Cyanogen debuts new video series to highlight Cyanogen OS’s best features

Wondering why everyone goes so crazy over CyanogenMod / Cyanogen OS but not willing to flash it for yourself? Perhaps the company’s latest video series is what you need. They’re calling it Cyanogen Bites, a series of short video highlights showing you the best features of the custom Android-based OS.

The first one is all about the app themer which lets you customize how individual app looks instead of having to use the same theme for the entire OS. Cool stuff, that, and you can really only get it if you use CyanogenMod. We’ll be on the lookout for more of these as time rolls on, for sure.

[via Cyanogen]

Deal: Get the HTC RE camera for $99 (that’s 50% off) at Best Buy

Quick deal alert for folks wanting to add some funky stuff to their digital photography kit. The HTC RE Camera is on sale for at Best Buy, which is a full 0 off its normal retail price. HTC RE is meant to be a sporty camera that challenges products like the GoPro. Strap it to a helmet, a bike or something else and take unique photos and videos of the world — what’s not to like?

You can even live stream your musings in real-time and automatically sync clips to use for highlights with HTC’s Zoe app in Google Play (available to anyone with an Android phone, not just HTC users). Unfortunately it looks like Best Buy no longer has any orange units in stock, but the Blue and White are just as readily available as anything else.

Wondering how well this thing works? Here are just a few quick samples to give you a good idea before you run over to your local Best Buy:

Head here if you’re looking to scoop one up.

You can now pre-order the best Android TV device from Amazon

Android TV devices have left a lot to be desired so far. Back at CES Razer showed off a device that should finally do justice to Android TV. The Razer Forge TV is a beast of a set-top box, and you can pre-order it right now from Amazon. Razer is typically known for their gaming products, which is precisely what makes this device so great.

Razer calls the Forge TV a “micro-console. It glows with an intriguing green light as it sits below your TV. What sets this device apart from other Android TV devices are the specs. It’s packing a Qualcomm Snapdragon 805 processor and 2GB of RAM. Those beefy specs translate to a very smooth user interface experience, as well as ample power to run apps and intensive Android games. Other specs include WiFi, Bluetooth 4.1, an ethernet port, 16GB of internal storage, HDMI port on the back supports up to 1080p sets, and a USB port.

The gamepad, called Serval, isn’t the most revolutionary thing we’ve ever seen, but you’ll be able to play games in a natural, comfortable way. The ability to attach up to 4 controllers at a time will make it quite the nice inexpensive gaming console for a family that doesn’t want to spend money on an Xbox One or PS4. Head on over to Amazon to pre-order the box and controller combo for 9.

The 1st Gen Moto G for Verizon is $25 until 4PM Eastern at Best Buy

You’ll want to act fast for Best Buy’s latest deal: they have the 1st Gen Verizon Moto G for a mere . This isn’t the LTE model, mind you, and it might not be the greatest budget phone by today’s standards, but for less than the cost of a month of service on any decent prepaid carrier you can’t really go wrong here.

The catch is that this is part of Best Buy’s latest 4-hour sale, and there’s less than hour left on that. The window closes promptly at 4PM, so be sure to get that order in as soon as possible.

PS: There are a few other decent options on sale, including the LG Volt 4G for Boost Mobile for .99, the unlocked Blu Dash 5.5 for .99, and the unlocked Sony Xperia T2 Ultra for 7.99. All of it is right here so get on it before it’s too late.

You can buy a Samsung Gear VR Innovator Edition inside Best Buy stores this Friday, March 27th

After Samsung began allowing casuals to test drive the Gear VR at their local Best Buy, the virtual reality headset will officially make its retail debut this Friday, March 27th. That’s when the Samsung Gear VR Innovator Edition — powered by Oculus — will hit more than 100 Best Buy retail locations across the US (with additional locations throughout the year), meaning you’ll officially be able to walk in, test it out, and walk out with a Gear VR if you like what you see.

If you’re still on the fence about the virtual reality craze, our own Kevin Krause was probably the biggest skeptic, but later raved about the Gear VR in his full review. The Samsung Gear VR Innovator Edition is only compatible with the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 as of now (there are workarounds), but an official Galaxy S6 version is also expected sometime down the road. In case you missed it, we got a chance to play with that model during this year’s Mobile World Congress and were basically blow away.

The Gear VR simulates movement using your smartphone’s motion sensors and displays dual-images to each eye for an added 3D effect. While there isn’t too much VR content at the moment, the list is definitely growing. It was last week YouTube added support for 360-degree 3D videos via their Android app and Chrome, while Samsung has their own app for watching immersive 3D videos via the Milk VR app. Oh, and if “adult” entertainment is more your thing (we wont judge), we already got people are already working on that too.

The Gear VR IE is currently available online at BestBuy.com for 0 but if you’re interested in waiting until Friday, you can find a list of Best Buy locations where you can walk in and buy one right here.

DisplayMate says the Samsung Galaxy S6 has the best smartphone display ever

OLED displays haven’t always been the bee’s knees — any owner of a Galaxy Nexus from a bad batch will tell you that — but the technology has come a long way over the years. Samsung’s displays are always considered the best in the business, and that doesn’t change with the Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge.

Curvy gimmicks aside, DisplayMate performed deep analysis on the displays chucked inside Samsung’s latest handsets and came away impressed — so much so that they’re calling it the best smartphone display ever made.

The display experts put it through an overwhelming gauntlet of tests to come to that conclusion, and if you know their credibility you’ll know it’s hard not to take them at face value. Seeing the device in our various hands-on looks doesn’t do it justice — you’ll have to see it in person, and when you do you’ll most likely be blown away. The Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge launch April 10th so it shan’t be long for you to get that chance. Head to the source link if you’re interested in a very lengthy pixel-by-pixel analysis.

[via DisplayMate]

Best Buy might have Galaxy S6 pre-sale this Friday, plans to throw in wireless charging pad [RUMOR]

Put this one firmly at the top of the rumor category in bold letters: Best Buy might have Samsung Galaxy S6 demo units in-store as early as this Friday. That much was revealed by a Samsung rep at a Best Buy shop according to this Redditor.

Another user claiming to be familiar with Samsung (his posting history somewhat solidifies that) suggested the user was, in fact, correct, and a horde of other users jumped in to corroborate the information.

What’s more is that they revealed a couple of details about Best Buy’s pre-sales process:

• Pre-sales commence March 27th, the day the demo units are expected to arrive in stores.


• Pre-sales will only be held for AT&T, Sprint and Verizon, as usual.


• Launch is expected to be April 10th for all 3 of those carriers as Samsung has previously announced.


• Pre-orderers will get some sort of “free device” with their purchase, though which exact device remains to be seen. The supposed Samsung employee suggested it would be a wireless charging pad worth .


• Mostly all stores with a Samsung Experience booth will have the regular Samsung Galaxy S6, but not every store will have the Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge. Be sure to call and check once the day arrives.


• Some Samsung Experience agents might already be walking around with a Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge as part of their training. If you ask around you might find one nice enough to give you a quick showing!

That was about the extent of the information available. Note that rumors are always to be taken with a heavy grain of salt, especially when the source is an unchecked (but usually honest) community.

So first movement on getting your Samsung Galaxy S6 or S6 Edge secured could happen as soon as this Friday. There’s only one question left — have you decided to buy one yet? Let us know!

[via Reddit]

HTC One M9 and its full spec sheet is on Best Buy with a $650 price tag well ahead of schedule

Needed even more evidence that HTC was announcing the HTC One M9 today? How about its sudden arrival on America’s biggest electronics retailer? The device has hit Best Buy’s listings, and yes — it looks like an HTC One M8. This listing joins another leak earlier this morning of the device being compared to the HTC One M8 and HTC One M7 on video.

Best Buy also has a pretty full spec sheet to go along with their pretty picture. It doesn’t say anything we weren’t already expecting, but in case you were curious:

• 2GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 chipset


• 5-inch Super LCD3 1080p display


• 3GB of RAM


• 32GB of internal storage with microSD


• 20 megapixel rear camera, 4 megapixel (UltraPixel) front camera


• GPS, WiFi AC, Bluetooth 4.0 LE, 4G LTE


• 5.68 x 2.73 x 0.38 inches, 4.96 ounces


• Android 5.0 Lollipop with HTC Sense

More than all of that, we’re treated to an early word on its price tag: 0 unlocked. The listing only notes compatibility with AT&T, though we’re sure to see variants that are fit for the other major carriers in due time. You obviously can’t order yet, but it’s there and its early arrival to major retailers could suggest HTC won’t take very long to push this phone out of the door.

Best Buy is taking $100 off the Moto 360 when you buy it with any Android smartphone

There aren’t likely to be many people in the market for both a new smartphone and a Moto 360, but if you are then Best Buy has the sale you’ll want to take advantage of. The company is taking 0 off the combination of said purchases, so long as they’re on the same receipt.

The sale lasts until April 18th, otherwise there aren’t many other gotchas to be had — it’s in-store only, and applicable whether you’re buying a smartphone on contract or for full price. Be sure to call into your local Best Buy stores to make sure they have the exact phone and Moto 360 you want in stock before heading out.

[via Best Buy]

Best Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge Cases

The Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge is one of the most attractive Android devices to date. It has a gorgeous curved display that looks like something you’d find in a sci-fi movie. With all of this beauty it would be a shame if something happened to the device. A simple case can add a personal touch while providing protection.

The Galaxy S6 Edge is actually one of the best devices for a case. Cases on a phones with standard displays often have a raised lip around the edge that makes it hard to swipe in from the side. This is a gesture that is used a lot in Android. Cases on the Galaxy S6 Edge don’t have that lip on the edges to account for the curved display, which makes it much nicer to use.

Note: Many of the cases in our Best Cases for the Samsung Galaxy S6 list also have versions for the Galaxy S6 Edge.

Rugged Cases

Incipio DualPro

The DualPro is one of Incipio’s classic cases. It combines a flexible and soft silicone inner core with a hard polycarbonate outer shell. The result is great impact resistance and shock absorption. [Buy from Amazon]

Supcase Unicorn Beetle Pro

At first glance the Unicorn Beetle Pro looks like a tank. It has dual layer (TPU and polycarbonate) protection with shock absorbing core and impact resistant bumper. If that’s not enough it also comes with a rugged holster clip. [Buy from Amazon]

Verus Thor Series

The Thor Series is another case that combines the powers of TPU and polycarbonate. The unique thing about this case is the shape. It’s narrower towards the middle of the device, which makes it feel really nice in the hand. [Buy from Amazon]

Poetic Affinity

The Affinity has a fortified bumper made of dense TPU for maximum drop protection at the corners. The frosted transparent back showcases the Galaxy S6 Edge and hides pesky fingerprints. [Buy from Amazon]

Case-Mate Tough Stand

This dual-layered case offers a smooth finish and ultra slim design. Its lightweight, but still offers enhanced impact resistance and shock dispersion. The integrated stand is also a nice touch. [Buy from Amazon]

Slim Cases

Incipio NGP

Incipio’s classic NGP case features soft shell technology that provides a barrier between your device and everyday wear and tear. It’s translucent, stretchy, grippy, and tear resistant, but very thin and lightweight. [Buy from Amazon]

Incipio Octane

The Octane blends soft TPU with hard polycarbonate. The sides of the case are lined with the shock absorbing TPU, while the back of the case is rigid. It’s the perfect combination for protection and a slim profile. [Buy from Amazon]

Speck CandyShell Grip

The CandyShell Grip case has become one of the more popular phone cases around. It has a dual-layer design that mixes hard plastic with grippy rubber. The rubber makes it very easy to hold the phone, but if you still drop it it will be protected. [Buy from Amazon]

Caseology Threshold Series

The Threshold Series is a TPU case with a lot of style. It’s made of two interlocking layers that come with cut-outs and different colors. When put together you get a really unique and personal look. [Buy from Amazon]

Verus 2Link Series

Most cases just snap on, but the 2Link comes in two parts that slide together. This makes for a perfect fit that adds a bit of two-tone style. The case is made of hard polycarbonate with a soft grippy finish. [Buy from Amazon]

Obliq Slim Meta

The Galaxy S6 Edge has a beautiful glass design, but if you prefer metal the Slim Meta is a nice choice. This case is super slim and it has a brushed metal back section that looks a little bit like the iPhone 5. [Buy from Amazon]

Battery Cases

Mophie Juice Pack

The Juice Pack offers up to 100% extra battery life for your Galaxy S6 Edge. It’s not overly bulky, and it adds some protection to your device as well. It comes in three colors that are designed to perfectly match the Galaxy S6. [Buy from Mophie]

Comsoon Ultra Slim Rechargable

If you’re looking for something a little cheaper the Comsoon Ultra Slim is a nice option. It has a 3500mAh batter packed into a decently slim body. You’ll get extra juice, a little added protection, and it won’t add too much bulk. [Buy from Amazon]

Wallet Cases

Incipio Corbin

Incipio’s Corbin Wallet case is a sophisticated, lightweight carrying solution that offers the convenience of protection and functionality. The front flap protects your screen and provides a place for cards and cash. [Buy from Amazon]

Spigen Wallet S

(Galaxy S6 version)

The Wallet S has 3 card slots and an interior compartment for extra cash. Premium faux leather encompasses the hard polycarbonate casing that firmly holds your phone in place. Spigen has also included a bunch of magnets that hold the screen cover and can double as a kickstand. [Buy from Amazon]

Rearth Ringke Discover

The Ringke Discover is a high quality protective cover that has three card slots for extra convenience. It also has a standing view to give you hands-free experience. The case is slim and very premium feeling, it was handcrafted by Italian designers. [Buy from Amazon]

***

Once again, be sure to check out our Best Cases for Samsung Galaxy S6 list for more case ideas. A gorgeous phone like the Galaxy S6 Edge deserves an equally gorgeous case. Are you going to put a case on your Galaxy S6 Edge? Do you usually leave your phone case-less?

Camera experts say the Samsung Galaxy S6 has the best smartphone camera ever

The Samsung Galaxy S6 has a damn fine camera. You’ve heard us sing our praises for it in our review of the phone. But what about camera experts who professionally analyze these things?

DXOMark is one such outlet, and in their latest analysis they’ve determined that the Samsung Galaxy S6 (and Edge) has the best smartphone camera ever. The device edged out the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 from last year, though we’re sure Samsung doesn’t mind their latest flagship beating out another one of their heavy hitters.

DXOMark gave the camera an 86 out of 100, where the final score is comprised of an average of separate scores for both photo and video quality. For photo, the Samsung Galaxy S6 scored 90 or higher in areas of exposure and contrast, autofocus capabilities and its ability to accurately capture the texture of a subject. It also got high marks in color, noise and flash. Artifacts is the only questionable score at 79.

Video performance was a tad worse overall, but not low enough that Samsung should feel ashamed. It’s especially strong in areas of auto focus and noise reduction, and performed well in exposure and contrast, texture and artifacts. Stabilization was a lowly 59, which is a bit of a bummer.

You can read DXOMark’s full notes and review right here if you’re interested, and if the camera is a major point of emphasis in your smartphone purchasing decision then we’d say you’ll have nothing to worry about.

The best Samsung Galaxy S6 apps & games

You’ve done the 13 things all Samsung Galaxy S6 owners should do right now, you’ve read up on our extensive rundown of tips & tricks. You are a seasoned Galaxy S6 veteran. The next step is outfitting your hardware with the apps and games that will truly showcase the S6 in all its glory. Here they are.

Best Samsung Galaxy S6 Apps

Samsung Smart Switch

We amass a lot of information on our smartphones — photos, apps, contacts, and more — and one of the biggest pain points of buying a new phone is getting all of that data from one device to the other. It’s particularly frustrating for those changing platforms, moving from an iPhone or even an antiquated flip phone to Android. If you gave up hope because the task seemed to daunting, download Samsung Smart Switch now and effortlessly transfer your data regardless of platform.

Download Samsung Smart Switch

Google Now Launcher

With the Galaxy S6 Samsung has done their best to slim down the notoriously bloated TouchWiz interface that comes standard on Galaxy devices, but the user interface remains divisive among Android users. If you aren’t a big fan of Samsung’s candy-coated UI, the Google Now Launcher is your best option for returning to an Android look and feel that is closer to Google’s stock design. An added bonus is easy access to your Google Now cards by swiping to the far right.

Download Google Now Launcher

Fleksy

Like Samsung’s TouchWiz interface, if you aren’t happy with the keyboard options that come stock with the Galaxy S6 we recommend checking out Fleksy. A somewhat minimalist keyboard at its base, Fleksy is fully customizable through extensions and features support for animated GIFs, emojis, hot keys, and more. Above all it’s a super accurate keyboard that is only limited by how fast your thumbs can fly.

Download Fleksy

Snapseed

If you checked out our Samsung Galaxy S6 review, you will know that we found its camera to be perhaps the best to ever feature on a smartphone. Take it to the next level with Snapped, an app that offers powerful photo editing and manipulation tools to touch up photos or turn them into works of art. A detailed edit history dubbed Stacks means your original photo is only a few taps away giving you freedom to experiment with your photos as you see fit.

Download Snapseed

AirDroid

The only thing better than having a Galaxy S6 in your pocket is having access to it from your computer, and AirDroid is the tool to do it. AirDroid seamlessly pairs you phone with your PC or Mac over your wireless network to allow you to send and receive SMS messages, transfer files, view notifications, or mirror your devices display and access apps all from your computer.

Download AirDroid

Echo

Echo takes your Galaxy S6’s notifications to the next level with a sleek lockscreen look that provides quick access to incoming messages, calls, and other alerts. This handy little app conveniently organizes notifications to clean up the clutter and allows you to snooze selected items so you can stay focused. Throw in a pinch of customization and its no wonder Echo has been dubbed the best lockscreen replacement by many.

Download Echo

Tasker

The Galaxy S6 is a powerful device for power users, and Tasker’s automation capabilities make the perfect companion. Hundreds of possible actions can be linked to triggers like time and location to automate everything from silencing your phone while you sleep to sending a text message when you ignore a call, and it can do a whole lot more than that.

Download Tasker

Milk Video and Milk Music

With so many options out there for streaming music and video it would be easy to write off Samsung’s own offerings as mere bloatware designed to lock you into the Galaxy ecosystem, but Milk Music and Milk Video in actuality represent compelling options for S6 owners looking to satiate their need for entertainment. With unique interfaces aimed at discovery, you’re sure to discover a new artist, song, or video almost every time you open either app.

Download Milk Video | Download Milk Music

Phandroid News

What’s the easiest way to stay up to date on Galaxy S6 news, tips, tricks, and more? The Phandroid News app, of course. It’s everything you love about Phandroid in a handy little package designed to work natively with your Android smartphone.

Download Phandroid News

Even more…

No two users will want exactly the same thing out of their Galaxy S6, so you might find yourself passing on some of the apps listed above. That’s OK! Here are some more helpful links showcasing more of our favorite Android apps for everyone.

• 40+ apps for new Android users


• Check out our archive of monthly Best Android Apps posts


• Phan Favs: Best Weather Apps


• Phan Favs: Best Messaging Apps


• Best Android Antivirus Apps


• Best Twitter Apps for Android


• Best Apps for College Students


• Best Apps for Guitar Players


• Best Dating Apps for Android


• Best Apps for Football Season


• Best Android Apps for Learning a Foreign Language

Best Samsung Galaxy S6 Games

Asphalt 8: Airborne

For fans of racing games, it’s hard to find a better Android entry than the latest in the popular Asphalt series. Asphalt 8: Airborne features sizzling 3D graphics that really showcase the Galaxy S6’s powerful hardware and display, but you will quickly crave the fast-paced gameplay complete with aerial stunts (hence the “Airborne” subtitle).

Download Asphalt 8: Airborne

Monument Valley

House of Cards viewers may have spotted Monument Valley make a brief cameo on fictional US president Frank Underwood’s tablet in the show’s most recent season, but we have been singing this game’s praises since it first launched in 2014. A puzzle/platformer that looks like an MC Escher sketch mashed up with Adventure Time, the gameplay is as addictive as it is beautiful. The Galaxy S6’s vibrant Super AMOLED display only makes it more apparent.

Download Monument Valley

Subway Surfers

The endless runner genre has seen an explosion in popularity on mobile devices, and there is perhaps no finer example for Android devices than Subway Surfers. With vivid graphics that really pop on the Galaxy S6’s display, this one is easy to get into. Mastering it is a whole different story.

Download Subway Surfers

Badland

Badland is oddly gorgeous as its shapeshifting protagonist travels through a bleak, almost sinister world. While it appears on the surface to be a standard platformer, this is one game where you can only get a true sense of gameplay by picking it up and working your way through each level. And it will take work, but it’s well worth it.

Download Badland

Crossy Road

Crossy Road takes classic Frogger-style gameplay and updates it for the mobile era, bringing us a game that gives us much more than its premise might suggest. The graphics and name might make Crossy Road easy to right off as just another title trying to leach off of the Flappy Bird craze of 2014, and while it is in the same way addictively simple Crossy Road is an entirely different beast.

Download Crossy Road

Sky Force 2014

Sky Force is an original when it comes to mobile games, its first iteration debuting 10 years ago when the makers of the Samsung Galaxy S6 could only dream of the future potential of smartphones. The game returns in a big way a decade later with amped-up gameplay and arcade-quality graphics, making this space shooter a must-have.

Download Sky Force 2014

Piano by Yokee

This music maker turns playing the piano into something akin to the popular Guitar Hero franchise of games, tasking players with tapping on a series of falling dots to play any number of songs from a large library of available music, from classical etudes to modern pop.

Download Piano by Yokee

Dots

There is a certain beauty in simplicity, but there can also be maddening frustration. See Dots as an example of this. A minimalist puzzler, you’ll be glad your Galaxy S6 has Gorilla Glass protection when you go throwing it at the wall should the objective of clearing the dots prove too difficult.

Download Dots

Game on

When you grow tired of the above (which won’t be anytime soon), we’ve got even more hot takes on our favorite games for you to check out. These should keep you busy a while.

• Check out our archive of monthly Best Android Games posts


• Most addictive games for Android


• Best 2 Player Games for Android

And be sure to head on over to Android Forums for even more apps, games, and Galaxy S6 discussion!

You can find the Nexus 9 for $75 off at Best Buy [DEALS]

The Nexus 9 — although not perfect in any sense — is still the only 9-inch Nexus Tablet out there. Love it or hate it. For those that aren’t turned off by some of its shortcomings (we’ve seen varying reports of bugginess and questionable build quality), the tablet can be found at Best Buy this weekend for a cool off.

That brings the price down to 5 for the 16GB version, and 5 for the 32GB model in either Indigo black, or Lunar white. Normally priced at 0/0, that’s still cheaper than you’ll find the Nexus 9 on the Google Store.

The tablet has received mostly favorably reviews on Best Buy.com and Amazon, where we’re seeing a solid 4-star rating. That’s gotta say something, right? Link to the Nexus 9 at Best Buy provided below.

Buy at Best Buy: Nexus 9 16GB 5 | Nexus 9 32GB 5