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Android Authority this week - June 21, 2015
Folks, this week the world of technology set its sight on Los Angeles, where the E3 show brought us a wave of exciting announcements. And this edition, Android Authority was on the ground to bring you the best mobile gaming related coverage. But it wasn’t all just fun and games. OnePlus released details about its next “flagship killer;” Sony introduced the souped up Xperia Z4v to the States, making us question the logic behind its strategy; Google had a handful of app updates; Samsung introduced budget-friendly smartphones and tablets; and a new chapter of the Snapdragon 810 saga unfolded.
Inside AA HQ
One of the biggest themes we spotted at E3 is virtual reality. There were a handful of VR-related presences at previous shows, but this year VR just exploded. From cheap headsets that work with your smartphone, Cardboard on steroids of sorts, to flagships like Oculus Rift and Sony’s Morpheus, VR headsets were everywhere. We also saw a variety of software, accessories, and controllers designed for VR, suggesting that the ecosystem is finally close to becoming consumer-friendly. Now, the big question: is the buzz real or is it just another fad that nobody will remember a couple of years from now? We’ll find the answer over the next months.
Like VR, mobile gaming seems on the cusp of greatness. Sure, mobile games are already hugely popular, but looking at games like Dawn of Titans, with their console-like graphics, it’s clear that we’re still just scratching the surface when it comes to mobile gaming. And that’s very exciting.
Back to our daily focus, we’re heading into the “silly season” of the Android world. All the big flagships are out already, and with a few exceptions, OEMs are now silently working on their fall releases. Hopefully, OnePlus and their knack for drama, the next Moto X, and the inevitable Note 5 rumors will save us from boredom!
This week we have a special giveaway, we are giving away 3 Android phones: Samsung Galaxy S6 edge, Galaxy S6. LG G4! Enter here.
The stuff you shouldn’t miss
- Review: Here’s a review you’re not likely to see elsewhere: the Elephone P7000
- Feature: Google can “see” your photos – should you be worried?
- Feature: Matthew still loves tablets and thinks there are good reasons you may love them too
- Review: Phil reviews the US-bound HUAWEI P8 Lite. Is it worth its (small) price tag?
- Review: Bailey takes the Xperia M4 Aqua for a spin. Check out his impressions
Top news of the week
And here are the top news in the Android world this week:
All things E3 2015
- Merge VR demonstration at E3 2015
- E3 2015 demo: command thousands of units into battle in the impressive Dawn of Titans
- E3 2015 demo: EA Sports’ FIFA takes the console experience to your phone
- My reactions to Sony Project Morpheus at E3 2015
- E3 Gameloft demo: obliterate towns with dragon fire on Siegefall
- Minions’ Paradise reactions from E3 2015!
- Hands-on with YouTube Gaming at E3 2015
- Here are our impressions of Unkilled from Madfinger Games at E3 2015
Sony Xperia Z4v
- Sony Xperia Z4v heading to Verizon with QHD display
- The Sony Xperia Z4v is everything the Z4/Z3+ should have been
OnePlus 2 teasers and rumors
- OnePlus 2 coming with Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 processor, more specs to be revealed periodically
- (Update: OnePlus says price will be higher) OnePlus 2 rumored to launch this July with a $322 price point
Google app updates
- Google shuts down new Chrome Bookmark Manager, goes back to previous version
- Google Maps will tell you if your destination will be closed upon arrival
- Google finally brings its Clock app to the Play Store
Samsung aims for the budget crowd
- Samsung Galaxy Tab E official, packing relatively low-end specs
- Samsung Galaxy J5 and J7 are now official, front-facing flashes in tow
The Snapdragon 810 saga continues
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Happy Sunday!