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Amazon Prime now available with a discount for low-income customers

Alexandra Arici
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Amazon Prime is a subscription-based program that gives customers access to streaming video, music, e-books, free shipping and product discounts. However, Amazon charges a hefty $99/per year or $10.99/month – which is a relatively expensive fee.

Now in a bid to attract more subscribers, the retail giant announced a new Prime discount program aimed at US customers with low-incomes.

Basically, Amazon is targeting users who are receiving financial assistance from the government. Interested parties will need an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card in order to confirm their eligibility for the Prime discount program. The company notes other ways to qualify for the discount will be added shortly.

How much has Amazon shaved off the Prime fee you might be wondering at this point, right? Well with the valid EBT card you’ll be able to join the program for $5.99/month or $72 per year.

It’s not a mind-blowing discount, especially if you’re looking pay for a full year, but at least you’ll be able to spend the remaining $17 on something else, right? You’ll also be able to continue getting the discount up to 4 years.

It appears the discounted Prime gives users full access to services like Prime Video, Prime Music, and Prime Photos. However, if you want to take advantage of Amazon’s grocery delivery and pickup service – Amazon Fresh, you’ll need to pay an additional $14.99 fee per month.

Earlier this year, the shopping giant said it will start accepting food stamps for online grocery orders this summer, in an attempt to become more relevant to lower-income customers.

Official Android O release for Pixel devices tipped to arrive in early August

Alexandra Arici
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Google usually officially releases a new version of Android sometime in late summer/early autumn. For example, the final version of Android N was made available for the masses on August 22, while Android M rolled out a bit later, on October 5.

Well for those who are eagerly awaiting Android O, we have some exciting news. According to a tweet by Android Police’s David Ruddock who talked to a reliable source, the official Android O update for Pixel phones will land a bit earlier this year – in the first or second week of August to be more precise – in a form of an OTA (over-the-air) update.

https://twitter.com/RDR0b11/status/872150867784478720

While Google’s Pixel phones are first in line to receive the new build, all supported Nexus devices will see the update arrive around the same time.

However, it should be noted that major releases like this one are often subject to date changes. So we can’t be 100% of when Google will actually roll out the Android O update for Pixel and then Nexus devices.

On top of Android O, in the upcoming months Google is also expected to unveil its next-gen Pixel phones. According to a report dating back to April,  Google has been looking to invest $880 million into LG Display Co. in order to secure a steady supply of curved OLEDs.

And if the two companies agree to work together, this year we might get to see the Pixel 2 arrive with a curved display, similar to the one on the Samsung Galaxy S8 and Samsung Galaxy S8+. Fans have been requesting a more innovative design for this year’s Pixels, so we expect the new models to shed as much bezel as possible.

Coral Blue Samsung Galaxy S8/Galaxy S8+ are headed for the US

Alexandra Arici
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Currently, US customers who want to purchase a Galaxy S8 have three color options to choose from including Midnight Black, Orchid Gray or Artic Silver.

But if you’re a fan of more atypical coloring schemes, the good news is that a new Galaxy S8/Galaxy S8+ version will land in the US. As revealed by reliable industry source @evleaks, the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ in Coral Blue should be making an appearance on the US market soon enough. However, no exact timeline for the release was offered.

When Samsung introduced the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ back in March, it said the phones will also be available in Maple Gold and Coral Blue. However, these versions weren’t offered in the US. But since the Coral Blue model is headed for the States, it wouldn’t come as a surprise if the Maple Gold one would become available at some point too.

The Galaxy S8 is not the first Samsung phone to get Coral Blue treatment. The Galaxy Note7 carried this color before it got discontinued and then the Galaxy S7 edge.

Samsung is using the multiple color variants strategy in a bid to draw attention to the Galaxy S8 once more. And a recent report claimed the Korean tech giant is prepping more Galaxy S8 color versions including Lake Blue, Smoked Purple Gray, Quicksand Gold and Rose Gold – in a move to counter the iPhone 8’s arrival this September.

The best Android phones at T-Mobile (June 2017)

AndroidGuys
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We’re asked on a regular basis to help determine which phone is the best one available. We get it as a team here at AndroidGuys, but we also field it on an individual level, too. To help address that, we’ve put together a list of top models to choose from at various carriers.

If you’re in the market for a new smartphone from T-Mobile, this is where you’ll want to start. Note that while this is called the “best Android phones” you can purchase this month, it’s worth noting there are plenty of other models to choose from.

Best is not a universal term to apply to all consumers. Some of you might have a limited budget; some of you may only have very modest needs. To that end, we suggest digging around a little bit and checking with the service provider.

With that out of the way, let’s take a look at the best phones you can purchase this month from T-Mobile.

Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus

Now in its eighth iteration, the Samsung Galaxy S series is better than ever. It’s not only more powerful and sleek, but it’s bigger, too. Indeed, the Galaxy S8 comes with a 5.8-inch screen while the S8 Plus packs a massive 6.2-inch display. Not that you’d notice, though, as they 18.5:9 aspect ratio makes it much more comfortable in hand than predecessors.

Samsung has opted for the curved screen on both versions of the phone which signals the company may have done away with the “Edge” variants of devices. Time will tell, however, but we suspect this could be the norm for its flagship phones going forward.

Powered by Android 7.0 Nougat, the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8 Plus feature Samsung’s custom UI. Making its debut in the new generation is Bixby, Samsung’s new virtual assistant. As you might expect, it allows for voice commands and marries itself nicely with other Samsung apps and features. It’s not fully available for the US market just yet (Spring 2017), but, once it rolls out, it will give Samsung users one more reason to stay inside of its ecosystem. Apple has Siri, Google has Assistant, and Samsung has Bixby.

Key hardware in the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8 Plus include a Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor, 4GB RAM, and 64GB of internal storage. Camera, which are better than ever, are 12-megapixels around back with an 8-megapixel front-facing shooter. Battery capacity for the S8 is 3,000mAh while the S8 Plus gets a 3,500mAh power supply.

The S8 line is IP68 rated against water and dust and is available in a variety of colors. New for this generation of Galaxy S phones is the Samsung DeX dock which essentially lets use use your phone to power a desktop computer. As you might expect, the S8 is compatible with the new Gear VR headset, too.

LG G6

Whereas last year saw LG diverge from its flagship experience with its modular approach to the G5, this year sees them returning to form. Quite literally, really, as the G6 goes back to what made the LG line what it is. For 2017, LG has put together one of the best phones on the market, internally, and externally.

The LG G6 offers up a 5.7-inch Quad HD LCD display with a unique 18:9 aspect ratio; this lends itself to a thin, yet spacious screen that’s a pleasure to behold. Under the hood we find a Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 processor bolstered by 4GB RAM and plenty of storage space. In fact, the microSD card slot allows for up to 2TB of media, apps, and files.

In terms of cameras, the G6 has a dual 13-megapixel setup around back and a 5-megapixel shooter around front. Other specifications include an IP68 rating against water and dust, a capacious 3,300mAh battery with Quick Charge 3.0 and wireless charging capability.

Samsung Galaxy S7

Although it is a year old now, it’s certainly worth considering this one in 2017. The price has dropped on them over time, but the specs are still more than enough to get the job done for most users. The hardware and software industry moves quicker than the needs of the average consumer. There’s nothing wrong with saving a few bucks on last year’s flagship.

Now powered by Android 7.0 Nougat, the Galaxy S7 draws strength from Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 processors with 4GB of memory. With a 5.1-inch display at 2560 x 1440 pixel resolution, the handset employs a 3,000mAh battery with support for fast wireless charging. Offered in multiple colors, the phone is also IP68 rated for protection against water and dust.

LG V20

The LG V20 might be nearing its anniversary, but it’s still everything you need to blast through a work day with plenty left over for down time. The hardware is right in line with the needs of most and the price is equally attractive.

Running the latest version of Android (7.0 Nougat), the V20 is a multimedia fan’s dream experience. The main display is 5.7-inches of high-resolution gorgeousness but the secondary display at the top is every bit as useful. Although it’s smaller and only occupies a small section, it’s right where you’ll look for notifications and shortcuts. Music sounds tremendous thanks to the 32-bit Hi-Fi Quad DAC.

Other key hardware includes 4GB RAM and 64GB internal storage. Need more space? Throw in a microSD card up to 2TB and you’ll have all the room you can hope for, plus some.

As for cameras, the LG V20 comes with a 16-megapixel rear unit and a 5-megapixel front-facing shooter for selfies. Rounding things out, the V20 packs a 3,200mAh battery which is more than enough to get you through a busy day.

Go Unlocked

One of the benefits of T-Mobile being a GSM service provider is that you can bring just about any unlocked smartphone to its network. Moreover, many of the top devices being offered in 2017 are sold in an unlocked capacity. You might have to purchase directly through the handset maker or another retailer, but you are by no means restricted when it comes to choice.

EDITOR NOTE: Where applicable, this article contains content that found on other shopping guides.

App Highlight: Motorsport Manager

Dan Bartram
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The App

Developed by Christian West, Motorsport Manager is an established app with well over 500,000 installs. Having been updated on May 15, 2017, the developer is constantly fixing various bugs with the latest update adding Google Play Saved Game support. Motorsport Manager puts you in charge of your own racing team.

What it does

As a race team owner, you will be responsible for hire racing drivers, developing your car, coming up with a strategy, and making decisions within the race to help fulfill your sponsors objectives. Experience the action in real-time to watch overtakes and formulate a strategy to undercut your opponents.

• This is your racing team. Hire drivers, develop your car and invest in technology.

• Work with your drivers to achieve the perfect qualifying lap.

• Formulate the ideal pitstop strategy to win races.

• Watch the race in real-time or jump into the strategy screens to take control of the action.

• React to weather changes, crashes and safety car periods.

• Win championships across the world to reach the pinnacle of motorsport.

Why we like it

Motorsport Manager is the best racing simulator on the market. It is extremely well thought out, well designed, and will keep you hooked. With various classes of racing, full car development, and driver improvements, you’ll be sure to play this one over and over again. One improvement I would like to see is qualifying enhanced to perhaps have a staged phase like F1 to make it more interesting.

How to get it

Motorsport Manager is available from the Google Play Store. You can download it right here.

Tech solutions: The cracked smartphone screen

AndroidGuys
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The number of broken smartphone screens continues to rise every day. According to a Digital Trends report around 50% of people with smartphones have experienced a cracked screen. That’s one in every two and therefore a very probably scenario. The most common reason for broken phone screens are of course dropping your phone, which lets face, is not very hard when you think how often you use it.

Why Smartphone Screens Crack

What really causes smart phone screens to crack? The strength of a smartphone screen is based on the relationship between the inner tension and surface compression. This relationship determines how many impacts it can take before cracking. If the force of impact is too great the surface compression will not be able to withstand the impact and the screen will crack. Even small scratches over time can weaken the glass causing it to eventually crack. New technological breakthroughs are helping to strengthen screens. One such innovation is Gorilla Glass by Corning. This extra strong glass can withstand much greater impacts than previous smartphone screens and is making its way into many new devices.

However, as glass strength improves, so does the demand for much thinner, sleeker mobiles, with much bigger screens that demand even greater glass strength. Therefore, progress in smartphone glass strength is always offset by these demands.

What To Do If You Crack Your Phone’s Screen

Contact your phone manufacturer – The first thing that you can do is to contact your phone manufacturer and find out if they can help you. Usually, the warranty doesn’t cover accidental damages, so they will help you but at a fee. Contact the customer support center and learn more on how they can help you.

Local repair shop – You can always seek the services of an independent phone repair shop. Keep in mind that these shops may not have the original parts that you are looking for.

DIY repair – If you have some knowledge about phone repair, you can choose to repair it yourself. However, unless you are skilled in this area, you may not get the professional finish you hoped for. However if you want to save some money then this is the best option as getting Apple to repair your screen is expensive! There are many videos online to help you repair your smartphone screen.

Mobile phone insurance – Most mobile phone insurance policies cover theft or loss, but many plans are now starting to compensate for a broken phone screen. Of course, taking out mobile phone insurance means you will have to pay monthly installments for something which may never happen, however by protecting your Android’s screen this way, you have the added benefit of being protected against theft, loss and even water damage at the same time.

Sell your phone – You can also decide to sell your phone as a dead phone. This option is recommended if your phone is a little bit older.

How to Avoid Cracked Phone Screen

It’s normal for people to drop their phones accidentally, but it will be wiser to take some measures to protect your phone in case you do drop it. A good case can protect your screen from cracking and keep your phone looking in mint condition, which is ideal should you decide to re-sell your phone for the latest model. These days you can get iPhone cases which are relatively thin.

Master & Dynamic partners with Bamford Watch Department for limited edition headphones

Scott Webster
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Because apparently nobody sleeps at Master & Dynamic, today finds the audio company introducing yet another partnership. Indeed, the premium brand is launching a set of limited edition versions of its MW60 Over-Ear headphones.

Working closely with the Bamford Watch Department, the two companies have re-imagined the popular wireless headphones. The limited run cans feature a Bamford aqua blue lambskin headband lining with black lambskin ear pads.

As is the case with other co-branded Master & Dynamic headphones, these look right at home in the portfolio for either company. That’s for good reason; these are not done in name only. Master & Dynamic works very closely with its partners (see also: Leica) to ensure it fits in line with the respective brand’s quality and and design aesthetics.

The Bamford Watch Department MW60 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones are available for $549 at Master & Dynamic, Bamford Watch Department, and Dover Street Market in New York City, London, and Tokyo.

But Wait, There’s More

The new partnership isn’t all that Master & Dynamic has been up to, lately. It recently launched a content series, The Dynamic, to reaffirm its commitment to the creative community.

Starring influencers Alex Dondero (LQQK Studios) and Bianca Valle (Milk Studios), the video, directed by Will Robson-Scott (Chiraq), charts the joy, frustration, dedication, and most importantly, the passion of today’s thought leaders, showcasing the important role music plays in each their respective creative process.

Last, but not least, you can now find the Master & Dynamic MH30 On-Ear headphones ($299) at more than 180 Magnolia locations around the country. Make a purchase at one of the stores before June 24th and you’ll get a free MP1000 headphone stand, saving yourself $59 in the process.

Are you a Bixby hater? Then this Galaxy S8 case is for you

Alexandra Arici
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The Samsung Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ come with a dedicated Bixby button whose sole purpose is to invokes the virtual assistant.

But as it turns out, not everyone appreciates having the Bixby button on their phone. Why? Chiefly because when handling the phone there’s a high probability you will end up accidentally calling upon Bixby without wanting to. Secondly, according to some polls, the majority of Galaxy S8/Galaxy S8+ users don’t even use Bixby.

If that’s your case too, then you’ll be happy to know that a guy called Zach McKay from Los Angeles, California came up with a pretty ingenious idea to solve this issue. He designed a Bixby-killing smartphone case for the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ and launched a Kickstarter campaign to try and fund the idea.

He’s going for $16,000, but at this point, he only managed to get $99 in funding. With 19 days to go until the deadline expires, it doesn’t seem like the Bixby case will become a real product after all. But who knows, we could be wrong.

The Bixby-killing case provides protection for your device but also hides the “nasty” Bixby button. It’s available in Black, but if the project exceeds $20,000 in funding, three more coloring options will become available including silver, red and dark blue.

If you like the idea of not having to deal with the Bixby button while you’re holding your Galaxy S8, you can go ahead and make a pledge. The minimum is $20 – for this amount of money, you’ll get the Bixby-hating case, as well as an “I Hate Bixby” sticker. Pledge $40 and you’ll get an additional “I Hate Bixby” cap, which we have to admit looks pretty fun.

This Android Wear app wants to help you quit smoking

Alexandra Arici
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Smartwatches were supposed to be the next big thing, but sadly not many customers are willing to pay $200+ for a wrist-bound device that mainly counts steps and relays notifications from your smartphone.

Still artificial intelligence startup Kiwi has found a way to make smartwatches more useful. It developed an app exclusively for Android Wear which aims to help users cut back on their daily dose of cigarettes and hopefully get to quit smoking altogether.

How does Cue work? Well, it relies on sensors and machine learning to track your daily smoking habits. Soon after you start using it, it will be able to tell when and where you take your cigarette breaks.

The app also allows users to set smoking breaks, as well as goals and uses positive reinforcement techniques to help them reduce the time between cigarettes. If you earn enough points you’ll be able to exchange them into Starbucks dollars. For example, 1,000 points will get you $1 at Starbucks – a promo which is available until the end of June.

While die-hard smokers will probably need more than an app to rid themselves from this noxious habit, Cue might prove useful for people who only smoke socially or have started smoking recently.

If you have a smartwatch at your disposal and you want to try to quit smoking, you can go ahead and register as a beta tester for Cue. Limited spots are available.

T-Mobile is giving away 100 LG G6 smartphones today

Alexandra Arici
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A year ago exactly on this date – June 6 – T-Mobile started offering freebies to customers each Tuesday. Today the carrier is celebrating the campaign’s 1-year anniversary, so it’s giving away a truckload of goodies.

Starting today at 9:00 am ET and running all the way through 7:00 pm ET, T-Mobile subscribers will be able to win 100 LG G6 handsets, in one of the biggest giveaways we have seen so far.

Launched back in February at MWC 2017, the LG G6 is one of the best handsets available on the market so far and the chief reason why you should be interested in T-Mobile’s promotion. So make sure you keep checking T-Mobile’s Twitter account regularly today if you want to win one.

Alternatively, T-Mobile customers can win also win 5,000 $25 Lyft credits, free Baskin-Robbins ice cream for a year, T-Mobile trucker hats, two free movie rentals from Redbox or $0.25 off Shell fuel (up to 20 gallons).

On top of that, on one of the four Tuesdays throughout this month, all T-Mobile customers (who wish to participate) will be able to get a free Baskin-Robbins ice cream (valued at $4). Don’t forget to check the T-Mobile Tuesday app weekly and see when it’s your turn.

Also on June 6, T-Mobile will be hosting a special 12-hour “thankathon” which will be held on Twitter and will give folks (all folks including AT&T and Verizon customers) the opportunity to win epic prizes every hour. More details will be made available soon.

Last but not least, don’t forget T-Mobile will reveal the winner of the all-expenses paid Las Vegas trip today. If you entered the contest, don’t forget to check T-Mobile’s Twitter page from time to time today.

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