Facebook is beta testing new custom photo frames tool

The modern social network space has proven to be one the most difficult digital battlegrounds to date. The market just seems to follow its own, often mysterious trends, sometimes leaving even titans like Google out of the big picture. The fickle nature of the business thus mandates quick and aggressive competitive moves and its is no secret that Facebook and Snapchat have been tied down in a social battle for some time now. In response to the yellow ghost's multimedia first approach to the niche, Facebook has started experimenting with its own take on various camera-based...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/facebook_is_beta_testing_new_custom_photo_frames_tool-news-22104.php

Samsung Galaxy S7 edge starts getting December security patch

Samsung has started rolling out a new update to its Galaxy S7 edge smartphone. Currently hitting units in Australia, the update brings Android security fixes for the month of December. @SamMobiles @DDDorresteijn @_Martinovich_ December Security Patch available for Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge in Australia pic.twitter.com/zO86z2zlbt— henklbr™ (@henklbr) December 9, 2016 There's currently no word on what other changes (if any) the update brings along, as well as whether or not the Galaxy S7 has also started receiving the same update. Anyway, as is usually the case with OTA roll outs, it...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_s7_edge_starts_getting_december_security_patch-news-22101.php

Huawei Mate 9 will likely be coming to the US early next year

Whether you are a fan of Huawei or not, it is hard to deny that the Chinese giant made some pretty big strides on the smartphone flagship scene last month. Of course, we are talking about the Huawei Mate 9, as well as its exquisite Porsche Design sibling. Availability for the pair is still scarce, but does already cover most of Europe, as well as China, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand and the United Arab Emirates, to name a few. However, Huawei is yet to officially bring the Mate 9 to the US market. Huawei Mate 9 going on sale in the US on January 6th. pic.twitter.com/V879xArtkP— Evan Blass...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/huawei_mate_9_will_likely_be_coming_to_the_us_early_next_year-news-22099.php

Microsoft Surface Pro 4 gets new update

Microsoft has pushed out a new update to the Surface Pro 4. It's a minor update that includes improvements related to the device's Realtek audio driver. The software giant says the update will result in better Cortana performance and system stability in general. Here is what the official change-log for the update says: "Realtek Semiconductor Corp. driver for Realtek High Definition Audio (SST) - v6.0.1.7895 - Improves system stability and Cortana performance." This is the first Surface Pro 4 update that Microsoft has pushed out in last four months. Via

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/microsoft_surface_pro_4_gets_new_update-news-22103.php

Oppo reportedly set to enter US smartphone market by year-end

With an aim to increase overseas shipments of its smartphones, Chinese smartphone manufacturer Oppo is all set to enter the United States smartphone market by the end of this year, according to a new report. There's, however, no word on exactly when the company will start selling smartphones in the US, but given that it's just a few weeks left in the year, an official announcement in this regard - of course, assuming that the report is accurate - is expected sooner than later. Oppo, as some of you might already know, isn't completely new to the US market in general - the company has...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/oppo_reportedly_set_to_enter_us_smartphone_market_by_yearend-news-22098.php

Microsoft's new Whiteboard app is a big step towards an interactive classroom experience

Microsoft has always been a major force in the education space. A large portion of this involvement stems from altruistic and humanitarian motives, which is great. Then there is the business side of things as well, with strategic sponsorships, along the lines of Microsoft Supported universities and schools that ensure better future product adoption. Both are arguably good for the community and have given birth to many powerful tools and platforms, such as Microsoft Classroom and School Data Sync. The latest in this line of products is Microsoft Whiteboard. It was announced back in June and...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/microsofts_new_whiteboard_app_is_a_big_step_towards_an_interactive_classroom_experience-news-22100.php

Kodak Ektra Android smartphone is now available for purchase in Europe

The Android-powered Ektra smartphone from Kodak, which was unveiled back in October this year, is now available for purchase in Europe. Both Amazon as well as the company's official web store have the phone listed for €499 (around $525). Kodak Ektra Specs-wise, the device is powered by a Helio X20 chipset and sports a 5-inch full HD display. It comes with 3GB RAM and 32GB storage, and packs in a 3,000mAh battery. In terms of camera, the phone features a 21MP camera with an f/2.0 lens and Optical Image Stabilization. A 13MP camera is on the front for selfies. There's currently...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/kodak_ektra_android_smartphone_is_now_available_for_purchase_in_europe-news-22097.php

Samsung Gear Fit 2's price drops further to $130

Just yesterday, we told you that Amazon is selling the Samsung Gear Fit 2 for around $150, a discount of about $30. Well, a quick look at the listing now reveals that the price has dropped even further. The Blue and Pink color variants (in medium/large and small sizes) as well as the Black variant in small are all now going for $129.99, meaning if you purchase these models from Amazon, you'll save $50. There's no information on when the deal ends, so you may have to act fast. Source

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_gear_fit_2s_price_drops_further_to_130-news-22096.php

Samsung will roll out another battery limiting update to Galaxy Note7 units in Europe

Samsung has announced that, next week, it will roll out another battery limiting update to Galaxy Note7 units in Europe that are still in use. While the previous update - pushed out in October - capped the battery charge to 60%, this one will limit the charging capacity to 30%. "As part of our absolute focus on customer safety, from 15th December, all Galaxy Note7 devices will receive a new battery software update that will limit the maximum charging capacity to 30 percent," the South Korean tech giant said on its UK website. In case you missed, a Note7 update is also set to be...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_will_roll_out_another_battery_limiting_update_to_galaxy_note7_units_in_europe-news-22095.php

Apple is struggling to get the Airpods out before Christmas

Apple's Airpods were announced alongside the iPhone 7 back in September and offer a new and easier solution to pairing Bluetooth headphones. Prototypes were demoed to the press, and that's about it. There is still no work from Apple as to when the $160 earpods will become available to the masses. According to the Wall Street Journal , someone who is familiar with what's going on with these things said that Apple needs to overcome a few obstacles before the product can go to market. Normally, a pair of Bluetooth headphones transmits signal to one earbud and that signal is then transferred...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/apple_is_struggling_to_get_the_airpods_out_before_christmas-news-22094.php

Xiaomi Mi Note 2 review: Filling in

The Note is dead, long live the Note! Unless you've been living in a cave, you've probably heard that the Samsung Galaxy Note7 is no more, but Xiaomi has a Note of its own to bring phablet lovers some solace this season - the Mi Note 2.

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_mi_note_2-review-1532.php

Xiaomi Mi Mix video review

Maybe you've already read our written review of the Xiaomi Mi Mix and simply can't get enough of the drool-worthy concept smartphone that's built with ceramic and mostly screen on the front. Or perhaps you didn't read our written review of the Mi Mix because you don't have time to go through all the details - that's cool too. Whatever the case, surely you'll have a few moments to spare in order to watch our video review of the device, embedded for your pleasure below. In under six minutes it will tell you the main things you need to know about the Mi Mix. With the Mi Mix, there's...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_mi_mix_video_review-news-22093.php

It's official: Note7 units in the US will stop charging on December 19, except Verizon's

Earlier today we heard that Samsung might be preparing to issue another update for the Galaxy Note7 units that still haven't been returned. Unlike the last one, which limited charging to 60%, this one would essentially render the phone useless, since it wouldn't be allowed to charge anymore. At all. It turns out that this was true, only the date of the rollout was wrong. It is officially happening, just not from December 15. Instead, the update will be sent on December 19. What this software release does is, in Samsung's own words, "prevent U.S. Galaxy Note7 devices from charging and will...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/its_official_note7_units_in_the_us_will_stop_charging_on_december_19_except_verizons-news-22092.php

WSJ: There will be an OLED iPhone next year, but mass adoption will wait until 2018

Next year will definitely be monumental for iPhone fans, as it marks the ten year anniversary of the revolutionary smartphone. Naturally, that means the pressure is on Cupertino to mark the occasion accordingly and perhaps deliver a a fitting handset. Most industry sources currently agree that there one of its best features will be an OLED panel. This has been a long time coming in the Apple realm, but this time, Apple appears ready to actually go through with it, as testified by an alleged 100 million panel order from Samsung. That all sounds really great and exciting, but as you...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/there_will_most_likely_be_an_oled_iphone_next_year_but_mass_adoption_has_to_wait_at_least_until_2018-news-22091.php

Galaxy S7 and S7 edge will jump straight to Android 7.1 Nougat

Samsung's Galaxy Beta Program currently allows members to test Android 7.0 on their Galaxy S7 and S7 edge phones, but it seems that this is stage one - the final release of Nougat for the S7 flagships will actually be 7.1. Android 7.0 was the initial release of Nougat, seen on the LG V20 and Nexus devices, but Google's own pixels launched with an improved version, v7.1. It's a relatively minor improvement, but it adds some vital functionality, including improved touch performance and Daydream VR support. That's no guarantee that Gear VR will gain Daydream support, but Samsung,...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/galaxy_s7_and_s7_edge_will_jump_straight_to_android_71_nougat-news-22090.php

Samsung Galaxy S8 rumored to drop the Home key and bezels

Samsung has held on to the physical Home button longer than most, but new reports from people in the know suggest it will finally drop it with the Galaxy S8. That phone will stretch its screen to completely cover the front - no Home button, no bezels. The control keys below the display will become virtual, perhaps using Qualcomm's ultrasonic fingerprint reader, which can hide below the glass (Xiaomi has used this tech in the Mi 5s and Mi Mix). The screen itself will remain a Super AMOLED, but reportedly upgraded from PenTile to a full RGB matrix. We should see only curved "edge"...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_s8_rumored_to_drop_the_home_key_and_bezels-news-22089.php

Michael Kors Access Bradshaw lands on the Google Store

After the Huawei Watch dropped out of the Google Store listing, it has since been replaced by the Michael Kors Access Bradshaw. We first talked about this watch back when it released, along with its sibling, the Access Dylan, which is a sporty version. The Bradshaw, in comparison, is a very large, traditional watch with a lot of bling for men. Inside, the Access Bradshaw is packing a 1.4-inch AMOLED display within a 45mm case that weighs 113g. It is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 2100 processor and has 4GB internal storage. The watch charges via a wireless charger. It is water resistant...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/michael_kors_access_bradshaw_lands_on_the_google_store-news-22087.php

ZTE announces Nougat preview program for Axon 7 users in US

Chinese smartphone manufacturer ZTE has announced a Nougat preview program for users of its Axon 7 smartphone in the United States. Those with units carrying model number A2017U will be able to participate in the program. To join the program, you first need to create an account (if you don't have one already) at ZTE US Community. Once that is done, the next step is to fill up the registration application, which you can do by heading to the Register link at the bottom. There's currently no information on exactly when the Axon 7 Nougat preview build will be rolled out, but given that...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/zte_announces_nougat_preview_program_for_axon_7_users_in_us_-news-22083.php

Samsung Gear Fit 2 receives a $30 price cut

Samsung's Gear Fit 2 fitness tracker, which was launched back in June this year alongside the Gear IconX, has received a price cut in the US. Amazon has the device listed on its website for under $150. Specifically, the large model is being sold for $149, while the small one is listed for $148.06, translating into a discount of $31 and $32, respectively, as both models normally carry a $179.99 price tag. For comparison, Samsung US still has the device listed for $179.99. For more information on the deal, head to the Source link below. Source

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_gear_fit_2_receives_30_price_cut-news-22082.php

Google Chromecast currently going for $25 in US

If you are in the US and are planning to purchase Google's Chromecast media streaming stick, you'll be glad to know that the device is currently available at discounted rates in the country. Specifically, Office Depot has the device listed on its website for $25, down from the $35 price tag it usually carries there. A quick look at the Google's online US store reveals that the company is also selling the stick for $35, meaning purchasing it from Office Depot will actually save you $10. The offer runs through December 10, so those planning to avail it don't have much time at hand....

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/google_chromecast_currently_going_for_25_in_us-news-22081.php

Sony says becoming first third-party vendor to roll out Android 7.1.1 is their top priority

Sony is aiming to become the first third-party manufacturer to roll out the Android 7.1.1 update. According to the Japanese company's Xperia Concept development team, this is their "number 1 priority." "If you spot any other vendor (excluding Google) releasing this faster than us, prepare your rotten tomatoes!" the team said. Well, just in case you (and Sony) aren't in the know, a smartphone dubbed the General Mobile 4G from a Turkish manufacturer General Mobile already started receiving the update around a week ago. Anyway, the Xperia Concept team says they have the source code,...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/sony_says_becoming_first_thirdparty_manufacturer_to_roll_out_android_711_is_their_top_priority-news-22080.php

RCS live across more Sprint devices with newest version of Google Messenger

A couple of Redditors have found that the newest version of Google Messenger (2.0.768) displays the option to enable ‘Enhanced messaging' for a few Sprint devices. Among them, The Moto G4 Play, LG V20, LG G4, and a Nexus 5X. We tried to do the same with our HTC Bolt review unit, but the feature was a no-go. Likewise, some Redditors reported mixed results, so the feature isn't really available to all just yet. If you haven't heard of RCS (Rich Communication Services), it's basically the iMessage of Android. A new protocol for sending text messages that will succeed the outdated...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/rcs_live_across_more_sprint_devices_with_newest_version_of_google_messenger-news-22079.php

Huawei Watch no longer available from Google Store

When the platform was at its peak, Google dedicated a whole section of its online store to showcase a variety of smartwatches that ran Google's Android Wear. And even with the incoming launch of the newest Android Wear 2.0 happening later than sooner, convincing the general public that they need smartwatches has proven to be a difficult task. The Huawei Watch was among the best Android Wear smart watch with its premium build, long-lasting battery life, and integrated speaker for taking calls. Not to mention the company also released a separate line of the Huawei Watch just for...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/huawei_watch_no_longer_available_from_google_store-news-22078.php

Samsung might disable Note7 in the US as early as next week

In an effort to retrieve all Samsung Galaxy Note7 devices from customers, the company has already announced the official disconnection or disabling of Note7 units in New Zealand and Australia set for December 15. Meanwhile, in Canada, all communications have been disabled on Note7 devices. That means no phone calls, no Wi-Fi, and no Bluetooth connectivity. In a message obtained by The Verge, US Cellular reached out to at least this one customer who still had a Note7. Samsung will modify the software to prevent the Galaxy Note7 from charging. The phone will no longer work....

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_might_disable_note7_in_the_us_as_early_as_next_week-news-22077.php

LeEco and Coolpad are working on Snapdragon 821-powered Cool 1S

LeEco and Coolpad are jointly developing a new smartphone, according to the latest leaks out of China. So far, the two companies have outed two such devices - first, the Cool1 Dual, and then the Cool 1C. In fact, the latter got official just last month. Unlike the Cool1 Dual and the Cool 1C however, the upcoming Cool 1S will be a true flagship handset. The image you can see on the left below supposedly shows it in black, a color that's become more and more fashionable since Apple's gone the Matte Black and Jet Black route with the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus this year. The Cool 1S...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/leeco_and_coolpad_are_working_on_snapdragon_821powered_cool_1s-news-22076.php

White Moto 360 Sport can now be yours for only $103.99

The Moto 360 Sport's initial recommended retail price was $300 when it launched back in January. The fitness-themed smartwatch has seen its fair share of price cuts in the meantime, most recently last month when it was to be had for just $119.99. Now, however, Amazon has a deal that will top even that. If you don't mind grabbing the white version of the wearable, you only have to pay $103.99 for it. That's almost a third of the initial price, and almost half of what it has been going for in the past few months (around $200). Unfortunately you're out of luck if you prefer the Moto 360...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/white_moto_360_sport_can_now_be_yours_for_only_10399-news-22075.php

More Daydream VR compatible apps and games arrive just as new headset colors are available

Right on time, today Google has made two additional colors for its Daydream View VR headset available to purchase. You can now find the Daydream View in Crimson and Snow versions, in addition to the originally launched Slate, at the Google Store in the US, UK, and Australia. Expect to see them at Verizon and Best Buy soon, as well as EE and Carphone Warehouse in the UK. Additionally, those who pre-ordered the Crimson or Snow headset should have it shipped today. To go with this, Google is also announcing a slew of new VR apps and games that are up for grabs now. Netflix, HBO Go, and...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/more_daydream_vr_compatible_apps_and_games_arrive_just_as_new_headset_colors_are_available-news-22074.php

7,800 Starbucks locations become PokeStops and Gyms for Pokemon Go players

Yesterday we saw Sprint announcing a partnership with Pokemon Go, and it's already time for a new such unveiling. Starting today, 7,800 company-operated Starbucks locations across the US have become PokeStops and Gyms for for eager players of the hit mobile game. But wait, there's more! To celebrate the partnership, Starbucks has created a new Pokemon Go Frappuccino flavor, which you can savour while you collect items from the Starbucks PokeStops or while you let your monsters battle it out in the new Starbucks gyms. Finally, don't forget that new monsters are set to become...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/7800_starbucks_locations_become_pokestops_and_gyms_for_pokemon_go_players-news-22073.php

Developers can now make apps for the Google Assistant on Google Home

Today Google is finally letting developers in on the hot Assistant action. If you're an eager developer, you can create 'Actions on Google', which is the name of the developer platform for Google Assistant. From today, developers can write Conversation Actions for Google Home, and request to be an early access partner for upcoming platform features. Through Conversation Actions, users will be able to request things from online services using their voice. And it's going to be a conversation, as the name implies. This opens up the possibility for you as a Google Home owner to, say, order an...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/developers_can_now_make_apps_for_the_google_assistant_on_google_home_-news-22072.php

Cortana for Android and iOS arrives in the UK with new design

Microsoft has announced that it's finally making Cortana for Android and iOS available in the UK. The Cortana for Android app will be out in the UK "over the course of this week", while the iOS app will be in the iTunes App Store "in a few weeks". Cortana's trip across the big pond and over to the UK market isn't the only news, however. The app has received a redesign on this occasion, featuring "a more simplified look and feel", in Microsoft's own words. Quick Actions put the most frequent things you use Cortana for front and center, so setting a reminder or viewing your reminders is...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/cortana_for_android_and_ios_arrives_in_the_uk_with_new_design-news-22071.php

Huawei's Honor Magic concept phone allegedly stars in leaked image

On December 16, Huawei is holding a special event in China where it will unveil the Honor Magic. This smartphone will be a 'concept' device, showcasing the best of what the company can accomplish at the moment from a technology standpoint. Or simply put, it's Huawei's response to the Xiaomi Mi Mix. We've heard a few odd things about the Honor Magic before, like the fact that it won't sport a built-in camera or speaker, instead relying on a modular system of sorts to add those in. What we haven't yet seen, however, is a picture of it. Well, that changes today - below is an alleged shot of...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/huaweis_honor_magic_concept_phone_allegedly_stars_in_leaked_image-news-22070.php

Apple is grabbing more US market shares after Galaxy Note 7 demise

Kantar has some new insights on the US handset market to share. In light of the unfortunate demise of the Samsung Galaxy Note7, Apple has now managed to raise its US market share to 40.5%. That is actually up 7% year-over-year. And it is no secret that the absence of the Note7 played a big part in the process. On a different note, Kantar also believes its numbers show that users don't really mind the absence of the 3.5mm jack on the iPhone 7. The device was still the top seller in the states, followed by the Samsung Galaxy S7 and then the iPhone 7 Plus. Interestingly enough,...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/apple_is_grabbing_more_us_market_shares_after_the_samsung_galaxy_note_7s_demise-news-22069.php

Xiaomi will likely unveil a new electric vehicle on December 12

Xiaomi is no stranger to experimenting with all sorts of products, spanning from light bulbs to air purifiers. In the western world, we mostly get glimpses from the smartphone business, but there are equally interesting and compelling offers on various accessories, TVs and other multimedia equipment that typically never leave the company's home market. Some of you might remember the QiCycle from a few months ago. Now the company, or rather its MIJIA sub-brand has scheduled an announcement event for what appears to be yet another electric vehicle. The already released teaser...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_will_likely_unveil_a_new_electric_vehicle_on_december_12-news-22068.php

Our new desktop homepage brings you closer to the top stories of the day

Smartphones are a gateway to all sorts of portable electronics and all the associated software and services that come with them. As always, we aim to bring up to date information on this digital jungle and we think the latest facelift on our homepage will help you discover the most interesting developments without missing a thing. First off, meet our new featured news section - it lives just below the review section and features the most important articles of the day. If you read nothing else today, we think these posts will be enough to keep you current with the world of mobile...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/our_new_homepage_brings_you_closer_to_the_best_news_of_the_day-news-22066.php

Sony announces 50 million sales milestone for the PS4

Sony has announced that its PlayStation 4 console has crossed the 50 million sales milestone this week. This includes the sales of all variants of the PS4 launched over the years across the world. The PS4 launched back in November of 2013 in US and Europe and in February 2014 in Japan. Since then it has sold consistently well, often outselling its closest rival, the Xbox One. In recent times, the Xbox One has pulled ahead, partly thanks to the launch of the smaller Xbox One S but without official figures from Microsoft it's hard to say where the Xbox sales stand at the...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/sony_announces_50_million_sales_milestone_for_the_ps4-news-22067.php

Global VR Association formed by Samsung, Sony, HTC, Google, others

There are many companies bringing VR to the marketplace but they are no longer in direct competition - instead they've banded together to form the Global Virtual Reality Association, GVRA. Members include Facebook (Oculus), HTC (Vive), Google (Daydream), Sony (PS VR), Samsung (Gear VR) and Acer (Starbreeze). Notably absent are Microsoft (which today detailed their Holographic VR headsets) and OSVR (backed by Razer, Leap and Intel). Also, Valve is not listed, even though it was HTC's partner in developing the Vive. The Association will work together to promote VR and to establish best...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/global_vr_association_formed_by_samsung_sony_htc_google_others-news-22065.php

Asus Z01HDA clears TENAA with Snapdragon 625 SoC, 4GB RAM, and 4,850mAh battery

A new Asus smartphone has been certified by the Chinese telecommunication authority TENAA. Listed as Asus Z01HDA, the device is powered by Snapdragon 625 chipset and sports a 5.5-inch full HD display. RAM options include 2GB, 3GB, and 4GB, while storage comes in 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB. While the included image clearly shows a dual-rear camera setup, the spec sheet revealed by TENAA says the handset only features a single, 16MP rear unit. Interestingly, the phone's Bluetooth SIG listing - according to which the device carries the ZenFone 3 Zoom moniker - says it features a dual rear...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/asus_z01hda_clears_tenaa_with_snapdragon_625_soc_4gb_ram_and_4850mah_battery-news-22060.php

OnePlus, Master & Dynamic contest: 3T and headphones up for grabs

OnePlus is running an early holidays promo, giving you a chance to win a briefcase full of awesome audio. The winnings include the companies latest OnePlus 3T (64GB), two pairs of Master & Dynamic headphones, all packed up in a Zero Halliburton case. For the headphones, you have a choice of MW60 (over-ear) and MW50 (on-ear) and for the second pair you can pick and Master & Dynamic in-ear headphones you like. The Big Prize The MWs cost a frightening €600 and €500 respectively, that's more than the 3T phone! They do have cool metal bodies (stainless steel) and premium leather and...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/oneplus_master___dynamic_contest_3t_and_headphones_up_for_grabs-news-22064.php

New Sony Xperia X Nougat concept update brings VoLTE support

Sony has started rolling out a new Nougat-based Concept for Android firmware for the Xperia X. Carrying the build number of 38.1.A.0.367, the update brings along support for VoLTE. At this point only German carriers Telekom, Vodafone and Telefonica/02 are supported. However, given that the update is set to be rolled out in the UK and Spain next, VoLTE support for carriers in those country should also be on the way. Aside from VoLTE support, the update also includes Android security fixes for November (Android security patch level is at Nov 5), fix for camera-related crashes, new...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/new_sony_xperia_x_nougat_concept_update_brings_volte_support-news-22059.php

T-Mobile announced DIGITS, cross-provider solution for multiple numbers across devices

T-Mobile's COO, Mike Sievert, has unwrapped news about a new feature that's launching for T-Mobile customers. In an industry first, the company announced a new technology for juggling multiple phone numbers across different devices, regardless of which service provider those numbers are on. You'll be able to manage up to 10 numbers on one device or a single number across multiple devices. T-Mobile says you'll be able to access your phone number from any device including PCs, wearables, smartphones, tablets, or even feature phone. You'll be able to see your call history, phone calls, and...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/tmobile_announced_digits_crossprovider_solution_for_multiple_numbers_across_devices-news-22062.php

Gionee F5 with octa-core CPU and 4,000mAh battery spotted on TENAA

A new Gionee smartphone has been certified by the Chinese telecommunication authority TENAA. The Gionee F5, the TENAA listing reveals, is powered by an octa-core 1.5GHz processor, and sports a 5.3-inch HD display. RAM is 4GB, while internal storage is 64GB. The handset features a 13MP rear camera and an 8MP front shooter. Measuring 150 × 74.5 × 7.7mm and weighing in at 162g, the phone runs Android 6.0 Marshmallow and packs in a large 4,000mAh battery. Color options include white and gold. Source | Via

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/gionee_f5_with_octacore_cpu_and_4000mah_battery_spotted_on_tenaa_-news-22061.php

Blue Coral Samsung Galaxy S7 edge lands in India

The Blue Coral color variant of Samsung's Galaxy S7 edge smartphone - which was made official by the South Korean tech giant early last month, and is already available in a few markets worldwide - is now available for purchase in India as well. The model is listed on Samsung's own online store in India, and - like other color variants - carries a price tag of INR 50,900, which translates to $755 at current exchange rates. Shipments for the new model, however, will begin December 15 onwards. Aside from India, the list of countries where the Blue Coral Samsung Galaxy S7 edge is...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/blue_coral_samsung_galaxy_s7_edge_lands_in_india-news-22057.php

LG G6 rumored to keep headphone jack, integrate the battery, and use glass in hardware

The LG G5 was not exactly the most popular device of the 2016. Its idea of modular hardware as add-ons to a smartphone was there, but sadly the implantation was not. LG's modular "Friends" and the addition of a second wide-angle camera was not enough to get users to go crazy over the LG G5. Journalist David Ruddock tweeted about report of a few possible changes to the LG G6's hardware. According to Ruddock's source, the LG G6 will finally integrate the battery into the phone, meaning that it would no longer be swappable or removable. The market has generally accepted the use of integrated...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/lg_g6_rumored_to_keep_headphone_jack_integrate_the_battery_and_use_glass_in_hardware_-news-22058.php

Huawei P9 and Mate 8 start receiving Nougat update

If you recall, earlier this month, Huawei officially announced its Nougat update plans, revealing that the Mate 8 and P9 will be the first devices getting the update, something which the company said will happen in Q1, 2017. However, a recent rumor suggested that the update will be pushed out - at-least to the units in China - on December 7. Well, according to a new report, the final Nougat update for the Mate 8 and P9 has indeed started rolling out ahead of the schedule in the Asian country. Huawei P9 It arrives as build version B352 for the P9, and version B552 for the Mate 8....

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/huawei_p9_and_mate_8_start_receiving_nougat_update_in_china-news-22063.php

Fitbit Alta receives price cut in US

If you are a Fitbit fan in the US and are in the market for a fitness tracking wearable device, here's a deal for you: the Fitbit Alta - which was launched earlier this year - is currently being sold in the country at discounted rates. Specifically, Amazon has the device listed for $84.96, down from its usual price of $129.95. A quick look at Fitbit's US online store reveals that the device is being officially sold for $129.95 as well. So, purchasing from Amazon will actually save you $45. For more information on the deal, including the specific models on which the discount is...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/fitbit_alta_receives_price_cut_in_us-news-22055.php

Black Pearl Samsung Galaxy S7 edge officially announced

As expected, Samsung has officially announced the new, Black Pearl color variant of its Galaxy S7 edge smartphone, making it the seventh color for the device. The new color will be exclusive to 128GB models of the handset, and will be available starting December 9. "The new Black Pearl Galaxy S7 edge follows the Blue Coral and Pink Gold editions released earlier this year," the tech giant said in a press release. "While those were largely inspired by calming, natural hues, Black Pearl was designed to be modern and striking." As for the countries in which the new Black Pearl model...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/black_pearl_samsung_galaxy_s7_edge_officially_announced-news-22056.php

Unreturned Samsung Galaxy Note7 units in Canada will also be disconnected from mobile networks on Dec 15

Like it's being done in Australia, unreturned Samsung Galaxy Note7 units in Canada will also be disconnected from mobile networks on December 15, the company said in a press release. A battery charge-limiting update will be rolled out on December 12, and WiFi and Bluetooth functionalities will also be disabled on the same day. Samsung revealed that around 90% of the Galaxy Note7 devices purchased in Canada have been returned by users. "We have been in continuous communication with Note7 customers to remind them about the need to return their recalled device and will continue to...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/unreturned_samsung_galaxy_note7_units_in_canada_will_also_be_disconnected_from_mobile_networks_on_de-news-22054.php

Qualcomm Snapdragon Chips will support Windows 10 starting next year

Qualcomm has teamed up with Windows to provide a way to run Windows 10 x86 (32-bit) on ARM-architecture processors such as those found in smartphones of the past couple of years. With next generation ARM CPUs, Windows would be able to run on Qualcomm CPUs with full compatibility. At WinHEC today, both companies showed off the capability of the emulation by demoing the full-desktop version of Adobe Photoshop running (though emulated) on a Snapdragon CPU running Widows 10 64-bit edition. This is not the first time Windows would be able to run on ARM devices, though the first attempt...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/qualcomm_snapdragon_chips_will_support_windows_10_starting_next_year-news-22053.php

OnePlus 3T review: Digitally remastered

OnePlus has always been one of those companies on the mobile scene, you just can't help but root for. At least to some degree, that is. A small Chinese start-up with big dreams, throwing around lofty titles, like "the flagship killer" and talking of a price revolution that is just around the corner.

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/oneplus_3t-review-1531.php

Bluetooth 5 spec has been finalized, brings 2x speed, 4x range compared to 4.2

The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) first unveiled the Bluetooth 5 spec back in June, when it was still a work in progress. Today, however, the new spec has been finalized by the industry group and it's ready to be put to use by device makers across the world. Bluetooth 5 comes with twice the bandwidth, four times the range, and eight times the broadcasting message capacity of Bluetooth 4.2 when used with low energy devices. The maximum speed is now 2Mbps, up from 1Mbps. The bandwidth can however be decreased in order to allow for a 4x longer range while maintaining similar low...

Source: http://www.gsmarena.com/bluetooth_5_spec_has_been_finalized_brings_2x_speed_4x_range_compared_to_42-news-22052.php