5 Ways Samsung’s Milk Music Benefits Music Streaming Fans

When historians put pen to paper in their attempts to capture the 21^st century, what will they say? Undoubtedly it will be written as a fascinating age of invention and innovation. The archives of history will be full of tales related to the Internet, wireless technology and mobile device. As consumers who live in the age of gadgetry, we live in the best of times.  There are more opportunities than ever before, particularly when it comes to personal entertainment.

 

Companies are becoming even more competitive as they seek to provide services that meet the needs of consumers via simple, intuitive and dynamic features. Samsung’s Milk Music stands at the helm of innovation. But is this service of any benefit or is Samsung simply trying to get more consumers to buy its latest gadgets?

 

The Evolution of Music Streaming

Though music streaming is relatively new, it stands as a significant aspect of the music industry generating huge revenues worldwide. In the UK for instance, revenue related to music streaming has gone up by 40% and in Sweden it is the most popular means by which the population consumes music.

 

But when exactly did an Internet-based model for music consumption become big business? In the mid 2000s several companies began introducing media streaming services, many of which focused primarily on music. This was propelled by the fact that consumers wanted a convenient way to access media. Spotify, a Swedish-based company, as well as Pandora attracted millions of music lovers via innovative streaming service. Apple also introduced iTunes Radio.

 

Samsung’s Milk Music is one of the latest apps to enter the streaming space. This service offers several benefits to its subscribers including an easy-to-use interface, access to millions of song, ad-free content and customization features.

 

The Benefits of Milk Music

Milk Music, radio-style service, is in many ways like other music-based streaming services. It offers access to music via customized channels once you download the app on your mobile device. However, in some ways it offers different features than other apps which precede it.

 

Ad Free Radio

Many services online feature ads as a means of generating revenue. For instance, iTunes Radio service provides access to music via ad-supported content. Most consumers, however, would much rather listen to music without interruptions from advertisements. Samsung’s Milk Music offers the kind of ad-free streaming that many music lovers will enjoy. The only drawback is the fact that this ad-free model may be for a limited time only. Samsung highlighted that it may venture into the more traditional ad-based streaming service model in the future.

 

Free Streaming Service

Companies for several years now have been offering streaming music services but only a few of these services are free. Many require monthly subscription fees or offer substandard “free” services which feature limited music access and numerous restrictions.  With Milk Music, you’ll be able to access music from a wide range of genres without spending any money. At least, that’s what Samsung executives have been pushing in the past few months. Since it’s powered by Slacker, those who download the app will have access to over 13 millions songs within Slacker’s expansive music catalogue.

 

Access to 200 Stations via Innovative Interface

Milk Music uses a spinning wheel interface, a unique platform which allows end-users to easily access multiple stations based on select genres. The outer ring in the spinning wheel allows quick browsing of multiple stations while the inner ring allows users to slowly interact with the music stations which Milk Music provides. Once you spin the interactive dial, you’ll be able to surf different genres and stations without worrying about lag time.

 

Customization via Station Feature

The dial offers a simple solution to those who want to access music seamlessly. However, end-users have another way to access music via customization. Use the station feature to create customized stations. Use the names of artists or songs to create your own station. Based on what you select, the app creates a customized playlist.

 

 

 

Discover Songs from Talented Unsigned Artists

Users of the service will also be able to discover emerging musicians via the app. Samsung collaborated with All Def Digital who recently launched a new radio station called ADD52. The radio station will feature unsigned artists for 52 weeks, enabling music lovers to be the first to discover talented, upcoming musicians. This radio station is great for those who love music as a whole regardless of an artist’s popularity.

 

How to Access Milk Music

Milk Music is available for download in the Google Play Store. If you’re the type of consumer that loves “free” services as most of us are, you’re in for a treat. However, there’s a catch. It’s only those who own Samsung’s Galaxy devices will be able to use the app. Compatible devices include the following:

 

• Galaxy S5


• Galaxy S4


• Galaxy S3


• Galaxy Note 3


• Galaxy Note 2


• Galaxy S4 Mini


• Galaxy Mega

 

Like iTunes Radio, Samsung’s new radio streaming service is only available to U.S. consumers. However, consider this as a trial period. If the service proves to be successful, the Korean company will undoubtedly expand services to international markets.

 

 

You might still be wondering if this service is for you regardless of its innovative interface, ad-free content and nonexistent subscription fees. The fact that Milk Music is only available to Galaxy customers may even leave some to conclude that Samsung’s main reason for offering a radio style streaming service is to persuade consumers to purchase Galaxy devices. However, one thing is for sure: Samsung’s decision to enter the streaming space provides more options to consumers, particularly music lovers who want an alternative to iTunes, Spotify or Pandora.

 

5 Ways Samsung’s Milk Music Benefits Music Streaming Fans

Unlimited Text and Your Mobile Plan

Text messages are electronic messages that are typed and sent through a cellphone device. Texting provides an instant and easy way to communicate with the world without having to express messages vocally. This form of communication may be enhanced by videos, pictures, and music sent through a telephone network.

 

Unlimited text messaging means the subscriber will have the ability to send as many text messages as they desire. A truly limitless text messaging service allows the individual to send messages to a subscriber of any wireless carrier.

 

Here are a few benefits of texting:

• Many phone users prefer texting to calling an individual because messages are sent quickly and they eliminate the need to speak aloud. Therefore, they are an ideal means of communication when the individual is unable to communicate vocally, for example, in a meeting.

 

• The messages are also saved on the sending and receiving device to be viewed whenever the need arises.

 

• It is even possible to send multiple text messages at the same time. Text messages are generally short. Those who send longer messages will generally have to pay more. However, individuals on a plan or a contract that includes unlimited text can send whatever length they desire, without paying extra as they would not pay for each text but rather a monthly fee.

 

• The fact that the monthly fee is usually fixed means that the subscriber can save money, as the amount paid allows the individual to send as many text messages as he or she wants. It is of course a good plan for the individual who generally sends numerous text messages, as only then will the true financial value of the service be experienced. If the individual had to pay for each text, the cost would be much higher than that paid monthly.

 

Mobile service providers offer varying plans to match the individual needs of each type of customer:

1. The individual who needs to send multiple text messages


2. The customer who needs to call many individuals throughout the day


3. The person who needs access to a great volume of data on their mobile, for example, someone using a Smartphone

 

Two Types of Plans

Postpaid/Contract/Monthly Plan

Monthly plans are offered by companies and they generally necessitate that customers enter a contract for one to three years. There are many plans of this type so the customer can choose just the right mix of services. For someone with a Smartphone, both call and data plans may be needed. There are plans available which offer the customer the opportunity to add at a later date other packages or services. For example, the person who enters a voice plan can add unlimited texting if they desire. This of course incurs an additional cost.

 

Prepaid/ no contract plan

For those individuals who do not want a monthly plan, there is the prepaid option. This plan requires that individuals pay as they use the device. The phone must be topped up with ‘credit’. Topping up is generally made easy with the options of doing so over the Internet with a credit card or even through the ATM. Also available are the more traditional options of buying credit from retail locations or over the telephone. Prepaid plans are for individuals who rather not signing up for a long-term contract. Not signing a contract means that the individual will have much more flexibility.

 

Recently many companies that offer the wireless mobile service have included in their packages the option to get a plan that is more like a semi prepaid service plan. The customer can pay for the services they need when they are needed, for example, the customer is able to receive prepaid unlimited text. There are generally other features that can be accessed in this plan, for example, calling features like caller ID and call forwarding capabilities. The customer with a Smartphone can receive extremely fast data transfer speeds.

 

Humans are social beings, and many like the opportunity to keep in touch with others through various means. For those on the more social side of life, the ability to text unlimited is beneficial. However, when the ability to access unlimited calling and fast Internet connection on one mobile device is added, the perfect communication service is provided. All three services can be accessed in an unlimited talk, text, & web connection plan. It is a common practice within the industry to offer packages that include more than one service. These combined services are offered at a comparatively cheaper cost.

 

Usually when a customer buys a cell phone he or she wants more than just the ability to call and text others. Therefore these varied plans make it easier for the customer to gain access to other useful features. For example, companies normally offer current and potential customers the opportunity to include their family members in a plan to increase savings. The best cell phone plans offer customers affordable price, good performance and efficient customer service. There are various plans available and assuredly there must be one to fit each customer’s needs.

Unlimited Text and Your Mobile Plan

Lenova IdeaPad Yoga 2 Pro: The Hybrid Laptop to Beat

Less than a decade ago, our perfect solution to mobile computing came in the form of portable PCs or laptops. This device moved computing from the confines of a desktop to just about anywhere you can imagine—on the bus, plane or train, on the beach or your backyard. However, laptops came with limitations, mainly due to their bulky design and poor battery life. With the onset of tablets and smartphones as alternative mobile solutions, PC makers struggled to redefine the laptop and market it to consumers.

 

The “ultrabook” is one of the latest types of laptops to hit the market. Unlike notebooks and conventional portable PCs, this Intel-inspired version offers thinner and sleeker framers without compromising battery life and performance. Some ultrabooks also feature flexible designs which allow them to function as both laptops and tablets. For those who want a high-end laptop which offers tablet capabilities, Lenova IdeaPad Yoga 2 Pro is a great option.

 

The Evolution of the Lenova IdeaPad Yoga

In 2012, Lenova introduced the world to IdeaPad Yoga 13 at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). It was dubbed by reviewers as one of the best hybrid laptops due to its versatility and affordability. However, it had a few drawbacks including a size and weight that made it uncomfortable to use in tablet mode.

 

Lenova rectified many problems related to the Yoga 13 with the introduction of the Yoga 2 Pro —a device which features better specs while maintaining the flexibility which inspired the laptop’s name.

 

Design and Features

The Yoga 2 offers both an attractive and versatile design. At 0.61 inches thick and 3.1 pounds, the ultrabook is sleeker and thinner than its predecessor. Customers can choose either silver or orange models. Since the device is made from a scratch-resistant material, expect a laptop that remains sleek for years to come. The device also features a backlit keyboard that provides a great feel as well as fingerprint-resistant keys.

 

The Four Modes of Flexibility

One of the main reasons to love this device relates to its flexibility. Unlike traditional laptops, the Yoga 2 boasts a sturdy hinge which allows it to fold up to 360 degrees. The convertible ultrabook easily transforms from a clam-shaped laptop to several modes including that of a tablet.

 

• Laptop: This is the standard position of the device. When it is in this position it looks exactly as clam shape laptops appear and is the preferred use for laptop users.


• Stand: While in this position, the screen tilts at an angle for optimum viewing without the keyboard getting in the way.  This position is ideal for displaying videos, slideshows or presentations


• Tent:  The laptop can also be bent into the form of a tent. Though this may be a peculiar shape for many laptop users, it offers interesting usability and is suitable for those who are interested in a more versatile PC.


• Tablet: The Leno IdeaPad Yoga 2 flips into tablet mode when users bend it to a 360 degree angle. But don’t expect the ultra-thin tablets like the Apple iPad Air. This tablet mode results in a thicker tablet. It also leaves the keyboard exposed unlike the Levova’s ThinkPad Yoga which offers similar flexibility.

 

Those who want a convertible laptop will be pleased with the multifaceted positions which the Yoga 2 offers. However, be aware that the device is primarily a laptop. Therefore, do not expect an ultrabook which functions flawlessly as a tablet.

 

The Display

The Yoga 2 offers an extraordinary “touch” experience via a high resolution display. The 13.3-inch screen boasts a 3,200 x 1,800 resolution. Such a display makes Yoga 2 compare to high resolution laptops like the MacBook Pro with Retina Display and The Chromebook Pixel.

 

With such a high pixel resolution, this display provides sharp picture and color quality without being oversaturated. This results in a high-quality visual experience ideal for movies, video clips, etc. The fact that the device offers such an impressive resolution makes it a great buy, especially since the device is one of the most affordable ultrabooks on the market.

 

However, there’s one drawback for which consumers should be mindful. Since some apps and features are not optimized for such high resolutions. Consumers may have experiences which make the resolution more bothersome than beneficial. For instance, the controls in the Windows Media Player app are tiny enough to make even those with 20/20 vision squint.

 

 

 

Battery Life and Performance

The Yoga 2 looks great on the outside but what’s on the inside and how does the device rank in terms of performance? Expect a powerful ultrabook when you buy this device. The ultrabook with its Intel processor boasts specs and features typically found in more expensive laptops.

 

In addition to a 1.6GHz Core i5 Haswell processor, the laptop features 4GB of RAM and 128GB solid-state drive. With such features, the Yoga 2 offers high-end performance, takes seconds to boot and offers the kind of multitasking abilities that PC users usually require from their ultrabooks.

 

When it comes to battery life however, this Yoga model falls short. The device offers 9 hours during idle time, i.e. when rarely being used, or about 6 hours at best during video playback. Those who frequently perform tasks that will quickly drain their batteries may need to look elsewhere. Many ultrabooks offer enough juice to last throughout the entire day. Take Apple’s MacBook Air for instance which with a single charge lasts as long as 12 hours.

 

However, if affordability is your main concern, this laptop may be well worth it. You’ll simply need to ensure that you keep the charger nearby when the Yoga is in use.

 

Adjustable Configuration

Gone are the days when consumers had to settle for preset configurations in a laptop of choice. With a device like the Lenova IdeaPad Yoga 2 Pro, consumers have the option of choosing the type of processor as well as the amount of RAM and storage. This is one of the great aspects of the Yoga 2 since you get a high-performance device which you can modify based on your preferences.

 

The base IdeaPad Yoga 2 comes with a 1.7Ghz Intel Core i3 processor, 4GB of RAM, and a 128GB solid-state drive (SSD). However, if power is your main interest, you’ll be pleased to know that you can upgrade to an i7 processor. You can also choose a 512GB SSD and up to 8GB of RAM. Below are some of the configurations which the Yoga 2 offers:

 

• Core i5, 4GB of RAM and 128GB SSD


• Core i5, 4GB of RAM and 256GB SSD


• Core i7, 8GB of RAM and 512GB SSD

 

The Verdict

The Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga 2 Pro is an exceptional device due to its flexibility features, high-resolution display and relatively affordable price. Since it’s an ultrabook, users can also expect a device that offers strong performance. However, the device’s mediocre battery life might leave consumers feeling more than a little disappointed. If a long-lasting battery is a priority consider other ultrabooks like MacBook Air. But be prepared to dig deeper into your pockets.

 

Lenova IdeaPad Yoga 2 Pro: The Hybrid Laptop to Beat

Phishing Scam Alert: Avoid Becoming a Victim

Phishing is the process by which an individual is lured into providing personal information such as credit card details and online accounts. This information is then used to acquire unauthorized access to the individual’s account thus resulting in identity theft and financial loss. In most instances, phishing scams are perpetrated using emails and telephone contact in which the perpetrator poses as a legitimate representative of a company thus making it less likely that the individual will develop any suspicions.

 

According to recent statistics phishing is one of the most common cyber crimes in the United States. While the Internet is the widely used to cheat individuals into providing information, the telephone also stands as a common medium. Over the telephone, the perpetrator typically impersonates a bank officer or other officials and asks for financial information. Even though both methods of phishing are increasing, individuals can lower their risk of falling victim by being aware of phishing scam alert that provides details of ways to avoid the scam.

 

Ways to Avoid Becoming a Victim

Scam alerts oftentimes provide practical ways in which individuals can avoid becoming a victim of phishing. By following such guidelines individuals can significantly reduce their chances of facing identity theft or a loss of finances. The list detailed below provides simple and effective strategies to guard against this cyber crime.

 

• Be aware of phishing techniques – The best and most effective strategy is to keep informed about the techniques used by perpetrators. With new phishing scams being developed on a regular basis, this might not be an easy task; however, it is worth the investment. Individuals who are constantly informed about new types of scams are likely to be at a lower risk of falling victim to such fraudulent acts.

 

• Avoid clicking on links – Links sent in emails are oftentimes used to lure individuals into Internet phishing scams. As such, it is advisable to only click on links that are contained in messages from trusted senders. Links that are contained within random emails and instant messages should not be followed as it is likely that this will only lead to an imitation website. If an individual is unsure about a link, they can hover over it before clicking to see where it will lead.

 

• Verify the security status of websites – Before supplying financial or other personal information to a website, check to see whether the site is secure. If it is, then it is likely that the website is legitimate. When checking the legitimacy of a website, look to see if the URL starts with “https” instead of “http”. The “s” on the URL verifies that the website is secured. Also individuals can check for a closed lock icon located near the address bar which also verifies the site’s security.

 

• Install an anti-phishing toolbar – These toolbars conduct quick checks on websites visited and compare them with a list of known fraudulent sites. In the event that the site is fraudulent the toolbar will provide a phishing scam alert.

 

• Use firewalls – Firewalls act as a good protection mechanism against perpetrators. There are two types of firewalls: desktop and network. The desktop firewall is software while the network firewall is hardware. When both types are used together, they significantly reduce the chance of perpetrators gaining access to an individual’s computer or network.

 

• Check online accounts frequently – Individuals who check their online account frequently are at the advantage of being aware of its status. This means that if any suspicious activity occurs, they will be able to detect it and act accordingly. It is also advisable to change passwords on a regular basis to provide an added level of protection.

 

• Update browsers – By keeping browsers up to date, individuals can ensure that they will always have the latest security patches installed. This means that they will have defense against loopholes that perpetrators often use to illegally exploit individuals’ accounts.

 

• Be careful of pop-ups – Pop-up windows are usually fraudulent links that lead to scam websites even though they appear legitimate. Individuals should be mindful of this fact and as such opt to block pop-up windows when they appear. If it is a certainty that the pop-up is legitimate then it can be allowed on a case by case basis.

 

• Use antivirus software – As an additional level of protection, it is always advisable to use antivirus software. These are effective in guarding against online scams as well as other fraudulent acts. It is important to ensure that the antivirus software used is updated on a regular basis.

 

• Never provide personal information – It is a general rule that individuals should refrain from providing personal information online. This is understandable as perpetrators oftentimes use such information to conduct illegal acts such as identity theft. Prior to supplying personal information online, individuals should first ensure that the website is legitimate. If there is some uncertainty then it is best to contact the company via telephone before submitting information on their website. Such preventative actions will ensure that there is no need to rely on reporting scams to the relevant authority.

 

Even though online scams are increasing at the expense of individuals who are losing their identity and financial resources, there are measures that can be implemented to reduce the rate at which these acts occur. By following these measures, individuals can continue with their regular online-based activities and be assured that they will not fall victims to phishing scams.

Phishing Scam Alert: Avoid Becoming a Victim

Bluetooth Technology: From Smartphones to Fitness Devices

In 1994, Ericsson created a wireless technology called Bluetooth as an alternative to cables which were used to connect phones, headsets and other devices. Most Americans are familiar with this technology since it is a feature of most mobile phones. Some even brush it aside as one of those unimportant technologies of the past. However, such an approach could prove to be a huge mistake for consumers.

 

Bluetooth wireless technology stands at the forefront of innovation, especially in the development of low energy wearable devices. In an age that celebrates the Internet of Things (IoT)—a movement to increase connectivity between humans and everyday objects via the Internet— consumers have many benefits to gain by understanding and taking advantage of Bluetooth.

 

From the King of Denmark to King of Wireless Technology

Back in the 10^th century, King Harald Blåtand (Harold Bluetooth) reigned in the Scandinavian region.  This King’s efforts to establish peace resulted in the unification of opposing areas within countries currently known as Sweden, Denmark and Norway. It is this King that eventually inspired the naming of a technology which would influence the world and industries at large.

 

In the late 1990s, several companies including Ericsson, Nokia, Intel and IMB came together to advocate the implementation of Bluetooth technology as an alternative for cables. These companies formed what would be known as The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG).

 

Bluetooth is a wireless standard which allows devices to communicate with each other via radio frequency. Unlike devices which depend on radio waves such as radios and television, Bluetooth transmits data across a more limited distance. Devices which feature this technology can transmit data only within your Personal Area Network (PAN) of up to about 100 meters or 328 feet.

 

This technology is ideal for devices like PCs, keyboards, mice, tablets and headsets.  These gadgets are able to take advantage of short range wireless communication technology since they are usually placed within close proximity of each other while in use.

 

 

Bluetooth Smart and Smart Ready Devices

Since the announcement of first Bluetooth specification in 1998, Bluetooth has undergone many modifications and upgrades. Bluetooth 4.0 or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), one of the latest updates to hit the market, enhances your ability to communicate with devices while preserving battery life. This has propelled the integration of Bluetooth technology in healthcare/ fitness, security, home automation and automotive industries.

 

The development of Bluetooth 4.0 resulted in a platform which could facilitate the creation of low energy Bluetooth devices. A new generation of gadgets called Bluetooth Smart and Smart Ready devices emerged.

 

 

Smart Ready Devices

Bluetooth Smart Ready devices such as cell phones are the hub of connectivity within the lives of users. These devices receive data from Bluetooth Smart and classic Bluetooth devices – gadgets that use specifications that predate version 4.0/ BLE. Through applications, the Smart Ready gadgets transform the data into useful information.

 

 

Gadgets which fall under this category include the following:

 

• PCs


• Tablets


• Game consoles


• TVs


• Set-top boxes


• Portable media players

 

 

Bluetooth Smart Devices

Bluetooth Smart devices, like blood pressure cuffs, collect specific types of information. Since they rely on BLE technology, they can run for months or longer periods of time on tiny batteries without requiring a recharge or replacement batteries. The devices send the information they collect to Smart Ready gadgets which in turn interpret and transform data into useful information.

 

Gadgets which fall under this category include the following:

 

• Smart watches


• Heart monitors


• Key fobs


• Blood-glucose meters


• Blood pressure monitors


• Toothbrushes


• Security sensors


• USB dongles


• Breathalyzers


• Thermometers


• Posture sensors


• Sports trackers

 

 

How Bluetooth Propels the Development of Wearable Devices

 

Since its debut about three decades ago, Bluetooth has asserted itself as a leading force within the world of wireless technology. Though Bluetooth first became popular within the mobile phone market, wearable devices are currently becoming even more influential.

 

Bluetooth has become a practical solution which has helped address many challenges which developers of wearable devices face. The fact that the latest versions of this technology are energy-efficient has played a crucial role in the advancement of wearable gadgets.

 

Technology such as BLE allows gadgets which otherwise would require dependable energy-efficient technology similar to their small size, to be more easily developed. According to ABI Research, low energy Bluetooth technology which enables Bluetooth Smart and Smart Ready devices will directly propel the development of wearables. ABI Research projects that by 2017, Bluetooth will influence the shipment of about 20 billion gadgets including devices such as sports watches.

 

 

Benefits of Bluetooth

Devices that are equipped with Bluetooth technology offer major benefits to consumers despite the limitations of the short-range technology. One of the main Advantages relates to Bluetooth 4.0’s energy efficiency. Since the latest versions of this wireless technology can function on minimal energy, owners of Bluetooth Smart or Smart Ready devices will be able to access connectivity without having to worry about their battery.

 

The fact that the technology connects to apps also opens up a world of possibilities. Users are able to collect valuable data and transform it into useful information. Recently, I saw a device which highlighted just how Bluetooth—a technology which I once thought was quite mundane and in no way revolutionary — could impact even our most precious everyday experience. My discovery was the Pacifi, a smart pacifier that could help parents monitor the temperature of their children.

 

Devices like these allow us to more easily monitor those we love, maintain our health and be connected in the ever-evolving world of technology. Whether you’re interested in purchasing activity trackers, heart rate monitors or key fobs that unlock your doors, Bluetooth is a central enabling technology that in many ways can simplify your life. Though it is limited to short-range, Bluetooth offers many possibilities to those who want to have a life that is more convenient and less hectic.

 

Bluetooth Technology: From Smartphones to Fitness Devices

How To Shop for Smartphones the Right Way

Purchasing a New Smart Phone

Pick your carrier

There are various phone companies in the United States that are more superior when it comes to phone coverage in every possible way. When you decide to shop smartphones the carrier that you choose must be one that suits you in terms of the prices that they offer, the coverage areas and what you get from each package if you do decide to get a package.

 

Choose Your Operating System

The operating system on each smartphone is different and it gives the user a whole different experience. There are some OS that has quite a number of apps with good quality. So far the world’s leading operating system has broken down boundaries and has gone so far to have this operating system on other devices other than phones. Thus far android is in the lead of all the operating systems available. If you do decide to get a smart phone then you must take into consideration all that the operating system can do for you especially as it relates to apps.

 

Get the Screen Size that’s Right for You

The screen of smart phones keep getting bigger but that does not mean that you should make a buy based on the one with the biggest screen as it does not guarantee that the size means a better experience. If you compare smartphones today in terms of size then you definitely have to avoid anything smaller than four inches. There are quite a number of devices that are this size and this offers a good experience for the user in terms of apps and general usage.  The newly preferred size for smart phones is 4.5 to 5 inches. Though you have to stretch your thumb a bit to reach all four corners of the screen this size is quite ideal and perfectly portable for users. This size therefore makes playing games, watching movies and typing on the keyboard easy and comfortable. To shop smartphones smartly you must ensure that the size of the phone that you choose is ideal for you.

 

Know the Specifications 

Today consumers care more about the experience that they will have with their smartphone and not so much about the type of processor that it uses. This of course does not mean that the specifications are not important.  Here are some things to bear in mind in terms of specifications:

 

• If you are a person that wants a lot of memory on your phone then the best thing to do is to ensure that the phone that you buy has a card slot for expandable memory. If not then it is wise to get a phone with a large internal memory.

 

• If you do not know much about camera specs on phone and you love taking pics then do not be fooled into believing that the higher the amount of mega pixels the better the picture quality.  While this has some truth to it, there are many other features that help to make a great picture quality when a photo is taken.  Two very important things in this process are the size of the sensor and the quality of the lens.

 

Pay Attention to Battery Life

It really does not make any sense to have a smartphone whose battery will die before you leave work. Based on a battery test and smartphone reviews that were done the average smart phone should last about six hours with a 40% brightness and continuous 4g web surfing. A smartphone that has a massive 3,300mAh battery was tested and lasted 8 hours and 13 minutes while another that has a 3,100 mAH battery lasted for approximately ten hours and twelve minutes.

 

Though the size of the battery is not everything it does matter and you might want to invest in a phone that comes with power-saving features as advised by the manufacturers.

 

Get all the good special features – the new aim of the companies that make smart phones is to bring to the users features that they have never seen before. An example is three of the most popular smartphones that can also be used as a television remote due to the integrated IR blaster and dedicated app that they have.  There are also additional apps that give the user the ability to view new air gestures and health and translation apps. This is really like having a personal assistant and phone in one device. This phone simply tell the built in app on the phone what to do and when and who to call.

 

Don’t Be Afraid to Splurge

If you add all that you will pay for in your plan over a two year period then you will realize that it actually makes sense to spend your cash on what you truly desire once you have the money to do so. It is just makes sense to get the latest, greatest and the best smartphone since you will be paying roughly the same with or without a contract.  You might even get to save some extra dollars.

How To Shop for Smartphones the Right Way

AT&T Spearheads the Future of the Connected Car

The automobile resulted from the work of several inventors who were determined to create a reliable means of transportation for the world’s inhabitants. In a period that lasted more than a century, the automobile underwent many transformations from a product that appeared to be more like a carriage to the sleek cars of today which offer integrated telematics to infotainment, 4G connectivity and a host of  other services. AT&T is spearheading innovation through collaborations with Qualcomm, QuickPlay and Red Bend. These companies provide crucial platforms to manufacturers, resulting in consumers more readily accessing next-generation automobiles—connected cars that perform unimaginable tasks within the ever-evolving world of technology.

 

The History of the Automobile

As early as 1769, a steam vehicle was developed in France. Though the first commercially made automobile became available in around 1885 in Germany, mass production of these engine-powered vehicles did not begin in America until decades later. These vehicles were merely archetypes when compared to modern cars. The original versions had a platform with wheels and an engine.  Eventually lights were added and engines were covered. Windscreens and other additional features resulted in a sleeker design.

 

From around the mid 20^th century and onwards, automakers focused on a more fine-tuned design that was geared towards eco-friendly, affordable, comfortable and safe cars. Seat belts and exhaust emission controls among other features became standard aspects of an automobile’s design. But the car’s move toward the future did not stop there.

 

Carro di Cugnot – France 1769

 

As new technology emerged, Americans sought cars that were compatible with the Internet, apps and other developments. Manufacturers became keen in their attempts to create next-generation cars.  In essence, the goal for many manufacturers and business leaders is to develop smarter products—cars that take advantage of telematics by accessing apps, the cloud, Wi-Fi, and a range of technologies.

 

It is this goal that AT&T shares. Through joint developments with Qualcomm, Quickplay and Red Bend, AT&T seeks to help manufacturers create cars that users control remotely, connect to multiple devices and accessing useful apps. Some 2015 Chevrolet models for instance will boast built-in 4G LTE technology via AT&T.

 

AT&T Drive Studio

AT&T has long since recognized the value of investing in the automotive industry, particularly as it relates to initiatives which focus on developing connected cars. Drive Studio is a hub of innovation spread across 5,000 square feet in Atlanta—a platform that invites automotive leaders to collaborate in order to steer the future of tomorrow’s smartest cars.

 

Recently, AT&T brought three new players in the mix in order to encourage manufactures who want to transition into the world of connected vehicles. But what role will each company play in the connected car revolution?

 

 

Qualcomm

In January of this year, Qualcomm announced its expansion within the automotive industry via Snapdragon Automotive Solutions. This chip provider is responsible for creating powerful chips that run world-class smartphones and tablets that will bring its expertise to the world of smart, connected cars.

 

Snapdragon Automotive Solutions provide processor chips that are especially created to meet the needs of the automotive industry. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 602A processor will offer manufacturers infotainment solutions that improve the experience of customers who own cars. Automotive chips from Qualcomm will provide Internet streaming, remote control and other telematics-based services to automobile owners.

 

QuickPlay Media

AT&T chose QuickPlay, a leader in video services to add new developments to its Drive Studio initiative. This company provides an OpenVideo platform which allows manufacturers and other leaders in the automotive industry to create their own built-in video services.

 

Some 2015 Chevrolet models for instance will boast built-in 4G LTE technology via AT&T.

 

QuickPlay’s OpenVideo will be a crucial component of Drive Studio since it allows AT&T to deliver in-vehicle infotainment which includes both “Live Linear TV channels” and Video on Demand (VoD) content. In addition, automakers will have access to Digital Rights Management (DMR), multi-language support and other solutions.

 

Red Bend

Through collaboration with Red Bend Solutions, the Drive Studio will be able to provide solutions in regards to the management of car software. Red Bend, a leader in automotive software management, will be able to provide management solutions related to in-vehicle software and applications including over-the-air (OTA) updates via AT&T’s cloud service. This will reduce the cost and time which Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) spend in managing in-vehicle software in an increasingly competitive automotive industry.

 

In the past, a connected car was restricted to the world of science fiction. However, AT&T’s collaboration with Qualcomm, QuickPlay and Red Bend through initiatives like Drive Studio is bringing smart cars into the realm of reality. These companies are creating platforms which enable automakers to develop smarter cars by using the latest developments in telematics including Qualcomm processor chips, in-vehicle software management tools and video streaming platforms.

 

AT&T Spearheads the Future of the Connected Car