Android

When Alcatel OneTouch (now just Alcatel) launched the 5.5-inch Idol 3 last year, I think it’s fair to say many of us tech reviewers were pleasantly surprised. For a device costing under $300 it had an array of high end features, including a crisp, colorful big screen, great stereo sound and fantastic battery life. Of course, it also helped that the software was clean and almost stock Android.

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The Walking Dead: Michonne, Telltale’s latest iOS/Android offering based on the popular comic book series, has hit the App Store and Google Play this morning. Xbox One and PS4 gamers are also getting a console version today. This three-part miniseries focuses on the “iconic, blade wielding character” Michonne as her story of independence from Rick and Ezekiel is revealed. Telltale originally detailed this title back at E3 2015 ahead of its release this year.

The first episodes of the three-part mini-series is available today on iOS and Android for $5. Each additional episode will be released for $5 or can be purchased as a bundle for $8 via in-app purchase. The console version hit the Xbox Marketplace and PS Store for $14.99. Head below for a full description and a look at gameplay.

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Samsung finally took the wraps off its latest flagship smartphones earlier this week. But before you run out and pre-order the new Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 Edge, you’re going to want to make sure you’re getting the best possible deal. Of course, there are the usual carrier financing offers and the free Galaxy Gear VR headset promo ($100 value), but some retailers are adding in even more pre-order bonuses to earn your business. Here are the best deals we’ve found so far:

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When Android Wear and Apple Watch launched, each device touted the ability to bring the functionality of a phone to your wrist. This has been executed with varying degrees of success. While I am able to check my notifications and carry out certain tasks on my Apple Watch, an iPhone it is not.

That’s where the Cicret Bracelet makes its entrance. This conceptual project from a band of former Apple, Dell, InFocus employees quite literally puts your device’s home screen on your wrist. With a fitness tracker-style band and micro projector, Cicret has an intriguing game plan. Head below to see it in action.

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Update (2/19 4:10pm): The same listing we posted yesterday has now dropped to $499.99 shipped.

BREED (98.6% positive feedback from 112,048 buyers) via eBay Daily Deals offers the factory unlocked 128GB Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge in black, white, or gold for $549.99 shipped. Previous mentions have included the 32GB model at $225 less than its retail price, but this deal is the best we could find for a brand new 128GB device at a full $365 below current retail…

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Anker is one of a few big names in USB accessories, and there’s a reason for that. This week I had the chance to use several of the company’s PowerCore+ power banks (there are a lot of different offerings spanning many capacities), as well as a PowerPort+ wall charger, and a few different PowerDrive+ car chargers. There are many brands of chargers and power banks out there, and while the experience you get may be similar across the board (yes, there are many chargers and power banks out there just as good as these), Anker goes above and beyond to bring you a package that’s just very high-quality…

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Late last year, Square Enix announced that a re-releases of Final Fantasy IX would be coming to iOS, Android and PC. At the time, there was no specific word as to when North American gamers would actually get their hands on it. However, this morning we noticed a listing for the iOS version of the game go live on the App Store. More details below:

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You may have heard of BearTek before. It launched its first-generation Smart Gloves a while back as a way to control your smartphone with built-in sensors. Last Friday night, the guys behind BearTek made an appearance on Shark Tank and launched version 2.0 on Indiegogo. We won’t spoil the episode for you, but we’ll just say Mr. Wonderful had his doubts.

So what does the second generation add? In addition to the original model’s support for iPhone/Android, BearTek has introduced compatibility with GoPro plus “user-defined touchpoints” and a new developer kit. Full details below.

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Yapper wireless (98.8% Positive feedback from 25,731 shoppers) via eBay is offering the LG Nexus 5X 16GB (Factory GSM Unlocked) 4G LTE Android Smartphone for $279.99 shipped. That’s $99 off the original list price, $20 less than Best Buy’s/ Amazon’s current offering and an effective match to our previous mention (with a gift card) from last week. Rated 4.3/5 stars from over 100 Amazon shoppers. 
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Amazon is offering the Matte Gold variant of the 32GB Nexus 6P for $449 shipped, bringing the recently-announced color down $50 to the lowest price we could find. Amazon is also offering the 64GB model for $50 off at $499 shipped, and both models are also available at Best Buy for the same prices. Alternatively, Google is offering a $50 purchase credit toward a Huawei Watch when you buy any color Nexus 6P…

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Home security is no laughing matter. Thankfully, we’ve seen quite a bit of innovation in this space that has allowed consumers to move away from traditional services like ADT. From standalone options like Canary to Nest Cam and the like, there are plenty of options on the table. Even the old school method of putting your lights on a timer has seen improvements.

That’s where ComfyLight comes in. A new product that just launched on Kickstarter with eyes on adding internet-connectivity to your lights while increasing security and peace-of-mind. The hook? It tracks your movements and routines, so when you’re away from home your lights continue to operate as if you were there…

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Update (1/22 4:15pm):

• Amazon has the POWER A DualShock 4 Dual Charger + a USB cable for $17.90 Prime shipped (Reg. up to $35). 
• Prima Games is offering 50% off official digital game guides right now using code SNOW50 at checkout. That brings your total down to just $5 on these, which is the lowest price we can find. The code works on pre-order games as well like Twilight Princess HD, Dark Souls 3, Far Cry Primal and more.

In today’s best game/app deals, after yesterday’s Prime pre-order deal on the new Mortal Kombat XL for $47.99 shipped, today we have a standout deal on the base game. Mortal Kombat X on Xbox One and PS4 is down at $24.99 with in-store pickup or free shipping on orders over $35. That’s $22 below Amazon, $5 under the lowest Amazon has offered it for and the best we can find.

Also at Best Buy, you’ll find Batman: Arkham Knight on Xbox One and PS4 for $14.99 with in-store pickup or free shipping on orders over $35. It is currently $39 at Amazon and this is the best we can find. It is currently $30 for a used copy at Best Buy. Over at Amazon you’ll find Final Fantasy XIV: Heavensward on PlayStation 4 for $16.01 Prime shipped (Reg. $20+). And lastly, Best Buy is offering Mad Max on PS4 and Xbox One for $24.99 w/ in-store pickup, however, Prime members can get it for $26.49 shipped at Amazon right now (within a few dollars of all-time low).

Remember, we still have very notable deals on 1Password, Deliveries, Duet Displays and more, but Apple has now officially unveiled its Get Productive iOS and Mac sale with even more top-tier price drops. You’ll also find the latest App Store Free App of the Week right here. Down below you’ll find today’s iOS/Mac price drops including HIPSTAMATIC Camera, Orderly, Sketch Me! and more. In case you missed it yesterday, Exploding Kittens: the “most-funded game in Kickstarter history” hit iOS with special launch offers.

Ongoing game deals/promotions:

• Antonline via eBay Daily Deals is offering the Gears of War Xbox One bundle for $279.99 shipped (Reg. $350, currently $305 at Amazon)
• The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings is now available via Xbox One backwards compatibility and can be downloaded for free for a limited time.
• Xbox One 1TB Console Halo 5 bundle for $399.99 shipped (Reg. $450 – $500)
• Call of Duty Black Ops III PS4 bundle for $329.99 shipped (Reg. $350+)
• PSA: Xbox Live Gold Members can enjoy a free trial for EA Access this week
• Call of Duty: Black Ops III Steelbook $40 (Reg. $50+)
• Zelda: Twilight Princess HD + amiibo: $48 (Reg. $60, Prime only, auto applies in cart)
• MLB The Show 16 pre-orders for $48 (Reg. $60, Prime only, auto applies in cart)
• Apple is giving away Pixite’s Union image blending iOS app ($2 value)

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Over the last 12-18 months, popular lock manufacturers like Schlage and Kwikset have introduced iOS and Android-connected deadbolts for your home. Results have been somewhat mixed but there has clearly been an interest amongst consumers for this type of technology. This week, Brinks announced a new competitor in this space that blends familiar features with some new ideas.

The Array Digital Deadbolt has all the typical app-connected qualities. But instead of using low-power connection options like ZigBee or Bluetooth, Brinks is relying on Wi-Fi to communicate between devices. Because of the increased power drain, a solar panel has been built-in to the lock to help keep things running. More details below.

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We’ve seen streaming media players that leverage your own personal headphones for private listening before. Roku uses a 3.5mm headphone jack that is built-in to its enhanced remote. The new Apple TV uses Bluetooth connectivity to get the job done. There are adapters on the market that can add wireless audio to nearly any setup. But beaming audio to multiple pairs of headphones for private listening is largely an untapped feature.

That’s where Blipcast is hoping to find its niche. This tiny add-on connects to any 3.5mm or optical audio source and streams sound to your iOS and Android devices via Wi-Fi connection. The idea isn’t new, but the execution is noteworthy. More below.

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Update (2/10 11:30am): Another price drop! Get it now for just $179.99 with free shipping. New price is also available from BuyDig’s eBay store.

BuyDig via eBay offers the LG Watch Urbane Android Smartwatch in Silver or Gold for $199.99 shipped. That’s tied with our previous mention from two weeks ago as the lowest total price we’ve seen for a new watch. As a pricing comparison, Amazon currently charges $255 for them.

The watches are compatible with Android 4.3 OS or higher and features a 1.2GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 processor, 512MB RAM, 4GB memory, 1.3-inch display, barometer, compass, heart rate monitor, and Bluetooth 4.1 LE. Over 360 Amazon shoppers gave it 4.3/5 stars. 
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Google has yet to make an official announcement about this, but the Mountain View company has today launched an Android Pay Rewards promotion called “Tap 10,” offering Google Play music downloads and a free Chromecast to Android Pay users when they use their phone to pay…

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There’s no shortage of surveillance cameras for your home. The same can be said for iOS and Android apps that are meant to capture life’s best moments. However, typically you’ve got to be behind the camera when it comes to recording the memorable times. Thus, Dad or Mom never make it into the home videos.

A new product called the Kiba Family Camera aims to remove the behind-the-scenes work required for capturing all your favorite memories. With a full-on cloud service and Joy Ranking Algorithm (huh?), Kiba has big plans for your next family gathering. More details below.

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Amazon announced its Echo intelligent speaker just about a year ago, and now The Wall Street Journal is reporting that the Seattle, Washington-based company is planning to introduce a smaller, more portable version of the device…

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Update (1/07 11:45am): Amazon has the Classic USB NES Controller for Mac/PC for $6.29 Prime shipped (Reg. $9+)

In today’s best game/apps deals, the official Nintendo Store is offering some notable prices on new and refurbished Nintendo 3DS XL handhelds right now. While even the new prices are solid, our top picks are the Super Mario Bros. 2 Gold Edition Nintendo 3DS XL and the Super Smash Bros. in Red or Blue Edition Nintendo 3DS XL refurbished for $130 each. Add $5 for shipping at Nintendo. That’s about $70 below the regular new price and the best we can find. They come with a standard one year Nintendo warranty and “Although it may have minor cosmetic blemishes, it is guaranteed to be fully functional. We think you will find the standards for Authentic Nintendo Refurbished Products are VERY high.” And remember the New Nintendo 3DS XL is still available at its lowest price ever on Amazon right now.

Speaking of Nintendo, we still have Shovel Knight on Wii U for $19.99 with free shipping for Prime members, the release of the Shovel Knight amiibo figure, Super Mario 3D World on Wii U pre-owned from $25.19 (Reg. $55 new) using code CAG16 at checkout, and New Super Mario Bros. U + New Super Luigi U for Wii U is currently in-stock for $44.99 shipped on Amazon. And don’t forget about the Chibi-Robo amiibo for just over $10 Prime shipped (Reg. $13). 

Other notables include Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege for $49.99 shipped (Reg. $60), and Resident Evil: Revelations 2 from $19.88 Prime shipped (Reg. $26+).

Before you head below for today’s best iOS/Mac deals, Super Hexagon for iPhone and iPad went free (Reg. $3) recently, and you only have a few more hours to grab the latest App Store Free App of the Week: Colorburn photo filters. Below the fold you’ll  find iOS deals on Wicked Lair, DailyArt PRO, RPG Quest, Analog Film and more:

Ongoing game deals/promotions:

• Nintendo refurbished 2DS handheld console: $60 in blue or red (Orig. $130)
• Disney Infinity: 3.0 Edition Starter Pack $39.99 shipped (Reg. $55+)
• Hyrule Gold Edition New Nintendo 3DS XL for $174.99 shipped (Reg. $200)
• Lifeline 2 and Lifeline: Silent Night games for iOS/Android dropped to $0.99 each
• Disney’s Castle of Illusion for iOS is $1 (Reg. $10)
• Apple is giving away Pixite’s Union image blending iOS app ($2 value)

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Following in the footsteps of Kodak, classic camera manufacturer Polaroid has revealed a new version of one of its most popular products at CES 2016. The updated Polaroid Snap+ instant print camera improves on the previous design that was released this fall by adding a new 3.5-inch touchscreen display. While the original Snap has been subject to mixed reviews from customers, Polaroid hopes this updated version will cure some of those ills with a few fixes…

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Jaybird, maker of the popular sweatproof X and X2 Bluetooth headphones, has announced two new models planned for release in the second quarter of this year. Designed to appeal to athletes, the X3 ($150) and Freedom ($200) have both been redesigned from earlier, similarly-named models, and now use power-efficient Bluetooth 4.0 wireless technology for full compatibility with the latest Apple and Android devices. Each will be available in five colors, and work with Jaybird’s MySound app to create user-defined equalizer settings…

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You may have thought year end sales were only at car dealerships, but today we’re seeing prices drop on some of the best Android games of the year at Google Play. You can grab EA Games NBA Jam today for only $.10. That’s 85% off and the lowest we can find.

 Jam with your favorite stars from all 30 NBA teams in over-the-top, high-flying, 2-on-2 arcade basketball just like you remember it – and like you’ve never seen before!

Other titles include Leo’s Fortune for $.99, Modern Combat 4 for $.99, Goat Simulator for $.99, Lara Croft Go for $.99, Minecraft Story Mode for $.99, Rayman Fiesta Run for $.25, and more.

Missed it? There are currently hundreds of iOS games/apps on sale. Check out our roundup of all the deals right here

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It’s no secret that the sneaker industry has blown up over the last ten years. Estimates show that Michael Jordan’s brand brings in well over two billion dollars per year. LeBron James just inked a lifetime contract with Nike that “easily surpasses Kevin Durant’s 10-year 300 million dollar deal.” While shoes have continually evolved as Nike has rose to prominence over the last 30 years, we haven’t seen much in the way of smartphone connectivity. While we can easily track our running data with a simple app, technology integration hasn’t gone much further.

A very successful Indiegogo campaign is ready to change that. After raising over $750,000, ShiftWear is ready to hit the market with its “adaptable shoes” that have a built-in display controlled by your smartphone. You have to see it to fully understand the potential here.

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Update: You can also grab a 3-month trial of Google Play Music Unlimited for $1. That’s access to over 35 million songs on demand and ad free plus you can try out YouTube Red with this offer as well. Google regularly charges $9.99 a month for this service.

For a limited time Google Play is taking 75% off one movie rental of your choice. That’s the largest discount we’ve seen on rentals from Google Play. To redeem this offer go to the movies page then scroll down and click on the red banner. All the popular movies above are available for this promotion plus a slew of other titles. The offer expires January 4th. Terms & Conditions

Also, Google Play is offering any one music album of your choice at 50% off the regular price. This special year-end savings is good until midnight January 4, 2016. Your discount will be shown at checkout. Just look for the orange banner on the music page to redeem this offer.

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Chromecast and Sling TV have partnered to offer an extended two month free trial of the online streaming service ($40 value). First time Sling customers with a Chromecast have until December 28th to grab a 60-day free peak at the Best of Live TV package. Simply visit this page to begin your trial. You’ll want to cancel the service before the two months is up, otherwise you’ll be charged $20 for the next month.

Typically, Sling only offers a 7-day trial, so if you’ve been holding out on trying this service, now is your best bet to give it a run. Offer does not include any extras or HBO service. Full terms and condition can be found below.

Sling TV launched last January to much fanfare as an alternative to pricey cable and satellite services. It offers popular channels like ESPN/2, AMC, TBS, TNT, HGTV and others. Additionally, it has a number of add-on packages for those interested in premium channels like HBO. Packages start at $20 with more channels available for as little as $5.

The latest Google Chromecast is available for $30 at Walmart (Reg. $35). New users can take advantage of a handful of freebies, including a $20 Google Play credit that is available through the end of the year.

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This is one of the best deals yet on our favorite all-in-one home security system and air quality detector.

Just in time for the holidays, get $20 off Canary. That brings the price down to $179 from the regular $199. Better yet, you can save a total of $50 off regular price when purchasing the Canary Two-Pack.

This Wi-Fi, smartphone connected security system does a whole lot more than the webcam style security cameras gaining popularity recently, and it does it all with gorgeous, Apple-like industrial design and slick companion apps for iPhone, Apple Watch, and Android…
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Sprint is getting in the holiday spirit by offering one of the most unique cellular deals that we’ve seen. The mobile carrier is giving away a free 32-inch Samsung HDTV, worth roughly $200, when you open a new line of service or upgrade an existing account with an eligible Samsung Galaxy smartphone. This offer launches on December 18th and runs through the 24th. Customers can finance their new device through Sprint’s Lease or Easy Pay plans, as well as traditional two-year contracts or by paying in full. Complete terms and conditions below.

Qualified Samsung smartphones include Samsung Galaxy S6, Samsung Galaxy S6 edge, Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+ and Samsung Galaxy Note5. Customers can get their new Samsung smartphone through Sprint Lease, Sprint Easy Pay, sign a two-year contract or pay full retail price.

Additionally, shoppers switching to Sprint can save up to 50% off qualifying Verizon, AT&T or T-Mobile plans. Sprint will also pay up to $650 in fees associated with switching via an American Express gift card.

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Google Store is currently taking $50 off Nexus 6P and 5X Android 6.0 Marshmallow smartphones. That drops the 32GB Nexus 6P down to just $449 with free shipping, which is the first discount of any kind we’ve seen on this 5.7-inch pure Android phone. In fact, it’s been tough to find it in-stock, let alone priced below retail (from a trusted retailer). Nexus 5X starts at just $329 shipped (matched at Amazon). All phones are eligible for free overnight shipping.

In fact, there are a great deal of devices on sale at the Google Play Store:

Use your savings to buy some protection for your new phone. Spigen’s Thin Fit Nexus 5P case is on sale for $11.99 Prime shipped (Reg. $24).

Oh yeah, don’t forget to claim your free $20 Best Buy eGift Card by using Android Pay.

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As a way of saying “thanks!”, Google is offering a $20 Best Buy eGift Card for free when you use Android Pay on an eligible Nexus device. The credit gets added automatically to your Android Pay app by January 31.

That’s the best offer we’ve seen involving Android Pay, even though Samsung offered a free $50 Best Buy gift card for using Samsung Pay two weeks ago. The offer ends December 31st. Terms and Conditions:

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We’ve seen iOS-connected coffeemakers before, but they’ve usually come way of crowdfunding projects that don’t always make it off the ground. An established veteran in the world of java is making waves with a new top-of-the-line model that is capable of crafting over 100 different drinks. The De’Longhi PrimaDonna Elite puts an entire coffee shop at your fingertips. It focuses on a user-friendly experience that allows coffee-fiends to personalize nearly every detail of their drink and save new creations for later.

Its iOS-connectivity is sure to spark the interest of Apple users. While the price tag may scare some away.

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