Pinterest and Instagram made big moves today: here's what you need to know
The days of ad-free social networks are long gone, and today Pinterest and Instagram both announced initiatives that may be good for users but even better for businesses and advertisers.
To be sure, Pinterest's new move isn't necessarily ad-driven, but rather looks to make purchasing a more streamlined endeavor. As for Instagram, it's opening advertising to businesses of every shape and size ... and using info from Facebook to help them better target users.
Pinterest 'buy-it pins'
DIYers and businesses alike have embraced Pinterest, the $11 billion virtual pinboard, as a hub to decoratively display their products and innovations.To capitalize on people's interest in the products they see on Pinterest, the network is adding "buy-it pins" for purchases in its mobile app. The buy pin (essentially a buy button) will appear beside the traditional "pin it" button. Users will then be given the option to choose a payment method, and with one more click, their latest purchase is headed to their homes.
Right out of the gate, 2 million items will be available for purchase, including goods from Macy's and Nordstrom, purchasable with a credit card or Apple Pay. Perhaps we'll see Android Pay supported added in the future?
You can expect to see "buy-it pins" on the iPad and iPhone Pinterest apps by the end of June, and there's no word yet on when the feature will come to Android pinners.
Instagram and the advertising free-for-all
Instagram has announced it's opening the advertising floodgates, similar to the way its parent company, Facebook, has done for years.Instagrammers will note that ads have been gradually appearing on their feed for about a year and a half, but the photography-focused network wants to make it easier for businesses to convert followers into customers.
Instagram is also testing a way for purchases and downloads to be made by clicking on links in posts themselves, rather than the old method of posting a link in the description box, often skimmed over by the target audience. These "direct response ads" are meant to take down the barrier between business and consumer.
Finally, but perhaps most importantly, Instragram plans to help advertisers reach their desired audiences by using demographic and interests information picked up from users' Facebook activities. That's right: more targeted ads are coming to Instagram, thanks to what you liked over on FB.
Instagram will also let businesses use info they already have about their customers, just as Facebook currently allows for its ads. Advertisers will essentially be able to run the same ad campaigns on Instagram and Facebook targeted at the same users, according to Ad Age. These particular advertiser services won't roll out until later this year.
Following the leaders
Facebook, which purchased Instagram in 2012, announced in July 2014 that it would begin experimenting with its own "buy button" to "help drive sales through Facebook in News Feed and on Pages."Not to be outdone by Facebook, Google chief business officer Omid Kordestani confirmed last week that Google would launch a buy button to appear on shopping advertisements at the top of the page. Google also plans to make the purchases happen in-house, rather than routing the buyer to another website.
No matter how relevant or unobtrusive, ads are still ads to some users, and they, along with in-service buy buttons, are becoming commonplace.
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AMD's newest APU promises discrete-class graphics performance on your next laptop
Intro and computing cores
After a series of teases, AMD has officially taken the veils off of Carrizo, launching the anticipated notebook A8 and A10 processors as part of the Sixth Generation A-Series APU, or accelerated processing unit. In a presentation in San Francisco, California ahead of the launch, AMD said that it is targeting Carrizo to the 63 million consumers who buy a mainstream laptop every year priced between $400 (£263, AU$524) and $700 (£560, AU$917).With the Sixth Generation A-Series APU, AMD wants your notebook to be the ideal connected, versatile hub in your digital life, noting that the integrated processing and graphics core are designed for productivity, gaming and entertainment.
AMD says that its Sixth Generation APU will be available soon in notebooks from Lenovo, Asus, Acer, Toshiba and HP. For consumers, Carrizo promises to deliver discrete-class graphics at an affordable price. AMD says that in the past, users had to upgrade to a premium laptop if they needed more GPU power – even for light or moderate gaming – but Carrizo aims to satisfy the graphics needs of mainstream notebook users.
12 computing cores
The Sixth Generation A-Series comes with four Excavator CPU cores and eight third generation GCN graphics cores that are able to fully share system resources, like memory and RAM. AMD claims that the Sixth Generation chip is the first to use the Heterogeneous Systems Architecture (HSA) 1.0 design.
This gives the processor a total of 12 computing cores, and according to AMD, this setup is capable of delivering up to two times faster gaming performance compared to rival processors and more than twice the battery life from the prior generation APU.
The chip is also the first to support High Efficiency Video Coding (HVEC) decoding for mainstream notebooks. HEVC, or H.265 file formats, videos provide for uninterrupted, smooth video playback with full CPU offload at up to 60 fps. This means that videos will be smoother and notebook batteries will last twice as long while playing video content.
The HEVC format is supported by Amazon Prime videos and natively in Windows 10.
Performance and graphics
Performance comparison
AMD has squeezed out better performance and more battery life out of its APU with a 28nm chip design, DDR3 memory and HSA 1.0 specifications. This is quite impressive considering that rival Intel has transitioned over to a power efficient 14nm design, yet AMD claims its processor delivers stronger battery life.General computing battery life has been improved from about 3.3 hours from the previous generation APU to 8.3 hours on the current model, according to specs released by AMD. What's even more impressive is that battery life while rendering video is also vastly superior compared to the competition. The AMD SoC is capable of 300 minutes of video playback compared to about 112 minutes on system utilizing Intel chips.
Because of HSA 1.0 compliance, graphics performance of Carrizo is superior to Intel's Core i3 CPU coupled with an Nvidia GeForce GT 740 GPU, according to Adam Kozak, AMD's product marketing manager.
In fact, Kozak claims that graphics performance is twice as powerful as the integrated graphics on Intel's Core i7 processor. AMD says that HSA 1.0 essentially gives everyone big data capabilities because of the processing power that is now available to mainstream users.
Graphics
Even though AMD is focusing on mainstream performance, gaming and entertainment at this time with the Sixth Generation A-Series, Kozak confirmed with TechRadar that the company is working to get its chips inside more mobile workstations. Mobile workstations today use either Intel's integrated graphics in a power-saving mode when not subjected to heavy workloads, with a discrete Nvidia GPU that kicks in whenever the system demands it.
To compete against these system, Kozak says that AMD's APU can work with a multi-GPU environment. With dual-graphics support, mobile workstations can be configured to take advantage of a secondary discrete AMD Radeon GPU for added performance. AMD says that it will release the APIs to give developers explicit control for more powerful multi-GPU performance. We'll have to see how this setup fares in benchmarks compared to systems utilizing Intel processors and Nvidia graphics.
Kozak says that the APU already comes with "discrete-class graphics," leveraging the power of an AMD Radeon R7 or R6 GPU inside the APU.
For business users who require a multi-monitor setup when at the office, the Sixth Generation A-Series can drive up to three simultaneous displays. In AMD's demo room comparing video performance of the A-Series to Intel's Core i-series, videos rendered with the AMD chipset appear far smoother. Videos rendered with Intel's mainstream Core i5 processor look more like a slideshow with very low framerates.
Additionally, with improved color compression on the APU for video and graphics, I found that pictures, videos and games appear brighter and more vibrant when rendered using an AMD processor compared to rival Intel's chipset at the demo station had set up.
The APU is also DirectX 12-ready.
Excavator Core
Kozak and his team says the reason the APU is able to deliver superior graphics performance is because of the chipset's low power target. This creates a virtuous cycle so the cooler the system runs, the less power it needs to cool down, which means that it can stay cool longer, while driving heavy loads. The company says this creates thermal headroom, so if needed, the chips can run use more power to run faster and exploit the thermal margin created.
The excavator core is also separated from the memory interface in AMD's thermal architecture to keep hot components away from each other.
AMD says that the Sixth Generation APU achieves a 23% area reduction in the same 28nm technology node as the prior generation APU. This leads to increased frequency for up to 39% more performance and IPC enhancements that deliver an additional 9-13% more performance.
The result is an increase in up to 55% more performance in key benchmarks, such as Cinebench, a tool that we use at TechRadar to test laptops and desktops.
Security and innovations
Security
The Sixth Generation A-Series also comes with its own dedicated 32-bit ARM A5 processor embedded inside. The capabilities of the ARM chipset will be extended to select third-party developers to keep things secure. The ARM core on the APU SoC creates a secure container.The ARM chipset is like having a TPM inside the A-Series SoC, says Jason Bantam, AMD's director of mobility solutions. There is also a cryptographic co-processor that handles encryption.
When asked about mobile workstations with discrete and integrated AMD graphics, Bantam says that the company will be making those announcements at a later date.
AMD innovations
To showcase the power of its APU, AMD has also created software that takes advantage of the stronger processing performance. AMD Looking Glass is an application that recognizes faces inside videos, so you can search for specific faces of people inside videos. It's like image searches, but for video clips.Additionally, the APU also supports gestures and Windows 10. Even though Kozak would not comment on Windows Hello support, he alluded that the APU will be able to handle Microsoft Passport and Windows Hello for added security.
The chipset will also support ARM Trustzone apps, Secure boot and resume, TPM, and drive key encryption for enterprise users.
We'll need to get our hands on final production units of laptops running AMD's Sixth Generation APU to see how they compare against their Intel counterparts before making any final verdicts, but the demos that AMD had set up show promise.
- Read our analysis on why smaller is better when it comes to CPU design
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Dell refreshes Inspiron PCs with new laptops, hybrids and desktops
Dell announced a refresh of its Inspiron lineup at Computex 2015 with new laptops, a 2-in-1 hybrid, all-in-ones and desktops. Not only does the refresh touch on a diverse number of form factors in Dell's consumer computing family, but it also gives consumers choice with options for different CPU and GPU configurations.
The new Inspiron notebooks include the Inspiron 5000 Series and Inspiron 15 7000 Series 2-in-1. For all-in-ones, Dell announced the Inspiron 20 and 24 3000 Series. Desktop users can choose from the Inspiron Desktop, Small Desktop or Micro Desktop.
Inspiron notebooks
The Inspiron 5000 Series laptops come with 14-, 15-, and 17-inch screen options. Dell advertises "sharp high resolution displays, firm keyboards that are easy to type on for hours, exceptional battery life and great wireless performance" as key features of the 5000 Series. Dell is offering the 5000 Series with processor options from Intel and AMD.The notebooks are available in Beijing Red, Standard Black, Theoretical Gray, Alpine White and Sky Blue finishes.
Unfortunately, to keep the cost of entry low, select features are a premium add-on in the 5000 Series, including backlit keyboard, touchscreen, precision touchpad and True Color to adjust the color temperature, vibrancy, tone and color clarity of the screen.
Dell is selling the Inspiron 5000 14-inch for $599 (£391, AU$772), 15-inch for $449 (£293, AU$579) and 17-inch for $699 (£456, AU$901). Intel's Atom-based Braswell processors, based on an energy efficient 14nm design, will be coming in early-August to the 14- and 15-inch models in the series as well as the 14- and 15-inch in the Inspiron 3000 Series.
Inspiron hybrid
The Inspiron 15 7000 Series 2-in-1 is a hybrid laptop with a 360-degree hinge that can fold back to convert between a regular notebook and a tablet form factor. With a forged aluminum body, nearly nine hours of advertised battery life, wide-angle IPS display, Waves MaxxAudio Pro audio software tuning, and backlit, spill-resistant keyboard, Dell is still able to keep the hybrid thin, measuring in at under 20mm (0.79 inches).The 2-in-1 has a starting cost of $549 (£358, AU$708) when it becomes available on June 23. The current 11-inch Inspiron 11 3000 Series 2-in-1 hybrid will be refreshed in August with an Intel Braswell processor. That model will start at $349 (£228, AU$271).
Inspiron AIO
Dell is making two screen sizes available in its new 3000 Series all-in-one desktop Inspiron PC. The Inspiron 20 3000 Series comes with a 19.5-inch HD+ display, while the Inspiron 24 3000 series is equipped with 23.8-inch FHD IPS display. The smaller model is available with an Intel Braswell CPU while the larger model comes with either AMD or Intel Braswell processor options.Highlights of the AIO include a slim design, edge-to-edge touchscreen, pop-up easel stand and single cord set up to give it a clean look on your desk or in your home. Users can also choose from either black or white color options.
Gamers who want the Inspiron 3000 AIO experience can choose to add an AMD Radeon R-series GPU for stronger graphics performance.
The 24-inch model will be available June 2 starting at $479 (£312, AU$617) while the smaller model has a starting cost of $329 (£215, AU$424). The Inspiron 20 3000 Series will be available in October in the US and in September in China.
Inspiron desktops
For those who prefer a desktop experience, Dell is offering a variety of PC form factors to fit your needs. The company announced an Inspiron Desktop tower, Inspiron Small Desktop and Inspiron Micro Desktop.Dell announced that the Inspiron Desktop will come with options for AMD and Intel processors as well as AMD and Nvidia graphics. The Inspiron Small Desktop is equipped with an Intel Braswell processor. The Inspiron Desktop and Small Desktop start at $279 (£182, AU$360) and both will be available in September.
Dell's new Inspiron Micro Desktop competes in the same space as Apple's Mac Mini, measuring 5.16 x 5.16-inch (13.11 x 13.11cm). Dell says that the Micro Desktop is small enough to hold in one hand. The device can be configured with a dual-core Intel Celeron or quad-core Intel Pentium processor along with Intel HD integrated graphics. The Micro Desktop is available now for $180 (£117, AU$232).
Consumers who need to extend their warranty or require additional help or technical support can purchase Dell's Premium Support package.
- Read our review of the Dell XPS 13
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Google Maps finally shows real-time transit info, if you live these six places
A new feature we've all wanted from Google Maps has finally arrived: real-time transit information. But it's only available if you live in certain areas.
San Francisco, UK, Netherlands, Budapest, Chicago and Seattle are the six lucky places where Google has added over 25 transportation partners providing real-time data to make sure routes run smoothly.
It doesn't appear like the feature will head to other locations just yet, and will probably be added later on.
However, if you're not in one of those cities or countries, the company has at least cleaned up the app to provide clearer courses of action. A recommended route is shown where others are summarized and clumped neatly together so you have a list of public transport options.
The update for the app should be out today for both Android and iOS devices though it has yet to appear on the latter.
- Miss the biggest Android conference of the year? Catch up on everything Google IO here.
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Steam's new refund policy should make gamers very happy
Ever purchase a game and thought soon after, "Wow, this sucks and I'm out 50 bucks"? Mercifully, Valve is working to make this a thing of the past, introducing 14-day refunds for Steam games bought online.
The rules and restrictions on the refund policy are extremely lenient, according the official site, which states: "You can request a refund for nearly any purchase on Steam - for any reason."
Whether a problem with your PC, a mistaken purchase or you simply don't like the game, the folks at Valve don't care.
The one catch? Your play time on the title can't exceed two hours, though this doesn't appear to be too cut and dry either, since the site says, "even if you fall outside of the refund rules we've described, you can ask for a refund anyway and we'll take a look."
DLC falls under the same agreement, though some refunds for third-party DLC may not be eligible for a refund, especially if it "irreversibl[y] levels up a game character."
Steam is late to the party
Although this is a good step for Steam and its users, it should be noted that main competitors Origin and GOG have been boasting refund policies for some time now.Origin, which is owned by Electronic Arts, offers a "great game guarantee" to refund a game for any reason within seven days of purchasing, or 24 hours of first launching. This applies to all EA games, and only certain third-party titles.
GOG, or Good Old Games, is a bit more stingy with its refunding, offering a 30-day "withdrawal right" for any purchase, as long as it hasn't been downloaded or launched yet. The only other way to get a refund is if your game breaks from internal bugs.
Even though Steam is behind the pack on game refunds, it seems to be offering the most comprehensive solution to the problem yet. Steam says all requests are accepted and should be sent through help.steampowered.com. Gamers rejoice!
- These are the best PC games, and you should own them
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Asus takes on Mac Mini with Skylake-powered VivoPC
Asus unveiled an updated Chromebox and a refresh of its mini PC lineup to take on Apple's Mac Mini ($499, £399, AU$650). The Asus VivoPC, VivoMini and new Chromebox come with Intel processors and a compact form factor for small desk spaces.
In addition to the small PCs, Asus also announced a factory calibrated 4K UHD display.
Although Asus is showing these products at Computex, the company has not made any announcements about pricing or availability at this time.
Asus VivoPC VC65
With the announcement of the VivoPC VC65, we now have confirmation that Asus is using Intel's latest Skylake processor on its flagship mini PC. Skylake is the successor to today's Broadwell chipsets.Despite its compact size, the VC65 is a versatile PC that can serve as a desktop PC, a mini server or NAS.
As a small desktop PC that competes in the same space as Apple's Mac Mini, Asus made some changes to last year's model to make the VC65 look better on your desk. The VC65 can be connected to a VESA mount to free up desk space, and the system no longer needs an external power adapter minimize desk clutter.
The VC65 can accommodate two storage drives that can be connected with RAID support, allowing the system to be used as a mini server or NAS.
VivoMini UN65H and UN45
The UN65 comes with support for a hard drive and an M.2 solid state drive to maximize storage. The system comes equipped with an Intel Core processor paired with Intel's Iris Pro integrated graphics. The smaller UN45 is designed for quiet workspaces thanks to its fanless design. It also supports fast data access with support for an M.2 solid state drive.
Chromebox CN62
The Chromebox CN62 is a refresh of the Asus Chromebox Mini, and this year's model comes with Intel's fifth-generation Broadwell processor. The new Chromebox runs more quietly, supports 4K UHD video playback and is more energy efficient, utilizing just 6W of power when idle.
ProArt PA329Q 4K monitor
Although a studio-quality 4K display may be overkill with mini PCs, if you have a workstation and require color accuracy inside a production setting, the 32-inch Asus ProArt PA329Q may be a good purchase. Asus claims the screen has a 178-degree viewing angle and supports 100% of the Adobe RGB color gamut."It also features BT2020/DCI-P3 color space support for video production and editing," Asus said in a statement. "PA329Q offers 10-bit display color for over 1.07 billion onscreen colors and supports a 16-bit internal lookup table (LUT), which gives smoother gradations and more transitions between hues."
Each panel is pre-calibrated at the factory, and the calibration settings are saved to an IC chip inside the monitor so users can easily recalibrate the display on their own to maintain color consistency.
The PA329Q has DisplayPort 1.2, Mini DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 2.0, two HDMI 1.4 and four USB 3.0 input ports.
Other announcements at Computex
Asus also announced a hybrid Transformer Book T100HA, Asus K20 small form factor desktop tower with support for discrete graphics and a ZenBook UX305 and UX303 models. An all-in-one Zen desktop PC was also seen at the show, competing with Apple's iMac in the space.The company also made gaming announcements under its ROG line, including a ROG G501 thin gaming laptop, ROG GL552 gaming notebook, ROG G20CB gaming desktop, 34-inch curved G-Sync monitor with a 21:9 screen aspect ratio, 27-inch WQHD display with G-Sync support, and ROG G751JT/JY gaming notebook with G-Sync support.
- Read our picks for the top monitors
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Review: Updated: Asus ZenWatch
Introduction and display
Update: Unlike the Moto 360, Sony Smartwatch 3 and Samsung Gear Live, it looks like the Asus ZenWatch won't be getting the Android 5.1.1 update so it's stuck with the older Android Wear operating system.However, Asus will be launching a brand, spankin' new Asus ZenWatch 2. Along with a killer battery of almost four days, there are a slew of other huge improvements including different sizes, faster charging time and new crown.
No word on a launch has been announced yet but we're hoping soon to check out just how much better the ZenWatch 2 is compared to its predecessor.
Original review below ...
More and more smartwatches are cropping up every month, making it harder for new ones to stand out from the increasingly crowded space.
The Asus ZenWatch was a surprise when it was first announced, considering Asus wasn't a company expected to enter the wearables world.
But it was promising from start. The first teased images of the ZenWatch were enough to intrigue the wariest wearable-fatigued fan (me), because of its surprisingly attractive design.
Once released, the price of $199 (£199, about AU$252) added to the appeal, though it hasn't caused a huge stir in the wearables world, primarily because it lacks a wow factor that would make it memorable. It's also only compatible with smartphones running Android 4.3 and up, which means iPhone users are out of luck.
Display
A sharp-edged, rectangular screen within a round-edged rectangular face is not going to win any plaudits from the high-end design community, but it's functional.The problem is more that, at 1.63 inches and 320 x 320 (278 ppi), the Corning Gorilla Glass 3 OLED screen can appear rather pixelated, if you look at it for more than a glance. It's still a slightly higher density than the LG G Watch R and the Sony Smartwatch 3, and even the Moto 360.
The tiny panel is reasonably bright, but again, I've seen better in this department too. That said, it's perfectly serviceable, and it would be a stretch to say the screen is out-and-out bad. There's sadly no ambient light sensor so you're stuck with manually turning up or down the brightness in the settings.
Design and comfort
Design is everything when it comes to smartwatches, and Asus did not disappoint. The ZenWatch is undeniably an attractive smartwatch. With the Moto 360 catching eyes for its classic circular style, and the Samsung Gear S for being curvy and rectangular, Asus chose a slightly different path. Rather than choosing round or square, Asus opted for both by rounding out the square's edges.It's closer in looks to the Apple Watch piece than the current wearable breeds. That is to say, the ticker is kind of blandly handsome, in a reasonably premium way, with a bezel in brushed steel - an Asus hallmark - and an attractive, comfy leather strap.
The bezel, in all honesty, is the only big issue about the design of the ZenWatch, and utterly detracts from how lovely it looks. Instead of so much distracting bezel, it would have been nice if the screen were larger.
With the exception of the clasp, which feels a little wobbly, the ZenWatch is a solid, smart timepiece. The 22mm strap reminds me of the Gear S in terms of functionality, but feels much easier to put on because of the leather material. The Zenwatch's strap is also on par with the Moto 360's Horween leather, but seems more likely to scratch and crack over time from usage.
Though, you can switch out the leather for a metal band or any other type of 22mm strap, as Asus has made it extremely customizable. A swap is also extremely simple, thanks to the quick release pins attached to the lugs.
There's a power button on the back of the ZenWatch, which is an interesting but perhaps useless addition, since you can just swipe the screen for options. Fortunately, it's set in a way in which you can't accidentally press down on it. However, that means you have to jam your finger underneath to reach the switch, hence its triviality.
You'll also spot the gold charging connectors on the back of the watch, but there's no heart rate monitor. Rather it's been placed on the front, where you can touch any part of the metal frame to get a reading. It's an odd choice opposed to the usual green lights on the back of other smarwatches, but is easy enough to use. Both processes take just as long anyway, and the accuracy still remains a little questionable, but more on that later.
Comfort
For those with smaller wrists, the Asus smartwatch is probably the best you're going to get for now, in terms of comfort. It still snags on certain coat sleeves, but for the most part, remains unobtrusive and fairly weightless throughout the day.The metallic back - stainless steel again - is smooth and comfortable against the skin. And because the watch is only 9.5mm thick, it doesn't feel too bulky on your wrist, like some smartwatches – that's a failing of the Moto 360, for me - and only weighs 75 grams.
Specs, interface and performance
A Qualcomm processor, the APQ8026, otherwise known as the Snapdragon 400, lies at the heart of Asus ZenWatch. It's a surprisingly powerful dual-core chip, clocked at up to 1.7GHz, although I suspect it is significantly downclocked.The rest of the spec sheet is not too shabby as well, with 512MB of RAM and 4GB on-board storage, we're looking at the same base components we'd see in an entry-level tablet. But of course, squeezed into a product a fraction of its volume.
As for that gorgeous, curved rectangular AMOLED, its 320 x 320-pixel panel is not quite as sharp as the Samsung Gear S's360 x 480 resolution (albeit on a much bigger display).
The rest of the spec sheet includes Bluetooth, a 369mAh battery, 9-axis sensors, plus the heart rate monitor and IP55 water resistant capabilities.
Interface and performance
First things first: the Asus ZenWatch runs Android Wear, and that comes with its own fair share of trials and tribulations. We've gone over the pros and cons of Android Wear ad nauseum in other smartwatch reviews, but the basic idea is, if you've used one Android Wear smartwatch, you've used them all.You don't get an especially unique interface experience from the Moto 360 or LG G Watch R - though it is different from the Gear S's Tizen OS.
Your basic information cards pop up from vertically from the bottom of the screen to flick through the available cards, a swipe from left to right will remove a card from the list while moving your finger in the opposite direction will take you to more options. Tapping the home watch face screen will take you to the apps where you can choose to look at settings, heart rate, steps, agenda, alarms and more. Your most recent app will be at the top of a scrolling list.
Still, the voice-recognition works surprisingly well, especially in louder environments and music controls are useful too if you don't want to take your phone out of your pocket.
Notifications are handy, if limited. You can answer with templates (yes, no, I'm busy and that sort of thing). But realistically, if you want to reply, you're getting your phone out.
Apps and fitness
There is an accompanying Asus ZenWatch Manager app, which lets you set your watch as an unlock key for your phone, so whenever you're nearby (and wearing your watch, obviously), you can dispense with your unlock code and get straight into your phone, without any fumbling. It can also make your ZenWatch vibrate in case you've left it on the dining room table opposed to its usual nightstand spot.And similar to other smartwatches out there, you can cover to mute incoming calls and alarms by placing your hand over the watch face.
The variety of 18 watch faces is nice; you can even customize watch face colors plus the advent of Lollipop has added even more designs.
Other apps found on the watch range from a music app, which just provides the controls to your connected phone, compass and flashlight. The latter displays a customizable solid color (which can "twinkle" to create a weird strobe light effect if you tap on it).
Fitness
You wouldn't expect a watch with a stainless steel body and leather strap to be much use for fitness - it certainly doesn't look like your regular sports watch - but the ZenWatch has a stab at this lucrative market.As you'd expect from the name, the ZenWatch is more concerned with your general well-being, rather than how far you've run today, so there's no GPS tracking or heart-rate tracking, though a built-in "Biosensor" on the front will give you one-off heart-rate readings.
Alas, both this and the step counting seemed more than averagely inaccurate. I saw very different step estimates for the exact same 10-minute walk done several times, and some heart-rate readings so outrageously high, they would normally suggest I needed to go to hospital.
Please note that Google Now did not direct me automatically to the nearest hospital.
The Sony Smartwatch 3 is a much better fitness option, or you could go for one of the growing army of running watches, such as the Garmin Forerunner range and Polar M400, or cheaper fitness bands such as the Jawbone UP or Fitbit Charge.
There are a couple of nice features here though. You can ask your ZenWatch to buzz you every couple of hours or so to get up and walk around, or just to remind you if you've been inactive for a bit. And despite the inaccuracy of some of the fitness readings, the display that shows you all of your information is very pretty, with leafy autumnal graphics showing you just how slovenly you are.
Battery life
The ZenWatch sports a 369mAh battery, which is bigger than the 320mAh power pack stuffed into the Moto 360, but less than the LG G Watch R's 410mAh battery. It sits squarely within the battery life range of other smartwatches though that isn't necessarily a good thing.Basically, you will need to charge your ZenWatch every night. It can last more than a day, but it is categorically not going to make it through two days, even if you're incredibly sparing in your usage.
I connected my Samsung Galaxy Note 4 up, meaning I was receiving alerts from three email accounts, agenda pop ups and occasional phone call notifications over the the course of a day. It used up the battery pretty quickly; specifically, in the course of a week, I typically was able to go about 14 hours before needing to juice up the watch again.
Like all the other smartwatches out there, the ZenWatch comes with its own proprietary charger. It's no Qi charging dock like the Moto 360, rather you'll get a charging cradle that pops onto the back of the smartwatch - which comes on and off easily enough - plus a micro USB cord to plug into.
A minor concern would be losing the cradle, considering it's pretty light and small. Though, unlike the Samsung Gear S's cradle, it can't charge the ZenWatch on the go, so you'll probably just leave it attached to the cord.
Verdict
What we have here is a very solid Android Wear smartwatch, comparable to the "big three" from Motorola, Sony and LG in terms of price and features. It's similar to the Sony in terms of looks as well, standing in the "hip to be square" camp, staring down the round-faced Moto and LG G Watch R.
We like
As ever with smartwatches, the notifications you want are very handy, letting you keep up to date with your mobile life in a more discreet way.The ZenWatch is also well designed, thanks to its premium-looking metal and leather combination. It's even reminiscent of the Apple Watch shape-wise and can even stake a claim to being the first to offer the rounded square. Every time I wore it out, there were a lot of oohs and ahhs from people curious to know what kind of smartwatch it was simply based on how it looked.
We dislike
Having more control over what Google Now notifies you about would be very useful, and the fitness features seem a tad half-baked to me. However, I can't claim the classy look and feel exactly scream, "workout time!" So, perhaps that's no surprise.Additionally, though the overall design is definitely something I liked, the bezel is simply too excessive. This isin comparison again to the Apple Watch, which uses up the majority of the watch face's real estate to provide a larger display.
Final verdict
If you want a nice-looking Android Wear smartwatch for around $199 (£199, about AU$252 ), the ZenWatch is another very solid option. There's nothing here that could be described as a killer selling point, and it doesn't quite stand up to the Sony Smartwatch 3 in terms of battery life or general ruggedness. Regardless, this timepiece is certainly in the top tier of rectangular Android Wear watches on the design front.If you're sold on Google's wearable OS, our best advice would be to find a shop where you can compare this in terms of look and feel against the Moto, LG and Sony watches, then buy the one that suits. For my money, though, a Pebble Steel, or maybe waiting to see how the Apple Watch shapes up, seems like better options right now. You can even try waiting on Asus with the hopes it will have a better successor, since we'll probably see ZenWatch 2 announced later this year.
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Disney just invented your childhood dream toy, and it has lasers
Disney Playmation is the epic childhood toy you wish you had as a kid, and one that you kind of want to try on yourself when no one else in the toy store is looking.
Part child's wearable, part laser tag, and part interactive toy, Disney and Hasbro have teamed up to create a new line of toys and wearable accessories.
Think of it as an anti-video game that encourages kids to be more like, well, kids, with active playtime. Kids can use a smartphone or tablet app to learn their "mission," once they start playing, they have to actually step away from the screen.
The
wireless system, motion sensors and wearable technology strike a
balance between what children want to do (tap screens and play video
games) and what parents want them to do (run around).At an event this morning in Los Angeles, Disney announced that Playmation will be launching later this year with a playset based around The Avengers. A Star Wars version is coming next year, with Frozen following in 2017. Because who of us hasn't wanted to see Darth Vader and Elsa finally square off against each other?
Playmation's first set, the Avengers Starter Pack, consists of a physical, body-worn costume element — aka the kids' wearable. For about $120, it's launching with an "Avengers" themed starter pack that will include a red Iron Man "repulsor" glove that players wear on their right hand and forearm and four smart toys, including two action figures.
The button you press to shoot makes the glove vibrate. If you flip your wrist up, the light in your palm shoots as well. Hold your arm up in front of you to block, it'll vibrate. Lights will change colors if you're "shot."
The game also features a triangle-shaped plastic disk that delivers instructions to players-- in the voice of Iron Man's assistant JARVIS. The disks also shoot at players, and encourage them to run and duck to avoid being in the line of fire. The arm pieces are armed with accelerometers and shake feedback to immerse kids in the play.
And
while kids are able to team up and play together to complete a mission,
the Repulsors can also be used like a pair of laser tag blasters to
face off against an opponent.The Playmation toys can also be connected to a free accompanying AvengersNet app to unlock additional make-believe locations and characters, or to download new missions to play out, and it doesn't depend on the internet (the toys do not require a constant connection to a Wi-Fi network to work), so they can take their toys wherever they want and play.
Aimed at children 6 to 12, the toys are also wearable by adults (like me, take a look at these pictures). The first Playmation will be available for pre- order on July 7, and will hit stores this October starting at $120.
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In Depth: Here's our wish list for the ultimate fitness tracker
Design, battery life, compatibility
Fitness trackers are quickly becoming the must-have accessory for health-conscious enthusiasts and guilt-ridden couch potatoes alike. They come in many different shapes and sizes, and are a great alternative if you don't want to spend a lot of dough buying a smartwatch.There isn't a shortage of trackers out there. Actually, there appears to be a new model on the market every other month, thanks to their ease of use and portability.
The wearables are inexpensive, and track your everyday activity with reasonable accuracy. Their aim is to give you an overall picture of your current lifestyle, with some even including ways to improve it. The best ones can even monitor your sleep patterns and tell you when it's time to get up from the couch.
Taking a look at the current trackers on the market, none of them are quite the perfect wrist-worn fitness gadget. So, similar to our ultimate smartwatch experimentation, we've decided to cherry pick the best features from each to create our own ultimate (but hypothetical) fitness tracker.
Design
When it comes to design, we want something that looks stylish but also provides an invisible quality that isn't too jarring. Essentially, the tracker should be an extension of you that is lightweight and compact, and it needs to be robust enough to withstand wear and tear.Then we come to displays - do we actually need them? Having the ability to manage notifications, settings and viewing your stats on a sleek screen would be the preferred choice here rather than having to pull your smartphone out every other minute. So, we say, "Yes they are necessary."
That being said, we've seen some fitness trackers that don't seem to feel the need for one and are really setting the bar when it comes to design and fashion.
The Jawbone UP24, for example, sports an exceptionally clever design. It is worn around your wrist and weighs just 20 grams, depending on the three available sizes. It comes in a range of different colors to suit your needs, and has a comfortable exterior which feels smooth and soft when worn.
One of the compromises made by the design team was to ditch a display on the device, but you can use the gorgeous mobile app instead to obtain and consume your data.
It's easily one of the most aesthetically pleasing fitness trackers on the market right now.
For those that are looking for one with a display, the Samsung Gear Fit comes with a sleek AMOLED touchscreen display that tells you the time, records your heart-rate, displays notifications, sounds alarms and more.
It's also accompanied by a mobile app and comes in three interchangeable wristband colors: black, brown and tangerine. It's almost a downsized version of a smartwatch, which isn't a bad thing.
There are others, of course. Both the Misfit Shine and the Withings Pulse O2 are nifty little devices which you can wear not only on your wrist, but the display pops out so you can clip it onto a belt buckle or shirt. No need to constantly check your wrist, just leave it in your pocket and go. It gives you an added wearable option that others don't.
This one comes down to preference: do you want a display or not? But, for the elegant design, comfortable form factor and all round coolness, we think the Jawbone UP24 wins this one.
Battery life
Spending all day tracking, measuring and analyzing your activity can take its toll on the battery life of any device. That's specially when said device is synced via Bluetooth to obtain real-time data and push said data to your smartphone.Therefore it's imperative that all fitness trackers come with impressive life expectancy that can last the distance.
The Razer Nabu promises up to seven days worth of battery life, which is impressive as it charges to full in just over an hour for continuous use.
The introduction of USB's sparked a slow but painful end for disposable batteries. Plug in your device to a computer or charger, and you are good to go.
However, recently we have seen a resurgence of disposable batteries, and it appears to have taken off again in wearables.
The Garmin Vivofit 2 is powered by a watch battery, which means you only need to replace them every year, if not longer than that. No charging docks or accessories to worry about. Just wear and go.
No contest on this one, with 365 (plus) days of battery life, the Vivofit takes the crown.
Compatibility
We need to be able to connect our trackers to laptops and smartphones, so they can receive data and to consume. That being said, we don't want to always lug around cables to plug in our devices for syncing.The good news is that the best trackers all have Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity. There's also no shortage of impressive third-party smartphone apps.
Microsoft Band works across all three platforms but performance is better on the Windows Phone, thanks to its virtual assistant Cortana, which enables you to use voice commands for a range of different things, like setting alarms and playing music - just to name a few.
From the trackers we tested, the FitBit Flex appeared to be quickest in terms of syncing,
and was the most impressive when it came to accessing real time data. Like with all FitBit devices, the Flex is compatible with all the platforms: iOS, Android, Windows Phone, OSX and Windows thus enabling you to sync wirelessly to your phone or computer.
You can also use it in conjunction with numerous third-party apps, including the popular exercising app MyFitnessPal.
A close second is once again the Jawbone UP24 which boasts even broader third party app support than the Flex, including Runkeeper. You can even set the Jawbone up with Google's learning thermostat, Nest, to enable the temperature of your house to respond accordingly when you're waking up or going to bed. It also has a more effective app user experience with a slick interface and design.
However, its lack of support for the Windows platform for either phone and desktop really lets it down, which makes the FitBit Flex edge it out - but only just.
Price, features, and final thoughts
Price
We think the price for a fitness tracker should range between $100 (£65, AU$129) and $200 (£130, AU$260) or lower if possible. Anything more than that, and you're in smartwatch territory.But we want value for our money, not just any cheap piece of kit that won't survive more than a month.
The most expensive tracker on the market is the Wellograph Fitness Tracker at $300 (£251, AU$388). Apart from measuring your steps and monitoring your heart rate, it doesn't really do that much and, for your money, doesn't really add much value for such a hefty price.
The least expensive is the Misfit Flash at $50 (£32, AU$60), which is quite attractive as it is compatible with iOS, Android and Windows. Those two points might entice some folks who are looking into getting started into fitness.
Microsoft Band, at $199 (£170, AU$199), is competitively priced. But once again, standing head and shoulders above them all is the Jawbone UP24.
At $129 (£100, AU$129) you are getting a truly powerful fitness tracker with all the capabilities to become one the best devices on the market. Part of the reason for its success is its competitive price, making it an attractive proposition for anyone looking to buy.
Features
Ideally, we would like a device that contains as many useful features as possible.Accuracy, nutrition, heart-rate and sleep monitoring, steps, and calories are just some of the things we would require from our fitness tracker.
For them to be presented in a cool, interactive way is a must, too. There are a range of devices that do these but only a few do it really well.
The Basis Peak is one of the most feature-rich trackers available right now. From activity tracking to heart monitoring, the Basis Peak has an arsenal of sensors and features, making it one of the most intelligent trackers out there. So much so, that it can even work out whether you are going for a run or a bike ride.
We've mentioned the Jawbone UP24 a few times already, and adding to the list of reasons it stands out is how it turns the activity data it has obtained into something tangible and relevant.
Imagine you miss your goal. The Jawbone will give a gentle reminder or notification encouraging you to get up and make that little bit of effort to hit the target. Its open platform means third party apps can really utilize the powerful data to create a vibrant app ecosystem.
If the Jawbone UP24 has a worthy competitor, it would most certainly be Microsoft Band.
Containing an impressive 10 biometric sensors which include an optical heart rate sensor, 3-axis accelerometer, gyroscope, GPS, ambient light sensor, skin temperature sensor, UV sensor, capacitive sensor, microphone and a galvanic skin response sensor, there isn't anything the Band is lacking.
It's easy to use, works with Windows, iOS and Android and like the Jawbone UP24, has an open platform for developers.
In fact, had it not been for the clunky hardware design and mediocre battery life, you could argue that the Band might just be the perfect fitness tracker. One can only hope that the second generation will offer a more pleasing feeling on the wrist.
Final thoughts
Our perfect fitness tracker would have the design and form factor of the Jawbone UP24, the battery life of the Garmin Vivofit 2, provide open compatibility like the FitBit Flex and would contain the features and sensors of the Microsoft Band.You can find these elements and more in smartwatches like the Moto 360 or Apple Watch. But again, they're far more expensive. For those who want something simpler, dedicated fitness trackers are affordable, more durable and generally provide the same conveniences found in smartwatches.
There are just a few features that could work even better if combined in one smart device, but whether we'll ever see one in the next five years is still up in the air.
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In Depth: How to turn your iPhone and iPad into capable assistive technology
Introduction
Think you understand everything about today's technology? It's time for a reality check. Mine was just a few years ago. It didn't involve getting schooled on the internals of computers or learning the differences between operating systems. No, all it took was the humbling experience of witnessing a person with a vision impairment navigate an iPad, a device that I naively assumed could only be used by those with the ability to see.
She was able to use this technology thanks to accessibility options, which enable some awesome tricks to help those in need of assistance. Your iOS device packs some incredibly smart features that help people of nearly all circumstances revel in the joys of some of today's coolest tech – you just haven't found them yet.
Here's a full breakdown of the built-in features that offer clever ways for those with hearing, vision and physical impairments to enjoy the iPhone and iPad.
Siri, the intelligent personal assistant
The intelligent personal assistant inside of iOS devices has a simple goal: to help you find your content easily, send messages and discover new information using nothing more than your voice. Siri is a well-known feature, but it doesn't get enough credit for its potential as an aid for those with physical and vision impairments.
-To activate Siri, press and hold the home button on an iOS device for a few seconds. Once you hear the double-chime, Siri's ready to assist.
-Saying "Hey Siri" can also grab Siri's attention. To enable this feature, open up the Settings menu. From there, navigate to "General", then tap into "Siri" and finally, select "Allow 'Hey Siri'".
-Apple included a swath of different languages and regional dialects in case you want to change Siri's spoken language. From the same menu where you enabled "Hey Siri", scroll down just a bit to find the language settings.
Siri customization doesn't stop there. You can even change its voice from female to male or vice versa. Go on, ask it something!
VoiceOver
VoiceOver is the key feature that makes using iOS devices more intuitive for vision-impaired individuals. This feature switches the default navigation that previously relied on precise finger presses in favor of one where broad strokes and gestures can complete just about any task.
-To activate it, press and hold the home button to get Siri's attention and then say "Turn on VoiceOver." Alternatively, scroll down through the Settings menu until you find "Accessibility". Click "VoiceOver" and slide the switch over to turn on the feature.
-Once activated, swipe left or right anywhere on the screen to move the selector, which will cue VoiceOver to read the selection out loud. If you come to an area of interest that you would like to click further into, tap the screen twice.
-Turning on the VoiceOver feature also activates sound effects that will trigger to give the user audible feedback on their gestures and touches. These can be turned off from the same menu.
-VoiceOver can also aid in reading notifications, such as incoming e-mails, text messages, out loud as they arrive on your iOS device.
Similar to Siri, VoiceOver's spoken language or regional dialect can be changed. However, in addition to Siri's more limited settings, users can download higher-quality voices that sound more realistic when using VoiceOver.
Zoom
It's time to throw away that magnifying glass. Your iOS device contains a built-in feature that does more than take its place. It offers a ton of extra functionality that the physical tool just can't match up to.
-The Zoom feature allows you to magnify a section of the screen to increase readability. To activate the feature, navigate to "Accessibility" inside the Settings menu. Then, tap into "Zoom" and tap the switch.
-Double-tapping the screen with three fingers will bring up the Zoom window, which zooms in on a body of text or photo.
-From there, you can drag the window around the screen as you please by pressing and holding a finger on the Zoom anchor on the bottom of the magnified window.
-Zoom is set at a default magnification level, but the intensity can be increased up to 15 times the default font size. This can be done at the bottom of the Zoom menu.
-Users can adjust the size of the magnifying window itself and the lighting filter which you can view text and pictures through (Grayscale, Low light, Grayscale Inverted, Inverted.)
Features to increase screen readability
iOS devices offer a few features to make words more legible and pictures easier to see on the screen.
-In the Accessibility menu, select "Larger Text" to enable the feature, then customize your preferred font size to improve readability while using an iOS device. If that doesn't do the trick, the font can also be bolded by flipping the switch next to "Bold Text".
-For individuals that are sensitive to certain colors, the options to increase color contrast, invert or set the screen's color palette to grayscale are each readily available in the Accessibility options.
How iOS devices assist hearing-impaired individuals
iOS offers a few neat options in the Accessibility menu to assist users with hearing impairments.
-In the Accessibility menu, users can pair a Bluetooth-enabled hearing aid to their iOS device through the "Hearing Aids" option. Once tethered, all audio (music, podcasts, movies) will stream to the hearing apparatus similar to how streaming audio works with wireless headphones.
-If hearing your phone when it rings is an issue, the LED on the back of iPhones (versions 4 and newer) can be activated to flash whenever you receive a text or call. It's a subtle alert, but very noticeable. Activate this feature by toggling the switch next to "LED Flash for Alerts".
-iOS devices across the board offer robust support for subtitles and closed captioning. Located inside the Accessibility menu, "Subtitles and Captioning" allows users to activate and customize how the overlaying text will look. The feature supports over 50 different font styles, four font sizes ranging from small to extra large and eight font colors to choose from.
-Users can adjust the audio balance from left to right in order to receive the full audio delivery in the ear that serves you the best. The slider is located in the Accessibility menu.
How iOS devices assist physically-impaired individuals
iOS is full of cool features that can be accessed with gestures like swiping and pinching the screen. And thankfully, Apple has also made these unique functions easily accessible for those with physical disabilities.
-AssistiveTouch condenses every gesture-activated feature into one virtual button placed front and center on the screen for easy access. To activate this feature, scroll to the bottom of the Accessibility menu and click through to find the toggle switch.
-Once activated, a virtual button in the shape of a square appears on screen. Interacting with a simple tap blossoms the button into a full-fledged menu where you can fly through settings and dive into features that are usually multiple layers of navigation deep, like Siri and Safari.
-Also in the Accessibility menu, users can create custom gestures for their iOS device. These can be used to perform a variety of tasks, such as unlocking the device or typing a quick text message. If you're a gamer, you could even program gestures to control a game's menu with ease.
iOS devices also support the use of external switches in place of using the touchscreen to perform functions. The support for switches ranges from external physical buttons to cameras that can track head movement to navigate around the phone or tablet.
Know of any other neat tricks that iOS devices can do? Be sure to let us know in the comments.
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Google wants to count your calories, using your photos
People take pictures of food for several reasons. To envy a chef's skill, to brag. The list goes on. But smartphone users could soon become avid foodie photographers to track their calorie intake. That is, if Google's new calorie-counting algorithm ever gets off the ground.
The project, titled 'Im2Calories', will detect the food items in a captured photo based on their physical qualities. Upon doing so, it will then display a calorie count. Simple enough. The technology is in its early stages of development and has no immediate plans for release, but that didn't stop Google research scientist Kevin Murphy from talking of his excitement.
Murphy is dreaming big for its implementation in the future, stating at the Rework Deep Learning Summit that "If we can do this for food, that's just the killer app." The hope for users is that upon being presented an accurate calorie reading, they can keep a log of their meals as a constructive means of staying in shape, rather than using the tech to feel regret.
Will we see this tech in Android M? Most likely, no. But it's entirely possible that Google could bake this calorie-counting functionality into Android N, or Nutter Butter, as I've preemptively titled it.
Via Engadget
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Look for new Arrested Development episodes on Netflix in mid-2016
Whatever your feelings about Arrested Development's Netflix revival, more Bluth family exploits are headed to the streaming service early next year.
Producer Brian Grazer revealed on The Adam Carolla Show podcast that production for new AD episodes will kick off after January 1, 2016. Subscribers can expect the episodes to land "four months after that," he said.
Netflix was apparently itching for more episodes just as much as Lucille Bluth fiends for her morning Martini: "Netflix is determined to do more episodes, so we're going to do more episodes," Grazer said.
Steve Holt!
- These are the 25 best Netflix shows
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This is the second VR movie from Oculus, and it looks adorable
Oculus Story Studio is continuing its development of virtual reality storytelling with Henry, a VR flick premiering on July 28 in Hollywood.
The company's blog describes Henry as a "heartwarming comedy about a loveable hedgehog" and is directed by Ramiro Lopez Dau, who worked on the Pixar films Brave and Monsters University.
To introduce people to Henry, Oculus launched a microsite for the film, as well as letting the endearing hedgehog take over the main site. Story Studio also released a two-minute trailer for the upcoming VR film.
VR goes to the movies
For those unfamiliar with Oculus Story Studio, it was created by the people behind Oculus Rift as a division to explore the future of VR storytelling, especially with film. It's first project, an interactive story titled Lost, debuted at the 2015 Sundance Film Festival.Today's blog post says Story Studio hopes to "inspire and educate virtual reality creators and filmmakers everywhere", and that Henry will be available for free to all Oculus Rift owners later this year.
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UPDATED: WWDC 2015: What to expect at Apple's iOS and OS X keynote
iOS, OS X, Apple Watch and Apple TV
A little more worldly and a little bit wider, Apple is bound to start off its Worldwide Developer Conference keynote touting inroads into China (worldly) and sales of the Apple Watch, a new product category (wider).At least, that's what we expect from minute one of WWDC 2015, which officially starts on June 8 at 10am Cupertino time, 1pm Eastern and 6pm BST.
The Apple keynote will really get interesting when Tim Cook graces the stage, wearing an Apple Watch of course, to tout what we expect are two new operating system revisions.
The latest versions of its mobile-based iOS and computer-based OS X software are likely to be joined by new Apple TV hardware, one with serious content players to take on old-fashioned cable companies. Finally.
Yes, we may hear about the future of live streaming content while live streaming this Apple keynote. Before we boot up the always-required Safari browser in order to watch this event next month, let's review what's expected and rumored about WWDC 2015.
iOS 9 beta or just iOS 8.4?
Apple's WWDC keynotes have, in the past, given us our first glimpse of the new iOS version, but as much as we want to know the iOS 9 release date and features, we may have to get through iOS 8.4 first.
Apple is readying iOS 8.4 for public consumption, according to the latest rumors, with an Apple Music streaming service to take advantage of its pricey Beats Music acquisition and take on Tidal, too.
An artist-infused social network has also been partially leaked via the ongoing iOS 8.4 beta. Musicians can add song samples, pictures, videos and concert updates for followers.
But that's just half of the story for WWDC 2015. Expect Apple to pledge more stable iOS updates from here on out. Wi-Fi and battery drains bugs, begone.
iOS 9 has been tipped to include public transit directions, a better on-screen keyboard and future-proof the software for Force Touch display controls for iPhone 6S.
Apple may also tease iOS 9 with greater stability, a smaller download size and a smarter version of Siri.
OS X 10.11 beta for Macs
There are a lot of new Macs out there, and these upgraded machines are due for an updated operating system, or at least a preview of one.
The software-focused WWDC 2015 keynote makes it the ideal location to unveil an OS X 10.11 beta to Apple-enrolled developers, one that makes Force Touch more than just a tech demo.
Its behind-the-scenes enhancements are expected to make it faster and more stable than OS X 10.10 Yosemite, and further tie it and iOS together, but not merge them.
This is in no small part because Microsoft is launching a more nimble Windows 10 in the coming months, and Google Photo just just dished out is prepping its own Apple Photos-rival for Google IO.
Apple Watch sales and update
The first Apple Watch update is already being downloaded by early adopters of the smartwatch, but there are more features to come.
Custom watch faces beyond the default 10, a Find My Watch app and the ability to control an Apple TV from your wrist are all features tipped for the conference.
An official tally of Apple Watch sales may kick off the keynote. Projections beyond pre-orders have been scarce, though estimates indicate it sold more in its first day than Android Wear did in its first five months.
Apple TV, but not a television
Don't expect an Apple television at this WWDC, or any keynote in the near future, for that matter. The company is reportedly pulled the plug on such an idea.
Instead, every prediction leans toward a new Apple TV set-top for 2015, one that has more content deals than just HBO Now, and a touchpad-equipped remote to boot.
The streaming service that was to accompany the new Apple TV may be delayed, and the box itself may skip 4K TV specs altogether in favor of a more realistic TV content streaming resolution.
Siri and HomeKit support may pop up on the big screen, though. Meanwhile, while Amazon Fire TV and Google Nexus Player have gamepads accessories, Apple has only been rumored to be jumping into the crowded gaming space.
iPads, Macs, iPhone 6S and... iPods?
'Think Different' about iPad
Recent iPad sales have made it clear that Apple needs to think different about its iPad line. Yes, it's the best tablet on sale, but its sales are being "cannibalized."
Those are Apple CEO Tim Cook's words, noting that the bigger iPhone 6 Plus and smaller 12-inch new MacBook are stealing sales away from the 9.7-inch slate.
Apple can do two things to reinvigorate its iPads. First, it could very well use WWDC 2015 to unveil the iPad Pro. With specs like a 12.9-inch display, the larger iPad would be well suited for businesses and stores that need cash register replacements.
Second, iOS 9 could pave the way to more enterprise-ready features, with true multitasking and individual user profiles. Cook backs up this theory by saying, "I still am a big believer for iPad to play in a major way in enterprise."
New Macs?
Apple often reserves new Mac announcements for its Worldwide Developers Conference, but are there any new computers left to update?
The new Macbook and Force Touch-equipped 13-inch MacBook Pro Retina overshadowed the Apple Watch at its recent launch event in March.
This week, the redesigned trackpad with haptic feedback came to the 15-inch MacBook Pro Retina and Apple introduced a new low-priced iMac with Retina 5K.
What's left? The MacBook Air may finally get a Retina screen or Force Touch trackpad, but it could cannibalize the new MacBook on one end and 13-inch Macbook Pro on the other.
Apple's mini tower, the Mac Pro, was announced in December 2013, but the company is often slower to update its desktop PCs with upgradeable parts. Mac Mini got a refresh in October 2014. Slim pickings to say the least.
It won't go away: iPod Touch rumors
The last time the iPod Touch was refreshed, it was being unveiled alongside the iPhone 5 in 2012 and marked the debut of the lightning port that everyone complained about at first.
That means the current iPod Touch 5G has dated specs: a 4-inch display, iPhone 4S-level A5 processor and 5-megapixel camera. It runs iOS 8, but can it handle iOS 9?
Apple has three possible directions with the iPod Touch: upgrade it at WWDC, upgrade it at its next iPhone event, likely in August or September, or axe it altogether when iOS 9 arrives.
Yes, everyone's focus is on the new iPhone, but the desire for an iPod Touch 6G has a cult following, one that doesn't need a monthly carrier fee to access their favorite apps.
iPhone 6S tease
Don't expect Apple to debut the iPhone 6S at its Worldwide Developer Conference. The 4.7- and 5.5-inch smartphones are due for a refresh in September or as soon as August.
That doesn't mean the company won't throw out subtle hints as to what to expect from the new iPhone. Often times, the iOS beta software tips its hand to new hardware.
Things to look out for include Force Touch, a DSLR-quality camera, an Apple SIM card and double the RAM.
Smaller-fingered iPhone 5S users who have resisted upgrading to the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus may be most excited about a potentially smaller iPhone 6C.
Apple WWDC wrap-up
Nothing about Apple's WWDC 2015 keynote is certain until it starts live streaming on June 8 at 10am Pacific, 1pm Eastern and 6pm BST.
New Macs, the 12-inch iPad Pro, a new iPod Touch and iOS 9 are long shots at this point, but we could all be in for a "one more thing surprise."
More than anything, it's a software-focused conference, so iOS 8.4 and OS X 10.11 are natural shoo-ins. All of the new Apple TV rumors make that the most certain hardware centerpiece.
Apple shook up the smartphone market with the original iPhone, introduced the defining tablet with the iPad and is now outselling its competitors with the Apple Watch. It may do the same with television next month, just not with a flat-screen.
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Review: Alcatel OneTouch Idol 3
Introduction, design and display
Two years ago, if you would have told me you could buy an Android phone with flagship-worthy specs for under $300 unlocked, I would have said you're crazy. And, I would have assumed you hijacked a semi trailer full à la Fast and the Furious. However, this is 2015, and Alcatel has managed to deliver exactly that with the Alcatel OneTouch Idol 3.Available in the US for $250 (£270, about AU$328) unlocked, it rests on the same spectrum as the Asus ZenFone 2, and OnePlus One. While you've probably heard of the latter, don't let the Idol 3's innocuous name fool you. It's rolled up to the party ready to have some fun.
With a 5.5-inch, 1080p IPS display, it's got the same pixel density as the iPhone 6 Plus. A 1.5GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 615 octa-core processor and 2GB of RAM are tucked inside, along with 16GB of internal storage. If 10GB of actually useable storage isn't enough for you, there's microSD card support for up to 128GB. On the back is a 13-megapixel (MP) camera with a single LED flash, and on the front is a crazy 8MP snapper. Theoretically, selfies should be amazing.
From NFC to LTE support, it's got all the connectivity you'd expect, including dual-band Wi-Fi, and a 2,910 mAh battery keeps the juice flowing. In the sound department, dual front-facing speakers created in partnership with JBL liven things up.
Design
The Alcatel OneTouch Idol 3 is not the Brad Pitt of smartphones. Nothing from the plastic body particularly jumps out at you, but it's not terrible to look at either. At 7.4mm thin, it's only slightly thicker than some of the latest flagships, and its rounded edges are wrapped in faux metal.The fake metal edges are very reminiscent of the Samsung Galaxy S5, and offer a good amount of grip. On the top, you have a microphone and headphone jack, and on the bottom is another microphone and micro USB charging port.
On the left-hand side, at the very top, is the power button and SIM card slot, and also at the top on the right-hand side are the volume buttons. You may be wondering, where the microSD card slot is located? There isn't one, actually. Instead, Alcatel incorporated it into the SIM card slot.
Because of the 5.5-inch display, the power and volume buttons could have been better positioned together on the right-hand side halfway down. Despite having big hands, they were sometimes difficult to get to.
The brushed plastic back has a smooth, but not slippery feel to it, and features "Idol" and "Alcatel OneTouch" branding. My review unit had some FCC stickers, but thankfully those won't be included on the production model. The 13MP rear-facing camera is completely flush with the back – unlike some of the latest flagships in their pursuit to get even thinner – and it gets the same faux metal treatment.
At just under five ounces, the Idol 3 feels solid in my hand. It's not too heavy, not too light. Personally, I'd rather have a phone that feels solid than one insanely thin and light. The Idol 3 reaffirms this. I never had a fear of dropping it, even while jogging, and coming from the 5.2-inch display on the Moto X, it took very little adjusting.
It's possible to use one-handed, and is well-balanced enough to not topple over. The body and display do offer a little bit of flex, and you can tuck away in your pocket no problem.
Sticking out just a few millimeters on the top and bottom beyond the display are the dual front-facing speakers. They actually sit below the glass panel of the display, creating a small but noticeable drop off.
If you want something other than the ordinary black or white, you'll be left hanging. At launch, the Idol 3 is only available in dark gray. Alcatel will offer a flip case starting May 30, but it too will be available in the same bland color.
Display
While LG and Samsung want you to believe you need Quad HD in your life, the reality is, 1080p is perfectly suitable for the average person. Even at 5.5-inches, there's no issue with seeing individual pixels. Being an IPS LCD panel, colors are fairly accurate, and the screen gets sufficiently bright even when the sun is glaring down on you.
Bezels are fairly thin on the sides, and about half an inch on the top and bottom. This is to make way for the 8-megapixel front-facing camera, and dual stereo speakers which we'll get into here shortly.
Interface and performance
A lot of manufacturers like to add their own skin on top of Android. For the purists out there, it can be a major annoyance, and in quite a few cases, actually slows the phone down. In the case of the Idol 3, Alcatel kept it simple. The phone is running virtually stock Android Lollipop, and here's a list of pre-installed apps:- Evernote
- Adobe Reader
- WPS Office
- Dropbox
- AVG Anti-Virus
- Radio
- Weather
- Compass
- Mix (music player)
- Notes
- Sound Recorder
- Tags (NFC)
- Wi-Fi Display
- Wi-Fi Transfer
You can completely uninstall third-party apps like Facebook and AVG, but can't do so with the generic system apps. Of course, Google's usual suite of Play-branded apps are installed, along with Gmail, Chrome, Hangouts, Calendar, Email and more.
From a visual standpoint, most of what's been changed are the app icons themselves. The notifications drawer and quick settings menu has kept its Android 5.0 Lollipop roots. You can easily access quick settings by swiping down from the top with two fingers, and a gear icon takes you directly to Settings. And, because Lollipop allows multiple user accounts, you can tap the avatar to switch to another account.
On paper, the Idol 3 should scream through whatever you throw at it. After all, it has an octa-core processor and 2GB RAM. However, it's yet another reminder that optimized software is just as, if not more important, than great hardware. The "buttery smooth" first introduced in Android 4.1 Jelly Bean just isn't here. Scrolling can be a bit janky, and there's sometimes as much as a two second delay when opening or transitioning to other apps.
Navigating around the home screen and app drawer seems to be okay, though. To try and fix the lag, I enabled Developer Options, and turned off all animations. This definitely helped to speed things up, but is far from ideal.
In Geekbench, the Idol 3's multi-core score was 2066. This puts it just behind the Exynos octa-core version of the Samsung Galaxy S4, and nearly 800 points behind the Asus Zenfone 2.
The phone I tested was running Android 5.0.2, which is known to have performance issues. We reached out to Alcatel to find out if an update to Android 5.1 is planned, and will update this review once we hear back.
On the plus side, if you're one of the few who still use a phone to make phone calls, the Idol 3 offers no complaints. In fact, when talking with my dad, he said it "sounds like you're sitting right next to me."
Reversible
When the OneTouch Idol 3 was announced back at MWC 2015, it was touted as the world's first "reversible" smartphone. Basically, even if the phone is upside down, you can use it as you normally would.The display automatically adjusts as long as you have the "Reversible" icon selected under quick settings. It's a great idea. After all, how many times have you pulled your phone out of your pocket, and had to flip it right side up? I found myself taking advantage of it on a few occasions, but muscle memory usually kicked in.
Dual stereo speakers
When HTC launched the One, front-facing speakers were one of those incredibly simple, yet brilliant ideas. Alcatel apparently agreed, and teamed up with JBL to offer a similar experience.The audio is crisp, and as someone who enjoys listening to podcasts in the morning while getting my day going, it's fantastic. Music doesn't sound 100%, and is missing some detail, but I don't expect perfection from such tiny speakers.
However, don't let the word "tiny" fool you. These speakers pack some serious punch. I quickly learned you'll want to keep the volume for notifications around ⅓ of the way, otherwise you may jump when you're "in the zone" working. And if you're going to talk to someone on speakerphone, you best not do it in a crowded public place. While the speakers do add a bit more to the bezel, it's a welcome trade-off.
Camera, battery life and verdict
Full-size photos: https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=0B5iOZICiywWQfnljM0NESVYzaXdHZFRoNkktd0VUVnR4N1dURjF1Q09XdjZrSlJDVEtUcWs&usp=sharingI snap photos just as much as the next guy or gal, so it's safe to say a bad experience can be a deal breaker. The 13MP camera features a Sony sensor, and it performed as I'd expected with good quality. For a $250 (£270, about AU$328) phone, it's hard to complain.
Photos take a second or two to focus, and about the same to snap. Shooting with the default camera app, it was a little confusing at first since there's no visual feedback once you've taken a photo. I've never owned a phone that shoots great in low-light, and the Idol 3 was no exception.
The real star is the 8MP front-facing camera. With the right lighting, you can capture some pretty great selfies. Of course, it might help to have a better subject than me.
It's worth noting that, by default, the rear camera shoots 10MP photos to allow for a wide 16:9 ratio. While Alcatel advertises an "8MP Wide Angle Front Camera," you'll actually have to drop down to 5-MP to get that wide shot. Still, the results can be pretty impressive, and you can shoot 1080p video as well.
The camera app keeps the Android Lollipop feel, but with a few additions. Swiping from the left, you're met with several options:
- Auto mode
- HDR
- Pano
- Manual mode
- Time-lapse
- Scanner
- Face Beauty
Although Manual mode didn't pan out (no pun intended), the Time-lapse feature worked great. Here's a result I uploaded to Instagram.
If you're one of the four people who scan QR codes, the Scanner function is pretty straightforward. As you probably guessed by now, Face Beauty is all about capturing that perfect selfie.
Utilizing the built-in face detection, you can smooth out any blemishes with this feature. I took three separate photos, the first in Auto mode. The other two were in Face Beauty with the slider set to halfway in one, and to the max in another.
With the slider set to halfway, it did a pretty good job. However, when set to the max, the fake glow and smoothness is blatantly obvious. Quick side note: just be yourself and let the real you shine through.
Battery life
During my testing, I kept the screen at auto brightness, and GPS at high accuracy. Under moderate use, the 2,910 mAh battery performed extremely well. I was able to consistently get about 20 hours with around 25% battery left. This was with about 3 hours of screen on time, and I could have easily squeezed out another hour with some juice to spare.Under heavy use, you could definitely get through a work day. In our battery rundown test where we loop video at 100% brightness, from a full charge the Idol 3 lasted 4 hours, 55 minutes. Sadly, the Idol 3 does not have Quick Charge support, and comes with a standard charger. Alcatel's claim of two and a half hours is about right if the phone is nearly dead, and from around 25% battery, it took about 90 minutes to fully charge.
We liked
The Full HD display is on the same level as other 1080p panels in more expensive phones. Dual front-facing speakers should be standard on every device, and the 8MP front-facing camera is truly at the top of its class. Alcatel doesn't claim 24 hour battery life, but it's possible under the right circumstances.We disliked
Performance issues are what's really holding the Idol 3 back from 4.5 stars. The fact it's only available in gray takes some life away, and while Quick Charge support isn't necessary, it's tough living without once you've been spoiled.Final verdict
The Alcatel OneTouch Idol 3 has all the bells and whistles at a fraction the cost of major flagships. It's no flagship killer, but it's also not claiming to be. While good, good isn't always enough.With the performance issues ironed out, there's no doubt the Idol 3 could be great. There's also the issue of carrier compatibility. Support for GSM and UTMS bands means you're stuck with AT&T and T-Mobile in the US.
Still, we're talking $250 (£270, about AU$328) unlocked. The fact the OneTouch Idol 3 even exists is pretty amazing. If you're willing to live with some imperfections for an excellent price, there's no reason this phone can't be good enough for you.
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Amazon Fire TV brings GameFly back to life with new app
Just four days after Nvidia launched its new Shield Android TV console, set-top box competitor Amazon is firing back with a game-streaming solution of its own: GameFly Streaming.
Amazon announced today that GameFly will be its exclusive partner for its media streaming device, the Amazon Fire TV.
Like Nvidia Grid, the game-streaming service on the new Shield console, GameFly will provide PC versions of games like Batman: Arkham City, Darksiders II and Dirt 3 directly to gamers' living rooms.
Instead of paying a subscription fee, however, GameFly will sell game packs - packages of seven games, which start at $6.99 a month. At launch customers can choose from six gaming packs like LEGO - which includes seven LEGO titles - or Speed, which includes games like GRID 2, Moto GP '13 and Ridge Racer Unbounded.
The only catch here is that the GameFly service works only in conjunction with the Amazon Fire TV Game Controller, which costs an additional $40.
The service goes live today, and we'll up our review shortly with our hands on impressions.
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Updated: iOS 8 features and updates
iOS 8 features and problems explained
Next week is WWDC 2015, which means it's been a year since developers first got to try out iOS 8. The iPhone and iPad operating system is now up to iOS 8.3 and testers have iOS 8.4 beta with new features.The most important changes in iOS 8.3 include fixes to aggravating Wi-Fi and battery drain problems, which reared their ugly head when the initial upgrade happened in September of last year.
Smaller tweaks can be spotted in the iPhone keyboard, which got a larger space bar, squeezing in on the "." button's prime real estate. It also adds more diversity to its emoji with 300 new characters.
You probably wouldn't know it, but CarPlay was given a boost thanks to the addition of wireless iPhone support and, finally, Siri learned more languages, as did the dictation tool.
iOS 8.4 release date and features
Venturing beyond this stable version of the software, iOS 8.4 beta is gearing up for a new song streaming service, allegedly called Apple Music, to incorporate the company's Beats Music acquisition.
Apple is said to be rolling out an artist-driven social network in conjunction with the latest version of iOS. Musicians can connect with followers and post track samples, photos, videos and concert updates.
With some of these features already in beta, we expect the iOS 8.4 release date to happen at or right after Apple's Worldwide Developer Conference keynote on June 8. iOS 9 may come later.
iOS 8.2 and earlier
iOS 8 through iOS 8.2 brought a new look and features, rounding out the flat iOS 7 design, even if you didn't upgrade to iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus, and an Apple Watch container app.As we mentioned in our full iOS 8 review, instead of a dramatic redesign, this year's mobile operating system update ties everything together with the overarching theme of "convergence."
In October, iOS 8.1 released with features like tighter Mac OS X Yosemite integration while further loosening the restrictions on Apple's Touch ID fingerprint sensor for the same-day Apple Pay launch.
New software kits also bring once fragmented health gadgets together, which has been ideal for bridging the gap between the phone and new Apple Watch for fitness trackers.
Cut to the chase
What is it? The next iteration of Apple's mobile platform
When is it out? Download iOS 8.3 today
What does it cost? iOS 8 is free download
What is it? The next iteration of Apple's mobile platform
When is it out? Download iOS 8.3 today
What does it cost? iOS 8 is free download
Compatibility
When it comes to iOS 8.3 and iOS 8 compatibility in general, Apple requires an iPhone 4S or newer and iPad 2 or newer to update to the latest software. Only the iPhone 4 is cut from the list.Both the iPads mini and iPad mini 2 tablets and the forever alone iPod touch 5th generation also work with the new iOS, just like they did with iOS 7. No one besides 2010's iPhone 4 gets left behind.
That's not to say that every device worked flawlessly from the beginning. iOS 8 had been running slowly on the iPhone 4S and iPad 2 given the older hardware specs.
These older devices should be running more smoothly as of December's iOS 8.1.1. Release notes detail a minor update, but one that give these two older devices a much-needed performance bump.
iOS 8 updates fix problems
iOS 8.3, especially iOS 8.1.3, fixed some of those nasty Wi-Fi and battery drain problems that resulted in a lot of negative "feedback" for Apple.It also introduces Apple Pay to iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus owners in the US. Now you can link up for credit or debit card to Apple's digital wallet if your bank is one of the 500 that support the NFC-like feature.
There are still plenty of iPhone users complaining about connectivity issues on Apple's support forum, but a more WiFi and Bluetooth-focused patch come with iOS 8.4 eventually.
OS X Yosemite gets the most out of iOS 8.1 and above thanks to the new Continuity feature. Mac computers can now send and receive phone calls, texts and AirDrops from Apple mobile devices.
This is a major upgrade over iOS 8.0.2 and iOS 8.0.1. Yes, they populated the App Store with fitness and nutrition apps that tie into Apple's Health app, but it was of no use if they broke your phone.
Touch ID for all
Apple's fingerprint scanner has been limited to bypassing the lockscreen and buying iTunes Store content, but iOS 8 changes all of that as app developers get access to the five-digit login tool.All sorts of apps can use the biometric scanning home button instead of pesky passwords. It only applies to the Touch ID-enabled iPhone 5S, iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus. But the iPad Air 2 and iPad mini 3 are rumored to include the sensor.
At WWDC, personal financial management Mint.com illustrated how third-party Touch ID use will expand beyond its iOS 7 lockscreen and iTunes confines. 1Password uses the same home button authentication the easier password management.
PayPal sent its developers to Apple's Touch ID session at the conference, meaning all of your eBay and e-commerce transactions may be complete with the touch of the home button when upgrading to iOS 8.
While PayPal doesn't think highly of Apple Pay, the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus digital wallet idea is likely to be ready for iOS 8.1 in October in the US and in 2015 in the UK.
In due time, "Forget password" will become a thing of the past, replaced by the pores in your fingertips. It should act as a much more unique method of protecting your valuable data.
This Touch ID convenience is on top of the fact that iOS 8 Apple Pay system of scanning credit cards via an iPhone or iPad camera and automatically filling in the details to make shopping easier.
Of course, Apple went out of its way to say that even though you trust many app developers with your bank account data, they won't have access to your biometric information. It's locked away in the A7 and new A8 processor.
iOS 8 camera time-lapse mode
Believe it or not, the iPhone is consistently the most used camera in the world. It's in so many hands and so easy to use. In iOS 8, the camera app is going to get even better.Apple added a time-lapse camera mode to iOS 8 beta 1 in order to help users capture extended moments and automatically speed up the video with a higher frame rate. It's a stripped-down rival to Hyperlapse.
Condensing everything road trips to candles burning down to their wick to just a few seconds in demoed in the YouTube video above.
iOS 8's time-lapse mode is basically the opposite of the slow motion video recording option at 120 frames per second that Apple added to iOS 7 last year and Slow Mo 240fps in iPhone 6 and 6 Plus.
SMS and phone calls on Mac
iMessages has been a wonderful cross-compatible tool for chatting on iOS devices and Macs - at least until you try to leave your iPhone behind for an Android.
Apple deserters, however, may be lured back to iOS 8 with SMS and voice calls being folded into iPads and Macs, just like blue iMessages currently pop up on Apple tablets and computers.
It's a pain to have to fetch your phone for a single SMS from an Android user, especially when you're sitting in front of a 13-inch MacBook Air screen and full keyboard capable of handling simple texts and phone calls.
Of course, enabling text messages and phone calls to a Mac requires upgrading OS X Yosemite, but that's a piece of cake since it'll be free today and iOS 8.1 come out on Monday.
Handoff and WiFi hotspot
iOS 8 and OS X Yosemite are going to be joined at the hip with the Handoff feature that lets you pick up where you left off between devices.Starting a project or email on an iPad or iPhone will let you finish the task on a Mac with no annoying overlap. There's no need to reopen windows or rewrite text on the computer. And it goes the other way, too, from a Mac to a an iOS 8 device.
What if you don't have access to the internet on your computer or iPad to get the job done? That's where the Instant HotSpot feature will come into play, easing the messy personal hotspot setup of iOS 7.
The one problem with this joint iOS 8-Yosemite feature is that it may require you to own a fairly new Mac. Handoff has been tipped to be not be compatible with Apple computers that pre-date Bluetooth 4.0.
Group messages with voice and video
Group messages is also enhanced for iOS 8 thanks to new features. You're able to add and drop people from conversations and silence non-stop incoming message annoyances via a group-specific Do Not Disturb toggle.Sharing your current location on a map one time or persistent location for a set period of time is also a part of iMessages, tying in the concept from Apple's underused Friend My Friends app.
Location sharing, when it was part of the standalone app, was ideal for meeting up in a crowded location like a baseball stadium or concert, and now it'll get more use within iMessages.
Multimedia within iOS 8's iMessages app should be more useful too. Inline voice and video messages with Snapchat-like clips that self-destruct are coming to this mobile OS update.
Interactive notifications
For the times when you do actually respond to texts and calendar reminders on your phone instead of a Mac computer, iOS 8 adds convenient interactive notifications.
Like OS X Mavericks, these notifications can be dealt with in a few simple taps thanks to inline responses. There's no need to mess with the lock screen in order to take action right away.
iOS notifications have come a long way from taking up the entire middle of our phone screens, and iOS 8 makes them feel like even less of a nuisance.
Quicktype keyboard
Apple claims its iOS 8 keyboard is its "smartest keyboard ever," and there's no reason to doubt that since its Quicktype feature adds highly-requested predictive texting that's akin to SwiftKey and Swype.The candidate row appears above the keyboard with three word-finishing suggestions and then next-word best guesses. It even varies depending on the app that's open to match your tone for each, from casual iMessages to formal emails.
If someone asks you a question, Quicktype also automatically offers choices like "Yes" and "No" and, optionally, learns your contacts to spell everyone's name correctly.
Better yet, the more-open-than-ever Apple doesn't limit users to its pre-installed keyboard via developer "extensions."
iOS 8 extensions
Extensions open up iOS 8 to Android's best input methods: Swype is here and SwiftKey breaks free of its SwiftKey Note standalone app confines. Fleksy and Minuum also give you control over keyboard sizes.Other third-party extensions let users tinker with the default sharing options, photo editing tools, custom actions and notification center widgets.
The 1Password extension goes as far as opening up the company's powerful password manager to you without the need to exit the app to open its standalone app. It simply uses Touch ID to get the job done.
Before, you had to close the app that required a password you forgot, open up 1Password's standalone app, copy the password, go back into the original app and paste in the password.
There's always a lot of potential when a platform as large as Apple's opens up its ecosystem to outside developers. Look at what it did to the App Store.
Extensions by forward-thinking developers may be long overdue, but it'll finally be here thanks to iOS 8.
iCloud may actually be useful
Prior to today, there was very little reason to use the ridiculously small 5GB of free space Apple included with iCloud. It was always easier to use a more capable and less expensive Dropbox account.That all changes when iOS 8 launches alongside iCloud Drive, Apple's new rival to Google Drive, Dropbox, Box, Microsoft OneDrive and the dozens of other file-sharing services.
It still costs money over the 5GB limit, but at least more file types can be stored and synced. This includes documents, presentations, spreadsheets, PDFs and images. Plus it's the best method of backing up your iPhone and iPad.
What's really cool about the forthcoming iCloud-enabled iOS Photos app is that every picture and every edit is saved across all of your Apple devices automatically. Better yet, there are new tools and filters in iOS 8 and it'll work on the web.
iOS 8 Family Sharing
Maybe you'll be more willing to buy into iCloud Drive knowing that you're going to save money thanks to Apple's new Family Sharing feature that's part of iOS 8.All iTunes, iBooks and App Store purchases on the same credit card can be shared among a total of six people in your family. That beats having to sneakily exchange passwords.
New parental controls force kids to ask your permission before aimlessly downloading expensive apps. This "Ask to Buy" feature beams a message to your device, so you don't need to be the fun-depriving "bad guy" in person.
Other Family Sharing perks include collaborative photo albums, calendars and optional locating sharing. You can find your mom or dad and that iPhone they always misplace with this extension of Find My Friends and Find My iPhone.
'Send Last Location' for Find My iPhone
iOS 8 expands the geolocation capabilities of Find My iPhone with Family Sharing and Find My Friends by integrating it into iMessages, but in true Apple fashion, "that's not all."A "Send Last Location" feature is being added so that your GPS coordinates are backed up to iCloud whenever your battery life is critical.
Right before your iPhone or iPad battery shuts off, the last thing the device does is pinpoint where you left it, whether it's between the couch cushions or still in the car.
This handy iOS 8 setting joins the real-time tracking, sonar-like ringing, message sending, device locking and, as a last resort, iPhone-wiping features of Find My iPhone.
Health app
Apple didn't announce an iWatch-tied Healthbook app at WWDC, but it did unveil a more plainly named Health app and the developer-focused HealthKit API.It's intended to bring together all of the fragmented health and fitness gadgets into one secure location, whether the fitness device deals with your heart rate, calories burned, blood sugar and cholesterol.
Even without a separate fitness device, Apple's M8 and M7 co-processor calculates steps and distance traveled. There's also nutritional tracking and, for extra protection, there's an emergency Medical ID card accessible from the lock screen.
Jawbone Up, Withings and other fitness firms are on board with iOS Health in order to deposit their stats into the centralized app, though Fitbit has so far refused Apple's advances.
The more that existing products like the Fitbit Force and Jawbone Up24 join this initiative, the more iOS 8 users will find this to be the health equivalent to Apple's coupon and ticket stub-collecting Passbook.
HomeKit
Apple also plans to tie together smart home electronics with its HomeKit framework for connected devices so that you control everything without getting up off the couch.
Locking doors, turning off lights, adjusting the thermostat and shutting the garage won't even require tapping your iPhone touchscreen, it turns out.
Instead, these actions can be triggered with Siri voice commands as simple as saying "Siri, I'm going to bed" in order for the computerized assistant to put you into something of a human "safe mode." We're still waiting for Apple to see this feature through post-iOS 8 launch.
Siri and Spotlight updates
Siri does more than look after the house and save you on your electricity bill. Apple's voice assistant is going to start responding to "Hey Siri" if your iOS 8 device is plugged in.This safer, hands-free way of activating Siri is joined by the service's ability to identify songs using Shazam's recognition software, purchase iTunes content and recognize up to 22 languages.
Siri is also going to become a better listener with iOS 8 thanks to streaming voice recognition. Now the wavy lines and words that appear on screen will match what you're saying in near-real-time.
When voice search isn't feasible in a loud environment, you can turn to the more reliable iOS 8 Spotlight. Like its OS X Yosemite counterpart, it searches Wikipedia, the news, nearby places, the App Store and more.
Finding things, whether it's via Siri or Spotlight, shouldn't be a problem in iOS 8, as Apple is finally taking on Google's handy voice search.
Location-based lock screen apps
If you're anything like us you have hundreds of apps, but finding the right one at the right time can sometimes mean sifting through folders and that's if you even remember it exists. But with iOS 8 certain apps will appear in the bottom left corner of the lock screen based on where you are at a particular time.
Early examples people have found include apps for the Apple Store, Starbucks and train stations, when near each of those things. You can then get quick access to those apps by simply swiping them upwards.
It seems that it can also make you aware of new apps as sometimes the icon will be for an app that you don't have and will instead take you to its page on the App Store. It's a minor feature perhaps, but one which could save time and help users make purchases and access location-specific information.
iOS 8 split-screen mode in the code
Apple didn't announce the rumored split-screen functionality when introducing iOS 8 in June, but it may be saving the unveiling as a "One more thing" for iOS 8.1 future firmware updates.iOS 8 beta 3 code points to true multitasking on an iPad, according to leaks from developers. Apps can run side-by-side in 1/4, 1/2 and 3/4 sizes.
There's no telling whether or not a split-screen mode will end up in iOS 8 eventually, but Apple certainly appears to be toying with the big idea given the new iPhone 6 sizes.
After all, its competitors have had the feature up-and-running for some time. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S has multi-window mode and Microsoft Surface 3 has snap mode. Like copy-and-paste a few years ago, iOS users are left envying others.
Features being saved for iOS 9?
There's a lot going on with iOS 8, but chief among the changes Apple failed to implement officially is true split-screen multitasking, which Samsung and LG have offered on their Android tablets and larger phones.Public transit directions via Apple Maps is missing in action as well, and Google Maps is benefiting the most from this. Hopefully its implementation was delayed to iOS 8.1 instead of next year's iOS 9.
Apps for photo previews and a TextEdit application, also previously rumored for WWDC 2014, didn't make an appearance either, and the status of Game Center is still unknown. Apple hasn't killed it off just yet.
That's every single new feature of this year's iOS update, though some features are waiting for you to download iOS 8.4 after WWDC 2015.
Coupled with iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus and Apple Watch, iOS 8 is enough to keep Apple users from defecting to Android, even with those fancy, new Android Wear watches.
- What's the difference? Our iOS 8 vs Android L comparison
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UPDATED: iOS 9 release date, features and rumors
iOS 9 release date, compatibility and features
Next week, in between the April's Apple Watch launch and September's iPhone 6S unveiling, the next big project for the Cupertino company is iOS 9.Its annual mobile operating system update is set to make its official debut, in beta form at least, during Apple's Worldwide Developer Conference on Monday.
Yes, iOS 8.4 may take center stage at first, but when WWDC 2015 starts on June 8, you can expect an iOS 9 tease during the software-focused keynote.
The new iOS is going to favor new features, apps and stability over drastic visual changes, according to the latest rumors. Here's what we anticipate next month.
iOS 9 release date
Apple's WWDC 2015 runs from June 8 to June 12 in San Francisco, and the company always has its keynote on day one of this five-day conference.That means registered Apple developers can expect to see and then download the next iOS update on June 8, at least if everything holds to the same-day delivery pattern as past years.
The latest unofficial news seems to indicate that the company may first launch iOS 8.4 instead, debuting an artist-driven social network as part of its fresh Apple Music app.
Soon after that, there may be an iOS 9 public beta too, given all of the iOS 8 problems a year ago, and everyone else should expect the final version in September along with the new iPhone.
That three-month wait can be a good thing. iOS 9 beta 1 will be buggy and unfinished. The best features typically don't launch until the gold master version in September anyway.
iOS 9 compatibility
Will this be the first iPhone and iPad software update to require a lightning cable?
iOS 8 muscled out iPhone 4 compatibility last year, and iOS 7 said goodbye to iPhone 3GS two years ago. iPhone 4S could be on the iOS update chopping block.
That makes sense. After all, the company is gearing up for its lightning-port-required Apple CarPlay infotainment system and Apple Watch has the same compatibility chart among phones.
On top of that, iPhone 5 and iPhone 5C first introduced 1GB of RAM, up from the 512MB in the iPhone 4S. It's time to retire these 30-pin dock devices.
All is not lost. New rumors indicate that these older devices may see a "core version" of iOS 9, which seems to suggest it'll be feature-limited, but not as buggy or slow on the aged hardware.
iOS 9 'Force Touch' for iPhone 6S
It's like my Uncle Ben always said, with new hardware comes new software responsibilities. That's exactly the prophecy that iOS 9 may fulfill when the new iPhone comes out.
iPhone 6S is supposed to get a Force Touch display with haptic feedback, just like the new MacBook and Apple Watch. Press harder to drop new pins in Maps and scroll through media players.
Looking up word definitions in a dictionary or adding new Calendar events? That could also become a shortcut of this pressure-sensitive input. We just may not see it demoed until September.
New iOS 9 keyboard
Apple launches what it called its "best keyboard yet" with the iOS 8 QuickType keyboard, but it may very well one-up that statement with the iOS 9 keyboard.
iPhone's confusing shift key will give you a better idea whether or not it's on or off, proclaims 9to5Mac. You can fINALLY Stop tYPING like this.
Though the next iPhone display size is likely the same, Apple is said to be prototyping a longer keyboard design that fits in more shortcuts, even in portrait mode.
Beats Music integration
Apple hasn't forgotten about its $3 billion deal with Dr. Dre and company. It's reportedly readying an iOS 9 music streaming service backed by Beats.
It seems like the iPhone maker's answer to Spotify and Google Play Music All Access, with a paid tier and some free trials to get people hooked.
To get them to stay, Apple Music is supposed to include an artist-driven social network, according to code found in iOS 8.4. It could very well launch ahead of iOS 9 at WWDC.
Apple is said to be taken an aggressive stand on its music streaming service, lobbying record companies to drop Spotify's free tier to better compete at the paid level. That's some NWA stuff right there.
Apple Maps with public transit
You may not know this because you've already (wisely) switched over to Google Maps and haven't looked back, but Apple Maps still doesn't have public transit directions.
Commuters can rejoice however, because bus, train and subway routes may finally make their way into iOS 9, at least if you are in one of six support cities.
San Francisco, New York, Toronto, London, Paris and Berlin are expected to be the first metropolitan areas with public transit directions when iOS 9 launches.
More ambitiously, we've also heard rumors that Apple is working on an augmented reality view that uses your camera to highlight points of interest on your screen. This could explain all of the camera-equipped Apple vans roaming the streets.
Siri update
Apple's voice-controlled personal assistant is reportedly receiving a small upgrade in iOS 9 to match the Siri found on Apple Watch.
The silent smartwatch version of Siri has a little more color to its wavy lines at the bottom. That's all we know so far based on last month's rumors.
But there's a good chance if Siri comes with new looks, it also comes with more smarts. After all, Apple's assistant needs to compete with the more-accurate Google Now and Microsoft's Cortana.
There's a report that Apple is working on Google Now competitor codenamed "Proactive" for iOS 9. This could be tied into Siri, if it comes to pass.
If anything, Siri just needs to stop answering to "Hey, Siri" when we don't say actually say that command prompt. That'd be a step in the right direction.
Small iOS 9 download size
There are still plenty of iPhone and iPad users left behind in the transition from iOS 7 to iOS 8 simply because they don't have enough internal storage to make the update.
These deprived 16GB phone and tablet owners need up to 5GB of free space to install iOS 8, and that means deleting precious apps, photos, videos and music.
With the iPad Air 2 syphoning off 3.4GB for the operating system alone, this leaves users with a paltry 12.6GB and, if you factor the 5GB needed, that's just 7.6GB for all of their content.
iOS 9 is expected to change this frustration, which has made paying for iCloud storage seem like a punishment. iOS 8.3 and iOS 8.4 beta are setting a good example with a slightly smaller footprint.
Stability improvements
The No. 1 new, but boring feature we're going to see from iOS 9 is stability. iOS 8 has been plagued with false starts, glitches and continuing Wi-Fi and battery drain bugs.
Apple's Health app made a unfashionably late debut in iOS 8.0.1, a botched update it pulled, and its message boards are full of complaints, which Apple alluded to during the iPad event.
iOS 9 is reportedly receiving a lot of under-the-hood attention to prevent the same issues from reaching the post-beta masses in September.
With the quick adoption rate that Apple devices have over Android, there's really no time for such widespread bug-testing.
More interface shortcuts
iOS 9 is likely to open up new shortcuts, allowing you to quickly navigate menus on your iPhone and iPad with simple taps or gestures.
Apple did a good job of this with iOS 8 via interactive notifications, frequent contacts listed in the "multitasking" menu, inline audio and video messaging and a bunch of mail app tweaks.
iOS 9 could save us even more time. We'd love to see Command Center host shortcuts to individual settings: holding down the Wi-Fi on/off switch should lead to the Wi-Fi menu, the Bluetooth switch to the Bluetooth menu, etc.
That's much faster than closing the app and heading to the settings menu to make a simple change, like pair a new Bluetooth device. Android has been able to do this trick for years.
Another Google-inspired menu change involves keeping media in the notification menu, not just on the lockscreen. Actively streaming a movie should put the controls at your fingertips.
iOS 9 feature long-shots
The list of iOS 9 feature seems rather thin at the moment mainly because no one can officially confirm much else ahead of next month's announcement.Nevertheless, there are plenty of other updates we'd like to see added to Apple's iOS 9 beta, which is widely expected to launch this summer.
Not all of them may actually become reality, of course. But there is a strong push from users for the following ideas.
Home screen widgets
We've been crying out for widgets for years and with iOS 8, Apple is sort of giving us them... sort of.They live in Notification Center with basic functionality at-a-glance. Pulling down this hidden menu reveals sport scores, OpenTable reservations and a Calendar preview, for example.
But what we'd still love to see is home screen widgets. Apple has kept its interface clean and that's presumably one of the reasons why widgets have taken so long to arrive in any form.
Empowering users to customise their home screens can only be a good thing, though, and if Apple doesn't want to go as all-out with it as Android has, it could always look to Windows Phone for inspiration and simply make its icons "'live."
This doesn't have to be completely different to what's there now, but folders that tell you more information about changes to the apps held within is our top ask for iOS 9.
Guest and kids mode
Does someone else in your family like to get their grubby little hands on your iPad? Kids love playing games on the tablet, which is more accessible than PS4 and Xbox One.
Letting a spouse or child borrow your expensive Apple device wouldn't be as much of a problem if there was a proper guest mode and, better yet, kids mode.
Sure, there's a very limited "Guided Access" option that restricts usage to one particular app, but a system-wide guest account for family members would be ideal for the family iPad.
Coupling this proposed guest mode with an instant Touch ID login would be even better and would one-up Google's existing multiple account interface found in Android 5.0 Lollipop.
Actual multitasking
Let's be honest: using two apps at once is true multitasking. Switching between two paused apps is not true multitasking.Apple could upgrade iOS 9 from the latter, fulfilling the side-by-side app functionality that always seems to be rumored but never actually pans out every year at WWDC.
You could visit both TechRadar AND GamesRadar. Win-win!
A 12-inch iPad Pro would give mobile power users enough space to work with two or more apps at once, and the speculated 2GB of RAM for upcoming devices would back it up.
iOS 8 code had suggested that Apple was testing out some sort of multitasking, so it isn't very farfetched that the feature could make its official debut in iOS 9.
iCloud price drop
Ready or not, everything is being saved to the cloud these days and there's no easier way to back things up on an iPhone and iPad than iCloud Drive.Apple's cloud-based ecosystem automatically saves photos, video and documents exactly like every other file hosting platform out there - except it costs more.
Yes, there's 5GB of free storage space, but that's not even big enough to remotely back up a 16GB iPhone. Paying for 20GB isn't big enough if you own more than one Apple device.
1TB of space from Dropbox and Google Drive is half the price of iCloud Drive and that really needs to change with iOS 9's native cloud storage system.
Ability to default to third party apps
Apple still has the largest and most diverse selection of apps of any mobile OS, but it largely keeps them at arms-length and keeps the core smartphone operations fairly locked down.
There aren't any third party SMS apps for example and while there are alternatives to the "Mail" app, there's nothing built into iOS to let you make one of them the default email app.
Even if iOS 9 doesn't let us open up more APIs to developers, it'd be nice to at least be able to open up a Mail webpage link in the Chrome browser instead of defaulting to Safari, or use Siri to call look up directions in Google Maps.
Hide apps that can't be uninstalled
Apple clearly doesn't want people deleting the stock apps that come with iOS, yet we'd wager we're not alone in saying that we don't use all of them - they clog up the home screen.
Android has its app drawer and we don't expect as major an addition as that, but maybe just a 'hide' option against them in the settings screen. Then you can always go back in and unhide the forgettable apps if and when you decide that you do want to use them.
This is a feature that would become even more important if Apple let us change the default apps as suggested above.
Less reliance on iTunes
Liking iOS doesn't necessarily mean liking iTunes and it definitely doesn't mean liking being forced to use it whenever you connect your iPhone and iPad to a computer.
It's a rather divisive piece of software and there are times when simply being able to mount your iDevice as a drive, wade through its folders and cut and paste things would seem an easier way to go about managing it, so it would be great if Apple let us do just that with iOS 9.
It doesn't have to ditch iTunes, just give us the option to use something else.
Embrace jailbreaking rather than trying to prevent it
Apple has always done its best to prevent jailbreaking. Of course, determined users always find a way. There are numerous advantages to having a jailbroken device and we're not talking about the illicit ones.
Escaping lockdown opens up new apps and features that Apple won't allow in its walled garden. Often these are things that other operating systems already provide or which Apple will later add.
For example folders were possible on jailbroken devices long before they were added to iOS and SBSettings pre-dated the long-overdue Command Center by five years.
Of course when Apple does add these features they're normally a lot more polished and stable, but adventurous users should have the option to get new functionality early.
We're not saying Apple should build in the ability to access these things, just that it shouldn't block it, much like Google makes no attempt to stop users from rooting their devices.
We don't see Apple ever doing a 180 on this but we'd love it if the Cupertino company did make things more lax in iOS 9.
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Updated: 7 Best Ultrabooks 2015: top thin and light laptops reviewed
Best Ultrabooks
The term Ultrabook was coined by Intel, and it specifies laptops with particular specifications, separating them from other ultraportable laptops.They all have Intel Core i3, Core i5 or Core i7 processors, fast SSD storage to some degree, and now USB 3.0 connectivity, for speedy file transfers.
Ultrabooks are made with design in mind, so they tend to start from around $999 (around £584, AU$1,064) in the lower end, going to nearly $2,000 (around £1,169, AU$2,131) at the very high end.
Ultimately, you're likely to spend between $899 and $1,500 for a newer model, though you can get some older models for good prices. Below are the six best Ultrabooks at the moment, based on our latest reviews.
1. Dell XPS 13
Possibly the best laptop on the planet, Dell's latest is a masterpiece
CPU: Intel Core i5-5200 | Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 5500 | RAM: 8GB | Screen: 3,200 x 1,800 | Storage: 230GB SSD | Optical drive: No | Connectivity: 802.11 AC, Bluetooth 4.0 | Camera: 720p | Weight: 2.8 pounds
Gorgeous display
Super lightweight
No ethernet port
Off-centre webcam
The
new Dell XPS 13 is a 13.3-inch notebook, but it has the small footprint
of an 11-inch machine. Fortunately for us, the XPS 13 isn't all beauty
and no brains. This laptop features the horsepower to make work and play
enjoyable, and it has just enough battery life to never leave you in a
lurch. Regardless of whether you choose to upgrade to the touchscreen
quad HD+ version, or if you stand pat with the full HD model, the Dell
XPS 13 will provide you with a delightful experience for years to come.Dell XPS 13 review
2. Asus ZenBook UX305
A truly excellent ultrabook at a very agreeable price point
CPU: Intel Core M 5Y10 | Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 5300 | RAM: 8GB | Screen: 13.3-inch 1920x1080 | Storage: 256GB SSD | Optical drive: No | Ports: 3 x USB 3.0 | Connectivity: 802.11n + Bluetooth 4.0 | Camera: 720p | Weight: 2.6 pounds
Very thin and light
Incredible performance
Wonky video driver
Tinny speakers
The
ZenBook UX305 is a superbly-built, fully metal machine that's thin,
light and very attractive. This lightweight system' also easily handled
all my daily tasks whether I was browsing the web, watching video or
editing images. What's more, you can get excellent battery life out of
the machine considering its 1080p display. Of course, the most striking
thing about the UX305 is that it comes at a $699 or £649 (about AU$902)
price. This is a great price for any mobile computing machine, but in
this case you're getting a premium, full-metal Ultrabook with an
excellent full HD display and a 256GB SSD to boot. While isnt' exactly a
shining symbol of innovation in the Ultrabook space, it is the most
affordable Ultrabook out today and it won't disappoint you.Asus ZenBook UX305 review
3. Lenovo Yoga 3 Pro
A triumph for design, Lenovo's flagship is impressive if a little pricey
CPU: Intel Core M | Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 530 | RAM: 8GB | Screen: 13-inch 3200x1800 | Storage: 256GB SSD | Optical drive: No | Ports: 2 x USB 3.0 | Connectivity: 802.11ac | Camera: 720p | Weight: 2.62 pounds
Slim and light
Attractive hinge
Quite pricey
Poor battery life
If
you're all about style and don't need a super powerful machine, it
doesn't get much better than Lenovo's latest flagship Ultrabook. While
it may not be as punchy as its predecessor (thanks in part to its
low-power, fanless Intel Core M chip), it can still manage all of the
usual tasks you would throw at it.And given its new metallic hinge and super thin design, the Yoga 3 Pro makes a better case than ever for its multitudes of usage modes. At any rate, this is one of the thinnest, lightest and sharpest Windows laptops to date. And while you'll certainly pay for it, the price for such panache will be worth it for style nuts.
Lenovo Yoga 3 Pro review
4. Acer Aspire S7
Acer's luxurious laptop is an ultraportable star
CPU: value | Graphics: value | RAM: value | Screen: value | Storage: value | Optical drive: value | Ports: value | Connectivity: value | Camera: value | Weight: value
Stunning build quality
Excellent sharp screen
No 802.11ac wifi
Battery life is just 'ok'
For
2014, Acer has updated it's luxury laptop with a super sharp QHD
display. This 2560 x 1440 panel is prepared for the day when hyper-HD
content is finally viable to watch over wireless internet. In the now,
text looks gorgeous, as do images – thus adding to the near-future feel
of this device.The build quality on display here, from the Aspire S7's aluminum and Gorilla Glass frame is palpable. That goes for the snappy keyboard, with its fancy electroluminescent lighting, too.
The Acer Aspire S7 (starting at $1,349, £1,199, AU$2,599) truly feels like a machine built for the now, 2014, and one that you won't mind using well into 2016, possibly longer. So, love the Aspire S7 for its cutting edge build, fine typing experience and premium specs.
Acer Aspire S7 review
5. Samsung Ativ Book 9 Plus
With stunning performance and screen, it doesn't get much better than this
CPU: Intel Core i5 1.6 GHz | Graphics: Intel integrated | RAM: 4GB | Screen: 13.3-inch 3200 x 1800 | Storage: 128GB SSD | Optical drive: No | Ports: 3 x USB 3.0 | Connectivity: 802.11ac | Camera: 720p
Incredible touchscreen
Excellent battery
It's expensive
Full of bloatware
Samsung
was one of the very first PC manufacturers to jump on the Ultrabook
bandwagon. It's done a fine job of representing Intel's baby ever since,
with some stunning offerings, including the Samsung Series 5 Ultra
Touch and, more recently, the top-of-the-line Samsung Series 9 NP900X3D.Samsung's new Ultrabook: the Samsung Ativ Book 9 Plus (starting at $1,399, £1,412, AU$2,259), might keep the company ahead of the game for a while, at least if its on-paper abilities are anything to go by.
It's a wonderful-looking unit. It's thin and carefully crafted, with shiny, chamfered edges lining its all-aluminium chassis. But its plain black exterior might lend some clues as to its intent: This is premium-priced Ultrabook focused as much on the business user as the coffee shop regular.
Samsung ATIV Book 9 Plus review
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon
An excellent business laptop that (almost) has it all
CPU: Intel Core i5-4300U | Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 4400 | RAM: 4GB | Screen: 14-inch, 2560 x 1440 IPS | Storage: 180GB SSD | Optical drive: No | Ports: 2x USB 3.0 | Connectivity: 802.11ac | Camera: 720p | Weight: 3.15 pounds
Clever adaptive keyboard
Fantastic design
Generally dim screen
Average battery life
The
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon (starting at $1,186, £1,198, AU$1,699) is a
business laptop that straddles the line between form and function more
than ever after this update. For those with a penchant for aesthetics,
here's a brand new design with some fantastic new features. And to keep
the no-nonsense business user happy, this is a plenty powerful piece of
hardware.The connectivity on offer through this Ultrabook's super slim design profile alone is impressive. And the adaptive keys, while divisive, add a ton of function in a limited amount of space and an attractive presentation. Look out, MacBook Pro, you're no longer the only thin and light business option on the block.
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon review
7. Asus ZenBook Pro UX501
An attractive alternative to a certain fruit-flavoured laptop
CPU: value | Graphics: value | RAM: value | Screen: value | Storage: value | Optical drive: value | Ports: value | Connectivity: value | Camera: value | Weight: value
Bright, vibrant screen
Excellent performance
Feels heavy
Mediocre battery life
If
you're looking for a laptop with a little more meat on its bones but
don't want to break the bank, the Asus ZenBook Pro UX501 is a stylish
contender. It features a bright, vibrant 4K display and packs a
capacious, highly responsive storage drive that flies.There's extra beef under the hood in the form of an Intel Core-i7 chip inside and discrete Nvidia GeForce GTX 960M graphics for gaming and graphics work. That high-resolution display is something of a battery drain, and it's not the lightest laptop around, but if you're not planning on lugging it around too much then the UX501's meaty innards and affordability make it an attractive option for content creators and media buffs alike.
Asus ZenBook Pro UX501 review
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