Showing posts with label technology blog. Show all posts
Showing posts with label technology blog. Show all posts

Wednesday 16 November 2016

OnePlus 3T announced: New processor, larger battery, improved front-facing camera


With smartphones like the OnePlus 3 it's tough to justify paying more than $400 for a smartphone today. The company just announced the next model, the OnePlus 3T that brings improvements in the processor, battery, and camera with an option for more internal storage.
The OnePlus 3T will start at $439 for the 64GB model and is advertised as launching on 22 November.
The OnePlus 3 is an excellent Android smartphone available for $399. It was released in June and just five months later we are seeing an incremental bump in the internal specifications. Current OnePlus 3 owners likely won't have any need to upgrade, but others looking for an affordable Android phone with flagship specifications may definitely consider this powerhouse of a phone.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 quad core
  • Display: 5.5 inch 1920 x 1080 pixels resolution Optic AMOLED, 401 ppi
  • Operating system: Oxygen OS built upon Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow
  • RAM: 6GB
  • Storage: 64GB or 128GB of internal storage
  • Cameras: 16 megapixel rear camera with OIS and 16 megapixel front facing camera
  • Wireless technology: NFC, 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac WiFi, Bluetooth 4.2
  • Battery: 3,400 mAh battery with OnePlus Dash Charge technology
  • Dimensions: 152.7 x 74.7 x 7.35 mm and 158 grams
OnePlus has publicly stated that a beta build of Oxygen OS built on Android 7 Nougat is coming soon so we can expect the OnePlus 3T to be upgraded to this version within the next couple of months as well.
Instead of gray, a new gunmetal color will be available with the OnePlus 3T. It looks to be a darker gray than the standard gray found in the OnePlus 3.
The only things lacking here compared to the iPhone 7, Google Pixel, and Samsung Galaxy S7 are a Quad HD display and water resistance. The cameras on these newest Android and iPhone devices are fantastic while the OnePlus 3 and 3T are fine for most well-lit environments. Consumers will have to decide if paying twice the price for these features is worth it as they consider the OnePlus 3T.
One aspect that I like about the OnePlus 3 and 3T is the ability to customize the smartphone to your personal preferences, even more so than you can with most Android smartphones. The OnePlus smartphones have always catered to the smartphone enthusiast, but with more people considering SIM unlocked devices at half the price of a flagship major brand there is an opportunity for OnePlus to succeed with these devices.
This blog was first published on: http://www.zdnet.com/article/oneplus-3t-announced-new-processor-larger-battery-improved-front-facing-camera/

Monday 14 November 2016

How To Boost Your Android Gaming Performance With A Simple Trick


Short BytesBy activating Force 4x MSAA setting in Android Developer Options, you can enjoy a better gaming performance. It forces your phone to use 4x multisample anti-aliasing in OpenGL 2.0 games and apps. However, enabling this setting can drain your smartphone’s battery faster.
Android’s hidden Developer Options menu contains a variety of advanced options for developers. However, these options can also benefit the normal users. Along the similar lines, in the past, I’ve told you how to make your Android device faster by disabling the animations. In this article, I’ll tell you about another secret setting in the Developer Options that will allow you to boost gaming performance.
Before going ahead and telling you about this trick, I would like to remind you how to access the Developer Options menu in Android smartphones.
To do so, you need to open the Settings screen, find the About phone option at the bottom and tap on it. Now, in the next screen, find the Build number and tap a few times. This will show you a notification something like “You are now 3 steps away from being a developer.” Tap few more times and you’ll see the message “You are now a developer!”.
Now we are ready to explore the newfound setting and make some changes to improve the Android gaming performance.

How To Boost Your Android Gaming Performance?

Hidden in the Developer options is a setting that can help improve your gaming experience. Simply scroll down and look for the Force 4x MSAA option. For those who don’t know, MSAA stands for multi-sample anti-aliasing.
If you enable this option, your Android smartphone will render games at the highest possible quality. It forces Android to use 4x multisample anti-aliasing in OpenGL 2.0 games and apps.
Important note:
This feature drains tons of battery life. So, you might want to use it on a smartphone with a lot of battery juice. Turning on this option might give you a smoother performance but things will vary on different apps and devices. Also, after playing the game, you are advised to revert back the setting.
Did you find this article helpful? Don’t forget to drop your feedback in the comments section below.
This Blog was first published on:- http://thinkdebug.com/blog/boost-android-gaming-performance-simple-trick/

Tuesday 8 November 2016

Snappy Ubuntu Core 16 Launched For IoT Devices, Raspberry Pi, And Cloud With A Focus On Security


Short Bytes: Ubuntu Core 16 is a minimalistic Linux-based operating system developed by Canonical Ltd. Primarily intended for IoT devices. The latest Snappy Ubuntu borrows core features from the Ubuntu 16.10 Yakkety Yak and takes advantage of the Snaps. Canonical has also assured timely updates and a dedicated app store.
Canonical Ltd. has announced its much-awaited Ubuntu Core 16 Linux-based operating system for various IoT devices. The Ubuntu Core 16, which was in development since a year, is a trimmed down version of the Ubuntu 16.10 Yakkety Yak.The Linux distro for IoT devices takes advantage of the Snap packages — a zip file containing all the package data along with the details about running the application on the machine. The Snaps are tamper-proof, developer-friendly, and digitally signed. The Snappy package manager–used to install and manage snaps–has been developed by Canonical itself and it enhances security by enabling sandboxing of the applications.

Ubuntu Core 16 has taken full advantage of the Snaps, even the kernel and the OS itself are delivered as Snaps. The Ubuntu Core OS contains just the base filesystems. Its image size is almost half of the CentOS Atomic Host 7.
The transactional nature of the Snap package updates is a boon for the developers. If the update gets failed, an automatic rollback is performed which encourages the developers to update their applications more often and without any fear of a crash. Using Update Control, the developers can validate an update in the ecosystem before applying it.
The lightweight Ubuntu Core 16 also features a Snap app store allowing developers to publish apps for various internet-connected devices. The Snappy Ubuntu Core 16 is intended for single board computers, SoCs, and cloud platforms. It has already been deployed in top-of-rack switches, drones, radio access networks, gateways etc. The list of supported devices include:
  • Raspberry Pi 2 and 3
  • Qualcomm DragonBoard 410c
  • Intel NUC
  • Intel Joule
  • Samsung Artik
  • KVM
If you have something to add, tell us in the comments below.

Saturday 5 November 2016

Top 10 Most Dangerous Malware That Can Cripple Your Device


Short Bytes: Check Point has released the list of the most dangerous malware that are most prevalent in the world. This list was topped by Conficker, a worm that spreads from system to system and downloads malware. For the first time, ransomware found a place in the top 3. In the mobile arena, for the sixth consecutive month, HummingBad remained the most wanted malware.
The Check Point Research Team has released its latest list of the top 10 most wanted malware. The team has indicated that ransomware attacks have continued to rise in the recent months. Also, for the first time since they launched the Threat Index, ransomware has found a place in the top three.According to September’s data, Locky ransomware, which originated in February 2016, was the 3rd most dangerous malware, accounting for 6 percent of all recognized malware attacks all around the world. Talking about the total share of ransomware attacks, it grew by 13 percent.
There was also a rise in the number of active malware families, with 3 new names entering the top 10. These families were Chanitor , Blackhole exploit kit, and Nivdort bot.

In the mobile malware category, Check Point found that for the sixth consecutive month HummingBad, followed by Triada and Ztorg, remained the most common malware used to attack mobile devices.

Top 10 Most Dangerous Malware

  1. Conficker: Worm that enabled remote operations and malware download
  2. Sality: Virus that allows remote operations and downloads additional malware
  3. Locky: Spreads mainly via spam emails with disguised downloader
  4. Cutwail: Botnet used to send spams and take part in DDoS attacks
  5. Zeus: Trojan used to steal banking information
  6. Chanitor: Installs malicious payloads on infected machines
  7. Tinba: Banking trojan
  8. Cryptowall: Ransomware that uses AES encryption and conducts C&C communication over TOR
  9. Blackhole: Exploit kit that uses browser and plugin security flaws
  10. Nivdort: Bot that’s used to steal passwords and modify settings
This blog was first published on: http://thinkdebug.com/blog/top-10-most-dangerous-malware-that-can-cripple-your-device/

Friday 28 October 2016

The Face of Change: 3 Apps Disrupting Enterprise Social Media

As individuals in the 21st century, we all have a sense of what people mean when they use the phrase “social media.” Immediately, our minds populate a list that includes sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. We may even have knowledge of enterprise-specific programs like Slack that have changed the face of professional messaging.
What many digitally savvy people are unaware of, however, is that there are many other platforms that are disrupting enterprise social media as we know it – and if you want to stay ahead of the curve, you need to get on board. For companies committed to digital leadership, these are the three new, must-have apps.

The Next Generation of Visuals

Multimedia social network use has become the gold standard these days, as you can see by dropping in on just about any professional or personal account across the complete range of platforms. Sam Ovens’ peppers his Twitter feed with screenshots of client interactions, companies share video from their product development team, and when all else fails, even major brands aren’t above posting a few baby animal images. Soon, though, this approach to visual won’t be enough, thanks to apps like Storehouse.
What Storehouse brings to the table that sets it apart from other image dominated programs, like Instagram or Snapchat, is the ability to coordinate different sources of images. That means it can pull from your Instagram, Flickr, camera roll, and more to help you create elaborate social media narratives. Although TechCrunch recognized Storehouse as a top appin 2015, most companies haven’t started using it as part of their overall marketing strategy.

The Competitive Edge

There are two main components to brand development and management – the narrative you put out about your brand and what others say about it. While you control that first component, it can be hard to keep up with the broader commentary pointed in your direction, and that’s where Brand24 comes in.
Brand24 is a social media monitor, tuning into your different accounts to catch whatever feedback comes your way, and alerting you to positive and negative comments that may require further attention. This is a great way to keep your finger on the pulse of things and prevents you from missing key customer service opportunities.

The Organizer You Always Needed

In business, sometimes the greatest innovation comes from finding new ways to do old things – progress isn’t always product-focused. That’s what makes Buffer such an innovative tool; it offers a better management system for handling the overwhelming weight of social media.
Plenty of platforms are focused on helping you plan and schedule for a single site, but Buffer ties together Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, and more for a simplified experience. You won’t believe how much time you were wasting coordinating your social media until you see how much easier Buffer makes it.
The role of social media in business will only continue to grow in coming years, so it’s important to stay on the cutting edge, adopting new apps to make your job easier and your strategies more innovative. These three apps are just the beginning of a total social media transformation.
This Blog was first published on: http://smarterware.org/2016/10/face-change-3-apps-disrupting-enterprise-social-media/

Monday 24 October 2016

5 Best Open Source Mobile Test Automation Tools


Short Bytes: There is a wide range of devices and platforms one needs to account for when developing a mobile app. An automation app for Mobile Testing can save development and testing time. Here are 5 top open source automated mobile testing frameworks to use, including the likes of Appium, Robotium, and Selendroid.

Testing a software application can be quite cumbersome. Software companies have separate teams allotted just for testing and analyzing their applications. To ease this process, they often design and develop their own effective testing strategies.
The process gets further complicated when the application is cross-platform rather than a single platform (native). For example, a cross-platform mobile app accounts for usage across multiple devices and operating systems. Additionally, mobile hardware and their operating systems are constantly upgraded. Therefore, it is natural to have a generic automated tool for testing software applications. Focussing on mobile applications, the first step in automating your testing is to choose the right framework.

Here are 5 top open source mobile testing frameworks to use:

1. Appium (Android, iOS)

  • Supports Android versions from 2.3 and above
  • Utilizes UI Automator and WebDriver libraries
  • Supports Java, C#, Ruby and those available in the WebDriver library
  • Cross Browser support (Safari and Chrome)
  • Compatible with JSON wire protocol
  • Cross-platform capabilities to run tests across multiple devices

2. Robotium (Android)

  • Supports Android 1.6 version and above
  • Easy to write powerful test scenarios
  • Supports Java
  • Handles multiple Android routines automatically
  • No Record and Play function and no screenshots

3. Selendroid (Android)

  • Uses Selenium 2 client API
  • Fully compatible with JSON wire protocol
  • No alteration of app under test is needed to automate it
  • Can interact with multiple Android devices at the same time

4. Keep It Functional (iOS)

5. Monkey Talk (Android, iOS)

  • Supports a broad range of basic to advanced tests
  • A Powerful cross-platform tool enabling high productivity
  • Records and plays test scripts for cross-platform apps
  • Widely used for native Android, iOS, HTML5, and Adobe Flex apps
These are the top open source tools for mobile test automation. They have a large open source community that is involved in guiding users and contributing to the project. Try any of the above frameworks for a faster mobile app development.
So, which mobile testing app do you use? Do you have something to add? Comment and share with us.
This blog was first published on: https://fossbytes.com/5-open-source-mobile-test-automation-tools/

Saturday 22 October 2016

How to install the Android 7.1 developer preview on your device


Android 7.1 marks the first time Nexus owners aren’t getting the full suite of upgrades from Google. The Pixel phones have some exclusive features, including built-in Google Assistant, the new Pixel Launcher, and fingerprint sensor gestures. However, not all of this is an arbitrary decision to add value to the Pixel. In the case of some features (e.g. fingerprint sensor gestures), there are hardware limitations in existing devices that prevent the feature from working. So, it’s not technically a Pixel-exclusive; there just aren’t any other phones that support it right now.
As for what you can expect in the developer preview, there will be a handful of noticeable changes. For one, touch display responsiveness had been boosted. There’s also a new storage manager that helps you clear old files from your device to get more space for new stuff. Android’s launcher shortcuts, which were previously demoed in the 7.0 preview, are coming back. Although, now they are called “app shortcuts,” which might be the least descriptive name ever. They’re long-press shortcuts that app icons can produce to specific functionality in an app. For example, the camera icon includes links to take a video and take a selfie.
To install the developer preview, you need to have a Nexus 6P, Nexus 5X, or Pixel C. Other Nexus devices like the Nexus 9 and (maybe) Nexus 6 will be added next month. The easiest way to to go to the beta site and sign in with your Google account. There, you’ll be shown eligible devices. Once you choose to enroll one, an OTA update to the developer preview will be pushed down in a few minutes. Doing this will not erase your data, but it’s a preview. Things could go wrong, so back everything up to be safe.
If you want to handle the process manually, there are full system images available for download. This doesn’t require joining the beta, and you can install them even if you’re running a third-party ROM. You will need the Android SDK working on your computer, and your device’s bootloader needs to be unlocked. This will delete everything on your device, by the way.
While this is technically for developers, plenty of enthusiasts are installing the beta too. It’s a pretty smooth process, and you can get a look at Android 7.1 before almost everyone else. Google is planning to have a final version of Android 7.1 available on Nexus devices by late this year or early next.
This blog was first published on: http://www.extremetech.com/mobile/237995-how-to-install-the-android-7-1-developer-preview-on-your-device

Friday 21 October 2016

4 TECHNOLOGY PREDICTIONS FOR 2017

Whenever the calendar changes from December to January, the world responds with incredible optimism and anticipation. It doesn’t matter how rough or bleak things were the previous year, there’s just something hopeful about a brand new year.
As 2016 comes to a close in the next three months, we think it’s interesting to take a look at some technological developments and make a few predictions about what experts believe will happen in 2017. Let’s analyze some of these predictions:
  1.   Home Automation Becomes Mainstream
When smart home toys and applications first hit the marketplace decades ago, there was this idea that homes would suddenly transform into futuristic structures in a matter of months. Yet, here we are in 2016 and smart home technology is still only being utilized by a small percentage of the marketplace. Could 2017 be the year that this changes?
While the upper end of the market has always had an affinity for smart home “toys,” we’re even seeing rental properties enter the market now. This is a sign that big things are still to come. Be on the lookout for tremendous growth in this tech space.
  1.   Surgeons Attempt the First Human Head Transplant
“Italian neuroscientist Dr. Sergio Canavero made headlines last year when he announced his plans to perform the first human head transplant in 2017,” CBS News reported in August. “Since then, he’s recruited Chinese surgeon Dr. Xiaoping Ren, to work with him, and now has found a volunteer patient for the procedure: a Russian man named Valery Spiridonov.”
From smart home automation to human head transplants – how’s that for a transition? Well, believe it or not, the first attempt at a human head transplant is reportedly a full go. Many critics call this “junk science,” but Canavero is confident it’ll work.
  1.   Say Hello to the e-Shower
You can mess with a lot of products, but people get a little sensitive when it comes to their shower. After all, the shower is one of the few private places people ever get to relax. That’s why there’s some skepticism when it comes to the concept of the e-Shower, but don’t tell its team of developers.
The e-Shower, which is supposed to be released at some point in 2017, captures water in a shower tray, filters and purifies the water, and then reintroduces the water back into your shower’s water supply immediately. It reportedly circulates the same drop of water seven times before it descends into the sewer system. Because this eco-friendly shower uses 80 percent less energy and 90 percent less water, it could save homeowners as much as $1,000 per year. Is this the product of the future?
  1.   Virtual Reality Classrooms Become Possible
Virtual reality technology has really taken off in the past six months. It finally has the mainstream appeal that its need for so many years and the market is ready for mass adoption.
One unique way in which virtual reality may be used comes in the form of teaching. Harvard Business School is one of the first to begin using virtual classrooms in which students can attend class remotely without sacrificing the in-class experience. But more schools are expected to follow suit in 2017. While it remains to be seen if virtual reality teaching could be used in lower levels – including high schools, middle schools, and elementary schools – the possibility certainly exists.
What Does 2017 Hold?
Nobody can know for sure what 2017 holds in terms of technological development and innovation, but we do know this much: we’re in for some exciting changes. From home automation to healthcare, 2017 is already shaping up to be a promising year.  
This blog was first published on: http://smarterware.org/2016/10/4-technology-predictions-2017/

Wednesday 19 October 2016

After Killing iPhone’s 3.5mm Jack, Apple Plans To Remove USB Ports From Upcoming MacBooks



Short Bytes: Following the recent rumors, it’s expected that the new MacBook Pro laptops will do away with the traditional USB and the MagSafe charging ports in favor of the USB Type-C port. The Thunderbolt port will also be upgraded to Thunderbolt 3.
 
The fall is about to arrive and the rumor mill has started churning news about Apple MacBook lineup. It’s almost a year and a half since Apple released the MacBook Pro with Retina display in May 2015. Reports from Macotakara, claimed trusted Chinese sources, suggest that there is a new MacBook Pro in the works.

The new MacBook Pro is expected to launch on October 27 but the official release announcements haven’t been made. It is rumored to come with the USB-C port which originally debuted in the Apple ecosystem with the 12-inch MacBook. This will also mark the exit of the normal USB ports and the MegSafe charging port from the MacBook Pro. The USB Type-C on the MacBook Pro is accompanied by Thunderbolt 3.0 port. It’s, however, not known how many USB Type-C ports will be there.
Other than the changes in the ports, there might be an OLED touch bar above the keyboard replacing the physical function keys and allowing the buttons to be customized. The Touch ID support is also expected to be introduced. The rumors don’t include reports about4G LTE feature patented by Apple for the laptops.
It’s good to see that Apple is not ditching the analog audio jack in their MacBook lineup. And Macbook owners will have the opportunity to play with the dinos for some time.
That was for the Pros. In the case of the MacBook Air, 11-inch variant may go out of production so that more attention could be paid to the 13-inch MacBook Air. A Type-C USB port is also rumored to land on the MacBook Air.
Macotakara via 9to5Mac
If you have something to add, tell us in the comments below.
This blog was first published on: https://fossbytes.com/macbook-pro-release-date-and-new-features/

Tuesday 18 October 2016

A Look at the Tech Trends Behind Social Media Automation

As the social media industry grows, we’re seeing a lot of tech companies latch on and develop complimentary products that enhance the core user experience. Many of these tools are fresh and innovative, allowing businesses and users to better enjoy platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

The Value of Social Media Automation

Social media automation tools have immense value. First and foremost, they put the power back into marketers’ hands by ensuring consistency across the board.
“Automation tools give you more control over your social accounts and helps you post more content,” social media expert Jessica Davis points out. “Depending on the tool you choose to use, you can control the kind of content that is shared, the time at which it is posted, and also the frequency of posting. Plus you can monitor the level of engagement you’re receiving and modify your strategy to get more Likes, Shares or Retweets.”
But perhaps an even bigger benefit of social media automation technology is the timesaving nature of these tools. Instead of spending hours on creating, publishing, and advertising different posts, marketers can focus on more important aspects, such as engaging with users.
When you combine control, consistency, and time saved, it becomes apparent that social media automation tools aren’t going anywhere. In fact, you can expect a healthy influx of tools in the coming months and years.

Three Automation Trends

There’s a lot of innovation happening in the social media automation space, but let’s take a look at some of the latest trends and developments.

1. Follower and Like Boosters

Followers are the lifeblood of social media. In order for a brand to have success, they must be capable of attracting followers and engaging them with the right content. Unfortunately, it can take years for brands to build large enough audiences to enjoy positive returns. Recognizing this pain point, tech companies and programmers have worked tirelessly on tools that automate follower onboarding and increase “likes.”
PeerBoost, an online automation tool for Instagram is one of the leaders in this space. “Our bot software lets you enter activities into the platform and then step away. You can even log off and PeerBoost will still follow through on your actions, whether they be Liking, Commenting or Following other users based on specific hashtags. Furthermore, the intelligent nature of our tool means it knows exactly when you’re about to reach your daily limits, and adjusts accordingly to keep your account within these parameters.”

2. Post Schedulers

Post schedulers are some of the most common social media automation tools. They allow you to schedule posts in advance and set the exact time they will be shared. This lets marketers target specific customers, without having to sit behind a keyboard 24 hours a day.
HootSuite is one of the top options. “If you want to use the same software as Lamborghini, McDonald’s, Sony Music, and Virgin Media, sign up for HootSuite,” marketer Tim Parker suggests. “This app allows you to schedule posts on all of the major social media sites, along with Foursquare and WordPress.” There’s even a free version that lets you manage up to five accounts.”

3. Social Listening

Finally, you need to know about social listening tools. As the name suggests, these are tools that automatically listen for your brand name and certain keywords in social media conversations and then deliver reports based on what’s being said. This is extremely valuable and lets you gauge your brand’s perception in the marketplace.
One of the industry’s best social listening tools is Keyhole. You can use Keyhole to track hashtags, keywords, URLs, specific usernames, and more. Not only does it collect real-time data, but it also provides a historical data analysis.

The Evolution of Social Media Marketing

Social media has evolved from a tool for staying in touch with friends to a powerful business asset that can be leveraged by marketers in a variety of ways. While the industry has been known to pivot with little warning, these are the automation trends that we’re seeing right now.
Look for them to continue evolving in the future.

Saturday 15 October 2016

7 Best Features Of Ubuntu 16.10 Yakkety Yak

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Short Bytes: The latest offering from Canonical is the Ubuntu 16.10 Yakkety Yak open source operating system. It comes with the developer preview of the Unity 8 graphical shell and improvement to the Nautilus file browser. Ubuntu 16.10 has been updated with GNOME 3.20 applications and offers Linux kernel 4.8.
 
Canonical Inc. has released the next major update after Ubuntu 16.04 Xenial Xerus in the name of Ubuntu 16.10 Yakkety Yak. The ISO and torrent files for various Ubuntu 16.10 flavors are available for download and you can install it using the following guide: How To Install Ubuntu 16.10

1. Linux Kernel 4.8

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Ubuntu 16.10 ships with Linux Kernel 4.8 out of the box. It brings a number of security features along with major changes to the XFS and Btrfs file systems. It supports Nvidia Pascal and AMD OverDrive for overclocking GPUs using Linux drivers.
The new Linux kernel has given me a sense of satisfaction for my new laptop. I dual-booted it with Mint 17 but the wireless failed to work due to older kernel version which lacked support for 7th gen Intel processors.

2. Nautilus 3.20

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The inbuilt file browser in Ubuntu Linux distribution has been updated to version 3.20 in Yakkety Yak. Various bug fixes have been made, for instance, Nautilus was crashing when jp2 images were used as thumbnails in a directory.
The changes to the user interface include a new file shortcuts window which can be found in the files drop down menu. The search has been redesigned with a popover interface where you can find drop-down menu choosing the date and file type as the advanced search options.

3. Extra job for Systemd

The primary task of the Systemd in Linux distros is process management. With the release of Yakkety Yak, an extra job has been given to Systemd. It also does the work of starting the graphical desktop sessions in the latest Ubuntu release. This marks a retirement for the Upstart which is used to handle this task. However, Upstart will still be the driving force behind Unity, hud, and indicators. They are in the process of being converted.

4. Changes to GPG

The GnuPG (GPG) is a software for encryption and managing cryptographic keys. Ubuntu now uses the gnupg2 for the gpg binary. The GPG, developed by the GNU Project, is an implementation of the OpenPGP standard.

5. GNOME 3.20

The GNOME Core Applications in the Ubuntu 16.10 have been updated to version 3.20. Many applications come with version 3.22 and rest of them will be updated soon as the latest release of the GNOME applications collection 3.22.1 has arrived a couple of days ago.

6. Unity 8 Developer Preview

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The Ubuntu 16.10 comes with a limited option developer preview of the Unity 8 graphical shell. On the login screen, you can choose between the Unity 8 or the normal one. The Unity 8 comes system settings, command line, web browser, and some applications.
The new graphical shell is in development since the last three years and resembles fundamentals with the Unity Touch present on smartphones and tablets. But the interface is different.
It borrows the Launcher and Scopes from the Ubuntu touch. The developer preview offers and insight to how the Scopes work in the Unity 8 with a revamped command line. There are Snappy Apps which make the update process easier for the developers. Unity 8 also enhances the experience by saying goodbye to the laggy desktop effects which have haunted the Ubuntu users.

7. Updated Apps

  • LibreOffice 5.2.2
  • Mozilla Firefox 49
  • Shotwell 0.22
  • GNOME Terminal 3.20
  • Thunderbird 45
  • Ubuntu Software 3.20
  • Rhythmbox 3.4.1
The Ubuntu 16.10 Yakkety Yak is not an LTS release like the Ubuntu 16.04. It will receive a 9-month support until July 2017. You can download the latest Ubuntu 16.10 ISO file from here. Read more about Yakkety on its release notes page.
If you have something to add, let us know in the comments below.
This blog was first published on: https://fossbytes.com/7-best-features-in-ubuntu-16-10-yakkety-yak/

Saturday 8 October 2016

5G: The Future of Wireless Networks

5G technology is soon approaching. On the suppliers’ end, for Zalando and other companies, this will bring about faster responses and speedier service delivery. On the consumer's’ end, a wider range of products and services will be made available. Due to improved speeds and lower latency from 5G, processes can be expedited, for instance including payment verification and order identification, which means same day delivery of in-stock items becomes the norm in the 5G age.
5G is another step up in mobile connectivity, and it is currently in the works globally. Many countries around the world are preparing for this new shift in mobile data networks. Let’s take a closer look at this technology and how it may change the future of wireless communication.
Although plans for official release for consumer use is still at least four years away, demonstrations of 5G capabilities effectively started hype earlier this year at the Mobile World Congress (MWC). Exhibitions showed the potential of the next generation of mobile.

How is 5G different?

5G’s mission is much more than just to improve basic communication services such as phone calls, SMS, or data connection in general. It has numerous other potential applications and according to surveys, the best use for 5G will be in the Internet of Things. This will be important for major global processes like automation and transportation.
As for network speeds, the figure 5G aims for is 100 times faster than the current 4G and LTE networks. Nokia’s demo at the MWC reached 20Gbps, the same speed being reached by South Korea’s SK Telecom. Ericsson’s set up yielded 26Gbps, while T-Mobile got 70Gbps, the latter of which was shown on a live feed from a Huawei base station in Germany.
Results were varied as it was dependent on frequency spectrum, and some booths used a wider spectrum than others. In comparison, however, today’s fastest LTE speeds just reach 1Gbps. Imagine if you register your smartphone for automatic updates, and a software upgrade was just released. As soon as you notice, the file would’ve been downloaded already. That’s a very plausible scenario with 5G mobile.
Low latency is also another target feature of 5G. The goal is to reduce latency down to 1 millisecond. To show just how fast it is, T-Mobile conducted a separate demonstration in their booth at the MWC.
Two metal balls, one 5G connected and the other 4G, were placed on top of a suspended platform. A robotic arm then passes under the platform, and when it’s detected, the holes beneath the balls open. The 5G ball drops in time and gets caught by the arm, while the 4G ball falls too late, missing the arm. Remember here that the balls and platform were wirelessly connected to the robotic arm.

Necessary preparations

Of course, 5G cannot be deployed for end users without the proper technological infrastructure. All over the US, there are around 300,000 cell towers. 5G will more likely need more infrastructure, as its frequency waves travel for shorter distances, for now at least, as opposed to the frequency bands of current networks.
A higher number of receiver cells will also be required for the same reason, thus, more permits will be required as well not only from governments, but from millions of other property owners. These are just a few of the challenges ahead of making the 5G concept a reality.
The same problems are also being faced in Europe. As stated by Brendan O’Reilly, CTO of O2, their network alone has a consumer usage that doubles each year. To effectively support potential 5G usage, the digital infrastructure must be radically improved.

Indoor and outdoor large scale tests are ongoing and upcoming

AT&T has applied for a temporary license from the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to proceed with indoor testing at the Texas Wireless Summit. The carrier plans to use the 28GHz spectrum for 5G trials at the Edgar A. Smith Bldg. in Austin, Texas.
On the other side of the world, Japan and South Korea have begun their tests and the latter’s KT has announced its plans to debut 5G at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea. China’s ZTE on the other hand has finished the first phase of its high-frequency field tests.
Seeing this many nations with their eyes and hands on 5G, all hopes of improving network connectivity look very promising in the coming years.
This Blog was first published on: https://tech.zalando.com/blog/5g-the-future-of-wireless-networks/

Friday 7 October 2016

3 Ways Technology Is Making Your Driving Experience More Fun

As a general consensus, it’s safe to say that people in the world have a love and affinity for cars; Especially the really cool ones like the Lincoln Continental or Lincoln MKZ that emanate class and sex. Of course, there are so many high-class vehicles out there that make the driving experience what it is. The makers of these vehicles know what it is they’re doing, and they know what people want.
The first automobile to make its way into existence ran for the first time on New Year’s eve in 1879. Now, just 119 years later and the world has been utterly transformed by the invention. Technology is quite the marvelous thing.
So while driving can be loads of fun by itself, since the majority of the world alive today has been brought up knowing the car so intimately that it’s lost a bit of its pizazz, technology innovators around the world are doing their best to keep the driving experience fresh and fun. They keep giving you more, you come back for more. It’s the way the game works. So without further ado, here are 3 ways technology is spicing up your driving life today:
Don’t get us wrong, a sexy piece of machinery is sexy all by itself; It’s body style, the way it drives, and the way the sun shines off the fresh paint is enough to make any person with eyes faint with desire. However, the people who make the magic happen know that there is so much more involved in making a vehicle that will have people running to purchase like it’s the new iPhone. One way technology is making the driving experience better is by realizing it’s all about the bass.
Great sound systems in place with Bluetooth technology and speakers that feature the perfect mix of high to mid to low range of sound are what people want. Music is a universal language of the world and since so many people spend so much time in their vehicles, it’s important that the bass can really get bumping.
Different vehicles have different perks and downfalls. Some cars have crazy large blind spots that make changing lanes, parallel parking, or backing out of any parking spot frightening and dangerous, but thanks to technology, this problem is being solved a bit more every single day. Not only are there cameras in place that show you what’s behind you to safeguard from accidents, there are also cars that put off sounds to warn you when you’re getting close to hitting something. Some cars are going so far to stop themselves before you hit something like a pedestrian.
Hitting anything is no fun considering the cost of a vehicle in the first place and the hazard it places on so many lives. Technology might have opened up the door to trouble in the first place, but it’s quickly making strides to make living life more fun and efficient.
Comfort is Key
In the end, cars are doing so much to redefine the way that the world operates. Different technologies must work together as a whole to make the world a better place to live. People drive an average of 10,658 miles a year. With this being said, comfort is key in these moments.
Cars that don’t cater to the human desire for comfort spend a lot more time on the lot instead of being driven. Innovators of technology know this and are constantly finding out what it takes to make the driving experience better for everyone. Plush seating and butt warmers are just the beginning. It might not be too long before car seats start acting as chiropractors and shrinks. 
This Blog was First published on : http://smarterware.org/2016/10/3-ways-technology-making-driving-experience-fun/

Monday 26 September 2016

Replaced Galaxy Note 7 devices are reportedly overheating, losing power while charging

Replaced Galaxy Note 7 devices are reportedly overheating, losing power while charging


Samsung’s woes with the Galaxy Note 7 are far from over. After asking consumers worldwide to return their newly purchased Galaxy Note 7 because of exploding batteries, it seems even the replaced handsets come with their own set of issues, but thankfully, all non-explosive.
Users in South Korea who received their replacements devices are now reporting overheating on their devices and even loss of battery while the phone is charging, as noted by the Wall Street Journal.
As per the report, the replaced devices are overheating and leaking battery while the phone is charging.
Samsung while not disclosing the number of cases behind this issue has acknowledged it and a spokesperson has said the problem is completely unrelated to the battery of the device. Instead, it mass production of the smartphone is the likely cause behind the issue. Samsung said it is closely monitoring the situation.
The Galaxy Note 7 that came out in August has been plagued with multiple cases of exploding batteries. Users who kept the phone on charge for long reported the battery exploding and the phone catching fire. A lot of accidents including a burnt jeep and an injured child has been reported.
Samsung tried to tackle this issue by issuing a formal recall of all Galaxy Note 7 phones sold across the world and replacing them with a working handset free of cost. As of last week, Samsung reported it had successfully recalled over 1 million devices in the US alone.
As Bloomberg reported, Samsung tried to undercut Apple’s success with the iPhone by pushing for a tighter release deadline despite packing a lot of new features. Saying the decision ‘backfired’ might be an overstatement.