For BlackBerry, the future is Classic

Almost a month after the launch of the BlackBerry Passport, CEO John Chen sent out an open letter heralding the next new device which is the BlackBerry Classic. The letter, made out to loyal (current and former) BlackBerry users states that the soon to be launched Classic is the successor to the popular Bold line of smartphones and that various user requests were considered in creating a new, improved and yet completely familiar experience.

"We are committed to earning your business – or earning it back, if that’s the case. In the weeks ahead, BlackBerry will be sharing more details about Classic that we think you’ll like," Chen's letter stated. Looks like this year of massive smartphone releases is far from over and BlackBerry has one remaining salvo before the holidays. We're excited to see what the BlackBerry Classic has to offer and if it will be a factor in gaining back that much needed market share.

Update on Monday, November 10, 2014 at 2:26PM by Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla

Just heard from some sources at BlackBerry that the Classic is on track for a December release. More importantly, it seems there will likely be enough stock to satisfy the expected high demand for the holiday season. 

I did get to check out a pre-production BlackBerry Classic for a few minutes and it is a stunning device. Top notch build quality all the way and it feels quite substantial and weighty. Stay posted for more information on this most anticipated BlackBerry handset.

Microsoft Band is a cross platform fitness wearable

Microsoft has taken the wraps off its anticipated wearable called Microsoft Band. The fitness tracker will work with competing Android and iOS as well as Windows Phone devices and features the ability to track  steps,your heartbeat, calories burned and sleep quality, you know, standard, fitness tracker stuff. it will also display notifications from your phone and can take notes and set reminders with Cortana. Some apps, like Starbucks, will allow added functionality, like the ability to generate barcodes to pay for coffee.

Micrsoft band, which features 10 sensors,  will be available to order only in the US for $199 and in limited quantities starting tomorrow. No news of Canadian availabilty or pricing yet. 

Source: Engadget

'The Wolf Among Us' makes its way to Google Play

Creators of The Walking Dead games are bringing their new title out of exclusivity with Amazon and into the hands of the larger Android base. Telltale has finally brought The Wolf Among Us to Google Play. The episodic game is free to download but you will need to make in-app purchases once you complete the first episode so you can move forward. You will play a man/werewolf that interacts with many famous fairytale characters. Like TWD, you walk around and click on various items to move the game forward.

Source: Droid Life | Download: Google Play Store (Free)

Google+ gives your photos the Halloween treatment

Hoping to get you into the Halloween mood, Google+ has introduced a new effect for photos. Google calls it "Halloweenifying" your images and it takes a few minutes to get this done. You just need to open Photos app on your device, tap on the three star button in the top right corner and select "Spooky effect." Wait a few seconds and then you have a scary version of yourself ready to share on your social networks.

Source: Droid Life