Google Pixel Buds update adds new gesture controls

Google has just updated the Pixel Buds to bring some new highly-requested features to the Bluetooth earbuds. One is being able to turn the Pixel Buds on or off by triple tapping on the right earbud. Another is using the double tap option to skip tracks. This gesture currently prompts your notifications to be read out loud. You can switch to this new gesture in the Pixel Buds setting on the Google Assistant app on your phone. Lastly, it’s easier to switch Pixel Buds between the devices it’s connected to by selecting it from the Bluetooth menu on a paired device. This will disconnect it from whatever else device it’s connected to.

Source: Android Central

Microsoft reportedly coming out with lower cost Surface tablet

A report from Bloomberg says that Microsoft is getting ready to release a more affordable Surface-branded tablet costing around US $400 by late 2018. Written by Mark Gurman, a prolific Apple leaker who has a good track record and accurate sources, this report shows Microsoft may be ready to capture a wider market segment with Surface.

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HMD Global launches its first notched smartphone, the Nokia X6

HMD Global’s joining the notch bandwagon with its newest smartphone. The Nokia X6 was just unveiled in Beijing, China. It sports both a notch and a 19:9 display, a first for the brand. On top of this, the phone is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 636 processor, up to 6GB of RAM, and up to 64GB internal storage. The X6 runs on Android 8.1 Oreo and has a 3,060mAh battery. The phone comes with a fingerprint scanner at the rear and a headphone jack up top. When it comes to cameras, the X6 has a 16-megapixel and 5-megapixel (monochrome) dual rear camera setup with f/2.0 apertures. In front you get single 16-megapixel shooter with f/2.0 aperture. The camera comes with software features like AI image enhancements (like color balance adjustments and facial recognition), HDR photo mode, and the ability to use both front and rear cameras at the same time.

There are three versions of the phone available for pre-order in China. One is 4GB RAM/32GB ROM model, which retails for CNY 1,299 (around CA$260); another is 4GB RAM/64GB ROM, which retails for CNY 1,499 (around CA$300); and the last is a 6GB RAM/64GB ROM, which retails for CNY 1,699 (around CA$340). It comes in black, dark blue, and silver. No specific release date though or wider availability just yet.

Source: Android Authority

SPOT X launches 2-way functionality, backlit keyboard and trusted SOS functionality

Globalstar Canada has launched the SPOT X 2-way Satellite Messenger combines proven S.O.S. emergency notification technology with new 2-way text messaging functionality, an onboard backlit keyboard and illuminated display, which will make connectivity in remote regions easier and more effective than ever before. The device is priced at $349 CAD and is shipping this month.

SPOT X™ 2-way satellite messenger. The new standalone, portable and lightweight device features 2-way messaging capabilities, an onboard backlit keyboard, GPS location tracking, social media linking and direct communication with emergency services.

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