Wednesday, May 31, 2017

How To Completely Disable, Deactivate, Remove or Turn Off Samsung Bixby Without Root [VIDEO]

Samsung recently launched the Galaxy S8/S8+ with their very own virtual assistant called Bixby in addition to the Google Assistant. Although, most of Bixby's common functions such as weather insights, search results and making calls are all doable through Google. Because of this unnecessary redundancy, we have put together a quick guide to help you remove Samsung's Bixby.

How to Disable Bixby on Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus

  1. Download BK Package Disabler (Samsung) from the Play Store. Yes, it costs $1.49.
  2. Launch app and slide over to the right for SYSTEM
  3. Apply check marks to all Bixby functions to disable. Full list below.
And that's all there is to it. From this moment on, Samsung's Bixby will be deactivated from your phone.
*Disclaimer* disabling system applications may cause some functions to not work properly. Disable at your own risk.

Friday, May 26, 2017

IPhone 8 Will Feature Fingerprint Scanner In Display - Says Report

According to a new report from the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), the next generation iPhone will feature an optical fingerprint sensor to enable authentication directly by touching the screen.
TSMC reportedly broke the news at a technology symposium held in Taipei yesterday. If true, this will be a huge win for Apple, considering Samsung was unable to succeed with the same technology with their Galaxy S8, instead being forced to awkwardly place the fingerprint scanner on the back of the device.
Analysts previous reported that Apple's biggest hurdle would be integrating a fingerprint sensor into the display. They went as far as stating that the device wouldn't be available until October due to manufacturing restraints.
Apple's iPhone 8 is expected to be announced in September alongside an iPhone 7s and 7s Plus.
Report Claims iPhone 8 Will Be Named iPhone Edition And Possible Delay.
Leaked Images of Dummy iPhone 8 Reveal Prototype Design.

Thursday, May 25, 2017

New DJI Spark Drone Is Tiny, Advanced And Arrives In June.

After months of speculation, DJI has officially unveiled the newest member in its drone family, the Spark.
The Spark is a little larger than a soda can and boasts some features to rival the Mavic Pro, including a camera capable of shooting 12MP photos or record smooth 1080P video. It has a 16 minute max flight time, a top speed of 31 mph and advanced obstacle avoidance technology that proves size truly doesn't matter.
One great feature is the gesture-controlled flight mode. This allows you to send the drone overhead to take an aerial selfie with just simple hand movements. This mode can get new pilots flying in the first few minutes without having to fiddle with a controller or app.
The DJI Spark arrives in mid-June for $499. Customers can also buy the $699 "Spark Fly More" bundle, which includes extra propellers, batteries, propeller guards, a separate controller and a carrying case.

Tuesday, May 23, 2017

Renders For A New Slim-Bezeled iPad Pro Have Surfaced

A render artist posted what he claims the are designs for both the unannounced 10.5" and a 12.9" Apple iPad Pro. Despite previous rumors, Benjamin Geskin's renders reveal that the 10.5" iPad Pro will not be "bezel-less" design, but will be reduced in size.
Geskin states that the side bezels weigh in at 7mm, while the Home Button will be capacitive, not mechanical. This will be similar to the iPhone 7 and will leave the user feeling as though he or she just pressed onto an actual button.
The artist went on to say that embedding the Touch ID button under the display to further reduce any bezels will not be found on these iPad Pro models but could be a possibility for future iterations.
Analysts expect Apple to announce the 10.5" iPad Pro at it's annual developer conference in June.
New 10.5 iPad Pro Expected Later 2017 With New Apple Pencil.
Apple’s New “Spaceship” Headquarters Will Also Be Open To The Public.

Monday, May 22, 2017

New Leak Reveals Molds For Three New iPhones Including iPhone 8

It's been reported that Apple is expected to launch three new iPhones later this year. The first two are anticipated to be the iPhone 7s and 7s Plus with a familiar design language. Meanwhile, the third one is expected to be the radical new design change many have been waiting for, the iPhone 8.
Some new photos have surfaced potentially revealing the molds for all three of these new phones. These molds are likely meant to create iPhone cases or dummy iPhone units, but it’s interesting to see the sizes comparatively.
Notice how the iPhone 8 in the middle is much closer in size of the 4.7" model than the 5.5" Plus model. This is due to the dramatically smaller bezels the iPhone 8 is expected have, featuring a 5.8" display. As previously reported, it will also feature a new vertical dual-camera system.
The company is expected to unveil these new iPhones at an event in September. It's possible that the iPhone 8 won't be available until October and could have a price tag starting at $1,000.
Report Claims iPhone 8 Will Be Named iPhone Edition And Possible Delay.
Leaked Images of Dummy iPhone 8 Reveal Prototype Design.

Friday, May 19, 2017

LG's V30 Will Support Daydream VR With OLED Display

The company has made OLED displays for quite some time but normally reserves them for their TVs. OLED screens have individually lit pixels which can be turned on and off, allowing for great contrast. LCD displays are back-lit, giving them less control over light levels and contrast.
LG Design Patent With Secondary Display
Sources claim that the LG V30 will be the first, later this September, while the LG G7 could see an OLED screen early next year.
Additionally​ at the Google I/O 2017, a Google representative recently told attendees that LG's next flagship phone will have support Daydream VR alongside​ the Galaxy S8. The Samsung Galaxy S8 currently uses OLED display technology along with the powerful Snapdragon 835 processor. Google's leak may have been intentional but it definitely offers an early clue as to what's coming.

Wednesday, May 17, 2017

HTC Debuts The U11 – A Squeezable Smartphone With $650 Price Tag

After many rumors and leaks, HTC has officially announced the HTC U11.
The device sports a Snapdragon 835 processor, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage with microSD card slot, BoomSound speakers, IP67 dust and water resistance. It is running Android 7.1 and will feature support for both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. There’s also a 12-megapixel rear camera which according to HTC, received the highest score ever from DxOMark, beating the Galaxy S8 and Google Pixel. This should mean users will obtain amazing pictures, a big turn around from previous HTC smartphones.
But what really makes HTC’s U11 stand out is the pressure sensitive frame. This “Edge Sense” feature can open the camera with a short squeeze and provide additional functionality​ with a squeeze and hold.
The HTC U11 will be carried exclusively​ by Sprint, where the phone will be available for $0 down and $29 per month for 24-months. The company also offers an unlocked version that is compatible with AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless. You can pre-order this unlocked model from HTC.com and Amazon.com for $650 and it will start shipping in June.

Friday, May 12, 2017

Analyst Confirms $1,000 iPhone 8 Due In September

Not too long ago, an inside source claimed to have knowledge about Apple's next iPhone, stating that the phone would have the largest price tag yet.
According to the insider, Apple will price the iPhone 8 starting at $1,000. Now Simona Jankowski, a Goldman Sachs analyst has informed clients in a new report that this will indeed be the price. "We expect the iPhone 8 to have 128GB and 256GB models priced at $999 and $1,099, respectively." The analyst also expects two accompanying models to debut along with the iPhone 8: the iPhone 7s and iPhone 7s Plus. Pricing for the base models of those devices are expected to carry over from the current ones.
Currently, this is how the analyst expects Apple to price its new handsets:
Apple iPhone 8 - $999 and up
Apple iPhone 7s Plus - $769 and up
Apple iPhone 7s - $649 and up

Lastly, the Goldman Sachs analyst expects the Apple iPhone 8 to include:
5.8-inch OLED screen.
No bezel, all screen.
3D sensing.
Better, faster memory.
Capacity starting at 128 GB.
A11 processor.
No home button.
Bio-metric authentication.
"With only four months left until launch, we believe Apple has now locked down the design.” the analyst said. So it looks like we'll have to wait until September to see what the tech giant has in-store for us.
Report Claims iPhone 8 Will Be Named iPhone Edition And Possible Delay.
Leaked Images of Dummy iPhone 8 Reveal Prototype Design.

Thursday, May 11, 2017

2017 iPhone SE Image Leak Reveals Design Changes

For those who are unfamiliar, Apple's iPhone SE is the pumped up version of their iPhone 5/5s. The company confirmed that the SE stands for Special Edition, due to this smaller-sized phone receiving some of the same specs as the iPhone 6s. With a highly anticipated refresh from Apple's iPhone 8 later this year, who would've thought that they'd want to refresh this model as well?
According to a new image leak, that seems to be the case. The image reveals the 2017 iPhone SE under model number ACN79. It appears that this phone will be made out of Ion-X glass with a single camera setup. Oddly enough, Ion-X glass is the same material used for Apple Watch Sport. There are also two holes shown, seemingly one is for the camera while the other is for the flash. Notice how the camera and flash are now aligned vertically, instead of horizontal.
This iPhone SE leak may have reaffirmed previous rumors of the company using the same material as the Special Edition Apple Watch and having a vertical camera setup for the iPhone 8 as well.
Additional details about the next-generation iPhone SE are still a mystery. However, Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference starts June 5, so if it's presented there, then we could be close to finding out everything about it.
Leaked Images of Dummy iPhone 8 Reveal Prototype Design.
Report Claims iPhone 8 Will Be Named iPhone Edition And Possible Delay.

Wednesday, May 10, 2017

Top 6 Reasons To Buy The LG G6 [VIDEO]

LG's decision to ditch the modular design of the G5 was the correct move. Instead of trying to do things that nobody wants, the company nailed the things a high-end smartphone needs to have in 2017.

That being said, these are six reasons why you should buy the LG G6:
  1. Big Screen, Small Phone:  Don't choose between a large screen and in-hand comfort. The LG G6 has a immersive 5.7" display that is easy to manage.
  2. Incredible Viewing Experience: The G6 is the first phone to feature Dolby Vision, which basically means that you're getting the best possible viewing experience.
  3. More Efficient Multitasking: This phone's unique screen ratio gives way to some improved multitasking features for a well balanced user experience.
  4. Reliable Build Quality: The G6 was engineered to be durable and dependable, passing 14 different military standard tests.
  5. A Wider, More Fun Picture: The dual camera setup provides a standard plus a wide angle lens for fun and creative shots.
  6. Your Own Personal Assistant: Ask questions, send messages and even command smart home devices all through voice with Google Assistant.

These are just a few of our top reasons why you should make the LG G6 your next smartphone. Is there anything we left out? Let us know.

Tuesday, May 9, 2017

Amazon Introduces Echo Show With 7-Inch Screen And Video Calling

Today, Amazon announced its next product in their Echo lineup​. The Amazon Echo Show will combine Alexa, the virtual assistant with a 7" touchscreen to display video calls, weather reports, music lyrics and more.
The Echo Show features Dolby-powered speakers for music playback for "crisp vocals and dynamic bass response". It uses eight microphones to pick up your voice from any direction and integrates with compatible home security cameras to show the video feed on the screen.
Amazon also introduced Alexa calling and messaging, which is exactly how it sounds. Users will soon be able to place calls or send voice messages to anyone with the Alexa app installed on their phones, as well as those who have supported Echo devices.
The Echo Show is available for pre-order right now in black or white models. It will begin shipping to customers June 28.

Monday, May 8, 2017

Microsoft Cortana Joins Voice-Controlled Speaker Market With The Harmon Kardon Invoke

Harman Kardon accidentally leaked a web-page for their new product called Invoke. It is a speaker that uses Microsoft's​ digital assistant Cortana. The page has since been taken down, although the company did release a teaser video.

Harman Kardon’s Invoke is crafted from premium materials with a metallic speaker body delivering powerful sound a full 360-degrees. It will allow users to utilize Microsoft's Cortana to voice control their music, smart home devices, make and receive hands-free calls through Skype, obtain answers to questions and more.
With Apple and now Microsoft joining the voice-controlled speaker market, Research firms are predicting that the number of owners in the U.S. will double this year. Microsoft will reveal details about Cortana Skills Kit to developers at the Build Conference this week, however, the Invoke speaker is set for a release in "Fall 2017."
Apple May Announce An Amazon Echo Competitor With Siri In June.
Upcoming Amazon Echo Image Leaked With New Design And Touchscreen.

Saturday, May 6, 2017

Upcoming Amazon Echo Image Leaked With New Design And Touchscreen


The image shows the unit with a slant that angles upwards so that the 7" screen is visible when you look down at it. The user interface reveals a weather widget and what appears to be message notifications. Toward the bottom, there is a carousel that should allow users to swipe through to see additional information. Below the display is the speaker grill that will reportedly output better sound than the current Amazon Echo. Above the display, there appears to be a camera that could used similarly​ to the recently announced Echo Look.
According to reports, this product is codenamed “Knight,” and will be the company's "flagship Alexa device.” It is expected “later this month” with a price tag over $200.
Apple May Announce An Amazon Echo Competitor With Siri In June.

Friday, May 5, 2017

OnePlus 5 Is Officially Confirmed - Will Be Unveiled This Summer

Rumors of the company skipping from the OnePlus 3 to 5, left many scratching there heads. So why is the Chinese company skipping 4? Well, the number four is an unlucky number in China because it is nearly homophonous to the word "death." Additionally, it seems the staff at OnePlus are big fans of seven-time NBA champion Robert Horry, who wore the number 5 throughout his 16 years in the league.
OnePlus has become known for making hardware with great specifications at a reasonable price. The handset was prematurely listed by OppoMart, possibly revealing its specs, price and release date. For the most part, the listing matches previous rumors, suggesting the phone will feature a Snapdragon 835 processor, 6GB of RAM and a 3,600mAh battery with a price tag of $449. Although, the most intriguing feature listed has to be the dual camera.
OnePlus went on to confirm that they will launch the OnePlus 5 in "early summer."
ONEPLUS 3 REVIEW WITH THOUGHTS ON ONEPLUS 3T.
RHINOSHIELD CRASH GUARD & SCREEN PROTECTOR REVIEW FOR ONEPLUS 3.

Thursday, May 4, 2017

Microsoft CEO Says They Haven't Given Up On Smartphones


Nadella stating, “We make phones today, we have OEMs like HP making phones and others and we picked a very specific area to focus on which is management, security, and this one particular feature that we have called Continuum, which is a phone that can even be a desktop...and we’re looking for what’s the next change in form and function. What we’ve done with Surface is a good example.”
He wisecrackingly adds, “So in some sense when you say will we make more phones, I’m sure we’ll make more phones, but they may not look like phones that are there today."
The mention of Continuum and Surface’s unique features, could be hinting at Microsoft applying​ the Surface branding to their next smartphone. After the recent product launch of the Surface Laptop, the timing couldn't be better. Hopefully, a Surface Phone capable of properly functioning as a full-fledged computer comes sooner rather than later.
Microsoft Takes Aim At Chromebook Market – Announces Windows 10 S.

Wednesday, May 3, 2017

Apple May Announce A Siri Amazon Echo Competitor In June


According to analysts, one of Apple's next products will be a high-end speaker with Siri built-in. It will be aimed at the premium market, featuring a better audio experience, computing performance and a higher price tag. The reports also suggest that the speaker will be able to control home appliances through Apple's HomeKit.
Consumers have been waiting for Apple to enter the digital home assistant market since Amazon and Google found success. Siri made her way from mobile to desktop, it would only be natural for her to find a place in the home.
Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference begins June 5.

Tuesday, May 2, 2017

Microsoft Takes Aim At Chromebook Market - Announces Windows 10 S


Microsoft is gearing up to compete with Google's Chromebooks in the education space. Today, Microsoft announced Windows 10 S, a more streamlined version of their operating system that strictly runs optimized apps from the Windows Store and doesn't require expensive hardware.
Entry-level Windows 10 S devices will start at $189, which could help intrigue students, teachers and even entire schools to purchase. Acer, Asus, Dell, Fujitsu, HP, Samsung and Toshiba are all currently working on Windows 10 S laptops.
Schools will be able to download Windows 10 S for free if they want to upgrade older devices to this new version. Office 365 apps will also be free for both students and teachers.
A variety of Windows 10 S devices will be available this summer, just in time for the new school year.

Leaked Retail Packaging May Have Revealed HTC U 11 Specs

We are getting closer and closer to HTC’s event this month where the company is gearing up to officially announce the HTC U aka U 11. Today, an image of what appears to be the back of the retail packaging has surfaced, showcasing a majority of the device's specs.
According to the image, this device will come with a 5.5″ QHD display, Snapdragon 835 processor, 6GB RAM, micro SD card support, 12MP rear-facing camera, Edge Sense, water resistance, BoomSound, fingerprint reader, NFC, and Android Nougat.
Although, notice how it lists the device as "Dual Sim/128GB." It is likely that this is an international variant, meaning a US model could have different specs including a single sim with 64GB and only 4GB of RAM. Also, notice how it states IP57 water resistance, because most high-end devices feature IP67 or 68 water resistance, this would mean that the HTC U 11 won't be as protected as other devices.
Again, these are simply leaks and should be taken with a grain of salt. HTC will take the stage May 16 to officially reveal what the device has to offer.
HTC Will Announce A Squeezable Smartphone May 16.

Monday, May 1, 2017

Random Restarts Added To The List Of Issues Plaguing The Galaxy S8

Several Galaxy S8 users have taken to forums to gain more information about their brand new handsets restarting for no apparent reason.
The issue is compounded by an overall system slowdown with excessive CPU load. The restarts even continue when using the phone in safe mode and after a complete restore. One user reported their new smartphone locking up to a black screen, with a hard reset being the only solution.
The problem seems to be affecting units on most US carriers and possibly other global carriers. Samsung has yet to provide a response on the matter, although it is hard to say if they are aware or not.
Some Galaxy S8 Customers Have Red Screen Problems.
How To Fix Galaxy S8 Red Screen Before Samsung Update.