The Google Pixel 2 has a new tiny power menu

 By Vaibhav Jain on October 16, 2017       

The new Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL comes with a lot of Pixel Exclusive stuff including the new Launcher, Live Wallpaper, an updated Google Assistant, and a brand new power menu.

Yes, Google just added a new look to the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL's power menu. This is shown off in a new video surfaced online today. As seen in the video, the new Pixel 2 tiny power menu appears on the top left side making it easy to access.

There's no information if this new "Easy to Access" Power menu is coming to other devices or not. But Google Pixel and Pixel XL (2016) will surely get this feature. Also Read: The Google Pixel 2 has a hidden LED.

Until then enjoy the Pixel 2 Launcher which comes with Bottom Search bar, Google Pixel 2 Motion Camera Application, Pixel 2 Live Wallpapers, and other Pixel 2 goodies.

YouTube

Motorola Moto Z with Moto Pen Concept

 By Vaibhav Jain on October 16, 2017       

Back in 2011, Samsung introduced the S Pen with the Galaxy Note. The S pen or Stylus pen is an input tool that provides a similar feel to an actual pen by detecting the pressure applied on the screen with great accuracy. It also comes with most loved Air command and tons of other cool features.

Now, Designer Skrubbe has come up with an exciting new concept of Moto Z Smartphone with Moto Pen. The thought of merging the Stylus and Moto Z is unlikely to be something Motorola would consider. But the question is whether or not you’d buy it? Leave your comments below.

Reddit

Android Oreo Beta coming soon to OnePlus 5

 By Vaibhav Jain on October 16, 2017       

Now that Google has released the next version of Android, Android 8.0 Oreo, the wait for the devices to get the update has already started.

The Shenzhen-based company OnePlus typically announces the Android Beta preview before the final update. Just a few days back. the company announced Android Oreo beta for OnePlus 3 and OnePlus 3T so many could test Android Oreo before Public roll-out.

But, what about their latest flagship OnePlus 5? Well, OnePlus's Co-founder Carl Pei on his twitter handle announced that the OnePlus 5 will be soon getting Android Oreo Beta.

Once Available (Open Beta Program for OnePlus 5), you'll need to do is flash the Oreo Beta firmware on your OnePlus 5. Once you migrate to the Beta path, you will continue to receive Open Beta OTAs. You will NO LONGER receive the regular Official Stable OTAs.

Carl Pei (Twitter)

[Download] Pixel 2 Launcher with Google Now and Notification Badges

 By Vaibhav Jain on October 15, 2017       

Just a few days ago we reported that Google Pixel 2 default Launcher is now available for all the Android devices but some of the features only work when installed as a system app.

Well, the new Pixel 2 Launcher Mod enables Google now and weather without installing as a system app, it also enables notification badges (Android O feature) for Nougat. The developer "paphonb" has also added few interesting custom features to the launcher.

The APK weighs in at around 2.53 MB and can be downloaded from the below link. Note that you can access the Google Feed from the leftmost screen.

Recently Google updated its Wallpaper Application with Pixel 2 wallpaper and other interesting categories. Google Wallpaper will be the best complement for Pixel 2 launcher.

Direct Download: Pixel 2 Launcher (XDA)

First Look at Razer’s Smartphone

 By Vaibhav Jain on October 15, 2017       

Razer is now all set to unveil its very first smartphone during an event on November 1st.

Razer phone will have a 5.7-inch display with a 2560 x 1440 resolution which is same as the LG G6. It’ll have a Snapdragon 835 processor, 8GB RAM with a single 12-megapixel dual rear camera, an 8-megapixel front camera, and 64GB of internal storage.

Razer plans to position its Smartphone as a gaming device. We haven't seen any possible renders or live images of the Razer Phone, but that's going to change today, thanks to an alleged leak.

Via: Techbyte

Motorola announces Rose Gold and Cool Black Moto G5s

 By Vaibhav Jain on October 14, 2017       

Motorola has officially announced the Moto G5s in 2 new accents - Rose Gold and Cool Black.

Starting October 23, the Rose Gold and Cool Black version of the smartphone will be available in Chinese markets and there's no indication if or when it will come to other regions. There's also likely to be a limited number available, so if you want one, better start looking on how to import it now or those who can make it to the China, it would be great if you can bring me one too.

With the 5.2-inch display and complete metal body, the Moto G5S features Snapdragon 430 processor coupled with 3GB of RAM. It comes with 3000mAh battery. Unlike Moto G5S Plus, the Moto G5S has single rear camera with a 16MP Sensor, and 5MP selfie shooter.

It runs Lenovo's own ZUI based on Android 7.1.1 Nougat and comes with all the Moto Actions. The whole package costs 1599 Chinese Yuan (242 USD).

That said, we will let you know if Motorola plans to release these special edition Moto G5s color variants in any other regions. How bad you want one of these? Let us know in the below comment section!

Official Android 8.0 Oreo Beta now available for OnePlus 3 and OnePlus 3T

 By Vaibhav Jain on October 14, 2017       

Now that Google has released the next version of Android, Android 8.0 Oreo, the wait for the devices to get the update has already started. 

Chinese smartphone firm, OnePlus has released a new OxygenOS Beta update based on Android 8.0 Oreo for the OnePlus 3 and 3T. The OnePlus 3T receives OxygenOS Beta 16, and the OnePlus 3's version is OxygenOS Beta 25.

With Android 8.0 Oreo Beta for OnePlus 3/3T, you'll get new Settings and Notification panel UI, latest features including Picture in Picture (PIP), Adaptive icons, Autofill, Notification timeout, and new emojis.

Note that most major aspects of the phone are working as expected but fingerprint actions may be slower than you are used to, shortcut to access Google Photos is unavailable, some stability issues with NFC and bluetooth. OnePlus plans to optimize performance and compatibility of 3rd party apps in the next update.

OnePlus has already confirmed that the "Flagship Killer" OnePlus 3 and OnePlus 3T won't be getting any major OS updates after Android Oreo. You can download the OxygenOS beta based on Android Oreo from the below link.

Android Oreo Beta: OnePlus 3T | OnePlus 3

Android 8.1 is Coming Soon!

 By Vaibhav Jain on October 14, 2017       

It seems that Google has already started working on next iteration of Android OS i.e. Android 8.1 Oreo.

The confirmation came from a Reddit user, who noticed that the Android SDK Build-Tools 26.0.2 added the support for Android 8.1.0. Another thing worth noticing is that few Google Apps are already targeting API 27.

Also Watch:


//Reddit

Amazon Alexa and Polaroid Insta-Share Printer Moto Mod in high-quality render

 By Vaibhav Jain on October 13, 2017       

Modular phone was first introduced by LG back at the MWC 2016 with the LG G5. However, it was Lenovo who took the concept to a whole new level with their Moto Z range of phones. Motorola is betting big on the modular phones.

Also Read: Polaroid Insta-Share Printer Moto Mod First Real Life Images!!!

And today, here's our first clear look at the upcoming Amazon Alexa and Polaroid Insta-Share Printer Moto Mod.

Just like the Google Assistant, Alexa is an intelligent personal assistant developed by Amazon. It is capable of voice interaction, music playback, making to-do lists, setting alarms, streaming podcasts, playing audiobooks, and providing weather, traffic, and other real time information, such as news.

The Insta-Share Printer Mod instantly prints your photos just after capturing. It is made up of compact hardware from digital printers and applications and can be easily attachable to the smartphone with the help of magnetic pins at the back. Having said that, theses module are being developed by Motorola and was first introduced few months back.

There's no information on when this product will go on sale. We'll notify you once we get more information.

Source: Evan Blass 

Download Pixel 2 Camera App with Motion Photo for Google Pixel and Pixel XL

 By Vaibhav Jain on October 13, 2017       

There's no denying that the Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL comes with one of the best Smartphone Camera Sensor. But what makes the Pixel 2 Camera excel at taking photos is the Google Camera Application.

The latest Pixel 2 Camera app features Motion Photo, Face Retouching, Portrait Mode and other cool stuffs. The Good News is that you can now install the Pixel 2 Camera app and use most its feature on your 2016 Pixel and Pixel XL.

The Motion Photos are very short video clip. Pixel 2 Camera app comes with three settings, "Motion off," "Motion auto," and "Motion on," which control when Motion Photos are captured.

Also Read: Google Pixel 2 Launcher now available to Download

The APK weighs in at around 64.3MB and can be downloaded from the below link. Note that you won't get all the Pixel 2 Camera features, but Motion Photo, Face Retouching and the exposure lock works perfectly.

Download: Pixel 2 Camera App | XDA

Moto G5s Kernel Source Code Released

 By Vaibhav Jain on October 13, 2017       

Motorola finally released the kernel source of its recently announced Moto G5s, allowing developers to start the development of custom ROMs for the device.

Motorola usually releases the kernel sources in just two weeks of the phone's launch, but this time around, the Lenovo-owned company took a little bit more time than the usual. Nevertheless, the company has released the code and developers can start working.

The kernel sources are available in the tar.gz file extension and also in the form of a .zip file. If you're interested in developing a custom ROM forMoto G5s, the go ahead to Github and download the kernel sources and set it up in the Android Kitchen.

The Moto G5s is the latest budget smartphone from the company packing decent specifications such as the Snapdragon 430 SoC ,3000mAh battery, Android Nougat, and a 16MP Rear Camera.

Google Pixel 2 Launcher now available to Download

 By Vaibhav Jain on October 13, 2017       

The Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL default launcher which comes with bottom search bar is now available to Download. You'll be able to Install it on any Android Smartphone running Android 5.0 Lollipop and above.

The Pixel 2 launcher comes with new features including the bottom Google Search bar, a Glance widget, and minor animation changes. Rest is same as the previous Google Pixel launcher.

The APK weighs in at around 2.52 MB and can be downloaded from the below link. Note that to access the Google Feed which is available on leftmost screen you'll need to Install the below APK file as the system application.

Recently Google updated its Wallpaper Application with Pixel 2 wallpaper and other interesting categories. Google Wallpaper will be the best complement for Pixel 2 launcher.

Download: Pixel 2 Launcher

Yes, the Google Pixel 2 has a notification light

 By Vaibhav Jain on October 12, 2017       

Recently announced Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL comes with an always-on display which can be enabled via Settings. But, Did you know that the Pixel 2 (duo) has a notification light? It does. We don't think it's on by default, but it's a nice addition to the phone's always-on display.

Twitter user Darren Gloster uploaded an image confirming the feature (notification LED) for Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL. As you can see in the above image, there's a greenish-blue color LED.

Just like the 2016 Google Pixel(s), you can enable the notification LED by following the below steps:

• Go to your phone's Settings. 
• Tap on Notifications. 
• Tap on the Gear icon in the top-right corner. 
• Tap on the toggle next to "Pulse notification light".

It could be a multi-color LED, so if you want to test it, you can install Light Flow from Play Store.

Also Read: Google: The Pixel 2 still comes with a headphone jack, but..

Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL Specs: With the regular Pixel 2, you get a 5.0-inch FHD+ AMOLED display, Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor, 4GB RAM, 64GB/128GB storage, 12.2MP 1.4 micropixels at f1.8 (OIS/EIS) for the best low-light, zoom and anti-blur photos with enhanced image processing, 8MP front camera, 2700mAh battery, fast wired and wireless charging, IP67 water and dust resistance, and Android 8.0 Oreo.

The Pixel 2 XL isn’t much different, but it does have the bigger and almost bezel-less 6-inch pOLED Quad HD+ display and a bigger 3520mAh battery. The rest is the same.

Source: Darren Gloster

Android 7.1.2 Nougat update is now live for the Nokia 6

 By Vaibhav Jain on October 12, 2017       

We all know that Nokia is one of the fastest when it comes to updating it's Smartphones to the latest Android OS. Additionally Nokia Smartphone's Stock-like interface has never taken too long to update.

Just a few weeks back we reported that Android 7.1.2 Nougat update is in the works for Nokia 6 and now HMD has started rolling the update with latest October Android Security patch.

Android 7.1.2 is an incremental maintenance release focused on refinements, which includes bugfixes, optimizations, and a small number of enhancements for carriers and users. Along with these enhancements, it also brings new gesture 'Swipe fingerprint scanner to open notification'.

For now, the update is reportedly rolling out in phases for selected Nokia 6 users. This means that the Android 7.1.2 Nougat won't be coming to all devices at once, but selected users will get the update.

HMD recently announced that all the Nokia Android Smartphones inducing the Nokia 6 will be updated to Android 8.0 Oreo by the end of 2017.

Google Wallpapers brings Pixel 2 Wallpaper and Three New Categories

 By Vaibhav Jain on October 12, 2017       

The standalone Wallpapers app for Android recently picked up an internal server update which bought new wallpapers and categories. While the application changelog (Play Store) mentions nothing about this update, there are some noteworthy changes in the app itself.

Right after opening up the application, you can immediately notice a new category called 'Geometric Shapes,' which has all the colorful images. If you are a Google Pixel user, you can notice other two categories including Underwater, and Keep Looking.

Additionally, there's a new Pixel 2 Cityscape wallpaper, but you’ll need a Pixel or Pixel XL to access that one.

With the Wallpapers application, most of the Android users long search for a dedicated wallpaper service has ended and Google is regularly providing updates to the app.

Play Store

Google Nexus 6 finally receives Android 8.0 Oreo via Custom ROM

 By Vaibhav Jain on October 11, 2017       

How to Download and Install Android 8.0 Oreo on Nexus 6 (Shamu) | Unofficial AOSP Android Oreo Custom ROM for Motorola Nexus 6

Now that Google has released the next version of Android, Android 8.0 Oreo, the wait for the devices to get the update has already started. Additionally, Android Oreo is already available for Google Pixel and eligible Nexus devices.

However, Older Nexus phones like the Nexus 5 and Nexus 6 will not get the official update. But you can still install Android Oreo right now via SIX AOSP ROM. Developer "Frankie T (R3Ds)" has successfully ported Android 8.0 Oreo for the Nexus 6. Additionally, most major aspects of the phone are working as expected.

With Android 8.0 Oreo, you'll get new Settings and Notification panel UI, latest features including Picture in Picture (PIP), Adaptive icons, Autofill, Notification timeout, and new emojis.

You'll need to Unlock Bootloader and Install TWRP Custom Recovery in-order to Install the SIX AOSP Custom ROM based on Android 8.0 Oreo on Nexus 6 Shamu. You can grab the Custom Rom ZIP file from below.

Stay tuned to our Facebook and Twitter page to get the first News.

Download Nexus 6 Shamu

Direct Download: SIX ROM (// +FrankieTR3Ds)

Android 8.0 Oreo Gapps

September security patch rolling out to Moto Z Play

 By Vaibhav Jain on October 11, 2017       

The Moto Z Play on retbr, retin and retapac software channels are now getting the latest September Security patch with Stability Improvement and Bug fixes.

If you own a Moto Z Play in Brazil, India or HongKong you should have received the over-the-air update notification for September Security Patch, and it's crucial that you download it, as it brings along the fix for the critical BlueBorne Bluetooth attack.

The Blueborne vulnerability was discovered only recently. It’s a Bluetooth vulnerability that leaves Android devices open to a potential takeover by hackers. The vulnerability is also present in Windows, Linux and some iterations of iOS. Note that the device still runs Android 7.1.1 Nougat after the update.

Armis Reported that the BlueBorne spread through the air (airborne) and attacks devices via Bluetooth. Armis has also disclosed eight related zero-day vulnerabilities, four of which are classified as critical. BlueBorne allows attackers to take control of devices, access corporate data and networks, penetrate secure “air-gapped” networks, and spread malware laterally to adjacent devices. Armis reported these vulnerabilities to the responsible actors, and is working with them as patches are being identified and released.

September Android security update also resolves 30 issues dated 2017-09-01, and 51 issues in the one dated 2017-09-05. Vulnerabilities range from moderate to critical, and Google particularly notes that it provides "Android partners with the flexibility to more quickly fix a subset of vulnerabilities that are similar across all Android devices."

The September Android security update for the Moto Z Play comes with build no. NPN26.118-22-2. For a successful installation, the battery in your phone should be at least 50% charged and your device should be connected to a Wi-Fi network or LTE. If you haven't got the notification of this new software update yet, Just go to Settings - About Phone - Software updates, and It will automatically start downloading the latest update. The update will take around 10-15 minutes to get Installed on your device. Stay tuned to our Facebook and Twitter page to get the first News.

OnePlus reveals its secret plans for 2017 and 2018

 By Vaibhav Jain on October 11, 2017       

It's difficult to overstate the impact OnePlus has had on the Android smartphone market. From a startup to a respected OEM, OnePlus launched its first flagship killer OnePlus One back in 2014.

Recently, OnePlus celebrated the "Open Ears Forum" in London. Selected group of fans from all over Europe attended to share their experience directly with the experts and members of the OnePlus team. The Chinese firm's main purpose was to to hear first hand experiences and discuss their future plans to improve, getting instant feedback and working together on new ideas.

Now, for all those who were not able to participate in the event, OnePlus announced its plans for the rest of 2017 and 2018:

By the end of 2017: 

OnePlus plans to open two or more service centers in Europe to increase repair speed and equipment assistance.

Add a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page on their website so that customers can easily find the answer to most the common questions.

Develop a Backup application - So that any user can perform a general backup of all their data, in an easy and fast way. 

Celebrate a proximity event in every 6 months between the brand and customers to gather feedback.

Beginning of 2018:

Develop a diagnostic and troubleshooting application to facilitate customer-to-customer and technical support team contact.

Create Video Guides so any user learns to master their new OnePlus device easily.

"First Resolution" - Extra effort to resolve any situation / problem reported by a customer upon first contact.

During 2018: 

"Single Stop Service " - In case the problem is not solved, there's going to be the same person / technician to assist you until the problem is resolved.

Unify OnePlus Platforms - To provide faster assistance.

Offer the option of insurance, even when the device is purchased via operators.

It seems that OnePlus is planning big for future. Stay tuned to our Facebook and Twitter page to get the first News.

Android One Moto X4 (Project Fi) is facing shipping delays

 By Vaibhav Jain on October 10, 2017       

The Android One Moto X4 was announced near the end of September, with the promise the device would ship sometime in Mid October.

Now the users who ordered the Moto X4 are now facing shipping delays. Users that ordered from Project Fi got an email from Google saying there was a production delay and now devices will be shipping between 10/18 between 10/25.

Hi there,

Thanks for ordering a new Android One Moto X4 from Project Fi. A production delay has impacted the estimated ship date for your new device, and your device should now ship between 10/18 and 10/25. You'll receive a separate shipping confirmation as soon as your order ships.

If you have already planned to trade in another device with your order, you'll still have a full 30 days to send in your old phone after you receive your Android One Moto X4.

We apologize for any inconvenience and thank you again for your order. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to our support team. We look forward to sending out your new phone as soon as we can! — Project Fi team

The Moto X4 has a 5.2-inch full HD display, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 630 processor, with 4GB of RAM, 32/64GB of storage and a 3000mAh battery inside powering the device. It does also have dual 12+8 megapixel cameras on the back of the device, and it is made of glass with Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection.

The Android One Moto X4 is priced at $399 (INR 25,600). You can order one from Project Fi website.

Reddit

Modder builds his own custom Galaxy Note 3 with 3 3500mAh 18650 cells

 By Vaibhav Jain on October 10, 2017       

Back in 2013 Samsung announced the 3rd Generation Samsung Galaxy Note with 5.7 inches Super AMOLED, Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 / Exynos 5420 processor, 3GB RAM, and a 3200mAh battery.

Note 3 was one of the best Smartphone, However, it was from software side where several users complained to have issues including lag and battery drain.

Smartphones are very power hunger. Stock battery will last at most one day or less under normal usage. But this Note 3 user came up with an insane idea and modified his Smartphone's battery.

He used 3 3500mAh 18650 Rechargeable Lithium Li-on Batteries and modified the device's internal to enable external power supply. He also used a Lace-up Case to cover the hideous back. The Modder claims that the Mod can be removed easily and is 100% reversible.

Note that this Mod is not 100% safe and your battery may catch fire, melt or possibly explode.

Estimated Battery Life:

Source: Reddit