Another leak of the Microsoft Lumia 850, now in 4 color schemes

The floodgates on the Microsoft Lumia 850, a.k.a. Honjo, have opened, and photos of it are coming from all corners of the world. Hot on the heels of the full-body shot provided by @evleaks, we're now being treated to another image, coming out of China. This new press render shows the color options, in which Microsoft's upcoming midranger will be available. Naturally, there's the white and gold combination from the previous leak, but you can also opt for a rose gold trim to go with the white facade and back panel. There will also be a black model, which goes in line with the photos of a live unit, we reported on a few days ago. This variant will come with what appears to be more of copper-colored frame, rather than rose gold, and a less flashy plain steel-looking one. Remains to be seen if the frame will actually be made of metal, like on the current Lumia 830. Source |...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/another_leak_of_the_microsoft_lumia_850_now_in_4_color_schemes-news-15494.php

AMOLED displays gaining market share, Samsung accounts for 95.8% of it

Apple may be switching to AMOLED displays for the 2018 iPhones, and those could either come from Samsung or JDI, depending on who you ask. But then again, even without Apple, AMOLED is doing mighty fine, a report out of South Korea states. The numbers for Q3 2016 show a 35% increase in number of displays shipped, compared to the previous quarter. Even more impressively, the 79 million mobile displays are more than twice as many as in the same period last year. Wider adoption and diminishing production costs have meant that the $3.29 billion value of the displays sold is not double that from Q3 2014, but it's nearly there. The market share of AMOLED panels in mobile displays has reached 18% in the quarter in question, and a dominating 95.8% of those are made by Samsung. Not as imposing, but still in a leading position, Samsung holds 38.5% of the overall smartphone display panel market, with JDI accounting for 17% and LG in third with 13.8%. Source |...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/amoled_displays_gaining_market_share_samsung_accounts_for_958_of_it-news-15496.php

Google launches Christmas versions of a couple of open-source apps with open invitation to developers

As the caring parent of our beloved Android OS, and a sea of other technologies as well, Google has always made sure to foster the growth of every brainchild as best it can. The search giant's Fun Propulsion Labs is a perfect example of one such initiative. It is aimed at advancing various, mostly open-source, technologies for game development across a sea of platforms, ultimately showcasing and building upon cutting edge features. Two of the division's technology-showcasing apps - Pie Noon and Zooshi have been engulfed by the Christmas spirit and now have Holiday-themed versions. Both games are developed using C++ and an array of open-source libraries. Best of all, as already mentioned, they are also meant as a proof of concept and reference point for many Google game-development tools and are open-source. The Christmas versions serve as a reminder to developers of what can be achieve with proper use of the Google suite and an open invitation to mod and experiment away with the underlying APIs and libraries. If you are up for the challenge, both github pages are available at the source links, but if you simply want to enjoy Pie Noon and Zooshi for their addictive casual gaming qualities, then your best bet might be to download them on the nearest Android device. The pie-throwing, party blast - Pie Noon is now part of the Android Google Santa Tracker, with snowballs in place of tasty pastries for the Holiday season. The animal feeding Zooshi is also available on the Play Store, but as a standalone app, now with candy-canes, instead of sushi rolls. Source 1 | Source 2 | Source 3 | Source 4 |...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/google_launches_christmas_versions_of_a_couple_of_opensource_apps_with_open_invitation_to_developers-news-15492.php

Microsoft Lumia 850 (Honjo) leaked in full glory

Now that the long-awaited Windows flagships Lumia 950/950 XL are already out and selling, we can turn our heads lower down the Lumia ranks. Next in line for release is apparently the Lumia 850, and it has now been leaked in detail front and back. Codenamed Honjo, Microsoft's entry into the upper midrange is no stranger to us, as we already got a glimpse of it about a week ago. However, this is the first time we're seeing it head on, not counting the blurry live photo. The new image, courtesy of @evleaks reveals the front-facing flash the leakster promised when the first back-only renders surfaced. The smartphone bears little resemblance to the Lumia 830 it's bound to substitute, replacing the sharp corners with rounded ones, more in line with the shapes of the 950's. The capacitive keys under the display seem to have disappeared from the 850 as well, so the onscreen navigation won't be exclusive to the top tier. The hardware shutter button appears to be gone too, a change we hoped to be a mistake in the initial renders. Another key aspect in the Lumia 850's design is the gold color scheme. Not actual gold plating, the color has been used on the frame and buttons, as well as the Microsoft logo on the back. What we know on the Lumia 850's specs is a few months old now, so it may very well have changed. Nonetheless, the old specsheet leak lists a 5-inch HD display, Snapdragon 410 chipset, single gig of RAM and a 10MP PureView-branded camera. However, the more recent leak suggested a 5.7-inch FullHD panel and Snapdragon 617 chip, which sounds more appropriate for the segment where the Lumia 850 is positioned. Source |...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/microsoft_lumia_850_honjo_leaked_in_full_glory-news-15493.php

Apple serving full-screen iPhone 6s pop-up ads to App Store users on old iPhones

With an aim to boost the sales of its iPhone 6s smartphone, Apple has started displaying full-screen pop-up ads of the device to those accessing the company's App Store app on older iPhone models. This is for the first time the Cupertino-based company has served full-screen ads. The ad - which includes an image of the device with the slogan "Ridiculously Powerful" at the top and options "Learn More" and "Upgrade Now" at the bottom - is reportedly showing up for those using an iPhone 5s (and older) running iOS 9.2. Unsurprisingly, many of those being targeted aren't happy: Fucking Apple throwing an cliche iPhone 6S ad to pop up in the App Store. Like I plan to get that phone but not when they fucking say so.— Koisha (@MrFlox888) December 11, 2015 Just got a full screen iPhone 6s ad when I opened up the App Store app. Hope this isn't the start of a new trend #apple— David Turnbull (@_davidturnbull) December 11,...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/apple_serving_fullscreen_iphone_6s_popup_ads_to_app_store_users_on_old_iphones-news-15490.php

Walmart begins selling Apple Watch online

World's largest retailer Walmart has started selling the Apple Watch as well as its accessories. Specifically, the Sport variant of the smartwatch is now listed on the retailer's website. The listed variant is available in both 38mm and 42mm models, with color options including silver and space gray. Shipping is free and Walmart says that orders will arrive by Christmas. As for the price, the 38mm model carries a tag of $349, while the other model will set you back $399. It's worth mentioning that other retailers are currently offering some great deals on the watch. Chief among them is Best Buy, which is selling the device for $100 less than its usual...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/walmart_starts_selling_apple_watch_online-news-15488.php

Facebook at Work launching in coming months

Facebook's corporate service for companies - Facebook at Work - will be launched in the coming months, a company executive has said. The service has been in the testing phase for almost a year now. Currently in invite-only Beta stage and being used by over 300 companies, Facebook at Work will be open to all companies once it is launched. Although the service is free, there are plans to offer paid premium services such as analytics and customer support. A few weeks ago, Facebook also launched an Android app - dubbed Work Chat - for the service. The iOS version of the app is still under...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/facebook_at_work_launching_in_coming_months-news-15491.php

Twitter's iOS app updated with 1Password integration

Twitter for iOS has received an update, bumping it to version 6.43.1 and bringing along 1Password integration. The update also includes improved user experience. For those who aren't already aware, 1Password is a popular password-management app that remembers all your website passwords. All you have to do is to remember just one master password to access all other passwords. There is currently no information on when the feature will be available on the micro-blogging service's Android app. Head to the Source link below to download the updated iOS...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/twitters_ios_updated_with_1password_integration-news-15487.php

Moto X Style begins getting Android 6.0 update

Earlier this week, Motorola revealed that the company has started the Android 6.0 soak test for the 2015 Moto X Style in several European countries. And now, it looks like the update has already begun rolling out. According to an Android Police report, which cited one of the publication's readers, the device has started getting the Marshmallow update in the United Kingdom. There's, however, currently no information on if and which other regions are seeing the rollout. If you aren't already aware, the handset's US variant - the Moto X Pure Edition (2015) - started receiving the Android 6.0 update earlier this...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/moto_x_style_starts_getting_android_60_update-news-15489.php

Google Play running limited-time Buy A Movie, Gift A Movie promotion

Google Play is currently running a limited-time promotion where-in you can purchase a movie and gift a second, free copy of the same movie to any of your friends or family members. Appropriately dubbed Buy A Movie, Gift A Movie, the promotion, however, covers only a handful of movies, including Back to the Future, Despicable Me, Despicable Me 2, E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial, Fast & Furious 6 - Extended Edition, Jurassic Park, Love Actually, and Pitch Perfect. Promotional link for the second copy will be delivered to you via email within 48 hours of the purchase. As already mentioned, it's a limited-time offer that ends December 17. Also, it's only available to those in the...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/google_play_running_limitedtime_buy_a_movie_gift_a_movie_promotion_-news-15486.php

HTC Desire 828 dual sim to be available in India starting next week

The Desire 828 dual sim smartphone from HTC, which was launched in China last month, will go on sale in India starting next week - December 14. It will be available for purchase via Flipkart. It's worth mentioning that the smartphone is the first device in the Taiwanese company's Desire line-up to feature Optical Image Stabilization (OIS). The handset was announced for India late last month along with the One A9. The Desire 828 dual sim will carry a price tag of INR 19,990 (around $300) in India, and will be available in Dark Grey and Pearl White color options. Commenting on the launch, Faisal Siddiqui, President HTC South Asia, said, "The all new HTC Desire 828 Dual SIM gives you top-tier imaging and advanced features at a price you'll love. We are proud to unveil the first HTC Desire phone to feature Optical Image Stabilization in its main camera and HTC UltraSelfie™ for a remarkable imaging experience and unparalleled selfies. With the HTC Desire 828 Dual SIM, we deliver an exquisite and personalized experience to our customers." Source |...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/htc_desire_828_dual_sim_to_be_available_in_india_starting_next_week-news-15485.php

From December 13, buy a $35 Chromecast and get $20 Play Store credit

If you like Google's Chromecast streaming HDMI dongle, especially its faster and more colorful second generation, here's something to keep in mind. If for whatever reason you've so far thought the Chromecast's $35 price to be way too much, you'll soon be able to get one for essentially $20 less. Starting on December 13 (and up until January 2), when you buy and activate a new Chromecast you'll receive $20 in Play Store credit for free. You can use the $20 to buy apps, games, movies, TV shows, books, basically everything that's up for sale in Google's marketplace. If you are a fan of paid stuff in the Play Store, then it means you've actually paid only $15 for the Chromecast. This deal has briefly appeared on the Chromecast Offers website. It's gone now, but that's probably because it was put there too early - we are in fact still a couple of days away from December 13. So it's a safe bet that if you go to that page from Sunday on, you'll see this back up. When you do (and if you bought a new Chromecast), just click the big blue Redeem button, and you'll receive the aforementioned Play Store credit. Alternatively, you can use the Offers section in the Chromecast app for Android to achieve the same...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/from_december_13_buy_a_35_chromecast_and_get_20_play_store_credit-news-15483.php

Google Play Movies & TV gains AirPlay support on iOS

The Google Play Movies & TV app for iOS has received an update today, which is already live in the iTunes App Store. The new version finally brings with it support for playback on Apple TV, through AirPlay - nicely complementing the already built-in Chromecast functionality. There is a caveat unfortunately. For this to work, you need to have the 3rd generation Apple TV or this year's 4th gen model, and it has to be on software version 7.0 or higher. If those two requirements are met, then you can finally use your Apple TV to watch the movies and TV shows you've bought from Google's service. The newest iteration of Play Movies & TV also supports HD streaming (better late than never, we assume) as well as streaming over cellular network connections. To top things off, the app has been redesigned, and it features new...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/google_play_movies___tv_gains_airplay_support_on_ios-news-15482.php

Star Wars themed Google Cardboard now out for free

Love VR and wish you had a Google Cardboard viewer? Love Star Wars too and can't wait for The Force Awakens to be out? Well then, how about a Google Cardboard VR headset with a Star Wars: The Force Awakens theme? That's exactly what Google is now offering in its hardware store. You can pick from the four designs you see below. Oh, and the Cardboard is free. And it comes with free shipping too. The caveats? There's a limit of one per customer, and you probably need to act fast if you want one, since Google says it has "very limited quantities" available. Finally, you need to be a US resident and have a US shipping address to take advantage of the offer. As with all Cardboard viewers, these too work with smartphones up to 6 inches in size running Android 4.2 Jelly Bean or newer or iOS 8.0 or newer. If you download the official Star Wars app for Android, you can visit Jakku in virtual reality, using the Cardboard...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/star_wars_themed_google_cardboard_now_out_for_free-news-15484.php

Xiaomi Mi 5 seemingly has its front panel leaked

Over the past few days we've seen quite a few leaks regarding the upcoming Xiaomi Mi 5, the flagship smartphone that the company's CEO says is "worth waiting for". Not one, but two different renders claiming to show the Mi 5 have surfaced, and yet they aren't identical. Today the plot thickens, since we allegedly get a leak of the phone's front panel. Once again that much-rumored physical Home button seems to be confirmed, here in the form of a cutout in the front panel. This button will incorporate a fingerprint scanner, as otherwise Xiaomi could have just kept its traditional capacitive button layout. The corners of the Mi 5 will be rounded as you can see, and the design of this panel happens to align nicely to that of the handset depicted in yesterday's leaked render (though that oddly did not feature the Mi logo on the front). What you can see below is the back of the front panel, with all of its connectors. The Mi 5 has been rumored to sport a 5" or 5.2" touchscreen, and it might have 1080p resolution. It should be powered by Qualcomm's upcoming Snapdragon 820 chipset, and could also get 4GB of RAM, a 16 MP rear camera, an 8 MP selfie shooter, and a USB Type-C port. It is probably going to feature a full metal construction, launching with Android 6.0 Marshmallow on board underneath the latest iteration of Xiaomi's MIUI. As for color options, it's expected to come in three of those: silver, gold, and rose...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_mi_5_seemingly_has_its_front_panel_leaked-news-15481.php

This leather iPhone case is made from Tesla's leftover upholstery

First, Oneplus randomly launched an iPhone case made of the OnePlus' sandstone texture, and now Tesla is going to sell iPhone cases for the iPhone 6 and 6S (6 Plus and 6S Plus too) made of scraps of leather upholstery used for the automaker's seats. These cases are part of the "Tesla Design Collection" and retail at $45 and $50. One case is just a simple snap-on upholstered with leather featuring the Tesla logo on the back while the wallet features 2 or 3 card slots for holding your documents and credit cards. The wallet case also blocks RFID signals to keep your cards safe from hackers (though, many card companies stopped issuing these cards in favor of chip-enabled cards for security). These cases would make a great gift to any car enthusiast, or anyone who owns an iPhone, really. They are quite attractive. Source |...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/this_leather_iphone_case_is_made_from_teslas_leftover_upholstery-news-15479.php

Alleged leaks of Galaxy S7 hardware chassis

There is no doubt that the Samsung Galaxy S7 is already in production for an early 2016 release. Some photos were taken along this process of the alleged Galaxy S7 and leaked to the public, though, the original post from Weibo has been taken down since then. Though, just as with any leak, we can't say for sure that this is actually the Galaxy S7, for all we know it could be one many smartphone manufacturers making a similar looking phone. The photos show a wrap-around metal border design - something that we will probably keep seeing for at least another couple of years. We expect the Galaxy S7 to be announced in February with a February or March launch. The S7 is also to come with a 5.1 inch Super AMOLED display with a 1440p resolution, Android Marshmallow, Gorilla Glass 5, and either an Exynos 8890 chip or a Snapdragon 820 chipset. Source removed |...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/alleged_leaks_of_galaxy_s7_hardware_chassis-news-15478.php

Oppo R7s review: Filling the gaps

There was a Plus, there was a Lite, and now there's an S - the Oppo R7s. Next in Oppo's line of premium built mid-rangers, the R7s borrows both the looks and the substance, and brings the so-far-missing 5.5-inch-screen phone size to bridge the gap between the R7 and the R7 Plus.

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/oppo_r7s-review-1351.php

Microsoft offers Windows 10 users ten of the top albums of the year for free

If you use Windows 10, regardless of which device you have it installed on, Microsoft has a nice holiday present for you. Ten of the top music albums of 2015 are basically now being given away for free by the company. All you need is a Windows 10 device. And you have to be in the US, since the offer is geographically restricted. If you do tick these two boxes, though, you can just go ahead and grab either one of the ten free albums (or all of them). Here's the full list: • James Bay - Chaos and The Calm • Alabama Shakes - Sound & Color • Tame Impala - Currents • Selena Gomez - Revival • Ellie Goulding - Delirium • Alessia Cara - Know It All • Breaking Benjamin - Dark Before Dawn • Jeezy - Church In These Streets • Logic - The Incredible True Story • Big Sean - Dark Sky Paradise If you're interested in any of them, make sure you get yours as soon as possible from the Windows Store, because, according to Microsoft, this is a limited time...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/microsoft_offers_windows_10_users_ten_of_the_top_albums_of_the_year_for_free-news-15480.php

Next-gen Huawei-made Nexus tipped to come with a Snapdragon 820

We're all about Snapdragon 820 today. After we told you about a potential Lumia that may utilize Qualcomm's flagship chipset for next year, and benchmark scores revealed the SoC to be a top performer, we're now learning that it may be featured in the 2016 Nexus smartphone, again made by Huawei. The Chinese heavyweight has only made a single Nexus - this year's Nexus 6P, but the rumor goes that Google will be partnering with it for at least another year. And if the Snapdragon 820 is every bit as powerful as initial reports suggest, it's only natural for it to be the chosen one to do the job. The info comes from Chinese electronics industry analyst Pan Jiutang, and he's putting Huawei in a list along with other big names like Samsung, Sony, LG, and Motorola, who will be outfitting devices with the S820. Apparently, Google isn't a fan of Huawei's in-house top-end solution, the Kirin 950, which Huawei uses in the recently announced Mate 8. Naturally, it's too early to consider this information final, and the ongoing hype around the Snapdragon 820 might have gotten people overly excited. That said, the chip remains the most logical solution for a Google flagship in 2016. Source |...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/nextgen_huaweimade_nexus_tipped_to_come_with_a_snapdragon_820-news-15477.php

Verizon now offers Star Wars-themed Motorola Droid Turbo 2

Star Wars: The Force Awakens hits theaters next week and while some of them won't allow you to bring a lightsaber, you can bring your Star Wars-themed Motorola Droid Turbo 2 for Verizon. Starting today you can use the Moto Maker (online or at a store) to create and edit a phone with one of the new characters. It's mostly a color scheme of the exterior of the phone, matched with the right wallpaper (which you get from an exclusive app on the Google Play Store). There's no actual Star Wars branding on the hardware, which is a little disappointing. The available characters are Poe Dameron, Rey, BB-8, a First Order Storm Trooper and Kylo Ren. Rey • Kylo Ren • Poe Dameron • BB-8 • a First Order Storm Trooper By the way, you can score one of 12,000+ tickets for the opening weekend by posting a tongue-in-cheek theory about Star Wars at...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/verizon_offers_star_warsthemed_motorola_droid_turbo_2_starting_today-news-15476.php

OnePlus and AirConsole offer exclusive games you can play in your browser

Have you tried AirConsole? Its motto is "Your browser is the console, your smartphone is the gamepad," which means exactly what you think it does. You can play games on your PC screen, controlling them with your phone, which turns into a touch controller. You can invite your friends for multiplayer games too! Now OnePlus has partnered with AirConsole to offer some exclusive games for the platform - Silly Run Valley, Remon & Honey and Brick Wars. We slacked off work for a few minutes to try out the games and they are very impressive, multiplayer is especially fun. Silly Run Valley is an infinite runner in the vein of Temple Run and works with the phone's accelerometer. Remon & Honey is a side-scrolling shoot-'em-up, which puts an old-school controller on your phone. Multitouch is supported, so pressing several buttons at once works (but don't hold down the fire all the time or your weapon will "overheat"). Silly Run Valley • Remon & Honey • R&H's controller as seen on the phone There are other games too, suitable for a more mature audience like Texas Hold 'em and Cards Against Humanity. Note that you don't have to install anything - just open www.airconsole.com on both a computer and a phone (or several) and type in the provided code. You can also install the AirConsole game if you're going to play often, but the browser-only version is great for an impromptu party game challenge. PS. We can't try it right now (work and what not), but apparently AirConsole works with Smart TV browsers too, so you don't even need a...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/oneplus_and_airconsole_offer_exclusive_games_you_can_play_in_your_browser-news-15474.php

Samsung Galaxy S7 to actually come in 4 versions

The popular tipster @evleaks got yet another interesting piece of intel today, this time around it's the Samsung Galaxy S7 in the spotlight. According to the leak the Galaxy S7 will be outed in four different editions: Galaxy S7, Galaxy S7 plus, Galaxy S7 edge, and Galaxy S7 edge Plus. This doesn't sound too surprising as Samsung already has three versions of its flagship (Galaxy S6, S6 edge and S6 edge+) and we already reported on the Plus version. Still it's nice to hear that the Plus won't be coming at the expense of some of the other two but will be bringing even more diversification to the lineup. The Galaxy S7 lineup is expected to go official on the next MWC in February and to introduce the new Exynos 8890 chipset with Samsung's first custom processor cores. Other rumors point a brand new 12MP 1/2.0" sensor. Samsung Galaxy S7 Plus rendered from leaked 3D models If you need even more details, the Galaxy S7 series have been tipped to use new magnesium build and offer Hi-Fi audio. 3D Touch-like features should be also on board to compete with Apple. There is no indication if the Plus versions will be introduced side by side with the regular ones, but nevertheless - it seems very likely we are getting at least four Galaxy S7 phones next year, before we even start counting the Active, Neo, and Mini...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_s7_to_actually_come_in_4_versions-news-15475.php

Refreshed LG Mini Beam portable projectors lineup coming at CES 2016

The annual CES expo in Las Vegas is almost upon us and LG is among the first to tease some of the electronics it will be presenting there. Today's announcement shows a few intriguing devices with rich connectivity options and up to 1,500 lumens of brightness The three new projectors part of the Mini Beam series are PW1500, PW100, and the PH550, while the highlight of the series is the recently released PF1000U model. The PW1500 (1,500 lumens) and PW1000 (1,000 lumens) offer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, so you can out picture to a Wi-Fi screen and stream audio via a Bluetooth connection. The LG PH550 has lower brightness at 550 lumens, but in addition to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, it packs a battery, which will give you about 2.5 hours of projection time on a charge. LG calls this projector a triple wire-free device, as may work without any cables whatsoever (at least for two and a half hours). LG also wants to remind the world about the flagship projector, which is already on sale, the PF1000U. As the name suggests it delivers 1,000 lumens brightness, but it also has Full HD resolution. It is capable of projecting 100-inch picture from up to 15 inches thanks to the innovative Ultra Short Throw technology. LG PF1000U is already available for purchase for $1,300. The LG PW1500, PW1000 and PH550, alongside with the PF1000U, will be properly introduced and showcased at the CES expo early next month. Source |...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/refreshed_lg_mini_beam_lineup_of_portable_projector_coming_on_ces_2016-news-15473.php

BlackBerry Priv already sold out at Walmart, shares soar

The world's largest retailer Walmart started selling BlackBerry's Priv a couple of days ago, and a quick look at the retailer's website now reveals that the device is already out of stock. Its listed price on Walmart is $700. A quick bit of Googling reveals that the Android-powered smartphone went out of stock at Walmart in less than a day. Assuming that there wasn't an issue on Walmart's end and the retailer wasn't selling only a handful of units, this indicates a very high demand for the Priv, something which can attributed to the hype around the device as well the ongoing holiday season. As a result the Canadian company's share price has been climbing rapidly this week (11% up to $8.15) reaching its highest level this year. While these are no doubt silver linings for BlackBerry, it would be premature to say that the device has done the trick for the struggling Canadian company as official sales figures aren't yet in. Source |...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/blackberry_priv_already_sold_out_at_walmart_stock_at_year_high-news-15470.php

​Google releases Android 6.0.1 factory images for Pixel C

Google just released Android 6.0.1 factory images for its newly-launched Pixel C tablet. Two images (with buld numbers MXB48J and MXB48K) are available for the device, and they can be downloaded from Google's developers website. In addition, the Mountain View, California-based company has also released binaries for the tablet, although currently only those corresponding to the MXB48K version are available. The Pixel C is the first tablet that has been designed and produced by Google itself, meaning there's no partnership with another company like in the case of the Nexus tablets. Factory Images |...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/google_releases_android_601_images_for_pixel_c-news-15467.php

Snapdragon 820 off the charts on Antutu, great in other benchmarks

The Snapdragon 820 carries the huge responsibility to restore Qualcomm's leading-position in high-end mobile chipsets, undermined by the unfortunate Snapdragon 810. Judging by the results preliminary development units show, it may very well be capable of doing so. Over at the company's headquarters working devices (non-commercial, naturally) were subjected to a battery of popular benchmarks and here are the findings. For starters, single-core performance of the new custom Kryo cores, measured in GeekBench, is well ahead of anything in the Android realm. A near 60% improvement over Samsung's Exynos 7420 in this respect, a score upwards of 2,300 points is still behind Apple's single Twister core's result. Multi-core results in the same benchmark show the Snapdragon 820 inching ahead of Samsung's current-gen flagship silicon, but we're yet to see what the Exynos 8890 is capable of. Still, in this test, 4xKryo is comfortably ahead of 2xTwister. Snapdragon 820 developer unit against current chipsets in GeekBench The new Adreno 530, which according to the scarce information available on the matter appears to be an Andreno 430 with a few evolutionary tweaks, is actually mightily impressive. In the offscreen Manhattan test of GFXBench, which is run at a standardized 1080p resolution, the chip is capable of twice the frame rate of the S810 or the Exynos 7420. It also beats Apple's A9 by some 20%. GFXBench offscreen/onscreen • Basemark X In the onscreen tests, where the test device has to push more pixels (2,560x1,600 resolution of the developer's rig, versus 2,560x1,440 or even 1080p displays in the rest of the devices), the chip delivers respectable performance. Most impressive is the comparison with the Exynos 7420 here, where Qualcomm's solution manages almost twice as many frames per second. The overall score in Basemark X shows the S820 as a clear favorite as well, though the A9 is missing from the chart. And back to our headline Antutu result. At 131648 points, the score is about twice as high as current-gen flagships from Samsung camp, rocking the Exynos 7420. That makes us more than a little suspicious of its authenticity, but it is a photo of the developer unit with the Antutu score, and that can't be doctored, right? Source 1 Source...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/snapdragon_820_off_the_charts_on_antutu_scoring_131000-news-15468.php

Samsung makes a piano from over 100 Galaxy Tab S2 units

Has Samsung now entered the piano market? Well, doesn't seem so, but in a promotional push for their Galaxy Tab S2 tablet, the South Korean company has launched a piano made from over 100 units of the device. The event took place in London's Spitalfields Market, where pianist Myleene Klass unveiled the tablet piano. "Nothing makes me feel more festive than gathering around the piano with my two girls. The Samsung Tab S2 piano is a real first and nothing like I've ever played before. My youngest has just learned jingle bells and I know she'd love to try it on this piano," she said. Commenting on the launch, Conor Pierce, Vice President of IT & Mobile at Samsung Electronics UK & Ireland, said, "With stunning AMOLED screens the tablet piano not only sounds great but looks great too, with the screens showing off a fantastic gold Christmas wrapping paper animation. Like the piano, the Galaxy Tab S2 is also available in a beautiful gold design, making it the perfect special Christmas gift for family or loved...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_launches_piano_made_with_over_100_galaxy_tab_s2_units-news-15466.php

Snapdragon 820-powered Windows Phone handset spotted on GFXBench

A mysterious new Windows Phone device, dubbed HP Falcon, was spotted listed on benchmarking site GFXBench. The most interesting piece of information the listing reveals is that the handset is powered by Qualcomm's upcoming Snapdragon 820 SoC. The listing also reveals that the smartphone sports a 5.8-inch 2560 x 1440 pixel resolution display, although keep in mind that benchmarks have got screen size wrong quite a few times in the past. The report card also reveals a 20MP rear and a 12MP front camera. The memory configuration (1GB RAM and 43GB storage), however, doesn't seem to be inline with the aforementioned specs, suggesting that at least some of these numbers aren't correct. Coming back to the name, it's a bit difficult to digest that the handset is from HP, as there have been no news whatsoever on that front - not even rumors. It could instead be a Lumia device from Microsoft given that we've already heard some rumors of a smartphone to top the 950XL. Via | SD820 Lumia...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/snapdragon_820powered_windows_phone_device_spotted_on_gfxbench-news-15465.php

PlayStation 4 reclaims its position as top-selling gaming console in US

After losing to rival Microsoft's Xbox One in the month of October, Sony's PlayStation 4 gaming console has reclaimed its top position in the United States last month, according to market research firm NPD. "PlayStation 4 is the top selling console in the United States during the month of November according to NPD," said Eric Lempel, SVP Marketing, Sony Computer Entertainment America and Head of PlayStation Network Americas. "We have hit several key milestones over the last few weeks. Prior to Black Friday, we announced we have sold through more than 30.2 million PS4s to consumers around the world and that PS4 continues to exhibit the fastest growth in PlayStation hardware history." "In addition, Black Friday sales were the strongest in PlayStation history demonstrating more people game now than ever before. We are also pleased to announce November was the biggest month ever for PlayStation Store indicating a strong digital marketplace complementing healthy retail sales." The report also noted that the combined sales for Xbox One and PS4 is way ahead when compared to their predecessors. "After 25 months, the combined sales for the PS4 and the XBO are 47 percent higher than the combined sales for 25 months of PS3 and Xbox 360 hardware sales," said NPD's Liam Callahan. While overall hardware sales were up 11% to $1.12 billion last month, software sales were down 7% to $1.02 billion, something which the report attributed to portable and last-generation platforms. As for games, Call of Duty: Black Ops III topped the charts, followed by Fallout 4 and Star Wars:...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/playstation_4_reclaims_its_position_as_topselling_gaming_console_in_us-news-15464.php

Vive pre-orders set for February, HTC confirms

HTC has confirmed that it will start taking pre-orders for its Vive VR headset in February next year, a couple of months ahead of the device's commercial release in April. The confirmation came in a follow up to the earlier statement issued by the Taiwanese company, where-in it was announced that the headset's launch is being delayed until next year - if you aren't in the know, HTC had earlier said that the Vive will be launched in limited quantities before the holiday season this year. In the new statement, HTC also shared why the launch has been delayed. "The reason that we have made the decision to shift consumer availability is because we are committed to delivering the best possible product, the most vivid VR experience, and the most immersive content on the best content distribution platform in the world," the company said. "We're confident that when you experience Vive for yourself in April, you will agree with the decision to deliver the product once it's...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/vive_preorders_set_for_february_2016_htc_confirms-news-15463.php

You can now connect your Gmail account to Yahoo Mail

Yahoo has announced that users can now access their Gmail and Google Apps account right from within the company's Yahoo Mail service. The ability to connect to Outlook.com, Hotmail, and AOL Mail accounts was already introduced a couple of months ago. "All the features you need and love in Yahoo Mail - powerful search, smart contacts, rich compose features and Yahoo Account Key for password-free sign-in - are now available with Gmail," the company said in a blog post. "You can now search across your entire history of emails, from day one, for all connected mailboxes! (Not just your most recent emails, which is how it's done in many apps today)." You can connect to your Gmail account by heading to your Account Settings in the Yahoo Mail app. The new feature is now live, and is available on Yahoo Mail's Android, iOS, as well as the Web...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/you_can_now_connect_your_gmail_account_to_yahoo_mail-news-15462.php

T-Mobile Poland reveals Samsung, LG, Sony, Microsoft, and HTC's plans for H1 2016

Four new Samsung Galaxy and LG smartphones, two new Sony Xperia and Microsoft Lumia devices, and a new HTC One phone will be launched in H1 2016, according to a presentation slide from T-Mobile Poland's recent press conference. To be precise, the slide shows that two of the four Galaxy devices will be outed in the mid of the first quarter. We're expecting these to be the Galaxy S7 and S7 Plus, although there's no confirmation. The remaining two Galaxy phones will be launched towards the end of the Q1. Microsoft will also launch two new Lumia phones in Q1 - one in the mid and the other towards the end of the quarter. The slide also lists an HTC One device launching towards Q1 end. Moving on, Q2 2016 will see four new phones from LG, followed by two new Xperia phones from Sony. While we're not sure about LG, the new Xperia phones could be the part of the rumored Z6...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/tmobile_poland_reveals_samsung_lg_sony_microsoft_and_htcs__plans_for_h1_2016-news-15461.php

Google Wallet users can now send money with just a phone number

With an influx of person-to-person payment apps, Google Wallet has simplified one step of the payment process. The recipient does not need Google Wallet account in order to receive the money and can simply click on a link sent via SMS. Google Wallet users can now send money to others with just a phone number. Recipients will receive an SMS with a link to a secure form where the recipient can enter his or her debit card number and funds will be debited into their bank account "within minutes". Before this, both recipients would be required to have a Google Wallet account to send money back and forth by using an email address. The new Google Wallet feature is rolling out "over the next few days" and coming to both Android and iOS versions of the app. Source |...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/google_wallet_users_can_now_send_money_with_just_a_phone_number-news-15460.php

The new Microsoft Band gets an update that enables music controls

Microsoft's second attempt at its very own fitness tracker got official in October, and now it's in the process of receiving a software update that enables some new features. First off, the Microsoft Band 2 has received music controls, letting you pause or play, skip forward or back and adjust playback volume - all from your wrist. The wearable displays the title of the currently playing song too. This works with any music app on your phone through the magic of Bluetooth. Next up is the possibility for you to receive notifications telling you to move when you've been still for too long. Thankfully this is optional, and you can choose the time intervals and the days in which you want to be nagged to get up. And there's even a blackout period to be picked, useful for when you're sleeping or driving. When you use the Exercise tile you are now able to pick the exercise type. Then when you review your sessions in the Microsoft Health app all the information will be grouped by exercise type. Finally, from now on the What's New tile will automagically appear on your Microsoft Band when new updates for it are...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/the_new_microsoft_band_gets_an_update_that_enables_music_controls-news-15459.php

GoPro teaser video shows footage from Karma drone coming in 2016

It really is no surprise that GoPro plans on launching its first drone next year, as the company's CEO first announced this back in May. Yet now that we're getting closer and closer to 2016, GoPro saw fit to out its first teaser video for the new device. And with it the drone's name has been revealed: it will be called Karma. The GoPro Karma still doesn't have a solid release date attached to it, so the vague mention of "coming 2016" is all we have for now. On the other hand, the teaser is obviously showing footage shot with a GoPro camera attached to the Karma, and it's the first time we've seen something like that. Hopefully more teasers will come out in the future, along with some actual information about the Karma. While you wait, you can sign up here to receive "the latest news about Karma" straight from GoPro, which will net you a chance to win one of 100 drones the company is giving away at launch (whenever that is). Source |...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/gopro_teaser_video_shows_footage_from_karma_drone_coming_in_2016-news-15457.php

Samsung Pay now supports gift cards from 50 providers

Today Samsung has added a new feature to its rapidly growing mobile payments service. From this point on, Samsung Pay supports gift cards. To start off, those from 50 popular merchants can be added to your Samsung Pay wallet. You can in fact purchase, store, pay with, and share gift cards right from your Samsung phone, if it supports Samsung Pay of course. There's a new gift card store inside the Samsung Pay app, from where you can easily buy gift cards for you or someone else. These can easily be shared once you have them. Here are the names of some of the retailers now having gift card support in Samsung Pay: Babies R Us and Toys R Us, Bass Pro Shops, Domino's, eBay, GameStop, Nike, Regal Entertainment Group, and Staples. More gift card options are going to be added "in the coming...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_pay_now_supports_gift_cards_from_50_providers-news-15456.php

New Xiaomi Mi 5 render shows up looking a bit different than the last

A couple of days ago we showed you a leaked image out of China which claimed to depict the upcoming Xiaomi Mi 5 in all its glory. And now we have yet another purported render of this smartphone. As you can see, this one's blurrier, and the device it shows is a little bit different than the one in the previous leak. If you look closely, the design of the Home button is a little rounder this time around, while the button itself occupies almost the entire height of the bottom bezel (which wasn't the case in the other leaked image). There are similarities too, for example when it comes to the almost non-existent side bezels. The new render also seems to confirm the use of so-called 2.5D glass on top of the display panel. What's iffy about this shot is that the Mi logo isn't visible in the top left of the phone, which is its normal placement. So hopefully you've taken what you've seen with a hefty dose of salt. The Mi 5 is supposed to arrive in early 2016 rocking Qualcomm's new Snapdragon 820 chipset, a fingerprint scanner integrated into that Home button, and other high-end specs to match these. Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun recently said the Mi 5 is "worth waiting for". Source (in Chinese) |...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/new_xiaomi_mi_5_render_shows_up_looking_a_bit_different_than_the_last-news-15458.php

Google Photos shared albums now rolling out to iOS, Android, and web browser

Among many of the new features of Google products that were announced at Google I/O this year, Shared Albums was one of them. This feature was demoed at Google I/O. Photos were shared to another user via a link. You can open the link directly in the browser or on the photos app. You can then add these photos directly to your own Google Photos library. You can add photos to a shared album where multiple users can contribute to the same album. The photos app will also notify you when someone adds photos to a new album. Google Photos focuses on improving photo organization, keeping and remembering the best memories and sharing these memories with those we love. A new intro video was also posted to Youtube, demonstrating the sharing process with a Nexus 6P and an iPhone, always showing that Google also cares about iOS users. The user selects the photos and adds them to a new shared album, then she shares the link to the album with an iPhone user. Then the iPhone user adds more pictures through the Photos app and the original sharer is notified of new photos added to the shared album. Source |...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/google_photos_shared_albums_now_rolling_out_to_ios_android_and_web_browser-news-15454.php

Chromecast Audio gains hi-res playback and multi-room support

Alongside the second generation Chromecast dongle for your TV, Google also unveiled the Chromecast Audio this September. Whereas the 'normal' Chromecast is simply put a way to smarten up your TV, the Audio does the same for speakers. It can connect to your existing speakers that don't have any type of network connection either via a 3.5mm analog stereo cable, or via RCA connectors or an optical cable. You then give it access to your Wi-Fi network, and from that point on you 'cast' music to it through apps on your mobile devices, just like you do with the Chromecast for TV. Starting today, the Chromecast Audio is set to receive an automatic software update, and this is pretty important because it will enable two neat features. First off, you get high-resolution audio support, which means up to 96KHz/24bit lossless playback is now possible through the dongle. Multi-room support is in too, which lets you listen to the same synchronized music in all of the places you have a Chromecast Audio connected, all at the same time. So if you have one hooked up to your speakers in the living room, and another in the bedroom, and another one in the kitchen - you'll hear the exact same music wherever you go. This works if you first create a group of speakers via the Chromecast app. You can then cast to the group in the exact same way you cast to a single...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/chromecast_audio_gains_hires_audio_and_multiroom_support-news-15455.php

Xiaomi device codenamed Kenzo gets benchmarked, may be Redmi 3

Xiaomi could already be preparing the upcoming Redmi 3 smartphone. A new Xiaomi device has surfaced courtesy of Geekbench. The benchmark has been run on a handset codenamed Kenzo, which sports 2GB of RAM and runs Android 5.1.1 Lollipop. Based on the motherboard name being MSM8952, it looks like this Xiaomi is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 617 chipset (because MSM8952 is its model designation). However, the SoC in question features a 1.5 GHz octa-core Cortex-A53 CPU, whereas the device that ran Geekbench only had six cores active and they were capped at 1.4 GHz. This is contradictory information, but device makers have been known to turn off cores when developing phones in order to test different scenarios. And benchmarks have also at times erroneously reported such details. No other information has been leaked about the Kenzo, but it stands to reason that this could be the Redmi 3. The RAM amount and SoC used fit a mid-range offering, and the Redmi Note line has recently been updated - that leaves only the smaller Redmi in need of a hardware refresh. Source |...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_device_codenamed_kenzo_gets_benchmarked_may_be_redmi_3-news-15453.php

Apple developing an in-house GPU

Apple has been designing its processors since the Apple A6 chip (iPhone 5), which introduced the first custom processor to the series, followed by the first 64-bit CPU inside Apple A7 (iPhone 5s). But Apple isn't working only on its own CPU design, it has been developing in-house solutions for motion coprocessors and some sensors. The latest rumor is that the company has been developing a proprietary GPU for a couple of years in order to drop the dependency on the PowerVR graphic units. The iPhones usually topped the GPU benchmarks throughout the years exactly because the powerful Imagination Technologies GPUs, but it seems Apple will be going a different way in the future. The Apple's purported graphics solution is still not ready for presentation and it may as well take another few years, but the ultimate goal is to design as many components as possible in-house. Samsung has been following suit lately as it is expected to announce its first custom processor with the upcoming Exynos 8 chips early next year and the Galaxy S7 is expected to be the first device to show it off. We don't really expect to see the Apple's custom GPU, if real, in the next iPhone 7, as if that was the case we should have already heard about its first samples. You never know, though - perhaps Apple simply managed to keep this secret very...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/apple_might_be_developing_an_inhouse_gpu_for_several_years-news-15452.php

GoPro iOS app updated with new features and support for Apple Watch

GoPro is now compatible with the Apple Watch and allows you to preview what the camera sees, start and stop recording, add Hi-Light tags, and toggle settings. GoPro released a new promo video with the updated support for Apple Watch featuring pro-skateboarder Mikey Taylor. The Apple Watch functions are demonstrated while Taylor pops over a ramp doing a kickflip. The video also shows GoPro's Trim and Share feature which lets you create 5, 15, or 30 second clips for social media. Newer features include a faster way to filter between videos, photos, and Hi-Light shots, and the ability to take frames from video clips and save them as still images. Source |...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/gopro_ios_app_updated_with_new_features_and_support_for_apple_watch-news-15451.php

Leaked Samsung Galaxy S7 Plus 3D model rendered on video

A few days ago we published purported 3D renderings of the Samsung Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 Plus - the upcoming 5.1" and 6" flagships from Samsung. Now OnLeaks and uSwitch have cooked up a more realistic render and made a short video of it. The phone largely looks like a Galaxy S6. The sides seem more rounded, which plays nice with the 2.5D glass on the front and the back. Unfortunately, there's also no microSD slot visible (just a SIM slot) and no USB Type-C either - if the renders are accurate, it's a bog standard microSD. The failure of microUSB 3.0 may still be fresh in Samsung's mind. Anyway, it's the Samsung Galaxy S7 Plus in the video, which measures 163.32 x 82.01 x 7.82mm (9.05mm if you count the camera hump). Samsung Galaxy S7 Plus rendered from leaked 3D models A subtle change makes the Home button/fingerprint reader is wider but narrower - it goes from 16 x 6.7mm on the S6 to 18 x 5mm on the S7. The front-facing camera has been moved all the way to the right. The Samsung Galaxy S7 duo may get unveiled on February 21, about a week before the MWC. It may mark Samsung's return to Qualcomm Snapdragon chipsets (at least for some SKUs) and bring a big BRITECELL...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/leaked_samsung_galaxy_s7_plus_3d_model_rendered_on_video-news-15450.php

Apple awards best apps and games of 2015

Apple announced its top apps for 2015 and the iPhone App of the Year award went to livestreaming service Periscope. On the iPad it is the game The Robot Factory, though Game of the Year went to Prune. On the Apple Watch the "hyperlocal weather" app Dark Sky took home the big prize. Here are the rest: .atable { width: 100% !important; } .atable td { text-align: center; vertical-align: middle; width: 50%; font-size: 1.1em; padding: 0; background: white; border: none; } .atable tr:first-child td:nth-child(2) { font-size: 1.3em; } .atable tr:first-child td:first-child { font-size: 1.6em; } App of the Year Winner oniPhone Periscope Runners up: Enlight Robinhood Winner oniPad The Robot Factory Runners up: HBO Now Patterning Winner onApple Watch Dark Sky Game of the Year Winner oniPhone Lara Croft GO Runners up: Fallout Shelter Mr Jump Winner oniPad Prune Runners up: Rayman Adventures Implosion Winner onApple Watch Rules! Most Innovative Winner oniPhone Workflow Winner on iPad LiquidText Best on iPhone 6s Best app Instagram Best game Warhammer 40,000: Freeblade Most innovative Dark Echo Best on iPad Pro Best app uMake Best game Zodiac: Orcanon Odyssey Most innovative Her Story Apple TV & Mac HBO Now scored another win as Apple TV Apple TV of the Year, Rayman Adventures got Game of the Year on the TV platform. For Mac Affinity Photo won the app award and Pillars of Eternity got the game...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/apple_awards_best_apps_and_games_of_2015-news-15449.php

Samsung patents phone with interchangeable camera module

Samsung has been patenting some interesting technology - from foldable phones to a modular camera for phones. The patents also detail a phone with a dual-xenon flash (!). The modular design shows several options - a regular looking camera, one with a camera bump that looks like it houses optical zoom and one with an exchangeable lens. The host phone is drawn in a couple of different shapes, suggesting the idea is to have a line of such devices that can pick and choose their camera. Base camera module • dual xenon flash • optical zoom module * exchangeable lens module Then there's this thing... it's thin like a phone, but has a big camera module and a thicker, a camera-like grip on one end, plus a hardware shutter key and a dial with another button. A thin phone/camera hybrid Now, patents are no guarantee that such a device will ever see the light of day, but they do give an insight into what Samsung's R&D department is working on. Source 1 2 3 • Via (in Dutch)...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_patents_phone_with_interchangeable_camera_module-news-15448.php

YouTube adds Trending tab to website and apps

YouTube has introduced a new Trending tab, that appears on the website and in the mobile apps next to your Subscriptions tab. The tab had previously appeared for some users on a trial basis but it's now permanently included. The Trending tab shows videos that are, well, currently Trending on YouTube. The tab shows international as well as regional trends, so you will see a lot of popular local videos along with international favorites. Unfortunately, people aren't taking too kindly to this feature as in the app you now have to swipe twice to go to your subscriptions, which was previously just one swipe away, but your mileage may vary. It's not something that can be disabled, though, so you're stuck with it whether you like it or...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/youtube_adds_trending_tab_to_website_and_apps-news-15447.php

A Xiaomi laptop might finally become reality next April

Rumors of a Xiaomi laptop have been around since 2014, but the company is yet to put out or even hint at the possibility of a notebook offer. However, these rumors have been rekindled by industry sources and with additional info on the matter, the Xiaomi PC appears closer than ever. The new batch or rumors claim that Xiaomi has been working hard at crafting a laptop within its own dedicated PC department. The Lei Feng Network officially revealed the existence of said company branch, meaning that if a laptop does become reality, it will most-likely be a true Xiaomi product, as opposed to an outsourced or rebranded device. The PC itself is said to have an Apple MacBook-like design, which is all but expected, considering Xiaomi's track-record. Still the alleged specs sheet sounds impressive and is usual for Xiaomi the price tag is way lower than you'd expect. The suggested screen size is a standard 15.6 inches with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels and an LED panel. A powerful 4th generation Intel Core i7 processor is said to run the show, along with 8GB of RAM and allegedly an Nvidia GeForce GTX 760M discrete graphics solution with 2GB of dedicated video memory. A Linux distribution will come standard instead of Windows, to keep costs down. That is one powerful setup that, by today's standards, can qualify as an entry-level gaming offer. These have become quite popular and promise adequate gaming performance without braking the bank, but similarly-specked machines like the Asus G551, Acer Aspire V3 or the Lenovo Y50 are all priced a tad over the $1000 mark, whereas the Xiaomi notebook will apparently retail for just 2,999 Yuan ($466). If the Chinese OEM does manage to deliver on these promises, the Mi laptop will offer amazing value, even if it comes out in a few months. However, it is also worth noting that no official statement has been received by Xiaomi yet and there are other rumors of a possible 12.5 inch or 13.3 inch form factor flying around, so the quoted price might apply to a lower spec'd version. Source (in Chinese) |...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/a_xiaomi_laptop_might_finally_become_reality_next_april-news-15446.php

Xiaomi Redmi Note 2 Prime coming soon on Amazon India

Xiaomi is set to launch the Redmi Note 2 Prime on the Indian market. Amazon is teasing the launch with a dedicated poster, but a specific date is yet to be revealed. There's also no word on pricing just yet. The news of the market launch comes 3 months after the 4.7-inch Redmi 2 Prime was made available in the country, and about a fortnight after Xiaomi unveiled the successor, Redmi Note 3. The Redmi Note 2 Prime was announced alongside a non-Prime version some three months ago, the difference between the two being CPU clock rate and storage size. Both smartphones feature the Mediatek Helio X10 chipset, but the octa-core processor in the Prime can go as high as 2.2GHz, while the Redmi Note 2 is limited to 2.0GHz. Built-in storage is 32GB and 16GB, respectively. Other than that, the smartphone packs a 5.5-inch FullHD display, 2GB of RAM and 13MP/5MP camera combo. All of this is powered by a 3,060mAh battery. You can head over to Amazon and join the mailing list to get notified when the smartphone hits the shelves. Source |...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_redmi_note_2_prime_coming_soon_on_amazon_india-news-15444.php

A metal LG G5 to launch in February, bring a 21MP camera and iris scanning

We keep hearing that LG may pull the LG G5 launch up a bit, unleashing the new flagship in February instead of the usual Q2 launch. The new model will focus on further improving the camera and on one thing the G4 missed out on - biometric security. According to a new rumor coming in from Taiwan the LG G5 will have a 5.6" screen, keeping the QHD resolution. The optional leather back will allegedly be swapped out for a metal unibody (LG already dipped its toes there with the Zero/Class, pictured below). On the camera side, a large 1/2" sensor with 20MP-21MP resolution is expected, a large increase over the 1/2.6" 16MP unit in the G4. An 8MP unit is slated for the front, but it's not clear if LG will repeat its unique dual-camera setup from the LG V10. The LG G5 will gain a fingerprint sensor (the G3 and G4 all missed out, the V10 got one though). In addition to that the G5 should also get a Lumia-style iris scanner as an additional security option. It will be powered by Snapdragon 820 chipset, the top dog from Qualcomm instead of going with the second best like it did with the G4. Source (in Taiwanese) |...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/a_metal_lg_g5_may_launch_in_february_bring_a_21mp_camera_and_an_iris_scanner-news-15445.php