Samsung plans to release Tizen-based smart TVs, to release SDK for developers by July

Samsung wants to make its Tizen operating system as ubiquitous as possible. This time around they plan to integrate the Linux-based OS into their future smart television offerings. The Korean tech company will release the software development kit in July to give developers some time with the software. It will include features such as voice- and hand gesture-based commands and multi-screen options. Samsung, however, did not specify when Tizen-based TVs will be up for sale.

Source: The Next Web

Rogers has the gold and blue Samsung Galaxy S5's available

Samsung GALAXY S5 in copper gold and electric blue are now available in Rogers corporate and dealer stores, third party retailers and rogers.com. Like the Samsung GALAXY S5 in charcoal black and shimmery white, the copper gold and electric blue, are available at Rogers for $249.99 on select two-year plans. In addition, when consumers purchase and activate the Samsung GALAXY S5 on select two-year plans, they can get the Gear 2 Neo for only $49.99 (savings of $170), while quantities last.

Source: Rogers.

Count down life events with Downcount

Fond of counting down minor or major life events? Downcount helps you track those events by showing a daily countdown. The Android app is rather simple to operate. You just need to tap on the “+” sign to add a new countdown; long press on the event to edit it; and delete it by swiping in either direction. The app lets you add a widget on the home screen or lock screen for individual countdowns. The app is free but if you want to get rid of the ads, then get ready to shell out US$1 for it.

Source: Lifehacker

Motorola to close Texas factory responsible for Moto X customization

Motorola looks like they aren’t catching a break. The tech company has confirmed with The Wall Street Journal that it will shut down its smartphone factory in Fort Worth, Texas, where the brand assembles the customized Moto X devices. They cite poor sales and high cost for the move. While the plant will be closed, Motorola still plans to make the Moto Maker customization feature available for those planning on getting the smartphone.

It was an ambitious risk for Google to build smartphones on American soil and it seems it hasn’t paid off for them. The plant previously had 3,000 employees but that was later whittled down to 700. Now, those 700 employees look like they will have to look for work elsewhere.  

Source: Cult of Android