places hackers can grab your information from. Security is becoming a bigger issue than it was previously, and it was a huge issue previously.
The post LG and Samsung smartwatches leave data unencrypted appeared first on AndroidGuys.
Android Authority this week – June 14, 2015
Hello Android fans, this week brought us rumors of new Samsung devices, a potential release date for the OnePlus 2, and Apple’s first foray into the world of Android apps.
The iPhone maker can’t pretend Android doesn’t exist any longer, so it’s bringing Music to Google’s platform this summer; patents gave us a glimpse at Samsung’s future folding tablets and smartphones, while more details of the rumored Galaxy S6 Plus surfaced; OnePlus cut the price of its first device by $50, as the OnePlus 2 is coming round the corner; Google had another busy update window; a new report confirmed the Huawei Nexus; BlackBerry is reportedly working on an Android device; and Oculus introduced the consumer version of the Rift.
Inside AA HQ
It’s been pretty quiet around AA HQ this week, though that doesn’t mean we’ve revved down our Android coverage engines. Quite the opposite, we had several cool reviews, comparisons, and feature pieces coming out these past seven days, and some of the best are highlighted below.
The world’s biggest gaming event, E3, is starting this Tuesday, and for the first time ever, Android Authority will be covering the show on the ground. Gaming on Android is big and getting bigger each year, and we want to be a part of that. Expect hands-on coverage of hot new titles and Android gaming devices, but also our impressions of the show as a whole. Game on!
This week we’re putting a Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge up for grabs. As always, it’s super easy to get your raffle tickets, so you’ve got nothing to lose!
The stuff you shouldn’t miss
- Opinion: Nirave discusses the benefits and drawbacks of rugged devices
- Opinion: Should after-sale services and warranty programs be higher on your list of priorities?
- Review: Lanh reviews the excellent Xiaomi Mi Note Pro
- Versus: Josh pitches against each other the two hottest Android devices right now: S6 Edge and LG G4
- Review: It’s not just the flagships that matter: Bailey reviews the affordable Blue Life One
- Feature: Gary gives you a thoughtful perspective on the changes the emergence of true AI will bring
- Feature: Samsung is at a turning point. What paths can it take?
- How to: Turn your Galaxy S6 Edge in an Iron Man edition with Slickwraps
Top news of the week
And here are the top news in the Android world this week:
Folding Samsung
- New Samsung patent could be further proof of Project Valley, a rumored foldable device
- Samsung’s foldable tablet could look like this
S6 Plus and Note 5 rumors
- Samsung patents automatic ejectable stylus design for a Galaxy Note
- Galaxy Note 5 rumor: USB 3.1 Type-C and Quad HD display
- Rumors point to 5.7-inch Galaxy S6 Edge Plus, but trademark hints at S6 Note moniker
Apple on Android
- Apple Music is making its way to Android devices this fall
- Apple’s other Android app will help you switch to iOS, “recycle” your Android for free
OnePlus One & 2
- OnePlus One now from $249 permanently, partners with Dropbox for promo
- OnePlus won’t issue Android 5.1 update for OxygenOS until the OnePlus Two is released
- Enter these contests for your chance to win a OnePlus Two
- OnePlus 2 rumored to launch this July with a $322 price point
Google apps updates
- Google Maps gains improved photo viewer and rental car information in v9.10 update
- Google’s new family-friendly section now live in the Play Store
- Google offering a free movie rental for Chromecast owners
- Android Auto update supports Galaxy S4 and S5 on AT&T, Sprint and Verizon
- Gmail adds OAuth support for Microsoft and Yahoo email accounts
- Google Slides updated bringing Chromecast support and more
Huawei Nexus
DroidBerry
Oculus Rift is ready for business
Sound off
We always want to hear your feedback. Whether it’s criticism or praise, feel free to tell us what you think about Android Authority’s content, design, and community. Comment here or get in touch with us on our social channels:
Happy Sunday!
Samsung Galaxy S6 Active officially available through AT&T
Samsung’s Galaxy S6 Active definitely didn’t surprise anyone this year, but after several months of waiting it’s finally available exclusively through AT&T.
If you’re interested, you can sign a 2-year contract to pick up the Active for $199, or start up an AT&T Next financing plan for upwards of $23.17 a month.
Aside from the ruggedness and waterproofing of the Active, the phone isn’t that much different from Samsung’s current flagship Galaxy S6. You’ll find the same hardware inside, so performance should supposedly be nearly identical to the Galaxy S6. A key addition is the significantly improved 3,500 mAh battery you’ll find in the Active, however, so we can all expect to see much improved battery life out of this variant.
Anybody going to be picking one of these up, or are you sticking with the normal Galaxy S6? That bigger battery is definitely tempting.
source: AT&T
Come comment on this article: Samsung Galaxy S6 Active officially available through AT&T
Lucky Number 66: Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge Iron Man edition sold for $91,000 in China
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A few weeks ago, we covered the story of how early preorders of the Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge Iron Man edition were being listed for more than $3,000 USD on eBay, and onwards up to $9,000. That seems cheap by comparison to this story out of China which says that a Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge Iron Man edition sold for $91,000 USD, or 568, 788 Yuan in the native currency. The unit in question was number 66 (of a planned 1,000 unit run), and garnered so much attention because “6” is a lucky number in Asian cultures, as are the colours red and gold – no less than 92,429 bids were seen during the online auction before the unit was sold. I can’t wait to see how much unit 888 is sold for (another set of auspicious numbers in Asian culture).
Considering the Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge Iron Man edition is retailing for $1,079 USD, it seems a bit ludicrous that someone would buy one for 90 times that amount, but considering that there is only a limited run, and is basically an Iron Man fan’s dream with its Iron Man theming and Arc reactor charging pad, it’s not surprising that people are going just a little bit crazy over it.
Would you pay $91,000 for a smartphone? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: Business Korea via Phone Arena
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Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge Plus will have 5.7-inch dual curved display and Android 5.1.1
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If you’ve been holding out for a larger Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge, this is the news for you. According to SamMobile, they have exclusive information which says that the rumoured Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge Plus, which is essentially a larger S6 Edge, will have a 5.7-inch dual curved edge display and come with Android 5.1.1 out of the box. None of this is particularly surprising seeing as we expected the S6 Edge Plus to be a bigger device and Android 5.1.1 is basically the industry standard for the time being.
For those wondering, the display on the original S6 Edge was 5.1-inch so an upsize to 5.7-inch with the S6 Edge Plus would appease those who find that the curved edges take a little too much away from the flat part of the display. The device will allegedly be released some time in Q3 this year, which could be anytime before September really, so we’ll have to see when and where the S6 Edge Plus is released.
What do you think about the rumoured Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge Plus so far? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: SamMobile
The post Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge Plus will have 5.7-inch dual curved display and Android 5.1.1 appeared first on AndroidSPIN.
Android 5.1.1 for the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 being tested now, release coming soon?
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It almost seemed like when Android 5.0 was almost ready for the world, Android 5.1 was already ready to pounce. As a result, there are quite a few flagship devices from yesteryear which are currently stuck on Android 5.0 which scarce indication as to whether they’ll be updated again before Android M drops. Thankfully, Android 5.1.1 for the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 is currently in testing, so owners of the device can breathe a sigh of a relief. This news came about after screenshots from a Galaxy Note 4 running the AnTuTu benchmarking app were leaked and clearly shows Android 5.1.1 running on the device.
What’s notable about the screenshots is that the Android 5.1.1 shown here is indicated as a 32-bit version – we’re also hearing rumours that a 64-bit version is in testing, but it’s possible both these are true as the Exynos variant of the Galaxy Note 4 does have a 64-bit processor. Despite all this rumour talk, it’s always worth taking this news with a grain of salt as even if this screenshot is legitimate, it’s difficult to tell exactly when Android 5.1.1 is going to drop for the Galaxy Note 4 – though we hope it’s sooner rather than later.
What do you think about Android 5.1.1 for the Samsung Galaxy Note 4? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: SamMobile
The post Android 5.1.1 for the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 being tested now, release coming soon? appeared first on AndroidSPIN.
Samsung files trademark application for S6 Note
Earlier we reported on word that Samsung is working on a new variant in their Galaxy S6 line of flagship devices that would come with a larger screen and curved edges going by the name Galaxy S6 Edge Plus. Now another piece of the puzzle has been revealed when it was discovered that Samsung has filed a trademark application for the name “S6 Note”. This name is curious and probably raises more questions than it answers.
Traditionally Samsung has kept the “S” line of devices distinct from its stylus-equipped large format “Note” series of devices. This raises the question of whether Samsung plans to produce an S device that is equipped with a stylus. Since devices with a stylus typically get large screens, this could also be the same device as the Galaxy S6 Edge Plus which will supposedly get a 5.7-inch screen.
If this device is actually part of the Note line of devices, it raises the question of why the “S6″ part was added. The dual curved edges of the Galaxy S6 edge could be added to the Note line, although the Galaxy Note 4 already added the original curved edge and that feature alone does not seem to be a necessary part of “S6″.
Any guesses as to what Samsung may be up to with this latest trademark application?
source: Galaxy Club
Come comment on this article: Samsung files trademark application for S6 Note
Samsung’s Galaxy Note 4 could be getting Android 5.1.1 soon
Samsung is notoriously slow in bringing firmware upgrades to even its latest devices. However, you’re in luck if you own a Galaxy Note 4, as it seems the update is going through its testing stages, according to results on AnTuTu Benchmark.
SamMobile has been told that this one of the first releases of the update, so its more than likely ridden with quirks and bugs. However, the update is in the works, and it could only be a couple of months before it comes to fruition. Then again, if Samsung’s past update releases are anything to go by, we could see Android 5.1 for the Note 4 around the time Android M is ready to launch on Nexus devices. Not mention the fact that Note 4 users on a carrier-branded device will have to wait even longer for 5.1.
There’s also been rumors that Samsung is testing a 64-bit build for the Galaxy Note 4, which would provide a lot of benefits for users on the hardware side of the spectrum. But, it likely won’t make it to launch, since only the Exynos model has the 64-bit chip, and even the 64-bit support in that is said to be disabled. Then again, if Samsung is testing a build for it, it’s highly probable that it could get enabled again.
These are all rumors being tossed around, of course. But, knowing that Android 5.1 is at least in the works for the Note 4 is at least a glimmer of hope for seeing Android M on the device sometime next year.
source: SamMobile
Come comment on this article: Samsung’s Galaxy Note 4 could be getting Android 5.1.1 soon
AIVAnet 