February security update starts hitting Samsung's flagship devices

Samsung has announced that it has started rolling out the latest Android security update to its "major flagship models." The update includes patches from both Google and Samsung. What's worth mentioning here is that the South Korean company didn't explicitly mention which of its flagship devices are getting the update, although reports say the list includes the Galaxy S5, Galaxy S6 family, Galaxy Note 4 and Note5, as well as the Tab S and Tab S2. Of the devices mentioned above, the Galaxy Tab S2 has already started receiving the February security update. In addition, handsets from Huawei, Motorola, and BlackBerry, as well as Nexus devices have also received the...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/february_security_update_starts_hitting_samsungs_flagship_phones-news-16950.php

WhatsApp to remove BlackBerry from its list of supported mobile platforms this year

Popular mobile messaging service WhatsApp has announced that it will be ending support for all versions of BlackBerry OS - including BlackBerry 10 - by the end of 2016. Other platforms that will be removed from WhatsApp's support list include Nokia S40, Nokia Symbian S60, Android 2.1, Android 2.2, and Windows Phone 7.1. WhatsApp says it wants to focus on platforms that the vast majority of people use. "While these mobile devices have been an important part of our story, they don't offer the kind of capabilities we need to expand our app's features in the future," the company said in a blog post. "If you use one of these affected mobile devices, we recommend upgrading to a newer Android, iPhone, or Windows Phone before the end of 2016 to continue using...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/whatsapp_to_remove_blackberry_from_its_list_of_supported_mobile_platforms_this_year-news-16953.php

64GB ZTE Axon Pro now selling for $324 in US

The 64GB variant of Axon's ZTE Pro smartphone has received a price cut in the United States, where B&H Photo is currently selling the model for $323.95. Those purchasing the device from the retailer will also get a gift card worth $50. ZTE is officially selling the 64GB version for around $380 in the country, meaning B&H photo is offering over $50 direct discount, which coupled with the included gift card takes the total discount figure to over $100. Available color options include silver, gold, and blue. Amazon also has the device listed for around $325, but the blue color variant is currently out of stock. Source (B&H) | Amazon |...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/64gb_zte_axon_pro_now_selling_for_324_in_us-news-16951.php

New OnePlus X update is aimed at fixing image corruption issue with device's camera

A month after the OxygenOS 2.2.0 update started rolling out to the OnePlus X, the company has pushed out another update that it says includes a hotfix for an image corruption issue with the device's camera. The issue in question has been reported by some users following the last update. The update weighs in at 9.5MB. It's an incremental roll-out, meaning it may take some time before the update hits your device if it hasn't already. "We will try to cover everyone within the next 48 hours," OnePlus said in a post on its official forum. For those who aren't already aware, the last month's OxygenOS 2.2.0 update brought along things like manual mode and save to SD card option in Camera App, USSD bug fix for India. as well as some other...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/new_oneplus_x_update_is_aimed_at_fixing_image_corruption_issue_with_devices_camera-news-16949.php

Android 6.0 factory image for Moto X Pure Edition (2015) now available for download

Motorola started rolling out the Moto X Pure Edition Marshmallow update back in December last year. Now, a couple of months after that, the first Android 6.0 factory image for the device has been made available for download. The image carries a build number of MPH24.49-18_18, and to download it you need to first request access to a Google Drive folder, something which you can only do after logging in with a Motorola or Google account (head to the Source link below). In case you missed, the Moto X Pure Edition has also started receiving the latest Android security update which brings up the handset's security patch level to February 1, 2016. Source |...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/dropbox_to_pull_the_plug_on_mailbox_today-news-16948.php

No SD820-powered LG G5 for Latin America; SD652 version will be available there

Remember the LG H840 which was spotted on GFXBench earlier this month with Snapdragon 652 chipset and 3GB RAM? We initially thought that it could be a 'lite' variant of LG's latest G5 flagship, but turns out it's a special LG G5 model aimed at specific markets. While LG made no mention of an SD652-powered G5 at this year's MWC (where the flagship was unveiled), it has now come to light such a souped-down variant exists and will be available in Latin America at-least. Confirming that Latin Americans won't officially get the standard SD820 G5, LG's Sales manager for Chile, Cristián Correa, said that the decision was taken based on the feedback they received from several operators in the region as well as keeping in mind the currency appreciation in Latin America. What's more, the LG 360 virtual reality headset - one of G5's friends - will also not be available in the region. Correa cited Latin America's lack of interest in VR as the reason behind the move. Via...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/no_sd820powered_lg_g5_for_latin_america_sd652_variant_will_be_available_there-news-16947.php

Appeals court overturns Apple's $120 million patent win against Samsung

The US Court of Appeals has overturned the 2014 verdict of a California federal court that held Samsung guilty of infringing on Apple's smartphone patents and directed the former to pay $119.6 as damages. Apple had dragged Samsung to court alleging that the latter infringed on its "quick links" patent along with two other patents covering the iPhone's slide-to-unlock and auto-correct features. For those who aren't aware, the quick links feature lets devices recognize data such as phone numbers and turn them into clickable links. In its verdict yesterday, the appeals court rejected Apple's allegations saying that Samsung did not infringe on the iphone maker's "quick links" patent as the South Korean company's technology for detection and linking is completely different, and adding that the other two patents cited in the case were invalid. Interestingly, the court observed that it is in fact Apple which has infringed on one of Samsung's patents. Commenting on the decision, a Samsung spokesperson said, "Today's decision is a win for consumer choice and puts competition back where it belongs - in the marketplace, not in the courtroom." On the other hand, Apple declined to offer any comment. The verdict comes less than a month after Apple - in a separate case - asked the US Supreme Court not to take up the South Korean company's appeal. That case has so far seen Samsung agreeing to pay Apple $548 million to settle...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/appeals_court_overturns_apples_120_million_patent_win_against_samsung-news-16946.php

Samsung reportedly manufacturing 17.2 million S7 units before April

The highly anticipated Galaxy S7 and S7 edge are expecting to break last year's initial number of Galaxy S6 units in the first three months following its announcement. A Korean media outlet reports that Samsung is preparing to manufacturer a total of 17.2 million Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge units by April of this year. Samsung is really hoping to break its previous record set by the Galaxy S6 and S6 edge which sold roughly 15.8 million units in its first three months after launch with the second most successful device title held by the Galaxy S4 selling just over 15.2 million units in its initial sale period. Also, the company has reportedly changed its ratio of S7 and S7 edge where the S6 was manufactured 4:1 with the S6 edge constantly in short supply. This time around, Samsung wants to use a 6:4 ratio since it was not able to predict the roaring demand that the S6 edge had last year. Samsung hopes the overwhelming reception to the Galaxy S7's announcement this year at MWC is indication to the S7 and S7 edge's success and should break the S6's record for the first three months of sales. Source |...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_reportedly_manufacturing_172_million_s7_units_before_april-news-16945.php

Modder improved cooling for Nexus 6P, warranty voided undoubtedly

Senior XDA member Gorgtech performed a hard modification to his warranty-less Nexus 5 and 7 so decided to do the same to his Nexus 6P whose warranty was voided as well. An XDA thread shows the tedious and difficult disassembly of the Nexus 6P, starting with carefully heating and removing the camera glass, which takes a steady hand and lots of patience. Gorgtech then removes the entire rear panel which looks even more difficult than the camera hump's glass. Once the more problematic parts were out of the way, screws and clips hold the boards in place. The post shows you where to add thermal paste to improve the cooling ability of the Nexus 6P, ultimately reducing the amount of thermal throttling of the roaring Snapdragon 810 chip. Head over to the XDA thread if you're feeling indubitably adventurous. I've repaired and ruined a bunch of devices in my day, but I will not likely try such a modification. Maybe if I still have the phone after my factory warranty expires, I MIGHT consider it. Source |...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/modder_improves_cooling_on_the_nexus_6p_warranty_voided_without_a_doubt-news-16944.php

Sprint decided to bring back the 2 year contract. But why?

The American wireless industry has been phasing out the traditional 2 year contract in light of phones coming out more frequently and customers becoming disgruntled at being stuck with a 1-2 year old phone until next year. Sprint hasn't been doing particularly well in the past few years and continues to lose customers to other carriers. Since then they've been downsizing and cutting costs anywhere they could, they even removed Sprint's own in-house repair centers from several stores in the beginning of the month. Sprint also gave store employees more cleaning duties to cut store maintenance costs. The other 3 major carriers have already gotten rid of new 2 year contracts (unless you have a grandfathered 2 year agreement, you'd still have the option of renewing), so why did Sprint decide to bring back the 2 year contract? Perhaps Sprint is in desperate need of customers that it needs to sell service to every customer it possibly can. The older generation of customers might still be oriented with a 2 year contract. Here's what I mean: The customer is attracted to the idea of slapping down one or two-hundred dollars and walking home with a brand new phone that he or she now owns (with the only caveat being that they were obligated to fulfill this contract for 24 months). Maybe this group of customers is scared off when finding out their financed phone will cost six to seven-hundred dollars (total amount paid after 24 months) and are too stubborn to understand how a lease or financing program will benefit them, or let them switch phones more often, than a 2 year commitment. Maybe I'm totally off. Maybe it's a stubborn executive that wants to bring back the 2 year contract. For the American wireless industry and competition's sake, let's hope Sprint can turn it around and take it back to the good ol' days of 2010-2011 when Sprint launched the first 4G WiMax network in the world and thrived with phones like the Samsung Moment and the HTC EVO 4G was Sprint's thriving star. Source |...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/sprint_decided_to_bring_back_the_2_year_contract_but_why-news-16943.php

Verizon gifts free Gear S2 or Gear VR for every Galaxy S7 pre-order

You may already know that Samsung is throwing in a free Gear VR headset with every Galaxy S7 or Galaxy S7 edge pre-order, regardless of market. However, US carrier Verizon has managed to best even this offer. If you pre-order either of Samsung's newest flagship smartphones, Big Red will give you a free Gear VR or a free Gear S2 smartwatch. This is great news for people who aren't that much into VR at this point, and who consider a smartwatch a much more useful gift in such a circumstance. It's also worth pointing out that the Gear S2 has a higher retail value compared to the VR headset. To take advantage of this promo, you need to pre-order the S7 or S7 edge from Verizon and get it on device payments before March 18. Then you register your new device at this website by March 31. After verification of the offer claim, you will receive your free Gear S2 or Gear VR in around 4 to 6 weeks. Source |...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/verizon_gifts_free_gear_s2_or_gear_vr_for_every_galaxy_s7_preorder-news-16942.php

Acer outs promo video for upcoming Liquid Jade Primo Windows 10 phone

Acer has already showcased the Liquid Jade Primo a few times - at IFA last year, then at CES and at MWC. Yet now after many months of talking about it, the company finally seems intent on actually launching the handset running Windows 10 Mobile. The Jade Primo's release should happen next month. In the meantime, its maker has created a new promo video for the device, one that clearly positions the Jade Primo as a workhorse. That means businesses might be the primary intended customers for this smartphone, which is a trend we're seeing more and more of in the world of Windows 10 Mobile (most recently with the Microsoft Lumia 650 and the HP Elite x3, for example). Bottom line, the Jade Primo will help you get work done, especially thanks to its support for the Continuum feature in Windows 10. As a quick reminder, the phone comes with a 5.5-inch 1080p touchscreen, a 21 MP rear camera with dual-LED flash, an 8 MP secondary cam, Qualcomm's Snapdragon 808 chipset at the helm, 3GB of RAM, 32GB of expandable storage, and a 2,800 mAh...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/acer_outs_new_promo_video_for_its_upcoming_liquid_jade_primo_windows_10_phone-news-16940.php

Google Inbox gets new snooze options

Inbox, Google's pretty radical reinterpretation of the Gmail interface, is getting an update over the next week or so. And it's all about making its snooze functionality work better for more people. The snooze menu has also received a redesign of sorts. First off, you'll be able to choose from two new snooze times when you want to put certain things off for a while - "later this week" and "this weekend". These have apparently been highly requested through the Inbox feedback process, and they should decrease the use of custom-set snooze times. Finally, you can now choose what your "weekend" days actually are, similarly to how you can set your preferred morning time to receive emails. This is easy and straightforward to set up, as you can see in the second screenshot above, and should work well with the custom snooze time of "this weekend" of course. It's also clearly going to be extremely useful for those who live in places where the weekend isn't made up of Saturday and Sunday. Source |...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/google_inbox_for_android_gets_new_snooze_options-news-16939.php

Asus will send out Marshmallow updates in Q2, here's the full list of devices getting them

Last November, Asus outed a list of devices that it would update to Android 6.0 Marshmallow. Unfortunately, no timeline for update rollouts was mentioned at that point. And here we are more than three months later, and Asus has yet to push the new software to any of its wares. The good news is that now we finally have a (very rough) timeline to speak of. Asus will send out Marshmallow updates during the second quarter of this year, so from April to June. The company has revised its list of devices getting the Marshmallow treat, adding three smartphones that weren't in the initial roster. These are the ZenFone Max ZC550KL, the ZenFone 2 Laser ZE551KL, and the ZenFone Zoom ZX551ML. They join the following devices which were already slated to receive the update: PadFone S PF500KL, ZenFone Selfie ZD551KL, ZenFone 2 (ZE550ML and ZE551ML), ZenFone 2 Deluxe ZE551ML, ZenFone 2 Deluxe Special Edition ZE551ML, and ZenFone 2 Laser (ZE500KG, ZE500KL, ZE550KL, ZE600KL, and ZE601KL). Source |...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/asus_will_send_out_marshmallow_updates_in_q2_heres_the_full_list_of_devices_getting_them-news-16941.php

LG Nexus 5X is now the cheapest it's ever been at $269.99

The smaller and more mid-range of the two Nexus smartphones unveiled last year is now cheaper than it's ever been. One seller on eBay is offering brand new, unlocked LG Nexus 5X units (with 16GB of storage) for just $269.99. That's $10 less than what was asked for the phone in another promotional offer earlier this month, also on eBay. And the $269.99 price will save you $30 compared to Google's official pricing for the device. If you're interested, keep in mind that there's apparently a limited amount of units up for grabs at this price, so better hurry if you want to pick one up. The white model is sold out already, so you can only choose from the Carbon and Quartz hues. Shipping is free, and done from New Hampshire, which means you shouldn't get a sales tax no matter where you are in the...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/lg_nexus_5x_is_now_the_cheapest_its_ever_been_at_26999-news-16938.php

New 4-inch Apple device now rumored to be called iPhone SE

March is only a few days away now, and that means we're ever closer to Apple's much rumored spring event during which a new 4-inch iPhone is set to become official. Alleged details about this handset have been leaking for a long time, but perhaps the most disputed aspect of it has intriguingly been the name. We've so far heard it could be called iPhone 7c, or the iPhone 6c, or the iPhone 5se. And today a new report claims it will be none of those. Instead, Apple is likely to choose to call it iPhone SE. "SE" will apparently stand for "special edition", if the unnamed sources behind this one are to be believed. If this is true, then it will be interesting to see what a possible successor to the iPhone SE will be called, if there will ever be one. iPhone SE2? iPhone SEs? The New iPhone SE? It's anyone's guess at this point. Anyway, the iPhone SE's pricing will match that of the iPhone 5s (pictured above), it's been revealed. It will look identical to that handset, except for slightly curved edges around its sides. It will come with the A9 chipset, an "upgraded" 8 MP main camera, NFC and Apple Pay support, as well as the latest Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and LTE radios. It will be offered with either 16 or 64GB of storage. Apple's event during which the iPhone SE will be announced might take place on March 15 or March 22, according to some contradictory rumors we've heard. In either case, it's availability should follow mere days after the unveiling. A new 9.7-inch iPad Pro will be revealed on the same...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/new_4inch_apple_device_now_rumored_to_be_called_iphone_se-news-16937.php

Unknown vivo handset gets benchmarked and has specs outed

Chinese smartphone maker vivo is set to announce its much awaited new entrant in its high-end Xplay line on March 1, as the company has already confirmed. Yet it looks like vivo could unveil another device on that occasion, or perhaps just slightly lower-specced version of the Xplay 5. That's because a yet-unofficial vivo smartphone, bearing the model number PD1522A, has been benchmarked using GFXBench, which means a pretty complete list of its specs has been outed. This definitely isn't the Xplay 5, at least not its highest-end iteration if there will be more than one. That will be powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 820 chipset, as vivo has acknowledged, and this will be aided by a whopping 6GB of RAM. The PD1522A, on the other hand, has the Snapdragon 652 at the helm, and 'just' 4GB of RAM. So it could be a different device altogether, or the entry-level version of the Xplay 5, as Chinese companies often release multiple iterations of their wares, with slightly different specs and price points. Whatever the case, the vivo PD1522A also comes with a 5.4-inch QHD touchscreen, a 16 MP rear camera, an 8 MP selfie shooter, 128GB of storage, as well as Android 5.1.1 Lollipop on board. Source |...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/unknown_vivo_handset_gets_benchmarked_and_has_specs_outed-news-16936.php

Facebook's live video streaming lands on Android in the next few days

Following a celebrity-only release last year, Facebook's live video streaming feature went out to all iOS users starting in January. And now the time has finally come for the exact same thing to roll out to Facebook users with Android devices. The social networks has announced that live video streaming should become available to all Android users in the US within the next week. After that, the functionality will be rolled out to other countries, though no exact time frames have been mentioned. As for iOS users, live video streaming on Facebook is already a possibility for those in 30 countries, and the global rollout is continuing. Once you get the new feature, if you want to use it just tap "What's on your mind?" at the top of News Feed and select the Live Video icon. Before going live, you can enter a quick description and select who gets to see your broadcast. During your live session, you see how many people are watching, the names of friends who are among them, and you get a real-time stream of comments. Once the live broadcast is over, it will be saved in your Timeline just like any other...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/facebooks_live_video_streaming_lands_on_android_in_the_next_few_days-news-16935.php

LG G5 goes up for pre-order in the UK, priced at £539

The LG G5 has now been put up for pre-order in the UK by one online retailer. The handset, which got its grand unveiling last Sunday, has been priced at £539, VAT included. The units being sold are SIM-free and unlocked, as you'd expect from that pricing. Clove, the company that's already listed the G5, says deliveries are due to happen sometime around early April. However, the price isn't 100% official yet, which means it might change between now and then. The store offers the G5 in "titan", silver, or gold, in all cases with 32GB of built-in storage. The phone comes with a 5.3-inch QHD IPS touchscreen, a dual camera system on the back (with 16 MP + 8 MP resolution), an 8 MP selfie snapper, Qualcomm's Snapdragon 820 SoC running things, 4GB of RAM, and a 2,800 mAh battery. It runs Android 6.0.1...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/lg_g5_goes_up_for_preorder_in_the_uk_priced_at__pound539_-news-16933.php

24K gold-plated Samsung Galaxy S7/S7 edge now on pre-order

The oldest status symbol meets the newest - the Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 edge were announced barely a week ago at the MWC and there's already a company advertising a gilded version. You have a choice of 24K Gold, 18K Rose Gold or Platinum plating. The company, Truly Exquisite, is already taking pre-orders starting at £1,700. If you pre-order, you can expect your S7 or S7 edge 21 days after Samsung officially launches the flagships on March 11. Worldwide shipping is free and there's a 1-year warranty. The gold plated phones will arrive in a "Luxury Wooden Box" and besides the usual accessories and Gear VR headset, the box will contain a free Wireless Charging Pad. Truly Exquisite has committed to donate 5% of its revenues to various charities around the...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/24k_goldplated_samsung_galaxy_s7_s7_edge_now_on_preorder-news-16931.php

Assassin's Creed Identity action RPG game now available on iOS

Assassin's Creed franchise has been flourishing since its inception and even though some of the latest games turned out controversial because of their issues, it's still one of the most popular series in the gaming community. It's no surprise the Assassin's Creed games have spread over the mobile platforms too, and the latest title is already available for purchase. Assassin's Creed Identity is a new action RPG game, which takes place in Renaissance Italy and it's about the mysterious Crows. The game has RPG elements - you choose the class, you customize your character, and continue building it throughout the game. The game costs $4.99 and is available on iPhone 5 or later and the iPad 3 or later. Android version is in development and will launch in the Play Store this spring. App Store •...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/assassins_creed_identity_action_rpg_game_now_available_on_ios-news-16929.php

OmniVision has a new 13MP PureCel Plus-S sensor

OmniVison might not be a household brand name, but chances are you might have used a device equipped with one of its 8MP sensors at one time or another, it is a popular selfie shooter choice. The company is also behind the camera equipment used in Google's spatial mapping project Tango, so the expertise is definitely there. The manufacturer's latest addition to the sensor lineup is the OV13870, as already mentioned a 13MP sensor. This might not sound all that impressive in terms of resolution, but the reality is that on mobile, manufacturers have started focusing a lot more on expanding the size of sensor pixels to improve overall quality and OmniVision is following to the trend. The OV13870 has a new 1.25-micron PureCel®Plus-S pixel architecture. It is said to deliver best-in-class performance with major improvements to low-light photography and reduction is crosstalk. All this is packaged within a relatively small module, maintaining an optical format of 1/2.6-inches and a total height of 5.2mm, ideal for thin smartphones. It also has dual camera compatibility, which is perfect for use in multiple aperture setups like the one on the LG G5 for example. On the specs side of things, the OV13870 can capture 13MP still at a rate of 45 fps and is also capable of ultra-high resolution 4K2K video at 60 FPS, 1080p full high definition (HD) at 240 FPS, or 720p HD at 300 FPS with binning and cropping. OmniVision says the OV13870 is currently available for sampling and should enter mass production in Q2...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/omnivision_has_a_new_13mp_purecel_pluss_sensor-news-16926.php

LG G5 to launch in India in the next quarter

LG has announced that it will be releasing the G5 in India in the next quarter. Speaking about the device, Mr Amit Gujral, Marketing Head - Mobiles, LG India, said "We are really happy to see all the positivity around the LG G5 ever since its global unveil at the MWC. In fact, in a survey conducted in Korea the LG G5 topped consumer preference leaving its closest competitors trailing far behind. We hope to make this available to users in India very soon and are optimistic that consumers will love its revolutionary design and features." The G5 is the company's latest flagship smartphone with a unique modular design that allows the users to swap out the bottom portion for a camera grip with an extended battery or a H-Fi DAC and amplifier with B&O Play. It also features two cameras at the back, one with a particularly wide-angle lens. More details about the launch will be released at a later...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/lg_g5_to_launch_in_india_in_the_next_quarter-news-16925.php

Galaxy S7 and S7 edge won't have front Samsung logo in South Korea and China

Samsung announced it's latest flagships - the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge - at the just concluded Mobile World Congress. Set to go on sale next month, the devices will be available in 60 countries in the first wave of their global launch. However, it has now come to light that some regions will see slightly different looking Galaxy S7/S7 edge units - the difference is in terms of the front Samsung logo, which appears to be missing in the Chinese and South Korean variants of the handsets. South Korean variant on left • Chinese variant on right There's currently no information on exactly what's the reason behind the move, although reports say it could be related to how "simplified and elegant" the devices look sans the front logo as well as the customer feedback Samsung received through its surveys in these regions. Also worth mentioning here is that this is not the first time the South Korean tech giant has done something like this - back in April last year, the company dropped its logo from the Japanese Galaxy S6 and S6 edge units. Source (Samsung Korea) | Samsung China | Samsung...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/galaxy_s7_and_s7_edge_wont_have_front_samsung_logo_in_south_korea_and_china-news-16923.php

Ulefone Power has a 6,050mAh battery, metal frame and wooden back for $180

While the established manufacturers got caught up in a race towards thin phones, battery capacities have suffered. Meanwhile, a clutch of lesser-known makers has realized there is untapped potential in this niche, and they've been coming out with monstrous battery capacities and attractive designs. Take Ulefone, for instance, the maker of the Ulefone Power. The phone packs a massive 6,050mAh Sony battery, over twice the iPhone 6s Plus battery capacity. The battery promises four days of normal use, 63 hours of talk time and 75 days of standby. Quick Charge tech is enabled and will fill up the whole battery in 2 hours. A 30-minute charge should be enough to last a typical day while a 5-minute charge is sufficient for 2 hours of talking. The Ulefone Power has a metal frame around its 5.5" 1080p display (which sits behind 2.5D Gorilla Glass 3). For the back, you have a choice of abrasion-proof material or wood. There is even a fingerprint reader located on the back. Here's a hands-on we managed to find: The phone comes with a 13MP Sony camera (IMX214, f/1.8 lens) with 1080p video capture with Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) and a dual-LED flash. The front camera is a 5MP shooter. The Power runs Android 5.1 (to be updated to 6.0 Marshmallow) on a 1.3GHz Mediatek octa-core processor with 3GB of RAM and a hybrid card slot - two microSIMs or SIM + microSD. There's LTE connectivity (150Mbps) and an IR blaster. The best part is that the Ulefone Power is already available on certain online stores as a gray import for merely $180, and that's with all Google services preinstalled. Wow, Chinese manufacturers are really into changing the smartphone market. This phone seems like a great deal even if you factor in the fact that there will probably be no aftersales...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/ulefone_power_has_6050mah_battery_metal_frame_and_wooden_back_180-news-16924.php

$180 Ulefone Power has a 6,050mAh battery, metal frame and wooden back

While the established manufacturers got caught up in a race towards thin phones, battery capacities have suffered. Meanwhile, a clutch of lesser-known makers has realized there is untapped potential in this niche, and they've been coming out with monstrous battery capacities and attractive designs. Take Ulefone, for instance, the maker of the Ulefone Power. The phone packs a massive 6,050mAh Sony battery, over twice the iPhone 6s Plus battery capacity. The battery promises four days of normal use, 63 hours of talk time and 75 days of standby. Quick Charge tech is enabled and will fill up the whole battery in 2 hours. A 30-minute charge should be enough to last a typical day while a 5-minute charge is sufficient for 2 hours of talking. The Ulefone Power has a metal frame around its 5.5" 1080p display (which sits behind 2.5D Gorilla Glass 3). For the back, you have a choice of abrasion-proof material or wood. There is even a fingerprint reader located on the back. Here's a hands-on we managed to find: The phone comes with a 13MP Sony camera (IMX214, f/1.8 lens) with 1080p video capture with Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) and a dual-LED flash. The front camera is a 5MP shooter. The Power runs Android 5.1 (to be updated to 6.0 Marshmallow) on a 1.3GHz Mediatek octa-core processor with 3GB of RAM and a hybrid card slot - two microSIMs or SIM + microSD. There's LTE connectivity (150Mbps) and an IR blaster. The best part is that the Ulefone Power is already available on certain online stores as a gray import for merely $180, and that's with all Google services preinstalled. Wow, Chinese manufacturers are really into changing the smartphone market. This phone seems like a great deal even if you factor in the fact that there will probably be no aftersales...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/ulefone_power_has_6050mah_battery_metal_frame_and_wooden_back-news-16924.php

Vivo XPlay 5 spotted in a live shot

The Vivo XPlay 5 has been frequenting the rumor mill for quite some time now, with speculations going as far back as 2014. Initially, the device was hailed as one of the supposed early adopters of the Snapdragon 810 chip. Obviously, that didn't happen, and Snapdragon 810 is no longer Qualcomm's greatest chip. However, we are still waiting on the handset, which impresses with a Snapdragon 820 SoC as well as 6GB of RAM - a world first. The aforementioned specs have already been confirmed by Vivo and the launch date set for March 1. There is even an impressive AnTuTu benchmark score already circulationg online, meaning that all we are left with is to wait for an actual glimpse of the device itself. A newly uncovered live shot claims to provide precisely that. While we have seen renders in the past, a real unit in the flesh can be used as definitive proof of the Vivo XPlay 5's design. The front of the phone clearly features a pretty curved display on both sides and Vivo's typical row of capacitive buttons. As for other suggested specs - the panel itself is allegedly a 5.5-inch one with a resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels. We already mentioned the Snapdragon 820 SoC and whopping 6GB of RAM. Other than that, we have some insight on the camera setup, which will allegedly consist of a 16MP rear and 8MP front shooter. As for pricing and availability, we know the March 1 unveiling is official and sources suggest that the Vivo XPlay 5 could cost as much as INR 50,000 although we find that a little too steep to...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/vivo_xplay_5_spotted_in_a_live_shot-news-16922.php

Now you can blur literally anything in your YouTube video

Building on the face-blurring capability it introduced back in 2012, YouTube has launched a new tool that lets you blur anything in your video, even if the object in question moves. Dubbed Custom Blurring, the tool is currently only available on the desktop website. "Whether you want to blur sensitive information such as a license plate or cover up a wardrobe malfunction without reshooting an entire scene, the new Custom Blurring tool will let you blur objects throughout your video, right within YouTube," the company said in a blog post. To use the tool, first choose the video you want to edit and then select the Custom Blurring option from the Blurring Effects tab of the Enhancements tool. Once done, select the object you want to blur by drawing a box around it (as shown in the GIF above). "At any time, you can move the blurred area, resize it and choose when the blur starts and stops. There is also a "Lock" option to blur something that doesn't move at...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/youtube_now_lets_you_blur_anything_in_your_video-news-16920.php

Microsoft cans Project Astoria for porting Android apps to Windows

Last year at the Build conference, Microsoft announced what was called Project Astoria, a bridge that will allow developers to port their existing Android apps easily to Windows 10. The feature eventually disappeared from Windows 10 builds that came out after that, which caused some people to wonder what was happening with the feature. Microsoft has now confirmed that it will no longer be working on that. Microsoft stated that the company will instead focus only on the iOS Bridge that allows developers to port their iOS apps to Windows, instead of having one each for iOS and Android as "having two Bridge technologies to bring code from mobile operating systems to Windows was unnecessary, and the choice between them could be confusing." Microsoft also recently acquired the company Xamarin, that lets developers write their apps in one language and then customize it for different platforms. Microsoft thinks these two methods, along with the Web Bridge (for porting web apps) and Project Centennial (for porting existing Win32 and .NET apps) will be enough options for developers looking to port their apps to Windows 10 platforms. Source •...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/microsoft_cans_project_astoria_for_porting_android_apps_to_windows-news-16919.php

One M10's camera will be "very, very compelling," says HTC

Looks like HTC is very bullish on the camera of its next flagship smartphone - most likely to be called the One M10. The Taiwanese company has said that the device will offer "a very, very compelling camera experience." "We can confidently say that HTC will have a very, very compelling camera experience," Chief Financial Officer Chialin Chang said in an interview at MWC 2016. "We're making this comment after we've seen what's going on in the market -" he was, obviously, referring to Samsung's and LG's latest offerings. The One M10 is rumored to feature a 12MP UltraPixel rear camera with phase detection and laser autofocus as well as optical image stabilization, and a 5MP UltraPixel front shooter. In case you aren't already aware, an UltraPixel camera has bigger pixels, which let in more light to provide comparatively higher quality imaging experience even in...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/one_m10s_camera_will_be_very_very_compelling_says_htc-news-16915.php

February security update starts hitting Verizon Samsung Galaxy Tab S2

Verizon has started pushing out the February Android security patch to Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 units on its network. The update - which started rolling out yesterday - bumps the tablet's software version to LMY47X.T817VVRS2APB2. Sadly, there isn't any detailed change-log included with the update, meaning it isn't yet clear what else the update brings along. "The current software update gives you the most up to date Android security patch on your device," Verizon's release notes say. Given that the update has just started rolling out, it won't hit all Verizon Galaxy Tab S2 units at the same time, so be patient if your device hasn't got it already. In case you missed, the Motorola Moto X Pure Edition has also started receiving the February security...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/february_android_security_patch_starts_hitting_verizon_samsung_galaxy_tab_s2_-news-16918.php

Samsung Galaxy S6 edge (128GB, unlocked) now selling for just $460 in US

With Samsung unveiling its latest and greatest Galaxy S7 and S7 edge and the devices all set to go on sale next month, it shouldn't be surprising that last year's Galaxy flagships have started receiving price cuts. Case in point: Galaxy S6 edge. The edge variant of the Galaxy S7 predecessor is now available in the US for $460 - that's for the unlocked, 128GB gold-colored model. QualityCellz on eBay is selling the device for that price. The model on offer is compatible with both GSM carriers and Verizon. For comparison, Amazon has the 32GB version listed for around $550, while T-Mobile is selling the 128GB variant for $680. In case you missed, the handset also won the "Best Smartphone 2015" at this year's Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. Source |...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_s6_edge_128gb_unlocked_now_selling_for_just_460_in_us-news-16917.php

HTC smartwatch will "turn the industry on its head," says CEO

HTC CEO Cher Wang is confident that the company will make a splash in the smartwatch market with its own offering. She talked about the device in an interview at the just concluded Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. However, she didn't say much except that, "When HTC comes out with a smartwatch, we will turn the industry on its head." CFO Neither Chang, who was also present alongside Wang, said the company still needs to figure out how a smartwatch would fit with other HTC products before launching one. Rumors that HTC is developing a smartwatch first cropped up way back in 2013, with the latest ones suggesting that the wearable device - allegedly dubbed HTC One - will be launched in April this...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/htc_smartwatch_will_turn_the_industry_on_its_head_says_ceo-news-16916.php

HTC One M10 rumored to come in three storage options

HTC's upcoming One M10 flagship - which is known internally by the codename Perfume - will come in three internal memory options: 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB. This was revealed by the usually reliable leakster @LlabTooFeR. HTC Perfume is supposed to have 3 internal memory options: 16GB, 32GB and 64GB (depends on the market).— LlabTooFeR (@LlabTooFeR) February 24, 2016 He, however, said that the availability of these storage options will depend on the market. Aside from different internal memory options, the device is also already rumored to come in two different hardware versions (also depending on the market): one powered by Snapdragon 820, while the other one with a yet-unknown MediaTek SoC. Other rumored specs of the device include 5.1-inch QHD AMOLED touchscreen, 4GB RAM, 12MP/5MP UltraPixel camera combo, and Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow. It is also said to feature a fingerprint scanner. In case you missed, HTC recently officially released a One M10 teaser image showing the handset's...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/htc_one_m10_rumored_to_come_in_three_storage_options-news-16914.php

Moto X Pure Edition starts receiving February security patch

Google's latest security patch is being rolled out to Moto X Pure Edition users soon. The process should take a few days for it to fully roll out and as you know, it'll be rolled out in random batches of devices. This update will bring up your Android security patch level to February 1, 2016. Also, if you'd like, you can check out Google's latest overview of what has been patched for...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/moto_x_pure_edition_starts_receiving_february_security_patch-news-16913.php

Apple to allegedly launch 9.7 inch iPad Pro at March event

Apple plans to unveil the iPhone 5se along with an iPad device. However a new report claims that this iPad device will be a new variant of the iPad Pro. Apple will allegedly launch a 9.7 inch iPad Pro, complete with Apple Pencil compatibility and possible discontinuation of the original iPad Air. This new iPad Pro model will bring the same internals as the 12.9 inch model, while sporting a more compact design, still aimed for productivity. The report also says that Apple is working on a smaller detachable keyboard to connect to the new 9.7 inch iPad Pro's Smart Connector. This new alleged smaller iPad Pro will also feature the same quad-speaker setup, available in the same color and memory capacity configurations as the iPad Pro with pricing more in line with the current iPad Air 2. This new iPad Pro might even slow down or discontinue production of the older generation iPad Mini 2 and the first generation of iPad Air devices. This should help Apple to streamline its iPad product line. At the same event. Apple will also announce a new 4 inch iPhone 5se with updated hardware internals, live photos, Apple Pay, and the latest camera technologies. Source |...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/apple_to_allegedly_launch_97_inch_ipad_pro_at_march_event-news-16912.php

Xiaomi confirms 18 LTE bands for Mi5, compatible with all major US carriers

Xiaomi posted a Q & A on its own official forum with some more specific information about the newly announced Mi5. The Xiaomi Mi5 supports LTE bands: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 7 / 8 / 12 / 13 / 17 / 18 / 19 / 20 / 25 / 26 / 27 / 28 / 29 with bands 38 / 39 / 40 / 41 left with uncertainty. The Mi5 will also be bootloader locked by default. The company explicitly states it does not condone or recommend that you unlock your bootloader for security reasons. It even goes a step further and recommends that you use "Mi Cloud" services in the event that your phone does get lost or stolen. An unlocked bootloader will not protect your data in either of these cases. Besides this information, the Q&A also talks about general differences between the new Mi5 models, specs, pricing and availability. The Mi5 will launch in the company's home country of China and will be available on March 1 for a price of around $300. This makes the Mi5 the cheapest phone with a Snapdragon 820 CPU...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_mi5_confirms_18_lte_bands_and_compatible_with_every_major_us_carrier-news-16911.php

Xiaomi Mi5 supports 24 LTE bands and compatible with every major US carrier

Xiaomi posted a Q & A on its own official forum with some more specific information about the newly announced Mi5. The Xiaomi Mi5 supports LTE bands: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 7 / 8 / 12 / 13 / 17 / 18 / 19 / 20 / 25 / 26 / 27 / 28 / 29 / 38 / 39 / 40 / 41 The Mi5 will also be bootloader locked by default. The company explicitly states it does not condone or recommend that you unlock your bootloader for security reasons. It even goes a step further and recommends that you use "Mi Cloud" services in the event that your phone does get lost or stolen. An unlocked bootloader will not protect your data in either of these cases. Besides this information, the Q&A also talks about general differences between the new Mi5 models, specs, pricing and availability. The Mi5 will launch in the company's home country of China and will be available on March 1 for a price of around $300. This makes the Mi5 the cheapest phone with a Snapdragon 820 CPU...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_mi5_supports_24_lte_bands_and_compatible_with_every_major_us_carrier-news-16911.php

Deal: AT&T or Verizon branded LG G4 for $300

LG is getting a lot of attention with the latest flagship offering, the LG G5. Therefore, the LG G4 is being heavily discounted and available for your benefit. An eBay seller has brand new, unopened 32GB LG G4s in Metallic Gray going for $300. You can choose between a Verizon branded and AT&T branded device (reminder that Verizon phones do come factory unlocked). These devices also come with the standard 1 year manufacturer's warranty. The LG G4 was released in April of 2015 and features a 5.5 inch screen with 1440p resolution. It sports a snapdragon 808 hexa-core CPU paired with 3GB of RAM and an Adreno 418 GPU. The G4 was also among the best smartphone cameras available last year. It has a 16MP main sensor with OIS and laser focus with an 8MP front-facing cameras for higher quality...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/deal_at_t_or_verizon_branded_lg_g4_for_300-news-16910.php

iPhone 5se unveiling now rumored to happen on March 22

The oft-leaked new 4-inch iPhone 5se has so far been rumored to be officially introduced at an event on March 15. On the same occasion, Apple will reportedly also announce the iPad Air 3 as well as certain improvements for the Apple Watch (but not a new wearable). Now though a new rumor out of South Korea claims that Apple's big spring event has been pushed back - though just by exactly one week. Hence, it's apparently going to take place on March 22. Unfortunately Apple itself hasn't yet sent out invites, so take all of this with a pinch of salt since it could be nothing more than speculation. The iPhone 5se should cost $450 with 16GB of storage, sans contract. Past leaks have said it would sport specs borrowed from the iPhone 6, but in a body the same size as that of the iPhone 5s. Source (in...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/iphone_5se_unveiling_now_rumored_to_happen_on_march_22-news-16909.php

LG G5 vs. Samsung Galaxy S7 edge: Flagship slugfest

This is why we love the MWC - some of the best phones of the year were announced almost side by side. Two of the headliners are the LG G5 and the Samsung Galaxy S7 edge and we know how heated the competition between G-series and Galaxy flagship can get.



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/lg_g5_vs_samsung_galaxy_s7_edge_mwc_2016-review-1403.php

All about the Samsung Galaxy S7 edge [VIDEO]

We got our hands on a Samsung Galaxy S7 edge in Barcelona and had some time to play with it. You bet we took it for a walk around the beautiful Catalan city and snapped quite a few shots with its camera. We find the S7 edge quite an attractive and capable fella, and it left us with very positive impressions. The same goes for its camera, which introduces ground-breaking auto-focus tech. We already have a pretty detailed article up online, but we're proud to show you the phone on...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/check_our_samsung_galaxy_s7_edge_handson_video-news-16908.php

Hugo Barra: Xiaomi Mi 5 to launch only in core markets, global availability - doubtful

Yesterday Xiaomi announced the Mi 5 flagship - a genuinely impressive device with three different versions. It features either glass/metal or glass/ceramic build and packs a 5.15" IPS 1080p display, a Snapdragon 820 chip with 3GB or 4GB RAM, a 16MP OIS rear camera, a 4MP UltraPixel selfie snapper, 32/64/128GB storage, and a 3,000 mAh battery. It is also the first device to introduce the Marshmallow-based MIUI 7. Xiaomi's VP Hugo Barra announced the company's latest and greatest at a dedicated event held at the MWC. It quickly gathered lots of positive first impressions, not only for its specs but because of the hint of an international availability later on. As it turns out, the global launch may have been exaggerated. In a recent interview, Hugo Barra revealed Xiaomi only has plans for making Xiaomi Mi5 available only on the current markets it operates on. He confirmed Xiaomi is eyeing other markets, but "it's far too early to make any statements". Barra continued that he isn't withholding information; he honestly doesn't know how the things will pan out in the future. He wants Xiaomi to become officially available in Europe and the USA but this expansion is only on the wishlist for now. What he hopes for though is that the announcement event in Barcelona wouls help build up Xiaomi's brand internationally. Later this year the Mi 5 should hit Xiaomi's core markets - China, India, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Philippines, and probably, Brazil. We might see it in even more markets after that, but as of now it's rather unlikely. It seems the rest of the world is left to rely on gray...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_to_release_the_mi_5_in_core_markets_global_availability_is_doubtful-news-16905.php

New Android Support Library 23.2 brings day/night mode and bottom sheets to app devs

Google has posted a few snapshots of Android Support Library 23.2 including an interesting pair that seems to showcase a Bluetooth connection interface complete with a new UI element - a sandwich menu. This could be a sneak preview of a new setting layout within the next Android N version of the OS or not. But, considering the screencaps showcase the new Day/Night modes in the AppCompact theme and by design the Android Support Library usually works across many Android versions, we are a lot more inclined to believe that Google is simply using an internal app with a Bluetooth menu to showcase the new feature. Hamburger menu in Settings menu • Refreshed Maps UI Such is the case with the just announced Bottom Sheets feature, which is showcased in the Google Maps app where this new design element is used to show context info. It can also be used to display info that is usually found on pop-ups. New Bottom Sheets demoed in apps It remains seen whether this Hamburger menu will really be part of the next Android version, but one thing is for certain - the rest of the new UI features should come to older Android versions as...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/new_android_support_library_232_brings_day_night_mode_and_bottom_sheets_to_app_devsblog-news-16906.php

GSMA announces LG G5 for best device at MWC 2016, other award winners too

GSM Association has announced the winners of the annual Global Mobile Awards (Glomo). This year there were eight competing categories, each with at least few subcategories. The main categories are: Category 1: The Connected Life Awards Category 2: Best Mobile Services Category 3: Social & Economic Development Category 4: Best Mobile Apps Category 5: Best Mobile Handsets & Devices Category 6: Best Mobile Technology Category 7: Government Excellence Awards Category 8: Outstanding Achievement We won't list all winners, but here are some of the highlights. BEST SMARTPHONE 2015 - SAMSUNG GALAXY S6 EDGE BEST LOW COST SMARTPHONE (SUB $100) - XIAOMI REDMI 2 BEST MOBILE TABLET - MICROSOFT SURFACE PRO 4 BEST WEARABLE TECHNOLOGY - ACTIVHEARTS heart reate measuring headphones BEST CONNECTED CONSUMER ELECTRONIC DEVICE - SAMSUNG GEAR S2 BEST OVERALL MOBILE APP (JUDGE'S CHOICE) - GOOGLE CARDBOARD BEST MOBILE MUSIC APP - SOUNDCLOUD APP BEST NEW MOBILE DEVICE AT MWC 2016 - LG G5 If you want to learn all the winners and get more info on each of them, you should check the official awards page. The LG G5 was chosen as the best new device introduced at the MWC 2016 while the LG G5 & Friends accessories were among the most loved gadgets at the expo. GSMA •...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/gsma_announces_glomo_awards_winners_check_them_out-news-16907.php

OnePlus 3 should arrive by June this year

OnePlus is apparently preparing to out the third generation in its iconic series of phones and their fourth device as a whole this year. Company co-founder Carl Pei has shared with cnet that the device should come out by June. Pei was reluctant to share any real specifics about the OnePlus 3, but he did stress his ambition to recreate the whopping success of the original OnePlus One. Keen fans will be quick to note that the OnePlus 2 sold more units than its predecessor, but it is a fact that it didn't cause nearly as big of hype in the mobile realm. This is precisely what Pei wants to recapture with the OnePlus 3. Design, for one, is said to undergo a major change and be a big departure from both the OnePlus One and the OnePlus 2. However, we still imagine that the signature sandstone back will be preserved, as it is a unique touch. Another planned change has to do with marketing. Up until now the company has mostly relied on guerrilla marketing schemes and the infamous invitation system. This has helped foster quite a lot of interest and is a great way of gaining popularity, as well as enabling higher-value third-party resales. But this time, around, the company is allegedly going to fall back to a more traditional advertising campaign. This could also be aimed at expanding OnePlus's presence in the US and the UK, both relatively new territory for the Chinese manufacturer. According to Pei, the OnePlus 3 will come as an Unlocked phone in the US and will still likely be sold directly by the manufacturer, rather than a carrier, as is typical for the market. Still, he does anticipate a "better buying process" this time around, meaning the inconvenience of the invitation system should be eliminated, hopefully...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/oneplus_3_should_arrive_by_june_this_year-news-16904.php

Wiko Fever Special Edition: hands-on

You might not know of Wiko if you reside outside of France, but those of our readers who do can attest that the local brand is enjoying quite a lot of popularity. Statistics claim that the brand takes the second spot in the country's mobile sales rank list, which is a veritable achievement indeed.



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/wiko_fever_special_edition_mwc_2016-review-1404.php

Galaxy S7 and S7 edge will get carrier locks to the first inserted SIM

A leaked slide we got through our tip line suggests Samsung will tweak the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge to lock to the carrier of the first inserted SIM card. Until now most of the Samsung Galaxies sold through carriers came unlocked. Don't panic! This doesn't concern the SIM-free and carrier unlocked models. The slide seems to be part of a presentation to telcos. It says the customer's device should be configured after inserting the SIM card. It seems Samsung found a unified solution for carrier locks, and this will make obsolete the procedure where each carrier has to order custom batches of Galaxy smartphones. This also means lots of carriers that weren't locking their Samsung smartphones because of all the hassle, now will do it. Don't forget Samsung's unlocked phones will be still region locked, which is a whole different thing. They will lock to the region in which you activate them first (Europe, Asia, Africa, etc.). We'll know more once the Galaxy S7 series hit the shelves. Thank you, Jeff, for the...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/galaxy_s7_and_s7_edge_will_get_carrier_locks_to_the_first_inserted_sim_-news-16902.php

Google is working on PlaNet - a neural network for guessing where pictures were taken

Wondering where a fabulous picture on the internet was taken at - we've all been there. Guessing the location is quite hard if the image is not geotagged. It seemed someone at Google had this problem, too, so the company decided to take the image search to the next level. Google built a neural network called PlaNet, loaded with more than 90 million location-tagged images. When you search for the location of a picture - PlaNet scans it at pixel-level matches its contents to the already existing database. The first batch of trials proved promising - PlaNet guessed the country with a 28.4% success rate and the continent - with a 48% success rate. PlaNet was also able to recognize 3.6% of times images at street level accuracy, and 10% at city-level. Sure, those numbers hardly sound impressive, but they, in fact, do when you consider this is just the beginning. Hopefully, we'll see PlaNet up and working sooner rather than later. The service supposedly takes 377MB of memory, which means it can easily work even off a smartphone. Source |...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/google_is_working_on_planet__a_neural_network_for_guessing_location_on_untagged_images-news-16900.php

Samsung comes out with 256GB phone storage, seems a great fit for the Note 6

Samsung Electronics has officially started mass production of industry's first 256 GB memory chip based on the Universal Flash Storage 2.0 (UFS) standard. The company boasts the new chip features outstanding performance for mobile devices, which exceeds that of a typical SATA-based SSD for PCs. In fact, data transfer is up to 850MB/s read and 260MB/s write. That's three times faster than high-performance micro SD cards. The chip, which is based on the company's V-NAND tech, boasts up to 45,000 read and 40,000 write operations per second. (IOPS). That's two times faster than the previous gen UFS memory. As you can guess, watching and recording 4K movies is a breeze for the chip. Samsung also hints at its future phones supporting USB 3.0 interface and says with this new 256GB UFS 2.0 chip, transferring a 90-minute 1080p video will take just 12 seconds. The Samsung Galaxy Note 6 will quite probably come out this September and it doesn't sound outlandish that the company's flagship phablet will be the first phone to feature such storage...



Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_256gb_storage_chip_enters_mass_production_likely_to_star_in_the_galaxy_note_6_-news-16903.php

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