Today in Hip Hop History: The original motion picture soundtrack...

Today in Hip Hop History:
The original motion picture soundtrack for the film Juice was released December 31, 1991
Today in Hip Hop History:
The original motion picture soundtrack...

Weekly Recap: 2017, We Out!

2017 is ready to end, so to send it off like we know how, we hosted a special Droid Life Show today that recapped most of the year. We also shared our favorite Android phone of 2017, answered your questions for the 50th time, saw the Galaxy S9 take a major step closer to release, and might be able to truly wireless charge a phone soon. While a slow week, it was still packed with some major Android happenings.
Feel free to catch up through the handy list below and then be off to have a safe end of 2017.

WATCH: Droid Life Show Episode 161 | Subscribe
Feature: Our favorite Android phone of 2017
Poll: What’s your favorite Android phone of the year?
Q&A Sessions: Volume 50 answers are here!
Galaxy S9 and S9+ surprisingly show up at FCC already
Samsung, LG, HTC, and Motorola all aren’t throttling old phones
True wireless charging reached a major milestone
Question: Get any cool tech for Christmas?
Oreo updates for Moto Z2 Force on Verizon and T-Mobile
Chromebooks poised to become Android multi-tasking beasts
LG has a Google Assistant speaker to show off at CES
Huawei’s Mate 10 will like launch on AT&T next year

2017, good in tech, not so much in everything else.
Weekly Recap: 2017, We Out! is a post from: Droid Life
Weekly Recap: 2017, We Out!

The Droid Life Show: Episode 161 – PEACE, 2017.

On this final Droid Life Show of 2017, we’re running through another great year in Android. This may not be a day-by-day recap, but we’d love to talk about the big stories that stood out, preview CES a bit more, and even attempt to make a couple of 2018 predictions.
If that sounds like a good time, be on the lookout for topics like our discussion over Android phone of the year,  Google and its major focus on hardware, Essential swinging and missing pretty massively, how Samsung still managed to dominate after the Note 7 recall, and of course, the Droid Life redesign. We’ll touch on it all!
We’ll be live at 12:00PM Pacific (3:00PM Eastern).
If you miss us live and/or want the audio version of our podcast, you can subscribe through the various links below.
The Droid Life Show: Episode 161 – PEACE, 2017. is a post from: Droid Life
The Droid Life Show: Episode 161 – PEACE, 2017.

T-Mobile Moto Z2 Force Receives Oreo Update

It was only earlier this week when Oreo started rolling out to the Moto Z2 Force on Verizon. Now, it appears that the update is shipping out to owners of the device on T-Mobile, which is a great way to ring in the New Year.
The update includes picture-in-picture mode, native autofill, smart text selection, Bluetooth enhancements, faster and smoother running apps, more powerful background restrictions to help battery life, notification badges and channels, redesigned settings menu, a new calling experience, and more.
According to users on reddit, the update weighs in at 937.5MB, so make sure you’re on WiFi if the update arrives for you.
Be on the lookout, folks.
// T-Mobile Forums | reddit
T-Mobile Moto Z2 Force Receives Oreo Update is a post from: Droid Life
T-Mobile Moto Z2 Force Receives Oreo Update

Samsung and LG Also Say They Don’t Throttle Old Phone Performance Like Apple

Yesterday, Motorola and HTC told us that they aren’t throttling old phone performance like Apple was caught doing to the iPhone 6, 6s and 7. Today, Samsung and LG said similar things in statements to Phone Arena.
LG was a bit more enthusiastic in its statement, saying, “Never have, never will! We care what our customers think.” OK, then. Samsung was a bit more collected, noting that they use software tricks to adjust battery charging current and duration, but that they “do not reduce CPU performance through software updates over the lifecycles” of phones.
Here is Samsung’s full statement:
Samsung Electronics Co.,LTD.: Product quality has been and will always be Samsung Mobile’s top priority. We ensure extended battery life of Samsung mobile devices through multi-layer safety measures, which include software algorithms that govern the battery charging current and charging duration. We do not reduce CPU performance through software updates over the lifecycles of the phone.
So that’s four of the big dogs weighing in with confirmation that they don’t downgrade the performance of older phones in the way that Apple did because of aging batteries. Now we just need to hear from Google.
// Phone Arena
Samsung and LG Also Say They Don’t Throttle Old Phone Performance Like Apple is a post from: Droid Life
Samsung and LG Also Say They Don’t Throttle Old Phone Performance Like Apple

OnePlus 5T Update Brings More Camera Improvements, December Security Patch

OnePlus announced the pushing out of OxygenOS 4.7.6 for the OnePlus 5T this week, bringing a few camera improvements as well as December’s security patch.
More specifically, OnePlus notes camera stability improvements, clarity improvements for selfie shooters in low light, as well as performance improvements for those using the camera through a 3rd-party app.
Other changes include assistive lighting for face unlock and improvements for expanded screenshot.
Here’s the complete changelog.
Changelog

Camera

Stability improvements
Clarity improvements for selfie in low light
Performance improvements for 3rd party camera apps


System

Added assistive lighting for face unlock
Improvements for expanded screenshot
Improvements for Wi-Fi display
Updated Android security patch to December



// OnePlus
OnePlus 5T Update Brings More Camera Improvements, December Security Patch is a post from: Droid Life
OnePlus 5T Update Brings More Camera Improvements, December Security Patch

Our Favorite Android Phone of 2017

2017 has been one of the best years in memory with regard to the many different options out there for Android smartphone buyers. In fact, the competition was so good that we had to publicly address it in a post where we admit that we didn’t know which phone you should buy. It seemed that each major OEM had a winner, and from a consumer standpoint, it doesn’t get much better than that.
Google brought the heat with the Pixel 2/Pixel 2 XL lineup, Samsung continued its trend of hardware amazingness, and LG seriously upped its game in 2017 with the G6 and truly great V30. Honestly, folks, I don’t know if we’ll have another year like this in smartphones, so let’s take a moment to reflect on the fun we’ve had.
While we wish we could give awards to every phone we enjoyed, let’s cut to the chase and name our Favorite Android Phone of 2017!

Favorite: Pixel 2 XL
The original Pixel and Pixel XL were runner ups in 2016, but this year, Google improved upon the Pixel lineup enough to earn them the highest honors. While the Pixel 2 is also a very good phone, we’re giving Phone of the Year (POTY) to the Pixel 2 XL specifically, with its larger battery, larger QHD display, and lovely industrial design.
When asked why I enjoy using the Pixel 2 XL so much, it’s pretty easy for me to sum up the experience. The 2 XL offers one of the best mobile photography experiences available, capable of delivering shots with a single sensor that some phones can’t provide with two, software so uncluttered yet feature rich that you never feel as if you’re missing out on something, plus timely updates and the possibility to test the latest versions of Android and the features they bring before any other device. Overblown display drama aside, as an Android lover, you just can’t ask for much else.
What helped push the Pixel 2 XL into POTY territory is a few changes that I should highlight, because they do add to the overall positive ownership experience. If you didn’t check out our written review, Google improved the device’s water resistance to a rating of IP67 and also gave us dual front-facing speakers that get quite loud. Recalling our original Pixel and Pixel XL review, both of those things were addressed as something we’d like to have, so the company delivered on each negative thing we had to say last year.
What can we say, we’re suckers for the Pixel.



Runner Ups

Galaxy S8+
Samsung gave us three solid devices this year, the Galaxy S8, S8+, and Note 8. When choosing which to highlight, the S8+ seems to combine the best of the S8 and Note 8 into a single package. You’re getting Samsung’s latest iteration of its software, larger battery and display over the standard S8, but the phone also proves to be rather easily handled in most cases thanks to its excellent design, unlike the Note 8.
In our review of the Galaxy S8+, we loved its 6.2″ Infinity display, better-than-average battery life, superb camera, Samsung’s non ditching of the headphone jack, and of course, Samsung Pay (it’s still the best mobile payment service). While Samsung’s hardware is already top notch, Samsung has also been working on its software in 2017 and as someone who has been using Samsung devices for years, the improvements are very noticeable. Where there used to be serious lag and jank, things are getting quite smooth and multitasking is rather pleasant. We hope Samsung continues this trend because software is such an important aspect of the overall experience.
Honestly, we’re pretty excited for 2018’s Galaxy S9 and we think you should be, too.
Tie: OnePlus 5T / Galaxy Note 8
Trying to round out this post wasn’t so easy, so we had to give this position to two devices, the OnePlus 5T and Galaxy Note 8. Both devices earned high honors, but for different reasons.
Let’s go over the OnePlus 5T first.
The latest offering from OnePlus brings a much-enjoyed hardware redesign, with very minimal bezel and the fingerprint reader moved to the backside of the phone. On top of a sweet look, the phone’s software is still just as good as you’d expect, featuring many customization options and good performance. On top of that, the battery life was very noteworthy, the dual camera setup on the backside is solid, and OnePlus’ pricing structure is still something you can’t argue against. It’s a great phone for any Android buyer.
As for the Galaxy Note 8, what a nice phone (written review here). After last year’s recall fiasco, we’re happy to report that no issues have been reported with the Note 8, already making this a major improvement for the Note series. Samsung included the Infinity display design, a very good dual camera setup on the back, as well as battery life that went above and beyond for me during the review process.
If you were looking for a negative, it’d have to be the price. At over $900, the Note 8 isn’t exactly accessible by everyone, making it a phone best left to only those who will really get usage out of everything it offers — S Pen, water resistance, dual cameras, and everything else that adds up to such a steep price.
Here’s our OnePlus 5T video review in case you missed it.



Honorable Mention


Razer Phone – For Razer’s first attempt at a flagship Android smartphone, the Razer Phone is pretty slick (review here). While the battery life is great and software is good, what gets the Razer Phone an honorable mention is its display tech. Unlike any other device, Razer provided a panel capable of a 120Hz refresh rate, which you can actually see in action when compared to any other phone with 60Hz (basically all other Android phones). There’s something about scrolling through the phone’s UI or playing a game that supports the upped refresh rate that is extremely satisfying. Fingers crossed we see more of this from other device makers in the future.
LG V30 – Considering the terrible offering LG provided in 2016 (*cough G5 cough*), the company sought serious redemption this year. In the first half of the year, we got the G6, which was a fantastic step forward from the G5 and its take on modularity, but then in the second half the company launched the V30. What a crazy improvement over anything else LG has ever released (review here). The phone sports a gorgeous industrial design, great camera, software that doesn’t want me to hammer my head in, and good battery life. If it wasn’t for such stiff competition this year, LG could have easily pulled off a top 3 spot this year.

Think we made a mistake? It wouldn’t be the first time. What’s your vote for 2017 Phone of the Year?
Our Favorite Android Phone of 2017 is a post from: Droid Life
Our Favorite Android Phone of 2017

Motorola and HTC Say They Don’t Throttle Old Phones Like Apple

Remember when Apple got caught throttling old iPhones without telling anyone and called it a “feature” as if they were doing old iPhone owners a favor and not subtly pushing them to upgrade? Yeah, we haven’t forgot. With that said, we openly wondered at the time that story broke if any Android phone manufacturers were doing similar sneaky things. Because look, even as followers of the Android beat, we can admit that it would be equally as awful for Android phone makers to do something similar without letting us know.
The Verge reached out to just about everyone they could for comment and are now starting to hear back. HTC and Motorola were the first to provide statements, both of which denied that they do anything similar to what Apple was caught doing to older iPhones. HTC said that throttling performance “is not something we do,” while Motorola said “We do not throttle CPU performance based on older batteries.” Well, that’s good!
Google, Samsung, LG, and Sony, were asked for comment as well. Sony couldn’t provide an immediate response because of the holidays, and Samsung said it was looking into it. It doesn’t sound like Google or LG have commented at all.
So we’ll keep you updated on Android manufacturer responses to Apple’s throttling and whether or not they perform similar actions to their older phones. At this point, we haven’t seen evidence suggesting that any of them do and it could turn out that this is just an Apple thing. Bad, Apple.
// The Verge
Motorola and HTC Say They Don’t Throttle Old Phones Like Apple is a post from: Droid Life
Motorola and HTC Say They Don’t Throttle Old Phones Like Apple

Thursday Poll: What’s Your Favorite Android Phone From 2017?

We just crowned the Pixel 2 XL as Phone of the Year for 2017. but now it’s your turn! With this poll, simply choose the phone you think earns the highest honors for this year, but beware, there are a lot of great options to choose from.
Choosing which phone you think is best is purely subjective, so don’t think there is ever a wrong answer. What works for some may not work for others, so it’s all about personal preference. Maybe you don’t need a massive screen and S Pen or you’re simply not a fan of the Pixel’s software experience? It’s all good, this is your vote!
So, which phone is getting your vote this year and why?
Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.
Thursday Poll: What’s Your Favorite Android Phone From 2017? is a post from: Droid Life
Thursday Poll: What’s Your Favorite Android Phone From 2017?

Chromebooks Could Get a Huge Boost to Multi-Tasking in Android Apps With Chrome 64 Update

After declaring the death of Android tablets following the release of Android apps to Chromebooks, I think it’s safe to say that the Android app experience hasn’t gotten off to the blazing start we hoped. While Android tablets are most certainly not in demand and with few makers today, Google’s push to get Android apps up and working well on Chromebooks is still a work in progress. With the next update for Chrome OS, we could see a major boost to that experience, though.
As discovered by the crew at Chrome Unboxed, it appears as if Chrome Beta 64 will usher in Android Parallel Tasks. The name explains a bit of what we’ll get, but the basics here are that you’ll soon be able to run Android apps simultaneously without each pausing as you jump from one to the next.
Currently, should you open multiple Android apps on a Chromebook, those not in the active window will pause from working. As you tap back into them, they’ll resume where you left off, but you can probably already understand why the pause needs to go away on a device like this. For a phone, it makes sense to pause some apps as you switch between them, since you can mostly only see a single app at a time. But with a Chromebook, which attempts to bring you a desktop-like computing experience, true multi-tasking doesn’t involve an app pausing, especially if an app still in view has potentially live info you would like to see even if the app isn’t the active window at the moment.
Again, Chrome 64 could bring this functionality, assuming Google keeps it through Chrome Beta 64. Google doesn’t always bring everything from its beta builds to stable, but it often does. If a feature is dismissed, we tend to see that happen between dev and beta channels.
For Chromebook owners, be on the lookout for Chrome 64 and then start playing with this new multi-tasking functionality. And for those of you already running the Chrome 64 Beta, give it a shot and tell us what you think.
To see this in action, checkout the video below.



// Chrome Unboxed
Chromebooks Could Get a Huge Boost to Multi-Tasking in Android Apps With Chrome 64 Update is a post from: Droid Life
Chromebooks Could Get a Huge Boost to Multi-Tasking in Android Apps With Chrome 64 Update

Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ Show Up at FCC Already

In a completely unexpected (because it seems insanely early) move, the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ both stopped off at the FCC this week. I’m not kidding, we have listings for both phones under model numbers SM-G960F (S9) and SM-G965F (S9+). While these listings don’t necessarily mean that the new S9 line-up will arrive early, it at least has us considering that they might.
Let’s talk about it.
Two FCC listings popped up yesterday as A3LSMG960F and A3LSMG965F. The A3L portion is Samsung’s grantee code at the FCC where all their smartphones will be filed under. The second portion – the SMG960F and SMG965F – is for the product code, which Samsung uses based off the model number of their phones. For example, we saw SMG950U, SMG955U, and SMN950U for last year’s unlocked Galaxy S8, S8+, and Galaxy Note 8.
In terms of timing, this seems incredibly early when you look back at the S8, Note 8, and even the S7 and Note 7 FCC certifications. The S8 showed up at the FCC in March 2017 and then went on sale in April. The Note 8 showed up at the FCC in July 2017 and then went up for sale at the end of August. The Galaxy S7 showed up in February 2016 and then went up for sale in March. And finally, the Galaxy Note 7 showed up in July 2016 and then went up for sale in August. Seeing a pattern here? Samsung sends its phones for FCC approval and then begins selling them a month later.
Will they do that this time? Again, that’s tough to say. We’re talking about months and months early for FCC certifications. Should Samsung follow the past couple of years worth of timelines, that would mean the release of the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ in January. That would be nuts, and so far, we have no indication that that will happen other than a single report about a CES tease. Other reports suggest a February unveiling.
No matter what happens, this early FCC arrival sure has confused us.
But let’s talk about what’s in the FCC filings, as they do reveal some details. For one, the model numbers match up to what we expect for the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+. The G960 and G965 will follow the G950 (S8), G955 (S8+), G930 (S7), G935 (S7+), G920 (S6), and G925 (S6 Edge). Specifically, though, these are G960F and G965F, with the “F” here previously indicating an international unlocked model. For the past few releases, Samsung has used a “U” for US models, including the US unlocked versions. So this could just be a really early international unlocked model at the FCC for whatever reason.
It does show support for all of the major US LTE bands, including those from Verizon. Take a look.

As you can see there, CDMA support isn’t included, but again, all of Verizon’s LTE bands are there (Sprint’s too). Plus, we have full LTE support on AT&T and T-Mobile, as well as T-Mobile’s Band 66. These look like phones that will work universally in the US, as long as you won’t need to connect to Big Red’s CDMA network, which is now less and less a requirement.
The docs don’t reveal much else, although we do know the battery model number on the Galaxy S9+ is EB-BG965ABE. Someone with a parts catalogue who works in the smartphone repair business, feel free to look that up.
We’ll let you know if we find anything else.
Anyone think there is a chance we see the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ release earlier than usual?
// FCC [2] | Galaxy Club
Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ Show Up at FCC Already is a post from: Droid Life
Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ Show Up at FCC Already

LG to Introduce Its First Smart Speaker With Google Assistant at CES

During our Q&A session yesterday, we were asked about our expectations for CES this year. I said that I just assume that everyone will introduce Alexa and Google Assistant powered whatevers, because this is the new wave of tech fun that’s easy to jump on, sort of like tablets and smartwatches once were. So far, LG is helping with that prediction, thanks to the introduction of their first “premium sounding speaker with Google Assistant” on board. This is the LG ThinQ and it’ll arrive at CES.
LG didn’t talk much on details, only suggesting that they “teamed up” with Google to make this the ultimate speaker assistant with Google Assistant. It should produce “high-quality sound” too, using Meridian Audio technology, and can even play High Resolution Audio from high quality lossless files.
Of course, it’ll fire up with “OK, Google” and control your smart home or set reminders or get you the weather, just like other Assistant-equipped speakers. It has top controls, comes in a circular/cylindrical form factor, and appears to show LED lights to let you know that magic is happening as you use it.
Pricing and availability hasn’t been announced yet.
// LG
LG to Introduce Its First Smart Speaker With Google Assistant at CES is a post from: Droid Life
LG to Introduce Its First Smart Speaker With Google Assistant at CES

Expect the Huawei Mate 10 to Launch on AT&T This February With a Whole Lot of Advertising

According to the latest report from The Information, Huawei will look to launch the Mate 10 in February, 2018, aligning with comments made earlier this month from Huawei’s president of consumer electronics.
Not only does this new report back up those previous comments by Huawei, but it also mentions that the China-based company will spend around $100 million in advertising to make its brand more known in the US.
Considering you’re reading an Android blog, you likely already know that Huawei’s devices have been on sale in the US through unlocked avenues, but this would be the first time a flagship launch would take place via a US carrier. It’s a major step for Huawei, one that will surely cost the company a pretty penny in terms of name recognition.
If you aren’t familiar with the Mate 10, it features a 5.9-inch QHD LCD display, Kirin 970 processor, dual Leica-branded cameras, 4,000mAh battery, and comes with Androids 8.0 Oreo out of the box.
As more details are made available, likely at CES, we’ll keep you posted.
// The Information (Subscription)
Expect the Huawei Mate 10 to Launch on AT&T This February With a Whole Lot of Advertising is a post from: Droid Life
Expect the Huawei Mate 10 to Launch on AT&T This February With a Whole Lot of Advertising

Google Eyes Retail Stores in India, Makes Me Jealous

According to a new report out of India, Google could soon launch brick-and-mortar stores in the country to push its hardware offerings, namely the Pixel brand. Speaking to three sources who are familiar with Google’s plan, the India Times reports that the shops and possibly a few “experience centers” will launch some time in 2018 at large malls.
Fueling this concept is the popularity of pop-up shops Google hosted in Indian malls recently. The pop-up shops must’ve done quite well, as it is reported Google has hired an ex-Apple senior executive as part of the retail plan and requests for store space have already been received by two large malls.
For us in the US, the best we can do to get hands-on with Google hardware at launch is through Best Buy, other select retailers, and carrier stores. As far as I know, Best Buy is one of the only places you can actually spend some time with a Pixelbook before dropping over $1,000 on one, so the idea of an actual Google store is incredibly tantalizing to someone like me.
What say you? If Google were to open up physical retail locations in the US, would you check them out?
// India Times
Google Eyes Retail Stores in India, Makes Me Jealous is a post from: Droid Life
Google Eyes Retail Stores in India, Makes Me Jealous

HUGE: True Over-The-Air “Wireless” Charging Gets First FCC Certification

Wireless charging as we know it has never really been very wireless. Sure, it hasn’t required us to plug-in our phone to charge, but it has required contact between two devices (one of which is plugged in) in order to push current. What if that wasn’t the future, though? What if the future of wireless charging just asked that you be within a range of a transmitter that could top off your battery or keep it charged at all times? That future reached a major milestone today.
A company called Energous has created a product called WattUp. WattUp is what I would call a true wireless charging solution that works at a distance, without contact. We’re talking about them today because Energous received the industry’s first FCC certification for their over-the-air, power-at-a-distance wireless charging tech. This is huge!
How does WattUp work? It’s pretty simple really. My best example would be to tell you to think about your current WiFi router. WattUp works similarly, in that you would have a WattUp transmitter in your house that would send an RF (radio frequency) signal to a receiver in your phone, tablet, wireless earbuds, smartwatch, keyboards, mice, etc. That signal is capable of powering up your battery using “energy packets” within varying distances depending on the transmitter. Today, Energous specifically received FCC certification on their WattUp Mid Field transmitter that can charge devices at up to 3 feet.
Energous says that with their technology, you could control charging through an app, see the connection strength of each device, set a preference over which devices are charged first, stop charging when your devices reach 100%, set charging times, and even have something charge automatically when it’s nearby. This wireless charging tech, which they are calling Wireless Charging 2.0, can do both power-at-a-distance and contact wireless charging.
The goal going forward from Energous is to get WattUp built into technology. We’ll need transmitters and receivers in everything if we want this to become a big part of our lives. They’ll aim to get transmitters in the bezels of computer monitors, soundbars, smart speakers, TVs, smart lighting, and other electronics.
What do you think? Does this sound like the wireless charging future you always dreamed of?



// Energous
HUGE: True Over-The-Air “Wireless” Charging Gets First FCC Certification is a post from: Droid Life
HUGE: True Over-The-Air “Wireless” Charging Gets First FCC Certification

Droid Life Q&A Sessions: Volume 50 Answers!

It took us a while, only because of the holiday, but Volume 50 of the DL Q&A Sessions is now complete!
This time around, folks wanted to know our take on cryptocurrency, what we expect from CES next month, how Google can improve its next Pixel device, and what our biggest surprise has been over the years we have been blogging about Android. Thank you to everyone who got a question in for this historic post!
Let’s get to it, shall we?

Reminder: K is Kellen, T is Tim.
What are your thoughts on cryptocurrency?
K:  I have almost zero take on cryptocurrency. I don’t follow it enough and only learn anything about it when its value spikes and nerds freak out as if they are going to be rich forever, only to learn a week later that all their supposed cryptoworth is gone because its volatile as hell and life sucks. I own no Bitcoin.
T:  When Bitcoin was on that massive rise, I bought $5 USD worth. As of right now, I’m down $0.41. It’s fun, but I’m not about to dump any real money into alt coins or anything of the sort. I’m just not a risk taker.
What is your favorite beer that is not from Oregon.
K:  So tough. I always drink Bongwater from Kettlehouse when in Montana, or Dancing Trout from Bayern. Big fan of Modern Times’ beer, specifically Critical Band. Super excited too, because they are opening a taproom in Portland in a couple of months. But that’s a hard question to answer, because the beer here is so good and there are always new breweries doing new and awesome stuff, that we don’t have to drink anything but Oregon beer.
T:  My favorite beer ever is a witbier from Lost Coast Brewery (Humboldt County, CA) called Great White. It’s not the greatest beer ever brewed or anything like that, but it’s perfect for the summer time and always reminds me of home no matter where I go.

Thoughts on the new Star Wars?
K:  It was fine. It wasn’t the best Star Wars, yet it was far from the worst. Too much comedy. Still entertaining. Lots of scenes that should have been left out of the movie, as they were a waste and nothing but filler (ex: almost anything Finn did). Some sweet lightsaber action scenes that we don’t get enough of in Star Wars movies. It’s probably a decent middle flick leading up to what should be a great end. Everyone should stop wanting it to be another Empire just because it’s the 2nd in a 3-part series. That’s dumb.
T:  SPOILER ALERT: Luke Skywalker, who finds out his father was killed by Darth Vader, then learns his father is Darth Vader, makes it his mission in life to bring his father back to the Light. Many years later, his nephew Ben Solo is having some bad dreams and Luke determines for a brief moment that it would be best to murder him in his sleep? Nope. Nope. NOPE. I have a fundamental issue with Skywalker’s character in this movie, but speaking purely about the movie itself, it was very entertaining and I absolutely loved the Throne Room scene with the Praetorian Guards. Oh, and Snoke isn’t done yet!
Is there anything you actually like about the iPhones more than androids?
K:  No. Not a fan of iPhone design, and certainly cannot stand the software. If you really need something, I’d say that because Apple has only a couple of phones that sell in the millions upon millions, companies often adopt their ideas first and target iPhones, which means Android phones get left out. That sucks.
T:  iPhones still have a better app experience over Android, I think. Many apps and experience seem tailor made for iPhones, and as an Android fanboy, that can still be frustrating that we aren’t getting that kinda love. I like that walled garden aspect sometimes, too, but Android has gotten so good over the years that I’m not too concerned anymore.

Over the time you’ve blogged about Android, what’s been your biggest surprise?
K:  I think it was shocking early on when Android kept getting crapped on by Apple fanboys and then all of a sudden Android market share had jumped on past the iPhone and never looked back. It came so quickly, that I don’t think a lot of people realized that Android was even close to becoming #1 and then it just was. Another surprise would be the fact that no one can compete with Samsung. I know they have a marketing budget like none other, but it still confuses me that no one else can figure out a way to compete and sell many phones. We’ve got smart people working for these other companies (Google, HTC, Motorola, etc.), yet no one can dent Samsung’s wall. And it has been this way for years.
T: I suppose the biggest surprise is how nice many people in this industry are. There are a lot of Android bloggers, believe it or not, and I’ve had the pleasure of meeting many of them over the course of my time at DL. We’ve hung out with the good people from Phandroid, Android Police, Android Spin, plus many others. We all have a love for tech goodies in common, so it’s always fun to discuss the latest trends or announcements with them whether it be in person or through social media. Props to everyone who works year round to bring Android news to the masses!
What do you hope to see in the Pixel 3?
K:  I want Google to add that extra bit of hardware polish that Samsung and Apple do. I love the Pixel phones, but we shouldn’t spend three weeks talking about the low-quality display they have. We shouldn’t be talking about clicking speakers and dongles that don’t work out of the box and other quality control issues and a terrible trade-in program. We should be talking about their cameras and software experience and designs. But because Google doesn’t seem to be able to dial it in fully, it’s nothing but overhyped drama.
T:  To me, the Pixel 2 XL is the perfect Android phone. It has an amazing camera, great design, and fantastic software. It’s unfortunate that people could only talk about blue tint and other misc. issues, though, all of which I think was tech-journo nonsense. I’m not saying those issues didn’t exist, I just think it was overblown by folks who wanted to get clicks on their website. If Google wants to improve on the Pixel 2 and 2 XL, I suppose focusing on these few issues will help potential buyers look past them, but even with those “issues,” I don’t think there’s much to change. If you’re still on the fence, just do it already!

Who are your AFC & NFC picks for the Super Bowl?
K:  I don’t think I’ve watched an NFL game all year. Sooooo, I’ll just assume that the Patriots will probably roll everyone as usual in the AFC. In the NFC, I’m surprised that all these garbage teams are good, like the Vikings and Saints and Rams. So who knows! I just hope whichever team it is, they beat the god damn Patriots in the Super Bowl.
T: Patriots seem like a safe bet for the AFC, while the NFC is a bit more complicated. I’ll go with the Eagles, though. And for extra bonus points, the Patriots will beat the Eagles with a score of 27 to 24.
What do you think your takeaway will be from CES in 2018?
K:  That Google Assistant and Alexa are going to be in everything on top of everything they are already in, that VR is still a gimmick that people have figured out ways to produce even cheaper, that because VR is a gimmick they’ll all have sights on AR too, and that CES is actually pretty fun still, even if crusty tech journos can’t stop complaining about it because they are likely boring people.
T:  The big takeaway will be how many dumb things can have Assistant and Alexa built-in. There are some good implementations out there, sure, but I see many as being very silly and not worth the effort or price.

Check out previous Q&A Sessions!
Droid Life Q&A Sessions: Volume 50 Answers! is a post from: Droid Life
Droid Life Q&A Sessions: Volume 50 Answers!

Verizon’s Posts Moto Z2 Force Oreo Update Changelog, Should Arrive Today

A couple of lucky Moto Z2 Force owners received an update to Android Oreo back on December 22. The news was surprising because Verizon hadn’t posted a changelog for the update or told us that one was coming. After a few days of silence, we now have update details and are expecting a wider rollout of the update to begin today.
The update is software version ODX27.109-34 and is indeed Android 8.0 “Oreo.” It officially includes picture-in-picture mode, native autofill, smart text selection, adaptive icons in the launcher, Bluetooth enhancements, faster and smoother running apps, more powerful background restrictions to help battery life, notification badges and channels, redesigned settings menu, a new calling experience, and more. The full list of changes can be found at the link below.
To check for this update, which is one of the first Oreo updates (it might be the first) to be pushed to a carrier-tied phone, head into Settings>System updates.
// Verizon
Cheers roseman!
Verizon’s Posts Moto Z2 Force Oreo Update Changelog, Should Arrive Today is a post from: Droid Life
Verizon’s Posts Moto Z2 Force Oreo Update Changelog, Should Arrive Today

Verizon Posts Updates for Galaxy S6, S6 Edge, S6 Edge+, Note 5, LG G5 Too

Along with the Moto Z2 Force’s Oreo update, plus a handful of security patches for this year’s Samsung releases, Verizon is also updating the Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 Edge, Galaxy S6 Edge+, Galaxy Note 5, and LG G5 today.
For the Samsung devices (S6 line + Note 5), all we’re getting is the December security patch. I hate to sound so bored by that, because Samsung and Verizon should get credit for delivering the December patch in December to phones that are almost 3 years old, but you get it.
For the LG G5, Verizon has bumped the security version up to the November security patch and also included AppFlash, their super awful advertising panel that attempts to act like Google now. You should disable it the minute it is installed following this update.
Here are all of the new software versions:

Galaxy Note 5 (N920VVRU3CQL4)
Galaxy S6 (G920VVRU4DQL1)
Galaxy S6 Edge (G925VVRU4DQL1)
Galaxy S6 Edge+ (G928VVRU3CQL4)
LG G5 (VS9872CA)

Depending on the phone, you should be able to check for the update by heading into Settings>System updates or Settings>About phone>Check for updates.
// Verizon [2] [3] [4] [5]
Verizon Posts Updates for Galaxy S6, S6 Edge, S6 Edge+, Note 5, LG G5 Too is a post from: Droid Life
Verizon Posts Updates for Galaxy S6, S6 Edge, S6 Edge+, Note 5, LG G5 Too

HQ Trivia Arrives on Android in Limited Beta, Full Availability by January 1

HQ Trivia, the iOS-only trivia game with prizes that became so popular it spawned immediate knock-offs, arrived on Android this weekend. Unfortunately, it’s only available as a limited beta and pre-registration, so the chances of you being able to test it today are not good.
Its creators said via Tweet that they are working on patches to this first release and will continue to give more testers access throughout the rest of this week. At the end of this week, which also happens to be the beginning of 2018, their goal is to have it ready for everyone. In other words, by January 1, you could be playing HQ Trivia with all of your iOS and Android friends.
If you are interested in playing (it’s live trivia with a host that includes cash prizes), hit up that link below and pre-register. You never know, you might just be one of the lucky beta testers.
Google Play Link


Android update: we’re in limited beta as of Christmas Day & are working quickly on patches, so we can continue to roll it out to more testers throughout the week. Our goal is to make it available to ALL by Jan. 1.
Pre-register for updates: https://t.co/h47yTsixNJ
— HQ Trivia (@hqtrivia) December 26, 2017

HQ Trivia Arrives on Android in Limited Beta, Full Availability by January 1 is a post from: Droid Life
HQ Trivia Arrives on Android in Limited Beta, Full Availability by January 1

Question of the Day: Get Any Cool Tech for Christmas?

As a person who works in the tech industry, people never buy me tech items for Xmas. It’s kind of sad, but I also get why, since there is a chance I have everything I need in this category of present. I do like to handout tech over the holidays, though. In fact, this was the year of the Google Home Mini. Not only were all retailers running a heck of a deal on the Mini, making it an easy grab, I got everyone regular Google Home units last year and so the Mini was the perfect complement for them to expand their smart home ecosystem.
What about you? Did you get any cool tech items over the weekend? New smartphones? Google Home units? Amazon Echo products? A mesh WiFi system? Cases? Fast chargers?
Let us know in the comments!
Question of the Day: Get Any Cool Tech for Christmas? is a post from: Droid Life
Question of the Day: Get Any Cool Tech for Christmas?

Moto X4 Android One Gets Oreo Update Too!

I’d love to tell you that I have more news to share on this post-holiday Tuesday outside of Oreo updates for phones, but that’s what we’re working with. And hey, Oreo updates are awesome, especially since it’s not yet 2018 and companies are coming through.
The latest Android Oreo update we can share involves the Moto X4 Android One (our review). Since this is mostly a Google-controlled phone, this isn’t the most shocking of arrivals.
The update is software version OP217.1 and is Android 8.0, not Android 8.1.

What’s new in Android 8.0? The screenshot above doesn’t say, but in general, Android 8.0 brought picture-in-picture mode, notification channels, notification dots to the launcher, native autofill support for password lockers, fresh emoji, and more. You can see the full list here.
To check for the update, head into Settings>About phone>System updates.
// reddit
Moto X4 Android One Gets Oreo Update Too! is a post from: Droid Life
Moto X4 Android One Gets Oreo Update Too!

Verizon Galaxy S8, S8+, Galaxy Note 8 All Pick-Up Update Today

As a late Xmas present, Samsung and Verizon are pushing updates to the Galaxy S8, Galaxy S8+, and Galaxy Note 8 today. Each includes the December security patch and not much else, but we’ll take it.
The Galaxy S8 will see software version G950USQS2BQL1, the Galaxy S8+ will see G955USQS2BQL1, and the Galaxy Note 8 will get N950USQS2BQL5. Again, that’s all we know, outside of the December 1 security patch being included.
We’re under the impression that the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ will gain access to Verizon’s Gigabit LTE network before the end of the year as well, though they won’t comment to us on if that’s still going to happen or not. Either way, the last set of updates for those two phones prepared them for Gigabit LTE launch.
To check for each update, head into Settings>System updates.
// Verizon [2] [3]
Verizon Galaxy S8, S8+, Galaxy Note 8 All Pick-Up Update Today is a post from: Droid Life
Verizon Galaxy S8, S8+, Galaxy Note 8 All Pick-Up Update Today

DEAL: Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL Still $300 Off at Verizon, Best Buy, and Target

It’s the day after Christmas, so I’d imagine that a few of you have some cash to spend. If you were holding out until this moment to pickup a Pixel 2 or Pixel 2 XL, you are still in luck, as Verizon, Best Buy, and Target have kept up their $300-off Pixel 2 deal. I think the deal ends soon, though.
How does this deal work? You get $300 off either the Pixel 2 or Pixel 2 XL (no trade required), but that’s not upfront. Instead, Verizon, Best Buy, and Target are locking you into a 2-year contract by spreading out that $300 over a 24-month period. So yes, you’ll have to sign-up for a device payment plan that’ll last 24 months in order to see the full $300 Pixel 2 discount.
As an added bonus, Target is also giving out $250 gift cards when you buy a Pixel 2 or Pixel 2 XL. To get that, you’ll need to upgrade or add a new line of service.
If you are cool with that and plan to stay with Verizon for the next couple of years, your prices would be:

Pixel 2 (64GB): $14.58/mo
Pixel 2 (128GB): $18.75/mo
Pixel 2 XL (64GB): $22.91/mo
Pixel 2 XL (128GB): $27.08/mo

Overall, it’s a pretty good Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL deal, again, if you plan to hang with Verizon. If you don’t, then yeah, this isn’t a great deal. If you want a Pixel 2 deal and also want nothing to do with Verizon, you should go to the Google Store where the Pixel 2 is $50 off and the Pixel 2 XL is still $75 off. Don’t forget that Google will take trade-ins too, which means an even cheaper Pixel 2.
Pixel 2 Deal Links:

Verizon: Pixel 2 | Pixel 2 XL
Best Buy: Pixel 2 | Pixel 2 XL
Target: Pixel 2 | Pixel 2 XL

DEAL: Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL Still $300 Off at Verizon, Best Buy, and Target is a post from: Droid Life
DEAL: Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL Still $300 Off at Verizon, Best Buy, and Target

OnePlus 5 is Getting 5T’s Face Unlock, Grabs Official Oreo for Now

OnePlus handed out a couple of Christmas gifts yesterday to OnePlus 5 owners. The update to Android Oreo (8.0) and OxygenOS 5.0 arrived in stable form after having previously only been available as a beta for a month. Additionally, Carl Pei announced that the Face Unlock feature from the OnePlus 5T will soon come to the OnePlus 5.
Since the Oreo update began rolling out yesterday, it could be some time before you all get it on your devices. OnePlus pushes these incrementally, so if you aren’t one of the first few to pull it, you’ll have to wait until the following day to try again.
The update includes not only Android 8.0, but a new camera UI, optimizations to the launcher, a “Places” tab in the gallery, and tweaks to the Quick Settings and Lift Up Display features. The full list can be seen below.

Updated to Android O (8.0)
Launcher

Optimizations for Shelf
Now you can upload your photo through Shot on OnePlus




Camera

New Camera UI design
Optimizations for photo quality
Added beauty effect for Portrait Mode




Gallery

Added “Places” tab for viewing photos on a map




Calculator

Added history feature




Clock

Added alarm calendar feature




System

Added Parallel Apps feature
New design for Quick Settings
New design for Lift up display
Added “Adaptive model” screen calibration
Optimizations for Wi-Fi
Optimizations for Battery Saver
Updated Android security patch to December



As for the Face Unlock stuff, Pei didn’t say when we’d get it on the OnePlus 5, only that it’s “coming.” I’d call that a nice upgrade or feature addition too. While I’m not the biggest Face Unlock fan in the world, because I feel like companies are going to start cutting fingerprint readers in place of facial recognition like Apple did, OnePlus’ take on it is fast and also a solid compliment to your secure setup.
As we learn more about timing, we’ll let you know.


Due to popular demand, Face Unlock is coming for the OnePlus 5. Thanks for the feedback, and merry Christmas! 🎅🎄🎁
— Carl Pei (@getpeid) December 24, 2017

// OnePlus
OnePlus 5 is Getting 5T’s Face Unlock, Grabs Official Oreo for Now is a post from: Droid Life
OnePlus 5 is Getting 5T’s Face Unlock, Grabs Official Oreo for Now

LG V30 Picks Up Android 8.0 “Oreo” Update

In Korea.
After going into beta back in early November through the “LG OS Preview” program, LG released stable Android Oreo to the V30 in Korea this morning. That preview build let only 500 people get in on the early Oreo action, but LG is ready to send it out now to everyone.
The update includes improved speed, battery, and “basic” performance improvements, picture-in-picture mode, and enhanced screen configuration, graphics, and other “convenience” features. That’s all from a Google translation, since the news was delivered from LG’s social blog out of Korea. But that all lines up with what they previously told us to expect.
We still don’t have word on when the LG V30 in the US will see the update to Oreo. There is an unlocked model that could get it sooner than later, but the rest will have to go through carrier channels for approval. We all know what that means.
// LG
LG V30 Picks Up Android 8.0 “Oreo” Update is a post from: Droid Life
LG V30 Picks Up Android 8.0 “Oreo” Update

Pixel 2 Beats iPhone X, Galaxy Note 8, and LG V30 in LTE Speed Test Battle

Ever since the first 4G LTE markets lit up in the US, we’ve talked about speeds. We talk about speeds because we’re technology nerds who are always in a constant competition with one another. We like to brag about the products we’ve invested in. We like to know that we’ve got the best of the best. We also want you to know it. And again, one way we do that is by showing off speed test results on the regular.
Today, test results provided by Cellular Insights to PCMag should give Pixel 2 owners some new bragging rights, but also Android owners in general over the fancy new, future phone, the iPhone X.
The folks at Cellular Insights setup tests on LTE Band 4 in 2×2 MIMO mode, since Band 4 is pretty common here in the US on carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. They ran the tests starting with a -85dBm and went until they lost connection or could no longer perform. The tests included the Pixel 2, Galaxy Note 8, LG V30, and the iPhone X in two models. For those not familiar, there are two iPhone X models, one with a Qualcomm modem and another with an Intel modem. All of the Qualcomm phones tested used the company’s X16 modem.

According to the results, when using the same band, channel size, and number of antennas, the Pixel 2 pushed 36% better download speeds than the iPhone X. And that would be the Qualcomm version of the iPhone X, since the Intel model version really can’t compete with any of the phones tested. The Galaxy Note 8 and LG V30 were right there with the Pixel 2, though. Even as the Pixel 2 excelled with a strong connection over everyone, the Note 8 and V30 held a better connection longer.
In addition to showing Android phones wipe the floor with the iPhone X, Cellular Insights also tested the three Android devices on LTE Band 4 in 4×4 MIMO mode. They didn’t include the iPhone X in this test because, well, the Intel version can’t do 4×4 MIMO (lolz). The three Android devices all provided similar results with a good connection in this scenario, but the Pixel 2 did show better with a poor signal.
Why is it that these Android phones, the Pixel 2 in particular, crushed the iPhone X so substantially? It could be that because there is an iPhone X model with an Intel modem that can’t compete with Qualcomm’s modem, that Apple slowed the Qualcomm model. That’s unconfirmed, but PCMag notes in their write-up that “industry sources” assume that to be the case. If true, you’ve got to give it up to Apple – they love slowing sh*t.
Brag it up, boys and girls.
// PCMag
Pixel 2 Beats iPhone X, Galaxy Note 8, and LG V30 in LTE Speed Test Battle is a post from: Droid Life
Pixel 2 Beats iPhone X, Galaxy Note 8, and LG V30 in LTE Speed Test Battle

Weekly Recap: Merry X-Mas, Happy Holidays!

X-Mas weekend is here, so Merry Christmas to those who celebrate it. For the rest of you, happy holidays!
For the week in Android, it was typically slow as is always the case around this time, but we finished off our OnePlus 5T coverage by giving you reasons to buy one, laughed at Apple for throttling phones, and downloaded Liam Neeson’s voice. We also saw the Pixel 2 dominate the iPhone X in an LTE speed test battle and got busy in the Google Play holiday sale.
You’ll find all the goodies in the list below!

Q&A session: Get in questions for next week!
5 reasons the OnePlus 5T is worth buying
Pixel 2 crushes iPhone X in LTE speed test
5G takes a big step closer to reality
Question: How’s life without a headphone jack?
Apple got caught throttling phone performance, called it a “feature”
Chrome ad blocking is coming February 15
Deal: 12 Days of Play on Google Play!
Google wants my thoughts on Google Feed, which is funny
Moto Z2 Force on Verizon picks up Oreo
Hot icon pack: Pireo
Essential Phone picked up Oreo beta 2 this week
Get Liam Neeson now
Huawei confirms that a flagship is coming to a US carrier next year

There never was a f*cking “war on Christmas.”
Weekly Recap: Merry X-Mas, Happy Holidays! is a post from: Droid Life
Weekly Recap: Merry X-Mas, Happy Holidays!

Verizon Moto Z2 Force Owners are Receiving Update to Oreo

Verizon hasn’t mentioned it yet on any of its support pages, but the Moto Z2 Force sure appears to be getting updated to Android Oreo today. A reddit thread is filled with a handful of Z2 owners who were all able to pull the big update, all within a multi-hour stretch.
The screenshot below shows the update arriving as software version ODX27.109-34. We don’t know the size from this shot, but it should be on the bigger side as a full OS upgrade.
In the update, Android 8.0 Oreo will bring access to the new Autofill API for password lockers, notification channels, adaptive icons, better management of background tasks, new emoji, and more. At least, that’s what we know comes in Android 8.0, though we can’t yet confirm that Motorola has included everything, like Picture-in-Picture.
The screenshot here also notes that apps will run faster and smoother, icons on home screens will have unread badges, and you’ll be able to “launch apps or take action based on highlighted text.” Not many apps support that, so don’t go in expecting a lot there.
To grab the update, head into Settings>System updates.
Should Verizon provide details, we’ll update this post.

// reddit
Verizon Moto Z2 Force Owners are Receiving Update to Oreo is a post from: Droid Life
Verizon Moto Z2 Force Owners are Receiving Update to Oreo

Today in Hip Hop History:Luther Campbell aka Uncle Luke of 2...

Today in Hip Hop History:Luther Campbell aka Uncle Luke of 2 Live Crew was born December 22, 1960
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Today in Hip Hop History:DMX released his second album Flesh Of...

Today in Hip Hop History:DMX released his second album Flesh Of My Flesh Blood Of My Blood December 22, 1998
Today in Hip Hop History:DMX released his second album Flesh Of...

Amazon Releases Prime Video Android TV App!

Whoa, Amazon published an official Prime Video app for Android TV yesterday to Google Play and I’m kind of speechless about it. This is an app that most would have assumed was available for years, yet Amazon’s reluctance to release apps to Google Play is well-known and so we’ve been without it. So yeah, there is now a Prime Video app for Android TV that should let you access all of the Prime content your Prime subscription makes available to you.
Of course, I said “should” there because the app can’t be installed on anything just yet. Amazon may have posted the app, but from what I can tell, no one can actually install it. I’d imagine that’ll change pretty quickly or this would be a big wast of Amazon’s time.
Keep in mind that NVIDIA SHIELD TV owners have had Prime Video for as long as I can remember. Amazon and NVIDIA must have worked out some sort of deal to bundle the app with their SHIELD units, so if you own a SHIELD, you can probably ignore this. This news is relevant for those who own another of the many Android TV boxes who may have always wanted Prime Video and have wondered why they couldn’t.
Should it go live for devices, we’ll let you know.
Google Play Link
// Android Police
Amazon Releases Prime Video Android TV App! is a post from: Droid Life
Amazon Releases Prime Video Android TV App!

Question of the Day: Pixel 2 Crew, How’s Life Without a Headphone Jack?

I guess this doesn’t necessarily have to be a Pixel 2 owner-directed question, but yeah, let’s talk about missing headphone jacks for a minute.
As you guys know, I’m not one who cares much about the disappearance of the 3.5mm port in phones. Headphones attached to my smartphone are not a major piece to my daily grind and I often go days without needing to use them together. Having to reach for a dongle on the days that I do need headphones, while an extra step and thingy that I have to keep track of, isn’t about to deter me from choosing a phone that might be excellent in all other areas. That might not be the case for you, though.
So as phones like the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL, Essential Phone, and those from HTC this year, continue to remove 3.5mm ports in place of audio through USB-C, I’m curious how life has been for all of you who now join me in living with a dongle. It’s obvious that a number of you picked up the Pixel 2 and 2 XL this year, as well as the Essential Phone (thanks to massive discounts). How have things been?
Have you lost dongles? Are dongles ruining your life? Are things not as bad as you thought? Why’d you end going with a phone that doesn’t have a 3.5mm headphone jack over a phone that does?
Question of the Day: Pixel 2 Crew, How’s Life Without a Headphone Jack? is a post from: Droid Life
Question of the Day: Pixel 2 Crew, How’s Life Without a Headphone Jack?

You Can Now Send Live Videos on Instagram in Direct

As the title suggests, sending live videos through Direct on Instagram is now a thing.
You can send your own live videos by hitting the Direct button once your live video has started or send someone else’s live video using the same button. As a viewer of a live video that has been received over Direct, you’ll be able to watch the video if it’s live or you’ll see a “video has ended” message if it has indeed ended.
If you aren’t interested in any of that, Instagram says you can “disable the option to send your live videos in Direct in your stories settings.”
I’ve got nothing else to share other than you’ll see this new option in v26 of the Instagram app.
Google Play Link
// Instagram
You Can Now Send Live Videos on Instagram in Direct is a post from: Droid Life
You Can Now Send Live Videos on Instagram in Direct

Eric Schmidt Steps Down as Executive Chairman of Alphabet

This afternoon, Alphabet (Google’s parent company) announced that Eric Schmidt would be leaving his post as Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors and slide into a technical advisor roll. As the former CEO of Google, Schmidt will now focus his time on science and technology issues, while remaining on the board.
The statement released by Alphabet includes a quote from Schmidt, who said, “In recent years, I’ve been spending a lot of my time on science and technology issues, and philanthropy, and I plan to expand that work.”
Alphabet CEO Larry Page added that while “Eric has provided us with business and engineering expertise and a clear vision about the future of technology,” he is “excited about the progress [Alphabet’s] companies are making, and about the strong leaders who are driving that innovation.”
So Schmidt isn’t leaving, but we’re talking about a guy who has been with Alphabet/Google since 2001 and was once the CEO, is now just a “technical advisor.” Huh.
// Alphabet
Eric Schmidt Steps Down as Executive Chairman of Alphabet is a post from: Droid Life
Eric Schmidt Steps Down as Executive Chairman of Alphabet

We’re a Big Step Closer to 5G

That’s right, 5G is coming and the first 5G spec has been set. The players involved in building out 5G networks now have the details they need to make 5G a reality for you and I.
3GPP, the group of telecommunications organizations that meet to define standards, met yesterday and approved the first 5G spec. It’s a whole bunch of technical stuff that I’d imagine only network engineers will ever understand, but know this – we don’t get to 5G without this happening.
By setting this first 5G spec, the 5G system architecture has now been defined, which means features, functionality, and services are understood by the players surrounding 5G. We’re talking about network slicing, interworking and migration from 4G, etc. Again, this is the super technical system stuff that you and I don’t really need to know, but companies like Samsung and Qualcomm and Verizon need to know well in order to bring 5G to our future smartphones.
For example, this is what AT&T said about this 5G spec being set:
“We’re proud to see the completion of this set of standards. Reaching this milestone enables the next phase of equipment availability and movement to interoperability testing and early 5G availability,” said Hank Kafka, VP Access Architecture and Analytics at AT&T. “It showcases the dedication and leadership of the industry participants in 3GPP to follow through on accelerating standards to allow for faster technology deployments.”
Samsung said this:
DJ Koh, President and Head of IT and Mobile Communications Division at Samsung Electronics, said: “As a global leader in the mobile industry, Samsung has been collaborating with the whole industry to achieve this milestone in 5G standards. With the completion of 5G NSA NR standard, we will be able to expedite 5G commercial deployments including chipsets, devices and network equipment. Samsung will continue making every effort to deliver complete Rel-15 NR standards. Rel-15 NR and its further evolution will be a key milestone for the industry to meet the increasing global demand for enhanced mobile broadband services and exploring new business opportunities and services inspired by 5G.”
Qualcomm:
“We are excited to be part of this significant milestone, and to once again be at the forefront making the 5G vision a reality in 2019,” said Cristiano Amon, executive vice president, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and president, QCT. “We look forward to continue working with our mobile industry peers to bring 5G NR commercial networks and devices in 2019 in smartphone and other form factors, for both sub-6Ghz and mmWave frequency bands, and to continue developing 5G technologies to connect new industries and enable new services and user experiences in the years to come.”
T-Mobile:
“This is an important moment and a crucial development toward making 5G NR happen,” said Neville Ray, Chief Technology Officer for T-Mobile US. “At T-Mobile, we’re committed to drive a 5G rollout across the US in 2020, and the efforts of 3GPP will help us to realize this great win for our customers.”
And Verizon:
“Verizon is delighted that the 3GPP is moving quickly to release a global standard for mobile 5G,” said Ed Chan, Chief Technology Architect and Network Planning. “With this important 3GPP milestone, Verizon is once again well positioned to deliver next-generation technology to customers just as we did with 4G LTE.”
We’re still looking at carriers to tell us when they’ll have 5G available. T-Mobile, for example, is expecting 5G rollout in 2020. Verizon thinks they’ll launch some 5G broadband as early as next year. So we’re getting there, but it’ll still be a while.
// 3GPP | Qualcomm
We’re a Big Step Closer to 5G is a post from: Droid Life
We’re a Big Step Closer to 5G

Google Opinion Rewards Survey Asks for My Thoughts on Google Feed…

Most Google Opinion Rewards surveys I get are all based on previous businesses or locations it thinks I’ve stopped at in recent days and whether or not I made a purchase at them. Rarely do I get anything fun to answer that could involve a product or service or something else Google might value my opinion on. Today, though, I got one that brought one heck of a sh*t-eating grin to my face. Google asked for my thoughts on the Google Feed. 😈
As you may have guessed, because I’m an opinionated a-hole at times and have already told you how terrible I think the Google Feed is, I took great pleasure it letting Google know just that. I don’t know that my answers will help Google in giving me more control over the Feed and what it shows, but look, sometimes all that matters is that you get to officially tee-off on a big corporation’s product as if you owned the man for a minute.
Here were the questions, by the way.
 
As you can see here, Google asked if I knew what the Feed was, which I do. The survey then went through a series of questions, the first of which asked if I was satisfied (Q2). Hah…haha, no, I’m not. I also don’t find much of the content very interesting (Q3), because I’ve likely already read it somewhere else, which would mean I don’t think it belongs (Q4).
Unfortunately, the Feed survey didn’t ask if I thought that Google should kill it with kindness and give us back the old Google Now, but I went ahead and told them in the final comment box. Because of course I did.
I hope you also all receive this same survey and do the work you were put on this Earth for.
Note: Also, don’t forget to sign-up for Google Opinion Rewards for that fresh, free cash.
Google Opinion Rewards Survey Asks for My Thoughts on Google Feed… is a post from: Droid Life
Google Opinion Rewards Survey Asks for My Thoughts on Google Feed…