Back in June, Verizon and AT&T wrote a letter to Senator Ron Wyden (D-Oregon), saying that they would no longer sell real-time customer location data to third party firms. As it turned out, neither carrier stopped this practice, and yesterday AT&T promised once more that it would cut out sales of this data to third parties. T-Mobile reportedly is winding down this practice and will stop it altogether in March. Verizon has contracts with four data brokers remaining, and is letting them wind down. After they expire, Verizon customers will have to agree to have their location data sold.

Two ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 20:54:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Google-says-it-told-Sprint-and-T-Mobile-not-to-sell-Project-Fi-customers-location-data_id112684/commentsAlan Friedmanhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Verizon-reportedly-testing-game-streaming-service-for-Android-devices_id112686Verizon Gaming is a game streaming service that's currently being tested by the U.S. carrier on the NVIDIA Shield TV set-up box. Apparently, Verizon recruited gamers to take part in a test that involves playing more than 135 games, The Verge reports.

Currently, tests are being run on NVIDIA Shield, but Verizon plans to make its game streaming service available on Android smartphones as well. Those who take part in in the beta program will receive a $150 Amazon gift card once testing is over. On top of that, they are getting a free NVIDIA Shield, Xbox controller, and a login for the test.

Verizon ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 19:13:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Verizon-reportedly-testing-game-streaming-service-for-Android-devices_id112686/commentsCosmin Vasilehttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Apple-looked-at-Samsung-MediaTek-5G-modem-chips-for-2019-iPhone-models_id112685

The FTC v. Qualcomm non-jury trial continued on Friday with Judge Lucy Koh (yes, the same Judge Koh who presided over the first Apple v. Samsung trial) listening to testimony from Apple supply chain executive Tony Blevins. According to Reuters, Blevins told the court that the company considered sourcing 5G modem chips from MediaTek and Samsung for the 2019 iPhone models.

Between 2011 to 2016, Apple used modem chips from Qualcomm for the iPhone. In 2016, for the Apple iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus, the company used chips from both Qualcomm and Intel. Because of its ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 18:24:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Apple-looked-at-Samsung-MediaTek-5G-modem-chips-for-2019-iPhone-models_id112685/commentsAlan Friedmanhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Breaking-Bad-mobile-game-lands-on-Android-and-iOS-later-this-year_id112652Sony and FTX Games have just announced the Breaking Bad mobile game. 11 years after the debut of the popular TV series, Breaking Bad: Criminal Elements will bring the same thrilling experience to Android and iOS users.

Advertised as a free-to-play mobile game, Criminal Elements will be developed by Plamee and published by FTX Games. The game will include iconic characters that appear in the TV show like Walter White, Jesse Pinkman, Gus Fring, Saul Goodman, and Mike Ehrmantraut.

The main goal of the game is to develop and maintain a criminal operation using specific items like meth ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 16:21:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Breaking-Bad-mobile-game-lands-on-Android-and-iOS-later-this-year_id112652/commentsCosmin Vasilehttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Music-streamer-Spotify-says-it-has-over-200-million-Monthly-Active-Users_id112683

Spotify, with 40 million tunes in its library that can be streamed over multiple platforms, has announced that it now has over 200 million Monthly Active Users. However, even with a focus on signing up members to its paid premium plans, over 113 million people continue to rely on Spotify's ad-supported free service. More than 87 million members are part of a paid premium subscription plan. Spotify charges $9.99 a month for an individual (after a 30 day free trial), $14.99 a month for a family with up to six members, and $4.99 monthly for verified college students.

Premium ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 15:57:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Music-streamer-Spotify-says-it-has-over-200-million-Monthly-Active-Users_id112683/commentsAlan Friedmanhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Samsung-Galaxy-Note-9-S9S9-are-200-off-with-up-to-300-off-in-trades_id112681Let's face it, if you're looking to buy a Samsung flagship smartphone, this isn't a good time at all. In about a month from now, the South Korean company is expected to unveil its newest top-tier smartphone, the Galaxy S10.

However, Samsung is now running a sale on the Galaxy Note 9, S9 and S9+, which is hard to pass up. For a limited time, Samsung Galaxy Note 9, S9 and S9+ cost $200 less if you buy them from the Samsung store and choose AT&T, Sprint, or Verizon models.

For some reason, T-Mobile and U.S. Cellular models have a smaller $100 discount. Also, the unlocked versions ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 15:09:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Samsung-Galaxy-Note-9-S9S9-are-200-off-with-up-to-300-off-in-trades_id112681/commentsCosmin Vasilehttps://www.phonearena.com/news/The-2019-iPhones-could-support-much-faster-Wi-Fi-speeds_id112682

iPhone XI Max CAD-based render

Aside from a potentially smaller notch and a redesigned camera module on the larger device, Apple’s 2019 iPhones are expected to bring no major design changes. Nevertheless, some big internal upgrades are to be expected. And according to Barclays (via 9To5Mac), one of these could be improved Wi-Fi speeds.

Revealed in their latest report, the 2019 iPhone series will bring support for the latest Wi-Fi 6 standard, which is based on the IEEE 802.11ax technology. This will allow for connection speeds that are ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 13:49:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/The-2019-iPhones-could-support-much-faster-Wi-Fi-speeds_id112682/commentsJoshua Swinglehttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Verizon-will-hand-out-up-to-1-million-in-seed-money-for-the-best-5G-ideas_id112678

How would you like to fund your great 5G idea with a check from Verizon? During his keynote speech at CES earlier this week, the CEO of the nation's largest wireless carrier, Hans Vestberg, discussed the company's "Built on 5G Challenge." The competition begins this spring, but in the meantime you can sign up with your email address to be notified when and how to officially throw your hat in the ring.

Besides individuals, the 5G Challenge is open to companies backed by Venture Capitialists, non-profits, educators, and small start-up firms. Those with the best ideas will ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 12:49:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Verizon-will-hand-out-up-to-1-million-in-seed-money-for-the-best-5G-ideas_id112678/commentsAlan Friedmanhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Samsung-Galaxy-S10E-branding-mentioned-again-this-time-by-reliable-tipster_id112679

Samsung Galaxy S10E case renders

Since the very beginning, Samsung’s smallest flagship has been referred to as the Galaxy S10 Lite. Earlier this week, though, one online retailer suggested that its actual name would the Galaxy S10E. And today reliable tipster Evan Blass is backing this claim up.

According to rumors, the Galaxy S10E will make its debut as the first Samsung-branded flagship to feature a flat display since 2016’s Galaxy S7. This cost-cutting measure should allow it to be priced significantly lower than its premium siblings. ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 12:20:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Samsung-Galaxy-S10E-branding-mentioned-again-this-time-by-reliable-tipster_id112679/commentsJoshua Swinglehttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Popular-media-player-VLC-exceeds-3-billion-downloads-soon-to-get-AirPlay-support_id112680VLC may be the most popular media player for desktop and mobile, and it's not just us that are saying that, but the numbers look impressive as well. VideoLan, the company behind VLC, announced earlier this week at CES (Consumers Electronics Show) 2019 that its app will exceed 3 billion downloads this weekend.

About 25% of that huge amount comes from mobile devices, so about 750 million downloads are coming from Android and iOS platforms. But the folks at VideoLan won't stop here, as they revealed an impressive roadmap for VLC, which includes AirPlay and VR support.

With VR support, ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 11:55:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Popular-media-player-VLC-exceeds-3-billion-downloads-soon-to-get-AirPlay-support_id112680/commentsCosmin Vasilehttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Deal-Apple-Beats-Solo3-wireless-headphones-are-40-off-at-Best-Buy_id112675Apple's Beats Solo3 wireless headphones have been discounted many times in the past, but they rarely go on sale for less than $200. Still, even at $200, the Beats Solo3 headphones are a good deal considering Apple sells them for $300.

That brings us to the latest offer coming from Best Buy, which lowers the price of the headphones below the $200 mark. If you're in the market for a pair of premium wireless headphones, Best Buy has them on sale for just $180.

On top of that, every customer who buys them will receive 3 months of Apple Music service for free. The same goes for shipping ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 11:00:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Deal-Apple-Beats-Solo3-wireless-headphones-are-40-off-at-Best-Buy_id112675/commentsCosmin Vasilehttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Apples-iPhone-price-cuts-in-China-are-now-being-passed-on-to-consumers_id112676

The iPhone XR – Apple's cheapest 2018 model

Earlier this week, a new report revealed that Apple had cut iPhone 8, iPhone XR, and iPhone XS pricing for third-party retailers in China. And now, just as expected, these reductions are being passed on to consumers (via 9To5Mac).

Starting today, newer iPhone models cost between 15% and 22% less if purchased through retailers JD.com or Suning. Presumably, this move has been made in coordination with Apple’s new pricing strategy. But if the price fails to boost sales, the Cupertino giant may ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 10:25:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Apples-iPhone-price-cuts-in-China-are-now-being-passed-on-to-consumers_id112676/commentsJoshua Swinglehttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Nokia-takes-us-behind-the-scenes-of-the-brands-Android-Pie-development-process_id112668If you ever wondered how Nokia-branded smartphones consistently manage to stay ahead of the competition when it comes to timely software updates, you may want to take a look at this neat infographic uploaded to HMD Global’s servers.

HMD is the 2016-founded company behind Nokia’s unlikely resurgence, marketing and distributing Foxconn-manufactured handsets under an iconic name that once dominated the mobile tech scene.

As it turns out, the Finland-based startup follows a fairly standard Android 9 Pie optimization schedule, kicked off months ago with Google’s OS code deployment ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 09:04:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Nokia-takes-us-behind-the-scenes-of-the-brands-Android-Pie-development-process_id112668/commentsAdrian Diaconescuhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Best-phones-under-200-in-2019_id112623You don't need to spend a thousand dollars on a phone to get a good one!

That's the good news in 2019 as a few companies continue delivering incredible devices in prices as low as $200.

Why exactly $200? First, it's a nice round sum, and second, this is what people used to pay back in the day of 2-year contracts. But in an era when you pay the full price of the phone, this price target is particularly hard to hit. And especially so for a device that will make no big compromises with its performance and camera. Thankfully, we have selected a few devices ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 09:00:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Best-phones-under-200-in-2019_id112623/commentsVictor Hristovhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/The-red-Galaxy-S10-model-may-have-been-scrapped-by-Samsung_id112663

Samsung Galaxy S10 and S10+ concept renders

In early October, Samsung reportedly finalized the Galaxy S10’s color options. But if a new report by CompareRaja is anything to by, one of these has since been scrapped while another has been assigned to just one model.

While availability may vary by market, it’s claimed that all three Galaxy S10 models will purchasable in Black, White, Blue, and Green finishes. Alongside these, it appears the cheaper Galaxy S10 E will also be sold in Yellow. Rather interestingly, though, this variant ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 07:30:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/The-red-Galaxy-S10-model-may-have-been-scrapped-by-Samsung_id112663/commentsJoshua Swinglehttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Best-Buy-takes-up-to-150-off-select-2017-and-2018-iPad-Pro-models_id112664As long as you don't have (too much of) a problem with the “subtle deviations in flatness” of Apple’s latest iPad Pros, you can’t go wrong with purchasing either the all-new 11-inch model or upgraded 12.9-incher.

It’s essentially impossible to find better, faster, and prettier tablets right now, although the two’s price tags are certainly not what we’d call affordable. On the bright side, Best Buy is running an unprecedented two-day sale on a wide range of new and old iPad Pro variants, offering unbeatable discounts of up to $150.

The cheapest iOS slate on the marked-down ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 07:17:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Best-Buy-takes-up-to-150-off-select-2017-and-2018-iPad-Pro-models_id112664/commentsAdrian Diaconescuhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Mujjo-Smartphone-Gloves-you-wouldnt-know-you-need-a-pair-until-you-try-them-hands-on_id112631This is one of the rare cases where we get to check out a product that doesn't run on batteries or plug into an outlet. Over the past several weeks, I've been testing the Mujjo Smartphone Gloves – which are exactly what their name implies. These, however, are dramatically better at operating touchscreens than those generic smartphone gloves you might find at the dollar store.

The Mujjo Smartphone Gloves look and feel like your typical 5-finger pair. They come in four sizes – small, medium, large, and extra large – and personally, I find the fit of the M-size comfortable. The fabric is synthetic ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 07:15:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Mujjo-Smartphone-Gloves-you-wouldnt-know-you-need-a-pair-until-you-try-them-hands-on_id112631/commentsNick Todorovhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/These-paid-Android-games-are-now-free-for-a-limited-time-grab-them-while-you-can_id112655Looking for some neat new games to play on your Android smartphone? If that's the case, you might be pleased to hear that several titles that are usually paid are now available for free on Google Play.

This collection features several different genres, so we've made sure to include a video (where available) or gameplay image and a description below each title in order to aid you in the selection process.

Also, make sure to check out the end of sale times for each game next to the respective download link. At the time of writing (January 11th), some of these titles only have a few ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 07:15:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/These-paid-Android-games-are-now-free-for-a-limited-time-grab-them-while-you-can_id112655/commentsPlamen Dimitrovhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Google-Play-Books-gets-Material-design-makeover_id112659

Google last year showed off its revamped Material design language and started rolling out to first-party apps over the course of the past months. We've already seen the redesign go live in Google Tasks, Google Maps, Google Photos, Assistant, Gmail, and everybody's favorite Calculator app, but the latest in line to get the Material design treatment is Google Play Books.

Some of the aforementioned redesigns have been quite substantial, while others – merely a fresh coat of paint. Play Books seems to fall into the second category, as Android Police reports, with the changes ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 06:18:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Google-Play-Books-gets-Material-design-makeover_id112659/commentsMilen Yanachkovhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Nokia-9-PureView-looks-more-and-more-likely-to-be-announced-this-month_id112660The world’s first smartphone with five rear-facing cameras is most likely right around the corner. It has to be, seeing as how Nokia 9 rumors have been floating around for almost two years now. Yes, really.

This time, there are CAD-based renders, actual press images, and even a promotional video supporting speculation of an impending announcement and release. Credible sources from Nokia’s “distribution channel” have told the folks over at 91mobiles to expect a formal debut of the brand’s first ultra-high-end Android device “by the end of January”, which lines up with a different tipster’s ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 06:16:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Nokia-9-PureView-looks-more-and-more-likely-to-be-announced-this-month_id112660/commentsAdrian Diaconescuhttps://www.phonearena.com/reviews/Withings-Pulse-HR-Review_id4598

If you’re one of the millions of people that begin the new year with the goal to exercise more, you might need some help maintaining that motivation beyond the first week of January. Besides having friends that will drag you to the gym, another way to keep yourself in check is by using a fitness tracker. This is where the Withings Pulse HR comes in. With its simplicity and durable design, it will be your partner in all activities that can get your heart pumping. So let’s see what it has to offer!

What’s in the box:

Pulse HRUSB charger with magnetic slotSafety ...]]>ReviewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 05:35:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/reviews/Withings-Pulse-HR-Review_id4598/commentsGeorgi Zarkovhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Another-Huawei-executive-arrested-for-espionage-allegations_id112658

Huawei just can't seem to get out of hot water these days. First, the company was barred from selling its flagships in the USA, with authorities giving out warnings to friendly countries that they should ban the China-based company's devices as well. Then, Huawei's chief financial officer Meng Wanzhou, who also happens to be the daughter of the company's founder, got arrested in Canada, allegedly due to being linked to illegal equipment sales in Iran. And now, the director of Huawei's branch in Poland has also been detained, reportedly on allegations of espionage.

The details on the ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 05:24:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Another-Huawei-executive-arrested-for-espionage-allegations_id112658/commentsPreslav Katelievhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Sony-will-unveil-new-phones-at-MWC-2019-but-Xperia-XZ4-Compact-may-not-be-happening_id112657

The recently rendered Xperia XZ4 Compact may have been canceled 

While we never expected much from this year’s Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas in terms of smartphone announcements, Sony did unveil the mid-range Xperia XA2, XA2 Ultra, and Xperia L2 at CES 2018, which made the Xperia XA3, XA3 Ultra, and Xperia L3 prime candidates for debut showings this week.

But the company had different plans, instead setting its sights on next month’s Mobile World Congress for mystery announcements laying out the “first step” on the road ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 05:08:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Sony-will-unveil-new-phones-at-MWC-2019-but-Xperia-XZ4-Compact-may-not-be-happening_id112657/commentsAdrian Diaconescuhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/US-based-Huawei-research-blocked-from-reaching-China-over-security-concerns_id112654The relationship between the US Government and Chinese tech giant Huawei is far from warm. From straight out banning Huawei equipment from being used in the States to pressuring mobile carriers to not sell Huawei smartphones, authorities have put quite an effort to limit the influence of Huawei in North America. The main reason for that is the company’s close ties with the Chinese government and fears that it's sending it communications data from the US.

In the latest episode of this ongoing drama, Huawei’s research-and-development unit based in California has been denied export licenses, ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 04:08:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/US-based-Huawei-research-blocked-from-reaching-China-over-security-concerns_id112654/commentsGeorgi Zarkovhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/WSJ-reveals-2019-iPhone-lineup-details_id112656Apple will release three new iPhones in 2019 to succeed the current iPhone XS Max, XS and XR, and the highest-end model will indeed have three cameras, while the other two will feature dual cameras, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal.

The Journal does not reveal much else, but we have already seen leaksters show an early concept image of what a triple-camera iPhone could look like. While this particular report does not give specific details about what the third camera can do, expectations and rumors point to it being an ultra-wide angle camera with a field of view ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 04:08:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/WSJ-reveals-2019-iPhone-lineup-details_id112656/commentsVictor Hristovhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/HTCs-first-5G-smartphone-is-not-expected-to-launch-until-the-second-half-of-2019_id112653After repeatedly assuring us of the company’s long-term commitment to the smartphone market over the past few months (which in itself doesn’t feel particularly encouraging), HTC is back at CES 2019... with more promises of business revitalization.

While it continues to remain unclear exactly how HTC aims to turn its flagging handset division around, Digitimes reports the company’s first 5G-enabled phones are not expected until the “second half of 2019.”

The logic behind that decision is certainly sound, as the 5G market is indeed “not yet mature at the moment”, but as numerous ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 03:55:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/HTCs-first-5G-smartphone-is-not-expected-to-launch-until-the-second-half-of-2019_id112653/commentsAdrian Diaconescuhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Google-Podcasts-is-finally-getting-Android-Auto-support_id112650

Google has been rather slow to get into the podcasts game with its own app, not counting the Play Music implementation from 2016. Far behind the curve when compared to Apple and various Android developers, Google finally launched its first party Podcasts app last year. It didn't even start out as a stand-alone app, but rather as an add-on for Chrome and Google Assistant, though that's changed since and Podcasts turned into its own thing.

However, the app still lacked some basic functionality that you'd expect from a first-party Google offering. For example, Podcasts ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 03:25:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Google-Podcasts-is-finally-getting-Android-Auto-support_id112650/commentsMilen Yanachkovhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Watch-out-OnePlus-6T-the-Honor-View-20-isnt-messing-around-hands-on_id112648

Kicking off the new year, Honor is taking much of the attention during a relatively low-key affair for mobile at CES 2019. After the impressive release of the Huawei Mate 20 and Mate 20 Pro over the crucial holiday season, the Honor View 20 seems to be delivering many of the same experiences found with those two phones, but it’s aiming to be priced at a significantly more aggressive price point to appeal to a wider reach of people!

An utterly beautiful design

Honor’s flagship is one stunning looking ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 02:51:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Watch-out-OnePlus-6T-the-Honor-View-20-isnt-messing-around-hands-on_id112648/commentsJohn Velascohttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Multiple-2017-Surface-Pro-variants-available-at-massive-450-discount-from-Best-Buy_id112651Things have been relatively quiet on the Best Buy deal front so far this year, with the always generous retailer seemingly taking a breather after pretty much discounting everything you may have needed to experience the dreamiest holidays possible.

But now a hot new 2 Day Sale event includes hefty savings on “HDTVs, laptops and more”, with a discount of up to $450 on select Surface devices easily capturing our attention. As you might expect, that massive markdown is not available for Microsoft’s latest Surface Pro generation, which goes a measly $100 off list instead in an Intel Core i5 ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 02:45:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Multiple-2017-Surface-Pro-variants-available-at-massive-450-discount-from-Best-Buy_id112651/commentsAdrian Diaconescuhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Deal-Sennheiser-RS120-wireless-headphones-with-charging-dock-are-40-off-on-Amazon_id112649Sennheiser is a big name when it comes to audio products, so you definitely can't go wrong whenever you buy anything from their huge portfolio. The same goes for Sennheiser RS120 RF wireless headphones, which are now on sale on Amazon for 40% off, a major discount that brings their price well below $100.

Not to mention that the retail box contains a very nice charging dock for which you won't have to pay extra. Although they're not compatible with Bluetooth technology, they can be used with TV and Hi-Fi Audio via lightweight radio frequency (RF) wireless function.

The RF system features ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 02:20:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Deal-Sennheiser-RS120-wireless-headphones-with-charging-dock-are-40-off-on-Amazon_id112649/commentsCosmin Vasilehttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Final-Fantasy-Digital-Card-Game-announced-for-smartphones-beta-debuts-in-January_id112643There are already plenty of Final Fantasy games available to Android and iOS players, but none tackles that card game genre. Well, things are about to change, as Square Enix has just announced the new Final Fantasy Digital Card Game for PC and smartphones.

The developers plan to run a closed beta between January 18 and January 25, but only in Japan. As you might have guessed, the game will allow players to build their own deck comprising of iconic Final Fantasy characters and take on other players in PvP mode.

Each Final Fantasy games is designed to last for as long as 12 turns, ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 01:31:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Final-Fantasy-Digital-Card-Game-announced-for-smartphones-beta-debuts-in-January_id112643/commentsCosmin Vasilehttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Affordable-LG-K9s-coming-soon-to-Metro-by-T-Mobile_id112647Metro by T-Mobile is about to expand its portfolio of budget-friendly smartphones with an LG device that hasn't yet been officially introduced. The LG K9s has been recently showcased at CES (Consumers Electronics Show) 2019 and the folks over at XDA Developers managed to take some snapshots of the phone.

Design-wise, the LG K9s is nothing to remember, except maybe the fact that it's got a white backside. Other than that, LG's budget-friendly smartphone looks just like an average cheap device, although we're not yet sure how much it will cost.

As far as the specs go, LG K9s has a standard ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 01:03:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Affordable-LG-K9s-coming-soon-to-Metro-by-T-Mobile_id112647/commentsCosmin Vasilehttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Aura-Band-for-the-Apple-Watch-tracks-body-composition-weight-and-more_id112646

As we told you yesterday, the ECG sensor on the Apple Watch Series 4 has apparently saved another life by detecting an abnormal heart rhythm that was diagnosed as atrial fibrillation (AFib). The Apple Watch is also known for saving lives thanks to early warnings received from the device's heart rate monitor. While the Apple Watch also tracks users' activities and workouts, there is a new accessory that also monitors other health metrics that the Apple Watch doesn't.

At CES on Thursday, the Aura Band was spotted by Apple Insider. Using sensors that are placed inside ...]]>NewsFri, 11 Jan 2019 00:48:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Aura-Band-for-the-Apple-Watch-tracks-body-composition-weight-and-more_id112646/commentsAlan Friedmanhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Spigen-Ossia-show-off-phone-case-with-a-battery-that-charges-wirelessly-OTA_id112645

Imagine a world where the battery in your phone charges wirelessly via over the air signals. Back in 2017, we told you that Disney was working on this technology. So is a company called Ossia. The latter today announced (via Gizmodo) that it is teaming up with smartphone case maker Spigen to produce a smartphone battery case that will work with Ossia's technology.

The Spigen Forever Sleeve case is a proof of concept and is on display at the Las Vegas Convention Center during CES. With Ossia's Cota wireless technology, once the battery inside a phone is dead, the ...]]>NewsThu, 10 Jan 2019 22:50:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Spigen-Ossia-show-off-phone-case-with-a-battery-that-charges-wirelessly-OTA_id112645/commentsAlan Friedmanhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Sprint-successfully-tests-5G-data-transmission-using-its-2.5GHz-spectrum_id112644

Sprint announced today that it completed the first 5G data transmission using its high-frequency 2.5GHz spectrum. In partnership with Nokia and Qualcomm, the carrier used Nokia’s dual-mode AirScale Massive MIMO radio during the test. This technology uses 64 transmitters and receivers placed in a cell tower that send and receive signals to and from multiple handsets. As a comparison, 4 X 4 MIMO is used on LTE-A networks like AT&T's (ahem) 5G Evolution. For more on Massive MIMO, click on the video at the top of this article.

Sprint ran the 5G data transmission over ...]]>NewsThu, 10 Jan 2019 21:02:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Sprint-successfully-tests-5G-data-transmission-using-its-2.5GHz-spectrum_id112644/commentsAlan Friedmanhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Some-Alcatel-phones-were-pre-installed-with-an-app-that-carried-malware_id112642

According to a report from Upstream, a mobile security firm (via CNET), a weather app pre-installed on certain Alcatel smartphones contained malware that would secretly subscribe owners of these handsets to premium phone numbers. The app, called "Weather Forecast-World Weather Accurate Radar," was not only pre-installed on Alcatel handsets, it also was offered on the Google Play Store; more than 10 million people installed the app on their Android phone

The most interesting part of this story is that the app was developed by Chinese phone manufacturer TCL. Yes, ...]]>NewsThu, 10 Jan 2019 18:39:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Some-Alcatel-phones-were-pre-installed-with-an-app-that-carried-malware_id112642/commentsAlan Friedmanhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Verizon-and-Cat-team-up-to-bring-customers-the-ultra-rugged-S48c-smartphone_id112641Verizon and Cat Phones have just announced the ultra-rugged S48c smartphone is now available to all Verizon Business and Enterprise customers for $250 with a two-year contract or $600 retail.

If you're not a business customer, you'll be able to pick this one up from Cat Phones' online store from the end of January for the same outright price. Verizon is not the first carrier to sell the S48c, as the smartphone was initially introduced in the U.S. by Sprint.

As with all Cat's smartphones, the S48c has been designed with durability at its core. The phone has several certifications ...]]>NewsThu, 10 Jan 2019 18:01:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Verizon-and-Cat-team-up-to-bring-customers-the-ultra-rugged-S48c-smartphone_id112641/commentsCosmin Vasilehttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Xiaomi-once-again-copies-Apple-this-time-with-a-huge-stock-market-collapse_id112639

Apple's shares, as many of you already know, have dropped 34% from its peak. Last week, the stock had a particularly bad day after Apple CEO Tim Cook announced that the company was lowering its guidance of fiscal first quarter revenue due to weak iPhone sales in China. The very next day, the stock crashed nearly 10% lower, and have struggled to recapture some of that lost ground since.

Well, it seems that Xiaomi, once known as China's Apple, is also going through a downward adjustment of its valuation. Over the last three days, shares of the company have dropped 17%, ...]]>NewsThu, 10 Jan 2019 16:57:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Xiaomi-once-again-copies-Apple-this-time-with-a-huge-stock-market-collapse_id112639/commentsAlan Friedmanhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Worlds-first-4G-LTE-smartwatch-for-kids-arrives-in-the-U.S.-on-January-28_id112640The Texas-headquartered Coolpad Americas has just announced what appears to be world's first 4G LTE smartwatch for kids. Dubbed Coolpad Dyno, the smartwatch will be available for purchase in the United States starting January 28 for just $150.

Specifically designed to connect parents to children, the Coolpad Dyno is sturdy enough to withstand light shocks, but it also features kid-proof protection against dust and water (IP65 rating). Aside from 4G LTE connectivity, the smartwatch offers an intuitive interface and an SOS button that allows children to quickly contact parents.

The ...]]>NewsThu, 10 Jan 2019 16:29:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Worlds-first-4G-LTE-smartwatch-for-kids-arrives-in-the-U.S.-on-January-28_id112640/commentsCosmin Vasilehttps://www.phonearena.com/news/More-changes-coming-to-NVIDIA-Shield-TV-including-new-option-to-switch-color-modes_id112611NVIDIA announced a new update is coming to Shield TV units this week, and it brings with it a plethora of fixes and improvements. The only new feature added in this update is the option to switch color modes from the Settings / Developer Options / Colorimetry.

Among the many enhancements and fixed that Shield Experience Upgrade 7.2.2 brings, NVIDIA highlights at least a dozen that considerably improve user experience.

Fixes Keyboard/Mouse functionality for PUBG Mobile;Fixes bug where colors are displayed incorrectly on Chrome/Puffin browsers;Resolves storage quota issues when transferring ...]]>NewsThu, 10 Jan 2019 15:40:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/More-changes-coming-to-NVIDIA-Shield-TV-including-new-option-to-switch-color-modes_id112611/commentsCosmin Vasilehttps://www.phonearena.com/news/WhatsApp-starts-working-on-Touch-ID-security-feature-for-Android-users_id112637It looks like WhatsApp is playing nice with Android users after all. Back in October, WhatsApp started working on a new feature that would allow iOS users to authenticate using two security methods – Face ID and Touch ID, but there was no word on whether or not these features will make it to Android app as well.

Fortunately, new info has just emerged that confirms WhatsApp will bring at least one of the two security features to its Android app. WabetaInfo reports the latest beta version of WhatsApp includes the so-called Touch ID feature.

With the new security feature, WhatsApp users ...]]>NewsThu, 10 Jan 2019 14:50:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/WhatsApp-starts-working-on-Touch-ID-security-feature-for-Android-users_id112637/commentsCosmin Vasilehttps://www.phonearena.com/news/T-Mobile-announces-Caller-Verified-to-warn-subscribers-about-possible-scam-calls_id112633

T-Mobile today announced the launch of its new Caller Verified technology, designed to prevent the carrier's customers from scammers and spammers. The first phone to carry this feature is the Samsung Galaxy Note 9, thanks to a recent software update. The Caller Verified technology will be added to other T-Mobile smartphones over the course of this year.

So if you're a T-Mobile subscriber and own the Galaxy Note 9, you might see the words "Caller Verified" on the incoming call screen. This means that T-Mobile has verified the authenticity of the call, and that it ...]]>NewsThu, 10 Jan 2019 14:33:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/T-Mobile-announces-Caller-Verified-to-warn-subscribers-about-possible-scam-calls_id112633/commentsAlan Friedmanhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/BLU-Vivo-XI-kicks-off-surprising-Android-9.0-Pie-beta-program_id112638It looks like BLU Products is indeed turning over a new leaf after achieving mainstream popularity on the US unlocked smartphone scene by essentially releasing a new device every week, then squandering it all away with one too many privacy scandals and a disastrous software update.

The Miami-based company appears to be focusing more on the quality of its (still affordable) phones than the sheer size of its product lineup, while vowing to implement a “comprehensive data security program” under the terms of a recent settlement with the Federal Trade Commission.

As for software ...]]>NewsThu, 10 Jan 2019 14:22:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/BLU-Vivo-XI-kicks-off-surprising-Android-9.0-Pie-beta-program_id112638/commentsAdrian Diaconescuhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/T-Mobile---Sprint-promise-user-location-data-sharing-will-soon-stop_id112636Following a story published earlier this week by Motherboard which shed a light on US carrier practices regarding the sale of user location data, T-Mobile and Sprint have today announced that they are in the process of revoking third-party access to this data.

In a statement to The Verge, a Sprint spokesperson said that it will no longer “knowingly share personally identifiable” location data, the only exception to this rule being legal requests. Similarly, T-Mobile confirmed that it’s in the process of revoking access to all third parties, with CEO John Legere stating on Twitter that the ...]]>NewsThu, 10 Jan 2019 14:12:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/T-Mobile---Sprint-promise-user-location-data-sharing-will-soon-stop_id112636/commentsJoshua Swinglehttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Deal-Latest-iPad-model-on-sale-at-Amazon-for-as-little-as-280_id112635Amazon is bringing yet another iPad deal to Apple fans who can't afford or don't want to spend more than $300 on a tablet. The latest generation 9.7-inch Apple iPad is getting a 15% discount on Amazon, but only the Wi-Fi version.

For a limited time, the 9.7-inch Apple iPad will be available on Amazon for just $280. Keep in mind that only the 32GB model is on sale for the moment, as the 128GB version is no longer available for purchase through Amazon.

amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "phone4e4d-20";amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "manual";amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart";amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon";amzn_assoc_region ...]]>NewsThu, 10 Jan 2019 13:11:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Deal-Latest-iPad-model-on-sale-at-Amazon-for-as-little-as-280_id112635/commentsCosmin Vasilehttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Google-Pixel-lockscreen-Assistant-coming-to-all-Android-phones-here-is-how-it-works_id112634Every year Google introduces new software features that are exclusive to its Pixel devices. Some remain exclusive forever, while others are making their way to other smartphones after a while.

The option to trigger Google Assistant even when your smartphone is locked is only available for Pixel users, but that's about to change Google announced recently. In the next few weeks, all Android devices will benefit from this specific feature that was available to a limited number of users.

In order to enable the so-called “Pixel lockscreen Assistant” feature, you'll have to opt-in through ...]]>NewsThu, 10 Jan 2019 11:39:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Google-Pixel-lockscreen-Assistant-coming-to-all-Android-phones-here-is-how-it-works_id112634/commentsCosmin Vasilehttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Instead-of-a-chip-license-Qualcomm-offered-Samsung-an-agreement-to-be-sued-last_id112632

Qualcomm, the company that designs those wonderful chipsets that power the majority of handsets around the world, the company whose Snapdragon X50 modem chip will soon bring the joy of 5G data speeds to many, is rapidly turning into a villain. Imagine a Snidely Whiplash-like character with the top hat and long handlebar mustache; that's Qualcomm, tying smartphone manufacturers to the train tracks with their "no license, no chips" demand.

Another interesting story that is bound to make Qualcomm look even more evil was reported today by Foss Patents. On day three ...]]>NewsThu, 10 Jan 2019 11:27:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Instead-of-a-chip-license-Qualcomm-offered-Samsung-an-agreement-to-be-sued-last_id112632/commentsAlan Friedmanhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Samsung-seemingly-confirms-Galaxy-S10-design-in-One-UI-blog-post_id112629The Galaxy S10 series will represent a major step in the evolution of Samsung’s flagship smartphones. But with over a month still to go until its debut, the excitement over the whole thing appears to have got to certain employees.

In a recent Samsung Newsroom article (via GSMArena) dedicated to the benefits of One UI, the South Korean giant accidentally included one particular image which appears to showcase the regular Galaxy S10 which, as expected, features minimal bezels, a curved edge display and, more importantly, a display hole in the top-right corner.

To add further ...]]>NewsThu, 10 Jan 2019 09:53:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Samsung-seemingly-confirms-Galaxy-S10-design-in-One-UI-blog-post_id112629/commentsJoshua Swinglehttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Xiaomi-just-unveiled-another-Apple-copycat-product-but-we-actually-like-this-one_id112607

Chinese gadget maker Xiaomi is known for making some of the best bang-for-the-buck phones worldwide, but it's also known for sometimes just blindly copying certain Apple products.

And while we are actually very impressed with its new Redmi Note 7, a $200 phone with a sexy design, a massive, 4,000mAh battery, Snapdragon 660 chip inside and what looks like a very capable, 48-megapixel camera, the case that comes with it... well, let's say that it reminds us of the iPhone 5C.

It's not a direct, blatant copy (like these here Xiaomi AirPods AirDots), ...]]>NewsThu, 10 Jan 2019 09:50:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Xiaomi-just-unveiled-another-Apple-copycat-product-but-we-actually-like-this-one_id112607/commentsVictor Hristovhttps://www.phonearena.com/news/Nubia-X-hands-on-Two-displays-two-fingerprint-scanners-almost-no-bezels_id112622

Although CES 2019 was not very prolific in terms of new phones, we still get to witness in person the design trends that will likely persists throughout 2019. From foldable phones like the Royole FlexPai, to phones with hole-in-display design like the Honor View 20, and finally with the star of this hands-on, the dual-screen Nubia X, we got to see it all.

Taking a page from the same book that treated us to the Vivo NEX, the Nubia X is a device that would most likely turn heads due to its pretty obvious, telltale design highlights - the dual-screen setup that has allowed ...]]>NewsThu, 10 Jan 2019 09:39:00 -0600https://www.phonearena.com/news/Nubia-X-hands-on-Two-displays-two-fingerprint-scanners-almost-no-bezels_id112622/commentsPeter Kostadinov