Top 3 Android Tablets of 2014

If the 90s was the decade of the PC, this decade will be known as the mobile era where tablets and smartphones ruled. Mobile devices such as tablets enable users to access entertainment and connectivity at their fingertips. With the advent of the Apple’s iPad air, tablets have become even more desirable but not all consumers are eager to buy into the Apple ecosystem. If you are a lover of Android or simply looking for an alternative to the iPad, you’ll be happy to know that Android gadgets are some of the most impressive and affordable options on the market. They are compatible with tons of apps and offer users the flexibility they need in terms of design, performance and accessibility. Some of the best Android tablets are made by companies like Google and Samsung.

 

 

Best Small Android Tablet – Google Nexus 7

 

When Google stepped into the world of hardware development, some may have wondered if the search engine giant was stretching itself too thin. However, Google made it clear to skeptics that it was good at building more than just software when it launched the likes of the Nexus 7 last summer. This gadget has killer specs, and sleek design. Best of all, it comes with a price tag that would convince even the most wary consumer to purchase the 7-inch tablet.

 

The Google Nexus 7 weighs 0.64 pounds, making it one of the lightest Android tablets on the market. In addition to sporting Android 4.3, it also comes equipped with a full HD screen, front and rear-facing cameras, a long-lasting battery and micro-USB port.

 

 

The tablet offers high-performance thanks to what’s packed under its hood. Inside the Nexus 7 is a 1.5GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro chip with a single-core Adreno 320 GPU. It’s also equipped with 2GB of RAM and supports Bluetooth 4.0 and 802.11 a/b/g/n Wi-Fi.

 

Consumers who want a high-performance tablet with stellar specs without paying a premium price need look no further than the Nexus 7. Though it debuted last year, it’s one of the top 3 Android tablets of 2014 since it gives customers exceptional value for their money.

 

 

Best Android Tablet for Entertainment– Samsung Galaxy Tab S (10.5-inch)

 

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S (10.5-inch) weighs little over a pound and is .26-inch thick, making it one of the lightest and thinnest 10-inch tablets on the market. But though it is ultra-thin, don’t dare think its flimsy. The device sports a premium appearance with its thin bezels and dimpled back and feels sturdy enough to withstand wear and tear.

 

This ultra-portable device comes equipped with a Super AMOLED display with 1,600×2,560 high resolution and 359ppi that outperforms rivals like the acclaimed iPad Air. This high-end device makes binge-watching a breeze due to the gadget’s video app which enables multiple screens and audio optimization. As you experiment with the device’s multiplicity of features, be sure to check out the AMOLED cinema mode as well. This provides even crisper, richer colors as you stream videos and watch your favourite movies in HD. The IR blaster also makes it easy for you to control your TV experience since it transforms your tablet into a remote control.

 

The Tab S runs on the latest Android 4.4 (Kitkat) and offers a lag-free performance for gamers and entertainment buffs due to its 1.9Ghz Quadcore and 1.3Ghz Quadcore processors. It also boasts 3GB of RAM, a 7900 mAh battery which lasts up to 9 hours battery life in online mode or up to 12 hours during video play time.

 

 

The Galaxy Tab S like other premium Samsung devices comes also comes packed with numerous features that enable users to customize their tablet experience based on their needs. These include Multi View, Samsung’s solution for multitasking and Milk Music, a free music-streaming service found exclusively on Galaxy devices.

 

If you are an entertainment buff that would love to carry your favourite movies with you on the road, this tablet is a great chose. Though the Tab S comes at a high-end price, its multiple features as well as a sleek design makes it a convincing buy.

 

 

Best Android Tablet for Productivity – Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 (2014 Edition)

 

If you’re intent on purchasing a tablet to boast your productivity, the Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 (2014 Edition) may be your best bet. As one of the top 3 Android tablets, it stands out from the crowd due to its multiplicity of productivity features, improved S pen and faster processor.

 

At 1.33 pounds, the Note 10.1 is an ideal travel companion. Thankfully it’s also attractive enough to make any owner proud. The device sports a soft leather-like cover on its back which provides a more premium feel when compared to devices like the Nexus 7. It also comes equipped with a stunning high resolution screen of 2,560×1600 – that’s a whopping upgrade from the 1,280×800 resolution offered by its predecessor. This type of display, like the Tab S, offers vivid colors and rich details making it perfect for designing presentations/reports, watching videos or consuming other types of content.

 

In addition to its high resolution screen and premium design, the device comes fully equipped with a 1.3GHz quad-core Exynos 5420 processor designed by Samsung to power your multitasking pursuits. The Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 makes it easy to multitask as well thanks to Samsung’s incorporation of enhancements in the S Pen software.

 

 

Users will also be pleased to know that the device boasts 3GB of RAM, an 8,220mAh battery which lasts about 8 hours for heavy users and either 16GB or 32GB built-in storage. Such features make it easy to see why customers will be able to enjoy a high-performance experience and improve their productivity.

 

If you are looking for a tablet designed to enhance your productivity the Note 10.1 (2014 Edition) is a great option. However, if you’re looking for the most cost-effective option while maintaining stylus features the Evga Tegra Note 7 may be a better option.

 

Consumers now have many options to choose from in terms of high-performance tablets. Devices like the Nexus 7, Samsung Galaxy Tab S and Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 stand out from the crowd due to their premium design features and dynamic features.

 

 

Top 3 Android Tablets of 2014

AT&T Wins Award as America’s Best Broadband, TV and Phone Service Provider

How do we know when a service is as good as a company claims? One way is to listen to what actual customers have to say, particularly female customers. In the case of AT&T, females across the nation who participated in independent surveys recommend it as the top brand for home services related to TV, Internet and telephone. For this reason WomenCertified Inc. has recently presented the telecoms company with the Women’s Choice Award as the most recommended brand for broadband, television and phone service.

 

This award is like a stamp of approval from America’s most influential consumers. It highlights that AT&T is offering customers throughout America with the kind of service they can be proud of. Since AT&T operates within an extremely competitive market, the Women’s Choice Awards also signifies the company’s ability to edge out competition through innovative services like the following:

 

• Gigapower Internet (Internet speeds up to 1 GB)


• Extensive HD TV channels and On Demand lineup


• Whole Home DVR with remote management features


• Interactive TV apps like My Multiview, Facebook, Karaoke TV


• HD Voice service

 

WomenCertified Inc through its annual Women’s Choices Awards highlights the most highly recommended brands based on surveys distributed to thousands of female participants throughout the nation. This year’s awardees were selected by employing the Female Customer Satisfaction Index developed by the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business.

 

 

This index focuses on consumer experience and was instrumental in helping WomenCertified Inc. and its research partners make a scientific determination regarding top brands in areas as diverse as travel, home services, automotive and health and wellness.

 

In highlighting the important of such a prestigious award, Delia Passi CEO of WomenCertified Inc. said, “When a woman is willing to recommend a brand or service to others, it means that business has earned her loyalty.” No doubt AT&T’s U-verse service has won the hearts of customers nationwide due to its outstanding features which include reliable Internet and advanced TV. Customers can expect even more from the home service provider as it seeks innovative ways to improve customer satisfaction.

 

In responding to the award, AT&T executives mentioned how honored they felt to know that women across the nation identified with the U-verse brand, especially since the goal of the company was to offer products and services which would ensure customer satisfaction.

 

Those who are interested in purchasing or learning more about U-verse services can visit this site. AT&T’s award-winning services may be just what you need this summer.

 

AT&T Wins Award as America’s Best Broadband, TV and Phone Service Provider

The Rise of Virtual Reality: From Oculus Rift to Firefox

In the 80s virtual reality (VR) stood at the threshold of our minds. It seemed like the technology was about to take center stage but the dream never quite came to fruition. Though VR has been incorporated in gaming systems like Nintendo’s Virtual Boy, consumers like myself have only recently seen the potential of commercially viable devices in the likes of Oculus Rift and other headsets. But does this new generation of augmented reality have what it takes to transform our lives as tech enthusiasts, gamers and digital consumers?

 

 

The History of Virtual Reality: From 80s Headsets to Oculus Rift

 

Virtual reality refers to computer technology that creates three-dimensional, simulated reality in which users can manipulate and immerse themselves. Though this immersive technology has only recently made headlines, it took root several decades ago in the minds of individuals like Douglas Engelbart who began to envisioned computers with a display — a type of computer far more versatile than the colossal number-crunching machines of the early 20^th century.

 

When Morton Heilig later created the Sensorama it became even more clear that virtual reality was a venture bursting with potential. Though the Sensorama was not a commercial success, it foreshadowed technology that could truly transform the way we consume entertainment.

 

As consumer graphics and computer technology experienced significant improvements, the possibility of VR began to be more than a faint dream. In no other case has this been more apparent than the rise of Oculus Rift.

 

 

How will Facebook’s Oculus Deal Affect the Industry?

 

Oculus Rift, a virtual reality head-mounted display designed for gamers, first hit the scene in 2012 when it was launched on Kickstater, a crowd funding platform. Creators of the headset had one thing in mind, i.e. to raise enough funds to develop Oculus and place it in the hands of consumers. The fund raising campaign attracted thousands of backers, raising more than $2 million in the process.

 

In March 2014, the Internet began buzzing with news about a shocking Facebook deal. The social media giant bought Oculus Rift for an estimated $2 billion. This year’s deal between Oculus Rift and Facebook highlights just how lucrative the VR industry has become. But not everyone is happy about Oculus’ seemingly good fortune. Gaming fans throughout the world were more than a little disgruntled as they were left to wonder how Facebook purchase would impact the gaming industry.

 

Would Facebook’s takeover mark the end of Oculus as a gaming platform or would this result in a more diversified and marketable product for consumers? Though these questions are not easy to address, there are a few things that consumers can keep in mind as they evaluate the impact of Facebook’s purchase on the development of the VR industry.

 

• Facebook as a huge Internet powerhouse has a massive group of talented tech experts as well as tons of money to spare. This deal could enable Oculus to collaborate with creative teams across the world and access the funds needed to develop their product and make it even more affordable.

 

 

• Oculus is not the only VR reality company that’s making heads in the technology market. Sony announced a VR headset for PlayStation 4 called Project Morpheus and Google has also followed suit with an economical, albeit less impressive headset designed especially for smartphone users. If such developments are any indication, gamers will have many opportunities to access augmented reality for gaming.

 

• Since the device runs on an open platform, tech developers across the world will be able to build new experiences, products and services based on the Oculus platform. Thus, VR enthusiasts should consider Oculus as the gateway to a revolutionary future, not the destination. If the passion for VR continues, we’ll see a plethora of areas incorporated within virtual worlds – areas as multifaceted as medicine, education and social media.

 

• Oculus Rift technology could enhance the way we interact with others via social media. Facebook has already amassed billions of users, some of whom spend several hours each day checking their social feeds, ‘liking’ posts and uploading photos. With the advent of VR technology, social media experiences can become more immersive and engaging, providing transformative platforms upon which we can communicate with each other.

 

 

• Even browsers are getting a VR facelift – a fact that could result in significant changes in the way we explore cyberworld. Firefox and Google recently announced plans to add virtual reality capabilities to their browsers. One can only imagine the vast opportunities that await us if VR headsets become an integral part of our Internet experience.

 

Oculus Rift is leading the way in today’s VR world by offering next-generation headsets that provide immersive experiences to users. This device promises new opportunities for gamers as well as the average tech enthusiast. As a result of the company’s efforts, several other companies are now offering their own versions of augmented reality, bringing us closer to a future where dynamic headsets and immersive augmented worlds are commonplace. Though some are still doubtful regarding the viability of VR technology, one thing is clear: virtual reality is not to be ignored.

 

 

 

The Rise of Virtual Reality: From Oculus Rift to Firefox

AT&T Introduces Community Forums to Customers and Experts

For customers who are having issues with their service, it’s vital that they access answers to their questions as soon as possible. AT&T recently upgraded its Community Forums as a means of providing a collaborative platform for existing and potential customers, tech experts and AT&T employees. The Forums are designed based on social media websites to enhance engagement, communication and problem-solving among participants.

 

Start Conversations About AT&T Products & Services

As a leader in mobile, Internet and TV service, AT&T serves millions of customers throughout the United States. The carrier established an online community platform to enable its vast customer base to access to answers to their questions as well as quick solutions related to various products and services including U-verse TV, Internet and mobile technology.

 

AT&T has upgraded the search engine and redesigned the Community Forums so that users will more easily be able to search the site and access the information they seek.  Since the site offers improved navigation, those who become engaged on the site will definitely enjoy a better experience.

 

Since the Community is designed with social media in mind, users can share posts on sites such as Facebook or Twitter. These posts can be queries or updates regarding AT&T products and services. The easy-to-use platform is designed to facilitate lively discussions that enable both you and others users to not only resolve issues or concerns but also develop relationships with others who share similar interests.

 

 

Access Perks as Community Member

 

Those who browse this new and improved platform will be able to do far more than ask questions. Truly this platform connects AT&T customers and potential customers to a community of users that include AT&T employees, e.g. Customer Care managers and tech experts.

 

Those who use the site will come across ACEs. This term refers to users who’ve received the “Award for Community Excellence” due to their active engagement on the site. Such users enhance the experience of customers by providing updates and answers to queries. Their invaluable service qualifies them for many perks including donations to charities of their choice.

 

If you are the kind of user that loves to help others while building friendships online, the Community is a great opportunity for you. The fact that it offer a platform for open discussion as well as opportunities to access perks, makes AT&T’s forums a vital resource for customers.

 

How to Make the Most out of AT&T’s New Online Forum

 

AT&T’s Community Forums are built with consumers in mind. For this reason the site offer numerous features that users can access including an invaluable search bar.  Customers can make the most of the site by doing the following:

 

Search Community: The revamped AT&T Community includes multiple search options which you can use to access solutions. Search by typing a question, name or keyword.

 

 

 

Click on the “Explore” button: The “Explore” button acts as the heart of the site, enabling users to access many features including the community blog and a website tour. Once you click or tap this button, you’ll also have access to forums which focus on specific services or products such as “wireless”, “U-verse” or “Foro en Español”. Additionally, the “Explore” navigation tool enables users to create and access their own profile similar.

 

Create your own account: By developing your own profile, you’ll be able to control what other viewers see when they click on your username. Your AT&T Community Forum profile includes information such as your location, status and recent on the site. Users can also personalize their account by uploading a profile picture.

 

Access the community on-the-go: Customers can now access the website 24/7 whether on computers or mobile devices due to the AT&T Community mobile site. Reliable access increases your ability to receive answers to questions, thus resulting in an overall improved AT&T experience.

 

AT&T’s Community Forums enable both existing and potential customers to access information they need regarding AT&T services and products such as U-Verse TV and Internet. Through improved navigation and design, customers can more easily engage in discussion with AT&T employees and tech experts or post updates regarding their experience with new services in their locale.

 

 

 

AT&T Introduces Community Forums to Customers and Experts

Lover of Android? Up Your Game with the LG G Watch!

In the past few years I’ve seen many smartwatches come and go but few have convinced me of the necessity of such a device. Far too many of them offer a chunky design and poor battery life. Recently, Google announced a new generation of smartwatches which for the first time run on the search giant’s Android Wear operating system. The new OS offers an impressive alternative to its predecessors and foreshadows a revolution in the world of wearables. Devices like the LG G Watch support Android Wear and were displayed by Google. But does this latest LG device have what it takes to convince consumers like myself that wearables are worth buying?

 

The square-shaped G Watch is compatible with phones and tablets that run Android 4.3 or later versions of the OS. The watch sports a stylish design and features a dust and water resistant design which makes it possible for users to take the device along with them to a shower or while on a trek outdoors. The device sports a Gorilla Glass screen similar to that of many flagship handsets.

 

Since it supports Bluetooth 4.0, it’s also easy to connect it with your smartphone or other wearables. Once your mobile device is paired with the G Watch, users will be able to receive notifications or access features based on their mobile apps. The device also comes equipped with a voice recognition system which enables it to respond to commands.

 

 

The Design and Display

 

The new LG smartwatch offers a sleek yet subtle design that helps users focus on the contents of its 1.65” IPS LCD always-on display. At 2.2 ounces, the gadget is light enough to fit comfortably on your wrist. The screen sports a 280×280 resolution that displays notifications and other features in detail. However, note that watches like the Samsung Gear Live boasts a 1.63’’ AMOLED screen with 320×320 resolution, resulting in crisper images and colors. Unfortunately, both the G Watch and Gear Live sport displays which are difficult to decipher in direct sunlight. This is one flaw that I hope will be rectified since it affects a consumer’s ability to access functionality while using either watches.

 

The LCD screen, though somewhat inferior to that of the Gear Live, conserves battery life and comes equipped with several interesting features. For instance, the LG G Watch offers several faces which users can use to customise their smartwatch experience. Users can choose to enable an always-on glow so that the time will literally glow in the dark. They can also choose a face that shuts down during pre-set intervals.

 

Another interesting aspect of the design relates to the changeable straps. Though the watch comes in black titan and white gold, customers will be able to customise their watch by choosing any standard 22mm strap. The official G Watch website highlights the possibilities users have in terms of customizing their watch by changing the straps.

 

Battery Life and Performance

 

The smartwatch boasts a 400mAh battery which enables the gadget to run for at least a day without necessitating a recharge. When the G Watch is used on a minimal basis, it can last even longer while displaying notifications or running apps.

 

To revamp the battery, users will need to use a charging cradle. Once the watch is placed flat within the cradle, your battery will get the rejuvenation it needs. Though charging isn’t difficult, the sometimes awkward nature of the cradle could prove to be an annoying feature. Hopefully, smartwatches in the near future will offer longer-lasting batteries and a more convenient way to add juice to the device.

 

In addition to a 400mAh battery, the LG G watch also comes equipped with a 1.2 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor tucked neatly under the screen. This powerful processor packs enough power to create a smooth user experience as one access notifications, voice recognition capabilities and other features of the device.

 

Software

 

The G Watch runs Android Wear, an OS which might prove revolutionary within the smartwatch industry. Due to its Google-based software, the watch supports voice recognition technology and acts as a dashboard for Google Now. The OS enables users to control the watch by swipes, taps and voice. Accessing phone features such as text messages, calls and so forth also becomes a simple task once users download the Android Wear companion app on their smartphone device.

 

The watch’s software is generally easy-to-use due to its simple card-based UI which keeps distractions at a minimal, enabling users to stay connected to both the physical and cyber-based world through simple glances at the 1.65” LCD screen. It’s a wonderful experience being able to determine the importance of a message without digging into your pocket or fumbling through a cluttered handbag for your smartphone.

 

The phone already sports a built-in pedometer and users can expect increased functionality in the near future as third party app support takes flight. Though a heart rate monitor is not present on this device as is the case with other wearables, Android Wear makes me feel even more confident that great things are in store for smartwatches like the G Watch.

 

Though the device has its own hiccups on occasion, I think the LG G Watch is one of the hallmarks of the wearable revolution. The gadget’s sleek design and minimalist approach differentiates it from previous smartwatches that were far too chunky in terms of design and functionality. It’s definitely smart and sleek enough to stand as a leader in the market. Consumers who are eager to sport a smartwatch on their wrist might just have found the right pick with this device. Other who aren’t yet convinced can wait it out for device like the Moto 360 which will launch later this summer.

 

 

Lover of Android? Up Your Game with the LG G Watch!

Samsung Galaxy K Zoom: Neat Camera, Bulky Design

Let’s face it: we live in an era ruled by consumers. We have far more options to choose from now more than any other time in the history of the world. Best of all, American consumers don’t have to wait very long before the device of their dreams becomes available. The K Zoom – a hybrid “camera phone” with retractable optical zoom – may be one such device, made especially for camera enthusiasts.

 

This niche device highlights the fact that Samsung hasn’t given up hopes to create the perfect camera hybrid and further plunge the sales of compact cameras into a never-ending abyss. Since the Galaxy S4 Zoom, the company seems intent on creating its own niche device for those who want a hybrid camera that’s smart enough to work as a phone while boasting powerful optical zoom and other features which were previously found exclusively on point-and-shoot cameras.

 

But how well does the new Samsung Galaxy K Zoom fare as a hybrid device? Though the camera is undoubtedly powerful and the device offers a more attractive design than its S4 Zoom predecessor, the smartphone has its fair share of flaws. But for consumers who don’t mind a few compromises, the K Zoom may be worth purchasing.

 

 

A Case for Compromise: 10x Optical Zoom Equals Bulky Design

 

The cameras found on most smartphones are limited at best when compared to their compact counterparts. One of the main features lacking on most phones cameras is optical zoom which due to moving lens and sensors enables users to snap photos from a distance without compromising on picture quality.

 

What’s the solution you might ask? Consumers can purchase Sony’s compact lenses like the Sony Cyber-shot QX1 which attaches to their cell phones. But purchasing such a device comes with its own frustrations so others may consider another option, the K Zoom — a Samsung smartphone with retractable optical zoom lens. That’s if they don’t mind the bulk.

 

 

Bulky Design

 

Anyone who saw last year’s S4 Zoom will admit that Samsung’s newest attempt at creating the perfect “cameraphone” is far more appealing, especially in terms of its design. But the phone still remains much thicker than most modern phones.

 

At 137.5mm long and 70.8mm wide, the K Zoom measures 20mm at its bulkiest point and weight 200g. Though it’s smaller than its predecessor, it’s still much thicker than the likes of most flagship phones today. To puts its size in perspective, consider Samsung’s latest flagship handset, the Galaxy S5. At 142mm long and 72.5 wide, the device weights 145g and is 8.1mm at its thickest point – much thinner than the K Zoom.

 

The thickness of the Samsung Galaxy K Zoom isn’t necessarily a serious deterrent. Apart from the thickness, the Galaxy K Zoom has an overall appealing design. At the front, it looks very similar to other Samsung handsets with its smooth curves, thin bezel and HD screen.

 

The K Zoom boasts a bigger screen than the S4 Zoom. It comes equipped with a 4.8-inch Super AMOLED display with 720 x 1280 resolution. The device’s screen is sharp enough to display text and video in detail. However, it’s a far cry from the revolutionary 5.5-inch Quad HD display found LG’s latest flagship handset, the LG G3.

 

Choose a cell phone with a more advanced screen – full HD 1080p display or higher – if you want the best viewing experience while browsing the net, using apps and so forth. However, K Zoom’s AMOLED screen will do the job if you’re not obsessed with acquiring the very best screen that the mobile industry has to offer.

 

 

20.7-Megapixel Camera with 10x Optical Zoom

 

Though the relatively low resolution display or bulky frame may not be the game changer, the camera is one feature that users won’t be too lenient with. It must be good, preferably great. Otherwise, I can’t imagine which self-respecting consumer would be willing to spend their money on this hybrid.

 

The 10x optical zoom is definitely one of the phone’s most important features. It sits neatly at the back of the device – far more subtly than was the case with the S4 Zoom. The optical zoon remains retracted when not in use but can be activated when you open the camera app. Thankfully, the hideous battery grip featured on the S4 Zoom bulky is no longer present. With the bulge gone, the device feels far more comfortable to use and looks better as well. Kudos to the designers for this much needed fix.

 

Apart from an improved aesthetic, the K Zoom’s camera is also more powerful than that of the S4 Zoom. Its 20.7-megapixel camera with 10x optical zoom takes great pictures as would be expected, though I can’t quite give it the 100%.

 

What impressed me with the camera, however, was its Selfie Alarm mode. This exclusive K Zoom feature enables users to snap stunning photos with the 20.7MP rear-facing camera. Touch the screen to indicate where you want your face to appear in the picture, then position the 20.7MP rear-facing camera towards you. The phone beeps to indicate when your face appears in the right location on the screen. The great thing about the feature is the fact that it takes several high quality selfies at a time so that users get multiple options from which to choose.

 

The camera also offers several other features including HDR, burst, panorama, object tracking and Full HD videos.

 

 

Performance and Battery Life

 

With a combination of a 1.3GHz quad-core processor and a 1.7GHz dual-core processor, it’s clear that Samsung executives didn’t compromise on power while developing this hybrid device. The phone performs even better than its predecessor and runs power-intensive apps like Asphalt 8 with ease. You can swipe across the screen, open apps and multitask without experiencing lag – a fact that will please even the most casual smartphone user.

 

Since the phone runs on Android 4.4.2 Kitkat, users can expect the usual multiple home screen options, with app tray, S Voice speech control, the my Magazine app and a host of other bundled software which Samsung usually offers. Health junkies will be disappointed, however, by the fact that K Zoom lacks S Health.

 

The phone also comes equipped with a 2,430mAh battery under its hood. That enough juice to satisfy most users though it’s definitely inferior compared the Galaxy S5’s 2,800mAh battery or that of the LG G Flex.

 

 

Bottom Line

 

The Samsun Galaxy K Zoom is a unique phone that camera enthusiasts will love due to its improved design and powerful optical zoom. However, its bulk makes it awkward for everyday smartphone use and its HD screen isn’t very impressive when compared with displays found on the most recent high-end devices.

 

Purchase it if you need a phone with optical zoom and you don’t mind the bulk. Otherwise, wait until Samsung offers a better hybrid camera or check out slimmer smartphones like the Galaxy S5 or LG G3 which offer powerful camera features.

 

 

Samsung Galaxy K Zoom: Neat Camera, Bulky Design

AT&T Becomes Exclusive Carrier of Amazon’s Fire Phone

Rumors have been swirling for years regarding Amazon’s intent to enter the smartphone market. Recently, those rumors were confirmed when Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos announced the Fire Phone. This smartphone boasts unique capabilities such as a 3D feature called Dynamic Perspective and Firefly app. The Firefly app – Amazon’s visual search engine – is one of the device’s most impressive features since it enables users to easily access information pertaining to music, movies and products at the touch of a button. The new flagship device which will be available in late July is powered exclusively on AT&T’s ultra-fast 4G LTE network.

 

 

Rumors Put to Rest: Bezos Unveils the Fire Phone

 

Amazon’s recent announcement has put many rumors to rest and ignited a frenzy within the world of technology. Some are quick to ask, “Why would Amazon enter the smartphone market now when it’s saturated with competitors?”

 

Others are more concerned about the price tag. “Is it really worth buying?” is the question on the tip of their tongue. If you are one of those price-conscious customers, you’ll also want to know whether or not the gadget is worth buying. A perusal of its features as well as other factors can help us determine its value.

 

 

Fire Phone Design and Spec

 

Amazon is no stranger to the hardware department. Through its Kindle e-readers and tablets, the multifaceted hardware developer highlighted has garnered dedicated customers. Its new smartphone seems to have been created with customers in mind, particular due to its high-end features.

 

At first glance, the Fire Phone looks like any ordinary black smartphone. It features a 4.7-inch touchscreen display and boasts Gorilla Glass on the front and back. However, a closer look reveals a few striking features including five front-facing cameras, four of which sit neatly at each corner. Why would any smartphone need four front-facing cameras?

 

These four cameras enable the phone’s 3D feature which Amazon execs dubbed the Dynamic Perspective. The other 2.1-megapixel front-facing camera can be used by selfie lovers to capture their glamor shot moments.

 

In terms of the specs, the Amazon smartphone comes equipped with features one would expect from a flagship handset. In addition to its 4.7-inch IPS LCD HD display, the Fire Phone also features 2GB of RAM, a 2.2GHz quad-core Snapdragon 800 processor with Adreno 330 graphics and runs on Amazon’s customized Android platform called Fire OS.

 

With such specs, customers can expect a premium, high-power performance as they run multiple apps and check out the phone’s most dynamic features.

 

 

View Images in 3D via Dynamic Perspective

 

The Dynamic Perspective feature is one aspect of the Fire Phone that truly shines. A quick perusal of its capacities highlights the fact that Amazon executives weren’t wasting time in the four years it took them to develop the device.   This feature sets the phone apart from its competitors due to the fact that it offers smartphone users an immersive 3D viewing experience. But how exactly did Amazon incorporate 3D capabilities into its flagship device to achieve such stunning results?

 

The company created a unique sensory system fully equipped with four front-facing cameras. These infrared cameras were designed to sense your head movements and offer a deeper depth as you view images on the screen, whether games, maps or other features.

 

Deeper depth and dimension is achieved through positive parallax. This functions opposite to traditional 3D by enabling users to enjoy an immersive viewing experience without 3D glasses. The infrared cameras enable users to see around corners and view 3D images in maps, games and lock screens.

 

 

In addition, the unique sensory technology enables a new wave of gesture control capabilities. For instance, in addition to Dynamic Perspective, the phone comes equipped with several motion control features such as the following:

 

• Auto-scroll: Tilt the screen forward or back to automatically browse options on your screen.


• Tilt: Tilt the smartphone’s left or right corner towards you to open the left or right panel on your smartphone screen.


• Swivel: Swivel wrist to open Quick Actions and Notifications.


• Peek: Tilt the phone slightly to access more details on your screen.

 

 

Firefly App: Amazon’s Visual Search Engine?

 

In the most recent years, we’ve seen where search engines, particularly Google, have revolutionized the way we access information. Amazon through its flagship smartphone offers its own search engine solution, the Firefly app.

 

With the Firefly app, information will be accessible at the touch of a button. Users simply need to press and hold the Firefly Button on the left side of the smartphone. The image recognition system connects to the phone’s infrared cameras and accesses extensive databases to provide information about products, music, videos and other items. Customers can also use the app to launch websites, send emails and call friends without dialing phone numbers or typing email addresses.

 

Since the app recognizes QR codes, music, and a wide array of items, users will be able to enjoy a multifaceted search experience while limiting frustrations. Diet-conscious Americans for instance will be able to access a product’s nutritional facts without having to purchase a separate app. Since the app connects to an extensive database, customers will be able to find information regarding just about any item. Purchases can thereafter be made at the touch of a button.

 

 

Since Amazon is involving many other partners to collaborate on the app including the likes of MyFitnessPal and iHeartRadio, customers can expect an even more comprehensive search engine experience in the near future.

 

 

How to access the Fire Phone via AT&T

 

AT&T recently announced that its customers can now pre-order the device through online platforms or by visiting AT&T stores nationwide. The Fire Phone will be available in AT&T stores July 27, 2014.

 

With unique features such as Dynamic Perspective and the Firefly app, the new flagship smartphone may prove to be a great buy, particularly for those who invest heavily within the Amazon ecosystem. What do you think about Amazon’s leap into the smartphone business?

 

 

AT&T Becomes Exclusive Carrier of Amazon’s Fire Phone