Android

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Kamis, 14 April 2016

Google introduces customizable $35 cases for the Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P


In the past, one of the biggest reasons to get a Nexus phone was because of vanilla android and the ability to get the next great version of Android from day 1. In the last couple of years, Google start making Nexus devices more competitive in terms of pricing and today, Google is once again putting up another reason for you to get a Nexus phone. 

Google is calling this Live Cases and the new $35 case available exclusively through the Google Store will enable you to build a custom case from your personal image and in addition to that, when the case is attached to either the Nexus 6P or Nexus 5X, the wallpaper will automatically match the case you have. Additionally, on the back of the case is also a secondary button that users can map to launch any application of their choice
This new concept is pretty interesting and it looks like Google got some inspiration from Motorola's Moto Maker interface as the Live Case design dashboard is pretty similar. At $35, this new Live Case is currently exclusive to both the Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P and is also limited to regions which have access to the Google Store. Users can opt in to print their favorite photo on the case or a map so you don't end up getting lost.

Learn more about Google's Live Cases for Nexus devices here



ORIGINAL SOURCE: GOOGLE
Selasa, 12 April 2016

HTC's new flagship phone for 2016 comes with two optically stabilised cameras


After much anticipation and certainly a little too much of teasing, the HTC 10 is now official and it looks like the Android flagship family for 2016 is complete. As expected, HTC is keeping their existing design from previous years and the HTC 10 builds upon the original HTC One (M7) design by throwing in chamfered edges to the formula and they finally removed the HTC logo on the front by replacing it with a fingerprint scanning home button. 

The biggest change with the HTC 10 is that HTC is no longer using the 'HTC One' branding for this device but other than that, HTC says they have kept the signature HTC One features on the new HTC 10 like the BoomSound Speakers, Ultrapixel camera and the premium aluminium build. Heck yeah, they even retained the capacitive back and multitasking buttons. 

HTC 10 Key Specifications

  • 5.2-inch QHD Super LCD display
  • Snapdragon 820 SoC
  • 4GB RAM
  • 32/64GB expandable memory
  • 12MP f1.8 Ultrapixel camera with OIS
  • 5MP f1.8 front camera with OIS
  • 3,000mAh battery
  • 145.9 x 71.9 x 9mm 
  • 161g
  • Android 6.0 Marshmallow
  • Carbon Gray, Topaz Gold, Glacier Silver

HTC 10 Lifestyle Key Specifications

  • 5.2-inch QHD Super LCD display
  • Snapdragon 652 SoC
  • 3GB RAM
  • 32/64GB expandable memory
  • 12MP f1.8 Ultrapixel camera with OIS
  • 5MP f1.8 front camera with OIS
  • 3,000mAh battery
  • 145.9 x 71.9 x 9mm 
  • 161g
  • Android 6.0 Marshmallow
  • Carbon Gray, Topaz Gold, Glacier Silver


One of the biggest problems with every other HTC flagship in the past is in the camera department and this time around HTC is still sticking with their 'Ultrapixel' technology with a new 1.55um sensor that is both optically stabilized and comes with a laser autofocus system. To back up their claims, the company also sent the HTC 10 over to DXOMark beforehand to allow them to test the camera's capabilities. The results? Well, DXOMark says that the HTC 10 lives up to the marketing hype and is just as good as the camera on the Galaxy S7 edge. 

But that's not all, HTC didn't stop there. Besides reinventing the rear camera, they also took the time to engineer a 5MP front camera that is optically stabilized. So you can say goodbye to all those blurry selfies. While the new front camera on the HTC 10 sound pretty impressive, HTC says the new implementation of BoomSound on the HTC 10 is better that it was before despite not having the signature dual speaker array.

Instead, HTC is opting for a single front speaker and a secondary woofer on the bottom of the device that chimes out lower frequencies and that combined gives the HTC 10 it's signature BoomSound audio. Another thing is that HTC also managed to implement a new headphone amp that is capable of upscaling 16-bit audio in to 24-bit audio so you can rest assured whether you're on your headphones or not, the HTC 10 will provide you with a pleasant audio experience 

HTC will begin taking pre-order in the US starting today (April 12) and orders will begin shipping in early May. No word as to when the HTC 10 will be arriving in Malaysia and do note that HTC has confirmed that some regions will instead be receiving the HTC 10 Lifestyle opposed to the HTC 10 which has the Snapdragon 820 SoC. Unlocked, the HTC 10 will cost $699 (~RM 2,700). Learn more about the HTC 10 here
Rabu, 06 April 2016

Huawei's new P9 and P9 Plus come with a pair of cameras certified by Leica


In the last couple of weeks companies like Samsung and LG have unveiled their new flagship offerings for 2016 but the craze does not stop there as other android makers like HTC, Asus and Oppo are about to chime in. Today in particular, Huawei unveiled their flagship series for 2016. The Huawei P9 is the spiritual successor to the well acclaimed Huawei P8 from last year. If you think the LG G5's dual camera setup was cool, Huawei's new P9 and P9 Plus flagship comes with dual 12MP cameras that are "co-engineered" by Leica (a well established German camera maker).

While the (visor) back of the Huawei P9 amd P9 Plus features that slick looking Leica branding (a first for a smartphone), Huawei says that the dual camera setup is like no other. One of the two 12MP sensors will capture images in RGB and the other in monochrome and the images are combined to produce an image with accurate color representation. Huawei says they have implemented a new hybrid autofocus system to aid in taking quick photos and also a dedicated processing unit to measure depth. This will probably help to get better dynamic range in photos. And the best part about the Huawei P9's dual camera system compared to the one LG (or Samsung) is that the camera sits flush on the metal frame (basically means no awkward camera bump)



The first thing that is quite obvious about the Huawei P9 and Huawei P9 Plus is that the front design is reminiscent of the Huawei P8 from last year and the rear design is similar of the Huawei Nexus 6P. But unlike other android flagship android phones of 2016, the Huawei P9 series is unique in the sense that it is not powered by the Snapdragon 820 (Huawei opted to use an in-house developed SoC) and the Chinese firm decided to put a 1080P display on both the devices to improve battery life.

Additionally, Huawei is also touting that their new flagship phone, the P9 also comes with unrivaled hardware performance in terms of battery life, USB Type-C with a proprietary fast charging technology, stereo speaker, industry leading connectivity with a virtual triple antenna implementation and security with a new three-dimension fingerprint sensor on the back. Just like the trend is these days, there's also a slightly bigger variant of the Huawei P9 called the Huawei P9 Plus and that comes with a slightly bigger 5.5-inch (still) 1080P AMOLED display that features a pressure sensitive display.

Huawei will begin rolling out the Huawe P9 and Huawei P9 Plus later this month in Europe and also China for a starting price of €599 (~RM 2,660) and €749 (~RM 3,300) respectively. Expect to see the Huawe P9 launch in Malaysia by the 2Q of 2016.

Huawei P9 Key Specifications:

  • 5.2-inch 1080P IPS-NEO display 
  • HiSilicon Kirin 955 SoC
  • 3/4GB RAM
  • 32/64GB expandable memory
  • Dual 12MP f2.2 rear camera w/Leica optics
  • 8MP front camera 
  • 3,000mAh battery
  • Dual SIM LTE
  • Android 6.0 Marshmallow w/Emotion UI 4.1
  • 145 x 70.9 x 6.95mm (144g)

Huawei P9 Plus Key Specifications:

  • 5.5-inch 1080P Super AMOLED display
  • 3D Touch display technology
  • HiSilicon Kirin 955 SoC
  • 4GB RAM
  • 64/128GB expandable memory
  • Dual 12MP f2.2 rear camera w/Leica optics
  • 8MP front camera 
  • 3,400mAh battery
  • Dual SIM LTE
  • Android 6.0 Marshmallow w/Emotion UI 4.1
  • 152.2 x 75.3 x 7mm
Senin, 28 Maret 2016

Xiaomi's metal clad Redmi Note 3 starts at RM 749


While many are waiting for the release of the Xiaomi Mi 5 here in Malaysia, Mi Malaysia is yet to announce a exact date for that. But in the meantime, the budget friendly Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 which is the successor to the Redmi Note 2 from last year. Xiaomi's new Redmi Note 3 that is coming to Malaysia will be powered by the Snapdragon 650 SoC and come with varying memory options and will be available in three shades of aluminum

Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 Key Specifications

  • 5.5-inch 1080P IPS display
  • Qualcomm Snapdragon 650 SoC
  • 3GB RAM
  • 16/32GB expandable memory
  • 16MP f2.0 rear camera
  • 5MP front camera
  • Android 5.1.1 Lollipop (MIUI 7)
  • 150 x 76 x 8.7mm
  • 164g
  • 4,050mAh battery
  • Dual SIM LTE
  • Dark Grey, Champagne Gold, Silver 

What makes the Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 special is that is is the first Xiaomi phone to come with a fingerprint scanner, the coupled with a metal build gives the Redmi Note 3 a premium look and feel. The Redmi Note 3 has a premium build but Xiaomi Malaysia has not driven the prices up the roof. At just RM 749 for the 16GB model (and RM 849 for the 32GB model with 3GB of RAM), the Redmi Note 3 looks like a pretty good deal for a mid range android smartphone that comes with pretty decent hardware.

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 will be going on sale next week (April 6) through the Mi Malaysia online store and also through authorized hardware partners throughout the country.

Ya betul, #RedmiNote3 telah sampai di Malaysia! Pada harga RM 749 (16GB + 2GB, Silver) dan RM 849 (32GB + 3GB,...
Posted by Mi Malaysia on Monday, March 28, 2016
Rabu, 09 Maret 2016

Google releases first Android N developer preview ahead of Google I/O


During Google I/O last year, Google made it clear that they are putting forwards a yearly update cycle for Android versions just like how Apple does it with iOS. Usually, Google doesn't reveal any information up front prior to Google I/O but this year they are shaking things up a little by starting off the game with a developer preview of Android N which is still unnamed. 

If you thought the brand new Galaxy S7 and LG G5 runs the latest version of Android, think again. While the current list of updated features on Android N is still pretty minimal, expect the bulk of the changes to be unveiled during Google I/O 2016 in May. But right now, Android N does include some well requested features like native split view multitasking (yes, it's finally here. If Apple can do it, so can Google) and improved battery optimization with an updated version of Doze. 

This first Developer Preview of Android N will work with the Nexus 6, Nexus 6P, Nexus 5X, Nexus 9 and Pixel C. Expect the final version of Android N to be released to the public by the end of the Summer in time for the second wave of android flagships. 


ORIGINAL SOURCE: GOOGLE
Kamis, 03 Maret 2016

Samsung Galaxy S7 edge priced at RM 3,099 in Malaysia


Last week's announcement of the Galaxy S7 series in Barcelona opened up pre-orders for the device in several key markets like Singapore and the US but as we have already learnt, the Galaxy S7 will be arriving in Malaysia on March 18 and pre-order will begin on next Monday (March 17). Samsung Malaysia has previously said that only the Galaxy S7 edge will be making it's way to Malaysia this year (officially that is) and the regular 5.1-inch Galaxy S7 will not be offered by Samsung Malaysia.

But let's cut to the chase, Samsung Malaysia has revealed that the price for the Galaxy S7 edge is set at RM 3,099 which is the same price as the Galaxy S6 edge from last year. Also similar to last year is that Samsung is once again opening up a pre-order for the Galaxy S7 edge and instead of giving out free wireless chargers, Samsung is cutting the price by 20% which essentially brings down the price of the Galaxy S7 edge to only RM 2,479 and if that doesn't entice you to pre-order the device, Samsung is also giving out a 128GB microSD card that will expand the 32GB of onboard storage available on the Galaxy S7 edge and also a extra year of extended warranty.

The caveat here is that this offer will only work for the first 1,000 pre-orders and can only be done through Samsung's online portal on the 7th of March, 12am. The deal is probably going to sell out pretty fast and just remember that you'll simply just need to put down a RM 300 deposit in order to pre-order the Galaxy S7 edge. In addition to all of that, customers who pre-order the Galaxy S7 edge from March 7-11 will be receiving the Galaxy S7 edge on March 17 which is one day before the Galaxy S7 edge officially lands in Malaysia. Learn more about the Galaxy S7 series here

Samsung Galaxy S7 Key Specifications:

  • 5.5-inch 2560 x 1440 sAMOLED display
  • 64-bit octa core Exynos or Snapdragon 820 SoC
  • 4GB RAM
  • 32GB expandable memory
  • 12MP f1.7 Dual pixel rear camera with OIS
  • 5MP f1.7 front camera
  • IP68 certification
  • 3,600mAh battery with wireless charging
  • 150.9 x 72.6 x 7.7mm (157g)
  • LTE
  • Black Onyx, Silver Titanium, Gold Platinum
ORIGINAL SOURCE: LOWYAT.NET
Rabu, 24 Februari 2016

Xiaomi unveils the Mi 5 and Mi 4S at MWC 2016


For the first time ever, Xiaomi is holding a global announcement of their brand new flagship smartphone during Mobile World Congress. Leading the announcement of the Xiaomi Mi 5 today is Hugo Barra and after several weeks of successive marketing on social media the new flagship phone from Xiaomi is now official.

Hugo Barra expresses his displeasure against microSD cards and removable batteries — "Hugo Barra has come forward to explain why the company chose not to include both a microSD card slot and also a removable battery like their existing devices. He said that microSD cards are often" Continue reading.
Just like all the other flagship devices being announced at MWC 2016 (LG G5, Galaxy S7, Xperia X Performance), the Xiaomi Mi 5 is also powered by the Snapdragon 820 SoC but the biggest difference is that Xiaomi is touting that the Mi 5 is able to score up to 140,000 points on AnTuTu which is significantly higher than the sub 100,000 score of current Snapdragon 820 devices. If your metric about speed is based on benchmarks, the Xiaomi Mi 5 is your best bet at the fastest phone right now.

Xiaomi Mi 5 Key Specifications

  • 5.15-inch 1080P IPS LCD display
  • Snapdragon 820 SoC
  • 3/4GB RAM
  • 32/64/128GB UFS 2.0 memory
  • 16MP f2.0 rear camera with OIS
  • 4MP f2.0 front camera 
  • Android 6.0 Marshmallow with MIUI 7.0
  • 3,00mAh battery
  • USB Type-C port
  • 144.6 x 69.2 x 7.3mm
  • 129/139g
  • Dual SIM

Beyond the powerful chipset, Xiaomi is also touting that they have the most compact smartphone in the market right now. Compared to the similarly size Galaxy S7 which also has a 5.1-inch display, the Xiaomi Mi 5 is nearly 20g lighter than the Galaxy S7 which also packs a 3,000mAh battery. In terms of design, you might think that the Xiaomi Mi 5 looks a little like the Galaxy S7 right? Well, this design is actually from the Xiaomi Mi Note from last year which included a tapered glass back and a metal frame. The Exclusive version in particular (that costs $400 and comes with 4GB RAM and 128GB of storage) will come with a ceramic back.


But what's new in this design is that Xiaomi is adding a fingerprint scanner on the Xiaomi Mi 5 alongside a physical home button on the front of the device. The camera on the back of the Xiaomi Mi5 is also interesting as it comes with a 16MP sensor that has 4-axis optical image stabilization system that is a first for a smartphone.

Xiaomi fans in China will be able to pre-order the Xiaomi Mi 5 today and the phone will officially ship in China on March 1st. No word on the launch dates for other regions but Xiaomi confirms that India will get the Xiaomi Mi 5 after China and the Asian market including Malaysia will be the next in line to get the Xiaomi Mi 5. The device will come in three colors; black, gold and white.

  • Xiaomi Mi 5 Snapdragon 820 @ 1.8GHz / 3GB RAM / 32GB — ¥ 1,999 (~US$ 306 / ~RM 1,299)
  • Xiaomi Mi 5 Snapdragon 820 @ 2.15GHz / 3GB RAM / 32GB — ¥ 2,299 (~US$ 51 / ~RM 1,495)
  • Xiaomi Mi 5 Snapdragon 820 @ 2.15GHz / 4GB RAM / 128GB — ¥ 2,699 (~US$ 412 / ~RM 1,753)


Xiaomi Mi 4S Key Specifications

  • 5-inch 1080P IPS LCD display
  • Snapdragon 808 SoC
  • 3GB RAM
  • 64GB expandable memory
  • 13MP f2.0 rear camera
  • 5MP f2.0 front camera
  • Android 6.0 Marshmallow with MIUI 7.0
  • 3,260mAh battery
  • 139.3 x 70.8 x 7.8mm 
  • 133g 
  • Dual SIM

But Xiaomi did not stop there, in addition to the announcement of the new Xiaomi Mi 5 flagship, the company is also revealing the Xiaomi Mi 5S which is an update to the Xiaomi Mi 4i from last year. The biggest change here is that there is no a fingerprint scanner on the back of the device and the Xiaomi Mi 4S now comes in a pink color. While there is no tapered back design like the new Mi 5, the Mi 4S does come with a flat glass and metal frame design. The new Xiaomi Mi 4S will go for ¥ 1,699 (~US$ 260 / RM 1,100) for the 3GB and 64GB memory option

ORIGINAL SOURCE: MIUI
Senin, 22 Februari 2016

Acer's Liquid Jade 2 smartphone comes with 1 Terabytes of cloud storage

There's definitely no short of new Android phones this year and Acer's new Liquid Jade 2 is the new kid on the block. Acer knows that they can't compete with both Samsung and HTC in terms of the hardware and design and that is why the headline feature of the Acer Liquid Jade 2 is it's hybrid storage array which includes 1TB of cloud storage in addition to the 32GB of expandable memory (via a microSD card) that is available.

But beyond the inclusion of 1 terabytes of cloud storage, the Acer Liquid Jade 2 looks like a typical android phone these days both in terms of specifications and the physical hardware. No word on pricing nor availability has been announced yet.

Acer Liquid Jade 2 Key Specifications:

  • 5.5-inch 1080P sAMOLED display
  • Snapdragon 808 SoC
  • 3GB RAM
  • 32GB expandable memory
  • 21MP rear camera with dual LED flash
  • 8MP front camera
  • LTE 
  • Android 6.0 Marshmallow

ORIGINAL SOURCE: ACER

SanDisk's new 128GB microSD is capable of write speeds up to 275MB/s

What a time to be alive, it was just two years ago that Sandisk unveiled the world's first 128GB microSD (2014) card and last year the company also launched the first commercially available 200GB microSD (2015). Amidst all the smartphone and tablet craze at MWC 2016 this week, SanDisk is taking the opportunity to unveil their fastest microSD card which comes with UHS-II speeds.

The brand new SanDisk Extreme Pro (pictured above) is a built for the next generation of mobile devices which will be able to take advantage of the speeds this microSD card is able to produce. This new SanDisk Extreme Pro microSD card comes in both 64 and 128GB capacities and at peak performance, this microSD card clocks in at a whopping 275MB/s in write speeds. That is true provided you have the hardware that is able to take advantage of the speeds this card can output.
SanDisk is not trying to please future customers of the LG G5 and the Galaxy S7 with their new speedy microSD card but they are also announcing a new lineup of affordable USB Type-C flash drives which will work with devices like the 12-inch MacBook, Nexus 6P and even the newly announced LG G5. With storage options going up to 128GB, these new USB Type-C flash drives delivers USB 3.1 speeds of up to 150MB/s

The SanDisk USB Type-C flash drives will be available starting today through Amazon but the new UHS-II microSDs will only be available for purchase in Q2 2016.

  • SanDisk Extreme Pro UHS-II 64GB microSD - $179.99 (~ RM 753)
  • SanDisk Extreme Pro UHS-II 128GB microSD - $299.99 (~ RM 1,256)
  • SanDisk Ultra USB Type-C Flash Drive 16GB - $19.99 (~ RM 83)
  • SanDisk Ultra USB Type-C Flash Drive 32GB - $29.99 (~ RM 126)
  • SanDisk Ultra USB Type-C Flash Drive 64GB - $49.99 (~ RM 209)
  • SanDisk Ultra USB Type-C Flash Drive 128GB - $79.99 (~ RM 335)

Sony unveils new Xperia X series designed to showcase the best of Sony

Sony has decided to join the fun with other Android manufacturers with three brand new smartphones and an accessory. At MWC 2016, Sony is unveiling a new Xperia series called the Xperia X series which is designed to showcase the best of Sony from the brilliant industrial design to the prowess of Sony's camera modules.

Similar to Sony's recent strategy to release three variants of their Xperia Z lineup, the new Xperia X series also comes in three flavours; the Xperia XA, Xperia X and Xperia X Performance. All three devices come with 5-inch IPS displays but only the Snapdragon 820 powered Xperia X Performance comes with a fingerprint scanning home button and IP68 water resistivity which is part of Sony's flagship Xperia Z lineup.

In terms of design, the 2016 Xperia X series still uses Sony's metal unibody design and the unique thing about all three Xperia X devices being announced at MWC 2016 is that Sony has engineered a curved glass display that wraps around the frame making the device feel more natural in the hands and also gives the Xperia X series a slim bezel.

Sony Xperia X Performance Key Specifications

  • 5-inch 1080P IPS LCD display
  • Snapdragon 820 SoC
  • 3GB RAM
  • 32GB expandable memory
  • 23MP f2.0 rear camera
  • 12MP f2.0 front camera
  • 2,700mAh battery
  • Android 6.0 Marshmallow
  • 144.8 x 71.1 x 7.6mm
  • 165g
  • IP68 certification

Sony Xperia X Key Specifications

  • 5-inch 1080P IPS LCD display
  • Snapdragon 650 SoC
  • 3GB RAM 
  • 32/64GB expandable memory
  • 23MP f2.0 rear camera
  • 13MP f2.0 front camera 
  • 2,620mAh battery
  • Android 6.0 Marshmallow
  • 142.7 x 69.4 x 7.9mm 
  • 153g

Sony Xperia XA Key Specifications

  • 5-inch 720-P IPS LCD display
  • Mediatek Helio P10 (MT6755) SoC
  • 2GB RAM
  • 16GB expandable memory
  • 13MP rear camera
  • 8MP front camera with LED flash
  • 2,300mAh battery
  • Android 6.0 Marshmallow
  • 143.6 x 66.8 x 7.9mm
  • 137.4g

In additiona to all this, Sony is also trailing on what Samsung and LG have been doing and they are also announcing two new accessories designed to complement the new Xperia X series. The Xperia Ear is Sony's answer to a wireless bluetooth earpiece that is tiny and powerful. The Xperia Ear comes with and IPX2 water protection and Sony says this wireless ear piece is designed to provide users with a truly hands free experience.

Another accessory is the Xperia Eye which is a wearable camera (with wide angle lens) that clips on o you shirt to capture your POV. Sony isn't stopping there as they also have an Xperia Project which is able to respond to touches from the beamed surface and also respond to voice and gestures. And finally, there is the Xperia Agent which is Sony's idea of a personalized assitant similar to the Amazon Echo. Both the Xperia X series alongside the new range of accessories will be available in the Summer (2016)



ORIGINAL SOURCE: SONY
Minggu, 21 Februari 2016

HTC announces 3 new midrange Desire phones running Android 6.0 Marshmallow


At this point it is clear that HTC is still not ready to unveil it's new flagship phone for 2016. While both Samsung and LG are fighting it off with the LG G5 and the Galaxy S7, HTC is also making an effort by introducing a couple of mid range smartphones under the Desire brand. The HTC Desire 825, 630 and 530 do not introduce anything radically new to the table but they all come with Google's latest Android 6.0 Marshmallow operating system. 

These new smartphones come with pretty mediocre hardware specifications for 2016 but HTC is sprucing up that not so powerful Snapdragon 400 SoC with a twist in the design. HTC's logo chinbar is still present on all three Desire devices, the Boom Sound speakers blends in to the design but the back is where the magic happens. Alongside the multi-color option of these new Desire devices, HTC is also putting out an option for a more subtle color dot design which makes the back looks like it's been through some dots of paint. 

Depending on the color you choose, you will get a different look and some people might like how it looks and some people might not be a fan of it. HTC says the Desire 825, 630 and 530 will go on sale next month in select regions and pricing will be released in a later date

HTC Desire 825 Key Specifications

  • 5.5-inch 720P Super LCD display
  • Snapdragon 400 SoC
  • 2GB RAM
  • 16GB expandable memory
  • 13MP f2.2 rear camera
  • 5MP front camera
  • Android 6.0 Marshmallow
  • 2,700mAh battery
  • 156 x 76.9 x 7.4mm
  • 155g
  • LTE
  • Optional dual SIM

HTC Desire 630 Key Specifications

  • 5-inch 720P Super LCD display
  • Snapdragon 400 SoC
  • 2GB RAM
  • 16GB expandable memory
  • 13MP f2.4 rear camera
  • 5MP front camera
  • Android 6.0 Marshmallow
  • 2,200mAh battery
  • 146.9 x 70.9 x 8.3mm
  • 140g
  • LTE
  • Dual SIM

HTC Desire 530 Key Specifications

  • 5-inch 720P Super LCD display
  • Snapdragon 210 SoC
  • 1.5GB RAM
  • 16GB expandable memory
  • 8MP f2.4 rear camera
  • 5MP front camera
  • Android 6.0 Marshmallow
  • 2,200mAh battery
  • 146.9 x 70.9 x 8.3mm
  • 140g
  • LTE
ORIGINAL SOURCE: ENGADGET

Samsung's brand new Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge will go on sale on March 11


After this morning's announcement of the LG G5, Samsung is trailing behind a little with the unveiling of the Galaxy S7 series which like last year includes both a standard flat screen model and a second curved screened model. Say hello to the brand new Samsung Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge, unlike it's predecessor, Samsung's 2016 flagship offerings brings back the microSD slot and IP68 certification from the Galaxy S5.

microSD cards and water resistivity is now back with the Galaxy S7
Unlike LG, Samsung has not radically changed the design of the Galaxy S7 series and in fact, it's actually hard to tell them apart when compared side by side. The Galaxy S7 in particular still comes with a 5.1-inch display but the Galaxy S7 edge is now armed with a larger 5.5-inch curved display. One notable change from the Galaxy S6 to the Galaxy S7 series is that Samsung has reduced the camera bump on the Galaxy S7 but there's still a slight bump on the back.

Samsung Galaxy S7 Key Specifications:

  • 5.1-inch 2560 x 1440 sAMOLED display
  • 64-bit octa core Exynos or Snapdragon 820 SoC
  • 4GB RAM
  • 32G/64GB expandable memory
  • 12MP f1.7 Dual pixel rear camera with OIS
  • 5MP f1.7 front camera
  • IP68 certification
  • 3,000mAh battery with wireless charging
  • LTE
  • 142.4 x 69.6 x 7.9mm (152g)
  • Fingerprint scanner with Samsung Pay

Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge Key Specifications:

  • 5.5-inch 2560 x 1440 sAMOLED display
  • 64-bit octa core Exynos or Snapdragon 820 SoC
  • 4GB RAM
  • 32/64GB expandable memory
  • 12MP f1.7 Dual pixel rear camera with OIS
  • 5MP f1.7 front camera
  • IP68 certification
  • 3,600mAh battery with wireless charging
  • LTE
  • 150.9 x 72.6 x 7.7mm (157g)
  • Fingerprint scanner with Samsung Pay

Samsung did not shake up the design of the Galaxy S7 but the device does come with some new tricks up it's sleeve. Most notably is it's always-on display which utilized the super AMOLED display to allow the Galaxy S7 or Galaxy S7 edge to display information passively. Samsung says the Galaxy S7 is smart enough to know when the phone is in your pocket and when it's not so it doesn't bring up the always on display in your pocket. 

Samsung didn't stop there and while the battery is still very much sealed in the glass and metal design, both the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge received a big battery bump from just 2,600mAh on the Galaxy S6 and up to 3,600mAh with the Galaxy S7 edge. While the battery life will most likely be improved with this larger cell, the Galaxy S7 series is still relying on the microUSB port and Samsung says the USB Type C port is still not ready for prime time and the fact that Samsung is trying to get backwards compatibility with the existing Gear VR which still uses a microUSB port. 


In the camera department, Samsung for the first time is dropping the megapixel count and going towards the direction that Apple is going fore that is a bigger sensor size. The Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge comes with 1.4µm sensor that has a larger f1.7 aperture. Another thing that Samsung is implementing on the camera of the Galaxy S7 is a technology call Dual pixel which uses all the pixels to focus on a object. 

The combination of a larger sensor and the Dual pixel technology enables the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge's camera to perform significantly better in low light and have fast and accurate autofocus. Learn more about the Galaxy S7's new 12MP camera here


As for the software, the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge is still running TouchWiz atop Android 6.0 Marshmallow. The aesthetics of stock TouchWiz still looks pretty similar to TouchWiz on the Galaxy S6 but specifically for the Galaxy S7 edge, Samsung has updated the Apps Edge feature to take advantage of the bigger screen. Instead of just showing icons, the apps compatible with Samsung's Apps Edge will now be able to take up to 1/3 of the screen which vastly improves on the functionality of the feature. 

Both the Samsung Galaxy S7 and Samsung Galaxy S7 edge will be available globally starting March 11 and the pricing for both devices will be similar to the one for the Galaxy S6 series. Particularly in Malaysia, Samsung Malaysia will begin opening up pre-orders for the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge starting March 7 and the device will officially go on sale in Malaysia on March 18. No official word on pricing yet but expect the Galaxy S7 to start at around RM 2,599. Both devices will come in either gold, black or silver.

Gear 360 camera

Oh yeah, before I forget. Samsung also showed off a 360 degree camera cleverly called the Gear 360. The camera the size of a tennis ball is designed to create immersive videos at 4k resolution. This is done by having two CMOS 15MP fisheye camera on the front fan back and the built in accelerometer and gyroscope make sure that your video is right when you upload it to services like Facebook, Youtube or even Samsung's own Milk VR service. 

But the Gear 360 isn't only about taking 360 degree videos, you could also use it to take 2D pictures and even some wide angle selfies. Similar to the Galaxy S7, the Gear 360 is also built to withstand the elements with it's IP53 certification. However, unlike the Galaxy S7, the Gear 360 will only be available in select regions in the 2nd quarter of 2016 (Q2 2016).

UPDATE 21/2/2016 13:49: Update to reflect on Malaysia launch time frame

ZTE's Spro Plus is a projector running Android

Google's Android operating system is undoubedly the most versatile mobile operating system out there and that is why ZTE is converting it's best selling Spro mini smart projector into an Android tablet. Dubbed the Spro Plus, this new mini projector from ZTE leverages the power of Android to enable users to stream videos, play presentation or even just play a game on the big screens.

If you are unfamilliar with the ZTE Spro line of smart projectors, it is basically a mobile projector setup that uses Laser instead of LED to beam content onto a display and by doing so, the projector is able to provide crystal clear images every time. Additionally, ZTE has also spruced up the integrated audio on the Spro Plus with JBL's audio system that includes dual 4w speakers. The ZTE Spro Plus will be available globally in Summer 2016. 

ZTE Spro Plus Key Specifications

  • 8.4-inch 2560 x 1600 Super AMOLED display
  • Snapdragon 801/625
  • Android 6.0 Marshmallow
  • 12,100mAh battery
  • Wi-Fi / LTE
  • 500 lumen projection


ORIGINAL SOURCE: THEVERGE

LG officially unveils the LG G5 and Friends


Starting off MWC 2016 this year is LG and to no surprise at all, the company is unveiling their latest flagship creation which redefines it's previous designs. Firstly, the device will be called the LG G5 and unlike other LG flagship in the past, the LG G5 is the first one to sport a metal unibody design coupled along with chamfered edges. Another radical change is that the rear volume rockers which has been part of LG's flagship line for 3 years is now only left with a rear mounted power button that doubles as a fingerprint scanner on the LG G5.



But what fundamentally sets the LG G5 apart from other flagships is that LG has built in a modular system which they are calling as 'friends'. This feature utilizes the power of the LG G5's removable chin bar which also gives access to the 2,800mAh battery to enable the LG G5 to expand it's functionality to have features like a camera grip and a 32-bit DAC. Currently, there's only 2 options for the magic slot but LG is claiming that their partners will also be making accessories to take advantage of that special slot on the LG G5.

Another new addition in terms of the hardware is a dual camera setup on the back of the LG G5. No, this is not some crazy setup to get 3D images but LG is leveraging this dual camera setup on the LG G5 to provide wide angle photos and images in contrast will be 1.7 times wider compared to conventional lenses.


That's not all in terms of added functionality as LG is also announcing a range of optional accessories called 'friends' to complement the LG G5.
  1. LG 360 CAM - A 360 camera that comes with dual 13MP 200-degree wide angle cameras and is capable of taking 2K video with 5.1 surround sound audio. 
  2. LG 360 VR - A VR goggle that connects via USB C to the LG G5 and is able to simulate a 130-inch TV viewed from 2 metres away. Compatible with Google Cardboard apps and photos and videos captured with the LG 360 CAM.
  3. LG Rolling Bot - A companion device that rolls like a ball when capturing images with it's embedded 8MP camera. The camera can be used as an IP camera to remotely monitor through Wi-Fi from the LG G5.
  4. LG CAM Plus - A versatile camera module that attaches to the LG G5's battery slot to provide a stable grip for the photographer and adds a physical power, shutter, record, zoom button alongside the extended 1,200mAh battery. 
  5. LG Hi-FI Plus - A 32-bit Hi-Fi DAC developed in collaboration with B&O PLAY improves audio quality on the LG G5. 
At the moment, LG is not revealing the pricing of the LG G5 or the 'Friends' (accessories) but LG says the LG G5 will rolling out in South Korea on March 31 and the United States on April 1 followed by key markets in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Approximately 200 carriers and operators worldwide have committed to offer the G5 in their local markets.


LG G5 Key Specifications

  • Qualcomm Snapdragon™ 820 Processor
  • 5.3-inch Quad HD IPS Quantum Display (2560 x 1440 / 554ppi)
  • 4GB LPDDR4 RAM 
  • 32GB expandable memory (up to 2TB)
  • Rear: Standard 16MP, Wide 8MP / Front: 8MP
  • 2,800mAh (removable)
  • Android 6.0 Marshmallow
  • 149.4 x 73.9 x 7.7mm (159g)
  • USB Type-C
  • Bluetooth 4.2
  • Wi-Fi ac
  • NFC
  • Silver / Titan / Gold / Pink
  • Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0

UPDATE 29/3/2016: Article updated to reflect global availability of the LG G5

Sabtu, 20 Februari 2016

Alcatel announces the Idol 4 series that comes with a VR headset


After the successful launch of the Alcatel Idol 3 from last year, Alcatel is back again this year with the updated Alcatel Idol 4 series which updates on the previous success that Alcatel had with the Idol 3. The biggest change is that the Alcatel Idol 4 now comes in two variants; the Idol 4 and Idol 4S which both comes with innovative new features like the BoomKey which a a dedicated physical button that users can map to various functionalities like turning on the camera at a buttons' click.

Beyond the new Alcatel logo which does away from the OneTouch branding that the company has been known for. Specifically for the new Alcatel Idol 4S, is an innovative accessory that reuses the retail packaging as a Google Cardbord VR headset. So, you might not want to throw away your Alcatel Idol 4S box.

Alcatel Idol 4 Key Specification:

  • 5.2-inch 1080 x 1920 IPS display
  • Snapdragon 617 SoC
  • 3GB RAM
  • 16GB expandable memory
  • 13MP rear camera
  • 8MP front camera
  • 2,610mAh battery
  • 147 x 72.5 x 7.1mm

Alcatel Idol 4S Key Specifications

  • 5.5-inch 1440 x 2560 AMOLED display
  • Snapdragon 652 SoC
  • 3GB RAM
  • 13MP rear camera
  • 8MP front camera
  • 32GB memory
  • 3,00mAh battery
  • 153.9 x 75.4 x 6.99mm

ORIGINAL SOURCE: ALCATEL
Kamis, 18 Februari 2016

HTC One A9 officially arrives in Malaysia, prices start at RM 2,299


This weekend, the annual battle of the best android smartphone is about to begin and with that in mind, HTC is launching their One A9 in Malaysia. The so-called iPhone look-alike that was heavily leaked prior to it't announcement in September 2015 is the company's renewed approach to making android smartphones.

Argubly, HTC Malaysia has chose the wrong time to announce the arrival of the HTC One A9 in the Malaysian market. By next week, the news will be all about the Galaxy S7 and the LG G5 and the fact that the HTC One A9 is essentially a mid-range device trying to replicate a flagship experience doesn't give HTC any luck here.

HTC One A9 Key Specifications:

  • 5-inch 1080P AMOLED display
  • Snapdragon 617 SoC @ 1.5GHz
  • 2/3GB of RAM
  • 16/32GB expandable memory
  • Android 6.0 Marshmallow
  • 13MP f2.0 rear camera with OIS
  • 4MP Ultrapixel front camera
  • 145.8 x 70.8 x 7.3mm (143g)
  • 2,150mAh battery


    But don't get me wrong here, I am not trying to defame the HTC One A9 by any means but the timing is a little wrong. Besides getting a design scheme similar to the iPhone 6/6s, the HTC One A9 also comes with Android 6.0 Marshmallow running out of the box. HTC Malaysia says the the One A9 is now available through authorized dealers throughout Malaysia and the Carbon Gray and Topaz Gold will only be available in Malaysia. But whether you ware willing to pay the RM 2,299 for this not-so flagship smartphone is is up to you.

    ORIGINAL SOURCE: LOWYAT.NET
    Rabu, 17 Februari 2016

    2015 Moto 360 officially launched in Malaysia, prices start at RM 1,399


    Last month, the Apple Watch finally launched in Malaysia after being available in just about everywhere. But if you are looking for something much more affordable that also works with your iPhone and also a modern Android smartphone, Motorola has got you covered. The 2015 Moto 360 editions is officially making an entrance to the Malaysian market today.

    Both the Sport and the Standard Moto 360 that comes in 42mm and 46mm sizes will be available in Malaysia starting today through authorized reseller. Unlike in the US, the 2015 Moto 360 that is coming to Malaysia cannot be customized with Moto Maker and it'll come down to 4 version which is the 42mm model in Black and Rose Gold, the 46mm in Silver and the Moto 360 Sport in Black.

    Moto 360 Sport (Black) - RM 1,399
    2015 Moto 360 42mm (Black) - RM 1,399
    2015 Moto 360 42mm (Rose Gold) - RM 1,499
    2015 Moto 360 46mm (Silver) - RM 1,599
    As mentioned earlier, the 2015 Moto 360 will work with both iPhone and Android devices but if you do pair it with a supported (iOS 8.2+) iPhone, you will be limited to select features only. But in terms of hardware features, both the 2015 Moto 360 and Moto 360 Sport comes with a nearly circular display, an IP67 rating, a 300mAh battery that will survive a full day of work, optical HR sensors on both and the Moto 360 has an extra barometer included.

    The 2015 Moto 360 will be available through authorized resellers across the country or through Lazada starting today!