Category Archives: Mobile Operating Systems

Mobile Operating Systems, Technology

Does Build Quality Matter?

Samsung, HTC, LG, Apple and other mobile device manufacturers promise us this and that regarding the quality of the new piece of technology that we’ve spent our hard-earned money on.  However, most importantly we want a device that will last the 2 years that most of us agree to have it when we sign the contract.  Apple is known for producing superb products when it comes to the build aspect (regardless of whether you are an iOS fan or not this holds true).

Build quality plays several important roles in how one views their device:

  • How the device feels in your hand
  • How well the device holds up to abuse

Bottom line: Ultimately, it is up to the consumer — there are many devices that all seem to find homes somewhere, so the choice is yours!

Mobile Operating Systems, Technology

Fingerprint Scanners

iPhone 5S, HTC One Max and surely many more to come are just a few devices that are implementing this “new” fingerprint scanning technology.  The iPhone, for example, uses the technology to unlock the devices and for purchases among a few reasons.  However, how practical and how broad can this technology be stretched?  Will it get to the point where people are getting snatched to use their thumbs?

I believe that this technology is a good step-forward — as with any advance.  However, I still believe that nothing will surpass the traditional pin or password unlock in terms of security and practicality.

fingerprint

Another thing to note is that with the resent uproar of NSA “spying”, some technologists fear this may be yet another way for the government to collect information on it’s citizens.

[Video courtesy of CNET]

Bottom line: Congratulations, we have new technology within our smartphones; however, I do not believe that this is groundbreaking in terms of security, the password still reigns supreme.

Mobile Operating Systems, Operating Systems, Technology

Nexus 5

Google fans unite!  Rather, pure-Android fans unite.  Whether you love the Nexus brand or not — it is always great to see another monumental device along with the latest version of Andriod be released around this time of the year.  As a Nexus 4 owner, I am excited for the new features of Android 4.4 (KitKat) as well as the new hardware found on the Nexus 5.

Nexus devices show the market what Android is all about, that is without the skins, colorful overlays and played transitions.  This is stock Android at it’s finest.  Typically OEM skins can slow down your device and leave the user with a poor experience, which in turn leads them to blame the OS, not the OEM.  When in fact you can pick up a Nexus device and always have a wonderful experience.

Nowadays, Android is stable, mature and bold and the software isn’t an issue unless it really brings the device down (Samsung’s TouchWiz, which could be vastly improved if it weren’t for the useless features baked in).  The thing that any Nexus device will not have is extra unwanted bloat, be it from the carrier, OEM or vendor — giving the end user an incredible experience directly from Google.

NEXUS-5

I am ready for the Nexus 5; the next pinnacle of the Android experience.

Mobile Operating Systems, Technology

Galaxy Mega…. Too big or too right?

A 6.3″ screen attached to a device that is actually a phone.  Is this something that you’d use?

I have big hands and an affinity for devices and honestly this seems like the perfect device for someone like me.  Personally, I own a Galaxy Nexus and a Nexus 7 — if I owned this device I could seemingly par my load down to just one without carrying a phone and tablet everywhere I go.

On a another note, what really makes this a good device? I’d say it is a combination of it’s form factor, specs and functionality. No device is completely useless — hence why there are so many different sizes, prices and storage capacities of smart phones.  The only cause for alarm with this device is the fact that it has mid-range specs; it is apparent that Samsung is not pushing this as an all-star device — although it has the potential to be.

Bottom line:  This device is an excellent device for someone who is looking for sheer screen size; however, for the enthusiast who wants the fastest mobile processor and the most RAM — look elsewhere.  That being said, my excitement is still high for this device.

Mobile Operating Systems, Technology

Samsung, who do you think you are?

Well, it is done.  Samsung unveiled it’s latest and greatest device yet, the Samsung Galaxy S IV.  However, most of us technology buffs are calling it simply a Galaxy SIII refresh, which is quite accurate when you break it down.  When you place each device face up, side-by-side it is quite difficult for any inexperienced onlooker to determine which device is which.

However, the refresh is not the issue here — it is the fact that Samsung appears to be attempting to create their own brand of apps that seemingly “replace” apps that are from Google.  For example:

  • Samsung Hub
  • sVoice
  • sTranslate

These apps are essentially a spin off of Google Play, Google Now and Google Translate respectively and Samsung continues to develop it’s own apps. However, one must stop and think is Samsung trying to branch off from Google?  It certainly appears that way.  On the other hand, where would Samsung be without Google’s Android that is powering all of their high selling devices?

Bottom line:  Google needs to get Samsung to get their act together, Samsung with TouchWiz is NOT Google Android.  It seems that Samsung may be thinking that it can do “this” without Google.