With the Galaxy Note 20 launch just a week away, all eyes will be on what upgrades Samsung brings to the table. While the chipset might remain unchanged, there might be a silver lining. While Samsung flagship like the Note series and the S series are powered by Snapdragon chipsets in the US and European markets, they come with Exynos chipset in Asian markets such as India. It often tends to lose out on the performance front against Qualcomm Snapdragon counterparts. However, a new leak suggests some good news in this regard. Samsung Galaxy Note 20 release date, price, news and leaks Upcoming smartphones in India: Specs, launch date, price (Image credit: Samsung/WinFuture) According to a tweet by Anthony, a Youtuber, Samsung Galaxy Note 20 will continue to be powered by the Exynos 990 chipset, but with major improvements in terms of the performance and efficiency. These optimizations should bring it closer to the Snapdragon 865 series. He even suggested that it is almost li...
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Poor mobile coverage 'harming rural quality of life'
Poor mobile and broadband coverage in rural areas is exacerbated the sense of remoteness and harming quality of life.
A new report from The Prince’s Countryside Fund and Scotland’s Rural College found inadequate connectivity was cited as one of the three biggest challenges to rural life, with respondents claiming better digital infrastructure would encourage young people and businesses to either stay or move to the countryside.with respondents claiming better digital infrastructure would encourage young people and businesses to either stay or move to the countryside.
A new report from The Prince’s Countryside Fund and Scotland’s Rural College found that inadequate connectivity was cited as one of the three biggest challenges to rural life, with respondents claiming better digital infrastructure would encourage young people and businesses to either stay or move to the countryside.with respondents claiming better digital infrastructure would encourage young people and businesses to either stay or move to the countryside.with respondents claiming better digital infrastructure would encourage young people and businesses to either stay or move to the countryside.with respondents claiming better digital infrastructure would encourage young people and businesses to either stay or move to the countryside.
The report found that poor coverage was contributing to social isolation and rural poverty too.
Rural mobile coverageThough keen to seize this potential, communities realise they must make sure those without technology are not excluded and that both digital training and offline channels must be provided.”
“An overwhelming majority of respondents told us that the biggest barriers faced by people living in a remote rural area is a forced reliance on private transport to access anything; limited or poor infrastructure in rural areas, including a lack of access to shops and services; and the ongoing issue of poor digital connectivity,” said Professor Sarah Skerratt, Director of Policy Engagement from Scotland’s Rural College.
At present, more than 95 per cent of the UK population can access superfast broadband, while EE is working towards ensuring the same figure has access to 4G by 2020. However, the government has said it wants the entire of the country to have access to ‘full fibre’ by 2033.
Respondents generally expressed a willingness to get involved with community projects and to engage with policy markers to resolve the issues, with the report noting that better digital connectivity would not only solve one of the main issues affecting rural communities, it could help to overcome other ones too.
“There is a strong desire to harness the possibilities that new technologies bring. First though, rural areas must be given reliable, resilient, high-speed broadband and universal mobile coverage. If this happens, rural people will innovate and then there can be a ‘bright future of digital possibilities’, including access to remote services; attracting businesses to the local rural area; networking and connecting (locally and beyond); communal fuel buying to help those in fuel poverty; or even e-cars, e-buses and e-charging points,” reads the report, before adding it would not be a silver bullet that solves all woes.
Though keen to seize this potential, communities realise they must make sure those without technology are not excluded and that both digital training and offline channels must be provided.”
Check out the best mobile deals for July 2018
Vote in the TechRadar Mobile Choice Consumer Awards and win great prizes
It's that time of the year again. It's time to crown the finest performers in the mobile world with the TechRadar Mobile Choice Consumer Awards 2018, and we need your help to narrow down our extensive longlists of the leading contenders to stellar shortlists. And there are great prizes to be won!*
The good news is that voting is now open, so please take a moment to have your say below on who should claim a coveted spot on the shortlist.
Voting on who makes the shortlist for the TechRadar Mobile Choice Consumer Awards will close at 2pm on August 1, so make sure you don't miss out.
Once we've counted all the votes, and consulted with our expert judges, we'll announce the shortlist. You'll then be able to vote for the winners in each of the categories.
The winners will be revealed at the Mobile Choice Consumer Awards, on October 11 2018 in London.
Vote in the TechRadar Mobile Choice Consumer Awards 2018*Terms and Conditions: Voting is open to everyone, however to take part in the prize draw you must be a UK resident. Under 18s must obtain parental consent to enter this competition and be able to demonstrate this to TechRadar's reasonable satisfaction. Nominations must be received by 11:59 (BST) 01/08/2018. The winner will be selected at random from all correct entries received and will be sent the prize free of charge. By taking part in the voting and the competition, you agree to be bound by the full terms and conditions which can be found here http://www.futureplc.com/competition-rules/.
Best Roku streaming device: which Roku is best for you?
While the majority of mid and high-end TVs sold these days include Smart TV interfaces for you to access all your favorite streaming services, there are still plenty of older or cheaper sets out there that can only dream of getting connected to the internet.
Manufacturers like Roku produce a number of very cheap streaming devices that you can easily plug into the back of your existing TV – which can then connect to your Wi-Fi and offer you access to streaming services such as Netflix, iPlayer, or Amazon Prime.
They're cheap, they're simple, and they're easy to set up – and after a UK and US-wide update brought voice-controlled search features to the Roku family, now is a great time to be looking for a good deal.
All the best deals on Roku devices this monthThe only catch is that over the years Roku has released dozens of different devices, all with slightly different specs and features.
We've cut through the lineup to work out exactly which streaming devices you should focus your attention on if you want to get the best Roku experience for you.
The Roku Streaming Stick+ is perfect for owners of modern 4K HDR TVs. Although many of these televisions have their streaming services built in, if you opt for a cheaper set then the built-in operating system might be slow and difficult to navigate.
The Roku Streaming Stick+, in comparison, is lovely and snappy to operate. It's equipped with every major streaming service, and you can use its built-in search functionality to find content across many of them.
One note of warning is that although the hardware itself supports 4K/HDR content, this isn't a standard across all streaming services just yet. Amazon and Netflix are early adopters, but others haven't been quite so quick on the uptake.
A final point is that the Streaming Stick+ only supports HDR10 rather than the expanded functionality of the Dolby Vision HDR standard. The amount of content that makes use of Dolby Vision is currently very small, but if you want to be completely future proofed then you might want to opt for a Chromecast Ultra or an Apple TV 4K.
Read the full review: Roku Streaming Stick+
If you want to get your Full HD, 1080p TV hooked up with streaming services, then your best bet from the Roku lineup is currently the non-plus Roku Streaming Stick.
It's got the same great operating system as its more expensive sibling, and the same wide variety of apps (although, naturally, not in 4K HDR).
The biggest issue with the device is that it's not available internationally. UK readers with HD TVs are better off going for a streaming stick from a competitor such as the Amazon Fire TV Stick or Google Chromecast, as the UK equivalent, the Roku Express, has a number of issues.
Read the full review: Roku Streaming Stick
Need something to watch? Check out our guide to the best Netflix shows
Huawei Watch 3 release date, price, news and leaks
Update: Trademarks from Huawei suggest the company is working on three different iterations of its next smartwatch with the codenames Unlimited, Voyage and Achor.
Huawei is one of the biggest names in Wear OS, thanks to its impressive Huawei Watch and feature-packed but flawed Huawei Watch 2.
Huawei CEO Richard Yu spoke to TechRadar at MWC 2018 and revealed the company is working on a third iteration of its smartwatch, but he doesn't know yet when it will be ready for release.
While we wait, we've put together a wish-list for what we want to see. Before that though, here’s everything we’ve heard or suspect about when the Huawei Watch 3 might launch, and what it might feature.
Cut to the chase What is it? The next smartwatch from HuaweiWhen is it out? Possibly late 2018, maybe 2019What will it cost? Likely upwards of £330 ($300, AU$450) Huawei Watch 3 release date and priceThe Huawei Watch 2 was announced at MWC 2017 and went on sale in April 2017 so at one stage we thought we may see the Huawei Watch 3 at MWC 2018 or alongside the P20, but it didn't show up.
That was always unlikely though considering Huawei's CEO Richard Yu told TechRadar he doesn't think the company should rush to make a new watch.
Yu told TechRadar, "It will come later - there’s no hurry because Huawei Watch 2 sells well. We’re not in a hurry, so we’re launching the new watch later."
We've also now seen the Huawei Watch 2 2018 - a new version of the Huawei Watch 2 which adds an eSIM, a capacitance sensor and a geomagnetic sensor, but is otherwise the same. Given that this only arrived recently the Huawei Watch Watch 3 may be a long way off.
Huawei Watch 2 (2018 edition)
Plus, not much has changed in terms of Wear OS hardware and software since the launch of the Huawei Watch 2. We’re still on Android Wear 2 (albeit renamed to Wear OS) which the Watch 2 was one of the first to use, and the Snapdragon Wear 2100 chipset is still the chip of choice for wearables, so Huawei might wait until the next big change in the space to launch a new wearable.
All of that said, Huawei is attending IFA 2018 at the end of August this year so it may be the company will have something to say about the new smartwatch at the show later this year.
Whenever the Huawei Watch 3 does launch it will probably be a high-end, expensive device. There aren’t any price rumors yet, but the Huawei Watch 2 started at £329 ($299, AU$450) when it first arrived, so the Watch 3 might have a similar price tag.
Huawei Watch 3 news and rumorsThere’s very little in the way of Huawei Watch 3 news and rumors so far, but there are a few key stories you'll want to know about.
One is the trademarks Huawei has filed for the new watch that suggests the company is working on three different variants of its next-gen watch. The documents called the new watches Unlimited, Voyage and Anchor.
Exactly how these products differ is unclear, but we wouldn't expect these to be the names used when it's actually released on shop shelves.
One recent report describes a watch with a space for Bluetooth earphones either in containers between the body and the strap, or built into the bottom of the strap. These would make it easier to take calls and listen to music on the watch, as you'd always have them with you.
Earphones could be housed in these capsules. Credit: WIPO/LetsGoDigital
Another patent shows a watch with sensors that can recognize gestures made on the back of your hand, so you could for example make the shape of a letter and have it appear on the screen, allowing you to more easily write things using your smartwatch.
Additional gestures could include a double tap or a long press, so you could potentially fully interact with the watch without touching it.
The Huawei Watch 3 might let you write on your hand instead of the screen. Credit: WIPO/LetsGoDigital
We've also seen a patent which describes a smartwatch with touch-sensitive bezels. The patent shows a bezel divided into eight sections, each of which could be tapped to do something on the watch.
But you could also touch multiple sections at the same time to perform an even wider variety of actions, and these actions could go beyond just launching apps, allowing you to also zoom in or out and scroll through menus for example.
Could this be the headline feature of the Huawei Watch 3? Credit: WIPO
It’s a potentially more useful – if also more complicated – alternative to the rotating bezel the likes of the Samsung Gear S3 has.
It would be a handy addition, given that the Huawei Watch 2 is notably light on control methods, but this being a patent there’s no guarantee anything will ever happen with it, let alone that it will be used for the Huawei Watch 3 specifically.
One other thing we'd expect the Huawei Watch 3 to feature is Wear OS software, and it'll be the first smartwatch from the company to launching sporting the renamed version of Android Wear.
You can upgrade the Huawei Watch 2 to the software now, but it'll likely come straight out of the box for the next-gen smartwatch,
What we want to seeHuawei has been quiet about the Watch 3 so far, but we’re not going to be quiet about what we want from it. The following seven things could make it a big improvement from the Huawei Watch 2.
1. A stylish design
The Huawei Watch looks far more stylish than the Huawei Watch 2
The original Huawei Watch had an attractive design, the Huawei Watch 2… not so much. It traded a smart metal finish for a sportier, chunkier one, with big bezels and a plastic build.
It’s not actively ugly, and the sporty design suits its sportier innards, plus there’s also a Huawei Watch 2 Classic with a look that is more stylish, but that comes with a higher price tag and isn’t available with LTE.
For the Huawei Watch 3 we want the standard version of the watch to have a slim, stylish look, without sacrificing features in the process. We wouldn’t complain if a plastic version is offered too at a lower price, but it should have the same specs.
2. Powerful performanceDespite being a top-end watch when it launched and still being up there with the more powerful smartwatches on paper, the Huawei Watch 2 proved a little sluggish in practice, which is not what we want when we’re dropping hundreds on a wearable.
So for the Huawei Watch 3 we want a performance boost, whether through more RAM, a faster chipset or just software optimizations. Apps should open instantly and interacting with the watch should be smooth.
3. A rotating crownThe Huawei Watch 2 has two buttons as well as a touchscreen, but it doesn’t have a rotating bezel or crown. This isn’t overly surprising, as few Wear OS devices do, but these are handy ways to add an additional input method to the watch without really taking up any more space.
They let you scroll through menus without obscuring the tiny screen, which is a nice feature to have, and one that some major rivals – such as the Apple Watch 3 – sport.
4. A larger screen
The Huawei Watch 2's screen feels slightly more cramped than we'd like
Despite having a chunkier build than the original Huawei Watch, the Huawei Watch 2 actually has a smaller screen of just 1.2 inches.
It’s fairly sharp and bright but it feels cramped, especially when trying to use an on-screen keyboard, so we’d like to see a larger screen of around 1.4 inches on the Huawei Watch 3.
5. A slicker chargerThe Huawei Watch 2 employs a fiddly, inelegant charging solution, requiring you to line up a cradle with pogo pins on the back of the watch.
It’s not a huge issue but it could be so much simpler, and we want it to be for the Huawei Watch 3. A simple wireless charger that you plop the watch straight onto would do just fine.
6. Support for standard straps
More strap choice would definitely be a good thing
While the Huawei Watch 2 uses the standard 20mm strap size, its design means you can still only attach straps designed specifically for it.
This seems like a real missed opportunity to give buyers a near endless selection of strap options, so for the Huawei Watch 3 we want a design that allows for any and all standard straps (in whatever size Huawei chooses) to be used with it.
7. Longer lifeThe Huawei Watch 2 actually lasts a reasonably long time by smartwatch standards, with up to around two days of life if you’re not using a SIM card, but that plummets to only just over a day if you do use a SIM and even at two days you’ll be charging it at least a few times a week.
Space for a larger battery is understandably limited, but if Huawei can do anything to stretch the Watch 3’s life further we’d appreciate it.
After a some new smart wrist wear? These are the best smartwatches available
The best Roku deals in July 2018
In a video streaming world dominated by Netflix, Amazon, Google and Apple among others, Roku is the plucky underdog that continues to hold its own. And after a recent UK and US-wide update brought voice-controlled search features to the Roku family of devices, now is a great time to be looking for a good deal.
The Roku is a media streaming box that plus into your TV via an HDMI port. It turns any old TV into a smart one, adding Netflix, Amazon, Spotify and Now TV streaming, screen mirroring, game playing – and, on the latest versions, 4K and HDR playback.
The Roku family is your one-stop shop for all your streaming needs, without tying you in to any particular service or app store.
The Roku Premiere+ and Roku Express in particular are two of our absolute favourite living room devices. If you're thinking of picking one of these up, we couldn't recommend them more highly. By comparison, you could check out our Chromecast deals or Amazon's Fire TV and Fire TV stick prices, the latter of which will surely get a big discount on Amazon Prime Day.
Here are the best Roku deals currently available...
A tiny yet superb 4K streaming device
Roku continues to give rival streaming devices something to worry about as the new Roku Streaming Stick Plus is super modern, super small and, most importantly, super cheap. Not to mention, unlike many of the older models on this page it's been released in the UK too. Now Brits can finally join the 4K Roku party like the US has been enjoying for years! You're even getting HDR content from supported apps too.
The best value 4K HDR streaming device
The Roku Premiere+ is the best intersection of value and performance for a 4K streaming player available right now. It's a capable piece of hardware and the Plus version includes HDR (High Dynamic Range) playback over the older Premiere model. An optional ethernet connection enables smooth 4K HDR streaming if your Wi-Fi isn't quite up to the task. We're loving the option for private listening via the headphones plugged into the remote too. Note: This Roku was not released in the UK. So don't expect many (if any) UK prices below.
An excellent 4K streaming device
This standard Roku Premiere lacks a few key features compared to the Roku Premiere+ above. Say goodbye to HDR and ports for an ethernet connection and MicroSD card. You can't plug headphones into the remote either. As a 4K streamer, this is a bargain, but we'd advise opting for the Plus model as the aforementioned features are a steal for a few dollars more. You might find 4K streaming a smoother experience when cabled in instead of Wi-Fi too. This Roku was not released in the UK either. So don't expect many (if any) UK prices below.
The one with all the features
The Roku Ultra is the most feature-packed of all the Roku media streamers. It has all the quality 4K and HDR streaming and ports of the Roku Premiere+. So what do you get for the extra cash? The remote control gets the most attention on the Ultra as it can be used for voice search, it has extra buttons to make it a handy game controller and there's even a little speaker to help you find it via a button on the console. There's also a USB storage slot and an optical out audio port. So, handy extras, but the Premiere+ is arguably better value for money. This Roku was not released in the UK either. So don't expect many (if any) UK prices below.
Once the Roku champion, now usurped by the Roku Ultra
The 4K-capable Roku 4 is slowly being phased out by the newer Roku Ultra. The two streaming devices are largely similar in terms of features, but the Roku Ultra is arguably the one to go for as it features enhanced sound and allows for HDR (High Dynamic Range) streaming too. With the Ultra generally costing the same, or maybe $15 more at most, we'd go for that one first for a bit of future-proofing. Note: This Roku was not released in the UK. So don't expect many (if any) UK prices below.
The Roku 3 is the best Roku model available in the UK
Where the Roku 3 really scores is in its wonderful usability, be it the blazing processor speed or the improved functionality the hardware tweaks have bestowed upon it. It's responsive, simple and not beholden to a proprietary content library. Whether you're looking for a streaming box to help you cut the cord, or augment your cable subscription, the Roku 3 has the features, build quality and simplicity you're looking for. US buyers may want to pay a little bit more for the Roku Premiere instead and get 4K streaming.
The best entry-level streamer
For US buyers, this is the cheapest Roku family member. The Roku Express is newer and cheaper than the Roku Streaming Stick and does all the same jobs. If you want tot turn any HDMI TV into a Smart TV for as little as possible - this is for you. Although, the Quad-Core enabled Roku Streaming Stick does fun a bit faster. It's not for you if you live in the UK though, but you can still buy the similar Roku Streaming Stick below.
It's a Roku streamer in HDMI-stick form like a Chromecast
It's not quite as affordable as the Chromecast, but it has more of the apps that people want right now, including Amazon Instant Video. That's significant because Amazon often has cheaper HD movie rentals than other services. There are a number of new streaming devices out right now, but the the Roku Streaming Stick stands as the most efficient way to make a normal HDTV into a smart TV without springing for a pricier set-top box. Newer models have surpassed this one though and it's increasingly hard to get hold of in the UK. In all honesty, we'd opt for the Roku Streaming Stick Plus (near the top of this list) as it's not that much more expensive at all and can show 4K HDR content.
Windows 10’s Start menu could have a nifty change in the pipeline
Microsoft has apparently sneaked in a change to the Start menu for Windows 10 ‘skip ahead’ testers – who are now working with the next big update due to land in the first half of 2019 – and it seems the plan is to change the menu in a simple but interesting way.
The change is that when you hover the mouse pointer over an icon in the left-hand pane of the Start menu, the menu in question is displayed after a slight delay of a split second – as opposed to just a tooltip telling you what the icon is, which is what pops up currently.
Now, if you’re a skip ahead tester and the Start menu doesn’t seem any different to you, that’s because at the moment Microsoft is only trialing this change with a limited number of folks.
Sample setIn other words, the software giant wants to see how the new menu resonates with that small group, before potentially introducing it across the board in a future build for skip ahead testers. So, hold tight and you may see this eventually (either that, or Microsoft will abandon it as a bad idea, which is obviously a possibility).
It may be a relatively minor change, but it’s interesting to see nonetheless. It's also of note because there weren’t supposed to be any changes introduced with the skip ahead build 18204 (which, last week, was forked from build 17723, the Redstone 5 update due to arrive later this year).
The big change with both these latest preview builds is that Microsoft has introduced smart machine learning tech to attempt to judge when’s the best time to fire up and install Windows updates (to avoid interrupting or otherwise inconveniencing the user, and we’ve certainly witnessed complaints of this happening in the past).
Some of the best laptops of 2018 run Windows 10Via MS Power User
Summer with Ultra Wide Angle
Holidays offer fantastic opportunities for the photographer within us all. We’ve already made our photographic plans and we’re packed ready for every eventuality. We’re excited to discover new places and improve our photographic skills. We’re also hoping that, in addition to all those wonderful memories, we’ll be coming back with memory cards full of fascinating photos, hoping we’ve got a prize-winning shot amongst them.
Regardless of whether they’re simply amateurs armed with a smartphone, or professionals with a multitude of top-class photo equipment, we all want to capture the best possible shots while we’re away from home.
What distinguishes us from each other is the way in which we go about achieving this: there are those who like to keep things simple and will only take a small compact camera, while there are others who’ll pack a compact set of prime lenses. Finally, there are those whose mantra is “everything will come in handy”, and will pack a range of zoom lenses covering everything from wide-angle to telephoto.
Regardless of what we take, with a little bit of practice and luck, we’ll be taking breathtaking photos that we can cherish and share.
Photo by Riccardo Montero
But this article is not meant to make you believe that you’re doing everything right, but should make you curious and willing to think hard about your photos.
Until recently, I personally preferred using a full-frame 28mm f/1.8 prime lens (along with a polarizing filter and a neutral density filter, allowing me to shoot wide open even under the hot sun of southern Europe). I used this lens in tandem with the 50mm f/1.4 (again with a neutral density, imagining how nice it would be to come back with beautiful portraits in full sunshine).
These two lenses allowed me to photograph in such a way that it wouldn’t even cross my mind that something was missing. However, some time ago, I had the opportunity to take an Irix 11mm f/4.0 lens on my vacation and… well, this ended my idyllic idea of what I considered should be necessary photographic equipment I should be taking away with me.
Photo by Mike Snijder
An ultra-wide-angle lens like the Irix 11mm f/4.0 now gives us a completely new idea of framing and perceiving what's in front of us.
At first glance, this is undoubtedly a demanding piece of kit thanks to its sometimes difficult focal length (you can suddenly find your own feet in the frame when shooting vertically!). But it does allow you to get extremely interesting angles and amazing shots.
Now it’s not important as to whether we’re in the south of Europe, heated by the warmth of the sun in the narrow streets of beautiful historical cities, or visiting Lofoten (charming though it is) with its minimal and harsh climate. The extreme wide angle view allows us a host of new photographic possibilities, regardless of whether we’re taking shots of landscapes, or monuments or the enchanted minimalistic beauty we find housed within modern architecture.
Photo by Paweł Klarecki
Ultra-wide-angle lenses are full of contradictions: they are difficult to compose but give great results. Paradoxically, they are fabulously simple to use. Why? Well, such extremely wide glasses do not really need autofocus - by f/4.0, the depth of field ranges from 2 metres to infinity, and then by f/8.0, from 80cm to infinity.
This makes shooting quick and easy - once we’ve set the focus and aperture, we can happily shoot at this setting all day - Very practical when visiting new places where we might not have too much time to concentrate on settings.
Distance scale and focus ring lock on the example of the Irix 11mm f/4.0 lens
Probably many of you would be reluctant to look at such a wide lens. They don’t allow the use of polarizing filters, but because the viewing angle is so wide, the polarization effect often doesn’t cover the entire frame anyway.
With an ultra-wide angle lens it's worth following a few rules, but as always, breaking them can also result in some interesting photos. So with this in mind I’d like to share with you eight principles that you should consider when shooting with an ultra-wide angle lens.
1. Fill the frame with something interesting
Photo by Riccardo Montero
Maybe it sounds banal, but is there anything more obvious than photographing only interesting things? Certainly not, but with a field of view larger than 110 degrees, we must ensure that the attention of the viewer is focused on something specific because, by filling the frame with everything and anything, it can often turn out that there’s nothing in it.
2. Come close, really close
Photo by Isabella Tabacchi
One important issue in the selection of the focal length is the perspective it creates: from telephoto lenses that compress the image, looking through a natural view of the 50mm lens, or ending with a dramatic extended perspective of ultra wide-angle lenses. Use this to your advantage by moving in close to your subject to add drama and accentuate lead-in lines to draw the viewer in to the photo.
3. Framing
Photo by Vadim Sherbakov
The figure in the centre extending hands to us will come out as unnatural (their hands will look incredibly slim and long). This may be considered as artistic expression to some, but when generalizing this isn’t good practice in everyday photography. So let's think about the main subject of our photo and “dress” it within a natural frame.
4. Open up a really small space
Photo by Paweł Ulatowski
Small spaces are small, which is kind of obvious really. However, a ultra wide-angle prime lens is perfect for small interiors, as it can make them appear much larger, with a three-square-metre bathroom becoming a ‘bathing room’.
5. Add character using the leading lines
Photo by Paweł Klarecki
One of the characteristic features of photography is the use of leading lines. Their perception can be extremely creative: from simple, painted road signs, looking through fences popular in landscape photography, spiral staircases, all the way to queues of people waiting for 'something'. Ultra wide-angle lenses allow you to really play with lead-in lines and not only direct the viewer’s gaze, but add balance to the scene.
6. Watch out! Something’s going to fall down soon!
Photo by Vadim Sherbakov
When photographing architecture, it is worth remembering one simple principle - the camera matrix must remain perpendicular to the object being photographed, otherwise we’ll get the impression that the object being photographed is leaning on us or abnormally moving away. Using an ultra wide-angle means we can shoot to edit, leaving more space around the build so we can correct this distortion in post-production before cropping the image.
7. Take pictures from the hip
Photo by Pawel Klarecki
Wide-angle lenses are great if you want to shoot from the hip, allowing you to capture spontaneous and unguarded shots. It is extremely easy to photograph in this way with the focus-lock function set to a specific value, eg 2m-> infinity or 0.5m-> 20m.
8. In short - just shoot!
Photo by Vadim Sherbakov
I hope that what’s delivered here in this article is something that you have found interesting. At the same time, I’ve left the way open for discussion because there are so many differing opinions from so many photographers. After all, the beauty of photography lies in the fact that, as a medium based on the image, it leaves the door ajar to discuss what we perpetuate and in what way. The camera, lens and filters are just tools that allow you to achieve a specific effect, and the effect of using optics with a wide field of view allows you to show the world in a way that we are unable to see with our own eyes.
Microsoft patent hints at a dual-screen mobile device for video calling
While Microsoft attempts to keep tight-lipped about the hardware it’s working on, much of its secrecy can be undone when patents it’s submitted are unearthed, which gives us an idea what to expect from the company in the future.
The most recent patent unearthed by Windows Latest was submitted by Microsoft in June 2017, and published by the US Patent and Trademark Office at the beginning of July 2018, and it suggests the company is working on a multi-screen mobile device that could be used primarily for video calling.
The patent is titled 'Three-way video calling on hinged multi-screen device', which gives us a hint as to what such a device would be used for. With Microsoft owning Skype, the video calling service, it makes sense that the company would consider designing a device that specializes in video calls.
Lights, cameras, actionAccording to the patent, the device would feature two displays, and both of those screens will also have a camera. The idea is that this device will display images captured by the cameras on the two screens, while also displaying an image from a remote computer – for example someone using Skype to video-call from another location.
This could make having three-way conversations using video calling easier. As Microsoft notes in the patent, “Users interact with multi-screen mobile devices throughout a variety of positions, including holding the device vertically, holding the device with a primary screen facing toward the user, holding the screen with a second screen facing toward the user, and other positions and orientations.”
If two people are video-calling together from the same place (such as the living room of your house), this means squeezing into the frame of a single camera. The patented device would make things easier, as all users could comfortably appear in front of the various cameras.
Of course, as with other patents, the device may never make it to market, but it’s an interesting look at the kind hardware Microsoft is considering.
The best free Skype alternative 2018
Back to School 2018 sales: the best deals for tech supplies
Finding Back to School sales in 2018 isn't hard, but finding the best deals for the tech supplies that'll help you (or your special little student) excel isn't always a given.
That's why we've created TechRadar's official Back to School Guide – updated daily – pointing to the big discounts that will propel you over the next several semesters.
We're filling our list with backpacks, laptops, phones, and software, and our top picks are some US stores like Apple, Walmart, Best Buy, and Amazon. There are fun tech ideas here, too, to trick out a dorm.
Here are the best Back to School sales we've seen today and the lowest prices, based on our expertise and product testing.
Back to School store quick links Amazon Back to School salesWalmart Back to School salesMicrosoft Back to School salesApple Back to School salesDell Back to School laptop salesStaples Back to School salesKmart Back to School sales The best Back to School sales list for 2018
YouTube Originals to enter subscription-based video streaming space in India
Google’s popular video platform YouTube is planning to roll out its original programming ‘YouTube Originals’ streaming service in India.
According to Reuters, the company is planning to advance towards building a viewer base for YouTube Premium service in the country. As per company's plans, the original programming will be split into various genres instead of a uniform format. It is said to include talk shows, scripted series, reality series, music documentaries and more.
Susanne Daniels, Global Head of Original Programming for YouTube, in an interview, said that “the content will be produced in local languages and subtitled or dubbed for other markers.” Meaning, the originals will be customised for the respective regions. Unlike Netflix and Amazon Prime, the YouTube will not put all the original content for Premium subscribers and instead, only select content will be available for subscribers. Rest of the content will be available on YouTube for free, of course with advertisements.
YouTube is looking to target the hot markets, where the video platform is in predominant position. India is, of course, one of the biggest markets for YouTube with more than 225 million monthly users. Notably, the original programming service is also reported to be launched in France, Germany, Japan and Mexico.
While Netflix and Amazon are early entrants in subscription based video streaming space, YouTube has its existence in the country from more than a decade. Although its original programming will be fairly new in India, it still has the resources to attract huge number of viewers at an unusual pace. Of course, their content and pricing will play a crucial part.
There’s no final word on the expected launch date from the company yet. Neither any hint about the subscription model or shows.
Netflix’s new icons will add a bit of personality to your user profile
Fox's new AI can predict whether you'll watch its movies
20th Century Fox has developed an AI program that can analyse movie trailers to gauge the likely makeup of its audience.
The deep learning software was developed to help Fox better market its movies to relevant audience demographics, and is apparently largely able to predict audience attendance months before release.
What is AI? Everything you need to knowWhile there’s always a danger of focusing too firmly on aspects of an audience’s background – recent changes to Facebook’s advertising rules being a case in point – Fox’s novel use of AI could also hugely improve the relevance of preview trailers shown in the cinema.
Still learningThe AI’s capabilities are limited, and can currently only analyse content on a visual level – looking at the level of lighting, colors, and the presence of faces or landscapes.
As the AI improves its understanding of the content of those images, however, we could envisage it becoming a crucial tool to understanding audience demographics and how best to market upcoming film releases to them.
Fox’s researchers are reportedly also looking to incorporate text features into the software – potentially in the marketing material around a trailer, or even the dialogue uttered in the preview clip.
Best Amazon Prime movies: the best films to stream this monthImage credit: Atlantis Movie Theatre
Look mum, no hands! Skout is a hands-free camera carrying solution
The Skout is a new chest-style camera mounting system that's designed to hold your camera close to your body, and allow quick access to it when you need it.
Designed by Canadian manufacturer Cotton Carrier, the Skout has been engineered to hug your core, with its patented Twist & Lock mount system designed to keep your kit in a fixed position close to your chest – great for the active photographer who doesn't want their camera bouncing round their neck when they're on the move.
When you want to stop and shoot, a simple twist of your camera will release it from its anodized aluminum hub. There's also a tether to avoid accidents, and for added security. To protect your kit from the elements the Scout features a weather cover that your can pull over your camera, while there's also a stash pocket that will accommodate a smartphone or credit cards.
Easy to fitThe Scout promises to be easy to fit and comfortable once your camera is attached. It slides on over one shoulder, and is secured with a secondary strap that runs round the back and clicks on to the front of the Scout.
The Scout is made from durable Kodra Synthetic Canvas, and will be available in either charcoal grey or 'Realtree Xtra Camo'.
The Kickstarter campaign for the Scout finishes on August 9, but it's already beaten its CA$8,000 (about £4,670 / $6,100 / AU$8,300) goal, currently topping out at CA$66,576 (£38,860 / $50,960 / AU$69,000). There are still a few early bird pledge deals available, with the first batch of Scouts expected to ship in November 2018.
Best camera bag: 10 backpacks and shoulder bags to protect your kit
Huawei Watch 3 may come in three different models
Both the Huawei Watch and Huawei Watch 2 came in two variants, but it looks like the third iteration of the company's smartwatch may come in three different versions.
New trademarks from Huawei suggest the company is working on three different devices, and while the listings don't confirm the Huawei Watch 3 name we do know that the company is developing its third-generation watch.
Found on the World Intellectual Property Organization's website, three different patents filed together refer to the devices as Anchor, Unlimited and Voyage.
Three new modelsGoing by those names, we believe the Unlimited will be the top-end model, with the Voyage and the Anchor sitting below it.
Exactly how these models will differ is unclear, but it's likely the Unlimited version will come with 4G connectivity onboard.
These are likely just codenames for the devices, so you shouldn't expect to see those names appearing in stores, although Huawei may drop its Classic and Sport monikers for new model names.
Rumors about the Huawei Watch 3 are few and far between at the moment, but these trademarks surfacing may mean we see the watch launch sooner rather than later – IFA 2018 is just around the corner, and it may be that Huawei decides to unveil its new watches there.
Everything we know about the Huawei Watch 3Via 91Mobiles
Samsung Galaxy Note 9 release date, price, news and leaks
The official Samsung Galaxy Note 9 launch date is August 9, after an invite was sent out by Samsung on June 27. The unveiling will happen in Brooklyn, New York at 11am EST (8am PST, 4pm BST).
It's the next big Android smartphone to release, and it'll be here next month. It means the new Galaxy Note phablet will arrive earlier than previous years – we're used to late August for the announcement.
New Note devices are always big news because it's an Android phone with a large screen, handy S Pen and a heap of power, although rumors of an in-screen fingerprint sensor may be premature, especially as it's now due to arrive earlier than expected.
Update: A pre-order ad for the handset has appeared in Indonesia revealing prices for the 128GB and 512GB variants - adding more fuel to the fire that the Galaxy Note 9 price will be higher than the Note 8.
Instead, we're likely to see Bixby 2.0 and an improved dual-lens camera, maybe one with the HDR video recording left out of the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9 Plus, but a feature being touted by recent LG and Sony phones.
We're sorting through the rumors and leaks (there are a lot of them) daily, and to do that we've gotten out our trusty S Pen stylus ready to declare which are plausible, and which are just wishful thinking.
It seems Samsung has even got a little excited, publishing the framework for support pages of a device with the model ID of SM-N960F/DS - which is expected to be the Note 9 - in Finland, Norway, France and Denmark .
Here's everything we know about Samsung's extra-big Android phone so far.
Cut to the chase What is Note 9? Samsung's next flagship phabletWhen is Note 9's launch date? August 9, 2018 in New YorkWhen is Note 9's release date? Before Apple's new iPhone announcementWhat will Note 9 cost? Probably at least $929 / £869 / AU$1,499 Samsung Galaxy Note 9 release date It's official: Thursday, August 9 announcement at Samsung UnpackedEarlier release date expected: previously launch has been late August
Here's the official Note 9 launch invite
You'll be able to get your hands on the Galaxy Note 9 sooner than anticipated, as the Samsung Unpacked launch event is in early August.
Thursday, August 9 is the official Galaxy Note 9 launch date, with the announcement happening in Brooklyn, New York City. To put that into perspective, last year's Note 8 phone event was on August 23.
However, we could be seeing a tease of the phone earlier, as Samsung is holding a “special sneak peek” event on August 1. This event is likely for the Galaxy Tab S4, though it’s very possible Samsung will give a little tease for its upcoming phone, as it’s done with past devices.
All of this news has lined with reports that the Note 9, said to be codenamed 'Crown', had a prototype ready in the first quarter of 2018, according to The Investor.
Samsung was also said to be testing firmware for the phone ahead of schedule, two weeks earlier than where it was with the software for the Note 8. And remember, the S9 firmware was tested earlier than the S8 and that went on to launch earlier, too.
In terms of when the phone will actually go on sale, rumors suggest it might hit stores in early August, very soon after it's announced.
That's according to supply chain sources, and is apparently in response to weak sales of the Galaxy S9 range.
However, it's just a rumor for now, so don't be surprised if you can't buy it until late August. Either way though we'd expect pre-orders to open either on the day of the launch event, or shortly after.
Why the earlier release date?Samsung needs the Note 9 is be attention-grabbing enough to outlast the iPhone X2 and iPhone 9 phones that Apple is likely to unveil in early September.
Sure, the Note series is always announced first, but by the time Note phones actually hit stores, the hype surrounding Apple's new iPhones is already at a fever-pitch.
That's the number one reason we think Samsung is giving us a look at the Galaxy Note 9 earlier. It needs to get its phone in its first customers hands in August or early September at the very latest.
Big phone, little design changeThe Samsung Galaxy Note 9 should get some big updates over the Galaxy Note 8, but as far as design goes don't expect too much change from the phablet it's replacing.
In fact, a leaked render showing the front of the phone suggests there might not be any changes at all (at least from the front) with all the buttons, sensors and everything else matching the Note 8.
This looks a lot like the Galaxy Note 8. Credit: AndroidHeadlines
An image focused on the bottom edge of the phone, which appears to be official marketing for the handset, also shows a design that's more or less identical to the Note 8, with the USB-C port, headphone jack and S Pen slot all present and correct.
Though the image also shows the S Pen in a striking new yellow color, so that's one aspect that might have had a makeover.
Indeed, the launch event also featured a yellow S Pen, but we’ve seen some leaked renders that show off all five of the colors the new S Pen will supposedly be coming in, alongside Galaxy Note 9 cases.
For example, the render below shows the black and brown Note 9’s as coming with a matching S Pen, so we’re assuming all models of the Galaxy Note 9 will come with corresponding S Pens.
Only the blue Note 9 seems to have a contrasting S Pen. Credit: Android Headlines
A separate leak has named the three color options as Mystic Black, Engineered Blue and Artisan Copper, although there's a suggestion that the larger 512GB model may not come in the copper hue.
Earlier leaks line up with the design above, specifically some renders based on a factory CAD (computer-aided design), which you can see below, and which come from a fairly reliable source, namely @OnLeaks (who shared them on behalf of 91mobiles), who has been right about things plenty of times before.
The images show a design that looks very similar to the Samsung Galaxy Note 8, complete with a rectangular shape, metal frame and glass back. You can also see that there’s once again a dual-lens camera and a fingerprint scanner on the back – so an in-display scanner looks unlikely.
However, the scanner has been moved below the camera lens, somewhat similar to its position on the Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus, but where that phone has its cameras stacked vertically, the Note 9 shown here has them side by side.
Other details include a 3.5mm headphone port, USB-C port, speaker grille, S Pen silo and microphone on the bottom edge, slim bezels (but no notch) on the front, power and volume buttons on the left edge and a Bixby button on the right.
It's also claimed that the Note 9 will be dust and water resistant, which isn't a surprise as all of Samsung's top-end handsets have this.
As well as the images above, you can also see all these things in the video below, which came from the same source.
The dimensions of the Galaxy Note 9 have also been leaked, with the phone apparently coming in at 161.9 x 76.3 x 8.8mm (or perhaps 162 x 76.4 x 8.8mm), making it slightly shorter but marginally wider and thicker than the 162.5 x 74.8 x 8.6mm Galaxy Note 8.
So the size is similar overall, which is no surprise, since the screen will apparently also stay at 6.3 inches.
As always, you should take these images with a grain of salt, but the source is solid and they look convincing enough. Not only that, but we've now seen various case renders and what's supposedly a leaked front panel from the phone, all of which sport a very similar design.
And while the design might not change much the available colors could be slightly different, with blue, copper, silver, violet and black all rumored to be options. You can see them below and note that some of them are surprisingly vibrant.
These might be the color options for the Note 9. Credit: Hi-Tech.Mail
However, while more recent leaks match the color range above, the tones seem more muted, so don't count on the colors being as bright as this. You can see a more muted version of the purple shade below.
Here's the Note 9 in a pinky purple. Credit: Nieuwe Mobiel
We've also seen an unboxing video for the Samsung Galaxy Note 9 and the handset looks exactly as it does in the leaks above, so we're very confident of the design.
But while the design might be familiar, there's a chance that it will be made from a new material, as Samsung has trademarked 'Metal 12' - a material that's both strong and light.
Samsung Galaxy Note 9 price It'll be an expensive whether or not it sees a price increaseThe Samsung Galaxy Note 9 price is unlikely to have the same good news that we've had from the early release date. When it does arrive, it's bound to be expensive.
The Galaxy Note 8 retailed for $929 (£869, AU$1,499) at launch and we can’t see Samsung lowering the price for the Note 9, especially now Apple has pushed smartphone prices even higher with its iPhone X.
Here's the Note 9 price wildcard: The S9 and S9 Plus saw a price increase in most countries. However, it was cheaper in the US. We may see another split decision, depending on where you buy the Note 9.
As for exactly what the Samsung Galaxy Note 9 will cost, that's unclear for now. One leak puts the 512GB version at £1,150 in the UK (around $1,500 / AU$2,000), but that would almost certainly be the priciest model, so even if this is accurate you should be able to get it with less storage for less money.
Meanwhile, a pre-order ad for the Galaxy Note 9 has appeared in Indonesia, pitching the 128GB model at 13,500,000 Rupiahs (around $940, £720, AU$1,270) and the 512GB version at 17,500,000 Rupiahs (around $1,220, £930, AU$1,640).
While the conversions won't equate to the handset's exact price in the US, UK and Australia, It's bound to still be a lot. So for now, you'll have to be satisfied with the Note 9's predecessor if you want a phone with a stylus on the cheap. Check out today's best Galaxy Note 8 deals.
Watch the video below to see our Samsung Galaxy Note 8 review.
Note 9 specs and featuresOne big feature of the Galaxy Note 9 could be a long-lasting battery, as Samsung itself has teased exactly that in the video below.
While the teaser doesn't say how this long life will be achieved, we have a good idea thanks to leaks, as known leaker Eldar Murtazin has recently written on Mobile-Review, providing a wealth of information about the Samsung Galaxy Note 9, revealing, among other things, that the phone will apparently have a 4,000mAh battery.
That's in line with more recent rumors which agreed that the phone will have a 4,000mAh capacity, a new high for a Samsung flagship device.
Though one source has said the Note 9 could have a 3,850mAh battery, which would be a lot bigger than the 3,300mAh one in the Note 8, but only slightly larger than the 3,500mAh one in the Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus.
Moving back to Murtazin's claims, the Note 9 will also apparently have a Super AMOLED screen which can get slightly brighter than the Note 8's, and the phone will supposedly come in three versions - one with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, one with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, and one with 8GB of RAM and 512GB of storage.
Another report claims the Samsung Galaxy Note 9 will have 512GB of storage in some markets. Korean pamphlets have suggested it'll come in 64GB, 256GB and 512GB variants.
Usually the largest variants are reserved for South Korea and China, but a reputable leaker claims the 512GB model of the Note 9 will be coming to Europe, likely with the UK included, though a US or Australian launch is still unclear.
The 512GB rumor has been given an extra boost thanks to a Samsung video teaser pointing towards more storage inside the Galaxy Note 9.
All models will retain a microSD card slot apparently and most of the world will get an Exynos chipset, while the US and South Korea will get a Snapdragon one.
Murtazin went on to say that the camera has a variable aperture like on the S9 range and that optical stabilization appeared to be improved.
We've also seen an unboxing video, which shows off a specs list. This might not be genuine, but if it is you can expect the Samsung Galaxy Note 9 to have a screen that’s 6.3 inches if you measure the full rectangle or 6.2 inches factoring in the rounded corners. It's also listed as being a QHD+ Super AMOLED display.
There's also 6GB of RAM mentioned, along with 64GB of storage, a pair of 12MP rear cameras, an 8MP front-facing camera, IP68 dust and water resistance, an iris scanner, wireless charging and AKG-tuned earphones.
The Samsung Galaxy Note 9 has also seemingly been benchmarked with predictably high scores, revealing in the process that it has a Snapdragon 845 chipset, 6GB of RAM and runs Android 8.1 - the same specs in other words as the US version of the Galaxy S9 Plus. It's since been benchmarked again with even better results.
There's also been talk elsewhere that Samsung could push the top configuration up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage.
However, there are rumors that Samsung is working on an Exynos 9820 chipset. That could bring about faster speeds or, more likely in our minds, HDR video recording.
This feature is already supported by the Snapdragon 845, but noticeably absent from all S9 devices across the board, likely because the Exynos 9810 doesn't support it. With new Android phones, like the Sony Xperia XZ2, having HDR video recording, Samsung needs to play catchup.
If this is accurate then the Note 9 could be extremely powerful. Credit: Geekbench
And there's evidence that it might - or at least that some versions of the Galaxy Note 9 might use the Exynos 9820, as the phone has seemingly been benchmarked with that chip and with very high scores, as you can see in the image above.#
Whatever power the Note 9 packs, it's going to be powerful, and Samsung is promising a 'change of pace' with its new handset in another teaser video.
We've also heard claims that the S Pen could be getting some big upgrades, the main one apparently being the addition of Bluetooth, with one source saying this could allow you to unlock the Note 9 with the Pen, while another claims it will allow you to pause and skip tracks with the S Pen and use it as a long-range self-timer.
More recently we've seen firmware suggesting that the S Pen will be able to control music, operate the phone's camera shutter remotely, unlock the phone remotely, and launch apps and features of your choice.
In more unlikely news, there's a chance that Samsung will go even further than an in-screen scanner with the Note 9, as it's patented a smartphone concept that has not just the fingerprint scanner but also the front-facing camera and sensors embedded in the display, for a truly bezel-free design.
This might be too ambitious for a 2018 launch though.
This could be an idea used by the Galaxy Note 9. Credit: WIPO/LetsGoDigital
That said, an even more ambitious goal for the Galaxy Note 9 could be for it to have a bendable display. This is something Samsung’s been working on for even longer, and there's suggestion that the tech could land in a phone late this year.
However, it might still arrive too late for it to be used in the Note 9, and Samsung might not want to debut such an experimental tech on a major flagship.
And moving from the outside back in, The Korea Herald reports that Samsung might equip the Galaxy Note 9 with an NPU (neural processing unit). That's essentially an AI chip like Apple and Huawei have begun using in their flagships.
It's unclear what Samsung would use the chip for, but it could potentially speed up certain functions of the phone.
Note series so far: Note 8 | Note 7 | Note 5 | Note 4 | Note 3 | Note 2 | Note
The best cheap TV deals in July 2018: 4K TVs for less
Summer is a great time of year to find cheap TV deals as retailers love to slash prices while the sun's shining. And when the British rain inevitably arrives, you'll be glad to have shiny new TV at home.
We keep our eye on the latest deals throughout the year, so we're poised to find you the best price whenever the need to replace your old TV arises. And we're fully behind the 4K TV movement seeing as prices have dropped nicely, meaning you're not saving much money at all by opting for a standard HD TV. Take a look at the prices below and you'll see what we mean.
Select highlights for the best cheap TVs this week include wide range of fantastic offers where you can get a massive 60-inch 4K HDR TV from AO.com for £599. Another cheap TV that caught our eye was a 50-inch 4K model for a tiny £399. There's a 43-inch 4K TV starting from as low as just £289 too. Retailers like Currys, Argos, AO and ebuyer are really stepping things up now for the summer sales. These really are the best prices we've seen all year.
Take a look at our carefully curated extensive selection below. We've split the 4K TV deals into different size categories immediately after our pick for cheap TV deal of the week. Whatever your budget, we're sure we can find something for you. If you need a new TV, we'd go for a 4K one as older outdated HD TVs aren't that much cheaper at all nowadays and most stores are clearing them out.
Now's a great time to upgrade with a cheap 4K TV deal, especially with Netflix, Amazon, BBC and Sky TV all increasing their 4K content. Nowadays, pretty much every TV comes with Freeview (no more set-top boxes!) and also Smart TV functionality via your home internet - we'll be sure to mention it if they don't though.
If you're after more seriously large TV deals, we should warn you, they don't come cheap. However, if you want to see some more large screen TV deals -we're talking about 65 to 85-inch TVs- we'd recommend heading over to John Lewis, Currys and Amazon as they seem to stock more models than most UK retailers.
Extra retailer cheap 4K TV deals links:Not found the right cheap TV for you today? Or maybe you'd prefer to directly browse the TVs at your favourite retailers instead of our highlights of the best cheap TV deals? We're updating this page on a regular basis, so you may have better look another day. If you want to take a look for yourself now though, here are the direct links to a the full collection of TV deals at multiple stores.
Amazon dealsArgos dealsebuyer dealsCurrys dealsAO dealsSamsung dealsJohn Lewis dealsVery deals
ZTE profit evaporates in revised results
ZTE has updated its financial results for the first quarter of 2018 in order to reflect the impact of a now-overturned ban from dealing with US companies.
The Chinese manufacturer originally published its Q1 results in April – around the same time it was working to overturn the seven-year penalty imposed by the US government.
ZTE revised resultsIt posted a 39 per cent increase from the 1.2 billion Yuan profit (£134m) it declared a year earlier, but said it was too early to tell what the impact from the ban would be. However it has now revised these figures to show a 5.4 billion Yuan (£603m) loss, a dramatic change.
Losses for the entire of the first half of 2018 are set to be to between 7 and 9 billion Yuan (£782m - £1bn), a far cry from the 2.3 billion Yuan (£257m) profit it recorded in 2017. This will take into the account the $1.4 billion (£1bn) it has had to pay to the US to continue trading with US suppliers.
But ZTE will be happy to be back in business having warned that its future was in jeopardy.
The ban was issued to ZTE for breaching a previous agreement for illegally shipping products to North Korea and Iran. ZTE was obliged to discipline executives involved in the scandal but failed to do so.
As part of a deal brokered by President Donald Trump, ZTE was required to change its management team, dismiss any employee at a senior vice president level or above and pay the US government a $1 billion fine for the ban to be overturned, with a further $400 million held in escrow.
Check out the best mobile deals for July 2018
Fortnite on Android may be more difficult to download than your average game
It looks like Fortnite on Android is almost ready to be replaced with a rumor last week claiming it may be an exclusive to the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Note 9 for 30 days.
However, a new report has claimed Fortnite developer Epic Games may avoid the Google Play Store for the release of the game onto other phones.
Elements of the Epic Games website's code - spotted by XDA Developers - includes the instructions on how you can download the game yourself. This isn't through the Google Play Store like you'd download most apps and games though, instead it's using an SDK from its website.
The instructions show that you'll have to head to the website on your phone, download the SDK from there, unpack it and install it onto your phone. We don't currently know how big the download will be.
Not too difficultIt may be the company is looking to avoid giving Google a 30% cut of in-app purchases that Epic Games needs to provide if it lists Fortnite on the Play Store.
Apple will take 30% of whatever in-app purchases are taken for apps and games listed the App Store too, but with Android there is the ability to list titles away from the Play Store and still be able to run on your phone.
A similar report also supplied a list of currently supported phones for the upcoming game.
It features a lot of top-end devices from the last few years, but it can't be the full list of devices as phones that should be capable of running the software aren't listed such as the Huawei P20 Pro, OnePlus 6 and LG G7 ThinQ. Plus there aren't any Android tablet devices listed either.
Here's the full list of phones included in the website code:
Google Pixel 2Google Pixel 2 XLHuawei Mate 10/Huawei Mate 10 ProHuawei Mate 10 LiteHuawei Mate 9/Mate 9 ProHuawei P10/P10 PlusHuawei P10 LiteHuawei P9Huawei P9 LiteHuawei P8 Lite 2017LG G6LG V30LG V30 PlusMotorola Moto E4 PlusMotorola Moto G5Motorola Moto G5 PlusMotorola Moto G5SMotorola Moto Z2 PlayNokia 6Razer PhoneSamsung Galaxy A5 2017Samsung Galaxy A7 2017Samsung Galaxy J7 Prime 2017/J7 Pro 2017Samsung Galaxy Note 8Samsung Galaxy On7 2016Samsung Galaxy S9/S9 PlusSamsung Galaxy S8/S8 PlusSamsung Galaxy S7/S7 EdgeSony Xperia XA1Sony Xperia XA1 UltraSony Xperia XA1 PlusSony Xperia XZSony Xperia XZsSony Xperia XZ1Android Other suggests there are more devices that will support the software, and we're quite certain we'll see more devices joining that list when it's ready to download to your phone.
Exactly when that will be is unclear, and all of the information in this article isn't confirmed so it may be a very different story when the game is officially released for mobile.
Opinion: Why I’m disappointed Fortnite may be a Samsung Galaxy Note 9 exclusive
Intel Core i9-9900K leaked benchmark leaves AMD Ryzen 7 2700X in the dust
If you’re curious about how well Intel’s upcoming Core i9-9900K flagship 9th-generation processor will perform, then a new leaked benchmark will definitely be of interest, as it shows a very nippy CPU indeed.
Bearing in mind the usual caveat of this potentially being fake – which is always a possibility with these sort of pre-launch rumors – the result from 3DMark (as highlighted by TUM APISAK) shows the Core i9-9900K hitting an overall score of 9,862 in the Time Spy benchmark. The chip recorded a graphics score of 9,725 and a CPU score of 10,719.
For the benchmark, the processor was nestled in an Asus Z370-F Strix Gaming motherboard – which incidentally confirms backwards compatibility with existing Z370 boards, as previously speculated – and paired with a Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1080 Ti graphics card.
The result represents an impressive turn of speed, and as Wccftech.com, which spotted this leak, points out, it beats out AMD’s Ryzen 7 2700X by more than 1,500 points.
This leak also confirms the spec – to a large degree – and like the Ryzen 7 2700X, Intel’s flagship is an eight-core (16-thread) processor. It also suggests that the Core i9-9900K is capable of boosting to 5GHz out of the box, although apparently that will only be across two cores (4.7GHz will supposedly be the maximum boost across all cores by default).
Engineering sampleWhat’s different with this leak is the base clock isn’t 3.6GHz as previously rumored, but 3.1GHz. That could throw some doubt on the validity of the benchmark for some folks, but as this early leak is likely from an engineering sample of the CPU, it’s not really surprising to see such a relatively low figure for the base clock.
What it also underlines is that the final production chip will be even faster when it comes to benchmarking. Exciting stuff, particularly when you consider all this comes in a package with an alleged TDP of 95W (again beating out the Ryzen 7 2700X, which weighs in at 105W).
If all this speculation pans out, that is. We’re keeping our fingers firmly crossed.
We've selected the best processors of 2018
A much-needed new Amazon Prime Video interface is on the way
Amazon Prime Video is full of great shows and movies, but the way you navigate its library has always felt clunky compared to competitors like Netflix.
With a mixture of paid-for purchases and rentals, individual subscription channels and the content available with an Amazon Prime account, it’s sometimes difficult to track down exactly what you’re looking for, or to see at a glance what you can watch at no extra cost as a Prime subscriber. But this should be set to improve, with Amazon Studio head Jen Salke revealing that a new Prime Video interface is in the works.
Speaking at a presentation at the company’s Television Critics Association press tour, Salke said she had seen “a prototype phone that showed [her] the interface that [Amazon is] working on that’s about to be – that’s in the middle of being developed and coming soon”.
Before you get your hopes up about the prospect of a new Amazon phone on the basis of the above quote, Slake has since clarified that she was solely referring to the prototype phone UI.
More changes comingWhile Salke says her team hasn’t “felt an urgency to put a deadline on [the interface’s release]”, she described it as being more intuitive for the user than previous efforts.
What may come as a frustration to some viewers however is the news that, for the time being at least, Amazon is only talking about updating the platform’s mobile app interface – the big-screen TV version was not mentioned, but it could equally do with a refresh.
It’s not the only change coming to the Prime Video service. The company will no longer be picking up entire seasons of its pilot shows via a user poll, but will instead use its own metrics and user data to make a decision.
It’s not an unusual decision – many Hollywood studios now favor picking up an entire season at once based on writer’s room output, as viewers become impatient for a full series to launch following an initial pilot release.
Check out what you can watch now with the best movies on Amazon Prime
Samsung Galaxy Note 9 price leak points to high cost once again
Another day, yet another Samsung Galaxy Note 9 leak – and this particular nugget of information gives us what appears to be a more official look at the handset's potential price.
A pre-order advert spotted in Indonesia appears to show the Samsung Galaxy Note 9 price as 13,500,000 Rupiahs (around $940, £720, AU$1,270) for the 128GB model, while a larger 512GB variant is listed at 17,500,000 Rupiahs (around $1,220, £930, AU$1,640).
Those rough conversions do work out slightly cheaper than previous Galaxy Note 9 price leaks, but prices in local markets won't simply be a straight conversion so we'd expect the US, UK and Australia costs to be higher than what we've estimated here.
If this Note 9 price leak is accurate, it means the handset will be more expensive than its predecessor, as the Galaxy Note 8 launched in Indonesia at 12,999,999 Rupiahs.
The Note 9 definitely won't be cheap (credit: SamMobile)
Three color optionsWe've already heard about three potential color variants for the Samsung Galaxy Note 9, and this latest leak adds further fuel to the fire by revealing their names: Mystic Black, Engineered Blue and Artisan Copper.
However, the Artisan Copper hue isn't listed next to the 512GB model, which could mean that it won't be available on the larger storage Galaxy Note 9. This could, however simply be an oversight, or a variable that's only applicable to Indonesia.
What we do know is that all will be revealed on August 9 in New York at the Samsung Galaxy Note 9 launch event, and TechRadar will be reporting live from the unveiling to bring you everything you need to know.
Everything you need to know about the Galaxy Note 9Via SamMobile
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