Hearthstone is the game that started it all for me – collectible card game (CCG), digital boardgaming, and mobile eSports. I began playing a few years ago, but put it down. I picked it back up again a few months ago. Since then, I have really been re-learning how the game plays and what it takes to make a good deck. Blizzard recently put out a new expansion that peaked my interest too. Hearthstone is a game that will you take some time to really learn, develop, and master. Sigh. 🙁 Unfortunately Hearthstone is a very frustrating game and somewhat unforgiving. Why? 1. To do well in the game, you need to have well developed deck(s). The more cards you discover, the more options you have. There is are so many cards, thus so many options. It is hard to keep track of all of it. I have put in about $10 into the game, so I am not totally Free to Play but close. I am working on earning...
This is an original post from Hearthstone, thoughts from a casual player at App Review Central by Larry Sullivan
Hearthstone, thoughts from a casual player
Sunday, April 30, 2017
Hearthstone, thoughts from a casual player
Block PuZzLE: UnMatch™ [Android Game]
App Name: Block PuZzLE: UnMatch™ [Android Game] Cost: Free Developer: Tarun Singh App Market: Download Page Description: TThis is about an innovative new Block Puzzle game ‘UnMatch’. It has simple game mechanics and easy to understand, but it’s challenging to play 🙂 It requires good thinking logic & strategy to score in the game. This is totally a unique game concept. The goal of the game is to make sure none of the same color blocks are touching each other. There are three game modes. Relax is 3×3 grid , Active is 4×4 grid, Challenging is 5×5 grid. One can simply relax or can challenge himself for some brain tickling with these modes. With over 20 million block arrangements to solve the game is simply immersive, addicting & endless.
This is an original post from Block PuZzLE: UnMatch™ [Android Game] at App Review Central by Larry Sullivan
Block PuZzLE: UnMatch™ [Android Game]
Samsung Marshmallow offers parental controls and teaches proper phone usage
Marshmallow is not a rare topic here at Android Authority, but it is usually the Android version we refer to when we speak of this sweet treat. Now we have a new Samsung service named after the same dessert – Samsung Marshmallow.
This is a parental control app, but Sammy wants us to look at it as something more than just that. The application is not made to simply enforce rules, it is also designed to teach children proper smartphone usage habits.
It’s easy to set bedtimes, limit internet time, block apps and more. The app also takes things a step further by enticing your kids to be better smart device users. There is a reward system in place, too – kids can earn points with good online behavior, while being naughty will cause a loss in points. After getting enough points, the child can ask parents for a card to use in the gift shot.
The bad news? This is a Samsung exclusive, which means only the company’s own devices will support the app. Here is a list of supported handsets: Galaxy S8 / S8 Plus / S7 / S7 Edge / S6 / S6 Edge / S6 Edge Plus / S5 / Note 5 / Note 4 / A5 / A7 / A8 / A9 / J3 / J5 / J7.
Those interested and carrying a supported device can go ahead and download the app straight from the Google Play Store. Hit the comments to let us know how you like it!
Download Samsung Marshmallow
Samsung Marshmallow offers parental controls and teaches proper phone usage
Crowdfunding project of the week: Cosmo Connected smart break light for motorcyclists
It’s time for another ‘Crowdfunding project of the week”, where we highlight the hottest projects from sites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo. This one goes to my fellow motorcycle riders as they make their way back home safe this Sunday afternoon. Today’s featured campaign will keep you visible and your family at peace. Want to learn more? Let’s look into it.
Other featured projects:
Spark turns your phone into a DSLR camera remote
Penna is a retro keyboard that looks like a typewriter
Joto is a robotic drawing board
The rumble of a motor, tremoring pavement and piercing wind are addictive. Motorcycles are a symbol of freedom and pleasure, but they also represent a dangerous lifestyle. Riding requires attention, but not only from you; also from people you share the road with. This is why we buy things like reflective material, extra lights and louder pipes. It’s important to help other notice us.
Enter Cosmo Connected, a smart break light that easily attaches to the back of any helmet. The location is important. Riders will know it’s always better to keep your head as visible as possible, as it is closer to driver eye level. Simply stick the magnetic base to the back of the helmet, then you are ready to mount the break light.
Of course, the Cosmo Connected’s main purpose is to light up when decelerating. This is done with the use of a gyroscope, which means it works with gravity and inertia, making it functional even when motor breaking. The team promises this will work flawlessly for up to 8 hours per charge, but there’s more to this little device.
Staying safe and visible is only part of this gadget’s functionality. Every time we mount the saddle there is a chance of an accident. We take the risk and hope we will be ready when the moment comes. And when it does happen, what happens right after an accident is critical and can make all the difference.
Cosmo Connected detects accidents and links to a smartphone app to get you help as soon as possible. The application will immediately alert a roadside assistance service. An operator will try to reach out to the rider and send help to his GPS coordinates if there is no answer. All within 3 minutes. The user can also select a number of personal contacts to be alerted in case of an accident.
Interested? Cosmo Connected starts shipping this July and can be had for as low as 99 Euros (about $108 USD) from Kickstarter. That’s not a bad price for the added security and peace of mind. Are there any fellow riders out there? Say hi and tell me what you think of this product. I would consider buying it, but do wonder how well the gyroscope system actually works. It’s a great concept, though.
Check out Cosmo Connected on Kickstarter
Crowdfunding project of the week: Cosmo Connected smart break light for motorcyclists
How to customize the Samsung Galaxy S8’s Always On Display
One smartphone feature that’s been growing in popularity as of late is the Always On Display. Major phone manufacturers such as Samsung, LG, and Motorola have been including these display options on their phones for the past few years, and it’s no surprise that Samsung included it on the new Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus.
See also:
Samsung Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8 Plus review
2 weeks ago
For those unfamiliar, Always On Display lets you check the time, date, battery percentage, and notifications, even when the phone isn’t in use. As you can see in the image attached above, most of the screen is completely black, aside from the clock and notifications on the screen. It’s a subtle way to get the information you need as quickly as possible, without the need to turn on your phone’s screen.
Plus, Samsung made the Always On Display super customizable. If you want to learn more about the Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus’ Always On Display, check out the full tutorial below:
Enable Always On Display
Pull down your notification shade, and tap on the Settings cog.
Scroll down and select Lock screen and security.
Ensure the toggle next to the Always On Display category is turned on. To turn it on, simply press it one time.
Then, select Always On Display.
Good job – Always On Display should now be turned on. Now it’s time to start customizing.
Customize Always On Display
The very first option you’ll see on this screen will help you decide what content will be shown on your lock screen. Tap on the Content to show option, then you can choose whether or not to display only the home button, only your clock or information, or your home button and clock or information.
Personally, I like to have the home button and clock or information option turned on. That way I can see the most information I can on my lock screen, and also be able to wake my device with the virtual home button.
Once that’s done, you’ll see a list of six different Always On Display styles to choose from. The six different styles are: Digital clock, Analog clock, World clock, Calendar, Image, and Edge clock. For this tutorial, we’re going to select Digital clock.
Once you make your selection, you’ll see three customization categories at the bottom of your screen: Clock style, Color, and Background. These are all pretty self explanatory, so I’ll let the screenshots do the talking:
Once you’ve edited your Always On Display to the best of your ability, just tap the Apply button in the top-right corner of the screen, and you’re all set! Easy, right?
Oh, and one more thing. If you don’t want the Always On Display to be turned on at all times, you can set it to a schedule. Just scroll down and turn off the toggle next to the Show always option, then tap Set schedule to select your times.
Looking for more Galaxy S8 how-tos? Check out more coverage below:
How to adjust display colors on the Galaxy S8
How to change display resolution on the Galaxy S8
How to toggle icon frames on the Galaxy S8
How to quick launch the camera on the Galaxy S8
How to remap the Bixby button on the Galaxy S8
How to customize the audio profile on your Galaxy S8
How to customize the Samsung Galaxy S8’s Always On Display
Anyoption [App Review]
Binary options are one of the popular trading methods among novice investors recently as they are very simple to learn and return decent profits with limited risk. They were introduced to retail investors in 2008 after it got approved by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. In order to become successful with binary options, you should be able to predict the price movement of the underlying assets correctly. By doing some fundamental analysis on the assets and using various technical indicators, you can become a successful binary options trader. Anyoption is a leading binary options broker which was established in 2008 and is owned and operated by Ouroboros Derivatives Trading Limited. They are one of the trusted and licensed binary options brokers in the industry which is regulated by Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySec) under license no. 187/12 and governed by the European MiFID (Markets in Financial Instruments Directive) guidelines. In order to facilitate easier access through mobile platforms and to execute trades from any place and anytime,...
This is an original post from Anyoption [App Review] at App Review Central by Larry Sullivan
Anyoption [App Review]
Samsung Galaxy S8 International Giveaway!
Welcome to the Sunday Giveaway, the place where we giveaway a new Android phone each and every Sunday!
Congratulations to last week’s Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus Giveaway winner: Jorge V. (Portugal)
This week we’re giving away a brand new Samsung Galaxy S8!
Samsung’s new Galaxy S8 features a beautiful 18.5:9 Infinity display, a powerful Snapdragon 835 processor, 4 GB of RAM, a 3,000 mAh battery, as well as a super impressive 12 MP rear-facing camera with an f/1.7 aperture. One of the standout features on the Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus this year is Bixby, Samsung’s new AI assistant that even has its own hardware button. As an added bonus, the S8 ships with a solid pair of AKG earbuds.
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Enter giveaway
Samsung Galaxy S8 International Giveaway!
More giveaways:
Best Android Phone (April 2017) Giveaway – AndroidAuthority.com
Winners Gallery
Terms & Conditions
The giveaway is an international giveaway (Except when we can not ship to your Country.)
If we can not ship to your country, you will be compensated with an online gift card of equal MSRP value to the prize.
We are not responsible for lost shipments.
We are not responsible if your giveaway prize malfunctions.
You must be age of majority in your Country of residence.
We are not responsible for any duties or import fees that you may incur.
Only 1 entry per person, do not enter multiple email addresses. We will verify all winners and if we detect multiple email addresses by the same person you will not be eligible to win.
We reserve all rights to make any changes to this giveaway.
This giveaway is operated by AndroidAuthority.
The prize will ship when it is available to purchase.
Samsung Galaxy S8 International Giveaway!
Deal: Snag a Google Home for just $114 from the Google Store ($15 off)
With Mother’s Day just around the corner (it’s Sunday, May 14, by the way), it’s time to start thinking about getting your mom a special gift for the big day. If you’re still struggling to find the right gift, perhaps this new promotion at the Google Store will help.
From now until Saturday, May 13, you can pick up a Google Home for just $114, which is $15 off the normal retail price. Google says this deal is available while supplies last (or until May 13), so you might want to take advantage of the promo sooner rather than later.
See also:
The complete list of services with Google Home support
2 weeks ago
For those unfamiliar, the Google Home connected speaker works with both Android and iOS devices, and is powered by the Google Assistant. You can ask it for weather updates or trending news, tell it to play a certain playlist, and a lot more. I use my Google Home every day in a variety of different scenarios, and I think it’s super handy to have in an office or living room. If you’d like to learn more about the Google Home, check out our full review here.
Interested? Head to the Google Store link attached below.
Buy now from the Google Store
Deal: Snag a Google Home for just $114 from the Google Store ($15 off)
Must read: top 10 Android stories
This week we reviewed Samsung DeX, the Sony Xperia XZs, and the new Garmin fenix 5. We also compared the top three voice assistants out right now, and talked about the Galaxy S8’s one big flaw. There’s a lot to catch up on, so here’s the news of the week!
Who wants to win a Samsung Galaxy S8?
The Samsung Galaxy S8 is one of the best Android smartphones out right now. Here’s how you can win one!
10 Android stories we handpicked for you
Samsung DeX review – can your smartphone replace a PC? The Galaxy S8 is here and so is the new Samsung DeX docking station. It lets you use Android with a keyboard and mouse, but can it really replace a PC?
Sony Xperia XZs review The Xperia XZs features a few key improvements over its predecessor. Is that enough to make it a compelling choice? Find out in this Sony Xperia XZs review!
Garmin fenix 5 review The fenix 5 is here, but is it actually worth the high price tag? Find out, in our full Garmin fenix 5 review.
Bixby vs Google Assistant vs Siri 2017 is shaping up to be the year of the virtual assistant, so here’s how the big three – Bixby, Siri, and Google Assistant – compare.
The Samsung Galaxy S8’s one flaw… The Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus are two of the best phones of the year, but they’re missing an increasingly key feature.
8 ways the Galaxy S8 is objectively better than the iPhone 7 We think we can objectively prove the Galaxy S8 is better than the iPhone 7. So grab some popcorn and settle in, because this is about to get ugly.
Have smartphones become too expensive? Buying a flagship smartphone is certainly expensive, but are we paying more for top-end smartphones than we were half a decade ago?
Fitbit Alta HR review The Fitbit Alta HR adds a heart rate monitor and new sleep tracking features to an already convenient and capable device. Learn more in the full review!
The best OEM specific features Flagship smartphones are all pretty impressive these days, but here are the OEM specific features that may make or break your purchasing decisions.
10 best new Android apps and games from April 2017 Plenty of great apps and games were released in the month of April. Here are the best ones!
Don’t miss these videos
Watch more Android videos on our YouTube channel.
More hot news
Huawei calls P10 memory substitution scandal a ‘wake up call’
Google hardware VP in charge of Pixel series calls it quits
T-Mobile wants to redefine the way you buy phones
FCC Chairman wants to end net neutrality, but why is it problematic?
Smartphone shipment growth was essentially led by Chinese OEMs
Sundar Pichai hints ads might be coming to Google Maps soon
BlackBerry KEYone coming to the US and Canada on May 31
Refurbished Galaxy Note 7 coming to Korea in June for $250 cheaper
Here’s when the Pixel and Pixel XL will see their software support end
The Galaxy S8 problems are minor, but how Samsung responds is not
Moto X Pure Edition Nougat update begins its rollout
Verizon Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge users now getting Android Nougat
Bring Google Assistant to your DIY tech projects, courtesy of new SDK
Is this really the OnePlus 5?
Verizon intros new $80 unlimited prepaid plan – is it any good?
Amazon Echo with built-in screen rumored for next month
Fire Emblem more profitable than Super Mario Run despite 10 times fewer downloads
AT&T’s new ‘5G Evolution’ is really still at 4G speeds, for now
From our network
5 reasons you should totally buy Bluetooth headphones [SoundGuys.com]
Rick and Morty Virtual Rick-ality review [VRSource.com]
DJI Goggles hands-on experience with the Mavic Pro [Charged.io]
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Must read: top 10 Android stories
Samsung Pay Expands Into Four New Markets
This morning, Samsung announced that its mobile payment system, Samsung Pay, has expanded into four new markets. Over the next couple of days, Samsung Pay will officially arrive in Sweden and United Arab Emirates (UAE), followed by an “early access” launch in Hong Kong and Switzerland. In related news, Samsung Pay on the Gear S3 is also finding new territories before the end of this month. Gear S3 owners in Russia, Sweden, and UAE will be able to pay using their wrists. Those new countries join the US, Singapore, and Australia as currently supported Gear S3 payment locations.
And that’s pretty much it!
Via: Samsung
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Samsung Pay Expands Into Four New Markets is a post from: Droid Life
Samsung Pay Expands Into Four New Markets
Gboard Updated With New Languages, Ability to Resize and Reposition
Gboard has been updated with support for new languages, as well as the ability to resize and reposition the keyboard to however you see fit. There are 22 new Indic languages inside, plus support for Kinyarwanda and Waray. Not only that, but Gboard allows for these language users to spell things phonetically, then a transliteration process is undergone in real time. Google states that any Google Indic Keyboard users should switch over to the latest Gboard and give it a try.
On top of new languages supported, Gboard also comes with a new text editing mode with buttons for increased cursor control, as well as the ability to select text, cut, copy, and paste right from the keyboard. To access this new editing mode, select the Text Editing icon in the quick features menu by pressing on the G button (or arrow) in the strip that contains your suggestions.
Lastly, inside the regular settings menu, you will find an option to change up the overall size of Gboard. You can make it bigger or smaller. You can also choose the positioning, which should help your little fingers if they can’t quite reach something. This change is perfect for the one-handed tappers among us.
Go grab the update from Google Play by following the link below.
Play Link
Via: Google
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Gboard Updated With New Languages, Ability to Resize and Reposition is a post from: Droid Life
Gboard Updated With New Languages, Ability to Resize and Reposition
Blackberry KEYOne Hits US at End of May
The Blackberry KEYOne, a TCL-made phone attempting to bring back the glory days of physical keyboards, will arrive in the US on May 31. At this time, no carrier partners have been announced. To recap, outside of the Blackberry keyboard, you’ll notice the premium design and finish of the phone. I’d argue it’s quite handsome, even with the keyboard no one is asking for (Come on!). The phone also runs a Snapdragon 625 with a 3505mAh battery and 4.5-inch display, which means it’s going to last for days on days assuming TCL knows how to tune this bad boy like Motorola. You guys know my love affair with the 625.
Additionally, the Blackberry KEYOne features a 12MP camera (same camera as you’ll find in the Pixel), Android 7.1 Nougat, and USB Type-C port with Quick Charge 3.0. While not a top-tier phone on the level of the Galaxy S8, at the right price this could actually be worth a look if a keyboard interests you.
Anyone interested?
Via: Newswire
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Blackberry KEYOne Hits US at End of May is a post from: Droid Life
Blackberry KEYOne Hits US at End of May
Deal: Pick Up a Moto G4 Plus for $160 in Black or White, Save $70
Taking place on B&H Photo and Amazon, you can pick up a Moto G4 Plus at $70 off the retail price, which is good for both the 16GB and 64GB models. At 16GB, $70 off brings the grand total to $159.99. For the 64GB model, the grand total with $70 off is $229.99. For specs, the G4 Plus sports a 5.5-inch 1080p display, Snapdragon 617 processor, 3000mAh battery with TurboPower charging, microSD slot, 16MP camera with laser and phase detect autofocus, and universal operability on all major US carriers. The G4 Plus also comes equipped with a fingerprint reader, a feature you won’t find on the standard G4.
I’ve placed our unboxing video below if you haven’t been keeping up with our Moto G4 Plus coverage.
For those looking to do their shopping on Amazon, follow this link.
B&H Links: White 16GB | Black 16GB | White 64GB | Black 64GB
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Deal: Pick Up a Moto G4 Plus for $160 in Black or White, Save $70 is a post from: Droid Life
Deal: Pick Up a Moto G4 Plus for $160 in Black or White, Save $70
Google Specifies Dates for Last Pixel and Nexus Security Patches
In mid-2016, Google provided specific timeframes for when Nexus devices would stop receiving new Android version updates. Today, Google is back to update us again, but this time, for when security updates will specifically cease for all current Nexus and Pixel devices.Before today, all Google provided was a not-so-technical timeframe. The exact words were, “For the longer of 3 years from availability or 18 months from when the Google Store last sold the device.” Yeah, that’s some backwards gibberish, not even sure if it’s English.
Anyway, we now know specifically when all current Nexus and Pixel devices will no longer receive security updates.
Here are the details you’ll need to know. In layman’s, the below dates are when you phone is officially unsupported and you should really consider upgrading.
Pixel
Nexus
Via: Google
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Google Specifies Dates for Last Pixel and Nexus Security Patches is a post from: Droid Life
Google Specifies Dates for Last Pixel and Nexus Security Patches
Samsung Galaxy S8 / S8+ Review
Given the misfortune Samsung went through last year with the Galaxy Note 7, the company undoubtedly needed to bring its A-game for 2017. Intro the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+, the company’s latest flagships to help consumers forget that it accidentally shipped out devices that could set a house ablaze and not regular ol’ smartphones.Instead of a Edge variant like last year, we’ve got two identical devices, with exception to the battery size and display size. Other than that, it’s the same phone, so we’ll kill two birds with one stone in this review.
This is our Galaxy S8 / Galaxy S8+ review.
The Good
Specs
As I said, both the Galaxy S8 and S8+ are the same device, minus the display size and battery size. Inside both devices you will find a Snapdragon 835 processor, 4GB RAM, 64GB built-in storage, microSD support, NFC, iris scanner, fingerprint reader, facial recognition technology, 12MP rear-facing Dual Pixel camera, 8MP front-facing camera, IP68 water and dust resistance, USB Type-C, 3.5mm headphone jack (no courage!), MST for Samsung Pay, and Android 7.0 “Nougat.”
For the differing specs, the S8 features a 5.8″ Infinity Super AMOLED (Quad HD+, 2960×1440, 571ppi) display and 3,000mAh battery, while the S8+ features a 6.2″ Infinity Super AMOLED (Quad HD+, 2960×1440, 529ppi) display and 3,500mAh battery.
On paper, it might be hard find devices as good as the Galaxy S8 or S8+ at the moment. However, there’s always something to complain about. One could hope Samsung could find a way to fit bigger batteries into these things even though they are incredibly thin phones. The cameras didn’t receive much of an upgrade either this year either, but they were already so good in the Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge, it’s not like you’ll hear anyone actually complaining.
Design
The design of the Galaxy S8 and S8+ is where these devices shine. It’s gorgeous and Samsung outdid themselves this time around. If you haven’t held these devices, think of them like the Galaxy Note 7, but with no home button on the front. In-hand, the Galaxy S8 feels like no other device I’ve held, and it could possibly be my all-time favorite phone to hold. I can’t quite say the same for the Galaxy S8+, simply because of its size. Don’t get me wrong, the S8+ is still nice, but not as nice as the smaller S8.
Both phones are covered in glass, with metal along the siding. I don’t typically bring up the slipperiness of a phone, but the S8 and S8+ feel so darn good when sliding your finger along the display and interacting with things. Buttery smooth. Along the bottom is a USB Type-C port, as well as Kellen’s favorite placement for the 3.5mm headphone hack.
In this design section, I could rip Samsung’s placement of a dedicated hardware button for Bixby, but I’ll get to that in the software section below. Because there are applications that allow for the remapping of Bixby, you can’t necessarily hate the added button. If you want quicker access to Google Now or Assistant, you have that choice. If Samsung ups and kills that “exploit” yet again, then we’ll have some words for Samsung, but until then, just customize the button however you might see fit. I will say, I have accidentally pressed the Bixby button a few times, though it’s not a constant mishap that has me screaming in my sleep.
I could also bring up Samsung’s placement of the fingerprint reader in this section, but again, I’ll save that for where it belongs – down in the not-so-good.
While ripping on those things is easy, I must also praise Samsung’s inclusion of on-screen buttons. They really help this design. I know a few may not be fans of the icons used, but hey, too late now. I give major props to Samsung for taking the chance on them, because you know company executives had countless meetings regarding the ditching of the home button. Think about the engineers who had sleepless nights over that damned home button. Either way, it’s gone, and the world seems like a better place without it.
Display
Infinity. Display.
2017 has been awesome for display technology. Earlier this year, LG gave us the G6, with its extremely minimal bezels and we loved that. Now, Samsung is giving us the Infinity display, and let me tell you, this is slick. On the sides you have a curve that gently trickles over the sides of the device, but it’s not as drastic as it was on the Galaxy S6 Edge. It’s rounded smoothly, not a steep drop off.
On the regular S8, you have a 5.8″ Super AMOLED panel, rocking a resolution of QHD+ or 2960×1440 for those here that speak pixel. With regard to the aspect ratio, it’s much like LG’s on the G6, but with fewer software additions to benefit the size, at least from what I saw.
On the G6, LG built in software tweaks for the camera and entire modes to help users benefit from the ratio. On the Galaxy S8 and S8+, you don’t really get the sense that this is something new or great, just that it makes your YouTube videos look weird due to black bars on the sides or the stretched look when you “optimize” them. However, I will say that apps tend to act more naturally on the S8 than the G6, but there’s still a few that have issues. I have problems inside of Snapchat with this aspect ratio, and I’ve also had someone report they had issues with Instagram. Considering this whole 18:9 (G6) and 18.5:9 (S8, S8+) thing is new, I’ll give the developers some time to optimize their work.
One tweak made on the S8 and S8+ that I cannot live without, as it has become standard on almost all other devices, is the Blue Light Filter. Finally, Samsung, you did it. Instead of being blinded by the AMOLED’s retina-piercing colors (that’s a compliment), I’m now able to view my device at night and in the morning while laying in bed with no strain to my eyeballs. If you aren’t a user yourself of blue light filters on your device, get with it, folks.
Camera
For the camera in both the Galaxy S8 and S8+, Samsung is utilizing a Sony-made IMX333, very similar to what was found in last year’s Galaxy S7. While some may have expected a big upgrade, as Samsung tends to do each year, there isn’t all that much to improve in terms of overall quality. I mean, the S7 and S8 are some of the best shooters out there already. Not to say that you can’t improve upon it, you can, but I’m not over here crying about it.
For specs, the rear-facing shooter is 12MP, f/1.7 with phase detection auto focus, OIS, 1.4 µm, 4K video support, slow-mo (not 1000FPS as was reported), and support for 60FPS at FHD. This all adds up to a fantastic shooting experience, with the auto focus speed really blowing the doors down.
We recently conducted a camera showdown between the S8, Pixel, and G6. What we learned is that you can’t go wrong with any of the high-end smartphone shooting experiences, with the S8 really excelling in certain areas. It does have its cons, though. For example, the S8 tends to let in a lot of light, leaving some pictures overexposed. It does handle color quite well, especially purples and greens. I’ve found that Samsung phones deliver a certain warmness to photos, too, which others may see as just a yellowish hue. A lot of this is subjective, so I’ll typically just let the photos speak for themselves.
As for the software, the camera app is getting better yet again. Samsung used to bloat the heck out of the camera, but things seem much more streamlined. You’ve got your video and photo modes, as well as Slow-Mo, Food, Pro (enhanced scene settings), Hyperlapse, Panorama, Virtual Shot, Selective Focus, and you can even download others if you want. Point being, you probably won’t come across a shot you can’t handle, which is all anyone can ask for.
We have a ton of camera samples below, so give those a look.
PerformanceWhenever I use a Samsung device, I have flashbacks to the Galaxy S5. How far we have come since then. Samsung’s latest UI and the overall system seems extremely snappy, with much of the credit going to the Snapdragon 835 processor and 4GB of RAM. From my experience, it’s a quick phone, one that is hard to slow down.
During my time with the S8 and S8+, I noticed a consistent experience on both models, which left me happy. I could dive into apps quickly, hit that recent apps button, then dive right into another. During gaming, I never experienced real lag or jank, which is something I’m always on the look for. I also didn’t run into any random reboots or freezes.
Inside the Settings menu, there’s a section for Device Maintenance. With this, Samsung assigns a numerical value to your device’s performance. If it’s low you can hit “Optimize,” which then clears up your memory and closes background apps. It’s like a task killer from back in the day. When I did experience a tad bit of lag, I went in there and hit Optimize, which freed up the phone rather well, I’d say. If you come across your own hiccup, don’t be afraid to go in there and give it a tap from time to time.
Somewhere in the Middle
Software
Considering the Galaxy S8 and S8+ might be the best hardware in the game, you should expect nothing but excellence from its software, too. And while I stress that Samsung’s skin has matured into something much better than it used to be, it’s still not as elegant or easy to navigate as vanilla Android.
Once you get beyond the skin deep tweaks, such as subtle animations and popup bubbles that alert you of incoming messages, which all look and feel fantastic by the way, you realize that there are a few things that Samsung still can’t quite nail down. For example, if we look at an app folder that isn’t full of app shortcuts, the folder utilizes the entirety of the display, which is an awful waste of space. Not only that, but while I appreciate Samsung’s inclusion of an app drawer that you slide open, it does seem odd that I can swipe up or down to get into it, and when I attempt to swipe through apps, I will sometimes close the drawer because I can swipe up or down to close it, too.
These are the minor things that irk me, and when it comes down to it, this is why I say that Samsung’s skin has matured very well. It’s getting better, but there’s just minor things here and there that some may find bothersome. One areas in particular that has improved would be the Settings menu, which is completely navigable and no longer a labyrinth of confusing text and endless options. There’s Google Assistant, too, something I use on countless occasions. That does bring me to Bixby, though, Samsung’s wannabe digital assistant. Let’s discuss, shall we?
Bixby, at this exact point in time, is not Bixby. What Samsung shipped out on the S8 and S8+ is some half baked Google Now, perfect for absolutely nothing. Will that change? Yes it will, so I find it useless to sit here for an hour and bash something that is not even ready for the public. I will say, Bixby Vision is up and running on most S8 and S8+ devices, and that’s pretty cool. With it, I can snap a photo of toilet paper, then it will take me to Amazon to buy more toilet paper. When I showed this off to my girlfriend, she had that look of, “Hmm, I want to be impressed, but is this really the future of handheld computing?” Yes, my dear, yes it is.
Later this year, we can expect Samsung to formally launch Bixby, with its voice activated commands and broader usability. I will try to reserve most of my judgement for that time, which should be rather soon. Once available, we’ll definitely have a standalone review over of Bixby and what it is actually capable of.
BatteryOn the Galaxy S8, I’ve seen pretty average battery life. In a typical day, I’d have about 10-20% juice left with 3-4 hours of screen on time. Not too bad, not too good. Typical and average. On the Galaxy S8+, though, I was seeing much better numbers. Provided it does have a bigger battery, I was going to bed with a solid 30-40% each night, always getting somewhere between 3-4 hours of screen on time. That’s much better and unlike the regular S8, I wasn’t too worried about running out of juice before bedtime.
I will say, I would love for a flagship, top tier device to come around that isn’t just average. I know it’s hard to jam a 4,500mAh battery in these ultra thin devices, but really, I’m okay with a somewhat thicker device. I’m not talking brick in the pocket, but come on already. Considering how many people value battery life, one of these companies will surely answer our prayers at some point.
Galaxy S8
Galaxy S8+
The Not-so-Good
Fingerprint Reader Placement
Worst fingerprint reader placement ever? Well, technically, yes, but only because this is the first device I’ve ever used with such a poor place for it. I mean, we’re all about having it on the backside, but up by the camera? Sorry, that won’t work for me.
Interestingly enough, before the S8 was announced and all we had were rumors and renders, I wrote my thoughts down about this positioning and essentially all of my fears were confirmed — I have placed my nasty little grease fingers on the camera’s glass way too many times to be comfortable with.
Now, on the Galaxy S8, I’ve at least been able to get somewhat used to the spot. Once I take the phone out of my pocket, I’m getting pretty good at where my finger goes. On the S8+, though, I simply don’t care for it whatsoever. In fact, I don’t even try to use it and just rely on facial recognition and using a pattern unlock to get into my phone. The fingerprint reader is just not worth the trouble.
Is it safe to say we never see this placement again? Samsung is typically pretty good at listening to feedback, so my hope is yes. It may be on the Note 8 later this year, but once Samsung and Synaptics have their fingerprint reader under glass tech complete, we should never have to deal with this again.
Software UpdatesNo, the Galaxy S8 and S8+ are not Pixel devices. You won’t see super fast software updates. Should that surprise you? Absolutely not. We’re Android users, so we’re used to this. On the upside, the S8 and S8+ ship with Nougat and Samsung has been very good about delivering monthly security updates. You can’t really ask for much more from a company that isn’t Google. Considering these are Samsung’s latest and there’s no Note 7 devices to update, Samsung’s main efforts should be focused entirely on the S7, S7 Edge, S8, and S8+. That should be manageable for Samsung.
Other Notes
Headphone jack – It’s got one! Stick that in your pipe and smoke it, Apple!
Expandable storage – MicroSD cards are here to stay apparently and we’re very happy about this. You can load up your phone with as much as 256GB of extra storage.
Girlfriend impressions – My girlfriend is out of town this week, but I recall her mentioning she thought the S8 was oddly small for how large the display is. For the S8+, she wasn’t a fan. Too big for her girly hands.
Samsung Pay – If my bank would ever support Samsung Pay, maybe I could talk about it. Until then, I’ve heard great things, but hey, what can you do? My bank sucks.
Fast charging and wireless charging – Fast charging or some variant of it is basically offered on every high-end and mid-tier phone sold these days. On the S8 and S8+, you can get a wireless charger that is “fast” charging, which is awesome. If you have yet to invest in a wireless charger for your compatible phone, do it.
Availability
Provided these are Samsung flagships we’re talking about, you can find them everywhere. Verizon, Sprint, AT&T, T-Mobile, or wherever else you might be a customer. Pricing differs for each, so you will need to check with your carrier of choice for the latest details. Be sure to check Best Buy and Samsung’s site directly, as you could always find a random deal or promo taking place.
Verizon: Galaxy S8 | Galaxy S8+
AT&T: Galaxy S8 | Galaxy S8+
T-Mobile: Galaxy S8 | Galaxy S8+
Sprint: Galaxy S8 | Galaxy S8+
Cricket: Galaxy S8
Best Buy: Galaxy S8 | Galaxy S8+
Samsung: Galaxy S8 | Galaxy S8+
Videos
Unboxing
First 10 Things to Do
Best Cases for the Galaxy S8 / S8+
Gallery
The Verdict
I’ve seen plenty of people say they don’t like the Galaxy S8. Why is that? Is it just because they’re haters of everything Samsung? I mean, even if you’re a Samsung hater, it’s hard to dislike the Galaxy S8, at least in my view. It’s one of the more beautiful devices to ever launch (yes, I know, beauty is subjective), it has fantastic specs, and Samsung’s custom software has come such a long way from the TouchWiz days of old. Seriously, get over it.
Now, should you run out and buy this phone? I’d recommend it, for sure, but it’s not the only phone I’d recommend. There’s a lot of great options out there and the S8/S8+ are just two of the best. You’ve got the G6 from LG that’s nice, plus plenty of other upcoming devices to look forward to. If you’re in the market, though, and need a phone right now, you’d be crazy not to at least consider the Galaxy S8 or Galaxy S8+, depending on how big your pockets are.
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Samsung Galaxy S8 / S8+ Review is a post from: Droid Life
Samsung Galaxy S8 / S8+ Review