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Hot Take: Google Pixel 3 event, Xiaomi Mi Mix 2S, and Play Store policy (Episode 24)

Donovan Jeska
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Join us as we sit down and discuss some of the hot tech topics out there today. This edition focuses on the Google’s October 9th Pixel event in New York, Dono’s review of the Xiaomi Mi Mix 2S, and Google’s policing of the Play Store.

What we talked about today

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Google will unveil the Pixel 3 and possibly more on October 9th

Andrew Myrick
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Well the fun and charades will be coming to an end in a little more than a month. Google has finally issued its invitations for an event that is being held on October 9th.

At this event, which is surprisingly scheduled in New York City, we are expecting to see the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL. That means that the embarrassing number of leaks will finally come to an end.

Previous rumors suggested that Google would keep its traditional date of October 4th, but that’s not the case. Additionally, it’s interesting that Google is moving its event from its home turf in California all the way to the East Coast.

The event itself will begin at 11AM Eastern Time and there will even be a live stream available. This will be possible thanks to the “Made By Google” YouTube account.

What to expect

Barring some type of dramatic and incredible turn of events, there isn’t much left for Google to really reveal. The Pixel 3 XL has been leaked numerous times and has even been reviewed by some sites overseas.

SEE ALSO: Google Pixel 3 rumors: Specs, price, and more

The leaks have revealed that the 3 XL will be the first Google handset to sport a notch, which comes as no surprise. However, the notch itself has been a hot topic for debate.

Image courtesy of Android Police

Google is also expected to include some type of facial recognition, hopefully with some real bio-metrics. This is likely to happen thanks to the two front-facing cameras being included.

Under the hood, we are expecting to see the Snapdragon 845 SoC, combined with 4GB of RAM. The processor makes sense, but I would have liked to see Google push its boundaries to 6GB of RAM.

In a surprising move, Google seems to be content with sticking with a single rear-mounted camera. With more and more OEM’s throwing as many cameras as possible on devices, Google is confident in its processing to stick with a single sensor.

What do you think?

Now that we have practically seen every angle of the Pixel 3 and 3 XL, we want to hear from you. Are you really excited to see Google’s latest products unveiled? Or are you feeling kind of disappointed because of the notch integration.

Sound off in the comments below and be sure to stay tuned to AndroidGuys as we learn more about Google’s latest products.

Amazon Fire HD 8 gains always-on Alexa capabilities

AndroidGuys
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Amazon today announced that its Fire HD 8 tablets will gain the hands-free Alexa experience that previously arrived for the Fire HD 10 model. Indeed, the refreshed model lets users tap into the Alexa smarts without having to first wake up the tablet.

With an always-on Alexa users can ask the digital assistant for help from across the room or without physically touching the device. Battery life goes down a bit because of this, but Amazon still touts it at 10 hours of mixed usage. The previous generation was listed at 12 hours; the always-on option can be disabled.

The new version of the Fire HD 8 offers up a quad-core processor, 16GB/32GB internal storage, and a 2-megapixel front-facing camera. With microSD card support (up to 400GB), the tablet also features tech often found in Amazon’s other models. This includes Dolby Atmos Audio, dual-band Wi-Fi, and and Show Mode.

The new Fire HD 8 sells for as low as $80 (with ads and recommendations) and begins shipping on October 4, 2018. As is the case with other devices sold exclusively through Amazon, there are ad-free versions which run about $15 more.

Amazon also adds a Fire HD 8 Kids Edition to its roster, bringing about a child-friendly experience full of fun, practical, and educational software. Priced $130, the Fire HD 8 Edition offers 32GB of space and comes with a “kid-proof” case and a two year warranty.

 

The Fire HD 8 Kids Edition also gets kid-friendly Audible books in FreeTime Unlimited and boasts a new FreeTime design. With dedicated rows based on content type, it should make for a more intuitive experience and easier location of titles.

Last, but not least, Amazon announced it now offers FreeTime and FreeTime Unlimited in Spanish. Parents can now choose to enable Spanish content in their child’s FreeTime profile, opening access to more than 1,000 age-appropriate books, videos, educational
apps, games, websites, and more.

Unreal Mobile now also delivers its cell phone services through AT&T’s network

Alexandra Arici
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Unreal Mobile is a new offshoot brand from popular MVNO FreedomPop that offers super cheap plans with talk, text and 4G LTE data.

So far, Unreal Mobile has given its users the option of making calls or using data via Sprint’s CDMA network. But this week, the company has announced it’s expanding and will start offering low cost, unlimited mobile and Wi-Fi services through AT&T’s GSM network.

With the new partnership in place, customers can now buy and use an AT&T SIM with their current smartphone. Or they can acquire one from Unreal Mobile, with models starting as low as $49. The carrier also lets mobile hotspot users purchase a device for $20, with plans starting at $10/month for unlimited data.

Unreal Mobile enters a collaboration with AT&T

In case you’re not aware, Unreal Mobile calls its plans unlimited. However, you need to be aware they are very much not “unlimited”, although to be fair they are offered at a very good price. You get a fixed amount of LTE data per month, starting at 1GB, and after that, you’ll be downgraded to 2GB speeds. All of the MVNO’s plans include a VPN, ad blocker, data saver and data rollover.

Not sure you want to jump on board with Unreal? The carrier lets you try out its base $10 plan 100% risk-free with 30-days money back guaranteed.

If you’re in need of a new phone to use your new plan with, Unreal also has your back. The company is offering up a few handsets for sale. All are affordable refurbished options that won’t break the bank.

For example, you can get the last year’s Samsung Galaxy S8+ for only $259.99. There aren’t many options to choose from right now and so those who want newer phone, you might have to look somewhere else.

Gearbest offering phones and mobile tech with deep discounts

AndroidGuys
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The school season is getting underway, and we’re beginning to look ahead to the holidays and that always-busy buying time. If you’re smart, you won’t wait until the last minute to get in on some deals and discounts.

For some of us, we’re still picking up the gear we need to have a successful school year. That might mean a new phone, tablet, or something else.

If you’re looking to purchase some new tech, you might want to check out Gearbest. Our friends over there recently tipped us off to a variety of sales and promotions currently underway.

Not only will you find a few of the typical gadgets standards, but there’s also a couple of other items worth checking.

Phones and Tablets

OnePlus 6 4G Phablet 8GB RAM 128GB ROM International Version | $519.99

Unlocked and ready to pair with your global carrier of choice, this is the 2018 flagship experience from OnePlus. Packed with the latest and greatest of hardware (READ OUR REVIEW), it’s more than enough phone to last an average consumer more than a couple of years. Even heavy users will have a tough time putting this one to the test. Pick it up for $519.99 using coupon code GB$MP12thO6.

UMIDIGI S2 Lite 4G Phablet – BLACK | $129.99

With a 5.99 inch display, this one is a solid mid-range phone that borders a bit on the upper edge. Powered by Android 7.0, it’s got a MediaTek octa-core processor (1.5GHz), you’ll also find 4GB RAM with 32GB of internal storage. The battery is a capacious 5100mAh unit which should last you nearly two days on a charge. Toss in the 16.0-megapixel and 5.0-megapixel dual cameras, a fingerprint reader, and  Type-C charging, and you’ve got a heck of a bundle. Available in a flash sale for just $129.99.

Wearables and Accessories

Household Tech

Google might be working on a loyalty program for the Play Store

Alexandra Arici
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Do you often buy apps, games or music albums from the Google Play Store? Well, then we have some good news for you. According to 9to5Google who spotted evidence in the latest Play Store build, it seems like Google is working on a new loyalty program called Google Play Points.

The program is meant for people who purchase content from the Play Store including music, movies, TV shows, books and of course, apps.  To give you an example, someone making a $1 purchase in the Store will receive 1 Play Point in return. Once you’ve earned enough Play Points, you’ll be able to exchange it for Google Play credit. This, in turn, can be used for future purchases through the service.

Google wants to reward frequent Play Store shoppers

But that’s not all. A thread in the discovered code reveals that you might be able to use Play Points to acquire special in-app items.

We’re also told the loyalty program features different “Levels” and each will come with its own set of unique benefits. At this point, we don’t know what these will be, but at least we can take a look at the different badges that will be available inside the program.

Moreover, there will also be a “Points History” section where users will be able to keep tabs on their progress including the number of points they have earned so far.

Keep in mind that all this info came from an APK teardown, so the various lines of code discovered merely hint at possible future features. This doesn’t necessarily mean that Google will ever offer this features, although it’s a strong possibility.

So far, we haven’t heard anything else about the Google Play Points program, and we have no idea when the search giant might make it official. Although with the Pixel 3 event apparently scheduled for October 9, there’s a big chance Google might have a thing or two to say about its new loyalty program.

Sick and tired of the Google Assistant? Here’s how to deactivate it

Alexandra Arici
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The Google Assistant was a hot new feature of Allo, Google’s messaging service which debuted back in May 2016. The virtual helper has come a long way since then, by adding tons of new features and expanding to smartphones, tablets, speakers and more.

If you own an Android handset, it probably has the Google Assistant on board. But while the AI-infused wing-man can be very helpful in some situations, you’ve probably already experienced the annoying instances in which the Assistant opens on its own.

This might happen while your pressing the Home button on your device for a bit longer than necessary, or sometimes even as your phone sits quietly in your pocket.

Alternatively, you might not need the Assistant’s help at all. Or not all the time anyway. So what can you do to silent Google’s active helper? Keep reading to find out what are your options.

Deactivate it completely

To completely deactivate the assistant, open the Google app on your phone. Then tap the hamburger menu located in the lower right corner. From there access Settings>Google Assistant (on top)>Settings>Phone. From here you’ll be able to toggle off the Assistant option.

Only deactivate the support button

This is the less radical option you have at your disposal. By deactivating the support button, you will avoid scenarios where the Assistant pops up as you long press the home button a bit longer than necessary.

On a number of Android handsets, you’ll have to access the Device menu, go to Applications>Default applications>Device assistant app. From there, you’ll be able to choose which assistant app you want to open when you press the start button. You can usually choose between Google’s and no supporting app.

But I was using the OnePlus 6 for this tutorial. So on this particular model, you’ll need to go to Buttons under Customization and find the Home button category. Under Long press action, I have the Search assistant enabled by default. But you can easily change that from there.

Uninstall updates

The third option you have is to go back to a previous version of Google where the Assistant didn’t exist. You can easily do so by uninstalling the updates to your Google app.

To do so access Settings>Applications and find the Google app. Click on it and find the three-dot menu located in the upper right corner. You’ll see the Uninstall updates option.

However, keep in mind that once you choose to use the options, other improvements might also disappear and you won’t have how to access them anymore. So think carefully, before you act.

Optoma NuForce BE Live5 headphone review: Wireless headphones with clarity and average battery life

Jason England
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NuForce is the audio-focused sub-brand from Optoma specializing in high-quality audio products. Previously known for its award-winning BE6i Bluetooth headphones, NuForce has prepared a follow up in the form of the BE Live5 headphones. Similar to the BE6i the BE Live5 are Bluetooth headphones this time using smaller 8mm drivers and packed into a smaller body. We were provided with these headphones for review courtesy of Optoma for an honest and unbiased review.

Packaging

I don’t often cover the packaging of a product unless there is something exceptional about it or there is a problem. Unfortunately, in the case of the BE Live5 it is the latter. While the packaging looks as good as you could expect, one of the buds was wedged in too tightly.

I fought with it for a while pulling on the cable until I was afraid it could get damaged. Then I resorted to using a pen to try to pry it out to no avail. Finally, I broke out my knife and had to cut it free, and in the process partially from haste and partially from frustration also scratched up the finish on the buds.

I’m certain this won’t be the typical experience for most customers and it was an anomaly, but it is important to point out every aspect good and bad.

Design

When it comes to earbuds there isn’t much you can do to stand out. In order to fit the drivers, battery, and other electronics they all generally take on the same shape. Some standouts with the NuForce BE Live5 though are the aluminum build, flat cable, magnetic backs, ipx5 sweat protection, hard case, and included Comply foam tips.

Out of all of these features, the magnets are my favorite. It’s not something new or unique to the BE Live5 buds, but it is quite convenient none the less. The option to wear them around your neck as a necklace using the magnetic clasp makes it easier to carry around and I really appreciate that.

The in-line controls can be found on the right side of the tangle free cord along with the micro USB charging port. Unfortunately, it is micro USB and not USB-C, but that’s hardly unusual and similar among other Bluetooth headphones. The controls are easy to distinguish with touch alone and are snappy and responsive.

While the buttons work well NuForce uses a pairing shortcut that requires holding down the power button. In order to pair you will have to continue holding down the power button after turning the headphones on. Otherwise, there is no other way to enter pairing mode and you’ll end up turning them off.

It is always annoying when this shortcut is used on Bluetooth headphones. A better alternative would have been a shortcut requiring you to hold down both the volume up and down buttons for pairing.

Fit and Comfort

The Optoma NuForce BE Live5 headphones include three pairs of ear tips and two Comply foam tips along with three sizes of ear wings. For someone like myself with smaller ear canals, it can be challenging to find headphones with ear tips in the proper size. Some brands such as Klipsch provide a smaller option which fit perfectly.

While most tend to include ones too large and the buds are constantly falling out. That was the case with the BE Live5 buds. Fortunately, when you combine it with the included ear wings it provides a much more secure fit. With this combination, I no longer had any issues with them falling out.

I was also impressed the included ear wings were so flexible soft, making them more comfortable than others I’ve tried in the past. The more rigid ear wings can often lead to early ear fatigue and don’t stand up to long listening sessions.

Between the smallest ear tips and medium-sized ear wings, the fit was extremely comfortable, making it easy to listen to music for hours without any discomfort.

On a side note replacing the ear tips was extremely frustrating. This was by far the most difficult pair of headphones I’ve ever had to deal with when it came to inserting the ear tips. If you’re lucky, you won’t have to exchange them swap them out repeatedly to find a comfortable secure fit.

Sound Quality

The BE Live5 make use of the aptX and AAC codecs for Bluetooth streaming. These two codecs provide near CD like quality if both your headphones and phone support it.

The sound signature of the BE Live5 is light and crisp with wonderful detail and excellent separation. Thanks to this I was able to pick up on some subtle nuances in songs that can get lost on other pairs of headphones. Bass lovers should look elsewhere, however.

For all of the clarity, the BE Live5 provides the bass takes a backstage here. That doesn’t mean there is no bass, only that the bright highs and crispness takes center stage here. The BE Live5 headphones would be better suited for music lovers who prefer a more balanced and clear sound.

Battery

Battery life on the BE Live5 headphones was pretty average. They are rated for 8 hours of usage and that is pretty close to what I experienced. There are headphones that offer more, generally ones with charging cases or collar designed headphones though.

One major annoyance with the BE Live5 headphones is once you reach 20% battery it constantly announces your battery is low in a loud overpowering voice. The repetition was completely unnecessary and the volume of the voice was actually painful to my ears.

Bluetooth Range

Similar to most Bluetooth devices I’ve reviewed the BE Live5 performs well within 30ft. without any interruptions or drop outs. If you’re indoors with walls between you and your device you can expect to lose signal occasionally once outside of 30ft. When outdoors the distance is a little better only deteriorating around 40ft. or more.

Conclusion

Overall, the NuForce BE Live5 are a decent value if you aren’t a bass head and prefer a more balanced sound. The comfort fit will keep you immersed in your music for hours enjoying every bright detail. That is until it begins yelling repeatedly in your ear the battery is low. However, if you’re someone who prefers more bass in their music than I’d look elsewhere.

Deal: Take $250 off a Pixel 2 XL or $300 off an LG G7 or V35 with this Project Fi

Jason England
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If you’ve been in the market for a new phone and want to give Project Fi a try then you’re in luck. Lately, Project Fi has been running some great promos such as the deal from last month for LG, Moto, and Pixel phones. Not only is this new deal great, but it is for some of the best phones you can get on Android making it even sweeter.

Pixel 2 XL Deal

Project Fi’s latest promo will save you $250 on a Pixel 2 XL. In order to get the discount, you must purchase the device from Project Fi’s site and activate it within 30 days. Activating within 30 days is an important step here because the $250 discount comes in the form of service credits.

The phone will also need to keep service for 30 consecutive days within 60 days of purchasing and is for full service, not data only plans. This deal is also limited to one per customer but if you happen to be on a group plan each person counts as an individual customer.

LG G7 and V35 Deal

 

This next discount will get you $300 off both the LG G7 ThinQ and V35 ThinQ effectively dropping the price to $449 for the G7 and $599 for the V35. There are far fewer terms for this deal and unlike with the Pixel 2 XL it does not come in the form of service credits. Instead, you get the discount all up front.

However, you must activate the phone on Project Fi within the first 30 days. If you fail to do so the remaining amount for the phone will be charged to your account. There is no minimum activation time but you must activate for full service including voice and data.

Samsung is looking to bring new features to midrange phones first

Jason England
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Samsung makes a big splash every year with their top two phones from the S and Note series. However, these are generally expensive and not in everyone’s price range. Many consumers turn to midrange phones looking for a good compromise on specs and price.

While Samsung offers a variety of midrange phones they are feeling the pressure from Chinese brands as they increase their sales each year. Companies such as Huawei, Oppo, Vivo, and Xiaomi often offer better bargains in the midrange and are gaining large market shares in India and China.

That’s bad news for Samsung as they observe their sales numbers weaken, watching as phone sales become stagnant in the rest of the world. Most notably, the Galaxy S9 sales have shown a 20% decline over the Galaxy S8.

Now, Samsung is looking to catch up, or as they put it differentiate their midrange models. Beginning as early as this year Samsung is planning on making a shift to include new features in their midrange Galaxy A series before flagships.

DJ Koh, president of Samsung’s mobile department had this to say in an interview with CNBC, “In the past, I brought the new technology and differentiation to the flagship model and then moved to the mid-end. But I have changed my strategy from this year to bring technology and differentiation points starting from the mid-end.”

What features could these be? Will it be hardware specific or software features? Samsung hasn’t said, they’ve only mentioned the first of these devices will come by the end of the year. Samsung hopes this will draw in the millennial crowd who have been unable to afford their flagships but want more full-featured phones.

To quote Koh he said, “So we are very much focusing on millennials who cannot afford the flagship. But how can I deliver meaningful innovation to our millennials? That’s the reason I’m trying to differentiate the mid-section.”

It has been my belief after reviewing some lower end phones from Samsung that they often lag behind the competition in specs or features. Hopefully, with this new strategy, they can put an end to this.

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