Motorola has sent press invitations to many news outlets for an event in Brazil. The invite doesn’t call out the G6 in name, but it seems like this would be a perfect time. This time last year we had the G5 announcement so now is ideal timing for a G6 introduction.
If you analyzed the invite, it’s green background match the green wallpaper in the Moto G6 leaks. Other than that, the invite-only says “Save the date” as all most of these sort of things often do.
As with the previous Moto G lines, the G6 should provide a great budget option for anyone that doesn’t want to shell out hundreds for a good android phone. We should finally find out if the leaks are accurate in a couple of weeks.
What do you think about the G6? Are you excited about it? Leave a comment below with your feedback or opinion.
Honor has been in the news as of late thanks to the release of the Honor View 10. This device is battling the OnePlus 5T as the best “budget” device on the market.
Honor 10 Launch Event
However, it seems that Honor has something else up its sleeves as the company prepares to unveil another device. The folks at Digital Trends got their hands on a new press invitation for an event on May 15th in London.
While there hasn’t been much mention of an upcoming Honor device, it seems this could be the Honor 10. We are coming up on the anniversary of the launch of the Honor 9, which was released in June of last year.
A recent leak has revealed that the Honor 10 will likely sport a 5.7-inch display while being powered by the Kirin 970. This is the same chipset found on the Honor View 10, as well as Huawei’s Mate 10 Pro.
The leak also suggests that there will be three different configurations starting at 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. This could go all the way up to 6GB of RAM and 128GB of onboard storage.
Other details are scarce, but considering how popular the Honor 9 was last year, a successor would definitely be welcome. The best part about Honor launching another device is the fact that it will likely be available here in the US.
While Honor’s parent company, Huawei, continues to battle the US government, Honor has been flying under the radar. Its devices will launch on the likes of Amazon, providing for easier consumer access
We’ll have to wait and see what Honor has been working on. In the meantime, let us know what you would like to see from Honor at its May 15th event. If you don’t want to wait, be sure to check out these great deals on the Mate 10 Pro and Honor Mate SE.
If you’re looking for a ever-popular “brain trainer” or puzzle-type of apps or games, a new one available in the Play Store is Boardefuse. Boardefuse is a new all-ages puzzle game from the developer Chronohole. Like, very new… 10+ installs to-date (as of time of writing)! No, not 10 million— 10. And that’s ok; many new apps come out every day, gaining a very small following on it’s way to global domination. It just means it’s new, and that the masses have yet to discover it.
But for a new app to garner quick attention- to grow the way the developer dreams of, the app has to be a number of things including pretty, to learn, offer a general amount of variety, and be immediately (let’s face it) addictive. Finding this combination is the secret sauce that all developers chase on a daily basis.
To be frank, Boardefuse doesn’t quite hit the mark on these primary features. I also have to admit that during my time with Boardefuse, I was generally confused most of the time.
Game Premise
The idea of Boardefuse is a combination puzzle game and brain trainer, forcing you to think creatively to defuse as many bombs as possible on a given game board; linking them under a set of rules/constraints mandated by the game.
Bombs can have numbers or symbols on them; or can be blank (a deactivated bomb). On each game board there is a central blue “B” bomb that you create your links from. Each bomb’s number indicates the quantity of bombs that have to be linked in front of it (e.g.; a “3” bomb has to have 3 bombs in the chain before it).
Blank bombs and ones with symbols allow you to tweak these rules to help reach your goal. You can also acquire tools (e.g.; nippers to defuse bombs) as bonus items or in-app purchases.
The boards start easy, but as you progress through them they become increasingly complex and difficult. Again, the intent is to provide an easy-entry puzzle game that make you think, without being too involved.
Game Reality
Okay, maybe I’m just not getting it, but I’ve had a hard time with Boardefuse as a player. To me, the entire experience is confusing and ambiguous. I’m really not even sure where to start as the whole experience meanders.
Starting with the overall aesthetic, the combination of earth-tone colors and thin font made it fairly difficult for my eyes to read, and to understand the flow of the interface.
The nine tutorial levels are intended to guide you through all the basic game mechanics and challenge types to encounter. But when I completed level 9, I did not feel much more prepared for gameplay than I was at level 1.
Navigating Boardefuse felt like I was on my own most of the time. There’s a lot of icons, without a lot of explanation. If you were to hand me your phone asking me for help in getting to a certain screen, I don’t believe I could do it in under three tries.
Once gameplay began, the experience was similarly underwhelming. The same earth-tones just don’t offer a feeling of invitation and stimulation. The gameplay itself was just ‘blah’; it offered no excitement or invitation to keep playing on. On the positive side, gameplay mechanics were pretty good; the game icons were responsive to touch and slide inputs.
Overall
I just can’t recommend Boardefuse to you. From the drab colors, to the ambiguous interface, to the lack of instruction; I never did get beyond the “OK, how does this work?” phase of gameplay.
Maybe I’m all wet here. Maybe there’s something basic I’m just flat-missing. But until that enlightenment happens, I would move on to other, more established puzzle games. If you do decide to give it a try and have better luck than I do, please let us know at AndroidGuys.
As automobiles continue to get smarter, we see less of that old stereotypical grease monkey mechanic looking under the hood as he tries to diagnose issues. Today it’s much easier for someone to troubleshoot a car or isolate a problem. What with computers and all, it’s often as simple as plugging into a device and waiting for a readout.
We’re in an era where it’s also easier for car owners to figure out what’s wrong with their automobile. Forget asking Uncle Dave to drive it around and see if he can find the problem. Today we get the luxury of knowing what’s up, even without asking a single person.
For some of us, the sudden presence of a “check engine” light can be quite scary. Are you gonna break down in the middle of your commute? What exactly has gone bad? Will you be dropping hundreds of dollars to fix a problem? Is this because you ignored other warning signs or might it be something brand new? It’s hard to know for certain what’s behind that vague symbol.
Fixd is an interesting solution in that it’s comprised of both hardware and software. Offered by Georgia-based Fixd Automotive, it gives users actionable and often very helpful information about their vehicle. It tells you what you might expect to find at a mechanic or dealer.
In short, the hardware plugs directly into your car’s OBD-II port and the software is handled via a mobile app. The Fixd sensor draws off of the power of the car and does not need to be charged.
Using either the Android or iOS app you will find that your phone pairs to the sensor via Bluetooth. After that you’re off and running and able to pull diagnostics.
The OBD-II port is found under the dashboard or in the glove box in many cars; you must have one from 1996 or newer for the Fixd to work. Interestingly enough, it does work with hybrid vehicles, too.
via: Fixd
Fixd can identify thousands or potential issues across pretty much all cars from the last two decades. Whether it’s a sensor that’s gone bad or engine oil temperature or something else, it can narrow down your problem. Sometimes these issues can resolve themselves or go away with minor adjustments.
Fixd won’t break down every indicator light across your dashboard but it’s more than adequate to point you in the proper direction. It can be used, though, to clear out a few lights in the console.
Considering the cost, it’s cheaper than taking a vehicle in for a once-over at the mechanic. Not only that, but it can be used for scheduled maintenance, too. Fixd can identify the major milestones for vehicles and alert you when it’s time for key preventive treatment.
Instead of giving you a specific code or technical readout, Fixd tells you the severity of the issue and what the potential consequence is if you continuing to drive. On one hand it could just be less efficient gas mileage; on the other it could be something much more serious. The app lists them in a tab and provides descriptions of each.
The Fixd app can work with multiple cars but requires additional sensors. Put one in each of your family’s vehicles and you’ll have one central hub to check on diagnostics and preventative maintenance.
We were sent a Fixd unit for review and, regretfully sat on it too long. Had we known how easy it was to use and how helpful it would be for regular maintenance and checkups we’d have put it weeks back. Instead, we waited until we had a check engine light situation in one of our cars.
Upon running the diagnostics we were alerted to five total issues, a few of which were electrical in nature. The Fixd app told us were looking at a specific bank and that one problem was O2-related.
After spending a day or so at the mechanic we learned that, indeed, these were the problems. The garage was able to dive deeper and help explain things to us, but we were more than happy with what Fixd gave us ahead of time.
For around $60 we definitely recommend picking up a Fixd unit. It’s cheaper than most one-time diagnostics, and it can also be used to help keep your vehicle regularly maintained.
If you’re wondering about what specs will be found the OnePlus 6, you don’t have to worry anymore. CEO Pete Lau confirmed in a blog post that the device will definitely be quite powerful.
The blog post speaks about what OnePlus is doing to create the best user experience. One factor of which is speed, because who wants to deal with a slow phone after a few months.
8GB of RAM?
The most exciting portion comes as Lau confirms that the OnePlus 6 will sport the Snapdragon 845, with up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. We already knew that the SD845 would be onboard, as it’s the flagship chipset for 2018.
What we didn’t know is that OnePlus is packing so much extra into the device. 8GB of RAM is not a new thing for OnePlus, but 256GB of storage is, considering that the 5T was limited to 128GB.
In addition to confirming these specs, Lau also went on to talk about a new specialized R&D team. This team, called Team FSE (Fast, Stable, Efficient) is focused on creating the fastest experience possible.
To do this, Team FSE is using graphics-intensive games such as PUBG. From there, they are ensuring that OnePlus devices are being used as efficiently as possible.
Adding 8GB of RAM to the mix is sure to make life easier for those who can’t stop playing games like PUBG and Fortnite. However, it’s still interesting to see OnePlus confirm these specs ahead of the device launch.
The biggest question that I have surrounding the OnePlus 6 is the battery. It’s all fine and dandy if I can play PUBG with no lag, but if I have to keep my device plugged in, there’s no fun in that.
Let us know what you think about the OnePlus 6 and what you are most excited for.
If you own an expensive smartphone or tablet, then it would be a good idea to invest in an insurance plan to cover your device, in case of accidents.
Well, Verizon customers who opted not to get insurance when they first purchased a device from the carrier, are now getting a second chance.
The carrier has opened up enrollment for its Total Mobile Protection insurance program. You can typically enroll with 30 days of buying a new device. Yet, if you haven’t so far, you can still jump on board Verizon’s insurance plan until May 31, 2018.
To add protection for your device, customers will be asked to pay a monthly fee, as follows:
Total Mobile Protection plan
Smartphones and smartwatches – $13/month per line
Basic smartphones and tablets – $10/month per line
Multi-device support – $39/month (for three lines)
Each additional line (4 to 10) – $9/month per line
Under the insurance program, customers can get deductible $29 screen replacements. Verizon knows that time is of the essence when something happens to your device, so it is offering next-day replacements for requests up until midnight ET.
Subscribers can choose whether they’d like a Verizon technician to come to them (option available in 360 cities) or if they’d prefer to go to one of the 325 repair locations. Or they can opt to mail their device in.
For mail-in repairs, new devices come in as soon as the next day for six days of the week. Even in the situation in which the replacement is needed in a location abroad. In case the foreign repair is done locally, Verizon says you’ll still be eligible for quick reimbursement.
Total Mobile Protection also offers coverage for loss, theft and water damage. What’s more, subscribers who have questions about their device can access Tech Coach to get the answers they need.
Did you get insurance when you bought your smartphone? If not, Verizon hopes you will reconsider your decision.
Looking to buy a new flagship and you wouldn’t mind signing up with Verizon? Well, Big Red just announced new promotional deals which shave up to 50% off select Android flagships including the Pixel 2, Galaxy S9 and LG V30.
Starting April 5 customers who trade in an old smartphone can get up to 50% off when they purchase the Google Pixel 2 or Pixel 2 XL. The deal also includes two months of free YouTube TV, a Google Chromecast and a Google Home Mini.
Obviously, the trade in amount depends on the model of the phone you’re willing to trade in. Customers will be able to get up to $424.99. This sum will be applied to their account over 24 months. The deal is available for a limited time.
But that’s not all. Verizon will be offering a second deal starting on April 5 which will allow customers to get 50% off on top Android devices such as the Galaxy S9 or Moto Z2 Force after an eligible trade-in.
Here are the eligible devices:
To get 50% off the Galaxy S9, Pixel 2, Moto Z2 Force or iPhone 8 trade:
Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge
Samsung Galaxy S8/S8+
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
Google Pixel/Pixel XL/Pixel 2/Pixel 2 XL
LG G6
LG V30
Moto Z2 Force/Moto Z Force
iPhone 8/8 Plus/7/7 Plus/6S Plus
To get 35% off the Galaxy S9, Pixel 2, Moto Z2 Force or iPhone 8 trade:
Samsung Galaxy S7
Samsung Galaxy Note 5
Samsung Galaxy S6/S6 Edge/S6 Edge+
LG G5
LG V20
Moto Z Droid
Moto Z2 Play
HTC 10
iPhone 6/6 Plus/6S
To get 50% off the Galaxy S9+, Pixel 2 XL, LG V30 or iPhone 8+ trade:
Samsung Galaxy S8/S8+
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
Google Pixel 2/Pixel 2 XL
LG V30
Moto Z2 Force
iPhone X/8/8 Plus/7/7 Plus
To get 35% off the Galaxy S9+, Pixel 2 XL, LG V30 or iPhone 8+ trade:
Samsung Galaxy S7/S7 Edge
Samsung Galaxy Note 5
Google Pixel/Pixel XL
LG G6
LG V20
Moto Z2 Play
Moto Z Force
HTC 10
To get 50% off the Galaxy Note 8 or iPhone X trade:
Samsung Galaxy Note 8
Samsung Galaxy S8+
iPhone X
To get 35% off the Galaxy Note 8 or iPhone X trade:
Samsung Galaxy S8
Google Pixel 2/Pixel 2 XL
LG V30
iPhone 8/7/7 Plus
The deal is available for current Verizon subscribers or switchers. The promo is offered for a limited time.
Yesterday, we told you about some great deals from Huawei on the Mate 10 Pro and Mate SE. Today, Huawei’s sub-brand, Honor, is launching its latest device with the Honor View 10.
Before a couple of years ago, Huawei and Honor were limited to other regions. This left those of us in the US looking for more options, in the dark.
That has since changed, and this is evidenced by the recent push of the Honor 7X and now Honor View 10. The View 10 was introduced back at CES 2018 before going up for pre-order last month.
Honor View 10 Available Now!
Now, the wait is over, as you can pick up the Honor View 10 from Amazon. As for its pricing, you’re looking at OnePlus territory, coming in around $499.
On the spec side of things, the View 10 sports a 6-inch display with a 2:1 aspect ratio. Powering the device is Huawei’s Kirin 970, the same chipset found in the pricier Huawei Mate 10 Pro. This has been coupled with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of expandable storage.
For those who want a great camera, you’re in luck. The View 10 sports a dual-camera setup, with a primary 20MP sensor and a secondary 16MP lens.
Finally, the View 10 includes a sizeable 3,750mAh battery, which should be more than enough to last through the day. Honor also claims that you can recharge the battery by 50% in just 30 minutes.
If you want to pick up the View 10, hit the button below, and be sure to let us know what you think.
When you say fitness tracker, most people probably think of a bracelet-like gadget that is to be worn around your wrist. But the Motiv Ring is an atypical fitness tracker.
Like its name aptly suggests, Motiv is a smart wearable which you slip on your finger. The miniature gadget connects to your smartphone and keeps tabs of your daily movements and heart rate.
Well today, the company behind Motiv announced the fitness tracker will be getting Amazon Alexa integration. So Motiv users will soon be able to ask Alexa questions about their stats and performance through any of their Alexa-enabled devices.
Motiv will soon be available for Android users. Finally!
Another big piece of news coming from the makers of Motiv is the following: they are launching an Android Open Beta, which we’re told will get a more comprehensive feature set by the end of the first half of 2018. Previously Motiv only worked with iOS, but soon enough you’ll be able to pair their Ring with an Android phone too.
What’s more, customers interested to purchase the Motiv Ring will soon be able to do so from Amazon. The product will also become available via national brick-and-mortar retailer, b8ta.
The Motiv Ring attracted a fair share of attention when it launched last year. It’s probably the most inconspicuous fitness tracker we’ve seen so far, and not many onlookers will be able to tell that Motiv is more than what it appears to be.
But the wearable has a few tricks under its belt. It can keep tabs on your steps, active minutes, heart rate, sleep, calories and distance. The ring is also water resistant, so you can take a shower with it on or wash your hands without a problem.
Interested parties can grab a Motiv Ring from the official Motiv website for $199.99 in Rose Gold or Slate Gray. But as we mentioned above, you’ll be able to grab one from Amazon soon, as well.
While Snapchat and Instagram continue to battle, new features are being released consistently. The latest comes from Snap, which has just announced a new Group Video Chat feature.
Group Video Chat
In a blog post, Snapchat announced that Group Video Chat is available starting today. This will allow you to create a group video chat with up to 16 of your friends at the same time.
Starting the chat is pretty easy, as you will simply tap the video icon when in a group chat. From there, your friend will receive a notification, allowing them to join for as long as the chat is going on for.
If you don’t want to get in on the video chat fun, but still want to chat, there’s a way to do so. Snap has also confirmed that you can do a voice-only group chat, which will hold up to 32 members.
The fun part about doing the Group Video Chat is that you will be able to use any of your favorite ‘face lenses’. This means that you can have as much fun as you want to for the duration of the video. Even if it’s just to make funny faces while everyone is talking.
The update is a server-side one, meaning that we just have to wait for the switch to be flipped. Snapchat will be bringing the feature to more users and markets over the next week.
Let us know if you’ve taken this for a spin, and how it worked for you and your friends.
