T-Mobile and Samsung are joining forces to bring customers two new devices to T-Mobile’s lineup: the Samsung Galaxy Tab E and the Galaxy On5. The On5 phone will be joining both T-Mobile and its prepaid brand, MetroPCS.
On T-Mobile the On5 phone can be had for only $5.83/month for 24 months (full price $140). On MetroPCS it will be slightly cheaper at $129. The phone goes on sale at T-Mobile starting June 29, and on MetroPCS on June 27.
As for the Galaxy Tab E, it will go on sale starting June 22 for $10/month for 24 months (full price $240) on any of T-Mobile’s plans.
If you’re in the market for a new phone, water resistance is a compelling reason to buy a phone. Unfortunately, the majority of phones don’t have any kind of IP rating. An IP rating is an easily identifiable number to quickly determine how resistant an electronic device is to water and dust. If, for an example, a device has a rating of IP68 that means that the device is dust tight (IP68) and is safe for immersion for a meter or more (IP68). The ratings range from zero to six for dust resistance and zero to 9K for liquids. The highest rating commonly seen in consumer electronics is IP68, but can range dramatically from simple splash protection to being able to use your phone under water. Here are five phones with IP ratings to consider the next time you’re shopping for a new device.
Samsung Galaxy S7
IP Rating: 68
The Samsung Galaxy S7 has an IP68 rating which means it’s dustproof and can stand immersion over a meter for 30 minutes. When you combine that with the top of the line specs that the S7 has under the hood, you have a recipe for success. The S7 is powered by a Snapdragon 820 processor, 4GB of RAM, and has 32GB of internal storage which can be expanded with a microSD card. It also features a 5.1″ 2K AMOLED display, a 12MP camera, and premium build materials like glass and aircraft grade metals.
The Galaxy S7 runs about $650 and can be had at any carrier store or on sites like Amazon and B&H Photo. Something to consider, though, is that water activates the capacitive keys on the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 Edge so underwater use is a bit tricky. The Samsung Galaxy S7 Active, which can be had for an additional $100, adds in shock resistance and a bigger battery. It can be purchased exclusively at AT&T.
The Sony Xperia Z5 shares the same IP68 rating as the Galaxy S7 which means you can drop it in water, splash it or take it to the beach safely. The Z5 was released in October of 2015 and could be the last in the Xperia Z lineup as we have now seen the X lineup debuted at MWC 2016. The Z5 has a Snapdragon 810 processor, 3GB of RAM and a 2900mAH battery, as well as one of the best cameras on the market. If you’re looking for a bigger conversation starter than waterproofing, you can pick up the Xperia Z5 Premium which not only is waterproof but has a 4K display. You won’t find the Z5 in any carrier stores, but you can buy it unlocked from sources like B&H Photo and Amazon.
If you’re looking for the perfect first smartphone for one of your kids, this just may be it. The paltry specs of the Alcatel Go Play don’t take away from the IP67 and durable construction. The Go Play only has a 1GB of RAM and 8GB of storage, so it isn’t exactly a powerhouse, but it should execute most tasks without issue and you can increase the storage with a microSD card. The 5″ display is only 720p which means it will get great battery life since it has a 2500mAh battery. Head on over to Alcatel’s website to pick one up unlocked.
Motorola Droid Maxx 2
IP Rating: 52
The Motorola Droid Maxx 2 is a great option for Verizon customers that don’t want to pay flagship prices for a water resistant phone. The Maxx 2 has mid-tier specs with 2GB of RAM, 16GB of storage (expandable), and a Snapdragon 615 processor. Where the Maxx 2 will shine is in battery life. The phone has a huge 3630mAh battery that promises to last over a day, and depending on usage could get you up to two days of battery life. The IP52 rating means that the phone is dust protected and can withstand water in small doses like a rainstorm, but is not a phone you will want to use underwater. You can grab the Motorola Droid Maxx 2 exclusively at Verizon Wireless for under $400.
Kyocera DuraForce XD
IP Rating: 68
Kyocera isn’t a name that immediately comes to mind when you think “big, durable phone”, but that’s exactly what its produced with the DuraForce XD. With its IP68 rating and MIL 810G rating, this phone can stand up to dust, water, vibration, extreme temperatures, high altitudes, and solar radiation. It has a 5.7″ impact-resistant display and a massive 3700mAh battery to keep you powered up on the job site all day long. The DuraForce is powered by a Snapdragon 400 processor so while not the most powerful phone on the market, it is great if you’re looking for a tough, waterproof phone with a big screen. You can grab the Kyocera DuraForceXD at T-Mobile and AT&T.
This world is driven by news.  Everyone reads gets news delivered to them on a daily basis in some form whether it’s through Facebook, news sites themselves, or RSS feeds. Today we will take a look at a news reader called Newsfold.
Newsfold is a news reader that pulls in your news feeds from your Feedly and Inoreader accounts. It has a very clean Material Design that really catches your eye. You are given four different theme options that include dark, light, black and sepia to get that look of your choice. The latter two are included in the upgrade package.
The home screen is laid out in such a simple way that you don’t have to search to see where things are located. You are simply greeted with Unread, All, and Starred. Below these three categories are all of your collections, news grouped together by categories, and all your individual subscriptions all in alphabetical order.
Gesture controls have been implemented really well. Each article can be marked read or unread by simply swiping that one article from the right. Swiping the screen from anywhere on the left will get you back to your previous screen, while long pressing an article gives you the choices to share, star, and mark articles read/unread as well. This makes navigating the app a breeze.
There is also the option to cache items so you can read them later when you’re not on wifi, because data matters. This can be synchronized at different intervals in your settings with the ability to only do it in WiFi as well.
If you would like to become a supporter, since developers gotta eat too, you can do so by giving $2.49. This will remove ads, it will net you the two extra themes mentioned before, and multiple user accounts. I do need to mention that the current ads aren’t intrusive at all.
This doesn’t cover every single thing, but I did give you enough to get started. There are quite a few options to tinker with to get you your feed just right. This is one of the options you should consider when picking out a news reader.
Conclusion
Picking a new reader can be difficult with all of the choices available in the Google Play Store. What it really boils down to is do you like Nike or Under Amour. I choose that analogy because that’s what it’s like, a lot of quality ones out there, you just gotta find that right fit.
*Note* When these screen shots were taken it was still called Quote, all other references to the name Quote have been changed.
Onanoff has built its business a simple idea, build what is basic and necessary for all users. They have built quite the portfolio of products that are simple and durable. Sometimes you may not even know that you could use a product until you see it. That’s why today I bring you one of those products, Dock Minimal.
Review
Dock Minimal is exactly what it sounds like, a simple dock for your tablets. This is a one size fits all dock that can handle iPads, Kindles, Samsung Tablets, e-book readers and more. With its tough plastic shell and matte finish, it can easily withstand drops and still look just as good as it did right out of the box.
With a shape that I can only describe as a bowtie, it’s the most unique looking dock that I have seen. Just as smooth as it looks, it’s functionality matches it. Dock Minimal comes with four different size slot adapters that will fit almost any size tablet. This will ensure a tight fit so your device doesn’t slip out.
The back features six different holes for the kickstand that can give you around 20 different angles for your viewing comfort. Inside the aluminium kickstand, you can pull out the stylus. This little beauty works with most touch screens and quickly tucks back in when not in use.
Now, what about charging? Sometimes you need to do that while watching, reading, or whatever it is that you are doing. There are adapters for that. In total, you have five different options for accommodating charging. Two consist of microUSB adapters that you snap in. The other three allow you to easily tuck the cord through the bottom.
Summary
There are some options out there for tablet docks, but not all look as good or have the versatility of Dock Minimal. If you’re looking for a tablet dock, one that can even hold a much smaller phablet, there is no reason you shouldn’t consider this one.
I often contemplate how far smartphone cameras have come and continue to improve. You’d think that they would’ve long since hit a performance limit due to their restrictive size. But no, manufacturers are still finding magical ways to push the boundaries and strengthen the argument against dedicated cameras.
I’ve been super impressed by the Galaxy S7’s camera in my three months with the phone. I own a dedicated Sony RX100 camera, but have found myself using it less and using the phone more for picture taking. I’ve even used my S7 to capture images for some of my product reviews, challenging my colleagues to tell a difference. I’m not saying that the S7’s capture quality can technically match that of the RX100, but the fact that it’s not far behind is quite astonishing.
So when I had a trip to Iceland coming up, I seriously thought about leaving behind my RX100 and solely using my S7 to capture the experience. Iceland is one of the world’s most beautiful countries, comprised of sweeping, mountainous landscapes, dramatic waterfalls, lava fields, massive glaciers, and hot geothermal springs – everything a high-end camera dreams of. I put the RX100 in my back pocket just in case, but I was confident enough in the S7’s camera to make it my go-to, and I have no regrets about it. Click the image below for 10 of my favorite shots (via Google Photos):
I want to emphasize that usability made a strong case for the S7 on a trip like this. The speed at which the camera can launch (double clicking the Home button is a superb shortcut) and auto-focus work wonders. When there’s a spectacular shot from every angle, the camera’s speed matters tremendously. This is especially beneficial when taking a quick snap from the road (but I don’t recommend it!).
We also can’t forget about panoramas! I have never shot so many panoramas at one time. It’s pretty crucial with the landscapes in Iceland, and the function works so well on the S7. You start/stop the capture wherever to tailor the length of the panorama, and it works quickly. You don’t have to sit there and sweep the phone at a snail’s pace. Click the image below for 10 of my favorite panoramas:
Some readers may think that this Galaxy S7 praise is fanboy-ism or that Samsung paid us (we don’t get paid from companies). Nope. I just wrote this to show how the S7 would perform as a primary camera on a majestic vacation, and give credit where it’s due. I’m allowed to do that on my own accord, aren’t I?
Cricket Wireless, the prepaid carrier that operates on AT&T’s wireless network, just announced a limited-time deal which sees it offering a Samsung smartphone for a dollar.
The Samsung Galaxy Amp 2, which normally retails for $49.99 through Cricket, now comes out to a mere $.99 with activation of a qualified plan. The deal runs from today through July 14, 2016 and requires customers to port their phone number from another carrier.
With the summer heat comes an equally hot deal from Cricket Wireless. Starting today for a limited time, customers who bring their number to Cricket can snag the Samsung Galaxy Amp 2 for 99ȼ and a $50 bill credit, and if they don’t need a phone, they will still receive a $50 bill credit* by bringing their number to Cricket.
Purchase a Samsung Galaxy Amp 2 for $1 plus applicable taxes
Start a new line on a $40 per month prepaid service plan
Port your number from another wireless carrier and receive a $50 bill credit
The Samsung Galaxy Amp 2 is an entry-level smartphone that should to the trick for most casual users. Powered by Android 6.0 Marshmallow, the handset offers up a 4.5-inch display, 8GB internal storage, and a 5-megapixel rear camera.
Other specifications in the smartphone include a 2-megapixel front-facing camera, microSD expansion for up 128GB, and a 2050mAh battery.
I’ve had a long run of car chargers that barely do the one thing they are designed to do, charge my battery. It has become this big ordeal where I have to get the cable just right and pray I don’t bump it. Since all my family has an assortment of devices to charge while on long trips, we all need a slot, but half the time they all don’t work. Inateck has a solution for this, it’s the 4-Port Car Charger that sells for $13.99 on Amazon.
In the box
4 port car charger
2 microUSB cables
Review
This sleek four port charger is made up of white plastic with an aluminium bottom that gives it a real high-end look. When plugged into your car, the charger will emit a blue light from the USB ports to let you know there is power. I know it’s not a big deal to have a nice looking charger, but given the option wouldn’t you rather it look nice as well?
Inateck’s charger has built in smart chip technology that knows your devices charging capabilities and adjust to that. This ensures the correct current that will not overheat and will deliver the quickest charge possible. It has been certified by RoHS, FCC and CE for the highest safety standards.
Aside from the charger itself, Inateck also provides you with two four foot long microUSB charging cables. Each cable comes with a customized Inateck cable ties made with velcro to help keep your cables neat and tidy when not in use.
Summary
Choosing a car charger can be a frustrating experience. You never know what you are gonna get. It works perfectly today and tomorrow it’s in and out. Inateck is a company that provides products that last and its 4-port car charger is well worth the bargain price.
Right now to the end of the month Inateck has a special $8 off with coupon codeEOZHG5IT
Cellphones have been through quite the transformation since the first commercially available one was introduced in 1983. It weighed one and three quarters pounds and was ten inches long. Needless to say it was big. Fast forward to 2007, Apple introduced the very first iPhone which launched us into a new era of electronic devices.
Since the smartphone became the norm, we have been looking for the perfect setup and size. There is a lot of debate in the big vs small conversation. Samsung has been one of the top companies in developing Android phones and continues to churn out phone after phone both big and small. In 2012, it became the first company to successfully market and sell the phablet, the Samsung Galaxy Note.
What defines a phablet? Wikipedia defines it as a class of smartphone with large screens that are intended to straddle the functionality of a traditional tablet with that of a phone. Typically they measure from 5.1″ to 6.99″. In other words, it’s a tablet in the form of a phone.
So far we have seen a total of seven Galaxy Note phones ranging in sizes 5.29″ to 5.7″. They all come with their trademark stylus pen used for note taking, which is where the name comes from. Between 2011 and 2013, over 50 million Notes had been sold. A new Note is right around the corner which makes it the perfect time to take a look back at the previous editions.
Samsung Galaxy Note-August 2012
Processor –Qualcomm APQ8060 Snapdragon S3
Display –5.29″ HD Super AMOLED (800 x 1280 pixels)
RAM –1 GB RAM
Camera –8MP main camera, 1080p video, and a 2MP front-facing camera
AT&T on Wednesday announced it has started offering Wi-Fi Calling capability to Android phones. Starting immediately with the LG G4, the feature will roll out to other Android handsets in short order.
Wi-Fi Calling, which has been available for the iPhone for some time, lets customers make and receive calls and text messages over Wi-Fi connections. This is a handy option gives users excellent reception in places that might not otherwise work so well for the carrier.
To use Wi-Fi Calling, you’ll need:
A compatible device
A postpaid wireless account set-up for HD Voice
A Wi-Fi internet connection
A software update will roll out as other phones pick up the Wi-Fi Calling option. Once ready, the handset will notify the user that it’s ready to install. Wi-Fi calls are billed based on the phone number and customers who travel to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands can make free calls to other US phone numbers.
It’s 2016. The world’s most iconic smartphone, Apple’s iPhone 7, is rumored to do away with the 3.5mm audio jack. Android manufacturers are already moving away from it. The Moto Z and 2016 LeEco range have been released without the traditional connection. What’s happening? In the technology sector, nothing can be granted immunity from aging and being discontinued. In fact, it’s inevitable for anything technological to not stay around for long.
Next to go is likely the standard headphone system that has been around since everyone can remember. It’s the standard that every manufacturer has in common – laptops, TV’s, phones, PlayStations, cars and everything in between utilizes it. And that is why nobody is happy that it might be leaving. It’s easy to use. We all use it. We’ll have to purchases new, more expensive equipment to fill the place of our hundreds of millions of depreciated headphones, speakers and related accessories.. The headphone jack works, and it works well. So why replace it?
Around 1878, the larger version of the audio plug came around. It has the same shape and uses the same technology in order to move audio around as the modern version.
Initially the this quarter-inch jack was used by operators in old-fashioned telephone switchboards, plugging and unplugging connections.
Switchboard operators utilize the audio plug during World War 2
The plug and jack that we use today are basically smaller versions of this technology. Sure, they have improved and the technology that drives them are vastly different (and better). The jack used analog signals to transfer data and does exactly the same to this day. Using something in technology at present day that was created so far back literally makes it feel like an eternal solution. If we want to advance in technology, should we really carry on using a 19th century plug?
Take Zorloo’s digital earphones that we reviewed, for example. The earphones got rid of the standard connection and instead used the Micro-USB connection to transfer digital data that resulted in a sufficiently better overall audio quality. Because the charging port is capable of outputting power and your jack is not, this already favors the digital headset. The Micro-USB connection itself is being depreciated, and Zorloo has already started producing a USB Type-C version.
We reached out to Mr Andy Ho, the co-founder of Zorloo, and asked him two questions:
1. What advantages does the digital connection have over the traditional method that made you swap over?
“I found that people spend money on expensive earphones but may not realize that their performance is limited by the DAC and amplifier in their phone system. By changing to Micro-USB interface, you have the option to replace the DAC and amplifier in your existing phone design as well. This is like the switch from analog composite video to HDMI.“
2. Where do you think the digital connection is going to take us and what is going to happen to the traditional connection?
“Digital audio interface using Micro-USB (or USB-C) will move on to take over the analog phone jack given the inherit advantage being mentioned. The last obstacle to solve is the simultaneous use and charge with a single connector. (In fact, USB specifications support this configuration but just not too many manufacturers follow).”
There you have it: headphones like these greatly enhances our ability to make something bigger and better, and are just an example for the possible benefits of getting rid of the fossil-aged audio jack.
If we want to advance in technology, should we really carry on using a 19th century plug?
Removing the jack is also beneficial to your phone. Manufacturers won’t be obliged to set aside a reasonable chunk of precious space for something that can be done through the charging port. It’s a place where a better, more exciting component can be placed. It’s also one place less for water to leak in and one less component that can break down and need repairing. Phones can be thinner, have bigger screens and invest in that left-over space better.
You may ask why we should fix the standard if it’s not really broken. The connection works just fine, you say, and I totally agree that it does. But so does Micro-USB, that is slowly being replaced by USB Type-C. USB Type-C is taking over the older connection as it can transfer data faster, output more power and is generally better suited for daily life. Are we complaining about this transition?
We could carry on using Micro-USB forever and simply write off what could be a better technology.
Secondly, what about the daily inconveniences? All those decrepit headsets that will go to waste, and adapters that will need to be bought, not to mention that you cannot charge your phone while listening to music (at least at present). Â Let me put it like this: you have to lose something in order to gain something. You can either use Bluetooth headsets, or adapt. Countless phone manufacturers have sacrificed battery life for a thinner phone and consumers eventually adapted to it regardless of how much backlash they gave.
If Apple does indeed leave out the headphone jack in the iPhone 7, it’s almost certain that many others will follow suit. We could expect the standard to be almost gone from mobile devices within the next four to five years. Taking into consideration that the invention has been around since the 19th century, it is a miracle that it is still in use.
The fact remains that change is inevitable, and that your attitude towards embracing it is up to you.
giving $2.49. This will remove ads, it will net you the two extra themes mentioned before, and multiple user accounts. I do need to mention that the current ads aren’t intrusive at all.
Next to go is likely the standard headphone system that has been around since everyone can remember. It’s the standard that every manufacturer has in common – laptops, TV’s, phones, PlayStations, cars and everything in between utilizes it. And that is why nobody is happy that it might be leaving. It’s easy to use. We all use it. We’ll have to purchases new, more expensive equipment to fill the place of our hundreds of millions of depreciated headphones, speakers and related accessories.. The headphone jack works, and it works well. So why replace it?
