CHR MECAST
Screen-cast from Chrome
Stream from any source BEST BOOST
Tweak hidden settings CAMERA YOUR
PHONES
RECOVER LOST PHONE
FILES Get your deleted
data back
MASTER
YOUR MEDIA
Do more with videos and games
MOTO
360
SPORT
Moto’s smartwatch Get better
goes slimline performance and more
functionality today
ISSUE 061
THE WORLD’S BEST
TV-BOOSTING SOUNDBASES
JUST GOT BETTER
Welcome
Senior Designer
complete guide I want to have a media player
that fulfils all my needs,
on p18 especially one that can encode
any audio or video format for
me quickly, seamlessly and
without a hitch.
The humble Chromecast may not look like if the worst should happen, in our masterclass
much on the outside, but it’s a powerhouse on recovering lost and deleted files on p28.
within. While you can’t root Google’s little media We have a stack of tutorials for you too,
streamer, you can get it to do a lot more than covering everything from troubleshooting an
you’d expect. Head over to the Hacker Zone and Android TV to blocking apps from notifying you
find out more on p46. when you’re busy. Plus we take a look at the GET IN TOUCH
In fact, media has changed a great deal over best smartphones for shooting photos on p60, What do you think?
the past few years and Android – once a simple get hands-on with the new Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 Let us know!
OS for smartphones – is at the forefront of the
revolution. On p18 you’ll discover just what
on p68 and the Lenovo Tab 3 Pro – which
comes with its own built-in projector! – on p70.
»email
qa@littlegreenrobot.co.uk
Drop us an email and let us know what
Android devices can do to keep you entertained And as ever we round up the latest and greatest you’d like to see in the mag
– as it turns out, it’s quite a lot!
But we haven’t forgotten about your phone.
Turn to p12 to discover a range of apps that will
apps and games to keep you amused.
Enjo »facebook/littlegreenrobot
Like us on Facebook to send us
your comments
help you increase its performance and get
more from it, no root required. Elsewhere, we
take a look at what you can do to protect your April
»twitter @lgrobot
Follow us on Twitter and send us
files and data, and how you can recover them Editor your thoughts
ww.filesilo.co.uk/android
3
Contents www.littlegreenrobot.co.uk
»Inside issue 61
CONTENTS
26 Exclusive subscription offer 67 Special offer for international readers
Launcher
Previews, news
and speculation
from the world
of Android
BOOST
06 Big names bet on YOUR
PHONE
mobile gaming
Triple-A developers invest in
mobile gaming
MASTER RECOVERLOST
YOUR MEDIA &DELETEDFILES
10 Ulo
Mu Design wants to help keep
a beady eye on your home
18 Kit and apps to turn Android
into a media powerhouse 28 Don’t despair when data
loss strikes!
4
HackerZone This month’s top mods and tweaks Visit the Android Magazine online shop at
Tutorials
device with these tips
92 Droid Support
68
XIAOMI REDMI
NOTE 3 Reviews
Latest tech tested
Readers’ questions answered
36
APPLE MUSIC
60 Smartphone cameras ON ANDROID
76 Accessories
Earbuds and a tablet case
70
LENOVO YOGA
TAB 3 PRO
88 Buyer’s Guide
Our official top 10 lists
Apps
Your complete guide
to Google Play
78 App reviews
The latest and greatest
apps tested in full
84
RAYMAN
82 Head-to-head ADVENTURES
AccuWeather vs The
Weather Channel
84 Game reviews
The best new games reviewed 30+ APPS 5
Check our website daily
for even more news »www.littlegreenrobot.co.uk
All the latest from the world of Android devices
6
Secrets of mobile success
The mobile gaming world has, until now, had a in-app purchases. This model dominates the
vastly different set of players to the traditional mobile gaming market, and while more traditional
world of console and computer gaming. gamers may rail against it, it’s definitely here to
For a long time casual games dominated the stay. Classic console game developers have often
mobile arena, as seen by the sheer amount of struggled with it though – EA is the only one of the
Candy Crush games in the Play store’s Top old guard to make it into the Top Ten below, and
Grossing Apps list. As graphics began to improve, that’s with a hot-property Star Wars game.
more tactical games started to make an entrance, A combination of the addictive playability of a
with multiplayer strategy battler Clash of Clans casual game with the graphical and storyline
taking the top spot (accompanied by its various strengths of a Triple A developer (and a popular IP,
clones and spin-offs). These apps are powered by like Fallout) may be the holy grail of mobile gaming,
the freemium model – they’re free to download but whether the freemium model can support the
and play, but extra features can be unlocked via necessary development costs is another matter.
system many gamers are already familiar with from Speaking about Bethesda’s first mobile game,
other Fallout games. Howard said: “We are going to support Fallout
After the success of Fallout Shelter, it’ll be Shelter for a long time. This is something we did on
interesting to see whether there’s any shift in the the side and were blown away by the response.”
games being produced for mobile devices. Fallout Following the success of Fallout Shelter, it
Shelter proved that franchises adored by hardcore makes perfect sense for Bethesda’s Montreal
gamers can generate big audiences and huge office to focus on mobile gaming, but it currently
sales on mobile devices. Traditionally, the seems unlikely that we’ll see mobile versions of all
big-hitters in the mobile gaming industry have been Bethesda’s core releases. In 2015, Bethesda
mobile-first titles, but following the success of Softworks’ vice president of PR and marketing Pete
Fallout Shelter, could we be about to see more Hines discussed Bethesda’s mobile future with
developers of traditional console and PC games IGN, where he said: “We’d been thinking about
expanding into mobile gaming? [making Fallout Shelter] for a while. It was a case of
Over the past few years a select few classic ‘We won’t do it unless it’s a good fit’. This isn’t the
console games have been successfully ported to start of a formula where every time we make a
mobile devices, with several of the Oddworld titles game we need to do a mobile game.”
recently seeing an Android and iOS re-release. Bethesda’s Montreal outpost will be led by
There might also be some scope for developers to industry veteran Yves Lachance, who served as the
release mobile games as a companion to their studio head of Behavior Interactive and senior VP
console games – Fallout Shelter, although on Wolfenstein: The New Order and Fallout Shelter.
massively successful in its own right, was originally So what can we expect from Bethesda in 2016?
intended as a preview, companion game to Fallout At the moment, we know that it’s planning to
4. In the future, maybe our first taste of the next release an Elder Scrolls-themed card game for iOS,
big console releases will be a preview version but whether we’re going to see another Bethesda
released for mobile devices. Android app anytime soon, remains to be seen.
7
things you
need to know
about...
home
automation
connections can be
schedules and used for home
make heating automation. By getting
adjustments with
an Android app.
all of the devices on a IFTTT is essential
secure network to The IF app by IFTTT works with many other
With an Android- communicate with each home-automated devices ranging from Philips Hue
compatible smoke and other, the range issue is lighting to WeMo switches so you can make it a
carbon-monoxide detector, then overcome. Samsung fundamental part of your smart home setup. It lets
as well as a host of other Nest- led the way back in 2014 with you come up with all sorts of weird and wonderful
compatible devices in the works with Nest store, its Bluetooth Smart LED light recipes, many of which connect with the wider
the home-automation options are proving to be bulbs that needed no bridge internet, and it encourages you to play around so
varied and popular. for connectivity. you can experiment with a myriad of possibilities.
8
Vulnerabilities
are being
tackled
Security is one of the
biggest worries for
d people when
ad, an connecting devices
e online and there’s no
cut doubt that
ng vulnerabilities do exist:
at the tail-end of 2015,
of a vulnerability was
me found in the Yale Home System (Europe) Android
oid app, which permitted attackers to potentially
tandard bypass its protection system. Nevertheless, the
icking Google-led Thread network is secure, based on a
s been mesh network and encrypted, meaning any
and it’s security holes should be speedily closed. It will only
permit authorised devices to be connected,
heading off potential threats before they have even
had a chance to flourish.
gs
now
ng from Your home is
locks, protected
to go The Weave home-
use a automation protocol is
o now in use in a new Yale
roid lock called Linus. It works
ble to with Nest and, not only
does it automatically lock
the door if you forget to do
it, it permits users to
create door-opening
passwords. Nest hopes
more devices will use the
Weave communication protocol during 2016. It has
also released the Nest Cam API, enabling
developers to connect their products directly to the
camera. Nest Cam has proven to be a popular Wi-Fi
home-security camera that streams to your
Android device and automatically alerts you to any
potential problems in your home.
oped a
hose
t Use wearables
If you have lots of Tasker plug-ins on one of your
Android devices, AutoApps may have already
nd it proved useful since it creates a central hub.
However, it’s been shown that it’s possible to use
lets you AutoApps with Android Wear, enabling you to
ules control your automated home from your wrist. It’s a
. little tricky, which is why we suggest you check out
g 3. the Android Wear Channel
your own apps. However, at ifttt.com/
LG is demonstrating that android_wear.
appliances can become Modules can let
more intelligent. Its you use your
Smart Diagnosis app is watch to turn on
able to automatically lights or power
diagnose any faults, sockets, for
enabling it to take care instance. The
of its product power is now
maintenance without just on the back
any hassle on your part. of your hands.
9
NEW TECH Home-monitoring device
Customise taps
There is a capacitive
Ulo
Mu Design wants to help you
Those big eyes
Each of the eyes is made up
of a 1.22-inch LCD screen
that displays numerous
animations. Your Android
device can customise your
button on top of Ulo.
Different modes can be
activated depending on
certain tap sequences
that can be customised
on your Android device
particular Ulo’s look
keep a beady eye on your
home or garden
It may look like a cool ornament as it sits on your
bookshelf, but there’s more than what meets
the eye when it comes to Ulo. For those two
large peepers are actually LCD screens and they
not only follow your movements as you wander
around the room, they also enable non-verbal
communication.
With a range of eye expressions, this home-
monitoring system almost feels alive. Ulo has a
motion detector and a camera within its beak and
What’s behind
it blinks when you take a snapshot of what it’s
that beak?
seeing. It also squints when you’re watching live The beak is made up of a
video and its beady eyes will let you know when it’s two-way mirror and it
running out of battery. It can even see in the dark! contains a 1080p HD
surveillance camera
Best of all, Ulo works with your Android device.
(capable of 30fps) and a
Shh! It’s listening
While the eyes permit effective one-to-one motion sensor As well as having a built-in
communication – telling you when Ulo is puzzled, speaker, Ulo comes with a
microphone so that it can
upset or grumpy – the Android app lets you alter pick up audio and stream
their colour, size and shape. You can also it to you if necessary
instantly view streaming video and audio, and
set up recipes using the IFTTT app. The bad
news: you’ll have to wait until November 2016 to
get your hands on it!
At a glance
» Product name Ulo
» Available from mu-design.lu/store/ulo
» Price €169
Ulo was successfully funded through a Kickstarter
campaign, starting at €99 for early birds, but it is
currently taking preorders. Customise your very own Ulo to your liking directly from the Ulo’s eye expressions will change to look tired when the
Android Ulo app battery is dying. Charge it up with the USB cable provided
Q&A
Vivien Muller, the owner of Mu It depends. Ulo is waterproof and it can I do. The number of minutes it can take
Design, talks to us about his
inspiration for the Ulo
A also recognise people’s faces and react to A depends on the quality you want. You can
them, but I designed Ulo so that it was mainly a choose between 480p, 720p and 1080p and
home-monitoring device friendly interface. It is an example of emotive you can add extra memory using microSD cards.
Where did the idea for Ulo come from? technology. It’s not intended to replace other
I saw an owl sculpture in an antique technology and it’s not an intruder alarm either: How secure is it and is there a worry
A shop that really caught my eye and I it’s entirely a home-monitoring system. people can see into your home?
[just] thought it would be a nice idea to build The system is perfectly secure and
upon my previous campaign, WATCHme, which What functions does the partner Android A you won’t have any worries about
didn’t raise the money I’d hoped [for]. app have for users? people seeing your belongings in your
WATCHme was a cute charging stand for Apple With the app, users are able to customise house. We have a two-step verification
Watch that turned the wearable’s display into A and set up [the] Ulo. They can use it to protocol and data encryption to make sure
[a] watching, blinking eye. I thought I could view live streams and take snapshots from the that everything is safe for users.
combine it with an owl. point of view of the device.
What else are you planning for Ulo in
What does Ulo do that other home- Do you think it captures enough footage the future?
monitoring gadgets don’t do? for normal daily activity? A Lots of secret stuff!
10
1 2 3
GALLERY OF...
COOKERY APPS
4 5 6
11
Feature
» Boost your phone
Give your device a full internal upgrade with the help of these apps
No matter which Android device you invest in, it’s While many of these available apps are to give your device a bit of TLC and a much needed
never going to be perfect. Whether it’s low battery completely safe and offer good solutions to your boost. Our quick fixes will immediately give your
life, poor CPU implementation or perhaps too much phone woes, there are a number of apps out there device a new lease of life, and while the
bloatware, there’s always room for improvements. that do next to nothing and can cause significant improvements won’t last long-term, for the most
While some may look to the world of rooting to help damage to your device. With this in mind, we’d part they can enhance your device’s everyday
solve their problems, most will want to venture to highly recommend following our guide on the apps usability. It’s a much cheaper option than
the Play Store for a worthwhile solution and take you should be using, just to be on the safe side. continuously upgrading your phone with new
advantage of the thousands upon thousands of But don’t let us scare you, as once you’ve managed contracts, and the changes should help you enjoy
utility apps that all promise quick fixes. to get the right combination of apps, you’ll be able using your phone more than ever before.
12
Hibernate
CPU-guzzling
apps Speed up core processes by restricting
unruly apps with Greenify
It’s all well and good having the latest prioritise when looking to improve the usabi
Snapdragon or Qualcomm processor your device. Greenify includes a unique hiber
implemented on your device, but it feature that essentially puts apps to sleep,
accounts for nothing if your CPU is being throttled meaning they’ll stop draining your device’s CPU
by your installed apps. While you may not actively usage. You’ll notice a difference in speed almos
have any apps open on your device, that doesn’t instantly and it can help prevent other common
prevent them from running in the background, issues Android users face, such as overheating
sucking all your power. It’s these apps you need to and battery problems.
13
Feature
» Boost your phone
Achieve perfect
web browsing
speeds Chrome’s hidden settings make it easier
to mimic desktop browsing speeds
We love using Chrome, but it can be a features for your solution, but we do this with a
little sluggish at times and generally small amount of caution. These features are still in
pales in comparison to the experience of their developmental phase and shouldn’t be
using the desktop version of the browser. A quick adjusted unless you truly know what you’re doing.
speed boost is essential but you don’t need to look However, this clever fix is completely safe and will
outside of the app for a fix. Instead, you’re going to give Chrome more access to your device’s
want to find Chrome’s range of experimental memory. Here’s how to do it.
3 Alter defaults
If this is your first time accessing this menu,
4 Make the change
For newer devices, select 512 for both
Did it work?
5 Hit the Relaunch button at the bottom of
both options are listed with the Default setting menus. This opens up a good portion of RAM for the experimental options menu to save and
enabled. We need to change this, so select the Chrome to use. For older devices, or those with restart your edits. Load up some websites and you
first Default tab to make a change. less than 1GB of RAM, select the 256 option. should see that browsing speeds have improved.
How to keep your device in tip-top shape Use these handy tips to help keep things running nice and nippy, in addition to the practices you
need to avoid for fear of slowing things down
14
Feature
Boost your phone «
Charging woes
If your battery isn’t
Watch out
charging properly, select for Wi-Fi
the Charge tab to try and One of the biggest battery
diagnose the issue. You’ll drainers on your device will
be able to see if there’s a be Wi-Fi, so make sure you 2. Preset audio
problem with the battery use the Notification toggle Alternatively, select the Preset tab at the top
itself, the charging cable to disable when you
you’re using or a software of the app to choose from one of the preset
aren’t using it.
related issue. audio menus that can help completely change
the way your device transmits audio.
15
Feature
» Boost your phone
Power up with
root apps
Remove residual
files Delve into your device's
directories to create space
Before tackling cached files to gain more space, users who are keen to really free up some storage and
give their device a boost will want to spring clean their device’s directories. Depending on how new your
device is, many core directories will be empty, but you may be surprised with how many residual files
appear within. SD Maid remains the premier app for locating and removing these files from your directories.
System App
Remover
Bloatware can slow down your device, so using 1 Select your
directories 2 Confirm the
clear out 3 What’s left?
It’s also possible to
System App Remover is a simple way of
removing stock apps that you no longer want, Use SD Maid’s search system to A confirmation box will appear. manually delete residual files
or will not use in the near future. locate the directories you’d like Press the OK button to confirm. from within directories yourself.
to clear out. Some will be listed Depending on the files that will There isn't any harm in doing
as empty, but are still worth be removed, this process can this, just in case any have been
SetCPU clearing for residual files. take up to five minutes. left behind.
Change processor levels in an instant
to streamline everyday performance, make
apps run faster and help prolong battery life. A
must-have for any rooted device.
Permanently delete
cached files
Free up storage and notice a speed boost in your device
For many, cached files are something you’d only
experience on desktop computers, but that’s far
from the actual truth. Cached files are frequent on
your smartphone, especially if you use apps that
require logins and access to certain device
permissions. The ES File Explorer app may be best
loyed for digging out large files, but it’s also
Root Booster ing cached files. Trust
One of the key features of Root Search your storage
1 Head
Booster is its hibernation feature, which is able to the storage section of the ES File
to optimise the Android OS so it has less er app and look for your installed apps. You
impact on your device’s RAM usage. d find a cached file option, which will contain
e expendable caches that can be removed.
Link2SD
Link2SD bridges the gap between
internal and external storage, enabling users
to free up their device’s internal storage by
transferring files to and from it.
App Ops
Enjoy using an installed app, but not Select and delete
2 Long-press
too keen on the permissions it has access to? one of the files to open the
Use App Ops to revoke the permissions they selection screen, before pressing the subsequent
have access to, giving you peace of mind. files to remove. Confirm the deletion process by
pressing the Trash icon at the top of the app.
16
Feature
Boost your phone «
Search system
Each and every item that’s set to be cleaned is With different sections listed through the Files and folders are categorised under
listed directly underneath the information taken homepage of the app, it’s easy to find any file different tabs, making it easy to identity the
from your initial scan. Use the Advanced tab or folder you’re particularly looking for. Each tab areas of your phone set to be cleaned. There’s
provided to search for specific files. It’s a is then broken into further sections to help aid no actual search button though, which makes
system that works well in use. easy identification. trawling through the list on the slow side.
Search system
As long as the app isn’t recommending you Removing files requires you to scan different Similar to its scanning process, the
remove over 1GB of space from your device, the areas of your device, meaning you’ll also need thoroughness of the CCleaner app means
actual cleaning process in Clean Master is to start the removal process from several areas cleaning times are fairly lengthy. When dealing
surprisingly quick. The speediness does lead to of the app. We’d prefer it if we could remove all with larger files and directories, you can find
some slight overheating, however. files and folders at once. the app will momentarily freeze on occasion.
17
Feature
» Master your media
Upgrade Cast to
your gaming anything
experience
Will VR
take over
All-new your eyes?
Android TV
MASTER
YOUR MEDIA
Explore the hardware and software that’s making Android a media powerhouse
The world of Android as we know it is changing at a Arguably the biggest advancement in Android- are new takes on classic ideas, while some are
ridiculous rate. Where once the world’s most related tech is how we consume our media. A aiming to be the next big thing this year, but they’ve
popular OS was limited to our smartphones and plethora of hardware and subscription services all got one thing in common – they’re brilliant
tablets, it’s now commonplace to see devices have launched to expand and challenge how we solutions to get your media fix.
launch with an augmented version of Android in normally manage our downloaded media. No Check out the following pages for the products
tow. It opens up new and varied choices, increases matter if it’s movies, audio files or games, there’s and the different services you should be checking
competition and drives down prices. always something new out there to try out. Some out in 2016.
18
Feature
Master your media «
future of media
you can cancel your them on to your TV.
subscriptions
whenever.
Amazon Fire Stick
If you’re an Amazon
It’s time to sell that collection of DVDs that are gathering dust Prime member, then
the Fire Stick should
The problem with collecting physical media is that But if money is tight, then arguably a digital be your port of call. It
it takes up room, something that many of us don’t library isn’t an idea worth exploring, and instead tes to set up and
have enough of. Due to internet speeds steadily the world of subscriptions should be your port of connect to your Wi-Fi, and is compatible with
increasing around the world, the idea of streaming call. Millions of us around the world have invested any movies or TV shows you want to
is now entirely plausible and a very real alternative in a Netflix subscription, and rightly so. All-you-can- wirelessly stream.
to the gargantuan collection of movies and CDs eat movies and TV at your fingertips that costs you
you may own. Through apps like Google Play less than a price of a cinema ticket? What a Roku
Movies, users now have access to a digital library bargain. One of the best things about this sort of
hy many people
of downloadable movies that they can safely store streaming service is that you can partner it with
hoose Roku over the
on their device, or in the cloud, and stream them one of the many HDMI sticks on the market to get
ompetition is that it
in a matter of seconds. Plus for those who like to the content on your TV. Both the Chromecast and
allows for users to mirror their Android
play around with codec and audio settings, there Fire Stick cost less than £35, and provide a
device’s screen on to their TV, no matter what
are numerous video players on hand to help you seamless way to bridge the gap between devices
sort of media you’re enjoying or whatever task
out. If you haven’t checked out VLC Player yet, we and media that can be streamed. Physical media
you’re undertaking.
implore you to do so. sales are declining, so when will you switch?
19
Feature
» Master your media
Android
e concept of Android on your TV has never been more real
hanks to the open-source nature of the world’s leading TV manufacturers have already
Android operating system, implementing it on implemented Android on to their units, with Sony
to a TV is far easier than you may think. It’s currently partnering its amazing Bravia technology
designed in the same style as your to make a TV experience you really need to check
martphone, but with a media orientated out. What we’re most excited about when it comes
rface for users to enjoy. Movie and music to Android TV, however, is how sooner rather than
ections are instantly available, and there’s full later we’ll be able to view our downloaded content
mpatibility with Netflix and YouTube, if your own in beautiful 4K quality. TV tech and Android make
media downloads don’t quite cut it. Some of the the perfect partnership.
Deal with
problematic
codecs
20
Feature
Master your media «
21
Feature
» Master your media
It’s all about the Pi Since its release back in February 2013, the
Raspberry Pi has fast become the best-selling
computer in the UK. While its primary purpose is
to help educate people about coding, modders
and hackers have already revolutionised what
can be done with this amazing piece of kit. The
Extended GPIO The price is right tiny computer can be programmed to run an
The side-mounted pins Not only is it a great way abundance of different programs, which makes
can be used to connect to to learn about computing
an array of power LEDs, and enhancing your it ideal for tinkering and creating your own
motors and mini-displays. media consumption, at projects to help manage and enhance your
It opens up other just £4/$5 it’s the same media experience. With just a little bit of work,
connection options too price as a pint of beer!
users are able to hack the Pi to work as a
dedicated media server, a fully-fledged games
console, or even make your own on-board car
HDMI connection Plenty of power computer. Oh, and did we mention that the new
A mini HDMI port sits at It has enough power to Pi Zero is just £4/$5? Yes you heard us right,
the top of the Pi Zero, run a media server with
enabling easy connection no issues. It runs at
£4/$5. No matter if you’ve never worked with
to any TV, smartphone, or 700MHz and is partnered Linux before, the Raspberry Pi is a great entry
monitor. A great solution by 512MB of RAM to keep point to improve media consumption on your
for playback moving the right way Android device.
22
Feature
Master your media «
Is the price
Comfort
Both Oculus and
right? The VR games you
HTC have equipped
an adjustable band
6JGUG ƒTUV NKPG QH
VR headsets aren't
cheap. The Rift has
need to play right now
to the rear on their been designed as
devices to make entry-level product,
sure users are able but it'll still set you
to comfortably wear back over £400
their VR headsets
for long periods
VR is the future of
gaming Oculus and HTC are leading the
charge for virtual reality
POLLEN
The argument over whether everyday consumers role in reducing motion sickness and helps once POLLEN is a slightly different take on the
are ready for VR headsets is still out there, but again with that 3D effect. adventure genre, with players required to figure
after countless demos over the past six months, Although more famed for its work in out what happened to the empty spaceship
they could very much be the future of how many of smartphones, HTC has also ventured into the you’re on. Find objects, solve puzzles and try
us consume our mobile games. The Oculus Rift is world of VR with its Vive headset. Touted as a and figure out an answer.
widely regarded as the leading product in the race high-end alternative to the Rift, the Vive includes
for your eyes, and the technology as a whole looks an assortment of sensors to help give it a more Lucky’s Tale
to bring a new immersive experience to mobile accurate tracking experience compared to the Rift, If you’ve ever enjoyed a classic third-person
gaming. It’s remarkably clever how the system as well as a front-facing camera, which has been platformer, then Lucky’s Tale will be perfect for
works, with the unit splitting two video feeds on to augmented to help blend physical and virtual you. It contains all the old-school platform
the same screen, which gives the illusion of 3D, worlds together. 2016 is undoubtedly going to be nuances, as well as an abundance of new
when actually you’re still playing a 2D game. A the year that VR comes into a world of its own, but features that are suited to the VR experience.
built-in ARM processor isn’t just for keeping games will it be the way you consume mobile games for
running at 60FPS, but it also plays an essential years to come? Dreadhalls
FPS horror games have always been scary, but
Samsung Gear VR Homido VR wearing a VR headset takes them to a new
level. Dreadhalls requires you to find an escape
u’re a Samsung For those on a budget, route from the maze you’re trapped in. There
artphone owner, the the Homido VR is a are monsters to jump out at you at every turn.
r VR might be the best decent, but not
ry point into the world spectacular alternative
irtual reality for you. to Google Cardboard. It EVE: Valkryie
o the front of the device uses dual-lenses fitted to the front of the EVE is set to be one of the first space
with a myriad of sensors providing a 3D-esque headset, which can be adjusted depending on multiplayer titles available for VR headsets. It’s
view to enjoy. The enlarged field of view is great the device fitted to it and also the distance heavily focused on combat, so expect to see
for enjoying a movie, or playing through a between your eyes and the lenses. It’s one of plenty of explosions, on-screen fireballs and
compatible VR game. the few headsets built for glasses wearers. absolute carnage throughout your experience.
23
Feature
» Master your media
B&O Play H3
Improve your audio
Although more
famed for its
speakers, B&O’s
game Kit your home out with the must-have
audio products of the year
H3 in-ear The ways in which we enjoy our music have undoubtedly be your next hardware purchase.
headphones offer unbelievable bass for their shifted in the past 12 months. Audio streaming When picking such kit, there are several factors
size and are comfortable enough to wear for services have had a surge of popularity, with users that need to be considered. For one, you’ll want to
long periods of times. paying a monthly subscription to access millions of make sure the frequency is correctly configured to
songs and albums instead of collecting CDs, or deliver high quality bass, while also properly
Orbitsound A70 even cassettes if you’re old school. But with all the
advancements in the software side of things, the
dealing with highs and lows in your music. Volume
is also another big factor to think about, because
While the A70
hardware we use to enjoy them has also changed. you may be surprised how bad some speakers
soundbar is
Smartphone speakers have become recognisable sound on a louder volume, with sound often
unbelievable when
as viable replacements for portable speakers, with compressed and grainy when it goes over a
partnered with a
a few high-end phones equipping Dolby technology certain level. But whatever you do, don’t
TV, it’s the
into their front-facing speakers. compensate on price; high-end speakers are
accompanying subwoofer that helps add that
But if you really care about your music, then a usually high-end for a reason. Stump up the cash
extra bit of punch to your audio.
high-end pair of headphones or a soundbar should and enjoy the ride.
Cast to anything
Nobody likes having multiple wires sprouting out 12 months have full Cast support and the
of their speaker, and thankfully wireless streaming process maintains the high quality of
streaming has improved so much that the need your files, or generally improves them if your
for such wires has greatly diminished. Google music isn’t quite up to scratch. If your speaker
Cast bridges the gap between smartphone and lacks wireless integration, then pick up and
speaker to create a seamless streaming connect a Chromecast Audio device; it’s £30 and
experience. Most speakers released in the past adds a wireless connection to any aging speaker.
24
Feature
Master your media «
Track selection
Spotify’s vault is streets ahead of the competition, One thing we can praise Google for is that its Despite being relatively new on the scene, TIDAL
with it holding many exclusive rights to several adding new artists at an alarming rate. Some includes a hefty library of tracks already, even
tracks and albums. If there’s something obscure artists are missing key songs though, and it including some lesser streamed artists. There are
you’re looking to find, Spotify is probably the place isn’t the best place to find the latest tracks for a small number of exclusives available that will
you’ll find it. instant streaming. appeal to rap and hip-hop fans especially.
Streaming quality
Although the default bitrate for streaming sits at Sound quality can be improved through the built-in TIDAL’s key selling point is that any and all songs
160 kbps, there’s a ‘high quality’ streaming option equaliser to some degree, but standard streaming contained within can be streamed at high
available that will then start streaming from 320 is at 320 kbps. Instead of constant buffering, fidelity. It’s a nice bonus to have, but you’ll want
kbps if you’ve a good enough connection, which is those on a slower internet connection will to make sure you’ve the headphones that can
simply divine. automatically stream at a lower bitrate. make use of it.
Extra features
People can use the Follow feature to keep tabs on Playlists are a massive part of what makes Play There’s a decent amount of editorial that covers
the tracks you listen to, and which ones you add to Music great, and whether it’s a pre-curated everything from articles to interviews and
your library and playlists. It’s a well-used social playlist, or something that a fellow user has put everything in between. If you discover a new artist
feature within the app and definitely worth together, you’ll never be short of a great mix to for the first time, there’s bound to be some
checking out. listen to. editorial covering them.
If your primary reason for investing in a Out of the three services here, Play Music seems TIDAL’s high-fidelity streaming will be a big plus
subscription service is to discover new artists, to be the one with most potential. It’s growing at for those who really care about their music. If
then Spotify simply can’t be beaten. Its vault is an alarming rate, with Google constantly trying you’ve the headphones to match, this is a solid
consistently getting bigger, so new tracks are out new features to see which ones stick. subscription choice to make, and it can boast
plentiful, as are new discoveries. Definitely one to watch. some exclusive tracks too.
Improve audio
in Google
Play Music
Open settings What to change? Tailored for you
Press on the side menu icon within Toggle the equaliser on at the top of If you listen to a specific genre, a list
the app and open the settings tab the menu, and then adjust the sliders of preset audio settings can be found
that’s listed within. From here you’ll until you get a good mix of sound. For by pressing on the FX Booster option.
want to select the equaliser to begin improved bass, also adjust the bass But it isn’t the best choice if you’ve
the changes. boost slider. got diverse taste in music.
25
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» masterclass
Recoverlostand
deleted files
When files are deleted on any device, they
Don’t despair when data loss strikes – you have
the potential to retrieve deleted files and photos
even without full root access. Despite the fact
are not always completely destroyed that it is often possible to recover files, we Five tips on preventing
because some fragment of the original will also cover taking the right precautions to
structure remains. This gives us all hope ensure you don’t need to even look at the deletion accidents
that an accidental screen tap will not be a complicated options of recovery. The old 1. Stop right there
disaster and that there is a possibility of adage that ‘prevention is better than cure’ It is important to remember that if you delete
recovering from a mistake. In Android, if data has never been truer than in the world of files accidentally, you should not open another
is deleted from the internal drive your best computing, and it need not be a chore to back app. Begin the process of recovery immediately.
bet is to ensure that your device is rooted; up your data or use an app that sits alongside 2. Use an expansion card
this is so that you can get to otherwise the deletion process. These can work in the If possible, try to put as much data as possible
impossible to access parts of the system. background and may not be noticeable at all on an expansion card. This makes sense anyway
However, it is still possible to retrieve files in daily use. Let’s recover some files! due to the natural lack of internal memory, but it
is often much easier to recover data from an
There is a lot to consider when
Other things to contemplate managing Android files
expansion card than from internal memory.
3. Think before you delete
Use a file manager Increase your allowance Go offline immediately This may seem obvious, but taking a second or
It makes sense to install a file manager on your Increase your data allowance for all of the Turn on Airplane Mode the moment you two to consider what you are doing when
Android device so you can become familiar with benefits of the cloud. Backups, file management accidentally delete a file. This will stop any deleting files will save a huge amount of time.
what is stored on it – this will also give you and so many other features will be available no automated updates occurring and increase the
better control over how files are deleted. matter where you are and your files will be safer. likelihood of recovering the files that you need. 4. Beware of apps that delete
Avoid apps that claim to save lots of memory
with one tap. It is better to know exactly what
you are deleting by doing so manually and, if you
are running out of memory, you may need to
consider a new device for your typical usage.
5. Google backup
Always select the Google backup option when
setting up a new device.
28
Re
»mver d
co
as ele
ter te
cla d
ss file
Restore You can recover images
Nothing works better
to stop you needing to
s
that have been deleted recover photos than
min
photos quickly in mere seconds gu de
having an automated
backup procedure
It is likely that you will accidentally delete photos more than any other file type. With a
simple free app, you can get them back instantly and it will be as if the mistake never
happened. This is a very handy solution to have installed!
Backup photos
with Dropbox
29
Masterclass
Recover deleted files
from internal memory
With a PC, you really do Possibly the best chance you have of of recovering files that have been deleted in
recovering deleted files that were saved to the recent past. You should always take some
have the ability to recover internal memory is to connect your device time to check reviews and to make sure that
to a PC and use an app like Recuva. the app you want to try is safe because there
This type of app has the ability to dive are solutions available that do not tick all of
deeply into recent activity on your Android the boxes when it comes to securing the
and can even work when the device is not safety of your data. We will show you how to
rooted. As always, there are no guarantees as set up Recuva and also how to recover files;
to how well it will work on each occasion, but with a bit of luck, you will be as successful as
in our tests it has proved more than capable we have been.
30
Re
Message us! »facebook »twitter
»mver d
co
Got a top tip for file /littlegreenrobot @lgrobot
as ele
Get help from our Follow us to send your
recovery? Let us know!
ter te
Facebook community questions and thoughts
cla d
ss file
Prevention is Understanding how to recover files when they have been
accidentally deleted is very useful, but it cannot replace a timely
s
back up of important data. Many of the files you use will likely
reside on an expansion card and so we would recommend manually
min
gu de
Use a recycle bin
Add a recycle bin to your Android device to protect your files
31
Tutorials
App used » Chromecast Works with » Android 4.4.2 and up
ogle’s Chromecast devices are so simple a compatible app or the Chrome browser and
set up and use that they don’t come with stream. It’s that simple. Well, not always.
manual, just a three-step Getting Started Sometimes technology doesn’t do what it’s
ide. Whether you have the video supposed to. For Google’s Chromecast, that
romecast or the Chromecast Audio, all you can include it not playing what you’re
ed to do is plug it into a power source, casting, even when it’s detected by the device
tach the HDMI cable to a TV or the audio you’re casting from, or seeing your
ble to your speakers and then connect the Chromecast show up on TV but there’s no
hromecast to your wireless network using casting icon in any apps. In this tutorial, we’ll
e app. After that, just tap the casting icon in help you solve these problems if they arise.
32
More tips to help you cast with ease from any operating system
1 Unsupported casting 2 Stream across platforms 3 Be plugged in 4 Signal not getting through? 5 Mobile-to-mobile mirroring
Install the BubbleUPnP app to cast To cast from Windows, Linux or Mac It’s better to power a Chromecast If there’s no output from your For screen mirroring to PCs and
Restore to the
min factory settings
guide A Factory Data Reset (FDR) can cure a Chromecast crash
and erase all of the configuration data from your dongle
7 File not supported on the end turns white. Then release the button menu. Next tap the three-dot menu in the top
and wait for the Chromecast to reboot. right of the Chromecast Settings screen.
Chromecast can handle most video file
types, but there are a few it will not play if you
send them directly from your device, including
WMV, FLV and AVI. The easiest way around this is
to cast these files using an app that does
on-the-fly transcoding, such as MegaCast.
8 Firmware faults
Even properly installed firmware can
3 Erase and rewind
Choose Factory Reset from the menu
4 Restart from scratch
If the FDR was successful, your
cause problems. If you know the version number, and select Factory Reset Chromecast. That will Chromecast should fire up just as if you were
you can search online to see if you’re up to date produce a prompt asking you to confirm, so Tap configuring it for the first time. It will prompt you
and if issues are widespread with other users. To OK. The reset only takes a few seconds and will for a PIN to reconnect with the Chromecast app
find the number, go to Settings, scroll to the erase any settings you have entered, including and for network settings. It might also perform a
bottom and look for Firmware Version. your network password. system update if new firmware is available.
33
Tutorials
Apps used » Change My Adapters MTU Works with » 1.6 and up
Pick an adapter
Control Wi-Fi
The current adaptor displayed at the
top of the screen tells you which
adaptor you’re changing the settings
for. You can use the box below to
change which adaptor you’re altering.
If you don’t know what they are, a
with Change My
Google search should tell you.
Adapters MTU
Get technical with your wireless connection and speed
things up on your Android device
A bit of a technical one this. Change My Adapters MTU is End the procedure
an app for rooted devices that enables you to change the The buttons at the bottom of the list
maximum transmission unit of your Wi-Fi. If you don’t ƒPCNKUG GXGT[VJKPI 4GHTGUJKPI NGVU
you select a different adaptor; saving
know what that means, then it’s probably best you don’t settings lets you keep your changes
continue with this tutorial until you do. There’s some without applying them; and applying Alter the value
danger you could end up breaking your Wi-Fi network, not changes sets the new numbers. This box is where you can change
'CU[ VQ WPFGTUVCPFŰ CU NQPI CU [QW the MTU value of the adaptor that
just your phone, so understanding what you’re doing is WPFGTUVCPF KV KP VJG ƒTUV RNCEGЯ you’re currently tweaking. It’s as
essential. You’re basically tweaking the amount of data that simple as tapping the box and then
your router can send at once. Your ISP will have set that for typing in a new integer. You can
a reason, so it’s worth looking into how much it can Simple but essential technically type in anything you want,
but that’s not a good idea.
actually handle, in addition to what effect changing the This is the main page of the app. As
you can see, it’s not the most
settings will have. If you are comfortable that you’ve got a
attractive app on the Play Store, but
solid enough footing in all the jargon and possible this is one time where function
outcomes, then you’re pretty much set to have a crack at the FGƒPKVGN[ QWVYGKIJU HQTO 'XGT[VJKPI
tutorial. We’ll walk you through the app itself first, and you need is within easy reach, and
the explanations are simple.
then break down what you actually need to do.
34
Some more tips to take tighter control of your Wi-Fi
1 Know your stuff 2 Different settings 3 Check and check 4 Keep a note 5 Try, search, and try again
tips
Only attempt this if you have a There are different optimal MTU Make sure you keep checking Remember what MTU values you’ve If you keep failing, there are
solid grip of what’s going on – settings depending on what your Wi-Fi is still working tried so you’re not repeating plenty of resources online that
you could cause damage. you’re doing. Have a search first. properly as you tweak it. yourself over and over again. will help set you right again.
Should I change
the MTU of my PC
as well?
If it’s using the same network
then yes, it’s definitely worth
tweaking the settings of your
PC to make sure you’re getting
optimal speeds. It’s not the end
4 Know the MTU
Your current MTU is likely to be set at
5 Test your MTU
Essentially, on your PC you have to ping a
of the world if you don’t,
though, and it’s unlikely that
1500. That’s the base value for most Android site to find out the size of the packets that your you’ll see a huge difference in
devices. First up you’ll need to check what MTU ISP can send without fragmentation. If you want a quality unless you’re a heavy
values your ISP can deal with. Remember this will simple breakdown of how to do this on your internet user.
only work with one ISP at a time, and it may well computer, then head to this site – tinyurl.com/
not work if you connect to others. bwlyhz – and follow the steps. What about when I
connect to other
routers and
wireless networks?
It’s best to reset your device to
its default settings when you’re
on other networks, unless
you’re willing to take the time to
ping the ISP and find out which
is your optimal setting. With
that in mind, it might not be
worth changing the MTU on
your phone if you’re often
changing to different Wi-Fi
networks. It’s helpful for tablets
6 What’s this for?
You’re trying to find out the MTU number
7 Find the fragments
When you find the highest number where
you solely use on your home
network, though.
at which your ISP stops fragmenting the the packages stop fragmenting, you’ve found your
packages it’s sending. Fragmented packages optimal MTU for your ISP. This is the number you’ll
need to be put back together by the router, so it want to input into the MTU box in the app to
isn’t really an optimal way to deal with the data ensure you get data quicker, so head back to it
you’re receiving. when you’ve discovered the right integer.
Need help?
Got a problem with your
Android phone or tablet?
Get in touch with us...
»facebook /littlegreenrobot
Get help from our
Facebook community
35
Tutorials
App used » Apple Music Works with » Android 4.3 and up
Your recommendations
To start off, your
recommendations could be a
little sketchy, depending on how
eclectic your musical taste is.
Don’t worry though: they will get
better as you listen to more of the
music you like using the app.
Tapping on a playlist or artist will
open the relevant page
Choose your Change the Meet new artists
radio station app’s settings Tap the Connect option,
The long press
If your contract doesn’t where you can then
A good way to listen to the If you long press on any of
have unlimited data, it’s choose artists and
music you like is through
curators to follow. This the options on the various
the radio. Pick Radio from best to jump into the
settings. The app is will show you news from pages, you will be shown a
the main menu and then
scroll down to find a automatically set to your favourite musicians pop-up with a variety of
stream using mobile data and link you to playlists options. The most important
particular station that
as well as using data and that you might find one of these at the start of
you think you might like
Wi-Fi for downloads. interesting. You can your Apple Music journey is
or, alternatively, use the
Change these settings to follow artists directly at the bottom as it lets you
search bar to find your
avoid a nasty bill. from their page too. unlike a recommendation
favourite station.
36
App used » Snap Swipe Drawer Works with » Android 4.1 and up
Notifications
Use Snap Swipe Drawer to
settings of the drawer. You
YKNN CNUQ ƒPF C NKUV QH YKFIGVU
you can add and then resize
however you like
Swap drawers
If you want to access your
PQVKƒECVKQPU FTCYGT YJGP
Change the size For Marshmallow Access widgets your widgets drawer is open,
Once you have added a 6.0 users on the lockscreen you’ll need to swipe back up
widget to your drawer, If you’re using the latest Head to the settings from to close it, then swipe to open
you can resize it if you’re version of Android (6.0), the main screen of the VJG 0QVKƒECVKQPU FTCYGT Ţ
not perfectly happy. Go to you will need to go through app and you will be able although if you’re moving to
the main screen of the an extra step in order to to set up the widgets your widgets from
app and then tap the use the app. You must give drawer over your 0QVKƒECVKQPU KV KU RQUUKDNG VQ
widget that you would the app permissions to lockscreen. This will give swipe it straight open
like to change and adjust overlay itself on you a quick way to check
the numbers. This may everything. Fortunately, it a variety of things
take some trial and error will logically walk you without having to unlock
to get it right for you. through the steps to do so. your Android device.
7
Tutorials
App used » Android TV Works with » Android 6.0
How to
troubleshoo
Android TV
Enhance your viewing pleasure by
ironing out those niggling problems
When development of Google TV came to
end on 14 June 2014 after four years, some
saw it as the end of the company’s
televisual ambitions – but it wasn’t. For in
its place came Android TV and while it was
slow to take off in its first few months, it has
now started to gather momentum in the
world’s living rooms, making 2016 the year to
watch out for. Built into a growing number of
TVs and available on many set-top boxes,
Android TV rivals similar offerings from the
likes of Amazon and Apple, but with one
distinct advantage: it uses our favourite
open-source OS and it looks set to form a
standard for smart televisions.
That said, things don’t always go so
smoothly. There are bound to be issues with
images, sound or apps that don’t run
1 Turn it on and off
It may sound like a cliché, but if you’re
2 Reset the machine
If you’re finding that an Android TV player is
properly. In most cases, you can troubleshoot having a problem with Android TV, try restarting it. not being recognised by your television, then roll
issues by delving into Settings, but some Unplug the device or television set, wait 20 back to factory settings. Scroll from the
problems, as we’ll see with casting, need seconds or so to be sure and plug it back in. homescreen and select Settings. Under Device,
more legwork. Here we look at some ways to Hopefully any niggling issue with freezing screens select Storage & Reset>Factory data reset, select
get a troublesome Android TV working again. and so on should now be sorted. Factory data reset again and erase everything.
38
Get in touch
We’re on Facebook and Twitter, or
»facebook »twitter »email
/littlegreenrobot @lgrobot qa@littlegreenrobot.co.uk
Like us on Facebook and Follow us to send your Need help? Got a question? Drop us
just drop us an email join our community comments and pics an email and let us know
6 Pair a remote control 7 Voice search isn’t working box is at fault by checking if
Don’t fret if your remote or gamepad won’t Searching via voice is a great way of finding other devices work. If not then
reset the router. If they are at
pair up with Android TV. Press the button on the content. If you are having problems, you will need
fault, check your password and
bottom of the Nexus Player, then press back and to check it’s connected to the internet and then reset Android TV.
Home on the remote together for five seconds. enable the microphone permissions for the app
Google advises turning a Bluetooth device off and you’re using. Go to an app’s page in the Play store
on if you struggle to pair an accessory. and select Permission details.
11 Stop recommendations
You may find the list of recommendations
12 Toggle captions on apps
Some apps will provide closed captions
13 Is it up to date?
By keeping Android TV up to date with the
when you turn on Android TV annoying. To turn and you may want to turn them on or off. You can latest firmware and software, you will be able to
them off, go to Settings>Apps and choose the do this by going to Settings and selecting ensure that it runs at its optimal level. The easiest
offending app. Click Silence and then click Off for Accessibility under Preferences. Choose Captions, way to do this is to make sure automatic software
notifications. Please note that Google apps are select Display and select On or Off. You can also downloads are always turned on, but you can also
located within system apps. choose text size, style and language. check for them manually under settings.
39
Tutorials
App used » Automate Works with » Android 4.0 and up
40
Get in touch
We’re on Facebook and Twitter, or
»facebook »twitter »email
/littlegreenrobot @lgrobot qa@littlegreenrobot.co.uk
Like us on Facebook and Follow us to send your Need help? Got a question? Drop us
just drop us an email join our community comments and pics an email and let us know
8 Be cautious
Some of the modules can be detrimental
9 Read it through
Before saving and starting your newly
10 Start it up
Use the tick icon to save the task and after
to your device if incorrectly configured. When created task, walk yourself through it to make sure you’re taken back to the homepage, select your
editing modules, make sure that the information both the order and functions work. If you do spot new task from the list provided. Press on the Start
you input is correct. Once complete, press on the any errors, it’s easy enough to move the option provided to test out your workflow – a work
Done icon to the top right of the menu and save connectors around, or make the necessary log should appear underneath letting you know if
the changes you’ve made. changes to any of the modules. the test was a success.
11 Rename it
Press on the pencil icon to alter the
12 Manage permissions
Now press on the menu icon to the top
13 Import from the cloud
If you have friends who are also using the
properties of the task. Use the top panel to give it right of the app, press Settings and then open the Automate app, you can incorporate their flow
a name and the bottom panel to give it a Manage permissions option provided. Some of the charts into your own library. Use the Import option
description. Make the description fairly detailed, advanced tasks you can create will require special from within the app to be taken to your Google
so it’s easily recognisable once you’ve created a access, so toggle these options to On, and Drive account, where you can import any task that
library of tasks. download any extra apps you’re prompted to. has been sent to you.
41
Tutorials
Apps used » AppBlock Works with » Android 4.0 and up
Multiple times
2TQƒNGU FQPŦV JCXG VQ DG
NKOKVGF VQ QPG URGEKƒE VKOG
during the day. If you’ve got a
Block
very particular work pattern,
make sure to add multiple
blocking times around it. You
can add two times before
needing to upgrade to the
premium version
distracting
apps Stay focused by temporarily
blocking unruly apps
42
Top apps to curb your smartphone addiction
1 Stay on Task 2 Stay Focused 3 Procrastination Punisher 4 ClearFocus 5 Study Timer
tips
An unobtrusive app that Set time limits on how often Block apps for 15-minute Plan your day ahead of time and A simple timer app for getting
makes sure you’re doing the you can use certain apps on a periods to get odd jobs and work through tasks to a strict time your work done and making
work that needs to be done. day-to-day basis. small tasks completed. schedule created in ClearFocus. sure your eyes don’t wander.
Should I upgrade
to the premium
version of
AppBlock?
While the premium version of
the app doesn’t necessarily add
any new features, it does
expand on the current suite of
features within the app. For
instance, if you want to be able
to create more than five
blocking profiles, then we highly
6 What to block?
Now use the toggles above the application
7 Add a name
If you’re looking to create different blocking
recommend upgrading to the
premium version.
section to choose how you want these apps to be profiles, the easiest way to differentiate between
blocked. Users have the choice between simply them is by setting new names for them. Select the
blocking the app from being launched, or to have menu icon to the top right of the session menu
all incoming notifications blocked until your before choosing the Edit Profile Name option.
scheduled end time has been reached. Confirm the changes by pressing OK.
Need help?
Got a problem with your
Android phone or tablet?
Get in touch with us...
»facebook /littlegreenrobot
Get help from our
Facebook community
8 Stay protected
To keep your created schedules safe from
9 Manage sessions
If you head back to the overview screen
»twitter @lgrobot
Follow us to send your
questions and thoughts
outside interference, make sure to implement a you’ll be able to see your various created profiles
PIN into the AppBlock app. Select the settings icon
through the menu section of the AppBlock app
before choosing the PIN option. Now enter the four
listed. If you decide you’d like to disable one of the
sessions, use the toggles on the right side. To
create another profile, use the + icon located at
»email
qa@littlegreenrobot.co.uk
Send your questions for our team of
digits you want to set as your protective PIN. the bottom of the app. experts to tackle
43
From the makers of
Also available…
Jargon Buster
Get up to speed with all the terms you
will need to know when it comes to
hacking your phone
OS
Short for operating system. Often the Android ROM will
be referred to as the OS – this just means the system
files on the Android device that make up your user
experience, and is similar to Windows, Mac OS X or
Ubuntu on a desktop computer.
ROM
Stands for read-only memory. In the context of Android,
54
CUSTOM
the ROM refers to all the files that make up the
operating system that is installed on your device.
HARDWARE
Gaining root privileges allows for replacement of the
BUTTONS
standard ROM with a custom one.
Root
Rooting your phone gives apps access to parts of the
OS that are normally hidden from consumers. This
enables you to run more powerful software and install
custom ROMs on your phone.
ROM Manager
An app available from the Android Market that enables
you to install a whole new version of your OS with a
single click. It requires a rooted phone to use and is
ideal for those new on the scene.
Titanium Backup
57
GET PERFECT
This app from Google Play enables you to back up BATTERY
everything on your phone – apps, data, settings and all. READINGS
It means that you can restore your phone to how it was,
even after you’ve updated or changed the ROM. 46
CHROMECAST
Unrevoked UNLOCKED
Available from unrevoked.com, this is a
one-click tool that can be used for rooting many
popular HTC smartphones.
ADB
Stands for Android Debug Bridge. ADB is mainly used for
software development, but it also has some uses for 46 Chromecast unlocked 57 Get more accurate battery
hacking your phone. It can be used to push files onto Get the most from your TV streaming
the system folder, for instance. life readings
device with these tips Learn how to automatically calibrate
Nandroid your Android device’s battery for perfect
You might come across the phrase perform a Nandroid 52 Hacking Tips & Tricks battery readings
backup. This means using a custom recovery tool
to make a back-up image of everything currently on your
Essential hacking advice, including how
phone: OS, apps, data etc. It’s very useful should you
to customise your phone’s features 58 Add a personal touch with your
wish to restore your phone to its previous state later. own font
54 Customise your Create your own font for all Android
Radio hardware buttons devices, plus modify any existing one
‘Radio’ refers to the software on your Android device
that deals with making phone calls and data You can make the buttons on your
connections. Updating your radio version can bring device act any way you like
better battery life and signal strength to your device.
Some ROMs require the latest radio. 56 Use NetGuard to protect your
mobile bandwidth
Flash
The storage in your device comprises flash memory,
which is a type of solid-state storage. The terms to flash
Stop your mobile data running out
before the end of the month
52TIPS
or flashing mean installing some new software onto & TRICKS
your device’s storage.
Hacker Zøne
ECAST
KED
romecast is one of the best accessories
buy. The tiny dongle plugs in around
k of your TV — and there’s also a new
Get the most from
our TV streaming
device with these tips
increasingly possible to get content from your PC
or phone to your TV, from virtually any source.
In this guide we’ll take a look at using the
dio model that attaches to pretty much any streamer with Kodi, the popular Android
t of speakers — and turns the device into a TV-style service we examined in detail a couple
ully connected media streaming system. With a of issues ago, show you how to stream local
price of just £30 but frequently available for even video files, and even uncover some very well
less, and often including an extra £20 Play Store hidden configuration settings.
credit, it’s an absolute no-brainer. Everyone One thing we won’t be looking at is rooting a
should own a Chromecast. Chromecast. Although the original device was
If you’re only using your Chromecast to stream — very briefly — rootable, all models are now
y locked down. It’s a shame, but doesn’t
nge the fact that the Chromecast is still
pable of far more than you imagined.
46
Cast local videos with 2
A Chromecast
regularly gives you
exclusive freebies.
Videostream
The easy way to stream and control your local videos
minutes
guide
Check what is
available to you
right now.
The Chromecast is designed primarily to connect to online streaming services. However it is also Chromecast
possible to cast your own videos to your TV using the device. The best app for doing this is
Videostream, which works within the Chrome browser and has its own Android-powered
controller, which we’ll look at in full later.
freebies
3 Connect
Once you have selected your video you’ll be
4 Improve performance
The quality of streaming can be affected by
prompted to connect to your Chromecast. Choose the quality of the video as well as the Wi-Fi signal
your device from the list and casting will begin. It strength between your PC and Chromecast. If you Among the offers are free movie rentals
3 from the Play Store. Launch the Store
often takes a little while to get started, as some have buffering issues, click on the Quality button
videos are transcoded in browser, so be patient and drop to a lower resolution — 576p will put far app and redeem the offer. You can only have
while it gets going. less strain on your network than 1080p. one free rental at once.
47
Hacker Zøne
48
Explore The Chromecast is a defiantly consumer-
oriented product. It’s simple to set up and
use, and accessible to everyone. You don’t
the casting of Hangouts chats, all on the
main Chromecast settings screen accessed
through the Chrome browser. They just
49
Hacker Zøne
Chromecastremote
controlwith Videostream
Control and stream Videostream Chromecast: Mobile is the intuitive and easy to use. The main thing when
companion app to the excellent Videostream getting started is to ensure that your laptop, phone
movies using your service we looked at earlier. If you use the desktop and Chromecast are all connected to the same
phone and the app then the remote for your Android phone is a Wi-Fi network so that they can detect each other.
must. It effectively removes your PC or laptop from You cannot use the app on your mobile network, for
excellent Videostream the equation entirely, giving you complete control example. Once you’re fully set up, your home TV
app on your desktop from your handset. The app is, for the most part, streaming system will be complete.
50
FOR THE GNU GENERATION
www.linuxuser.co.uk
E • FRE
SU
Available
ER
VERY IS
newsagents &
DE
ED supermarkets
OWNLOA today
ON SALE NOW:
» System repair guide » Live-booting distro DVD » Network pen-testing
THE LATEST NEWS ESSENTIAL GUIDES DEFINITIVE REVIEWS INDUSTRY INSIGHT EXPERT OPINION
facebook.com/LinuxUserUK twitter.com/LinuxUserMag
Hacker Zøne
status update
Which devices are best for
the hacking scene?
Samsung Gear
S2 Watch
Rooted?: Yes
Active development:
QQQMedium
Tips & Tricks scroll down and put the brakes on the gear icon for ten seconds, and
No, it’s not running the apps that have heavy data use. release to activate the Android
Android (it runs Tizen
Simply tap the app you wish to limit Marshmallow System UI Tuner.
instead) but this device is
eminently hackable thanks to the Odin and enable the Restrict app Next, head to Google Play and
tool, which is usually used for unlocking background data option. install Custom Quick Settings from
Samsung phones. Mighty Quinn Apps, and once this is
Create custom done, follow the steps to enable the
HTC One (M9) toggle tiles app’s write permission. Open
Rooted?: Yes Settings>System UI Tuner, click on
Active development: Want custom toggles for the Quick Quick Settings>Add tile and create a
QQQHigh
Settings menu? Begin by ensuring new custom tile, naming it
HTC certainly seems to
love the hacking your phone is in Developer Mode by ‘CUSTOMTILE0’, then head back to
community, a fact fully opening Settings>About Phone and the app and tap Done.
demonstrated in this tapping Build Number seven times. With a basic toggle created, you
popular device, which
has a huge selection of
Then drag down the Quick Settings can now use the Custom Quick
custom ROMs. Don’t exceed your data limit! menu with two fingers, tap and hold Settings app to assign a title, icon,
short and long click actions, and
OnePlus One Prevent any app other properties. Once you’re done,
hit the tick button to save, and the
Rooted?: Yes
Active development:
using mobile data tile will be added to the Quick
QQQHigh You may not realise this, but various Settings menu.
Designed for hacking, apps are leeching on your mobile
with a whole host of
Lollipop and internet connection, resulting in Create custom
Marshmallow ROMs greater data and battery use.
available, if you don’t Android has a built-in tool to widgets
have a OnePlus, you’re
prevent you from exceeding your Custom widgets can be configured
not really a hacker…
network limit, and if you’re not using with rooted devices, but not all
it already, you really should be. Open devices, of course, are rooted. To
LG Watch Settings>Data usage to get started, customise the look of existing
Urbane and tap the switch to enable widgets on your phone or tablet,
Rooted?: Yes monitoring for mobile data. UCCW – Ultimate Custom Widget,
Active
development:
Next, enable Set mobile data free from Google Play with in-app
QQQMedium limit, and use the sliders to set a purchases, is a good place to start.
Want to get hacking in warning notification and upper limit. A selection of widgets can be
a new community? Th With this feature enabled, Android reconfigured with skins, which can
wearable has an unoffici l
kernel and TWRP recovery image, and the will prevent any data from being also be downloaded from the Play
dev community is growing around it. used once the limit is reached. But Create your own toggle tiles with the
Store. By applying them to the
rather than reach this point, you can System UI Tuner widgets, you can drastically revise
q hacks
Enable Greenify
Aggressive
Doze mode
A great beta testing program to get Join the beta program
1 Search Enable Aggressive Doze
2 With Use Aggressive Doze
3 Aggressive
involved with is Greenify, which Google for the Greenify the app installed (check Doze boosts the
releases beta versions of updates, Beta Program, and click the Become a APKMirror.com if you can’t get the Android M Doze mode, with a
allowing you to try new features tester button to get started. Wait for beta on Google Play), open the menu, low-use state initiated whenever
before they’re released, such as an the update, or uninstall and reinstall tap Experimental features and check your phone is laid flat with the
aggressive version of Android the app to get the beta version, with the box for Aggressive Doze, available screen off. This can increase the
Marshmallow’s Doze mode. the new features ready to use. for Android 6.0 Marshmallow and up. battery life considerably.
52
Share your tips
Got a custom hack?
»facebook »twitter »email
/littlegreenrobot @lgrobot qa@littlegreenrobot.co.uk
Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Twitter to Discovered anything good about
Let us know about it! join our online community send us your tips & tricks your Android phone? Let us know!
screen crack, which some types of Google and other developers offer their code to ensure the app works
screen protector can save you from. you the chance to do just that by as intended.
The secret to applying a screen downloading special app updates To join a beta program, you’ll need
protector to a smartphone is to make that are intended only for beta to run a Google search for the app
sure your device display is clean, the testers. With these updates you’re interested in testing, followed
screen protector is fresh out of the installed, you can provide manual or by the words “beta program”. If a
packet, and that you have some automated feedback to the testing program is available for you to
sticky tape. Taping the long edge of developers, who can then tweak join, follow the link and sign up.
Contribute to making Android
apps beta!
Hacking the easy way Get great new features without getting your hands (too) dirty
Customise
yourhardware
b ns
You can make the buttons on your There is no such thing as a phone
that works exactly the way
device act any way you like everyone wants it to and this is
why Android is such a popular
1 Download the app
Go to the Google Play store
platform. With the help of millions and search for Home2 Shortcut.
of apps, you really do have the Check the permissions it wants you
ability to change almost to approve to make sure you are
every aspect of the interface happy with them and then install it as
nd even how the hardware you would any other app. Don’t worry
s so that it feels right for that the design looks a little dated
wever, there will be and basic because we are looking for
s of any Android pure functionality here.
tatic, such as
n and
uttons,
for
ps
s.
ow to
he app
it up to
most used
n time you may
6 Double tap home
to launch the app
on it as one of your Once set, you should find that the app
rtant utilities. In you chose will launch in the future
ou will not even notice when you double tap the hardware
t it is running because it home button, but there are a couple
ts in the background, but of steps you still need to complete to
rust us when we say that it will make sure it all works as intended.
o the work for you unobtrusively It’s a very clever and customisable
every single day. Follow the steps to hack of the Android operating system.
perfect your phone.
54
2 Lose the icon 3 An unusual
interface 4 Make a choice 5 Select an app
A standard app icon will You will now be presented you use a lot
appear as expected in your The interface tends to rely on text with a small panel showing four Scroll through the app list until you
Android’s app drawer, but you more than graphics, but don’t be options; Unused, Installed find an app you use very often and
should be able to hide it or place it put off by this. The instructions are Applications, Shortcuts and tap it. Remember that in this case
in a folder once you have completed cleanly presented throughout each Plug-ins. Start off by selecting we are picking an app to launch
the setup. There should be no need screen and will help ease the setup Installed Applications to see how when you double tap the home
to use this app more than once process. Tap the Choose the app can change the way the button, so make sure you choose
unless you want to make more Application button to get started home button works. The options one that you will want to use every
changes in the future. and make your first customisation. are logical throughout the process. day on your device.
7 Double
interval
tap 8 The final step
Scroll down again to the
9 Other key
settings 10 Not just for apps
You can also select
Scroll down a little and then tap the Step3 section and then tap the Tapping the Other key settings Shortcuts to launch from one of the
button shown in the Step2 section Choose Home Application button to button lets you assign apps and hardware buttons, which includes a
on your screen. You will see a list of select the app or shortcut that is shortcuts to launch when you press myriad of useful functions that you
intervals to select from and we normally launched when pressing Home and Menu, Home and Back, a may often use. Everything from
would suggest that you experiment the home button just once. Follow long press of the Search key or a saved directions on maps to a
with each to see what works best the instructions to set Home2 long press of the Camera key. You music playlist can be launched
with your Android hardware. One is Shortcut as the default for the can change the actions for most of using a simple and quick button
bound to work perfectly for you. home button action. the hardware buttons. command in the future.
55
Hacker Zøne
Works with » Android 5.0 up Difficulty » Easy
56
Works with » Android 4.1 and up » Difficulty Intermediate
57
Hacker Zøne
Difficulty » Advanced
Add a personal
touch with
yourown font
Create your own font for all While there are a lot of ways to
customise your Android device,
Android devices, plus modify creating your own font is
1 Download
any existing font particularly exciting as it’s a change FontForge
s across so many areas Grab FontForge from goo.gl/pz9lJb.
oid system, including Depending on your OS, you may also
menus. need to download XQuartz. You’ll find
tutorial you’ll learn how both download links in either
fy any TrueType font (ttf) FontForge’s Short Guide or Detailed
create your own font from Guide. After downloading both files,
. The trickiest part of double click the XQuartz file and
g a font is how long it takes follow the instructions to install.
ch your own version of
ingle letter, number and
l used throughout the
d system, but the real
ge is installing the finished
your device.
u have rooted your device,
n use a font installer app, but
you don’t have root then you
ill need to use a custom
auncher. In this tutorial, we
will be using GO Launcher
e). You’ll need to use a file
plorer app to create a Fonts
older and then copy/paste your
f file into this folder. Finally,
ou will tell GO Launcher to
an for new fonts, before
electing your custom ttf file.
Whichever method you
choose in the end, your custom
ont won’t be applied to every
ece of text you encounter on
6 Are you rooted?
Transfer your ttf file to your
ur Android device, particularly Android device. If you have already
web pages, which often use achieved root, the easiest way of
eir own specific fonts. This applying your custom font is to
nsistency is also true of your download the Font Installer app from
ice’s stock fonts, but it’s worth the Google Play store. Open Font
ring in mind that if you create Installer and select the Local tab,
r own wild, wacky and individual then navigate to the place where you
t then this inconsistency will be stored your ttf file.
ch more noticeable.
58
2 Launch FontForge 3 Modify an
existing font 4 Generate your 5 Start from
scratch
Next, double click the own font
FontForge file and follow the You can modify any ttf file in FontForge will load your font into a To create your very own font, open a
installation instructions. Then FontForge. If you don’t already have fresh grid. Double click each letter, fresh grid (by selecting File>New)
launch the FontForge app, where a particular font in mind, you’ll find number and symbol, then edit in and then double click each blank
you’ll see a blank glyphs table. This lots of free fonts at goo.gl/ZVHzHy. the window that appears. Once you square to open the editing window.
is where you can create your Download and unzip your chosen have finished editing, select File You can then create and style each
custom font. At this point, you can font. In the FontForge window, and then Generate Fonts. Make letter, number and symbol. Once
either create a new font from select File>Open and then select sure to save the font in the finished, select File>Generate Font
scratch or modify an existing one. the ttf you want to modify. Android-compatible ttf format. and save your font in ttf format.
7 Preview and
install the font 8 Don’t have root?
If you aren’t rooted, you can
9 Copy and paste
Create a new sub folder
10 Scan for fonts
Exit ES File Explorer. Long
Select the font you want to install apply new fonts using a custom inside GoLauncherEX by tapping the press on your homescreen and
and tap Preview to see an example launcher. To apply a font using GO menu icon and selecting New, select Go Settings, followed by
of how it will look on your device. If Launcher, set GO as your default followed by Folder. Name this folder Personalisation, Font and Select
you do decide to go ahead and launcher. Then use a file explorer Fonts, for ease of use. Navigate Font. Tap Scan font to completely
apply the font, return to the Local app, such as ES File Explorer (free back to your ttf file, long press it update the fonts list, then scroll
tab, tap the font again and select from the Google Play store), to open and select Copy from the toolbar. until you find your custom font. Give
Install. Reboot to apply the font your storage/emulated/0/ Return to your Fonts folder and then it a tap to apply this font across
across your Android device. GoLauncherEX folder. tap the Paste icon. your whole launcher.
59
The best
smartphone
cameras
The world’s sharpest shooters put through their paces
For many people, smartphones have become the primary your next smartphone, and all of them boast features
camera used for capturing quick snaps, family photos we’d be happy with in an all-round device. What we’re
and of course, selfies. A typical smartphone can rival a concentrating on here is the usability of their photography
regular compact camera when it comes to this kind of interfaces and the quality of the shots that they snap.
photography, and many manufacturers now include some There are representatives from brands known for the high
advanced imaging features as standard. quality of their lenses and sensors, and others that are
Not all smartphone cameras are created equal, being given a second chance to shine after their previous
however. In the past, some brands have surprised us with camera offerings weren’t quite up to snuff. We found
bog-standard cameras on otherwise excellent handsets, improvements on past models and even a couple of nice
while others have shone when it comes to photography. surprises in the mix – but which one will we crown as the
The brands we look at here are all likely contenders for ultimate sharp shooter?
60
+
61
Group test
»The best smartphone cameras
Shooting options
Auto mode offers amazing point-and-shoot
Samsung Galaxy S6
results with little effort, but there’s also a The S6 was a big comeback for Samsung. Was the
wide range of professional shooting modes
to ensure experts can pinpoint the white
camera one of its highlights?
balance, shutter, exposure and focus. Samsung has history of making great smartphone Photographers keen to do more with the camera will
cameras – and 2015’s S6 model is no different. It’s a be more than happy with the S6’s expanded
Performance point-and-shoot option out of the very top draw. At 16 selection of shooting modes. Pro mode allows for
It’s hard to fault the S6’s performance. We megapixels it doesn’t lead the group test in simple manual focus, setting the white balance and
found some shots were oversaturated, but terms, but Samsung’s engineers have worked digital tweaking of the sensor’s sensitivity. Unless you know
when you transfer images to a desktop wonders to create such a good camera. If you’re not exactly what you’re doing, you’ll find results are a bit
computer you realise that Samsung’s vivid, a seasoned camera user, you’ll love how simple it is hit and miss, but Samsung couldn’t have provided a
super AMOLED display is partly to blame. to take great photos. The results you get on auto simpler and more intuitive user interface if it tried.
mode, while putting in minimal effort, are of a high When you get it right, it’s magical. The detail in
»A camera
Verdict
of the highest
enough quality to trick anyone into thinking they were
taken with a DSLR. HDR mode is a one-tap fix for
better snaps, while focus and shutter speed are
pictures is crystal clear, especially in subject’s faces.
Samsung ships a basic editing suite with the S6’s
Gallery app. There’s a handy auto adjust tool, as well
quality. Samsung has a great really quick. Colours are vibrant and really pop off the as simple rotation and crop options to rescue poorly
history for cameras, and the screen. Blues in particular come out very well – in framed shots. A separate Photo Editor tab is a
fact, they almost look unnaturally good. If we were to glorified Instagram clone, while sharing options
S6 is no different. Images have one criticism it would that images are just a include direct upload links to Dropbox and Google
look unnaturally good fraction oversaturated. The S6’s super AMOLED Drive. And the images will be well sharing. The S6
display is partly to blame here, but we found images was one of the phones of the last 12 months, and its
needed a little toning down in the editing suite. camera is easily one of its highlights.
62
The best smartphone cameras «
Group test
Software
Moto’s Camera app isn’t quite at the level
we’d expect. There aren’t a great deal of
features, so it’s surprising that the app is
rather hard to navigate. Menus are hidden
and not well labelled.
63
Group test
»The best smartphone cameras
5JCTR UGNƒGU
The eight-megapixel front
camera is high class. If
Nexus 6P [QWŦTG RCTV QH VJG UGNƒG
generation you’ll be
information
amazed by the quality on
offer. It’s powerful enough Tough nut
to shoot full HD video It might not have an IP
EGTVKƒECVG DWV VJG 2 FQGU
Price £492 have Corning Gorilla Glass
»More information store.google.com 4 with an oleophobic
»Supplied by Google coating to ensure it
survives the bumps and
technical specs Marshmallow scratches of everyday life
»head-to-head
C standard for charging
CPF UJCTKPI UQ OCMG UWTG
you’re got the correct
CFCRVQTU RCEMGF KH [QW
Hardware have existing accessories
The main camera is housed in a slight [QWŦF NKMG VQ VCMG YKVJ [QW
hump at the top of the handset. It doesn’t
protrude much in truth, and we are once
again favouring the large screen size.
Software
The 6P has a minimal interface, but we
wouldn’t call this a bad thing at all. At least
everything was easy to navigate – a far cry
from Motorola’s convoluted effort.
Shooting options
A little too basic for our liking. It’s a shame
Nexus 6P
Another sub-par Nexus camera, or a
there isn’t a pro mode to really make this
camera stand out. We had some fun with genuine sharp shooter?
the Lens Blur effect, and panorama mode
Google has responded to claims that its Nexus 5 and professional shooting options. It’s missing a pro
stitched together well.
6 smartphones suffered with sub-standard cameras mode, although you do get a dual-LED flash, HDR+
Performance by boosting the 12.3MP rear camera to capture 1.55 mode and a timer as default options. You’ll need to
Pixel size has been boosted beyond the micron pixels. This is a big step up from the standard delve into the drop-down menu to activate Photo
traditional, so the 6P triumphs in trickier 1.4 microns used as standard in most current- sphere, Panorama and Lens Blur effects. We would
shooting conditions where light isn’t great. generation smartphones. In layman’s terms, bigger have liked to have seen some white balance settings
In normal conditions, it holds its own. pixels translate to more light being captured. So the in particular. If we had one criticism it would be that
good news for those of you who love Nexus devices some images were left with a slight yellow or blue
and their perfectly stock Android skins, is that finally tint. A small tweak before shooting would’ve solved
»A realVerdict
improvement on what
you have a camera that’s worthy of the Nexus name.
In comparison to what’s come before, you can take
superior indoor photos, even in low-light conditions.
this, and the lack of professional-style options is
frustrating. The Nexus 6P (the camera is identical to
the 5X for anyone wondering) also lacks optical
has come before. Options a Landscape photography came up really well, but image stabilisation. It’s the sort of digital trickery that
little basic for our liking, but colours don’t quite get up to Samsung or even deserves a place on a premium product, and without
Motorola standards. We were also impressed by the it, blur and noise can creep in. Google should be
we don’t mind so much when quality of shots at full zoom, too. The front-facing praised for finally giving the Nexus range a more than
the results come out looking selfie cam is the best in this group test by a country serviceable camera. It might be a little basic, but
as good as they do mile. Selfie fans rejoice. It packs a whopping eight quality is excellent. If Nexus users aren’t traditionally
megapixels and can even record 1080p video at 30 the photography type, at least they now have the
frames per second. What is lacking are more hardware to challenge that stereotype.
64
The best smartphone cameras «
Group test
Odd storage
HTC One A9
capacities
You get different amounts
of memory with different
information
storage versions. 32GB is Price £465
the top, which is very low, »More information www.htc.com
but you can supplement it »Supplied by HTC
with up to 200GB on an
SD card technical specs
» Operating system........Android 6.0
» Processor...........................Quad-core 1.5 GHz
Cortex-A53 & quad-core
1.2 GHz Cortex-A
UltraPixels
HTC has stuck with its
» Memory ...............................2GB RAM/16GB internal
storage or 3GB RAM/32GB
UltraPixel theory for the internal storage
front camera (why only
one of them?) and it does » Dimensions.......................145.8 x 70.8 x 7.3 mm
a serviceable job but lacks » Weight...................................143 g
any type of wow factor » Display size .......................5-inch
» Display resolution........1080 x 1920
iPhone clone » Connectivity .....................Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.1
It’s hard not to mention » Camera ................................Main: 13 MP, f/2.0,
how similar the A9 is in autofocus, OIS, dual-LED
terms of looks to the (dual tone) flash
iPhone. Like Apple, HTC Front: 4 MP, f/2.0, 27mm,
has ignored the clamber 1/3” sensor size, 2µm
for huge specs and pixel size
Processing
concentrated on the
software and performance
We processed a few RAW
images and found
everything almost ground
»head-to-head
to a halt, while the Hardware
aluminium got hot. It’s a In no way is the HTC One A9 a leader in the
nice option to have, but it
spec race. That’s not necessarily the end
might be a bit
unnecessary too of the world, but we could’ve done with a
few more megapixels to improve the detail
found in shots.
Software
If the spec sheet isn’t impressive, the
software is. Android 6.0 runs so smoothly,
and HTC has done a fine job at optimising
the camera software and making the UI so
simple to navigate.
Shooting options
The HTC One A9 is the only camera in
the group test to challenge Samsung’s
monopoly of advanced, professional grade
shooting options. You can even shoot in
RAW. Impressive.
Performance
To get great images, you need to work
really hard. You’ll use the Pro mode to help,
but the standard doesn’t quite match the
others. When you get it right, you’ll feel a
sense of pride.
»Optimised
Verdict
software is a big
bonus, but the HTC One
A9 doesn’t reach the highs
others do. It is not a bad
camera but not the best
65
Group test
The best smartphone cameras
»
Samsung
Galaxy S6
In the end, the winner of this group test Motorola’s X Style was the group’s surprise
was fairly obvious. No entry took bad package. We didn’t like the camera app very
photos, and to differentiate between them much and advanced modes were missing,
took more than a simple glance with the but results were outstanding. The HDR
naked eye. Samsung has done a wonderful feature on Auto mode was a real highlight,
job at creating a camera that will appeal to helping to lighten dark areas and produce
amateurs looking to take a quick snap, and an almost flawless image. If you can handle
more advanced users looking to tweak the clunky software, we’d highly
settings and get more professional-looking recommend the camera. Nexus users finally
photos. The opportunities are virtually have a device with an excellent camera.
endless with the S6, and the results are Combining the power of stock Android 6.0, a
class leading. You’ll be amazed by the colour great screen and a sharp shooter is going to
reproduction in particular, but images also appeal to a lot of users, especially at its
look sharp and the definition (even when price point. Results just lacked a bit of wow
you zoom in) is exceptional. Samsung may factor for us – which is the same criticism of
be an unimaginative choice as group test the HTC One A9. Certainly not a bad
winner, but it simply has the best camera, but one that just falls short of
smartphone camera on the market. class-leading standards.
Quad-core 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 & Dual-core 1.8 GHz Cortex-A57 & Quad-core 1.55 GHz Cortex-A53 & Quad-core 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 &
Processor Quad-core 2.1 GHz Cortex-A57 quad-core 1.44 GHz Cortex-A53 Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A57 quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A53
3GB RAM, up to 128GB storage 3GB RAM, up to 64GB internal 2GB RAM/16GB internal storage or
Memory storage plus micro SD support
3GB RAM, up 128GB internal storage
3GB RAM/32GB internal storage
Dimensions 143.4 x 70.5 x 6.8 mm 153.9 x 76.2 x 11.1 mm 159.3 x 77.8 x 7.3 mm 145.8 x 70.8 x 7.3 mm
Display resolution 1440 x 2560 1440 x 2560 1440 x 2560 pixels 1080 x 1920
Connectivity Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.1 Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.1 Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2 Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.1
Main: 16 MP, f/1.9, 28mm, OIS, Main: 21 MP, f/2.0, 27 mm, phase Main: 13 MP, f/2.0, autofocus, OIS,
Main: 12.3 MP, f/2.0, 1.55µm pixel
autofocus, LED flash, 1/2.6” detection autofocus, dual-LED (dual dual-LED (dual tone) flash
Camera sensor size. tone) flash, 1/2.4’ sensor size
size, laser autofocus, dual-LED flash
Front: 4 MP, f/2.0, 27mm, 1/3”
Front: 8 MP, f/2.4
Front: 5 MP, f/1.9, 22mm Front: 5 MP, f/2.0, 1.4 µm pixel sensor size, 2µm pixel size
Overall score
66
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Reviews
EDITOR’S
CHOICE Xiaomi Redmi Note 3
Is Xiaomi’s upgraded, mid-range Redmi Note – now with metal
EQPUVTWEVKQPCPFCƒPIGTRTKPV TGCFGT Ţ UVKNN C XCNWG EJCORKQP!
New Xiaomi releases come thick and fast. We
only recently reviewed the Redmi Note 2,
Battery champion
The Redmi Note 3 has 32 per
awarding it an impressive four out of five, yet cent more battery than the
here we have its successor already. Each time a Note 2 yet the weight has only
new product is released, we ask ourselves – will increased by 4g, despite the
new metal construction. The
this be the phone that signals Xiaomi’s entry into device doesn’t feel bulky like
the Western market? How does it hold up the ZUK Z1, which also packs a
against the devices that more established 4,000mAh battery
companies in this market have to offer?
Not only does Xiaomi release phones very
frequently, the range of devices available to buy
at any one time is vast. The Redmi Note 3 sits in MIUI 7
the lower tiers of the range, but in terms of Xiaomi ships its devices in two
build, materials and specifications, the buyer is EQPƒIWTCVKQPU Ţ C %JKPGUG
version (without Play store) and
left wanting for little. In the premium version of an International version (with
the device that we’re reviewing here, a Mediatek 2NC[ UVQTG 'XGP VJG %JKPGUG
Helio X10 processor powers the phone, together version includes full English
language support and the Play
with 32GB storage (expandable via microSD) and
store is easily added, which
3GB RAM. Within the metal unibody sits a makes importing much easier
5.5-inch full HD IPS screen, a 13MP primary
camera with phase detection auto focus, a 5MP
front-facing camera, a fingerprint reader and a
huge 4,000mAh battery (yet the device itself is
still only 8.7mm thick). Dual-SIM functionality with
68
Review
speeds along. The most ardent stock Android most expensive Android devices on the market.
fans probably won’t like the MIUI software layer, Low-light performance is variable and the lack
but for everyone else, there are some genuinely of an auto HDR mode is quite disappointing.
useful additions. The Mediatek Helio X10 Slow-motion video is a useful inclusion, as is
processor already proved itself to be a capable the 36-level beauty shot on the surprisingly
Xiaomi
performer in the Note 2, and the ample helping good front-facing camera.
of memory helps to ensure performance is Given that we liked the Note 2 a lot, it’s no
consistently good. If there is one weakness in surprise that we love the Note 3. The actual
the chipset, it is the graphics processor –
although the Note 3 is more than capable of
running most games, it falls behind flagship
hardware changes are minimal, but they are in the
right places – the new device feels far more
premium because of its metal unibody and the
Redmi Note 3
devices in this regard. Still, there’s no shame in fingerprint reader adds considerable convenience. 899 CNY (16GB model)
this given its market positioning!
The 13MP camera on the Note 3 focuses
We don’t know yet whether the Note 3 will be
amongst the first Xiaomi devices to officially
1099 CNY (32GB model)
quickly and snaps photographs without any real launch on UK shores, but once again, if you’re import cost £150
lag, but while the quality of images is good, it’s looking to import a device with unbeatable value, »More information mi.com/note3
here where the phone can’t keep up with the then you need look no further. »Supplied by Top One Trading Co. Ltd
Good for
Power users
For power users, the fantastic battery life means you won’t
need to hunt for a charger during the day
Bad for
Pro photographers
Although the camera is pretty good, there’s no support for
full manual controls or the Camera2 API
Hardcore gamers
The Helio X10 processor is fine for all but the most
Colour choices demanding tasks and it struggles with complex games
The Redmi Note 3 is available
with a black front and grey
back, white front and silver Verdict
back or gold front and gold
back. The branding overall is The Redmi Note 3 has set a new
very subtle and the device is up
there with the best-looking
high standard for budget devices,
phones on the market provided you can live with the MIUI 7
software layered over Lollipop
69
Reviews
Power for anything
In smaller tablets, an Intel Atom
processor may seem like overkill,
but with the added size and
features of the Yoga Tab 3 Pro, it
helps to keep things running
smoothly at all times
Average display
Perhaps the only real downside
Move your media to the Tab 3 Pro is its IPS display.
If your main focus for the Tab 3 Colours certainly look good, but
Pro is centred around media, there’s a touch of pixellation in
make sure to take advantage of icons and images that leave it
the microSD slot. It caters for lacking at times
cards up 128GB, which is useful
for storing your library of movies
Streaming made
simple
Once you’ve adjusted the focus,
Lenovo Yoga
the built-in projector is capable
of projecting at up to 70 inches
on any display. Use the hinge to
Tab 3 Pro
adjust your projection to the
perfect angle for you £399.99/$479.99
»More information lenovo.com
»Supplied by Lenovo
Technical specs
»Operating system............. Android 5.1 Lollipop
»Processor ................................ Intel Atom X5-Z8500, quad-core
Built to last Twist and turn 2.2GHz
Having a 10,200mAh battery One of the key reasons for the »Memory..................................... 32GB storage, 2GB RAM
embedded into the Tab 3 Pro inclusion of the adjustable hinge »Dimensions............................ 247 x 179 x 4.68mm
helps maintain strong, all-day
battery life, despite the increased
is to perfect the viewing angles
of the tablet. It saves having to
»Weight......................................... 667g
pressure that the projector pay for a separate tablet stand »Display size ............................ 10.1 inches
places on it and case combination »Display resolution............. 1600 x 2560 pixels (299 ppi)
»Front camera........................ 5 megapixels
»Rear camera.......................... 13 megapixels
»Connectivity .......................... Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
»Expansion slot..................... microSD up to 128GB
Battery life
At 10,200mAh, the included battery is a
powerhouse at all times
Good for
On the fly projecting
It’s far more than a gimmick, and is one of the better entry-
level projectors available
Going travelling
The battery size provides enough power to keep charges
as infrequent as possible
A rotatable hinge allows you to hang the tablet on the wall to The microSD slot allows you to boost the tablet’s 32GB built-in
Bad for
project video from the optimum height storage by up to 128GB Enjoying the display
There’s a small amount of pixellation that holds back the
A 13-megapixel rear camera is capable of If we were judging the Tab 3 on its core tablet display to some degree
snapping decent, if unspectacular images. functions, we perhaps wouldn’t have really
Shooting options are plentiful, but some are fairly recommended it over some of its similarly priced
Holding for long periods
The only downside to the hinge is that it can make the
superfluous for the most part and aren’t worth competitors. But when you then mix in the tablet uncomfortable to hold
fussing too much over. Images can be enjoyed addition of a capable projector, the whole
on the 10.1-inch IPS display, which does
especially well at bringing out bright colours and
landscape changes. This is a great media-
consumption device and for on-the-fly streaming,
Verdict
adding some deep tones to darker parts. there’s nothing really like it on the market right As far as tablet and projector
Compared to other 10-inch tablets, the general now. A monster battery life and great processing combinations go, this is by far the
display quality is average at best, but again, with power keep things running smoothly, and if you
the Tab 3 Pro being centred on the projector, can compromise on the average display quality,
best on the market today
perhaps you’ll be using the display for fewer the Yoga Tab 3 Pro is up there with the best on
activities than you think. the market.
71
Reviews
Much of the same Built with AnyLight
Despite the aesthetics, The 1.37-inch LCD display
there’s not a whole lot of adapts to different lighting
difference between the situations, meaning it
Moto 360 Sport and the should be backlit in low
Moto 360 2 variants. light conditions, but then
There’s the same 4GB of the screen will darken
internal storage in both when using it outside and
devices, as well as the in brighter conditions.
decent 300mAh battery to
keep the watch going for
days between charges.
M
£219.99/$299.99
»More information www.motorola.com
»Supplied by Motorola
6CKNQTGF HQT ƒVPGUU
All-in-one
There’s a single silicone
The default watch face is Technical specs
heavily customised for
case and band that
surrounds the Moto 360
ƒVPGUU WUGTU YKVJ VTCEMGTU »Operating system............. Wear OS
Sport, which has a UV
littering the outside.
Motorola’s own Body
»Processor ................................ Snapdragon 400, quad-core
EQCVKPI VQ JGNR ƒIJV QHH 1.2GHz
Fitness suite is decent, but
moisture. There are added
there’s full compatibility for
»Memory..................................... 4GB, 512MB RAM
air vents on the side for
extra comfort when in use.
Endomondo and other »Dimensions............................ 45mm diameter x 11.5mm high
VJKTFRCTV[ ƒVPGUU CRRU »Weight......................................... 54g
»Display size ............................ 1.37-inch
»Display resolution............. 360 x 325 pixels (263 ppi)
»Front camera........................ N/A
72
Review
Ve
Unbelievable
battery Limited options £219/$249
6JG NCEM QH 9GCT 15 KU C 9KVJQWV CP[ FKTGEV NKPMU VQ »More information www.vectorwatch.com
big boost to the battery life Android, the Luna is fairly »Supplied by Vector
QP VJG .WPC &WTKPI QWT NKOKVGF D[ KVU CRR UGNGEVKQP
tests, we found that
Vector’s claims of a 30-day
#RRU NKMG '520 CPF 6JG
'EQPQOKUV CTG RTGUGPV DWV Technical specs
DCVVGT[ NKHG CTG DCEMGF WR [QW YQPŦV UGG VJG NKMGU QH
1VJGT OCPWHCEVWTGTU (CEGDQQM CXCKNCDNG HQT C »Operating system............. Android 4.4
UJQWNF VCMG PQVG little while yet »Processor ................................ Proprietary
»Memory..................................... 512MB
»Dimensions............................ 44 x 22 x 11mm
»Weight......................................... 157g
»Display size ............................ 1.4 inch
Vector Luna
Meet the smartwatch that can boast a 30-hour battery life
»Display resolution............. N/A
»Front camera........................ N/A
»Rear camera.......................... N/A
»Networks.................................. Bluetooth/NFC
»Expansion slot..................... N/A
We love seeing emerging manufacturers make substandard capacitive displays we’ve been
us stand up and take notice of them and Vector used to previously.
is certainly doing that with the Luna The lack of Wear OS and bloatware is a Battery life
smartwatch. Out of the box you’re greeted with a godsend for both processor speeds and battery 280mAh doesn’t sound a lot, but the claims of a
stainless steel unit that’s the ideal weight life. The 280mAh lithium-ion battery may look 30-hour battery life are backed up
without being too bulky. It doesn’t sit completely tiny on paper, but it just keeps on going with no
flush to the wrist, but this is a common problem real OS draining it. During our tests, the 30-day
with larger framed smartwatches, rather than a battery life that Vector claims is completely Good for
specific issue with Vector. realistic, perhaps even a little conservative. Long battery life
There are no rear sensors built in and apart Similarly, a lesser processor has been The Luna takes smartphone battery life to a new level, with
from a small charging port, it’s a true minimal implemented here, with no Snapdragon in sight. 30 days between charges perfectly plausible
piece that oozes class from top to bottom. The Again, the lack of real OS means there’s no need Great design
rear sensor isn’t the only omission here, as to pack in excess power, but slowdown is Its minimal design looks great, the perfect accessory for
there’s no coloured display, no touchscreen and noticeable when using third-party apps. budding fashionistas out there
no Android Wear to use. It’s a smartwatch, On the topic of apps, there’s no direct link to
without the smarts. Instead, the Luna takes a Google Play through the Luna watch, and instead
Bad for
more minimal approach to wearables, offering your options are limited to Vector’s own app Going it alone
the core functions of a smartwatch, but nothing store. Choices are minimal, but some of the big The Luna relies heavily on the accompanying app, so you’ll
need your smartphone with you at all times
more. All of this is controllable through the hitters are included. Again we look to the fact
accompanying app, which is easy to use and that this is a smartwatch utilising core features, App selection
customisable at will. That said, without the app, but the lack of apps will be a bit too much of a Don’t expect many of the big name apps to be available
for download through the Vector store
the Luna is fairly redundant, so you’ll need your stretch for some to compromise on.
phone with you at all times. It’s safe to say that the Vector Luna is going to
Options are plentiful for basic functions, but split opinion. It won’t appeal to those who want Verdict
it’s the personalisation potential that really their smartwatch to function as an independent
makes it stand out from the crowd. Moving device, and the lack of a touchscreen and colour A brave attempt at reinventing the
between menus is completed through the display will perhaps turn off the more discerning smartwatch that’s mostly successful,
side-mounted buttons, mimicking the classic Android user. What it can deliver though, is a but will be a little basic for some
Casio watches of yesteryear. It’s a feature we smartwatch that delivers a true extension to
found ourselves really enjoying and it’s generally your smartphone and that 30-day battery life is
a much better navigation experience than the unrivalled. Which side will you fall on?
73
Reviews
Premium Near-stock
materials Android
The Moto X Force is The X Force runs a near-
available with a number of stock Android version, and
different materials on the minimal customisations.
back, including leather, soft Lollipop ships out of the
grip and our favourite, box, with a Marshmallow
ballistic nylon, as seen on update imminent. The
previous Moto devices enhanced camera
available in the US. It’s application is a particular
grippy and feels tough. highlight over stock.
Moto Maker
If you are happy to buy
Moto X Force
your Moto X Force SIM
free, then it is available to £479
EQPƒIWTG WUKPI /QVQ »More information www.motorola.co.uk
Maker, which allows the »Supplied by Amazon UK
buyer to specify various
colours and materials of
their choice, as well as Technical specs
custom engravings and
additional storage. »Operating system............. Android 5.1.1 Lollipop
»Processor ................................ Qualcomm Snapdragon 810
processor 2.0 GHz octa-core
Moto Shattershield »Memory..................................... 32GB / 3GB
The Moto X Force is so »Dimensions............................ 149.8 mm x 78 mm x 7.6 mm -
named because its 9.2 mm (curved)
‘shattershield’ equipped »Weight......................................... 169g
screen can take a beating
– and then some.
»Display size ............................ 5.4 inch
Motorola guarantees that
»Display resolution............. 2560 x 1440 (540 ppi)
the screen won’t crack for »Front camera........................ 21 MP / f/2.0 aperture
four years. Phone droppers »Rear camera.......................... 5 MP / f/2.0 aperture
Ţ [QW OC[ ƒPCNN[ JCXG OGV
your match!
»Connectivity:......................... 4G LTE / Bluetooth 4.1 / NFC
»Expansion slot..................... microSD up to 2TB
Moto X Force
If you need your phone to be virtually indestructible, but retain
Battery life
The monster 3760mAh battery in the Moto X Force leads
to class-leading, multi-day battery life.
considerable style, check out the Moto X Force
Let’s get straight to the point – the Moto X
Force has one special talent, and that is that it’s
fingerprint reader, in line with other current Moto
smartphone models, which is disappointing. If
Good for
very, very tough. The screen, protected by Moto you’ve had one, typing in a PIN feels like going Power users
The X Force battery and its Snapdragon 810 can manage
Shattershield, is split into four components – the back to the Dark Ages. intensive tasks such as gaming with no problems.
exterior protective lens, interior lens, dual touch On the design, software and customisations
layer and the AMOLED display, which itself sits side, the X Force is very much business as usual Case haters
within an aluminium chassis designed to prevent and recognisably Motorola, right down to the If you don’t like to use a case but want a device that can
stand up to everyday life, the X Force is ideal.
breakage. The result is a screen guaranteed not signature dimple on the back. On the whole, that
to break for four years. If you opt for the ballistic the phone is a typical Moto smartphone is a Bad for
nylon back, you have a formidable companion good thing. It means performance is good, the
even if you are a careless owner. software is pleasingly light and a sprinkling of
Audiophiles
Moto has eschewed the excellent top and bottom speaker
The best thing about the X Force is that even customisations leads us to think that Moto can design for two average speakers at the bottom.
though it’s tough, it doesn’t look too different do stock Android better than Google itself.
from any other high-end phone, aside from the It’s difficult to pick out a particular stand-out
Fashionistas
The Moto X Force, while far from being rugged, isn’t the
exterior protective lens (which resembles a thick feature on the X Force, but it’s perfect example thinnest or prettiest phone on the block.
screen protector). It has a reassuring weight and of doing everything well. The AMOLED screen,
girth to it, but this is as much due to the huge
battery that’s included as it is to the screen.
while not up there with the best such as the
Note 5, is very good. Similarly, the 21 megapixel
Verdict
The phone has a high-end price, but also camera, while not quite up there with the Galaxy Don’t assume the Moto X Force
high-end internals. With the ubiquitous S6 or LG G4, is very competent. Gaming or other
is just a one-trick pony. Yes, it’s
Snapdragon 810 processor, ample RAM and intensive tasks are handled with ease, although
storage, microSD expansion, every form of it can get slightly warm under load. The Moto X
exceptionally good at one thing, but
connectivity you could want and even wireless Force sits right at the top of Moto’s device line
it’s also a great all-rounder
charging, the X Force spec list reads like a phone and deserves its place there. There’s a lot to like
fan’s wishlist, with one exception. There is no and very little that disappoints.
74
Review
OLED screen
The Honor Band Z1 has a
1.06-inch OLED display
with a resolution of 128 by
128 pixels. That may
sound like a very low
Colour choices
resolution (and it is), but it The Z1 is available in three
JCU C FGƒPKVG TGVTQ EJCTO colour models: a black
about it with its light blue bezel and a large black
on black text strap, a silver bezel and a
small white strap or a silver
bezel with a small cream
strap. The bezel is crafted
from stainless steel
Honor Band Z1
Connectivity £59.99/$85
The Band Z1 connects to »More information hihonor.in
your phone via Bluetooth,
Dustproof and »Supplied by VMall
providing a range of up to
ten metres. An alert can be waterproof
EQPƒIWTGF HQT YJGP [QWT
watch and phone go out of
It is both waterproof and
dustproof, with IP68
Technical specs
EGTVKƒECVKQP 6JKU OGCPU KV
range of each other, in
order to help you avoid KU ƒPG HQT YGCTKPI KP VJG
»Operating system............. Proprietary
forgetting your phone! rain, but isn’t suitable for »Processor ................................ Not specified
submersion below 1.5 »Memory..................................... 512KB storage / 128KB RAM
metres. Honor explicitly
tells you not to dive with it!
»Dimensions............................ 244.4 x 38 x 9.5 mm
»Weight......................................... 25g
Honor Band Z1
Is Honor’s entry-level wearable a viable alternative to more
»Display size ............................ 1.06-inches
»Display resolution............. 128 by 128 pixels (170 ppi)
»Front camera........................ N/A
»Rear camera.......................... N/A
»Connectivity .......................... Bluetooth LE 4.0
expensive smartwatches or does cheap mean too basic? »Expansion slot..................... N/A
When it comes to mobile phones, Honor,
Huawei’s brand for digital natives, has a
steps, your calorie burn, your sleep statistics
(which are automatically tracked) and enables
Battery life
Despite a tiny 70mAh battery that’s charged in only 90
reputation for delivering exceptional value. The you to start recording a workout. A settings minutes, the Honor Band Z1 lasts around four days
Honor Band Z1 marks the brand’s first foray into menu lets users switch between a small number
wearables, although Huawei does have some of watchfaces and reboot or reset the watch.
products available in this category, including the Notifications can be displayed from a connected Good for
Talkband B2 (on which the Z1 is loosely based) phone, courtesy of the Huawei Wear app. Fitness tracking
and the critically acclaimed Huawei Watch The companion app provides a view of the The band’s fitness tracking is accurate and the fact it
powered by Android Wear. At a price point of recorded data, together with the ability to syncs to the Jawbone Up service is a useful feature
under £60, rather than nearly £300, the Honor connect to Jawbone’s Up service. As well as Smaller wrists
Band is clearly going to be lacking in features notifications (that can be enabled on a per-app Full Android Wear devices are too big for a lot of people –
compared to high-end smartwatches – but that basis), the app enables customisation of idle fortunately, the Honor Band Z1 is a lot smaller
might not matter if it’s still genuinely useful. reminders and vibrating alarms.
Advanced wearables have powerful internals Functionally, the Z1 is solid, but how well does
Bad for
and big screens, which means big batteries and it all work? Well, with some caveats. The main Apps
bulky designs. The Z1 is compact, feels great on problems are a slowness to wake or respond to No apps are available to install for the Honor Band Z1,
meaning the functionality isn’t extensible
the wrist and will suit arms both large and small. swipes and a limited notification experience
It has a black round face (although the actual – basic notifications can be viewed on the Responding to content
OLED screen is square) and either a black bezel screen, but there is no ability to action the The Honor Band Z1 is purely for viewing notification
content, no actions can be taken from the band itself
or silver bezel. The back of the watch is plastic notifications (for example to archive an email).
with pogo pins for connecting to the charging Given the basic screen, it’s also a shame that it
dock, which attaches via magnets. The rubber has to be woken rather than being always on. Verdict
strap is sadly not changeable, but the quality is Since the original release of the band, Honor
good and on the whole the band feels like a has continually improved the experience. As a The Honor Band Z1 is a useful
quality piece of kit. low cost alternative to a full Android Wear watch, wearable, but with minor tweaks it
The best way to think of the Z1 is as a part it has value, particularly as a fitness device, but could have been so much more
smartwatch, part fitness-tracking device. When the niggles in the experience mean that this
woken, the display shows the date and time, and time Honor isn’t quite punching as far above its
swiping on the screen displays your number of weight as we have come to expect.
75
Reviews
Knomo Knomad Leather Mini
Portable Organiser
If you’re looking for a high-end tablet wallet, this could be it
Knomo is well known for its high-quality squeezing in however, though the odds
bags, cases and organisers, and deservedly might improve if you have a slimmer tablet
so. This little folder is made of buttery soft VJCP VJG 0GZWU YG VTKGF 9G EQWNFPŦV ƒV C
leather lined with RPET canvas, which is portable battery pack in there, but then we These cardholder pockets are great for SD cards,
made from recycled bottles and allows your didn’t have one of Knomo’s super-skinny making it great for tablet and phone accessories
devices to snuggle down comfortably inside ones to hand, as they’re sold separately.
the padded interior. Knomo optimistically The thing is, though, you’re likely to be
claims that this miniature version of its putting this case inside a larger bag
Organiser can carry “an eight-inch tablet, (although if you do use it as a clutch purse
smartphone, passport and cards, pen, we won’t judge you), meaning it doesn’t
slimline battery pack, A5 notebook” and really need to pack in quite as much as it
much more. Challenge accepted. claims to be able to. So, if you like the look
5Q YJCV FKF YG OCPCIG VQ ƒV KP! 6CDNGV and don’t mind the price, it’s a great little
check. Phablet phone, check. A card wallet case for the stylish Android lover.
and assorted business cards, a set of
earphones, a pen, and a tiny notebook; » Price £79.00
» More information www.knomobags.com
check. We found that an A5 notebook didn’t 1PG QH -PQOQŦU UNKONKPG RQTVCDNG EJCTIGTU YKNN ƒV KP
have a snowball’s chance in hell of here so you can boost your devices on the move
Recycled material
The RPET canvas inside is
made from recycled bottles.
The fabric is smooth and
won’t scratch devices
Luscious leather
The outside is encased in
soft leather that’s available
in a range of colours, from
subtle to bright
76
Accessories
Woodbuds
Wooden you like some trendy earphones?
.GVŦUIGVQPGVJKPIQWVQHVJGYC[ƒTUV[QW almost as sustainable as the wooden
FQPŦVUVKEMVJGYQQFGPDKVUKP[QWTGCTUNow earbuds themselves. The audio jack on the
that we’ve established that, we can begin to end is high quality and gold-plated for
take a proper look at these classy earphones maximum performance, and the earphones
from Woodbuds. FQ C ƒPG LQD QH ECPEGNNKPI QWV CP[
It’s the outer part of the earphone that background noise.
gives the Woodbuds their name. Made from That care and attention to detail in the
sustainable walnut and engraved with the product extends to the fully recyclable
Woodbuds logo, each pair – each earphone, packaging, which is well designed, and the 'CEJ GCTRKGEG KU WPKSWG VJCPMU VQ YQQFŦU ITCKP CPF EQNQWTU
in fact – is unique. They’ve been tightly inner card is hand-letterpressed by a small, OGCPKPIPQVYQRCKTUQH9QQFDWFUCTGGZCEVN[CNKMG
turned and smoothly sanded, and are long-running printers from the Woodbuds
surprisingly lightweight when compared to team’s local area. They practically ooze
common or garden plastic earphones. They sustainable, artisanal, high-performance hipster
come with three sizes of earpiece in the way cool – and the price isn’t bad for what you’re
that Skullcandy headphones do, and these getting, either.
are standard soft silicon that’s perfectly safe
and comfortable to wear in your ears. The
» Price £30.00
» More information www.woodbuds.com
cable is flat, so it’s less prone to tangling,
and it’s made out of bio-plastic, making it
The USP #WFKQRJKNGU YKNN CRRTGEKCVG VJG IQNFRNCVGF CWFKQ LCEM Ţ KVU
Woodbuds’ unique selling point TGUKUVCPEGVQEQTTQUKQPOGCPUDGVVGTEQPPGEVKXKV[CPFC
is the wooden caps on the NQPIGTYQTMKPINKHG
earpieces, which are made out
of sustainably sourced walnut
CPF CTG UOQQVJN[ ƒPKUJGF
Interchangeable
earpieces
The part that actually goes into
your ear is safe, soft silicon, and
the Woodbuds come with
earpieces in three sizes for
maximum comfort
Tangle-free cord
The flat cable is less prone to
the usually annoying tangling
and snagging, and is available in
a range of six colours for the
fashion-conscious music lover
77
Apps
Adobe Premiere Clip
Easily create video sequences synced to music
Adobe’s smart also use your Creative Cloud storage
video-editing app to access video clips taken on
makes it incredibly easy another device, such as a GoPro.
for even complete Fairly similar to its iOS equivalent
novices to quickly string together in its appearance, the Android app
stylish sequences of video clips and features three tabs on its main
photos, whose transitions are screen. While the My Projects and
automatically synced to match the My Published Videos sections will be
beat of the accompanying music. So empty at first, the Community
it’s a great way to quickly create Videos tab offers some polished
mood-capturing video montages – examples of what can be achieved
say, of a particular event like a with Adobe Premiere Clip, such as a
holiday or wedding – and share them night sky time-lapse, a BMX biking
with friends. And while the standard montage and a music video, all
video creation process is largely synced nicely with their
automated, there are also some accompanying soundtracks.
more advanced options available to To start creating your own first
allow greater customisation. video sequence, just tap the ‘+’
First, you’ll need to sign in with an button in the corner, then choose
Adobe ID, or create an account. This one of four icons: either to import
Change the soundtrack and choose at what Freeform mode offers more advanced
enables you to sync your creations to footage/photos from the device, point to start it for the video editing options to customise your creation
a Creative Cloud folder (you’re given Adobe Lightroom, Creative Cloud, or
2GB of free storage), with the option shoot new material with the camera. Unhelpfully, there’s also no filter
of editing them further in Adobe Since the device import option only option to show only videos or stills. 2 hour wonder
Premiere Pro CC – available on gives you a choice of Camera and After tapping the videos and/or Want your money back?
subscription for £17.15/$19.99 per other app folders, instead of stills you want to use, you get a You’ve got 120 mins to decide!
month – on a Mac or PC. You can enabling full access to your Photos choice of automatically generating a ! 40 »0-40 minutes
The Community Videos tab
library, there’s no way to video or trimming and editing the 120 80 Automatic video creation is
quick and easy
includes some impressive directly access assets sequence manually in Freeform
examples to inspire you synced to the latter from mode. The automatic option quickly ! 40 »40-80 minutes
another device – so creates a preview that you can play, The results are impressive,
120 80
with smart music syncing
you’ll need to with options to set a music starting
download them in point and replace the default ! 40 »80-120 minutes
Photos first. soundtrack – either with the app’s Freeform mode is more like a
120 80
standard video editor
selection of themes or a locally
stored track of your own. A second keep refund
tab offers a slider to alter the pace of
the sequence. The grid icon enables
you to drag and drop clips/photos » specification
into the order you want. Finally, Price Free
there’s an option to convert the Designed for: Phone and tablet
sequence into Freeform mode, which Requires Android: 4.4 and up
brings up a more traditional video
editor view in which you can trim, » verdict
duplicate and split clips. Performance
Further Freeform options include
altering clip audio volume and Design
fade-in/out, adjusting exposure,
highlights and shadows, and
Value
changing footage speed. There’s also The best of both worlds, it’s
a selection of 30 ‘Looks’ (filters) to very easy to use but offers
apply to the entire sequence, or you some extra editing options
can use custom Looks created in the
Adobe Capture CC app.
»like this?
try this!
KINEMASTER – PRO VIDEO EDITOR » This sophisticated editor
allows the creation of multiple video layers for pro-style effects
78
EDITOR’S
CHOICE
Triller
While it’s not the first
app to let you shoot
‘Cos this is triller,
triller night…
music, including any tracks you’ve
created yourself, this means you’re
Once you’ve shot your takes, Triller
will automatically create a video by
cutting between them. While you
can’t alter the timings of the cuts,
you can switch unwanted clips by
swiping up. If you still don’t like it, hit
your own video while not limited to 30 seconds. Indeed, Re-Edit to get a new version.
lip-syncing to pop hits, you could use the entire track if you The lack of editing options may
Triller does offer one killer feature its want, although it’s probably best to disappoint some, but it does make
competitors are lacking. As well as start off with an excerpt – just move Triller very easy to use. The results
offering access to a vast, searchable the start and end points (with the aid are quite impressive and can be
library of 30-second music clips, it of sound preview) to mark it out. shared via social media and saved.
allows you to use any tracks stored Once you have the music ready, it’s
locally on your device – just swipe left time to start filming the video as you
from the main Highlights screen. As lip-sync along. You can shoot up to » specification
well as enabling you to use any three takes, letting you use different
Price Free
Designed for: Phone and tablet
Search the large library of Requires Android: 4.3 and up
audio clips, or swipe left to use An auto-edited video with colour-coded clips
your own music on the timeline – swipe up to swap one out
» verdict
locations and/or outfits to mix things Despite some limitations,
up. Another way to add variety is using it’s great fun to shoot your
the array of filters. There’s also the own music videos
option of a Slow or Fast setting –
counterintuitively, this results in the
opposite speed of music playback,
but results in a slow- or fast-motion
effect in the resulting footage. This
» like this? try this!
way you get the effect of lip-syncing in Redub
Make your own video – with optional
slow motion you see in many split-screen – using music and movie clips
commercially produced music videos.
79
Apps
Join
Share everything between
devices
Pushbullet has always
been great for sharing
Cardboard Camera
Explore 360-degree panoramas and immersive stories
notifications and other
data between devices, but its recent Enabling everyone to all that, turning your phone into a VR look very far up and down. Still, the
monetisation push means some key experience virtual camera to create your own overall effect is impressive and
features – including clipboard reality, Google panoramic scenes with optional features convincing depth-of-field.
sharing – now require a paid Cardboard DIY headsets now audio to capture the moment. Capturing your own scene is
subscription. Currently in beta work with more phones, including Upon first launch, the app offers a incredibly easy, aided by on-screen
testing, Join is a promising free larger ones with screens of up to selection of sample scenes to view, tips. Holding your phone in portrait
alternative. Just sign in with a Google 6 inches. While it’s always been including a view from atop Mount mode, you move rotate slowly
account and give it the permissions fun for viewing videos and photos Kilimanjaro. Place the phone in your through 360 degrees, recording
required to start sharing your in stereoscopic 3D, it’s largely Cardboard headset and a split- optional ambient audio. There’s also
clipboard, files, notifications and been a passive experience, bar screen view delivers stereoscopic a handy setting to lock the camera
more between devices – including the odd compatible game. The imagery as you move your head exposure if you find it reacting to
computers via a Chrome browser Cardboard Camera app changes around to view the scene. One varying light levels as you shoot. The
extension. A handy Diagnostics drawback is that the top and bottom app then takes less than a minute to
screen enables you to check all the are always blurred out, so you can’t process the scene, stitching the
features are working. Numerous
settings let you customise the
service to your needs, like whether
to auto-open links and deciding
which apps’ notifications are shared.
There’s also an option to enable
remote SMS sending. Another nice
touch is the ability to write text notes
directly to another device.
Join’s array of options can prove
bewildering at first, so a little more
guidance would be welcome. It’s also
a little lacking in stability. Even so,
Join is well worth checking out.
80
quickhits
top apps for...
photos together and blurring distant Your captured VR
panoramas are
objects to create that simulated
depth-of-field effect. We were
added to the
examples on the
ovie makers
impressed by the results, which were main screen
virtually (no pun intended) seamless,
although naturally you need to avoid
anything in the scene moving while
you’re shooting.
At the time of writing, the only way
to share your VR scenes is via
opening them in the Photos gallery,
but the recipient can view them as
intended in Cardboard Camera.
There’s also no option to import any
Photo Spheres taken previously with
the stock Camera app.
» specification
Price Free
Designed for Phone
Requires Android 4.4 and up
YahooVideo Guide
One TV app to rule them all
Serious filmmakers will want
a digital clapperboard to capture exact
timings on set for syncing sound and
video. This free app does the job well
and will make you feel like a pro!
With so many streaming match your services and arranged by
services these days, it can genre. As well as browsing, you can
be difficult to keep track of use a powerful search facility to look
what’s on where. Yahoo Video Guide for movies, shows or actors.
LightMeter Free
Free
isn’t the first app to attempt to When you find something you like, While designed mainly for still
tackle this problem, but it covers a you can tap a streaming service to photography, this free light
meter app will help you get the exposure
large range of major streaming watch it within the relevant app. One settings just right on a dedicated video
services and TV channels for US interesting addition is the Mood camera. There’s nothing worse than
blown-out footage.
viewers, including Hulu, Netflix, HBO Picker option: select any of ten
and Showtime. You select the ones moods for apt suggestions.
you use from a list; it’ll also detect
any of their apps on your device.
» Price Free Stop Motion
» Designed for Phone and tablet Studio Free + IAP
Yahoo Video Guide‘s main screen » Requires Android 4.1 and up Want stop-motion animation?
features three tabs – Featured, This easy-to-use app will help you to do
Movies and Shows – with content to it, letting you add music and narration.
Extra features via in-app purchases
include green screen and rotoscoping.
Pick one of more moods to be presented »like this?
try this!
FAN TV » This TV guide lets you add shows to a watch list, notifying
you when they’re on
with helpful viewing suggestions
ACCUWEATHER
vs
CHANNEL
The weather is more unpredictable than
ever, so the need for a weather app to
plan your day has never been more in
demand. While both AccuWeather and
» specification The Weather Channel » specification
Price Free both have legions of Price Free
Designed for: Phone and tablet users, which one should Designed for: Phone and tablet
Requires Android: Varies with device Requires Android: Varies with device
you be using?
AccuWeather The Weather Channel
Weather listings are The colourful diagrams give
detailed and contain each you a visual representation of
and every bit of information
you could need. They aren’t
LOCATION the current climate in your
area, without compromising
the most attractive screens OVERVIEW on the detail that they
to look at, however. provide you with.
And the winner is... We can applaud The Weather Channel’s design, but AccuWeather
ACCUWEATHER feels like a more complete app for the most part. It’s user-friendly in
every possible way and we especially like the built-in social features
that help link your social media profiles with the app.
82
From the makers of
Samsung
GalaxyThe Complete Manual
No matter what Galaxy device you have, this book will help you
get the most from your phone or tablet. Packed with easy-to-
follow guides to all the essential features, functions and apps,
h l ou master your Galaxy.
Also available…
84 »twitter @lgrobot
quickhits
Don’t miss out
Lifeline: Silent Night Someone needs
your help again
While Lifeline 2 featured Sometimes you have to wait quite a
a different protagonist, while for Taylor to do something; if
setting and style from you reach the end of a story path,
the original, Silent Night sees the however, you can actually rewind to
return of Taylor the young a checkpoint to change your
astronaut. Having been saved decision. There’s also the option of
from an alien moon by a mining a fast mode that lets you skip the
ship – assuming you managed to waiting, which is a nice touch and
avoid getting him killed in Lifeline, will keep you gripped.
that is – he needs your assistance The design of the game is sparse
again, as he’s concerned about an – although you do at least get a map
unidentified craft that is heading of the ship this time, unlike in
in their direction. previous offerings – but the
As before, the story plays out in engaging story draws you in, Inky Blocks
real time as Taylor sends you text particularly if you’ve already formed Free + IAP
Resembling a radial version of
messages, which also appear as an emotional attachment with Tetris, it has you rotating and placing
notifications, to relate what’s Taylor from the first game. blocks to make rows of ten or more.
happening. Every so often you Lengthy video ads are annoying unless
make a choice between two
» Price £2.45/$2.99 you pay (£0.83/$0.99) to remove them.
» Designed for Phone and tablet
options, your decisions affecting » Requires Android 4.0 and up
how the storyline plays out in this
work of interactive fiction.
A ship map shows you Taylor’s current
location on the White Star
Bit Blaster Free + IAP
This Asteroids-like space
shooter features an
auto-thrusting, auto-firing ship with
rotational controls, collectable ammo
StarSkater
Don’t try this at home
Still, it adds to the atmosphere, as
do some spectacular 3D visuals
– which explain the vast data
most enemy attacks, while swiping
left will make them jump back to
avoid heavy strikes. It works well and
Story quests offer forking routes, but you
can go back and replay them
86
quickhits
top games for...
Blockheads
Crossy Road
Free + IAP
The debut game from
Australian indie developer Hipster Whale
has been a deserved monster hit. Based
on the classic Frogger, it’s an
ultra-addictive endless hopper that’s
packed with fun details.
» specification
Price Free + IAP 2 hour wonder
Designed for Phone and tablet
Requires Android 4.0 and up Want your money back?
You’ve got 2 hours to decide!
» verdict »0-40 minutes Minecraft Pocket
! 40
Stunning visuals give it a real Edition £4.99/$6.99
Performance 120 80
wow factor Originally a very simplified
affair, the radically updated Pocket
Design ! 40 »40-80 minutes The smoothly animated visuals are
absolutely heavenly
Edition is now almost as sophisticated as
The combat mechanic seems the PC version. It’s the ultimate sandbox
120 80
Value to work well game where the only real limitation is
your imagination.
An impressive fighting ! 40 »80-120 minutes » like this? try this!
game with hidden depths 120 80
Building up a good team will
Blood & Glory: Legend Not for
take a while
the squeamish, this gory gladiatorial
combat game is a blood-soaked triumph
Shooty Skies
keep refund Free + IAP
Hipster Whale’s old-school
arcade blaster takes 3D pixel art to new
heights. Shooting down arcade cabinets
A Snow Fort Too Far and ghetto blasters is really fun, even
when the frantic action becomes chaotic
and confusing.
The ultimate snowball fight
Snowball fights are great Defenders – will keep advancing Down The
fun, but you need snow. If unless entrenched in a snow fort. In Mountain Free
you lack the white stuff, A addition, Builders can build and This innovative endless
Snow Fort Too Far is an interesting upgrade forts, as well as snowmen runner sees you racing down a blocky 3D
digital alternative. In this tower- – this will help you recruit more mountain, avoiding hazards and
collecting goodies. Simple but fun, it has
defence/RTS game, you command soldiers to your side. Managing your 300 objectives and 99 cute characters
an army of snowball-wielding resources and limited credits is key to unlock.
children in a battle to take control of to your strategy.
your neighbourhood. While its PC origins are obvious Command an army of snowball-wielding kids
We’d advise trying out the four from the style, the gameplay is
in this quirky tower defence strategy game
Block Gun 3D:
tutorial levels first, which show how solid, the theme appealing, and » Price Free + IAP Ghost Ops Free + IAP
» Designed for Phone and tablet If Call of Duty were set in a
to capture a fort, defend it, guide a there’s even a fun online two-player » Requires Android 2.3 and up pixel-art world, it would look like this.
lone ‘soldier’ behind enemy lines mode. The only IAPs are to remove Shot enemies even explode into a pile of
and overcome an enemy’s higher ads and add a second item slot. blocks that can be forged into new
ground advantage. weapons! Online death-matches add to
Your soldiers – which come in »like this?
try this!
SNOWJINKS » If you’re after an arcade-style snowball fight, this is
probably the best Android offering
the fun.
88
Buyer’s Guide
TOP 10 SUPER SMARTPHONES THE BEST FLAGSHIP AND MID-RANGE
ANDROID PHONES ON THE MARKET
1
Samsung Galaxy S6 £479
Samsung has come out fighting after the humdrum response to the S5, with this stunning handset
made entirely of metal and glass. Samsung has had to sacrifice microSD support and a removable
battery to make it so thin and light to hold, but it offers a 16MP camera, wireless and superfast See issue 52
charging, an improved fingerprint scanner and a benchmark-beating processor instead.
Nexus 6P £449
2 Finally, we have a Nexus that is truly a device without compromise – a worthy flagship for Android
heading into 2016. The camera is one of the best in the business, while the beautiful screen could
truly see the end of your tablet use. Even the 64GB model represents a real bargain. See issue 58
LG G4 £372
3 The LG G4 is a close second for the phone of the year behind the Galaxy S6 with a distinctive
leather-back case and superior camera. Its unique Quantum IPS screen will amaze with bright and
crisp images that offer vivid colours, while its 200GB microSD port offers lots of extra storage. See issue 52
HTC A9 £449
8 The M9 remains a great device, but the A9 feels like a change in direction for HTC. Taking on board
criticisms of its flagship device, HTC has kitted the A9 with bleeding-edge specs and even shipped it
with Android Marshmallow. As you’d expect, the build quality is of the highest order. See issue 58
89
Buyer’s Guide
TOP 10 BUDGET BUYS IF YOU’RE SHOPPING FOR A SMARTPHONE ON A SHOESTRING, CHECK
OUT THESE LOW-COST MOBILE MUST-HAVES
1
Vodafone Smart ultra 6 £115
Our newly crowned best budget phone in the world marries excellent specs and a smooth user
experience to topple the ZTE Blade S6 back into second place. We love this phone’s octa-core
processor, 1080p screen and 2GB RAM – specs you’d expect to see in a premium handset. Throw in See issue 56
the fact it looks good and the cameras work brilliantly, and you’ve got a serious bargain.
Honor 4X £148.86
9 The biggest and best of the mid-range Honor phones, the 5.5-inch Honor 4X has a lot going for it,
including a 13MP camera, off-brand octa-core processor and 4G connectivity. However, you pay for the
high specs at a low cost in other areas: it only runs Android 4.4 KitKat and has a mediocre screen. See issue 53
90
Buyer’s Guide
TOP 10 BEST TABLETS WHETHER YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A SEVEN OR TEN-INCH DISPLAY,
THESE ARE THE TOP TABLETS AVAILABLE ON ANDROID
1 £505
Sony’s lightest and brightest tablet ever, the Z4 has made us fall back in love with the 10-inch tablet
when the Nexus 10 left us cold. With a clip-on keyboard and Microsoft apps bundled in, it is a top
tablet for when you want to set up a mobile office. But all work and no play makes for a dull device, so
the Z4 also supports PlayStation Remote Play and has a crisp 2K display screen, a Snapdragon 810 See issue 54
processor and 3GB RAM to ensure it can keep up with console-quality frame rates.
NEVER MISS AN
ISSUE OF ANDROID
MAGAZINE
For the latest reviews, HALF
check out our great PRICE
subscription offer on OFFER
page 26
91
DroidSupport
»troubleshooting advice »hints and tips
»Gotemail an expert
an Android-
related problem that
you need solving?
Let us know!
qa@littlegreenrobot.co.uk
Should I use a
Share your tips & tricks
Join us on Facebook and Twitter
to share and receive some
great tips and advice
Battery Saverapp?
»facebook
/littlegreenrobot
“I would like to extend the average battery life of my
Like us on Facebook and join
in our Android community smartphone and wondered if any of the battery-
»twitter@lgrobot
saving apps are worth trying? They make some bold
Follow us on Twitter to send
your thoughts and questions claims, but are they actually realistic and could they
do any damage?” Clive Sully
Hi Clive. The short widgets, which can be used to much more reliable and frugal
A answer to your question
is no, but we should take
disable Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and
oth features that use
phone, which will offer more
benefits in the long run. Also,
some time to explain why we say lot experiment with location
that. There are some good m and try to minimise the
reasons to use battery-saving m day
92
»facebook »email
DroidSupport
Ask your questions
Got a problem with your Android phone or tablet? /littlegreenrobot qa@littlegreenrobot.co.uk
Get help from our Send your questions for our team of
Send it to us and we’ll find the solution Facebook community experts to tackle
No notifications when
I’m not on Wi-Fi
“I am not sure if I have changed a setting on my Moto G, but I am no
longer receiving any notifications when my phone is not connected to
Wi-Fi. It is getting very annoying and means that I cannot use my
phone most of the time.” Jenny Black
Hi Jenny! We are fairly operators can be extremely high.
A certain we know what
the problem is here,
On the same screen, scroll down
to see the apps and services that
purely because you say you are are using the most data and you
not receiving any notifications can then tap any to see more
when not connected to Wi-Fi. Go information. You will also see an
to Settings and look for the Data option called ‘Restrict app
usage option in the Wireless & background data’, which will You can customise exactly how data is
networks section. Tap it and stop it from using data when it is managed on your device
then make sure that Mobile data not the active app on your every app requires data and so
is enabled. This will mean that, screen. This is not only useful for we would advise you to purch
by default, mobile data will be blocking unwanted data a plan with as much data as y
used by all apps and services requests, but it should also have can afford so that you don’t ne
that send you notifications. a beneficial effect on battery to worry about fiddling with th
However, you should make sure performance. Trying to use any advanced data settings.
you have a data plan that is mobile device without an To repeat, tap the option at
suitable for high usage because internet connection is now close top and you should receive all Mobile data is needed for the majority of
overall charges from mobile to impossible because almost your notifications again. Android apps and services
2 3
It is very easy to type special characters If you want to check the accuracy of your It is easy to remove words that you have
é and ñ using the standard Google Android device clock, go to time.is and you saved in the personal dictionary. Go to
lding down a will see the exact current time plus an Settings>Language & input and then tap
indication of how far away your device’s time is. It any listed entry. Now tap the rubbish can in the
works as efficiently as any competing app. top right-hand corner to remove it.
93
DroidSupport
there are some simple methods
that you can use to solve all of
your problems. With regards to
Can I unify
the notifications, try deleting the
app and then re-installing it
all of my
with the notifications disabled.
This has been known to work for
messages?
many people and should solve I recently moved from a
the problem once and for all. It BlackBerry phone that used
may also have a beneficial effect
the extremely useful
on your battery performance,
but probably not to the level that
BlackBerry Hub. Everything
you would want. Instead, we
else has felt more natural
would suggest going a new way and, in many cases, better on
altogether and then completely Android, but I am missing the
deleting the app. When you use unification of my
Facebook via a mobile browser, communications and
all of the main features remain wondered if you knew of any
and the mobile presentation is alternative solutions. It would
easily good enough to still enjoy complete the Android
Dust and fluff can cause all the Facebook experience. You experience for me!
sorts of problems will only be using the same Grace Wheeler
amount of battery that a live
94
Did you know?
When muting your Android, remember that many functions will not
sound as you may expect. Alarms will sound, but some functions,
such as timers, will likely remain silent. Mute your device only when
necessary to make sure you don’t miss important alerts.
Magazine team
Editor April Madden
april.madden@imagine-publishing.co.uk
01202 586218
Features Editor Oliver Hill
Senior Designer Adam Markiewicz
Photographer James Sheppard
Senior Art Editor Andy Downes
Editor in Chief Dan Hutchinson
Publishing Director Aaron Asadi
Head of Design Ross Andrews
Contributors
Andy Betts, Christian Cawley, Jo Cole, David Crookes, Sanne
De Boer, Philip King, Shaun McGill, Philip Morris, Jen Neal, Paul
1 Download the app 2 Understand the features O’Brien, Katy Sheen, Michael Simpson, Harry Slater and
Jessica Thornsby
Go to Google Play and search for Snowball Take some time to read through the Advertising
Digital or printed media packs are available on request.
- Smart Notifications. The app requires extensive welcome screens. There is a lot to learn and
Head of Sales Hang Deretz
permissions, but in this case it is understandable understanding the changes you can make will 01202 586442
hang.deretz@imagine-publishing.co.uk
given the number of default Android features it create a more personalised experience that Account Manager Simon Hall
needs to touch to work properly. Once installed, should suit you. Some time spent learning at the 01202 586415
simon.hall@imagine-publishing.co.uk
you will be ready to start experimenting. start will pay dividends in the long run. FileSilo.co.uk
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Contact the International department to discuss
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Head of International Licensing Cathy Blackman
+44 (0) 1202 586401
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Production Director Jane Hawkins
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Finance
access to Snowball and you will need to enable of the notification centre. Swipe from the top of Finance Director Marco Peroni
this for it to work. It is also a good opportunity to the screen to see how Snowball presents all of Founder
Group Managing Director Damian Butt
see which other apps have been granted this your latest messages. It is a very different look to
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Swipe on notifications
5 Swipe Swipe for settings
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read and left to hide or mark it as important. It is a centre is open for quick access to all of the most
very intuitive system that takes a while to sink in, important settings on your Android. Nothing has
but once it becomes familiar you will be using it been missed with regards to making the system
instinctively every day. You will be able to manage as comprehensive as possible and the
your notifications in an instant. customisation options are almost limitless.
OUR BONUS
ESOURCES
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YOU WILL FIND AN
UNMISSABLE
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» Exclusive hands-on videos of
the latest hardware
» Videos to guide you through some
of the magazine’s best tutorials
» Wallpapers for your phone
Unboxing videos St i d kt ll
Hands-on with the latest devices
www.filesilo.co.uk/android
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Issue 62 of Android Magazine is on sale 17 March 2016 from GreatDigitalMags.com
98
Turn on your
imagination
Paint with light
Turn your everyday lighting into an extraordinary experience.
Play with coloárs or sync lights with your music, TV and games for an
immersive effect. The possibilities are endless once you start exploring.
And with hundreds of apps to choose from,
Sync lights with
the only real limit is your imagination.
music and movies