This week’s best app updates

Missed all the new app updates this week? Here's a roundup of the week's best additions that are the clear must-haves on your smartphone.

Man, there were a lot of apps that got some update love this week. Did you manage to download them all? If not, have a look through our roundup and see for yourself whether or not these changes seem urgent to your needs. We know, data gets expensive, so feel free to spread them out as you see fit.

Tumblr

With the latest iOS update, Tumblr is now “completely native,” meaning a faster and more responsive interface for you iPhone users. The update also comes with a new notifications board that lets you see exactly who liked, reblogged, commented, or replied to your posts. One of the more interesting updates, however, is animated GIF playback. This will be great for all you LOLcat lovers now that animated GIFs will play automatically from the dashboard without needing a separate tap. Gesture shortcuts also include right swipe to return to the previous screen, and holding a tap to open up more options.

Evernote

Evernote got a nearly complete refresh with its new update, offering a new homescreen, navigation interface, and existing notes list. “Our goal with the redesign was simple: make all major functions accessible within two taps,” Evernote writes on its blog. You’ll find this with a shortcut navigation to your content, and a tap on the header to browse the section. The Notebook section is one of the most improved aspects, gathering all the notes you’ve ever created or have been shared under one hood. Additionally, you can sort your notes by tags or places – the latter of which will bring up a map of plotted notes according to their location info. There are also shortcuts (“Quick Notes”) on the top of the homescreen to help you quickly add new notes and take photos. This Evernote 5 update will be compatible with the iPad mini as well, and is free across iOS platforms.

Foursquare

You know how Facebook lets you tag friends you’re at an event with when you check into spaces? Well, now you can do the same on Foursquare, even if your friend isn’t a Foursquare user. The hot link will just sync to your friend’s Facebook account instead – where your friend can either approve or hide the Facebook notification for a wall post.

In addition to the social aspect update, users can also rate establishments on a scale of 1 to 10 to help explorers get a gauge on the venue’s rating. The number rank will appear in a color square next to the name of a location under your Explore tab. The update is available only on iOS, but Android users should be receiving the same love shortly.

Clear for Mac

Clear is a hotly popular app on the iPhone, and this week, the beautiful to-do lister app comes to the big screen: your MacBook. The Mac edition will include all the touch gestures available on your iPhone if you own a later edition of MacBooks that have gestures built into the touchpad. This means you can still perform all the left and right swipes to “clear” a task and drag items around to reorder them. After you finish setting up your lists on the Mac, the app also syncs with your iPhone so you can access lists on the go. To make accomplishing tasks even more fun, you can fudge with the preferences to set sounds and theme colors to make you want to use the app more.

Pinterest

Starting your holiday shopping early but don’t want anyone to find out you’re using Pinterest to save your to-buy lists? The new Pinterest updates for iOS and Android will now include Secret Boards so you can create up to three privatized boards made for your eyes only. You can also share them with a few santa helpers to get the holiday season rolling, or turn the secret boards public after you’re finished putting the last pieces on the board. The option can be found right when you create a new board, or at the bottom of your app homepage.

Pulse News

Pulse 3.0 is here for both Android and iOS, complete with a sleeker mobile interface and a new search feature to help you browse more efficiently. With the search side bar, you can sort news by sources (Reddit, Tumblr, Google, Flickr, Facebook, etc.) and there’s an infinite scroll so you can keep dragging down for more stories. Seriously — as many as you can stomach in one sitting.

Editing pages is also simpler thanks to the side bar, which allows you to add, edit, and reorder to your customizable needs. Basically, the mobile version gets the same personalization options the Web service Pulse.me already has, so if you’ve an avid fan of the Web edition, now you’ll have the same features on the go.

Source : http://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/app-update-roundup/

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Best Samsung Galaxy S3 accessories

Find the best Samsung Galaxy S3 accessories available in this roundup.

When you’re done gazing lovingly at your new phone you’ll probably want some bits and pieces to integrate it with your life. That’s why we’ve dug around and compiled this list of the best Samsung Galaxy S3 accessories around. Surprisingly for a device that has been selling like hot cakes there aren’t many dedicated accessory options. Let’s take a closer look.

If it’s protection you’re after then check out our best Samsung Galaxy S3 cases roundup.

RND Power Solutions Deluxe Cradle/Desktop Docking Station for Samsung Galaxy S3 ($19)

The official Galaxy S3 dock from Samsung is not great, but this alternative option from RND Power Solutions is cheap and it does the job well. The naked S3 fits perfectly, but you can also remove the insert so the phone will fit in with a case on. Don’t expect it to cope with a really bulky case, though. The dock keeps your phone at a handy angle and you can plug it in to charge with the AC power adaptor or use the USB micro cable to plug it in to your computer. It is simple and effective.

Samsung Galaxy S3 C Pen ($30)

That big screen is one of the main selling points for the Galaxy S3 so you might find a stylus useful. Samsung manufactures the C Pen, which allows you to sketch and make notes more easily. It obviously offers a lot more precision than your fingertip and it won’t leave any smudges behind either.

Jabra Stone 2 Bluetooth Headset ($130)

One of the most useful Galaxy S3 accessories you can pick up is a hands-free Bluetooth headset. Whether you like to talk in the car or while you pace up and down your office, a headset from Jabra is a great move. The Stone 2 is expensive but it comes with a stylish recharging station and a fantastic range of features. It is really lightweight and comfortable to wear and you can answer or reject calls with voice commands. The sound quality is also excellent thanks to the dual microphone.

Arkon Running & Working Armband ($18)

Stretchable, sweat resistant neoprene is ideal for a workout armband. You can slot your Galaxy S3 into the Arkon Running & Workout Armband and there’s a clear plastic cover for easy access. There is also an all-important cutout for the audio jack so you can listen to music while you jog or workout. The Arkon armband even has reflective strips to improve your visibility and increase your safety.

Samsung TecTiles ($15)

These are pretty gimmicky but they also allow you to take advantage of your NFC feature. Samsung’s TecTiles are basically NFC tags that you can program via the related app. You can then hold your phone next to the tag and it will automatically update your device or do whatever you wish. You could set one to put your phone into silent mode and set an alarm for the morning. Leave it on your bedside table and when you place your S3 there at night, you’re all set for a good night’s sleep and a wake up alarm.

The possibilities with these are endless and you get five in a pack. You have the option of locking them so they can’t be changed or you can leave them unlocked and reprogram them whenever you like.

Jawbone Jambox ($200)

If you want a wireless Bluetooth speaker for music or to use as a speakerphone then the Jawbone Jambox is your best bet. It is stylish, portable, and it packs a real punch. You can get about 10 hours out of it between charges so it’s a handy option for anyone on the go. It’s ideal for jacking up the sound on a movie or listening to music, whether you’re lounging around the house or out and about.

AllShare Cast Dongle ($100)

This handy device allows you to stream content wirelessly from your Galaxy S3 to your HDTV. If you don’t have a smart TV, but you do have an HDTV with a spare HDMI port then this is the perfect solution for mirroring your S3 screen on your big screen. You can watch videos, photo slideshows, and movies, play games, or even set up a presentation with this portable device.

Arkon SM410 Universal Windshield with Dashboard and Vent Mount ($15)

The official Samsung car mount is not cheap. This option from Arkon is not specifically designed for the Samsung Galaxy S3 but it will work fine because it’s fully adjustable and there’s room to plug in the charger with the phone in the mount. With this great value pack you have the choice of using the suction cup or the vent mount. The suction option works better.

Phiaton PS 210 BTNC Bluetooth Earphones ($160)

Standard earphones that ship with phones are rarely ideal for true audiophiles so our recommendation for you is these earphones from Phiaton. These wireless Bluetooth earphones feature active noise cancellation and great quality sound without breaking the bank. Read our full Phiaton PS 210 BTNC earphones review for more information.

Got any other Galaxy S3 accessories you’d like to recommend? The official dock from Samsung is not ideal and we’ve yet to find a really attractive option, so let us know about it if you’ve found one you really like.

Source : http://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/best-samsung-galaxy-s3-accessories/

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Apple iPhone 5 case roundup

Keep your new Apple iPhone 5 pristine with one of the cases from our case roundup.

If you want to keep that shiny new iPhone 5 looking pristine and sexy, then you need to grab yourself some decent protection. Whether you want something to match Apple’s stylish flagship design, something to safeguard it from accidents, or something to show off your personality, we’ve got you covered in this iPhone 5 case roundup.

When it comes to accessories, the iPhone line has always inspired some imaginative entries, and the latest release is no exception. Even before the queues start to form at Apple stores across the country, the market is already flooded with iPhone 5 cases.

We’ve got unbreakable iPhone cases, gorgeous iPhone cases, retro iPhone cases – in short, we have an iPhone 5 case to suit everyone.

If you haven’t upgraded yet then check out our best iPhone 4 and 4S cases.

OtterBox iPhone 5 Defender Series Case ($49.95)

This could be the perfect iPhone 5 case for anyone with butterfingers. The OtterBox Defender offers an inner polycarbonate shell, a screen protector, and an impact-absorbing rubber outer layer. There are also rubber plugs to protect the ports and a holster for wearing the phone on your belt. It comes in a range of two-tone color designs. It may be a bit bulky, but it will keep your iPhone looking as good as the day it was born.

Cygnett Vector 3D Tough Case for iPhone 5 ($18.99)

A stylish, textured case available in purple or black – the reasonably priced Vector by Cygnett is a good option. It’s impact resistant, it’s easy to grip, and it has raised edges and a screen protector to keep that touchscreen in perfect condition. The 3D textured material is tough and the case offers full access to functions and ports.

Belkin View Case for iPhone 5 ($19.99)

When you have a gorgeous piece of design like the iPhone 5 you could be forgiven for not wanting to cover it up with a case. The View Case from Belkin offers basic protection without compromising that stylish look. It features a fully transparent polycarbonate back with a polyurethane band around the outside. You can choose from a variety of color highlights for the impact-resistant edging.

Griffin KaZoo Case for iPhone 5 ($24.99)

Whether you’ve splashed out cash on an iPhone 5 for your child, or you just love cartoon animals, the KaZoo case from Griffin might just tempt you. These basic, soft silicone cases offer full access to controls, ports and the display. Why not wrap your iPhone in a colorful animal character? You have a choice of a monkey or an elephant.

Seidio Surface with Metal Kickstand ($34.95)

This slim case comes with a handy magnetic kickstand for propping up your phone, which snaps easily away when you aren’t using it. The case is very slim and the durable plastic has a soft-touch coating for comfortable handling. It comes in a variety of colors. 

Grove bamboo case for iPhone 5 ($79)

The most expensive case in our lineup justifies its high price tag with a intricate, hand-finished design made in the U.S. Unlike cheap plastic cases that look worse as they collect scratches and scuffs, the all-natural bamboo shell takes on an attractive patina in time, and is surprisingly tough. You can also get your case laser-engraved with a number of patterns right from the factory, or even a custom design.

Case-Mate Barely There Case for iPhone 5 ($30)

This slim case combines a hard outer shell with a silicone liner, which cushions your device. It will give you basic protection without adding much bulk. It’s a classic, minimalist design with a comfortable soft-touch finish. It comes in a wide range of matte colors with a subtle inlaid logo.

iLuv Diary Premium Leather Book Case for iPhone 5 ($34.99)

Here’s a clever combination case that offers premium leather on the outside and a tough polycarbonate shell on the inside. It’s a book-style case and when you open it up you’ll also find a sleeve with a couple of slots for credit cards. The advantage here is full 360 degree protection when the case is closed and easy access when you open it.

Sena Hampton Flip iPhone 5 Case ($54.95)

If you want premium leather, but prefer a vertical, flip-open design, the high quality Sena Hampton Flip case could be the one for you. Crafted from luxurious full-grain leather, this is a classy option that offers good all-round protection. It comes in black or brown and it also features a couple of credit-card slots.

Incipio Kicksnap iPhone 5 Case ($34.99)

Here’s another option for anyone looking to do some hands-free movie viewing on their iPhone 5. The Kicksnap case from Incipio has a built-in kickstand that flips out easily. It’s crafted from a rigid plextonium frame with an NGP soft-shell core. Like many iPhone 5 cases on the market, it is tough on the outside and soft on the inside for shock absorption.

STM Opera Protective Case for iPhone 5 ($29.99)

This TPU case hugs your iPhone 5 tightly and it will guard against damage and give you extra grip. It is extremely thin and light with all the cutouts you need and a nice textured backing. It comes in a range of colors including blue, gray, pink, white, and black.

Found an iPhone 5 case that you’ve fallen in love with? Post a comment and tell us why you’d recommend it.

Source : http://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/best-iphone-5-cases/

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Apple iPhone 5 case roundup

Keep your new Apple iPhone 5 pristine with one of the cases from our case roundup.

If you want to keep that shiny new iPhone 5 looking pristine and sexy, then you need to grab yourself some decent protection. Whether you want something to match Apple’s stylish flagship design, something to safeguard it from accidents, or something to show off your personality, we’ve got you covered in this iPhone 5 case roundup.

When it comes to accessories, the iPhone line has always inspired some imaginative entries, and the latest release is no exception. Even before the queues start to form at Apple stores across the country, the market is already flooded with iPhone 5 cases.

We’ve got unbreakable iPhone cases, gorgeous iPhone cases, retro iPhone cases – in short, we have an iPhone 5 case to suit everyone.

If you haven’t upgraded yet then check out our best iPhone 4 and 4S cases.

OtterBox iPhone 5 Defender Series Case ($49.95)

This could be the perfect iPhone 5 case for anyone with butterfingers. The OtterBox Defender offers an inner polycarbonate shell, a screen protector, and an impact-absorbing rubber outer layer. There are also rubber plugs to protect the ports and a holster for wearing the phone on your belt. It comes in a range of two-tone color designs. It may be a bit bulky, but it will keep your iPhone looking as good as the day it was born.

Cygnett Vector 3D Tough Case for iPhone 5 ($18.99)

A stylish, textured case available in purple or black – the reasonably priced Vector by Cygnett is a good option. It’s impact resistant, it’s easy to grip, and it has raised edges and a screen protector to keep that touchscreen in perfect condition. The 3D textured material is tough and the case offers full access to functions and ports.

Belkin View Case for iPhone 5 ($19.99)

When you have a gorgeous piece of design like the iPhone 5 you could be forgiven for not wanting to cover it up with a case. The View Case from Belkin offers basic protection without compromising that stylish look. It features a fully transparent polycarbonate back with a polyurethane band around the outside. You can choose from a variety of color highlights for the impact-resistant edging.

Griffin KaZoo Case for iPhone 5 ($24.99)

Whether you’ve splashed out cash on an iPhone 5 for your child, or you just love cartoon animals, the KaZoo case from Griffin might just tempt you. These basic, soft silicone cases offer full access to controls, ports and the display. Why not wrap your iPhone in a colorful animal character? You have a choice of a monkey or an elephant.

Seidio Surface with Metal Kickstand ($34.95)

This slim case comes with a handy magnetic kickstand for propping up your phone, which snaps easily away when you aren’t using it. The case is very slim and the durable plastic has a soft-touch coating for comfortable handling. It comes in a variety of colors. 

Grove bamboo case for iPhone 5 ($79)

The most expensive case in our lineup justifies its high price tag with a intricate, hand-finished design made in the U.S. Unlike cheap plastic cases that look worse as they collect scratches and scuffs, the all-natural bamboo shell takes on an attractive patina in time, and is surprisingly tough. You can also get your case laser-engraved with a number of patterns right from the factory, or even a custom design.

Case-Mate Barely There Case for iPhone 5 ($30)

This slim case combines a hard outer shell with a silicone liner, which cushions your device. It will give you basic protection without adding much bulk. It’s a classic, minimalist design with a comfortable soft-touch finish. It comes in a wide range of matte colors with a subtle inlaid logo.

iLuv Diary Premium Leather Book Case for iPhone 5 ($34.99)

Here’s a clever combination case that offers premium leather on the outside and a tough polycarbonate shell on the inside. It’s a book-style case and when you open it up you’ll also find a sleeve with a couple of slots for credit cards. The advantage here is full 360 degree protection when the case is closed and easy access when you open it.

Sena Hampton Flip iPhone 5 Case ($54.95)

If you want premium leather, but prefer a vertical, flip-open design, the high quality Sena Hampton Flip case could be the one for you. Crafted from luxurious full-grain leather, this is a classy option that offers good all-round protection. It comes in black or brown and it also features a couple of credit-card slots.

Incipio Kicksnap iPhone 5 Case ($34.99)

Here’s another option for anyone looking to do some hands-free movie viewing on their iPhone 5. The Kicksnap case from Incipio has a built-in kickstand that flips out easily. It’s crafted from a rigid plextonium frame with an NGP soft-shell core. Like many iPhone 5 cases on the market, it is tough on the outside and soft on the inside for shock absorption.

STM Opera Protective Case for iPhone 5 ($29.99)

This TPU case hugs your iPhone 5 tightly and it will guard against damage and give you extra grip. It is extremely thin and light with all the cutouts you need and a nice textured backing. It comes in a range of colors including blue, gray, pink, white, and black.

Found an iPhone 5 case that you’ve fallen in love with? Post a comment and tell us why you’d recommend it.

Source : http://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/apple-iphone-5-case-roundup/

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Best Windows Phone Games

Microsoft might be a distant third in the mobile race, but that doesn't mean there aren't plenty of fun, addicting games for the Windows Phone. Check out our roundup of Best Windows Phone games.

It’s not often that one can say Microsoft is an underdog. The company is one of the largest in the world and easily the most notable name in personal computing. But when it comes to the mobile phone market, Microsoft has yet to make a noticeable dent. After some tough attempts at breaking in, they may have finally found a nice niche with the Windows Phone. The operating system still isn’t knocking on iOS or Android’s door, but it has picked up dedicated user base. Keeping fans in the fickle phone market can be tough, but Microsoft have kept their users happy. Perhaps a great selection of games for those on the go have helped. Here’s some of our favorite games for Windows Phones.

Angry Birds ($1)

What is a list of great mobile games without Angry Birds? While it might be an obvious choice, it’s that way for a reason. Angry Birds is undoubtably one of the most fun and addictive games that you can house on your handset. Load up some flying feathered friends and send them for a ride as you try to topple the fortresses of pigs that have stolen precious eggs. It’s about as much of a classic as one can get in the young world of mobile games, but none of its original appeal has worn off.

Fruit Ninja ($1)

Every warrior has to start somewhere — you can’t just go out and start breaking boards and cinderblocks on day one. There’s no better way to work your way up to unleashing your inner kung-fu than with Fruit Ninja. The concept is silly and the construct is simple, but don’t be surprised if you fire up this game at the start of a commute and you go a few extra stops just to keep playing. Fruit of all sorts comes flying across the screen and its your job to chop it up as fast as possible, launching juice in all directions. If only making fruit salad was this fun.

Little Acorns ($3)

There are few things more determined than a squirrel that wants to protect its stash of nuts. Little Acorns gives you the chance to help out a furry friend by guiding him through 80 levels in attempts to prepare for winter. Little Acorns channels the gameplay of classic platformer mechanics and the undeniable appeal of an adorable squirrel to create a game experience that is tough to put down. How can you not help the little guy get ready for the oncoming cold? Especially when it’s so fun.

Pool Pro Online 3 ($3)

Pool is a game that has been around for generations, ever since the cavemen used sticks to hit rocks into holes in the ground. While that information is completely unfounded, here’s something that is true: Pool Pro Online 3 is a blast. It takes the familiar game of pocket billiards and really emphasizes the “pocket” part by putting it on your phone. Then it cranks up the competition with online play against friends or strangers. Work your way up the leader boards to prove you’re a true pool shark.

Feed Me Oil ($1)

One occasionally has to wonder just way oil tycoons make so much money for just happening across the strange black liquid. If Feed Me Oil gives any insight into what a oil worker has to deal with on a daily basis, whatever they make isn’t enough. The game presents a weird world where the ground is alive with crazy creatures that crave crude oil. You’ll have to direct the black gold from a broken pipe to the mouths of these odd little characters. Use the tools provided, but mostly use your brain to make it through this quirky puzzler.

iStunt 2 ($3)

Watching extreme sports events can often make one tempted to attempt the action they see on screen. Save yourself the embarrassment of performing a flurry of face plants by getting iStunt 2. The game takes you to the virtual slopes and puts you in control of a snowboarder that is more than capable of pulling off the most insane of in-air moves. With a great physics engine, awesome action, and game bolstering boosts, iStunt 2 has all the excitement of sliding down the slope with none of the dangers of having a piece of plastic strapped to your feet.

Tiki Towers ($3)

Visit any zoo and take a look at the monkeys. They are fascinating creatures for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it’s because how close their actions mirror our own and sometimes it’s because they fling around inappropriate items. The monkeys in Tiki Towers are a little more sophisticated than that. These primates have built some bamboo-based creations to help them navigate some puzzling and tough terrain in hopes of discovering lost treasure. Play through 45 levels across 5 islands as you help the monkeys achieve their ultimate goal.

Zombies!!! ($5)

The idea of a zombie apocalypse has become a bit marginalized by its overuse in pop culture. One can’t take a trip to the movie theater, flip channels, of walk into a trendy t-shirt shop without seeing something referencing zombies. But don’t let the over-saturation fool you, the threat is out there. Nothing makes it more apparent than Zombies!!!, a game that puts you right in the middle of an undead uprising. Fight through infested territories as you try to survive the onslaught of corpses. It’s a blast and great training for the day the inevitable real life infection spreads.

Source : http://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/best-windows-phone-games/

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