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Question of the Week: How do you feel about the T-Mobile and Sprint merger?

AndroidGuys
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The big news this week undoubtedly belongs to the report that T-Mobile and Sprint have officially, and formally, agreed to a merger. It could be quite some time before the deal is finalized, if at all, but it’s no longer just rumors and conjecture. So, that brings us to the Question of the Week.

You Tell Us

We’d like to know what you think of the proposed deal between T-Mobile and Sprint. Are you affected by it in one way or another? Do you think it’s good for consumers? Or, do you think it potentially makes things worse?

On one hand we have another major player in the US, taking us from two to three large carriers. On the other hand, we have one less competitor in the market who could push conversations forward or proactively make an impact.

Share your opinion and win a $25 Gift Card!

Leave us a comment below with your feedback regarding the T-Mobile and Sprint merger. We’ll go through the comments after one week and randomly select a winner. If your name is drawn, you’ll win a $25 Google Play Gift Card. Use it to buy apps, games, movies, eBooks, or music — you decide!

Comments entered before Sunday, May 6 (11:59PM PST) will be counted. As long as you’re on point and stick to the topic, we’ll consider you for the drawing!

Rowkin Surge Charge True Wireless Earbuds Review – The best sport buds?

Josh Noriega
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If you’ve done some searching for a pair of truly wireless earbuds, chances are you’ve come across Rowkin. The up-and-coming company has a few solutions under its belt now, with no signs of stopping. We particularly like how competitive it is with cost. A good pair of true wireless earbuds doesn’t come cheap, and Rowkin makes a valiant attempt to get there with affordable pricing.

But usually, this practice results in considerable compromise. Well, Rowkin has passed us its latest device, the sporty Surge Charge, to examine where they’re at today. Let’s find out if this is the best pair of true wireless earbud for active lifestyles.

Rowkin Surge Charge Earbuds

Design

As we’ve suggested, the Surge Charge isn’t your typical true wireless earbud. They are completely wire-free, but the design is tuned for use with exercise as opposed to just sitting. This is immediately apparent when you get them in your hands.

They make no effort whatsoever in being small-as-possible earbuds like most of the competition (though, Rowkin does offer this kind of alternative for casual use). The earpiece housing is rectangular and bulky, and you’ll see an imposing ear glide shoot out from the top.

We’ve had various true wireless earbuds come our way here at AndroidGuys, and the Surge Charge are at the bottom of the “premium” scale. But we must remind ourselves about Rowkin’s intent. Activity earbuds are more about function than fashion, and we can understand that we can’t have it all at this price-point. The main goal is that they work well (which we’ll get into soon).

As far as the packaging, it’s pretty basic stuff. You’re given multiple size ear tips, USB-A to microUSB charging cable, and a carrying/charging case. The earbuds can function without the case if you’re looking to save some dough. Rowkin offers them sans the case for $20 less (just called the Surge).

Rowkin Surge Charge Earbuds
The Surge Charge packaging contents.

A downside comes out of the fact that the Surge wasn’t originally designed with a case in mind. Most true wireless earbuds have pin connections with their case slots, which allows for effortless charging. The Surge have to be charged with a microUSB cable, therefore, Rowkin had to incorporate corresponding short microUSB cables in the case’s interior. You must plug in the earbuds to charge, each time. Does it work? Yes. Does it lack in finesse? Definitely.

Another gripe is how thick the case is. One of the best qualities of true wireless earbuds is their pocketability, and the Surge Charge‘s case kills that. You’ll be limited to carrying the system by hand (and there’s no wrist strap unfortunately) or in a travel bag.

Function

We’ve touched on the atypical independence of the Surge’s earpieces. This continues on to their function. For instance, each has its own 3-button set of playback controls. The buttons do the same thing, the user can just choose which earpiece to press.

Rowkin Surge Charge Earbuds
The middle button is to power on/off or play/pause, and the volume buttons double-up to go forward/back in tracks.

Unfortunately, this also means that when you get started, you have to turn each earpiece on separately (long-press the middle button). This operation could’ve been sidestepped if the earpieces communicated with the case. Typical true wireless earbuds know to turn off and charge when placed in their case and turn on when removed. The Surge Charge gets none of that. It’s only when you plug them in to charge that they shut off (but not vice versa). If you don’t plug them in, they’ll just remain in the state they were. There isn’t even an automatic shutoff feature if you stop playback and forget to manually turn them off.

The Surge Charge achieve their ultimate goal of being exceptional activity earbuds. Although bulky, the stiff but moldable ear glides are crucial for the superior security that the earbuds promise for any kind of workout. Once donned with the ear glides tightly pushed against the ear, the earpiece aren’t going to go anywhere. Granted, it’s a two-hand operation to insert and get the glide seated.

The in-ear fit could be better. We like how the nozzle angles to naturally insert, but there’s a thick bit between the earpiece and ear tip (we assume it’s the audio driver) that causes a little discomfort over time.

Rowkin Surge Charge Earbuds
The earpiece nozzle has a funky shape.

Additionally, we weren’t able to get the best seal with any of the three pairs of supplied tips. It would’ve been nice for Rowkin to include more selection to avoid this with picky ears. Many companies also include foam tips as they isolate noise better.

Where the clunky build benefits these earbuds is in electronic proficiency. The Surge Charge handles its wireless connection like a champ. We haven’t seen this level of Bluetooth stability before in a true wireless earbud. Even the best choices today suffer from a shotty signal, even when the mobile device is nearby. We didn’t have any playback cutoff while exercising with our phone in our pocket. The signal is unfazed until you walk several feet away from the source. Excellent.

Battery life isn’t as exceptional as the Bluetooth performance. At about 5 hours of playback in one charge, it’s above average but still in “true wireless earbud” territory. The charging case also has more capacity than we’re used to seeing, able to charge the earbuds five times over.

Sound

Rowkin Surge Charge Earbuds

We don’t generally reserve high expectations for the audio of “affordable” earbuds. There’s more out there that sound sub-par than great. Granted, true wireless earbuds have quite the challenge and still is a new market.

With that said, the Surge’s audio quality surprised us. We were so glad to a clear delivery rather than the muddle we can get from cheaper earbuds. Bass, in particular, is authoritative and robust. It does punch and memorable impact without being bloaty or interfering with the lower mid-range, a skill that many fail at. The mid-range is also nicely done. It isn’t pushed back like in the common V-shape frequency curve. While not as in-your-face as the bass, its contribution to the sound signature is significant.

The treble was our least favorite range, which is average in comparison to the rest. It lacks in detail and reach (i.e. higher frequency sparkle), but gets the job done. Soundstage and dynamics were also nothing to write home about. The sound space has some height and slight width. We’re just glad it’s not a completely, non-dimensional in-your-head kind of reproduction.

Final Thoughts

Rowkin Surge Charge Earbuds

The Surge Charge is a clunky true wireless earbud in every angle of its design, from the blocky form of the earpieces (and case) to the wired charging. But it’s not a bad option when seeing it for what it is. On the contrary, it’s a very good pair when it comes to function and price – two huge factors in this kind of earbud. They have a superior Bluetooth connection, are secure on the ears, and sound great overall. If you have an active lifestyle and can overlook the design quirks, then the Surge Charge should be a strong consideration.

10 best US universities for app developers (Promoted)

AndroidGuys
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When analysts look at the future of computing, they focus on mobile application software. And that seems logical. Facebook pays astonishing sums for Instagram and WhatsApp. And the ongoing patent wars between Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Samsung are world famous.

Apps are beneficial for almost every sphere of our lives: socializing, studying, entertaining, traveling, scheduling, buying and selling, and many others. If your mobile app obsession has triggered a deep curiosity and hunger for app development, you won’t miscalculate by following the impulse.

While some people managed to succeed as self-taught app developers, most choose to get their bachelor’s degree. College students get more than a set of knowledge and skills, de. They learn to think beyond the boundaries of any particular discipline. They do academic paper writing, complete research projects and other activities that someone would consider boring (and would definitely go to websites like this one). These activities help them develop perspectives that contribute to creative and innovative ways of thinking.

We can see “a gold rush” for developers. Their employment is predicted to grow 27 percent from 2014 to 2024. It is much more than the average for all occupations.

Pursue a legitimate education with a specific focus on mobile apps. It will help you find unlimited opportunities in this multibillion-dollar industry. Here’s a list of 10 best colleges that provide the right mix of skills for the in-demand career of an app developer.

Walden University (Naples, FL)

Walden University’s B.S. in Information Technology is one of the few online web development programs accredited by ABET, the internationally recognized computing accreditation commission. Combining classes from both information technology and business fields, it prepares students for long-term careers in IT and IT management.

Walden’s Bachelor Information Technology program with a focus in Web and Mobile Applications Development introduces the learners to the tools required to craft user-friendly, interactive applications on different platforms.

The advantage of the courses is their flexibility. If you have previous academic credits you may transfer up to 135 credits into the program to accelerate course work. The program has a 181 total credits curriculum.

Bryant and Stratton College Online (Buffalo, NY)

Bryant & Stratton College was founded in 1854 to provide practical workplace education. Today, it gives students a career-focused education that combines classroom instruction with real-world applications.

The Information Technology associate degree with a focus on mobile applications development provides instructions in Android programming, Java programming, and database fundamentals. You will be able to write, develop and test software programs for mobile applications. Total credits required for graduation is 60.

As a graduate of Bryant & Stratton, you will stand out among potential employees, as you will have a professional portfolio demonstrating your successful projects.

San Diego State University (San Diego, CA)

San Diego State University offers an Advanced (Post-Baccalaureate) Certificate in Web and Mobile Applications Development. Being launched in 2010, it has gained an immediate and huge attractiveness.

It focuses on learning and using advanced programming techniques to build software applications. The program is designed to challenge students to promote a better understanding of technology by practice. Learners get the first-hand experiences gained through projects.

The course’s duration is 12 months. The number of credits is also 12. The course is offered online and as a blend of classroom and online instruction (Hybrid classes).

Full Sail University (Winter Park, FL)

Full Sail University’s Mobile Development Bachelor’s Degree Program teaches a forward-looking curriculum with usability and design principles, software development and management, and application production for cell phones, iPads, websites, handheld games, and other devices.

You’ll experience a comprehensive study of the complete process used in professional application production. You will track the route from preproduction to market deployment. The course highlights IOS and Android Application Development, Integrated Product Development, Mobile Business and Marketing, Mobile Game Design, Mobile Interfaces and Usability.

It can be completed either online (32 months) or on campus (20 months). The total credit hours required for bachelor’s is 120.

UCSD Extension, Digital Arts Center (San Diego, CA)

The Mobile Applications Certificate Program at UCSD Extension, Digital Arts Center is an advanced training program for smartphone application enthusiasts and industry professionals who want to improve their skills in the field of mobile application development.

You can get a comprehensive training in interface and interaction design, programming and software development. Students produce mobile applications for mobile devices including iOS and Android-based smartphones.

They work directly with the instructors who are mobile application developers. Such practice enhances the learning process. It helps students better conceive individual and group concepts for mobile applications and execute the prototypes both in an individual and team-based setting.

Rasmussen College (Maitland, FL)

Rasmussen is one of the first educational institutions to offer an Associate’s Degree in Software Application Development. With this 18 months degree program you will learn multiple languages and databases (such as Java, C++, and SQL), and acquire skills in Microsoft® Azure, cloud computing, systems integration, and principles of user design experience.

Today, information sciences are developing super-fast. Considering this fact, Rasmussen College finds specialization beneficial for students and encourages it. Learners have an option of focusing on Apple iOS or Microsoft Universal Windows mobile applications.

Still, students can take advantage of a Flex Choice option while completing a Bachelor’s degree program. It allows them to use up to 18 credits in the self-paced study. Besides, it is available both on-campus and online.

University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA)

USC is known for their strong video game development program. In 2008 two students created the Radio app for the iPhone-providing users with access to more than 6,300 radio stations nationwide. So, their Information Technology Online Program with a focus on Mobile App Development is worth paying attention.

13 units of the course involve Mobile Application Technologies, Mobile Application Development (iOS), App Development for Phones and Tablets (Android), and Mobile Game Programming. You will engage location-based technologies that focus on collectively building a workable app by the end of each semester.

New York University (New York City, NY)

NYU offers a broad range of mobile app classes, from quick certificates to full-blown development programs. Furthermore, they offer courses in app marketing, mobile analytics, and mobile advertising.

At New York University’s School of Professional Studies, you can find a certificate program in iOS App Development for Apple. It requires completing 3 classes in a year. The program will leave you with full knowledge of iOS Application Development for iPhones, iPads, and iPods.

University of California, Berkeley (Berkeley, CA)

A seeker of an interactive and extensive program on applications development will be satisfied with UC Berkeley College offers. The Bachelor Degree of Science in Computer Science and Engineering equips undergraduates with skills from all aspects of computer science. It prepares them for the careers in the IT field.

UC Berkeley Extension has a course in Android Application Programming. It provides 30 instructional hours and includes 2 semesters.

Berkeley’s distinguished alumni include Douglass Engelbart (famous for his invention of the computer mouse), Andrew Grove, (Intel’s co-founder), and Eric Schmidt (former Google CEO).

Capella University (Minneapolis, Minnesota)

Capella is a young university with a progressive outlook. Here, you’ll find online bachelor’s degrees in Information Technology that are flexible enough to fit your busy life.

The Bachelor’s in Mobile Development has two major benefits. The first one is the Flexpath. It gives an opportunity of studying and taking classes at your own schedule and pace. The second one is the Virtual Lab Environment. It gives you a practical, hands-on learning experience. Programs are designed to teach Apple iOS, Android OS, iPhone, iPad, and Windows devices.

The degree requires 180 credits to graduate, including 45 general education credits. The maximum credit transfer is 135 quarter credits.

To create mobile apps you will need a wider pool of knowledge and skills compared to software or web development:

  • Mobile user interface design – knowing how to create a user-friendly interface;
  • Computing – having strong general computing skills that include software development and programming education;
  • Programming – being familiar with multiple programming languages;
  • Business expertise – developing solutions to business problems that arise as part of the implementation process.

The world of app development is one of the fastest growing in tech. You will have to keep up to date with the new trends in the field. Be ready to spend a lot of time to learn functional command of the latest programming languages and tools.

There is no doubt that the market for mobile app development is growing and prospects say that it will continue to do so. But there has been a lot of discussion over the past few years as to whether a degree is necessary to become an app developer or work in another computing career.

Watch: T-Mobile and Sprint make the case for a combined company

Matt Adams
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As you may know by now, Sprint and T-mobile have officially decided to merge. The companies have danced around merging for several years, never coming to terms. Late last year year, the companies appear to have finally called off talks only to rekindle them in the last week. Now, it appears the merger is on.

The new company will operate under T-Mobile’s flag and will be led by current T-Mobile CEO John Legere. It will keep headquarters in Bellvue, WA and Overland Park, KS, the current homes of T-Mobile and Sprint, respectively.

But the deal obviously raises some questions. Almost every economist will tell you that when you have fewer choices, prices tend to rise. Also, when companies merge, they tend to “streamline” and many people lose their jobs. To allay these fears, John Legere and Marcelo Claure, Sprint’s current CEO, took to YouTube to state their case for the new T-Mobile.

Legere and Claure make a forceful case that a combined company is the only hope for a nationwide 5G network. Whether that’s true or not, the new T-Mobile will have far more resources than the separate companies. T-Mobile owns a ton of spectrum in the 600 Mhz band while Sprint owns a significant amount of low band spectrum itself. Additionally, the companies can combine finances and talent to make the process more efficient.

Read more: What Is 5G and do we need it?

The new T-Mobile will have more than 100 million customers and that will give it significant power in the marketplace. We’ve already seen what the current T-Mobile can do. It pressured Verizon and AT&T to follow its footsteps with moves like getting rid of two-year contracts. Now it will have even more clout.

Now the question is, does the deal get past federal regulators. What do you think? Does the deal get certified? Should it? Let us know down in the comments.

Breaking: Sprint, T-Mobile boards approve merger

Matt Adams
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The on again off again merger of the nation’s third and fourth largest mobile carriers appears to finally be taking shape. The boards for both T-Mobile and Sprint just approved a potential merger.

Watch: T-Mobile and Sprint make the case for a combined company

Under the terms of the deal, T-Mobile’s parent company Deutsche Telekom will have a controlling 40 percent stake in the newly combined company. Softbank, Sprint’s majority owner, will receive a 30 percent stake. No money will change hands as the merger will be an all-stock deal. There is also reportedly no break-up fee if the deal falls through, unlike previous efforts to merge the companies. The deal is valued somewhere north of $26 billion, Sprint’s current value. T-Mobile is currently valued at $55 billion and the two companies have about $60 billion in combined debt.

As for leadership, it seems that John Legere, the outspoken CEO of T-Mobile, will stay in charge. The company plans to have dual headquarters in Bellvue and Kansas City, the current homes of T-Mobile and Sprint, respectively.

Read more: What Is 5G and do we need it?

The deal will now head to the Department of Justice for final approval. Critics of the deal worry that reducing the number of major carriers in the country from four to three will leave fewer choices for consumers. Proponents of the deal feel that a combined Sprint/T-Mobile will provide a bigger challenge to AT&T and Verizon, the country’s two largest carriers, and thus provide more competition and lower prices. According to the Wall Street Journal, a combined company would have over 100 million customers, second only to Verizon Wireless.

This is a breaking news story. Stay tuned for more details.

Saturday Savings: Tech and Gear on sale this weekend

Andrew Myrick
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Another week has gone by, and that means it’s time for a slew of new deals to be revealed. We have found some of the best devices and accessories that are on sale this week.

While we don’t have the same amount of deals this week as previously, there are still some goodies. These include offerings from Xiaomi, Nokia, and even the Philips Hue light bulbs.

Save on new tech

Moto X4 Prime Exclusive – $399.99 $299.99

The Moto X4 practically marked the end of the Moto X line as we knew it. The device launched with a shiny build, dual-cameras, and came in as a mid-range option.

Currently, Amazon is offering the Prime Exclusive version for $100 off. This brings the price down to just $299.99, which is quite the bargain for a very capable handset.

Save on Accessories

Tovavoon Portable Wireless Charger – $26.99 $19.49

Portable chargers are some of the most convenient accessories on the market. But it seems that new options are becoming available for portable wireless chargers.

Tovavoon is likely a company you have never heard of, but its portable wireless charger is on sale for less than $20. The charger features a capacity of 10,000mAh and can charge all of your Qi-enabled devices.

Submit your Deal!

Do you have a product, service, app, or game that’s on sale? We’d love to hear about it. Please take a few minutes to fill out this form and we’ll consider it for an upcoming post.

Google begins offering a new take on how you listen to your favorite podcast

Andrew Myrick
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Although there are plenty of apps on the Play Store which provides the ability to play your favorite podcasts, Google is looking to do more. Instead of relying solely on Google Play Music, you can now play podcasts directly from your Google searches.

A new way to play podcasts

The Big G confirmed this to the folks at Pacific Content, and the feature is already showing up for most. In order to access this new functionality, you can simply search for your favorite podcast.

When the results appear in the Search app, you can select a podcast to listen to and be off to the races. You will also be prompted as to whether you want to add this new Podcast shortcut to your home screen.

If you are searching for a specific podcast, you will find recent podcast episodes. There will then be a small play button to the right of the episode. Pressing this will let you get started, while also making it possible to find the right one.

Google Assistant Integration

In addition to being able to use Google to find your favorite podcasts, there are some extra goodies. Google confirmed that Assistant integration has also been included with this new functionality.

Even if you haven’t already started tinkering with this new functionality, Google Assistant still plays a part. You can simply issue an “OK Google” command, and start listening to your favorite podcasts.

One of the best parts is the fact that you can use your Google Home to listen today. You won’t have to wait for additional functionalities to be released, as these are already available for most users.

Cross-device compatibility

Keeping with the Google Home theme, the company has included some extra goodies. Say you’re on the drive home and want to fire up a podcast. However, when you get home, you would have to sync your smartphone with a speaker or something to get back to listening.

That won’t be the case with this new way to listen to podcasts. Instead, you can come home and pick up right where you left off with the help of your Google Home or Google Home Mini.

The “Podcasts” App

After you add the shortcut to this new Podcasts app to your home screen, let’s take a look at what’s inside. At the top, you will see the “Top Podcasts”, with “Trending Podcasts” listed below.

In the top right-hand corner, there is a search icon that allows you to find a specific podcast. However, there’s a chance that your podcast may not be listed, as Google has listed specific guidelines.

This app will make life easier for those who love listening to podcasts, so there will be nothing to worry about. We aren’t sure whether you should ditch your favorite podcast app just yet. However, Google has big plans to expand this new feature, including bringing the feature to Chrome on Android.

Images courtesy of Pacific Content

Here’s everything we know about the OnePlus 6

Andrew Myrick
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Whenever OnePlus is set to launch a new device, the hype train starts steaming down the tracks. This is especially true for new flagships that help set the bar each year.

We have already seen devices from Samsung and Sony, while LG and Motorola are likely to be around the corner. As the days go on, OnePlus is nearing a launch of its own with the OnePlus 6.

Hardware

OnePlus has come to be known as the provider of some of the most beautiful devices on the market. However, the OnePlus 6 is likely to offer some subtle (or major) changes to the hardware game.

Welcome the Notch

Getting us started, it has already been confirmed that the OnePlus 6 will sport a notch. This comes after more than a few devices have launched with the notch in-tow. Offerings from Apple, Huawei, and others have already hit the market with notches on the top.

OnePlus will be joining the party with its latest offering. However, the saving grace for those who don’t want to deal with the notch will come via software. We’ll cover this more a bit later.

For those who were hoping for a display similar to the iPhone X, you’ll be disappointed. OnePlus has already confirmed there will be some type of “chin” at the bottom of the display.

Here comes the Glass

For the last few iterations, OnePlus has stuck with using aluminum builds. This will be changing with the OnePlus 6, as the company will introduce a glass body.

While there has yet to be any confirmation of this, a glass back would open the door for wireless charging. Dash Charge has already become a fan favorite, as you can recharge in just 30 minutes. However, wireless charging would be a welcome addition to a device that already has fan support.

The introduction of a glass back will be OnePlus’ first since the failed OnePlus X. It’s likely that there will be plenty of arguments for or against this move.

The Headphone Jack returns

It seems that folks have calmed down a bit when it comes to the removal of the headphone jack. OnePlus doesn’t care either way and will be giving the consumer what they want.

In an interview with The Verge, Carl Pei confirmed that the OnePlus 6 will sport a 3.5mm headphone jack. It seems that the company is not ready to get rid of this older technology just yet.

You’ll be able to go swimming

Looking back at the history of OnePlus handsets, none of these have had official water-resistance. This is expected to change after the OnePlus India Twitter account teased the feature.

While the company has teased and confirmed many specs, there has been no confirmation of this just yet. With the recent trend of smartphones featuring some type of water resistance rating, we are hoping to see this come to the OnePlus 6.

The Alert Slider will stick around

In another teaser, OnePlus showed off what appeared to be the OnePlus 5T laying on top of the OnePlus 6. Folks quickly noticed that something was off about the OP6 – there was no alert slider.

Considering that the Alert Slider has been a great addition, removing it would definitely drive some folks away. Quickly, and thankfully, OnePlus came back and confirmed that the Alert Slider was simply moved to the right-side of the handset.

This means that the left-side will house the SIM card tray and the power button. The move is a bit surprising but is likely done to keep all of your volume controls on one side.

Internals

Now that we have the exterior of the device handled, let’s take a look at what’s coming via the internals specs. OnePlus has already confirmed quite a bit of information in this department as well.

The OnePlus 6 will be super-fast

With every new device launch, OnePlus opts for the fastest processor on the market. In 2018, that is the Snapdragon 845 chipset and is already found in the likes of the Galaxy S9 and others.

OnePlus will be keeping with the trend when it comes to the OP6. The company already confirmed that the SD845 will be onboard.

When it comes to speed, the smartphone will likely be the fastest on the market. OnePlus already confirmed that its upcoming handset will sport “up to” 8GB of RAM.

As expected, there’s likely to be a 6GB base model. However, we are also expecting to see a configuration with 8GB of RAM.

Storage for days

Since OnePlus has always decided to opt against including an SD card, this means that storage is at a premium. With the OnePlus 6, the same will ring true as the SD card slot will not make an appearance.

For the first time, a OnePlus device will sport “up to” 256GB of onboard storage. This is double the amount of storage that was found with the OnePlus 5T (128GB).

Camera

Dual-rear cameras were introduced into OnePlus’ lineup in 2017. This setup will return with the OnePlus 6.

It’s unlikely that there are any major camera changes, as OnePlus is likely to use sensors that have only slightly been improved. On the “selfie” side of things, there are rumors that the company could introduce an infrared sensor.

This would help to improve OnePlus’ facial recognition software. However, we could see OnePlus create something similar to Apple’s Animoji and Samsung’s AR Emoji. These have been unconfirmed as of yet.

Software & Extras

Those who hate heavy skins on Android can rest easy with the OnePlus 6. Carl Pei has already confirmed that the OnePlus 6’s software will be extremely close to stock Android.

The company’s OxygenOS launcher will make its return to the OnePlus 6. This will allow OnePlus to add extra features that have become known and loved, while keeping a stock feel.

There’s no reason for OnePlus to reinvent the wheel on the software side. So for the company to get even closer to stock is something that I’m welcoming with open arms.

Finally, we mentioned above that OnePlus will include software features to hide the notch. This has already been confirmed after the company tinkered with the idea to remove the ability to hide the notch.

Wireless headphones incoming?

OnePlus has been offering its own headphones which have been known as the OnePlus Bullets. However, a recent product listing suggests that we are going to see the “OnePlus Bullets Wireless”.

These would likely be completely wireless Bluetooth headphones. Android owners have been looking for a great AirPods competitor, and this could be the answer we’ve been looking for. Just don’t expect them to stay stocked for long.

Release Date and Pricing

The OnePlus 5T was discontinued just about a month ago. This meant that the race was on to figure out when the OnePlus 6 would be introduced.

The company took all of the guessing out of the game after announcing a launch event and date. On May 16th, in London, England, the OnePlus 6 will be shown off to the world.

The event will take place at Noon EST, and will be live-streamed for everyone. For those in London, you can purchase a ticket and get some hands-on time with the handset before it launches across the globe.

Expected Specs:

  • 6.2-inch OLED Display
  • Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 SoC
  • 6GB/8GB RAM
  • 64GB/128GB/256GB Storage
  • 20MP Front Camera
  • 16MP/20MP Rear Cameras
  • 3,450mAh Battery
  • Android 8.0 Oreo

As for pricing, this has been left up to some interpretation. When looking back at OnePlus’ recent history, we are expecting the base model handset to be priced around $550.

However, the high-end 8GB/256GB model could cost between $700 and $750. Even if pricing starts at $550, this will still undercut the likes of the Galaxy S9.

UAG Plasma and Plyo Cases for the Galaxy S9 Review

Josh Noriega
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Urban Armor Gear (UAG) makes some of our favorite cases. They don’t come cheap, but the notion of “You get what you pay for” totally applies here. So what makes them so special? Well, they strike such a good balance between durability and slimness. And do so with unique style.

UAG cases and colors available for the Galaxy S9 and S9+.

For Samsung’s new Galaxy S9 series, UAG offers four variants of its classic, composite design. We had our pick of two, and we went with the toned-down Plyo case for the Galaxy S9 and the more traditional Plasma case for the larger S9+. Let’s check ’em out.

UAG Galaxy S9 Smartphone Cases

Plasma Case

We’ve looked at UAG’s classic composite cases in the past, and the feel here is very familiar. Namely, the time-honored topographic stiffener design, hexagonal texturing, and faux screws continue to be carried over. The newest tweaks you’ll find are on the details around the perimeter, and the vibrant color additions.

We weren’t sure about this seemingly bright Cobalt blue color based on the product page. Our worries were calmed when we got it. The blue is actually deep and lush in person. It pairs fantastically with the Midnight Black Galaxy S9+, since the case has black accents throughout.

Speaking of which, the matte plastic you’ll find around the frame of the case is of a thick, rubbery quality – very durable stuff. It also contrasts nicely with the glossy body. Just like we said in the beginning, this case has equal amounts of looks and protection (rated with the military MIL-STD-810G impact standard).

UAG Galaxy S9 Smartphone Cases

That said, we imagine that not everyone will fancy the industrial facade. All of UAG’s cases follow this design language. The Plyo series is the only one that makes a departure (toning things down), which is why we’ve chosen to look at it too.

For being so rugged, we’re surprised at how slim the Plasma case is. It has bulk in just the right places, such as beefed up corners, suitably raised front lips to protect the phone’s display, and the ribbed sides to enhance grip. The cutouts for the phone perfectly align. We especially appreciate that the openings for the bottom port are enlarged to make sure the case doesn’t get in the way with usual phone operation.

We must say that although the case provides ample protection, UAG doesn’t opt to cover up the curved design of the Galaxy S9 – the sides slope down to follow the form of the phone and let the eye-catching curved display to show. Case makers always struggle with Samsung’s non-conventional design. The downside here is that, at the right wrong angle, the glass can be impacted here.

We’ve always loved the way UAG does the physical button overlay. They have the perfect thickness and tactile feel. The power button (and now also the Bixby button) have a very identifiable ridged texture, while the volume rocker is thicker on its ends. A pleasure as ever to use.

UAG Galaxy S9 Smartphone Cases
The power button.

Plyo Case

In a nutshell, the newer Plyo case is provides the same protection as the Plasma but in a more traditional form. UAG simplifies the back panel, removing all the texture of the composite case. This makes the Plyo look like the common transparent cases you find out there.

UAG Galaxy S9 Smartphone Cases

We initially thought this was a lite version of UAG’s signature case, but in-hand, it feels just as tough. UAG manages to maintain the stiff and sturdy quality (and military durability rating) despite the slimmer package. The design also retains the thicker frame (and corners), raised lip protection on the front, ribbed sides, and the same meaty buttons as on the Plasma. Though, the case has a tighter fit than most of its type, something to consider if you’ll be taking it on and off.

Being UAG, there is a distinctive flare in the design, though subtle. At a close look, you’ll catch that the back panel has a trapezoidal slope (with creases connecting all four corners). It looks nice to us and a great way to address the otherwise standard look to the case.

UAG Galaxy S9 Smartphone Cases

Final Thoughts

In our opinion, the only thing not to like about UAG’s cases is the price. It’s not exorbitant, but it’s hard to overlook the whole selection of cases on Amazon that cost much less. You can somewhat justify it by the excellent protection that UAG supplies (which it does without turning your phone into a brick), but there are still less expensive options that can too. We’ll say, if you love UAG’s design and plan to have your phone for the long run, then it’s worth it.

Official UAG Galaxy S9 page

Amazon is raising the price of its annual Prime membership from $99 to $119

Alexandra Arici
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During its quarterly earnings call this week, Amazon announced plans to increase the price of the annual Prime membership in the US by up to 20%.

Amazon’s finance chief Brian Olsavsky said that starting May 11 the company will charge $119 a year instead of $99 for Prime services.

The new pricing will be applied to existing members’ renewals beginning June 16. So if you’ve been thinking about subscribing to Prime, you should hurry up and do so before May 11, while you still have a chance to take advantage of the $99 pricing scheme.

However, those whose membership expires on or after June 16 will have to pay extra for the next round. To break it down, this means subscribers will have to spend around $10/month.

Earlier this year, Amazon announced it was raising the price of its monthly Prime membership from $10.99 to $12.99. The hike raised the annual total for a monthly membership to $156 from $132.

Yet, this is the first time Amazon has raised the price of its annual Prime membership since 2014. The price was previously $79 before it went up to $99 that year.

Why the price increase?

Amazon cited improved features as the main reason for the price hike. Four years ago, users had access to 20 million products for two-day shipping. In 2018, the number is more than 100 million and the shipping is faster and free. On top of that Prime subscribers can take advantage of Prime-only deals, music, videos and more.

Prime’s largest customer base in the US and here users usually sign-up on an annual basis. So the change will impact a huge impact. Actually, it was only last week Amazon’s CEO Jeff Bezos revealed that Amazon has over 100 million paid Prime members worldwide.

In related news, Amazon this week also announced a new, more expensive version of its Echo Dot speaker, aimed at kids.

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