Testing the Samsung Galaxy Gear

Galaxy Gear is the smart watch (smartwatch) the latest and one of the latest creations of Samsung in the field of mobile gadgets. Rival Sony Smartwatch 2, the Samsung Galaxy Gear is a companion to smartphones and tablets Samsung Galaxy and has a touch screen of 1.63 inches.

With its onboard camera and its ability to make and receive calls directly from your wrist, the Samsung Galaxy Gear tries to satisfy many needs. But is that enough to justify its price turns around 300 euros?

The Design

With the Galaxy Gear, the design team at Samsung has managed to create a device to design both attractive and worthy of a high-end device. With its case and stainless steel buckle, the Samsung Galaxy Gear actually looks like a high-end object. The plastic strap is easily adjustable and buckle trust. No chance she retires once tightened. The shows has a massive appearance compared to a traditional watch, but is forgotten once the wrist.

With a weight of only 73.8 grams, it is not particularly heavy and not an issue of comfort after a day of use. On top of that, with a thickness of 11.1 mm, the watch is barely thicker than your phone.

Stainless steel Samsung Galax Gear gives it a solid look. Unfortunately, after a week of use, the loop is covered with scrapes and scratches that detract from the overall appearance. What is worrying is that the damage was caused by the friction of the loop against a desk. It is expected more resistance than that when a device you pay 300 euros.

Scratches apart problems, Samsung Galaxy Gear has a very sleek design. The only spark of the watch button gives it a sophisticated look ... and all fairly standard amount for a watch. With a pair of microphones noise attenuators incorporated gracefully in the loop, the only major problem with the Galaxy Gear in terms of design comes from his camera. The bump formed by it and swear bother with otherwise fine and elegant look of the watch.

In a revealing momentum desire Samsung devices out more fashionable in design, the manufacturer has decided to propose Gear in several colors. The watch is available in black and gray, orange, pink, lime green and beige.

The screen

Galaxy Gear happens when the size of smartphone screens is increasing. And as expected, the watch has a relatively compact display. The 1.63 inch screen Gear brings a breath of freshness in the world of giants Smartphones and did exactly what we asked. Although the resolution is 320 x 320 pixels, which is more than enough to give the small Super AMOLED screen is sharp and detailed picture. The density of 275 PPI (pixels per inch) is actually similar to that of a 7-inch tablet in full HD.

Although small, the Galaxy Gear has all the touch controls smartphone which it is connected. The interface type "touch and drag" (swipe) is fast and can easily navigate it. It is also possible to use two fingers to zoom in the photo gallery. The ability to watch closer pictures directly from the watch highlights the potential of the smartwatch as additional an apparatus of a smartphone, but still independent.

The screen of the Samsung Galaxy Gear offers bright colors, but a little low contrast. The lack of subtlety and shades are very similar. The screen is still more detailed than the Sony Smartwatch 2 and 220 x 176 pixels.

The Samsung Galaxy Gear honored reputation of Samsung screens and the screen has good viewing angles, which is very useful for a mobile device.

Features and performance

The Samsung Galaxy Gear uses a single-core 800MHz processor, which is more than enough to handle the tasks of the watch. Backed by 512 MB of RAM memory, the interface is smooth although some applications (contacts and call log for example) take longer to start than we would like.

Unlike Sony Smartwatch 2, the Samsung Galaxy Gear is only compatible with Samsung phones. Worse, at the time these lines are written, it only works with the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 ( Find our test on Galaxy Note 3 ). However Samsung has confirmed that the watch will work with all mobiles that come with Android 4.3 at least, remains to be seen how it will be done.

Unfortunately, and perhaps inevitably, some of the leading features of the Samsung Galaxy Gear lack of fluidity and ease.

Although it is possible to receive notifications when an E-mail receipt or a tweet, it is impossible to read the entire message on the watch. Instead, the watch offers to open the message on the smartphone or tablet using the Smart Relay technology. It is useful to be aware of an e-mail or receipt of a message on the social networks, but the lack of detail makes the watch much less useful. It is possible to play against the SMS directly on the Gear.

Another disappointment is the Voice Command Voice S incorporated into the Samsung Galaxy Gear. In theory, it allows you to call and dictate text messages, but in practice the system is difficult to understand what is being asked. The most common answer is fairly boring, we did not understand ... ". This is far from an option that saves time and try to use S Voice often takes more time than doing the task at hand.

The ability to make and receive calls from the Gear is welcome and impressive audio quality. The touch screen makes it easy task and call options Gear work perfectly. What is less attractive, however, is the idiot that you can have when you talk to your wrist like a spy TV series of the 1980s. During testing, we often (too) embarrassed to answer calls in the presence of others.

If there is one area where the Samsung Galaxy Gear does wonders is as physical activity tracker, thanks to the accelerometer and gyro sensor can use the watch as a pedometer. By communicating with the connected device using the Samsung Application S Health, the watch allows you to track your daily number of steps, set goals and select training sessions already registered. This makes a good substitute Gear Nike Fuelband, but it is not enough to make us forget all the negative aspects of the Gear.

Regarding overall performance, the Samsung Galaxy Gear made some achievements, but often proves too slow. Receive alerts when receiving an e-mail or a message on twitter would be more useful if it was possible to read them. Although it is possible to read SMS messages in their entirety, an option to respond since the wrist would be welcome in the future.

Applications

At the time this article is written, the list of applications available for the Samsung Galaxy Gear passed the shop Windows Phone application packed. Less than 100 applications are available, and unfortunately it is not, there is a case where quality prevails over quantity. Most applications are useless, so mini-games to roll the dice for example.

Evernote is one of the few jewelry present on the application of the Galaxy Gear shop. The application provides access to the shopping lists and notes from the show. But useful applications like evernote are the exception rather than the rule and do not really justify the high price of the watch. Basically, the Galaxy Gear does nothing transcendent.

The Camera

The camera is already a prerequisite on smartphones and tablets. Samsung has decided that holders of shows also need to take pictures quickly. Galaxy Gear therefore has a 1.9 megapixel camera built into the strap

From the point of view of image quality, the Samsung Galaxy Gear is comparable to the front camera found on the Galaxy S4. In good lighting conditions, the images are of sufficient quality to twitter or instagram, but that's about it. The camera, however, encounter difficulties in low light conditions, or whenever we try to take detailed pictures. Color management also leaves much to be desired, with dull and dark images. The shutter speed is itself incredibly slow.

Although Gear can shoot in 720p HD at 30 frames per second, video can not be longer than 15 seconds. The only other option is the "shoot and sound" that lets you shoot while adding audio.

The Samsung Galaxy Gear has 4 GB of internal storage. However, this ability a bit limited keeps a few dozen images, even when no smartphone is connected to the watch.

The camera of the Samsung Galaxy Gear is more luxury than necessity and can not help thinking that his presence greatly inflated the price of the watch to little end. On top of that, if the watch has less than 15% of battery, the camera can not be used.

Here are some pictures that were taken by our colleagues DigitalTrends from Galaxy Gear

  

Autonomy and connectivity

The battery life is another downside of the Samsung Galaxy Gear. Unlike a classic watch that will 90 years (so to speak, of course) without charging the battery, the Gear must be recharged every night. Although Samsung claims that the 315mAh battery supports 25 hours of continuous use, it is much too ambitious in our tests.

Despite the use of a Bluetooth 4.0 low energy consumption to connect the smartphone, the Samsung Galaxy Gear consumes a lot (too much for my taste) energy. Given its limited autonomy recharge regularly Gear is essential, but not necessarily easy. To promote the design, Samsung has omitted the MicroUSB port, and instead chose to join the watch to a separate dock.

This means that to charge the Gear, you need to take the dock with you, or charge the watch at night. Good news however, the Gear loads quickly, and passes a critical battery level to a full battery in less than an hour.

Despite a range not necessarily at the top, connectivity is perfect and we never lost the signal connecting the Bluetooth watch and Smartphone during the test. The signal range is satisfactory since it still works when the watch and the smartphone are 30 meters apart.

Should You Buy the Samsung Galaxy Gear?

Frankly, no, not this first generation anyway. The Samsung Galaxy Gear is a base from which to create from Samsung is a real Smartwatch, but it is not a recommended item in the state. In a recent interview, Samsung executives have even said "it lacked something special" to the watch.

As the original Smartwatch it is, the novelty wears off quickly. Although you can make and receive calls, but also take pictures with the Gear, you'll look like an idiot or a show-off in the making. After all depends on where you live.

Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy Gear could be the device that has made ​​known to the public smart watches, but it is certainly not one that will convince the majority of consumers. The Gear has few applications, far too expensive and looks like a shoddy device, created for the sole purpose of taking the speed competition and fails to exploit its potential.

To conclude, I would say we liked: the intuitive interface, the camera is good quality (although it would have been better), and the ability to receive calls and SMS from your visit your wrist. We disliked: The inability to read alerts when new e-mail, the price is very high and the low battery.

Replaces the Samsung Galaxy s4 battery which has sold over 5 million copies during the month of August 2013 for free

In recent days, several users complained about the problems with the battery of the Galaxy S4. Apparently, Samsung has heard the complaints, and announced that it will replace free of charge any defective batteries Galaxy S4.

Indeed, users complained that the battery of the Galaxy S4 no longer holding the charge, even if the device is idle and others say that the battery swelled so as to open the casing of the device. It is therefore an issue that Samsung should quickly resolve to not tarnish the image of its flagship product that has been marketed six months ago.

Therefore, a spokesman for Samsung said in a press release "We are aware of this problem, which affected a limited number of customers." He also added: "We urge all affected customers to please rencre to the nearest Samsung Electronics Service Center, where they can receive a free replacement battery. "

The battery problem has not prevented Samsung Galaxy S4 to lead in sales

Moreover, according to the latest research reports published by Counterpoint, the Galaxy S4 has sold nearly 5 million copies just in the month of August last. A figure that the Galaxy S4 was the best selling smartphone in the month of August, surpassing the Apple iPhone 5 16GB version and 32GB Yet, it seems that the company is not actually just the number of sales of its flagship smartphone, because it seems that it is lower than the estimates of the South Korean giant, which may push Samsung to advance the release of its next flagship smartphone, the Galaxy S5. In any case, you can see the ranking of best sellers during the month of August 2013 as follows:

• Samsung Galaxy S4
• Apple iPhone 5 16GB
• Apple iPhone 5 32GB
• Nokia Asha 501
• Samsung Galaxy Note 2
• Samsung Galaxy S 3 Mini
• Samsung Galaxy S 3
• Samsung I9190 Galaxy Mini S4
• Nokia Asha 205
• Nokia 105

It would then be interesting to see the result of the sale of the Galaxy S4 last September, especially with the arrival of the LG G2, Sony Xperia Z1 and obviously iPhone iPhone 5S and 5C.

Galaxy Note vs HTC One Max 3: Comparison between two smartphones over 5.5 "

The Galaxy Note 3 that you can find a test here was announced at IFA that occurred last September. The HTC Max One of the side has been officially unveiled, but its characteristics have been known for some time thanks to various leaks. We believe it is time to compare these two phablettes (giant smartphones) which are both nearby and different in several respects.

The screen

You are aware that the Galaxy Note 3 provides a 5.7-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of Full HD 080p 1. A more than adequate screen, but turns out to be less efficient when exposed to sunlight.

For its part, the HTC One Max offers SLCD screen of 5.9 inches which also offers a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels Full HD, the screen is one of the best displays of the moment. Except for a brighter light on the HTC Max One and a larger screen, the display of these two smartphones offer quality similar image with pixels invisible to the naked eye.

TouchWiz vs Sense UI

Both smartphones run on Android 4.3 Jelly Bean, but differ in that they offer the user interface. The overlay Samsung TouchWiz interface offers a rich bright color, as well as new features including the most and the best are designed for the Galaxy Note S Pen 3.

For cons, the Sense UI provides a rather simple and flat interface, while still in a very aesthetic worked. In reality, the choice will depend on whether the user account opt ​​for TouchWiz or Sense UI. In any case, unlike the Samsung TouchWiz which is rich in new features, the Sense UI is based mainly on the user interface to make the experience on the HTC One Max different from that found on other devices in its class .

BlinkFeed vs. My Magazine

The BlinkFeed is undoubtedly one of the key features of the One range of HTC . Very practical, it includes several visual features deeper integration with Facebook and Twitter integration, and also strengthens the menu Smartphone. In addition, this feature is even more interesting to use on the 5.9 inch screen of the HTC One Max.

For its part, "My Magazine" is a new feature that was introduced on the Galaxy Note 3, which turns out to be a mix between BlinkFeed and Flipboard RSS reader. However, this application is still too young, and it lacks a lot of features compared to BlinkFeed.

Fingerprint reader

Absent on the Galaxy Note 3, a fingerprint reader features the back of the HTC One Max. However, it is noteworthy that Samsung had introduced a fingerprint reader on the Galaxy Note 3, but quality control was finally canceled this function, and also probably does not conflict with the Apple iPhone 5S .

In any case, HTC has managed to move forward because of its roadmap designed well before the release of the iPhone 5S, the company had already introduced a fingerprint reader on his phablette. Everything seems to be successful, because in addition to being a security support for the Smartphone, it also allows it to be customized to be able to run three applications to choose from.

Personally, I'm still not convinced by the fingerprint reader on a smartphone, because I think that sooner or later it will be used to get into our private lives, especially when we know what we can do with our data just surfing the net, you can imagine what we can do with your fingerprints.

S-Pen

The HTC One Max offers a capacitive stylus, but its use is not as extensive as with the S-Pen Samsung. In fact, the Galaxy Note 3 comes with several new features that are associated with the S-pen. Features that are missing on the HTC One Max, and you can see in the video below:

Digital Camera

The Galaxy Note 3 provides a 13 MP BSI camera that is similar to the Galaxy S4. For its part, HTC always offers its UltraPixel 4 MP camera that offers a much larger sensor, contributing greatly to the image quality especially in low light environment. It should be noted that UltrPixel HTC One received much praise during various tests.

Plastic VS Aluminum

There is a great debate endlessly. Those who had the chance to use a Smartphone Samsung are adamant in stating that the comfort provided by the plastic shell covers the low-end printing of this material, especially the Galaxy Note 3 loads of faux leather on the back cover . Others swear by an aluminum hull. In reality, these two materials have advantages and disadvantages, as well as the plastic is very comfortable, it is plastic and can thus be very vulnerable to shocks and scratches.For its part, the aluminum is probably more aesthetically pleasing to look at, but it is often heavier, and this material is a great conductor of heat.

Battery and storage

The Samsung Galaxy Note 3 provides a removable 3200 mAh battery, which can be easily replaced if it is not flat, or if it is defective. For its part, the monobloc aluminum hull HTC One Max does not allow the user to access the battery is 3300 mAh.

In addition, the Galaxy Note 3 Max One and HTC offer a slot to insert a micro SD card up to 64GB, which look at several films and series during a long trip, for example.

Samsung Galaxy Note 3 vs. Oppo N1

The Oppo N1 is a smartphone that stands out from its peers by its rotating camera, the TouchPad, and over all a partnership with Cyanogen INC. With a screen of 5.9 inches, N1 can be a serious competitor for the smartphone giants of the time, such as the Galaxy Note 3. We believe it is useful to give a brief encounter between these two devices to see how this new Smartphone the Oppo brand is doing against the Samsung Galaxy Note 3.

Although the design of the device is more than pleasant, the Oppo N1 is a little too big to be used with one hand. In fact, it measures 170.7 x 82.6 x 9mm with a total weight of 213 grams, while the Galaxy Note 3 is much smaller and compact with a size of 151.2 x 79.2 x 8.3 mm for a total weight of 168 grams.

As you can see the different images, the Oppo N1 offers a large size, and when you put the two smartphones side by side, the Galaxy Note 3 looks like a small toy in front of the smartphone 's Oppo . We'll see what he has internal features of the device.

The Oppo phablette N1 is equipped with a screen of 5.9 inches with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels Full HD, while the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 provides a screen 5.7-inch Super AMOLED in the same definition. Under the hood, the Oppo N1 is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 600 quad-core processor clocked at 1.7 GHz and supported by 2 GB RAM with GPU Adreno 320. For its part, the Galaxy Note is powered by a 3 800 quad-core Snapdragon Qualcomm clocked at 2.3 GHz and driven by a 3 GB RAM

Regarding storage, the Oppo N1 offers 16 GB or 32 GB of internal memory to choose from, while the Galaxy Note 3 offers 32 GB and 64 GB of memory choice. Both devices offer the possibility of using an external micro SD memory card for up to 64GB of additional memory.

What distinguishes the Oppo N1 from its competitors is probably the digital camera 13 MP rotating at 206 °, it can take a picture in a conventional manner or make a self-portrait with the same sensor image. For its part, the Galaxy Note 3 provides a 13 MP primary camera followed by a secondary 2 MP forward facing.

Finally, it should be noted that the Oppo N1 is managed by Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean and powered by a 3610 mAh battery when the Galaxy Note 3 is operated by Android 4.3 Jelly Bean with a battery of 3200 mAh.

In most cases, the Galaxy Note 3 is much better than the Oppo N1 especially that offers S-Pen stylus followed by an array of related features. For its part, the Oppo N1 is a little too big to be used as a smartphone although it has many advantages like its bigger and brighter screen or its rotating camera, the TouchPad on the back so that his OS in partnership with Cyanogen. This device may be more interesting if the manufacturer believed to reduce its size by removing such huge margin that lies between the lower part of the screen and the bottom of the smartphone for example.

The update to Android 4.3 Galaxy S4 a player since: What's up Doc?

Samsung needed to quickly update its older devices so that they can be compatible with the Galaxy Gear which, I remind you, needs BLE 4.0 (4.0 Bluetooth low energy) technology to be connected with other Android tablets or smartphones. While rumors announced a delay of the update for the month of November, Samsung has decided to take everyone up against the beginning of Android 4.3 Jelly deployment of its Galaxy S4 .

What this update has brought the flagship smartphone from the South Korean giant? You can see the most important items on the list below:

• Support for Galaxy Gear: Users can now use smart watch with their Samsung Galaxy S4, a feature that was previously only available to the owners of a Samsung Galaxy Note 3.
• TRIM Support: New platform that will keep your Smartphone always listening to your requirements
• Support for ANT +: Protocol wireless technology for better data transmission
• OpenGL 3.0 graphics
• Samsung KNOX: Advanced Security and Secure bootloader for business
• Samsung Wallet preloaded
• New Keyboard Samsung
• The browser is now launching in full screen mode by default
• Less lag TouchWiz launcher
• Better management of the RAM
• Improving Accuracy of display colors
• Other minor adjustments to the user interface

The list is long, and the one we have is already impressive, because it almost reform the functioning of the Galaxy S4 although this is still a patch version 4.2.2 Jelly Bean Android before arrival 4.4 KitKat.

In any case, if the deployment of this update has started today in the Atlantic, we will receive in the coming weeks via OTA. However, you can already try looking in the software update your Galaxy S4 if you were part of the lucky ones who can already install the update on their device. If this is the case, do not hesitate to let us know from the comments.

Samsung recognizes that zoning imposed on the Galaxy Note 3 is a mistake, but intend to do anything to remove

Samsung has finally admitted that the zoning is imposed on the Galaxy Note 3 was a mistake on their part. However, the South Korean giant still has not removed by this Buckle area and always advise users to visit a Samsung customer nearest to unlock their Galaxy Note 3 free service.

As a reminder, at the beginning of the marketing of the Galaxy Note 3, users began to realize that it was locked by geographical region where it was purchased. Therefore, if you purchased your Galaxy Note 3 in the U.S., you can not use it with a European SIM card and vice versa. However, this does not mean that the Galaxy Note 3 will be completely unusable, because you can always use the phablette with its original SIM and play the roaming if you are moving. A system that does not, however, suitable for everyone.

However, even before some developers have managed to blow the lock area, Samsung stated that it was possible to disable it by going to one of their center free release. In addition, it is also possible to unlock the smartphone by activating with a chip from his home country legally before using a foreign SIM, so if you plan to use a vendor who is in the USA for example, just ask him to use the smartphone for a few minutes before you send it.

In any case, one wonders what prompted Samsung to impose this Zoning moreover introduced smartphones that was produced after the month of July, including the Galaxy S4, S4 Galaxy Mini, Galaxy Note 2, the Galaxy S3 and of course the Galaxy Note 3 .

Anyway, Samsung says he was unpleasantly surprised by the negative reaction of consumers by the Zoning. Really? But what planet do you live leaders Samsung? because from the moment you impose something that customers do not want, it is normal that they do know. Finally, I say that, but I say nothing.

The Samsung Galaxy J has been announced in Japan

Recently, we wrote an article on a Samsung smartphone that count produce visibly to create confusion with the Sony Xperia Z1. The latter is finally official, it is of a different range of the Galaxy, and that happens to be a cross between the Galaxy Note and Galaxy 3 S4. However, it is unfortunate that the Samsung Galaxy J is only available on the Japanese territory, while its technical specifications are more than interesting.

The Samsung Galaxy J offers a Super AMOLED screen 5 inches with a resolution of Full HD 1920 x 1080 pixels. Under the hood, the device features a 800 quad-core Snapdragon Qualcomm processor clocked at 2.3 GHz and is supported by 3GB of RAM. At the rear is a digital camera of 13 MP (20.7 MP unlike advanced by the latest rumors) and followed by a 2 MP front camera.

In addition, this smartphone will offer LTE-Advanced connection for a maximum throughput of 150 Mb / s download. Everything is managed by Android 4.3 Jelly Bean obviously with the TouchWiz overlay, and will be powered by a battery of 2600 mAh. Galaxy J measuring 137 x 70 x 8.6mm and will be available exclusively on the Japanese operator NTT DoCoMo in three different colors are pink, blue and white.

Finally, the price of the smartphone has not been announced yet, but we can already give up hope to see sold on the international ground. So, if you insist, he'll just find it on Chinese websites or ask one of your friends who are in Asia to send it.

To a Samsung Galaxy J with a 20.7 MP camera and a Snapdragon 800?

Apparently, Samsung has not digested the success of the Sony Xperia Z1 which was announced earlier in the year. Indeed, the South Korean firm count announce in the coming weeks, a new high-end smartphone to be called Galaxy J, which is likely to be marketed first in the Japanese territory. What distinguishes it from other lines Smartphone Samsung is that it will sport a digital camera 20.7 MP, similar to the Sony Xperia Z1.

In terms of specifications, it is stated that the device will provide a Full HD 5-inch screen with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. It is powered by a Snapdragon 800 quad-core processor clocked at 2.2 GHz and powered by a 2 GB RAM 32 GB of internal memory is available for internal storage, with the possibility of using a micro SD card add additional memory.

As mentioned above, the Samsung Galaxy J should propose a digital camera 20.7 MP, and 2.2 MP front camera. Moreover, it would have an NFC connection and is powered by a battery of 3000 mAh. The future smartphone Samsung would turn Android 4.2.2, and could be resistant to dust and water.

According to gossip Galaxy J should not be equipped with a Super AMOLED screen, as is the case with all high-end smartphone from Samsung. However, we are delighted that this new smartphone might have the same digital camera as the Sony Xperia Z1, which is a 20.7 MP camera and a waterproof shell with water and dust as a Xperia Z1 with different features found on the Galaxy Note 3 could reach (almost) perfectly.

For cons, I can not understand why Samsung would first sell the Galaxy J in the Japanese market, especially since Japan is the land of Sony. Perhaps to create confusion between the smartphone and the Xperia Z1?

Samsung Galaxy Round: the first smartphone with flexible screen could be announced this week

This week that Samsung may provide the first smartphone to fexible screen or curved, cutting the grass under the feet of his compatriot LG. It could be the Samsung Galaxy Round, a name for the less evocative.

The week begins promises to be interesting. Samsung and LG seem to have taken part in a race against time to market the first smartphone with flexible screen and it would not be later this week that could end. Indeed, the Korean publication Asiae reports that Samsung could make his announcement in the coming days and thus unveil a Galaxy Round, rather than Galaxy Note 3 Active as envisioned rumors.
The new name also seems more credible. On the one hand, it refers directly to the particularity of the smartphone means that while it also excludes membership in the range Note the manufacturer, characterized in part by its S-Pen stylus. It is indeed unlikely to see it comes with the device, its use has to do with the integration of a digitizer in the screen. Or flexible displays do not necessarily offer such flexibility. Also evidenced by their limited to HD (1280 x 720 pixels) resolution like the Samsung unveiled prototype at CES earlier this year.

It would nevertheless an advantage: price. In addition to the use of less expensive than glass substrate plastic to protect the screen, without the digitizer and stylus S-Pen should further reduce the price of the smartphone. Obviously, it is still unknown but it may be good news omen. Maybe we'll know more by the end of the week?
However, keep in mind that Galaxy Round perhaps not produced in small quantities and it is therefore likely that it is limited to only Asian market or Korean, for its launch. The LG G Flex certainly suffer the same fate. For the record, rumors announce before the end of the month or next month.

Samsung presents a new photo, OIS and performance unit increased in low light

Samsung has introduced a new module for its picture mobile devices. Optical stabilization and enhanced low-light performance, it should go into production early next year. Just in time for the release of Galaxy S5 ...

Besides its Galaxy S4 Zoom which was more compact than the smartphone, Samsung has decided not to clutter its premium 2013 overequipped cameras. In fact, neither his nor his Galaxy S4 Galaxy Note 3 does have an optical stabilizer, an ultra-sensitive sensor or a particularly high resolution unlike the flagship of Nokia, HTC, LG and Sony. This does not, however, prevent excel in many situations. His next terminal could still excel in all situations.
In fact, do not believe that a manufacturer such as Samsung remained idly by while all its competitors dégainaient their new weapons arms. He also intends to integrate optical stabilization to its smartphones, but not only. Korean has just unveiled a new promising picture module, which most likely will equip its Galaxy S5 or its Galaxy Note 4 also. It only measure 10.5 x 10.5 x 5.9 mm and provide performance eight times the current camera in low light, without specifying where these gains come from. Its 13-megapixel sensor and optical image stabilization system are unlikely to be for nothing, of course. This would include denier correct angular errors up to 1.5 °, where even the best cameras in the market would be limited to 0.7 °. So understand that this stabilization system should be much more effective than the competition to support you as shooting video.

Add to that lower energy consumption, according to Samsung, and you'll understand that this is a camera unit built for our smartphones. Of course, you should check it all to use. It will unfortunately wait a bit as the module production should start at the very beginning of next year. Maybe we have the right to demonstrate in the Kintex Exhibition Center where Samsung should have a prototype?The lounge has just opened its doors.

RegionLock removes the zoning area of ​​the Galaxy Note 3

It did not take long for developers to find a modding to blow a few movements the lock area that Samsung has integrated into the Galaxy Note 3. A locking left perplexed as to whether a practice already addressed by the mobile operators, and it is taken up by Samsung in order to deter importers who want to buy the smartphone in countries where it is sold at a lower other prices paid (such as France, for example).

In any case, you should definitely know that there is a very simple practice to blow the lock legally. In fact, if you ordered a Galaxy Note 3 through your contact overseas, you should ask them to activate it with its regional SIM card before you send it so you can use your turn Smartphone. Otherwise, you must go through a Samsung service is indeed free, but requires a shift, where the minus side practice.

However, there is of course another alternative that is presented to you, and which is called RegionLock, newly developed by Chainfire. However, this only works on modding the model SM-N9005 Galaxy Note 3, with at least firmware MI7. It is also worth noting that this is not a mod that will unlock (the fact that the Smartphone comes in useful for any telephone operator) the Galaxy Note 3 because it requires a procedure much deeper.

In any case, if you want to know more about this modding, you can visit the forum XDA Developer . You can also download the Play Store Google for € 1.99. In the meantime, you can watch a video demonstration of this modding below. Do not forget to give us your opinion on this application.

Source

Samsung Galaxy Note II: Update Android 4.3 Jelly Bean at year end

Android 4.3 Jelly Bean is coming soon on the high-end range of Samsung. All, however, are not housed in the same boat as its Galaxy Note II probably will not receive the update until the very end of the year.

It is somewhat rare to see Samsung behind its schedule updates, at least when it comes to its upscale newer devices. However, Galaxy S III and Galaxy Note II seem to have stopped to Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean despite the promise of an update to Android 4.2.2. The explanation would fit in a last minute change due to problems with the integration of its TouchWiz overlay the version of Android the most recent at the time of the announcement, at least. Since Android 4.3 Jelly Bean arrived and Samsung has decided to jump rather than wasting more time on an update already obsolete, which is quite understandable. So, the wait is obviously a bit longer, but how long?
The site SamMobile , always very well informed when it comes to Samsung, would secure source that the latest version of Android just begin to be tested on the Galaxy Note II. It would be smooth for an update to Android 4.3 Jelly Bean in November or December. Samsung experts suspect there a desire to maintain exclusive for some time to the new features of the Galaxy Note 3.Indeed, more than a simple update to Android, which expects the older generation of Galaxy Note will also include the latest version of TouchWiz and thus different news that should be the success of the Galaxy Note 3 who just out.
As a reminder, the Samsung Galaxy S III and Galaxy S4 should, themselves, benefit from the latest software innovations from Google and Samsung faster. We speak of October for the most recent and rather fin-octobre/début-novembre for the old model.

Samsung Galaxy Note 3: American and European versions are "zoned"!

While the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 is on sale since yesterday, it appears that the Korean manufacturer has introduced a new limitation that requires European and American users to use the only smartphone with a SIM card from an operator of their own continent.

Awaited for by millions of users, the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 has as expected yesterday began his business career in 58 countries. Particularly in Europe and America. Apps Authority reported that first time buyers have been surprised to find that versions of smartphones for these two continents have the distinction of being zoned. For those who do not know that it means that they will not score 3 work only with SIM cards from operators continents on which they were sold.
This is quite strange since such limitations have never existed before for models sold outside operator pack. So far, the only restrictions is related versions of operators, locked for a few months, offering models across frequencies incompatible with the use of certain networks. In addition, it appears that the Galaxy Note 3 Asians do not suffer the same kind of limitation.
The effects of this new policy did nothing trivial as they will directly affect two types of users. First, those who wish to obtain the latest Samsung on another continent than their own. But knowing that the camera was released in many countries at the same time, this category should be fairly marginal. More worrying, some travelers may change from that situation. They are European and they travel to the United States or South America, they can no longer buy a local SIM card to reduce their telecom bill.

Samsung Galaxy S4 / 3 and Galaxy Note 2 endure Gear Galaxy with Android 4.3 Jelly Bean

Billed as the perfect companion for Samsung devices, the Galaxy Gear manufacturer seems for the time being engaged in a very exclusive relationship. The number of compatible devices, however, should more than double by the end of the year.

The Samsung Galaxy Gear has certainly aroused instincts in some spy with its built-in camera. More than any other smartwatches available, it nevertheless highlights an interesting paradox. It is also rich in terms of features, it is (almost) entirely obsolete without terminal compatible with which apairer. And in his case, they are rather few.

For now, unless you plan to purchase a 3 or a Galaxy Note Galaxy Note 10.1 (2014), the budding spies will have no choice but to abstain. But not for long. Indeed, the Korea Times reports that Samsung has announced that its Galaxy S4 soon bear the smart watch before the end of October to be precise. This compatibility will obviously part of the upgrade to Android 4.3 Jelly Bean scheduled for next month, which will support the Bluetooth 4.0 LE required for pairing.
It also means that when their turn comes, the Galaxy Note II and Galaxy S III will also be compatible. We are, however, led to the end of December this time by Lee Young Hee, vice president of marketing for Samsung's mobile division. A valuable clue about the long-awaited update of the two terminals.

Would work on Samsung Galaxy F which will be aimed at the high end Smartphones

Samsung's success in the sale of smartphones is undoubtedly due to its Galaxy S line that sparked the enthusiasm of consumers since the release of the first Galaxy S. A Galaxy S which proposed specifications very advanced (for its time) and an operating system more than promising. Moreover, the new Galaxy S fare as well as the latest is the Galaxy S4 has already sold over 10 million units in just one month after its release.

However, this does not seem enough for the Korean giant, because, according ETNews , Samsung count still produce a series of other high-end smartphones that classify in the Galaxy range F.

Indeed, it seems that two out of its flagship range of smartphones per year is not enough to South Korean giant as is the case with the Galaxy S and Galaxy Note in recent years range. Something that is still understandable when competition is becoming increasingly fierce, such as the LG G2 or the Sony Xperia Z1 which can overshadow the Galaxy S4.

Moreover, ETNews says this new range will be launched Galaxy F at the beginning of next year. With that, we tend to think it could be the successor to the Galaxy S4? In any case, it is too early to speculate about it. Anyway, rumors indicate that the aircraft will be equipped with an octo-core Exynos processor, a digital camera with a 16 MP image stabilizer, but Samsung is still undecided on the size of the the screen.

Therefore, do you think the Samsung Galaxy F will be the successor of the Galaxy S, or is it an entirely different range of smartphones that the company has come out at the same time as the Galaxy S and Galaxy Note? Tell us your opinion on the subject.

Samsung Galaxy S4: a Gold Edition to come?

Certainly, Apple has made envious with the new colors of the Gold iPhone 5S. We would never have heard so much about gold terminals that since the announcement of the latter. We recently discovered a shell HTC One in such a color and it is now the turn of Samsung to make a bit of buzz around the Gold Edition version of its Galaxy S4.
The news that comes directly from the Twitter accounts of its subsidiaries located in the United Arab Emirates would no joke (although the visuals look a little fake, I grant you). However, it could be a model for real gold finish rather than a single color. Perfect for the local population so privileged as the rest of the world there will probably not right. An international release seems hardly conceivable effect. Anyway, two colors are available: Brown and Gold Pink Gold.

Samsung Galaxy Note 12.2: being close to commercialization?

Samsung prepare a new concept version of its Galaxy Note. Even bigger than the 10.1 format, "it would be talking about a size 12.2" to emerge soon. For now, the Galaxy Note 12.2 has just recovered his certification of Bluetooth SIG.


One might think the range Samsung Galaxy Note complete. After all, it already covers the most popular formats of phablette the shelf 10 ". However rumors suggest an even bigger screen of 12.2" to come. After all, the Korean helped democratize the big screen smartphone, why could he not do the same on tablet? Anyway, this Galaxy Note 12.2 is for the official time and still nothing seems more scoff rumors that the said ready for a first appearance in the IFA earlier this month .

While she obviously missed this appointment, she was clearly not missed one of the Bluetooth SIG, the organization responsible for issuing the necessary use of technology permits the same name.It is in fact appear in the database under the reference SM-P901, heralding a future release.However, Samsung has just announced the second generation of Galaxy Note 10.1, it could wait until CES to be held in January to unveil the device. This is called a screen of 12.2 ", capable of displaying a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels, but also a Exynos processor eight cores clocked at 1.9 GHz supported by 3GB of RAM, not to mention the inevitable S Pen.

Samsung Galaxy Gear: watch connected already available for sale in Qoqa

After the Galaxy Note 3 yesterday, it was the turn of the watch connected (smartwatch) to find for sale on the Qoqa.fr site, while the product is not expected until about ten days in France. This online store offers more fairly cheaply ... but deliver the products at the end of the month.




While sales site Qoqa.fr yesterday was his world by offering already selling the Samsung Galaxy Note 3, he's back today by posting the watch connected Galaxy Gear. For the record, this is the first smartwatch announced by a major manufacturer. It was unveiled during the IFA in Berlin earlier this month. We had also proposed a grip of the beast in the wake of his presentation.

Today, it is so its appearance on the website Qoqa.fr . Originally scheduled to 299.99 euros, she was offered here a little cheaper, to 269.99 euros. Note that this shows connected will not be compatible with the Galaxy Note 3 at first. There's a safe bet that those who are afforded the day on the same site sales will certainly be delighted to associate him the Galaxy Gear.

Especially that Samsung has decided to hit hard by paying 200 euros for combined purchases of Note 3 and Gear, from 25 September to 20 November. This brings the price of the watch to a hundred dollars after rebate, and even at 70 euros in the case of offers that we report here. As always with Qoqa, this sale will last until midnight at most, or while supplies last. Finally, precision, as to Note 3, the watch will be delivered on 28 September even if you buy today.