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ASUS ZenFone 5 and ZenFone 6 also get their Android 4.4

Continuing its KitKat updates for its ZenFone family, ASUS has released the latest firmware for the larger ZenFone 5 and ZenFone 6. Aside from updating the Intel-powered Android smartphones to the latest Android 4.4 version, it also adds some new features to region or model specific handsets.

Improvements to already existing functionality, aside from the jump to Android 4.4, include better Miracast compatibility. This protocol is used for streaming media content to compatible receivers such as TVs or set-top boxes. And speaking of streaming, the ZenFones now have support for DLNA, another popular protocol protocol used for home media servers and sometimes gaming consoles as well.

As for new features, ASUS has added a much needed Do Not Disturb mode for automatically silencing the smartphone in certain situations or times. Owners in China and Taiwan will now have a new Call Guard feature as well. Those with dual SIM slots will now be able to put the phone in full dual standby mode. Plus, the new Reply via Call-in feature will automatically select the correct SIM when replying to a message or call.

Unfortunately, in typical ASUS fashion, the firmware update is more involved than it reasonably should be. Instead of delivering the firmware over the air (FOTA) as most OEMs do these days, ASUS requires users to manually download the firmware, plug in their ZenFone to a PC, and copy over the downloaded file to the phone's root folder. As if that wasn't enough, ASUS warns that users have to make sure that they are downloading the correct firmware for their phone model or risk causing the update to fail and potentially wiping their data.

SOURCE: ASUS (ZenFone 5), (ZenFone 6)

Firefox OS-powered Matchstick to rival Chromecast

We knew it won’t be long before somebody takes on the Chromecast. This Chrome-based WiFi stick will soon be rivaled by a Firefox OS powered one once its developers are done raising funds.

The Matchstick works similar to Chromecast, only it is based on Firefox OS. Its creator Matchstick.tv is hoping to raise $100,000 on Kickstarter but looks like a lot of people believe in the product. As early as now and with 28 days to go before the deadline, the group has already received almost twice the goal amount. As of this writing, about 7,716 have sent in their pledge donation.

The Matchstick looks like any ordinary WiFi dongle but this one has been certified for Firefox OS. The developer built an open hardware and software platform and came up with this streaming stick exclusive for Mozilla. The result is a low cost device that brings more personalized apps, smaller installs, and an adaptable and open operating system.

Just like the Chromecast, the Matchstick brings content from the Internet to your TV. Feel free to watch TV shows and movies, play music and games, and explore apps Firefox and Matchstick developers are working on and that are already in the Mozilla app store. Soon, these apps can be found in the Matchstick app store. We can expect popular apps like Pandora, HBO Go, and Netflix to be available at launch.

VIA: SlashGear

SOURCE: Kickstarter

Samsung Galaxy Note 4 release dates revealed

The Samsung Galaxy Note 4 is coming. After being released in South Korea last Friday, September 26, the new phablet will soon be launched in the United States and other parts of the globe. Samsung Mobile recently teased us with an invitation to an ‘S Carpet’ launch event.

Looking at the image, you’ll see dots with the corresponding dates. Countries are marked with dots and dates set by Samsung. The map should be helpful and informative but the colors of the dots are almost similar to each other so it’s kind of difficult to check for some countries. (Maybe Samsung should update this?)

Based on the map, Canada will receive the Galaxy Note 4 this coming October 17. China appears to have received the device last September 29 and Korea on the 30th as opposed to the September 26 date we earlier reported. As for the UK, the Galaxy Note 4 could be launched on October 10 and Western Europe a week after.

In Asia, the phablet is expected to roll out in each country on these dates: October 10 (India), October 11 (Singapore), October 13 (Thailand), October 15 (Myanmar), October 17 (Cambodia), October 24 (Vietnma), and October 25 (Philippines, Laos, and Indonesia).

Dates for other countries are vague because of the similar colors but you'll see that most of Europe will get their hands on the Galaxy Note 4 this October. As for South America, it might reach them early November.

SOURCE: Samsung Mobile

Garmin’s Forerunner 920XT is tracker for the fitness-minded

It seems that the past few months have seen a glut of lifestyle-tracking wearable devices in the market. One brand that is aiming to make its mark as well is Garmin and its new Forerunner 920XT seems to be packed with features that would appeal to the seriously fitness-minded as well as the beginner who would like to be seriously fitness-minded.

The multisport GPS watch can stand alone without a connected device, but can also work as a smartwatch when paired with a Bluetooth-enabled gadget. It is 18% slimmer and 15% lighter than its predecessor and has hinged bands which make it more comfortable when you're sweating your way through a run or workout. It can track and record in-depth metrics for such workouts like swimming, cycling, running, as well as daily activities like walking, sleeping, tracking calories and can even give you a "move alert" when it senses that you haven't had a physical activity for an hour.

For swimmers, the Forerunner 920XT is rated 5 ATM and gives advanced swim metrics for those who are seriously training, including logging swim drills, distance alerts for when the set is over and time alerts to help with pacing. For cyclists, advanced features include a built-in altimeter so you would be able to have correct data to monitor ascent, descent and gradient data. For runners, you can pair the smartwatch with the HRM-Run monitor to better record your cadence (steps), vertical oscillation (bounce), and ground contact time.

Aside from all these (and many more) tracking and monitoring of physical activities, the wearable can also send you notifications for incoming text messages, call logs, calendar reminders, emails, etc if you pair it with a smartphone using the Garmin Connect Mobile app. You can download the app from the Google Play Store. The Forerunner 920XT has a suggested retail price of $449.99, with a bundle with the premium heart rate monitor for $499.99. It is available in black/blue and red/white colors.

SOURCE: Garmin

Verizon stops throttling,doubles data in shared plans

Verizon "changed their mind" when it comes to their planned data throttling for unlimited data users, but this may not be out of the goodness of their hearts. The FCC exerted pressure on the carrier to reverse their decision, and it seems like this, together with much public criticism, actually worked as they revealed they decided to "not move forward" with implementing their plan. Instead, they have removed unlimited data plans and just doubled the data for shared users in their MORE Everything plans.

The data throttling, originally scheduled to start this month, was supposed to be for users on unlimited data who were consuming too much data and also when they were using it, which supposedly puts too much strain on the network. But they were heavily panned by the public for their plan, as it defeats the purpose of the unlimited data subscriptions and the FCC was vocal with their criticism as well. In Verizon's official statement, they said they "valued the ongoing dialogue" and they prioritize "excellent network service".

Meanwhile, they have increased the data allocation for shared plans in the MORE Everything plans, giving 15GB per month for $100 and 30GB for $130 per month. By October 2, those with monthly data allowances of between 20-50 GB will be able to double their consumption, depending on how much they choose to add on. However, while talk and text options are still unlimited, you won't see unlimited data offered anymore.

verizon

While backing off in throttling the data seems like a generous move for Verizon, their subsequent actions obviously shows that they don't want you to be on unlimited data. We can't wait to see how their competitors will react to this, particularly T-Mobile who are not shy in taking potshots at moves like this from Verizon and other carriers.

VIA: SlashGear

SOURCE: Verizon

Nexus 6 gets a massive set of mockups and leaked photos

The rumor mill is spinning like crazy as we near the expected reveal date for Google's next Nexus device. But while we haven't really seen an actual Nexus 6 just yet, aside from two photos allegedly of the smartphone being used in the wild, some rather passionate fan has taken it up on himself to create a wooden model of the device to give others a more solid, pardon the pun, idea of what it might look like.

Of course, this wooden model was created simply based on leaked specs as well, so take it with a grain of salt. But if those specs do ring true, then we are definitely looking at one massive smartphone, here compared with a Nexus 4 and a Nexus 7 tablet. The creator of the mockup notes that it is almost impossible to reach the opposite top corner of the screen with one hand, which isn't surprising given the almost 6-inch span of the display. The model is also said to be 9 mm thick, which might taper at the edges if Motorola's predominant design style is taken into account.

That dummy model, however, doesn't show the back of the device, but these supposed in-house 3D renders do. That back is quite interesting because, aside from the expected Nexus branding, it still shows the more conspicuous Motorola M logo. Previous Nexus devices have kept OEM marks to a minimum in order not to distract users from the fact that this is a Nexus This pair of photos also confirm that the placement of the power button and volume rocker have slid down a bit, presumably to make it easier for one-hand use despite the phone's size.

And if that huge size still isn't something you're willing to believe (or accept), then this pair of photos might wake you up to reality. Aside from confirming how big it is vis-a-vis a hand, it also gives a glimpse of the facial features of the Nexus 6, such as dual front-facing speakers. The power and volume buttons make an appearance once again, further cementing that design feature, or quirk if you wish.

The Motorola Nexus 6 is expected to be announced mid-October, though the actual launch of the smartphone might not happen until the end of the month. Android L, on the other hand, is said to come even later, around the first week of November, though the latest Android version will, of course, be immediately available on the latest Nexus model. Or models, if an HTC Nexus 9 tablet is really coming as well.

VIA: SlashGear, Android Police, Droid Life

XDA Xposed Tuesday: Modify Your Volume Control

How many screenshots have you seen with a volume status bar in the middle? How often do you wish that your volume statusbar didn’t pop up right in front of your YouTube Video? Well, with the power of the Xposed Module, you have the option of customizing your volume status bar.

In this episode of XDA Xposed Tuesday, XDA TV Producer TK reviews an Xposed Module that lets you customize the display of your volume statusbar. Xposed Developer niko001 created the StatusbarVolume module. TK shows off the modules and gives his thoughts, so check out this Xposed Tuesday video.

Be sure to check out other great XDA TV Videos