Sony rolling out firmware update for Xperia Z1 and Z Ultra

Sony has started rolling out a new firmware update for the Xperia Z1 and the Xperia Z Ultra. The update makes improvements across the board, from the camera to the display and battery life.

On the Xperia Z1 you get an improved camera algorithm for better all round performance. Sony has also improved the Smart Social Camera platform that improves the performance of features such as Burst Mode, Superior Auto, AR Effect and Sweep Panorama.

On the Xperia Z Ultra, Sony has optimized touchscreen sensitivity that makes it more responsive with both fingers and stylii.

There are some changes common to both devices, that includes a re-calibrated display that improves display performance, altered power saving mode for longer battery life and streamlined Exchange connection for faster email sync, display and download.

The update has started rolling out and should be available on all devices shortly.

Source

Source : http://www.gsmarena.com/sony_rolling_out_firmware_update_for_xperia_z1_and_z_ultra-news-6987.php

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Nexus 5 price may be higher with a Nexus 4 LTE covering the lower-end

Nexus 4 LTE could be Google's 5C without the plastic

Even though the Nexus 5 wasn't announced today as it was once rumored, Google's new smartphone is still expected to be here before the end of the month

And now we may know how much it'll cost.

The Nexus 5 price is $399 (about £250, AU$420) for the 16GB model, according to an anonymous source cited by Android Geeks.

The cost of the 32GB version of the Nexus 5 is said to be slightly higher at $449 (about £280, AU$472).

That's $100 (about £63, AU$105) more expensive than the contract-free version of the Nexus 4.

Nexus 4 LTE-enabled?

There may be a reason that the LG-manufactured Nexus 5 is priced higher besides the superior technology and 5-inch screen.

The Nexus 4 is said to be sticking around, according to the report, but adding LTE capabilities.

The price of the Nexus 4 LTE is rumored to carry the same launch prices - $299 (about £187, AU$315) and $349 (about £218, AU$367) for the 16GB and 32GB models, respectively.

These prices for the original Nexus 4 were discounted in August.

Since the Nexus 4 has a disabled LTE chip inside of it that Google blocked from use, LG and Google wouldn't have to change much between it and the new version of the phone.

It would certainly need a tweaked LTE radio, however, to support more bands of the high-speed wireless standard.

So, current Nexus 4 owners shouldn't get their hopes up for a speed boost via a software fix.

See Nexus 5 caught on camera in Russia

Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/nexus-5-price-may-be-higher-with-a-nexus-4-lte-covering-the-lower-end-1189893

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HTC will reportedly make a smartphone for Amazon

According to a report in The Financial Times, HTC and Amazon are working together on an upcoming smartphone. The article goes further to point that there are three different devices in the works, with one of them being in advanced stage of development.

Amazon has not responded to requests for comment on the report, though it stated that it has “no plans to offer a phone this year”. HTC’s chief of marketing Ben Ho also declined to comment on the Amazon partnership, but said that the manufacture is “always exploring new opportunities”.

A partnership with Amazon could give HTC a break from its troubles, as the device will likely be a high-volume product which will give the ailing company’s balance sheet a welcome boost. It will also represent a back to basics approach for the Taiwanese manufacturer, which made a name for itself by producing hardware under different brands.

As far as Amazon is concerned, a potential cooperation with HTC will signal an even more aggressive stance towards the market for mobile devices. The current family of Kindle Fire devices has been developed in-house by the retail behemoth.

Source (registration required) | Via

Source : http://www.gsmarena.com/htc_will_reportedly_make_a_smartphone_for_amazon-news-6986.php

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BBM for iOS and BBM for Android just days away, says exec

Could BlackBerry Messenger really become "the world's largest mobile social network?"

BBM for Android and BBM for iOS are coming later than we expected, but at least they're still coming, according to BlackBerry.

BlackBerry Chief Marketing Officer Frank Boulben told Reuters yesterday that the BlackBerry Messenger apps for iOS and Android will launch "within days."

The BBM app was supposed to make the jump off of BlackBerry and onto other platforms by the end of summer, and a launch was expected toward the end of September.

It suffered delays after an unofficial Android version was leaked, but Boulben said the issues that caused have been fixed.

'Best in class'

Lately BlackBerry's had its lips sealed when it comes to BBM for iOS and Android, but Boulben's willingness to open up a little could mean that it really is almost here.

His hint came after BlackBerry published a letter on social media and in 30 newspapers around the world assuring customers, "You can continue to count on us."

In the letter BlackBerry called BlackBerry Messenger a "best in class mobile social network."

"There are already around six million customers pre-registered to be notified of our roll out," the letter said.

"This number is growing every day, and speaks to the tremendous opportunity we have to expand BBM beyond BlackBerry smartphones to make it the world's largest mobile social network."

Last we heard, the Android and iOS BBM app is expectedly to initially feature messaging and groups, with voice, screen share, video, and other features being added in later updates.

It's unknown whether that's still the case, but it sounds like we'll find out soon.

Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/software/applications/bbm-for-ios-and-bbm-for-android-just-days-away-says-exec-1189860

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HTC reportedly making the first Amazon smartphone

HTC to phone it in for Amazon?

HTC has a long history of making smartphones for other companies before striking out on its own with critically acclaimed devices, the newest of which include the HTC One and HTC One Mini.

It may be back in the sidekick saddle, as Amazon is reportedly working with HTC on the online retailer's first smartphone, according to the Financial Times' unnamed sources.

The two companies are said to be at an "advanced stage of development" on one of three devices being proposed.

At least one of the sources warned that the project has been postponed before and Amazon could end up shelving the device in the end.

This is the same cautionary language used when sources have discussed Amazon's rumored Firetube media streaming gadget that is expected to launch before the end of this year.

Not this year

Amazon smartphone rumors are at a two-year high following a report this month that it's planning two phones, one of which has four cameras for a 3D user interface.

The retailer said it has "no plans to offer a phone this year," according to a statement sent to the Financial Times.

Of course, that doesn't mean an Amazon phone made by HTC isn't being planned with a release date in 2014.

Open Handset Alliance violation?

HTC has designed and manufactured white-label smartphones for other companies, but Amazon's forked Android operating system present a unique dilemma.

HTC is bounded by the Open Handset Alliance guidelines, signed a total of 84 companies led by Google, that ensure Android remains open source and compatible across all devices.

If the Amazon phone with Fire OS were to run a forked version of Android like its Kindle Fire HDX does right now, it could spell trouble for HTC's role in the alliance.

We reached out to HTC for more clarification on this and its greater role regarding Amazon's smartphone plans. We will update this story when we receive a comment.

• Find out where you can get the HTC One Max

Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/htc-reportedly-making-the-first-amazon-smartphone-1189854

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Apple's iPad event is all but set for October 22, now official

Confirming the rumor, Apple today has sent out invites to media for an October 22 event. Almost a week ago, we reported the rumor about that and now it all seems to be nicely confirmed.

In their invites Apple is not hinting in any way what the main topic will be, but we all know it's going to be about the next iPad(s). Right about the same time last year (Oct 23, 2012) we saw Apple announce their current iPad model, as well as the iPad mini. It makes the perfect sense in the world to see the announcement of a new model(s), come October 22.

Based on the numerous leaks so far, we expect the fifth generation of the iPad to come with the same screen size but thinner bezels and a fingerprint reader ala iPhone 5s. The iPad mini, on the other hand, may have some internals upgraded but we're not quite sure about that Retina grade screen resolution. Design-wise, it should remain the same. Both iPads should have newer color versions, too.

Common sense also suggests we may even see refreshed MacBook Pros with Retina screens (bringing them up to speed with the new Intel Haswell processors).

Coincidentally, Nokia will also be announcing its share of devices on that date. Nokia World is slated to take place on the same date, but in Abu Dhabi.

Source : http://www.gsmarena.com/apples_ipad_event_is_all_but_set_for_october_22_now_official-news-6985.php

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Usage of Sapphire in smartphones set to increase

Sapphire is turning out to be one of the most popular materials out of which to build a smartphone, according to a study from IHS. The research firm also reveals that the usage of the material is expected to reach 54 kilometers - not those kilometers, but instead the unit that is used to measure this type of usage - by the end of the year.

Furthermore, this usage is expected to reach 84 kilometers by the end of 2016. The demand is largely due to the production of LEDs, which will result in an increase in demand for the material by 20%. The fact that sapphire is stronger than glass and is extremely scratch resistant is perhaps Sapphire's most appealing aspect from a manufacturing standpoint.

According to IHS, sapphire is used to cover lenses, buttons and displays. Also, since sapphire is the second hardest stone in the world after diamond, the material can be used to build consumer electronic devices, too.

For now, Apple is one of those known smartphone manufacturer that makes use of sapphire to a very large extent. The Cupertino giants used sapphire in its iSight camera lens cover in the iPhone 5 before bringing it to the Touch ID on the Apple iPhone 5s

Source

Source : http://www.gsmarena.com/sapphire_material_usage_in_smartphones_set_to_increase-news-6984.php

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A slew of Sony devices to the US, Xperia Z1 included

Today marks the launch of several new Sony devices on the US market, namely the Sony Xperia Z1, Sony Xperia Z Ultra, and the Sony SmartWatch 2.

The 20.7MP Xperia Z1 flagship is for sale in Sony's online store for $649.99, although this version does not have LTE connectivity.

Unlike its smaller counterpart, the 6.4-inch Xperia Z Ultra phablet will come with 4G connectivity, and an unlocked pricetag of $679.99.

The SmartWatch 2, Sony's latest waterproof smartwatch offering, can be had for $199.99.

Both smartphones will be available in black, white and purple.

We were able to get a glimpse of the SmartWatch 2 at IFA this year, and were impressed by its high build quality, changeable straps, and IP57 water resistance rating. We'd go as far as to say it beats out the Samsung Galaxy Gear in terms of build quality.

The Xperia Z1 recently went through our 6-way cameraphone shootout, where it came in behind the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 and Nokia Lumia 1020. While the 20.7MP sensor had some good performance, Sony still has to work on the software to make use of its full potential.

Via

Source : http://www.gsmarena.com/slew_of_sony_devices_hits_the_us_today_including_xperia_z1-news-6983.php

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Nexus 5 to be priced at $399, Nexus 4 LTE model in tow

The Google Nexus 5 has already appeared in several leaked images and the recent appearance in a hands-on video has left nothing to our imagination. Now, the pricing details of the upcoming Google Nexus smartphone have made its way to the rumorland.

According to a report from AndroidGeeks, the Google Nexus 5 will be launched in 16GB and 32 GB models. The base model is said to carry a price tag of $399, while the larger-storage option will cost you $449.

If the rumors are to be trusted, Google will also introduce an LTE model of the Nexus 4 and the new variant will allegedly cost you $299 for the 16GB model and $349 for the 32GB version.

Meanwhile, the Google Nexus 5 is expected to sport a 5-inch full HD display and feature a quad-core Snapdragon 800 SoC, 2 GB of RAM, 8 megapixel camera with optical image stabilization and Android 4.4 KitKat.

The Google Nexus 5 along with the latest Android version is expected to be unveiled later this month. However, there are no official confirmations at the moment.

Source

Source : http://www.gsmarena.com/nexus_5_to_be_priced_at_399_nexus_4_lte_model_in_tow-news-6982.php

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Google Nexus 5 leaks in new images

The upcoming Nexus 5 has been pictured once again, this time in Russia.

The new snaps show the characteristic Nexus logo on the back, which appears to be highly prone to fingerprints as well - something we didn't see in previous leaked images.

The anticipated Nexus 5 flagship has made the rounds in rumorland land dozens of times, and we even saw a hands-on video showing it running on the upcoming Android 4.4 KitKat build.

The Nexus 5 is slated to run on a Snapdragon 800 chipset with a quad-core 2.3GHz Krait 400 CPU, Adreno 330 GPU, and 2GB of RAM. The display will likely be of the 4.95" fullHD variety, while a 2,300 mAh battery will be powering it all.

The Nexus 5 running on Android 4.4 KitKat is expected to get launched by the end of this month by Google, so be sure to check back with us for the full scoop.

Source | Via

Source : http://www.gsmarena.com/google_nexus_5_spotted_again_in_new_leaked_images-news-6981.php

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Nexus 5 caught on camera again, this time in Russia

Oh hello again, Nexus 5 (credit: Google+)

Pictures of the supposed Google Nexus 5 are popping up all over the place at the moment, and the latest set of snaps have winged their way onto the web from Russia.

The images appeared on the search giant's very own social network, Google+, courtesy of Anton Kunzentsov from Russia, although they're not actually his photographs.

It's unclear where our man Anton picked them up from, but one thing is for sure - the handset in question looks very similar to previous leaked images also claiming to be the Nexus 5.

More of the same

What these photos provide us with is a quick look round the handset, with the same rubberised back and camera layout as the new Nexus 7, while on the front there's clearly no buttons in sight and a relatively large display.

Rumours suggest the Nexus 5 will pack a 2.3GHz quad-core processor, 2GB of RAM, 13MP rear camera, wireless charging, NFC and Google's latest software - Android 4.4 KitKat.

As to when we'll actually see the Nexus 5 for real, that's still a little up in the air. Some reports suggest sometime this week, while others point towards the end of the month for Google's announcement.

• Nexus 5 release date, news and rumors

Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/nexus-5-caught-on-camera-again-this-time-in-russia-1189699

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Android KitKat wants to give you more choice when it comes to texting

Texting times

Android KitKat will let users decide what app to use for sending and receiving text messages rather than automatically defaulting to the classic Android Messaging app.

Once KitKat lands on Android handsets, users will be able to choose a default SMS app for themselves from within system settings.

The upshot for devs is that they need to adjust their hidden SMS APIs, for which full instructions are given in the blog post itself.

Getting set

In the post, Android reps outline what devs need to do to ensure their SMS apps are ready for the KitKat release, whenever that may be.

Previously apps were able to handle text messages in this way, but now that task will be set to one default app in the settings.

While it doesn't contain any concrete information about when KitKat is likely to launch further than "later this year", the post does "encourage" devs to update apps "as soon as possible" which suggests that the Android 4.4 launch will be soon.

Indeed, we're expecting KitKat to be unveiled this week alongside a new Nexus 5 handset.

• What's that? You want to know everything there is to know about the new Nexus 5?

Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/you-can-choose-your-default-sms-app-in-android-kitkat-1189669

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Samsung Galaxy S5 ready to pack Apple-beating next-gen chip

The Galaxy S5's chip may be half the size and twice the power.

It looks like Samsung might be working on a smaller, much faster and much more efficient chip for the Samsung Galaxy S5, using its Exynos technology to bring out a chip to rival Apple's powerful A7 found at the heart of the iPhone 5S.

Samsung is said to be working on a 14nm (or 14 nanometre) chip for its new flagship, which would be half the size of the 28nm chip in the Samsung Galaxy S4, according to South Korean site DDaily, which is reporting that according to 'industry sources' Samsung is the tentatively-titled Exynos 6.

The smaller size should cut the power consumption of the chip by a large amount, and by using less power it also produces less heat, minimising the chance of the Samsung Galaxy S5 overheating.

Smaller chips have the transistors packed closer together, which means that they can work faster and more efficiently, using less power.

Most smartphones at the moment, including Samsung's, use 28nm chips and the next logical step down in size would be to 20nm, but Samsung seems to be skipping that altogether and jumping straight down to 14nm chips.

Out-doing Apple

This follows on from previous rumours that the Samsung Galaxy S5 might use a powerful 64-bit chip. The move to 64-bits holds advantages of its own, as it will be able to work with more memory at once, allowing for devices with more than 4GB of RAM.

It's also better able to multitask and can better tackle demanding apps and processes than a 32-bit chip, improving performance in the process.

If all this is true then it then the Exynos 6 should be enough to out-do Apple, which recently made waves with the move to a 64-bit chip in the iPhone 5S.

Samsung will not only be able to match Apple with a 64-bit chip of its own, but actually one-up the Cupertino company with a chip that's faster, cooler and smaller.

The move to 64-bit architecture also opens the floodgates for more powerful Android handsets with a theoretically almost unlimited amount of RAM in the future.

• Looking for more Samsung Galaxy S5 news? We've got all the rumours in one place.

Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/samsung-galaxy-s5-rumoured-to-have-apple-beating-chip-at-its-heart-1189596

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Samsung Galaxy S4 mini said to be experiencing lackluster sales

Last year, Samsung started the trend of releasing 'mini' versions of their flagship smartphones (although technically they were normal sized versions of their giant phones). The Galaxy S III mini was the first of the lot and this year they followed it up with the Galaxy S4 mini.

But while the prospect of having a smaller version of a flagship device sounds amazing, the handsets themselves have been anything but. Packed with mediocre specifications and sold at a premium, it was hard to get excited about these devices and it has shown in the sales reports.

According to DigiTimes, the Galaxy S4 mini has been doing poorly with lackluster sales. This can be blamed on the average specifications of the device and the high price. You can, for example, get the last year's Galaxy S III for the same price as the S4 mini, with the former being a much superior device.

So far only Sony has managed to come up with a desirable compact Android smartphone in the form of the Xperia Z1 f. Unfortunately, that is only available in the Japanese market for now. Hopefully, other OEMs will take notice and come up with something similar of their own.

Source

Source : http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_s4_mini_said_to_be_experiencing_lackluster_sales-news-6980.php

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HTC Desire 601 heading exclusively to Vodafone

Do you Desire cheap super-fast 4G?

While the new HTC One Max may be the talk of the town at the moment, the smartphone maker has also today announced that the super-fast but affordable HTC Desire 601 will be available exclusively from Vodafone.

You'll be able to pick up the Desire 601 with no monthly handset repayments on Vodafone's 24-month plans starting from $40 per month.

The Desire 601 will attract $5 handset repayments on the lowest 24-month $30 plan, while 12-month contract prices start from $68 total per month.

HTC boasts the phone as "blazing fast data speeds" with its Category 3 LTE, which can give you up to 100Mbps download speeds on Vodafone's 4G network.

Desire less specs

With the HTC One moniker the new premium brand, the Desire brand has been reallocated to the mid-range space, but with its sleek HTC design and mid-range price tag, it'll be an attractive buy touting some decent specs.

Powered by HTC Sense UI and Android 4.2 Jelly Bean, at the higher-end, it has Cat 3 LTE connectivity as mentioned above, as well as premium in-house features in the form of HTC Zoe, BlinkFeed and BoomSound.

However, the 4.5-inch screen has a mid-range qHD display, as well as middling 1GB RAM and dual-core 1.4GHz Snapdragon 400 processor.

Thankfully, though it only has 8GB on board, it does sport a microSD. A good thing as, though it only has a 5MP camera without the Ultrapixel sensor found on the One, it does shoot 1080p video – and coupled with Zoe, it'll take up quite a bit of space.

• Here's our review of the HTC Desire 601.

Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/htc-desire-601-heading-exclusively-to-vodafone-1189577

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