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The Moviphone is a smartphone that doubles as a movie projector

Alexandra Arici
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Being able to use your smartphone as a movie projector is not a novel idea. Motorola offers the InstaShare Projector Moto Mod which can project images as large as 70-inches, but the caveat here is that these modular components only work with a Moto Z handset.

For those who don’t own a Moto Z, but would still like to give the whole smartphone as projector idea a try, there’s an alternative. It’s called Moviphone.

If you live in the US you’re probably familiar with Moviefone – a movie listing and information app that provides users with information regarding movie plots, screenings, TV show info and much more. But the Moviphone is something totally different.

This is actually an Android smartphone that comes with a built-in Laster High Definition (HD) 720p pico projector. Images projected can be as large as 100-inches, which tops the 70-inch of the InstaShare Projector Mod, and at 50 Lumens, the projector is quite bright.

What about specs, you might be wondering? Well, the Moviphone comes with a 5.5-inch display with FullHD (1920 x 1080) resolution and includes an octa-core MediaTek MT6750V chipset aided by either 3GB or 4GB of RAM with 32GB/64GB of internal storage (microSD card slot available for memory expansion up to 128GB).

When it comes to photography, the Moviephone takes advantage of the services of a 13-megapixel rear-facing camera with PDAF (phase detection autofocus) and an 8-megapixel wide-angle selfie snapper.

The device also has a fingerprint scanner on the back and runs Android Nougat out of the box. But don’t hold your breath for the Android Oreo update. Last but not least, the Moviephone relies on a pretty generous 4,000 mAh battery to keep things alive on board.

If the Moviephone sounds interesting to you, then you should know the device is available for $599 a pop. The listing on the company’s website says the phone will ship with 128GB of storage, although the specifications page does not mention a 128GB version. The phone will ship unlocked and is compatible with all carriers.

The Moviephone is currently on display at CES 2018, so if you’re in Las Vegas you might want to swing by and take a look before you place an order.

Google publishes new directory for Google Assistant commands

AG Deals Team
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Google Assistant has been one of the biggest centerpieces of new products being unveiled at CES 2018. We have seen new smart speakers announced, along with a new lineup of smart displays from the likes of LG and Lenovo.

However, one of the problems for the “everyday” person when it comes to Google Assistant is that there was no real way to know everything it’s capable of. Much of using an Assistant-powered device was just trial and error to see what would work and what wouldn’t work.

It seems Google has finally recognized this problem and has created a new landing page for Google Assistant. This new directory has a myriad of sections, making it easy for you to narrow down commands that you are looking for. There is even a search bar, making life even easier if you’re looking for something specific.

On top of being able to find specific commands, this new directory also shows you which devices are compatible. You can even see more information about the services that are acting as the backbone for the various commands, including ratings.

Finally, across the top of the directory, you’ll find some presets which will show you which commands work with select smart home devices. These include Philips Hue, Wemo, LG, and of course, Nest. From there, you can get some extra help to make sure you’re using the right commands with Google Assistant.

With the probability of more Assistant-enabled smart displays on the way, this is definitely one way to familiarize yourself with Google Assistant commands ahead of time. Or, this can be a great way to figure out everything you can do with Assistant if you happened to get a Google Home Mini for Christmas.

Hit the button below to check out the full list of Google Assistant commands, and be sure to let us know some of your favorites.

Explore Google Assistant Commands!

Android Oreo starts rolling out to the OnePlus 5 (again)

AG Deals Team
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OnePlus has been working on updating its lineup of devices to Android 8.0 Oreo, and apparently, the company has been experiencing a myriad of issues. The company started rolling out the OxygenOS 5.0 update for owners of the OnePlus 5, but that update had to be pulled after a series of issues were found.

Fast forward a week or so, and now the fun is back on, as OnePlus has started rolling out the update again. However, instead of carrying the OxygenOS 5.0 software version, the update currently rolling out is OxygenOS 5.0.1.

As for everything that the new update brings, here’s the full changelog:

  • Updated to Android O (8.0)
  • Launcher
    • Optimizations for Shelf
    • Now you can upload your photo through Shot on OnePlus
  • Camera
    • New Camera UI design
    • Optimizations for photo quality
    • Added beauty effect for Portrait Mode
  • Gallery
    • Added “Places” tab for viewing photos on a map
  • Calculator
    • Added history feature
  • Clock
    • Added alarm calendar feature
  • System
    • Added Parallel Apps feature
    • New design for Quick Settings
    • New design for Lift up display
    • Added “Adaptive model” screen calibration
    • Optimizations for Wi-Fi
    • Optimizations for Battery Saver
    • Updated Android security patch to December

According to folks on the OnePlus Forums who have already installed the update, it seems to be finally stable and there are not any major or glaring bugs. Although the update is rolling out via OTA for many users, I know there are some impatient folks out there.

For those who don’t feel like waiting for the OTA update to arrive on their devices, you can hit the link here. This will direct you to the OnePlus Downloads page where you can download the correct version of OxygenOS for the OnePlus 5.

If you have received or flashed the update, let us know how it’s running for you in the comment section below.

T-Mobile begins offering BOGO deals on plethora of Android phones

AG Deals Team
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While everyone else is focused on whether the power is out at CES 2018, T-Mobile is still getting the ball rolling. The Un-Carrier is working on continuing to expand its user base and has started offering its first BOGO deal of 2018.

In the press release, CEO John Legere states that “another 5 million people joined the Un-carrier last year,” and that big things are planned for 2018. This first BOGO promotion includes “TWELVE superphones from Samsung, LG and another major player”. This “major player” is obviously the iPhone, if you’re into that kind of thing.

In addition to offering BOGO on select devices, T-Mobile is also offering up to $150 off certain smartphones. The list of eligible devices includes the following:

Finally, T-Mobile is offering up to $650 off select devices when you switch from Verizon, as this is part of T-Mobile’s current #GetOutoftheRed campaign. This deal will allow T-Mobile to pay off your current device, provided that it’s one of the following:

  • Pixel 2
  • Pixel 2 XL
  • Samsung Galaxy S8
  • Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus
  • “Another ultra-popular smartphone”

The best part about T-Mobile’s first big deal of 2018 is that you can actually combine all three deals on the same account, provided that it’s not for just a single line. Nonetheless, if you want to learn more, hit the link here and get switched over to the Un-Carrier today!

Moshi unveils a pair of sleek wireless headphones, a lineup of ultra-secure bags

Alexandra Arici
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International accessory designer, Moshi was present this week in Las Vegas during CES 2018 with a range of new products. The company unveiled the new Tego bag collection, alongside a pair of wireless on-ear headphones called the Avanti Air.

Moshi’s new Avanti Air are the direct successor of the original on-ear wired Avanti headphones which saw the light of day a couple of years ago, although they come sans the cord.

The new audio accessory takes advantage of a unique, high-end look which Moshi hopes will help the product stand out from the crowd of competing alternatives. The headphones feature a stainless steel headband and leatherette earcups that are angled at 14-degrees to fit the contour of the wearer’s head perfectly.

Appealing design aside, the Avanti Air take advantage of a 40-millimeter XR40 Extreme Resolution drivers to deliver robust sound without any hint of distortion or imbalance. With Clear Voice technology embedded, the headphones promise superior phone call clarity, as well as improved speech quality even in noisy environments.

Moshi also added a unique feature called DJ4two, which basically allows you to connect two connect two Moshi wireless headsets so you can listen to the same song with a friend.

The headphones are said to be able to offer 27-hour battery life and offer the services of both Siri and the Google Assistant – which can be activated by a single button push. The Avant Air headphones are already available on Moshi’s website for $300 a pop.

Moving on to Moshi’s new Tego bag collection, which is apparently inspired by urban streetwear. Each of the four bags in the lineup ensures you can safely carry your gadgets and personal possessions while you travel thanks to the anti-theft concealed zippers, cut-proof fabric and 3M Scotchlite reflective strip for safety at night.

Tego Backpack

Price: $160

The Tego Backpack is the most spacious carrying accessory from the new collection. It boasts a futuristic design and, even allows users to charge their phone via the pass-through USB cable that attaches to the optional portable battery inside the bag.

The backpack includes a padded compartment that can accommodate laptops with displays of up to 15-inches. It’s available in Stone Gray or Charcoal Black.

Tengo Sling Messenger Bag

Price: $135

Ideal for students who are always on the go or those who like to cycle, this crossbody bag features a quick-release strap for easy access and an ActiveStrap to ensure stability on the move. It can accommodate devices with displays of up to 13-inches. Interested parties can grab it in Stone Gray or Charcoal Black.

Tego Crossbody Sling

Price: $120

The Tego Crossbody Sling is perfect for frequent travels. Its compact interior allows users to store tablets and smartphones up to 10.5-inch. It’s available in the same color versions.

Tego Slingpack

Price: $100

The Tego Slingback is a compact cross-body carrying accessory that features different separate compartments for your smartphones, wallet, keys and other personal items. Get it in Stone Gray or Charcoal Black.

The luxury Debussy headphones aim to eliminate the need for other listening devices

Alexandra Arici
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There has been no shortage of intriguing new headphones announcements at CES 2018. But the Funky Sound Studio’s Debussy are a different breed of headphones.

Named after the French composer, Debussy is a brand of luxury audio products that aims to make you forget about your other listening devices including your smartphone, mp3 player or laptop.

Debussy’s top of the line model is called Nathaniel and it comes equipped with smart capabilities, built-in touchscreen, 32GB of internal storage for local playback and can sustain up to 20-hours of playtime. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and alternatively a SIM card that can enable 4G service, ensure the headphones always stay connected and up to streaming your favorite songs.

Basically, you can use the Nathaniel as a standalone listening device. You won’t have to be limited by your phone’s screen anymore. Just take off the headphones and use the LCD screen glowing on the side to navigate and control your playlists.

When the Nathaniel is back on your head, a gesture-based interface is used for controls instead. For example, “swiping up” will increase the volume of the music. The Debussy headphones can be controlled via voice commands too and you can add assistants like Siri to help with things like making calls.

The screen can also be used to display the cover art of your favorite album, a personal message or other custom visuals. Basically, you’re giving people something nice to look at.

The second pair of headphones in the Debussy lineup is called Clair de Lune and is the version best suited for ladies. With an elegant and minimalist design, Clair de Lune will be available in both over and on-ear versions.

Audio quality is a big part of Funky Sound Studio’s vision for the Debussy brand, and we’re told the company is able to produce a Hi-Fi sound that replicates crystal clear audio quality. To achieve this effect, the headphones use high sound quality digital-analog converters, amps, and advanced sound processing.

Last but not least, the headphones offer binaural stereo recording – a sound technology which tricks the brain into thinking its listening to 3D sound. Users will also be able to record the sounds of their current environment.

All these features reunite under what the company calls the its “Stellar Smart Sound System”. It has even given it a name – Iris.

The Debussy seem to be the kind of products that can easily pique the interest of tech lovers. But being luxury high-tech devices, they come with pretty elevated price tags attached.

The top-of-the-line Nathaniel model which will be offered with velvet trim and gold plating will go on sale for a whopping $5,00. The more graceful version, Claire de Lune is “only” $1,500. A “budget” model called Prelude will also be available for $500.

However, we need to note that the Debussy lineup is currently in prototype stages. Funky Sound Studio is planning a Kickstarter campaign in March and if all goes well the company will be able to bring the luxury headphones to the US and Europe within 18 months.

LG’s take on the Google Assistant-powered smart display is pretty dull

Alexandra Arici
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At CES 2018, Google promised a lot of new Assistant-powered speakers are coming, including touch screen speakers like Amazon’s controversial Echo Show.

Case in point, Lenovo just unveiled the Smart Display a few days ago, and the announcement was immediately followed by LG debuting its own touchscreen speaker called the ThingQ WK9.

But compared with the Lenovo’s intriguing offering, the LG speaker is pretty damn ugly. It just looks like a generic rectangular speaker with an awkwardly inserted 8-inch display in the middle. The device comes with two speakers tuned by Meridian Audio and there’s also a camera on board for making video calls via Google Duo.

Obviously, the Google Assistant is running the show, so you can go ahead and watch videos on YouTube, ask questions or check the weather and much more. There’s also Chomecast built-in.

LG hasn’t offered any details regarding pricing and availability of the device, but already listed the ThingQ WK9 on its website as “Coming Soon”.

Lenovo’s 8-inch Smart Display model is set to retail for $199.99, so we can assume LG’s alternative will feature a similar price tag, although it comes with two speakers instead of one.

In related news, JBL also announced the LINK View, another smart display device running the Google Assistant out of the box, although we don’t have any info about its price either.

Bang & Olufsen launches two new flagship headphones and a Special Edition Collection

Alexandra Arici
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Bang & Olufsen is also present at CES 2018 this week in Las Vegas, where it took the opportunity to make a few announcements. The audio specialist unveiled two new headphone models and also teased future updates that will bring the Google Assistant and Apple’s Airplay 2 to some of its products.

Below we take a look at Bang & Olufsen’s new product lineup, starting with two new flagship headphones.

Beoplay H8i and Beoplay H9i

H9i

The two new models represent updates to the previous H9 and H8 over-ear headphone models. The H9i is said to arrive with improved active noise-canceling (ANC) feature, so it should be more effective at blocking out voices around you.

The H9i also gains an added bass port for improved bass response, as well as a transparency mode which lets users turn off the music and the ANC feature, so they can hear what’s going on in the environment they are in.

Bang & Olufsen also added a proximity sensor which pauses the music you’re listing to once it detects you’ve taken your headphones off, and immediately stars playing it again once you put them on again.

H8i

The company says it has improved battery life on the H9i, so they should be able to last up to 18 hours without needing to be recharged, which is four hours more than the previous model. Finally, the H9i will be able to pair with up to two Bluetooth devices simultaneously.

Moving on to the H8i, the pair is said to be able to offer a whopping 30 hours of playback time with Bluetooth and ANC both turned on (45 hours without ANC). Other features borrowed from the H9i include the transparency mode, proximity sensor, and dual connectivity.

H8i

Both models benefit from an upgraded design with slimmer ear cushion and more secure removable batteries, as well as an extra microphone for better call quality.

The Hi9 and Hi8 will be available from Bang & Olufsen online and third-party retailers starting on January 25 for $500 and $400 respectively. They will ship with a carrying bag, USB-C charging cable and audio cable.

Beoplay E8 Special Edition Collection

At CES 2018, Bang & Olufsen also unveiled two new color options for the Beoplay E8 earbuds which launched last year. Come February 2018, customers will be able to purchase an All White or All Black version of the Beoplay E8 headphones.

In terms of ardware, things remain exactly the same as with the original model, so you still get the truly wireless headphones that boast four hours of playtime. The audio accessories ship with a carrying case which can provide two extra charges.

The All White and All Black Beoplay E8 headphones will go on sale for $299 a pop.

Google Assistant

Google Assistant is coming to Bang & Olufsen speakers and TV audio devices via a Google Home or a Google Home mini. The next step is to be to talk directly to B & O products, which will happen in 2018 via a series of updates for select products.

The ‘Kinda Blue’ Pixel 2 is now available through Project Fi

AG Deals Team
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The Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL have been available for a few months now, but there have been some hangups for folks who were looking for the unlocked version. We know that Verizon is the exclusive carrier providing Pixel 2 units without needing to purchase unlocked, but Verizon customers also had some extra goodies.

Until today, the only way that you could purchase the “Kinda Blue” Pixel 2 was exclusively available on Verizon. It seems that whatever deal Google and Verizon had has now been completed, as the Kinda Blue color option is now available through both the Google Store and Project Fi.

Google and Verizon had a similar agreement for the “Very Blue” Pixel, which was released at the end of 2016. After the agreement ended, it was possible for you to go through Google or Project Fi to get this awesome color combination.

For those interested, you can hit the link here to pick up the Kinda Blue Pixel 2 from Google for either $649 or $27.04 per month for 24 months. If you want to go through Project Fi, you can hit the link here, but you won’t see any discounts unless you trade in your current device.

Let us know if you’ll be looking to pick up one of these for yourself, or if you’re holding off until the Galaxy S9 or LG G7 are unveiled.

Keyboards are in: Motorola is bringing a keyboard Moto Mod to the market later this year

AG Deals Team
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When Moto Mods were first introduced, we saw a completely new and unique take on modularity with our smartphones. Although some thought this was just a gimmick that would only last one iteration of devices, Motorola and Lenovo proved everyone wrong and has continued to release new Mods.

At CES 2018, while Motorola isn’t introducing any new smartphones, the company did unveil a couple of new Moto Mods. The first, and possibly most exciting, is a Moto Mod that made its start through Motorola’s “Transform the Smartphone Challenge”.

This Moto Mod is called the “Livermorium Slider Keyboard Moto Mod” and provides your compatible Motorola device with a full slide-out QWERTY keyboard. Now you won’t have to worry about taking up precious screen space when multi-tasking, as you’ll be able to just use the keyboard for input.

What makes this Moto Mod even better is the fact that you can actually tilt the screen up to 60 degrees, making it possible to type at almost any angle. The catch here is that we’ll have to wait a bit longer before being able to get ahold of this new Moto Mod.

Motorola claims that the Livermorium Slider Keyboard will be launching “later this winter” for just $99. This price is extremely tempting and will definitely be a hot commodity once it’s made available.

The other Moto Mod that was announced today is a slight bit more expensive, but is for those of you who need to keep track of your health. Lenovo has branded this Moto Mod as the “Lenovo Vital Moto Mod”.

The Vital Moto Mod is capable of measuring the following:

  • Heart Rate
  • Respiratory Rate
  • Pulse Ox
  • Core Body Temperature
  • Systolic/Diastolic Blood Pressure

This may be one of the greatest ways to keep track of what your body is doing, especially if you already have a history of health issues. However, the Vital Moto Mod is priced at $395 and will be coming in April.

With a price of $395, this is definitely for those who are in dire need of health trackers, and want to experiment with new technology. However, considering the fact that you can get a brand-new Moto Z2 Force from T-Mobile for less, it’s hard to say whether this Moto Mod is really worth it.

We’ll be sure to keep everyone updated regarding the release of these Moto Mods, so let us know what you think and if you’ll be picking either one up.

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