Happy Hour Podcast 052 | Apple’s upcoming March Event

by | Feb 3, 2016 |

Happy Hour 2016 Podcast Post Image 16-9

Apple’s upcoming March event has been uncovered and we’ve got all of the details you need to know. Big thanks to Harry’s for sponsoring the episode. Visit harrys.com/happyhour to get your free shaving kit. The Happy Hour podcast is available for download on iTunes and through our dedicated RSS feed.

New episodes of Happy Hour are available every Wednesday. As mentioned, you can download this podcast via iTunes or plug in our RSS feed link into your favorite podcasting app. Send an email to listenermail@9to5mac.com (or click here) and your question/comment may be featured in an upcoming episode of Happy Hour.

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Hosts:

Here’s what we discussed in this episode:

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Filed under: Happy Hour Tagged: Apple, Apple event, Apple watch, Happy Hour, iPhone 5se, March, Podcast

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Sony CFO says dual-cameras will takeoff in 2017 as iPhone 7 Plus rumored to gain feature

by | Feb 3, 2016 |

A mockup image showing the back of an iPhone 6 with a dual-cameraWith the iPhone 7 Plus expected to utilize a dual-lens system for optical zoom, a new quote has emerged from Sony Corporation’s CFO discussing the future of dual-camera systems. In response to a question during their Q3 2015’s earnings call (via Xperia Blog), Sony Corporation’s Kenichiro Yoshida stated that “the takeoff of smartphone[s] with dual lens camera[s] will be in the year of 2017.” These comments add weight to claims that Apple has been testing iPhone 7 models with two cameras including KGI’s report that iPhone 7 Plus models will feature a dual-camera system.

Not giving any company names (Sony provides iPhone camera sensors), Yoshida, Sony Corporation’s CFO, also mentioned that the “high-end smartphone market is now slowing down. So, that may impact the demand or production schedule of dual-camera smartphones.”

This line echoes the worries of investors who have worried that the past quarter would have been the iPhone’s first down quarter. Whether or not any of this means that the iPhone 7 won’t have a dual-camera system until next year, or will but production demands will be impacted, still remains a question.

Apple announced record setting revenue for the quarter last week, although it projected year-over-year declines next quarter. If Apple can reach the production levels necessary to release next-generation iPhones with the dual-camera system, this may be a significant reason for customers to upgrade from older iPhones.

Ben Lovejoy, has previously discussed the benefits of potentially having a dual-camera system, which could offer optical zoom, where 95% of 9to5Mac readers expressed some interest in the technology.

(Photo via: Cameraplex)

Filed under: iOS Devices Tagged: dual camera, Dual-Lens, iPhone, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 plus, Kenichiro Yoshida, Sony, Sony Corporation

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Pebble update adds support for Health-based watchfaces, custom message reply, more

by | Feb 3, 2016 |

Pebble-Time-Steel

Apple Watch competitor Pebble has today announced a hefty update to its smartwatch experience. The update, which bumps the company’s Pebble Time smartphone app for iPhone to version 3.6 and the watch firmware to version 3.9, includes a variety of enhancements to Health, Messages, and more.

As far as Pebble Health goes, the company says that a new API is now available that allows watchfaces and apps to take advantage of Pebble Health stats. Watchfaces that use this new feature will be available on the Pebble app store “soon,” according to a blog post. Furthermore, Pebble says that Health tracking is “more accurate overall” and also now includes the ability to show step distance in kilometers.

In addition to the Pebble Health enhancements, version 3.9 of the firmware also adds the ability for iOS users to send custom responses to received messages, a feature that is already available to Apple Watch customers. Other enhancements include speed improvements for Pebble Time and Time Steel, as well as enhancements to the watch-only mode that stretches out battery life when your Pebble is about to die.

Furthermore, Pebble is running a sale for Valentines’s Day. The deal includes two Pebble Time watches for $359.99, which is 28 percent off the normal price of $499. A variety of color combinations are available as part of the sale, including various band and watch colors.

The full changelogs for Pebble Time version 3.9 and version 3.6 of Pebble’s iOS smartphone app can be seen below:

Pebble Time Firmware 3.9 Release Notes

  • Pebble Health tracking is now more accurate and can show distance in kilometers. Toggle settings from the Pebble Time smartphone app.
  • Support for apps and watchfaces showing activity data from the Pebble Health API.
  • Incoming MMS messages now show descriptive icons and any text included.
  • Speed improvements for Pebble Time and Time Steel, including snappier animations from Pebble Time Round.
  • Improved Watch-Only Mode: keep your Pebble functioning as a watch for a few more hours when the battery is critically low. Alarms, the backlight, and softer vibration remain while Bluetooth and activity tracking shut off to save power.
  • Improved low battery warnings based on time left with power instead of percentage remaining.
  • Ура, дождались! Cyrillic characters are now supported in notifications and alerts. Enable from the Pebble Timesmartphone app: Menu » Settings » Watch Language » Selected Language.
  • Under-the-hood fixes and stability improvements.
  • To update to the latest firmware, select Menu » Support » Update Your Pebble from the Pebble Time smartphone app.

Pebble Time App for iPhone 3.6 Release Notes

  • NEW Custom Text Replies: Send custom responses to received iOS Messages. Works on Pebble watches with text replies enabled from a compatible carrier.
  • NEW Toggle Pebble Health settings between miles or kilometers (requires a Time-series watch running Firmware 3.9 or higher).
  • Under-the-hood fixes and stability improvements
  • Download 3.6 from the iTunes App Store.

Filed under: Apps Tagged: app, Health, messages, Pebble, smartwatch, update

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Lifeproof NUUD waterproof case fit for iPhone 6s & 6s Plus now available for pre-order

by | Feb 3, 2016 |

Lifeproof Nuud 6s

Lifeproof announced today that a new version of its highly durable, low profile NUUD case for iPhone is on the way. The Lifeproof NUUD for iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus is available for pre-order from today.

The version for the 4.7-inch iPhone 6s goes for $89.99 while the version for the 5.5-inch iPhone 6s Plus is priced at $99.99. Lifeproof’s previous NUUD cases for the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus are now 10% off as well, although you can find them for half off from Amazon. Check out our review of the iPhone 6 Lifeproof NUUD here.

Because the Lifeproof NUUD cases fit the iPhones very closely, the 0.2mm change in thickness between the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6s requires different versions.

Lifeproof NUUD promises four levels of protection: waterproof, dirt proof, snow proof, and drop proof.

The updated Lifeproof NUUD for iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus is only available for pre-order in black for now, although you can sign up to be notified when additional colors including Avalanche White, Cliff Dive Blue, Campfire Red, First Light Pink, and Undertow Aqua are available.

If you live on the edge or just want to basically turn your iPhone into a GoPro action camera, check out Lifeproof’s full lineup.

LIFEPROOF REVEALS NUUD FOR IPHONE 6S, IPHONE 6S PLUS

SAN DIEGO, Feb. 3, 2016 /PRNewswire/ — LifeProof NÜÜD was designed to defy more than the elements. It defies logic itself by combining legendary four-proof protection and screenless technology to survive mountaintop missions and seaside sessions. LifeProof, the No. 1 selling waterproof case in the U.S., unveils NÜÜD for iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus, available for preorder today.*

Unleash the remarkable with iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus NUUD, available for preorder today.

“LifeProof is continuously evolving each product line in order to give you the best form and function in waterproof technology,” said LifeProof President and CEO Pete Lindgren. “NÜÜD for iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus push the limits of a waterproof case by removing the display cover completely. It allows you to use your iPhone almost anywhere and forget the case is there until you need its industry-leading protection.”

NÜÜD for iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus combine a slim form with an innovative design for the truest touchscreen experience. A redundant seal around the edges of the touchscreen provides protection against water up to 6.6 feet for an hour, drops to 6.6 feet, dirt and snow without interfering with device functionality.

Take LifeProof NÜÜD even further by pairing it with LIFEACTÍV accessories. From the handlebars to the dashboard and everywhere in between, LIFEACTÍV accessories mount any device right where it’s needed most with Quickmount technology.

LifeProof NÜÜD cases for iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus are available for preorder on lifeproof.com and from select retailer locations. LifeProof FRĒ for iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus are also available now in a variety of colors. For more information, visit lifeproof.com.

LifeProof Resources

Facebook: http://ift.tt/LerC1d

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/lifeproof

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/LifeProofCases

Instagram: http://ift.tt/X6GWTx

About LifeProof:

LifeProof® encourages technology users to unleash the remarkable by taking their smartphone and tablet devices on every adventure regardless of dirt, sand, water, rocks and other environmental hazards. LifeProof premium cases boast four-proof protection for smartphone and tablet devices and provide freedom from environmental constraints. LifeProof is the No. 1-selling waterproof case in the U.S. and is committed to inspiring its customers to live an active, no-limits lifestyle.*

For more information, visit www.lifeproof.com. #LiveLifeProof

*Source: The NPD Group/Retail Tracking Service: Cell Phone Device Protection/Units Sold 9/2014 – 8/2015

The LifeProof name and LifeProof trademarks are the property of Treefrog Developments, Inc. registered in the U.S. and other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Filed under: iOS Devices Tagged: iPhone 6s, iphone 6s plus, LifeProof, Nuud, waterproof

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9to5Toys Lunch Break: Seagate 4TB Portable HDD $120, 2-pack MFi Lightning Cables $8, JayBird Bluetooth Earbuds $58, more

by | Feb 3, 2016 |

9to5toys-header

Keep up with the best gear and deals on the web by signing up for the 9to5Toys Newsletter. Also, be sure to check us out on: Twitter, RSS Feed, Facebook, Google+ and Safari push notifications.

TODAY’S CAN’T MISS DEALS:

seagate-4tb-sale-deal

Seagate 4TB Portable, Bus-powered USB 3 Hard Drive w/ 200GB Cloud: $120 shipped

ravpower-mfi-lightning-cables

RAVPower 2-pack of 3-ft. MFi Apple-Certified Lightning Cables for $8 Prime shipped (Reg. $15), more

Anker’s reinforced PowerLine MFi Lightning cables are extra tough & on sale: 6-ft $10 Prime shipped (Reg. $12), more

jaybird-bluebuds-x-black

Bluetooth Headphones: JayBird BlueBuds X $58 (Orig. $170), MEE Audio Air-Fi $35 (Reg. $50), more

Here are the best HDTV and Soundbar deals for Super Bowl 50

Here are some delicious snacks and fun kitchen gear to get you prepped for Super Bowl 50

piloteer-free-app-of-the-week-05

App Store Free App of the Week: Piloteer goes free for the very first time ($2 value)

Award-winning iOS platformer Thomas Was Alone is now available for just $1 (Reg. $5)

Highly-rated puzzler Osmos now 80% off on iPhone & iPad: $1 ea. (Reg. up to $5)

Best USB/Jump Start batteries for your car from Bestek, Aukey, more

MORE NEW GEAR FROM TODAY:

nomadplus-battery-iphone-charger

NomadPlus turns your iPhone wall charger into a power bank: $15 Prime shipped (Orig. $40)

MORE DEALS STILL ALIVE:

iphone-6s-case-deals

iPhone 6/s/Plus & Android Cases from $1: Wallet Style in multiple colors $3 Prime shipped, more

arris-surfboard-docsis-3-0-high-speed-cable-modem

Motorola SURFboard DOCSIS 3.0 High-Speed Cable Modem $45 shipped (Reg. $70)

apple-tv-siri

Apple TV 32GB w/ Siri Remote and HDMI Cable $126 shipped (Reg. $149+), 64GB $176 shipped – also now available in refurbished condition via Apple

amazon-prime-pre-order-promo-01

Game pre-orders for Amazon Prime members –Zelda, Far Cry Primal, FFXV: $48 ea (Reg. $60)

NEW PRODUCTS & MORE:

google-now-smart-mirror (1)

This guy has a built-in Google Now display in his mirror and it’s perfect

lego-star-wars-force-awakens-1

LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens is coming this summer

Filed under: Tips and Tricks Tagged: 9to5Toys, Amazon, app deals, Best Buy, Daily Deals, free apps, Gold Box, video games

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Apple Watch officially launching in Greece, Kuwait, Oman & Qatar next week

by | Feb 3, 2016 |

Screenshot 2016-02-03 10.38.21

Israel is not the only country getting an official Apple Watch rollout next week. Notices on Apple websites around the world indicate that the Apple Watch will launch in Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar on February 11th, while the device will also launch in Greece on February 12th. Given that Apple does not have official stores in those regions, much like in Israel, these launches will take place through official Apple distributors.

These launches follow up on the Apple Watch becoming available at 12,000 retail locations since the initial device release in April of last year. Support for the Apple Watch in these regions has been building up over the past few major iOS releases. Last fall, Apple brought Arabic Siri support with iOS 9.2 and iOS 8 added support for Greek Siri. We’ve reported that Apple is preparing to launch additional Apple Watch models with new bands in March.

The Apple Watch’s general availability in the UAE grew when the opening of a pair of official Apple Stores in Dubai and Abu Dhabi last year. Pricing for these international Apple Watch launches is yet to be announced, but the internal Apple product prices usually come in higher than the comparative rates in the United States. If you spot any additional countries rolling out the Apple Watch next week, feel free to let us know in the comments.

Filed under: Apple Watch Tagged: Apple watch, Greece, Kuwait, Omar, Qatar

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Square’s Apple Pay Reader is now available at U.S. Apple Stores

by | Feb 3, 2016 |

Square Apple Pay Reader

Last year mobile payment company Square unveiled an updated version of its credit card reader that works with Apple Pay, and starting today the Apple Pay reader is being sold across the U.S. at Apple Stores.

Square first started shipping its new contactless reader to small businesses late last year. The $49 hardware lets anyone with an iPhone or iPad accept Apple Pay as well as new secure chip debit and credit cards.

The updated kit also includes the classic Square reader for swiping traditional debit and credit cards as well.

Last month we took a hands-on look at the new hardware in action. Check out our video of the new Square reader with Apple Pay below:

Before Square made its way to Apple Stores, a similar solution from PayAnywhere hit store shelves to make accepting Apple Pay a possibility for small businesses.

Square’s Apple Pay reader is available for $49.99.

Filed under: Apple Pay Tagged: Apple pay, Square

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Apple’s Back to School promotion returns to Australia and New Zealand w/ a Beats Solo2 promo

by | Feb 3, 2016 |

Featured image showing the Back to School deal currently on promotion in Australia and New Zealand

Apple’s annual Back to School program returns in Australia and New Zealand with a promotion to receive a pair of Beats Solo2 On-Ear Headphones with qualifiying Mac purchases. Customers may also alternatively choose to receive savings on a new iPad (although there is currently an error on both sites not indicating how much can be saved). Last year’s promotion in Australia and New Zealand included an Apple Store gift card up to A$100/NZ$125, so it’s nice to see them promoting the acquired Beats brand and giving away instant credit for the headphones.

When purchasing a new iMac, MacBook, MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, or Mac Pro, customers can elect to receive credit towards the purchase of a pair of Beats Solo2 On-Ear Headphones or a pair of the Beats Solo2 Wireless On-Ear Headphones. It’s important to note that because the Wireless On-Ear model is more expensive, customers will have to pay the remaining difference of A$140/NZ$180.

Education pricing is available to university students, students accepted into university, parents buying for university students, teachers, lecturers and staff at all levels.

― Apple Student Discount

Apple notes that the Mac mini and refurbished Apple computers are not eligible for this promotion and that the qualifying purchases must be made between February 3, 2016 and March 21, 2016.

This year’s promotion in Australia and New Zealand follows a similar promotion the Back to School program Apple had in the United States last August with the Beats Solo2 headphones.

Filed under: iOS Devices, Mac Tagged: Apple, Australia, Back to School, Beats, Beats Solo2, New Zealand

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An internal 128GB iPhone storage upgrade? Only at the Shenzhen market… [Video]

by | Feb 3, 2016 |

Shenzhen-market-flash-upgrade

You can get just about anything at the Shenzhen market in China, and that apparently includes an on-the-spot internal storage upgrade for your iPhone (in addition to a long list of counterfeit Apple products). It’s a service that, save for perhaps the most hardcore DIYers, is unheard of stateside.

Apple charges a $100 premium each time you bump up to a higher capacity iPhone, but at the Shenzhen market this third-party upgrade costs only around $60 to go from a 16GB model to 128GB. The 128GB iPhone model would normally be a $200 premium over the 16GB model retail price, and that’s not accounting for the fact you’d also have to purchase a new device.

The process takes a matter of minutes and sees a Shenzhen market employee taking apart the iPhone and replacing the device’s internal flash storage with a new 128GB chip from Toshiba. And all of the device’s storage is transferred to the new chip, so you don’t lose any data in the process and can continue using the device with everything intact from before the upgrade.

The upgrade apparently works for iPhone 6 and older devices with around 50 upgrades per day done at the Shenzhen market alone, according to the full video below courtesy of local company BeSound.

And not surprisingly, getting this type of upgrade from a third-party will completely void your warranty with Apple. But — Shenzhen aside— we aren’t holding our breath for seeing a similar service become popular stateside, as Apple will likely not be too happy about an unauthorized third-party cracking open iPhones, voiding warranties, and undercutting its lucrative margins on flash storage in the various iPhone models.

Check out the full video of the upgrade being performed below:

Filed under: iOS Devices Tagged: 128GB, DIY, Flash, how to, Huaqiang Bei, internal storage, iPhone, memory, Shenzhen market, Storage, Toshiba, Upgrade, video

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Fitbit announces fashion-oriented leather/metal fitness band, Alta

by | Feb 3, 2016 |

alta

Fitbit didn’t exactly impress the market when it tried to launch a full-blown smartwatch last month, its stock price falling 11% in response to the idea of the company seemingly attempting to compete with the Apple Watch. It may have better luck with its latest offering, a fashion-oriented fitness band called Alta offering five days of battery-life. The emphasis here is on style, the $130 unit available with both leather bands ($60) and stainless steel bracelet ($100).

The Fitbit Alta will be available for pre-order from tomorrow at Amazon, Best Buy, Target, Walmart and other retail sites, with shipping in March or April, depending on configuration.

Via Engadget

Filed under: Tech Industry Tagged: Fitbit, Fitbit Alta, fitness band, Stylish fitness band

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