Monthly Archives: May 2015

Acer Aspire 5745DG Review

Acer Aspire 5745DG Review

Computers & IT, , , , , , , , , , , , ,

 

3D, if you believe the marketing hype, is the future of displays, and so with so many of us sitting in front of computer screens for a fair portion of the day, why shouldn’t they get in on the action as well?Acer’s Aspire 5745DG promises 3D performance and everyday potency, thanks to a combination of an Intel Core i5 processor and NVIDIA 3D Vision technology, but is this the notebook to get us wearing silly glasses? Check out the full SlashGear review after the cut.

Hardware

Our Aspire 5745DG-3855 review unit is certainly an imposing machine, both physically and in terms of the core specs. Measuring a bulky 14.9 x 9.8 x 1.25 – 2.27 inches and tipping the scales at 6.6lb, it’s heavy for a 15.6-inch notebook and the standard 9-cell battery protrudes considerably from the base. Design-wise, it’s in keeping with other Acer machines we’ve looked at recently, with decent plastics and a mixture of glossy and matte silver and black.
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https://www.slashgear.com/acer-aspire-5745dg-review-06117849/

Galaxy S6 Active

Galaxy S6 Active lands on Samsung Plus program page

Phones, , , , , ,

Samsung likes to play things as close to the vest as possible, but as often happens there have been a number of leaks regarding the Galaxy S6 Active smartphone. So far, we have seen a leaked image of the device turn up online showing what looks to be a rugged device. We have also talked about leaked specs for the smartphoneas well.

Samsung hasn’t actually confirmed that the device is in the works despite all of the leaks, at least not officially. An unofficial confirmation of sorts has happened though with the Galaxy S6 Active turning up on the product page for the Samsung Plus insurance program.
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https://www.slashgear.com/galaxy-s6-active-lands-on-samsung-plus-program-page-15383710/

Xiaomi edges into the UK and US with Mi Store launch

Phones, , , , ,

Industry watchers have long wondered when Xiaomi is going to grow tired of shifting millions of handsets in Asia and start turning its attention to the US, UK and Europe. Well, it looks like the answer is: next week.

As per Xiaomi’s Facebook page, the Mi Store will tentatively open its doors to the west on 19 May in a beta trial. Phone accessories are the focus at first, though phones will inevitably follow later on.
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https://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/xiaomi-edges-into-the-uk-and-us-with-mi-store-launch-1294021

ASUS ZenBook UX305

ASUS ZenBook UX305 Crystal White Limited Edition now available

Computers & IT, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

On Wednesday, ASUS announced a new limited laptop called the ZenBook UX305 Crystal White Limited Edition ultrabook (as well as a standard edition champagne gold UX305). Only 200 units of the white model will be made; they’re available to purchase now for $999 USD, while the standard version is priced at $699 USD. The laptop (the special edition, that is) features a 13.3-inch IPS matte display with a 3200 x 1800 pixels resolution. It brings with it all the goodies you’d hope to find on an ultrabook, as well as Windows 8.1.

In addition to the nice display, the Limited Edition laptop features an Intel Core M 5Y71 processor, Intel HD Graphics 5300, 8GB of RAM, 512GB SSD, and Windows 8.1. There’s 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, and Ethernet. The webcam is specified only as an “HD” camera.
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https://www.slashgear.com/asus-zenbook-ux305-crystal-white-limited-edition-now-available-14383653/

smartwatch

Passcode not required to reset a stolen Apple Watch

Wearables, , , , , , , , , ,

When the Activation Lock security feature was first introduced to the iPhone with iOS 7, it was praised as a strong way to dissuade would-be smartphone thieves. A stolen iPhone could be reset, but trying to reactivate it would require the owner’s Apple ID and password to be entered. Unfortunately for owners of the new Apple Watch, the wearable has a similar security feature, but it can easily be bypassed, meaning a stolen Watch can be paired with a different iPhone.

The Apple Watch’s security feature requires a passcode to be entered when used after it detects it has been removed from a user’s wrist. That passcode is not required to turn off and reset the device. The video below shows how instead of entering a passcode, someone can long-press the Contacts button on the side of the Watch, and choose to erase all settings and contents.

 

 

Once reset, a thief is free to pair the Watch with their own iPhone, or just choose to sell it to someone else. The one positive aspect is that they still wouldn’t have access to a user’s personal data. But then that user is still missing the Watch they paid for.
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https://www.slashgear.com/passcode-not-required-to-reset-a-stolen-apple-watch-14383540/

apple watch

Apple Watch stickers let you customize the Digital Crown

Wearables, , , ,

With all the attention on Apple Watch customization focusing on wristbands, here’s an accessory that many wouldn’t see coming.WatchDots are stickers — okay, okay, “decals” — that let you change the color of the top of the Digital Crown and Contacts button on the side of the Watch. This lets users simulate a look only available on the gold Watch Edition, which features colors like red, navy, and white, or the stainless steel Watch models with black crowns.

While there’s certainly nothing stopping owners of the Watch and Edition models from using WatchDots, they’re most likely to appeal users with the Watch Sport, allowing them have the crown and button match the color of their Sport Band. They only cost $10, and are available in pink, green, blue, white, black, and red, with each pack including three decals for both the Digital Crown and side button.
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https://www.slashgear.com/apple-watch-stickers-let-you-customize-the-digital-crown-15383726/

Lenovo ThinkPad X250

Four things to know about the Lenovo ThinkPad X250

Computers & IT, , ,

Lenovo introduced an update to its ThinkPad X240 this year, and it’s called the Lenovo ThinkPad X250. As with the last model, we’ve given the X250 a workout and detailed our experiences in a full review, which you can check out here. In case you missed it, though, we’re back with a handful of key points you’ll likely want to know before taking the plunge: what’s to like, what’s better than before, and in which areas you should temper your expectations.
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https://www.slashgear.com/four-things-to-know-about-the-lenovo-thinkpad-x250-16383697/

LG Watch Urbane review

Wearables, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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OUR VERDICT

Essentially, the LG Watch Urbane is a pricier twin of the LG G Watch R. If style isn’t your chief concern, then you might as well grab LG’s more practically-priced watch.

FOR

  • Fashionable
  • Android Wear 5.1.1 installed
  • Decent battery life

AGAINST

  • Bulky
  • No GPS
  • Expensive

Like the G Watch R, the Urbane’s screen is lovely to stare at but sometimes looks pixelated, depending on which watch face you plop on the front. I found the Classic face had the most pixelation on the dial. The moons on the Moonphase face also look a little blotchy.
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https://www.slashgear.com/lg-watch-urbane-review-all-that-glitters-isnt-gold-16383802/

Asus ZenBook UX305

Get an Asus ZenBook UX305 for $599 shipped

Computers & IT, , , , , , , , ,

This powerful Ultrabook was already a solid deal at $699, but now you can score $100 off. And you definitely should.

I’ve been waiting for this. I just hope there’s enough inventory to go around.

For a limited time, and while supplies last, the Microsoft Store has the Asus ZenBook UX305FA 13.3-inch Ultrabook for $599 shipped. That’s after applying coupon code PCGRAD15 at checkout. (Depending on where you live, you may be on the hook for sales tax as well.)

I mention inventory because this ZenBook seems like it’s constantly sold out. And with good reason: It’s a startlingly good deal, even at the regular $699 price. I’ve yet to see it sell for a dollar less, so I’m seriously jazzed about this.

The UX305 made waves a couple months ago for delivering robust specs for hundreds less than competing models. Those specs include 8GB of RAM, a 256GB SSD and a native screen resolution of 1,920×1,080 pixels. And that screen has a matte finish — in your face, glare!
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https://www.slashgear.com/asus-zenbook-ux305-qhd-ultrabook-boasts-slimness-03344374/

sony

Sony dates its E3 press conference, full schedule now set

Wearables, , , , , ,

Here’s when Sony’s E3 briefing, along with everyone else’s, will take place.

Sony on Friday announced the time and date for its E3 2015 press briefing. The PlayStation 4company’s show will be held at the usual time, starting at 6:30 PM PDT on Monday, June 15.

 

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Makuch, Edward

 

The event itself will take place at the L.A. Memorial Sports Arena in Los Angeles.

Sony didn’t provide any details about what to expect from the show. It’s likely we’ll see Tearaway: Unfolded and No Man’s Sky, the two games a Sony executive recently cited as being integral to company’s holiday lineup.

We also expect to see Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End during the event, even if it’s not due until 2016. And you should always expect the unexpected.

With Sony’s announcement today, the entire E3 briefing schedule has now been confirmed. You can see the full schedule of events below. GameSpot will be reporting live from E3 all week, bringing you news from each briefing and more, directly from the show floor.
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https://www.cnet.com/news/e3-2019-watch-bethesda-e3-conference-live-start-time-how-to-stream-and-more/

iphone

iPhones in use in the US rise to 94M, new study suggests

Wearables, , , ,

No shock: the iPhone 6 line is off to a strong start. More surprisingly, some 8 million iPhone 4S devices are still in US hands.

If you’re interested in seeing an iPhone in person, chances are, you won’t have to look too far, new data from research firm Consumer Intelligence Research Partners shows.

An estimated total of 94 million iPhones were in use in the US at the end of March, including 38 million iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus units, CIRP said Friday. That 38 million figure is made up of 25 million iPhone 6 units and 13 million iPhone 6 models, according to the company’s estimates. CIRP also discovered that there are still 8 millioniPhone 4S devices in use in the US, despite the handset launching in 2011.
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https://www.cnet.com/news/nearly-100m-iphones-in-use-in-the-us-new-study-shows/

apple

Apple bullish on Apple Pay in China amid talks with Alibaba

Wearables, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

While Apple’s CEO Tim Cook may be optimistic, Apple Pay faces obstacles before it can garner support from Chinese banks.

Apple is chatting with Chinese e-commerce company Alibaba Group and Chinese banks about adopting Apple Pay in the country.

Apple’s CEO Tim Cook acknowledged the talks in an interview with China’s official Xinhua news agency, Reuters reported on Tuesday. Cook didn’t reveal any details about the conversations thus far but expressed a strong desire to launch Apple Pay in the country. “We very much want to get Apple Pay in China,” Cook told Xinhua during a visit to China, Reuters said. “I’m very bullish on Apple Pay in China.”

 

Apple is eager to introduce Apple Pay to China.

 

Launched in October 2014, Apple Pay is Apple’s first foray into the contactless mobile payments market. Using an iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus or Apple Watch, you can pay for items on the go at supported retailers through the wireless NFC (near-field communication) technology. Apple has been drumming up support for Apple Pay in the US. But to truly take off, Apple Pay needs to expand globally, most notably in China, which is still the world’s largest smartphone market and a country where Apple’s smartphone share has jumped following the introduction of the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus.
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https://www.cnet.com/news/apple-bullish-on-launch-of-apple-pay-in-china/

LG lancet

Verizon’s LG Lancet runs Windows Phone 8.1, has 4.5-inch display and 8-megapixel camera

Phones, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

It certainly has been a while. The latest phone from LG is the newly announced Lancet for Verizon Wireless — a 4.5-inch device that runs Microsoft’s mobile operating system, Windows Phone 8.1.

The phone is Verizon’s first Windows Phone (WP) handset of the year, and one of three WP phones in its lineup altogether, next to the Samsung Ativ SE and the HTC One M8 (for Windows).

As for LG, it hasn’t launched an WP phone for several years (we reviewed the LG Optimus 7, for example, back in 2010). Two years ago, the company wasn’texactly enthusiastic about releasing a WP 8 device, though a company representative did say that it will be on board, “When there’s a significant market for it.”

For all its implications, however, the device is rather midrange. It has a 4.5-inch LCD display and is powered by a 1.2GHz quad-core processor. It’s equipped with an 8-megapixel rear camera, a 2,100mAh battery, and 8GB of internal storage with the option to expand up to 128GB via a microSD card.
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https://www.cnet.com/reviews/lg-lancet-preview/

Apple-Watch

How to set a custom time on the Apple Watch

Wearables, , , , ,

For those who are habitually late, setting your watch a few minutes ahead is a simple life hack to help with your timeliness.

 

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Unlike a traditional watch, when you first power up the Apple Watch, the task of setting the time doesn’t exist. The Apple Watch merely duplicates the time on your iPhone, and that’s that.

Or is it?

It may be a bit buried in settings, Apple has included the option to set a custom time on your Apple Watch. Here’s how:
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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/how-to-set-a-custom-time-on-the-apple-watch/

apple_siri

iOS 9 leaked details allegedly point to redesign for Siri

Wearables, , , , , , , , ,

With iOS 9, Apple’s voice assistant on the iPhone and iPad will borrow the more colorful design of the Siri that shows up on the Apple Watch, says 9to5Mac.

 

Siri could get more colorful in iOS 9.

 

Siri may look more colorful when Apple unveils the next edition of iOS.

As expected, Apple has been mum about which changes and new features could show up in iOS 9, the next version of its mobile operating system for iPhone and iPad users. Apple is expected to unveil iOS 9 at its Worldwide Developers Conference starting June 8.
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https://www.cnet.com/news/ios-9-leaked-details-allegedly-point-to-redesign-for-siri/

apple-watch-6_1

Reset a forgotten passcode on the Apple Watch

Wearables, , , , , ,

There’s no need to panic if you ever forget the passcode on your new Apple Watch. It only takes a couple of minutes to reset it.

Apple requires you to create a PIN during the initial Apple Watch setup process. You are then asked to enter the code to unlock the watch each time you take it off your wrist. But what happens if you ever forget the code? There’s no need to worry, it can be reset in a few short steps. Here’s what you need to know:

 

Reset it from an iPhone

 

To reset the watch from a paired iPhone, click the Apple Watch app on the phone’s home screen and select General. Then, scroll down to the bottom of the page, tap Reset and choose Erase All Content and Settings.
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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/reset-forgotten-passcode-on-the-apple-watch/

iphone-6-plus-camera

Next iPhone’s camera may get a pixel boost, but there’s a trade-off

Wearables, , , , , , , , , ,

An industry observer says Apple’s upcoming iPhones will increase the pixel count from 8 pixels to 12. The pixels would be smaller, though, which could affect picture quality.

Will Apple bump up the pixel count on the iPhone’s camera this year? One person in the know says so.

This year’s iPhones, most likely to be dubbed the iPhone 6S and 6S Plus, will raise the pixel count of the rear camera to 12 megapixels from the current 8, said Kevin Wong, chief executive at market intelligence firm IHS China. Wong made the claim Thursday via a post to Chinese social network Sina Weibo. If what he said is true, this would be the first time Apple has boosted the pixel count on its flagship phone’s camera since it increased it from 5MP to 8MP with the debut of the iPhone 4S in 2011.

 

Will Apple raise the pixel count on this year’s iPhone?

 

But that jump in pixel count could come at a price, according to Wong. To achieve the higher count, Apple would reduce the actual size of each pixel. And why might that be bad? Smaller pixels are less sensitive to light, which can lead to poorer-quality photos with more noise, especially those taken in low-light conditions. So there’s a trade-off with a higher pixel count and a smaller pixel size.
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https://www.cnet.com/news/next-iphones-camera-may-get-a-pixel-boost-but-theres-a-trade-off/

Ello review: it’s not the ‘anti’ anything

Ello review: it’s not the ‘anti’ anything

Wearables, , , ,

 

You’ve probably seen Ello pop up on your RSS feed (or however you happen to keep up with information) over the past few days. The new social media site has been dubbed the “anti-Facebook”, due to its strikingly sparse interface and promise to not make you the product. To gauge how accurate that is, I went inside to discover what Ello is, and who it isn’t for.


To my mind, Ello is like any other bootstrap startup. It’s simple, pretty effective at one thing, and simple enough to grasp. Those who try to over-complicate Ello do it a disservice. It’s social, just a different take on what that is, and means.

For Ello, the goal is to feed you info on a macro scale. It’s like a warehouse full of people who somehow heard that there was a party there. A party may happen, but we’re all a bit early to the event. You know, if a party actually breaks out.
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https://www.slashgear.com/ello-review-its-not-the-anti-anything-26348111/

Ilumi Smart LED Bulbs review; Bluetooth brains

Ilumi Smart LED Bulbs review; Bluetooth brains

Wearables, , , , , , , , , , , ,

 

In the connected home space, lighting has become rather dull. Several lightbulbs change color, and can react to an app; it’s all fairly mundane at this point. Philips Hue is widely pointed to as the first domino in the rally, but it has limitations, like the need for a WiFi hub. Ilumi thinks it can change our minds about lighting, with their connected bulbs that also change colors and react to an app. In the face of big-name players, Ilumi may have got lighting right.

Hardware

Fist thing to note; these bulbs seem heavy. I wouldn’t put these in a small, fragile fixture that could easily be tipped over.

The form-factor is nothing special. It’s LED lighting, and hefty in both weight and size. Inside, another narrative takes control.
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https://www.slashgear.com/ilumi-smart-led-bulbs-review-bluetooth-brains-13383398/

Windows 10 Mobile preview: Universal Store, Office, Xbox apps

Windows 10 Mobile preview: Universal Store, Office, Xbox apps

Phones, , , , , , , , ,

 

Microsoft has just announced the rollout of the latest build for Windows 10 Mobile (yes, that is its final, formal name) and it’s probably one of the biggest previews yet. Debuting this release, with build number 10080, are a bunch of Universal apps that, in theory, will demonstrate the promise of Microsoft’s spiel of apps that span all, or most, Windows 10 editions. Among this first batch of apps for phones, is finally something Windows Phone users have been clamoring for and rightly deserve: Universal Office apps.

Given Microsoft’s recent focus on bringing apps to other platforms, some Windows Phone users might have felt a bit of righteous resentment at being left out of all the fun. Sure, they might have Office on their devices already anyway, but they might want to also be showered with the graces of Windows 10 features. That resentment might very well end today as they finally get some taste of that Universal promise.
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https://www.slashgear.com/windows-10-mobile-preview-universal-store-office-xbox-apps-15383649/

2015 Alfa Romeo 4C Review

2015 Alfa Romeo 4C Review

Cars, , , ,

 

The Alfa Romeo 4C is spectacular, an exotic “baby Ferrari” that has taken me from point A to point B with more than the normal diversions in-between, and with a permanent grin from ear to ear. First astonishing US drivers in rarefied (and, at nearly $70k, more expensive) Launch Edition form, but finally available with a base price starting at $53,900, it’s Alfa’s triumphant – and niche – return stateside. Achingly pretty but as demanding as a thoroughbred, only 1,200 Alfa 4C’s will be imported from Maserati’s Modena plant. Should one be on your driveway?

It’s tough to argue with the design. The 4C’s scoops, slices, and swathes are instantly eye-catching; while Alfa has been making good use of its “Rosso Competizione Tri-Coat finish” – metallic red, in other words – the Basalt Gray metallic of this particular example is equally seductive to my eyes, arguably doing a better job of highlighting the play of shadows and contours.

[su_youtube url=”https://youtu.be/AslCj_4nIig”]
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https://www.slashgear.com/2015-alfa-romeo-4c-review-18369477/
Polaroid Zip Review: the best tiny photo printer on the market today

Polaroid Zip Review: the best tiny photo printer on the market today

Wearables, , , , , , , , , ,

 

The following review will give you a brief overview of what it’ll mean to use the Polaroid Zip Instant Photoprinter. This little device can fit in your pocket (if you’ve got a wallet-sized pocket) and is able to print a collection of photos from your smartphone using NFC to connect and Bluetooth to send data. This device prints 2-inch x 3-inch prints with glossy fronts and instant-dry ink. This device takes the fun of the original Polaroid Instant Camera and jams it in to our modern age, with a sticky back to boot.

The basics

This system is one of the many strangely enticing Polaroid products to have been released in the brand’s modern age. Another recent product we’ve reviewed from Polaroid is the fantastical piece of mini-camera called the Polaroid Cube.

You could – if you wanted – take photos with the Polaroid Cube, transfer them to your smartphone, and print them off with the Polaroid Zip pocket printer. It’d be easier just to take photos with your phone, but who are we to judge?
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https://www.slashgear.com/polaroid-zip-review-the-best-tiny-photo-printer-on-the-market-today-13383366/

Rhino Slider & Motion review; a must-have movement in photography

Rhino Slider & Motion review; a must-have movement in photography

Wearables, , , , , , ,

 

I have a confession: I love House of Cards. Part of the reason for my obsession is the opening sequence (and probably Kevin Spacey’s oddly passable/terrible accent). The time-lapse, gently rolling through various points of Washington D.C., is just magical. I’ve always wanted to do something like that, but it seemed like an investment beyond the scope of what I was willing to spend (HoC uses a RED Camera!). Rhino isn’t asking much of me, though. Motion pairs a slider with a simple motor for fine-tuned live motion time-lapse, and — spoiler alert — it’s awesome.

Hardware

The slider alone is pure hotness. Carbon fiber rails and all-terrain legs make for durable, go-anywhere shooting. The carriage also earned my trust. Though I needed an adapter for my Beastgrip set-up, the rollers, brake, and overall construction are inspired.

Settled between the rails is a small rubber belt drive, which is where the fun begins. A motor sits on the end of the slider, which can be hard-wired to the controller.

[su_youtube url=”https://youtu.be/mWz2oYumOu4″]
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https://www.slashgear.com/rhino-slider-a-must-have-movement-in-photography-14383579/
R2-D2 Galaxy S6 Edge SkinIt

R2-D2 Galaxy S6 Edge SkinIt Review

Phones, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

 

In the wake of the preview announcement of the Iron Man Edition of the Galaxy S6 Edge, SlashGear turns its eye to the Poor Techie’s Solution. Here we’re taking a peek at another SkinIt skin for our device. The Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge has a curved front display glass, and therefor presents a bit of a challenge for case makers and accessory creators alike. How does SkinIt solve this problem? As it turns out, they didn’t have to do much of anything different from their normal methods of application.

You Poor Techie! What are you going to do! Ever since you first saw the DROID R2-D2 way back in the year 2010, you knew you wanted to be one with the Force. You knew you wanted to make your fabulous own phone look like everyone’s favorite white and blue robot.
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https://www.slashgear.com/r2-d2-galaxy-s6-edge-skinit-review-15383784/

Lenovo ThinkPad X250 Review – a subtle but solid update

Lenovo ThinkPad X250 Review – a subtle but solid update

Computers & IT, , , , , , ,

 

The Lenovo X240’s older sibling has arrived, and it is aptly named the Lenovo X250. Many of the previous model’s design choices have carried over into the model, but as always the update brings with it, you know, updates for a slightly more modern world. The X250 is a relatively compact laptop with a rugged design and, perhaps the best part of both it and the X240, it has phenomenalbattery life, particularly if you’re using the largest secondary battery. Is it notable enough to justify upgrading from the X240? Read our full SlashGear review to find out!

Hardware

The Lenovo X250 is designed to be portable and durable, and it does both things fantastically. As far as portability goes, the laptop isn’t the thinnest offering out there (particularly if you’re using the larger secondary battery), but it’s not too big, either, nor does it feel heavy.
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https://www.slashgear.com/lenovo-thinkpad-x250-review-a-subtle-but-solid-update-15383674/

LG Watch Urbane Review – All that glitters isn’t gold

LG Watch Urbane Review – All that glitters isn’t gold

Wearables, , , , , , , , , , , , ,

 

You can understand why Android enthusiasts might be resentful of the Apple Watch. Android Wear has been around long enough for manufacturers like LG to release several generations of smartwatch, but listen to some and you’d be excused for thinking Cupertino had invented the segment. Into the fray wades the LG Watch Urbane, promising genteel luxury instead of geek chic, and first to offer the very latest version of Android Wear itself, complete with a number of hotly-anticipated updates. $349 is a lot to ask for an Android smartwatch, though: is the Urbane worth it?

Design

Back when LG first revealed the Watch Urbane in February, its metal body and less obviously geeky looks set it apart from most of the Android Wear alternatives. Taking the core of the existing G Watch R, but doing away with some of the more contentious design elements like the chronograph dial, it seemed like Android’s smartwatch platform had finally grown up.

The reality isn’t quite so clear-cut, but a big part of that is subjective.
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https://www.slashgear.com/lg-watch-urbane-review-all-that-glitters-isnt-gold-16383802/

Verizon Intuition by LG Review

Verizon Intuition by LG Review

Phones, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

 

The folks at Verizon and LG have teamed up to bring you a device exclusive to the both of them here in the USA – the LG Intuition – made to take on the phablet segment of the market with a fury all its own. But what can LG offer the 5-inch display-toting smart device universe that the Samsung Galaxy Note (and now the Note II) haven’t already? Have a peek here at the one and only competing device to take on the larger than a smartphone but smaller than a tablet market currently on Verizon – and see if LG’s convinced us that a 4:3 aspect ratio display is all its cracked up to be!

Hardware

The LG Intuition is the USA version of the device we’ve known up unto this point as the LG Optimus Vu, it having been revealed earlier this year at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. The device we’re looking at now is essentially the same as it was in that first showing, here coming with what LG calls its Rubberdium Pen that works with any capacitive display-toting device, two LG Tag+ stickers that you can use to activate different phone modes using the Intuition’s NFC capabilities, and of course a charging cord for good measure.

[su_slider source=”media: 4868,4869,4870″ height=”400″ title=”no”]
[su_youtube url=”https://youtu.be/vB4kN0rsXmo”]
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https://www.slashgear.com/verizon-intuition-by-lg-review-14247539/
iPhone 5 Review

iPhone 5 Review

Phones, , , , , , ,

Apple’s iPhone 5 has a lot to live up to. Its predecessor set sales records; its original ancestor changed the smartphone industry immeasurably. In the five years since the first iPhone, Apple’s smartphones have taken the company’s value sky-high, and made it a star performer in an otherwise laboring tech segment. In question: could the iPhone 5 shift the game ahead once again, while still retaining the essential DNA that makes iPhone users and developers so loyal to the platform? With competition surging, a bigger, faster, and bolder iPhone steps into the fray. Read on for our full iPhone 5 review to see if it can live up to those expectations.

Design

Unmistakably iPhone, and yet different. It takes little more than a glance to recognize the iPhone 5’s lineage, though with closer examination it’s clear quite how many aesthetic changes have been made in this sixth-generation handset. The new phone is thinner and longer than its predecessor; its anodized aluminum back replacing the old model’s glass; the “sandwich” construction made more discrete.

Importantly, none of these changes have been forced for the sake of aesthetics alone, and in ensuring that they keep the DNA of previous models. The iPhone 5 is longer – 123.8mm now, versus the 115.2mm of before – so that it can accommodate a larger display. Its stretched appearance, meanwhile, is to keep the width of the display consistent: that means it can still be comfortably used with a single hand, the thumb extending to reach the limits of the UI without demanding that the person holding it stretch or use a second hand.

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Samsung Galaxy Stellar Review

Samsung Galaxy Stellar Review

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Samsung may be best known for its effort in the high-end market, but it didn’t get the title of largest smartphone manufacturer just by pumping out the biggest and best all the time. In addition to top-of-the-line, Samsung also hits the budget scene hard, with its latest budget-priced offering being the Galaxy Stellar. Now available at Verizon, the Galaxy Stellar brings Android to the masses on the cheap, but is it the worth your time, and more importantly, is it worth signing a two-year contract for?

Hardware

The Samsung Galaxy Stellar offers a 4-inch WVGA touch screen running at 800 x 480 resolution. This means that you won’t see HD listed in a rundown of its features, but to be honest, you can’t really expect HD with a phone that you can get for free. The lack of HD will be a turn off for some, but the screen is still colorful and bright, so those who can live without HD will probably be satisfied with the Stellar’s screen. At 4-inches, it’s a bit smaller than we’re used to seeing with other smartphones, but it still gets the job done. To my surprise, typing on the Stellar’s screen was actually easier than expected, but mistakes will eventually creep in, especially if you’re used to typing on a bigger screen.
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Samsung Galaxy Note II Review

Samsung Galaxy Note II Review

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Samsung’s new Galaxy Note II arrives with some heritage to explain it, though a 5.5-inch smartphone can still take some explaining. After its first-gen predecessor blustered its way into a new segment – known by some and loathed by others as “phablets” – the new model tweaks the formulae some, boosting performance, smoothing the design, and polishing the digital pen elements that help set it apart from the smartphone crowd. So, if the original Galaxy Noteeventually answered the question “will it sell?” can the Samsung Galaxy Note II convince us that it’s a worthwhile upgrade? Read on for the full SlashGear review.

Hardware

Though twelve months old, the first Galaxy Note still doesn’t look too shabby in terms of specifications, and so the Note II generally tightens up the package and polishes off any glaringly rough edges. Design-wise, it’s now more akin to the Galaxy S III – all curves and fake chrome edges – than the model it replaces, and side-by-side the pair are obviously from the same family. At 80.5 x 151.1 x 9.4 mm and 182.5g, it’s slightly longer and heavier than the first Note, though also narrower and thinner; slimmer bezels have meant Samsung can fit a bigger display despite the only moderate size changes, now at 5.5-inches rather than 5.3-inches.
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