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Easily transfer files to your device with Web PC Suite (App Review)

Andrew Myrick
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0

Transferring files between your Android device and your computer can SOMETIMES be a pain. Usually not when you have at least a USB cable, but there are times that you’re on the go and leave the USB cable behind. Or maybe, you are using someone else’s computer and want to transfer some files between your device and their computer.

Web PC Suite aims to help alleviate any issues that may arise when trying to quickly and easily transfer files. Once you’ve downloaded the app, you will be asked to navigate to the Web PC Suite website so that you can connect your device.

Setup

If you are trying to transfer files between devices, without a Wi-Fi connection, you are prompted to create an account. In order to create an account, you must use either Google, Facebook, or Twitter, and you’re account is created. Once the account is created, and you have navigated to the web site on your computer, you need to sync the devices. There is a QR-code displayed on the web page, and your camera is activated to be able to read it.

Now I ran into my first issue when I tried connecting my Galaxy Note5 to my computer. The first time I scanned the QR-code, the app and the web client just froze. However, the second go-round, everything loaded up perfectly, without an issues. Mind you, I was not using Wi-Fi transfer, instead, I was using the experimental mobile network transfer.

Interface

So you’ve got everything set up and ready to go, now how do you go about transferring those files? It’s actually REALLY simple with the Web PC Suite. Navigate to the file or folder you are trying to transfer and simply drag and drop within your browser, and the file will automatically start uploading.

There won’t be much activity seen via the app on your Android device, and there isn’t even a notification on your device once the file is transferred. So you’ll have to be sure to keep an eye on the web client to check the status of the transfer. The only information that you’ll see within the app on your Android device is the amount of data that has been transferred.

As for the other options within the Web PC Suite application, you really won’t find much. In the top right hand corner, there is a “Store” icon that takes you to an application in the Play Store that seems to just be a random app that was selected. Possibly for ad-revenue purposes. The next icon is the “Contact” which takes you into your account information. From here, you will find your email and your ‘Used Traffic Statistics’. Finally, there is an overflow menu button on the far right, next to your Account Information.

The overflow menu drops down and shows you a few more options. You can head to Personal Hotspot, Settings, Feedback, Help, Share, or About. The others are self-explanatory, but the one that caught my eye was the Personal Hotspot functionality. This option within Web PC Suite seems to make it easier for users to connect their phones to their other various devices from the app. In order to access the Personal Hotspot with your device of choice, you will need to open a specific URL, and enter the login information, then your device is connected to the hotspot from your phone.

What We Like

  • Easy to use interface
  • Able to transfer files over mobile data connection
  • Personal Hotspot functionality built-in
  • No intrusive ads

And not so much…

  • “Store” icon takes you to random apps in the Play Store
  • Connecting can be a little finicky

Summary

Web PC Suite is another option on the Play Store for you to easily transfer your files between devices. Add in the fact that you don’t need to install any third-party software on your computer, and can just do this within the browser, and you have a compelling argument against PushBullet and others. While I’m not sure how long I’ll use Web PC Suite on my device due to the likes of PushBullet, I do know that I’ll keep it there for a little while just to have in case I need to quickly transfer something without PushBullet.

Let us know what you think about Web PC Suite, and if you aren’t using this already, what you use to transfer files, wirelessly, between devices.

Google to launch an Android-powered Pixel tablet, report claims

Josh Noriega
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0

Google’s event tomorrow is shaping up to be action-packed.  We’re expecting a duo of Nexus smartphones to launch (debuting Android Marshmallow), new Chromecast devices, and now we have word of a new tablet – the Pixel C.

The report comes via Android Police and they’re fairly confident on the details they’ve managed to dig up.  But of course, take this leak with a grain of salt.  Fortunately, we only have to wait a day’s time to find out the deal.

What’s interesting is that this new tablet will be marketed as a “Pixel” device, but will run Android as opposed to ChromeOS.  Recall that the Pixel moniker as been historically used for Google’s premium Chromebook laptop.  If you haven’t heard of it, it may be because the steep price makes it out of most people’s reach.

chromebook-pixel-1

The Pixel C will reportedly have a 10.2″ display (with 308ppi).  Being a “Pixel” device, it will carry over Google’s premium quality through-and-through.  So we’re expecting an all-metal chassis and exceptional screen.  It is also said that there will be two keyboard accessories, one aluminium and the other leather.

The Pixel C will also supposedly have power to back up the looks, boasting Nvidia’s latest X1 chipset (quad-core processor, Maxwell GPU, and 3GB of LPDDR4 RAM).

If you were a fan of that lightbar on the back of the Pixel Chromebook, you’ll be happy to hear that it will be carried over to the Pixel C.  It would also be foolish for USB Type-C to not be on-board, so expect that as well.

It looks like all the surprises for Google’s big event tomorrow have been spoiled (I hope I’m wrong).  If the price of the Pixel C isn’t too far out, would you consider buying one?

Customers will be able to custom build Droid Turbo 2, report says

Josh Noriega
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2

We haven’t yet heard much about the sequel to last year’s Droid Turbo.  If you’re on the Big Red network, the Turbo was one of the best Android offerings in 2014, packing top-end specs and a hefty battery.  Now that Q4 2015 is around the corner, you may be wondering what the successor will bring to the table.

Our buddies over at Phandroid were kind to share some alleged details about the upcoming launch of the Droid Turbo 2.  First up is that it is said to have Moto Maker support this time.

Moto Maker is Motorola’s nifty online smartphone customization tool, allowing the customer to specify phone body and accent colors to their heart’s desire.

moto-maker

Although Moto Maker has been around for a couple years, the original Turbo only got Verizon-specified appearances, with the dark/industrial Droid themes.

droid_turbo_trio_colors

It would be logical that the Turbo 2 still rocks those interesting chassis materials (metallized glass fiber with kevlar reinforcement or ballistic nylon), to differentiate it from other phones.  We’re unsure how Verizon will handle the customization when buying at the store vs online.  Moto Maker is an online-only tool.

As far as specs, this is what has leaked so far:

  • Display:  5.43″ QHD
  • SoC:  Snapdragon 810
  • Memory:  3GB RAM
  • Storage:  32GB/64GB internal (no word on microSD support)
  • Cameras:  21MP rear and 5MP front
  • Battery:  3,760mAh

There are a couple of interesting things to note here.  The Turbo 2’s display is said to be “Shatterproof”.  It is suspected that this means there will be extra measures of reinforcement to insure the glass is well protected.  There isn’t such thing as unbreakable glass.

Also, the battery capacity slightly shrunk from last year.  From 3,900mAh to 3,760mAh.  The use of the Snapdragon 810 is also interesting.  We have yet to see a phone use Qualcomm’s 820 chipset.  It’s looking more and more that we’re going to have to wait until next year.

The Droid Turbo 2 is expected to launch on Oct. 29th, with an official announcement on Oct. 15th.  Let us know what you think about it so far.

Google increases the file size limit of an APK on the Play Store

Andrew Myrick
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0

Storage space on our devices is extremely important. When you’ve got something like a 8GB or 16GB device, every app that you install, counts. But when you get into the larger storage devices, or have a device with support for a MicroSD card, you stop worrying as much.

Today, Google has announced a little bit of a change for the minimum size of APK’s that can be found within the Play Store. Moving up from 50MB, the maximum size of an APK is now 100MB.

This may alleviate some of those apps (usually games), that force you to install more information after you’ve downloaded the application from the Play Store. I’m looking at you Leo’s Fortune. If you are developing an application, and run into the minimum file size for APKs, you’ll be switched to making use of those Expansion Files.

Google does warn against developing apps that reach the 100MB limit due to a few different factors:

  • Mobile data connectivity: Users around the world have varying mobile data connectivity speeds. Particularly in developing countries, many people are coming online with connections slower than those of users in countries like the U.S. and Japan. Users on a slow connection are less likely to install an app or game that is going to take a long time to download.
  • Mobile data caps: Many mobile networks around the world give users a limited number of MB that they can download each month without incurring additional charges. Users are often wary of downloading large files for fear of exceeding their limits.
  • App performance: Mobile devices have limited RAM and storage space. The larger your app or game, the slower it may run, particularly on older devices.
  • Install time: People want to start using your app or game as quickly as possible after tapping the install button. Longer wait times increase the risk they’ll give up.

This is just a minor update since most of the world has access to Wi-Fi at some point in time. But it’s still worth taking note of if you are on one of those devices with lower storage.

Source: Android Developers Blog

Samsung Pay makes its debut in the United States

Andrew Myrick
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0

For all those folks out there who haven’t been able to get into the beta for Samsung Pay, the wait is over. Earlier today, Samsung started rolling out its in-house alternative for Apple Pay and Android Pay.

Samsung Pay allows you to attach a supported credit or debit card, and use your device to make payments on the go. One of the awesome features of Samsung Pay is that you can use it even with the mobile terminal that doesn’t have ‘Tap to Pay’ functionality built-in. When using Samsung Pay with one of those older terminals, all you need to do is hold your device near the terminal and voila, you’ve paid for your items without taking out your wallet.

samsung-pay

If you’re wondering which devices are compatible with Samsung Pay right now, here’s the list for you:

Now, the Samsung Pay app is probably already pre-loaded onto your device, but you haven’t been able to access anything within the app. all you need to do is open up the Samsung Pay app, and your device will install the updated app that has all the goodies within.

Once the app is downloaded, you will be greeted with a few welcome screens, which describe exactly what Samsung Pay can do. Once you’ve gotten past that, you’ll be able to enter your credit or debit card, and get to spending.

As a little gift to those who want to try out Samsung Pay, Samsung is giving away some goodies to you. If you activate Samsung Pay on a Galaxy Note5 or Galaxy S6 Edge+, you’ll have the option of receiving either a wireless charger or a flip case. In order to take advantage of this giveaway, you’ll need to activate Samsung Pay on either of those devices before October 11th, which gives everyone about 2 weeks or so.

Let us know if you’ve tried out Samsung Pay already, and what you think about the overall experience.

Source: Samsung

Google to offer shared Play Music Family accounts, rumor indicates

AndroidGuys
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0

Streaming music seems to have become the next great thing, with many companies offering free streaming with ads and monthly unlimited plans. There is already Spotify, Pandora, Apple Music, and of course Google’s Play Music. Some of those offer a family plan for a discounted rate between multiple users. Google’s plan doesn’t include that, yet.

According to the latest rumors from Android Police, tomorrow Google will announce a new plan for consumers who want to save some cash by partnering up on a streaming service. Google’s All Access plan will allow six family members to stream unlimited music all for just $14.99 a month. All users will be able to sign in to their own Google account for the service, so no need for sharing precious account details.

This is definitely strategic pricing because Google’s biggest competitor, Apple, has their streaming service priced the exact same: six family members for $14.99 a month. To give a perspective at how good of a deal that is, Spotify charges $14.99 a month for just two people. Every time you add a user on Spotify, the price continues to climb

Tomorrow is expected to be quite a big day for Google, as they are expected to debut their two new smartphones, the LG-made Nexus 5X and Huawei-made Nexus 6P. To top that off, Google is expected to announce the new Chromecast. Our very own Derrick will be in San Francisco for the event, so keep your eye out.

Samsung will give you up to $120 for purchase of select smartphones

Scott Webster
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0

next_galaxy

A new Samsung promotion shows the hardware maker promising to make multiple device payments for customers who purchase select models. According to a mini-site landing page, Samsung will provide reimbursements to the tune of $120 for those who buy a phone with equipment installment plans and register said device through Samsung.

Which models are eligible under the limited-time deal? The Samsung Galaxy Note 5, Galaxy S6 Edge+, Galaxy S6 Edge, and Galaxy S6. Customers will need to purchase the phone between September 25 and October 9 and claim their stake by October 16.

Essentially, the deal works out to Samsung covering the device payments through the end of 2015, or up to $120. A second promo has Samsung offering up $100 Google Play gift card to anyone who trades in a working iPhone (4S or later) toward one of the aforementioned Galaxy smartphones.

As great as this sounds, you should know that the $120 equipment cost reimbursement is not valid for AT&T models. We’re not sure why, but Ma Bell is sitting this one out.

Samsung Promotions

Full terms and conditions can be found here.

Phonejoy GamePad 2 Review

Dan Bartram
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0

It’s not the first time we’ve heard from Phonejoy and their game controller, having reviewed the first iteration of the Phonejoy GamePad and being incredibly impressed with it. Now, we seen the second-generation of the accessory in the form of PhoneJoy GamePad 2, and we got the opportunity to review it.

PJS-10000-V2-Black With Note 5.47

What’s New

– Improved battery capacity from 8 hours of gameplay to 14 hours of gameplay;

– New action buttons for better sensitivity;

– New outstanding analog sticks for better control, depression ability (L3/R3), and contact surface (Concave);

– Analog L2/R2 instead of regular buttons;

– Bluetooth 2.1 -> Bluetooth 3.0;

– Improved interface protocol for full compatibility with all HID input compatible games.

[row][double_paragraph]

PJS-10000-V2-Black With Note 5.48 [/double_paragraph][double_paragraph] PJS-10000-V2-Black With Note 5.51 [/double_paragraph] [/row]

Sure, that battery increase doesn’t sound like too much of a thing, but i’ve been using the Phonejoy GamePad 2 extensively since receiving it over a week ago and still am yet to charge it, which is exactly what you want from a portable accessory.

The mechanism used to hold the device feels improved and the hinge is extremely strong, which leaves you confident that the device won’t fall out. The hinge then collapses to return to the GamePad 2’s most notable feature and that’s its profile when not being used; it is extremely portable and fits in your back pocket quite comfortably.

[row][double_paragraph]PJS-10000-V2-Black With Note 5.58 [/double_paragraph][double_paragraph]PJS-10000-V2-Black With Note 5.59 [/double_paragraph] [/row]

Phonejoy GamePad 2 Pricing

The gamepad is available in a tiered pricing model:

Basic Bundle – US $69.90
Advanced Bundle – US $79.90
Pro Bundle – US $89.90

PJS-10000-V2-Black With Note 5.50

The buttons on the Phonejoy GamePad 2 feel better than ever, as do the analogue buttons, which are extremely responsive. It was good last year, but the second-generation has taken things that but further and it looks, feels, and functions great.

The Phonejoy GamePad 2 will be available online on 30th Sep 2015 at www.phonejoy.com

Google under antitrust investigation over Android Apps

Matt Adams
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0

The Federal Trade Commision(FTC) has begun a preliminary investigation into Google using Android to push its own apps like Search and Maps.

The search giant has been under investigation in Europe for antitrust violations for a while and the FTC has voted several times in the past not to pursue charges against Google. But there’s now an investigation brewing within the country’s antitrust watchdog.

Complaintants actually went to the Department of Justice(DoJ) first and the DoJ recently asked the FTC for clearance to begin their investigation by making contact with complaintants.

The DoJ and FTC have since worked out an agreement for the FTC, instead of the DoJ, to investigate the claims. The issue stem from the “home screen dominance” of Google’s Android App placement and Android app bundle requirements. The complaint is still in the fact finding stage, the FTC has still yet to contact Google, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that charges will move forward.

Google distributes Android for free to companies like Samsung and LG but if they want to have any Google Apps installed on their phones or tablets, they must take a bundle of a certain set of Android apps which includes money makers like Google Search and the Google Play store. Complaintants are unhappy with this because it gives Google a distinct advantage on the world’s most popular mobile operating system.

[graphiq id=”amUuGd8U0Lz” title=”Smartphone OS Market Share by Quarter” width=”700″ height=”540″ url=”https://w.graphiq.com/w/amUuGd8U0Lz” link=”http://smartphones.specout.com” link_text=”Smartphone OS Market Share by Quarter | SpecOut”]

Google has offered no public comment comment regarding this matter and Justin Cole, an FTC spokesperson, was quoted as saying, “investigations are nonpublic, and we do not comment on an investigation or the existence of an investigation.”

Google has faced the harsh hand of the government before, but escaped charges. In 2013, Microsoft and Yelp brought complaints to the FTC that Google unfairly gave an advantage to its own products, but Google escaped scrutiny after the FTC voted unanimously not to bring charges.

Source: Bloomberg, via The New York Times

The LG Nexus 5X passes through the FCC, reveals more specs

Matt Adams
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1

If you needed more confirmation that we’re going to be seeing a new LG Nexus at next week’s Google event, you’re in luck. The LG Nexus 5X, or what would strongly appear to be, has now passed through the FCC. It’s probably not a coincidence this happened late on a Friday when a smaller amount of eyes would be around to check out the documents and the resulting media coverage.

Nexus 5X fcc filing

You can blame our leak culture if you already know all about the Nexus 5X, but the new FCC documents seem to confirm a few of the details we already knew. In the filing, we see that the LG H790 and H791, the two versions of the new Nexus, are CDMA/GSM/LTE phones that sport Bluetooth 4.2, WiFI a/b/g/n/ac dual band, and NFC. The devices have 5.2″ screens with bodies measuring 146.9 x 72.5mm.

The H791, for some reason, is listed with a 4.4″ screen with a 146.1 x 72.2mm body. Rather than this being a second smaller Nexus device from LG, it’s more likely that this is just an error. Much like the 2013 LG Nexus 5 that came in two models (D820 and D821), one for the US and one global model, we expect this to be the same case.

We’re also getting a look at the impressive list of bands that the Nexus 5X will support.

2G: 850/1900MHz

3G: Band 2/4/5

LTE (H790): FD-LTE: Band 2(1900MHz)/4(1700MHz)/5(850MHz)/7(2600MHz)/12(700MHz)/13 (700MHz)/17 (700MHz)/25 (1900MHz)/26 (850MHz), TD-LTE: Band 41(2500MHz)

LTE (H791): TD-LTE: Band 2(1900MHz)/4(1700MHz)/5(850MHz)/7(2600MHz)/17 (700MHz)/26 (850MHz), FDD-LTE: Band 41(2500MHz)

We’re looking forward to the big Android event on September 29th where Google will take the wraps off of two new Nexus phones and hopefully have some surprises up their sleeves. We’ll be in attendance and will bring you the latest details as they become available.

[graphiq id=”9p1IyKSAqvX” title=”LG Nexus 5X” width=”600″ height=”400″ url=”https://w.graphiq.com/w/9p1IyKSAqvX” link=”http://smartphones.specout.com/l/4343/LG-Nexus-5X” link_text=”LG Nexus 5X | SpecOut”]

Source: FCC via ausdroid.net, AndroidPolice

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