Samsung Galaxy Note 9 to Adopt an In-screen Fingerprint Reader

In the latest Samsung Note series leak, the much awaited in-screen fingerprint feature was mentioned, and so far, no other smartphone has this feature… yet

Since the Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+ have been fully unveiled at the MWC 2018, we are all beginning the countdown for the next flagship of Samsung – the Samsung Galaxy Note 9.

According to MMDDJ, a well-known Samsung leakster, the Samsung Note 9 is currently undergoing the testing phase, and one of the rumors is that, the Note 9 will get the in-screen fingerprint sensor to do various mobile activities like unlocking the phone, logging into several app-supported sites, and even doing payment purchases! This leak comes in after the rumors that Samsung will come out with a foldable smartphone unofficially called the Galaxy X which will be released by the end of 2018 or by early 2019.

What else are we expecting for the Samsung Galaxy Note 9? Well, since we all loved the Samsung Galaxy Note 8, there’s no doubt that Samsung will make an upgrade for the Note 9, and we are expecting that this new phone will have a dual-aperture camera, and AR emoji, and an even more upgraded Bixby.

Reference: T3

Asphalt 9: Legends Now Downloadable in the PH App Store

The latest mobile game for the Asphalt series is now ready for download on the App Store, and yes, it’s for free!

This time, expect more detailed cars, HDR techniques, particle effects, and more stunning visuals that would make the game close to reality.

In the Career mode, gamers could select over a remarkable 800 races, or compete against other racers in real time in the World Series Multiplayer mode; maximum of 8 racers can be selected.

The new feature called “Club” would allow the gamer to create or join other communities and play together as a team to achieve group rewards.

Right now, Asphalt 9: Legends is only available for download in the Philippine App Store.

Source: DroidGamers

Samsung Released the List of Devices to Receive Monthly and Quarterly Security Patches

Samsung just released the official list of devices to receive regular android security patches either monthly or quarterly.

Devices with Monthly Security Patches:

• Galaxy S (S8, S8+, S8 Active, S7, S7 edge, S7 Active, S6, S6 edge, S6 edge+, S6 Active)
• Galaxy Note (Note 8, and Note 5)
• Galaxy A (A5 from 2016 and 2017, A8 from 2018)

Devices with Quarterly Security Patches:

• Galaxy A3, and A7 (both 2017)
• Galaxy J1 Mini, Galaxy J1 Mini Prime
• Galaxy J2, J5, and J7 (all 2016)
• Galaxy J3 Pro, Galaxy J3 Pop, Galaxy J7 Pop
• Galaxy J3, J5, and J7 (all 2017), Galaxy J7 Max, Galaxy J7 Neo
• Galaxy A8+, Galaxy J2 (all 2018)
• Galaxy Tab S2 L Refresh
• Galaxy Tab S3 9.7, Galaxy Tab Active2
• Note FE

Sadly, the 2016 versions of the Galaxy A3, J1, and J3 have been deleted from the list, and we are expecting that the Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+ will soon be added on the list.

Source: Samsung

Plan Comparison for Samsung Galaxy S9, S9+

Now that both Globe and Smart released their postpaid offerings for the new Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+, we felt that you are in deep emotion of choosing which one you should get for a sweeter option. Worry no more as we break down the plan details from both telcos!

Here are both Globe and Smart’s Offerings for Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+ starting at Plan 1499:

With these figures on hand, I think, Globe’s offering got a little advantage for this plan, but Smart's 10 GB mobile streaming is a steal.

Unlocked units are also available for PhP 45,990 for the Samsung Galaxy S9, and PhP 52,990 for the Samsung Galaxy S9+, pre-orders are also underway.

So, which offer will you be getting?

Globe and PLDT Passed the Quality Test Conducted by the NTC

The quality test performed by The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) for Globe and PLDT telcos just came out, and the result: both telcos got an acceptable quality service.

The quality test, which was started in January 2018, lasted for 5 days and it covers some area within Metro Manila. The test includes 500 calls each for Globe and Smart telcos, all done in a moving vehicle.

Blocked Calls

Both telcos got an acceptable (standard) 4% for blocked calls (4 blocked calls for every 100 attempts). Globe got 0.4%, and Smart got 1%.

Dropped Calls

Both telcos passed the test for dropped calls, they stay below the maximum 2% threshold. Globe got 0.41%, and Smart got 1.21%.

2G, 3G, and 4G Connectivity

For 2G: Globe got -72.46 dBm, as Smart scored -74.1 dBm. For 3G: Globe got -70.32 dBm, as Smart got -67.29 dBm. For 4G: Globe got -86.9 dBM, as Smart scored -85.54 dBm. As per NTC, the average signal should not go beyond -85 dBm.

Internet Browsing

Globe got a speedy 98.33%, while Smart got a flashy 99.83%. It took around 4.9 seconds for Globe to load Facebook using a Globe handset, while Smart needed 4.38 seconds for loading the same website using a Smart handset.

Source: Inquirer

Pay via GCash in all National Book Store Branches

By May this year, GCash Scan-to-Pay will become available in all National Book Store (NBS) branches nationwide.

In an interview, the Managing Director of NBS Xandra Ramos-Padilla said, “We, at National Book Store, are very excited to embrace the use of GCash Scan-to-Pay in all of our stores across the country. I think allowing the customers to have the option of paying using GCash benefits everyone involved most especially the shoppers.”

As of now, only NBS branches at Ayala Malls are already using GCash Scan-to-Pay, but all other NBS branches will follow in the coming weeks.

NBS and GCash will also give its customers 10% cash back every time they use their GCash Scan-to-Pay option, maximum of PhP 5,000 every month. This is also available in Powerbooks, Art Bar, and Noteworthy – NBS’s affiliate stores.

Samsung Galaxy S8 Oreo Update – Official Changelog

Finally, Samsung released more information on its Oreo update for the Galaxy S8 with the official changelog; this reveals all the new features that are built for the Samsung Experience 9.0 upgrade.

There are improvements like limitations on some background services so it would improve S8 performance and battery life. This update also add new features to the Samsung Experience, the TouchWiz, which is formerly known as the UX.

Also, there is a Dual Messenger, which reminds me of the Note 8 on Android Nougat, which would let the user run two different messenger accounts for one single Messenger app. The biometric authentication features like fingerprint and iris scanning were also improved, that it can only be used if you use a pattern, PIN, or a passcode lock.

Here's the official changelog for the S8 Oreo:

Galaxy S8 (SM-G950F)

Build Number: G950FXXU1CRB7
Android Version: Oreo (Android 8.0)
Release Date: 2018-02-28

Samsung Experience 9.0 upgrade with Android Oreo

Samsung Experience 9.0 brings you Android Oreo, with exciting new features from Samsung and Google based on feedback from users like you.

We recommend that you back up your important data to keep it safe during the upgrade. Some apps, including Samsung Pay, Samsung Internet, Samsung Notes, and Email, should be updated individually before you can update your OS.

Here's what's new:

Biometrics

• To improve your security, features that use biometrics (face, fingerprints, and irises) are only available when you use a secure screen lock type (pattern, PIN, or password). When you switch to a non-secure screen lock type (Swipe or None), biometric authentication is suspended for unlocking and for verification in apps like Samsung Pay and Samsung Pass. If you're using biometrics now without a secure screen lock type, you'll be able to continue after the upgrade, but changing to a secure screen lock type is recommended.

Quick Panel

• Manage notifications for each app with notification categories (supported apps only).
• Icons will be shown at the bottom of the notification panel for notifications that aren't currently visible.

Home Screen

• Touch and hold an app to display shortcuts to common or recommended tasks within the app (supported apps only).
• Notification badges on app icons are linked with the notification panel. Clear a notification in one location, and it will also be cleared in the other location.

Samsung Keyboard

• The toolbar gives quick access to useful functions.
• The GIF keyboard lets you send GIFs.
• More high-contrast keyboards are available.

System Performance

• Background services are limited to improve performance and battery life.
• Currently running apps will always be shown in the notification panel.

Edge Screen

• Improved font size, color, and other settings for better Edge panel visibility.
• Touch and hold the Edge panel handle to change its position.
• Added 3 more Edge lighting effects and color customization for apps.

Lock Screen and Always On Display

• New clock styles for the Lock screen and Always On Display.
• Adjust the transparency of notifications to get the look you want.

Smart View

• Let your phone's screen go dark when mirroring to another screen.

Samsung Account

• Control your account settings and profile information for multiple apps.
• Tap your profile picture on the main Settings page to access your profile information and account settings.

Samsung Cloud

• View and manage photos and notes stored only in Samsung Cloud.
• Store any type of file in Samsung Cloud Drive.
• Select specific items to delete or restore from your backups.
• See how big each backup is and how many items it contains.

Samsung Dual Messenger

• Install a second copy of a messaging app so you can use two accounts at the same time. For apps that verify accounts using phone numbers, you'll need a different phone number for each account.
• Touch and hold a messaging app on the Home or Apps screen to install the second account or go to Settings - Advanced features - Dual Messenger.

Find My Mobile

• Back up Secure Folder to Samsung Cloud remotely when your phone is lost.
• Lock Samsung Pass using Find My Mobile.

Samsung DeX

• See more apps at once by changing the app list view to full-screen.
• Use Game launcher in Samsung DeX for a full-screen gaming experience.
• Added support for 2 additional Samsung covers (LED View Cover, Clear View Standing Cover).

Other Improvements

• Bluetooth now supports high-quality audio codecs, including AAC and Sony LDAC.
• Video player includes auto repeat and 2x speed option.
• Voice Recorder provides smart tips to conveniently block calls while recording.
• Email lets you flag Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync emails.
• Samsung Health's new sticky notification lets you see your step count at a glance.
• Clock now includes a Landscape mode and timer sound options.
• The digital clock widget goes directly to the Clock app when you tap it.
• Samsung Pass added the ability to manage usernames and passwords in third-party apps

If you have a Samsung Galaxy S8 or S8+, expect the notification to update your device in a couple of days or on the coming weeks.

Source: Samsung

Huawei P20 Lite Design and Specs Leaks

In the midst of MWC 2018, Evan Blass, a well-known leak provider unveils the design and specifications of the anticipated Huawei P20 Lite! But, sorry guys, the triple camera setup is not available on the lite version.

The iPhone X’s top notch seems to become a standard as the P20 Lite joins the top notch design along with ASUS Zenfone 5. Another leak showing a triple camera is available on the P20 variant, but its seems that only the “Pro” version will have it.

As for the internal specs, Blass said that the P20 Lite will sport a Kirin 659 CPU, a 4 GB of RAM, and 64 GB internal storage. It will have an Android Oreo 8.0 out of the box. It will also have a huge battery life of 3,520 mAh.

Will all of these leaks come true? Let’s find out on the unveiling to happen on March 27.

Source: Evan Blass, VentureBeat

Fujifilm X-H1 Available Locally Starting March 15

Fujifilm’s latest flagship, the X-H1 is arriving locally on March 15, 2018. This highly anticipated mirrorless camera sports a dust and water resistant body, and a 24.3 Megapixel X-Trans CMOS III sensor. But X-T2 users are still on a debate on which camera is better in terms of image stabilization, and in low light environment.

Key Specifications:

• 24.3 Megapixel X-Trans CMOS III Sensor
• Ultra Sonic Vibration
• Fujifilm X mount lenses
• 5-axis stabilization (5.5 stops)
• Maximum ISO of 51200
• 3-inch 1.04 million dots touch screen colored LCD
• 0.5-inch 3.69 million dots OLED color viewfinder
• Up to 4K (24 FPS, 29 FPS), Full HD (60 FPS) video recording
• USB 3.0, HDMI type D micro connector
• SD Card slot for up to 512 GB
• Bluetooth 4.0
• NP-W126S Li-ion battery
• 139.8 mm x 97.3 mm x 85.5 mm dimension
• Approximately 673 grams (with battery and memory card)
• Approximately 623 grams (without battery and memory card)

As for the pricing, the Fujifilm X-H1 is tagged at PhP 106,990 for the body, and if bundled with a grip kit it would cost PhP 124,990.

Team Fuji, is it worth the price? Post your comments below.

Samsung Galaxy S9+ Takes Lead in DxOMark’s Smartphone Camera List

Samsung’s latest flagship, the Galaxy S9+ steals the DxOMark crown from the Google Pixel 2, as it receives an overall DxOMark score of 99 points, even better than the iPhone8 Plus, and Note 8!

Samsung Galaxy S9+ got 140 score for Photos, and 91 score for Videos from the camera tests performed by DxOMark – a well-known image quality review site.

Photo Performance (Positive):

• Noise is very well controlled in all conditions
• Fairly good details (outdoor and indoor)
• Autofocus is fast and accurate
• Has bright and vivid colors in most conditions
• When zoomed in 4x, it still have an excellent resolution

Photo Performance (Negative):

• Exposure instabilities
• Loss of sharpness, color fringing, and noticeable ringing
• There is a slight color casts

Video Performance (Positive):

• Has bright and vivid colors
• Fast exposure transition
• Autofocus is fast and stable
• Remarkable noise reduction in all conditions
• Very nice image stabilization

Video Performance (Negative):

• Loss of fine details in some conditions
• Noticeable residual global motion
• Noticeable ringing and moiré

The overall score is quite high, that is because of the higher photo score than the video score. Tell me your opinion dear readers; have you tested the camera of this beautiful beast yet?

Full camera test done by DxOMark can be checked here.

Source: DxOMark

Fujifilm Launches the X-A5 Camera with the New Brand Ambassadors

Another mirrorless digital camera from Fujifilm finally reaches the local market, the small and lightweight body with 24.4 MP APS-C sensor – Fujifilm X-A5.

This chic camera will come in bundle with Fujifilm’s latest Fujinon CX 15-45mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS PZ kit lens, a zoom lens yet very compact. Officially, the faces of Shy Carlos, Issa Pressman, Michelle Dy, Janeena Chan, Bea Benedicto, Chelsea Robato, Katarina Rodriguez, and Andi Eigenmann will be seen along with Fujifilm products as they are the newest brand ambassadors.

Camera Features:

• Shoot in 4K Images in 15 FPS
• ISO 128,000
• 180 degree rear tilting LCD & Portrait enhancer for Selfie shots
• Multi Focus mode for bokeh effects
• Fog remover and HDR art
• Macro Photography
• WiFi
• Retro design
• Touchscreen operation

The price tag for X-A5 is PhP 34,990 and is available in pink, brown, and silver.

Head over to Fujifilm website for the key specifications of the X-A5.

Huawei Mate 10 and Mate 10 Pro Price Decrease

Looking for a perfect graduation gift? Now’s the right time to buy any of the latest flagships of Huawei – the Mate 10 and Mate 10 Pro, as these two handsets just received a price cut.

Based on the article posted on Huawei’s official Facebook page and website, the Mate 10 is now reaching the mid-30k price. Previously, Mate 10 Pro was tagged for PhP 38,990 but after the price cut, it is now at PhP 36,990. While the Mate 10 drops to PhP 29,990 from PhP 32,990.

Huawei did not mention any end date for this price reduction.

Key Specifications:

• 5.9-inch 2K IPS LCD display, 2560 x 1440 pixels, 499 ppi
• Corning Gorilla Glass (Front and Back)
• HDR 10
• HiSilicon Kirin 970 2.36GHz octa-core
• 4x ARM Cortex A73 2.36GHz + 4x ARM Cortex A53 1.8GHz
• i7 co-processor
• Mali-G72MP12 GPU
• 4 GB LPDDR4 RAM
• 64 GB UFS 2.1 Internal Storage, expandable via MicroSD card up to 256 GB
• 12 MP + 20 MP dual Leica optic rear cameras with Dual Tone LED Flash: f/1.6, OIS, 2x lossless zoom
• PDAF + CAF + Laser + Depth Auto-focus
• 8 MP f/2.0 front camera
• LTE Cat. 18 (1.2 Gbps)
• Dual SIM, Dual Standby (hybrid)
• WiFi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, DLNA
• Bluetooth 4.2
• GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO
• NFC
• Fingerprint scanner
• USB Type-C
• Display Port 1.2
• 384k 32-bit Hi-Fi Audio
• IP53
• Android 8.0 Oreo with EMUI 8.0
• 4,000 mAh Li-Ion battery
• 150.5 x 77.8 x 8.2mm
• 186 grams

Sony Launched A7 III Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera

Sony just launched a new addition their lineup for the full-frame mirrorless camera, the new Sony A7 III (ILCE-7M3).

The A7 III Features:

• 24.2 Megapixel back-illuminated Full-frame Exmor R BSI CMOS image sensor (with 15 stops of dynamic range at low light scenes)
• 93% AF Coverage
• Fast shutter speed at 10 FPS
• 4K video recording
• 4D FOCUS (425 contrast AF points, works with 693-point focal-plabe phase-detection AF system)

The A7 III key specifications:

• BIONZ X Image Processor, Front-End LSI
• 693-Point AF System
• 10 FPS Shooting
• UHD 4K30p Video with HLG, S-Log3 Gammas
• 2.36m-Dot Tru-Finder OLED Electronic View Finder
• 3.0″ 922k-Dot Tilting Touchscreen LCD
• 5-Axis SteadyShot INSIDE Stabilization
• ISO up to 204800
• WiFi, NFC
• Dual SD Slots
• USB Type-C Port
• Weather-sealed

This new addition to the full-frame family of Sony will ship this coming April, 2018 for about $2,000 USD for the camera body, and $2,200 USD in a kit with FE 28/70mm F3.5/5.6 lens.

In Canada, the price tag is $2,600 CAD for the camera body, and $2,800 CAD in a kit with the FE 28/70mm F3.5/5.6 lens.

Globe’s Updated VAS System to Enforce More Strict Rules

Beginning March 5, Globe will refresh their value-added services (VAS) system with enhanced security measures, following their recent announcement of tighter securities for VAS affecting their million prepaid subscribers.

All VAS content partners will be migrated to a new system with enhanced security features. This update will prompt subscribers to redo their enrollment to the VAS of their choice (wallpapers, ringtones, infotexts) by sending an SMS keyword to the 4-digit access code, or by clicking on the web link to confirm their request.

To comply with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) Memorandum Circular No. 03-03-2005-A, this new measure will adhere to the 3-step verification process:

• Subscriber will click on an SMS or digital ad, and will redirect to another SMS or a new web page with proper information on the service/product being offered.

• Once the subscriber clicks to confirm the subscription, a verification code will be sent to the registered mobile number. The subscriber needs this code in order to further confirm availment of the service/product.

• Once the verification code is entered and verified, the subscriber will then receive a notification confirming VAS subscription. This notification includes a link to unsubscribe in the event that the subscriber wants to terminate the subscription to VAS.

Further, to avoid spam messages, VAS providers are only allowed to send out content related to the subscriber’s interest.

“This system refresh is a major step to ensure our customers’ protection at every step of their VAS transaction. We are confident that these measures will greatly contribute to an improved online experience especially those that involve charging and payment,” Globe General Counsel Froilan Castelo said.

T-Money Payment Method to Implement in Cebu for the BRT

Cebu’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) System is now implementing the use of a BRT Card to allow passengers to pay for their fare, Cebu City Mayor Tomas “Tommy” Osmena said.

In the Facebook post of Mayor Tommy, the Cebu BRT will be the first mass transit system in the Philippines to incorporate a fully integrated cashless payment system. This means, that the BRT card can also be used to buy stuff at a convenience store or supermarket, even pay for taxi fares, fueling up on a gas station, or buying a movie ticket! How cool is that?

The security for the BRT card is great as well, you can deactivate in through a website if it is lost, and parents could actually get a special card that would enable them to track their children’s expenses for their BRT card.

When asked, why come up with a new card rather than partner with the ones we currently have in the market like PayMaya or Globe’s GCash, Mayor Tommy responded with, “Because none of the above offer all of the features explained in the post. And even if any of your options have the credentials or experience of handling 1.1 trillion transactions per day (they don’t), I will not leave Cebu at the mercy of a Philippine conglomerate with its own vested interests.”

Mayor Tommy added that, the BRT card will become available for purchase on a website, ATMs, or any commercial establishments that accepts BRT card as a payment. Soon, there will be a mobile phone app that will allow people to use their smartphone in lieu of the BRT card.

How sweet!

Source: Tommy Osmena 

Leagoo S9 – The iPhone X Clone

"World's First Android Notch Display Smartphone" - Leagoo, a Chinese smartphone brand, just unveiled their S9 handset during the MWC 2018 with this brave slogan. As seen on the photo, this latest handset has a notch that is quite similar to that of the iPhone X's.

Phone Features:

• 5.85-inces HD+ display
• 1.5 Ghz 8-core chipset
• 4 GB RAM
• 32 GB storage
• Dual 13-Megapixel rear cameras
• 3300 mAh battery

Also, the notch, where the front camera is located, would unlock the phone in as fast as 0.1 second using facial recognition.

Currently, Leagoo S9 is priced at $150.00 or around PhP 7,000.00 when converted.

Source: The Next Web