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Republic Wireless offers 6 months of free service starting today

Alexandra Arici
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Starting today – May 16 – Republic Wireless is bringing back a popular promotion. The mobile virtual network operator now offers six months of free service to anyone who activates a phone on its Bring Your Own Android Phone program.

In order to enter the promo, you will need to order a Republic Wireless SIM card for $5 between May 16 and May 22. Don’t forget to activate it by June 6.

During the promotion, Republic Wireless will offer six month of free service, including unlimited talk/text and up to 2GB cellular 4G LTE data, which would normally take you back $30/month.

Here’s the list of supported phones which will be eligible to take part in the promo including Huawei Ascend 5W, Moto G4, Moto G4 Play, Moto G4 Plus, Moto G5 Plus, Moto X Pure Edition, Moto Z, Moto Z Play, Nexus 5X by LG, Nexus 6 by Motorola, Nexus 6P by Huawei, Pixel by Google, Pixel XL by Google, Samsung Galaxy J3, Galaxy S6, Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 egde.

The small wireless operator uses both Wi-Fi hotspots and traditional cell phone network to offer voice and data service for phones at much lower costs compared to competing offerings from much larger carriers. The service uses Wi-Fi networks where they are available and switches to a cellular network when a Wi-Fi connection is not in range.

Republic Wireless’ free six months of service promo was also available last year.

Google Home might soon get cloud device casting, reminder controls

Alexandra Arici
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Google’s I/O 2017 developer conference is set to kick start tomorrow and naturally we expect to hear some news about the Google Home.

While we wait for Google to provide us the scoop, the folks at the xda-developers performed an APK teardown on one of the most recent updates to the Google Home app (2.3) and so uncovered a few clues about future functionalities we can expect to see get added to Google Home.

According to some code streams in the app’s update, Google Home might soon boast an ability called “cloudcast” – a tool that could allow users to cast to a Home without being on the same network. At this point in time, users can cast via Google Chromecast when devices are placed in close vicinity and both connected to the same network.

On top of that, it appears that the Google Assistant might gain integration with third party companies quite possibly via the Google Home app. Soon products like the NVIDIA’s Spot speakers might support Google’s AI-driven assistant.

But perhaps one of the most useful feature revealed by the teardown is the ability to list reminders. The new function will reportedly work in a similar manner to the Home Control, Shopping and Music options that can be access via the app’s slide out menu.

Other improvements that might be headed for Google Home in the near future include Proxy Support, being able to clear the search history from the Google Home app, as well as a Bluetooth Management tool (although Google Home does not allow users to pair Bluetooth devices) and the ability to change notification sounds.

Keep in mind that APK teardowns can only predict features that might appear with future updates, but not confirm them. It remains to be seen whether the Google Home will gain any of the options outline above or not.

How to Unlock the Samsung Galaxy S6, S7, or S8 to any network

Guest Blogger
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Over the past decade, the cellphone, and, in more recent years, the smartphone has become something that every person cannot leave home without. Android smartphones are some of the best smartphones around. The many functions of an Android smartphone makes life more convenient and keeps people safe. Unfortunately, smartphones are locked to the original service provider the phone was purchased with. This is a very inconvenient reality for many reasons, but the main reason is this: It gives the user no option in what service provider they’d like to receive.

Carrier Unlocking an Android Smartphone

To get around this lock, you must carrier unlock your phone. Phones that are purchased from a carrier like AT&T or T-Mobile example are locked to that carrier. For example: If you were to put an AT&T sim card into a T-Mobile to unlock Samsung phone, the device would not receive service immediately. This is inconvenient if, say, the service that AT&T was providing was substantially cheaper than T-Mobile.

Another example of how inconvenient carrier locking can be for the user, can be found when the user travels to another country. When you get to your destination, you should be able to buy a local SIM card, put into your smartphone, and it will work, right? Well, the answer is no, unless you’ve carrier unlocked your phone prior your departure. If the phone is unlocked, any carrier restrictions no longer apply, and the phone can be used on any operators of your choosing.

How to unlock your phone

Before you start the unlocking process, you need to know if the phone can be unlocked or not. If the phone was purchased under 2 year contract, and you’re still paying for it, you have what’s called a “postpaid” device. If you want to unlock that device you have to call your carrier to see if they can unlock it even under contract or you’ll have to wait until the contract is up or pay a third party service like Unlockauthority.com to do it for you at a small fees.

Most of the time, the device may require an unlock code to be carrier unlocked. This code can be provided to you by your service carrier if eligible or via third party service. Enter an unlock code when prompted is a common step in the carrier unlocking process. Unlocking your cellphone is the best way to use the device on the user’s carrier of choice.

You can find services online that will unlock your Android smartphone for you. Among the better third party services you can use to unlock phones is Unlockauthority.com as they provide lighting fast carrier unlocking services at a great value.

The service that UnlockAuthority provides is quick, easy, and reliable. Their cheap prices make unlocking your device a simple and affordable process that anybody could from the comfort of their own home. Unlocking your Android smartphone is the best way to have freedom in choosing what service provider you’d like to use.

HTC U11 is the first phone to come with a squeezable metal frame

Alexandra Arici
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After being in the rumor mill for quite some time, the HTC U11 flagship was finally revealed today during a conference in Twain.

With this product, HTC finally brings out a flagship that can truly compete with the Samsung Galaxy S8. On top of boasting an appealing premium glass design and a powerful Snapdragon 835 processor, the HTC U11 also introduces the Edge Sense – a completely new way of interacting with the smartphone – which we’re going to talk about in a little bit. But first the raw specs.

Specifications

HTC’s new flagship carries a 5.5-inch Super LCD display with QuadHD resolution (1440 x 2560) with Corning Gorilla Glass. The Taiwanese company is going to offer the HTC U 11 in two variants, one with 4G of RAM and 64GB of built-in storage (for US, UK markets) and another one with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage (for Asia). A microSD card slot which allows for memory expansion up to 2TB (in both versions) is also included.

In the photography department, the U11 is also pretty well endowed, packing a 12-megapixel main camera with ultra-spread autofocus, BSI sensor, optical image stabilization, dual-LED flash, slow motion and 4K video recording capabilities. The selfie camera is of 16-megapixel variety with BSI sensor and full-HD recording.

HTC has finally delivered what customers have been asking for all along, as the U11 packs HTC’s Boom Sound Hi-Fi edition technology, as well as 3D audio recording with four microphones and Hi-res audio certified. The product can be paired with HTC USonic earbuds for active noise cancellation.

The smartphone relies on a 3,000 mAh battery which according to the producing company should offer up to 24.5 hours of talk time and 14 days of standby time. It also sports IP67 water and dust resistance. Like in the case of its predecessor, don’t expect to find a 3.5mm headphone jack onboard, but HTC is also offering a Type-C-3.5mm adapter (with a built-in DAC).

Standout features

The HTC U11 represents a natural progression from the previous HTC U Ultra model, both in terms of looks and functionalities. Which brings us to the U11’s main standout feature – the Edge Sense – basically a series of sensor implemented beneath the phone’s metal edges.

With their help, the phone can distinguish and interpret almost imperceptible squeezes, so users will be able to squeeze the screen to launch the camera or capture a selfie. The exact actions triggered by a squeeze can be configured by the owner to suit his/her particular set of needs.

There’s another reason why the HTC U11 is quite special. It ships not with one but three virtual assistants on board, the Google Assistant and Alexa (on top of HTC’s own Sense Companion) – although the later won’t be available at launch (it will be added via a software update by end of June – hopefully). We’re not sure why you’d need so many AI-driven helpers on one phone, but we guess it’s nice to be given such a wide range of choice.

Availability

When will you be able to purchase the phone? Well in the US the HTC U11 will be sold only by Sprint at first. Sprint has already opened up pre-orders and you can expect the device to start shipping on June 9. Interested parties can get it for $0 down and $29 per month for the next 2 years (which amounts to a $696 price).

An unlocked version will also be made available on HTC’s own website and via Amazon.com which is already taking pre-orders for $649 a pop. The flagship is available in Amazing Silver, Sapphire Blue and Brilliant Black. Other markets will also see two other Ice White and Red/Orange versions.

Deal: HTC is offering early U11 adopters a discount. Use the LOVEU11 code at checkout in order to get a $50 discount on the new HTC flagship and pay only $599.

Google to fully integrate Android into future Volvo, Audi models

Alexandra Arici
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This week Google announced it is partnering  with Volvo and Audi to deliver Android right in your car. But this time around Google and its partners are taking a different route. Instead that simply allowing a smartphone to connect and interact with the vehicle, Google’s Android will now actually constitute the spine of the car’s infotainment system.

Expect Volvo’s models to make an appearance sometime in the next two years, while Audi should show off its own take on Android via the new Audio Q8 Sport concept.

The old days: Android Auto

The OS will act as a built-in connectivity solution, as well as infotainment system that can control things like air conditioning, sunroof and windows.

Volvo XC60 car concept interior with Android

Drivers will also be able to use a wide range of Android apps onboard, including Google Maps for navigation or Spotify for music playing. Naturally, the Google Assistant will be part of the equation too, so car owners will be able to ask the AI-driven helper to do all kinds of things without having to take their hands off the steering wheel.

Audi Q8 Sport concept interior with Android

At last year’s I/O, Google demonstrated a Maserati Ghibli model with a built-in 15-inch 4K center touchscreen and 720p digital instrument cluster. The whole purpose of the prototype was to showcase the possibility the Android platform for cars, taking Android Auto to the next level.

Since then Google failed to provide any more information about the project. But now with the Google I/O 2017 just around the corner, we can expect to learn more about the initiative.

Nintendo is developing a ‘Legend of Zelda’ smartphone game

AndroidGuys
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Super Mario Run, Miitomo and Fire Emblem Heroes.

Let’s just say Nintendo announcing it was moving into the mobile gaming market was greeted through somewhat hesitant but expectant eyes, and by all accounts, it’s been a “mushroom stomping success” ( cough )

Being a HUGE gaming addict since as long as I care NOT to remember, it is with jubilant exuberance I find myself writing this piece documenting reports that Nintendo are bringing Zelda to mobile platforms.

According to The Wall Street Journal The game is likely to be released later this year once we have seen the mobile version of Animal Crossing hit virtual stores. Tatsumi Kimishima, Nintendo’s CEO has announced that the company plans to release two or three new smartphone games between now and the end of March 2018.

Just the mere mention that part of the Zelda franchise is coming to mobile is enough to get any Nintendo nut excited. This is just as well, as at this point, that is all the information available.

Just the fact it is coming, for this moment is enough and one thing is for certain. Regardless of Who What Where When and Why, WE WANT IT.

App Highlight: Goalify – My Goals and Habits

Dan Bartram
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The App

Developed by onebytezero GmbH, Goalify is a new app that will help you reach your goals and succeed in your tasks and tracking your habits. Having been recently updated on May 9 to version 2.5.2, the developer is constantly applying fixes and improving performance with regular updates. Goalify allows you to effectively and efficiently record any goals or tasks that you want to accomplish.

What it does

Goalify will work on tracking everything you do in life, from simple goals and to do lists right up to tracking your habits to improve your persistence and productivity. The app also features a social aspect by allowing you to create challenges and share motivating messages with your friends. You can set up your own daily targets and completely tweak it to suit your lifestyle and motivation. There’s also 7 categories and over 50 ready-to-use goal examples to get you started.

Goalify has also recently introduced a new training plan feature to monitor your activity for professionals. Goalify has a new Coaching Edition that will help you to connect with your students, clients and athletes utilizing the extensive ecosystem for coaching and study support included in the app.

Why we like it

Goalify combines functionality that previously was split over 2-3 individual apps into a single well designed app. With the constant updates and rich feature set, you are able to customize the goals and tracking to your own pace making sure that it works for you. This, combined with the social aspect to provide healthy competition, means Goalify has found a permanent place on our homescreen.

How to get it

Goalify is available for free from the Google Play Store. You can download it right here.

Getting the most out of your applications

Guest Blogger
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Staying Competitive

The man with the horse and carriage was able to compete with “horseless” carriages for a short while. Before automobiles caught on, there was some question as to whether they ever would. That’s the case with any new technology. But as these innovations caught on, the man without one had to change.

A milkman delivering via horse and buggy would soon be outshone by the man with the milk truck. The horse had to be stabled, the truck could be continuously used and repaired as needed. The horse got old, the truck’s maintenance outshone the age-old equine solution. It’s easy to see why in retrospect; at the time? Not so much.

Businesses are confronted with situations like this on almost a daily basis as technology exponentially expands. You’ve seen the original Star Trek, yes? Maybe not; here’s a refresher: in the sixties, they figured a flip-open communicator that allowed for instantaneous contact was something they’d have in hundreds of years.

By the end of the 20th century, cellular “flip” phones were in virtually everybody’s pocket. Now, there are some estimates that put the power of a common smartphone in a realm of utility which outshines that of NASA during the Apollo missions. This idea is even satirized in the film Iron Sky.

If you haven’t seen Iron Sky, there are Nazis on the moon, and America’s female president sends an athlete to the lunar surface in a publicity stunt. He brings his cellphone, gets captured by the Nazis, and their equivalent of Nazi Einstein uses the smartphone he steals from the man to launch an attack on Earth.

The point is this: technological changes are ubiquitous and continuously transitioning. Remaining competitive requires remaining abreast of them, and that means expecting some losses. Those who didn’t invest in automobiles at the turn of the 20 th century likely invested in things like Zeppelins.

The Technology Factor

The Hindenburg blew up any positive stock options pertaining to dirigibles, and cars took over. Well, in today’s age, there are plenty of areas where modern technology seemed as though it would soar into the heavens, but had a hydrogen mishap and blew up on the tarmac.

But there are also “automobile” options which have begun to change the marketplace entire, and one of those is the mobile application. Tablets, smartphones, the Internet of Things, smart watches, smart cars—everything is “smart” these days; which is to say: connected to the internet.

With such connectivity comes nigh-infinite possibility ripe for the exploitation. Mobile applications have become the marketing “milk truck” of modern small businesses. Refraining from having such mobile options available in conjunction to your regular website is like avoiding a website or a phone number in years past.

The thing is, you can’t create an application and leave it be. Any program will have bugs, no matter how well-designed it is. If you don’t believe that, just consider the Affordable Care website. (They really should have beta-tested it!) With mobile applications, the launch is understood to have built-in difficulties.

Logging Errors And Maintaining Market Presence

You can get past these by having errors logged, and correcting them. According to Stackify.com, the top 3 Java profilers include: “Standard JVM Profilers…Lightweight Profilers…[and] Application Performance Management (APM) tools.” These help you refine applications for maximum positive effect.

If you’re going to remain competitively viable in today’s marketplace, you’re going to need an application in conjunction with your online web presence which can be utilized on a variety of mobile, “smart”, internet-enable devices. Ensure that whatever solution you choose is continually maintained, and it will serve you well.

Samsung Galaxy S8 camera can’t quite beat the Pixel DxOMark rating

Dan Bartram
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The Samsung Galaxy S8 camera is a great camera, one of the best, but it still wasn’t quite enough to knock the Google Pixel from the top of the DxOMark rankings.

DxOMark offers a ranking based on extensive testing of a smartphone camera to a level of detail that most average users don’t worry about. However, the overall marking is a good indication on well the camera performs based on the competition.

The Samsung Galaxy S8 scored an 88, which is pretty high. However, it wasn’t high enough to knock the current champion off the top of the charts. The Pixel and Pixel XL was and still is considered the best smartphone camera available with a score of 89.

For still photography, the Samsung Galaxy S8 has three main strengths: excellent autofocus, accurate white balance, and very effective noise reduction.

We know Samsung improved the camera very minimally over the Galaxy S7 and that appears to have translated into the results, with a very minor improvement in the score but not enough to topple the Pixel.

For the full rundown of the DxOMark analysis, you can check it out here.

Let us know what you think if you’ve used both the Galaxy S8 camera and the Pixel. Which do you think is supreme?

Phiaton BT 110 earbuds review

AndroidGuys
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Some people love the over-the-ear feel of headphones, and others love the in-ear simplicity of an earbud.  I am one of the latter, so when I came across the Phiaton BT 110 “Wireless Compact Bluetooth Audio” buds, I was excited.  These earbuds boast up to 4.5 hours for music and calls, and about five days of standby time, all on a two-hour charge.

Design

It’s difficult to find a great way to have truly wireless earbuds with a microphone, so one will see a wire connecting the two earbuds together, along with the volume/call button that doubles as power and pairing. Phiaton has what they call their “RightFit+ technology”, meaning it comes with three silicon ear wings and four sizes of silicon tips to adjust the fit to the wearer’s ears.

Everything fits neatly in a small black bag, so they are ultra-portable, and they look pretty cool. Their total weight is only 16 grams, so they are no burden to travel with, but I found that the buds were not the most comfortable for long periods of time. After playing around with the different tips, I found some that were more comfortable, so even if the out-of-the-box tip fits, I would highly recommend looking through some of the other tips and see if a different one is more comfortable for you.

Sound

These earbuds do not get very loud, but loud enough to hear a spoken-word track or podcast in a public place. You will still hear your train or flight announcements, even with these in your ears, but they muffle enough of the outside sound so you can concentrate on the audio.

The included microphone sounded a little muffled and distant, which unfortunately, is far too common with many earpieces and headsets.  It was not bad, and I could easily be understood and understand what the other callers were saying, but I would not use these earbuds to record a podcast, for example.

There is also a buzzing sound just before and after audio starts to play, like the earbuds are preparing to work, and then go back into standby mode, which is quiet.  Overall, the sound quality is good, but not amazing.

Features

I love special features more than most people I know, and the best one about the BT 110 is the “multipoint connection”.  With these earbuds, I can connect them to more than one device at the same time.  I paired the earbuds with my tablet and was listening to some music while playing a game, and also had it paired with my phone.  I had a friend call me, and it started ringing through the earbuds, interrupting my music–this is exactly what I was looking for.

On both the box and the website, it specifically mentions that one can pair two devices simultaneously, and that’s exactly what it does.  Once I connected my computer to the earbuds, my tablet was no longer connected.

Aside from the multipoint connection, it is IPX4 sweat and water-resistant, so it can be used on-the-go for exercising or walking in the rain–just don’t take them swimming with you.

Battery

The battery life of these earbuds work as expected.  They go from empty to a full charge in about two hours, like the box says, and with normal usage. That is, not sitting around all day with them in, they lasted me about four days before I had to recharge them.

I would typically wear them in 30-60 minute spurts to listen to a podcast or some videos while I would have coffee.  Conveniently, the Phiaton BT 110 charges with a standard micro-USB, so it was easy to grab a quick charge in my car while on the go.  In all, it performs as expected, and I was not disappointed.

Conclusion

I would put these earbuds in the mid-range market.  Although they retail for $119, there are some deals at the sites below. I like these earbuds, especially since I can use one pair for both devices.  My tablet has a 3.5mm headphone jack, but my phone does not, so not having to carry around two sets of earbuds is invaluable to me.

They might not be the perfect set of earbuds, but they do the job, even if they are a little quiet.  Their frequency range is between 20Hz and 27kHz, and work from a 10-meter distance, so that’s not too shabby.

Availability

Walmart has the Phiaton BT 110 on special now for only $50; Amazon has them for just under $60; Best Buy is selling them for $59; Newegg has them for $99.

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