TENAA reveals vivo Y55A with octa-core CPU, 5.2-inch display

A new vivo smartphone has been certified by the Chinese telecommunication authority TENAA, revealing some of its key specifications. The device is powered by an octa-core 1.4GHz processor, and sports a 5.2-inch HD display. RAM is 2GB, while internal memory is 16GB, although expandable. In terms of camera, the handset features an 8MP rear unit and a 5MP front shooter. A 2,650mAh battery is there to keep the lights on. Measuring 147.9 × 72.9 × 7.5mm, and weighing in at 142g, the Y55A runs Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow out of the box. The TENAA listing reveals only one color option: Rose...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/tenaa_reveals_vivo_y55a_with_octacore_cpu_52inch_display-news-20692.php

Samsung Galaxy A9 (2017) said to be in the works as well

If you recall, late last month, the Samsung Galaxy A3 (2017), Galaxy A5 (2017), and Galaxy A7 (2017) were reportedly confirmed. Now, according to a new rumor out of China, the South Korean company is working on another 2017 edition Galaxy A series phone. Samsung Galaxy A9 (2016) The rumor, which comes in the form of a Weibo post, says that a Galaxy A9 (2017) is in the works at Samsung. Sadly, nothing else was revealed about the device, except that it carries a model number of SM-A9200. For those who aren't in the know, the tech giant has already launched the Galaxy A9 (2016) and...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_a9_2017_said_to_be_in_the_works_as_well-news-20688.php

Snapchat changes company name to Snap Inc., announces Spectacles

There are two big news coming out of Snapchat this morning. The first one is that the company behind Snapchat is changing its name from Snapchat Inc. to just Snap Inc. The reason behind this is that when the company was launched, Snapchat was its only product but now that they are branching out it makes sense to change the name to something else. Speaking of branching out, Snap Inc. announced its second product today, and that's Spectacles. Spectacles are a pair of sunglasses that have a built-in video camera in them with a 115 degree view. There is also an LED indicator that...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/snapchat_changes_company_name_to_snap_inc_announces_spectacles-news-20696.php

Presentation slide leaks Sony's Nougat update roadmap

While Sony has already published a list of devices that it says will be updated to Android Nougat, there has been no information on when the update will start arriving. That was, however, until now, as Sony Slovakia - during a presentation - has leaked the company's Nougat update roadmap. The slide in question reveals that the Sony Xperia X Performance and Xperia XZ will be the first two devices to receive the update, something which will happen "around October." They'll be followed by the Xperia X and X Compact that will get the update "around November." Then December will see the...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/presentation_slide_leaks_sonys_nougat_update_roadmap-news-20689.php

Report says Samsung Galaxy Note7 India relaunch set for October 7

The Samsung Galaxy Note7 will be relaunched in India early next month - October 7 to be precise, according to a recent report out of the country. Interestingly, the new iPhones will also go on sale in India on the same day. The latest Galaxy Note, if you recall, was made official in India back in August, and was supposed to go on sale in the country on September 2, the day the South Korean company issued a global recall for the phablet over battery fire hazard. The Galaxy Note7 stock that will go on sale in India will be newly-manufactured, the report notes. This means that there...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/report_says_samsung_galaxy_note7_india_relaunch_set_for_october_7-news-20691.php

Now OneDrive for Android also lets you create Office files

If you recall, Microsoft recently pushed out an update to OneDrive's iOS client, bringing the ability to create Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files from within the app. Well, the app's Android client now offers the same feature as well. OneDrive for Android The feature is included a new update that has started hitting OneDrive for Android. Aside from this, the update also brings along notifications for real-time collaboration - users get notified whenever a shared file is accessed. And finally, the update also includes a new SharePoint feature allowing users to view and manage their...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/now_onedrive_for_android_also_lets_you_create_office_files-news-20694.php

'Samsung Galaxy On8' moniker spotted on Indian retailer's website

Flipkart - one of India's top e-commerce marketplaces - is gearing up for its annual Big Billion Day sale event, and as part of it, the company has put up a dedicated page for the event on its website. As you'd expect, the page contains all the essential details related to the event, but what caught our attention is the 'Samsung Galaxy On8' moniker that appears in the Special thanks to our partners section. This is possibly the first time we're hearing about a Samsung Galaxy On8, and with Flipkart listing it as partner strongly suggests that the device will be available for purchase...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_on8_moniker_spotted_on_indian_retailers_websire-news-20690.php

Samsung Z2 now available for purchase in Indonesia and Nepal as well

Shortly after receiving certification from DG SDPPI (the Indonesian equivalent of the US FCC), the Tizen-powered Samsung Z2 smartphone has been launched in the country. The device carries a price tag of IDR 899,000 (around $70) there. In addition, the phone has also been released in Nepal, where it costs NPR 7,290 (around $70). For those who aren't aware, the phone is already available for purchase in India and Africa, where it carries a price tag of around $70 and $78, respectively. In India - where the Z2 was Paytm exclusive at launch - you can now also purchase it through...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_z2_now_available_for_purchase_in_indonesia_and_nepal-news-20687.php

Xiaomi Mi Box Spotted on a Walmart shelf

Today, Twitter user @garrettdotcom tweeted a photo of a Xiaomi Mi Box, an Android TV box that has 4K support with 60fps support, HDR-ready, HDMI 2.0a, 8GB of Storage, and 2GB of RAM. The box was found at Walmart on a shelf, for sale with a retail price of $70. @jasonhowell @androidshow @Ohthatflo @ronxo saw this Mi Box at Walmart today for $69. Was this released yet? pic.twitter.com/AsuNZeU5oJ— George Garrett (@garrettdotcom) September 23, 2016 Since its announcement, not much was known about pricing or when we could expect to see the Android TV box in stores. Reports pointed...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_mi_box_spotted_on_a_walmart_shelf-news-20686.php

iOS 10.0.2 is released, fixes iPhone 7 EarPod issue

Apple is now rolling out a fix for the issues that some were having with the iPhone 7 and the lightning EarPods that came with the phone. The controls on the Earpods were spontaneously activing on their own, causing songs to play/pause, skip, and Siri going off on its own. This was happening with both the headphone adapter, and the new ones with a lightning plug. @scttor @siracusa @atpfm this seems to happen with my lightning EarPods as well, not just adapted 3.5mm headphones— Michael Cailler (@michaelcailler) September 18, 2016 The update also squashes a couple of other bugs...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/ios_1002_is_released_fixes_iphone_7_earpod_issue-news-20685.php

Xiaomi Mi 5S pricing leaks, first camera sample revealed

Next Tuesday, on September 27, Xiaomi is set to unveil its latest flagship smartphone, the Mi 5S. This has been in the news a lot lately, as you'd expect, and earlier today we got official confirmation that it will sport a dual rear camera arrangement. So about that - wondering what a picture shot with the Mi 5S' camera would look like? Great, because as luck would have it, Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun outed the first ever camera sample for the Mi 5S on his Weibo account today. Here's that image (click on the thumbnail for a bigger version). Xiaomi Mi 5S camera sample It looks great, of...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_mi_5s_pricing_leaks_first_camera_sample_revealed-news-20680.php

Google Home and Chromecast Ultra will reportedly cost $129 and $69

We heard about Google Home back in May during Google I/O, a direct competitor to Alexa, Amazon's smart assistant called ‘Echo'. Android Police reports that Google will sell the Home assistant for $129, which is priced competitively lower than the Amazon Echo, which currently retails for $179. Although, Amazon's Echo Dot 2nd gen is coming next month and only costs $50. The only caveat is that it needs an external speaker for playing music. Likewise, a new Chromecast Ultra (as it may or may not be called), is a 4K version of the popular streaming device which is said to retail for...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/google_home_and_chromecast_ultra_will_reportedly_cost_129_and_69-news-20684.php

Android "whipping up something sweet" to celebrate Android's eighth birthday

Google has always loved to tease its fans. With the Pixel ad-teasers popping up all over, and its Pixel announcement happening on October 4, a new Chromecast, Google's home assistant, and smartwatches over the horizon, this new teaser could mean anything. We're whipping up something sweet for a big day tomorrow. 🎂 #Android pic.twitter.com/I4idH0F4am— Android (@Android) September 23, 2016 Android turns eight years old today. Android's Twitter account tweeted that it is whipping something up for tomorrow (likely for the anniversary, hence the cake emoji). The picture has the...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/android_whipping_up_something_sweet_to_celebrate_androids_eighth_birthday_-news-20683.php

Galaxy S8 to have Exynos 8895 SoC with ARM Mali-G71 GPU

Samsung's Galaxy S8 will reportedly employ the Exynos 8895 chipset, which is still in development in-house. We've heard this before, but a new rumor today gives us some details about the SoC's GPU. This will be the ARM Mali-G71, in effect the successor to the Mali-T880 used in this year's Exynos 8890. The GPU uses ARM's new Bifrost architecture, which focuses on high-end 4K and VR experiences. So that earlier rumor about the Galaxy S8 sporting an UHD display might actually pan out. The G71 is apparently going to be up to 1.8 times faster than the T880MP12 inside this year's flagship...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/galaxy_s8_to_have_exynos_8895_soc_with_arm_malig71_gpu-news-20678.php

Samsung Galaxy Note 2 catches fire on IndiGo flight

Samsung is now investigating yet another fire caused by a Samsung phone, however, I wouldn't put the blame on the phone just yet. We'll get back to why in a moment. A new report came from India where a Samsung Galaxy Note II caught fire and began to smoke up a passenger-filled cabin while in flight on an IndiGo plane. This caused India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to soon issue and advisory to encourage passengers to turn off all Samsung Galaxy Note devices before taking off. "We advise flyers to exercise caution while flying with Samsung Note devices. They should...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_note_2_catches_fire_in_singapore_to_chennai_flight-news-20682.php

Asus Zenfone 3 Deluxe and Laser now available to order in the US

The Asus Zenfone 3 Deluxe ZS570KL and the Zenfone 3 Laser ZC551KL are now both available to order in the US, in unlocked form, from Amazon. The phones are part of Asus' confusing as usual Zenfone 3 lineup, which spans multiple devices having the same names. So let's see exactly what you're getting here. The Zenfone 3 Deluxe ZS570KL has a 5.7-inch 1080p Super AMOLED touchscreen, a 23 MP main camera, an 8 MP selfie shooter, 6GB of RAM, 64GB of expandable storage, and a 3,000 mAh battery. It runs Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow. Asus Zenfone 3 Deluxe Hilariously, Amazon is being confused...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/asus_zenfone_3_deluxe_and_laser_now_available_to_order_in_the_us-news-20677.php

Apple introduces the AirBag on Conan in a humorous video

Last night, on TBS, a mock Apple introduction video was aired on talk show Conan in response to Apple's patent filing for a new shopping bag to be carried out of Apple Stores. The video is definitely worth checking out for some laughs. "Thanks to the most advanced folded paper technology, and Apple's new W1 chip, Apple has the power to deliver the world's most intelligent bag." The "AirBag" features IR motion sensors, which automatically detects "moisture, weight, and fullness" and can transmit its status to your iPhone. The "AirBag"'s battery also offers up to 3 hours...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/apple_introduces_the_airbag_on_conan_in_a_humorous_video-news-20681.php

Huawei to start manufacturing phones in India

Huawei has announced that it will soon start manufacturing smartphones in India. The company has teamed up with Flex to begin manufacturing in Flex' Chennai plant. Starting from the first week of October, one of the (unspecified) Honor phones will begin manufacturing. The plan has capacity to manufacture three million units by the end of 2017. The first Made in India phones will be available as early as October itself. In addition, Huawei will also be strengthening its service network in India, with over 200 centers and 30 exclusive centers across the nation. It will also add to...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/huawei_to_start_manufacturing_phones_in_india-news-20675.php

Twitter could be for sale, Google and Salesforce reportedly interested in acquiring it

According to some unnamed sources cited in a new report, Twitter might be for sale. Not only that, but potential suitors for the ailing social network are said to include Google and Salesforce, among other tech companies. A "formal bid" may be on the table very soon. It's no secret that Twitter isn't doing very well lately, or that Google's efforts in the social space haven't been able to create a real competitor for Facebook. So such an acquisition, if it happens, does have the potential to help both parties. Then again, it could just turn Twitter into Google's latest failed attempt at...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/twitter_could_be_for_sale_google_and_salesforce_reportedly_interested_in_acquiring_it-news-20679.php

HP Elite x3 US sales reportedly halted over camera issues

The sales of HP's Elite x3 Windows 10 Mobile smartphone in the US have been temporarily halted over camera issues, according to a new report. Microsoft's retail stores are informing potential customers that the device won't be available for purchase until mid-October. "Just received confirmation at a Virginia Microsoft store that the elite x3 cannot be sold until October 11th," WindowsCentral reported one of the tipsters as saying. "They are waiting for updates to fix camera issues, etc. They have them in stock but cannot sell them, unfortunately." HP's official US website currently...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/hp_elite_x3_us_sales_reportedly_halted_over_camera_issues-news-20673.php

Indian retailer teases a Galaxy On series phone with Super AMOLED display

As you might already know, Samsung has made official the 2016 edition of the Galaxy On7 (it's available for purchase in China) and has even teased the upcoming Galaxy On5 (2016). While the new On7 comes with full HD screen, the new On5 - according to its TENAA listing - sports a 720p HD display. Now, India-based online retailer Flipkart, in a Facebook post, has revealed that a new Galaxy On phone is coming soon, and it will exclusively carry the device. What's worth mentioning here is that the post clearly says - in fact it emphasizes - that the phone in question sports a Super...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/indian_retailer_teases_galaxy_on_series_phone_with_super_amoled_display-news-20667.php

Apple's Siri-infused Amazon Echo competitor is reportedly in prototype testing

Apple is pressing on with development of its very own competitor for the highly successful Amazon Echo smart speaker. We first heard about Apple working on such a product back in May, but the Siri-infused device still hasn't been made official. According to the latest rumor, that's not because the company has discontinued its efforts in the space - it's apparently just taking it a while to have it ready for the masses. The speaker has reportedly left Apple's R&D lab and is now in the phase of prototype testing, some unnamed "people familiar with the matter" said. Amazon Echo The...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/apples_siriinfused_amazon_echo_competitor_is_reportedly_in_prototype_testing-news-20676.php

Samsung Galaxy Note7's European sales expected to resume by November end

It is expected that European sales of the Samsung Galaxy Note7 will resume by November end. This was revealed by David Lowes, who is the South Korean company's chief marketing officer in Europe. "We fully expect (new Note7s) to be available everywhere by the end of November ... well before the end of the fourth quarter," Lowes said. In addition, he revealed that most of the faulty Note7 units sold in the region were shipped to three markets, including Britain, Germany, and France. While the company has already launched exchange programs in these markets, an update has also been...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_note7s_european_sales_expected_to_resume_by_november_end-news-20669.php

Amazon launches Kindle Kids Bundle for $100

Amazon has launched a new Kindle for Kids bundle that comes with the base Kindle model and a few extras at a discounted $99.99 price. At the heart of it is the Kindle, which is the recently updated base model that is still pretty good if you don't mind the lack of backlighting or the lower resolution display compared to the more expensive models. Considering the target audience here is kids, this shouldn't be a big concern. Amazon even spins the lack of backlighting as a way to get kids to sleep on time. Other than the Kindle, you also get a cover in one of the five colors:...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/amazon_launches_kindle_kids_bundle_for_100-news-20674.php

LG V20 review: Twice as bright

If the LG V20 was a superhero - and we're not convinced that it's not - its superpower would be to have two of everything (or more!). Two screens, two cameras... twice!, four DACs, two apps on the screen, the list goes on and on.

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/lg_v20-review-1498.php

Samsung Galaxy Tab A (9.7-inch variant) currently going for $268 in US

If you are in the US, and are planning to purchase the 9.7-inch variant of the Samsung Galaxy Tab A, here's a deal for you: the device is currently available for $268, down from it's original price of $300. Amazon is selling the white-colored (16GB, Wi-Fi only) model at that price. Specs-wise, the tablet is powered by a quad-core 1.2GHz processor, and sports a display resolution of 1024 x 768 pixels. The device comes with 1.5GB RAM, 5MP/2MP camera combo, and 6,000mAh battery. Source

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_tab_a_97inch_variant_currently_going_for_268_in_us-news-20668.php

Samsung Galaxy On7 (2016) launched with Snapdragon 625 SoC, 5.5-inch full HD display

The 2016 edition of the Samsung Galaxy On7 has been officially unveiled. Listed on the company's China website, the device is powered by an octa-core 2GHz processor (Snapdragon 625 SoC), and sports a 5.5-inch full HD TFT display. RAM is 3GB, while internal memory is 32GB (expandable up to 256GB). In terms of camera, the phone features a 13MP rear unit and an 8MP front shooter. Measuring 151.7 x 75 x 8mm and weighing in at 167g, the handset runs Android Marshmallow and packs in a 3,300mAh battery that supports fast charging. There's also a home button-embedded fingerprint sensor....

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_on7_2016_goes_official_with_snapdragon_625_soc_55inch_full_hd_display-news-20670.php

Sony Xperia X Compact battery life test

We reviewed the Sony Xperia X Compact recently, but due to time constraints we couldn't finish the battery testing procedure in time for the publication date. Well, we're done now, and the results are in. First off, though - some preliminary numbers. The Xperia X Compact is powered by a 2,700mAh battery, which is the same capacity as the one fitted in the Z5 Compact. The Xperia X proper, meanwhile, packs a marginally smaller 2,620mAh battery, while the Xperia XA manages with even less - 2,300mAh. In our proprietary test routine the X Compact posted very good scores overall,...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/sony_xperia_x_compact_battery_life_test-news-20636.php

Xiaomi's upcoming smartphone to come with dual-camera setup, teaser reveals

Xiaomi has outed a new teaser for its upcoming smartphone. The teaser image reveals that the phone will feature a dual camera setup. As you might already know, the Chinese company has scheduled a product launch event on September 27 where the Mi 5S is expected to be unveiled. If you recall, back in July, there were rumors that the Mi 5S will feature a dual rear-camera setup. But since then, we've been hearing that the handset will sport a 16MP rear unit. While it's entirely possible for the Mi 5S to sport a dual camera setup, it's worth mentioning that latest rumors out of China...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomis_upcoming_smartphone_to_come_with_dualcamera_setup_teaser_reveals-news-20666.php

Following government intervention, Samsung extends its Note7 refund period in South Korea

Shortly after the South Korean government asked Samsung to extend its Galaxy Note7 refund period in the country, the company has said that the period - which had originally expired this Monday - would be extended until the end of this month. The Korean Agency for Technology and Standards - which oversees product safety and recalls - had expressed its displeasure on Samsung's plan to remove faulty Note7 units from the market, saying that it was inadequate as most Note7 owners in the country aren't even aware of the options they have. For its part, Samsung also effectively accepted...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/following_government_intervention_samsung_extends_its_note7_refund_program_in_south_korea-news-20665.php

MediaTek reveals Samsung is a customer

We've actually heard rumors of Samsung wanting to buy MediaTek chips for quite some time now, the last rumor came March of last year where a Manager of MediaTek alleged that Samsung was in talks with the chipmaker to source CPUs for Samsung's lower to mid ranger smartphones, in particular, its Tizen-powered devices. Nikkei reports that MediaTek Chairman Tsai Ming-kai recently participated at a tech conference and was asked to comment on the Samsung battery recall fiasco, to which he replied that it was "not possible for [him] to comment." on these events, "as Samsung is a...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/mediatek_reveals_samsung_is_a_customer-news-20664.php

Verizon CFO says customers "don't need unlimited plans"

During an investor's conference, Chief Financial Officer, Fran Shammo of Verizon said that "customers don't need unlimited plans", not only shutting the door for a chance to see unlimited plans come back to Big Red, but also slammed a bar in front of it and locking up with chains. Just a few short years ago, carriers had already done away with unlimited data and began using tiered plans, even T-Mobile. But that was when T-Mobile shook up the US carrier market with its "Uncarrier" campaign, which is thanks to many changes that benefit customers. Today, both T-Mobile and Sprint...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/verizon_cfo_says_customers_dont_need_unlimited_plans-news-20662.php

iOS 10.1 Beta now open to the public, enables Portrait Mode for iPhone 7 Plus

Only a single day after Apple released the iOS 10.1 Beta for developers, the iOS 10.1 Beta is now available for the general public, without the need for a developer account. The most notable feature of the 10.1 Beta is the addition of "Portrait" mode in the camera interface which is exclusive to the iPhone 7 Plus, since it makes use of the second camera. This mode allows users to make really cool bokeh effects which put focus on the subject, while subtly blurring the background. 9to5Mac has listed a few things about things you should know about Portrait Mode: It doesn't work well in...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/ios_101_beta_now_open_to_the_public_enables_portrait_mode_for_iphone_7_plus-news-20663.php

Google backtracks on Allo's privacy policy

Google has seemingly changed its stance on privacy as far as Allo is concerned, according to a report by The Verge. Previously, the company had claimed end-to-end encryption for messages, but later it was revealed that it would only work for incognito chats. Now, as it turns out, all the messages sent in non-incognito mode will indefinitely be stored on Google's servers until you manually delete them. This is seemingly done to improve Allo's Assistant feature, that provides responses to what you type. Having a previous chat history improves the machine learning experience, allowing the...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/google_backtracks_on_allos_privacy_policy-news-20660.php

Sony Xperia XZ lands in the US on October 2 for $699.99

Sony announced the Xperia XZ at the beginning of this month. It will replace the Xperia X Performance as the company's flagship smartphone after just a few short months of that device being available. Speaking of availability, the Xperia XZ will arrive in stock in the US on October 2. It will be sold by retailers such as Amazon and Best Buy, and its recommended price is $699.99. Obviously for that amount you'll get an unlocked unit, which will work with GSM-based networks such as AT&T and T-Mobile (and all MVNOs operating on their infrastructure). Expect the XZ to go up for pre-order...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/sony_xperia_xz_lands_in_the_us_on_october_2_for_69999-news-20661.php

BLU Life One X2 launches with 1080p screen, 16 MP camera for $149.99

BLU is continuously pushing out decently specced and highly affordable Android smartphones, which it's selling in the US unlocked. Today it's time for the Life One X to get a successor, the imaginatively named BLU Life One X2. The Life One X2 has a 5.2-inch 1080p touchscreen, a 16 MP main camera with phase detection and laser autofocus and a LED flash, an 8 MP selfie snapper with a LED flash of its own, the Snapdragon 430 SoC (with a 1.4 GHz octa-core Cortex-A53 CPU), Cat.4 LTE, a microSD slot, and a 3,000 mAh battery (with support for Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0). It runs Android 6.0.1...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/blu_life_one_x2_launches_with_1080p_screen_16_mp_camera_for_14999-news-20657.php

Opera for Android gets a fresh new coat of paint

Opera for Android is receiving a pretty big update today. The app has basically been redesigned from the ground up, and it's now "inspired by Android's material design". The new look is "fresh" and "modern", the company says. The start page now has Speed Dial on the left of the carousel, with your news feed on the right. If you keep swiping you'll go through your favorite topics, and you can tap the "+" to configure these. The news feed even has a reader mode, which can be activated in Settings to make websites as clutter-free as possible. The person icon in the bottom right takes...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/opera_for_android_gets_a_fresh_new_coat_of_paint-news-20659.php

Android 7.0 Nougat update to bring Note7's Grace UX to the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge

Samsung is already testing Android 7.0 Nougat builds on the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge, according to a report from a couple of days ago. But what is in the new software? Will you only find the improvements that Google's baked in, or is Samsung prepping some goodies of its own? Well, a new rumor today says it's the latter. Samsung will apparently bring the Grace UX that debuted in the Galaxy Note7 to the S7 and S7 edge alongside the Nougat update. The new UI will be joined by the expanded feature set for the Always On Display, which was also first seen in the Note7. The new UI is reportedly...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/android_70_nougat_update_to_bring_note7s_grace_ux_to_the_galaxy_s7_and_s7_edge-news-20656.php

Hoaxers took advantage of the Note7 recall, 26 possibly false fire reports

There are 26 reports of Note7 fires that Samsung was not able to acknowledge. In 12 cases, there was no fault found by the recalled Samsung handset. The other 14 cases included seven where the affected customer became unreachable shortly after, while the last seven victims either cancelled their reports or claimed to dispose of the device. Most of these cases came from the US, where nine inconclusive cases originated. Three such cases also came from South Korea, two from France, and just a single case from each: Canada, The UK, The Philippines, Turkey, Croatia, Vietnam, Singapore, Iraq,...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/hoaxers_took_advantage_of_the_note7_recall_at_least_26_false_fire_reports-news-20658.php

Moto M appears in the flesh in new leaked photo

It's been a couple of weeks since we hear about the Moto M. A new ‘Lenovotorola' device with a rear mounted fingerprint scanner, and an overall design reminiscent of the Moto X with a curved backside, yet, quite generic-looking. There has been word of a couple of variants of the "Moto M" which could come in "Mini" and/or "Plus" variants. The pictures leaked by TechDroider show a device very similar to the one we saw go through China's TENAA last month. While there aren't any live photos of the rear, the front still matches those images (seen below). The image on the...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/moto_m_appears_in_the_flesh_in_new_leaked_photo-news-20655.php

Samsung asked to extend its Note7 refund program in South Korea

The South Korean government has asked Samsung to extend to its Galaxy Note7 refund period, which expired this Monday, September 19. According to the Korean Agency for Technology and Standards - which oversees product safety and recalls - the company's plan to remove faulty Note7 units from the market is inadequate. Samsung Galaxy Note7 "We need more measures to actively inform consumers," said an agency official Nam Taek-joo. "It appears that consumers are not active in seeking an exchange or a refund." The official said that they have asked Samsung to come up with an...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_asked_to_extend_its_note7_refund_program_in_south_korea-news-20650.php

"Extreme" version of UMi Plus with Helio P20 and 6GB of RAM, announced

This isn't the first time we've seen an "Extreme" version come from an Chinese smartphone manufacturer. This time its UMi with releasing a new, souped up version of the UMi Plus, which normally has a Helio P10 CPU and 4GB of RAM. The Extreme UMi Plus will instead have a Helio P20 (octa-core CPU comparable to Snapdragon 820 on paper) with 50% more RAM than the regular UMi Plus. That totals 6GB of RAM. The Extreme version will also come with Android 7.0, now we're talking! Extreme UMi Plus in Black and Blue UMi's official Facebook page made the announcement not too long...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/extreme_version_of_umi_plus_with_helio_p20_and_6gb_of_ram_announced-news-20654.php

Pro variants of Samsung Galaxy C5 and C7 are said to be in the works

After launching the Galaxy C5 and C7 smartphones (that are currently only available in China), Samsung is now working on their Pro variants, according to a new report. The devices carry model numbers of SM-C5010 and SM-C7010, respectively. Sadly, nothing else - including their design and specifications - is currently known about the new variants, although the report says that they are likely to be better in both software and hardware departments. Meanwhile, in case you don't already know, the South Korean company is also working on a Galaxy C9 smartphone. The device has already been...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/pro_variants_of_samsung_galaxy_c5_and_c7_are_said_to_be_in_the_works-news-20652.php

70% of Samsung Galaxy Note7 users in Canada have registered for replacement so far

Samsung Canada has revealed that 70% of all Galaxy Note7 owners in the country have registered for a replacement unit thus far. Just to let you know, a total of 22,000 units of the phablet were sold in Canada before the device was officially recalled. Replacement units started arriving in the country last week, but they only contained a small black square on the box label to differentiate from the faulty ones. The company, however, is now planning to push out a new, mandatory software update that'll change the color of the battery indicator from white to green. Those in Canada who...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/70_of_samsung_galaxy_note7_users_in_canada_have_registered_for_replacement_so_far-news-20648.php

Android-powered BlackBerry Passport Silver Edition unit up for grabs

If you recall, last year, before the Priv was made official, a BlackBerry Passport Silver Edition running Android OS was spotted in a lengthy video. While the device was never officially launched, you can now purchase a unit if you want... and are lucky enough. Actually, someone who claims to have got the unit from a BlackBerry employee has put it up for sale on Kijiji (an eBay owned website similar to Craigslist), saying that it's of no use to them as they mostly deal with Apple devices. The handset, which is claimed to be brand new, has CAD 260 price tag attached to it. Those...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/rare_androidpowered_blackberry_passport_silver_edition_up_for_grabs-news-20651.php

Lenovo launches Z2 Plus in India

Lenovo has launched the Z2 Plus in the Indian market, which is a rebranded ZUK Z2. The phone is priced at an aggressive INR 17,999 ($269) for the 3GB/32GB model and INR 19,999 ($299) for the 4/64GB model. The Z2 Plus has a 5-inch 1080p LCD, Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 processor, 3/4GB RAM, 32/64GB storage, 13 megapixel rear camera, 8 megapixel front camera, fingerprint sensor, hybrid dual SIM slot, 3500mAh battery, and a near-stock version of Android Marshmallow. The phone will be available from Amazon starting September 26. Source

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/lenovo_launches_z2_plus_in_india-news-20653.php

Deal: Samsung Galaxy S6 (unlocked, 64GB) and UAG case for $390

If you are a Samsung fan, and are in the market for the company's Galaxy S6 smartphone, here's a deal for you: Daily Steals is currently offering the device (plus a free UAG case) for $399.99. However, if you enter the coupon code ACSEPT10 at checkout, the total price comes down to $389.99. As for the phone, the variant on offer is the unlocked, 64GB one. It carries a model number of G920A, meaning it's an AT&T model. Available color options include white and black. The deal - as per the listing - ends in three days. Source | Via

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/deal_samsung_galaxy_s6_unlocked_64gb_and_uag_case_for_390-news-20647.php

New Xiaomi Mi 5S teaser brags about device's performance

Xiaomi has outed a new teaser for its upcoming Mi 5S flagship smartphone. The teaser contains a number 164,119, which reports say is the device's AnTuTu performance score. If you recall, a recent Mi 5S leak had revealed an AnTuTu score of over 164K for the phone, so it is entirely possible that the Chinese company is boasting about the handset's performance in the teaser image. Aside from this, the teaser also contains a question: "What new high-end technology Xiaomi __S has in addition to performance?" This effectively suggests that the rumors of the device featuring Qualcomm's...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/first_xiaomi_mi_5s_teaser_is_out_brags_about_devices_performance-news-20649.php

Pebble Time currently going for $90 in US

If you are in the United States, and are planning to purchase the original Pebble Time smartwatch, here's a deal for you: the wearable device is currently available for just $90 in the country. Amazon has the watch listed on its website for that price, which is down $60 from its usual price there. All three colors - black, red, and white - are available to order. For comparison, a quick look at Pebble's official website reveals that the company is selling the Time for $100, meaning purchasing it from Amazon saves you $10 at-least. Source

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/pebble_time_currently_going_for_90_in_us-news-20646.php

Xiaomi Mi 5S spotted on Antutu with a score of 164,002

A new leak from Chinese social media platform Weibo, shows us screenshots of the unannounced Xiaomi Mi 5S' Antutu score. It also looks like whoever uploaded the photos did a pretty bad job of covering up the "S" in Mi 5S at the top of the window. But, perhaps there was another model code following that. The Xiaomi Mi 5S scored 164,002 on the Antutu benchmarking app which shows us what the Snapdragon 821 is capable of. That's thanks to the Snapdragon 821 CPU paired with 6GB of RAM and the Adreno 530 graphics processor. While this IS a high score, benchmarks are artificial and real-world...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_mi_5s_spotted_on_antutu_with_a_score_of_164002-news-20645.php