Author: Parul Ritvik Sood

Skully Brings Augmented Reality On-Road for a Safer Ride
Augmented reality has become a revelation in the gaming world; with products like Sony’s Project Morpheus and the Oculus Rift promising to make play time more entertaining and interactive. Furthermore Google Glass has opened up a new possibility with respect to augmented reality.

Skully, a San Francisco-based start-up, has given this technology a new meaning.

Skully AR-1, as the company claims proudly, is the world’s first augmented-reality motorcycle helmet. It is an anti-fog, anti-glare and face shield helmet, features a heads-up display that shows blind spots, GPS mapping, weather with other additional features. Skully also features Internet connectivity and a Bluetooth smartphone connection. The Skully AR-1 allows you to control the interface with your voice. You can control your music, send texts, make calls and change your GPS destination, all hands-free. Never before has riding been so connected.

With Synapse(TM) integrated Heads-Up Display (HUD), Skully provides an advanced situational awareness system, showing navigation and blind spot data, allowing you to stay focused on the most important part of your ride – The Road. Skully AR-1 has a patented integrated rear view camera system with a 180 degree viewing angle. The rear view camera feeds video to the HUD to provide complete situational awareness.

Skully AR-1 is already making waves in the tech world. The helmet won the coveted SXSW Accelerator Award in the Wearable Technology in Austin, Texas this year.

Key Features include-
- Lightweight, aerodynamic shell
- 3D laser-cut foam for a perfect fit
- Fully adjustable flow-through ventilation
- Anti-fog, anti-scratch, anti-glare face shield
- Quick release chin strap and visor
- SKULLY SYNAPSE (TM) Heads Up Display system with voice control
- Visual GPS navigation
- 180 degree wide angle rearview camera
- Bluetooth connectivity to smartphone
- Internet connectivity via smartphone
Presently, Skully AR-1 is not available for commercial sale. However you can apply to become an approved beta-tester for the Skully AR-1. Approved beta-testers may get to test a pre-released version of the AR-1 before the official release date.
July 5, 2014
Is iPhone 6’s Buddy Going To Be The ‘iPhone Air’?

Less than an year ago, we were introduced to iPhone 5s and now rumors are gathering about its replacement, which should, if previous versions are taken in consideration, be called the iPhone 6.

Will it be bigger, or stay the same size? Will it have standout features? Will it be joined by an iPhone 6C, or the iWatch? Everyone is anxious to know what Apple is planning to do with the new Flagship phone. Sadly we need to wait till September for an official word.

A new report from China details an astonishing new launch date for another iPhone variant from Apple. The report is accompanied with alleged pricing details, as well as the name of the anticipated larger 5.5-inch iPhone 6 variant: The iPhone Air. The company first used the “Air” appellation to tag its smaller MacBook model, and has later used it for the full-size iPad’s. Both times the end result was a sleek and sexy looker with good performance.

When the next-gen iPhone lineup does launch sometime this fall, many expect the handset to feature a complete redesign with a relocated sleep/wake button, slimmed-down profile and advanced innards like an “A8” processor. It is also believed that Apple plans to differentiate the denoted 5.5-inch version from its smaller variant by adding on features like optical image stabilization and higher storage capacities.

The report are pointing out to a September 25th release of the new iPhones. However, it is unlikely if the Apple’s history of Friday releases of previous iPhones are taken into consideration.

Apple has ‘Air’ variants for its Mac as well as iPad’s. Only the iPhones weren’t touched by Apple’s “Air”. This would be a momentous year if they do decide to launch an ‘iPhone Air’. It will be great to see Apple bring its slim on as its the pioneer of slim technology. We have already heard the rumour that Apple is planning to go for flatter headphones jack with the lightening port. Apple has no problems throwing out technology that they find redundant and soon the world follows. So it would be fun to see how the next avatar of this legendary device turns out in reality.

[poll id=”13″]

July 4, 2014
Apple Plans to Announce The iPhone 6 on 15th September

The blurred lines surrounding the release date of the iPhone 6 are finally sharpening up. Industry sources have reported that various media outlets in the region that Apple is planning to launch the device on 15th September and it plans to start sales September 25th onwards. China is expected to be in the first group of countries to get the device.

Mass shipments of the iPhone 6 from China to the United States are said to be starting during the last two weeks of August, and it is likely that Apple will announce the iPhone 6 during the first or second week of September. The first deliveries of the device will come later in the month on a corresponding Friday. Apple historically starts sales of new iPhone models on Fridays, roughly a week and a half after the event.

Regarding the pricing, Apple typically releases its new models at the same price as the old ones. If that stays the case for this new phone as well then we’d expect the 16GB model to cost Rs 53,500, 32GB model to cost Rs 62,500, the 64GB model Rs 72,500. Though with a larger screen we might see prices go up.

Also, a new render of Apple’s much talked about iPhone 6 created by graphic designer Mark Pelin is also making rounds on the internet. It is marked the first leaked iPhone 6 designs imagined, in a way, that might accurately represent an actual Apple device. Pelin’s work shows a completely redesigned handset that looks like it sticks to the leaked schematics quite closely. It also shows a device that is on par with the refinement and quality that Apple hardware always manages to achieve.

Apple’s iPhone 6 is expected to include a larger display size along with a thinner iPod-touch style design, A8 processor, and camera improvements. The 5.5-inch iPhone has, thus far, been positioned as a premium version and may include upgrades like optical image stabilization and a larger storage capacity.

July 4, 2014
Samsung’s Second Attempt at a Camera-Centric Phone : The Galaxy K Zoom

Samsung has launched the Galaxy K Zoom in India, a Galaxy S5 camera variant, and is now up for pre-order exclusively on Amazon India. The exclusive pre-order was opened yesterday at midnight. Its predecessor, the S4 Zoom was also launched on the same day last year but was not received well in the market because of its poor performance and bulkiness.

Samsung is now trying its hands again in the same segment with Galaxy K Zoom that holds a better processor and a leaner body. The leaner body might help this variant since the chunky lens of the S4 Zoom was a major deal-breaker. This s5 camera variant is priced at INR 29,999 and will be delivered July 9th onwards.

Samsung’s second crack at a modern “phone camera” is based on its popular Galaxy S5. The Galaxy K zoom fashions a huge 20.7-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor at the back accompanied by a Xenon flash and also features optical image stabilizer (OIS) for low-light imaging. The rear camera supports 10x optical zoom.

The rear camera comes with some advanced camera usability features and functions, including AF/AE (Auto Focus/ Auto Exposure) separation. Also Pro Suggest mode that comes with camera offers 5 optimized filter settings. The Selfie Alarm assists users in taking timed selfies. The Galaxy K Zoom also houses a 2-megapixel front-facing camera.

When compared to the Galaxy S4 Zoom that came with a 4.3-inch Super AMOLED qHD display, the Galaxy K zoom features a 4.8-inch Super AMOLED HD (720×1280 pixels) display. The new camera variant runs on Android 4.4 KitKat same as the Galaxy S5, the latest flagship device of the company.

Also it comes with a hexa-core processor (a quad-core 1.3GHz and a dual-core 1.7GHz), 2GB of RAM, 8GB inbuilt storage expandable via microSD card (up to 64GB), and a 2430 mAh battery. The Galaxy K zoom will be available in two variants – LTE and 3G – while other connectivity options include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Micro-USB and NFC.

The K zoom is thicker than the S5, it’s heavier and it has a lower-resolution display. The only area where the K zoom tops the S5, by a mile we might add, is where the camera is concerned. Though it certainly has a great camera, the deal breaker for most of the buyers will be the performance of the phone which also took the Galaxy s4 Zoom down the drain.

July 3, 2014
Facebook Bought The World’s Third Biggest Video Ad Seller, LiveRail

Facebook, in what has become an almost monthly affair, announced yesterday that it has the bought video ad tech startup LiveRail. Facebook seems to be on a roll. It has acquired close to 45 companies, with its largest acquisition being the purchase of WhatsApp, Oculus and Instagram. It had acquired WhatsApp for $19 billion, Instagram for $1 billion and Oculus for $2billion.

Now the social networking giant, keeping up the pace, has acquired LiveRail on Wednesday, with no terms of the deal disclosed. Though according to the grapevine, Facebook might have paid between $400 million and $500 million for LiveRail.

Liverail connects marketers to publishers on web and mobile. It automates the sale of video ads for publishers including Major League Baseball, ABC Family and Dailymotion. The start-up, which was founded in 2007, helps companies ranging from sports to entertainment optimize delivery of video ads on mobile and the web through real-time bidding and its proprietary market data. The company claims it delivers 7 billion video ads a month. Rather than negotiating deals over the phone or in person, publishers can upload their video inventory to LiveRail’s system, which provides buyers via real-time auctions. Publishers can also use LiveRail’s ad technology to process upfront deals without all the paperwork that can delay a campaign from airing at the right time and fashion.

[quote text_size=”small” author=”Brian Boland” link=”http://newsroom.fb.com/news/2014/07/facebook-to-acquire-liverail/” author_title=”VP, Ads Product Marketing, Facebook”]

We believe that LiveRail, Facebook and the premium publishers it serves have an opportunity to make video ads better and more relevant for the hundreds of millions of people who watch digital videos every month. More relevant ads will be more interesting and engaging to people watching online video, and more effective for marketers too.

[/quote]

Facebook plans to keep LiveRail’s existing business of selling ads for non-Facebook publishers in operation. Though the company declined to comment on any plans to sell Facebook’s own video ad inventory through LiveRail.

Facebook undoubtedly is the biggest social media platforms. It has a base of 1.28 billion daily active users worldwide and so it offers a greater reach than TV. It launched its Premium Video Ads service with a test last December for Summit Entertainment’s ‘Divergent’ and opened it up to a select group of marketers this spring. In May, NBC became the first TV network to use the Facebook autoplay video ads to promote their shows.

Facebook has around 5.8% share of all global digital ad revenues in 2013, up from 4.1% the year prior. While, in the U.S., the social networking giant held 18.4% market share of digital display advertising in 2013, overtaking Google for the first time, according the statistics.

Of all the purchases made by Facebook recently, the Livewire purchase seems like the safest bet as it already have a bustling user base and profitable business model. After some hefty money spending, this ones a more crafty investment by Mr. Zuckerberg.

July 3, 2014
iSketchnote: This Smart iPad Cover Will Digitalize Your Doodles

A company based in Grenoble, France called Iskn has developed an iPad cover that lets you mimic your physical doodlings in the digital realm called iSketchnote. Iskn’s mission is to combine the natural experience of familiar tools with the power of digital technology. They have successfully accomplished this by giving us this amazing iPod cover.

This could be the perfect cross-platform product for those individuals who prefer to use pen and paper instead of digital words, but they’d also like to have a digital copy for easy sharing. The iSketchnote can be connected to a PC or a Mac via USB, so those who don’t own an iPad will still be able to use the product. The company is soon planning to offer bluetooth services as well.

The iSketchnote is equipped with an array of sensors inside it to catch each and every stroke your pen makes on the paper placed on the iPad cover. You can use any kind of paper on this cover, while you have to use special kinds of pens that come with a ring-shaped magnet embedded in them. These special pens look like regular ball-point pens but work in unison with the cover that can also detect the color and tip of the pen being used.

Once you are finished with whatever you were doing on the notepad or paper, you can save the digital copy of your work, watch replays of your scribbling process and you can easily share it through e-mail or social media.

The start-up spent two year to develop the prototype of the iSketchnote. They have raised funds for the production through Kickstarter with the pledged goal of $35,000. The product can be pre-ordered on their official site for $358 USD.

Watch the video below to understand the technology better:

July 3, 2014
Samsung Galaxy Mega 2 Specs Leaked

We have been hearing rumors about the new successor of the Samsung Mega series for quite some time, and now it seems like Samsung is finally pulling up its sleeves and getting ready to launch.

Recently, the Galaxy Mega 2 has had most of its important specs leaked because a pre-production unit has been put through the paces of a well known graphics benchmark. It is said that the handset maker might offer a plus-size device with a budget-friendly price tag.

Specs of Samsung Galaxy Mega 2 as per the GFXbench

Benchmarks on GFXbench disclosed a 5.9-inch display that targets a low to mid-range market, though earlier rumors suggested that the new device will sport a 6″ display (a slight difference). However, Samsung has maintained the same resolution as its predecessor at 1,280 x 720 pixels.

It is likely that the new Mega 2 will be Samsung’s first smartphone to run on 64-bit processor with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 quad-core chipset. There are also rumors floating that the new Samsung Mega 2 may run on Android L. Galaxy Mega 2 will have 720p HD resolution, 2GB of RAM, 8GB of internal storage, a 12 MP rear camera, and a 5 MP front shooter for selfies.

Samsung Galaxy Mega 6.3, released last year

Other Galaxy Mega 2 features listed on GFXbench includes accelerometer, barometer, Bluetooth, gyroscope, compass, GPS, light sensor, NFC, proximity sensor and Wi-Fi. Apart from these features not much is known about the phone’s specs or when it will be released. It is said that with the Mega 2, Samsung is trying to introduce low-end Note-like phones in the mid-range segment.

July 2, 2014
Rumors Surface About Windows 9 Release Date and Free Upgrade

While, Microsoft is preparing a second update to its Windows 8.1, it is also focused on the larger “Windows 9” release. The new upgrade of the not entirely successful Windows 8 and now Windows 8.1, seems to be in focus.

Leaker WZOR claims that either Windows 9 will come out as a free update for those who installed Windows 8.1/Windows 8 Update 2 or these users could have the Windows 9 update with a good discount. Despite rumors of an aggressive development and shipping schedule, there’s no official word about what’s in the next version of Windows, however there are plenty of rumors.

ZDNet reported that “a preview of codename Threshold — which may or may not be named Windows 9 once it’s released — will be available later this year.” It is said that the public preview will be released this fall, and it may be after Windows 8.1 Update 2 is released. Microsoft had been planning to bring the Start Menu back with Update 2, but the company is now planning to deliver that change with Threshold.

There are also rumors that Microsoft is looking to merge Windows RT and Windows Phone into one “Phone/Tablet” SKU that will just use the Modern UI and will run on ARM-based tablets and phones, along with Intel Atom tablets. That version could also run two apps side by side, which is already a feature on Windows 8 and 8.1 but has yet to be added to Windows Phone. The Desktop/Tablet version of Threshold could offer the desktop UI as default.

The new update also features improvements to the Start Screen including the ability to boot straight into the Desktop, the return of shutdown on the Start menu and a more familiar task bar to unify the old and new user interfaces. The update was announced at Build 2014, along with features teased for Windows updates to come. Microsoft Communications Chief Frank Shaw said the company wasn’t ready to talk about how often Windows updates might come out.

Meanwhile, Windows 8.1 Update 2 is expected to arrive as part of Microsoft’s monthly security patches in August. The update will include the usual bug fixes, and improvements for upcoming hardware ahead of the holiday season. Windows’ 8.1 Update included a number of interface changes and functionality tweaks, and Update 2 is expected to include some additional minor interface tweaks.

July 2, 2014
Samsung Launched iPad Rival, The Galaxy Tab S

Samsung has launched its two latest tablets, Galaxy Tab S 10.5 and 8.4. The two models are scheduled for a mid-July release in both 3G and 4G LTE variants. The new Samsung Galaxy Tab S tablets were first unveiled on June 13 at an event in New York. This new line of high-end tablet computers, obviously, rivals against Apple’s iPad.

As far as specs and user experience are concerned, Samsung has done a great job but the prices are higher than what Apple is offering. The Galaxy Tab S features Super AMOLED displays. AMOLED stands for active-matrix organic light-emitting diodes which are already found in smartphones made by Samsung and a few other manufacturers. But until now, tablets haven’t used them because larger AMOLED screens are difficult to produce.

Besides producing richer colours, AMOLED allows the Galaxy Tab S tablets to be thinner and use less power because screens typically don’t require backlighting. Samsung did release an AMOLED tablet in 2012 which didn’t sell well because it was too expensive. The new ones will be priced more competitively. The Galaxy Tab S tablets are a quarter of an inch (6.6 millimeters) thick, which is thinner than the iPads. The smaller version is also lighter than the iPad Mini, while the larger one is about the same as the iPad Air.

Galaxy Tab S 10.5 and 8.4 are powered by an Exynos 5 Octa processor (1.9GHz quad-core+ 1.3GHz quad-core), and 3GB RAM. The devices run Android 4.4 (KitKat) with Samsung’s customized UI. These feature 16GB internal storage and a microSD card slot that supports cards of up to 128GB. Both the variants sport 8MP rear cameras with LED flash and a 2.1MP front-facing cameras. In terms of connectivity, the tablets offer Wi-Fi (including 802.11ac), Bluetooth 4.0, IrLED, 3G and voice calling capabilities.

The new tablets will also allow users to make calls and the device can be unlocked using a fingerprint. The tablets can support up to eight user profiles, so members of a single family can get separate home screens simply by swiping their finger on the sensor.

Until now, iPad rivals have succeeded largely by undercutting Apple on price, and better hardware hasn’t been enough. AMOLED screens could change that, because Samsung certainly have an edge with it. The Galaxy Tab S range will be available in India at Rs 37,800 for 8.4 inch and Rs 44,800/- for 10.5 inch variant. It comes in two colour options, Titanium Bronze and Dazzling White.

July 1, 2014

Xolo Launched its First Windows Smartphone

Xolo, following the footsteps of Micromax, has also joined hands with Microsoft to launch a new Windows 8.1 device for the Indian market. Xolo Win Q900s is similar to the devices in Micromax Canvas Win range.

With the launch of Win Q900s, Xolo becomes the second domestic player to launch Windows Phone OS based smartphone in India after Micromax, which released two devices Canvas Win W121 and Win W092 for priced Rs. 9,500 and Rs. 6,500 respectively, earlier this month.

Following the trend of exclusively tying up with an e-commerce website, the Xolo Win Q900s is available on pre-order on Snapdeal. As a special offer the introductory price on the website is Rs. 9,999, while the device is set for a launch in July for a price of Rs 11,999.

The weight of the WIN Q900s is its biggest selling point. It weights all of 100gms, making it one of the lightest smartphones around.

The new Xolo Q900s sports a 4.7-inch HD (1280 x 720p) IPS screen with OGS technology and ships with the Microsoft’s latest Windows Phone OS v8.1, Snapdragon 200 series quad-core processor, Adreno 302 graphics engine, 1GB RAM, 8GB inbuilt memory (expandable up to 32GB) and 1,800 mAh battery which can power the phone up to 23 hours of talk-time and close to 263 hours under standby mode.

The smartphone includes 8GB of inbuilt storage that is further expandable up to 32GB via microSD card. It also sports a 8 megapixel rear camera with a single LED flash, a 2-megapixel front-facing camera, and comes with a 1800 mAh battery which is rated to deliver up to 14 hours of talk time and up to 246 hours of standby time on 3G network. In terms of connectivity, Xolo Win Q900s supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS and 3G connectivity.

Key Specifications:

Display	4.7-inch HD (1280x720p) IPS screen with OGS technology
OS	Windows 8.1
Processor	Qualcomm Snapdragon 200 series quad-core processor with 1.2GHz CPU speed
GPU	400MHz Adreno 302
RAM	1GB
Storage capacity	8GB, expandable up to 32GB
Camera	Main: 8.0-megapixel camera with PureCel(TM) sensor, LED flash, auto-focusFront: 2.0-megapixel camera
Battery	1,800 mAh (Li-Pol)
Network	2G & 3G
Add-ons	Dual-SIM slots, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, micro-USB v2.0,
Dimensions	135.8 x 67.2 x 7.2 mm
Weight	100 g
Price	INR 11,999;(INR 9,999: Special pre-booking offer at Snapdeal )

July 1, 2014

Samsung Refreshes its Galaxy Line-Up With Four New Budget Phones

Samsung is getting ready to play its card in the ever-crowded budget phone segment with the release of its four new phones. The Galaxy Core II, Galaxy Young 2, Galaxy Ace 4 and Galaxy Star 2 are successors of the best-selling range of Samsung phones. These newly launched Galaxy smartphones are touted to be targeted at the affordable segment. The South Korean consumer electronics giant, as of now, has not revealed any pricing or availability details of the four smartphones.

All the four phones run on KitKat 4.4 with the company’s TouchWiz Essence UI. While, Galaxy Core II, Galaxy Star 2, and Galaxy Young 2 are dual-SIM devices, the Galaxy Ace 4 is a single SIM device and has been launched in 3G and LTE variants.

1. Galaxy Core II

Galaxy Core II is the most powerful device among the recently announced phones. It is equipped with a 4.5″ WVGA display and runs on a quad-core 1.2GHz processor. Furthermore, it includes 768MB of RAM, 4GB expandable storage, a 5MP rear camera with a LED flash, a VGA front snapper, and a 2,000mAh battery. Samsung Galaxy Core II offers fast 3G connectivity with 21Mbps downlink, dual-SIM, Wi-Fi N, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS with GLONASS and FM radio. It runs on Android 4.4 KitKat and will become available in White and Black colours.

2. Galaxy Young 2

A small sized smartphone with 3.5″ HVGA display phone, Galaxy Young 2 is backed by a 1GHz single-core processor clubbed with 512MB of RAM. There is a 3-megapixel fixed-focus rear camera. It comes with 4GB inbuilt storage which is further expandable up to 32GB via microSD card. The phone provides you with connectivity options including Bluetooth 4.0, Wi-Fi b/g/n, A-GPS, GLONASS, 3G and Micro-USB. It measures 109.8×59.9×11.8mm and weighs 108 grams. The Galaxy Young 2 packs a 1300mAh battery and comes in two colour variants – Iris Charcoal and White.

3. Galaxy Star 2

The Samsung Galaxy Star 2 also comes with a 3.5-inch HVGA. It is powered by a single-core Spreadtrum SC6815A clocked at 1GHz alongside 512MB of RAM. The smartphone sports a 2-megapixel fixed focus rear camera and includes 4GB of inbuilt storage which is further expandable up to 32GB via microSD card. The phone has 1300mAh of battery and for connectivity it includes Bluetooth 4.0, Wi-Fi b/g/n, and Micro-USB options. The major dissapointment in this phone would be the fact that it does not have 3G network support.

4. Galaxy Ace 4

The Samsung Galaxy Ace 4, as mentioned earlier, comes in two variants – LTE and 3G. The Galaxy Ace 4 3G features a 1GHz dual-core processor, 512 MB of RAM, 4-inch WVGA display, 4GB of internal storage, a microSD slot, 5-megapixel rear camera, VGA front-facing camera, and a 1,800 mAh battery. The LTE variant of the Ace 4 gets a faster processor clocked at 1.2GHz, 1GB of RAM, and a higher-capacity 1,800 mAh battery. The smartphone comes with Bluetooth 4.0, Wi-Fi b/g/n, A-GPS, GLONASS, and Micro-USB connectivity options. Both variants will be available in Iris Charcoal and Classic White colors.

July 1, 2014
Sony Finally Launches A7S With 4K Video Capture in India

Adding to its extensive camera market, Japanese Electronic giant Sony has launched three new cameras in its Alpha range of DSLR segment and cyber-shot range; A77 II, A7s and Rx100 III.

Sony Alpha A7s

The highlight of the launch is the A7S which brings in 4K video quality for professional photographers and videographers. Successor of A7 and A7R, the camera features a new 12.2 effective megapixel 35mm full frame Exmor CMOS sensor with a BIONZ X image processor which will allow it to shoot at a sensitivity range of ISO 50–409,600. It is also the first model to utilise the entire width of a full-frame image sensor for 4K video. Priced at Rs 1,54,990, the A7s will start selling in mid July.

In video mode, the A7S can output 4K video at QFHD (3,840 x 2,160) to an optional external 4K compatible recorder, and can record full HD (1,920 x 1,080) at frame rates of 60p, 60i, 30p and 24p directly to a compatible memory card. Video modes can be changed from full-frame to APS-C (super 35mm equivalent) if desired, and in this crop mode, the camera can support high frame rate 120fps shooting at standard HD resolution (1,280 x 720p), creating a 5x slow-motion effect.

Sony Alpha A77 III

Secondly, the company has also launched three models of A77 II, priced between Rs 84,990 to Rs 1.14 lakh. It features a 79 autofocus detection points with 24.3 megapixel image sensors and already available in the market. It will also come with an on-board Wi-Fi that allows one-touch connection with smartphones and tablets.

CyberShot RX100 III

The last addition to Sony’s camera market is an update of its popular Cyber-shotTM RX100 camera. The Cyber-shotTM RX100 III comes with an upgraded lens and faster image processor and a retractable OLED Tru-FinderTM with ZEISS T. The camera will have enhanced movie features and a 180-degree tilting LCD. The camera will have a 20.1 effective megapixel back-illuminated 1.0-type Exmor RTM CMOS sensor. The camera is priced Rs 54,900.

July 1, 2014
Top 5 Websites to Buy Sports Gear Online

Following the football matches everyday has given us the much-needed inspiration to bring some physical activity back into our lives. But we’ve always been a bit reluctant to buy sports equipment online for one reason: their originality. After trying and testing several websites, we found some really cool ones which provide a wide variety of options for sports apparel, gears and accessories. Have a look at what we discovered:

1. Decathlon

French sports goods giant, Decathlon, have an amazing website with excellent customer service. You can buy the products through sports categories like Gold, Tennis, Football etc. as well as according to gender and age. Decathlon is a trusted name which as been in business for past 44 years. We’d highly recommend this if you’re planning an adventure trip. They have it all – sleeping bags, tents, camping furniture, fishing rods and much more.

2. Sports365

Backed by tennis ace Mahesh Bhupathi, Sports365 offers widest assortment of sports goods and fitness equipment online. A right place for people looking for quality and genuine sporting gears. You can purchase sports equipment, accessories, apparel, and even footwear. The website claims to offer over 8,000 sports and fitness products from international brands that include Yonex, Head, Wilson, Babolat, Puma, Adidas, Prince, GM, Arena, Donic, Tunturi, and Body Sculpture among others. All the products are competitively prices with discounts as high as 45%.

3. Wiggle

Leaving aside its strange choice of name, this website is quite cool. Especially if you are into cycling, Wiggle is the best place on the internet for you. They have been around since 1920’s and their online service is is as good as their stores. They provide you sporting gears for cycling, swimming and running. The prices are slightly on the high-end, but they deliver for free.

4. Online Sports

Online Sports is a website where you can buy just about anything sports related from jerseys to dartboards. It is a very organised website with loads of option to choose from. All the categories are in clean drop down menus and you can easily sort the merchandise by your favorite teams. You can browse the items by sport, brands, or even by a favorite team.

5. Playmore.in

PlayMore.in claims to bring top quality products at highly competitive prices delivered right at your door step. They have the standard sections for hiking, cycling, running, sports and fitness. Once you’ve placed your order, they promise to deliver with fifteen working days. One of its major drawbacks is that you only have 24 hours after delivery to decide if you’re satisfied by your order or not. The website usually has several discounts running on various equipment.

July 1, 2014
DIY : Install Android L On a Nexus Device Right Now
At the I/O 2014 conference, Google showcased the latest version of Android, known only as L until its official launch later this year. Now, Google is offering an Android L Developer Preview, which is essentially an Android L Beta that comes complete with Android L factory images for the Nexus 7 and Nexus 5. You will need these Android L factory images to install the Android L Beta on your device. In addition you will need to install the Android SDK or at least ADB and Fastboot.

Android L may not yet be ready for prime time, but a preview version is now available for Nexus 5 and Nexus 7 (2013 Wi-Fi model), giving users the option to get comfortable with the slew of changes it introduces. Here is how you can download and install it.

P.S. Don’t forget to Back-up first.

Also, if you are just interested in our detailed look at Android L : Hit the bottom ! or Click Here.

What you Need
- The Android SDK Tools, that you can download from Google Developers
- The Android L preview factory image for your Nexus 5 and/or 2013 Wi-Fi Nexus 7, that you can also download from Google Developers.
- A program that can handle archived files, like 7-Zip or WinRAR.
How to do it

Step 1.

Before you can install the Android L Beta to Nexus devices you will need to install ADB and Fastboot to your computer. This is a program that runs on your computer to connect to your Android through a USB cable and flash the Android L Beta to your device.

HOW TO INSTALL ADB ON WINDOWS

If you are using a Windows machine, including up to Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 you can use the 15 second adb installer to streamline the process.

Download the ADB installer for Windows. Find the file, right-click on it and choose Run as Administrator. When prompted you need to give the app access to run as an administrator. After the app launches type a Y and enter to select yes to Install ADB & Fastboot, to intsll ADB/Fastboot systemwide and to install Drivers. When a new window pops up follow the steps to install the drivers.

After this is installed you should be ready to install the Android L Beta on the Nexus 5 and Nexus 7.

HOW TO INSTALL ADB ON MAC, LINUX & CHROMEOS

Nexus Tools makes it easy to install ADB on a Mac, Linux or even ChromeOS. All you need to do is open Terminal on your computer and paste in the code from xda.

This will install ADB and Fastboot on Mac, Linux and Chrome OS without the need to do anything else.

After the script completes you can type ADB or Fastboot to start running either program.

Step 2.

If you are on a Mac/Linux/Chrome OS jump to Step 12
Windows PC folks; go to the folder where Android SDK Platform-tools is located (in my case, its path is C:\Program Files (x86)\Android\android-sdk\platform-tools) and copy the following files to the Root folder:
- AdbWinApi.dll;
- AdbWinUsbApi.dll;
- fastboot.exe.
Step 3.

While in the Root folder, extract the Android L preview factory image to the same location. This will create a new folder inside Root, which name depends on the device.

Step 4.

Open the folder and copy all of its contents to Root.

Step 5.

Now, you have to install the correct drivers for your Nexus 5 and/or Nexus 7. Here is what you need to do:
- After connecting the device to the PC, power the Nexus off.
- Turn on your device in fastboot mode; the key combination for your device is either volume down + power or volume up + volume down + power.
- From Device Manager (Computer -> Properties -> Device Manager) identify your device (it will show up with a yellow exclamation mark icon).
- Right click on it, select Update Driver Software and then select Browse my computer for driver software.
- Select Let me pick from a list of device drivers on my computer.
- From Have Disk… option manually install the android_winusb.inf driver ( its location may be same as C:\Program Files (x86)\Android\android-sdk\extras\google\usb_driver). Accept any prompts that may appear.
- Select the Android ADB Interface option when given the option. Accept any prompts that appears.
Step 6.

Enter fastboot mode, open a command prompt window in the Root folder (while pressing the Shift key, right click inside it and select Open command window here) and use the fastboot devices command.

Step 7.

Open a command prompt in the Root folder. Use the fastboot oem unlock command to unlock the bootloader. A prompt will show up on your Nexus device; use the volume keys to select Yes and press the power button to validate. This command will erase all personal data from the device.

Step 8.

Use the flash-all.bat command to perform a clean install of the Android L preview. Alternatively, you can also open the file with the same name from the Root folder.

Step 9.

Using Notepad, open the flash-all.bat file (or, right click on it and select Edit). To avoid any issues make sure that your Nexus device is disconnected from the PC beforehand.

Step 10.

Identify the fastboot -w update sequence. Remove the -w so the sequence is fastboot update. Save the changes.

Step 11.

Connect your Nexus device to the PC in fastboot mode. Open the flash-all.bat file in the Root folder.

Step 12

For Mac/Linux/ Chrome OS users

Extract the downloaded Android L file onto a folder on your desktop named “android”

Now open a Terminal window and type the following:
```
adb reboot bootloader
(this will reboot your device into fastboot mode)
```
In Fastboot type:
```
fastboot oem unlock
```
Then hit enter. Follow the on-screen instructions and choose to erase the device. Wait a minute or so for it to unlock. This removes everything on your device.

Now Go into your desktop folder in Terminal
```
cd /USER/desktop/android
(replace "USER" with your username)

Then type in the following
```
```
sudo ./flash-all.sh
```
```
(wait about 5 minutes and your phone will reboot into Android L)
```
And you’re done. Following these steps your device will run the Android L preview. Be aware that you may encounter bugs due to it being in an earlier stage of development. In case you wish to go back to KitKat, you can apply the same steps as detailed in this article, but using a KitKat factory image instead.

Hands on with Android L

Here is what the Animation looks Like:
July 1, 2014
Microsoft Rumored to Launch its Own Smartwatch This October

We start this new week with a fresh rumor about Microsoft’s plans to come up with a new Smartwatch. After Google and Apple, its arch-rivals, investing huge in the wearable technology, Microsoft also may enter this segment with the launch of a Smartwatch this October.

Though there are hardly any details about the device Microsoft is coming up with, Tom’s Hardware, an online publication, has reported “trusted source with knowledge of the development has verified some of that information and provided us with additional details about the device.”

Microsoft’s watch is ditching the popular chunky appearance wand has gone with a slim band design.

For starters, the source confirmed the earlier rumors about Microsoft’s plan of preparing a cross-platform Smartwatch with the ability to continuously track your heart rate and sync the data to your devices.

It has also been said that the device might be dropping the popular chunky appearance we’re seeing on the current Smartwatches like the Gear and the G Watch. Instead, Microsoft will go for a slim band design that is said to resemble a thinner, flatter version of the Nike Fuel band. Details about the hardware are less, though it is said that there are 11 sensors under the hood and a mix of chips including some from TI and Atmel.

Like the rest of the rumors, the timeline for the watch’s release date isn’t too certain. But it is said that Microsoft could be targeting for an October release. Also the Smartwatch won’t just tie in with Windows Phone devices, but will also work with both iOS and Android smartphones.

The market is just starting to explode with wearables, with Apple announcing its first iWatch later this year and Samsung expected to launch a Smartwatch in the summer that can independently make calls. Google is also aiming big in this segment with the launch of Android Wear at this year’s Google I/O.

June 30, 2014