5G POWER! Three and Activision partner to showcase the future of online gaming in the UK

A formidable 5G force: Three and Activision partner to showcase the future of online gaming in the UK

• Three’s 5G home broadband delivers an optimum online experience for Activision’s latest instalment of its most iconic series - Call of Duty: Modern Warfare

• Customers on Three will be given early access to the Call of Duty: Modern Warfare Beta plus a bonus in-game weapon charm

Wednesday, September 18, 2019: Three and Activision announce a new partnership that will see Three’s new ultra-fast 5G home broadband deliver an optimum online experience for one of the most popular games in the world - the much-hyped launch of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, available October 25. 

Image Credit: Activision

Set to revolutionise the future of gaming, 5G will give Call of Duty players the optimum online experience, where split second decisions mean the difference between winning or losing. Gamers using Three’s 5G home broadband will get plug-and-play access to seamless online gaming and super smooth gameplay, where the only thing limiting a superior performance, will be the player’s skill.

To celebrate the partnership, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare Beta codes have been released to Three customers via its wuntu rewards app*. Available for PlayStation 4, Xbox One and PC players, each early access code combined with Three’s new 5G home broadband means you can immediately experience a quick download and then a super-slick, first look at Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, giving you loads of time to make the most of the final days of the Beta period.

Three customers will also have access to a bonus in-game item, a jet-themed weapon charm.

A 5G connection is a step change in what people have been accustomed to from a mobile connection to date and it paves the way for a whole new level of gaming and live streaming without the all too familiar stuttering, annoying freezing and dull loading bars that we have all become used to. Whether playing on console or PC, Three customers can put 5G through its paces versus the standard wired home broadband connection to witness the speeds for themselves.  

This partnership cements Three’s continued expansion of its 5G home broadband service - the first stage in building the UK’s fastest 5G network. It also showcases Three’s long-term commitment to enhance the gaming and home entertainment experience for customers, which at £35 per month delivers truly unlimited data, so you can play, stream, download and connect all your devices and apps without any restrictions or worries about data.  Plus with the option of same day delivery** and a simple plug and play set-up, you can make the most of your Beta access. 

Shadi Halliwell, chief marketing officer at Three, said:  “Ultra-fast speeds are a priority for seamless streaming of entertainment especially gaming. Three is delivering a 5G experience that can’t be beaten which makes us the natural choice for one of the world’s leading games’ publishers.

“Customers also don’t want restrictions around how they consume entertainment and with 5G it’s important everyone can explore all its exciting possibilities without worrying about incurring hidden data costs. The combination of our superior 5G network that comes at no extra cost, our truly unlimited data plan and this fantastic partnership with Activision, means gamers can play the world’s most popular game without boundaries and simply concentrate on their chosen mission.”

Lee Godfrey, Call of Duty UK Senior Brand Manager at Activision, said: “We’re excited to be partnering with Three in the UK. Their commitment to delivering the very best player experience through its ultra fast 5G Network, is a perfect match for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare.”

Three‘s customers will benefit from the vast 5G capacity, reliability and speeds that only Three has access to, due to the amount of spectrum (airwaves) it owns. Three is the only UK network that has 100MHz of contiguous spectrum that supports ultrafast speeds and enables a better customer experience of the power and potential of 5G.

FOSSIL LAUNCHES ITS NEWEST GENERATION SMARTWATCH - GEN 5

London – August 5, 2019 – It is with great excitement that Fossil brand announces its newest addition to our wearables assortment: the Gen 5 Fossil Touchscreen Smartwatch. This watch offers users the recently launched Qualcomm® Snapdragon WearTM 3100 platform alongside the latest software by Wear OS by GoogleTM. Boasting the latest designs, new speaker functionality, smart battery modes, and double the storage, Gen 5 speaks to both the tech-savvy and fashion-forward. The newly redesigned and revolutionized Gen 5 Smartwatch features tech that’s audible, lasts longer, and optimizes performance. Thanks to its sleek design and updated technology, the next generation smartwatch from Fossil is built to be a best-in-class technology experience for new and experienced tech enthusiasts alike.

 "For several years, the health and wellness industry has been converging with smartwatch technology—and Fossil knew there was a tremendous opportunity to provide a connected option for the design-conscious consumer looking to bring style to their wrist. It’s always been a top priority to listen to our consumers and address these big market share opportunities when it comes to technology innovation,’’ said Steve Evans, EVP Fossil Group. “As a direct result of that feedback, we’re incredibly excited to be able to offer our first-ever proprietary apps that offer an extended battery life and increased iPhone compatibility, which is always top of mind with our consumers around the globe.’’

The new smartwatch launches with six colourways in stunning combinations of black, smoke, and rose gold. With a 44 mm case size, and endless strap options, Gen 5 provides consumers with additional technology in designs and styles they have come to expect from Fossil. Personalization has never been more accessible, from customizable pushers to watch faces to notifications, allowing users to make the connected experience their own.

New features include:

Extended Battery Mode

Fossil Group has developed a proprietary smartwatch experience that offers four battery life pre-sets, putting the user in control and allowing for extended battery life. This new experience offers an ‘Extended Battery Mode’ where users can extend to multiple days on a single charge while still enjoying essential features like notifications and heart rate. ‘Daily Mode’ allows users to experience most features enabled, such as always-on screen. ‘Custom Mode’ allows users to easily manage battery optimization settings themselves, all in one place, where ‘Time-Only Mode’ gives users additional hours when the watch has a low battery or if they choose to use the smartwatch to only tell time. From the home screen on your watch, swipe down from the top and tap the battery icon to choose the mode that’s right for you.

Swimproof Speaker

Thanks to the inclusion of a swimproof speaker, in addition to the existing microphone, users can enjoy audible functionality, and hear responses from the Google Assistant-- when you ask a question or tell it to perform an action, you can hear your Google Assistant speak back to you.  

With the addition of Speaker, users have the ability to take calls on their smartwatch. In the past, this is a capability that only Android phone users have enjoyed--until now. At launch, Android users will be able to answer tethered calls, and later this fall, Fossil Group has developed a proprietary app allowing iPhone users to answer tethered calls-

making this a first on a Wear OS by Google device.

Functions include:

• Sound alerts for notifications, alarms, timers, etc.

• Hear responses from the Google Assistant

• Google Translate speak out translation

• Play third party music direct from watch

• Answer tethered calls directly from watch

Tiles

Tiles, a new update from Wear OS by Google, provide a quick way to view information at a glance and perform actions. With a swipe left, Tiles adds easy access to quick actions and information that previously were hidden in the app menu. You can check your progress towards your fitness goals, start a workout, know where you need to be next, plan ahead with the latest forecast, check your heart rate, follow the latest breaking headlines, and even quickly set a timer.

Additionally, by doubling the total storage to 8GB, including 1GB RAM, users will have even more space to download apps and media, as well as see an overall performance boost. The integrated sensors have also been given an upgrade to help improve fidelity and optimize power consumption. Features familiar from previous generations include heart rate tracking, untethered GPS, NFC for Google PayTM, and Rapid Charging. As with our existing lineup, Gen 5 will come with a series of auto-installed apps: the leading music streaming service, Spotify, peace of mind and safety app, Noonlight, and Nike Run Club.

Cardiogram, a digital companion for your heart health, is the latest app that Fossil will auto-install. Cardiogram visualizes heart rate data into interactive charts that can be tagged with activities from your day, helping you identify what could contribute to spikes and dips in your heart rate. For example, users can monitor how your heart rate changes during a stressful meeting, exercise, or during sleep. Users can also track how health metrics compared to millions of other Cardiogram users for signs of undiagnosed diabetes, sleep apnea, hypertension, and atrial fibrillation.

With this new generation of watch, Fossil showcases a unique take on technology and redefining what it means to bring activity and balance to your lifestyle. The added functions will give users a 360-holistic way to track all parts of their lives, while keeping true to the authentic creative spirit of innovative watch design that Fossil was founded on more than 30 years ago 

Features include:

• Stainless steel case, topring, and pushers

• 44 mm case size

• Stunning 1.3’’ touchscreen digital display

• Swimproof (up to 3 ATM)

• 24+ hours battery life (based on usage) + multiple days in extended battery mode

• Interchangeable straps and bracelets

• Qualcomm® Snapdragon WearTM 3100 Platform

• Sensors: Heart Rate, NFC, GPS, Altimeter, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Ambient Light, Microphone

• Powered with Wear OS by Google and compatible with iOS 10+ or AndroidTM 4.4+ (excluding Go edition)

• Connect via Bluetooth® technology

• Wireless syncing + magnetic charging

This watch retails for £279 and is available for purchase on www.fossil.co.uk and in select Fossil retail stores globally.

Google and Wear OS by Google are trademarks of Google LLC.

Sky Mobile launches SPACETALK Kid’s Watch

Sky Mobile launches SPACETALK Kid’s Watch: A smartwatch offering peace of mind for parents

 Sky Mobile has announced the UK launch of the SPACETALK Kid’s Watch, a smartwatch designed for kids aged between 5 and 12.

The SPACETALK Kid’s Watch is designed to offer peace of mind for parents, helping them to keep in touch with their child, wherever they are. With a smartphone, GPS tracker and watch all in one, this is packed with clever features designed with child safety in mind. 

Key features: 

• Allows your child to make and receive calls from a list of pre-approved contacts through a Sky Mobile SIM card

• Allows your child to send and receive text messages to existing contacts

• No camera, no apps and no social media

• ‘Location on Demand’ feature* allows parents to get an instant update on the wearer’s location using GPS

• Receive alerts when your child leaves and arrives at a designed ‘Safe Zone’ (e.g. home or school)

• A ‘School Mode’, allowing you to switch off any of the watch’s functions

Sophia Ahmad, Director of Sky Mobile said “The SPACETALK Kid’s Watch is the latest in a range of products from Sky to help keep children safe. With the new school term on the horizon, we wanted to reassure parents by launching a device which will help them keep an eye on their little ones, whether they are doing after-school activities or travelling to and from school alone.  

“Keeping children safe is a key priority for Sky - we’ve also recently launched the Parents Guide on Sky Q, helping parents to make more informed decisions about choosing movies to watch, as well as Broadband Buddy, part of our Broadband Boost package, which helps families to manage their internet access in and out of the home.”

Pricing 

Available from Sky Mobile online, the SPACETALK Kid’s Watch costs just £10 a month with 1GB data and Unlimited Calls and Texts.

All the usual benefits of Sky Mobile’s Roll also apply to the SPACETALK Kid’s Watch, which allows any unused data from the 1GB allowance to roll over automatically, meaning any unused data goes straight into a parent’s Sky Mobile Piggybank. From there, parents can add unused data to the SPACETALK Kid’s Watch’s SIM if their kids need a little extra data, add the data to their own SIM or any other SIMs in their household. Alternatively, they can exchange data for money off new mobiles, tablets, and accessories from Sky Mobile.  

More details on Sky Mobile can be found at sky.com/mobile

Wacom Cintiq 22 Launched - Get Creative !!!

Tokyo, Japan and Düsseldorf, Germany – 18 July 2019 – Wacom announces the new Wacom Cintiq 22, the latest addition to its new entry-level class of creative pen displays for art and design enthusiasts, young professionals and passionate hobbyists seeking to take their digital artistic work to a whole new level. Joining the recently launched Cintiq 16, Wacom’s new, larger format creative pen display incorporates the company’s premium pen technology and plenty of screen real estate for optimal comfort, control and productivity. An ideal instrument for digital sketching, illustration and technical drawing, the new Cintiq is specifically designed for a certain set of artists and designers who want the trusted and reliable Wacom experience but may not require every advanced feature found in the Wacom Cintiq Pro product line, such as 4K resolution, colour performance and optical bonding. The Cintiq 22 also provides an attractive option for existing creative pen tablet users looking to upgrade, or emerging creatives who wish to try the Wacom pen on screen experience for the first time. The Cintiq 22 will be priced at € 999,90 EUR* and £ 869,99 GBP*. It is available now at the Wacom eStore and can be pre-ordered at select resellers.

*Prices in EUR and GBP are recommended retail prices incl. VAT 

“Wacom’s family of creative pen displays have long been serving the professional illustration, animation, game development, industrial design and photography communities and the output created by these users quite literally touches all of our lives multiple times per day,” says Faik Karaoglu, Executive Vice President of Wacom’s Creative Business Unit. “From the most recent Hollywood animation viewed or video game last played to the sporty new shoes you just bought, discovering that a Wacom creative pen display had a key role in the design process is practically a guarantee. Now, we are taking all that we have learned from the professional ranks and extending the joy of working directly on screen and all the production benefits that come with it to a wider demographic. We look forward to helping people around the world create great digital art.”

Make it on Wacom Cintiq
The Wacom Cintiq 22 comes with Wacom’s Pro Pen 2 technology, offering professional grade pen technology to a variety of creative users. It provides 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt response for unparalleled precision and accuracy. Wacom’s EMR (Electro Magnetic Resonance) technology does not require a pen battery or recharge, ever. The 1920 x 1080 full HD display offers 72 percent NTSC color, a hardened cover glass with anti-glare treatment and a natural, paper-like feel. Because ergonomic comfort is important, the device also features an easy-to-use adjustable stand that provides multiple working angles.

With the introduction of the Cintiq in 2001, Wacom was the first company to deliver a creative pen display. These are used for virtually all animated movie creation, game development and industrial design. Using a Wacom Cintiq or Cintiq Pro emulates working with traditional media like no other product. It’s natural and intuitive and it speeds production and enables immediate collaboration. Perfect for illustration, graphic design, photo retouching and layout design, the Cintiq 22 is an ideal choice for budding creative professionals as well as art and design enthusiasts. Users will also appreciate the ability to use Wacom’s accessory pens – Pro Pen slim and Pro Pen 3D – for a different type of feel or to meet a certain type of workflow. Compatible with both PC and Mac, the Cintiq line works with hundreds of pressure-sensitive apps from companies such as Adobe®, Autodesk®, Pixologic®, Celsys®, Corel® and The Foundry®.

Fortnite MEGA June Update

The month on June sees some amazing update to Fortnite in the V9.21 Patch. Check out all the new goodness below.

Proximity Grenade Launcher
It's not a horseshoe or a hand grenade, but close still counts!

All videos and images credit: EPIC GAMES

LIMITED TIME MODE ROTATION:

One Shot Duos
Low Gravity. Every player has 50 health. Sniper weapons are the only weapon, Bandages are the only healing item. Jump high and aim well!

Horde Rush
Fortnite Fiends are back on the island and angrier than ever! Fight alongside your teammates to rack up your score by finding hidden score multipliers, opening special loot chests, and eliminating as many monsters as you can. Traverse across the map, survive all of the Defend locations and take down the Final Boss to win!

Mode DetailsFour player Squad mode divided up into multiple stages.Prepare to defend an area by searching for weapons & items, scavenging materials, and building defenses.Rack up points by fighting Fiends, collecting score multipliers, and destroying Fiend Spawners.Recover from the battle and search for more equipment.Travel across the map to the next defense point.Respawning is enabled until the last stage when players have to destroy a Boss Fiend and his horde of minions.Keep an eye out for special loot chests, which contain powerful weapons & provide a scoring bonus.

WEAPONS + ITEMS

Proximity Grenade LauncherFires an arcing, bouncing, explosive projectile that explodes when in proximity of an opponent.Available in Epic and Legendary Rarities.Found from Chests, Loot Carriers, Supply Drops, and Vending Machines.Semi-Automatic.Uses Rocket Ammo.Holds 2 Explosive Rounds.Rate of Fire: 0.65 shots per second.Player Proximity Radius: 250 units (about half the width of a tile).Explosion Radius: 300 units (about 60% of the width of a tile).Explosion damage:Player: 67/70Environmental: 131/138Reload Speed: 2.8s/3sProjectiles explode automatically after 10s or if it has nearly come to a stop.

Shield PotionIncreased the availability from Chest loot from 11.3% to 12.09%

Small Shield PotionIncreased the availability from Chest loot from 16.95% to 18.13%With items being added and removed, we’ve noticed that Shield Potions and Small Shields have been less available in Chests. So we’ve increased the chance to find Shields from Chests to compensate for that.

ShotgunsIncreased the overall chance to find from Floor loot from 8.50% to 9.77%After seeing the community’s feedback about Shotgun availability, we’ve increased the Shotgun availability from Floor Loot to make finding them in the early phases of the game easier.

Infantry Rifle Epic and Legendary variantsIncreased the availability from Floor loot from .067% to .105%Increased the availability from Chest loot from .414% to .645%

Heavy Assault Rifle Common variantDecreased the availability from Floor loot from 2.04% to 1.715%Decreased the availability from Chest loot from 12.47% to 10.46%

Mounted TurretDecreased the availability from floor loot from .59% to .46%

Storm FlipAdjusted Storm Flip to cause flat damage instead of being based on which Storm Phase is currently active.Causes 5 damage every second.We noticed with scaling damage that players held onto their Storm Flip later into matches, creating undesirable effects. This change gives players more value in using it earlier in matches.Reduced the availability from Chests from 3.39% to 1.69%Reduced the availability from Floor loot from 3.32% to 1.66%Added back into the Arena and Tournament playlists.We have visual effect changes coming in v9.30 that will help improve readability.

For a bit of Summer garden fun, check out this Nerf Fortnite SP-L Blaster with Detachable Barrel and 6 Official Fortnite Elite Darts. UK BUY HERE. USA BUY HERE.

Check out more here.

BROAD-BANNED: Blocked Websites could lead to 42 MILLION BRITS Switching Internet Provider

• Nearly two-thirds (64 per cent) of Brits would consider switching broadband provider if certain websites were blocked

• Almost six million Brits have tried accessing a blocked site in the last week

• Online video games such as Fortnite have led to nearly a third of households switching their broadband package

New research by MoneySuperMarket reveals that nearly two-thirds of Brits (64 per cent) would consider switching internet service provider (ISP) if they limited access to websites, with nearly six million trying to access a blocked site in the last week alone.

The study highlights confusion among Brits regarding internet speeds. Despite one-fifth of Brits using internet services for at least 25 hours per week, 22 per cent don’t actually know their speed, although speed impacts the overall price they pay. In reality, most (55 per cent) only care that it works and does what they need it to.

Taking aim at online games, the findings also reveal that nearly a third of households (31 per cent) have changed their package as a result of the extra bandwidth required to play online video games such as Fortnite. At an average cost of £184.32 a year per household, it seems many Brits are willing to pay more to play their favourite games.

Despite the clear indication that most Brits wish to be able surf the net freely, the country is divided on whether ISPs should be allowed to censor sites and content on the whole; 21 per cent believe they should be able to, while 27 per cent think they shouldn’t.

18 - 34-year-olds admit to using the internet for a combined average of nearly 11.5 hours per week - a relatively low number compared to other age groups - but nearly half (45 per cent) have attempted to access a site that was blocked.

As the government attempts to address internet policy issues through the Digital Economy Act, including introducing age restriction blocks on adult content by the end of 20181, the research reveals this would result in a quarter of Brits switching ISPs, with those living with their partners most likely to do so.

Emily Thompson, broadband expert at MoneySuperMarket, commented: “The findings from this research are very relevant to conversations around net neutrality and what constitutes a ‘fair internet’. Net neutrality is the concept that all data on the internet should be served equally, with no connections to sites favoured over others – so it seems that Brits really value having the freedom to explore the internet at their leisure, without ISPs implementing blocks or throttling services based on package types.

“While the dialogue regarding net neutrality in the UK is relatively low-key, it has controversially been repealed in the US, suggesting that it could become a much bigger issue once Brexit is finalised and we look at rethinking European legislation. For now, ISPs need to decide what’s in the best interest of their customers: eschewing the current net neutrality laws to reduce competition or getting on the side of the consumer and keeping the internet fair and equal.

“When it comes to online gaming, it’s clearly an important part of internet culture with many opting to upgrade their broadband package to cope with the large bandwidth required to play many of these games. As online worlds and communities continue to expand, ISPs need to be able to keep up, providing affordable and reliable internet packages that allow Brits to stay connected to the content that matters most to them.”

For more information, visit MoneySuperMarket’s new “From Web Speeds to Net Neutrality: What Makes the Internet Fair?” page for an in-depth analysis.

EU Backs Controversial Article 13 Copyright Law

“The European Parliament has backed controversial copyright laws critics say could change the nature of the net. The new rules include holding technology companies responsible for material posted without proper copyright permission. Many musicians and creators say the new rules will compensate artists fairly - but others say they will destroy user-generated content. The Copyright Directive was backed by 348 MEPs, with 278 against. [source BBC News]”.

Article 13 detailed in the EU Copyright Directive states that services such as YouTube could be held responsible if their users upload copyright-protected movies and music. As a YouTuber myself, this is very concerning. Over the years I have had claims made against my own generated content by others and had to appeal the process. Under the old rules (governed by YouTube) I would have the opportunity to appeal such claims. My understanding of Article 13 is that if such a claim were made, it would be YouTube (or the platform you are posting to) responsibility to stop the content at the source to avoid liability. So, for repeat offenders their only recourse of action could be to stop that person uploading in the first place.

Article 13 is a lot more complicated than what I have detailed above, but I do strongly feel that the finer details have been put together and will be pushed through by MEP’s that do not fully understand the repercussions for many content creators, spread across many different platforms. Whilst it might benefit some more traditional artists, who may see less copying and slight increases in royalties, it does not address fair use and how easy it would be for false claims to potentially arise. I do also think that how content is treated, will be determined by which country it is posted from. I also envisage that we will see restricted access to content depending upon your location.

Although not directly related to Article 13, nor a solution, I have been using a VPN for many years to give me some extra online security and recently switched to NordVPN. Here’s where a VPN comes into play. It redirects your internet traffic through a specially configured VPN server, hiding your IP address and encrypting all the data that is sent or received. The encrypted data is essentially gibberish to anyone who intercepts it, making it impossible to read.

“Various countries around the world restrict access to one type of online content or another. Social networks, games, chat apps – even Google itself is not beyond the reach of censorship. In addition, many academic institutions and workplaces enable firewalls to limit access to websites for various reasons. These range from seeking to increase productivity to restricting inappropriate content.

Websites and services are blocked by denying users’ access based on their IP address. When you connect to the internet, your IP shows the country you are currently in, which means that any restrictions valid there are applied to you as well.

Using a VPN allows you to connect to remote VPN servers, making your IP address look like you are physically located somewhere else. This IP swap helps you access restricted websites and keeps your private information safe at the same time."

It is a sad day for the internet and I hope that we are able to ride the storm.

* Some links are affiliate links. Views expressed in this article are solely an opinion of the author.

Get Tough with Tougher Passwords

Over my years online and also advising people on their computer setups, I have seen some very concerning things. People writing down their passwords in books, on little slips of paper in their purses and wallets or even in their notepad on their computer.

Using a strong password will make your online accounts a lot tougher for strangers to hack. It is essential you protect your online accounts, things like email, social media and online banking for example. Never fall into the trap of using the same password for everything either. Check out the tips below to get on the right path.

If you want some added protection when browsing online, consider using a VPN such as NordVPN.

*Links are affiliate links and earn Geekanoids a small commission, they don’t cost you any extra.

New Nokia Phones Launched inc Nokia 9 PureView

BARCELONA, 24th February 2019 - HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones, today announced four new Android smartphones, including the world’s first smartphone with a unique five camera array, the Nokia 9 PureView. With a dedication to delivering quality technology for all, the new Nokia phones are as diverse as the consumer needs they serve. From Nokia 9 PureView to the Nokia 210 - the company’s most affordable internet enabled feature phone – consumers can trust there is a Nokia phone that meets their distinct needs. 

Imaging innovation for enthusiasts  

Nokia 9 PureView features the world’s first five camera array with ZEISS Optics to put next generation computational imaging technology into the hands of advanced photography enthusiasts. Every picture taken with a Nokia 9 PureView is in HDR, five cameras simultaneously capture the image and fuse it together into one 12MP photo with outstanding dynamic range and depth of field. Designed with the needs of photography enthusiasts at its heart, Nokia 9 PureView also features the ability to capture images in uncompressed RAW “DNG” format and edit them directly on the phone yourself thanks to our partnership with Adobe Lightroom. It has been said that 50% of the art of photography is in post-production and with Nokia 9 PureView you have every opportunity to shine.

Heads-up: change the way you interact with your phone with a dedicated Google Assistant Button

Voice is changing the way people interact with their smartphones. With a dedication to delivering quality technology for all, Nokia smartphones bring the fastest way to access the Google Assistant with the dedicated Google Assistant button – starting with the brand-new Nokia 4.2 and Nokia 3.2. 

The Google Assistant button will revolutionise the way you engage with your smartphone. Simply press once for instant access to the Google Assistant to get things done throughout your day, such as getting directions, making calls, listening to music and getting answers to your questions faster than ever before. Double press to receive a visual overview of your day from the Google Assistant with intelligent suggestions and personalised information, including transport info, and what you have in your calendar to make sure you never miss a meeting again. By long pressing the button, you will activate a walkie-talkie mode, which lets the Google Assistant listen to you until you release it for long sentence queries.

Nokia smartphone experience: it just keeps getting better 

The depth of the global portfolio commitment to Android One guarantees three years of monthly security updates and two years of OS updates, delivering a range of Nokia smartphones that offer the latest Android experience which only gets better over time.  Each phone stays fresh with the latest AI powered innovations to the built-in security protection of Google Play Protect. With a pure Android installation, Nokia smartphones come with no unnecessary UI changes or hidden processes that would eat up battery life or slow them down, so you can enjoy your new phone for longer. Each of the new phones comes with a limited number of pre-installed apps so that you get more storage space, as well as the latest innovations that help you stay ahead of the game every day. 

Android Enterprise Recommended

Nokia smartphones feature one of the most diverse portfolios of Android Enterprise Recommended handsets, from Nokia 9 PureView to Nokia 3.2. The Android Enterprise Recommended programme gives enterprise customers confidence that all smartphones validated by the programme have been approved by Google for meeting objective business standards, which includes an elevated set of specifications for hardware, software, deployment, security updates and user experience. 

New Video Series Sponsor Opportunity

Exciting news, here at Geekanoids we have a new video series starting soon. This is going to be a great journey and a very exciting subject matter, with a new type of content you have not seen before on the channel.

This is also your opportunity to get your brand, product or channel out there too. In the first two videos in the series we will list you as a “Series Supporter” with your name / business name, YouTube channel or Twitter handle in one of the title screens and also in the video description area. We will also include your link in the video description too.

The cost for this awesome exposure opportunity is just £100. That’s right, the first two videos in the series for just £100. To book your space, fill in your information below and click the “Buy Now” button.

**OFFER CLOSES 14th February 2019**

Please note: Once booked, no refunds are possible. There are no guarantees regarding video views, performance of links etc.

Company/Channel/Name

Link Required

MULTITRACK RECORDING Coming to RØDECaster Pro

Australian pro audio giant RØDE Microphones is pleased to announce that the world’s first fully integrated podcast production console, the RØDECaster Pro, will issue firmware update 1.1.0 in February 2019, which includes a more user-friendly interface and channel selection, plus multitrack recording.

All existing customers will be able to update their RØDECaster Pro with multitrack recording, and all new units will feature the update, making 2018’s most compelling piece of audio equipment the must-have console in 2019 for podcasters of any level.

MULTITRACK RECORDING
The multitrack feature will record 14 tracks: 
• A stereo ‘live mix’ track, as featured on the RØDECaster Pro since its release
• A mono track for each of the 4 microphone inputs
• A stereo track each for the USB, 3.5mm TRRS, Bluetooth and sound pad channels

To activate multitrack recording, simply access the Advanced settings in the Hardware section of the RØDECaster Pro’s touchscreen interface. From there, a single switch engages 'Multi-Channel' mode for multitrack recording.

See my original firmware RODECaster Pro Demo & Review here.

RØDECASTER PRO SMASHING RECORDS
“The reception of the RØDECaster Pro has been exceptional,” says Freedman Group CEO, Damien Wilson. "The RØDECaster Pro is a world-first – a complete game-changer that has revolutionised podcast production. People who have only dreamed of podcasting are now able to do so, thanks to the simplicity of the RØDECaster Pro.

"But for us, launching the product was never the finish line. We continue to refine and improve the software features of the RØDECaster Pro, with the first significant upgrade being the addition of multitrack recording to the RØDECaster Pro’s capability. Whether you choose to mix live or edit in post, the RØDECaster Pro is the perfect solution for EVERY podcaster.”

The 1.1.0 firmware update will be available to download in February from rode.com/rodecasterapp. Stay tuned for more updates to the features on the RØDECaster Pro.

New Launch - Olympus OM-D E-M1X Camera

Olympus today introduces their new OM-D E-M1X camera: designed to meet professional photographers needs for reliability, speed, precision and image quality.

The E-M1X remains true to Olympus’ promise to design the most compact and lightweight camera system in its class whilst packed with the latest imaging technologies in a robust casing with integrated vertical grip.

Featuring the world’s best image stabilization (IS) performance1, a re-developed and fast autofocus (AF) system, as well as two TruePic VIII image processors allowing for high-speed responsiveness and handheld High Res Shots; this powerhouse camera offers a compelling mix of impressive featuresand portability.

Combined with Olympus’ high-resolution M.Zuiko lens line-up; fields where portability, speed and reliability are absolutely essential – such as wildlife, documentary and sports photography high-end image quality and effective shooting results are possible.

Two years after laying down a marker in the professional camera category with the OM-D E-M1 Mark II, new M.Zuiko PRO lenses and the launch of the Olympus PRO service, the new E-M1X will now be added to Olympus’ offering for professional users. With its integrated vertical grip, the world’s best dust-, splash- and freezeproof body2 and numerous new features demanded by professional photographers, the E-M1X offers unprecedented control, ergonomics and stabilitywhile delivering professional results under all weather conditions. With a new gyro sensor, Olympus has taken their acclaimed 5-axis sync IS to a new level offering up to 7.5 shutter speed steps of compensation1. The OM-D AF system has been completely redeveloped, offering additional focal points and a new intelligent subject detection function to automatically track certain subjects. The high-speed shooting capabilities have been enhanced and anti-flicker shooting has been added. Further improvements include a handheld High Res Shot, a live ND filter functionality as well as a customizable menu, USB powering & charging capabilitiesand two UHS II SD card slots. In combination with high-quality M.Zuiko lenses, a new wireless flash and the image management software “Olympus Workspace”, the E-M1X is the perfect tool to capture professional results.

High speed performance and excellent image quality

Speed and image quality of the new E-M1X are fueled by a 20.4 MP Live MOS sensor with a new coating in order to deliver improved sensitivity as well as two TruPicVIII high-speed image processors improving fundamental performance factors such as start-up time and recovery time from sleep mode. The dual processor design not only contributes to a faster camera, but also allows the support of two high-speed UHS-II SD card slots and enables the latest shooting functions such as Handheld High Res Shot, Live ND, and Intelligent Subject Detection AF.

With the E-M1X, Olympus engineers have taken image stabilization yet another step forward: by introducing a redeveloped gyro sensor, the camera allows for the world’s best compensation performance. In combination with a M.Zuiko IS PRO lens, this technology enables the 5-axis sync IS to compensate for approx. 7.5 shutter speed steps1, eliminating the need for a tripod and enabling free-hand shooting in various conditions.

With locked AF, the E-M1X features high-speed sequential shooting at a maximum of 60 fps to capture split-second moments that the human eye cannot see. With AF/AE tracking, a maximum of 18 fps may be reached.

The camera’s Pro Capture Mode records up to 35 frames retroactively from when the shutter button is released during shooting. This feature already received praisewhen being introduced on the OM-D E-M1 Mark II, and is ideal for action photography.

In addition to high-resolution maximum 80 MP images that can be captured in Tripod High Res Shot, a Handheld High Res Shot functionality is now available on the OM-D E-M1X: designed for photographers who don’t want to be limited by using a tripod, this function generates a single high-resolution shot equal to that captured with a 50 MP sensor – without any signs of blur caused by handshake.

A new Live ND functionality incorporates slow shutter speed effects as though using an ND filter. The scene can be reviewed in the viewfinder and the effect edited before users take the photo. Effects can be set in five levels: ND2 (equivalent to one shutter speed step), ND4 (2 steps), ND8 (3 steps), ND16 (4 steps), and ND32 (5 steps).

Movie capabilities and more

In addition to professional-quality photos, the new E-M1X is a master at movie-making. It features all the extras videographers need to capture moments as they happen.

With the ultra-high Cinema 4K (C4K, 4096 x 2160) movie format, videographers not only have the highest recording resolution to date, but also more flexibility when it comes to postproduction.

The powerful 5-axis IS and electronic stabilization enable refined handheld 4K and C4K video recording with three selectable levels of movement compensationdepending on the photographer’s posture and movement.

To counteract changing lighting conditions typical during documentary and nature shooting, the E-M1X supports log shooting. OM-Log400 delivers movies without loss of details in shadows or highlight blowouts, and greater freedom over video creativity through color grading.

120 fps high-speed movies are also now supported in Full HD resulting in the capability to shoot cinematic movies with slow-motion perception.

The OM-D E-M1X contains a built-in GPS sensor, temperature sensor, manometer and compass, collectively known as ‘field sensors’. In addition to location information such as longitude and latitude, these sensors detect and record the temperature, elevation, and direction of the camera for adding detailed shooting information to images.

With an anti-flicker shooting feature, the camera detects the flicker frequency of artificial light sources and activates the shutter at peak brightness to minimizeuneven exposures and coloring between sequential frames. Flicker scan suppresses striped patterns that can occur when using Silent Mode (electronic shutter) and when shooting movies, so that users can fine tune the shutter speed.

A new Wi-Fi capture allows tethered shooting without a cable and makes it possible to transfer images wirelessly to a computer with the “Olympus Capture” camera control software.

Availability & pricing

The OM-D E-M1X is compatible with Olympus’ range of professional-grade Micro Four Thirds lenses and accessories, including tailor-made camera bags, electronic flashes and flash accessories (see below).

The OM-D E-M1X will be available from late February as a body only at RRP of £2799.99.

Dedicated pre order offers are in place via selected retailers to offer customers a £200 trade in discount plus touch and try events available via https://www.olympus-imagespace.co.uk