Google brings Hangouts to desktop, adds polls to Google+

Google is rolling out new stuff to its users with new Hangouts desktop app for Windows and Chrome OS users as well as a new polling feature on Google+. Much like other messaging apps on the desktop, Hangouts works independent of a browser and it syncs your notifications and chats with your other devices. You can also make video and voice calls from your Hangouts app.

Google also added Polls to Google+ on Android as well as Google+ on the Web (the iOS version will be out soon). You can add up to five choices and use photos to make your polls more interesting.

Source: Mashable + Ubergizmo

HTC begins roll out of Zoe app

HTC has big plans for its Zoe app as they take it out of beta and started rolling it out to Android devices running on Android 4.3 or higher. Zoe works by letting you take a series of shots in rapid succession and create a GIF of sorts. At first it was for sharing the clips on other social networks but now HTC looks to be developing it as its own service. We think it’ll be a lot like Vine or Instagram in that regard. And with its roll out to Android devices and soon iOS gadgets, HTC is looking to expand its market. Android Police reports that while some have been able to download the app already, there are others who can’t get access to it yet. You just have to be a bit patient and we’re sure things will be up and running soon enough.

Source: Android Police

Nokia's Lumia 830 coming to Rogers, Bell, and TELUS

We recently got to see some prototypes of the Lumia 830, Microsoft's "affordable flagship" which is coming to Rogers, Bell and TELUS soon. The Lumia 830 has a metal frame, curved 5-inch screen and a removable backplate. It features a 10 megapixel Pureview camera with a Carl Zeiss optics. Featuring the latest build of Windows Phone 8.1, codenamed 'denim'. Canadians will be able to enjoy the new Cortana personal assistant that is part of the new OS (although only in English and with limited functionality).

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Chair-Pak is ideal for the next time you want to line up for an iPhone

We're seeing a surge of backpack related inventions on Kickstarter, from backpacks that double as scooters or as gadget chargers. The Chair-Pak is a backpack that transforms into a chair, complete with solar panels for recharging all your favourite devices. Ideal for taking a break during strolls, maintaining your place in line for that new iPhone on day one or even when watching concerts, parades or going fishing. 

Chair-Pak will be adjustable, with a seating height 9” to 17” - 4 main compartments instead of three - 2 side water bottle holders, one larger - 2 or 3 Liter water bladder compartment - Advanced loop configurations to hang anything anywhere - 4 carabiners & ability to bungee articles - Multiple inner pockets for additional items - Two leg pockets for additional item storage - Bow holder pouch to stow - 2 side cinch strap to attach longer items - Higher quality canvas maaterials - Made to add-on all Chair-Pak accessories. Learn more about this project here.