Samsung's S10-series is set to be announced in February. With the launch inching closer, there are still so many details that we aren't aware of. We hear the company is working on bringing a 5G variant in the U.S., Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensors for the first time, in-display fingerprint sensors, and even display cutouts in the devices.
We have heard a lot of rumors, leaks, but we are yet to see a device in the wild to confirm any of these reports. The latest One UI beta firmware on the Samsung Galaxy Note 9 consists evidence of one specific Galaxy S10 model, the possible colors the Samsung Galaxy S10, that Samsung is working on integrating the use of ToF sensors for assistance in biometric authentication, and details of the exact shape and size of the rumored Galaxy S10 Lite, Galaxy S10, and Galaxy S10+’s display cutouts.
The Galaxy Note 9 One UI firmware has evidence of a new device code-name that has not yet been publicized along with references to the other Galaxy S10 device code-names that have previously been rumored (beyond0, beyond1, beyond2, and beyondx). There's also a new device code-name from a file named “boltq5gvzw,” suggesting that this is a 5G-capable smartphone with a Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset ...
Samsung's S10-series is set to be announced in February. With the launch inching closer, there are still so many details that we aren't aware of. We hear the company is working on bringing a 5G variant in the U.S., Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensors for the first time, in-display fingerprint sensors, and even display cutouts in the devices.
We have heard a lot of rumors, leaks, but we are yet to see a device in the wild to confirm any of these reports. The latest One UI beta firmware on the Samsung Galaxy Note 9 consists evidence of one specific Galaxy S10 model, the possible colors the Samsung Galaxy S10, that Samsung is working on integrating the use of ToF sensors for assistance in biometric authentication, and details of the exact shape and size of the rumored Galaxy S10 Lite, Galaxy S10, and Galaxy S10+’s display cutouts.
The Galaxy Note 9 One UI firmware has evidence of a new device code-name that has not yet been publicized along with references to the other Galaxy S10 device code-names that have previously been rumored (beyond0, beyond1, beyond2, and beyondx). There's also a new device code-name from a file named “boltq5gvzw,” suggesting that this is a 5G-capable smartphone with a Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset ...
LG has introduced its latest soundbar lineup; SL10YG, SL9YG, and SL8YG head of CES 2019. The company's new sound bars deliver superior sound quality thanks to its collaboration with Meridian Audio.
The soundbars can up-mix two-channel audio to multiple, distinct channels without generating any distortion, the Meridian Upmixtechnology increases sound immersion by improving the sound field while upgrading the clarity of vocals and lead instruments.
The soundbars support both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. Users can also add the Wireless Rear Speaker Kit to achieve a more cinema-like experience. LG's new lineup comes with built-in Google Assistant allowing users to control their LG sound bar and get information with a simple command.
Kim Dae-Chul, head of LG Home Entertainment Company's audio and video business said:
LG's 2019 sound bars deliver amazing performance tuned in close partnership with Meridian Audio with the convenience of smart AI connectivity. The high-quality sound and versatility of our newest lineup takes home entertainment to a whole new level and satisfies a growing demand for premium soundbar solutions that provide impressive listening experiences, greater convenience, and stylish, modern aesthetics.
LG, at the CES 2019 is all set to unveil an updated version of its wearable CLOi SuitBot alongside a lineup of improved service robots which are nearing commercialization. The wearable LG CLOi SuitBot supports the lower body to reduce stress when lifting and bending.
The original CLOi SuitBot was unveiled last fall in Berlin, the updated LG CLOi SuitBot supports the waist and augments the user’s own muscle power to reduce the risk of injury and fatigue when performing physically demanding tasks such as lifting and lowering heavy loads. SuitBot increases the user’s flexibility by enabling 50-degree extension and 90-degree flexion of the waist and activates when the wearer bends at a 65-degree angle, disengaging when standing in an upright position.
The wearable robot lasts upto four hours on a single charge and recharges in just one hour. PorterBot, ServeBot, and CartBot are designed for environments such as airports, hotels, supermarkets, and malls to assist customers, transport luggage, deliver meals and carry groceries. The new LG CLOi service robots comes with the updated autonomous navigation system as well as enhanced connectivity to allow for communication with mechanisms such as elevators and automatic doors.
Using AI technology, LG CLOi robots analyze customers’ usage patterns to constantly learn ...
Samsung Electronics has announced Remote Access which is a new feature that will be available on its Smart TV lineups starting 2019. The Remote Access feature will provide wireless connectivity with PCs, tablets, and smartphones allowing consumers to remotely control compatible programs and apps through their Samsung Smart TV.
With Remote Access, input devices, including keyboards, can be connected to a Samsung Smart TV, making it easier for users to control their on-screen content. This eliminates the need for a separate HDMI cable connection. Users can remotely access a PC in their room through the TV in their living room to perform various tasks including surfing the web or playing games from their TV’s screen using a connected keyboard and mouse.
Remote Access allows users to directly control their devices connected to a TV with a keyboard and mouse. Additionally, web browser-based cloud office service can be accessed through Remote Access, so users can now access files and work on documents from their Smart TVs. Remote Access can be used anywhere thanks to VMware Horizon. Samsung has integrated its proprietary Knox security technology into its Remote Access features.
Shankar Iyer, Senior Vice President and General Manager, End-User Computing at VMware said:
Samsung and VMware share ...
A few months back, OnePlus emerged as the top mobile brand in India's premium smartphone segment. This five-year-old company reached the summit right after capturing 30% of the market.
With that being said, the company has achieved another feat recently as the successful 2018 comes to an end. According to IDC report, OnePlus has emerged as the most preferred premium Android smartphone brand. In addition to it, 90% of OnePlus buyers first choice is OnePlus as it offers the latest specifications, and they trust the brand.
OnePlus enjoys brand loyalty
OnePlus is one of the few companies that enjoys brand loyalty. Talking about brand loyalty, OnePlus enjoys 31%, better than Samsung at 25%. In the premium Android segment, OnePlus was the most preferred brands with 21% of Apple customers shifting to OnePlus.
Reason to buy OnePlus smartphones
Considering the present scenario, most of the people consider purchasing a new smartphone with high RAM and processing speed. OnePlus, as a brand, is a synonym of speed with high RAM. In a survey, users were asked about top reasons why they would consider OnePlus. To that 23% of
respondents wanted to experience a new brand, 17% wanted to try out new features while 12% wanted to experience OxygenOS.
OnePlus ...
Last month ASUS confirmed that the 5Z will get the Android Pie update by the end of January 2019, and at the launch of Zenfone Max Pro M2 earlier this month, it once again confirmed the same. Today the company has started rolling out Android 9.0 (Pie) update for the phone in Taiwan, earlier than expected.
The update has the version number 90.10.138.157_20181222, is 1048MB in size, but it still has Android security patch for November, 2018. You can download the OTA Zip here and flash it manually, if you are running version 80.30.96.221 on ZS620KL model. Global roll out should begin in the coming weeks.
Source 1, 2
HMD Global keeping its promise has started rolling out Android 9.0 Pie update to Nokia 5.1 Plus which is also the cheapest phone in India to get Pie update. Since the update has started rolling out, it might take some time to reach everyone.
Finally pic.twitter.com/OXx0K9zeYv
— Hellboy (@TopobarLayek) December 27, 2018
Android P includes Adaptive Battery that uses machine learning to prioritize system resources for the apps, App Actions that helps you raise the visibility of your app and help drive engagement using machine learning, and Slices are a new way to surface rich, templated content in places like Google Search and Assistant.
The update on Nokia 5.1 Plus is around 1.3GB and also includes Android security patch for December, 2018 alongside all Pie features to Nokia 5.1 Plus. It is very rare to see tier one brands pushing software updates to even budget phones and HMD Global must be appreciated for timely updates. It recently rolled out Pie update to Nokia 7.1, 6.1 Plus, Nokia 8.
What’s New
New system navigation, settings menu, and notifications
Adaptive Battery power prioritization for users’ most commonly used apps/services
Adaptive and optimised brightness levels
Predictive Application Actions
Google Security patch 2018-12
ASUS has started rolling out new update for the Zenfone Max Pro M2 smartphone that brings front camera portrait and EIS support when recording videos using the front camera, as it had promised at the launch event earlier this month, however it is yet to receive AI camera features.
The update also fixes notch issues with some apps like Instagram, YouTube and other apps. The company also says that it has improved audio quality, fingerprint unlocking, touch improvements and display edge
The ASUS Zenfone Max Pro M2 v15.2016.1811.177 update is 458.11MB in size, including Android security patch for November 2018 and is rolling out gradually. You can download the 1.6GB ZIP file from here and update manually. Check out the official change log below.
Optimize Camera effect
Update audio parameter
Upgrade Fingerprint FW
Upgrade Touch FW
Improve display edge
Upgrade Google Security Patches for November 2018
ASUS launched the Zenfone Max Pro M2, a mid-range smartphone and the successor of Max Pro M1 in India earlier this month. It has notch design, has improved dual rear cameras, is powered by Snapdragon 660 SoC with support and retains the same 5000mAh battery as the predecessor. On-paper specifications look good for the starting price of Rs. 12,999, but how good is the phone? Let us dive into the review to find out.
Unboxing
We recently unboxed the smartphone, check out the video below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugZHnFk2hkg
Box Contents
ASUS Zenfone Max Pro M2 smartphone in Blue color
2-pin charger (5V-2A)
Micro USB cable
Clear Protective case
SIM Ejector tool
User manual and warranty information
Display, Design, and Hardware
Unlike the 5.99-inch Full HD+ 18:9 aspect ratio display on the predecessor, the Zenfone Max Pro M2 features a larger 6.26-inch Full HD+ LCD 2.5D curved glass display with a resolution of 1080 x 2280 pixels, pixel density of 403 PPI, 19:9 aspect ratio with a notch and a screen-to-body ratio of about 82%. It is also the first smartphone in the price range to feature Corning Gorilla Glass 6 protection.
The display is bright, offers good color reproduction, thanks to 94% NTSC color gamut, has good viewing angles and the sunlight ...
According to reports, Apple is said to begin assembling its top-end iPhones in India through the local unit of Foxconn as early as 2019. This will also be the first time the Taiwanese contract manufacturer will make the iPhones in the country.
Most importantly, Foxconn will be assembling the high-end models in the X-series, potentially taking Apple’s business in India to a new level. The work will take place at Foxconn’s plant in Sriperumbudur town in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, said the report. Foxconn, which already makes phones for Xiaomi in India, will invest 25 billion Indian rupees to expand the plant.
This will include the investment in iPhone production, Tamil Nadu’s Industries Minister M C Sampath told Reuters. The investment may create as many as 25,000 jobs. This move will also help both Foxconn and Apple to limit the impact of a trade war between the United States and China. Until now, Apple has only assembled the lower-cost SE and 6S models in India through Wistron Corp’s local unit in the Bengaluru technology hub.
Apple launched the iPhone X last year but has cut production of that phone, since it began selling the newer versions; the iPhone XS and XR, globally this year. ...
According to sources, Google said to be planning on launching two Pixel smartphones; dubbed Pixel 3 Lite and Pixel 3 Lite XL on Verizon in early spring 2019. An exact announcement date and pricing are not yet known. We have already started hearing rumors and leaks about both the smartphones adding more weight to the possible launch.
The Pixel 3 Lite and Pixel 3 Lite XL will be the first smartphones from Google in the mid-range segment since the Nexus 5X. While we don't know much about them for certain, leaks so far have suggested a Snapdragon 670 or 710 processor, 4GB of RAM, 32GB of storage, headphone jack, and 12MP rear and 8MP front cameras. The regular Pixel 3 Lite will have a 5.5" screen, while the larger XL will have a 6" display.
The phones might get the same camera optics as the original Pixel 3 series, but with inferior performance, and far more limited storage. The Pixel 3 Lite is codenamed “Sargo” and we have heard rumors of the same back in October in the ARCore code. Externally, the Pixel 3 Lite looks very similar to the regular Pixel 3 with regular 18:9 aspect ratio and tall display. The fingerprint sensor is present on the rear along ...
Google in time for the new year has started offering a 30-day fitness challenge through its Fit app. The challenge is designed to kick-start the new-year on a healthier, more active note. The challenge begins on January 1, but it is already available to sign up.
Users can earn Heart Points from activities that you log or actively track with Google Fit. Google Fit will automatically detect and log walks, runs or bike rides for you. Your goal is to get as many points as possible. You will score Heart Points for any activity that gets your heart pumping. Get one point for each minute of moderate activity, like picking up the pace while walking your dog, and double points for more intense activities like running or kickboxing.
To bring in more inspiration, the company has teamed up with 36 influencers from nine countries around the globe to show us how they’re earning their Heart Points. Users can follow #GetFitWithGoogle on Instagram and YouTube to see how others are tackling the challenge, or share your own tips and tricks on how you #GetFitwithGoogle with your own Heart Points workout.
Source
Sony is said to be boosting the production of its next-generation 3D sensors after receiving interest from customers including Apple Inc. The chips will power front and rear-facing 3D cameras for various smartphone models in 2019. Sony kick-started the mass production in late summer to meet demand, according to Satoshi Yoshihara, head of Sony’s sensor division.
Satoshi, however, has declined to provide sales or production targets but said the 3D business is already operating profitably and will make an impact on earnings from the fiscal year starting in April. The company has started providing software toolkits to third-party developers, so they can experiment with the chips and create apps that generate models of faces for communication or virtual objects for online shopping.
Satoshi Yoshihara, who has worked for more than a decade on wider industry adoption of cameras in smartphones in a statement said: “Cameras revolutionized phones and based on what I’ve seen, I have the same expectation for 3D. The pace will vary by field, but we’re definitely going to see the adoption of 3D. I’m certain of it."
Huawei Technologies Co. is employing Sony’s 3D cameras in next-generation models, according to sources. Yoshihara said that Sony’s technology differs from the ‘structured light’ approach of ...
OnePlus has released second OxygenOS open beta update for the OnePlus 6T and beta 10 for the OnePlus 6 that brings several improvements, including new caller ID feature for India in partnership with a Bengaluru-based company. The update also brings screen brightness control improvements, new features for Gallery and Launcher.
The latest OxygenOS beta update for the OnePlus 6 and 6T is 120MB in size. If you had already flashed previous beta build, you will get an OTA update, otherwise you have to flash the full beta ROM from here. Check out the complete changelog below.
System
Improvements for screen brightness control
Confirm pin without tapping √ for app locker
Improved color adaptation for navigation bar when using third party apps
General bug fixes and system stability improvements
Phone
Added the caller identification feature (For India only)
Improved UI for Call History
Gallery
Added create a collection, copy and move photos features
New illustrations and design on blank pages
General Bug fixes and overall experience improvements
Launcher
Added recommended tools in Toolbox
Improved UI for category tags in app drawer
Source 1, 2
After FCC certification and several leaks, Huawei has officially announced its P Smart 2019 mid-range smartphone in the UK and has also listed the phone in European countries. It has a 6.21-inch Full HD+ waterdrop notch display with 19:5:9 aspect ratio and over 90% screen-to-body ratio, is powered by Kirin 710 SoC with 3GB RAM, support for GPU Turbo 2.0 and runs Android 9.0 (Pie) with EMUI 9.0 on top. It has a 13-megapixel rear camera with f/1.8 aperture along with a secondary 2-megapixel camera for AI portraits and AI scene detection.
It also comes with a 8-megapixel front camera with AI selfies, has a glass back with gradiant finish in some models, rear-mounted fingerprint sensor and packs a 3400mAh battery.
Huawei P Smart 2019 specifications
6.21-inch (2340 x 1080 pixels) Full HD+ 19:5:9 2.5D curved glass display
Octa-Core Kirin 710 12nm (4 x 2.2GHz Cortex-A73 +4 x 1.7GHz Cortex-A53) with ARM Mali-G51 MP4 GPU
3GB RAM, 32GB / 64GB storage, expandable memory up to 512GB with microSD
Android 9.0 (Pie) with EMUI 9.0
Hybrid Dual SIM (nano + nano / microSD)
13MP rear camera with f/1.8 aperture, LED flash, secondary 2MP rear camera
8MP front-facing camera
Dimensions: 155.2×73.4×8mm; Weight: 160g
Fingerprint sensor
Dual 4G VoLTE, ...
Samsung with the Galaxy Note 9 has pushed the battery to a bigger capacity and it seems like the company might extend it to the mid-range as well in 2019. The Galaxy M20 is rumored to have a 5,000 mAh battery, and the upcoming A-series smartphone; the Galaxy A50 might come with a 4000mAh battery.
This would make the A50's battery bigger than the Galaxy A9 (2018) which had 3800mAh and the Galaxy A8 Star’s (3,700 mAh), and also the Galaxy A8+ (2018), which has a 3,500 mAh battery. The 4000mAh battery should offer impressive battery backup, especially with Android Pie’s battery improvements. The Galaxy A50 will run Pie out of the box.
However, the Galaxy A50 won't make its debut before the Galaxy S10. The Galaxy A50 will also come with a 24MP primary rear camera, which is the same as many A-series devices launched this year. The phone will come with 4GB RAM and 64/ 128GB storage variants. It will be powered by the Exynos 9610. There's also the possibility the phone might come with an Infinity-O or Infinity-V display. Until we hear from the company, nothing is confirmed, so, stay tuned.
Source
Samsung has pushed the Android 9.0 Pie stable update to the Galaxy S9 and S9+ earlier this week. It also started the beta testing for the Galaxy Note 9 and has been pushing updates in regular intervals. Now, according to Samsung Turkey the final stable update for the Galaxy Note 9 is expected to roll out from January 15th.
The Samsung Turkey website which listed January 15th roll out for the Galaxy Note 9 is also listing the 15th day of the month for each device; January 15th for the Galaxy Note 9 and February 15th for the Galaxy S8, S8+, and Galaxy Note 8. Samsung Turkey also has a history of changing the dates on its update roadmaps. With Samsung being so quick with the Android Pie update for the Galaxy S9 in some markets, it’s totally possible the stable update for the Galaxy Note 9 might indeed start rolling out by mid-January.
The January 15th date may just be for Turkey and a few other markets, though. For now, it remains to be seen when the worldwide release for both the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy Note 9 will happen, and we hope Samsung doesn't take much time.
Source | Via
LG has been beta testing the Android Pie for the G7 ThinQ for a while now before pushing out the stable version. The company has officially confirmed that the stable Pie update would roll out from Q1, 2019 and this applies for Korea.
LG software updates usually arrive in its home market; Korea first and then takes a couple of months to reach other markets. If you own a G7 and not from Korea, we guess you'll probably have to wait at least until Q2 of next year to get Android 9.0 Pie update. While companies like Samsung, OnePlus have already rolled out Android 9.0 updates to their phones, LG is still taking months to push out the update even to its flagships.
The company hasn't announced any details regarding the Android 9.0 update to any of its mid-range phones and we're pretty sure, the company would not roll out the update anytime soon.
Source | Via
After half a year in development, Spam protection in Android Messages is finally going live to some users, though not everyone seems to have it just yet. This means the change appears to be server-side and in a limited roll out for the time being.
When the feature does hit your device, you should see a notification detailing you about the new Spam protection. A new "Spam protection" option in the Advanced section of the Settings menu will also appear allowing you to manually toggle the feature on or off. When the setting is enabled, some information about the messages you receive will be sent to Google, however, it will not read the message content like your phone number or the actual message itself.
How the Spam protection works is undescribed, but presumably, it looks at that data statistically to determine commonalities between spam messages to detect them. If you send a spam report manually, it still submits the full message to Google, including phone numbers of both sender and recipient as well as the message's contents. For now, it remains to be seen how effective Google's solution may be against the increasing number of spam messages.
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