OnePlus One Comes to India

Earlier, Indian tech enthusiasts were highly disappointed for unavailability of the OnePlus One smartphone in the country. Answering these enthusiasts’ grievances, the Chinese manufacturer has finally launched the phone in the Indian market exclusively through Amazon.in.

Sale and after-sales

Don’t get too excited. It is not as easy as choosing a product, placing an order and getting a home delivery. There are couple of hurdles here that you will have to cross. Firstly, the phone can be bought only by invitation. In other words, you will have to have the invitation to purchase it. Secondly, right now the company has made only 64 GB variant in the Indian market, which will cost Rs. 21,999, while 16 GB version is expected to be available only from next month.

Amazon has announced 10 days return policy. On the other hand, OnePlus has partnered with HCL for after sales service.

No Cyanogen

People who were looking forward to have OnePlus One with Cyanogen will be disappointed. Cyanogen has joined hands exclusively with Micromax to launch their operating system in India through its upcoming smartphone YU. Therefore, the same will not be available on OnePlus One in India.

Let us know

Cyanogen or no cyanogen, I am looking forward to hear from you how the phone works. If you get an invite and decide to buy it, let us know its review. We are keen to hear from you!

Motorola Finds a Keylink

Many of us have a habit of leaving our mobile or keys here and there. And then, we do not find it when we need it. Or even worse! When we are late for work, they would just refuse to appear. If it is the mobile that decides to hide, we can still track it by calling ourselves. However, what if the key gets lost completely?

To solve this problem, Motorola has showcased their unique Keylink, which can be connected to your smartphone via Bluetooth. You can attach this small device to your keychain. Download the Motorola Connect app for your Android or iPhone. Press the button on the Keylink to ring your phone. If it rings properly it means your smartphone and the Keylink is now paired.

Now you can use the keylink to locate your smartphone. Just press the button on the Keylink and your device will start ringing even if it is on silent mode and help you locate it. Similarly, if your keys get lost, you can use the Motorola Connect to make the Keylink ring.

The small Keylink device is powered by a small coin sized cell. The battery is expected to last up to a year. You can easily replace it in case it is drained.

The great news is that the Keylink is already available for purchase. If you are in US, you can just walk in to the T-Mobile Store or visit Motorola.com to purchase it for $24.99.

Personally, I do not know how useful it is to use the Keylink. However, I am sure it has laid a foundation of a new thought of finding objects using technology using new-age technology. The day is not far when we will be finding our misplaced objects by just entering its name in the search bar of the app. Only time will tell the story!

P.S. - Not necessarily you have to attach the Keylink to your keychain. You can also attach it to the anything that you lose often e.g. a flashdrive, a TV remote, etc. 

Mind Your Head When You Are Texting

The new age smartphones help us carry our daily routine efficiently with its various functions such as GPS, games, alarm, reminders, e-mails, etc. However, as these devices are turning to be boon to the mankind, it has its own side effects. The study by Chief of Spine Surgery at New York Spine Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, Dr. Kenneth Hansraj reveals that we tend to bend our head down as we are busy on our phones either texting, gaming or working.

The adult’s head weighs around 10-12 pounds (approx 4-6 kg) when in the upright position. However, as we gradually get involved in texting activity on the phone, due to gravitational pull, we tend to bend our head more and more towards the phone. This is where the problem lies.

Dr Hansraj’s research found out that by this way even if we bend out head at 60 degrees, the posture is putting the weight of up to 60 pound (around 27 kg). This is as good as a seven year old kid sitting on the neck.  

He further mentioned in the study that "The weight seen by the spine dramatically increases when flexing the head forward at varying degrees. Loss of the natural curve of the cervical spine leads to incrementally increased stresses about the cervical spine."

It further leads to a bad posture and further problems such as back pain and other neurological issues. Moreover, these stresses may lead to early wear, tear, degeneration and possibly surgeries.

Hence, while you are engaged deep in conversation or playing games on your phone, mind your head. 

Nokia Launches N1 Tablet with Android Lollipop

Today, Nokia has surprised one and all with the launch of their N1 tablet. There are couple of things worth noticing in this device. For the first time, the company has teamed up with Google to bring Android to their device. Also, it is one of the first devices, apart from the newly launched Nexus devices, to have the Android Lollipop 5.0.

Another novel feature about this device has to be the Z Launcher. This app helps to manage apps and stay organized. With scribbling of a letter or two, this launcher helps to find the app that the user is looking for. That’s not it. The app is smart enough to suggest apps depending on the time and location.

The other features of the phone include 2.4Ghz Intel Atom quad-core processor and 7.9” display. It is 6.9 mm thin and will be available in two colors – Lava Grey and Natural Aluminium.

Talking about the product, Head of Products, Nokia Technologies, Sebastian Nyström said, "We are pleased to bring the Nokia brand back into consumers' hands with the N1 Android tablet, and to help make sophisticated technologies simple."

The phone is expected to be available in the market by Q1 of 2015. We just can’t wait to see the combo of Nokia and Android. Let’s see how it turns out.

Microsoft Launches Lumia 535 with the Power of Five

Until recently, Microsoft has been active in supporting the Lumia series of smartphones with its operating system. However, now, the company has launched the first phone, the Lumia 535 with Microsoft’s name branded on the device.

Although, the phone doesn’t have great specs like the current hi-tech smartphones like the iPhone 6 or Nexus 6 or anything slimmer than Oppo R5 but it surely has some unique features.

Work on the move.

First and foremost the strong point of this phone is allows you to take work on the move. Thanks to Microsoft’s clever move to seamlessly tie all devices running Windows 8.1 with Microsoft Office.

Camera:

The phone features 5” touch screen and latest operating system Windows 8.1. Its 5 MP front camera is perfect for taking selfies and having conversations over Skype. The Lumia selfie app will make it sharing-ready with its various editing features.

However, the rear camera is a bit of disappointment as it has just a 5 MP camera. In an era where smartphones’ have crossed into the 8 MP threshold, a 5 MP rear camera looks a little out of fashion. We haven’t yet arrived on why Microsoft is being so soft on the camera front. But the good thing is, it surely has a better front shooting camera.

Apps:

The phone is pre-loaded with Instagram, which will enable you to share your photos with your friends and loved ones. Additionally, the Lumia 535 allows you to take your work on the move with the help of Microsoft Office. You can edit documents on your phone through this app.  The phone will also offer you some entertainment through popular games like Subway Surfers. Moreover, you can download apps of your requirement and choice via the Windows Store.

Storage & processor:

The Lumia 535 is powered by 1.2 GHz quad-core processor and 1 GB RAM. It has an 8 GB onboard memory with the capacity to extend it up to 128 GB. To top it up, Microsoft is offering a 15 GB free OneDrive storage with this smartphone. Now, this free cloud space will surely attract smartphone users looking for storing data online.

Ending note:

The phone would be available in interesting colors such as grey, orange and green for approximately €110. It also gives the option to choose from a single SIM version and a dual one. You can also pick up matching accessories such as portable speakers, Cloud Bang, etc. with this smartphone.  

Nexus 6 is “Coming Soon” to India

Finally there is some good news for Indian Nexus fans. The latest version of the phone, Google Nexus 6 manufactured by Motorola, is expected to be available in the country soon. Flipkart.com has enlisted the device in its catalogue stating “coming soon”. There is no word on the price tag yet.

Click here to know more about the phone’s features.

Keep an eye out for its availability!

Get your Gmail App Lollipopped

 

Google is all set to launch its much-awaited Android Lollipop. We can be sure of it, as it is gradually coating its apps with Lollipop sweetness. First in line is our beloved Gmail app.

Google will soon start rolling out Gmail 5.0 update on Google Play. The new update brings a pleasant change to its design and functionality. On the design front, all the persistent gray has been replaced with a welcoming red. You can see it in the header and status bar. Also, buttons have got a curve, all the squarish blocks are now circular and pretty. For instance, the + sign for composing a new mail has been replaced with a trendy red circular button at the bottom of the app. You will also notice that the mails also have a circular button with images instead of the old square frames.

The navigation drawer has been redesigned too. You can now view your tabs and switch between multiple accounts more smoothly.

Apart from the beautifying touches, Gmail will now allow users to manage all their accounts from multiple email clients.

If you can’t wait for an update, head straight to earlygapps to grab its Apk file, which you can install manually.

Oppo R5: It’s slim. It’s trendy.

Oppo has released R5, a smart phone with ultra-thin design that is as slim as 4.85mm. Unbelievably, it does not compromise on any feature. This is phone is equipped with 1.5GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 615 Octa-Core (MSM8939) processor for fast performance. Additionally, it features 2GB RAM and 16 GB storage space.   It also has a 13MP camera that allows capturing picture perfect moments while its 5MP front camera compliments it very well.

With its advanced features and trendy look, it looks all geared to impress. 

Samsung Launches A3 and A5

Samsung Mobile has unveiled two new smartphones namely A3 and A5. Both the devices feature trendy look and full metal unibody design. Additionally, they are optimized for social networking. Let’s have a look at their features:

Samsung A5

• 1.2GHz Quad-Core Processor
• Android KitKat (4.4)
• 5.0” HD Super AMOLED display
• Rear camera: 13MP AF with LED Flash
• Front camera: 5.0MP
• 16GB Internal memory + micro SD slot (up to 64GB)
• 2GB RAM
• Supports 4G
• Battery 2,300 mAh

Samsung A3

• 1.2GHz Quad-Core Processor
• 4.5” qHD Super AMOLED display
• Android KitKat (4.4)
• Rear camera: 8MP AF with LED Flash
• Front camera: 5.0MP
• 16GB Internal memory + micro SD slot (up to 64GB)
• 1GB RAM
• Supports 4G
• Battery 1,900 mAh

Lenovo Acquires Motorola

It’s shocking! It’s real! Lenovo has taken over Motorola from Google. With this step, Lenovo has also acquired the third place in the list of makers of smartphones. Additionally, now, the company possesses Motorola's portfolio of innovative smartphones like Moto X, Moto G, Moto E and the DROID series, as well as the future Motorola product roadmap.

But do not worry about the brand! Lenovo does NOT plan to wipe-out Motorola’s identity. Instead, Motorola will remain as a wholly-owned subsidiary.

Talking about it, Chairman and CEO, Lenovo, Yang Yuanqing said, “Today we achieved a historic milestone for Lenovo and for Motorola – and together we are ready to compete, grow and win in the global smartphone market. By building a strong number three and a credible challenger to the top two in smartphones, we will give the market something it has needed: choice, competition and a new spark of innovation.”

If you are a Moto fan, you will still get outstanding smartphones and technologies from the company.

Google Fit: Your ‘Fitting’ Health Partner

Seems tech companies are being health conscious nowadays. On one hand, Apple iPhone 6 incorporates Health App, while Fitbit has recently launched its wearable to keep a track on your fitness record. On the other hand, after releasing an update featuring fitness tracking for Wearables, Google has just introduced a new app that will manage your data with regards to workouts and fitness.

Google Fit, the new app, detects activities like walking, biking and running. You can also set your fitness goal and follow your track record. The highlight of the app is that it is compatible with Android phones, tabs, wearables and also the web.

The app supports all devices having Android Ice Cream Sandwich and above versions. Head to Google Play to try it out. 

It’s an Honor! Huawei brings Honor 4X Smart Phone

Huawei gets the Honor for bringing something clutter-breaking. Huawei has announced the Honor 4X smart phone with something special - a 64 bit architecture! That’s right, this baby runs a 64 bit Snapdragon 410 Processor.

Still not impressed? Here’s something more. This is a phone that supports almost every network in the world. Even the 4G FDD/TD LTE Bands. It definitely means one thing; there might be only one Honor 4X model for the entire international market. Unless of course Huawei chooses to bring some different models.

Heavy on features but light on pocket, Priced at CNY 1299 (roughly 13,000 INR) Honor 4X is a budget smart phone powered by Qualcomm MSM8916 Snapdragon 410 Quad Core 1.2Ghz 64 bit processor. A Qualcomm processor means better compatibility with a number of games.  Also, it is fuelled by a huge 3000mAh battery. Coupled with the already power efficient Snapdragon, it’s really worth every penny.

Now, let’s delve a little deeper into the phone.

Operating system: Android Kitkat 4.4

CPU model: MSM8916

CPU frequency: 1.2Ghz

Screen

Screen Size:        5.5 inches

Resolution:         1280 × 720

Storage

RAM:     2GB

ROM:    8GB

Maximum storage expansion: 32 GB

Camera

13 MP back-illuminated camera, F2.0 aperture

Front shooter camera 5 MP, support sparkling self-timer, panorama

LED flash

Video capture: Rear- FHD 1080P Full HD video, Front - HD 720P

Connectivity

Wi-Fi: 802.11 b / g / n, up to 72Mbps

WLAN Direct     

Bluetooth: V4.0

USB: USB 2.0

Europe to rise to Honor

As the rest of the world sleeps peacefully, Europe will rise to Honor in approximately 25 mins!

Huawei, the leading Chinese mobile manufacturer is all set to launch its latest Honor 4X mid-range mobile phone tonight at 6.30 pm GMT. "For the brave" the Honor teaser commercial explains how the soon releasing phone/phones is for the braver breed who want something better, something more technologically advanced, which goes beyond steep prices, shiny labels and designer tags. Check the teaser video for yourself here Bringing you right out of hihonor.com,

Huawei will be launching phones which promise Clearer- industry leading screen ratio and display definition, Faster- industry leading downloads, processor and photo capture


Further- industry leading battery life and smart power consumption We hope the Honor range of smartphones by Huawei will bring some interesting features as promised by the its launch website. For now, let's not speculate and just stay tuned ourselves to what Huawei brings to the table.

OnePlus One Available for Pre-order Only for an Hour

OnePlus One, a highly appreciated Cyanogen flavored Android smartphone, is known to be the best in class. However, till today only a handful of lucky enthusiasts having invitation to buy could possess it. But this Chinese manufacturer seems to have changed its mind to sell the same.

On 27 Oct 2014, whoever wishes to have this phone can order it directly from the company’s website. The twist in the story is that this offer is valid only for one hour starting at 15:00 GMT.

So before you proceed to order, let’s have a look at its solid features:

• Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 processor with 2.5GHz Quad-Core CPUs
• Integrated 4G LTE connectivity
• 3GB of LP-DDR3 RAM
• Embedded rechargeable 3100 mAh LiPo battery
• 13MP rear camera and 5MP front shooter
• 6 lenses to avoid distortion and color aberration
• Choice of 16GB and 64GB of internal flash memory

The Amazing Aqua Amaze

Making this Diwali more dazzling, Intex Technologies has launched Aqua Amaze, a feature packed smartphone. It incorporates Android Kitkat and is further equipped with 13 MP rear camera and 5 MP front camera for taking selfies. To enhance the festive experience of taking pictures, the camera features a new mode, Face Beauty. It will enable you to take perfect picture in high definition colors.

Moreover, the Aqua Amaze features various attractive features such as smart gestures, smart wake, LED indicator, OTG support, etc.

This dual-sim phone will help you to be connected through Wi-Fi, 3G and Bluetooth 4.0. The Aqua Amaze is available at Rs.10,690. 

Two Sided Celebrations with Dual Screen Yota Phone!

Diwali is just round-the-corner and this year it's going to be even more festive. Two-times more festive. Adding to the list of new gadget launches this year, the unique Yota Phone makes its arrival on the Indian banks. It is truly an innovative touchscreen phone that comes with dual display. One side of the phone features a liquid crystal display, but turn it over and you'll find another 'e-ink' energy efficient screen. The first-of-its-kind electronic paper display phone is available at Rs. 23, 499, exclusively on Flipkart.

Check out its features:

• Android Jellybean
• 2 Screen-HD IPS, e-ink
• 13 MP Camera
• 1 MP Secondary Camera
• 32 GB Storage
• 1.7 GHz Dual Core Snapdragon Processor

Behold! The Motorola Nexus 6

It is the first time Google has brought Nexus with Motorola. Here are some of the 'sweet' features of Nexus 6

• Android 5.0 aka Lollipop
• Display: 5.96” 2560x1440 QHD AMOLED display
• 13 MP rear camera
• 2 MP front camera
• Dual front-facing speakers
• CPU: Qualcomm SnapdragonTM 805 – Quad
• Memory: 32 GB, 64 GB

Notable Samsung Galaxy Note 4

Here's something to take note about. After the success of Note 3, Samsung has launched Galaxy Note 4 in the Indian market. The most notable feature of the phone is its fast charging capability. The phone can be charged from 0 to 50% in a mere half an hour! Now, no long waits to get your phone charged. Moreover, the phone is equipped with Ultra Power Saving Mode that ensures the phone does not die when you need it the most.

Other features of Samsung Note-4 include

• 5.7-inch Quad HD (2560 x 1440) Super AMOLED display
• A 16 megapixel rear camera with Smart Optical Image Stabilizer
• A 3.7 megapixel front-facing camera with f1.9
• 3 GB RAM
• 32 GB of on-board storage
• Android 4.4 KitKat
• Fingerprint Scanner

An Interesting Find

Courtesy: Airtel India

What’s hot and happened this Month!

In the world of technology, this month has been quite exciting. Right from the much awaited iPhone 6 launch to the new level of gaming introduced by Xbox One, to the unconventionally shaped Blackberry Passport, this month never ceased to surprise us. In order to round all its highlights, here’s Technigully’s top five stunners. Plus with the festive season coming up, you can refer this section for gifting suggestions.

1. iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus

Apple has launched iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus simultaneously bringing the iOS 8. Though the phones are still not available in the Indian market, the news of its availability has created is enough excitement about it. Having looked at the prices, we do not know, in whose pocket it will fit in.

2. Blackberry Passport

We belied that in the crowd of touch screen and smart phones, the significance of Blackberry has vanished. However, the RIM has come back with a bang. The square shaped Blackberry Passport is expected to attract businessmen and entrepreneurs. We will have to wait and watch what response it receives.

3. Sony Z3 & Z3 Compact

Sony has also launched a series of Z3 phones with two versions Z3 and Z3 Compact. These phones are equipped with 20 MP camera and amazing sound & video quality. The Z3 Compact carries the price tag of Rs. 44,990, while the Z3 is available at Rs. 51,990.

4. Windows 10

If not launched practically, Microsoft has shown has shown glimpses of the upcoming Windows’ version. It’s bundled with few new old while few new features. For example return of Start Button is a welcoming feature. Sad side of the story is that this version will be available by late 2015.

5. Xbox One

Microsoft has launched Xbox One in India. The Kinect version is available at Rs 45,990 and comes with lot of new features such as gesture controls, biometric sign-in, controller paring, Skype video calls, instant personalization, instant scanning of QR codes, etc.