Samsung’s latest batteries make unusual wearables possible
Samsung’s latest battery prototypes could lead not only to more powerful wearables, but also to unusual ones. The first model called Band is meant to be attached to smartwatch straps, as its name implies, to add as much as 50 percent of the device’s original battery life. Stripe, on the other hand, is the thin, bendy strip the model above is holding in her hands — and the more versatile between the two. Since it’s extremely thin (it has a depth measuring 0.3mm), it could be used to create all kinds of wearables, such as smart necklaces and headbands, or even interactive clothing designs. According to Samsung, it has higher energy density than current comparable batteries, though it didn’t name any particular brand and model.
Via: Hot Hardware
Android Authority this week – October 25, 2015
Android fans, HTC was in the spotlight this week, though not just for good reasons. The Taiwanese company’s new A9 looks great, but it’s a little too familiar for some tastes. In other news, we heard a credible rumor about the release of the Galaxy S7; we brought you our initial impressions of the Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P; Google released a couple of big updates; the BlackBerry Priv finally went up for pre-order; YouTube Red and YouTube Music launched; we got another look at the Droid Turbo; and Samsung launched the Galaxy On5 and On7.
Inside AA HQ
Android fans, on October 21, 2015, the future has finally arrived. We don’t have hoverboards just yet, but what we carry in our pockets every day is just as amazing. As Doc Brown himself put it, the “future” is different from what we all thought, but that’s a good thing. When it comes to mobile technology, Nirave did a good job highlighting the absolutely massive leaps that the phone industry made in just one decade. Think about that the next time you feel the urge to complain about your device. And think about where we will be ten years from now.
The results of our blind camera shootout between the Xperia Z5, Galaxy Note 5, LG G4, and the iPhone 6S has caused a huge stir. Yes, the iPhone 6S won on an Android site, and the Apple blogosphere rejoiced. For us, the takeaway here is that Apple is still better at giving most users what they actually want from their cameras, and that should be food for thought for the Android OEMs that are still too fixated on raw specs. The other takeaway? Expect more camera shootouts in the future!
This Halloween, share your data horror story and stand to win a Nexus 6P, Galaxy Note 5, or Xperia Z5 from our friends at Opera. Enter the giveaway here!
The stuff you shouldn’t miss
- Review: Gary reviews the smallest member of the Xperia Z5 family
- Editorial: Delays are okay, lack of communication is not, Andrew tells Saygus
- How to: Here’s what you need to know to make the most of USB OTG
- Feature: Specs, specs, specs! On our unhealthy obsession with specs
- Review: It’s not Android, but it’s still a great smartwatch – Samsung Gear S2 review
Top news of the week
Galaxy S7 release date?
HTC One A9 is here
- HTC One A9 officially announced: everything you need to know
- HTC One A9 first impressions: trying some new things
- HTC One A9 vs Nexus 5X vs Moto X Style vs ZTE Axon: specs comparison
- HTC CEO: Our new smartphone will be good enough to replace the iPhone
- Unlocked HTC One A9: software upgrades within 15 days of every Nexus update
- HTC One A9 availability – what we know so far
- HTC executive is not amused: “It’s Apple that copies us.”
Nexus impressions
- Nexus 6P unboxing and impressions after first 48 hours
- Nexus 5X unboxing and impressions after first 48 hours
All things Google
- You can now become a beta tester for the Google app on Android
- Google Maps now makes pit stops easier, also adds gas pricing
- Here’s how Verified Boot warnings look in Android 6.0 Marshmallow
- Google tightens its OEM requirements for new Marshmallow devices
- New look Google Play Store begins hitting devices
Priv is for priviledge
- BlackBerry details the security measures it baked into the Android-powered Priv
- BlackBerry Priv briefly goes up for pre-order: $749 unlocked [update: shipping Nov 6]
- BlackBerry Priv pre-order opens in US, UK and Canada; ships Nov 6
YouTube Red & Music
- YouTube Music app launching alongside YouTube Red
- YouTube Red, Google’s ad-free video service, launching October 28 for $9.99 per month
Here comes the Droid Turbo
- DROID Turbo 2 teased ahead of official announcement, courtesy of Verizon
- Motorola DROID Turbo 2 and Maxx 2 press renders leak out ahead of official unveiling
Galaxy On5 and On7
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Samsung ON5 and ON7 renders have arrived
Samsung continues to offer a wide range of Galaxy phones outside of its traditional Galaxy S and Note line. More and more leaks have appeared online of it’s upcoming On5 and ON7 mid-range smartphones heading to India and possibly other markets. Now, we have official press renders of the phones from all angles.
The images show the smartphones in white and gold color options, with a very similar Galaxy design we’ve all come to expect from the company. The devices look to sport aluminum sides with a plastic removable back. According to the source, hardware specifications for the phone include 720p Super AMOLED screens and powered by the Exynos 3475 quad-core SoC running at 1.2GHz along with 1.5GB of RAM. One of the main differences is the screen size, with the ON5 offering a 5 inch screen and the ON7 offering a 5.5 inch size.
The backside of the ON7 will sport a 13-megapixel camera and a 5-megapixel camera on the front, and the smaller ON5 sporting an 8-megapixel primary shooter instead. To power the phones, the source states a hefty 3,000mAh battery will accompany the ON7 and a 2,600mAh battery in the ON5. Internal storage comes offers 8GB, however to please a great number of people, the devices will allow for expandable storage via micro-SD slot inside the phone.
The two devices will run Android 5.1.1 with TouchWiz on top. Exact release dates and pricing are not yet known, or if this device will be available internationally.
via AndroidHeadlines
The post Samsung ON5 and ON7 renders have arrived appeared first on AndroidGuys.
Here are the videos you don’t want to miss this week – October 24, 2015
The Android world never sleeps, and that’s certainly been the case for this past week.
This week we’ve managed to bring you our unboxing and first impressions of Google’s new Nexus 6P and Nexus 5X smartphones, as well as an initial hands-on with HTC’s new One A9. That’s not all, though. We’ve brought you full reviews of the Sony Xperia Z5, Z5 Compact and Samsung Gear S2, which you won’t want to miss!
A first look at the new Nexus phones
Nexus 6P unboxing and first impressions
While we didn’t have enough time to bring you our full review, we brought you the next best thing. Don’t miss Josh’s unboxing and first impressions of Google’s new Nexus 6P.
Nexus 5X unboxing and first impressions
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Wondering what we think of the Nexus 5X so far? Check out Lanh’s Nexus 5X unboxing and impressions after 48 hours with the device.
Hands-on with HTC’s hero device
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HTC is doing something different, yet still incredibly familiar. Can the One A9 stand out from the crowd, or is it too much of a copycat? Check out Josh’s hands-on and first impressions with the HTC One A9.
- HTC One A9 first impressions: trying some new things
- HTC One A9 officially announced: everything you need to know
Reviews
Sony Xperia Z5 review
Sony’s new Xperia Z5 is one heck of a smartphone, but has it changed enough from past Sony devices? Don’t miss Krystal’s full review of the Sony Xperia Z5.
Samsung Gear S2 review
The Gear S2 may be one of the best smartwatches on the market, but are there any caveats that come along with Samsung’s newest wearable? Find out more in our full review.
Sony Xperia Z5 Compact review
If you’re in the market for a smaller handset, the Xperia Z5 Compact may be the phone for you. Check out Gary’s full review to learn more.
Tips and tricks for your S6 and Note 5
Wondering how to make the most of your Galaxy S6 or Note 5’s software? Gary walks us through some TouchWiz tips and tricks.
Android Apps Weekly
NBA 2K16, new Google Play Store, Minecraft: Story Mode is out – you don’t want to miss Joe’s newest episode of Android Apps Weekly!
Should OEMs focus on smaller phones?
Now that large-screened smartphones are here to stay, should device manufacturers make it a point to put more focus on smaller devices? Don’t miss Matthew’s written opinion piece attached below, and check out Jayce’s video for more speculation.
The UK will receive the Samsung Gear S2 on November 12 for £249
The Samsung Gear S2 and Gear S2 Classic will be available to buy on November 12. The Gear S2 will be priced at £249 and the Gear S2 Classic will be £299. You will also be able to pre-order them from the Samsung Store on October 29.
The Gear S2 will come in dark grey with matching band or silver with a white band. The Gear S2 Classic will come in black with a black leather band. Unfortunately, the GPS and 3G version Gear S2 will not be available at this time.
If you want to check out the watch before you buy one, you can head over to London’s Westfield White City shopping centre where Samsung is having a ‘experiential showcase’. It opens on October 23 until November 3 with 10 Gear S2’s being given away. It will also include Samsung Pay demos, as well as, showing off their new Gear VR.
Source: Wareable
Come comment on this article: The UK will receive the Samsung Gear S2 on November 12 for £249
TLYT Energi Sliding Power case for Samsung Galaxy S6 review
For all the great things that come in the design of the Samsung Galaxy S6, one thing has proved to be bothersome for some users. Indeed, I’m talking about the non-removable battery. For reasons known only to Samsung, this generation of device includes an internal battery. Sure, the phone looks downright gorgeous and feels really nice in hand, but users are confined to a very specific amount of juice.
For some of us, we like to add an extended battery or swap in a secondary battery as the need arises. This was quite easy in past generations of Samsung but not so much for this year.
Thankfully, we have companies like TYLT who make products that work with practical solutions regardless of whether your phone has an internal or removable battery.
We recently spent time with the Energi Sliding Power Case for the Samsung Galaxy S6 and found it to be in line with other products from TYLT. Namely, it’s quality device that provides peace of mind.
The inner layer protects the Galaxy S6 but doesn’t have any extra battery.
This product comes in a two-piece setup. For the first part, it’s a protective case that protects the edges of your screen. It fits snugly around the phone and provides a moderate amount of protection against scuffs and scrape.
As you might expect, there are cutouts for the charging port, speakers, headphone port, camera and other items. Buttons can be pressed easily and the response is still just about the same as what you’d find on the phone itself.
The second part, which is where the extended battery is housed, is where you’re going to find the bulk. Once you slide your phone down inside of this second unit, you’ve added a second 3400mAh battery. In other words, this more than doubles the life that you will get out of your phone.
The rear of the outer shell has a five-light indicator so you can quickly tell how much power is left in your reserve. Each light represents 20 percent of juice.
The device itself is prone to pick up oil and scuff a little bit easier than we’d like but it wasn’t unsightly. We expect these to get natural wear and tear over time; it can be wiped down easily. In short, there’s nothing here that bothered us more than any other, similar product we’ve tested.
It is not required that you use this battery at all times, of course, so feel free to carry just the phone itself. But, for those who do not expect to be near a charger for an extended period of time, you’ll want to take both pieces with you.
If there is one area of concern it is that the two pieces do not come apart very easily. For some people this will not be a problem. For others, it could be quite the pain in the butt if you need or want to pull your phone out and keep it slim. Some users may wish to keep the extended battery in a car or somewhere where they can grab it on the go and juice up the phone. If that is you, prepare to work your hands quite vigorously to get this apart. We did find that it got easier over time but it’s still a snug fit. There could be worse problems, though.
One feature we’re particularly fond of is the built-in support for Qi wireless charging. So, if you’ve got a wireless platter or dock, you can drop your Galaxy S6 on it and not worry about fussing with cords. This is the sort of flexibility and freedom you need and expect in a flagship such as the Samsung Galaxy S6.
You can score the TLYT Energi Sluding Power Case for $79.99 directly from TYLT. Other places that offer the device include Best Buy and Amazon; both had the same price as of the time this review was published.
The post TLYT Energi Sliding Power case for Samsung Galaxy S6 review appeared first on AndroidGuys.
Samsung’s Galaxy On7, Galaxy On5 are official in China
Two Samsung handsets that we are already familiar with went live in China earlier today. The Galaxy On7 and Galaxy On5 have both debuted on Samsung China’s site, showing entry-level specifications wrapped in plastic bodies with faux leather rear panels.
Galaxy On7 specifications:
- 5.5-inch 720p Super AMOLED display
- Exynos 3475 quad-core processor
- 1.5GB of RAM
- 13MP / 5MP cameras
- 8GB of internal storage (with microSD card slot)
- 3000mAh battery
- Android 5.1 Lollipop
- 151.8 x 77.5 x 8.2mm, 172g
When Samsung starts selling it in China, the Galaxy On7 is expected to cost around $200. Color options will be white and gold.
Galaxy On5 specifications:
- 5-inch 720p Super AMOLED display
- Exynos 3475 quad-core processor
- 1.5GB of RAM
- 8MP / 5MP cameras
- 8GB of internal storage (with microSD card slot)
- 2600mAh battery
- Android 5.1 Lollipop
The price of the Galaxy On5 in China is said to be in the ballpark of $150. Samsung China does not have an official page for the Galaxy On5 just yet, but the handset is officially listed alongside the Galaxy On7.
Source: Samsung
Come comment on this article: Samsung’s Galaxy On7, Galaxy On5 are official in China
AT&T’s now rolling out the Lollipop OTA for the Galaxy S5
AT&T has at last started rolling out the long-awaited Lollipop update to all its carrier-branded variants of the Galaxy S5 located in the United States. As far as added functionality goes, this upgrade brings the latest version of Android 5.1.1 to the handset, together with a much-needed patch for the Stagefright vulnerability.
Hit the break for the full changelog.
- Android 5.1.1
- Android For Work
- Security updates
- Fix to Ultra Power Saver mode for devices using On Device Encryption
As is the norm, this update is being distributed in stages. To see if it’s ready for your device head into Settings, scroll to the bottom and tap on “About Device”, hit “System Updates”, then select “Check for updates”. Alternatively, you can wait until you receive a push notification prompting you to install the update.
Source: AT&T
Come comment on this article: AT&T’s now rolling out the Lollipop OTA for the Galaxy S5
Gear S2 arrives Nov 12, go hands on at the Galaxy Studio
One of the highlights of IFA 2015 was Samsung’s new Gear S2 circular smartwatch, which comes with a unique rotating bezel and custom interface, which is unlike any other smartwatch. If you’ve been waiting to hear when it’ll launch, the wait is over: the Korean OEM has announced the Gear S2 will launch on November 12th in the UK, with pre-orders opening on October 29.
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The wearable will cost from £249.00 depending on the version you buy, which is an attractive price given that it’s closest competition – the Moto 360 2nd Gen, Huawei Watch and Apple Watch – all cost significantly more. If this price isn’t as appealing to you, Samsung has an interesting promotion for you; head down to Westfield, London (White City) and you could win one of 10 Gear S2 smartwatches or one of three Galaxy S6 Edge smartphones.
To put its range of devices in front of more people and allow potential customers to experience the Gear S2 along with Galaxy smartphones and the new Gear VR, Samsung has today launched the Galaxy Studio. Built across four key areas (Design, Life, Music, Multimedia), the Galaxy Studio brings together Samsung’s range of mobile devices and runs from today (October 23rd) until November 3rd.
Chong-Won Lim, Head of Product Marketing, IT & Mobile Division, Samsung Electronics UK and Ireland said:
“At Samsung we pride ourselves on having led the wearables category over the past few years. The Gear S2 is a landmark smartwatch for us – combining a stunning design with market leading technology and we want to show people just how much we think this device will enhance their everyday lives. This is why we are delighted to be bringing the full Gear S2 experience, as well as Samsung’s other latest products, to Westfield’s customers in our experiential Galaxy Studio today.”
The Gear S2 will be available in two models: Gear S2 and Gear S2 Classic. The former features a sporty band and will cost £249.00 with either, a Dark Gray case and band or a Silver case with White band, while the latter will cost £299.00 in a Black case with a Leather band. For more information on Samsung’s latest wearable, check out our full Gear S2 review below.
‘WATCH’ THIS SPACE….SAMSUNG GALAXY STUDIO UNVEILED AT WESTFIELD WHITE CITY
Experiential pop-up giving visitors a sneak preview of the Samsung’s Gear S2 smartwatch as pre order date is confirmed for 29th October
LONDON, UK – 23rd October 2015 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced that its new experiential showcase, the Samsung Galaxy Studio, is now open to customers. The Studio, which will be open from Friday 23rd October to Tuesday 3rd November, in Westfield White City’s Main Atrium gives visitors the chance to experience Samsung’s new intuitive wearable experience, the Gear S2 smartwatch and other never seen before in the UK devices.
Visitors will be able to explore a host of different zones (all housed within a circular structure celebrating the design of the watch), including Life, Music, and Multimedia rooms, to try out and enjoy the latest additions to Samsung’s product portfolio including the innovative new Gear S2 in new and exciting ways. In addition, there will be 10 Gear S2 smartwatches and three of Samsung’s latest smartphone, the Galaxy S6 Edge, up for grabs for lucky visitors to win over the course of the 12 days the Studio is open.
Visitors to the Studio will experience the following:
- DESIGN: explore Samsung’s collaboration with other brands to deliver the ultimate smartwatch experience with the Gear S2
- LIFE: get a glimpse of how the Gear S2 could fit into their lives with the chance to try out the smartwatch for themselves. Plus, guests can try out Samsung’s mobile payment service, Samsung Pay, for the first time in the UK through the Gear S2
- MUSIC: music lovers can listen to special guest DJs through Samsung’s LEVEL headphones
- MULTIMEDIA: Experience a world like no other through virtual reality technology including the UK’s first look at the third edition of Samsung VR device
The Samsung Gear S2 smartwatch, which will be available to pre order from 29th October, combines a versatile, circular design with a host of advanced features that allow users to enhance and personalize their mobile experience. Packing the latest Tizen OS into a sleek, 11.4-millimeter thin design, the Gear S2 allows users to access messages and content quickly and easily from their wrist. Samsung’s Gear S2 is available in two different designs – the Gear S2 and the Gear S2 Classic giving tech fans a choice when it comes to picking a smartwatch that suits their personal style. Both designs feature a 1.2-inch circular screen and 360 x 360 resolution, to offer an incredible viewing experience.
Available for pre order from 29th October at the Samsung online shop, the Gear S2 will then be landing from the 12th November in selected high street retailers.
Commenting on the thinking behind the showcase experience, Chong-Won Lim, Head of Product Marketing, IT & Mobile Division, Samsung Electronics UK and Ireland said, “At Samsung we pride ourselves on having led the wearables category over the past few years. The Gear S2 is a landmark smartwatch for us – combining a stunning design with market leading technology and we want to show people just how much we think this device will enhance their everyday lives. This is why we are delighted to be bringing the full Gear S2 experience, as well as Samsung’s other latest products, to Westfield’s customers in our experiential Galaxy Studio today.”
The Samsung Gear S2 will have an RRP of £249.00, and be available in a Dark Gray case with a Dark Gray band and Silver case with a White band. The Samsung Gear S2 Classic will have an RRP of £299.00, and will be available in a Black case with a Leather band.
Samsung could launch two different sized versions of the Galaxy S7 edge simultaneously next year
We might still only be in October, but is it ever too early for rumours about Samsung’s next big thing? In this case, it’s the next edition of the Korean company’s S series of handsets, which is logically believed to carry the S7 moniker. While previous rumours have speculated on when the S7 will be unveiled, or which processor, USB port, and camera sensor it will feature, today’s rumour intimates that Samsung could launch two Galaxy S7 edge versions simultaneously.
According to SamsungViet, Samsung could launch two variants of the Galaxy S7 edge at the same time, and while both would naturally feature curved displays, they would each be of a different size of, say, for example, 5.2-inch (S7 edge) and a 5.7-inch (S7 edge+). There may also be a regular S7 handset with a flat display. Which means it’s entirely possible that 3 different variants of the Galaxy S7 could exist. Although it’s just as possible that Samsung will discard one of the variants before the big announcement.
It might not make current Galaxy S6 edge+ owners very happy, seeing a new version of their handset being released so soon, but it makes some sense when you consider it will allow the Note 6 to have it’s own space when it inevitably launches later on in 2016.
This is Samsung, so it’s anyone’s guess as to whether it will come to fruition. Does it make sense to you?
Source: SamsungViet
Via: PhoneArena
Come comment on this article: Samsung could launch two different sized versions of the Galaxy S7 edge simultaneously next year
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