WhatsApp 2.12.287 BETA Download Available for Nokia Smartphones that run on Symbian

WhatsApp is the mobile messaging application of the moment, with over 900 million monthly active users. It comes with many features and it allows you to keep in touch with your family and friends with the power of the internet.

Using WhatsApp, you will be able to receive and send messages, photos, video files, your GPS location and even make Voice Calls. Unfortunately, the Voice Calling feature is currently available only for devices that run on BlackBerry 10, Windows Phone, iOS and Android. We're not sure if the developers will bring this feature to the Symbian devices, but if we find out something about it, we will let you know.

Keep in mind that there are rumors which say that the Video Calling feature will also be added to this awesome application. Unfortunately, for the owners of a Symbian device, this feature is expected to be released only for smartphones that run on BlackBerry 10, Windows Phone, iOS and Android.

How To Install WhatsApp 2.12.287 BETA On Your Nokia Device

A new WhatsApp version has been released for Symbian devices such as Nokia 5800, Nokia N97 Mini and more. The new WhatsApp 2.12.287 version comes with 7 modified files that are related to the executable and libraries files. At the same time, the new WhatsApp 2.12.287 features some new emojis, but it seems that they are not activated yet and we can't see them, but we're sure that the developers will enable them in the near future.

If you want to install the WhatsApp 2.12.287 on your Nokia device, you will firstly need to uninstall the current WhatsApp version from your smartphone. After that, you will have to open the browser on your smartphone and head to whatsapp.com/nokia. Once the webpage loads, select the "Download Now" button to start downloading the WhatsApp 2.12.287 SIS file to your Nokia device.

Once the file is downloaded to your smartphone, you will need to go to the location where you've saved it and select it to start the installation of the latest WhatsApp BETA version for your Nokia smartphone!

Source: WhatsApp 2.12.287 BETA Download Available for Nokia Smartphones that run on Symbian

T-Mobile To Fish In Windows 10 Mobile Waters With Alcatel OneTouch Fierce XL

A few months ago, T-Mobile CEO John Legere pitched a fit over AT&T exclusivity for the Microsoft Lumia 950 and Lumia 950 XL Windows 10 Mobile flagship smartphones. T-Mobile customers can still purchase both smartphones and use them on T-Mobile's network, but they have to purchase them off-contract at full price direct from Microsoft to do so. They can't be purchased using T-Mobile's financed installment plans.

But despite the fact that Microsoft seems to be making a big mistake by limiting its flagship smartphones to AT&T, T-Mobile hasn't given up entirely on Windows 10 Mobile. Unfortunately, T-Mobile's first foray into Windows 10 Mobile won't be a high-end device. Instead, we're looking at an entry-level smartphone from Alcatel.

The Alcatel OneTouch Fierce XL is not exactly what we'd call a desirable device and might have trouble standing out in a field that is dominated by affordable and feature-packed Android devices. The OneTouch Fierce XL is a snoozer when it comes to specs, offering a Qualcomm Snapdragon 210 processor with 2GB of RAM, 5.5-inch 720p display, 16GB of internal storage, microSD slot, 8MP rear camera and 2MP front-facing camera. Unfortunately, unlike most Lumia smartphones, the OneTouch Fierce XL will come with a non-removable 2500mAh battery.

Given the low-end specs, don't expect to see Continuum support on the OneTouch Fierce XL. Continuum requires rather stout hardware (Snapdragon 808 and Snapdragon 810 v2.1 in the case of the Lumia 950 and Lumia 950 XL respectively) to enable support for desktop class apps when hooked up with a Microsoft Display Dock, external monitor, mouse and keyboard.

As for pricing, it's reported that OneTouch Fierce XL will be priced below $100 and will make it debut at CES 2016. A sub-$100 price tag is a far cry from the $549/$649 price tag of the Lumia 950/Lumia 950 XL and seems to be par for the course from previous budget-minded Lumia smartphones.

Source: T-Mobile To Fish In Windows 10 Mobile Waters With Alcatel OneTouch Fierce XL

Microsoft Surface Phone Might Be On The Cards

Whatever form this phone takes, it can't come soon enough: While Microsoft has had success with tablets and now a laptop, the company's smartphone marketshare is a piddling 3% globally. The Falcon would be the first smartphone to run Windows 10 Mobile that doesn't carry the Lumia branding and is said to be unveiled at the 2016 Mobile World Congress event.

Microsoft's Surface family of devices have received generally positive reception from both critics and users alike.

Yesterday a report surfaced of Microsoft's Lumia 950 XL being pulled from United Kingdom retailers by Microsoft due to " hardware issues".

Capossela importantly hinted that Apple's smartphone lineup was in the company's sights and they wanted to create a phone that will make people "pause and consider it before they put down money for their 17 iPhone". Chris Capossela, Chief Marketing Officer of Microsoft hinted about its release on the Windows Weekly podcast last week.

Why All the Buzz Around the New Ghostbusters Movie?But in this latest photo from the film we finally get the see the women in action, and they're looking more fearless than ever. Not long now until Paul Feig's Ghostbusters revives the beloved franchise; the movie hits on July 15, 2016.

If you're looking to purchase the Microsoft Lumia 550, look no further than B&H Photo. According to him, the Surface phone will be a "spiritual equivalent" of the Surface Tablet line.

The landscape has been rather sparse, and news even more sparse, so Mary Jo Foley very pointedly asked Capossela to "give me something to hope for in the new year as a Windows Phone fan, Chris, because I'm abandoning hope".

Scott Disick Apology Will Have You In TearsIn the snap Kourtney is wearing a halter-style sports bra and black spandex that reveal her toned abs and tiny waist. Kourtney Kardashian is by far the most natural looking of the Kardashian sisters - but she is also the oldest.

For the past months, rumors have been swirling around the possible release of a new high-end smartphone that could seriously compete against iPhone, but it still didn't transpire until now.

This apparent "Surface Phone" is still a ways off. As Capossela says, "We need time to actually go build that". Currently, there are not many Windows 10 Mobile-based smartphones in the market. The latter can be exclusively purchased from the Microsoft website for $650.

2016 will be Iraq's final victory over IS, says PMIn previous battles since then, Iraq's armed forces operated mainly in a supporting role beside Iranian-backed Shia militias. A few hours later, military spokesman Brig. "It's a lot easier to conquer than it is to hold on to this territory".

The AT&T Lumia 950 has been available since its launch with a two-year on-contract price of $149 along with monthly installments of $19.97.

Though there are no details available on the tablet's India pricing, PC-Tablet, an Indian technology blogs, recently claimed to have got confirmation on the tablet's India pricing.

Report: Microsoft is delaying the Surface Hub and giving it a $2000 price hike

Source: Microsoft Surface Phone Might Be On The Cards

Microsoft releases Microsoft Selfie app for iOS

Microsoft has yet another app for iOS The company's latest app is Microsoft Selfie, and as you may have already guessed, the app allows you to edit and enhance your selfies. According to the app's description, Microsoft Selfie takes skin tone, lighting, age, and some other variables into account and applies different kinds of enhancement […]

Read more at Microsoft News

Source: Microsoft releases Microsoft Selfie app for iOS

So long, 2015: Here's what we want from Windows 10 in 2016

One of the biggest stories of 2015 has been Windows 10, and it's spun off relative big stories like privacy, performance, updates, Windows as a Service, lack of update details and momentum of the install base, plus multiple cumulative updates, a constant stream of first party app updates in the Windows Store and the first major update to the operating system, the November Update.

Heading into 2016, you can expect two big OS updates, code named Redstone, with one expected in early summer and the other one in the fall. Just last week Microsoft shipped the first Redstone build for Windows Insiders so things are ready to crank up development in the new year. You can also expect the continued regular update cycle, confirming that we've moved into Windows as a Service, plus the beginning of development work on the next major update to Windows 10.

But what else could we expect? Or what could we want? These are the top five items on my 2016 wish list for Windows 10 and first party apps.

1. CENTRALIZED/SYNCHED ACTION CENTER AND NOTIFICATIONS

Microsoft introduced the Action Center as part of Windows 10, and it is available on every device running the new operating system. One thing the new center lacks is the ability to sync read/cleared notifications between devices. If an alert is cleared on one device, then that alert should not appear on any other device, and this state should be synched across all of your Windows 10 systems.

This should also prevent a string of alerts from popping up on any subsequent device you log into which is something that can be very irritating.

This is the main reason I keep my alerts set to Quiet Mode on all of my systems.

2. FEATURE PARITY IN WINDOWS 10 MOBILE APPS FROM MICROSOFT, ESPECIALLY WHEN COMPARED TO THEIR IOS AND ANDROID COUNTERPARTS

I spent nearly six months of 2015 using an Android device, the LG G4, and tried out Microsoft's apps and services on that platform. There were too many times when an app on Android was more capable than the same service/app on Windows.

One app that really brought home this gap in user experience: the difference between using the Microsoft Account app on Android and the Authenticator app on Windows Phone/Windows 10 Mobile. Although both allow you to use Two Factor Authentication (2FA) with your Microsoft account, you have to manually copy a six-digit number from the Authenticator app into a 2FA form while the Microsoft Account app on Android allowed a one button action to validate a 2FA log in attempt.

3. FAMILY GROOVE MUSIC SUBSCRIPTION

In June 2014, Apple introduced their own family music plan that allows up to six family members to share a subscription for $15 per month. Just last week, Google announced a family plan for Google's Play Music: up to five family members can share a subscription for $15 per month.

Yet Microsoft's Groove Music service retains its annual subscription at $99 per person. The individual subscriber has the ability to use this service across multiple devices and on the web, but that is only allowed under one Microsoft account per subscription.

A family subscription plan would put Microsoft's service on the same level as Apple and Google, plus it would reward the loyalty of their users on Windows 10.

4. VIRTUAL DESKTOP IMPROVEMENTS

In my unofficial polling, Virtual Desktops are one of the least used features in Windows 10. The concept is perfect for extending desktop space on a single monitor system, including laptops and tablets, but it can be cumbersome to fire up and set up each desktop at the start of a session.

So I would like to see is a new set of capabilities added to Virtual Desktops:

Create and save desktops by name

Select specific apps to open when a Virtual Desktop starts up

For multi-monitor systems allow a default monitor to be selected for each Virtual Desktop

Include an option to automatically start up these pre-configured desktops on system log in

Allow these Virtual Desktops to be synched between devices

With these type of changes, I think the feature would be more convenient to use, and that in turn would increase overall usage by the end users.

5. SYSTEM RELIABILITY IMPROVEMENTS

In September, I wrote about the Windows 10 Experience Variable. The premise of that variable is "the wide swing of user experiences on the operating system, and in some cases between people running the exact same hardware."

Windows is an operating system that runs on the widest range of hardware and form factors imaginable. When Windows 10 had been installed on over 75 million devices, after nearly a month of public availability, data showed that it had been installed on more than 90,000 different hardware configurations.

So the variation in hardware is certainly linked to the different experiences that are had by users, but there are cases where two systems using the same exact hardware, drivers and configuration have vastly different levels of reliability.

Another factor that impacts system reliability is the OEM drivers and OS support for their hardware under the new operating system. Unfortunately, that is not a variation that Microsoft can completely control for OEM hardware. However, since they are a hardware manufacturer they need to be better at solving the driver related issues on their own devices such as the Intel Driver Display crashes that plaque Surface 2 and Surface Pro 3. That issue has been solved with a recent firmware update to Surface Pro 4 and Surface Book which were launched back in October.

I have recently begun recommending that those upgrading to Windows 10 from their previous OS perform a clean install once they have their Digital Entitlement established for the free upgrade. In comparing my own clean install Windows 10 experience to my colleague Rod Trent, who has only upgraded his systems, our experience variables are on different ends of the scale – even on the exact same hardware with the HP Spectre x360.

Reliability is critical to the success of any operating system and Microsoft needs to improve the experience on Windows 10 if they want to maintain the operating systems momentum.

BONUS WISH: MORE DETAILED INFORMATION ABOUT UPDATES

I am adding this as an extra. So far, since the release of Windows 10 in late July, we have survived without getting extremely detailed summaries about what is contained in each  -- or any -- of the cumulative updates. To a certain extent, detailed update summaries are not critical to running Windows 10.

In some situations, this also applies to first party apps. In fact, some first party app teams have introduced an app first run experience that gives a brief run down of the key updates in that update.  It is unobtrusive and works very well.

On the OS side, those updates are much less verbose. The standard phrasing is that the update delivers ​performance improvement, bug fixes​ and as of late a new phrase has surfaced that indicates the update offers improved functionality for Windows 10 Version XXXX​. Not a whole lot to work on in those statements is there?

For most power users these vague entries do nothing to establish any trust in the target of the update. Quite a few of those power users, including Windows Insiders, like to dive in and test/check out the fix to see if it is resolved and that can be a very useful thing.

Now Microsoft has promised better details to Enterprise customers about updates but it is not clear if that will eventually extend to other users.

Just like flipping on mandatory automatic updates is a positive for everyday users, limited info about what is in an update is not important to those same everyday users. Power users are a different story and they are the ones who are vocal. Taking the right steps to keep power users informed can only result in positives down the road as they support the update and take a closer look at it.

So, do you have any wish list items for Microsoft's Windows 10?

Source: So long, 2015: Here's what we want from Windows 10 in 2016

Microsoft: We need a phone as good as the Surface line

Speaking to Twit's Windows Weekly show, Microsoft's Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) Chris Capossela has admitted that the company's latest Windows Phones are not enough to reverse the ailing platform's fortunes. Describing the flagship Lumia 950 as simply "solid," he told host Leo Laporte and Microsoft journalists Mary Jo Foley and Paul Thurrott that the company has a lot more work to do before it can persuade people to "move from an iPhone to one of [Microsoft's] phones."

Capossela drew comparison to the company's successful Surface program, which caught the public's imagination despite "a bunch of early misfires." He believes Microsoft needs "some sort of spiritual equivalent on the phone side that doesn't just feel like a phone for people that love Windows." Some are taking this to mean that Microsoft is working on a "breakthrough Surface phone." In reality, given the context of a year-in-review podcast, it's more likely Capossela is really just noting the sort of thing that Microsoft needs to do -- create a unique device that appeals to a broad number of people. "We need time to actually build that," he added.

The CMO also spoke about the importance of attracting the younger generation to the platform. "You need Snapchat, let's face it," retorted host Leo Laporte, "That's all you really need if you want a 15-year-old." The social app is not available on Windows Phone.

"You need Snapchat, you need Instagram ... you need Uber, gotta have it. There's 10-15 apps that you just have to have on the phone," Capossela concurred. It's clear Microsoft believes it has to get the hardware and OS right before customers -- and developers -- will flock to Windows Phone.

The full Windows Weekly episode is available on the show's site, and the relevant segment starts at around the 38:30 mark.

Source: Microsoft: We need a phone as good as the Surface line

Details surface about Microsoft's plans for a new phone

by Eric Born — 3:24 PM on December 28, 2015

Despite some struggles in the phone market over the last year, Microsoft still has high aspirations for its mobile division. Chris Capossella, Microsoft's chief marketing officer, threw out some interesting hints about an upcoming device in an interview for Windows Weekly. Capossella says this new phone will be "some sort of spiritual equivalent" for the company's Surface tablet "that doesn't just feel like a phone for people who like Windows."

This apparent "Surface Phone" is still a ways off. As Capossela says, "We need time to actually go build that." More broadly, as the install base for Windows 10 increases, Microsoft wants to offer hardware that will offer a familar experience for users. This will require hardware that, in Capossella's words, "is going to make me pause before I buy my 17th iPhone."

More immediate work is happening on Microsoft's Windows Phone platform. The company says it's continuing to work with developers to make sure that its app store offers the top 10-15 "must-have" apps. Given Windows Phone's present footing, every little bit helps.

Source: Details surface about Microsoft's plans for a new phone

Google pushes harder on apps for both Android and Apple iOS devices

Google pushes more app sales for Android and Apple iOS - Dallas Business Journal

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See the little gift box? That's Google driving to take advantage of all the new devices… more

Google hopes your post-holiday app shopping starts on the Google homepage.

The search company set aside space on its homepage to advertise and link to its Google Play Store and the Apple App Store. The ad includes a small red gift icon and the phrase "unwrap the best of Google for Android and iOS."

See the little gift box? That's Google driving to take advantage of all the new devices… more

While Google obviously wants to push Android apps, why link to Apple? Don't forget that Google has more than 60 apps for iPhone and almost 50 for the iPad on the Apple App Store. The Android link pushes apps such Chrome Browser, Google Maps, Google Photos and Google Translate. It also includes Snapseed, Gmail, Hangouts and Google Drive. Many of these are apps already pre-installed on a new Android phone.

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The Apple link provides a few pages worth of all the Google apps that users can find within the Apple App Store. Many iPhone owners use Google productivity products, such as Gmail, and watch content on Google-owned platforms, such as YouTube.

Christmas is one of the biggest download days of the year due to the number of new devices consumers receive over the holiday. Many of the apps on the Apple App Store were on sale this weekend for 99 cents, while Google slashed prices up to 90 percent on some games.

Last year, U.S. consumers downloaded 2.5 times the number of apps on Christmas Day as compared to an average day in the first three weeks of December, according to research by Flurry Mobile. Games and messaging apps saw the highest increase in app installs. Apple accounted for 51 percent of the new device activations worldwide around the holidays in 2014, according to the study. Samsung came in second with 18 percent of new device activations and Microsoft (Nokia) rounded out the top three with 5.8 percent, mainly for Lumia devices.

But it may not be a happy new year for either Google or Apple — both are reportedly looking at decreasing sales when it comes to smartphones. Last week, it was reported that Samsung plans on reducing its number of smartphone shipments in 2016, according to Android Authority. Apple stock has dropped on reports that Bank of America cut its estimate for fiscal 2016 iPhone shipments by 10 million, per Business Insider. Shares of Apple are down nearly 18 percent from April's record highs. Many believe market saturation is adversely affecting the smartphone market and newer generations of phones aren't offering substantial upgrades to entice consumers to buy.

Source: Google pushes harder on apps for both Android and Apple iOS devices

Mobile Nations Yearly: A quick look back at 2015

A year in review.

For our final edition of Mobile Nations Weekly in this calendar year, we're mixing things up a bit. To be honest, a look back at the last week would be pretty dull anyway — thanks to those holiday things, the people who make the news take some time off, which means the people like us that write the news and the people like you that read the news get to take some much-deserved time off too.

So instead of a week-long look back, we're going to to a year-long look back at the biggest news to hit Android, BlackBerry, Apple, and Microsoft in 2015. It's been a long year, so let's get right into it!

1. CrackBerry — PrivBerry

2015 was an interesting year for BlackBerry and while the verdict is still out, it could ultimately be one that changes the course of the company for years to come. I mean, come on. They released an Android device. While it's incredibly hard to run down every single highlight in this short section, here's some of more interesting tidbits, including where BlackBerry showed off the all-new BlackBerry 10 slider that really wasn't, announced the best version of the BlackBerry Passport and shocked many by taking out what was considered by many to be their biggest threat in the EMM space.

2. Android Central — Nexus Notes

2015 was a big year in the Android world. (We say that every year, right?) But seriously, there's a lot to look back on — the phones, the software, the companies and beyond.

With all that happened in the year it's tough to narrow things down, but here are just a handful of stories that are a great reminder of all the big stories from 2015.

3. iMore — iPad goes big

2015 was the year Apple took everyone who'd been complaining about lack of spring releases, new product categories, and old product updates, and made us all beg for mercy. So. Much. Stuff. It's impossible to list it all here—we'll have a separate roundup for that!—but here are the highest of the highlights.

Software: iOS 9 review, watchOS 2 review, OS X El Capitan review

Devices: MacBook review, Apple Watch review, iPod touch 6 review, iPhone 6s review, iPhone 6s Plus review, iPad mini 4 review, Apple TV 4 review, iPad Pro review

Services: Apple Photos, Apple Music

4. Windows Central — 10 for all

2015 was the biggest year yet for Microsoft with the company's hardware and software roadmaps finally aligning in October. This year we saw the release of the Surface Pro 4, ground-breaking Surface Book, Band 2, Lumia 950 and 950 XL and who could forget HoloLens? Combined with the Windows 10 being on nearly 150 million computers and Microsoft's refocus on gaming on the Xbox One at E3 and the company increasingly has turned itself into a hardware juggernaut.

However, not all is perfect as Windows Phone market share continues to slip and some of that new Surface hardware requires some bug-fixing software updates.

What will happen in 2016? The highly anticipated 'Surface phone' is expected to be released in later in the fall and the Windows 10 OS will undergo even more feature additions as multiple updates under the 'Redstone' banner begin in earnest. Can Microsoft's one OS future succeed? We're about to find out. At the very least, we can all agree Microsoft is now one of the most exciting companies in tech to watch.

Source: Mobile Nations Yearly: A quick look back at 2015

Are smartphone gifts a good idea?

Ahh. The holidays are over (for most) and now is the time when we look back on our successes and failures over the past few days and reassess. Was drinking that second rum and coke before dinner a great idea? Probably not. Did you knock it out of the park with that Pandora bracelet charm in her stocking? You betcha. Should I have replaced her Nexus 5 with a 5x  or perhaps a OnePlus X?  Now we get into the meat of the matter. In short, are smartphone gifts a good idea or not?

First of all, smartphone gifts are not to be taken lightly. Any smartphone you buy is going to be a pretty decent investment. Whether you're buying a Moto G or a Galaxy Note 5, you're in the triple digits, and in some cases, you're in the high triple digits. This is a pretty sizeable investment on a phone for yourself, let alone someone else. After all, you know what you want. You have done the research, and you have the knowledge about this arena. You have no idea what is going to really get your friend or loved one excited, or irritated with a phone. And I think we all know that phones can be filled with both excitement and irritants.

Too personal

A smartphone is such a personal device, it should be left up to the individual which phone they will choose as a pocket companion. You may think that Google Now far outshines Siri, but maybe another person doesn't care about digital assistants at all, and just wants something simple to use. Maybe the geocaching experience is simply better on an Android phone, and since that's what they're going to do with it the most, they don't' care that Apple has finally fixed notifications.

Even a simple upgrade from an old phone to a new one might be fraught with pitfalls and risks. Maybe the one thing your wife loves to do with her Lumia 930 is double-tap to wake, and the Lumia 950 you got her won't do that. I mean, double-tap to wake is a tiny little nothing feature and no one will talk about at parties, but when it's suddenly gone, you notice. And it can make you angry.

Which corners are safe?

One other thing to consider is that, assuming you are one of modest means, you are probably not going to be going top of the line here. So that means, you're looking at the midrangers – the Alacatel OneTouch Idol 3 or the Moto G, or something in that neighborhood. So when you're not buying the latest and greatest, where do you start cutting the corners? Does your recipient want 1080p? A not-as-great camera? A slower processor? You are well aware of the compromises you'd make, but what about them?

And yet…

But aren't you the one who has done all this research? Aren't you the one who spends hour after hour at Pocketnow reading about all this stuff? Aren't you the mobile expert in your family/among your friends? Aren't you the one all these people are going to come to when they're considering their smartphone buying options? I mean, if you're going to put on your smartphone expert hat, you may as well double-down on that and pick out your loved one's next experience. This is your chance to be a guide into a new and exciting realm of smartphone ownership – embrace it! Especially when it comes to midrange phones. You should know what they like, so you're going to know where the corners that are being cut are ok.

Plus, you know you are going to be the source of tech support for this phone, so shouldn't you have some say in what you have to support? If your friend is considering a new phone, and you know they're going to be coming to you for help, it's not crazy to think you should be able to pick the experience you'll be supporting.

Know your audience

A smartphone is a wonderful gift to give someone, as long as you know enough about them to be able to gauge their interests. Chances are, if you're spending this kind of cash on someone, you probably know a little bit about them, and what they like. And if not…well, I won't judge.

So what do you think? Did you put any tech in anyone's stocking over the holiday? Or is that strictly a hands-off area for you, whether for logical or financial reasons? Sound off below. If you gave tech, how did you do? If you got any tech, how do you like it? Overall, what did you learn? Sound off below, and let's see if we can figure this out.

Source: Are smartphone gifts a good idea?

Top 5 Best After Christmas Sales & Deals 2015

(Getty)

Now that Christmas is past, we're guessing you have a lot of Christmas cash and holiday gift cards to spend. Late December is a great time to find deals on all kinds of products, but it's an especially nice time to get a discount on tech gear. As retailers clear out stocks of 2015's hottest products to make room for new stuff coming in 2016, consumers can find deep discounts on all kinds of stuff. Looking for the best after Christmas sales and year-end closeout deals? We've rounded up five of the best tech deals on things like laptops, cameras and 4K TVs. If you're in the market for some new tech gadgets, now is the best time to find deep discounts and tech promotions with lots of added bonuses. Whether you're looking to buy a little gift for yourself, or want to make a few last-minute purchases for your business as a tax write-off for 2015, we're here to help you find some great deals. Browse all of the year-end deals on Amazon here, or read on to see our curated gu ide to the very best deals and sales on consumer tech.

1. 45 Percent Off LG Electronics 55UF7600 55-Inch 4K Ultra HD Smart LED TV (2015 Model)

(LG)

You know, the Super Bowl isn't that far off. If you want to see the game on big, glorious screen, this set from LG is a great choice. In addition to being 45 percent off, it has a 4K display, smart features, and tons of inputs for all your consoles and peripherals.

Looking for a larger 4K TV on sale? This Samsung model is a nice option to consider as well, though it is a little more expensive.

Want to compound your savings? Amazon is also running a promo where you'll get a $30 Amazon.com gift card when you spend $75 or more on professional TV mounting.

Price: $1,097.99 (45 percent off MSRP)

Buy the LG Electronics 55UF7600 55-Inch 4K Ultra HD Smart LED TV (2015 Model) here. Top 100 Best Gifts for Women: The Heavy Power List

Here are some great gift ideas for women, including moms, girlfriends, wives, and sisters.

Click here to read more 2. Nokia Lumia 950 for $0 Down

(Nokia)

In the market for a new smartphone? This new phone from Nokia offers a Windows 10 experience right on your phone, and syncs across all your Windows devices. You'll get solid battery life, fast charging, assistance from Cortana, 4K video, and a high-res screen. One really cool feature is Windows Hello Beta, a secure way to unlock your device. Just wake up your device, look directly at the screen, and the infra-red camera technology automatically authenticates you. You can pair this phone with the new Microsoft Band 2, also on sale now.

You can get this phone for $0 down with AT&T Next plans. AT&T Next is a device financing program that allows for early upgrades with device trade in. You can choose between Next 12, Next 18, and Next 24 and get a new smartphone every 12, 18 or 24 months. You can also save $15 – $25/month per phone on your line access fee when you choose AT&T Next with an AT&T Mobile Share Value plan. No upgrade, activation or financing fees apply to devices purchased with AT&T Next.

Not sure if you're eligible for an upgrade? Check your upgrade eligibility here. Want to defray the cost of your new phone? See the trade-in value of your current device here.

Not sure if a Windows phone is the right fit for your lifestyle? Shop more year-end deals in cell phones and accessories here.

Price: $0 down with AT&T Next plan

Buy the Nokia Lumia 950 here. Top 100 Best Gifts for Men: The Heavy Power List

Find the perfect gift for any important man in your life These gifts for men are thoughtful, unusual, and creative.

Click here to read more 3. Up to $600 Off Select Canon Bundles

(Amazon)

Love photography? For a limited time, get up to $600 off select Canon camera bundles. You can shop all the camera bundles included in this promotion right here. One of the cheapest bundles in this promotion is the Canon EOS Rebel T5 EF-S 18-55mm IS II Digital SLR Kit, which comes with a memory card, bag and battery.

Prefer a different brand of digital camera? Maybe these deals on up to $500 off select Nikon bundles will be more to your liking.

Price: $399 (List price: $619.97)

Buy the Canon EOS Rebel T5 EF-S 18-55mm IS II Digital SLR Kit + Memory Card, Bag and Battery here. Top 10 Best Selfie Sticks: The Heavy Power List

Not all selfie sticks are created equal. Here are 10 solid options.

Click here to read more 4. 20 Percent Off Fitbit Flex Fitness Tracker

The Fitbit Flex. (Fitbit)

If your New Year's resolution will be to lose weight and stay active, a fitness tracker can be a big help with meeting your goals. The Fitbit line is hard to find on sale, but the Flex can be purchased for 20 percent off right now.

Want to learn more about the other Fitbit wearables on the market? Check out our Fitbit comparison guide. You can also browse our guide to the best Fitbit alternatives.

Price: $79.89 (20 percent off MSRP)

Buy the Fitbit Flex here. Fitness Tracker Comparison: Fitbit vs. Garmin

We compare three of the best Fitbit fitness trackers against three similarly-priced models from Garmin. Which brand comes out on top?

Click here to read more 5. $500 Worth of Free Services & Content With Chromebook Purchase

(Amazon)

If you need a new laptop, this Chromebook promo is one of the best deals going. In addition to getting a zippy new Chromebook (many of which are already on sale), you'll also get $500 worth of services and content, including 100GB of cloud storage, 12 free in-flight Wi-Fi passes, 90 free days of Google Play Music, and three free Google Play movies.

One of many Chromebook models covered under this promo is the Toshiba CB35-B3340 13.3 Inch Chromebook. It's only 10 percent off the list price, but it's still a steal at $269. Factor in all those added extras you get with purchase, and you're getting a great value.

Browse the entire line of Chromebooks included under this promotion here. Top 10 Best Waterproof Bluetooth Speakers

Whether you love singing in the shower or lounging by the pool, these waterproof Bluetooth speakers will let you rock out or take phone calls in wet conditions.

Click here to read more Heavy, Inc. is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by linking to Amazon. Our product recommendations are guided solely by our editors. We have no relationship with manufacturers. Tucker Cummings is Heavy's Senior Shopping Editor. She's obsessed with finding the best deals, and firmly believes that paying full price is for suckers. She's also written for money-saving sites like DealNews and LivingSocial.December 26, 2015 12:23 pm
Source: Top 5 Best After Christmas Sales & Deals 2015

Unannounced’ Microsoft Lumia 650 Images Leak –

Microsoft has been among some of the top names in the markets when it comes to the world of technology. The company has been coming out with some of the most interesting phones and has been dominating the markets of software technology for quite a long while. The company has been releasing several smartphone devices in the recent times too, and has been trying to enter into the world of hardware off late. Microsoft has been releasing several hardware devices off late, trying to tap further and deeper into the markets. The company has recently released their latest line of devices with the release of the Lumia 950 and Lumia 950 XL, along with the Lumia 640 XL LTE Dual SIM and the Lumia 550 – after these four releases, the company has established a strong base in the markets of smartphones. Up next is an announced phone – the Lumia 650.

A few days ago, the world of technology was quite surprised when the images of an unannounced Lumia phone surfaced on the internet. The Lumia 650 has been a phone which wasn't even mentioned in the rumour mills online. The image of the phone is as follows:

The image was first released by Windows Central. The phone is expected to release with the following specs, as per Windows Central –

As of now there has been no announce date that has been associated with the Lumia 650, and Microsoft is expected to unveil it at either the Consumer Electronics Show or at the Mobile World Congress. The phone holds no particular significance but comes in as yet another windows phone to boost the market presence of the windows mobiles. It is expected to be a low cost release.

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Source: Unannounced' Microsoft Lumia 650 Images Leak –

Will Microsoft’s Surface Phone Succeed Where Windows Phone Failed?

Microsoft has dabbled in the Smartphone market without much success. In fact, its strategy to offer cheaper smartphones for emerging markets was undone by Google Android One initiative, which undercut Microsoft prices by close to $20. Despite the launch of Windows 10 for mobile devices, the market share of Windows Phones shrank from 3% in Q3 of 2014 to 1.7% of all smartphone shipments during the third quarter, according to Gartner IT.

Recently, Microsoft launched two new smartphones that target the premium segment of the market. News has surfaced that Microsoft is reportedly developing a smartphone version of its Surface tablets called the "Surface Phone," according to insider sources cited by Windows Central. The rumored flagship, which will be developed by Panos Panay and the team of engineers that built the Microsoft Surface and Surface Book, is slated for release in the second half of 2016. In this note, we explore the strategy behind this initiative and Microsoft's prospects for success.

Microsoft Targeting The Premium Phone Market

Most of Microsoft's smartphones, barring the latest Lumia 950 and Lumia 950XL, target the sub-$200 segment and are mostly sold in emerging markets that are expected to witness more growth in smartphone adoption. However, given the competitive sharacter of the market, these phones typically generate very low margins (8-10%) and thus erode profitability. Meanwhile, the premium segment, which is lead by Apple iPhone, has gross profit of over 40%. These premium phones account for 20% of topline and 90% profitability of the smartphone industry. Considering this, it made sense for Microsoft to ditch its efforts to manufacture and sell cheap smartphones, and instead focus on selling premium quality phones at higher price points.

Microsoft Plans To Bolster Its Surface Ecosystem

Microsoft has been trying to reinforce integration within its ecosystem by offering features and products that allow its mobile devices (smartphones, tablets and laptop) to work together seamlessly. Microsoft is introducing universal apps that will help its mobile devices to work with other major apps like Instagram or Gmail.

With the re-launch of the Surface Pro last year, Microsoft tried to not only bridge the gap between PCs and tablets but also cover a shortfall in its hardware portfolio. Microsoft is leveraging the Surface brand name to market its Surface Phone and once again fill the gap in its hardware portfolio. This offering also supplements the expanding Surface line with new devices like the Surface Book and thus improves its ecosystem.

Source: Will Microsoft's Surface Phone Succeed Where Windows Phone Failed?

A Christmas Story: The best customer service ever received

Roughly three years ago, I purchased my first Windows Phone -the Nokia Lumia 620 with Windows Phone 8 Update 1. It was the phone that single-handedly sold me on Windows Phone and Nokia Lumias. Despite being specced weakly, it provided a complete experience with everything from NFC, to a high ppi clearback display, to a decent camera. It was my first Lumia, so I had gotten pretty attached to it despite issues around Windows Phone 8's storage handling.

A few months later, the 620 inexplicably developed a hardware fault with the volume button. I'm not entirely clear on how that happened, but somehow the button to increase the volume ceased to function no matter how I pressed it, and I had just happened to reduce my volume to 0. As Windows Phone did not have any separate or software controls for volume, I could not get any sound out of my phone at all.

My first recourse was to soft reset, then hard reset. The issue was not fixed. I then attempted to get the phone repaired at a Nokia Care center in East London (I'm not sure if there are any others in London). However, upon getting there, I was informed that as my Lumia  was a Hong Kong Model, I was SOL as far as warranty was concerned.

At my wit's end and without anything else I could do, I took the nuclear option. I emailed Steven Elop, Nokia's then CEO,  Yes, I had a warranty issue with my phone, so  I emailed the CEO, expecting nothing in response. One hour later, I received two emails.

The first was marked from Stephen Elop (most likely one of his assistants  but he most likely had some input),the second was from Nokia Customer care requesting for contact details and an address for phone pick up. One week later, I had a Lumia 620 that was for all intents and purposes new and a new warranty valid in the EU and the UK by definition.

In this case, for all intents and purposes, there was no reason for anyone in Nokia to help me out or even pay attention to my somewhat poorly written email, but they did and fixed my problem with no obvious benefit to them. That's amazing customer service that has kept me using Lumia products till date. There's no deeper meaning behind this post, nor is there an overall point, it is just an anecdote that goes with the theme of Christmas.

Merry Christmas to Mr. Elop,and the Nokia, Lumia, Microsoft teams, and to all our readers.

Source: A Christmas Story: The best customer service ever received

New endless runner game Ridiculous Marathon now free on Windows phones

Endless runner games can be a great way to pass some time while waiting for a bus, and fortunately Windows phones enjoy a few of them. We received word this morning of a new one, just in time for the holidays. Ridiculous Marathon by Game Troopers looks like some serious fun for those idle moments.

Here's the description:

Welcome to the birthday party of the house pet! The owners of this particular pink pet, half alien monster and half baby gorilla, have prepared a surprise with a pinata filled with candy, toffee, sweets and confetti. To open the pinata the pink pet will use a baseball bat, but his aim is not very good and will end up hitting their owners and having to flee from them.

Help the pet to flee to avoid punishment, run while you are collecting coins and candies in the Amazon forest from Brazil. Run, jump, crouch, change lanes and dodge obstacles like fences, truckloads of wood, and travel through impressive caves and ancient indigenous villages on your route.

Main features

– Run the Amazon forest with the baby monkey, through the trees and logs and discover caves like subways!– Simple touch game play – swipe the screen and help the baby monkey to avoid the many dangers that await on the road– Freedom of movement! Dodge! Jump! Slide! Roll! FLY!!– Exciting power ups help the baby monkey along the way! Discover the surfer board!– Competitive play – Connect via Facebook and run past your buddies' high scores to become the top runner!– Unlock Achievements!

The game runs on Windows Phone 8.X as well as Windows 10 Mobile, and it supports 512MB devices and so most Windows Phone fans can get in on the fun. Here's the trailer:

Download it from the link below (it's free with in-app purchases available), and don't hesitate to let us know your thoughts in the comments. And while you're add it, check out the developer on Facebook and on Twitter @gametrooperswp.

AppsGamesWindows 10 MobileWindows Phone

Source: New endless runner game Ridiculous Marathon now free on Windows phones

Mid-Range Lumia 650 Windows 10 Mobile Smartphone Confirmed By Microsoft Marketing Exec

Microsoft's first-party Lumia 950 and Lumia 950 XL smartphones are the first smartphones to ship running the company's brand new Windows 10 Mobile operating system (check out Marco's review of the Lumia 950 right here). Unfortunately for those with legacy Lumia devices, the wait for Windows 10 Mobile will be a bit longer, with Microsoft recently stating that it will not send out the over-the-air (OTA) update until next year.

In the mean time, Microsoft is working on a new mid-range smartphone that will slot in below the Lumia 950. The Lumia 650 has been rumored for quite some time, but Microsoft has never made any official comments on the device. However, the existence of the Lumia 650 has been confirmed by Microsoft Chief Marketing Officer Chris Capossela.

Capossela, speaking with Mary Jo Foley and Paul Thurrott on Windows Weekly, was asked when the device would be released. And instead of ignoring the question or giving a boilerplate "we don't comment on announced products" statement, Capossela confirmed that the Lumia 650 hasn't been given a definite release date at this point.

The Lumia 650 is rumored to feature a Qualcomm Snapdragon 212 processor (1.3GHz quad-core with integrated X5 LTE modem) paired with a meager 1GB of RAM, 8GB of internal storage, microSD slot, 5-inch 720p display, 8MP rear camera and 5MP front-facing camera.

Although Capossela was reticent to giving any launch details for the Lumia 650, it's possible that we could see an announcement at the Mobile World Congress, which will be held in Barcelona, Spain in late February. The Lumia 640/640 XL were announced at the same event last year, so it's within the realm of possibility for Microsoft to announce its successor around the same timeframe.

Regardless of when the Lumia 650 actually makes an appearance, we expect it to be priced significantly less than the Lumia 950, which is priced at $549 off-contract. For comparison, the Lumia 640 is priced at $59.99 off-contract direct from Microsoft.

Source: Mid-Range Lumia 650 Windows 10 Mobile Smartphone Confirmed By Microsoft Marketing Exec

Microsoft delays Windows 10 Mobile upgrade until "early next year"

Following the announcement, it was speculated that the upgrade will be available only for select devices running on Windows 8 and 8.1 and that it will not be available to everyone on the first day itself. Microsoft is envisioning the smartphone to be distributed en masse by companies to their minions as a low-priced business phone.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella holds a speech to present the company's new cloud strategy for Germany in Berlin, November 11, 2015.

Windows Central with the help of Phone Designer has come up with stunning renders of the Microsoft Lumia 650, also known internally as Saana. The company has added a new member in its Lumia portfolio with the launch of its Microsoft Lumia 550 in the market. Another problem with the recent announcement is that Microsoft still has not given out a list of devices that will first receive the upgrade.

It is speculated that the specifications are also impressive, as it is said to run Windows 10-Microsoft's latest operating system (OS). Fans were patient and open-minded enough not to mind the five month gap of the Windows 10 for PC's release date and the Windows 10 Mobile roll-out's promised date. Instead, it wants everyone to jump on Windows 10 and buy into its vision of a single, unified OS.

According to rumors, the Lumia 650 will feature a 5-inch display with 720p HD resolution, and it will most likely be powered by a quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 212 SoC combined with an Adreno 304 GPU.

Lumia 650 underwent major changes in terms of design and build, which makes it look similar to a premium smartphone.

That seemingly oxymoronic design of the Lumia 650 is supposedly due to its target audience.

As far photography is concerned, the Lumia 550 comes with a 5 MP primary camera with autofocus and LED flash support. Apart from that the Lumia 650 will come with 8GB of internal storage. It includes Lumia 530, Lumia 610, Lumia 800, Lumia 810, Lumia 820, Lumia 900, Samsung ATIV S variants, LG Lancet, Windows Phone 8S HTC, Windows Phone 8XT HTC, Windows Phone 8X HTC, Dell Venue Pro, and Samsung Omnia 7.

Source: Microsoft delays Windows 10 Mobile upgrade until "early next year"

Windows 10 Mobile: Select Models will get Initial Update, News, Updates

There was a collective groan from Windows Phone users as Microsoft announced that the Windows 10 Mobile will being rolling out early 2016 to existing Windows 8. And 8.1 phones. Even worse news is that not all phones using Windows 8 and 8.1 will receive the update as only select models will get the initial update.

Windows 10 Mobile is the mobile operating system being touted by Microsoft as the system that will allow more extensive synchronization of universal applications across devices such as PCs, Xbox and mobile devices that use the Windows 10 OS.

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A few of Lumia smartphones, the mobile devices designed by Microsoft Mobile, were released last November 2015 with already the Windows 10 Mobile OS natively installed. The flagship smartphones – Lumia 950, Lumia 950 Xl and Lumia 550 had much to be desired though as reviewers noted several issues with the phones and its operating system.

Windows phone owners are hoping that the reported issues will be solved when the update is rolled out early 2016. There are some reports that the update will be released by batch, with some models getting the release first, then a second and third batch for other models. This was noted from information parsed from a WP 8.1 to 10 Device Upgrade Eligibility list. Meanwhile, some devices might not get the update at all.

First Batch of phones getting an update include the Lumia 1520, the Lumia 830, Lumia 930, Lumia 950, Lumia 950XL, Lumia 640 variants, and the HTC One M8 for Windows.

The second and third batches are purportedly most other models of Lumia phones that can take the update, while those in the list who might never get an update include older Lumia Phone models, and several non-Lumia phone models. Furthermore some others brands are not even mentioned in the list which leads to some speculations as to whether Microsoft will work on the update to Windows 10 to these other brands or not. We would likely only find out more concrete explanation before the early 2016 deadline.

Source: Windows 10 Mobile: Select Models will get Initial Update, News, Updates

Looking back on 2015, Microsoft's biggest year ever

With major product announcements and a number of big bets on the future, 2015 is in the running to be one of Microsoft's most important years on record.

Topping it was the launch of Windows 10. First previewed a year earlier, 2015 was the year we finally got to see the new operating system in full. Microsoft unveiled key features, including its virtual assistant Cortana reaching beyond Windows Phone and onto the desktop, and its new Edge web browser.

Windows 10 also brought a new Windows Universal App Platform that lets developers build one app that works across Windows 10 Phones, tablets and computers. It's part of Microsoft's play to try and raise the number of apps available for Windows 10 tablets and smartphones by tempting developers with a build once, deploy everywhere strategy.

Since it launched in July, Windows 10 has seen massive adoption. Not everybody likes everything about it and Microsoft has made its share of missteps, like keeping details about what personal information was sent from the OS to its servers under wraps until well after users raised privacy concerns about it. But overall, it has been very positively received.

Gordon Ung

Microsoft's Surface Book is the company's first laptop -- and a departure from its past strategy.

One of the most unexpected moves of the year was Microsoft's entry into the laptop computer business with the Surface Book. For years, Microsoft has relied on partners like HP, Dell and Toshiba to produce laptops -- and they aren't out of the picture -- but with its own machine it's attempting a bit of Apple's successful business model, directly selling the computer it thinks customers want.

The machine has a powerful keyboard with some serious computing power that has a detachable touchscreen, which can serve as a tablet. Early reviews are favorable, and the device is definitely cool. But its premium price and somewhat awkward design don't lead me to believe that it's a slam-dunk for widespread consumer adoption beyond Microsoft's die-hard fanbase.

In the smartphone space, the year was one of contraction. Microsoft laid off thousands of people from its phone hardware division and saw its market share decline from 2.7 percent to 2.2 percent, according to IDC estimates.

Rob Schultz

The Lumia 950 is Microsoft's flagship Windows 10 smartphone. It's a snazzy piece of hardware, but still hurt by the mobile operating system's lack of apps.

During the year, it released the Lumia 950 and 950 XL flagship phones that were supposed to help drive Windows smartphones back towards relevance. Reviews for the phones are good and it packs some cool, whiz-bang features, like the ability to use iris recognition to unlock the device, but the biggest drawback is a familiar one for Windows smartphones: the small selection of apps.

But Microsoft hasn't given up on building smartphones yet.

One new technology, Continuum, lets users connect their phone to a keyboard, mouse and monitor for use like a PC. It's awesome, but requires application support that isn't really existent in Windows 10's third-party ecosystem yet. Microsoft is betting that the Windows Universal App Platform will prove popular enough among developers to shore up its lack of apps, but that hasn't happened yet.

Microsoft

The Microsoft HoloLens headset lets users see digital objects alongside things in the real world.

There's a lot more excitement building over another hardware project: HoloLens.

When it was unveiled in January, Microsoft showed off something that largely wasn't even rumored: a headset crammed with technology that let users overlay digital objects on the physical world around them. It's futuristic stuff, and while the HoloLens doesn't quite offer wide-angle augmented reality, it's still a massively cool piece of kit.

One of the most exciting things about it is that the developer tools handle much of the heavy lifting for accessing the device's hardware capabilities. Voice recognition, spatial mapping and gesture recognition are easily handled by the HoloLens developer tools, so that app makers can focus on building their software. It bodes well for the future of the device, which will be made available for purchase to select developers early next year.

But new software and new devices were only one part of the strategy Microsoft pushed this year. The company also began working with its competitors in ways that it never would have before. Satya Nadella talked on stage with Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff at Dreamforce, and other high-level Microsoft executives have appeared at major events hosted by the likes of VMware, Apple and Box.

Microsoft hasn't given up competing with those companies – far from it. But partnering with its competitors is a titanic shift for Microsoft, and shows a humbler side of a company that wasn't visible a few years ago.

The company also went on a major acquisition spree snapping up a mountain of other companies, including teams behind apps like Wunderlist and Sunrise Calendar.

And there was the one that got away. The rumored deal between Microsoft and Salesforce reportedly didn't happen because Microsoft declined to pony up as much money as Salesforce was looking for.

Acquisitions are a pretty dry business, but these deals show a Microsoft that's hungry to augment its capabilities with the help of outside companies that have proven solutions.

Looking ahead to 2016 is when we get to see if all of the big bets Microsoft set up this year pay off. Analysts expect that this coming year will see a bunch of enterprises upgrade to Windows 10. Microsoft is also gearing up to more aggressively push consumers to upgrade, which in turn may incentivize developers to build applications for the new OS.

But the Windows Store could go the way of the Mac App Store rather than the iOS App Store or Google Play Store. The concerns that system administrators have about Windows 10's mandatory cumulative updates might stunt adoption. The HoloLens might turn out to be a futuristic flop. Clearly, Microsoft has an intended outcome for all of those moves, but the company's big bets don't always work out as intended.

And 2016 is also when Microsoft's new strategies of going cross-platform and collaborating with other tech companies will stop being new again. At this point, it wouldn't surprise me if Nadella showed up alongside Tim Cook at an Apple press event — which is a vast departure from Microsoft of 2012, but not the company's past year. Stay tuned, folks — Microsoft is in for one heck of a ride.

Source: Looking back on 2015, Microsoft's biggest year ever

Microsoft Lumia 650 images leaked ahead of launch

Zee Media Bureau/Priyanka Tiwari

New Delhi: The unannounced Microsoft Lumia 650 got captured through leaked images on the internet.

The out to be launched smartphone may bear a metal frame with a minimun thickness possible as shown in the images shared by Windows Central.

However, we have no assurance about the accuracy of those leaked images from Microsoft. Although it has been said that images are quite closer to the original one and the smartphone may get launched in January or February 2016.

The upcoming Lumia variant, Microsoft Lumia 650, based on Windows 10 is said to have a 5 inch HD display with quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon processor (Adreno 304 GPU). The device packs 1GB RAM with 8GB on-board storage.

The dual sim device features 8 megapixel primary camera and 5 megapixel front selfie camera along with WiFi callimg, HD voice and Bluetooth 4.1 connectivity.

The Lumia 650 will be available in Matte White and Matte Black colour shades.

Source: Microsoft Lumia 650 images leaked ahead of launch

Windows 10 Mobile is now installed on 9 percent of all Windows phones

Patrick O'Rourke

December 21, 2015 5:42pm

If you ignore the fact that Microsoft's mobile market share dropped from 3 percent to 1.7 percent in the third quarter of 2015, then the fact that Windows 10 Mobile has been installed on 9 percent of Windows Phone smartphones is resoundingly good news.

According to advertising service AdDuplex, Microsoft's operating system is growing at a relatively rapid rate thanks to the the release of the Lumia 950, Lumia 950 XL and Lumia 550. In October, Windows 10 Mobile's install rate sat at 5.7 percent.

At its current adoption rate, Windows 10 Mobile will likely surpass Windows Phone 8's 8.9 percent, especially once the full version of Microsoft's latest operating system begins rolling out to older Lumia devices in early 2016. The vast majority of Windows Phone devices run version 8.1.

Although nine percent of devices taking advantage of Windows Phone 10 surpasses Android 6.0 Marshmallow's modest 0.5 percent adoption rate, Android's install base is many times larger. Apple's iOS 9, which was released just a few months ago, has an install base of 71 percent of users.

Source: Windows 10 Mobile is now installed on 9 percent of all Windows phones

Microsoft now offering $50 off select Xbox One consoles, a $50 Microsoft Store gift card, and more

Microsoft today started offering $50 off select Xbox One consoles. The company is also offering a free $50 Microsoft Store Gift Card, and a free game of choice. The sale is only available in United States and Puerto Rico only. Here is a list of Xbox One consoles that are part of this sale: Refurbished Xbox […]

Read more at Microsoft News

Source: Microsoft now offering $50 off select Xbox One consoles, a $50 Microsoft Store gift card, and more

Windows 10 Update for Mobile Delayed

Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) has issued an update for Windows 10.

Windows Phone 8.1 users were expecting Windows 10 upgrades before the end of the year, but the company has said that these won't be rolled out until early 2016.

"The Windows 10 Mobile upgrade will begin rolling out early next year to select existing Windows 8 and 8.1 phones," a Microsoft spokesperson said.

The first Windows 10 phones were launched the release of the Lumia 950 and 950 XL. Other devices to include the Microsoft operating system are the Lumia 430, Lumia 435, Lumia 532, Lumia 535, Lumia 540, Lumia 635 (1GB RAM), Lumia 640, Lumia 640 XL, Lumia 735, Lumia 830, and Lumia 930.

More handsets will come, according to Microsoft.

Source: Windows 10 Update for Mobile Delayed

Microsoft Lumia 550 With Windows 10 Mobile Launched at Rs. 9,399

Microsoft's Lumia 550, soon after going on sale in Europe last week, has now been launched in India. The company on Friday confirmed that the Microsoft Lumia 550 will be going on sale in India priced at Rs. 9,399 starting Wednesday in Glossy White and Matte Black variants.

The Microsoft Lumia 550 is currently the company's cheapest smartphone running Windows 10 Mobile out-of-the-box.

The company has confirmed that the Lumia 550, unlike its high-end devices such as the Lumia 950 Dual SIM and Lumia 950 XL Dual SIM, will not support Windows 10 Continuum feature, which makes smartphones behave like computers with a desktop-style interface.

With Windows 10 Mobile, the Lumia 550 packs features such as the new Microsoft Edge browser, revamped Outlook mail, OneDrive, Microsoft Office, Cortana digital voice assistant, and Glance Screen, which lets users see notifications without fully unlocking the smartphone.

For specifications, the Microsoft Lumia 550 features a 4.7-inch HD display (720×1280 pixels) resolution with a pixel density of 315ppi. It is powered by a 1.1GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 210 SoC, Adreno 304 GPU and 1GB of RAM. It comes with 8GB of inbuilt storage which is further expandable via microSD card (up to 200GB). The Lumia 550 supports single Micro-SIM.

The handset comes equipped with a 5-megapixel autofocus rear camera with HD video recording, LED flash, and an f/2.4 aperture, apart from a 2-megapixel sensor placed upfront with an f/2.8 aperture and 480p video recording. The rear camera of Lumia 550 hosts features such as auto/ manual exposure, geo-tagging, and touch focus. It also features a Micro-USB port instead of USB Type-C.

The Lumia 550 features 4G LTE (Cat. 4) connectivity (with support for Indian LTE bands) and is claimed to support download speeds of up to 150Mbps and uploads of up to 50Mbps. Some of the other wireless connectivity options include Bluetooth 4.1, USB 2.0, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n with hotspot functionality, FM radio, and A-GPS. It comes backed by a replaceable 2100mAh battery, which according to Microsoft can deliver up to 28 days of standby time, 16 hours of talk time on 2G, 14 hours on 3G, and 17 hours on 4G. It features ambient light sensor, accelerometer, and proximity sensors. The handset measures 136.1×67.8×9.9mm.

NDTV

Source: Microsoft Lumia 550 With Windows 10 Mobile Launched at Rs. 9,399

Windows Phone 8.1 users to get Windows 10 Mobile starting next year

Source: Windows Phone 8.1 users to get Windows 10 Mobile starting next year

Microsoft offers solid savings on Lumia 950, Surface Pro 3 and more in ‘holiday super sale’

Could it be real? Could the sizzling hot new Lumia 950 see its first ever discount before production and demand are even lined up stateside? Technically, yes. But it's not what you think. The unlocked variant is still listed as out of stock on Microsoft's US website, and it's priced at the same old, same old $549.

Instead, Redmond shaves 50 bucks off the MSRP of the no-contract AT&T Lumia 950, bringing it on-par with the unlocked model at last. Why cough up $550 on that, you wonder? Because there's a good chance you'll get it delivered in time for Christmas. Worst case scenario, around New Year's Eve.

Too bad MS isn't ready to throw in a free display dock, as is the case with the XL configuration. By the by, that one's $649, the complimentary accessory is normally worth a full Benjamin, but the 5.7-incher is also "coming soon" to folks who haven't ordered it yet.

The other protagonist of this "Holiday Super Sale" is arguably the $200 Microsoft Band 2, though it's hard not to be tempted by the Surface Pro 3 as well, despite its advanced age. The fourth-gen Intel-powered 12-inch hybrid costs $600 with Core i3 power, 4GB RAM and 128GB storage, down from a list price of $900. Plus, you can get a Type Cover for $70 after a cool $60 trim.

Meanwhile, the Windows Phone 8.1-running BLU Win HD LTE sets you back $99, compared to the best competing Amazon deal of $150. Finally, a 2-in-1 Toshiba Satellite Click 10 laptop can be had for as little as $300, and the Sony Vaio Z Canvas beast starts at $1,700. "Super Sale" is a bit of a stretch, but for last-minute Christmas shopping, the savings aren't too bad.

Source: Microsoft Store

Source: Microsoft offers solid savings on Lumia 950, Surface Pro 3 and more in 'holiday super sale'

Microsoft delays Windows 10 Mobile upgrade until early next year

Microsoft has some bad news for those running Windows Phone 8.1 devices - the upgrade to Windows 10 Mobile won't be released in December after all. As such, the only way to try Microsoft's new OS this year (outside of the Windows Insider program) is to buy one of its two new handsets - the Lumia 950 or the Lumia 950 XL.

Gabe Aul, corporate vice president of the engineering systems team at Microsoft, recently announced the publishing of a cumulative update for Windows 10 Mobile Insider Preview Build 10586. In the post, Aul revealed that due to the holidays, the engineering team will be running at a slower pace and many of the key people who drive the process will be out (Aul included).

As such, they won't be releasing any new builds to Windows Insiders until January. That goes for both PC and mobile applications.

In a brief statement to ZDNet, a spokesperson for Microsoft said the Windows 10 Mobile upgrade will begin rolling out early next year to select existing Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 phones. The spokesperson didn't specify exactly which devices would or wouldn't be eligible for the update.

Microsoft officially unveiled its new flagship smartphones in early October after accidentally listing the devices on the Microsoft Store a week ahead of schedule. Both handsets went on sale in November.

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Source: Microsoft delays Windows 10 Mobile upgrade until early next year

Windows 10 Mobile release date: Windows Phone 8.1 devices will get the upgrade early next year [See List]

Windows 10 Mobile release date: Windows Phone 8.1 devices will get the upgrade early next year [See List]Microsoft

If Android updates are important to Android smartphone users, Lumia owners look forward for Windows upgrades. Ever since Microsoft demonstrated the Windows 10 Mobile features on Lumia 950 series, Lumia users have been eager to try out the new OS on their existing devices. Earlier it was revealed that Windows 10 Mobile will start rolling out in December but a new report says Lumia users will have to wait until next year for a new OS.

According to ZDNet's Mary Jo Foley, Microsoft will begin rolling out the Windows 10 Mobile for WP devices in early 2016.

"This November we introduced Windows 10 to phones including brand new features such as Continuum and Universal Windows Apps with the introduction of the Lumia 950 and 950 XL. The Windows 10 Mobile upgrade will begin rolling out early next year to select existing Windows 8 and 8.1 phones," ZDNet quoted a company spokesperson as saying.

Microsoft latest flagships, Lumia 950 and Lumia 950XL among other devices such as Lumia 550 currently run Windows 10 Mobile out of the box. But most of the devices are eligible for the upgrade and devices in the first batch include, Lumia 630, Lumia 635, Lumia 640, Lumia 745 and Lumia 830. The OTA update will continue rolling out to other Lumia devices including, Lumia 520, Lumia 532, Lumia 625, Lumia 720, Lumia 820, Lumia 920, Lumia 925, Lumia 930, Lumia 1020 and Lumia 1320, an earlier report said.

But Microsoft has already confirmed that Lumia 430, Lumia 435, Lumia 532, Lumia 535, Lumia 540, Lumia 635 (1GB RAM), Lumia 640, Lumia 640 XL, Lumia 735, Lumia 830, and Lumia 930 will be updated first.

Windows 10 Mobile has received a lot of praise for its worthy features such as Continuum, improved Action Center, new Microsoft Edge browser and more.

Source: Windows 10 Mobile release date: Windows Phone 8.1 devices will get the upgrade early next year [See List]

Microsoft Releases New Windows 10 Mobile Build, Promises Free Upgrades For 8.1 Users In 2016

Two quick hits from the world of Microsoft before you head off and plunge your upper body in eggnog: A new Windows 10 Mobile build is out for users on both the Fast and Slow rings of the Insider program, and, if you are a regular Windows Phone user running 8.1, you won't get new code until the new year, a retread of prior timing promises.

In sequence, I think. Out today is the 'Windows 10 Mobile Insider Preview Build 10586.36', which may win the Grammy for 'Most Microsoft Product Name Ever.' Regardless, it's a smaller update than prior editions, which is why it made it only a spry 0.07 point bump from the preceding build 10586.29.

Moving ahead, Microsoft announced that the market should expect fewer builds from the firm until the new year. As it turns out, employees at the company have hobbies outside of Surface Book juggling competitions.

Here's the company's Gabe Aul telling the assembled nerd hordes that they should calm down and go talk to other humans:

When Gabe tells you to step back from the keyboard, do it.

All that is for the next two weeks. What happens next matters more. As ZDnet's Mary Jo Foley pointed out today, Microsoft previously promised Windows Phone 8.1 users that they would have a shot at getting onto Windows 10, sans being part of the Insider program, this December:

Even though Microsoft officials said earlier this fall that the rollout of Windows 10 Mobile to existing Windows Phone 8.1 users would start in December, that's no longer the plan.

And, as per her article, here's Microsoft now:

"This November we introduced Windows 10 to phones including brand new features such as Continuum and Universal Windows Apps with the introduction of the Lumia 950 and 950 XL. The Windows 10 Mobile upgrade will begin rolling out early next year to select existing Windows 8 and 8.1 phones."

If this works out to a very early release in 2016, I doubt that there will be too much complaint. If the timeline stretches into the second month of the coming year, things could be a bit more verbal.

So, there you have it. I doubt we'll see too much material from the Windows team this year. And that's just fine. I am far more interested in what cadence the team hits in the new year than how little time they can spend dropping ornaments.

Source: Microsoft Releases New Windows 10 Mobile Build, Promises Free Upgrades For 8.1 Users In 2016

New Lumia 850 design is pure concept

Until very recently it was thought that the Microsoft Lumia 850 had been cancelled. However, over the last few weeks there has been leak after leak, which has led us to believe that it might still be on the cards and heading to a launch. We've shown several leaked images recently, and now we have a new Lumia 850 design to show you that is a pure concept.

Since the beginning of December we've reported on numerous new leaks about the Microsoft Lumia 850. There have been several rounds of images that have actually all matched with each other. A few days ago we showed a picture that illustrated the different color options, and then we saw the phone depicted in some 3D renders.

Even though we now think we know what the device looks like, that doesn't stop concept designers coming up with their own ideas. The Microsoft Lumia 850 that we're showing today is by designer Adriano Alfaro who has imagined something completely different for the styling of this phone. It's envisaged as something rather more high-end than the rumored 850, and echoes the Fabula Design background.

The handset has rounded edges and is thicker on the right side and slimmer to the left. The difference is subtle and the camera area is positioned without any protrusion on the thickest side below a ceramic strip. The designer is said to imagine this Lumia 850 concept as a "bigger brother" to a Lumia 880 that he created back in 2013.

Alfaro has also imagined some specs for this Lumia 850 design concept. They include a 2.2GHz Snapdragon 820 quad-core processor, 5-inch display with Full HD resolution, 3GB of RAM, and 32GB of internal storage (expandable via microSD). There's also a 20-megapixel rear Pureview camera featuring Xenon and LED flash, optical image stabilisation, and 4K video capture, as well as a 5-megapixel front-facing unit, and a 3000 mAh battery.

The device would of course be running Windows 10 Mobile with Continuum, SensorCore, and Windows Hello, and it has a USB Type-C port along the bottom edge of the device. The handset measures 129.4mm x 70.7mm x 9mm. We've shared a few of the images of this Lumia 850 design here. You can get a further look at the device from all angles in the video that you'll get to if you scroll down this page.

We feel this is a pretty stunning Microsoft Lumia 850 design, and we'd like to know if you agree? Would you like to have seen this for the real deal if and when it finally releases? Drop us your comments in the box provided.

Source: Adriano Alfaro (YouTube)Via: Concept Phones

Read more about: Concept Phones   Microsoft   Mobile Phones  

Source: New Lumia 850 design is pure concept

The three best Windows Phone features I forgot I loved (and three new ones that make it even better)

In case you didn't hear the trumpets and fanfare, or you missed the citizenry lining the streets throwing rose petals in my path, you might not know that I'm toting a Lumia 950 these days. OMG! Android boy came back to Windows 10 mobile? Say it ain't so! Well, ok, it ain't really so. I mean, I do have a Lumia 950 I'm using, somewhat regularly. But the Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge is still my primary phone. But that's not what we're here to talk about. I'm back to using Windows Phone, now known as Windows 10 Mobile, so I wanted to share with you three of the best Windows Phone features I forgot were awesome, and three new things I have discovered since.

Live tiles

Sure, it sounds like a Windows cliché, but Android and iOS still haven't found an answer to Live Tiles. Widgets are all over the place in terms of functionality and usefulness, and iOS icons are just…well…icons. Nothing combines the elegance, simplicity, and function of the design element that has been around since the earliest days of Windows Phone.I would be quite the happy camper if Android or iOS would adopt this paradigm, but let's be honest – they won't. It makes me sad, because Microsoft has the best answer here, hands down.

Camera Button

The camera button is another of those design elements that goes back to the early days. It's not exclusive to Windows 10 Mobile, but it's consistent in most Windows devices. It's like a signature. The quick launch function is still among the easiest out there, though the double press of the home button from Samsung is a close second. I'm fond of it as a shutter button, even if I find it a bit too stiff for my hand. I do appreciate the half-press to focus though. All the same, grabbing the phone and pressing and holding that shutter button is one thing I'll always be fond of when it comes to Windows Phone.

Hey Cortana

Finally, that brings me to my lady, Cortana. Cortana remains my favorite personal assistant, though admittedly Google Now makes a strong argument. Cortana has always been better, her personality, to her execution to its ease of access. You'll notice I call Cortana "her" even though that's not technically the correct thing to do. But to me, she's Cortana and nothing else.And speaking of ease of access, "Hey Cortana" takes it to a new level, which is great because it's not far behind it's competitors. Add to that Cortana's functionality and just how she works and she's simply a great companion.

Hello

But let's not dwell on the past right? There's plenty of new stuff to like in Windows 10 Mobile. One thing that I've grown accustomed to on other platforms is biometric security in the form of fingerprint readers. The Lumia 950 doesn't have that obviously, but it does introduce the magic of the iris scanner in the form of Hello Beta. The iris scanner is pretty cool, even if the setup leaves something to be desired. I mean, I know I have an attractive mug and all, but just how long does a phone have to stare into my deep blue eyes before it knows that I'm the one?

Anyway, once things are programmed, the scanner works great. I have had very few problems getting the phone to unlock on command; certainly no more so than fingerprint sensors. It's true, holding up your phone isn't as simple as a fingerprint scanner, but come on, it's scanning your eyeball. It's pretty awesome, and makes up points on the coolness scale.

Continuum

Not only did Microsoft finally make all of our dreams come true, but it named the feature after a Stargate movie! It just doesn't get any better. But seriously, since smartphones started getting more and more powerful, there has been a dream that one day our phone would become our computers. That day is…almost…here. Continuum is a great feature, and it's really nice that I'm writing this editorial on my phone. Microsoft still has a long way to go toward making Continuum a feature that everyone will use, rather than just business professionals. Make no mistake, Continuum (or rather, the Continuum experience) is probably as much in beta as Hello.

Don't forget

Finally, there's one last thing that I literally stumbled upon that pretty much blew my mind. The glance screen on the Lumia 950 shows a bunch of relevant information, including your upcoming appointments. Well, my phone needed a reboot, so at 11:42, I shut it down, just before my 11:45 appointment. I held the power button and swiped down, as expected the screen went black. But wait! Just before the phone powered off it flashed up a quick reminder

Don't forget! Play Store reviews, 11:45 – 12:45.

Holy cow! When I turn off my other phones, they just say Samsung! Microsoft took an extra step here, one last chance to send a quick message that's truly useful. And it really nailed it. Yes, you need to be conscious of your calendar for it to be useful, and yes you have to notice it in the first place. But I give Microsoft really high marks for this one, as small a feature as it may be.

Overall, my homecoming to Windows 10 Mobile has been bittersweet, but a lot more sweet than bitter. As I explore this world from my past, I'm finding not only the familiar landmarks that give me comfort, but also some new additions that make this "homecoming" a very pleasant surprise indeed. Microsoft is going along a really great path here. It just needs a few extra strides, and we could be looking at something pretty big.

Source: The three best Windows Phone features I forgot I loved (and three new ones that make it even better)