Amazon Unveils Sub-$100 Kindle Fire HD Tablet

Let’s face it: Amazon has had an interesting year in terms of its most recently launched devices, particularly the Fire Phone which had lackluster sales after failing to win the hearts of consumers. But after that apparent failure, the company is charging ahead with an impressive line of new devices which include the best cheap Android tablet currently on the market, Amazon’s Kindle Fire HD 6. This sub-$100 tablet along with its 7-inch counterpart – the Kindle Fire HD 7 – proves that cheap doesn’t need to be flimsy or inferior.

 

 

What to Love about the Fire HD 6

 

The Fire HD 6 is Amazon’s first 6-inch tablet and one of the smallest tablets you’ll be able to purchase on the market. The tablet is perfect for users seeking an ultra-portable device since it fits easily in one’s pocket. Best of all, it comes with many features that customers will love.

 

 

Affordable Price

 

When’s the last time you scurried through the mall or online looking for the perfect deal to match your very limited budget? If you’ve done that recently, you’ll be aware of the fact that cheap products, particularly electronics, usually come at a cost, offering poor performance and inadequate hardware for its budget-friendly price.

 

The latest Amazon Kindle Fire HD tablets offer a great price while outshining similarly priced tablets due to their solid specs. Both the Kindle Fire HD 6 and Kindle Fire HD 7 cost significantly less than Samsung’s cheapest tablets, the Galaxy Tab 4 and Tab 3 Lite, though both sets of devices come with similar specs.

 

 

HD Display

 

Like its Fire HD 7 relative, the all-new 6-inch Amazon tablet offers high definition viewing due to its 1280×800 resolution LCD screen. This translates into a burst of vivid colors and detailed images as viewers watch their favorite movies and TV shows, play games and perform other tasks.

 

The Kindle Fire HD 6 is also quite sharp due to the fact that it packs 252 pixels in each inch of the screen. The 7-inch Fire HD on the other hand offers only 216 ppi though it features an HD screen with 1280×800 resolution as well.

 

Both tablets provide a high-quality viewing experience due to anti-glare technology and IPS (in-plane switching – features which customers will find useful as they view content and gain all-angle clarity both indoors and outdoors.

 

 

High-Performance Hardware

 

Unlike other cheap tablets that offer mediocre specs, Amazon’s ultra-affordable 6-inch tablet features a relatively powerful processor equipped to handle most tasks. It runs a 1.5GHz quad-core MediaTek processor which according the Amazon offers three times the performance of budget alternatives such as Samsung’s Tab 4 device.

 

Since the tablet comes equipped with a high-performance processor, users will be able to access apps, multitask and consume media without much lag. This type of performance is truly unique for a sub-$100 tablet.

 

 

Multicolored Durable Design

 

The Kindle Fire HD 6 also comes in several bold colors that consumers will appreciate. In addition to the standard black and white, the gadget also sport color options which include citron, magenta and cobalt.

 

 

 

But how durable is this cheap Android tablet? It may not be as durable as the Sony Xperia Z2 tablet, but I’m sure that users who purchase this sub-$100 tablet will be getting the most durable tablet in that price range.

 

Like the Kindle Fire HD 7 which fared well after a host of torture tests, the 6-inch Amazon tablet can withstand extreme pressure. This is due to the fact that the latest Kindle Fire HD tablets are built with Gorilla Glass displays and very durable plastic. According to Amazon, the Fire HD 6 is built to outlast premium devices like the iPad Mini.

 

 

Software (Fire OS 4)

 

The Kindle Fire HD 6 along the other recently released Fire HD tablets run Fire OS 4 (Sangria), Amazon’s most recent operating system. This OS runs on top of Android 4.4 KitKat but was designed by Amazon to focus on content consumption. It offers several exclusive features which include the following:

 

• Family Library

 

This feature provides a convenient solution to family members who want to share content without using the same device. Family Library allows up to two adults and four children to share content which includes apps, audiobooks, games, books as well as Amazon Instant Video.

 

• Profiles

 

The Fire OS 4 enables family members to more easily share a device since it allows users to create profiles with their own home screen, apps, social media accounts and so forth.  This results in an easy-to-access, personalized experience.

 

 

 

 

As well as offering access to popular Android apps,  Fire OS 4 also comes equipped with features such as Firefly, a visual scanner first introduced on the Fire Phone and ASAP (Advanced Streaming and Prediction), a Fire TV feature that predicts the type of TV/ movie content that users like and prepares them automatically for playback.

 

Amazon proves it’s the king of budget-friendly devices by offering a new line of Kindle Fire HD tablets which include the sub-$100 Fire HD 6. This 6-inch device hits the sweet spot for customers looking for a cheap Android tablet that offers high-performance and durability.

 

 

 

 

Amazon Unveils Sub-$100 Kindle Fire HD Tablet

Samsung’s Thinnest Tablets Now Available in AT&T Stores

AT&T recently announced that Samsung’s thinnest tablets are now available for purchase. The devices, namely the Samsung Galaxy Tab S 10.5 and Galaxy Tab S 8.4, come equipped with impressive hardware and software features, highlighting AT&T’s commitment to offer the latest and most innovative devices to its customers.  

 

 

Features of Samsung Galaxy Tab S (10.5 & 8.4)

 

Starting on September 26, both the Galaxy Tab S 10.5 and 8.4 becomes available in AT&T retail stores. These tablets run Android 4.4 and boasts features which include the following:

 

 

Ultra-portable design

 

The ultra-thin Samsung Galaxy Tab S 10.5 and 8.4 were designed to accommodate users who want a portable gadget at hand. Both tablets are razor-thin and weigh approximately 1lb (Tab S 10.5) and 0.5lbs (Tab S 8.4) respectively.

 

 

 

Immersive Super AMOLED display

 

The Galaxy Tab S devices feature high-resolution Super AMOLED displays which offer the perfect solution to users who want entertainment at their fingertips. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S for instance sports a screen that offers 2,560x 1,600-pixel resolution. This type of display provides vivid details and crisp colors, resulting in a viewing experience that is both beautiful and rewarding.

 

 

Powerful Exynos 5 Octa-core processor

 

Under the hood of each tablet is a powerful Octa-core processor which results in a strong performance, whether users are playing games, streaming videos or surfing the Internet. The tablets also come equipped with 32GB of RAM and expandable memory up to 128GB due to a MicroSD card slot. This makes it possible for users to download their favorite apps and store important documents without worrying about compromising performance.

 

 

Ultra Power Saving Mode

 

When it comes to electronic devices, one of the major concerns for consumers relates to battery life. In the case of the Galaxy Tab S, customers can rest assured that they’ll be able to access days of productivity without lugging a charger around. This is due to high-performance batteries and an Ultra Power Saving Mode which enables users to conserve battery life by turning the screen into black and white and shutting off non-essential apps.

 

 

 

 

Fingerprint scanner for unlocking the device

 

AT&T customers will also be able to access secure tablets due to the fingerprint scanner feature found on both Tab S devices. This security feature enables consumers to protect files, pictures, and other important data with the swipe of a finger.

 

Customers who are looking for the latest tablets available on AT&T’s 4G LTE will now be able to purchase the Samsung Galaxy Tab S 10.5 and 8.4. These Tab S devices boast impressive specs and are currently Samsung’s thinnest tablets. The tablets are available with or without an annual contract.

 

 

 

Samsung’s Thinnest Tablets Now Available in AT&T Stores

Motorola’s Moto 360: The Best Android Wear Device Yet?

This year has featured the emergence of smartwatches across various platforms including Google’s Android Wear, an operating especially designed for smartwatches. Motorola’s Moto 360, the first Android Wear watch to sport a round screen, is finally available after being announced a few months ago at the Google I/O developers’ conference. But what exactly does this new smartwatch have to offer consumers and how does it fare when compared to the competition?

 

 

The Design

 

When the announcement of the upcoming Moto 360 was made back in June, the response of the audience at the Google I/O event made it clear that consumers wanted the device to be ready for purchase as soon as possible. Motorola’s smartwatch seemed to eclipse competitors like the already launched LG G Watch and Samsung Gear Live.

 

Smartwatch enthusiasts will no doubt be happy to hear that the device which became available in the US on September 5 is as beautiful as was suggested at the Google I/O.  The watch offers a sleek round design that looks far more like a watch and less like a toy. This smart-looking timepiece with its thin bezels measures 1.56 inches in diameter and features 320×290 resolution – that’s 205ppi to be exact.

 

 

The sharp screen also sports a larger surface area than its square-faced counterparts thanks to its round shape. This large screen results in notifications and alerts that wearers can easily read with a glance. Note, however, that the watch’s display is relatively big so consumers who aren’t accustomed to large screen timepieces may want to consider this factor before purchasing the device.

 

In terms of bands, the Moto 360 offers a range of options including silver, stone and black leather. The company also announced that stainless steel bands will be available later this year. Since the bands are detachable, watch enthusiasts who want a customizable timepiece will have the perfect fit with the Moto 360.

 

 

Software

 

Like the Android Wear watches before it, the Moto 360 watch is compatible with smartphones that run Android 4.3 and later versions. Motorola’s smartwatch also offers a similar experience to that of the LG G Watch and Samsung Gear Live due to the fact they all run the same operating system.

 

Users will notice that the device offers similar apps and features to its counterparts including Google Now and card-based swiping for quick access to notifications. But in no way will users forget that the Moto 360 is a device of its own due to its design and custom-built features.

 

For instance, users of the 360 will be able to access several custom designed watch faces which can be changed to match various moods and unique styles. These watch faces offer more sophisticated options than is available via smartwatches like the LG G Watch.

 

 

Moto 360 revamping power via charging dock. (forbes.com)

 

Beneath the watch face sits several key components which enable an overall strong performance. These components include a Texas Instruments OMAP 3 processor, 512MB of RAM and 4GB of storage. The watch’s 320mAh battery is said to last a day and can be charged wirelessly via a charging dock which comes with the wearable. These specs are in par with specs offered by other Android Wear watches, though the included charging dock is a unique addition.

 

Though it does not stand out from the crowd in terms of specs, the device also sports a pedometer and heart monitor, features which are lacking in watches like the LG G Watch. Motorola also created a unique heart monitor app which enables users to set weekly targets which are tracked based on the daily heart activity of user.

 

 

The Verdict

 

The Motorola Moto 360 is undoubtedly the sleekest Android Wear smartwatch on the market. The device uses its round face design to maximize its appeal due to sophisticated watch faces which take their inspiration from traditional timepiece designs. Though the Moto 360 does not stand out from the crowd in terms of specs, the device definitely looks far better than its counterparts and comes equipped with useful features such as a charging dock and build-in heart monitor.

 

But how long its reign will last is anyone’s guess.  Next-generation Android Wear devices like the LG G Watch R are already on the horizon offering sleek designs and upgraded specs.

 

 

Motorola’s Moto 360: The Best Android Wear Device Yet?

New Mobile Share Plan for Connected Audi Cars

Are you one of those car enthusiasts who has been desperate to get hands on a connected car? If that’s the case, your dreams may be closer in sight than you realized thanks to AT&T’s new Mobile Share plan for connected Audi cars.

The company will be affording consumers with the option of adding another connected car, the 2015 Audi Q3, to their bucket of data. Thus, they’ll be able to share data with their tablets, smartphones and cars, making 4G connectivity a much simpler feat both inside and outside the home.

 

 

More About the 2015 Audi Q3

 

The 2015 Audi Q3, the second Audi car to gain connectivity following the 2015 Audi A3, offers consumers a luxury in-vehicle experience due to its sleek design and connectivity capabilities. This compact SUV comes equipped with features including leather upholstery, Bluetooth, xenon headlights, self-heating front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.

 

In addition, the vehicle features its own MMI Navigation Plus system which enables users to access infotainment via voice control. Since the Q3 features connectivity via AT&T, owners of the vehicle will also be able to gain access to social media notifications, apps and other features for non-stop entertainment.

 

 

 

 

AT&T’s has recently announced that car versions of apps such as Parker, iHeartRadio, AccuWeather, and Glympse are currently under development via an AT&T Drive Studio initiative. This will result in increased access to car apps in connected vehicles which include, but are not limited to Audi models.

 

 

How Much Will Connectivity on the Audi Cost?

 

Mobile Share plans enable users to access a specific amount of data which can then be shared among multiple connected devices for an affordable monthly fee. According to AT&T, adding the 2015 Audi Q3 to a Mobile Share plan will cost the same as adding a tablet.

 

Consumers can contact AT&T representatives for advice in order to choose a plan that best suits their connectivity needs. Once a plan is selected, customers can simply add their Audi and share the allotted data with tablets, smartphones, and other connected devices.

 

AT&T customers can now access connectivity in vehicles like the 2015 Audi Q3 which come equipped with infotainment features and a luxury design. By adding connected vehicles like the Q3 to their Mobile Share plans, customers will be able to access affordable connectivity each month.

 

 

 

New Mobile Share Plan for Connected Audi Cars

Intel Launches MICA High-Fashion Smart Bracelet

Let’s face it: most wearable gadgets aren’t very fashionable. Perhaps, this is due to the fact that wearables are designed primarily for a male-centric tech market. Whatever the case may be, some companies are trying to change this reality by launching fashionable wearables designed especially for women. Intel, a global technology leader, is one of the latest tech giants to do so. The company recently announced its most lucrative product yet, called MICA.

 

This smart bracelet, dubbed “My Intelligent Communication Accessory”, enables consumers to access notifications, SMS texts and other key mobile features on their wrists. But unlike most other wearables, MICA is designed for women who are eager to make a fashion statement. The technology leader collaborated with fashion designers from Opening Ceremony to produce MICA. The bracelet will be sold via fashion retailers like Barneys New York.

 

 

Luxury Design for Woman

 

MICA was created to enhance the lives of customers by providing communication capabilities while accentuating fashion. The smart accessory currently comes in two main designs which feature a 1.6-inch sapphire touchscreen.

 

 

The first design features white water-snake skin, Russian obsidian and tiger’s eye from South Africa. The second, on the other hand, sports stylish black water-snake skin, lapis stones from Madagascar and Chinese pearls.

 

The device exudes confidence and luxury and boasts a sleek design when compared to other wearables that seem to be more like clunky smartphones attached to one’s wrists.

 

 

Smart Bracelet with Intelligent Capabilities

 

With a design as chic as MICA’s, it’s not hard to see why women with an interest in high-end fashion would want to purchase the device. The fact that it features semiprecious stones and water-snake skin alone would make it fit well within luxury retailers like Barneys New York and Opening Ceremony stores. But what exactly does the smart bracelet offer in terms of intelligent communication features?

 

Like most wearables before it, MICA is designed to enhance its wearer’s ability to remain connected wherever the user goes. The cuff-style bracelet comes equipped with a sapphire glass screen which displays notifications, reminders, SMS messages as well as other features.

 

The high-fashion smart bracelet also comes equipped with 3G capabilities and functions without the need to be paired to a smartphone. The fact that it works independently is an obvious advantage since the device will be able to function as a sleek standalone accessory. This will work well for users who want to stay connected without taking their smartphone around.

 

In terms of power, Intel is yet to announce how long the device runs without needing to be recharged. However, the company did mention that the bracelet can be charged via USB or wirelessly.

 

 

When will MICA be Available for Purchase?

 

According to Intel, customers will be able to get their hands on the smart accessory during the upcoming holiday season. An exact price has not yet been revealed but experts deduce that MICA is likely to sell within a similar price range as other luxury products designed by Opening Ceremony and high-end fashion retailers.

 

Intel takes a bold step with MICA, an intelligent high-end bracelet designed through collaboration with Opening Ceremony. This bracelet is studded with semiprecious stones and offers an elegant take on the wrist-worn wearable.

 

 

 

 

Intel Launches MICA High-Fashion Smart Bracelet

AT&T Adds Samsung VR Headset, Galaxy Devices to 4G Network

AT&T recently announced the addition of several Samsung devices to its super-fast 4G LTE network. These devices include smartphones like the Galaxy Note 4 and Note Edge which feature stunning Quad HD displays and ultra-fast processors. AT&T customers will also be able to access the Samsung Gear VR, Samsung first VR headset and the Samsung Gear Circle, a top-notch Bluetooth headset.

 

These devices have recently been added to accentuate the experience of AT&T customers who are ever on the lookout for the latest and most innovative mobile devices. Such a move by AT&T highlights the company’s commitment to providing world-class service to its customers. But what exactly can customers expect from these recently added Samsung devices?

 

 

Samsung Galaxy Note 4

 

The Galaxy Note 4 is a high-end device which offers stunning features that rival flagship smartphones like the Galaxy S5. These features include a 5.7-inch Quad HD Super AMOLED screen with 1440 pixel resolution – the first of its kind in Samsung’s smartphone lineup.

 

 

Such a screen offers more details and sharper images than the Full HD displays featured on most flagship devices. Customers will also be able to enjoy a larger screen than that which is available in Quad HD displays like that of the LG G3.

 

In addition to its high-resolution screen, the Note 4 also comes packed with powerful features including a quad-core Snapdragon 805 processor, improved stylus, heart-rate monitor and a 3.7MP front-facing camera made especially for selfie lovers.

 

 

Samsung Galaxy Note Edge

 

The Samsung Galaxy Note Edge comes with similar specs as the Note 4 – specs which include a Quad HD screen, Android 4.4 (KitKat) and improved stylus. But it stands out due to one main feature, its edgy design.

 

This smartphone’s unique design features a curved edge on the phone’s right side. This expands the Note 4 experience by offering intriguing control capabilities. For instance, the edge of the screen functions similarly to a menu bar and acts independently enabling users to control apps, access notifications and customize their smartphone experience.

 

 

Samsung Gear VR

 

Samsung’s new virtual reality headset – announced on September 3, 2014 – highlights just how mainstream VR is becoming since Oculus Rift’s arrival on the scene. Samsung’s announcement also confirms rumors expressed by leading tech experts months prior. But what does this device offer its users?

 

The device, powered by Oculus technology, allows users to access a VR experience in the comfort of their home. By simply attaching their Galaxy Note 4 smartphone to the front of the headset, users will be able to view 3D content and enjoy an overall immersive experience.

 

 

Samsung Gear Circle

 

Once a smartphone is paired with this Samsung Bluetooth headset, customers will be able to gain hands-free access to phone features, make calls, listen to music and control their smartphone experience via voice command.

 

The device comes with a unique design that offers versatility while being worn around the neck or shoulders.  The two ends of the headset where the ear buds reside can easily be attached, enabling users to transform the device into a necklace.  This design reduces the need to untangle the headset while customers jog or perform other tasks.

 

The latest Samsung devices including the Note 4 and Samsung Gear VR are now available to AT&T customers. These device offer impressive features that can improve your mobile experience as you seek to remain connected and access the best entertainment the world has to offer.

 

 

 

 

 

AT&T Adds Samsung VR Headset, Galaxy Devices to 4G Network

Top 3 Budget-Friendly 4G LTE Smartphones

If you wanted to buy a 4G phone, you had no choice but to dish out hundreds of dollars. While there are still some of those phones that break the bank, certain smartphone manufacturers are offering more affordable options for those who might be confined to a tight budget. These options include midrange and entry-level phones which a host of features including 4G connectivity, powerful chips, and decent displays. The top 3 budget-friendly 4G LTE smartphones also run the latest version of popular mobile operating systems like Android 4.4.3 Kitkat.

 

 

HTC Desire 510

 

Desire 510 is one of the most recently launched smartphones on the HTC lineup. It hits the sweet spot between midrange and entry-level and is designed to meet the needs of budget-conscious consumers while providing major benefits including super-fast 4G connectivity.

 

At 158 grams, this device offers a sleek design with its matted finish and acts as an affordable entertainment hub thanks to features such as a 4.7-inch display and powerful 1.2GHz Snapdragon 410 processor. The chip guarantees faster data processing due to 64-bit computing which boasts power efficiency and overall performance as users multitask, play games and stream video. Its Adreno 306 graphics also contribute to a smooth smartphone experience.

 

The phone features 8GB on-board storage as well as expandable memory via a microSD card slot. HTC Desire 510 also offers 1GB of RAM, a 2,100mAh removable Li-polymer battery and runs Android 4.4.2 Kitkat with HTC Sense.

 

Though the phone features a relatively mediocre 5MP rear-facing camera that lacks features like the standard LED flash, its robust processor and core design makes it a worthwhile buy.

 

US price is yet to be announced.

 

 

 

Motorola Moto G ($219.99)

 

Motorola has improved the Moto G – its hallmark mid-range stunner – by adding 4G LTE connectivity and storage expansion capabilities via a microSD card slot. Though this results in a device slightly pricier than the original Moto G (3G), the latest Moto G offers much to be happy about.

 

For instance, this top 3 budget-friendly smartphone boasts a stunning screen which rival displays offered by other midrange smartphones. Take for instance Desire 510’s 4.7-inch screen which looks mediocre when compared to Moto G’s 4.5inch display with 1,280×720 resolution.

 

The Moto G also wins big thanks to what lies underneath its hood: 1.2GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 chip, 1GB of RAM and a 2,070mAh battery. These features result in a phone that runs efficiently as users stream movies, browse the Internet and play games as demanding as Asphalt 8. The phone also sports a decent 5MP camera with features such as HDR which result in sharp pictures in most lighting conditions.

 

In terms of software, the phone runs Android 4.4.3 with features that are easy to navigate due to the fact that Motorola limits its customisation of Android. Thus, those who purchase the device will be able to easily adjust to the software and enjoy bloat-free features.

 

 

 

Nokia Lumia 635 ($129.88)

 

Midrange Android smartphones are some of the most cost-effective devices on the market. But Microsoft is offering budget-friendly alternatives thanks to its Lumia smartphones. The latest Nokia Lumia 635 comes at a superb price and offers competitive specs.

 

This Windows 8.1 smartphone is similar to its predecessor, the Lumia 630 (3G) but comes with a refined design as well 4G connectivity. The 635 sports a glossy polycarbonate shell in multiple colours such as Bright Yellow, Bright Orange and Bright Green which can be replaced to match your mood or outfit.

 

The device also features a 4.5-inch screen made from Gorilla Glass 3. This screen offers 854×480 pixel resolution that results in vibrant colours and great viewing angles. It also features Nokia ClearBlack technology which results in a clear screen even while outdoors. Though the screen with is 218ppi offers less details than Moto G’s 4.5-inch display, it provides enough vibrancy to meet the needs of most budget watchers.

 

In terms of performance, the device fares well thanks to a 1.2 Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 processor, 512GB of RAM and 8GB of on-board storage. Though it features less RAM than the Moto G, the Lumia 635 runs surprisingly well while performing processor-heavy tasks like gaming or video streaming. There’s also a 1,830mAh battery that provides up to 7 hours of video playback.

 

 

Smartphones like the HTC Desire 510, Motorola Moto G and Nokia Lumia 635 offer a great smartphone experience at an affordable price. This is due to their 4G LTE connectivity, powerful Snapdragon processors and sleek design. Though many of these devices feature obvious compromises, especially in terms of camera performance, they offer an experience that’s truly worth the price.

 

 

Top 3 Budget-Friendly 4G LTE Smartphones

AT&T"s BlackBerry 10.2.1 Update for BlackBerry Z10 & Q10

Do you recall the days of “CrackBerry” mania – a period defined by an obsession with Blackberry’s signature smartphones? Though the company has lost much of its foothold in the smartphone market since those glory years, it has launched several software updates and mobile devices in recent times. In August, AT&T on the heels of its Lumia updates, became one of the latest carriers to announce the availability of BlackBerry 10.2.1 to owners of BlackBerry Z10 & Q10 devices. This software update will enable customers to access innovative features including an improved BlackBerry Hub.

 

Features Available on BlackBerry 10.2.1

The latest BlackBerry OS improves the mobile experience of BlackBerry customers by offering enhancements designed to increase productivity.  These features include the following:

 

 

• Pinch Gesture to Filter BlackBerry Hub

 

The enhanced Hub comes equipped with new refinements which enable users to customize their messages list by using a pinch gesture. For instance, users can customize their list to only display, Unread Messages, Sent Messages, Level 1 Alerts or Draft Messages when they activate the pinch feature.

 

 

• Refined Bluetooth Features

The 10.2.1 update facilitates an easier connection with smartphones, connected cars and other Bluetooth-enabled devices due to the removal of glitches which affected previous versions of the OS.

 

 

• Unlock Devices With Picture Password

The latest OS offers an interesting option for users to unlock the device. The new lock feature allows users to combine a number (0-9) and picture for quick access and improved security. Those who want an alternative to the usual passcode lock found on numerous devices may enjoy this feature.

 

 

• Increased Storage up to 64GB

BlackBerry10.2.1 expands storage capacity of the Q10 and Z10 by enabling the usage of 64GB MicroSD cards. Through this enhancement, users will have quick access to space on their devices as they store photos, videos and other types of files.

 

 

• Enhanced Camera

Are you a lover of selfies? If that’s the case, you will definitely have more to look forward to via BlackBerry’s latest OS. After all, 10.2.1 improves camera features such as stability and focus.

 

 

• Battery Monitor

This Battery Monitor helps users to more efficiently manage power by providing vital details regarding battery usage. For instance, this feature illustrates how the apps downloaded on the device affect battery life, CPU stats and other key performance indicators.

 

 

• Improved FM Radio

BlackBerry 10.2.1 provides access to local FM radio stations without a network connection.

 

 

How to Access the Update

 

AT&T customers can access the update by selecting Settings > Software Updates > Check for Updates. Follow the instructions provided on the screen once an update is located.

 

Also ensure that your device is connected to Wi-Fi and that the battery is charged to at least 50%. Note as well that the update could take as much as 30 minutes depending on your connection and the general performance of your smartphone.

 

 

The most recent BlackBerry OS update provides access to refinement including enhanced Hub, Battery Monitor and camera. The update is available to AT&T customers who own Z10 or Q10 smartphones.

 

 

 

AT&T"s BlackBerry 10.2.1 Update for BlackBerry Z10 & Q10

How to Protect Android Devices from Hackers

Most of us wouldn’t dare use a PC without anti-virus protection yet we leave our smartphones and tablets unprotected. The irony is even more palpable when we consider the fact that malicious attacks on mobile devices, particular those that run on the Android platform, have risen significantly within the past few years. But where should you begin in your quest to ensure mobile security? Such a task requires simple tech practices including the implementation of a lock screen.

 

 

Lock Your Screen with a Password

 

Mobile security on an Android smartphone or tablet begins with a lock screen. Activate your lock screen by using a password, PIN or pattern. Set it to automatically lock within an appropriate time, for instance between 3-8 minutes of inactivity. In this case, choosing a strong passcode is the key. Passwords with an adequate length as well as a combination of letters and symbols are usually harder to crack.

 

 

However, be sure not to use the same code for multiple devices or services. If you are having trouble remembering your passwords consider utilizing services such as LastPass which stores your passwords and uses them to automatically log-in users when they visit relevant sites.

 

 

 

 

Install Security Software

 

Mobile security software is as vital for smartphones and tablets as PCs. Such software enables users to access their tablets or smartphones without having to worry about hackers compromising their devices or stealing data. Some of the best security apps include the following:

 

• Android Device Manager

 

This Google service enables users to control Android devices associated with their Google account. Once you download the software, you’ll be able to track your device in case it gets stolen. It also allows users to lock their phone remotely or wipe all the data stored on their device. This is one of the most vital apps you’ll ever come across in Google Play.

 

• Lookout

 

Lookout has been ranked as one of the best anti-virus solutions for Android devices and currently has a 4.5/5 rating on Google Play. Like Google’s Android Device Manager, Lookout allows users to delete data from their device remotely in case it’s stolen or track it using GPS. In addition, this security software provides anti-spyware and anti-malware functionality, thus limiting your risk of being hacked. Consider it as a must-have preventative measure.

 

 

Download Apps From Trustworthy App Stores Only

 

Third party or “unofficial” app stores often distribute apps that feature malware. For this reason, ensure that only trustworthy app stores like Google Play are used when downloading apps on your mobile device. Also read app permissions carefully before downloading an app.

 

Often an app will request permission to access your contacts, etc. However, if an app makes a strange or inappropriate request (e.g. to reveal your identity/location) decline instead of downloading the application.

 

 

Encrypt Your Android Device

 

Gadget owners now use their mobile devices for a myriad of tasks including for e-commerce and banking. When such tasks are done across mobile networks without proper protective measures, sensitive information stored on your Android device can be stolen by hackers.

 

Since your device often stores sensitive data, owners of mobile devices need to ensure that their devices and the data stored therein is secure. Your device’s built-in encryption feature is a useful tool since it makes your data virtually unreadable if it falls into the wrong hands. Access this extra level of security by navigating to Settings > Security. Note that you’ll need to create a password or PIN to access this feature.

 

 

Use Secure Networks When Connecting to the Internet

 

Do you keep Bluetooth on even when it’s not in use? If so, you are putting your device and date at risk. Ensure that your Bluetooth is disabled when not in use. Also secure you Android phone or tablet by ensuring that you avoid connecting to unprotected networks including public Wi-Fi. Avoid public Wi-Fi especially while accessing bank accounts online.

 

Now is the time to develop better mobile habits. By simply implementing the lock screen feature, installing a security software and so forth, you can secure your device and lessen the possibility of losing sensitive data to hackers.

 

 

 

How to Protect Android Devices from Hackers