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The Minix Neo Z64 is a pint-sized Android PC

Minix is a small Hong Kong-based outfit that specializes in small set-top boxes that allow you to run Android apps on your TV. With this new product dubbed the Neo Z64, they are now offering basically a fanless desktop PC box that fits in the palm of your hand. Would you go for something like this?



The Neo Z64 is one of the first boxes that Minix has produced that sports an x86 processor, specifically an Intel Atom Z3735F quad-core processor (core speed up to 1.83Ghz). This makes it possible for this pint-sized box to run Windows 8.1 (more on this later). The processor is supported by 2GB of DDR3 RAM, an embedded Intel HD Graphics chip, and 32GB of internal storage (eMMC).


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The box comes pre-installed with Android 4.4 KitKat, and as a set-top media box or for fiddling around with Android on your HDTV, these specs should be enough. But the x86 processor means that it can run Windows 8.1 as well. The box has two USB 2.0 ports that should be able to take a mouse and a keyboard. Aside from that, all the other connectivity parts – including WiFi connectivity. It outputs exclusively via HDMI.


As of now, there is no word if prospective users will have options to buy the box with Windows 8.1. The Neo Z64’s pricing starts at USD$129. The price would logically increase if Minix would start pre-loading the box with Windows OS, but we will have to wait for that, if ever that happens.


VIA: Liliputing





Sony rumored to out new budget phone, possibly the Xperia E3

Still on IFA 2014 fare, and still hot on Sony’s trail – we are hearing rumors that apart from a new flagship line, Sony will be launching a new budget smartphone device in Berlin in the new Xperia E3. In line as an upgrade to its token budget devices (with the “E” suffix), this device may not be the star of the show, but it is important in Sony’s strategy to hit multiple tiers and markets.



Not surprisingly, there have been very few leaks about the upcoming Xperia E3. We’ve heard of a spec list that includes a Snapdragon 400 quad core processor turning at 1.2Ghz per core. This will be supported most likely by 1.5GB of RAM, although people are saying 2GB may be possible. This will all push pixels to a 4.8-inch HD (1280x720) display, which if true, will be larger than the Xperia E (3.5-inch display) and the Xperia E1 (4-inch display).


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As you can see, it is not in Sony’s tech nature to skimp on specs. Even though the Xperia E3 may be marketed as a budget device, you will still be getting quality internals. What you won’t be getting – according to rumors – is water resist certification, which will not come with this device.


Sony’s IFA 2014 lineup is scheduled to breach the surface by September 3rd, so not long to go until we find substance for all these rumors. Make sure to watch our timeline for all IFA-related news and goings-on.


VIA: Xperia Blog





Samsung Gear S goes stylish with Swarovski strap

When Samsung unveiled its Gear S a few days ago, we’re pretty sure some of you were already thinking how to accessorise it once you get your hands/wrist on this latest smartwatch. Fashion jewellery maker Swarovski read your mind as they announced another exclusive collaboration with the OEM in the latest in their “Swarovski for Samsung collection.” The studded strap will make your Samsung Gear S look not just like a wearable but a fashion accessory as well.



Officially called the Samsung Gear S Strap (what else?), it has clear cut crystals that are directly embedded into the metal mesh of the curved smartwatch. It uses a new Swarovski product called Crystal Fine Mesh which was also just launched a few days ago and is being used by several fashion industry brands already. According to Christoph Kargruber, Executive Vice President Global Marketing, Swarovski Professional, both brands are committed to having products that are “highly desirable” to consumers and they married the two aspects of design and style with their Swarovski for Samsung collection.


The unveiling of the Samsung Gear S a few days ago brought another innovative smartwatch to the market. But instead of being on the Android Wear platform, it runs on Tizen and also has 3G connectivity. This means that you don’t need to link the Gear S to a smartphone in order to make and take calls or send and receive messages. But if you still think you need a smartphone to do other tasks on your wearable, you can switch to a Bluetooth pairing with your device of choice.


The Samsung Gear S Strap will be available at the Samsung Online store by October. No word yet on how much it will cost, but since it’s Swarovski crystal-studded you know not to expect a cheap price tag. They will also be releasing back covers for the new flagship smartphone that will be announced before the IFA 2014 at the Samsung press event on September 4.


SOURCE: Samsung





September 15 event in India might be Android One launch

It’s been months since Google announced in its I/O conference last June the Android One or smartphones for developing markets. A recent invite to a launch event in India on September 15 might just give us the first glimpse into the much-awaited affordable but near-stock Android smartphones.



Back in June when they announced the idea behind Android One, they also announced launch partnerships with India’s Karbonn, Micromax and Spice. So we are safely assuming that the new announcement they’ll be making in September in India might just be that. Android One is part of Google’s efforts to reclaim the entry-level segment by partnering with local manufacturers in creating products with Google specifications in markets that are not yet at that high-end segment.


This does not mean that Google will just be giving manufacturers a list of specifications that they have to meet. They will be closely working with both local carriers and manufacturers to ensure that the quality will not just meet their standards but also bring customer satisfaction at an affordable price. According to Sundar Pichai, Google’s Vice President for Android, Chrome and Apps, they will be sharing their resources with the OEMs, not just subsiding the hardware for the Android One phones. This way, the local manufacturers will not be forced to come up with marketing deals just to offset the costs. These deals add pre-installed “bloatware" to the OS which causes much annoyance to consumers.


The event on September 15 in India is a big deal to Google, given how much they’ve placed importance on this Android One project. Pichai is expected to be there himself, if it is indeed true that the newest smartphones will be launched at the event. As the invite says, let’s wait for “more details closer to the date!”


VIA: NDTV Gadgets


FlashTool now able to download latest Xperia firmware

For those who manually download the latest firmware for their Sony Xperia device, FlashTool is already a very familiar program. Paired with XperiFirm which downloads new firmware for Sony Xperia devices, one can easily flash new firmware for their devices using FlashTool. The new version of the desktop app now gives you a new feature – the capability to check and download the latest firmware for Sony Xperia phones and tablets.



The new feature, available in version 0.9.18.1, effectively takes over XperiFirm’s job, which means you only need one program to get your latest firmware available from the Sony servers worldwide and flash it to your device. A disclaimer, we are in no way saying that XperiFirm doesn’t work anymore – it still does. In fact, XperiFirm has been pretty much the go to app since the demise of the Sony Update Service tool.


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In the new version of FalshTool, you can now check for updates for your specific device. You can even choose what firmware you want depending on those available on Sony’s servers. Once you download the firmware files, it’s only a matter of bundling the software together in an update package that your phone or tablet will accept – all done via FlashTool, of course.


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If you need the specific instructions, go on and check out the source link. FlashTool is available through the official download page here. There is also a mirror available here, through a file storage and downloading site. If you’re an Xperia user, we recommend that you check it out.


VIA: Xperia Blog





Meizu MX4 gets official with MT6595 Octa processor and Flyme 4.0

Just few weeks after Xiaomi announced the Mi4, Meizu has now unveiled its new MX4 to take on the Mi4. Flyme 4.0 OS, based on Android 4.4.4 KitKat, is also introduced with new UI, custom icons and improved responsiveness.



This year Meizu has changed its processor from Samsung to MediaTek. The Meizu MX4 is powered by a MT6595 octa-core processor, which are four 2.2GHz Cortex-A17 and four 1.7GHz Cortex-A7 cores. The processor is paired with 2GB RAM. Similar to Xiaomi Mi4, both companies do not opt for 2K display this time, MX4 uses a 5.36-inch Full HD+ display in 1920 x 1152 resolution (418 ppi) – boosted with 1100:1 contrast ratio and 500 cd/m² brightness.


Perhaps the biggest improvement is the connectivity features and camera module on the MX4. The Meizu MX4 are compatible with all LTE/3G bands in China, that includes TD-LTE, FDD-LTE and WCDMA from China Mobile and China Unicom. It is also equipped with dual band WiFi a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 4.0 and supports GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou satellite navigation system.


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The camera module on MX4 is a 20.7 megapixel Exmor RS camera from Sony, it is probably the same as you will see on the upcoming Xperia Z3. It has a fast 0.3sec focusing speed, F/2.2 and able to record 4K videos and 25 fps burst shoot. Front facing camera is also provided by Sony - a 2 megapixel sensor with F/2.0.


Meizu MX4 specifications:


- OS: Android 4.4.4 KitKat

- Size: 144 x 75.2 x 8.9 mm

- Weight: 147g

- Display: 5.36" Full HD (1920 x 1152)

- Processor: MediaTek MT6595 octa core

- RAM: 2GB

- Internal Storage: 16/32/64GB

- Camera: 20.7MP (rear) + 2MP (front), dual tone flash LED

- Connectivity: WiFi a/b/g/n/ac / Bluetooth 4.0

- Navigation: GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, QZSS

- Battery: 3100 mAh

- Others: Barometer sensor, 4G LTE


Available in grey, white and gold colors, the MX4 will be launched with 16GB, 32GB and 64GB version. Pricing is as follow $293 (16GB) / $325 (32GB) / $390 (64GB). Unlike Xiaomi adhoc sale or OnePlus invite system, Meizu MX4 is now available for pre-order today for all customers in China. Shipping date is expected to be around September 20th this month. There is no mention of a global release.


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VIA: Sina


Motorola “Shamu” spotted once more in Zauba import data

The battle for who will bear the next Nexus device isn't over yet. But while HTC seems to have be the crowd favorite for the next Nexus tablet, Motorola seems poised to take the smartphone side. Whether it's the Nexus 6, Nexus X, Motorola S, or Nexus Shamu is still unknown, but Indian import and export site Zauba seems to prefer the latter.



What's in a name? Apparently, quite a lot. This mysterious device, if it's really one and not actually two different devices, has been going by different names. The codename "Shamu" was one of the earliest pieces of information to be leaked regarding a new Nexus smartphone. "Nexus 6" also seemed appropriate since it would surpass the Nexus 5 in order and in size. However, legal hurdles seem to have forced Google to switch the name to a "Nexus X", which might be more in line with Motorola's "X" flagship. Then there's the "Moto S" leak said to be part of Verizon's inventory, leading to speculation about the smartphone being more of an Android Silver device.


Whatever its name may be, the Nexus 6/X/Shamu, the device is being billed as a smartphone aficionado's dream come true. And why wouldn't it be if it does have a 5.2-inch 2560x1440 QHD screen, a 2.5 GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragn 805, 3 GB of RAM, and 32 GB of storage. All of that under the service of Google's next major Android release, Android L or, as some rumors put it, Lemon Meringue Pie. That is, of course, if any of these rumors, leaks, and speculations come to pass.


Unfortunately, we might not hear much about that this coming IFA 2014 in Berlin, as Google isn't expected to pull off the veils until late October or early November at the latest. That said, Motorola will be having its press event on September 4, where it will unveil the "New Moto X"/Moto X+1, which may give us a hint about the upcoming Nexus smartphone as well.


VIA: phoneArena





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