Category Archives: Tech News

Apple iPhone 7 – Its Pre Order Day – Here’s My Thought Process

Apple, Tech News,

apple

If you live in the UK, you will be able to pre order Apple’s new iPhone 7 or iPhone 7 Plus at exactly 8.01am directly from their online store, hopefully for delivery next Friday the 16th September 2016. All the UK’s mobile operators will be offering the new iPhone as well as online retailers too.

Apple’s upgrade program is also available in the UK for the very first time. It is worth checking out this option too especially if you want to spread the cost. Apple also offer sim plans for the respective mobile phone companies.

The iPhone 7 and 7 Plus come in new storage configurations, 32, 128 or 256gb. I would not recommend opting for the base 32gb unless you are prepared to be using cloud services constantly to store media. 128gb is the better option to choose and 256gb is for hard core users.

In fact the 256gb option finally means anyone still using the 160gb iPod Classic has absolutely no reason to use it anymore as finally there is an iPhone with more storage for all your music.

Next are the 5 colours available for both sizes of iPhone 7. These are rose gold, gold, silver, black (a matte finish) and jet black (a glossy black). The jet black is only available in 128gb and 256gb configurations for either size of iPhone. So which colour is best. Personally, I like either the new black or jet black. The jet black is prone to show micro scratches so is best used in a case. To be honest if you are using the iPhone 7 Plus, I would always use a case. I especially like Apple’s silicone or leather cases to provide that extra bit of protection or grip. The standard black is probably the more practical option, so I am choosing the jet black. I am never logical 🙂

So which size of iPhone is best to choose. This year both sizes of iPhone come with the same new 12mp optical image stabilised camera. The iPhone 7 Plus has another 12mp camera on the rear which enables 2 x optical zoom and up to 10 x software zoom. It will also enable later this year via a software update, incredible portrait shots with background bokeh. My preference is towards the Plus model as it also has a 1080p screen versus the smaller 750p screen.

Lastly it is worth remembering the new iPhone 7 does not have a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack. Instead audio comes out via the lightning port. So it might be time to invest in some wireless headphones. You also might want a case, powerbank or some cables. If so Amazon has an iPhone 7 storefront now. Click HERE.

Apple iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus – My Views on the new iPhones & Accessories

Apple, Tech News, ,

apple

Unless you were hiding in a cave last night, it would have been difficult not to hear, see or read about Apple’s new keynote. Typically I have around 200 tweets from 6pm to 8pm. During Apple’s Keynote I lost count once I reached 900. My RSS feeds exploded too. No other company can generate this level of frenzy!

As Apple Keynotes go, I really enjoyed this one right from the very beginning too with Tim Cook and James Corden Carpool Karaoke intro. Lots of new products this time. An updated Apple Watch, 2 new iPhones, new headphones and accessories and tons of new features on all the technology. Apple also doubled the storage on iPad Pro and Mini and reduced the price on the iPad Pro. 16gb storage options were removed also from the iPhone 7 and iPhone 6 models with a new 256gb option.

To be honest, before any new tech was announced, the fact Nintendo were bringing Super Mario Run to iOS for a fix price with no IAP’s to ruin gameplay was a winning reason alone to buy the new iPhone 7.

If you buy the iPhone 7 outright it will costs from £599 for the 32gb iPhone 7 right up to £919 for the 256gb iPhone 7 Plus. Add £49 for an official Apple leather case and £149 for the new wireless Airpods and the new iPhone is not cheap.

So what stood out for me in terms of the new features. Well the water and dust resistance was a welcome improvement (IP67) along with heavily beefed up cameras. I am keen to see how the dual camera setup on the Plus version performs in real life, with its wide angle and 2 x optical telephone zoom, which then goes up to 10 x zoom using software. There definitely seems to be a big step forward in the cameras in the new iPhone 7. Again these need to be tested.

Some call it controversial that the 3.5mm headphone jack has now disappeared. Personally, I don’t see what the fuss is about. I have used the lightning port for audio for ages now. Apple also provide a lightning to headphone adaptor in the box, with additional adaptors available for £9 each. In the box you also get wired headphones terminated with a lightning connector.

The next step in wireless audio was taken by Apple to create their own bluetooth connection using their new W1 chip which features in the new £159 Airpods and new Beats range of headphones. I can’t wait to test these new headphones. The Apple Airpods look damn cool too. Will they sound better than headphones from B & O or Sennheiser? No idea yet but I will test them accordingly.

Stereo speakers makes an appearance now, a higher quality screen, new colours, new storage options, better A10 Fusion processor and much more. The new non moving home button sounds interesting. Feedback is obtained via taptic feedback.

Part of the lineup comes a gloss jet black finish. Personally, I would opt for matt black, as Apple have mentioned that the gloss black can show micro scratches if you are not too careful.

The Apple Watch 2 has a brighter display, better processor, faster operation, GPS and is swim proof. New strap options and a £1,249 ceramic finish is available too.The 42mm Apple Watch 2 starts at £399 and rises to £649 for the steel finish with the milanese loop and goes right up to £1,249 for the ceramic option. Apple will continue selling the first version and will include the new processor found in the Apple Watch 2. Finally, Apple have a focus for the Apple Watch, and its fitness. They even have a special Nike+ version. Having used many wearables and smart watches, fitness is IMO the right focus too.

With iOS 10 and Watch OS3 all the new hardware looks great, just in somewhat pricey and judging by a number of comments on social media, this seems to be the root cause of any snarky comments. However, Apple has some of the best and diverse range of apps, and this could create some incredible options for its new camera system.

So the million dollar question is which phone do you buy – A Samsung Note 7, Apple iPhone 7 (Plus), LG V20 or something else like the dual lens Honor 8 which comes in at £369.

Source 1
Source 2 Photo

Samsung Gear VR 2016 – The New Gear VR – First Impressions

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I had the original Gear VR which I used with my Samsung S7 Edge. So last week, I got my first attempt at setting up and using the new Gear VR which is designed to work with the new Samsung Note 7 and also be backward compatible with older phones. (If you haven’t exchanged your Note 7 yet, don’t use the Gear VR as its dangerous).

First up the new Gear VR is lighter on the head. It only needs one strap, the second strap is optional. The new Gear VR feels slightly smaller too. The field of view has been widened too and the clarity is that little bit better too. This all adds up to an improved view of VR and 360 media. Footage is slightly clearer and the overall experience is improved.

The software is vastly improved and it is looking really polished and one of the best low cost VR experiences I have witnessed. Unlike the previous Gear VR, you connect your Note 7 case less to the device and then put the dust cover to one side. This does not cover up or connect whilst the phone is in position.

When you first clip your phone into the Gear VR, you see a message inside that says to remove the Gear VR and install all the software required and setup your Oculus account. Once you have done this, put the headset back on. Make sure you install Samsung Internet and Samsung Gallery. Samsung Internet gives you access to YouTube and YouTube 360 degree videos. Samsung Gallery is the app you need to access your own 360 content. When accessing YouTube via Samsung Internet, when a 360 video starts playing, tilt you head to reveal the Samsung Assistant, select this and then you can select the view in 360. It really is simple to do.

I have watched many films and YouTube videos of Mount Everest and other similar mountains, but to witness the peak being climbed in 360 degrees is truly fantastic. There are plenty of other games and apps to explore as well. Don’t play Temple Run unless you are using a bluetooth game controller, otherwise you will feel sick very quickly.

If you want to be transported into a virtual world, the Samsung Gear VR is a great way to start enjoying the experience.

So my next test was to ask my wife to try it. She uses an iPhone is hardly ever upgrades her phone so it not that interested in the latest phone technology. First, I got her to experience the Mount Everest 360 VR video, then some 360 photos and then she asked me what the Netflix app did. So I got her to launch it, and then she started watching one of her TV programmes. After that, I wanted my Note 7 back, and went off to test a few gadgets.

About an hour later, my wife says, I want a pink Samsung Galaxy S7 with a Gear VR. Not only had she researched the pricing, colours and all the options, she even worked out how much her iPhone would sell for second hand. So why did she want to swap her iPhone to the S7? Just to use the Gear VR because she realised it only worked with a Samsung S7!

That’s how much of a positive impact the Gear VR is, and the new version is more comfortable, slightly ligher and provides a marginally increase in quality and a field of view.

Just a shame the Note 7 is too hot to handle at the moment.

CAT S60 Smartphone Review – Built to Impress

Android, Reviews, Tech News

CAT S60 Review pic 2

Welcome to my review of the CAT S60 Smartphone. My thanks to Clove Technology .

CAT S60 Review pic 2

The Key Features/Specs

– Strengthened Die Cast Frame
– Drop proof to 1.8m, MIL Spec 810G
– Super bright display (typical 540 nits), Gorilla Glass 4
– 4.7” HD capacitive multi-touch with auto wet finger & glove support
– Optimised battery performance (3,800 mAh)
– High quality audio experience (>105dB)
– Underwater 13MP main camera with dual flash, 5MP front-facing camera
– Snapdragon 617 octa-core processor
– 32GB ROM, 3GB RAM
– Android Marshmallow
– Waterproof to a depth of 5M for 1 hour
– Dual SIM
– 4G LTE
– FLIR Thermal Camera
– Thermal sensor: 17mm pixel size, 8-14mm spectral range
– Thermal resolution: 80 x 60
– Thermal sensitivity (MRDT): 150 mK
– Visual resolution: 640 x 480
– HFOV / VFOV: 46° ± 1° / 36° ± 1°
– Frame rate: 8.7 Hz
– Fixed focus: 15 cm – ∞
– Scene dynamic range: -20°C to +120°C
– Range: Heat sources detectable to 30 metres (100ft)
– Accuracy: ±5°C (Typical ±3°C), or ±5%
– App specifications
– Dedicated application with MSX technology
– Still image, panorama, video capture, time-lapse
– Changeable heat palettes
– Temperature spot meter
– Min, max, and average temperature data
– Box Contents

CAT S60 Review pic 1

– CAT S60 SIM Free Smartphone
– 3 PIN UK Mains Adapter
– USB Cable
– Screen Protector
– Quick Start Guide
– Warranty Statement

Video Review

Available from Clove Technology .

Oculus have just emailed all Samsung Note 7 Users – DO NOT USE THE GEAR VR – Full Details

Android, Tech News

I have just received an email from the Oculus Team regarding using the Samsung Gear VR with the Samsung Galaxy Note 7.

This is what the email said –

“As you may have heard, on Friday, September 2, Samsung Electronics America, Inc. announced the U.S. Product Exchange Program for Galaxy Note7 owners in response to battery issues with the Note7 device.

Please get your Note7 replacement before using your Gear VR as your safety is our number one priority. You can contact or visit the retail outlet where you purchased your Note7 or contact Samsung to initiate a product exchange and to resolve any questions or concerns.

– The Oculus Team”

So do not use your Gear VR with your Samsung Note 7 unless you have one of the new ones following an exchange. You do not want your Note 7 exploding in your face!

Samsung Galaxy Note 7 – Samsung’s Recall Process for UK and US Customers

Android, Tech News, ,

Samsung Note 7 LED CASE

Samsung has already laid out plans on its recall process for UK and US customers as follows.

Samsung UK Customers

Statement from Samsung UK–

“Samsung is committed to producing the highest quality products and we take every incident report from our valued customers very seriously. In response to recently reported cases of the new Galaxy Note7, we conducted a thorough investigation and found a battery cell issue.

To date (as of September 1) there have been 35 cases that have been reported globally and we are currently conducting a thorough inspection with our suppliers to identify possible affected batteries in the market. However, because our customers’ safety is an absolute priority at Samsung, we have stopped sales of the Galaxy Note7.

For customers who already have Galaxy Note7 devices, we will voluntarily replace their current device with a new one over the coming weeks. For more information customers need to contact the customer service team on 0330 7261000.

We acknowledge the inconvenience this may cause in the market but this is to ensure that Samsung continues to deliver the highest quality products to our customers. We are working closely with our partners to ensure the replacement experience is as convenient and efficient as possible.”

This information is for all UK Customers including phones purchased via Carphone Warehouse. Network operators like O2, Vodafone, Three and EE will also take back the phones. If you call the Samsung UK hotline number you will be offered two options. An exchange for the Note 7 for a new Note 7 with a colour of your choice, so you can swap colours from the one your purchased, or swap the Note 7 for a S7/S7 Edge and receive a credit for the difference. Token gestures of £25 or £50 for the hassle are being offered.

Statement from Samsung US

RIDGEFIELD PARK, N.J. – SEPTEMBER 2, 2016 – Samsung Electronics America, Inc. today announced the immediate availability of the U.S. Product Exchange Program for Galaxy Note7 owners. This program was launched in response to the recent announcement regarding isolated battery cell issues with the Galaxy Note7 device.

While there have been only a small number of reported incidents, Samsung is taking great care to provide customers with the support they need. Samsung has identified the affected inventory and stopped sales and shipments of those devices. For customers, who have Galaxy Note7 devices, Samsung will voluntarily replace their current device with a new one from today.

“Samsung is taking a proactive approach to address customer needs around the Note7,” said Tim Baxter, president of Samsung Electronics America. “We are encouraging customers to exchange their Note7 by taking advantage of our Product Exchange Program. The safety and satisfaction of our customers is Samsung’s top priority.”

The U.S. Product Exchange Program will offer consumers the following choices:

1. Exchange current Galaxy Note7 device with a new Galaxy Note7 (available next week)
2. Exchange current Galaxy Note7 for a Galaxy S7 or Galaxy S7 edge and replacement of any Note7 specific accessories with a refund of the price difference between devices.

As a gesture of appreciation, consumers will receive a $25 gift card or bill credit from select carrier retail outlets when choosing a Galaxy S7 family device or the Galaxy Note 7 within the exchange program.

Galaxy Note7 owners can contact or visit the retail outlet where they purchased their device or call 1-800-SAMSUNG to initiate a product exchange and to resolve any other questions or concerns.

Samsung Galaxy Note 7 – It’s OFFICIAL – Statement from Samsung

Android, Tech News,

Samsung Note 7 LED CASE

UPDATED – SEE END OF POST
UPDATE 2 – Its Official – Statement from Samsung at end of post.

At the moment many websites are reporting a global recall of the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 is about to happen due to exploding handsets. These include Android Central, Android Authority and The Verge as examples. There are plenty more.

However, the facts at the moment of writing is that there is no global recall. The handset is no longer on sale while Samsung conduct further tests, probably because they need more time to fathom out what is going on, and also to prevent a “potential” problem becoming even more explosive. So what has happened is Samsung issued a note to its customers about a potential problem. Its customers are the likes of Carphone Warehouse, Three UK, O2 etc.

As soon as Carphone Warehouse and others received the communication from Samsung, they had no choice but to act upon it, otherwise if something did occur, they would seem negligent. Its all about corporate responsibility, not having a problem themselves and not suffering the bad PR.

So if you go to Carphone Warehouse’s website or Samsung UK, the Note 7 is not featured on the front pages anymore. In the UK, none of the networks are selling the phone. As regards to other online retailers, they had not even received any stock.

So I have along with thousands of others received our Note 7s and been using them without issue for nearly 10 days. I have charged mine via fast charging using a multiple of different chargers, fast QC2 car chargers, normal and fast Qi chargers, 5 in 1 QC3 USB Hub chargers and more and not had any issues.

I have spoken to Samsung Engineers and Carphone Warehouse last night. Neither have issued a recall, just as a measure of caution stopped future sales. Samsung informed me if my phone was faulty, it would be obvious (too hot) and that only a very small percentage seemed to be impacted. Carphone Warehouse told me to continue using my phone.

Turning to the global position, there is no news in USA, Canada or United Arab Emirates of any recall whatsoever.

Now if a recall does officially occur, and people have to return their Note 7’s, what phone are they meant to use? Most will have upgraded and won’t have the old handset anymore. Many would have bought accessories for a phone they no longer have. The situation could prove a PITA for many people.

So without a doubt Samsung must have found something. Will it affect all Note 7 phones sold. Unlikely. Will it cost Samsung hard in the pocket financially. Absolutely.

I will update this post if any official news occurs that alters this position.

Update – Recall is official according to CNN.

Official Statement from Samsung

Samsung will be grateful for your consistent support giving love cherish electronic products.

Our Samsung Electronics last August 19 released the Galaxy Note 7. The battery burned out phenomenon was received in some products.

Shortly after the release of the new kkichige gotta love giving everyone concerned with the use of these new customers and burnout phenomena of our products undergo the inconvenience of carefully think I’m terribly sorry.

Dwaetgo accepted through September 35 cases per day abroad Service Center, which is a poor level of about 24 million reward. Cause analysis was confirmed by the battery cell itself issues.

Progress during and precise analysis for identifying the volume with potentially defective battery supplier, had stopped selling consumer safety is important to think about and decide deurigiro replace it with a new Galaxy Note 7, regardless of the time of purchase.

However, materials supply and product preparation yen is expected to take about two weeks.

Exchange as quickly as possible and plan to make a new product, the product checks for at least gives customers visit the service center even before they are ready, we will move.

Interchangeable country when we will give you ridorok customers who notice early as possible to consider the supply and demand of certain components used in each country.

Our product gives the consumer a saving apologize to you once again that depth inconvenience.

September 2016 May 2,
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
Wireless Business Division godongjin

The Best Bluetooth Wireless Headphones of 2016 – My Reviews

accessories, Audio, Reviews, Tech News, ,

So you have just got the new phone and want to buy some new wireless bluetooth headphones. Below are my reviews of the best bluetooth wireless headphones of 2016. These headphones also are fantastic with many other devices too.

Useful Links (Amazon)

Bose Quietcomfort 35 Wireless Headphones
Sennheiser Momentum Wireless 2.0 Headphones
B & O Beoplay H5 Wireless Headphones
LG Tone Platinum APT-X HD Hi-Res Bluetooth Headphones
Samsung Gear IconX headphones

The Reviews

Below are the links to the individual reviews of each of these headphones. Each review also includes a video too.

Bose Quietcomfort 35 Wireless Headphones Review

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Sennheiser Momentum Wireless 2.0 Headphones Review

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B & O Beoplay H5 Wireless In Ear Headphones Review

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LG Tone Platinum APT-X HD In Ear Wireless Headphones Review

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Samsung Gear IconX – In Ear Wireless & Wire Free with Heart Rate Monitors Headphones Review

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For more bluetooth and all my headphone reviews, click HERE.

Samsung Galaxy Note 7 – 5 Cases & 3 Power Accessories – All my Reviews

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Now you have received your Samsung Galaxy Note 7 in the UK, what case do you use? How do you recharge it and what cables do you buy?

Well, I have been looking out 3 official Samsung cases and 2 third party case options, power banks and fast wireless chargers too. Below are all the video reviews along and useful links to each of the items reviewed.

Useful Links (Amazon)

Samsung Note 7 S View Standing Cover
Samsung Note 7 LED Cover review
Choetech Note 7 cases and Power Accessories
Samsung Note 7 Lens Cover Kit
Choetech Premium USB Type C cables (very cool)
Choetech 10,400mAh QC3 /iOS Portable Power Bank

Samsung Note 7 S View Standing Cover Review

Samsung Note 7 LED Cover Review


Samsung Note 7 Lens Cover Kit Review

(Apologies for the filming being too close up at times)

Choetech Fast Wireless Charger and Note 7 cases Reviews

Choetech Premium USB Type C Cable – So Cool

Choetech QC3/QC2 and Lightning 10,000mAh Power Bank Review

Samsung Galaxy Note 7 – First Shots from the Camera – Stunning Photos!

Tech News,

The Samsung Galaxy Note 7 features the same hardware as the Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge so this should mean there is no change in the camera quality.

But like everything in life, surprises occur unexpectedly. From my early shots it seems Samsung has been tweaking the software as a minimum as the end results appear marginally better than those taken on my Samsung Galaxy S7.

Anyway a selection of photos from my Note 7, all unedited too. Don’t forget, click on each shot to view the full size. You may have to select original file size from the options as well.

Church of St Michael #Princetown taken with the Samsung Note 7 #SamsungNote7

Zooming in shows the level of detail picked up by the Note 7 on the church.

Sniffing out the stones #SamsungNote7

When one of your dogs photobombs a close up shot of stones 🙂 Tiggy’s snout gets the limelight but what a shot again. The stones were smaller than shown as well.

Nuns Cross, Dartmoor #SamsungNote7

Nuns Cross on Dartmoor. Rather overcast at the time but great detail, colours and contrast.

South Hessary Tor with the Hounds of Dartmoor #SamsungNote7

View of South Hessary Tor, Dartmoor and my 3 labradors.

Incredible views across Dartmoor towards Sheepstor #SamsungNote7

Lovely landscape shot. All in auto mode.

Egg toast

Egg on toast. Another good photo from the Note 7 but not to be unexpected either.