Samsung to unveil own Android Wear smartwatch at Google I/O


Forget the LG G Watch and Motorola Moto 360, latest reports have suggested that Samsung could be set to unveil its first Android Wear smartwatch next week.


The Korean manufacturer is already one of the leading players in the smartwatch space thanks to the Tizen-based Samsung Gear 2 and Gear 2 Neo offerings, but now it is believed the Galaxy S5 maker will adopt Google’s new wearable-centric OS.


With wearables – and the Android Wear OS in particular – set to be a key focus point of Google’s I/O developer conference next week, CNET has cited claimed ‘people familiar with the matter’ in suggesting Samsung plans to join LG and Motorola in backing Google’s wearable-friendly software.


According to the claimed insiders, Samsung’s upcoming Android Wear watch will be “much like” the company’s existing smartphone devices.


Sadly, for those as excited as we are by the Moto 360’s forward-thinking form, this suggests that the mooted device will be a square rather than round-faced smartwatch.


As well as supporting the Android Wear platform, the currently unconfirmed Samsung wearable will reportedly be powered by the manufacturer’s custom chipset.


Although Samsung has yet to confirm any plans to launch an Android Wear powered smartwatch, the company recently stated that it is “committed to relentless innovation and new products are always in development.”


Google I/O is set to be held in San Francisco this Wednesday and Thursday, June 25 and 26.


We will be bringing you all the latest on Google’s annual showcase so stay tuned to TrustedReviews to see if Samsung’s rumoured Android watch enters the realms of reality as expected.


Read More: Sony SmartWatch 2 Review



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Surface Mini accidentally teased by Microsoft

Microsoft Surface Mini

Microsoft has accidentally teased its future tablet




Microsoft has accidentally revealed the existence of the as yet unconfirmed Surface Mini tablet, mentioning the device within the Surface Pro 3 user manual.


With the sub-sized Surface Mini having been tipped to land alongside the 10-inch flagship tablet at a dedicated launch event last month, widespread reports have suggested that Microsoft pulled the device just days before the planned unveiling.


Now, however, the Surface Mini has made An impromptu appearance of its own, being repeatedly mentioned in the user manual of the Surface Pro 3 – the device which ended up being the star of the New York show.


Adding further backing to claims that the Surface Mini was supposed to touch down weeks ago, the user manual posted the official Microsoft website repeatedly refers to the iPad mini rival as opposed to the Surface Pro 3.


You’ll pair your new pen with Surface Mini a little later during setup,” one excerpt from the official document states.


Further mentions of the reportedly 7-inch device have seen the Surface Mini name used alongside references to the device’s OneNote compatibility and use of the rotation lock features found within Windows 8.


Despite the latest leaks direct from the official Microsoft’s document, it is currently unclear whether or not the manufacturer still intends to release the device.


According to recent rumours, it has been suggested that new Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and former Nokia CEO turn Microsoft Executive VP Stephen Elop decided to pull the plug on the Surface Mini project after Steve Ballmer stepped down.


As you would expect, Microsoft has yet to officially comment on the latest Surface Mini leaks or the internal existence of such a device.


We will of course keep you updated on the latest so stay tuned to TrustedReviews for all you need to know about the Surface Mini.


Read More: iPad Air 2 rumours


Via: TheVerge



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Android 4.4.4 update starts to roll out


A new Android 4.4.4 update has started to roll out to Nexus devices just weeks after Google introduced the Android 4.4.3 patch.


A minor update to Google’s KitKat foundations, the Android 4.4.4 update focuses on introducing a number of new security patches and has been given a low-key release due to its lack of high-profile new features.


A tiny 2.5MB in size, the Android 4.4.4 patch is available as an over-the-air update.


Currently little is known about the introduction plans for the new Android update, although a number of Nexus 5 owners are reporting they have today received the new patch.


As such, it appears that the Android 4.4.4 update is being focused on Google’s latest own-branded smartphone first.


However, according to AndroidCentral, the Android 4.4.4 update is also being readied for Google’s full list of Nexus devices, including the Nexus 4, Nexus 10 and both iterations of the Nexus 7 tablet.


With Google yet to publically discuss the new update, further details are sparse.


We will be sure to keep you updated on the rollout of the Android 4.4.4 update though so stay tuned to TrustedReviews for all the latest.



Read More:
Android 5.0 Features



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Criterion’s new multi-vehicle game is inspired by action cams


Criterion unveiled a new multi-vehicle racing title during EA’s E3 press conference last week and now, speaking with TrustedReviews, the developer has discussed the inspiration behind the game.


Where you might expect it to be all about horsepower and engine notes (don’t worry, there’s still plenty of both), Criterion is looking to replicate something deeper and more human – the intense first-person video experience which has been birthed by the rise of action cameras.


“The stuff [which] definitely has been a super influence, or an inspiration, is action cameras and GoPros - that first-person view,” Matt Webster, Criterion’s General Manager said discussing the unnamed title out in LA.


“They are becoming ubiquitous in the real world and they are certainly defining how the world sees action in a lot of senses and certainly how people are sharing their experiences.”


The game, which was shown in its early development stages, will touch down for next-gen consoles in the coming years and, according to the early clip we’ve seen (below), will let you take control of all manner of vehicles, from cars, bikes and ATVs to jet-skis, planes and boats.


For those of you who are fans of Criterion’s Burnout and Need for Speed efforts, worry not, the studio is still focused on the basics and ensuring that this first-person racer handles as you would expect.


Our games are underpinned by beautiful vehicle control; that has to be the start point,” Webster told us.


“If you imagine those vehicles being in the air or on water as well as being on the ground, you have got scope for a diverse type of play that you’ve maybe not imagined, and certainly not seen before.”


On pairing this mass of vehicles with a new, action camera inspired first-person view, he added: “That is the fun bit and it is where we get the action from.


“We are just bringing those two ideas together. It just seems natural to us.”


Although the game is still a couple of years away from release, Webster suggested that the multi-vehicle idea is far from a new one within the studio’s walls.


“We have kicked ideas about games that go beyond cars for many years. Many, many years in fact,” the Criterion MD said.


He added: “If you take a look at what we did in Burnout Paradise, with motorbikes and planes – we never released the planes but we were playing around with different vehicles as it’s the things that excite us – now, the opportunity is there for us to do something new.”


Read More: Best Games 2014



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Apple TV price cut makes streaming box £79


An official Apple TV price cut has been introduced, with the Chromecast rival now available for just £79.


Marking a saving of £20 on the streaming box’s original £99 fee, the Apple TV price cut sees the Apple Store selling the device for the same fee that has been offered by a number of third-party retailers – such as Amazon – for a number of months.


As well as matching third-party retailers, the new, lower, Apple TV price sees Apple’s hobby project now compete on the same cost-based playing field as rival streaming box, the Roku 3.


Aside from being a move to attract new users to the service, and the underlying iTunes store platform, the Apple TV price cut has inadvertently sparked renewed speculation around a refreshed Apple TV being in the works.


With a new Apple set-top-box having long been tipped to land with a faster processor and improved iOS compatibility in tow, Apple has also been tipped to be working on its own iTV branded television sets, with the Apple TV platform built in.


The Apple TV price cut was introduced alongside the arrival of a new, entry level iMac.


Showing the company’s efforts to offer more affordable devices, the 1.4GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 powered 21.5-inch iMac is available now with a more wallet-friendly £899 price tag.


Read More: iPhone 6 rumours


Via: Engadget



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Best Monitors 2014 Round-up


Looking for the best monitor possible? Whether it's for gaming, watching TV, or doing work, we've picked out the best monitors based on price and size.


Our list includes our pick of the best 4K monitor for professionals, the best cheap monitor and best gaming monitor, the best monitor for films and the best office monitor. We've also included the best TV monitor if you need a TV and monitor in one for your bedroom. The most recent update adds a new category, the best 4K gaming monitor.


Hit the 'Next' arrow above to see our first monitor, or select your preferred option from the list below:



Last Updated: 18/06/2014, best 4K gaming monitor added


Your monitor is one of the most important additions to a PC or laptop, as it’s what your eyes will be staring at all day. However, it’s what is most often neglected. It shouldn't be, especially as you can now get excellent quality monitors for less than £150.

If you can afford a little more, high-resolution 27-inch monitors will cram in the pixels at a fraction of the cost of a 30-inch screen. And if you’re a gamer, you may prefer the fast response time of a TN panel to the superior viewing angles and colour accuracy IPS/PLS generally provides.


When choosing the best monitor possible, the main things to consider are price, size and type. If you just need a good quality monitor for use at home and don't have any specific needs, £150 or less should be enough. A minimum of 24-inches is ideal, though bigger is generally better unless space is limited.


When it comes to type of monitor (i.e. type of LCD panel), use these rules as a general guide:


- TN: Good for gaming but not so good for colours and contrast

- VA: Good for colours and contrast, but only average for viewing angles and motion

- IPS: Good for colors, viewing angles and motion, but contrast typically weaker than VA-based monitors.


With these in mind, our round-up picks out the best monitors from the likes of Samsung, BenQ, Dell, Viewsonic and other leading brands to help you make the right choice no matter what your requirements.


Got a question, just let us know in the comments.



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Google I/O 2014: What to expect


What is Google I/O?


Google I/O is a conference for developers who use Google software, and it's where we hear first about what Google is up to for the following 12 months. It happens every year, and this year it takes place on 25-26 June in the Moscone West Convention Centre in San Francisco.

It’s not the sort of event you can just saunter into, though. General admission tickets cost $900, and those getting in for academic reasons can get in for a mere $300. Most of us are priced out of the game from step one, and it’s quite hard to get a ticket even if you can afford the door fee.


It’s much better to just sit back and wait – we’ll be back with all the news as it drops on June 25. But for now, here are all the things you can expect to see Google talk about at the conference. There’s an awful lot on the cards this year.


Android 4.5 (or 5.0)


One thing we’re sure to see at Google I/O 2014 is a new version of Android. It’ll either be called Android 4.5 or 5.0, and many say the update’s monicker will move on from KitKat to Lollipop.

The latest leaks point towards a full name of ‘Android 5.0 Lollipop’ – the time on the phones in leaked screenshots of the software is 5:00. It may seem like a coincidence, but it isn’t.


A key change in Android 5.0 is that the runtime core will move from DALVIK to ART. If this sounds like nonsense, don’t worry: it’s pretty easy to explain. ART alters how apps are run by caching the data that is crunched whenever you run an app at present. It uses a bit more storage, but means that apps will load more quickly in Android 5.0.


To try out ART for yourself in an Android 4.4 phone, check out our Android 4.4 tips and tricks.


We also expect to see Android 5.0 add support for 64-bit processors, raising the ceiling of how powerful phones can be. Snapdragon 808 and 810 processors have already been announced – they are 64-bit and likely to be seen in phones/tablets over the next 12 months.


Most normal folk care about how the software will actually look, but the leaks don't reveal any dramatic interface changes. Fingers crossed there are a few tweaks.


Nexus 6 or Nexus 5 2014


The average gadget fan wants to know about new phones more than just about anything else. But is there going to be another Nexus phone? The series was rumoured to be coming to an end.

References in the Chromium browser code suggest that there will be a new phone, though, and that it’s going to be called Nexus 6. We doubt whether it’ll have a 6-inch screen, though, as that’s a bit too large for mainstream consumption.


As the phone is likely to be made by LG, which made the Nexus 5, you can expect to see some tech similarities with the LG G3. The most obvious – the screen. The LG G3 has a QHD 5.5-inch display, making it the most pixel-packed phone around at present. We wouldn’t be surprised if the 'Nexus 5 2014' or 'Nexus 6' had a very similar screen.


The next Nexus is likely to have a faster processor than the LG G3, though. Reports suggest it’ll have a 64-bit CPU, although hopefully Google will shed a bit of light on this during Google I/O 2014.


Nexus 8 or 10


A new Google tablet seems likely this year. It won’t necessarily be announced at I/O 2014, but Chromium code suggests that an 8-inch Nexus tablet is on the way, and the last was announced just under a year ago. It's about time for a new model.

The basic idea of the Nexus 8 seems sensible, as 7-8-inch devices seem to be more popular than 10-inch tablets at present.


Rumoured specs include an 8.9-inch QHD screen, 3GB of RAM and a 64-bit CPU. Androidpit suggests we’ll see an Intel Moorefield CPU in the tablet, rather than the Snapdragon kind we’re seeing in so many mobile phones and tablets these days.


More on Android Wear


Android Wear is the platform Google created for smartwatches. It’s an extension of Android for phones and tablets, and it works quite a bit like the Google Now part of Android.

You get flick-able ‘cards’ that tell you the kind of information you might need from a smartwatch. A bit like virtual post-its.


We hope Google will announce exactly when the first wave of Wear watches will be out, as well as telling us a bit more about exactly what they can do.


Smartwatches we already know about include the Motola 360 and the LG G Watch. Some reports suggest a ‘Nexus’ watch from LG may appear, and it’s possible this will be a focus at I/O 2014. However, it may simply be that Android Wear 'leads' with the LG G Watch we already know about.


SEE ALSO: What is Android Wear?


Google Fit





Something that will be at the core of an Android Wear watch is Google Fit. It’s a new Google service that we’ll learn a lot more about at I/O 2014.

It will be what drives the fitness side of Android Wear, and should eat away quite a bit at the current fitness tracker market. Google Fit is likely to manage harvesting data from the watch’s sensors without taking too much battery.


Exactly what Google Fit is and how it works hasn’t been announced, though, so it’s all guesswork at present.


More apps for Chromecast


ChromecastChromecast seems to have proved a bit of a hit in the UK. You’ll find it on the high street, it costs just £30 and it is in-tune with how mobile-centric we are these days.

Google is holding talks at I/O 2014 about how app developers can get their apps Chromecast'ed up, so there’s likely to be some discussion of exactly what future Google sees for Chromecast. For the uninitiated, Chromecast is a wireless dongle that you plug into your TV’s HDMI port. You can then stream things like Netflix to your TV, even if your TV has no smart capabilities of its own.


All the control is done from your phone rather than a remote control, which lets you browse through video files/titles without disturbing what you’re watching on TV. It’s a bit brilliant.


One of the developing features of Chromecast is streaming from a computer. At present you can stream from a Chrome browser window to Chromecast with a plugin, but it is a bit sketchy at present. It barely works. It’s an area that Chromecast could, and should, develop further as wider support could see Chromecast offer something concrete over rivals like the Roku streaming stick.


SEE ALSO: Best Chromecast Apps


Next-gen Nest home automation


Did you know that Google owns Nest, the maker of one of the best-known smart thermostats? It bought the company back in January 2014, giving Google an easy way into the ‘smarter home’ revolution that’s going on among the upper-middle classes.

Google is holding ‘Nest for Developers’ talks at I/O 2014, which are intended to get third-party companies and developers working to get themselves integrated with the Nest ecosystem. It’s this sort of thing that makes the Nest thermostat so interesting – it doesn’t want to be a closed, proprietary system.


It may be a bit early for Nest to announce a whole new module – currently there’s a smoke alarm and a smart thermostat. But we’re sure Google won’t stop there.


SEE ALSO: Nest Learning Thermostat review


Google Smart Lens



Some of Google’s more recent announcements are its Smart Contact Lens protortpes. They are not things you stick in your eye to give you a video game-style HUD, but a health monitor for people with diabetes, and an early experiment at a bionic eye for those with vision issues.

In the diabetes monitor, tiny sensors in the lens read the glucose levels in your sweat, used as an indicator of blood glucose levels. The more recent version of the smart lens has a camera that sits on the lens itself. It won’t give blind people bionic vision, but can be used to warn people about upcoming traffic, or potentially specific signs that the camera could recognise.


We’re not expecting too much talk on these more medical advanced, but they may be around at the conference.


Google Glass release info


Google GlassEyewear is likely to be on the agenda in other forms, though. There will probably be more information on Google Glass, whether it’s a firmer release date, a price for Europe or just more talk about what it can do in its current state of development.

To date it has only been on sale to US folk during very short periods, for $1500 or more. It’s not going to break into the mainstream like that, but we imagine that’s not the idea of the current model. It's for developers and tech nerds like the guy on the left here.


Google talking big on Android MMOs


MMOs on mobile take up part of the workshops in Google I/O – there’s a talk called “massively scalable backends for MMO and mobile games” on both days. While we don’t think Google is about to announce its own MMO, there is likely to be some word on new backend in the Android system that makes making MMOs a good deal easier to make and run.

We’ve seen a handful of MMOs on mobile, but the ‘true’ experience is largely unrepresented. Instead you get lots of asynchronous multiplayer games, which is what things like Clash of Clans really are.


Next, read about what we expect to see in the iPhone 6



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Apple launches new sub-£900 iMac


Apple’s move to introduce more affordable Mac products has a new addition, as the Cupertino-based manufacturer unveils a new sub-£900 iMac.


Cutting £150 from the iMac’s previously lowest price, the new 21.5-inch model offers a stripped back array of specs alongside a more affordable £899 price tag.


The entry level model is powered by a 1.4GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor, although has a 2.7GHz Turbo Boost option.


This sees the new, £899 iMac feature considerably less grunt than its 2.7GHz quad-core Intel Core i5 powered sibling which would set you back features a 3.2GHz Turbo Boost option but would cost you the more princely sum of £1,049.


Adding 8GB of memory and a 500GB hard drive, the new iMac also runs Intel HD 5000 graphics.


Despite featuring a reduced spec, the entry level iMac boasts the same, premium, brushed metal design as its more expensive brethren and comes preinstalled with OS X Mavericks. The all-in-one will be compatible with a free OS X Yosemite update when available later this year.


As with all Mac products, Apple has confirmed that the new iMac will benefit from the free iWork and iLife software packages which include programmes such as Pages, Numbers, Keynote and iPhoto.


Earlier this year Apple slashed the price of its new MacBook Air line while giving the compact laptops a considerable specs bump.


Read More: iPhone 6 release date



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Ubisoft CEO tips Wii U to succeed ‘at the right price’


Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot has suggested that a further Wii U price cut is needed in order for the ailing Nintendo console to succeed.


Speaking at E3 2014 last week, the Ubisoft head offered hesitant backing to the struggling PS4 and Xbox One challenger, suggesting that the Wii U would succeed if offered at the ‘right price’.


“With Mario Kart, Wii U made one step and we expect with Smash Bros. it will also do more,” Guillemot told CVG in reference to a recent spike in Wii U sales.


He added: “If Nintendo put the right price on the machine then they will probably have a chance to do further.”


Although Ubisoft is one of the Wii U’s largest third party backers – EA long since gave up on Nintendo’s console – Guillemot revealed that future titles might not be remade for the Wii U unless console sales pick up.


“We are coming with Watch Dogs and Just Dance this year,” the Ubisoft head said of the company’s planned Wii U releases.


He added: “We also have another game on the shelves that we expect to come at some point when there will be more machines.


“We are also waiting for them to achieve more sales so that we can invest more. The problem we have with next-gen now here, is that we are seeing less games that are on next-gen and last-gen consoles.”


Giving something of an ultimatum to the Japanese console maker, Guillemot stated: “Nintendo has to perform this year, otherwise they will have less games.


“Justifying investing in the machine needs a larger install base.”


With the Wii U Premium bundle having originally launched with a £299 price tag, unofficial price cuts saw the console offered for just £179.99 through certain retailers.


Read More: Best Games 2014



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Amazon phone to be US exclusive, suggests report


The upcoming Amazon phone could exclusive to American network AT&T come launch.


A new report suggests that Amazon has a special relationship with AT&T in the US, which will become the sole stockist for the unusual handset.


Although there are murmurings you’ll still be able to get the Amazon phone SIM-free from the Amazon online store, it looks like there’s a possibility AT&T could be the only network able to offer the device on a contract.


This report comes from The Wall Street Journal’s insider sources, and it wouldn’t be the first time a manufacturer has signed a partnership with AT&T to launch a flagship device.


For example, Nokia launched the Lumia brand in the US with the network, and has continued to bring its flagships to the US with a limited AT&T exclusivity.


It could well be that AT&T is the exclusive US partner and Amazon has chosen to launch its first phone with a single carrier in the UK as well.


We won’t have long to wait to get the official downlow on exclusivity on the Amazon phone, as Amazon is scheduled to launch the phone tomorrow, June 18 at a special event.


The Amazon phone is expected to offer a unique 3D effect user interface experience when it launches, created by the placement of four infrared cameras in the front corners of the device.


Attempting to set it apart from the competition like the HTC One M8 or Samsung Galaxy S5, this 3D UI should allow users to view previously unseen menus and taskbars by tilting the Amazon phone in various directions.


Apparently all this has been made possible thanks to Omron’s Okao Vision 3D face sensing technology that tracks your head as it moves. The Amazon phone should use a standard LCD screen, but those cameras combined with an internal gyroscope and accelerometer make it all happen.


Read more: Best mobile phone 2014


Via: The Verge



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iPad Air 2 features to include TouchID fingerprint sensor?


Alleged images of a dummy iPad Air 2 have emerged online, showcasing several of the upcoming tablet’s features.


Although this is only a mock-up of the potential design of the iPad Air 2, it gives us an idea as to what we can expect to see in the iPad Air successor.


It looks like Apple should introduce the iPhone 5S’s Touch ID fingerprint scanner to the iPad range with the iPad Air 2.


As you can see in the image above, discovered by Ubergizmo, the home button of the supposed iPad Air 2 is enclosed by the same metal ring as found in the iPhone 5S.


Apple paid particular attention during its annual WWDC conference this year to the new Touch ID APIs for developers, which will let them introduce fingerprint recognition features to third-party apps.


Due to this, Apple is bound to introduce the Touch ID technology to the full range of its mobile products.


The iPad Air 2 is expected to be shown off towards the end of 2014, following in the footsteps of the original iPad Air unveiled in November last year.


Aside from this new fingerprint sensor, the actual design of the iPad Air 2 is strikingly similar to that of its predecessor, apart from a few new holes.


If you look at the rear camera, there’s an unusual hole beside it. It looks like Apple has moved the rear microphone from the centre top to the right hand side of the main camera sensor.


The front camera also has a similar hole below it, so Apple could have relocated the second microphone as well.


As for other specs, although there’s nothing in this leak, a new report from 9to5mac states that the iPad Air 2 display will offer the same 2048 x 1536p Retina resolution as the current model.


It will supposedly pack the same next-gen Apple A8 processor as the iPhone 6 though, which is rumoured to bring battery life boosts and more power efficiency across the board.


The rear camera is expected to jump from 5- to 8-megapixels, while the front-camera is tipped to increase from 1.2- to 1.5-megapixels.


Read more: iPad Air vs iPad mini 2 Retina


iPad Air 2 leakiPad Air 2 leakiPad Air 2 leakiPad Air 2 leak



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HP Spectre 13 x2 Laptop Review


What is the HP Spectre 13 x2?


The latest hybrid to arrive at Trusted Reviews is the HP Spectre 13 x2, and both its name and design should be familiar. It’s a revised version of the Spectre 13, but this time it’s been split through the middle, so the 13.3-inch screen can be removed and used as a tablet.

The new design means that the components are now soldered behind the screen, and HP has also found room for two batteries – one in each half. Despite that, the price hasn’t increased; like the standard Ultrabook, the Spectre 13 x2 costs £999.



SEE ALSO: Tablet Buying Guide


HP Spectre 13 x2 13


HP Spectre 13 x2: Design & Build Quality


This new Spectre follows in the footsteps of its Ultrabook stablemate, and that’s no bad thing. It’s made from machined aluminium, and shares the eye-catching 'Champagne Gold' and 'Truffle brown' colours with the standard Spectre – a decision that helps the x2 stand out. The metal has been milled with pleasing precision, and the hinge works as a small stand when the Spectre is open, which tilts the keyboard forward at a comfortable angle.

The premium colours and design are welcome distractions, because the x2 doesn’t push the envelope in other departments. Its aluminium base tapers to a narrow front edge seen on almost all high-end ultraportables, and the clean lines and simple curves look good – but they’re reminiscent of the Apple MacBook Air and its host of imitators.


It's a stout bit of kit, too. There’s no give in the slim metal base, and HP has made the screen just as strong – a good call, as it houses almost every component.


SEE ALSO: Best Laptops Round-up

HP Spectre 13 x2 33


Housing components behind the screen has its downsides. The top unit weighs 0.99kg and is 11mm thick, while the base weighs 1kg and is just 8mm from top to bottom. That makes the Spectre feel top-heavy, which is a problem when using the system as a laptop – adjusting the screen’s angle or gently prodding the panel is enough to lift the base away from a table. Pick the x2 up by its base and the unit tilts backwards.


Tablet mode is similarly compromised. The weight and thickness combine with the 13.3-inch screen to ensure that the Spectre can’t be used comfortably in one hand, which restricts usage.


Those measurements add up to a total weight and thickness of 1.99kg and 19cm. Neither figure is particularly impressive: one millimetre thicker and 600g heavier than the standard Spectre, which itself is average size for Ultrabooks.



SEE ALSO: Best Windows 8 Laptops & Tablets


HP Spectre 13 x2 16


The x2 doesn’t compare well to hybrid rivals either. The £1,00 Lenovo Yoga 2 Pro weighs 1.39kg and is just 15.5mm thick, and the Sony VAIO Duo sits at a svelte 1.3kg, although it has a 22mm body.


The Spectre 13 x2 still works as an effective notebook, but there’s no denying the irritation caused by the top-heavy design – and they also mean that the standard Spectre is a better bet for pure laptop usage.


Connectivity is reasonable. Each edge houses a USB 3 port, and the base also has an HDMI output and headphone jack, with the power button and a volume rocker on the back of the screen. On the inside, there’s a two-aerial dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi chip and Bluetooth 4.0. There’s also a SIM card slot, and HP says a SIM is included, although you’ll have to pay for data.


SEE ALSO: Best Laptops for Students

HP Spectre 13 x2 14


HP Spectre 13 x2: Screen & Sound Quality


The x2’s 1,920 x 1,080 IPS screen matches the Spectre Ultrabook, and we applaud that decision. It means that the x2 doesn’t suffer with the scaling issues caused by high-resolution panels – a problem that afflicted the 3,200 x 1,800 screen on the Lenovo. The only issue you may face is a little blurring, which is caused by HP’s insistence on scaling up some of Windows 8’s features. It’s easily fixed in the control panel.

We loved the original Spectre’s panel, and the high quality continues on the x2. The hybrid’s measured brightness level of 422 nits is fantastic, and it beats the 314 nits from HP’s Ultrabook – and it’s also more than the Lenovo or Sony systems. This latest HP also has better sRGB gamut coverage than its rivals, with a 90% level the best we’ve seen from any hybrid.


The x2’s contrast level of 981:1 outstrips the HP and Lenovo machines, and isn’t far behind the Sony’s 1,122:1. The average Delta E of 1.74 is excellent, too – better than every machine we’ve mentioned here.


HP Spectre 13 x2 17


HP’s hybrid only fails in a couple of areas. Its black level of 0.43 nits is better than Lenovo but can’t match the Spectre laptop, and it means that dark shades aren’t as deep. The measured colour temperature of 7,088K is and on the cool (bluish) side, too, but overall the screen has better colours and contrast than many laptops in this class, particularly the slightly lacklustre screen on the 2014 Apple MacBook Air 13-inch. This makes it a great hybrid for enjoying films and general work – it's even good enough for a little photo editing.


It's the brightness level that's the real star – it’s retina-searing, and a clear indication that this machine has been designed with outdoor use in mind. It's worth pointing out that the standard Spectre’s screen is more that bright enough, though, and more balanced because of its better colour temperature and black level.


The Spectre has Beats speakers, and the familiar brand delivered familiar, disappointing sound. There’s no real bass to speak of, and the rest of the range was hampered by the tinny top-end. These insipid speakers are nothing more than a last resort, and we wouldn’t want to use them to listen to music or watch films.



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Destiny PS4 exclusive content detailed


Sony and Bungie have revealed the Destiny PS4 exclusive content ahead of the game’s release later this year.


During its E3 2014 press conference, Sony announced that those looking to play Destiny on the PS4 would be able to gain access to exclusive content not available on the Xbox One.


Sony decided that the sheer amount of exclusive content was just too much to detail during the conference and so has published a special PlayStation blog post outlining the content.


“At launch, PS4 and PS3 owners will get exclusive access to a unique co-op Strike located on Mars, an exclusive competition map, and a slew of exclusive guns, gear and ships”, explained SCEA Social Media Manager Sid Shuman.


Dust Palace Strike is a PS4 exclusive three-player co-op Strike that can be played with friends or in a general online match. Within this Strike, you’ll be tasked with tracking a Cabal extraction team through an ancient human skyscraper, known as the Dust Palace, and come face to face with a new enemy called the Psion Flayers.


The exclusive multiplayer map is called Exodus Blue and is a mid-sized Crucible arena that has been designed to work well with Skirmish and Control multiplayer modes. The eponymous Exodus Blue is a long-abandoned vessel was once a beacon of home to humanity.


As for exclusive gear, PS4 gamers will get access to the following:



  • Manifold Seeker – Special Warlock class armour built to help aid survival in the Vex realms

  • Vanir – Battle-tested Titan class armour that protects them against the Cabal’s heavy firepower

  • Argus – Rugged all-environment armour for the Hunter class


You’ll also get two unique weapons for the PS4. The first is the Monte Carlo, which is an “exotic” assault rifle. It features upgrades like hip fire effectiveness and the ability to boost melee cool down.

The second is the Hawkmoon, another “exotic” weapon. This hand cannon spouts out bullets engraved with a hawk feather etching from the gun’s barrel. You can upgrade the Hawkmoon with damage boosts, making it even more formidable.


PS4 Destiny players will also see three unique ships on their console – Aurora Wake, Crypt Hammer and Outrageous Fortune.


Read more: Best PS4 games


Destiny



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Nest Protect back on sale, but wave feature still missing


The Nest Protect smoke alarm is now back on sale following issues with its gesture controls.


Earlier this year, Nest pulled its smoke alarm from its online store. This was due to issues with its Wave gesture controls, which let you silence the alarm with a wave of your hand.


Apparently, there were some unusual cases where you could turn the alarm off entirely by accident using this gesture control system, causing Nest to withdraw the Protect for the protection of its customers.


The Consumer Product Safety Commission reckoned around 440,000 Nest Protect devices were affected.


You can now buy the Nest Protect from the Nest Store again, but the device has returned with a new £89 price tag. Originally, you’d have to pay £110 for the smart smoke alarm, but its reduced price is due to the fact it’s missing a key feature.


The Wave gesture feature still hasn’t been fixed, but Nest has said it is working on a fix.


Anyone who already owned a Nest Protect had the Wave feature deactivated remotely to save users the hassle.


You can still silence the alarm, but you’ll need to do it by pressing a button rather than waving at it.


Of course, Nest Protect has other great features that differentiate it from standard smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.


For one, it’ll send a text to your phone when the alarm sounds, alerting you when you’ve got issues at home even when you’re not there. Plus, you’ll also be reminded to change the batteries when it’s running low on power.


The Nest Protect is also continuously checking itself, letting you know everything is working well by quickly glowing green during the night.


Its early warning system also lets you know where the potential danger is, before an emergency happens.


Read more: Nest vs Hive – Which is the best smart thermostat?



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Netflix launches 4K Breaking Bad stream


Breaking Bad just got even better as the iconic hit US series is given a 4K upgrade for UK Netflix subscribers.


With Netflix having previously promised that Breaking Bad would be remastered in 4K by June, the American streaming company has proven true to its word, with the Ultra HD content now available across all territories.


Netflix’s Joris Evers broke the news, taking to Twitter to confirm: “Breaking Bad [is] now streaming in Ultra HD 4K everywhere @netflix is available!”


If you’re not seeing the 4K stream on your device, fret not, Evers went on to add that the UHD service is available “On Ultra HD 4K Smart TVs that support Netflix in 4K only for the moment.”


Netflix has the licensing rights to stream the Sony owned series epic. With the Breaking Bad now successfully remastered in 4K, the complete five series of the show are available not only in full 4K resolution, but with 5.1 surround sound to boot.


While the 4K Breaking Bad stream will not be relevant to many, with 4K TVs still costing a pretty penny, the move is a statement of intent from Netflix which already offers Originals series House of Cards in 4K.


Speaking with TrustedReviews at the company’s Silicone Valley HQ last month, Netflix’s Chief Streaming and Partnerships Officer, Greg Peters expressed the company’s interest in pursuing 4K.


“We are super excited to do 4K,” Peters told us.


He added: “We will do Breaking Bad from Sony but we will do all of the Originals that we do that have a style that benefits from that better video quality.


“You will see us license more and more content in 4K as studios start to produce that.


“We have House of Cards but we are also doing licensing in terms of 4K content so you will see a couple of other titles that I would characterise as iCandy documentaries – they look really good and they really show off the capabilities of these displays.”


Although one of the leading backers of the 4K movement, Peters has admitted that the beyond HD content will remain a very niche aspect of the Netflix offering for some time yet.


“It won’t be a lot – we are talking stuff that’s new or stuff that’s been remastered off of film – but you will see more and more,” he said.


“It will start small, but it will get bigger and bigger.”


Read More: Best 4K TVs


Via: Engadget



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Rise of the Tomb Raider listed for Xbox 360 and PS3 release


Having been confirmed for a next-gen release, the recently unveiled Rise of the Tomb Raider as now been listed for launch on both the Xbox 360 and PS3.


Although neither publisher Square Enix nor developer Crystal Dynamics have yet to officially confirmed plans to launch Rise of the Tomb Raider on the aging Sony and Microsoft consoles, retailer Amazon UK has listed the game as going cross-generational.


Rise of the Tomb Raider was unveiled at E3 2014 last week ahead of a late 2015 release on Xbox One, PS4 and PC.


Strangely, Amazon has listed the Xbox 360 and PS3 editions of Rise of the Tomb Raider as being more expensive than their next-gen counterparts.


Whereas the PS4 and Xbox One copies of Rise of the Tomb Raider are currently being listed under a £49.99 price tag, the game on older platforms will set wannabe owners back £54.99.


Square Enix has yet to comment on the latest leak, although last week hinted that the game would in fact be next-gen only.


“With the power of the new generation, and our proprietary Foundation engine, our high octant moments will be even more epic,” the company said in unveiling the game.


The game will act has a sequel to the 2013 released Tomb Raider reboot, with Camilla Luddington once again taking on the role of Lara Croft.


Read More: Best Games 2014


Via: VIdeoGanes



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FIFA 15 release date confirmed for September 26


The FIFA 15 release date has been confirmed, with EA Sports’ latest football sim to hit retailers on September 26.


With the footballing world currently focussed on Brazil and the 2014 FIFA World Cup, EA has given gamers something to look forward to, with the late September FIFA 15 release date to see the eagerly awaited game land on current and past-gen consoles.


One of the highlights of E3 2014, FIFA 15 was last week confirmed for launch on the recently released Xbox One and PS4. Now, EA has revealed the full console list set to receive its latest football offering.


"A version of FIFA 15 will also release on the Xbox 360 games and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system, Wii, Nintendo 3DS, PlayStation Vita handheld entertainment system this Fall,” an official EA spokesperson stated.


As you might expect given the breadth of these consoles’ capabilities, they added: “Not all game features are available on all gaming platforms.


Although the Xbox One and PS4 iterations of the game are set to steal the show, the PS Vita, Wii and 3DS versions will be ‘Legacy’ titles, meaning they are the same game as previous years, albeit with updated player rosters.


While the PS3 and Xbox 360 copies of FIFA 15 are set to feature more stripped back feature lists, it is currently unclear which elements of the PES 2015 rival will be missing from the aging consoles.


Having already sampled FIFA 15 on the Xbox One, we were hugely impressed with the next-gen advancements the series has made.


With evolving pitches and new player and ball physics, FIFA 15 has also focused on adding the emotion of football, with players and crowds now reacting more accurately to the in-game action.


The September 26 FIFA 15 UK release date will follow the game’s September 23 arrival in the US.


Read More: Best Games 14



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Mario Maker Game Review


What is Mario Maker?


Coming exclusively to Wii U

Mario Maker release date first half of 2015


For those of you familiar with the original Super Mario Bros, you've probably already got Mario Maker on your radar. This brand new Nintendo Wii U game lets you make your own Super Mario levels using the Wii U GamePad and stylus.

We managed to get some hands-on time with Mario Maker at E3 2014 , tackling the Mario level creation tools first hand and getting stuck into designing our own level.


Mario Maker


You start with a completely blank slate, apart from a little Mario and the basic brick bottom level. From there you can add level items like blocks, question mark boxes, upgrade boxes and other platforms to build your basic level outline.


From the outset, it's clear how complex the original Super Mario Bros levels are, and mentally we took our hat off to the original creators as soon as we starting trying to build anything on Mario Maker.


Tunnels can be height adjusted by holding the stylus down on the top and dragging up and down. You might need to fiddle about with these items a bit, as the controls are a little fiddly. With the tunnels in particular, we discovered you had to immediately adjust the height before placing it, as otherwise you just moved them around the screen, which became pretty frustrating.


It is easy to delete items though, either by using the eraser button on the right hand side or simply by shaking a held item with the stylus.


Mario Maker


The next step after you've built the bulk of your level will be adding enemies. These can be placed wherever and whenever you want, and you can add wings to any enemy by dragging the wings from the top item bar onto the character's back. Want to change your green Kooper for a red one? Just shake him.


Levels themselves are very long and take a long, long time to build, especially when you're first starting out. You can scroll from one end to the other by dragging the marker at the bottom of the screen from the start to the castle end. This gives you an idea of just how much space you have to play with at the beginning as well.


Once you've got a vague level plan mapped out, you can hit the play button to give it a shot. If you don't want to start from the beginning, or are trying to perfect a particular section, you can just drag Mario himself to wherever you want your play session to begin.


After you've played for a bit and then go back to edit mode, you'll see a Ghost Mario track that shows where you've travelled so you can tweak levels. You might need to adjust the placement of a platform or reduce the amount of enemies in a particular section, and the Ghost Mario shows you where you've died or come up against difficulties.


Mario Maker


The main appeal of Mario Maker will be its retro charm, but those looking to bring it into the modern day will be delighted to hear you can quickly switch the graphical presentation of your level to that of New Super Mario Bros U by pulling the light switch at the left hand side of the screen at any time.


This way you can easily switch between the old and new styles without it having any impact on your creation.


Although you can view what you're doing on the TV screen, we found ourselves only looking at the GamePad when creating. Mostly because the giant, humanoid hand on the screen was a little creepy, but also because you're using the stylus it makes more sense to look directly at what you're touching on the GamePad.


In the version we played at E3, Nintendo was offering a few sample levels to get you started and mess about with the creation tools. However, when we asked several Nintendo spokespeople whether these would come pre-packaged with the game, they were unable to comment. Hopefully they will, though, as the blank canvas is a little daunting to begin with.


Mario Maker


The major feature missing from Mario Maker though is social integration. If you've played any Little Big Planet game, you'll know that the ability to share your own level creations and play other people's is one of the key features when designing your own maps.


So far, Nintendo hasn't even mentioned social for Mario Maker. Although there may be an announcement in the future, it seems odd that Nintendo has chosen to omit such a crucial detail when first announcing the game. Although it's fun for a little while to make and play your own courses, the idea that you might not be able to share them with anyone outside your own home seems ridiculous.




First Impressions


Although the retro charm will appeal to the Nintendo fans of old, this game really won't succeed without social. There's a few hours of fun trying to recreate old Nintendo games and design your own, but without the ability to share your creations with the world and access other peoples', Mario Maker is going to get very repetitive very quickly.

If you've got the patience and Nintendo eventually announces the social element, this game could appeal to a huge number of gamers and be an important addition to the Wii U games library.


Read more: Best games of 2014



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